NEWLY elected Deputy Speaker David “Jay-jay” Suarez of Quezon province didn’t mince words as he fired back at former speaker Pantaleon Alvarez’s recent accusations, labeling them as “baseless and a misguided attempt to sow discord within the House of Representatives.”
Suarez likewise underscored the critical need for constructive dialogue within Congress while dismissing Alvarez’s claims as “nothing more than a futile attempt to derail progress.”
The Deputy Speaker was responding to Alvarez’s recent TV interview, where he questioned the legitimacy of the ongoing “people’s initiative” to amend the 1987 Constitution, alleging Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez’s involvement—a claim consistently refuted by House leadership, fellow lawmakers, and advocacy groups genuinely pushing for constitutional reforms.
Alvarez, currently representing Davao del Norte’s first district in Congress, also mentioned in the interview his alleged struggle to grasp the necessity for constitutional changes, particularly citing economic justifications.
In a scathing response, Suarez—an outspoken advocate for economic constitutional amendments—lambasted Alvarez for his sudden reversal and “wild, baseless and reckless” allegations against Romualdez.
The lawmaker from Quezon’s second district dismissed Alvarez’s claims, denouncing them as devoid of any factual basis and a blatant attempt to undermine the legitimacy of the current constitutional economic reforms process.
“Former Speaker Alvarez’s allegations are not just unfounded; they reek of desperation and a disregard for the truth. Accusing Speaker Romualdez of orchestrating the ‘People’s Initiative’ without a shred of concrete evidence is not only irresponsible but also a clear attempt to destabilize our legislative proceedings,” Suarez said.
Suarez cited the glaring hypocrisy in Alvarez’s accusations, pointing out that the former Speaker himself had been an ardent proponent of constitutional change during the early stages of the Duterte administration.
He also noted that Alvarez was one of the 301 House members who voted in March last year in favor of Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) No. 6, which calls for the establishment of a constitutional convention to amend the 1987 Constitution.
“This underscores the inconsistency in former Speaker Alvarez’s current stance on constitutional reforms, considering his prior support for RBH 6 last year,” Suarez emphasized.
Personal vendettas
According to Suarez, Alvarez’s shift in stance raises questions about the sincerity of his concerns and whether his motives are driven by personal vendettas or genuine considerations for the country’s welfare.
“It’s baffling that someone who vigorously pushed for constitutional reforms in the past is now attempting to cast doubt on the very process he once championed. This raises serious questions about the credibility and sincerity of his current objections,” Suarez remarked.
In no uncertain terms, Suarez emphasized that the ongoing constitutional discussions adhere meticulously to the letter of the law and the constitutionally mandated processes.
He called on fellow lawmakers to reject Alvarez’s “divisive tactics” and refocus their “collective energy on the paramount goal of serving the interests of the Filipino people and enhancing the nation’s governance.”
“It’s regrettable that instead of contributing constructively to the ongoing constitutional discussions, former Speaker Alvarez has chosen to indulge in baseless mudslinging. Our priority should be the well-being of our constituents, not engaging in petty political theatrics,” Suarez asserted.
At the same time, Suarez dismissed Alvarez’s allegations that funding for infrastructure projects in congressional districts outside the supermajority is being shifted to the unprogrammed funds in the national budget. Alvarez said he was concerned about the supposedly growing unprogrammed funds, comparing them to lump sums akin to pork barrel allocations.
Suarez responded, saying, “The use of unprogrammed funds strictly adheres to transparent and legal processes. Our commitment to financial transparency is unwavering, and every allocation and reallocation undergoes rigorous scrutiny to ensure adherence to established protocols.”
Addressing Alvarez’s hint at potential fund removals affecting House members not aligned with the supermajority, Suarez dismissed any allegations of discrimination.
Based on merit
“Decisions within Congress are made based on merit, and our leadership ensures inclusivity and fairness in every aspect of our legislative agenda,” Suarez stressed.
In reply to Alvarez’s objection to the supermajority’s push for constitutional amendment, Suarez highlighted the significance of an active legislative agenda.
“The suggested changes aim to meet the changing needs of our nation. Our dedication to progress propels the push for constitutional change, centered on shared goals for the benefit of the Filipino people,” Suarez said.
The Deputy Speaker then rallied his colleagues, urging them to stand firm in their commitment to amending outdated economic provisions in the 1987 Constitution which, he said, prevent the country from realizing its full economic potential.
