Philippine COVID-19 tally tops 44,000 with record-high 2,434 new cases
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — The number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in the Philippines breached the 44,000 mark on Sunday after the Department of Health (DOH) reported a record-high 2,434 more infections—1,147 “fresh” or newly validated and 1,287 reported late—bringing the total to 44,254. Total recoveries also rose to 11,942 after 489 more patients recovered […]
Duterte signs anti-terror bill into law
MANILA, July 4 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has signed into law a measure that seeks to give the country more teeth to curb terror threats and acts, Malacañang announced on Friday. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque and Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea confirmed in separate text messages that the anti-terror bill is already passed into law. […]
66,000 stranded OFWs sent back to home provinces since May 15 — OWWA
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — Around 66,000 repatriated Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who were stranded in Metro Manila due to restrictions implemented amid the COVID-19 pandemic are already in their home provinces. Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) administrator Hans Leo Cacdac said in a forum on Monday that 34,000 of them were seafarers, while 32,000 were land-based […]
Foreign business travelers may be allowed entry to Philippines under MGCQ– DOT exec
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — Business travelers from other countries may be allowed to enter the Philippines once quarantine restrictions have been eased to modified general community quarantine (GCQ), an official of the Department of Tourism (DOT) said Sunday. Tourism Undersecretary Bong Bengzon said that it is the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious […]
14 missing after fishing boat collides with Hong Kong cargo ship off Mindoro
MANILA, June 29 (Mabuhay) — Fourteen people were reported missing after their fishing boat collided with a Hong Kong-flagged cargo vessel off the coast of Occidental Mindoro, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said on Monday. Among the 14 missing is the fishing boat’s captain and two passengers, the PCG said. The PCG on Monday said […]
BSP pegs Q2 economic performance at -5.7% to -6.7%, bringing Philippines to technical recession
MANILA, June 29 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine economy could contract by as much as 6.7% in the second quarter, which would put the Philippines in a technical recession, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Benjamin Diokno said Monday. According to Diokno, the economy is likely to register an economic performance ranging between -5.7% and -6.7% […]
PH retains highest classification in US anti-TIP standards
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — The United States retained Manila’s Tier 1 status in its annual Trafficking in Persons (TIP) report, the highest classification, for the fifth year in a row. The State Department recognized Manila’s assistance to a total of 6,772 potential trafficking victims and around 1,143 Filipino trafficking survivors from the Middle East and Asia. […]
DOT eyes allowing entry of tourists from countries with low to zero COVID-19 cases
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Friday bared plans to allow foreign tourists from countries with relatively low cases of COVID-19 to visit certain tourist destinations in the country, in a bid to revive the hard-hit tourism sector. “We are looking at in the near future, what we call travel bubbles or […]
PRRD urges Asean to find ‘innovative ways’ to end sea disputes
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo R. Duterte on Friday enjoined the other members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) to look for “innovative” ways to resolve the long-standing disputes in the resource-rich South China Sea. Duterte, in a speech delivered during the 36th annual Asean summit, maintained that tensions among South China Sea […]
Palace says PH winning fight vs. Covid-19, disputes WHO report
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — The Philippines is winning the fight against coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), Malacañang said Monday, after the country defied the number of cases projected by a University of the Philippines (UP) study. “In terms of positivity rate, in terms of case-doubling rate, in case of mortality rate, we are winning. As, in fact, […]
$3.1B of ‘hot money’ exited PHL in January-May — BSP
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — Foreign portfolio investments (FPI) or “hot money” yielded a net outflow of $3.1 billion million in the first five months of 2020 due to the impact of COVID-19 pandemic and other external pressures, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Thursday. FPI is also called hot money because of the ease by […]
No COVID-19 deaths recorded in Eastern Visayas despite surge in cases, Año says
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — Even though there is an increase in the number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in Eastern Visayas, no death was recorded in the region, specifically in the province of Leyte, Interior Secretary Eduardo Año said Thursday. “Totoo na nag-surge talaga ang positive cases sa kabuuan ng Region VIII pero pinakamarami sa […]
Keep windows open, let air circulate in PUVs as public transpo gradually resumes — solon
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — ACT-CIS party-list Representative Jocelyn Tulfo on Thursday urged the government to adopt guidance from international health organizations against COVID-19 to keep windows open and let air circulate in public utility vehicles as it gradually allows the resumption of operations of public transportation in many areas of the country. In a statement, Tulfo […]
OFWs’ data protected in information tracking system — DOLE
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — An official of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on Thursday assured data privacy protection for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who will register to the OFW Assistance Information System (OASIS). In a Laging Handa briefing, Labor Assistant Secretary Alex Avila said the information they will be getting through the system are […]
IMF sees Philippine economy shrinking further by 3.6% in 2020
MANILA, June 25 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine economy will contract further this year due to the global economic disruption brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, International Monetary Fund projections indicate. In its World Economic Outlook update released Wednesday night, the IMF expected the Philippine’s gross domestic product (GDP) to shrink by 3.6% in 2020. This […]
Drilon to OWWA: Facilitate speedy repatriation of 150K OFWs
MANILA, June 25 (Mabuhay) — Repatriate all 150,000 overseas Filipinos affected by the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic first and let’s talk about funding later. Thus said Senate Minority Leader Franklin M. Drilon to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) after OWWA Administrator Hans Cacdac admitted that the ongoing repatriation of OFWs, if it continues next […]
UV express vans, traditional PUJs to resume ops next week — LTFRB
MANILA, June 25 (Mabuhay) — Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) chairman Martin Delgra on Wednesday said UV Express vans and traditional public utility jeepneys (PUJs) will be allowed to resume transport operations in Metro Manila starting next week. “[They could start operating] next week for both UV and traditional jeepneys… For Monday may […]
Philippines’ COVID-19 tally breaches 32,000 with 470 new infections
MANILA, June 25 (Mabuhay) — The number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in the Philippines breached the 32,000 mark on Wednesday after the Department of Health (DOH) reported 470 more infections—357 “fresh” or newly validated and 113 reported late—bringing the total to 32,295. Total recoveries also rose to 8,656 after 214 more patients recovered […]
More than 90K workers displaced during first 6 months — DOLE
MANILA, June 25 (Mabuhay) — Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) chairman Martin Delgra on Wednesday said UV Express vans and traditional public utility jeepneys (PUJs) will be allowed to resume transport operations in Metro Manila starting next week. “[They could start operating] next week for both UV and traditional jeepneys… For Monday may […]
Kanlaon Volcano’s quakes show no sign yet of magma rising — Solidum
MANILA, June 25 (Mabuhay) — Recent earthquakes in Kanlaon Volcano on Negros Island do not indicate that magma is rising from beneath its edifice to the main crater, the head of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said. PHIVOLCS Officer-in-Charge Undersecretary Renato Solidum Jr. said the recent earthquakes were recorded only at the base […]
Drilon to OWWA: Facilitate speedy repatriation of 150K OFWs
MANILA, June 25 (Mabuhay) — Repatriate all 150,000 overseas Filipinos affected by the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic first and let’s talk about funding later. Thus said Senate Minority Leader Franklin M. Drilon to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) after OWWA Administrator Hans Cacdac admitted that the ongoing repatriation of OFWs, if it continues next […]
Robredo says OVP has helped more than 700 locally stranded individuals go home this week
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — Vice President Leni Robredo on Saturday said her office has assisted more than 700 locally stranded individuals (LSIs) in Metro Manila to go home to their provinces this week. “Umabot muli sa higit 700 na locally stranded individuals (LSIs) ang ating natulungang makauwi ngayong linggo dahil sa patuloy na pakikipagtulungan ng ating […]
Philippine health care system still has enough capacity to care for COVID-19 patients — DOH
MANILA, June 20 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine health care system’s current critical care utilization rate (CCUR) is not yet fully exhausted, meaning the system still has enough capacity to care for those in need of critical care during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Health (DOH) said Saturday. “‘Yung critical care utilization rate, ito po […]
Gov’t to prepare 2nd phase of plans vs. Covid-19
MANILA, June 20 (Mabuhay)– The government sought a second phase of operation concepts and plans to boost its battle against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic in the country, the chief implementer of the National Action Plan (NAP) on Covid-19 said on Friday. Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., also a presidential peace adviser, said the Inter-Agency […]
DOH: Don’t buy dexamethasone for the purpose of preventing COVID-19
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — The Department of Health on Saturday advised the public not to flock to drugstores to buy dexamethasone for use in preventing COVID-19. “Dapat ‘yung mga kababayan natin, ‘wag bumili kasi ‘di naman siya magagamit to prevent, hindi naman siya magagamit para gamutin ang COVID-19,” Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said. Malacañang on […]
PRRD renews ties with 4 countries, state of Palestine
MANILA, June 20 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte has ensured that the Philippines will continue to have “friendly and cooperative” relations with Canada, Iran, Vietnam, New Zealand, and Palestine, Malacañang said on Friday. Duterte gave the guarantee during the presentation of credentials of the five countries’ ambassadors held at Malacañan Palace on Friday afternoon, the […]
PhilHealth no longer requires OFWs to pay premiums before getting employment certificate
MANILA, (Mabuhay) — The Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) is no longer requiring overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to pay their premium contributions as a requirement to secure an overseas employment certificate (OEC). PhilHealth President Ricardo Morales made the remark on Tuesday during the virtual organizational meeting of the Joint Congressional Oversight Committee on Universal Health […]
Business tycoon Danding Cojuangco Jr passes away at 85
MANILA, June 17 (Mabuhay) — Business tycoon Eduardo “Danding” Cojuangco Jr. has passed away. Cojuangco’s death was announced by San Miguel Corporation, of which he was chairman and chief executive officer, in a statement on Wednesday. “San Miguel Corporation announces the passing of its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Eduardo M. Cojuangco Jr., on […]
Spanish man in Dasma Village incident ‘perpetually banned’ from entering Philippines — PH Bureau of Immigration
