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Following the decision of Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian to go into self-quarantine, I have likewise decided to take similar precautions and self-monitor for the next 14 days.

Sen. Gatchalian and I were present during the March 5, 2020 hearing, and it is with a heavy heart to learn that one of our resource speakers has been tested positive for COVID-19.

I have asked my staff to do the same and take precautionary steps to limit face-to-face interactions.

With close to 50 people already been tested positive, it only shows that the exposure to the virus is real, and there's a high chance that someone out there is a carrier.

This is a serious public health matter and I enjoin everyone who came in contact with me in the past week to take the same precautions and observe all the basic hygienic processes.

Let us continue to pray for the containment of the corona virus--prayer will always be our first line of defense.



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I am very happy to hear that the FDA has given the go-ahead for the use of the COVID-19 test kits developed by our scientists over at UP. I urge the government and UP to immediately mass-produce this test kit, if supplemental budget is necessary for this, I am more than willing to sponsor the measure. Since this is more affordable and more accessible, we will able to cater to more patients.

Thank you to our UP scientists for this speedy answer to our test kit problem. One reason for the growing panic in the past few days has been the severe lack of testing kits-we had only 2,000 testing kits, which is simply not enough to cater to our population, even just in Metro Manila. With UP's test kits, we can now more have a better diagnostic process for the virus, and hopefully, this will allow us to develop a better containment strategy as well, as we find out which areas have the most cases.



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Telecommuting work arrangements keep workers safe from infectious diseases like COVID-19 and maintain their productivity since they can continue fulfilling their duties and responsibilities wherever they are, according to Senator Joel Villanueva.

While the rising threats to public health triggering a slowdown in the economy, Villanueva explained that companies can mitigate the impact if parts of their operations continue by implementing telecommuting in their respective organizations.

"Telecommuting allows organizations to maintain a level of productivity as we wait out for diseases like COVID-19 to taper off. The last thing we want to happen is that we become paralyzed with fear of the disease," said Villanueva, chair of the Senate Committee on Labor, Employment, and Human Resources Development.

"If everything comes to a full stop, the economic gains we have been enjoying in the last 10 years will be put to waste," he added. "We continue to encourage our friends in the private sector to consider telecommuting as a viable alternative to maintain their productivity while protecting their workers from COVID-19."

He credited several companies who have announced the implementation of work-from-home schemes in their organizations as a response to the rising number of COVID-19 cases in the country. As of March 9, 24 persons have been confirmed to have COVID-19 in the Philippines.

"We can all do our share in protecting our workers from the disease by minimizing their risk of getting infected. The least we can do now is to avoid public places such as public transportation terminals where social distancing can be tough to practice," Villanueva said.

The lawmaker called on the Department of Labor and Employment to continue its effort to encourage companies to implement telecommuting work arrangements.

Republic Act. No. 11165 or the Telecommuting Act encourages the private sector to adopt a telecommuting work arrangement, more popularly known as "work from home." The scheme must be based on mutually agreed upon rules by employers and their workers.

The law reiterates that telecommuting programs should continue to uphold minimum labor standards such as workers' health and safety, schedules and workloads, work hours, and social safety nets.

It also enshrines the protection of workers under a telecommuting arrangement, giving them the same rights such as equal pay and leave benefits, among others, as their office-based counterparts.



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The COVID-19 testing kit developed by our very own scientists from the University of the Philippines has passed the scrutiny of the Food and Drug Administration, a breakthrough in our country's efforts in combating the disease. The testing kit is a welcome development for our healthcare workers who will be able to diagnose persons under investigation faster.

This breakthrough also shows the importance of the continued funding of research projects through the Department of Science and Technology, whom we've worked with at the last year's budget deliberation. We are encouraged by this development and we will continue to support the department's thrust to bring science closer to our people.

Truly, this is the finest hour of our men and women of the University, an accomplishment we can all be proud of. The breakthrough comes at a critical time when supply of testing kits are limited. Congratulations to our scientists!



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SENATE President Vicente Sotto III has vowed to always protect the independence of the Senate even at the risk of losing political alliances and support.

A day after leading his colleagues in challenging the unilateral abrogation of the RP-US Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), Sotto reiterated his commitment to always put a premium on public welfare and the interests of the Senate over his personal concerns.

The Senate on Monday formally asked the Supreme Court to draw the constitutional boundaries on the roles of the Senate and the executive branch in the cancellation of international agreements and treaties, taking off from the recent termination of the VFA which Malacañang did without getting the approval of the Senate.

Sotto said the legal move was meant to "assert the sense of the power of the Senate that we know and we think that we have."

He insisted that senators must be consulted on vital matters like the termination of international agreements and treaties just as it's concurrence is required before the same are ratified.

"This role is particularly important to ensure that the power to forge partnerships with our neighbors and allies remains impartial. The Senate must do its part in protecting the checks and balances in our government," Sotto said.

The Senate President set aside concerns that he could lose his alliance with Malacañang because of the Senate action.

"Personal interests should never outweigh public welfare. I will always choose to fight for the independence of the Senate. That is the legacy that I would like to leave this institution when my term comes to an end," Sotto said.



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Our prayers are with you and your family, Senator Joel and Brother Eddie. May peace and comfort find you in this difficult time.

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Sen. Grace Poe on Monday urged health and civil defense authorities to send the public free mobile alerts on the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak in the country to ease widespread fears and help citizens make informed choices.

Poe, chair of the Senate committee on public services, said in a resolution that the text alerts should at least contain the regularly updated summary of confirmed cases, the affected areas of recent cases for the purpose of contact tracing and a 24/7 hotline to the Department of Health (DOH) to report suspected cases.

The mobile alerts, in coordination with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, must also include relevant information on COVID-19, such as measures for preventing the spread of the virus, its known symptoms and when to seek medical attention.

"The initial step to contain a virus is to make information on it viral through all available means," Poe stated. "Improving the spread of information will help counter inaccurate reports and prevent mass hysteria," she added.

Poe pointed out that information on the potentially deadly virus can be further strengthened through the use of mobile text alerts under Republic Act No. 10639 or the "The Free Mobile Disaster Alerts Act," which she co-authored.