He also stressed the imperative of presenting a united front to confront the challenges facing the nation and voiced unwavering confidence in Speaker Romualdez’s leadership.
“Speaker Romualdez has demonstrated unwavering dedication to our shared objectives. Under his guidance, we have the strength to navigate the complexities of constitutional amendments and emerge stronger as a legislative body,” Suarez said.
PH to switch from analog to digital TV; PCO hands over 1,000 Bagong Pilipinas digibox
THE Presidential Communications Office (PCO) will roll out this year free “Bagong Pilipinas” Digibox intended for those who cannot afford to buy new digital TV receivers as the country transitions from analog broadcast to digital, Communications Secretary Cheloy Velicaria-Garafil said on Sunday.
“‘Yun ang pupunan naming sa PCO. So starting this year, magro-rollout kami ng mga libreng Bagong Pilipinas Digibox,” Garafil declared during the kick-off rally for the Bagong Pilipinas Campaign at the Quirino Grandstand on Sunday.
“Kaya nga naisip namin since magta-transition tayo from analog to digital at alam naman natin na hindi naman lahat makakabili ng digital TV. So naisip namin sa PCO— ano ang bago? Maglulunsad kami ng Bagong Pilipinas Digibox,” she said.
The Philippines is switching this year from analog to digital TV, and also starting this year, analog TV users in Metro Manila will no longer receive TV signals.
Asked why there’s a need to transition from analog to digital, Garafil said users could enjoy new features, better programming with digital TV, in addition to its emergency and early warning features.
“Kailangang-kailangan natin kasi itong mga digital television, mas marami silang channel at mas maganda ang reception,” she said.
“May early warning channel siya. Para just in case may mga bagyo, may mga kalamidad, at ibang emergency [magkakaroon] ng early warning sa ating mga kababayan para makapaghanda sila,” she pointed out.
The PCO distributed 1,000 Bagong Pilipinas digibox units during Sunday’s event in Manila.
The Bagong Pilipinas Campaign is the overarching theme of the Marcos administration’s brand of governance and leadership, characterized by a principled, accountable, and dependable government reinforced by unified institutions of society.
Baste Duterte to PBBM: Resign
DAVAO City Mayor Baste Duterte, during leader’s forum asked President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr to resign adding the president lacks love and aspirations for the country.
The young Duterte also described the president as lazy.
He also claimed that the president is of no use and has no positive impact on the country or even in resolving disputes among his allies.
Mayor Baste also criticized the issues between her sister Vice President Sara Duterte and House Speaker Martin Romualdez, as well as the conflict between the Senate and the House of Representatives.
He emphasized that a prayer rally against Charter Change (Cha-Cha) in Davao would not have occurred if the President had taken immediate actions to prevent internal conflicts within his team.
The Davao City mayor admitted that he expects backlash over his statements and is prepared to face the consequences.
“I’m ready to die or maybe leave the Philippines if some country will accept me for political asylum,” Mayor Baste said.
Sara joins Bagong Pilipinas campaign declares support to alleviate poverty
VICE President and Education (DepEd) Secretary Sara Duterte joined with thousands of Filipinos in the kick-off rally of the “Bagong Pilipinas” campaign of the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila.
The Vice President arrived at the Quirino Grandstand before 4:00 pm Sunday where she was warmly welcomed by the energetic crowd and gamely posed for selfies.
Vice President Duterte declared she supports the Bagong Pilipinas campaign especially in the poverty alleviation sector.
“Ang Department of Education po ay kaisa ng lahat ng mga ahensya sa gobyerno tungo sa ‘Bagong Pilipinas.’ Ang kontribusyon po ng Department of Education ay sa poverty alleviation sector at kami po huhulma ng mga kabataan at mga mag-aaral nang matatag,” the Vice President said.
Just like the Vice President, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Maria Yulo Loyzaga also expressed her support to the Bagong Pilipinas campaign, saying it is “science-driven.”
“Ang Bagong Pilipinas ay science-driven. Ang kalikasan po natin kailangang ingatan para po sa lahat – dagat, lupa, hangin, tubig at basura,” Secretary Loyzaga said.
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan echoed the sentiments of Vice President Duterte and Secretary Loyzaga, saying that Bagong Pilipinas for them is to ensure livable environment.
“Ang DPWH po ay inaatasan ng ating mahal na Pangulo para kumpunuhin po natin ang mga pangunahing lansangan, sa buong kapuluan at saka kailangan po nating mapagtuunan ang ating mga flood-control projects kasi napakarami po ng nababaha,” Secretary Bonoan said.
