Legarda commends Angara’s appointment as the new DepEd chief

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Senator Loren Legarda commended the appointment of Senator Sonny Angara as the new Education Secretary. She highlighted Angara's dedication and efficiency, emphasizing his commitment to addressing the needs and welfare of the Filipino youth.

Angara, whose second six-year term as senator expires in 2025, will succeed Vice President Sara Duterte for the post.

“I would like to congratulate Senator Sonny Angara, our new Department of Education Secretary! With a strong educational background and significant contributions as the Commissioner of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2), his leadership promises a bright future for Philippine education,” Legarda said.

“Senator Sonny is one of the most hardworking and efficient senators our country has ever had,” she added.

The two share a common bond as they have both served as chairpersons of the important Senate Committee on Finance, which helps determine the yearly National Budget.

Both Legarda and Angara are also staunch supporters of local arts and culture, helping pass important legislation that has improved the cultural movement in the country.

They pushed for the improvement of the livelihood of many Filipinos seeking to better their lives through honest work.

Legarda expounded that her fellow lawmaker had significantly improved the state of education in the country with laws such as the Ladderized Education Act, the Open Learning and Distance Education Act, the Youth Entrepreneurship Act, among others.

“I am confident that Senator Angara will drive progress and innovation, ensuring a promising future for all Filipino students,” remarked Legarda.

“Congratulations, Senator Sonny Angara! We wish you great success in your new role.”

PNP Chief Rommel Francisco Marbil meets the Press, shared his vision for the future of the police force

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The 30th Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Rommel Francisco Marbil recently meets various media organizations composed of TV, radio and print journalists and bloggers and he shared his vision for the future of the police force.

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Rommel Francisco Marbil 

Acknowledging the dedication of police officers, particularly in tasks like combating illegal drugs, the new PNP Chief pledged to establish legal support for personnel facing court charges linked to their duties.

He also underscored the significance of prioritizing the well-being of police officers to enhance their effectiveness in serving the community.

The new Chief of Police has mandated a ban on mobile phone usage to ensure officers prioritize their duties and responsibilities to the nation and its citizens. All police personnel are reminded to refrain from unnecessary phone use while on duty, with plans to increase police presence in communities.

Under the new leadership, the PNP remains committed to upholding professionalism, integrity, and service standards to safeguard the peace and security of the Filipino people.

Chief Marbil endorses PBBM's non-violent approach to combatting drugs, citing a recent seizure of over two tons of shabu by the PNP on April 15 without any casualties.

Upon assuming office as PNP Chief, Marbil pledged to prioritize the protection of human rights in the government's intensified anti-drug efforts, aiming to minimize street killings.

Marbil asserts that the PNP will conduct anti-drug operations resulting in thousands of arrests and the confiscation of millions worth of illegal drugs, all without any fatalities.

As the event concluded, Chief Marbil expressed gratitude to the organizers for providing a platform to share his vision for the Philippine National Police.

"I am grateful to the organizers for this event because it gives me a better chance to meet all media people, not just those assigned in our organization. I hope we could all work harmoniously for our country and for our safety," he remarked.

Bayad And Ventaja, Elevating Digital Financial Solutions for Filipinos Overseas

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In an effort to make greater strides in the country’s digital payment transformation, CIS Bayad Center, Inc. (Bayad)– the pioneer brand in the outsourced payment collection system and a full-service fintech subsidiary of Meralco – has officially renewed its partnership with Ventaja International Corp., a fintech institution, initially developed as a telecom prepaid card provider for Filipino migrant workers based overseas, and is now offering a variety of financial services such as remittance, loading and bills payment services for both government and household utilities, all of which, are powered and supported by Bayad’s robust biller aggregator system.

CHAMPIONING DIGITAL FINANCIAL INCLUSION: Executives of Bayad and Ventaja on their partnership signing. Seen in the photo (from L-R) are Ventaja Chief Operations Officer Zaida G. Batallones, Ventaja Chief Executive Officer Vincent Paul D. Grey, Bayad President and CEO Lawrence Y. Ferrer, and Bayad Chief Commercial and Marketing Officer Dennis S. Gatuslao.

Bayad brings in Meralco, Autosweep, Easytrip, SSS, and many others biller brands in Ventaja’s mobile application called Payremit and through Ventaja’s domestic and international payment centers. With this, even Filipinos overseas can be able to help settle their families’ bills in the Philippines and regularly pay for their government contributions at the same time.

Bayad President and CEO Lawrence Y. Ferrer shared, “We continue to expand our payment footprint globally, as we aim to elevate the payment experience of our kababayans. Our goal is centered on boosting their financial wellbeing, as we help them seamlessly settle their families’ bills in the Philippines, and at the same time, invest for their future through government contributions.

“We are with Ventaja in helping OFWs strengthen their ties to home, and we highly value every story of hard work that our kababayans experience before they are able to provide for their families’ needs back home”, added Ferrer.

Ventaja President and CEO Vincent D. Grey also shared “We are thrilled and grateful for our renewed partnership with Bayad as we both maximize the opportunity to offer enhanced payment services to Filipinos overseas. This way we can further financial inclusion and help boost the country’s economic growth.”

For fintech institutions like Ventaja that are interested in being part of Bayad’s extensive channel network, you may send an email to partnerships@bayad.com. Bayad enables partners to attain a nationwide presence and provides end-to-end support services for efficient payment and collection processing.