Under the law, mobile phone service providers are mandated to send out at regular intervals warnings that consist of up-to-date information from relevant agencies in the event of a calamity. The alerts must include contact information of local government units and other agencies required to respond to the situation.

"There is no doubt that COVID-19 is a disaster or a calamity under the applicable laws, especially after it was declared a health emergency by the WHO and the President, respectively," she said.

Mobile text alerts will also ensure that the public receives accurate and properly vetted information on the outbreak, she added.

Poe's resolution comes on the heels of an announcement by the DOH confirming 14 new cases of COVID-19 on Monday, the largest one-day surge recorded in the country so far. The spike in the number of infections in a span of a few days compelled local governments to suspend schools and several lawmakers to encourage companies and employers to allow their workers to work from home.

The President declared the COVID-19 outbreak as a public health emergency a day after the DOH confirmed the country's first case of local transmission. So far, there are 24 confirmed cases of the virus in the country. Worldwide, it has affected more than 80,000 people and killed 3,100.

As primary sponsor of Republic Act 10639, Poe has been advocating for the use of text messaging to alert Filipinos of impending danger in times of calamities. "One text alert can save thousands of lives. This prompt warning is indispensable in protecting our people," she earlier stated.



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"Suportado natin ang pagdeklara ng State of Public Health Emergency sa buong bansa.

Dahil dito, ma-o-obliga ang pag-uulat sa mga kaso ng sakit, pagpapa-igting ng mga imbestigasyon ukol sa mga nasabing kaso ng sakit, pagpapatupad ng quarantine at isolation, at mabilisang containment para maiwasan ang pagkalat ng sakit.

Kung tutuusin ay dapat ito na ang naging sagot ng gobyerno simula umpisa, lalo na nang magkaroon ng mga PUIs sa ating bansa. Ngayong may katibayan na na mayroong local transmissions, hindi nalalayo na madadagdagan pa ang bilang ng mga mahahawa ng Covid-19.

Ang ating limang mungkahi sa pamahalaan:

1. Dapat libre ang Covid checkup at testing. Hindi na dapat makabawas pa sa budget, lalo na ng ordinaryong mamamayan, ang Covid test. Makakahikayat sa ating mga kababayan ang magpasuri kung alam nila na ito ay libre.

2. Kailangan pagplanuhan din ng gobyerno kung paano ma-de-decentralize ang testing ng mga nakakaramdam ng sintomas ng Covid. Bawat LGU ay dapat may kapasidad at budget na mag-test ng mga taong maaaring may virus.

3. Dapat ding maging handa ang mga ospital ng gobyerno, kabilang na ang mga local hospital, na mag-emergency quarantine ng taong mapa-positive sa Covid.

4. Kung kailangan i-quarantine, hindi dapat no work-no pay ang maging patakaran ng mga opisina. Magpasalamat tayo sa empleyadong iyon na nagsabi ng totoo upang at nagpa-test at nagpa-quarantine, para hindi na makahawa pa.

5. Bigyan ng emergency cash assistance ang mga ma-q-quarantine na manggagawa. Magkakasakit lalo kapag walang pangtustos para sa pamilya.

Para sa ating lahat:

1. Kalma lang. Ang pinakamalala nating pwedeng gawin ay ang magpanic: magpanic buying, at mapakalat ng fake news at maling impormasyon dahil sa panic.

Hindi tayo dapat maging alarmist kahit tumaas man lalo ang bilang ng mga kaso ng Covid-19 sa bansa.

2. Manatiling mapagmatyag. Manatiling mapagbantay. Pangalagaan ang kalusugan. Sundin ang mga protokol upang maiwasan ang lalo pang pagkalat ng sakit:

Panatilihin ang proper hygiene

Iwasan ang matataong lugar

 Kumain ng wasto

 Siguruhing maayos ang tulog

Maraming puna sa aksyon ng gobyerno ukol sa Covid-19. Maraming mga bagay na sana ay nagawa, at mga desisyon na sana ay mas pinag-isipan pa. Kasama na rito ang patuloy nilang maluwag na pagtrato sa dumaragsang mga Chinese sa POGO sa bansa. Maigi ring malaman kung ang pagdagsang ito ay naging sanhi ng pagdating ng Covid-19 sa bansa.

May tamang panahon upang balikan ang mga ito. At titiyakin ng Senado na babalikan ang mga ito.

Sa ngayon, kailangang maging prayoridad ng goberyno ang isyu ng Covid-19, at ang pagsiguro na ibubuhos nila ang kanilang buong pwersa upang hindi na lumala pa ang pagkalat ng sakit na ito sa bansa. Dapat nakahanay sa iisang layunin ang lahat ng ahensya ng pamahalaan.

Ito ay isang "all hands on deck situtation."

Kailangang unahin, kailangang tutukan.

Ingat po tayong lahat.



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As reported cases of the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) spike across the metro, Senator Risa Hontiveros urged the government to launch an 'intensified community-based information campaign' that will address the public's fears about COVID-19, halt the spread of misinformation, and better prepare communities against the outbreak.

"Simulan natin sa barangay. We need to deploy our health workers in an intensified information drive to stop the spread of COVID-19," she said. "Kailangan natin ilapit ang publiko sa totoo at tamang impormasyon na maaring magligtas sa buhay nila at ng kanilang pamilya," the Senator added.

Hontiveros said the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Disease should organize a nation-wide information campaign that will equip local health officials and barangay health workers (BHWs) with the correct information about COVID-19 - from prevention, to identification and treatment of the disease.

The information drive, she said, must especially target poor or far-flung communities who have less access to TV, radio or social media, and have little to no information about COVID-19 even now: "Dapat maibahagi natin sa lahat ng kabahayan- mayaman man o mahirap - kung ano ang COVID-19, kung ano ang mga sintomas nito, kung ano ang gagawin kapag nahawa, at kung paano maiwasan na mahawa nito."

Hontiveros explained that the campaign may include the airing of public service announcements, house-to-house information 'visits' by local health workers, and distribution of educational materials on COVID-19.

She added that local government units like barangays may also lead community-wide disinfection and cleaning campaigns, and hold emergency response drills to prepare them in case of reported infections.