MANILA, June 16 (Mabuhay) — The Spanish citizen who figured in an altercation with a police officer in a posh Makati subdivision last April is now “perpetually banned” from entering the Philippines, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) said Tuesday. Javier Salvador Parra is barred from re-entering the country after it was confirmed that he has […]
Customs seizes P2.7M in dollar bills hidden inside magazines from HK
MANILA, June 15 (Mabuhay) –Customs authorities have seized P2.7 million worth of US dollar bills inserted in pages of various magazines declared as “Chinese Cook Book Recipes” which entered the country last month. In a statement on Sunday, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) said the shipments declared as “Chinese Cook Book Recipes” arrived from Hong […]
Coronavirus causing COVID-19 is not weakening, San Lazaro Hospital doctor says
MANILA, June 15 (Mabuhay) — An official of the San Lazaro Hospital on Sunday belied claims that the coronavirus causing COVID-19 is losing its potency. San Lazaro Hospital’s Adult Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Section chair Dr. Rontgene Solante added that the coronavirus can still spread easily. “Ang virus hindi humihina. Hindi nagbabago ang anyo. […]
US official thanks DND for supporting Philippine gov’t’s decision to suspend VFA
MANILA, June 15 (Mabuhay) — US Defense Secretary Mark Esper on Friday expressed appreciation for the support the Department of National Defense (DND) gave the Philippine government in its decision to suspend the termination of the Visiting Forces Agreement. Esper and Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana had a conference call on Friday to discuss US-Philippines relations, […]
Coronavirus survivor Iza Calzado donates plasma for patients
MANILA, June 13 (Mabuhay) — Actress Iza Calzado, one of the first local high-profile cases of coronavirus, shared that she has donated blood in the hope of helping other patients recover. On Instagram, Calzado shared a photo of her holding the bag of blood she had donated at the Philippine General Hospital. The successful donation […]
Duterte ‘inclined’ to sign anti-terror bill into law — PH Palace
MANILA, June 16 (Mabuhay) — Despite opposition from various sectors, President Rodrigo Duterte is “inclined” to sign the anti-terrorism bill, Malacañang said Tuesday. “I think he is inclined to sign it,” Roque said. The anti-terrorism bill, which seeks to replace the Human Security Act, the country’s existing law against terrorism, is being reviewed by Malacañang […]
NCR remains under GCQ; Cebu City back to ECQ
MANILA, June 16 (Mabuhay)– President Rodrigo Duterte has retained the general community quarantine (GCQ) classification in Metro Manila and reverted Cebu City to enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) until June 30. In a televised meeting late Monday night, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III announced the new community quarantine classifications based on the recommendation of the Inter-Agency […]
Gov’t should intensify reintegration programs for OFWs – Villanueva
MANILA, June 15 (Mabuhay) — The government must “further intensify” and expand the implementation of reintegration programs for overseas Filipino workers who find themselves back in the country due to COVID-19, Senator Joel Villanueva said Sunday. In a statement, Villanueva said skills training provided by TESDA and other interventions must be given to OFWs to […]
DTI supports legislation to boost e-commerce law in PH
MANILA, June 15 (Mabuhay) — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in commemoration of the 20th year of Republic Act 8792 or the Electronic Commerce Act of 2000, has committed to implement policies to strengthen and grow e-commerce in the country while supporting current legislative measures by Congress. “Twenty years after this pioneering legislation […]
Pinoys urged to have ‘courage, hope, optimism’ amid health crisis
MANILA, June 12 (Mabuhay) — President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday called on his fellow Filipinos to live with “courage, hope, and optimism” even as the country continues its battle against the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic. Duterte made the call in a taped video message played during the 122nd Independence Day rites at the Rizal […]
‘Filipinos will not cower to China,’ Hontiveros says on Independence Day
MANILA, June 12 (Mabuhay) — Senator Risa Hontiveros on Friday said Filipinos will not cower to China amid what she said were Beijing’s continued incursions in the West Philippine Sea. In an online rally she led on Independence Day, Hontiveros reiterated her earlier demand for China to pay the Philippines at least P200 billion as […]
BIR memo aimed at getting online sellers to register — DOF
MANILA, June 12 (Mabuhay) — The controversial move of the Bureau of Internal Revenue requiring those into digital transactions to register and declare past transactions is not meant to squeeze money out of online sellers’ incomes, the Department of Finance said Friday. DOF Revenue Operations Group Undersecretary Antonette Tionko said, the purpose is to get […]
ADB approves $500-M loan for Philippine 4Ps program
MANILA, June 11 (Mabuhay)– Japan-led multilateral lender Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved another loan for the Philippines, this time $500 million to expand the conditional cash transfer program. In a statement on Wednesday, the ADB said the approved loan will cover the expanded Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) introduced in 2008. “The 4Ps program […]
US Embassy cancels visa services through July 3; resumption indefinite
MANILA, June 11 (Mabuhay)– The US Embassy in the Philippines on Thursday announced that it is cancelling all immigrant and non-immigrant visa interviews scheduled through July 3 due to the community quarantine implemented to slow the spread of COVID-19 in the country. “We will resume routine visa services as soon as possible but are unable […]
Difficult for Philippines to achieve New Zealand’s zero COVID-19 feat — Palace
MANILA, June 11 (Mabuhay) — It will be difficult for the Philippines to achieve New Zealand’s feat of having zero COVID-19 cases, Malacañang said on Wednesday. In an interview with state-run PTV, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said zero cases would be difficult to attain given the Philippines’ population density, especially in urban centers like Metro […]
OFWs need to submit names, destinations before returning to PH
MANILA, June 11 (Mabuhay) — A new protocol will be implemented in the processing of returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said on Wednesday. Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said returning OFWs will now be required to submit pertinent information to the agency before they leave their host countries. […]
Proposal to seize China assets in the Philippines for WPS damage needs further study — Hontiveros
MANILA, June 10 (Mabuhay) — Senator Risa Hontiveros on Tuesday said the suggestion to seize China’s assets in the Philippines as payback for the damage it has caused in the disputed territorial waters needs further study to determine if such is allowed by the Constitution. The lawmaker made the comment after she was asked if […]
Stricter quarantine rules possible if Covid-19 cases rise — Palace
MANILA, June 10 (Mabuhay) — The government might be compelled to impose stricter quarantine restrictions if the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) infections continue to rise, Malacañang said on Tuesday. In a virtual presser aired on state-run PTV-4, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque raised the possibility that the community quarantine might be tighter anew, depending on the […]
Lacson reminds Catriona: Australia implements more stringent anti-terrorism law
MANILA, June 10 (Mabuhay)– Senator Panfilo Lacson on Tuesday questioned Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray’s opposition to the controversial antiterror bill which he authored and is now transmitted to the Palace. “Ang Australia, very strong democracy kaya medyo ano ako, with all due respect kay Miss Universe Catriona Gray, ’di ba Australian siya? E kumokontra […]
PhilHealth execs told to quit
PhilHealth execs told to quit by THE MANILA TIMES Go: Duterte ‘really wants a revamp’President Rodrigo Duterte had asked officials of state-owned Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) to resign in the wake of a “ghost dialysis” scandal, his former aide and spokesman said on Monday. In a statement late Monday night, Salvador Panelo said the […]
Pinoys urged to ensure ‘truly independent PH’
MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday called on Filipinos to ensure that the dream of “a truly independent Philippines” is achieved within their lifetime. In his Independent Day message, Duterte acknowledged how 121 years have passed since the country’s ancestors ended colonization and proclaimed its independence. “A hundred and twenty-one years passed since our forefathers […]
PAL mulling San Vicente, Palawan route
MANILA, May 12, 2018 – Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) is considering having a San Vicente, Palawan route, spokesperson Cielo Villaluna said on Friday. San Vicente Airport (SVA) was inaugurated on Thursday, and was opened for commercial flights. Previously, the SVA only caters to light aircraft and Air Juan’s chartered flights. Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) […]
Duterte: PHL adheres to international law in sea row
MANILA (PNA) – President Rodrigo Duterte said the Philippines follows international law in the disputed West Philippine Sea, which is a portion of the South China Sea. This was aired by Pres. Duterte during Wednesday’s ASEAN-China meeting in the ongoing 28th and 29th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit being held in Laos. In […]
VP budget for 2017 slashed by 14.28%
By Azer N. Parrocha MANILA (PNA) — The PHP428.618 million proposed 2017 budget for the Office of the Vice President is 14.28 percent lower than its 2016 budget, Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo said Wednesday. Robredo presented the 2017 budget proposal for her office to the Senate Committee on Finance, saying that she is […]
Malacañang reminds Trump: You said PHL was a ‘special place’
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Malacañang on Saturday reminded US Republican party presidential candidate Donald Trump Sr. that he once said he loved the Philippines and how he described the country as a “special place.” “Considering his major real estate ‘brand’ investment in the Philippines’ financial capital called Trump Tower, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump unfortunately mentioned […]
Duterte: No letup until drug apparatus is destroyed
MANILA (Mabuhay) – President Rodrigo R. Duterte has reiterated his stand that the government will not stop until the apparatus of the drug syndicates has been destroyed and the market for illegal drugs is eliminated. “That is my sacred obligation to the people. I will be naming the mayors and one congressman maybe and the […]
Bongbong says father’s hero’s burial still in planning stage
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Saturday clarified that the burial of his father, late strongman Ferdinand Marcos Sr., at the Libingan ng mga Bayani is still in the planning stage. “Still in the planning stage…planning palang,” Marcos said in a text message. A Philippine Star report quoted Marcos as saying […]
Pacquiao pushes revival of death penalty
By Jelly F. Musico MANILA, Aug. 8 (PNA) – Excited for his first privilege speech as neophyte senator, Manny Pacquiao made his presence felt in front of the heavyweights of the Philippine Senate to push his Senate Bill No. 185 which seeks the re-imposition of death penalty for heinous crimes and drug traffickers. ”My first […]
Duterte commended for recognizing weaknesses of party-list system
By Jelly F. Musico MANILA (PNA) – Akbayan partylist Senator Risa Hontiveros on Tuesday thanked President Rodrigo Duterte for recognizing the weaknesses of the party-list system. Neophyte senator, however, explained that the abolition as suggested by President Duterte is not the solution to the problem of the party-list system. ”Of course, I’m not in favor […]
Duterte urged to pursue BBL aside from federalism
MANILA, Aug 3 (Mabuhay) – Former Ambassador Macabangkit Lanto on Wednesday urged the Duterte administration to pursue the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law apart from its efforts to push for federalism. Lanto said very few in Mindanao support federalism because “that is not the kind of autonomy that we want.” “We thought that [the] […]
House leader seeks PHP15,000 across-the-board hike in teachers’ salary