What pushed Senator JV Ejercito continue serving the Filipinos

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Former Senator Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito seek a Senate position in the 2022 elections.

(Here's  a quick and exclusive interview with the bloggers last Sunday, simple and straight question and answer)

What Pushed Senator JV Ejercito to continue serving the Filipinos?

Ejercito, who is eyeing a comeback at the Senate, to continue the "Unfinished business’, wants to focus on 3 important things when winning again as a Senator. These are the following:

*Universal Healthcare

*Human Settlement or Housing

*Infrastructure Development

His re-run is the promise of a better life for the people and this is the proof of some resolutions and bills that he has served until they are enacted.

* Universal Healthcare

Ejercito said he will continue his fight to provide the Filipinos a better healthcare system, strengthening the implementation of Universal Healthcare Law (UHC), which he authored.

Ejercito expressed hope he could "pick up where he left off" while working at the Senate. He said

"Sayang, especially with this pandemic, I feel that it is my obligation and my duty all the more to push the Universal Healthcare Law, which I sponsored and authored while I was still at the Senate,"

Senator JV Ejercito filed Senate Bill No. 1458, also known as the "Universal Healthcare for All Filipinos Act" which has been approved just recently into law, signed by the President.

"Ito'y aking passion, obligasyon na maisakatuparan ang isang tunay na healthcare system na ang bawat Pilipino ay makikinabang at hindi na mahihirapan without the financial burden."

"Now more than ever, the UHC (Universal Health Care), which is still a work in progress, has to be prioritized and implemented properly."

* Human Settlement or Housing

Senator JV Ejercito also filed Senate Bill No. 1578 or the "Creation of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development".

Ejercito said the government, for the last 30 years, has no rational and systematic way of addressing the nation’s housing needs.

“We continue to be challenged with problems of overcrowding, restrictions in unlocking land for human settlements, increasing number of homeless people and multiplying families living in slums, riverbanks and danger zones."

What we need is one housing department with one board working towards one direction, creating the roadmap for housing and urban development, leading its implementation, setting the general direction for everyone and able to follow through each and every project with clear functions, policies, budget and financing.”

The lawmaker said the creation of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development would combine the administrative functions of the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) and the planning and regulatory functions of the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB).

The department would be responsible for all housing and urban concerns, including planning, policy-making, regulations, program coordination, and performance monitoring.

*Infrastructure Development

Ejercito also vowed to prioritize creating a Philippine Comprehensive Infrastructure Master Plan should he get elected again in the Senate.

This master plan, according to Ejercito, will serve as a blueprint for major infrastructure projects in the country that would be in operation for decades.

“Regardless kung sino ang uupong Pangulo, ito ay magiging master plan ng ating bansa for major infrastructure projects. Maaaring tumagal ito ng ilang dekada, ” he said.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pRvmMPMkB98

Ejercito noted that when he was in the Senate, he was one of the most vocal advocates of major transportation infrastructure projects, like the Philippine National Railways South Long Haul in Southern Luzon and the Mindanao Railway System.

Ejercito also said the nation needs major transportation projects like, railway system for economic growth by spreading the development to the countryside.

Ejercito, (with the tag as The Good One)  believes that the aspirations he started will not remain just a dream if he is given another chance to serve our nation.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fcZu1PPVcFU&t=58s

Up close with senatorial aspirant Dra. Minguita Padilla, opthalmologist and health advocate

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The national community is finding better ways to confront major health threats, proposes new guidance on emerging health issues of global importance, capacities to address health concerns, to protect and promote better health for all.

Leadership and governance involves ensuring strategic policy frameworks exist and are combined with effective oversight, coalition-building, regulation, attention to system-design and accountability.

Dra. Ma. Dominga "Minguita" Padilla  during the press conference via Zoom with Cebu media and bloggers

This 2022 election, among the senator aspirants, is an advisor to the Health Department and the President of the Eye Bank Foundation.

Dra. Ma. Dominga "Minguita" Padilla

The call to vote another doctor into the Senate has grown after netizens lauded the short film “Liwanag,” which tried to capture the life and legacy of Partido Reporma senatorial candidate Dr. Ma. Dominga Cecilia ‘Minguita’ Padilla, who aims to improve the country’s healthcare system.

In October 2021, after much soul-searching, she decided to heed the requests of various medical groups and seek an elected post.

Padilla is the founder, president and chief executive officer of the Eye Bank Foundation of the Philippines for 26 years.

She led the medical team of Project ARK, which aimed to widen testing coverage through the use of antibody rapid test kits, said a "call" had been building inside her "for a long time" before she finally tried for the lawmaking chamber. She also has been helping senators, district representatives, and the Department of Health for about three decades now, as a health advocate.

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic the nation faces, an eye doctor has decided to run for Senate in order to bring light for the country as well as those who are literally cannot see.

Ophthalmologist, Dra. Minguita, has to give up her position and several other local and international positions to pave the way for her Senate dream in order to help more people and see her advocacies on a wider scale.

"The COVID pandemic sort of showed me that we need to do more as doctors and our presence in government, especially in policymaking positions, is important," Dra. Minguita said.

