Reducing, doing away with P19-billion anti-insurgency fund not doable – Senate leaders
Senate leaders on Monday said a move to reduce or eliminate some P19 billion set aside to sustain the anti-communist insurgency campaign of the national government in the countryside is a big “No, No.”
Manila Bulletin
Red Red Whine
IBON staff reflect on red-tagging and its attack on the ideas of the Left
Two weeks ago, as floodwaters reached a new high to trap thousands of Filipinos on the roofs of their homes and force hundreds of thousands more to evacuate, red-tagging reached a new low.
Kodao Productions
Magsaysay declares NPA, persona non grata
Former members of New People’s Army, Militiang Bayan, underground mass organizations together with national line agencies, the municipal government of Magsaysay, Davao Del Sur declares CPP-NPA-NDF persona non-grata during the closing day of the 3-day peace-building seminar organized by the 39th Infantry Battalion at Poblacion Magsaysay in Davao Del Sur last November 22, 2020.
Kalinaw News
Another batch of Former Rebels to undergo De-Radicalization Program
COL LUIS REX D BERGANTE, 1001st Brigade Commander together with HON. ALVERA VERONICA R RIMANDO, MD,FPSMS,RMT the Municipal Mayor of Maco, Davao De Oro spearheaded the opening ceremony of the 2nd batch of the De-Radicalization Program for Seventeen Former Rebels on November 23, 2020 at BALAI PAG-ASA, Brgy Mapaang, Maco, Davao De Oro.
Kalinaw News
Zambo Norte villagers declare NPA rebels persona non grata
Two "rebel-influenced" barangays in the Zamboanga del Norte town of Siayan have declared the communist New People’s Army (NPA) as persona non grata, the Army's 53rd Infantry Battalion (53IB) said in a statement Monday.
Philippine News Agency
Peace talks
Incidents/Operations
1 NPA terrorist killed, firearms and explosives captured as Army in Bicol thwarts NPA extortion activities in Sorsogon
Amid the on-going humanitarian missions of the Army in typhoon-stricken areas of Bicol region, it continues to initiate series of successful engagements in Sorsogon province that resulted in the killing of one communist NPA terrorist (CNT) and the capture of five firearms.
Kalinaw News
Ex-Anakbayan member turned NPA rebel yields in Zambo Sur
A former Anakbayan member turned New People’s Army (NPA) rebel has surrendered to the Municipal Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (MTF-ELCAC) of Tigbao, Zamboanga del Sur, officials said Monday.
Philippine News Agency
|
|
US 'smart weapons' to aid AFP efforts vs. terrorists
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday said the "smart munitions" given to them by the United States would be of great help to their ongoing efforts to eliminate the terrorist menace in the country.
Philippine News Agency
MARAWI
SOUTHEAST ASIA AND THE WORLD
France’s Dragnet for Extremists Sweeps Up Some Schoolchildren, Too
Armed with assault rifles and sporting balaclavas, dozens of law enforcement officials raided 4 flats not too long ago in a sprawling complicated in Albertville, a metropolis within the French Alps. They confiscated computer systems and cellphones, searched beneath mattresses and inside drawers, and took pictures of books and wall ornaments with Quranic verses.
The New York Times
What is French laïcité?
Each time an act of jihadist terrorism is committed on French soil, the country is thrown anew into a global debate about laïcité, and whether it is the answer to or the source of the problem. The first article of the French constitution explicitly states that the republic shall be “indivisible, laïque, democratic and social.”
The Economist
Jourova: More homework remains to be done on diversity in media
The under-representation of people with a minority racial or ethnic background in the media, including in media newsrooms themselves, remains a problem that needs to be addressed, and the European Commission is ready to help with funding, the EU executive’s vice-president Věra Jourová told EURACTIV in a written interview.
Euractiv
UAE-US Sawab Center launches new social media campaign exposing Daesh lies
The Sawab Center, a joint UAE-US digital communications hub to combat extremist ideologies online and promote positive alternatives, announced the launch of a new campaign on its social media platforms.