MANILA (PNA) – A House leader is seeking a PHP15,000 across-the-board increase in the salaries of public school teachers and the provision of other benefits for them as incentives to attract highly qualified teachers into the public school system. Deputy Speaker Romero Quimbo said despite the teachers’ important responsibility of molding children to become productive […]
Duterte commended for recognizing weaknesses of party-list system
By Jelly F. Musico MANILA, Aug. 2 (PNA) – Akbayan partylist Senator Risa Hontiveros on Tuesday thanked President Rodrigo Duterte for recognizing the weaknesses of the party-list system. Neophyte senator, however, explained that the abolition as suggested by President Duterte is not the solution to the problem of the party-list system. ”Of course, I’m not […]
PH industrialization possible under Paris Accord — senator
MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Philippines does not have to turn its back on the Paris Agreement on Climate Change to pursue development, Sen. Loren Legarda said Monday. Legarda was responding to President Duterte’s earlier statement that he would not honor the pact, a treaty for which the previous administration vigorously campaigned, as it might inhibit […]
Duterte tells big businesses to stop contractualization
MANILA (PNA) – President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday warned large businesses to refrain from the practice of contractualization just to cut cost or they will face closure. PRRD said they will lose their permits to operate if caught abusing labor laws. He said the labor department will be sending people in the field to check […]
Dial 8888, 911: Gov’t opens complaints, emergency hotlines
MANILA, Aug 1 (Mabuhay) – Malacañang and the national police on Monday launched their respective hotlines for receiving public complaints and emergency calls. The President’s Hotline or 8888 is dedicated to complaints against fixers, scalawag officials and poor government services. Callers will be asked to identify the government employee and agency tagged in their complaint, […]
Duterte tells communists: You have 2 choices
MANILA (Mabuhay) — ‘Deal with the government in good faith or we fight for another generation.’ This was the stern warning of President Rodrigo Duterte to the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) amid an ambush of government militiamen in Davao del Norte staged by the communist group. “So, I’d like to issue […]
OFW advocacy group lauds Duterte’s vow to fight human trafficking, illegal recruitment
By Ferdinand G. Patinio MANILA (PNA) – A group advocating the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) lauded the statement of President Rodrigo Duterte against human trafficking and illegal recruitment activities in the country. “The OFW sector is also happy he will be true to his campaign to create a separate department for our OFWs […]
Goldberg: EDCA is not about South China Sea
MANILA (Mabuhay) – United States Ambassador to the Philippines Philip Goldberg on Thursday said the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) should not be seen in the light of the South China Sea issue. Goldberg said though five locations for U.S. military facilities in the Philippines have been identified in the EDCA, the security deal agreed […]
Duterte calls for peace anew with communists, Muslim rebels
By Leslie D. Venzon MANILA (PNA) – President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday called anew for peace, as he thanked soldiers and military for the service they have extended to the country. “Maraming namatay sa inyo, pero bagamat marami ring namatay sa mga komunista. But as President, I have to seek peace for our country. Not […]
Gov’t yet to decide on next move after South China Sea ruling: Dureza
MANILA, July 28 (Mabuhay) – The government has yet to reach a final decision on how it would deal with the territorial dispute on the West Philippine Sea following an arbitral court’s favorable decision on the Philippines’ case against China, a senior official said Thursday. At a forum organized by the Foreign Correspondents Association of […]
Kerry to PHL: Human rights must be protected
MANILA (Mabuhay) – United States Secretary of State John Kerry on Wednesday mentioned the need to protect human rights as the Philippines and its partners combat local and international crimes. “We have a much broader agenda than, my friends, just the question of the South China Sea,” Kerry said during a joint conference with Foreign […]
Duterte: Pass federal system in four or six years and I will step aside
MANILA (Mabuhay) – President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday expressed his readiness to step down from power if a federal and parliamentary form of government is adopted via constitutional amendments in his fourth or fifth in office. In his first State of the Nation Address, Duterte, nonetheless, said that there must be a president who should […]
Palace sees speedy approval of priority bills under Pimentel, Alvarez
MANILA, July 25 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Monday welcomed the election of President Rodrigo Duterte’s allies as the new leaders of Congress, saying it would pave the way for the speedy approval of the chief executive’s priority bills. In a statement, Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said Malacañang extends its congratulations to Senator Aquilino Pimentel III […]
Pacquiao: I can do ‘great things’ for the people
MANILA, July 25 (Mabuhay) — Despite criticisms, newly-elected Senator Manny Pacquiao expressed confidence on Monday that he could do “great things” as a public servant and that he could exceed the people’s expectations. “During my inauguration, I have sealed my commitment to do what I have to do to the best of my ability by […]
Duterte bids for bank secrecy law relaxation
By Joann Santiago MANILA, July 25 (PNA) – President Rodrigo R. Duterte, in his first State-of-the-Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, announced that a relaxation of the country’s bank secrecy law is forthcoming. This is part of the current administration’s macroeconomic policies, eyed to encourage more investments, both from local and foreign businessmen, and improve the […]
Duterte has prerogative not to honor climate change pact: Drilon
MANILA (Mabuhay) – President Rodrigo Duterte has the power not to honor the international agreement on reducing carbon emissions that the previous administration had ratified, outgoing Senate President Franklin Drilon said Tuesday. Drilon, a Liberal Party stalwart, said Duterte is well within his right not to honor the Paris Agreement on climate change because he […]
Duterte to raise grievances to China over illegal drugs
MANILA, July 18 (Mabuhay) – President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday night said he will raise his grievances to China, in due time, over the involvement of Chinese nationals in the illegal drug trade in the country. “When I come face to face with them, makinig kayo, sabihin ko talaga ang sama ng loob ko lahat […]
SC justice asks fishermen to be prudent despite ruling on South China Sea
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Supreme Court Associate Justice Francis Jardeleza on Wednesday called on Filipino fishermen to observe prudence in the disputed areas of the South China Sea even after the Permanent Court of Arbitration favored the Philippines in its 15-point case against China’s excessive claims in the area. In a media conference in Manila, Jardeleza […]
Palace on next step after arbitration ruling: ‘Top priority will be national interest’
MANILA (Mabuhay) — The government’s next step in dealing with the territorial dispute in the South China Sea after the arbitration court issues its ruling will be based on the premise that national interest is the administration’s priority, a Malacañang spokesman said Tuesday. At a media briefing, presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella said “everything will be […]
DFA hopes for tribunal’s favorable decision on South China Sea dispute
MANILA (Mabuhay) The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) expressed hopes that the decision of the Permanent Court of Arbitration regarding territorial claims over the contested waters of the South China Sea (parts of which the Philippines calls West Philippine Sea) would be favorable to the country. “Umaasa tayo na magiging paborable sa Pilipinas ang magiging […]
Leni got Cabinet post on same day Jesse was appointed 6 years ago
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Vice President Leni Robredo has noticed a “creepy” coincidence: She and her late husband Jesse Robredo got appointed to a Cabinet post exactly on the same day—July 7. Robredo on Saturday pointed this out on Facebook, sharing her post from July 9 last year when she remembered the day Jesse broke the […]
Duterte shuns VIP treatment at NAIA as he returns to Davao City
By Jelly F. Musico MANILA (PNA) – Living up to his promise to shun special treatment, President Rodrigo R. Duterte returned to his home in Davao City on board a commercial flight of the Philippine Airlines (PAL) on Thursday night. Based on a photo posted by the Presidential Communications Office, Duterte sat on the window […]
DOT Chief vows to continue annual staging of Madrid Fusion Manila
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Vitaliano N. Aguirre II is meticulously studying the possible action of the DOJ in connection with the five police general allegedly involved in the multibillion-peso illegal drugs operations in the country. Aguirre said that one of the things he is looking at is the possibility of placing […]
Duterte on kill threat: God will decide
MANILA (Mabuhay) – With drug lords offering “billions” for his head, President Rodrigo Duterte said he was leaving his fate to God. Duterte unveiled on national television late Thursday an elaborate matrix of illegal drug operations in the country that allegedly included police generals and crime lords serving time in prison. “I’m confident that God […]
Why Duterte will issue EO to implement FOI
MANILA (Mabuhay) – A Malacañang official on Monday reiterated the position of President Rodrigo Duterte to push freedom of information (FOI) under his administration. Presidential spokesperson Ernesto “Ernie” Abella in his first briefing said that Duterte gives importance to FOI, considering that it is being pushed as his first executive order. “In his words, he […]
Duterte: Eid celebration ‘timely and relevant’
MANILA (Mabuhay) – President Rodrigo Duterte greeted Filipino Muslims celebrating Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end the holy feast of Ramadan. Duterte, the Philippines’ first president from Mindanao, said this year’s celebration could not be more timely and relevant as the country marks a new chapter in its history. “This year’s celebration is indeed timely […]
VP Robredo to visit remote PHL villages
MANILA, July 5 (Mabuhay) – Following her courtesy call on President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday, Vice President Leni Robredo is now setting her sights on visiting the Philippines’ most far flung barangays which often lack government aid. “Iikot din po sa iba-ibang probinsya si VP Leni, pupunta sa mga pinakamalalayong barangay para mapakinggan ang kanilang […]
Duterte ally: No need for emergency powers to fix traffic
MANILA, July 5 (Mabuhay) – An ally of President Rodrigo Duterte believes the president does not need emergency powers to solve the traffic problem in Metro Manila. Former Senator Aquilino “Nene” Pimentel, Jr. said the national government only needs to meet with village chieftains in orders to clear roadblocks. “Ang kailangan, especially dito sa Metro […]
Duterte to release political prisoners if Congress passes amnesty law
MANILA (Mabuhay) – President-elect Rodrigo Duterte has clarified that he will not release political prisoners ahead of the passage of amnesty law by Congress, as he hit the media anew for supposedly twisting his statements. Speaking at the change of command ceremony at the Davao City Police Office on Friday, Duterte slammed a newspaper report […]
Incoming Duterte admin hikes economic agenda to 10 items
By Joann Santiago DAVAO CITY (PNA) – Sustained economic growth and ensure that its impact is equitable to all Filipinos. This is the goal of the incoming Duterte administration through its 10-point economic agenda presented before some 300 delegates of the two-day business consultation dialogue dubbed “Sulong Pilipinas: Hakbang Tungo sa Kaunlaran (Philippines Onwards: A […]
Dureza: Compliant mining firms won’t have problems with Gina Lopez
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Compliant mining firms should have no problems if Gina Lopez assumes her post as secretary of the Department of Natural Resources, another member of President-elect Rodrigo Duterte’s future Cabinet said Wednesday. News of the impending appointment Lopez, a staunch anti-mining advocate, caused mining stocks to plunge by 4.09 percent at the end […]