“Liwanag: The Life and Legacy of Dra. Minguita Padilla"

"Liwanag: The Life and Legacy of Dra. Minguita Padilla"

The inspiring story of opthalmologist-turned-health advocate, Dr. Ma. Dominga "Minguita" Padilla, is now a 45-minute short film entitled "Liwanag: The Life and Legacy of Dra. Minguita Padilla"

“Liwanag” is delivered as a medical drama with a touch of humor and a lot of heart-based on key moments in the life of Dr. Padilla that led to her lifelong mission to serve as many people as possible through her public health advocacy.

"Liwanag: The Life and Legacy of Dra. Minguita Padilla" shows the renowned eye doctor's journey from an unassuming medical student to a public health crusader who is now one of the country's most active medical advocates in this time of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Produced by Kapitana Media Entertainment--the company behind the comedy "The Women of TONTA Club that is now streaming on KTX and Upstream PH--"Liwanag: The Life and Legacy of Dra. Minguita Padilla.

"Liwanag" starring GMA 7 actress Valeen Montenegro. Producer and writer Rossana Hwang says, "Together with friends of Dra. Minguita, like myself, and some of her family members, we decided to create a medical drama, with touches of humor, that will shed light on what she has done for our country. 

Long before the pandemic happened, Dra. Minguita has been helping the sick, especially those afflicted with eye ailments." As Founder and President of Eye Bank Foundation of the Philippines, Inc. Dra. Minguita has been leading in efforts for the procurement, processing and distribution of corneas and eye tissues since 1994 ---an endeavor that has helped restore sight to thousands of patients around the country; including indigent patients, who would otherwise remain blind. 

When Covid-19 hit the Philippines, Dra. Minguita, together with her fellow doctors, raised funds for hospitals, and for PPEs, supplies, and even washing machines that were donated to the medical frontliners who were on perpetual duty at the hospitals. 

Dra. Minguita, who is co-convenor of Doctors for Truth and Public Welfare, also served as resource person in several webinars and online forums in order to inform the public on the facts about Covid-19, the importance of vaccination and how to avoid getting the virus. She also helped the MSMEs through her work with GoNegosyo. Her efforts at training barangay health workers and other doctors at COVID-19 antigen testing, making her own home a virtual testing area, and making herself available for those who needed help in connection with the pandemic, have been recognized by the City of Makati, awarded her with the Exemplary Makatizen Makahero Award last December. 

"Actually, I never thought that there would ever be a biopic about me," says Dra. Minguita. "I am very grateful to those who put this project together. I know it was because they truly care for me and they know my heart and my reasons for taking a very big risk, leaving my comfort zone and running for public office." 

Watch "Liwanag: The Life and Legacy of Dra. Minguita Padilla," directed by the talented and sought-after Rember Gellera.

https://youtu.be/4bWqDgzMc2U

https://www.facebook.com/DraMinguita

https://www.facebook.com/DraMinguita/posts/156561790045114

House Speaker Cayetano files bill giving ABS-CBN provisional franchise until October

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MANILA - House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano on Wednesday filed a bill giving ABS-CBN Corp. provisional franchise until October 2020, citing the need for Congress to focus on addressing the coronavirus crisis before tackling the network's "controversial" application for a fresh 25-year franchise. 

"Through this measure, we hope to strike a balance between the immediate needs of the people amid this crisis and the duty of Congress to ensure accountability to our present laws," read the bill, which cited government's need 

House Bill No. 6732 grants ABS-CBN provisional franchise to operate until October 31, 2020, before Congress deliberates on long-pending bills giving the media giant license to broadcast for another 25 years. 

The interim license will "give both the House of Representatives and the Senate [time] to hear the issues being raised for and against the renewal, and assess, with complete impartiality and fairness, whether or not the network shall be granted a franchise for another 25 years." 

"We cannot, in good conscience, sweep the accusations under the rug," read the bill's explanatory note. 

ABS-CBN earlier answered questions on alleged franchise violations and tax liabilities before the Senate, saying it has not violated any law. 

The bill was co-sponsored by Representatives Neptali Gonzalez, Raneo Abu, Roberto Puno, Dan Fernandez, LRay Villafuerte Jr., Ferdinand Romualdez, and Jose Antonio Sy-Alvarado. 

It was brought before the chamber's committee of the whole. 

The House Speaker earlier said starting hearings on ABS-CBN franchise bills would not mean an "automatic" grant of a fresh broadcast license. 

The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) ordered ABS-CBN to stop broadcasting on May 5, a day after its franchise expired. 

The directive went against NTC's earlier commitment of giving "provisional authority" for the network to operate beyond its franchise validity. 

The House franchise panel last Monday ordered NTC to justify its cease and desist order against ABS-CBN, calling the telecoms regulatory body's halt directive an "undue interference on and disobedience to the exercise of the power of the House of Representatives."

Solicitor General Jose Calida was also accused of pressuring NTC to order the shutdown of ABS-CBN, based on a document obtained by ABS-CBN News.

ABS-CBN's halt in broadcast last week was the first time it was forced to sign off since the Marcos dictatorship. The shutdown imperils an estimated 11,000 jobs. 

It has asked the Supreme Court to stop the NTC shutdown order.

The network, which reached millions of Filipinos through its television, radio and online platforms, said it did not violate the law in its 65 years of service.