“Sabi po sa akin ng ating mahal na Pangulo, pag-tuunan din natin ang mga problema sa pag-baha sa lahat ng kapuluan, maglalagay rin tayo ng malalaking tulay na magdugtong-dugtong po sa ating mga pangunahing probinsya at mga isla na wala pa hong mga tulay,” he added.
An estimated 100,000 people gathered at the grounds of Quirino Grandstand to witness the kick-off rally of the Bagong Pilipinas campaign of President Marcos. *PND*
PBBM leads “Bagong Pilipinas” kick-off rally
PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led Sunday the Bagong Pilipinas kick-off Rally at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila as he calls for unity to build a progressive nation, strong economy and secured future for Filipinos.
Speaking during the event, President Marcos said the country faces a complex and changing world, which calls for a united response to build a strong nation and economy sound.
“We cannot meet these challenges if no common purpose energizes us. We need to have a vision that moves us forward as a people united. A vision so compelling that it brings out the best in us. One that is feasible that every one of us will invest in,” Marcos told the crowd during Sunday’s event.
“We must restore faith in ourselves by taking stock of what makes us a strong people, a resilient nation. We must dig deep into our valiant past, draw strength from the heroism of our forefathers, and let this heritage of selflessness propel us forward into the future,” he said.
The Bagong Pilipinas Campaign is the overarching theme of the Marcos administration’s brand of governance and leadership, characterized by a principled, accountable, and dependable government reinforced by unified institutions of society.
It encourages every Filipino to see beyond differences and work harmoniously to build a nation that shapes a more promising future for its citizens.
Around 400,000 people attended the event, including members of the Cabinet, lawmakers, local government officials, and the general public.
Bagong Pilipinas a testament to PBBM’s commitment for a better Philippines — Speaker
THE Bagong Pilipinas kick-off rally at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila today is a testament to the commitment of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to embark on a transformative journey toward a better Philippines where government programs are accessible to every Filipino.
This was the statement made by House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, as he called on Filipinos to attend and support the Bagong Pilipinas event that will be marked by a Serbisyo Fair where government services and financial assistance programs will be available to qualified citizens.
“I encourage everyone to join and support the Bagong Pilipinas kick-off rally this Sunday. This event marks the beginning of a transformative journey toward a better Philippines, not just for us but, more importantly, for our children,” Romualdez, the leader of the 300-plus-strong House of Representatives.
“Unity has always been the bedrock of any successful endeavor, and in the pursuit of a better future for our country, it becomes even more crucial. The Bagong Pilipinas campaign is a call to unity, a rallying cry for every Filipino to come together, transcending differences and working hand in hand for a brighter and more prosperous tomorrow,” he added.
The Bagong Pilipinas kick-off rally coincides with the second day of the 10th installment of the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BPSF) in Zambales, where over P500 million worth of government aid and programs were granted to citizens of the province.
“Like the BPSF that we implemented to respond to the call of President Marcos Jr. to bring the government closer to the people, the Bagong Pilipinas shares the same principle: that programs and projects of the government should be made accessible to the people,” Speaker Romualdez said.
“Sa Bagong Pilipinas, dito ipinapadama ni PBBM na ang pamahalaan ay narito at handang maglingkod sa mga mamamayan. Kami sa House of Representatives ay susuporta ng buong-buo sa ating Pangulo sa adhikain niyang ito,” he continued.
Several of the government’s major services will be provided during the event, which is expected to be attended by thousands of Filipinos.
According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), a Serbisyo Fair will provide payouts for pre-identified beneficiaries of the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) will also provide eCard enrollment and other services, as well as the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), which will provide registration and enrollment services.
Other services available include those from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Pag-Ibig Fund, Social Security System, Philippine National Police, Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC) and other agencies.
The PCO also said that several government officials, celebrities and notable personalities are expected to grace the kick-off rally.
Speaker Romualdez said their presence reflects a shared commitment to the cause of nation-building, emphasizing that “this is a collective effort that involves every sector of our society.”
“President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. has underscored the significance of individual resolutions in contributing to the broader goals of the ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ campaign. Each personal commitment to positive change is a vital building block for the collective progress of our nation,” the lawmaker from Leyte declared.
“Let us stand united in the pursuit of a Bagong Pilipinas — a Philippines that we can proudly turn over to the generations that will follow,” he continued.