The senator said that the campaign will go a long way in helping ease the public's growing anxiety about COVID-19 now that at least 20 cases have been reported in the country. "The less people know about this disease, the more they will worry. If people are fully aware of the situation and what they need to do, then they are less likely to panic," Hontiveros said.

Hontiveros added that such a campaign will also help put an end to the proliferation of pseudo-science and bogus claims about COVID-19, especially in social media. "Kapag naibahagi natin sa publiko ang tamang impormasyon sa COVID-19, sana ay wala nang magpapaniwala na magagamot ito ng gulay o mainit na tubig, at sa iba pang naglipanang fake news," she said.



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Mr. President, no less than Malacanang has called for a review of onerous public utility contracts. The concession agreement between the Philippine government and the NGCP is perhaps the most onerous of them all.

Higit pa sa security issues that is putting our country in peril, they are also given tax reliefs habang ang mga manggagawang Pinoy, automatic na kinakaltasan ng buwis kada sahod. Magkano ang nalulugi ng gobyerno mula sa kontratang ito?

Over time, it has led to lost revenue on the part of the government. We're not talking about hundred thousands, or millions here. BILLION PESOS po ang pinag-uusapan na sana ay napunta sa mga classrooms, ospitals, public transport, mga kalsada at pati sa testing kits para sa COVID-19 na kailangang-kailangan natin ngayon.

Mukhang garapalan na ang panggagatas sa atin. Ginawa tayong cash cow. We lost billions in taxes because of the franchise law that exempted NGCP from paying all types of taxes, pati Real Property tax, exempted sila. Ang three percent franchise tax lang ang obligasyon nila which, hindi rin tayo sigurado kung sila nga ba ang nagshoshoulder.

Sinabi ko na po ito noon. Isang mahalagang aspeto ng nasyonalismo ay ang pagtatanggol ng ating teritoryo kasama ang public utilities. Ito ba ang nangyayari sa ngayon? Best interest nga ba ng Pinoy ang prayoridad? O kita ng NGCP ang patuloy na pinalilipad?



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Senator Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go on Tuesday, March 10, sympathized with and aided family of Cristina Auingan, a 58-year-old woman who lost her life in a fire incident that occurred at Damata Letre, Brgy. Tonsuya, Malabon City. The Senator visited the wake of Auingan before proceeding to distribute assistance to residents who also lost their homes and properties in the incident.

During his wake visit, Go commiserated with Rizza Auingan, daughter of Cristina, who is still reeling from the recent tragedy experienced by her family. He also gave relief and financial assistances to the family, on top of the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) provided by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

The fire incident totally burned around 170 houses displacing 245 families. While there were no reported injuries in the incident, Cristina did not survive the tragedy.

Asked why he continues to aid individuals and families affected by disasters throughout the country, Go stressed that he only aims to bring smiles to their faces in times of despair.

"Gusto ko lamang makapag-iwan ng tuwa at ngiti sa oras ng kanilang pagdadalamhati," Go said.

Meanwhile, Go also offered similar assistances to the other affected residents who are currently staying at the Tonsuya Covered Court.

"May dala po akong tulong sa inyong lahat. May groceries, pagkain at financial assistance sa inyo, pantawid muna ngayon. Bukod pa rito ang tulong mula sa mga ahensya ng gobyerno," Go told the victims.

To encourage students to immediately go back to school despite the unfortunate incident, the Senator said that he will help replace their uniforms and school supplies.

"Kayong mga bata, mag-aral kayong mabuti. 'Yun lang ang magpapasaya sa inyong mga magulang," he advised the children in the audience.

The Senator also checked on the conditions of affected pregnant women with whom he offered to be a godfather of the children.

"Sa mga buntis na naririto ngayon, pwede po ba akong maging kumpare ninyo? Ilagay niyo po sa inyong baptismal certificate. Gusto ko pong maging ninong ng inyong mga anak. 'Pag nakita ninyo ako at kailangan niyo ng tulong, kalabitin niyo lang ako," he said.

As for those who want to return to their home provinces to start their lives anew, Go said that he will help provide financial assistance for their transportation expenses.

"Ang totoo lang, ang problema rito sa Maynila, ang sikip na natin. Ingat tayo. Ang daming madadamay parati kapag may sunog. Minsan sumisikip ang dibdib ko kapag may namamatay. Mag-ingat po tayo. Ang buhay, hindi 'yan nabibili," Go said.

The Senator further shared that he filed a bill in the Senate which seeks to modernize the country's firefighting capabilities and promote further fire prevention and education information campaigns to prevent fires.

"Nag-file ako ng Fire Modernization Bill para i-upgrade ang kagamitan ng ating mga bombero. Ang problema, kahit i-upgrade natin 'yan, kung dikit-dikit ang mga kabahayan, 'yan ang magiging problema. Kailangan din po ng education campaign para matuto tayong mag-ingat lahat," he said.

The proposed Senate Bill (SB) 204 aims to improve the current state of the Bureau of Fire Protection, giving better equipment and resources to train its personnel. The bill also targets to establish Fire Protection Services (FPS) in all local government units (LGUs) and proposes rescue hotlines in all LGUs to help the local governments respond immediately to accidents, disasters and calamities.

The measure will also strengthen fire education and prevention information campaigns all over the country by mandating BFP to conduct monthly fire prevention campaigns and information drives in all LGU, particularly in informal settlements and economically depressed areas.

Amid the current public health concern brought by the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), Go advised the residents to practice necessary precautions and seek the help of the nearest Malasakit Center in the city for government medical and financial assistances if needed.

"Huwag tayong mag-panic kaagad. Hugas tayo ng kamay. Kung may mga sintomas po tayo, kumunsulta ng doktor. May Malasakit Centers po na pwede niyo puntahan kung kailangan ng tulong sa pampagamot," he said, further explaining what these centers are for.

Malasakit Centers operate as "one-stop shops" for patients to easily apply for financial assistance from various government agencies such as PhilHealth, Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), Department of Health (DOH) and DSWD.