Duterte assures business leaders of gov’t reforms
DAVAO CITY (PNA)—President-elect Rodrigo Duterte will review the 10-point recommendations designed help push inclusive growth and move things forward under his administration as he vowed to push reforms in government. But in a gist, Duterte told business leaders he never doubted his economic managers that they will work as team in fulfilling their “wish list” […]
Fil-Chinese community wants ‘emergency powers’ for Duterte
By Jelly F. Musico MANILA (PNA) – The Federation of the Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCII) supports the emergency powers being asked by incoming President Rodrigo Duterte. The influential business group, however, said in its letters to incoming House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez that the emergency powers should cover not only traffic problem […]
Incoming Duterte admin eyes infra spending at 6% of GDP
By Joann Santiago DAVAO CITY (PNA) – Infrastructure spending would be among the main priority of the incoming Duterte administration, with its share on gross domestic product (GDP) targeted to reach six percent. Incoming Budget and Management Secretary Benjamin Diokno told reporters at the sidelines of the two-day “Sulong Pilipinas: Hakbang Tungo sa Kaunlaran” (Philippines […]
Duterte, Robredo to hold separate inauguration rites
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Incoming President Rodrigo Duterte and Vice-President elect Leni Robredo will hold separate inauguration ceremonies on June 30. Boyet Dy, head of Robredo’s transition team, said: “We were informed by the team of President-elect Rody Duterte about their preference to hold the inauguration separately.” “While we have been preparing for a joint inauguration, […]
Duterte names DTI, DOT, DOH chiefs
MANILA (Mabuhay) — President-elect Rodrigo Duterte has named three more members of his incoming Cabinet, according to incoming presidential deputy spokesperson Ernesto Corpuz Abella. In a press briefing at the Presidential Guest House in Davao City on Monday evening, Abella said Duterte chose Dr. Paulyn Jean Rosell-Ubial as secretary of the Department of Health (DOH). […]
Drilon admits failure in basic services overshadowed development under Aquino
MANILA, June 14 (Mabuhay) – Senate President Franklin Drilon admitted Tuesday that the failure of basic services, particularly in Metro Manila, overshadowed the economic development achieved by the Aquino administration. “The failure of the basic services in Metro Manila has caused all of this negative perception,” Drilon said in a television interview. He noted that […]
Muntinlupa’s Ruffy Biazon posts bail for pork scam charges
MANILA, June 14 (Mabuhay) — Former Bureau of Customs (BOC) commissioner and incoming Muntinlupa Rep. Rozzano Rufino “Ruffy” Biazon on Tuesday posted bail for criminal charges in connection with his alleged involvement in the pork barrel scam. Biazon, together with his lawyers, arrived at the Sandiganbayan building at around 8 a.m. and immediately proceeded to […]
President-elect Duterte spent close to P400-M in the May 9 polls
By Ferdinand G. Patinio MANILA (PNA) – President-elect Rodrigo Duterte spent close to P400 million in the May 9, 2016 elections. Based on his Statement of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCE) submitted to the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Wednesday, the incoming Chief Executive’s total expenditures amounted to P371,461,480.23. Duterte received a total of P375,009,474.90 in […]
PHL could lose leverage if Duterte junks EDCA —nat’l security expert
MANILA (Mabuhay) –The Philippine could lose a vital leverage in the South China Sea disputes if the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement with the United States is junked by the administration of President-elect Rodrigo Duterte. Prof. Renato de Castro of the Albert del Rosario Institute, an independent international and strategic research organization, said in a forum […]
Senators unanimous on need for Charter change, Drilon declares
MANILA (Mabuhay) – All senators in the 17th Congress are in favor constitutional amendments, outgoing Senate President Franklin Drilon said on Wednesday. “That we have to review and amend the Constituion is a matter that I think has unanimity in the Senate,” Drilon said at a news forum in Manila. “I think we can see […]
Chamber of Mines support Duterte’s call ‘to stop irresponsible mining’ in PHL
By Lilybeth G. Ison MANILA (PNA) – The Chamber of Mines in the Philippines (COMP) expressed full support on Monday to President-elect Rodrigo Duterte’s call to stop illegal and irresponsible mining in the country which poses threat to the community and the environment. “This has always been COMP’s position as we continue to find ways […]
TV anchor, one more leftist, 2 ex-army, Duterte’s aide join Cabinet
By Lilian C. Mellejor DAVAO CITY (PNA) – A television news anchor, a leader of the progressive left and two ex-military generals are the familiar faces joining the would-be Cabinet of President-elect Rodrigo Duterte. Duterte introduced on Thursday night’s press conference ABC 5 television anchor Martin Andanar as the Secretary of the Presidential Communications Operations […]
PAL optimistic on attaining 5-star status in airline industry
DAVAO CITY (PNA) – The country’s flag carrier, the Philippine Airlines is confident it will achieve the 5-star status as an airline company as it undertakes significant and extensive measures to become more competitive in the industry. Speaking before the members of the Rotary Club East of Davao City at the Marco Polo Hotel on […]
Water sports tourism activities roll in Ilocos Norte dam
LAOAG CITY (PNA) – Water sports activities are keeping its peak in Ilocos Norte as the summer season nearly comes to an end. At the Bislak river in Vintar, the largest municipality in the province, various water activities are being offered to visitors to quench their thirst for a unique summer getaway. Located about eight […]
No ‘experimentation’ on airport security procedures, OTS clarifies
MANILA (PNA) – Airport authorities on Wednesday clarified that there is no experimentation being done on airport security procedures at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). The Office for Transport Security (OTS) made the statement following media reports that there is a new rule is being tested by airport screeners in efforts to intercept bullet-planting […]
Duterte NEDA chief sees 6.6 pct economic growth this year
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The economy could grow up to 6.6 percent this year, below the outgoing government’s target, President-elect Rodrigo Duterte’s incoming socioeconomic planning secretary said Thursday. Duterte, who will take over from President Benigno Aquino on June 30, may not have enough leeway in the remainder of the year to steer growth higher, University […]
Angara: New post could be created for Robredo
MANILA, (Mabuhay) – Senator Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara expressed hope on Wednesday that Vice President-elect Ma. Leonor “Leni” Robredo would be given a role in the new administration or a new position may be created to accommodate her. Angara issued the statement a day after incoming President Rodrigo Duterte named the members of his Cabinet. […]
Return of ROTC urged
Bill author says Reserved Officers Training Corps needed amid West PHL sea row By Sammy F. Martin MANILA, May 31 (PNA) – Senator-elect Win Gatchalian sought on Tuesday for incoming President Rodrigo Duterte’s endorsement of his House bill that would bring back the Reserved Officers Training Corps (ROTC) in tertiary-level schools amid the continuing territorial […]
Bilateral talks with China over sea row ‘necessary’ – incoming DFA chief Yasay
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Incoming Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay on Monday said bilateral talks with China is “necessary” to resolve the long-running territorial disputes in the South China Sea. “I don’t think that there is another way of resolving this dispute except talking to each other,” Yasay said amid a forthcoming ruling by the The […]
Palace on alleged poll fraud: “Let them present proof”
MANILA (Mabuhay)– Malacanang on Monday said the whistleblowers should present evidence in the proper forum about their allegations that a top government official instructed them to manipulate elections results in favor of the ruling Liberal Party candidates led by presidential candidate Mar Roxas and vice presidential aspirant Leni Robredo. ”Let those who are alleging fraud […]
Leni Robredo finds Coconut Palace too expensive for OVP
MANILA, May 30 (Mabuhay) – Incoming vice president Camarines Sur Representative Leni Robredo has no plans of holding office at the Coconut Palace because she found it too expensive. Robredo said she had started scouting for cheaper office space. The P500,000 rent for the Coconut Palace is apparently too steep for Robredo. “Actively maghahanap [ako] […]
Duterte to meet with appointees on Tuesday – incoming DOJ chief Aguirre
MANILA, May 30 (Mabuhay) — The appointed Justice secretary of President-elect Rodrigo Duterte on Monday said that more announcements on appointees will be made in the following days. Lawyer Vitaliano Aguirre II said Duterte has called his presumptive Cabinet secretaries for a meeting on Tuesday afternoon in Davao City. “Siguro maraming i-announce bukas. I believe […]
Chinese envoy lauds Duterte’s willingness to improve future bilateral ties
By Filane Mikee Z. Cervantes MANILA (PNA) – Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua on Wednesday approved of incoming president Rodrigo Duterte’s intention to improve the strained Sino-Philippine relations through possible bilateral talks over the South China Sea row. “We’re glad that the president-elect has already opened the option for direct bilateral negotiation talks […]
Duterte-Robredo tandem to work out well — spokesman
MANILA, May 28 (Mabuhay)– Incoming President Rodrigo Duterte and and Vice President Leni Robredo will have a good working relationship once they assume power on June 30, Duterte spokesman said Saturday. “Definitely,” lawyer Salvador Panelo, Duterte’s designated presidential spokesman, said when asked about the matter on the sidelines of a weekly media forum in Quezon […]
Cayetano vows to help Duterte fulfill his promises
MANILA, May 28 (Mabuhay) — Senator Alan Peter Cayetano may have lost the vice presidential race, but he promises not to abandon his running mate, incoming president Rodrigo Duterte. Speaking to reporters, Cayetano vowed to assist the Davao City mayor in ensuring that their tandem’s promises to the Filipino people come to fruition. “Ang number […]
Palace on Duterte admin’s plan to probe DAP-linked officials: Hindi na ito bago
MANILA, May 28 (Mabuhay) — A Malacañang official on Saturday downplayed the plan of incoming President Rodrigo Duterte’s next Department of Justice (DOJ) secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II’s to investigate officials of the outgoing administration over the Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP). “Ito naman ay hindi natin maituturing na bagong usapin dahil matagal na rin napapagusapan yan […]
Talks eyed with Robredo on role in Duterte admin, Cayetano says
DAVAO CITY, May 28 (Mabuhay) — The Duterte administration will soon begin talks with incoming vice president Leni Robredo for a possible active role in the new administration, according to Senator Alan Peter Cayetano. Cayetano, who was the running mate of Duterte, is in Davao City to meet with the incoming president to finalize new […]
What Duterte plans to give Leni
MANILA, May 26 (Mabuhay) – Incoming President Rodrigo Duterte has a gift in mind for Rep. Leni Robredo, who is leading both unofficial and official partial tallies in the vice-presidential elections. Asked by a journalist what he plans to give Robredo, Duterte answered: “Ano bang magandang singsing?” A journalist replied,”Diamond!” “Siya ang nagsabi, hindi ako,” […]
Duterte will not allow construction of more factories in Metro Manila
MANILA, May 26 (Mabuhay) – Incoming president Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday said he will not allow the construction of more factories in Metro Manila. “Manila is already saturated. I will not allow factories anymore in Manila,” he said in a press conference. “Not only because it is a dead city but because I have to […]
De Lima: Panelo too controversial, flamboyant to be presidential spokesperson
MANILA, May 25 (Mabuhay) – Senator-elect Leila de Lima on Wednesday called Salvador Panelo too controversial to become the presidential spokesman of incoming president Rodrigo Duterte. “No offense to Attorney Panelo, kilala ko naman yang si Attorney Panelo kung hindi ako nagkakamali fellow Bicolano yan si Attorney Panelo, but he is too controversial and flamboyant […]
Comelec defers action on Marcos request for system audit