Albay Rep. Salceda backs PBBM on need to amend Charter’s economic provisions
ALBAY Rep. Joey Salceda expressed his support to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on the need to amend the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution to make the country more competitive and attract more foreign investment.
Salceda noted the earlier statements of the President during an interview where he said the Constitution’s economic provisions must be changed because it was not written for a globalized world and no longer suited to address the current challenges.
Salceda supported the President’s opinions, adding that the Philippines has not opened up to foreign investment and already overtaken by its Southeast Asian neighbors in terms of development and competitiveness.
“Iyong ba talaga ang ano nila, hindi ba dapat ang debate nakakaganda na ito, okay sa ba inyo iyong Constitution na ito, na sarado ang Pilipinas napag-iiwanan ka. Ano nalang ba ang hindi natin mahabol, Cambodia iniwanan na tayo in five years. Dati una tayo diyan sa Thailand, naiwanan tayo,” Salceda said in a news forum in Quezon City.
“Make a new Constitution, naiiwanan tayo ng isang country. Eh sabihin na nating walang mali sa Constitution… ang problema, iyong ibang countries may ginawang tama – nagbukas sila,” he said.
Citing reforms carried out by Cambodia, Salceda said the Southeast Asian country already adopted value adding in its agriculture sector and has been selling manufactured and processed products.
According to Salceda, the restriction on land ownership, public utilities, natural resources, franchises, education, mass media, and practice of profession are hindering investments impacting on development.
“Tulad din iyan dito sa lupa, hindi ka mag-i-invest sa lupa dahil hindi naman sa iyo. Kaya nga nagkaroon ng land reform ‘di ba? Kasi nga, hindi naman kanila, sa tiller kung hindi sa land owner,” he pointed out.
“Tingnan mo ‘yan ha, pero iyong sa atin, okay – advertising, private land. In short, all the inputs to innovation and competitiveness, sinara natin.”
‘Pekeng Initiative ni Romualdez, ipinababasura ni Poe: ‘Pulitiko lang makikinabang’
Ni Estong Reyes
MATINDING hinimok ni Senador Grace Poe ang publiko na ibasura ang pekeng peoples initiative ni House Speaker Martin Romualdez na magsisilbi lamang sa pansariling interes ng pulitiko kaysa lutasin ang problema ng bayan.
Sa pahayag, sinabi ni Poe, isa sa lumagda sa manipessto na tumututol sa peoples initiative, na hindi kailangan ng taumbayan ang inisyatiba kundi mas higit na pagtuunan ang pagkain sa lamesa, trabaho, healthcare, edukasyon at kalidad ng pamumuhay.
“Sa bangayan dito sa pekeng initiative, inuuna na naman ng ibang tao ang politika kaysa problema ng bayan,” ayon kay Poe.
Itinuturo ng lahat ng indikasyon na si Romualdez ang promotor ng peoples initiative upang amendahan ang 1987 Constitution na higit na magbibigay ng kapangyarihan sa Mababang Kapulungan dahil lulusawin ng panukala ang kapangyarihan ng Mataas na Kapulungan .
“Isa lang naman ang solusyon dyan: tigilan nyo na itong pekeng initiative. We, in the Senate, are ready to work and focus on the things that matter––and we hope the House is ready to set aside this PI and do the same,” ani Poe.
Nababalot ng suhulan ang isinusulong na signature drive para sa Charter change (Cha-cha) sa pamamagitan ng P100 kapalit ng pirma upang makumbinsi ang taumbayan na lumagda sa petisyon na inilalako ng mga kongresista, ayon kay Poe..
Ikinalungkot pa ni Poe na naging problematic ang signature campaign dahil isa itong
“politician’s initiative,” dahil maraming pulitiko ang nagsusulong nito na tila pagsisilbihan ang pansariling interes, hindi ng bayan.
Lumitaw sa maraming survey na hindi prayoridad ng taumbayan ang charter change, giit ni Poe.
“Bakit sinasabi namin na Pekeng Initiative ito na itinutulak ng mga politiko? Tingnan natin ang mga survey. Sabi ng isang survey regarding the issues that concern our people, 1% lang po ng ating kababayan ay nagsabi na concerned sila sa Cha-cha,” aniya
Sinabi pa ni Poe na mayroon na isa pang survey nagsasabing hindi naisali ang charter change sa pangunahing alalahanin ng Filipino na dapat tugunan o lutasin ng administrasyon.