"Dati, ubos panahon niyo, ubos din pamasahe niyo sa kapipila. Alam niyo po, kawawa 'yung Pilipino. Minsan po, sa hangarin pong humaba lang ang kanilang buhay, pipila ng madaling araw para humingi ng tulong. Sa totoo lang, pera nila iyan, kanila iyan," he said.

With the medical and financial assistance programs coming from the four participating agencies already available in the Malasakit Center, the target is to reduce the hospital bill of indigent and poor patients to the lowest possible amount without wasting time seeking help from different government offices.

Presently, a Malasakit Center is fully functional at the Ospital ng Malabon to serve the residents in the area. There are fifteen Malasakit Centers currently operating in Metro Manila.

Meanwhile, concerned government agencies were also present to provide different kinds of assistance to the fire victims. Present were representatives from DSWD, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP). Some local officials also joined the Senator's visit.

"Nandito rin po ang iba't ibang mga ahensya ng gobyerno para magbigay ng karagdagang tulong sa inyo," Go said.

Ending his message, he thanked all the residents of Malabon for their support to the Duterte Administration. Go said that he will continue to go around the country and personally listen to the concerns of the Filipinos and find solutions for their daily struggles.

"Pangako ko sa inyo, kahit saan mang sulok, pupuntahan ko kayo. Sa mga bumabatikos sa amin ng Pangulo na sinasabing tapos na ang eleksyon pero nag-iikot pa rin ako, gusto kong sabihin na 'Hoy! Hindi lang sa eleksyon dapat umikot. Ngayon dapat umikot!'" he said.

"Hindi ko po matiis na umupo lang sa Senado at magpalamig sa aking opisina. Nandito ako para tumulong. Ang bisyo ko ay magserbisyo sa lahat ng mga Pilipino," he ended.



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[start recording]

NGCP HEARING SUSPENSION

Q: Sir, yung nangyaring suspension, kanina niyo lang nalaman?

SEN WIN: Oo kahit na alam naman nating naghigpit ang Senado ngayong araw na ito dahil nga sa nangyayari sa ating bansa at may partial lockdown ngayon sa Senado, tinuloy natin ang hearing dahil meron tayong issue tungkol sa ating national security. May problema sa seguridad ng ating bansa at matagal na rin itong na-delay, almost one month na. Nakakadismaya dahil ang presidente ng NGCP na dapat nandito para magbigay linaw sa mga issue, ay wala. Yung ibang mga Senators natin na nagbigay oras para dito, nadismaya rin dahil gusto nating marinig diretso from the NGCP President yung mga issues at allegations against NGCP. Pero dahil wala sya, hindi natin matutuloy ito. Binigyan natin sya ng warning na ito na ang huli at next time, dapat dumalo sya sa hearing.

Q: Binanggit kanina sa hearing na meron syang representative, yung full team ng NGCP to answer the questions from the Senators.

SEN WIN: Itong NGCP ay napakahalagang imprastraktura natin, importanteng marinig natin mula sa NGCP President yung mga sagot dahil gusto rin nating makita ang kanyang kakayahan at ang kanyang intension na siya lang ang makakasagot. Yung mga abogado niya, of course, legal ang kanilang sagot pero ang gusto nating marinig mismo mula sa NGCP President kung ano ang kanyang mga intensyon at nasa isip nya ngayon.

Q: Ito na po ba yung magiging last hearing?

SEN WIN: No, hindi pa. ito ang pangalawa sana at tatalakayin natin dito ang national security sana at yung mga alegasyon na maraming mga dayuhan ang nasa posisyon sa NGCP. Itong imprakstrakturang ito ay naka-reserve para sa mga Pilipino, walang ibang pwedeng mamahala sa imprasktrakturang ito kundi mga Pilipino. Base sa mga nakita namin sa records, maraming mga dayuhan. 35 foreigners ang nagtatrabaho rito. Ito yung mga tanong na gusto naming marinig ang sagot nang diretso.

Q: Nasa management level?

SEN WIN: Yes, out of 35, 11 ang nasa management level, hindi lang yun, operations level din. Ito yung mga nagpapatakbo ng electricity grid. So ibig sabihin, kaya nilang patayin kaya nilang buksan. Hindi lang yung banta galing sa ibang bansa ang pagkokontrol kundi sa loob mismo, sa NGCP, pwedeng kontrolin kaya delikado. Kasi kung tayo sasabotahin, hindi manggagaling sa ibang bansa kundi nasa loob mismo ang magsasabotahe.

Q: Hanggang ngayon?

SEN WIN: Sa ngayon, ang sabi wala. Nawala lang naman sila dahil napuna sila noong 2015. Kung natatandaan niyo, pumutok ito sa media at nag-umpisa silang magbawas ng mga dayuhan. Kung hindi ito pumutok sa media, tuloy-tuloy pa rin ang mga dayuhang nagtatrabaho roon. Ang issue ngayon ay tiwala, bakit sinira ang tiwala? Bakit nilabag ang constitution?

Q: Walang nakalagay na time?

SEN WIN: Wala. In fact, ang Constitution wala namang nakalagay na pwedeng short-time, medium-term o long-term, walang sinabi-ang nakalagay doon ay bawal.

Q: Wala ring prescription Sir?

SEN WIN: Wala ring prescription.

Q: Yung audit report Sir, na-submit na po ba?

SEN WIN: Hindi na-submit dahil hindi nila pinayagan ang DOE mag-inspect sa kanilang facility kay walang mabibigay na audit report sa atin. Gusto rin naming marinig sa DOE kung ano ang legal na aksyon at remedyong pwedeng gawin upang masiguro na ang interes nating lahat ay napoprotektahan.

Q: Di po ba ay may ultimatum?

SEN WIN: Pwede tayong mag-compel through the revocation of the franchise or pwede tayong mag-compel through another government agency tulad ng National Security Council (NSC) dahil maraming pwedeng ahensya ang pwedeng pumasok hindi lang DOE. Ang NSC ay pwede ring mag-audit. Gagawin nating lahat ng paraan under the law para mapwersa ang NGCP na payagan ang audit.

Q: At this point, kailangan na bang kumilos ng NSC?