MANILA, May 25 (Mabuhay) – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) en banc decided to defer action on the request of Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. that his team’s IT “experts and programmers” be allowed to audit the servers used in the May 9 elections. Poll chief Andres Bautista told reporters on Wednesday that the decision […]
Aguirre defends Duterte’s Cabinet picks
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The incoming justice secretary has defended presumptive president Rodrigo Duterte’s choices for his Cabinet officials, telling critics it may be too early to judge his picks. Vitaliano Aguirre, the anointed justice chief, has hit back at critics who said that the composition of Duterte cabinet was unlike Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s, […]
Group finds ‘high concentrations’ of cancer-causing chemical in school supplies
MANILA, May 24 (Mabuhay) – An environment watchdog on Tuesday unveiled a list of school supplies that tested positive for toxic phthalates, a cancer-causing chemical. The EcoWaste Coalition collected samples from retail outlets in Divisoria, Quiapo and Cubao, which the group submitted to testing firm SGS Philippines. The retrieved samples were made from polyvinyl chloride […]
Why Duterte offered Cabinet posts to Reds
MANILA (Mabuhay) – A trust building measure. This is how a political analyst describes presumptive president Rodrigo Duterte’s offer to appoint communist leaders to his Cabinet. Ramon Casiple, Institute for Political and Electoral Reform executive director, said Duterte’s offer could jumpstart stalled peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army, which has […]
Marcos camp wants public audit of automated poll system
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The camp of Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr, is urging the Commission on Elections to open its automated election system and platform for audit to dispel doubts about the accuracy of the automated election results. In a press conference, transparency advocate Glenn Chong said there was a breach of protocol when a […]
Duterte plans to make Lapu-Lapu a proper hero
DAVAO CITY (Mabuhay) – One of the “injustices” that presumptive President Rodrigo Duterte wants to correct during his administration is how Filipinos see Lapu-Lapu. On early Monday morning, Duterte told reporters that he will make Lapu-Lapu a proper hero for being the first to fight the Spanish forces who landed on the island of Cebu […]
Tax court dismisses cases vs. late ex-Chief Justice Renato Corona
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The Court of Tax Appeals (CTA) on Monday formally dismissed multiple counts of tax evasion cases against former Supreme Court (SC) chief justice Renato Corona, following his demise last month. In a brief hearing Monday morning, the CTA Second Division granted the motion to dismiss filed on the same day by Corona’s […]
EU looks forward to working with Duterte administration
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The European Union on Thursday said it looks forward to working with the administration of Rodrigo Duterte and hopes that the “dynamic” relations between the Philippines and the EU would continue under a 2012 bilateral agreement that promotes human rights and anti-corruption efforts. “We are now awaiting the official announcement. Rodrigo Duterte […]
Duterte takes page from Justin Trudeau, eyes balanced Cabinet
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The camp of presumptive President Rodrigo Duterte has appointed heads for six clusters to effect a smooth transition of power to the incoming administration. Duterte’s campaign manager, Leoncio Jun Evasco, will head the cluster on social development while his executive assistant, Christopher “Bong” Go, will focus on peace and security. Former agriculture […]
DOH strictly monitoring Zika virus infections
MANILA, May 14 (Mabuhay) – The Palace made an assurance on Saturday that it is strictly monitoring Zika virus in the country following reports of recent infections. In a radio interview Saturday, Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr said the Department of Health is on top of the situation. “Nakikita naman natin Lany na masigasig ang […]
VP can get choice Cabinet position: Duterte spokesman
MANILA, May 14 (Mabuhay) – It is still a neck and neck battle between Camarines Sur Rep. Leni Robredo and Senator Bongbong Marcos for the vice presidency. While nothing is definitive yet about their race, a spokesperson of presumptive president Rodrigo Duterte said the winning vice-president may get any Cabinet position he or she wants. […]
Gazmin, French ambassador sign arrangement for defense cooperation
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Department of National Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and French Ambassador Thierry Mathou formally signed on May 11 the arrangement which will serve as framework of defense cooperation between the Philippines and France. The two countries have been negotiating for the defense arrangement since 2014, DND spokesperson Dr. Peter Paul Galvez said in […]
Smartmatic official insists code update was cosmetic, straightforward
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The Smartmatic official who tweaked the script of the transparency server on Thursday maintained that the update was just a straightforward “minor” cosmetic change that did not require the permission of the top officials of the Commission on Elections (Comelec). In a press conference on Friday, Marlon Garcia, Smartmatic’s project director, said […]
Duterte, ‘independent’ Senate can work together: solons
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Presumptive President Rodrigo “Digong” Duterte can expect an “independent” Senate that can have a working relationship with him, two senators have said. While they kept mum on the possible changes in the next composition of the chamber, incumbent Senate President Franklin Drilon and reelected Senator Vicente “Tito” Sotto III assured Duterte that […]
Leni’s social media basher apologizes for ‘vicious’ comment
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The 16-year-old social media basher of Vice Presidential candidate and Camarines Sur Rep. Leni Robredo apologized for her post against the lawmaker. In a social media post, the student basher said she wished Robredo had died in a plane crash so she can join her late husband, former Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo. […]
30 killed, 22 hurt in election violence — CHR
MANILA, May 12 (Mabuhay) — At least 30 have been killed and 22 injured in election-related violence based on reports verified by the Commission on Human Rights (CHR). Gemma Parojinog, officer in charge of the CHR policy office, said a total of 72 election-related cases of killings, strafing, gun poking, demolition and harassment have been […]
PDP-Laban receiving feelers from those who want to jump ship: Koko Pimentel
MANILA, May 12 (Mabuhay) – The PDP-Laban is now receiving feelers from those who want to join the party as Davao City Rodrigo Duterte seems on his way to winning the May 9 presidential election. “Too many to keep track,” Sen. Aquilino Pimentel III, president of Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan, said when asked if […]
Marcos must show ERs, hash codes to prove cheating: IT expert
MANILA, May 12 (Mabuhay) – The camp of Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. must present election returns and hash codes to prove allegations that the results of the vice-presidential election are being rigged, an IT expert said Thursday. IT expert Lito Averia made the claim after the legal team of Senator Marcos said there were […]
Comelec chief: 2016 polls relatively more peaceful, orderly
MANILA, May 10 (Mabuhay) – Despite various election-related violence reports and complaints of system glitches, Commission on Elections (Comelec) chair Andres Bautista said this year’s polls is still relatively more peaceful and orderly than the 2010 and 2013 elections. “Again we try to compare this elections with that which happened in 2010 and 2013, what […]
Trillanes acknowledges Duterte’s victory, assures he will not be a hindrance
MANILA, May 10 (Mabuhay) – Vice presidential candidate and Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV on Tuesday acknowledged the victory of Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte in the presidential race. “I respect the will of the Filipino people. They have spoken clearly and resoundingly that they want Mayor Duterte to be our next president,” Trillanes said in […]
Probe report on PNP officials’ meeting with Roxas staff out this week
MANILA, May 10 (Mabuhay) — The Philippine National Police (PNP) is set to release this week its investigation report on the supposed meeting between police officials and a staff of presidential candidate Mar Roxas in April. PNP chief Director General Ricardo Marquez said on Tuesday that he has already read the report, but returned it […]
Netizens share voting experiences online
By Ma. Cristina C. Arayata MANILA (PNA) – Voters took to social media their experiences during the first few hours of the May 2016 national polls, as Filipinos get to elect the country’s president, vice president, half of the senatorial lineup and local officials. PhilHealth board member Karen Villanueva expressed her dismay at the slow […]
Namfrel expresses voters’ disenfranchisement over election glitches
By Filane Mikee Cervantes MANILA (PNA) – The National Citizens’ Movement for Free Elections (Namfrel) on Monday expressed its concern over cases of disenfranchisement resulting from the vote counting machine (VCM) malfunctions that happened. In a statement, Namfrel said the nature of malfunctions that the VCMs manifested include sudden shutting down for no particular reason, […]
Comelec targets to proclaim 12 winning senators in a week
By Ferdinand G. Patino MANILA (PNA) – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) en banc sitting as the National Board of Canvassers (NBoC) is looking to proclaim the winning 12 senators one week after the conduct of the May 9 polls. In a press briefing on Monday, Comelec Chairman Juan Andres Bautista said that seven days […]
Megaworld donates 120 trash bins for Boracay
BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan, April 29 (PNA) – As part of its ‘Cause for a New Coast’ campaign, Global-Estate Resorts, Inc. (GERI), a subsidiary of Megaworld Corporation donated 120 trash bins to the local government unit of Malay. Cause for a New Coast, an award winning environmental campaign launched during last year’s Laboracay aims to encourage […]
VCM glitches cause delays, long queues in some provinces in Luzon
MANILA, May 9 (Mabuhay) — Several vote-counting machines (VCMs) have encountered technical glitches in various provinces in Luzon in the morning of Monday’s national elections. In Dagupan City, a VCM scanner stopped working after experiencing paper jam when voters inserted their ballots. Commission on Election (COMELEC) officials tried to fix the error using the cleaning […]
Red alert to be lifted once new leaders elected — AFP
MANILA, May 9 (Mabuhay) — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) announced that it will lift the red alert status once the country’s new leaders are formally elected. This was stressed by Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla Monday. “The full (red) alert status will be lifted (once) our new leaders are elected,” he added. Pending […]
Hacker defaces MTRCB website over political ad
MANILA, May 7 (Mabuhay) — A hacker defaced on Saturday the website of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board, claiming that the agency is remiss on its duty for allowing the airing of a “malicious” political ad on television. “Naglabas ng isang paid ad ang isang politiko at ito ay ipinakalat ng isang […]
Palace: Aquino’s call for united front vs. Duterte not a desperate move
MANILA, May 7 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Saturday shrugged off insinuations that President Benigno Aquino III’s call for key politicians to unite to prevent Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte from winning the presidency was a desperate move of the administration. Interviewed over state-run Radyo ng Bayan, Presidential Communications Undersecretary Manuel Quezon III said Aquino’s action […]
Trillanes files plunder raps vs Duterte over ‘ghost employees’
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Senator Antonio Trillanes IV on Thursday filed plunder charges before the Office of the Ombudsman against Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte over the questionable hiring of 11,246 contractual workers by the city government in 2014. Citing a Commission on Audit report last year, Trillanes said the city government spent P708 million for […]
PNoy campaigns against Duterte: Why support another dictator?