“Malinaw po na wala sa isip ng tao ang Cha-cha, yet eto ang mga kasama natin sa House, sinasabi nila na nakuha na raw ang 12% na signatures na kailangan para matuloy na itong petition para sa PI. Napakalayo naman po ng 1% sa 12%; paano ba nakuha ito? Dagdag bawas?” ayon kay Poe.
“Ito ang klaro sa ating mga survey: our people have more important things on their mind. The high prices of goods. Jobs. Higher salaries. Food. Naghihirap po sila, gutom po sila,” giit ni Poe.
RESIBO SA PAGDEKLARA NI ROMUALDEZ SA CHACHA VIA PI, IBINULGAR NI CHIZ
Ni Estong Reyes
HINDI na kaya pang itanggi ni House Speaker Martin Romualdez na siya ang promotor ng peoples initiative sa kanayunan upang amyendahan ang Saligang Batas na lulusaw sa kapangyarihan ng Senado na bomoto nang hiwalay sa Constituent Assembly (ConAs)
Sa pahayag, sinabi ni Senador Chiz Escudero na hindi na puwede pang magsalita si Romualdez na ignorante siya sa signature campaign na inilunsad ng Mababang Kapulungan upang amendahan ang 1987 Constitution dahil may resibo na video sa kanyang pag-endorso ng peoples initiative.
Umani ng pagbatikos ang peoples initiative ni Romualdez dahil nangangalap ng lagda ang “inutusang” kongresista kapalit ang halagang P100 ayuda gamit ang P20 milyon pondo kada distrito.
Ayon kay Escudero, ipinakikita ng isang video noong nakaraang Disyembre 11 sa ginanap na Philippine Economic Briefing sa lalawigan ng Iloilo, matikas na ipinagmalaki ni Romualdez ang plano na isulong ang peoples initiative upang amendahan ang 37 taong gulang na Saligang Batas.
“We are thinking right now of addressing the procedural gap or question on as to how we amend the Constitution. We will highly recommend that we embark on a people’s initiative to cure this impasse, so to speak, on how we vote. And I hope we can undertake this as soon as possible, so we could have some clarity on the procedures,” ayon kay Romualdez, banggit ni Escudero sa video.
“So, we would like to amend the Constitution vis-à-vis how we procedurally amend the same. And that’s either we vote jointly or separately, we would like to have the result by and through People’s Initiative,” patuloy pa ni Romualdez.
Bilang tugon, sinabi ni Ecudero na hindi ito peoples initiative kundi politicians initiative.
“How can Speaker Romualdez deny he is not behind this ‘pekeng initiative’ when he bragged about it last December and took credit for it?” ni Escudero sa kanyang X (formerly Twitter) account, na ipinakita ang 45-second video clip ni House Speaker Romualdez na nagsasalita hinggil sa plano nito sa Charter change (Cha-cha) noong Disyembre.
“History has taught us that nothing good comes out from anything that begins with a lie,” ayon sa Bicolano senator.
Nitong Enero 23, nagpalabas ng matinding manipesto ang Senado na nilagdaang ng 24 senador na nagbabasura sa isinusulong ng charter change ng Mababang Kapulungan sa pangunguna ni Romualdez sa pamamagitan ng PI dahil nababalot ito ng korapsiyon at lagayan sa pagbili ng lagda sa halagang P100.
Lily Reyes
DILG: 500 LGUs NAGKAKALAT NG BASURA SA PINAS
IKINABAHALA ng Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) ang napaulat na sa 1,107 lamang sa 1,634 local government units (LGUs) sa buong bansa ang may access sa sanitary facilities. Ayon kay DILG Secretary Benjamin “Benhur’’ Abalos Jr., dahil sa mahigit kumulang sa 500 LGUs ang walang access sa sanitary landfills, posibleng kung saan-saan na lamang aniya itinatapon ng mga ito ang kanilang mga basura Giit pa ni Abalos, 20 porsiyento ng 61,000 metriko toneladang basura na nahahakot araw-araw ay mula sa Metro Manila. Dahil dito, isinulong ni Abalos ang aktibong pakikipagtulungan sa pagitan ng mga LGUs at mga ahensya ng pamahalaan upang matugunan ang pamamahala ng basura at problema sa seguridad ng tubig sa bansa. Ginawa ni Abalos ang panawagan sa katatapos na Waste and Water Summit sa SMX Convention Center na pinasimulan ng Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) katuwang ang DILG. Ang summit ay naglalayong palakasin ang ugnayan at kooperasyon sa pagitan ng DENR, DILG, LGU at iba pang stakeholder sa lokal na antas at iba pa. Sa partikular, hinimok ng DILG chief ang mga LGU na humingi ng tulong sa DILG at DENR upang mas mahusay na matugunan ang mga isyu sa pamamahala ng basura at mga problema sa tubig sa kanilang lokalidad.