SEN WIN: At this point, dapat na. In fact, dapat mabilis na ang pagkilos ng NSC at inter-agency, dapat gawin nila lahat ng aspeto, from energy to communications, national security ay dapat makita nila.

Q: Just for the record, kayo na mismong committee ang magsusulat sa NSC to request?

SEN WIN: Yes, the committee will urge through the committee hearing para gumalaw na ang NSC at gumawa na sila ng mga hakbang. We will also provide them with the budget dahil technical ito in nature, we will make sure that meron silang pondo para gumalaw. Ang cybersecurity na gagawin ng NSC ay sisiguraduhin natin na may pondo dahil very technical ito. Kailangan nila ng manpower para ma-inspect lahat.

Q: Previously, nabanggit po ni General Esperon that nag-audit na sila?

SEN WIN: Yes, meron silang preliminary audit na ginawa pero ito ay preliminary lang-pumunta doon, nag-picture pero ang importante ngayon ay mas malalim na pag audit na gagawin. Ang dapat tignan ngayon ay ang mga software na ginagamit ng NGCP so hindi lang inspection kundi full audit na mas malalim.

Q: Anong target date Sir?

SEN WIN: Itong hearing sana, dito namin pag-uusapan ang target date pero in my opinion, asap yan. Dapat gawin agad. Dito sa hearing din sana namin gagawin ang pagbibigay ng instruction sa NSC para gumalaw na kaagad at titignan rin namin kung magkano ang budget na kakailanganin. Dapat lang maintindihan ng ating mga kababayan na itong transmission grid, iisa lang ito sa buong Pilipinas at kung merong ibang taong nagkontrol na hindi Pilipino, pwede tayong masabotahe.

Q: Yung dinahilan niyang sakit, hindi po ba kayo nagwo-worry na baka yung Covid-19 ang dahilan?

SEN WIN: Well, antayin lang namin ang kanyang medical certificate. Wala naman silang sinabi na konektado ito sa corona virus. Hindi binigay sa amin ang kanilang excuse prior to the hearing. Sana man lang kaninang umaga, 5:00 a.m. eh tinext na kami na hindi matutuloy. Sabi may sakit. Hiningan namin ng medical certificate at complete details kung nasaan ang Presidente para makita natin kung ito ay totoo o hindi. Again, ito ang president ng pinakamalaki at iisang grid natin sa Pilipinas. Itong taong ito, ang kanyang kapangyarihan ay halos katumbas na ito ng isang malakas na politician kasi kung sasabihin nyang, "patayin ko itong kuryente o wag nating bigyan ng kuryente itong isang lugar o pahinain nating ang kuryente nito", kaya nyang gawin. Ang kanyang kapangyarihan ay kakaiba, isa lang sya sa buong Pilipinas kaya hindi pwedeng abogado lang ang magsalita kundi straight from him dapat nating marinig ang sagot.

Q: Kung maagang nagbigay ng abiso, hindi na sana tinuloy?

SEN WIN: Correct, kung maagang itong binigay, assuming 5:00 a.m. or even earlier, nasabi sana natin sa ibang Senators na nag-prepare rin para sa hearing. Si Senator Risa, ang tagal niya nang nag-prepare rito at si Senator Francis, nakita naman natin kanina ang preparation at nakakahiya para sa mga Senador na naghanda para rito sa hearing.

Q: Nasayang ang oras Sir?

SEN WIN: Nasayang ang oras.

Q: Hindi po ba Sir dapat nag-iissue na kayo ng ultimatum na by this time, na-audit na yung NGCP?

SEN WIN: Correct. Dapat by this time, nag-umpisa na. gusto rin nating marinig kung bakit hindi pa nag-uumpisa at gumawa tayo ng hakbang para doon. Pero ako, kumbinsido ako na may banta sa ating seguridad dahil sa mga dokumentong nakita natin, halos 35 na mga dayuhan ang nakita natin na nasa position ng NGCP. Delikado yan dahil hindi natin kilala ang mga ito at wala naman silang interes sa ating bansa, hindi naman sila nakatira rito. Anytime, pwede silang umalis kung merong problema.

Q: Sir, do you see that as a challenge to your committee? Yung hindi pagsunod ng NGCP sa previous order nyo na they should submit themselves to full audit?

SEN WIN: It is a challenge. Meron tayong remedy diyan at papatunayan namin sa hearing na ang paglabag nila sa batas ay isang dahilan kung bakit dapat tanggalin o i-revoke ang franchise. Makikita naman natin na napakahigpit ng pag-uusap sa franchise ng ABS-CBN, tinitingnan lahat. Ito, parehong may franchise, pareho dapat isa-isahin kung meron silang paglabag.

Q: Sir anong sanctions for those who would be defiant?

SEN WIN: Ang sanctions number one, pwede hong tanggalin yung kanilang prangkisa at ibalik muli sa gobyerno yung pag o-operate netong transmission line, bago naman na take over ng NGCP itong transmission line kumikita to eh at sa aking pag-aaral hindi naman kailangan ng pribadong sector para mag-operate, ang gobyerno kayang i-operate at kikita siya. Ngayon bibigyan natin sila ng pribilehiyo pero wag naman abusuhin ito, sumunod sa batas at sumunod sa nakasaad sa saligang batas natin.

POGO

Q: Sir, yung POGO sabi ni Presidente hindi na ititigil?

SEN WIN: Ang importante ngayon yung safeguards dahil napakita ko sa isang study na yung pag-dami, yung pag -issue ng alien employment permit dumami rin yung krimen at yung crime na ginagawa ng mga Chinese dumami rin at correlated ito sa dami nang mga nag tratrabaho sa POGO. So hindi natin maalis talaga, evidence is saying, pagdami ng nag tratrabaho sa POGO kasabay dito yung pagdami ng sindikato na nakakapasok sa atin at pagdami ng krimen. Gusto natin manirahan tayo sa isang tahimik na komunidad, gusto natin walang krimen at lahat ay hindi kinakabahan sa kanilang komunidad pero baliktad yung nangyayari, may kidnapping na nangyayari, may prostitution, may human trafficking na kasabay nitong POGO kaya imbes na tumatahimik ang ating komunindad lalong gumugulo dahil dito sa POGO kaya ang aking pag-aaral dito, hindi naman natin kailangan ng POGO dahil even before POGO ang ating ekonomiya ay maganda na ang takbo at lumalago naman tayo around 6%. Dumating ang POGO ganun parin we're at 6%, so yung contribution at sang-ayon ako sa sinabi ng NEDA, yung contribution napakaliit, even less than 1% pero yung krimen at yung takot na nangyayari sa ating komunidad, yun ay hindi natin mabibilang sa in terms of GDP, ito ay nakakabahala sa ating lahat.