Gen. Eleazar: Improved Police Security in NCR brings in more Tourists, Balikbayans

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NCRPO Chief P/Maj. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar acknowledged the vital role that ‘peace and order’ plays in the success of the Philippines’ tourism industry.

NCRPO Chief P/Maj. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar

During a press briefing on the coming Investour Forum sponsored by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) in Taguig City, Gen. Eleazar yesterday shared that tourism has been a major contributor to the gross income of the country and should thus be supported by the police force and has vowed to enhance the NCRPO’s drive against criminality and violence in the National Capital Region (NCR).

“As in all business investment endeavors, peace and order is a pre-requisite to the success of our tourism industry,” Eleazar stressed. “The support towards the tourism industry sectors provided by the police is therefore critical and essential,” he added.

The NCRPO chief noted that one of the most dreaded pronouncements that a country can get is a travel ban which is generated by two factors: the peace and order situation of the area and health concerns in epidemic proportions.

“From our end here in Metro Manila, we have classified special places and festivals as special tourism points, so that we may provide these places and events the necessary emphasis in terms of police service and support,” Eleazar declared.

According to the NCRPO chief, the classified places include places of historical significance such as the Rizal Park and Paco Park. Other areas included in the classification are five-star hotels and casinos, big shopping malls, business circuits and churches with historical significance.

“With a basic strategy of increasing police presence in these areas, we have had a successful and healthy circulation of foreign and domestic tourists, including balikbayans,” Eleazar revealed. “From January to August of this year, the Department of Tourism and our police districts have tallied 38,183,193 tourists here in Metro Manila alone,” he added.

The NCRPO chief attributed the perky tourism industry in Metro Manila to a robust peace and order situation. “Compared to the last three years of the previous administration, the Duterte administration has recorded a 58% decline in the volume of major crimes, such as murder, homicide, rape, theft, robbery, kidnapping, carnapping, motornapping, and serious physical injuries.”

He then proceeded to attribute the improved peace-and-order situation to eight factors:

- The government’s successful war on drugs 

- The increase in the police force that has boosted police presence

- The role of media in sending a clear message that the police force is doing its job 

- The serious internal cleansing instituted in the NCRPO 

- New communications technology and the advent of social media 

- The increase in the salaries of the police

- The president’s order to implement local ordinances against certain night-time activities

- The NCRPO’s Intensified Cleanliness Policy or ICP.

Gen. Eleazar ended his talk by emphasizing that the NCRPO cannot sit on their laurels. “The quest for the ideal peace and order situation is a never-ending grind for any nation, especially in a developing country like ours,” he stressed.

The press briefing, which was held at the Manila House in Bonifacio Global City, was about the coming “Investour Forum on TIEZA’s Flagship Tourism Enterprise Zones.”

The forum will be held at the Centennial Ballroom of the Manila Hotel, Manila on October 15. The Forum will focus on the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the fiscal and non-fiscal incentives as approved by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and clarify the difference between the 12 Tourism Enterprise Zones (TEZs), five Flagship Tourism Enterprise Zones (FTEZs), and thousands of Registered Tourism Enterprises (RTEs).

ASEAN PartyList : "Education is the Key", Put people in Government with the RIGHT EDUCATION and with MORAL INTEGRITY

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Education plays a significant role to design your future as a successful person in life and as a useful citizen in the society. When you have more knowledge and degree, there will be more opportunities for you to accelerate your professional and personal growth in life.

This coming election here in the Philippines, one of the many partylist - ASEAN PartyList focus and pushes that EDUCATION IS THE GREATEST LEVELER. We should INVEST in Education.

Put people in Government with the RIGHT EDUCATION and with MORAL INTEGRITY.

Prof. Win Ballada , CPA, CBE, MBA 

( 1st Nominee of ASEAN PartyList)

'I  always exhort the students by saying, 

'When you have reached certain levee of sucess then you should think about--sharing your time and talents to make a big difference in the livs of others I cannot retire and not do something for my country and YOU, it's selfish. To whom much is ghven, much

is expected."

We are all passersby and pilgrims on this road, we call LIFE

We bring nothing when we die, but we leave behind-

The FAITH we have helped propagate, The LOVE we have shared

The HOPE we have given, The KINDNESS we have extended to our brothers. 

                                       - - -  Prof. Win Ballada , CPA, CBE, MBA 

                                               1st Nominee of ASEAN PartyList

ASEAN PartyList is Academicians, Students and Educators Alliance (ASEAN) was established in 2010 by Prof. Win Ballada who is accountant by profession and has published several books about accounting like "Accounting Made Easy." He ranked top 2 in the CPA board exam.

ASEAN Party-List is a sectoral party representing the Youth (students, out of school youth) and Professionals, as Academicians/Educators twe count as our natural constituents, parents and OFWs, who send or to send their children to school),. Once in Congress, ASEAN will push for the interests of Students, Out of School Youth, Educators, Parents, OFWs and Professionals intend

Prof. WIN BALLADA, Chairman , 1st Nominee, ASEAN PartyList shared the ASEAN  PartyList Platform :

Access to Education; Adopt-A-Student Act, Faster and Cheaper Internet, Free WiFi in Schools;
Scholarships, Subsidies and Support for Reviewees, Student and Educators, Salary Upgrades for Educators;
Employment, Entrepreneurship, Ease of Doing Business, OFWs Reintegration, Enhanced TEDSA, all for Economic development, 
Anti-Corruption, Anti-Red Tape, Pro-ASEAN Integration, Amend CPD, Accountability in Govt Service; 
Nation-Building. Nominees are CPA-Deans, Educators, Book Authors, Practitioners and HR Professionals.