Barbers:; Let ordinary Filipinos, not legislators, decide on Cha-Cha issue
SENATE MANIFESTO VS PI BASELESS, IRRATIONAL
Barbers: Let ordinary Filipinos, not legislators, decide on Chacha issue
A SENIOR House leader today said the Senate manifesto condemning the People’s Initiative (PI) aimed to amend the 1987 Constitution and using the Lower House as an excuse to impede Constitutional amendments is baseless and irrational.
Speaking on behalf of some House members who support the PI, Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers said some Senators’ allegations that the goal of PI is to make it “easier to revise the Constitution by eliminating the Senate from the equation” is an unfounded and deceptive attribution to the House.
“The manifesto is apparently portraying a demonized image on the supporters of the PI,” the solon from Mindanao said.
Barbers, chairman of the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs, said the attributed goal is not only speculative but groundless in the light of the express and clear language of the Constitution that repeatedly states vote by “all” members of Congress without distinction between Senate and House of Representative in proposing charter amendment.
“The plain language of the Constitution needs no interpretation, but some quarters tried to create a confusion that the term “all” members of Congress should be understood to mean separate votes of the Senate and of the House of Representatives,” he said.
Barbers underscored that the supporters of the PI in the House differ with the “voting separately” interpretation, and the Senate must respect with courtesy and candor the proponents of the said interpretation.
“It is thus a matter of differring opinion on the matter which has been lingering for several decades and for the past several administrations. The Senate should also respect with dignity the proponents of opposite interpretation, and not demonizing them to a level that is tantamount to hindering democratic freedom of expression,” he stressed.
The mode of amendment, Barbers said, is not without express constitutional imprimatur. The Constitution, he said allows PI as an alternative mode of pursuing amendment which is available to anybody, including the individual members of the Senate and the House of Representatives, the people in the executive branch, and finally the ordinary Filipino citizen.
“The proponents of the “voting separately” idea may have pursued the PI or any other means to address the unresolved issue between voting separately or voting jointly. Over the years, no concrete steps had been done to address this issue. What had happened in the past is that the proponents simply go out to the public and express their respective positions or interpretations. That is all, and the divisive issue remains and has become a stumbling block to perceive progress and development of the country. In the meantime, the Filipino people are left to suffer in quandary,” Barbers said.
The proponents of PI, he said, took the courage to break the impasse not for self-interest but to pursue the interest of the Filipino people. “They hope that the Senate will not be a stumbling block to this effect. After all, whatever would be the outcome of the People’s Initiative, it is the voice of the Filipino people who will finally decide in the plebiscite.”
“Some Senators feign support for Cha-Cha but exploit every opportunity to halt it. They don’t want to carry it out via ConCon, via ConAss and now with the People’s Initiative. And everybody can clearly see what this means. They don’t want to get out of their “comfort zones.” This has been their modus operandi since 1987,” Barbers said.
House leaders criticize Senate’s leadership response to joint gesture on constitutional amendments
HOUSE leaders have openly criticized Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, condemning his focus on a potential constitutional crisis rather than promoting constructive dialogue in response to Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez’s collaborative gesture on constitutional amendments.
“It is disheartening to see Senate President Zubiri jump to the conclusion of a constitutional crisis instead of embracing the spirit of collaboration put forth by Speaker Romualdez. We need dialogue, not doomsday predictions,” House Majority Leader and Zamboanga City Rep. Manuel Jose “Mannix” M. Dalipe said.
House Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr. scrutinized Zubiri’s rhetoric, arguing that rather than fostering unity and constructive engagement, the caution about a constitutional crisis only exacerbates an already contentious situation.
“This is a time for dialogue, not escalating tensions,” Gonzales pointed out.
Romualdez recently penned a letter to Zubiri, affirming the House’s commitment to adopt the Senate’s version of Resolution of Both Houses No. 6., which aims to amend the “restrictive” economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution.