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Survey front runner Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte was again the target of President Benigno Aquino III’s campaign speech in Iloilo on Tuesday, wherein he questioned Duterte’s style of leadership. Aquino said Duterte acts like a dictator who threatens to violate the Constitution, citing the mayor’s statement that he will close down […]
DND thanks Japan for TC-90 training aircraft lease deal
MANILA, (PNA) – The Department of National Defense (DND) has expressed its gratitude to the Japanese government for going ahead with the lease deal of five TC-90 training aircraft which will help boost the country’s rescue and maritime security capabilities. “We are truly grateful for this reaffirmation by the Japanese government on the transfer of […]
Aquino salutes workers, but mum on wages
MANILA (Mabuhay) – President Benigno Aquino III expressed his admiration to Filipino workers on the eve of Labor Day 2016, but failed to mention anything on wages. In his message for Labor Day (May 1), Aquino said, “Saludo ang ating sambayanan sa mga manggagawang Pilipinong nagpupunyagi para sa kanilang pamilya at pangarap. Idinaraos natin ang […]
PHL full alert for May 9 polls
MANILA, Apr 30 (Mabuhay) – The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Saturday placed its forces nationwide on full alert status for the May 9 local and national elections. “Ngayon naka-full alert status na ang PNP base sa direktiba ni PNP chief Director General Ricardo Marquez,” PNP spokesperson Chief Superintendent Wilben Mayor told radio dzBB in […]
Roxas elated over rise in latest ABS-CBN survey
MANILA, Apr 30 (Mabuhay) – Administration standard bearer Mar Roxas is elated over the results of the latest ABS-CBN survey by Pulse Asia showing him in a statistical tie at second place with erstwhile frontrunner Senator Grace Poe. In the survey conducted from April 19 to 24 among 4,000 respondents, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte […]
Comelec chief says ‘kodigo’ allowed in voting precincts
MANILA, Apr 30 (Mabuhay) – Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman Andres Bautista on Saturday said voters can bring “kodigo” to polling precincts on May 9. “In fact, iyon ang ating iminumungkahi. Bibilis iyan kung may dalang kodigo… listahan ng inyong iboboto,” Bautista said, also clarifying that he preferred calling the piece of paper a prepared […]
PHP211-M bank account allegations against Duterte a mere smear: Cayetano
MANILA (PNA) – Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano, the running-mate of PDP-LABAN standard bearer and Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, called the PHP211 million bank account allegations against the latter a mere smear attempt. These allegations were earlier made by independent vice presidential aspirant Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV. “The allegation is clearly a desperate ploy to […]
NFA administrator assures sufficient rice supply during lean months
By Lilybeth G. Ison MANILA (PNA) – The National Food Authority (NFA) on Wednesday assured of sufficient supply of rice during the lean months. NFA Administrator Renan Dalisay, in a chance interview during the “Food Guardian” event, said the country has enough buffer stocks of rice at government-owned warehouses to keep prices stable in the […]
CHR, House leaders to Duterte: Respect due process
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The heads of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) and the House of Representatives on Thursday lashed back at Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte over his remark that investigating bodies should not subject the police and the military to “humiliating” probes. “Mayor Duterte anchors his bravado and demagogic statements on his view […]
Disgraced former Chief Justice Corona dies
MANILA, Apr 29 (Mabuhay) – Renato Corona, notable lawyer, member of the Cabinet and former chief justice, passed away Friday morning, the Supreme Court (SC) announced. He was 67. Corona’s family confirmed that he died of cardiac arrest at 1:48 a.m. Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno “has directed that the flag in the SC and […]
Roxas says he will not spend more than what law provides on campaign
By Cielito M. Reganit CEBU CITY (PNA) – Liberal Party (LP) standard bearer Mar Roxas on Wednesday stressed he will abide with the provisions set by the Fair Elections Act as reports surfaced that some presidential candidates have already breached more than half the official spending limit for presidential bets set by the Commission on […]
Drought-stricken Zamboanga get water supply from Red Cross
MANILA (PNA) – The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) continues to provide water resources in drought-affected areas in Zamboanga City through its water production site and water distribution using its water tankers. As of April 22, PRC has distributed 716,950 liters of water from the water production site located in Abong Abong, Upper Pasonanca and through […]
Daang Matuwid bets will continue to receive public’s support: Palace exec
By Joann Santiago MANILA (PNA) – A Palace official believes that amidst the proliferation of surveys related to the May 2016 national polls administration bets would continue to gain support as a manifestation of public’s desire for the continuation of the Daang Matuwid (Straight Path) theme. In a statement Tuesday, Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) […]
US Embassy Manila donates barracks at Camp Kasim, Jolo, Sulu to PNP
MANILA (PNA) – U.S. Embassy Manila donated a newly-refurbished building at the Sulu Training Center, Camp Kasim, Jolo, Sulu to the Philippine National Police(PNP). The construction of the barracks began in early 2015 by the U.S. Pacific Command’s Joint Interagency Task Force West, and was completed on April 4, 2016 at a cost of Php […]
Poll exec: Duterte ‘joke’ disgusting but not ground to cancel COC
MANILA, Apr 20 (Mabuhay) – A commissioner of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Wednesday hit presidential candidate and Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte for his infamous remarks on the rape slay of an Australian lay missionary in 1989. In a statement, Comelec commissioner Ma. Rowena Amelia Guanzon said that the supposed “joke” of Duterte […]
Palace claims no power problems in the weeks around May 9 polls
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Malacañang on Friday gave the assurance that there would be no power interruptions a week before and after the May 9 national and local elections amid thinning power reserves across the country as demand soars because of the El Niño-induced dry spell. “Ang objective ng DOE ay talagang zero disruption one week […]
BIR: No deadline extension for ITR filing
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The mood is festive at the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) district office in Intramuros as taxpayers and BIR officials are welcomed Friday morning by a band and dancers. BIR is expecting fewer taxpayers this year for the deadline of the filing of income tax returns as majority of them will be […]
Australian envoy says rape and murder not a laughing matter
MANILA, Apr 18 (Mabuhay) — Australia’s top envoy to the Philippines on Monday expressed dismay about jokes on rape and murder, in light of presidential candidate Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial speech that made light of the 1989 sexual assault and killing of an Australian missionary. “Rape and murder should never be joked about or trivialized,” Australian […]
Palace says Aquino’s SWS rating ‘still high’
MANILA, Apr 18 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Monday said President Benigno Aquino III’s net satisfaction rating of +27 based on the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey is still considered high. This is despite his public satisfaction rating dropping 23 percentage points (from December last year) to +0 in Metro Manila for April 2016. “Overall […]
PNoy’s sis Kris Aquino joins Mar in Samar campaign
CALBAYOG CITY, Apr 18 (Mabuhay) — The President’s sister and television host-actress Kris Aquino on Monday joined for the first time administration standard bearer Manuel “Mar” Roxas II as he took his campaign to Eastern Samar. In Roxas’ official Facebook account, a photo showed the Liberal Party presidential candidate and Kris shaking hands with supporters […]
US-based think tank lists PHL among Asia’s investment hotspots
By Kris M. Crismundo MANILA (PNA) – United States-based think tank IHS Global Insight has listed the Philippines as one of the top ten foreign direct investment (FDI) destinations in Asia. The Philippines is joined by other Southeast Asian countries which are also projected by IHS to be the FDI hotspots in the region including […]
Cebu Pacific becomes first airline in Asia-Pacific to order ergonomic seats for new Airbus fleet
By Azer N. Parrocha MANILA (PNA) – Low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific on Tuesday announced that it has order the SL3510 seat model from Recaro Aircraft Seating for its brand-new fleet of 30 Airbus A321neo aircraft, making it the first airline in the Asia-Pacific region to order this seat model. The Recaro SL3510, at around 9 […]
Pacquiao back to PHL after last bout vs. Bradley
By Azer N. Parrocha MANILA, April 14 (PNA) – Fresh from what he considered his last bout in Las Vegas, boxing icon Manny Pacquiao greeted a sea of Filipino fans with a big smile who welcomed him back to Manila on Thursday morning. The newly-retired champion arrived the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) at around […]
Grand, unique Palarong Pambansa 2016 opening draws praises from delegates, guests
By Nancy Ibo Mediavillo LEGAZPI CITY (PNA) – The grand and unique opening of the Palarong Pambansa 2016 at the Albay Provincial Sports Complex inside the Bicol University compound left a mark on the map of the Philippines as it drew praises from delegates, visitors and local residents who flocked to the red-accented oval ground […]
Boxing fans still want Pacquiao to fight
By Lolito T. delos Reyes DAVAO CITY (PNA) – Boxing managers, promoters, trainers and fellow Filipino boxers think that 8-division world champion Manny Pacquiao can still fight and should postpone his retirement after scoring a convincing unanimous decision against Timothy Bradley last Sunday. “Ok pa si Manny, puwede pa I match kahit sinong boxer pa […]
‘Pista’y Dayat’ to kick off April 22 with beach party
LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, April 12 (PNA) – People attending the annual Pista’y Dayat (sea festival) of the province of Pangasinan will be welcomed through a beach party when this year’s revelry starts on April 22 at the Capitol beachfront here. Dubbed as “I Love Pangasinan” beach rave concert/party, the kickoff concert at night will be preceded […]
Roxas camp says Duterte ‘a threat to democracy’
MANILA, Apr 11 (Mabuhay) – The camp of administration standard bearer Mar Roxas on Monday described Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte as a “threat to democracy” whose “politics of fear” has seduced Filipinos. “It is becoming clear that more and more of our countrymen are being seduced by the politics of fear of Mayor Duterte,” […]
Drilon, Sotto, Pangilinan, Lacson statistically tied for top 4 spots in SWS poll
MANILA, Apr 11 (Mabuhay) – Four senatorial candidates—Senate President Franklin Drilon, Senator Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, and former senators Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan and Panfilo “Ping” Lacson – emerged statistically tied for the top four spots in the latest survey of Social Weather Stations (SWS) on voting preferences for senators. Drilon got 45 percent while erstwhile […]
Statement of Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. on land ownership
I believe that every Filipino is entitled to own or acquire land in the Philippines, in accordance with the Constitution. But for many years, our government has failed to adequately address the problems in agrarian reform and the housing sector which had caused many hapless Filipinos to fall prey to manipulations and fraud. I am […]
Senate eyes more hearings on laundering scam
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The Senate may hold two or three more hearings at it struggles to determine how $81 million in stolen funds seeped into Philippine financial system. Senate Committee on Banks chairman Serge Osmeña admitted Friday that some parties tagged in the scandal have invoked the bank secrecy law, thus barring lawmakers from seeking […]
War games held as China flexes muscles