ASEAN Partylist mission is to have  " At least one Professional for each family and this is to push that "Education is the Key"

The ASEAN PartyList wants to show that  the cause of creating more opportunities for students to pursue their tertiary education through various policies they would like to present to congress.

"Electing Deserving Leaders" is Aim of Go VOTE Movement

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I believe that voting is as much an emotional act as it is an intellectual one.

Volunteer-based and non-profit group Go VOTE Movement, led by president and convenor Atty. Erickson Balmes, was launched April 1 held at the Victoria Sports Tower in Quezon City. 

Key stakeholders, government officers, non-government organizations (NGO), non- partisan groups, and the media, attended the advocacy-based gathering highlighting the role of the Filipinos in the upcoming mid-term elections. 

Importance of Voting 

The Go VOTE Movement believes that the vibrancy of any democracy is anchored on the full freedom of each individual to fully participate in the process of selecting their representatives in government. 

One of the basic human rights is the right to partake in the government of this country, directly or through freely chosen representatives" (Article 21 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights). 

It is essential that the results of the elections should reflect the true will of the people. This is the bedrock of any democracy. It gives greater meaning to the words of Article II, Section of the 1987 Constitution that "The Philippines is a democratic and republican state. Sovereignty resides in the people and all government authority emanates from them.” 

It becomes paramount that every voter should freely exercise their right to vote, and in the process to elect the leaders who they believe can serve them best as capacitated and dedicate public servants. 

What is the Go VOTE Movement?

The Go VOTE Movement (GVM) is a non-partisan, non-governmental organization of volunteers committed to the purpose of encouraging more registered Filipino voters to vote on May 13, 2019. 

GVM believes that the key to encouraging more of our country to vote on election day is via theconduct of FREE voter's education to all stakeholders all over the country. 

This volunteer-based and non-profit advocacy group is the product of a series of friendly discussion between Mr. Jerry Acuzar, the Chairperson of the Manuel Luis Quezon University, and then Department of Justice (DOJ) Undersecretary Erickson H. Balmes on elections and the seemingly low voter's turnout every election day. 

The exchange of ideas eventually metamorphosed into a collective vision that voter's education may be the viable way to encourage more of our countrymen to vote. They believed that it is necessary that every Filipino voter is apprised of their right of suffrage. 

After leaving government service, the paths of the prime movers of GVM crossed again, and on February 2019, vision met action and GVM was born. 

More importantly, their shared belief that every Filipino, regardless of affiliation or political orientation should Go Out and VOTE! And hence, the GVM battle cry "Ang Bawat Boto ay Karapatan, Katungkulan, at Kinabukasan", was born. 

More About the Advocacy 

The Go VOTE Movement have conducted their first Free Voter's Education Seminar to the members of the MLQU community last March 14, 2019. Since then, they have continued conducting free lectures around the Philippines. GVM will not dictate upon any of its participants who they should vote. 

"We will only train them on their rights and duties as voters and /or poll watchers but GVM truly respects their freedom of choice." Atty. Erickson Balmes, Go VOTE Movement. 

Ultimately, GVM believes that an educated voting population can transform a corrupted system of governance by electing deserving leaders with the political will to effect change in our society. 

"We further believe that,if by our humble efforts,the voter's turn-out for the 2019 mid- term elections will be larger than that of the 2013 mid-term elections,then we have done our job." President & Convenor, adds Balmes. 

Go VOTE Movement aims to be the country's premiere FREE election educational forum advocating free, honest, transparent, and accessible elections. They are committed to fulfilling a self-imposed mission to educate and disseminate information on the pertinent laws and rules on the conduct of elections in the Philippines to all sectors. 

Go VOTE Movement

Manuel L. Quezon University (MLQU)

916 F-R Hidalgo St., Quiapo Manila, Philippines

Mobile: 0945 348 3784 (Smart)

Mobile: 0916 279 8185 (Globe)

govotemovement@gmail.com

Thousands of motorcycle riders nationwide join Unity Ride vs Double Plate Law

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120,000 motorcycle riders nationwide came together Sunday to hold what is currently the biggest Unity Ride ever, this time to show their outrage against the recently signed double plate law which the riders tagged as anti-poor. 

"We are not criminals,' say motorcycle riders at the 'Unity Ride' against the Republic Act 11235 or the Motorcycle Crime Prevention Act of 2017, authored by Sen. Richard Gordon and Senate Majority Leader Vicente Sotto III, which was signed into law by President Rodrigo Duterte last week.

RA11235 aims to address the rising number of crimes perpetrated by motorcycle-riding gunmen, particularly these riding in tandem by making their two-wheeled vehicles more easily identifiable.

The law thus mandates the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to issue bigger reflectorized license plates which must be placed in both front and rear parts of the motorcycle. The plate numbers should be big enough to be readable even from 12 to 15 meters away.