Zubiri initially responded with a warning of a potential constitutional crisis, alleging that the House persists in its efforts to initiate a people’s initiative for constitutional amendments—an allegation vehemently denied by the House leadership.
The Senate President further contended that the ongoing signature drive is not only flawed but also unconstitutional.
Deputy Speaker and Quezon Rep. David “Jayjay” Suarez underscored the imperative for a collaborative effort between the House and the Senate on constitutional reforms, stressing that it is crucial for the benefit of the nation.
“Speaker Romualdez’s gesture of collaboration should be met with an open mind and a willingness to explore common ground. It is disappointing to witness a swift dismissal rather than an embrace of the opportunity for meaningful dialogue,” Suarez said.
Suarez also pointed out the potential consequences of Zubiri’s approach to the situation.
“We risk further polarization and gridlock by prematurely labeling the situation as a constitutional crisis. The responsibility lies with both chambers to navigate this complex terrain with prudence and a commitment to the democratic process,” Suarez said.
Dalipe also shared Suarez’s views, stressing that a “constitutional crisis is not the path we should embark on.”
“Instead of fueling discord, we must engage in constructive dialogue to find a consensus that addresses the economic concerns without jeopardizing the stability of our constitutional framework,” Dalipe said.
Gonzales also underscored the urgency of a collaborative approach concerning the amendment of the fundamental law of the land.
“Our duty as public servants is to safeguard the interests of the people and the integrity of our institutions. Resorting to a constitutional crisis undermines the very essence of our democratic values,” Gonzales said.
Gonzales added: “Let us not be hasty in our actions. We owe it to the Filipino people to uphold the rule of law and ensure that any amendments are made within the bounds of our Constitution. This requires a collaborative effort and a commitment to preserving the democratic foundations that define our nation.”
CNN Philippines is going off the air nearly nine years after debuting into the local broadcasting industry as its local franchise holder decided to pull the plug after accumulating financial losses exceeding P5 billion.
The shutdown of the television network —which will affect about 300 employees — will be formally announced on Monday, a CNN Philippines official said in an interview with Inquirer.
The decision to give up the CNN franchise had been made last year and approved by network owner and operator Nine Media Corp. of the Cabangon family, but the latter decided to defer implementation until after the Christmas holiday season.
The official noted, “It’s very challenging. It’s a losing proposition, so why pursue it?”
CNN Philippines has been using the RPN-9 frequency since its launch in 2015. With this shutdown, the frequency will revert to government control.
“This Monday, an official announcement will be made by our CNN Philippines president Mr. Benjie Ramos,” he said.
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4K students in Zambales receives cash aid, scholarships from ISIP program
A TOTAL of 4,000 students in Zambales received financial aid and scholarships under the groundbreaking social service program Integrated Scholarships and Incentives Program (ISIP) for the youth of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos, Jr. that aims to benefit many students and members of the youth in every province in the country.
The ISIP, an initiative of the Office of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez in partmership with other government departments as part of President Marcos’ dedication to supporting the education sector, is envisioned to aid disadvantaged students and was launched Saturday in Zambales at the SMX Convention Center in Olongapo City.
“We are rolling out this program to give life to President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos, Jr.’s directive to help qualified Filipino students who are financially incapable of paying for quality education. Inilunsad natin ito sa Iloilo noong nakaraang taon, at dito naman sa Zambales ang ating tututukan,” Romualdez, leader of the 300-plus-strong House of Representatives, said in his keynote speech during the launch of the project.
The program targets tertiary and vocational students who will receive financial assistance every six months through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to cover tuition and other expenses.
Each of the 4,000 students in Zambales will receive P2,000 in financial assistance from the DSWD and identified student beneficiaries will be enrolled under the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) Tulong Dunong Program (TDP) where students can get scholarship assistance of up to P15,000 per year.
The Olongapo and Zambales program was undertaken in collaboration with Zambales Rep. Jefferson Khonghun.
“We do this so our children can reach for their dreams, graduate and become productive members of our communities, more than capable of contributing to nation-building. Ito ang hangarin ng ating Pangulo, at ito rin ang aming pangarap para sa ating mga kabataan,” Speaker Romualdez said.
The ISIP for the Youth was launched in collaboration with government agencies to assist deserving students facing financial challenges in pursuing quality education.
The program aims to empower disadvantaged Filipino youth, enabling them to contribute to nation-building. Key objectives include prioritizing education, improving literacy and easing financial burdens on families.