MENAFN
Turkish officials slam Israeli envoy to UN for glorifying terrorist supporter Kanter
Turkish officials strongly criticized Israel's Permanent Representative to the United Nations for meeting and praising Enes Kanter, a Gülenist Terror Group (FETÖ) supporter.
Daily Sabah
Daesh Bride Shamima Begum Launches Bid To Regain Citizenship At UK Supreme Court
Shamima Begum was 15 when she left her home in Bethnal Green, east London, in February 2015 and travelled to Syria with two other British schoolgirls. She married a jihadist and lived in the Daesh’s self-declared Caliphate until last year.
Sputnik News
Balancing Counter-Terrorism Measures with International Human Rights
In his statement at a special meeting of the Security Council’s Counter-Terrorism Committee on 6 March 2003, the Former Secretary-General Kofi Annan has noted: “….Our responses to terrorism, as well as our efforts to thwart it and prevent it, should uphold the human rights that terrorists aim to destroy. Respect for human rights, fundamental freedoms, and the rule of law are essential tools in the effort to combat terrorism – not privileges to be sacrificed at a time of tension.”
Modern Diplomacy
Iraq arrests ISIS/Daesh terrorist at Baghdad Airport
A senior member of Daesh/ISIS terrorist group was arrested upon his arrival at Baghdad International Airport, the Iraqi army said on Monday.
Anadolu Agency
Researchers develop new tool to combat terrorism
Scientists are refining an innovative counter-terrorism technique that checks for environmental DNA in the dust on clothing, baggage, shoes or even a passport.
The Siasat Daily
|
|
BARMM
BARMM logs 88% Covid-19 recovery rate
The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has registered an 88 percent recovery rate against coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), an official of the regional inter-agency task force (IATF) against Covid-19 said Monday.
Philippine News Agency
Kalinaw Mindanaw: The Story of the GRP-MNLF Peace Process, 1975-1996 (16th of 18 parts)
Chapter 7. It is Time for New Relationships
To complete the story of the formal peace process, it would have been fitting to also provide an account of the progress of implementation of the Peace Agreement. But until the plebiscite on the revised Organic Act of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanaw is duly held and the results officially proclaimed, the process is not deemed complete and any account will be hanging and inconclusive. Our option is to merely give an overview of the status of implementation and proceed to the discussion of the other important dimensions of the peace process as a whole.
Mindanews
MAGUINDANAO AND COTABATO CITY
6 more BIFF surrendered to Army Troops in Maguindanao
Another batch of six fully-armed local terrorists belonging to Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter (BIFF) surrendered to the government forces following their decision to abandon their comrades in the hinterlands of Maguindanao on November 20, 2020.
Kalinaw News
Progeny of Former Rebel Combatants Undergo 3-day Leadership Training
The Philippine Army’s 6th Infantry (REDSKIN) Battalion under 6th Infantry (KAMPILAN) Division held a three-day leadership training to dissuade Moro youths from joining the ranks of the local terrorist groups in Bangsamoro University of the Philippines, Inc., Barangay Magaslong, Datu Piang, Maguindanao on November 20-22, 2020.
Kalinaw News
6ID Commander visits 1st Marine Brigade in Maguindanao
Major General Juvymax R. Uy, Commander of 6th Infantry (KAMPILAN) Division and Joint Task Force Central visited the Headquarters of 1st Marine Brigade in Sitio Bombaran, Barangay Tugaig, Barira, Maguindanao on November 19, 2020.
Kalinaw News
Army discovered anti-personnel mine in North Cotabato Village
Army troopers of Joint Task Force Central discovered an Anti-Personnel Mine (APM) while conducting route security in Pikit town of North Cotabato on November 20, 2020.
Kalinaw News
Sinas taps CIDG to probe slay of ex-Jolo police chief
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, Gen. Debold Sinas, has tapped the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) to probe the killing of relieved Jolo, Sulu police chief, Lt. Col. Walter Annayo, in Maguindanao province over the weekend.