The motorcycle riders cited safety issues as their main concern over RA11235. The front-mounted plate may become detached due to several factors including vibration, wind, or just simply the failure of the material to hold the plate. This poses a big risk to both the motorcycle rider and the pillion, as well as to pedestrians and other road users.

The riders also claimed that there were no proper consultations from experts and motorcycle riders to determine whether installing bigger plates on both front and back is feasible or safe, and if it is even applicable to all types of motorcycles.

“Old and new motorcycles don't have the provisions for a front-mounted plate. Adding a bracket outside of factory specifications will surely pose a big risk for the riders, their passenger, and even the pedestrians,” stressed Jobert Bolaños of the Motorcycle Rights Organization (MRO). "And not all motorcycles have the same front design that can accommodate stickers or decals which takes away uniformity. And without uniformity, there is subjectivity," Bolaños added.

"Motorcycle riders have been hampered by several ordinances and laws that sometimes we think that we are being outcast in our own society," Rod Cruz, chairman of the Arangkada Riders Alliance, stated. "RA11235 is by far the worst law of all so you cannot blame us for doing this nationwide call for fairness and equality. Please do not treat us like criminals."

The motorcycle riders all claimed that motorcycle-riding criminals would still be able to commit crimes by simply taking off the license plates, as the criminals have always been doing, or simply using fake license plates to mislead authorities.

The authors of the law were earlier quoted as saying that by increasing the size and visibility of the motorcycle plates to be able to read the plate numbers from a distance, witnesses and law enforcement agencies are aided in the identification of motorcycle riders who are involved in accidents or criminal activities.

"Safety is of paramount importance to Angkas. That is why we do not agree with the provision requiring the installing of big metal plates at the front of motorcycles,” noted Angkas Head of Regulatory and Public Affairs George Royeca, whose Angkas rider-partners came in the thousands to join the Unity Ride.

"I hope they can find a safer alternative that will not compromise the safety of the riders and the passengers," he added. 

“This piece of legislation is discriminatory, considering that most motorcycle riders belong to the masses and they are not only tagged as criminals, they are made to suffer the consequences for things they didn’t do,” Bolaños stressed. “This law is both oppressive and anti-poor.”

PCOO holds a milestone all media gathering on Social Media

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MANILA, Feb. 21 - The Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) will be holding a milestone gathering of the country's influential media, communications, and public relations personalities on Thursday, February 23, at the Bahay ng Alumni, the University of the Philippines - Diliman in Quezon City.

The PCOO-initiated event, dubbed #AllMediaPH, aims to acknowledge the power of social media and present the draft Social Media Policy before various interest groups and industry stakeholders, which include the academe, students, bloggers, mainstream media, and those in the legal profession.

Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar, who will deliver the keynote address, is receptive to the idea of allowing social media practitioners, i.e., bloggers, to cover the Palace's activities.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte earlier granted the request of some bloggers and social media supporters to cover Palace events during their meeting with the Chief Executive in Malacanan.

Andanar acknowledged the role these bloggers played in disseminating information to the public.

"The bloggers come in because there is an evolution of the media and the bloggers always tell me about Article III, Section 4 of the Constitution," Secretary Andanar said, referring to the Bill of Rights on the freedom of speech and of expression.

This same Article, the PCO Chief said, has become his basis to consider giving bloggers media accreditation to cover the Palace's events.

Social media platforms have given their users a similar power of spreading information and forming public opinion, making it imperative for the government to consider social media and its platforms, alongside traditional media channels, in developing its communications strategy and communicating directly with the people.

Nonetheless, Andanar, being a former media personality, is aware of the difference between the mainstream media and the bloggers. "I'm from the media. We are accountable to our editors, accountable to our bosses, and that's the difference. And also the discipline," he said.

Andanar also underscored the fact that since bloggers work independently, they have different sets of standards.

"We're in interesting times wherein we are seeing bloggers with names become bigger than anyone... It's a phenomenon that we have to embrace, at the same time we also have to control," he said, pointing out that social media is a new way of disseminating information.

Hence, it is important, the PCO Chief said, that bloggers must have a personality, not anonymous so that they can be held accountable if they write something libelous.

Andanar is looking forward to talking and consult with resource persons and representatives of various sectors during the event in a bid to come up with a social media framework that is acceptable to all concerned.

Some of the event's important highlights include the presentation of draft Social Media Policy, knowing the stand and opinions of resource persons, and a plenary discussion. (PCOO)

Presidential Security Group launches PSGTroopers.com website

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The Presidential Security Group (PSG) launched its official online site PSGTroopers.com aimed at strengthening the command’s credibility through online presence and to manifest its ability in technology trends to reach local and global communities. 

PSGTroopers.com was launched in a simple ceremony at the PSG Officers’ Clubhouse, Malacañan Park on Tuesday, February 7, 2016.

(In photo seated from left) BGEN ROLANDO JOSELITO DELIZO BAUTISTA AFP, COMMANDER, PSG and PRESIDENTIAL COMMUNICATIONS OPERATIONS OFFICE SECRETARY MARTIN ANDANAR explore the features of PSGTroopers.com online news portal during the site’s launch at the PSG Officers’ Clubhouse, Malacañan Park on Tuesday, February 7, 2016.