By Mynardo Macaraig Manila, Philippines | AFP | – Thousands of US and Filipino soldiers will on Monday launch annual war games that this year are being seen as a show of strength in the face of China’s increasing assertiveness in the region. The 11-day Balikatan (shoulder-to-shoulder) exercises are expected to show how the Philippines, though severely outgunned, can […]
Aquino calls for meeting with DOTC following airport power outage
MANILA, Apr 4 (Mabuhay) – President Benigno Aquino III on Monday met with officials of the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) following the five-hour power outage that hit the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 (NAIA-3) over the weekend. The meeting held at the President’s Hall was added to the President’s schedule past 10 […]
Poe regains solo lead in ABS-CBN Pulse Asia survey
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The anticipated “bounce” in Sen. Grace Poe’s numbers to be triggered supposedly by the favorable ruling she had received from the Supreme Court has yet to show. The latest ABS-CBN survey conducted by Pulse Asia showed the neophyte senator reclaiming solo lead among prospective winners in the May presidential election. Poe got […]
Roxas camp shrugs off SWS mobile survey; Poe ‘overwhelmed’
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The camp of administration presidential bet Mar Roxas on Friday downplayed the results of a survey showing Senator Grace Poe as the top choice among voters after the second leg of the PiliPinas Debates 2016 last Sunday. “I think it’s a survey through mobile phones. It’s not reflective of the real score. […]
PHL puts Marcos jewel images online to teach about graft
Manila, Philippines | AFP | – Philippine authorities are staging an online exhibition of jewelry owned by late dictator Ferdinand Marcos and his family to try to educate a new generation about the corruption of that era. The postings on Facebook and Twitter by the Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG) come as the family tries to extend its […]
Escudero wants special detention center for youth offenders
MANILA (Mabuhay) – A separate detention facility exclusively for children and young people in conflict with the law should be constructed to better facilitate their rehabilitation, Senator Francis Escudero said Monday. In a statement, Escudero said he and running mate Senator Grace Poe plan to allocate funds for the construction of a juvenile detention center […]
Bomb scare forces evacuation at Ateneo
MANILA, Mar 28 (Mabuhay) – Students and employees evacuated Ateneo De Manila University (AdMU) on Monday due to a bomb scare. The Guidon, the official AdMU student publication, reported on Twitter that Of?ce for Student Services (OSS) director Cholo Mallillin ordered the evacuation at around 9 a.m. “This is not a drill. We have an […]
Learning graft in Marcos jewels
Manila, Philippines | AFP | Monday 3/28/2016 – Philippine authorities are staging an online exhibition of jewelry owned by late dictator Ferdinand Marcos and his family to try to educate a new generation about the corruption of that era. The postings on Facebook and Twitter by the Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG) come as the family tries to extend […]
Palace official likens presidential bets to ‘Fantastic Four’
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The four presidential candidates who faced off in the second leg of the PiliPinas Debates 2016 in Cebu City were like the “Fantastic Four,” a Malacañang official said Monday. In a media briefing, Undersecretary Manuel Quezon III of the Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office (PCDSPO) likened Vice President Jejomar Binay […]
UN agency: SC ruling on Poe a victory for foundlings, stateless
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in the Philippines has welcomed the Supreme Court’s (SC) landmark ruling “favoring foundlings as citizens,” referring to the high tribunal’s decision to allow Sen. Grace Poe to run for president in the May polls. UNHCR country representative Bernard Kerblat highlighted that the Philippines has […]
Commission asks next President to take bold steps to combat climate change
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The Climate Change Commission (CCC) wants those running for office in the May elections, especially presidential aspirants, to include in their agenda steps to combat climate change and its far-reaching effects on food security, health, livelihood, and poverty. Vice chairperson of the CCC, Secretary Emmanuel de Guzman, said on Saturday that environmental […]
Give Mother Earth a break, switch off power for one hour, says Climate Change Commission
MANILA, Mar 18 (Mabuhay) — Even Mother Earth needs some time off. Climate Change Commission Secretary Emmanuel de Guzman made the statement as he appealed to the country to observe on Saturday (March 19) between 8:30 pm and 9:30 pm the annual Earth Hour awareness campaign celebrated across the globe. “Nature has been working hard […]
AMLC chair eyes easing of bank secrecy law
MANILA, Mar 18 (Mabuhay) — The country’s “very strict” bank secrecy law is hampering prevention of money laundering, such as the first ever cross-border entry of dirty money that found its way into the Philippine financial system and casinos, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Amando M. Tetangco Jr. said Friday. Tetangco, who also chairs […]
Poe sees repeat of ‘Hello Garci’ if Comelec reverts to manual polls
MANILA (Mabuhay) — STA. ROSA, Laguna—Senator Grace Poe has expressed fear that the alleged massive cheating that occurred during the 2004 elections will happen again if the Commission on Elections (Comelec) postpones the May 9 elections or revert to manual voting. Poe on Tuesday dismissed the Comelec’s suggestion for a “po-el” or postponement of elections […]
SC grants Gloria Arroyo three-day birthday furlough
MANILA (Mabuhay) — The Supreme Court has granted a request from former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to have a birthday furlough next month. At a press briefing, SC spokesman Theodore Te said the furlough will be from April 4 to 6. Mrs. Arroyo had originally asked that she be allowed to leave the hospital for five […]
Al Gore in surprise visit to Tacloban – Haiyan ground zero
Tacloban, Philippines | AFP | – Climate change activist and former US vice president Al Gore made a surprise visit Saturday to an impoverished Philippine city ravaged by one of the strongest storms on record. The Nobel Peace Prize winner lit candles at a mass grave in Tacloban for thousands killed by Super Typhoon Haiyan in 2013, a picture […]
Election postponement can give voters more time to reflect on choices — lawyer
MANILA, Mar 15 (Mabuhay) — Amid opposition on the possibility of the postponement of elections, an election lawyer on Tuesday said the window of time that will result in moving the date of the polls may have positive effects. In a statement, lawyer Romulo Macalintal said the period between May 9, the schedule of this […]
Sen. Guingona wants casinos covered by anti-money laundering law
MANILA, Mar 15 (Mabuhay) — Hours before the Senate blue ribbon panel starts probing into the $81 million money laundering scheme involving Philippine entities, panel chairman Senator Teofisto Guingona III said the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2001 has had its share of loopholes. “‘Yung casinos dapat mapailalim sa batas,” the senator said. The $81 million […]
In wake of Grace Poe ruling, PNoy wants SC to clarify rules on citizenship
MANILA (Mabuhay) — Supreme Court (SC) justices ought to clarify Philippine laws on citizenship, President Benigno Aquino III said Wednesday, following the 9-6 vote of the tribunal allowing presidential candidate Senator Grace Poe to run in the May presidential race. Aquino said he also wanted an explanation of how Poe reacquired her Filipino citizenship since […]
Palace affirms military assessment on presence of ISIS in PHL
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Malacanang said it is standing by the statement of the Armed Forces of the Philippines that there is no presence of Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in Mindanao despite the recent flare up of violence in the region in previous weeks. There were reports quoting security analysts mentioning about growing […]
Escudero: Aquino should have focused on fair polls instead of campaign
SAMBOAN, Cebu (Mabuhay) – Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero on Saturday said President Aquino should not have endorsed any candidate in the May elections to show that the polls will indeed be fair. “Nalungkot ako ng bahagya nung nagpasya si Pangulong Aquino na mag-endorso ng kandidato (I was slightly saddened by the decision of President Aquino […]
Poe to SC: Allow people to choose next president
MANILA, Mar 7 (Mabuhay) – Senator Grace Poe expressed hope on Monday that the Supreme Court would allow the people to choose their next leader. “Sa ating mga kababayan, kami po ay patuloy na nananalangin at kumpiyansa sapagkat sa mga narinig natin doon sa Supreme Court justice mismo—Chief Justice—ang sabi niya ang mga Pilipino, mga […]
First case of Zika virus detected in PHL since 2012
Manila, Philippines | AFP | – An American woman was infected with the Zika virus while visiting the Philippines, health department officials said Sunday, the first case detected in the country for several years. Health Secretary Janette Garin said the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US-CDC) had informed her that a US resident who stayed in the […]
Labor groups ask SC’s help to standardize wages in PHL regardless of location
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The Supreme Court on Thursday has been asked to order the standardization of a national minimum wage all over the Philippines. In a 28-page plea, the petitioners that included several labor groups and former Akbayan Rep. Walden Bello asked the high court to nullify, abolish, repeal and strike down as unconstitutional Republic […]
PHL probes attack on IS-targeted top Saudi cleric
By Joel Guinto Zamboanga, Philippines | AFP | – Philippine authorities were on Wednesday probing an assassination attempt against an influential Saudi preacher who was on an Islamic State hit list, after the gunman was killed and two suspects arrested. Preacher Sheikh Aaidh al-Qarni and Saudi diplomat Sheikh Turki Assaegh were both wounded in a […]
Palace tells judiciary: Speed up cases of media killings
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Malacañang on Saturday urged the judiciary to speed up the resolution of cases involving the killing of journalists in light of the call of a United Nations body for the Philippine government to probe the recent killing of a radio reporter in Mindanao. “There have been many instances when we have all […]
Palace: Poll proves Filipinos cherish democracy
MANILA, Feb 26 (Mabuhay) – The latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey showing 76 percent of Filipinos satisfied with the way democracy works validates how people appreciate the fruits of the People Power Revolution 30 years ago. “Such overwhelming approval shows the Filipinos’ deep appreciation for democracy as a way of life,” Presidential Communications Secretary […]
Poe says she last used US passport in 2010, Luna says in 2011
MANILA, Feb 26 (Mabuhay) – The camp of Sen. Grace Poe on Friday insisted that she last used her US passport before she renounced her American citizenship. This was the statement issued by her legal counsel George Erwin Garcia, clarifying that her client’s case could not be compared with that of Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte […]
File formal complaints vs. campaign violators: Comelec chief
MANILA, Feb 26 (Mabuhay) – While using social media as an instrument to gather reports of campaign violations, the Commission on Elections said complainants should file formal complaints if they have sufficient evidence against any candidate. According to Comelec chair Andres Bautista, the poll body does monitor social media complaints—particularly those addressed to the Comelec’s […]
Nearly half of Filipinos expect clean, credible polls: Pulse Asia
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Nearly half of Filipinos, who are registered voters, are expecting clean and credible automated elections in May, based on the latest Pulse Asia survey. Pulse Asia said that 48 percent of its 1,800 respondents (registered voters), agreed to the statement: “The May 2016 elections will be clean and the results credible for […]
PHL church defends Pacquiao on gay slur
Manila, Philippines | AFP | – The Philippine Catholic church on Sunday defended boxing hero Manny Pacquiao for his opposition to gay marriage, saying he was only quoting the Bible. But Father Jerome Secillano also said over radio station DZMM that Pacquiao should respect homosexuals and not judge and condemn them after the eight-division world champion last week described […]