Philippine News Agency
Catamco wants transport sectors consulted on proposed hybrid electric train
North Cotabato Gov. Nancy A. Catamco today ordered a series of consultations with the transport sectors and the public in general on the proposed operation of Hybrid Electric Road Train (HERT) in the province.
NDBC News
LANAO PROVINCES
MOLE gives aid to workers in Ranao region affected by pandemic
About 2,400 employees in Lanao del Sur and Marawi City affected by the Coronavirus Disease (Covid-19) pandemic received Php5, 000.00 each from the Ministry of Labor and Employment (MOLE) through its Covid-19 Assistance Program (CAP).
NDBC News
P6.8-M shabu seized, couple nabbed in Lanao del Sur drug bust
A man and his wife were arrested by police during law enforcement operation in Wao, Lanao del Sur, police said.
NDBC News
BASILAN
SULU
TAWI-TAWI
|
|
DRUGS
Tell those in drugs watchlist to stop or they might get killed, Duterte tells rights advocates
President Rodrigo Duterte lashed out again on Monday at human rights advocates who had been criticizing his war against illegal drugs, saying that they would be better off advising those in the drugs watchlist to stop their illegal activities or be killed.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Sinas denies rise in party drug use: Party places are closed
There’s no rise in the use of party drugs, contrary to a claim being made by some, Gen. Debold Sinas, chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), said on Monday.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
More than 3,600 arrested, 37 died in anti-illegal drug ops since Nov. 1 – Año
Around 3,600 suspects were apprehended from nearly 3,000 anti-illegal drug operations of the Philippine National Police since Nov. 1, Interior Secretary Eduardo Año bared on Monday night.
CNN Philippines
Operations/ Incidents
1 dead, 4 arrested in anti-drug operations
At least one suspect was killed and four others were arrested in separate anti-drug operations in Eastern Visayas from November 22-23, 2020.
Sunstar Tacloban
P13.6M ‘shabu’ seized in Bacolod
An estimated P13.6-million worth of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu) were seized in a buy-bust operation in Barangay Singcang-Airport last night.
Panay News
Trader, another nabbed in anti-drug operations
A used clothing trader and a newly-identified drug personality were arrested in separate anti-drug operations in the region, the police reported Monday, November 23.
SunStar Zamboanga
Recovery and Rehabilitation
ILLICIT FIREARMS, EXPLOSIVES, AND AMMUNITION
CROSS-BORDER TRADING/ SMUGGLING/ COUNTERFEIT GOODS
HUMAN TRAFFICKING
KIDNAPPING/ ABDUCTION
ILLEGAL GAMBLING
ILLICIT FINANCIAL TRANSACTIONS/ EXTORTION
Manhunt ongoing for masterminds of credit card phishing in Cebu City
Another fraudulent activity in Cebu was recently reported before authorities, and this time, it involved credit cards.The National Bureau of Investigation in Central Visayas (NBI-7) is conducting a manhunt against two individuals suspected of perpetuating a credit card phishing scam.
Cebu Daily News
|
|
PhilHealth exec faces complaint over lap dance
Eight women and labor groups on Monday filed a complaint in the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) against a regional official of Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) who was identified in a Senate inquiry last year as having received in his office a lap dance as a birthday gift.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Press Freedom/ Freedom of expression
MILF coddling 76 people facing charges for 2009 Maguindanao massacre—lawyer
Both the Philippine National Police and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) play a big role in the arrest of 76 people facing charges but are still at large for the killing of 58 people, including 32 journalists in Ampatuan, Maguindanao, 11 years ago, the lawyer of the massacre victims said.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Official statement of Rep. Mangudadatu on 11th year of Maguindanao massacre
In memory of the 11th year of the Maguindanao/Ampatuan Massacre
Assalamu Alaykum Wa Rahmatullahi Wah Barakatuho!
We are once again gathered here to commemorate the tragedy that continues to bind us all for over a decade today.
NDBC News
Gov't won't stop hunting down other Ampatuan massacre suspects
On the 11th anniversary of the Maguindanao massacre, Malacañang on Monday vowed that government will continue hunting down suspects who are still at large and pursue charges against them.