“This is one of the significant milestones of the Command as it will give a better appreciation to effectively and efficiently address interests, issues and challenges in the area of operations in carrying out the Command’s mission. PSGTroopers.com will illustrate the command’s best efforts toward the achievement of the Armed Forces of the Philippine’s ultimate vision of becoming “A World-Class Armed Forces and Source of National Pride,” said BGEN ROLANDO JOSELITO DELIZO BAUTISTA AFP, designated by PRESIDENT RODRIGO ROA DUTERTE as PSG’s 31st Commander on July 2, 2016.

PSGTroopers.com “would pave way to a meaningful form of communication to members of the Office of the President – Events Management Cluster (OP-EMC), the AFP and PNP units, and other agencies and stakeholders. This would mean aligning not only to the Command’s mission but also to higher headquarters, as we are able to establish a platform that would make communications easier and paint a picture of how PSG really is,” BGEN BAUTISTA said.

“I commend the Presidential Security Group for being abreast with the changing media landscape and keeping up with technology,” PRESIDENTIAL COMMUNICATIONS OPERATIONS OFFICE SECRETARY MARTIN ANDANAR said in his keynote message as Guest of Honor and Speaker during the launch of PSG’s news portal.

As the President’s close-in security, ANDANAR said “the PSG members know how unconventional the President is as he defies structure and definition. Hindi po de-kahon si Pangulong Duterte. Thus, strategic communication under the Duterte administration has never been as challenging.”

Noting PSG members are a special group of people, ANDANAR said they were chosen from thousands of military and police personnel to protect the President because the chief executive trusts them. He encouraged the PSG to help the President push his agenda for genuine change.

“Together, let us help the President as he traverses the road towards a nation without crime, without drugs and without corruption. Together, let us deliver what has to be communicated and we thank you for taking the extra step towards understanding.”

Operated under the watch of LTC MICHAEL T AQUINO (INF) PA, PSG Assistant Chief of Staff for Civil-Military Operations, G7, PSGTroopers.com is dedicated to the activities of the Presidential Security Group in collaboration with other government agencies. Emphasizing on the program’s theme of “Strength in Credibility, Numbers and Online Presence, LTC AQUINO said: “The more credible information you disseminate online, the stronger your organization will be.”

Essentially the digital version of PSGTroopers print magazine, PSGTroopers.com will showcase all the news, photos, videos and updates of PSG’s undertakings here and abroad in collaboration with other government agencies. 

“This news portal that can help in disseminating information about security matters and the presidency,” LTC AQUINO said.

As smartphone and tablet adoption rapidly increases, PSGTroopers.com recognizes the importance of mobile-friendly design. The website features the latest responsive design technology to provide optimal user-experience across various devices and screen sizes.

The content of PSGTroopers.com is optimized for social media sharing. “With just a click of a button, PSGTroopers.com content can be shared with popular social media networks,” LTC AQUINO said. 

The social media accounts of PSGTroopers.com include Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram with the account name: @PSGTroopers.

“Information dissemination is one of our objectives in creating this website. Over the years, we have conducted several dental missions, Brigada Eskwela and the like that reached out to the community around Malacañang complex. Through this, we are able to change the mindset of the general public that we, soldiers can do good and that we are able to carry out genuine change,” BGEN BAUTISTA said.

“From the start of this administration, we have worked hand in hand with the President’s projects especially his fight against drugs and corruption. This website would be an efficient platform to disseminate what we do—that we are not only here to ensure the safety and security of the Commander in Chief and the President but also assist him and the Filipino in positively changing as well as uniting this country,” BGEN BAUTISTA said.

Rodrigo 'Rody' Duterte, 16th President of the Philippines - Read the full text of Duterte’s inaugural speech

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New Philippine President Rodrigo 'Rody' Duterte takes his oath of office as the 16th President of the Philippines at noon on Thursday at Malacañan Palace in Manila.

Rodrigo Duterte has been sworn in as president of the Philippines, after a landslide election victory in May. Duterte took his oath after former President Benigno Aquino III was given departure honors at the Palace grounds.

Rodrigo 'Rody' Duterte's oath at Malacañang’s Rizal Ceremonial Hall (Malacañan Photo)

Supreme Court Associate Justice Bienvenido Reyes administered Duterte's oath at Malacañang’s Rizal Ceremonial Hall, which was attended by 627 guests.

In his inaugural speech he promised to make sweeping changes to the country's political system. He said, ‘You mind your work and I will mind mine:’ 

Read the full text of Duterte’s inaugural speech:

President Fidel Ramos, sir, salamat po sa tulong mo making me President; President Joseph Ejercito Estrada; Senate President Franklin Drilon and the members of the Senate; Speaker Feliciano Belmonte and the members of the House of Representatives; Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno and Associate Justices of the Supreme Court; His Excellency Guiseppe Pinto and the members of the Diplomatic Corps; incoming members of the Cabinet; fellow workers in government; my fellow countrymen. [applause]

No leader, however strong, can succeed at anything of national importance or significance unless he has the support and cooperation of the people he is tasked to lead and sworn to serve.

It is the people from whom democratic governments draw strength and this administration is no exception. That is why we have to listen to the murmurings of the people, feel their pulse, supply their needs and fortify their faith and trust in us whom they elected to public office. [applause]

There are many amongst us who advance the assessment that the problems that bedevil our country today which need to be addressed with urgency, are corruption, both in the high and low echelons of government, criminality in the streets, and the rampant sale of illegal drugs in all strata of Philippine society and the breakdown of law and order. True, but not absolutely so. For I see these ills as mere symptoms of a virulent social disease that creeps and cuts into the moral fiber of Philippine society. I sense a problem deeper and more serious than any of those mentioned or all of them put together. But of course, it is not to say that we will ignore them because they have to be stopped by all means that the law allows.