Q: Sir how do you feel about the President's defense on POGO? Sinabi pa niya na parang speculation lang yun, issue on money laundering and yung mga issues na binabanggit ng mga Senators has been an issue even before?

SEN WIN: I respect the opinion of the President dahil ang Pangulo natin tinitignan lahat pero saking palagay hindi natin kailangan itong POGO dahil nga kasabay nito ay krimen at kung hindi tayo maglalagay ng mas mahigpit na mga regulasyon, hindi natin makikita yung katahimikan sa ating komunidad so ang importante ngayon, dahil sinsabi ng ating Pangulo na ang POGO ay nagbibigay revenue sa atin, importante na higpitan na natin yung mga regulasyon. Siguraduhin natin na meron silang tamang permit, siguraduhin natin na ang Bureau of Immigration hindi papalampasin ang sinidikato na makapasok sa atin. Ang nangyayari kasi yung BI na dapat na magsala ng mga criminal ay pinapapasok, kumbaga, na-contaminate na rin yung BI.

Q: Do you see it justifiable? Income from POGO can be used sa COVID-19? Or he was just being complacent kasi baka balikan siya, siya yung sisihin sa virus?

SEN WIN: Hindi naman, tinitignan din niya yung kabuuan and the President has full information kung ano yung pangangailangan ng ating bansa at of course we respect the opinion of the President dahil alam niya yung nakakabuti sa ating bansa, pero para sa akin nga ang POGO hindi kawalan yan sa atin, marami tayong pwedeng kunan ibang pang source na hindi maglalagay sa peligro ang ating bansa.

Q: Baka ibang data daw ang dumadating sa Presidente kaya ganyan ang opinion?

SEN WIN: Kung ang mag bri-brief sakanya ay PAGCOR, definitely one-sided yan, alam naman natin na ang PAGCOR nakasarado na ang kanyang isip sa POGO dahil siya lang ang kumikita ang PAGCOR ay kumikita ng 6 billion a year pero siya lang nag kumikita, ang BIR hindi kumikita ang Pulis nahihirapan manghuli at ang mga LGUs nahihirapan manghuli. We have to remember ang PAGCOR kolekta ng kolekta lang, hindi naman siya yung nagre-raid, hindi naman siya yung nanghuhuli ng kidnappers, hindi naman siya nanghuhuli ng prostitusyon den, yung mga pulis natin yung mga nanghuhuli doon so hindi niya nararamdaman yung problema sa ating komunidad, in fact, di niya nararamdaman yung problema ng ating mga kababayan dahil kolekta lang siya ng kolekta 6 billion a year.

Q: So possible na misinformed ang Presidente Sir?

SEN WIN: PAGCOR wala na sarado na isip kung PAGCOR again yung mag bri-brief sa ating Pangulo eh talagang ibibigay lang nila yung magaganda at hindi ibibigay yung mga nararamdaman ng ating kababayan.

Q: Hindi lang PAGCOR ang source niya?

SEN WIN: Nabasa ko sa news PAGCOR yung apparently nag brief but I don't know the full extent of his briefing, wala naman ako doon.

Q: Should the President also consider looking at other agencies?

SEN WIN: Yes definitely, I think ang importante dito tignan ang kabuuan, imbitahan ang NEDA, imbitahan ang PNP, imbitahan ang LGUs, for example si Mayor Vico tuloy-tuloy ang pagsasara niya ng mga illegal businesses sa Pasig dahil nga itong mga businesses cater only to POGO clients na wala namang business permits so I salute Mayor Vico dahil isa siya sa pinaka aggressive sa nagsasara ng mga foreign-owned establishments na walang business permits.

COVID-19 AND SUSPENSION OF GRADUATION RITES

Q: Suspension of classes?

SEN WIN: Unang-una yung suspension ng klase ay tama yan para hindi naman malagay sa alanganin ang ating mga kabataan, especially ang ating mga parents pero in the next three weeks magkakaroon na tayong ng mga graduation at ito ay dapat suspendihin na kaagad para yung mga OFWs natin na babalik pa hindi pa bumalik muna. Ang graduation is a family affair at marami sa ating mga OFWs talagang pinaplanong bumalik para sa graduation natin so suspendihin yung Senior High School graduation, suspendihin yung Moving-Up Junior High School at suspendihin yung daycare na graduation dahil yung daycare marami rin yan. Next week may mga daycare graduation na so sa daycare normally ang parents nandiyan eh pag yung parents nandiyan, malaki ang posibilidad na magkaroon sila ng interaction at contamination kaya ito ay dapat agad gawin para hindi maabala pa bumalik yung ating mga OFWs sa graduations.

Q: Mas active ang estudyante sa tertiary and mas exposed?

SEN WIN: The same suggestion ibingay natin sa basic education the same rin with tertiary education dapat suspendihin na rin ang graduation nila for now. The same rin na-notice ko sa tertiary graduation hindi lang parents, pati mga relatives pumupunta din because this is a very big event although mas onti ang nag gra-graduate sa tertiary but the same may interaction na pwedeng maging sanhi ng mga transmission so the same direction to suspend graduation for colleges and universities.

WORK FROM HOME

Q: Dapat ba talaga i-consider ang work from home?

SEN WIN: Meron na tayong batas diyan, si Senator Joel Villanueva enacted the telecommuting law na pwede nating gamitin doon sa mga industries na pwede naman mag telecommuting; Senate, Congress or yung mga marketing businesses, trading businesses pwede naman sa bahay yan. As far as we can do it dapat i-implement na yan ng mga negosyo.