The ISIP is a financial assistance initiative for students in high school, Alternative Learning System, tertiary levels and vocational education institutions.
It is a convergence project with DSWD, Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
Marcos: Let Dinagyang festival be reminder to preserve, protect Pinoy identity in these changing times
PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Sunday expressed his greetings to the people of lloilo and took the opportunity to remind devotees of Señor Sto. Niño celebrating the Dinagyang Festival to lead in preserving, protecting, and promoting Filipino identity.
“Let the Dinagyang Festival serve as a reminder of our collective responsibility to preserve, protect, and promote our identity in these changing times,” Marcos said in his message.
Through such collective effort, fellow Filipinos can ensure the continuity of the distinct way of life in the country, he said.
“It is through this collective effort that we ensure the continuity of the distinct way of life that bind us as one nation moving ever forward towards a brighter future,” the President said.
The chief executive also referred to the celebration as an event that “showcases the vibrancy of lloilo and the profound sense of unity and pride that defines its proud and resilient people.”
“The Dinagyang Festival is a reflection of the rich and colorful mosaic that make up all our indigenous groups, including the brave and enduring Ati people whom we also honor today,” Marcos said.
The Dinagyang Festival is one of the annually anticipated celebrations in the Philippines in honor of Santo Niño, the Holy Child. It is celebrated every fourth Sunday of January in Iloilo City.
36,410 Filipino nurses spent P405M to take US licensure test for the first time in 2023
A TOTAL of 36,410 Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) graduates from the Philippines spent an aggregate of P405 million to take the US licensure examination for the first time in 2023, Quezon City Rep. Marvin Rillo, vice chairperson of the House committee on higher and technical education, said on Sunday.
“The 36,410 is a record high and nearly double when compared to the 18,617 Philippine-educated nurses that took the U.S. licensure test for the first time (excluding repeaters) in 2022,” Rillo said.
Rillo pressed Congress to take strong action to retain Filipino nurses in the local health sector, which he said is already reeling from a shortage of practitioners in part due to overseas migration.
“We must increase the base pay of our public nurses who are now being ‘pirated’ aggressively by hospitals in America and other countries,” Rillo said.
Rillo has been batting for the passage of his bill that seeks to increase by 75 percent the starting base pay of public nurses, in a bid to dissuade some of them from seeking greener pasture abroad.
Under Rillo’s House Bill No. 5276, the starting pay of nurses employed by the government would be bumped up to P63,997 per month from the current rate of P36,619.
Sen. Sonny Angara has also filed Senate Bill No. 638, which seeks to raise the entry-level pay of public nurses to P51,357 per month.
Local governments unable to upgrade hospitals due to lack of nursing staff
“We have received reports that many local governments in the provinces are unable to upgrade their hospitals simply because they lack nursing service staff,” Rillo said.
Additional nurses are a requirement for hospitals to advance to a higher level and increase their bed capacity based on Department of Health licensing standards.
“We would urge provincial, city, and municipal governments as well as private corporate foundations to encourage students to take up nursing by offering full scholarships,” Rillo said.
Rillo cited the case of the Northern Samar provincial government, which recently passed an ordinance giving scholarships to nursing students to help address the (province’s) shortage of practitioners.
Meanwhile, data from the U.S. National Council of State Boards of Nursing Inc. (USNCSBN), show that a total of 6,714 nurses educated in India also took the U.S. licensure examination for the first time in 2023, along with 3,299 graduates from South Korea; 2,712 from Kenya; and 2,400 from Nigeria.
The USNCSBN administers the NCLEX (or the National Council Licensure Examination) for registered nurses in America.
It costs US $200 (or P11,126) for a nursing graduate to register to take the NCLEX, a computerized adaptive examination taken by individual appointment in any of the 76 accredited international testing locations in 18 countries.
Here in the Philippines, there is only one NCLEX testing site in Makati City. This means that takers from the provinces must travel to the country’s financial hub to take the test.
Passing the NCLEX is the final step in America’s nurse licensure process, and the USNCSBN’s 2023 figures indicate that 52.6 percent of Philippine-educated nurses pass the test on their first take, whereas 42.3 percent of repeaters make the grade.
Nurses in America received a median annual pay of $81,220 in 2022, up from $77,600 in 2021, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The U.S. bureau projects an average of 203,200 job openings for nurses in America each year, on average, until 2031.
Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace nurses who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