Pacquiao can’t be DQ’d over megabout — law expert
MANILA (Mabuhay) — An election lawyer believes world boxing champion Manny Pacquiao cannot be disqualified from running in the May senatorial race on the grounds of his upcoming megabout with Timothy Bradley. Atty. Romulo Macalintal countered the claim of senatorial hopeful Walden Bello that Pacquiao will exceed the allowed airtime of candidates if he pursues […]
PWDs hope PNoy won’t veto bill on VAT exemption, discounts
MANILA (Mabuhay) — The country’s persons with disabilities are hoping that the so-called Malasakit Bill will not go the way of the P2,000 SSS pension hike that President Benigno Aquino III vetoed in January. The bill already approved by both houses of Congress provides for, among others, exempts PWDs from paying value added tax on […]
Honasan: Marcos better president than Cory
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Vice presidential candidate Sen. Gregorio “Gringo” Honasan said the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos Sr. is the better president than the late Corazon Aquino. Asked who is the better president between the two, Honasan briefly answered: “Marcos.” However, Honasan clarified said that he was comparing the first six years of the administration of […]
PHL preparing to auction off Marcos jewels
Manila, Philippines | AFP | – Philippine authorities pledged Monday to auction off as soon as possible millions of dollars’ worth of jewellery recovered from late dictator Ferdinand Marcos and his family. The Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG), created to recover the millions stolen by Marcos and his allies, has also launched a website aimed at retrieving hundreds […]
Chiz hopeful of favorable SC ruling for Poe in March
PANGASINAN—Independent vice-presidential candidate Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero is looking forward to a favorable Supreme Court ruling for his presidential running mate Sen. Grace Poe as they expect the high court to hand down its decision next month. During the campaign sortie of the Partido Galing at Puso in vote-rich Pangasinan province, Escudero said the SC […]
DNA rice breakthrough raises ‘green revolution’ hopes
By Cecil Morella LOS BAÑOS, Philippines | AFP – Rice-growing techniques learned through thousands of years of trial and error are about to be turbocharged with DNA technology in a breakthrough hailed by scientists as a potential second “green revolution”. Over the next few years farmers are expected to have new genome sequencing technology at their disposal, helping […]
Cliffhanger presidential election race begins
By Karl Malakunas Manila, Philippines | AFP | − A cliffhanger race to lead the Philippines began Tuesday with emotion-charged rallies by a dead movie star’s adopted daughter, a politician who brags about killing criminals and other top contenders. The three-month election campaign got under way with four aspirants standing a genuine chance of succeeding popular President Benigno Aquino, […]
Center seeks more space to save monkey-eating Philippine eagle
Manila, Philippines | AFP | − A Philippine breeding centre trying to save the country’s critically endangered monkey-eating eagle has been so successful it is now scrambling for space, officials said Monday. Another eaglet was hatched last week, the second in barely three months, helping the giant bird’s fight against extinction. The chick, born from the natural mating of […]
Non-passage of BBL caused ‘widespread frustration’ within MILF – Iqbal
MANILA (Mabuhay) — The non-passage of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) in Congress has caused “widespread frustration” among the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the people of Mindanao, according to Mohagher Iqbal, chief peace negotiator of the MILF. “[T]here is widespread frustration on the ground by our people and members of the MILF,” Iqbal […]
Bongbong open to reviving two-party system in politics
MANILA (Mabuhay)– Vice presidential aspirant Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said Thursday he is open to bringing back the two-party system in politics instead of the multi-party system. Marcos said legislators must seriously look into crafting a law that revive the two-party system in order to prevent politicians from switching from one party to the […]
Poe admits weight loss, but says she’s healthy
TOLEDO City, Cebu (Mabuhay) − Senator Grace Poe on Wednesday admitted that she is losing weight, but assured that she remains in good health and fit for the election campaign season. Poe, who noticeably looked gaunter at the official start of the campaign period than in 2015, attributed her weight loss to her failure to […]
Zika virus: No cause for alarm yet in PHL, says Health chief
MANILA (Mabuhay) − There is no cause for alarm yet over the Zika virus, Department of Health Secretary Janette Garin reiterated Monday as the Philippines remains free from the bug. “Wala pa, wala pang [cases of Zika]. Although we have to give emphasis na dati nandito na sa atin yun, nawala siya at yung lamok […]
30 years after EDSA, Gringo thinks ‘system’ still the same
MANILA (Mabuhay) − Sen. Gringo Honasan, one of the key figures in the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution, said on Monday that the system and the problems that existed 30 years ago remain the same. In a radio interview, Honasan said: “Bago na ang mga personalidad pero ang sistema, yung improvement sa system, nakakaligtaan natin.” […]
Preparations for BBL passage when Congress reconvenes must begin now, says Ferrer
MANILA, Feb 4 (Mabuhay) — Congress must prepare as early as now to ensure the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) when it reconvenes after the May elections, the government’s chief peace negotiator said. Miriam Coronel Ferrer said that while the BBL will not be passed before Congress adjourns for the election period, steps […]
Drilon orders review of lawmakers’ right to defer appointment of officials
MANILA, Feb 4 (Mabuhay) — Senate President Franklin Drilon on Thursday said he has ordered the Commission on Appointments secretariat to review the invokation of Section 20 of their rules after Minority Leader Juan Ponce Enrile used it to block the nomination of seven career officials. “I directed the CA secretariat to conduct a review […]
BIR’s Henares: Pia Wurtzbach has to pay taxes unless exemption law is passed
MANILA, Feb 4 (Mabuhay) — Unless a law is passed, the Queen still has to pay her taxes after all. Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach is still not exempted from paying her taxes in the Philippines unless she gets the approval of both the House of Representatives and the Senate, said Bureau of Internal […]
Aquino says Muslim peace bid to continue after his term
Manila, Philippines | AFP – Philippine President Benigno Aquino has ordered special efforts to ensure a peace agreement with Muslim rebels is implemented even after his term ends this year, his spokesman said Sunday. Congressional leaders have said they are unlikely to pass the peace bill before the president’s term ends in June. Aquino had ordered “consultation and […]
US envoy: Sea disputes not covered by EDCA
MANILA (Mabuhay) – US Ambassador to the Philippines Philip Goldberg on Friday clarified that the disputes in the South China Sea are not covered by the Enhance Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). “EDCA isn’t directly related to the South China Sea issues. It’s about the United States helping its ally, the Philippines, as it goes about […]
PHL economy grows 5.8% in 2015
MANILA, Jan 28 (Mabuhay) – The economy grew by 6.3 percent in the fourth quarter of 2015, the highest quarterly growth for the year, but slower than the 6.6 percent a year earlier, data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) on Thursday showed. The fourth quarter gross domestic product (GDP) compares with the revised […]
Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach wants to enter politics: Drilon
MANILA, Jan 25 (Mabuhay) – Miss Universe Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach is interested in entering politics, Senate President Franklin Drilon said Monday. Drilon said Wurtzbach intimated this to him after the ceremony honoring her for winning the much-coveted crown in December. “You know, given her politically conscious responses to the questions, I am not surprised. You […]
Aquino slams opportunists in Mamasapano debacle
MANILA (Mabuhay) – President Benigno Aquino III on Monday hit back at people who he believes are exploiting the deaths of Special Action Force (SAF) troopers who participated in the Mamasapano mission last year. In his speech during the conferment of the Medal of Valor and Distinguished Conduct Medal on 47 slain and surviving SAF […]
SSS studying proposed P1,000 pension hike
MANILA (Mabuhay) – The Social Security System (SSS) is studying a proposal to increase the pension of its retirees by as much as P1,000 in lieu of the P2,000 hike vetoed by President Benigno Aquino III. SSS Chief Actuary and Senior Vice President George Ongkeko Jr. said results of the study may be out by […]
Aquino OKs ‘medal of valor’ awards to 2 SAF 44 members
MANILA, Jan 23 (Mabuhay) – Malacañang on Saturday confirmed that President Benigno Aquino III has approved the recommendation to confer two Special Action Force members involved in the Mamasapano mission with the Medal of Valor award. “The President authorized the award and among the awards that will be conferred ay ang tinatawag na Medalya ng […]
Palace hails PH’s credit rating upgrade from Seoul-based NICE: ‘Very nice’
MANILA, Jan 23 (Mabuhay) — Malacañang on Saturday welcomed the upgrade in the country’s credit rating from a Seoul-based debt watcher. Presidential communications undersecretary Manuel L. Quezon III said the credit rating upgrade from the National Information and Credit Evaluation (NICE) was “very nice.” “The NICE upgrade—it’s very nice—this is the NICE Investors Services of […]
Retired police general claims he has ‘critical evidence’ on Mamasapano cover-up
MANILA, Jan 23 (Mabuhay) – A retired police official on Saturday said he has in his possession a digital audio recording of a conversation between a ranking government official and a lawmaker about the January 25 Mamasapano encounter last year. Retired police Chief Superintendent Diosdado Valeroso said during a press conference in Quezon City that […]
Comelec ratifies Guanzon comment on Poe DQ case
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Taking into account the greater interest of credible elections, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) ratified and validated on Friday the comment written and submitted by Commissioner Rowena Guanzon to the Supreme Court (SC) last week in relation to the disqualification of Senator Grace Poe. The Comelec resolution also confirmed and ratified the […]
Aquino belittles Binay lead in latest poll
MANILA (Mabuhay) – President Benigno Aquino III on Friday belittled the lead garnered by Vice President Jejomar Binay in the latest survey of pollster Social Weather Stations (SWS) on the presidential hopefuls. “It’s a snapshot right now. Wala pa tayo sa talagang kampanya… Baka may parte na walang naalalang negative sa kasalukuyan ‘yung mga natanong. […]
Aquino confers Order of Sikatuna on Lopez, Salinas
MANILA (Mabuhay) – President Benigno Aquino III has conferred the Order of Sikatuna to Philippine Ambassador to Japan Manuel M. Lopez and Philippine Ambassador to Spain Carlos C. Salinas. The two awardees were given the Rank of Grand Cross with Gold Distinction. Lopez was recognized for his “exemplary efforts” that led to the “historical elevation” […]
Binay leads latest poll despite graft allegations
Manila, Philippines | AFP | – Philippine Vice President Jejomar Binay has overcome a barrage of graft allegations to re-emerge as front-runner to become the nation’s next leader, according to an independent poll released Friday. The 73-year-old had long been the favorite but his poll numbers tanked last year when allegations emerged that he and his son, both former […]
PHL welcomes more US forces to ‘counter China’
By Mynardo Macaraig Manila, Philippines | AFP | – The Philippine Supreme Court ruled Tuesday a security accord with the United States was legal, allowing more US forces into the former American colony as it seeks to counter Chinese expansion in the South China Sea. The 10-year agreement, signed in 2014 but not implemented due to legal challenges, will […]
PHL exports down 1.1% in November: PSA
MANILA (Mabuhay) – Philippine exports registered a slight drop in November 2015, the latest data on merchandise trade released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) on Tuesday showed. The country’s shipments for the month reached $5.117 billion, down 1.1 percent down from $5.175 billion a year earlier. Electronic products, the Philippines’ top export earner, accounted […]