[end recording



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Following the declaration of a state of public health emergency in the country over the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), Senator Win Gatchalian has urged the Department of Education (DepEd) to suspend graduation rites, including Preschool graduations and moving-up ceremonies nationwide. He says Daycare graduation rites should likewise be suspended.

The lawmaker earlier cautioned DepEd to follow recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO) on holding public gatherings like graduation rites but he said the virus' local transmissions now call for the suspension of the upcoming ceremonies. Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), who usually are parents or relatives of the graduates, tend to show up in graduation rites and this might compromise the safety of students, teachers, and all school personnel present in the occasion.

Gatchalian also called for the cancellation of other activities or non-academic projects such as field trips, film showing, and other events imposed by some schools as a requirement for graduation or completion. For this year, the DepEd has stated that graduation should not be earlier than March 30, 2020, but not later than April 3, 2020.

The Department of Health (DOH) has raised the COVID-19 Alert System to Code Red sublevel 1, following the local transmission and a possibility of community transmission. The country now has ten cases of COVID-19, with three cases of local transmission recorded. According to the DOH, the response to this stage includes intensified contact tracing, home quarantine for close contacts of COVID-19-positive patients, enhanced Severe Acute Respiratory Illness surveillance, and activation of laboratories outside the Research Institute of Tropical Medicine (RITM). Community-level quarantine or lockdown, including the suspension of work and classes, will be implemented at the "sustained community transmission" stage, when the links in the increasing number of local cases cannot be established.

"Huwag na nating hintayin pang magkaroon ng kumpirmadog kaso sa ating mga mag-aaral, mga magulang, guro, at iba pang mga kawani sa paaralan. Upang masiguro natin ang kanilang kaligtasan, mainam na ipagpaliban muna natin ang mga seremonya ng pagtatapos, pati na rin ang mga malalaking pagtitipon na maaaring magdulot ng mas malaking panganib", said Gatchalian, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, Arts and Culture. Gatchalian also urges DepEd to increase its vigilance and readiness in terms of monitoring persons at risk and providing timely interventions for those who display COVID-19-like symptoms, including access to isolation and treatment facilities. All these steps, Gatchalian said, should be done in close coordination with local health officials and health care providers while classes still remain.



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Senator Ronald 'Bato' Dela Rosa wants to expedite the integration of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) personnel to the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to further boost the government's efforts to attain lasting peace and development across the country, especially in the BARMM area.

During the hearing of the Senate Committee on Local Government to discuss the updates of the implementation of the Bangsamoro Organic Law, Dela Rosa urged Office of the Presidential Adviser for Peace Process Secretary Carlito Galvez to speed up the provision of guidelines [thru NaPolCom] and the integration process of the MILF and MNLF to the PNP and AFP, citing the competence of the MILF and MNLF forces which could actually help the country's soldiers and policemen in maintaining peace and order in the land.

Senator Dela Rosa validated with Secretary Galvez, former AFP Chief of Staff and currently the OPAPP Secretary, the reports he got from the ground during his stint as PNP Chief that the MILF and MNLF are snappy and very qualified to be members of the PNP and AFP.

"Sir I personally saw their [MILF / MNLF] behavior and you are really correct sir, some of those or many of those are really qualified to become members of the Armed Forces and the PNP," Galvez confirmed, adding that some of the MILF and MNLF combatants had already undergone training under the Joint Peace and Security Teams (JPST) of the Annex of Normalization included in the BOL.

"I understand it would take time, mahaba pa ang proseso at magkakaroon pa ng training...the more that we should be motivated to receive them into the Armed Forces, sabi nga magagaling na sila, mas disiplinado pa yung iba kaya bilisan natin sir and I hope expedite na natin yan," Dela Rosa said.

"Sir actually may mga re-positioned na kami with the Armed Forces. Actually Sir ang pinaka priority for the possible integration to the Armed Forces and the PNP are those who were trained at the JPST because we saw that they are very much qualified that is why we are hurrying up for the listing so the integration of the MILF will be taken from the JPST," Galvez explained.

Under the Bangsamoro Organic Law, members of the MNLF and MILF shall be admitted to the Philippine National Police. Age, height and educational attainment qualifications may be waived and can be availed of within 5 years after the ratification of the BOL.

Recruits from the MNLF and MILF have up to 15 years after their entry to fulfill the educational attainment requirement.



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In the name of a good cause, Sen Nancy Binay today rallied major television networks to collaborate and share their artists to work together on initiatives in creating awareness surrounding COVID-19.

According to Binay, with the help of their mother studios, Filipino showbiz personalities can help in leading the campaign in increasing public health awareness, and encourage their fans to help limit the spread of the coronavirus.

"Yung mga major television networks tulad ng ABS-CBN, GMA-7, TV5, and even faith-based networks, can work together and come up with infomercials of their talents or artists sharing a common mission that would positively impact 100 million lives," Binay said.

With the guidance of the Department of Health, the senator said broadcast networks can help in improving the public's understanding of the virus by airing omnibus infomercials on what people can do in the fight against COVID-19.

"Actually, kahit in their own little ways, social media influencers and TV celebrities can come on board to help, as long as they seek guidance from health specialists on the content. They could help in raising awareness and make a bigger impact with a simple blog, vlog or DIY video," Binay pointed out.

She added that networks and talent managers, from the music, sports and film industries, may consider lending their talents for a good cause.

"Star-power can be put to good use. Yung mga nasa industriya maging ang homegrown talents natin can be in the forefront of an expanded public health information campaign as we try to limit the spread of the coronavirus," noted Binay.

With people holed up in their homes, she added that television--complemented by social media--is practically the most effective medium in creating an impact on people because of its wider reach.

"Television and social media are persuasive communication tools that have the power to make everyone aware of what we need to do to fight the corona virus. Marami tayong mga artista sa TV na iniidolo ng maraming Pinoy. Isn't it nice to see showbiz personalities as spokespersons and pledging their support to a life-saving initiative?" stressed Binay.

FREE AIR TIME

Over the weekend, the senator urged the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) to use the free airtime alloted for government public service announcements in national and local TV and radio stations.