Philippine News Agency
Fight for ‘full justice’ continues for Ampatuan massacre victims
The families of journalists here, who were killed in the grisly Ampatuan massacre on Nov. 23, 2009, vowed on Monday to sustain the fight for “full justice” for the victims -- no matter how long it will take.
Philippine News Agency
Negros Press Club lights 58 candles to remember massacre victims
The Negros Press Club (NPC) here lighted 58 candles symbolizing the number of lives lost in the Maguindanao Massacre to mark the 11th year of the grisly killing on Monday.
Philippine News Agency
------------------------------------------------------------
Philippine soldiers shoot and kill journalist Ronnie Villamor at checkpoint
Philippine authorities should independently investigate the circumstances surrounding the killing of journalist Ronnie Villamor, and hold those responsible to account, the Committee to Protect Journalists said today.
Committee to Protect Journalists
---------------------------------------------------------------
[Opinion] What should Philippine media do when the president lies?
'The Philippine media should assess where they stand during these hard times: do they stand with the people whom they claim to serve? Or do they stand with perpetrators of hate and lies just to keep their businesses safe and running?'
Rappler
Martial Law
|
|
|
COVID-19
Cases
1,799 new COVID cases reported, pushing PH total to 420,614
COVID-19 cases in the Philippines increased to 420,614 after 1,799 new infections were reported Monday, the Department of Health said.
Manila Bulletin
135 more beat Covid-19 as recoveries jump to 386,604
With 135 new recoveries logged on Monday, the overall tally of Covid-19 recovered cases nationwide has reached 386,604.
Philippine News Agency
Department of Health
DOH chief warns of possible uptick in COVID-19 cases after holidays
Health Secretary Francisco Duque III warned the public on Monday against complacency during the holiday season as this could result in an increase in COVID-19 cases.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Guidelines on Covid-19 test price cap to be released this week
The guidelines for the implementation of a price cap for coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) testing and test kits will be released within the week, Malacañang said Monday.
Philippine News Agency
IATF/NTF COVID-19
Gov’t eyes use of P73.2 billion in loans to buy COVID-19 vaccines for 60 million people
The Duterte administration is planning to use P73.2 billion worth of loans to buy COVID-19 vaccines for 60 million Filipinos.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
NTF vows to aid Davao City in addressing Covid-19 surge
The national government assured the city government of Davao that it will help strengthen its testing, contact tracing, treatment, isolation, and recovery following the spike of coronavirus cases in the area, National Task Force (NTF) against Covid-19 chief implementer Sec. Carlito Galvez Jr. said on Monday.
Philippine News Agency
Regions
Luzon including NCR
Pasig expands contact tracing solution via QR code system
The city government of Pasig has required all residents and business establishments to use a quick response (QR) code system as the city expanded its contract tracing solution to combat the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).
Philippine News Agency
Visayas
NBI files complaint vs Bacolod health officer over coronavirus testing numbers
The National of Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has filed a complaint against the city’s health officer for alleged discrepancies in reporting results of coronavirus tests from the Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital to the city’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC).
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Aggressive testing to track Covid-19 rise in Cebu City: DOH-7
The planned aggressive testing in areas here with high prevalence of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) will track the recent spike of cases, a Department of Health-Region 7 (DOH-7) official said on Monday.
Philippine News Agency
Mindanao
AFP deploys 25-man medical team to Davao City
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday deployed a 25-member medical contingent to Davao City which has been classified as a "restricted LGU (local government unit)" following the increase in coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) cases in the city.
Philippine News Agency
‘SafeDavao QR’ code imposition canceled anew
The city government of Davao has again postponed the mandatory enforcement of the SafeDavao QR (DQR) code on Monday due to a problem with some gadgets, Mayor Sara Duterte said.