Erosion of faith and trust in government – that is the real problem that confronts us. Resulting therefrom, I see the erosion of the people’s trust in our country’s leaders; the erosion of faith in our judicial system; the erosion of confidence in the capacity of our public servants to make the people’s lives better, safer and healthier. [applause]

Indeed ours is a problem that dampens the human spirit. But all is not lost.

I know that there are those who do not approve of my methods of fighting criminality, the sale and use of illegal drugs and corruption. They say that my methods are unorthodox and verge on the illegal. In response let me say this:

I have seen how corruption bled the government of funds, which were allocated for the use in uplifting the poor from the mire that they are in.

I have seen how illegal drugs destroyed individuals and ruined family relationships.

I have seen how criminality, by means all foul, snatched from the innocent and the unsuspecting, the years and years of accumulated savings. Years of toil and then, suddenly, they are back to where they started.

Look at this from that perspective and tell me that I am wrong.

In this fight, I ask Congress and the Commission on Human Rights and all others who are similarly situated to allow us a level of governance that is consistent to our mandate. The fight will be relentless and it will be sustained. [applause]

As a lawyer and a former prosecutor, I know the limits of the power and authority of the president. I know what is legal and what is not. [applause]

My adherence to due process and the rule of law is uncompromising.[applause]

You mind your work and I will mind mine. [applause and cheers]

“Malasakit;” “Tunay na Pagbabago; Tinud-anay (real) nga Kausaban(change)” [applause] – these are words which catapulted me to the presidency. These slogans were conceptualized not for the sole purpose of securing the votes of the electorate. “Tinud-anay nga kabag-uhan (real change). Mao kana ang tumong sa atong pang-gobyerno (this is the direction of our government).” [applause]

Far from that. These were battle cries articulated by me in behalf of the people hungry for genuine and meaningful change. But the change, if it is to be permanent and significant, must start with us and in us. [applause]

To borrow the language of F. Sionil Jose, we have become our own worst enemies. And we must have the courage and the will to change ourselves.

Love of country, subordination of personal interests to the common good, concern and care for the helpless and the impoverished – these are among the lost and faded values that we seek to recover and revitalize as we commence our journey towards a better Philippines. [applause] The ride will be rough. But come and join me just the same. Together, shoulder to shoulder, let us take the first wobbly steps in this quest.

There are two quotations from revered figures that shall serve as the foundation upon which this administration shall be built.

“The test of government is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have much; it is whether we provide for those who have little.”

– Franklin Delano Roosevelt

[applause]

And from (Abraham) Lincoln I draw this expression:

“You cannot strengthen the weak by weakening the strong; You cannot help the poor by discouraging the rich; You cannot help the wage earner by pulling down the wage payer; You cannot further the brotherhood by inciting class hatred among men.”

[applause]

My economic and financial, political policies are contained in those quotations, though couched in general terms. Read between the lines. I need not go into specifics now. They shall be supplied to you in due time.

However, there are certain policies and specifics of which cannot wait for tomorrow to be announced.

Therefore, I direct all department secretaries and the heads of agencies to reduce requirements and the processing time of all applications, [applause] from the submission to the release. I order all department secretaries and heads of agencies to remove redundant requirements and compliance with one department or agency, shall be accepted as sufficient for all. [applause]

I order all department secretaries and heads of agencies to refrain from changing and bending the rules government contracts, transactions and projects already approved and awaiting implementation. [applause] Changing the rules when the game is on-going is wrong.

I abhor secrecy and instead advocate transparency [applause] in all government contracts, projects and business transactions from submission of proposals to negotiation to perfection and finally, to consummation.

Do them and we will work together. [applause] Do not do them, we will part sooner than later. [applause]

On the international front and community of nations, let me reiterate that the Republic of the Philippines will honor treaties and international obligations. [applause]

On the domestic front, my administration is committed to implement all signed peace agreements in step with constitutional and legal reforms.

I am elated by the expression of unity among our Moro brothers and leaders, and the response of everyone else to my call for peace.

I look forward to the participation of all other stakeholders, particularly our indigenous peoples, to ensure inclusivity in the peace process. [applause]

Let me remind in the end of this talk, that I was elected to the presidency to serve the entire country. I was not elected to serve the interests of any one person or any group or any one class. I serve every one and not only one. [applause]

That is why I have adapted as an article of faith, the following lines written by someone whose name I could no longer recall. He said:

“I have no friends to serve, I have no enemies to harm.” [applause]

Prescinding therefrom, I now ask everyone, and I mean everyone, to join me as we embark on this crusade for a better and brighter tomorrow.

But before I end, let me express the nations, on behalf of the people, our condolences to the Republic of Turkey of what has happened in the place. We offer our deepest condolences.

Why am I here? Hindi kasali ito diyan. [laughs] The past tense was, I am here because I love my country and I love the people of the Philippines. I am here, why? Because I am ready to start my work for the nation. [applause]

Thank you and good afternoon.