Mindanews
World
‘Blursday,’ ‘Covidiot,’ ‘Doomscrolling’ — How the Covid19 Pandemic Changed the English Language Forever
In 2019, Oxford Languages, as per annual tradition, released the ‘word of the year’: climate emergency. The year before, the publisher of the Oxford English Dictionary chose “toxic.” Two years before, it was “post-truth.” These selections, at their respective times, signaled what the world, or at least felt the most pressing, engaging, and perhaps relevant issue was for that period.
The Swaddle
Ebay Announces Grants Program To Help Small Businesses Affected By Covid-19
The effect of Covid-19 on small businesses has been devastating and the prospect of further lockdowns does not bode well for the winter.
Forbes
Bill Gates confident almost all Covid-19 vaccines will work well
Billionaire Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates believes "almost all" the Covid-19 vaccines will work and work well, he said in an interview with CNN's Fareed Zakaria.
CNN Philippines
With end of crisis programs, Fed faces tricky post-pandemic transition
The possible arrival of a coronavirus vaccine in the coming weeks means the Federal Reserve may soon have to lay out its plans for helping the economy navigate the potentially choppy transition to a post-pandemic world.
Reuters
World’s top surgical glove maker shuts factories due to coronavirus
A Malaysian company that is the world’s biggest manufacturer of surgical gloves will close over half of its factories after a surge in coronavirus cases among workers, authorities said Monday.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Shanghai airport momentarily descends into chaos after workers test positive for COVID-19
Shanghai's biggest international airport momentarily descended into chaos Sunday night, after authorities ordered a mass testing drive in response to a small outbreak of COVID-19 linked to several cargo handlers.
CNN Philippines
Updated projections of COVID-19 in the EU/EEA and the UK
Following widespread transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in the European Union (EU)/European Economic Area (EEA) countries and the United Kingdom (UK) over several weeks, the COVID-19 epidemic reached a peak in most of these countries in April or early May 2020. Following the implementation of non-pharmaceutical measures aimed at reducing contact rates between people, the number of confirmed cases and associated morbidity and mortality diminished sharply. In most countries, the intensity of these measures was subsequently lightened. By late October 2020, a resurgence of cases was observed in EU/EEA countries and the UK.
European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control
Diplomatic, Development and Private Sector
Incidents and Violations
Editorial, Analysis, Opinion and Features
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
Covid-19 immunization won’t be mandatory: Palace
The government will not require all Filipinos to be inoculated with a potential coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccine once it arrives in the country, Malacañang said Monday.
Philippine News Agency
PRRD looking forward to end of term in 2022: Palace
President Rodrigo Duterte is looking forward to the end of his six-year term in June 2022 so that he could return to his hometown Davao City, Malacañang said Monday.
Philippine News Agency
OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT
Robredo ready to mend fences with Duterte
Vice President Leni Robredo is ready to mend fences with President Duterte for the good of the people. In an interview over DZRH, the vice president lamented that her actions during the rescue and relief efforts for the victims of Typhoon Ulysses in northern Luzon have been politicized.
Manila Bulletin
AUDIT, GRAFT, AND CORRUPTION
Duterte: 800 government officials, employees fired for graft, other offenses
President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday night said he will continue to "go after government officials and workers who are into graft and corruption," saying around 800 officials and workers have been dismissed from the service due to illegal activities.
ABS- CBN
DOJ to use SALNs in DOTr corruption probe
Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra on Monday said the Task Force against Corruption (TFAC) would use the Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) of officials in investigating possible graft and corrupt practices in the Department of Transportation (DOTr).
Philippine News Agency
Sandiganbayan clears PSC chair in graft raps over security deal
The Sandiganbayan has cleared the chairman of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) from a complaint involving a contract for the hiring of more security guards to secure the agency's properties in 2008.
Philippine News Agency
BUDGET, FINANCE, and TAXATION
Monetary policy should guard vs itself
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has done enough and should be more careful in dispensing monetary stimulus or risk financial instability, according to an ex-central bank official.
Manila Bulletin
Pangasinan firm ordered to pay taxes on imported rice
The Court of Tax Appeals (CTA) has ordered a Pangasinan based-company to pay over PHP4 million in taxes for its importation of 603.15 metric tons of white rice in 2016.
Philippine News Agency
BUSINESS, ECONOMY AND INVESTMENT
DTI confident of single-digit GDP decline in Q4
Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon M. Lopez expects the decline in the country’s GDP and unemployment rate will further slowdown to single digit in the last fourth quarter of this year as the economy continued to reopen.
Manila Bulletin
UnionBank offers dual-tranche bonds
UnionBank of the Philippines, Inc. is offering dual-tranche bonds to raise at least P3 billion in fresh funds.
Business World
SKorea eyes PH business opportunities
South Korea is looking at expanding business opportunities in the Philippines, a Cabinet official said on Monday.
Manila Times
BUILD, BUILD, BUILD and PUBLIC WORKS
CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS
DISASTER AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE
‘Ulysses’-affected residents get over P131-M worth of aid
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said it is continuously providing assistance to victims of Typhoon Ulysses.
Philippine News Agency
28 Aeta communities in CamSur town get relief aid
Some 28 Aeta communities in Buhi, Camarines Sur received 1,077 relief packs from the Civil-Military Operations Unit-Southern Luzon (CMOUSL) during a relief distribution program attended by their tribal leaders at the Lourdes Elementary School on Monday.
Philippine News Agency
Valenzuela donates P4-M aid to Cagayan, Isabela
The city government of Valenzuela donated some PHP4 million worth of in-kind assistance and financial grants to various towns and municipalities in Cagayan and Isabela that were hit hard by the recent typhoons.
Philippine News Agency
840 tons of ‘Ulysses’ garbage hauled from Marikina, San Mateo
Over 3,104 cubic meters of garbage, equivalent to 841.34 tons, has been collected as of Sunday from affected areas in Marikina City and San Mateo in Rizal which were left devastated by Typhoon Ulysses, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said.
Philippine News Agency
Barangay chairperson halts relief distribution in Isabela, insists on taking over
An Ilagan City barangay chairperson prevented relief delivery to flood victims in her community and ordered the confiscation of food items for distribution last Thursday, November 19, a regional farmers group reported.
Kodao Productions
DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
DEFENSE AND SECURITY
Armed Forces of the Philippines
AFP holds Joint Exercise DAGIT-PA, troops to observe strict health protocols
The Armed Forces of the Philippines officially opened the AFP Joint Exercise (AJEX) “DAGIT-PA” on Monday, November 23 at the AFP Education, Training and Doctrine Command (APETDC).
Kalinaw News
AFP holds land-sea-air inter-operability drills amid pandemic
Strict health protocols are expected to be implemented as the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) officially opened the AFP Joint Exercise (AJEX) “DAGIT-PA” in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Monday with thousands of participating soldiers braving the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic to hone their skills.
Manila Bulletin
General Gilbert Gapay: Too short a term for immense tasks
On General Gilbert Gapay’s 3rd month as chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in November, the following happened: Top Abu Sayyaf and New People’s Army (NPA) leaders were killed; a ranking military general wrangled with celebrities on social media then made peace with one of them; 3 ferocious typhoons lashed at the country; the Philippines’ Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with the US was extended; and a pandemic raged on.
Rappler
Philippine National Police
PNP warns POGOs vs. hiding crimes involving workers
The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday warned Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) against withholding information on criminal matters involving their workers.
Philippine News Agency
Localization program for cops halted
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Debold Sinas on Monday has ordered the stoppage of the localization program in the deployment of police personnel.
Philippine News Agency
EDUCATION
Solon bats for extension of current school year to July 2021
ACT-CIS Rep. Jocelyn Tulfo is pushing for the extension of the current school year to July 2021 as the country waits for the availability of a vaccine against the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
Philippine Daily Inquirer
INFORMATION, COMMUNICATION AND TECHNOLOGY
PCOO receives new comms equipment from Megawide
Private consortium Megawide engaged in government projects has donated new communications equipment to the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) in support of its crisis communications program.
Philippine News Agency
ELECTION RELATED
[Opinion] Dismiss Bongbong’s poll protest vs Leni
Are Filipino political operators advising President Donald Trump in his rear-guard maneuvers after losing the Nov. 3 election in the United States?
Philippine Star
[Editorial] Leonen vs Calida: Test of wills bears lessons for our public life
ill be tempting for the public to treat the public quarrel between Supreme Court Associate Justice Marvic Mario Victor Leonen and Solicitor General Jose Calida as though it were a prizefight.
Manila Times
What the Philippines Can Learn from Myanmar’s Election
Lesson #1: Stinging international rebukes over human rights abuses do not necessarily translate into fewer votes.
The Diplomat
ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
15 quarry operators in Albay found with permit violations
At least 15 quarry operators extracting aggregates around Mayon Volcano were found to have violated their permits and were recommended for appropriate sanctions, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Mines and Geosciences Bureau (DENR-MGB) said on Monday.
Philippine News Agency
DILG orders intensified efforts vs illegal logging after series of typhoons
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Monday said it has directed the local government units (LGU) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to implement a crackdown on illegal logging and quarrying activities and expedited the planting of trees in coordination with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
UNTV
LABOR
PRRD hails Saudi removal of restrictions on foreign laborers
President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday welcomed the decision of Saudi Arabia to remove key restrictions tying migrant workers to their employers.
Philippine News Agency
POEA awaits IATF decision over 5K cap on med workers deployment
The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) said it is still waiting for the resolution of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) regarding the annual 5,000-limit for the deployment of health care workers (HCWs).
Philippine News Agency
Enough healthcare workers in PH assured despite lifting of ban
Malacañang on Monday assured there are enough healthcare workers in the Philippines despite President Rodrigo Duterte’s decision to allow the overseas deployment of 5,000 Filipino medical professionals abroad every year.
Philippine News Agency
Firms have 'moral duty' to protect workers: DOLE
An official of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on Monday reminded private companies that they have a duty to protect their workers.
Philippine News Agency
DOLE issues work stoppage order on Skyway extension project
The Department of Labor and Employment-National Capital Region (DOLE-NCR) on Monday has issued a work stoppage order on the Skyway extension project, pending the occupational and health standards investigation following Saturday's mishap in Muntinlupa City that killed a motorist and injured six others.
Philippine News Agency
LEGISLATIVE
Senate of the Philippines
Gordon says it’s time to desilt Laguna de Bay
Senator Richard Gordon called for desilting the Laguna de Bay to prevent another massive flooding that Metro Manila and nearby Calabarzon experienced during Typhoon Ulysses.
Philippine News Agency
House of Representatives
House approves bill penalizing workplace discrimination vs women
Penalties for discrimination against working women has been guaranteed in the House of Representatives as the chamber unanimously approved on third and final reading a bill expanding the prohibited acts of gender bias in the workplace.
Manila Bulletin
House approves BFP modernization bill on final reading
The House of Representatives on Monday approved on final reading a bill seeking to strengthen and modernize the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), which is a legislative priority of President Rodrigo Duterte.
Philippine News Agency
House recalls 2nd reading approval of bill allowing 35-hour working week
Second reading approval of a bill instituting a 35-hour working week scheme in the country was recalled last night upon the request of an administration lawmaker who used to be a human resources director of an American firm in the country.
Manila Bulletin
Caregivers welfare bill gets final House nod
The House of Representatives on Monday overwhelmingly approved on third and final reading a bill seeking to institute policies for the protection and welfare of caregivers in the practice of their profession.
Philippine News Agency
House probe on ‘Ulysses’ floods to focus on corrective solutions
Speaker Lord Allan Velasco on Monday said the probe on the devastating “Ulysses” floods will focus on coming up with long-term solutions to prevent life and property losses in future typhoons.
Philippine News Agency
House panel OKs imposition of taxes on online betting activities
A House of Representatives’ panel on Monday approved a measure proposing the creation of a fiscal regime for electronic sabong (cockfighting) and other legally-operated online betting activities to raise more revenues for the government’s coronavirus disease (Covid-19) response.
Philippine News Agency
LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS (LGUs)
OFFICIAL DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE
US donates $18-M worth of precision-guided weapons to PH
The United States (US) on Monday donated USD18 million worth of precision-guided munitions (PGMs) to the Philippines which would be used by the government in counter-terrorism operations.
Philippine News Agency
FOREIGN RELATIONS
AFP thanks US for donating cutting-edge assets
The Armed Forces of the Philippines thanked the United States government Monday for donating a package of smart munitions and cutting-edge military assets and systems.
Manila Bulletin
'We've got your back,' US security adviser tells PH amid political developments in America
Visiting US National Security Adviser Robert O'Brien on Monday gave the assurance that the Philippines has the support of the United States whatever happens politically in his home country, as he also called on China to abide by the 2016 arbitral ruling on the South China Sea.
ABS- CBN
West Philippine Sea
FOOD AND AGRICULTURE
[Editorial] Sustain agri growth
As the country struggles to rise from the devastation caused by the recent typhoons, special attention must be given to the agriculture sector, which traditionally suffers the most from natural calamities. The latest official estimates placed the amount of damage to the sector at a staggering P12.3 billion. This figure as of last week covers the destruction caused by typhoons “Quinta,” “Rolly,” and “Ulysses” in the food-producing regions of Cagayan Valley, Bicol, Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon) and Mimaropa (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan).
Philippine Daily Inquirer
DAR launches urban farming project in Tondo, Manila
“Many Filipinos were affected by the Covid-2019 pandemic because majority lost their jobs and have no means to put food on their tables. The farmers are one of the least affected by the crisis because they have their farms to till, agricultural products to sell and harvest to feed their families, and even some of the country’s households,” thus said Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Secretary Brother John Castriciones during the launching of an urban farming project dubbed as “Buhay sa Gulay,” held in St. John Don Bosco Parish, Tondo Manila.
Philippine Information Agency
ASF 'contained effectively' in NorMin: DA-10
The African swine fever (ASF) cases affecting a number of hogs in Iligan City have been "contained effectively," an official of the Department of Agriculture in Region 10 (DA-10) said Monday.
Philippine News Agency
DA-Philrice asks farmers to sell dry palay for higher price
The Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rice Research Institute (DA-PhilRice) has encouraged farmers to sell good quality dry palay for more income amid the lower farm gate price of the grain staple.
Philippine News Agency
Swept away – Philippine agriculture bears wrath from government neglect
Government’s long-time neglect of the country’s agriculture sector has been disastrous to small producers. The recent series of super-typhoons – Quinta, Rolly and Ulysses – has highlighted this.
Kodao Productions
HOUSING and SETTLEMENT
‘Smart cities’ to spur economic development
Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development Secretary Eduardo del Rosario stressed the need to establish “smart cities” that he said could spur economic growth.
Manila Times
POVERTY
SWS: 4% of PH households still have no toilets; 6% share facilities
There are still four percent of households in the country without any toilets while another six percent have to share toilets with other households, a survey from the Social Weather Stations (SWS) showed.
Philippine Daily Inquirer
SOCIAL WELFARE AND DEVELOPMENT
80 low-income families in MisOr get cash aid
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has distributed financial assistance to about 80 families in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental.
Philippine News Agency
TRANSPORTATION
Angkas to resume ops after completing requirements: DOTr
Angkas and its motorcycle (MC) taxis will soon make a comeback in Metro Manila after the company completed the requirements set by the MC Taxi Technical Working Group (TWG), an official of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said on Monday.
Philippine News Agency
TOURISM
Café in Pangasinan town boosts tourism, livelihood amid pandemic
The Highlands Café in the Sky at Barangay Lipit Tomeeng here is the newest tourist attraction in Pangasinan as it offers scenic, instagrammable view, and scrumptious food while employing college students here.
Philippine News Agency
WATER and ENERGY
Gov't agencies crafting unified protocol on dams' spilling ops
Concerned government agencies are now working on a synchronized protocol on the release of water from dams, Interior Secretary Eduardo Año said on Monday.
Philippine News Agency
|
|
|
|
|