Broadcast franchise grantees are required by law to provide adequate public service time to enable the government to reach the public on important issues, and assist in the functions of public information and education like health advisories such as COVID-19.

"Collaboration of major TV networks is a big step forward in raising public health awareness. And by engaging their artists, they be able to highlight the risks and reinforce the fact na ang simpleng paghuhugas ng kamay at personal hygiene ay ang pinakamahalagang bagay na dapat gawin para maiwasan ang pagkalat ng virus. Influencers can also maximize their social media accounts and rally support from their fan base," Binay said.



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Senator Ramon Bong Revilla, Jr. is pushing for the declaration of a "National Press Freedom Day" to recognize the contribution and role of the country's press corps in nation-building.

During his sponsorship speech, the Senate Committee Chairman on Public Information and Mass Media stated that S. No. 670, "An Act Declaring Aug. 30 of every year as National Press Freedom Day," will help educate Filipinos especially the youth about the importance of freedom of the press as an essential part of our country's history and nationhood.

The Senator also justified that Aug. 30 was selected for the occasion because it marks the birthday of the country's "Father of Journalism," Marcelo H. del Pilar, who contributed significantly to the freedom that the press is enjoying now and endeavoring to enjoy.

Once passed into law, the proposed measure will mandate DepEd, CHED, and TESDA to organize consciousness-raising activities that will inform and educate the public about the importance, rights, social responsibilities, and need to eliminate all forms of violence against the press.

The bill further tasks all relevant government agencies, LGU's and private sectors to organize activities highlighting the significance of press freedom.

"Bilang tinitingalang ama ng pamamahayag sa Pilipinas, isinusulong natin na ideklara ang araw ng kapanganakan ni Plaridel bilang 'Press Freedom Day.' But more than anything else, this proposed measure is a tribute to and a celebration of the resilience, professionalism and patriotism of the long line of Filipino press corps who minister to the needs of the people to be informed," Revilla said.



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Senators, led by Senate President Vicente Sotto III on Monday, March 9, 2020, asked the Supreme Court (SC) to rule on whether or not the concurrence of the Senate is necessary in the abrogation of a treaty previously concurred in by the upper chamber.

In a 56-page petition for declaratory relief and mandamus, Sotto, along with Senate President Pro-Tempore Ralph Recto, Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri, Minority Leader Franklin Drilon, and Senators Panfilo Lacson and Richard Gordon asked the SC to declare that a treaty previously concurred in by the Senate should require the concurrence of at least two thirds of the members Senate upon its withdrawal.

Named respondents in the petition were Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea and Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr.

The senators requested the SC to order the executive branch to send the withdrawal notation to the Senate for votation.

The petition was filed after the DFA, on February 11, 2020, sent a Notice of Withdrawal of the VFA to the U.S. Embassy. According to Article IX of the Visiting Forces Agreement, the withdrawal shall take effect within 180 days from the receipt of the Notice of Withdrawal.

"As such, the Senate has until August 9, 2020 or the 180th day from the Notice of Withdrawal within which to question the unilateral withdrawal by the President from the VFA," the petition stated.

President Rodrigo Duterte pulled out of the accord after Washington canceled the visa of Sen. Ronald Dela Rosa.

"(The) Senate brings the present petition before the Honorable Court to fully and finally settle the issue of the requirement for concurrence by at least two-thirds of all members of the Senate in cases where the Philippines, through the executive department, decides to withdraw from, or terminate a treaty that was duly concurred in by the Senate," the petition stated.

The senators, however, clarified that they do not intend to undermine the President's prerogative of implementing the country's independent foreign policy. The petition merely seeks to subject the notice of withdrawal to the proper deliberative process by the Senate, as required by Section 21, Article VII of the 1987 Constitution.

"Specifically, the petition seeks to address the issue of whether the foregoing constitutional provision requiring the concurrence of at least two-thirds of all the members of the Senate also applies to termination of or withdrawing from treaties that have been validly ratified by the President and concurred in by the Senate," the senators said.

They cited the petition filed by members of the Senate minority bloc in May 2018, asking the SC to review the constitutionality of the executive department's unilateral revocation of the Rome Statute.

"The recurrence of the issue in such a short period of time highlights the urgency for a definitive ruling on the matter for the demarcation and constitutional limits of the fundamental powers of government," the senators said.

"The unilateral revocation by the executive of any treaty or international agreement without Senate concurrence violates the principle of checks and balances and separation of powers enshrined in the 1987 Constitution," they added.

Last week, 12 senators voted to adopt Resolution No. 337 asking the SC to rule on whether or not the concurrence of the Senate is necessary in the abrogation of a treaty or international agreement.

Seven senators abstained from the petition. They were Senators Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go, Imee Marcos, Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III, Bong Revilla, Francis "Tol" Tolentino, Cynthia Villar and Dela Rosa.



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A bill transferring the capital and seat of the Rizal provincial government from Pasig City to Antipolo City has been approved by the Senate on third and final reading.

The enactment into law of House Bill No. 2998 is seen as a curative legislation, correcting a historical error and will properly locate the capital in Antipolo City, Sen. Francis "Tol" Tolentino, sponsor of the measure said.

It's been nearly 45 years now since Pasig City, originally a municipality of Rizal, has been included under the territorial and political jurisdiction of Metro Manila, yet it remains the capital of the province, Tolentino said.

As early as 2013, the chair of the Senate Local Government Committee said that the provincial government has transferred de facto its seat to Antipolo City following an ordinance issued by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.

Its recognition, however, is not backed by any law, Tolentino said.

Once the bill becomes law by legislative fiat, Antipolo City would now be the capital of the province of Rizal, Tolentino said.

Upon the effectivity of this bill, the present provincial capitol located in Antipolo City shall be deemed as the official provincial government center where all the provincial offices shall be established.

HB 2998 shall be effective 15 days after its publication in a newspaper of general circulation or in the Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines.

The province of Rizal was created June 11, 1901 by the first Philippine Commission headed by former US President William Howard Taft by virtue of an Act No. 137. Under this Act, and the seat of the provincial government was Pasig.

But when Presidential Decree No. 824 that created the Metropolitan Manila and Metropolitan Manila Commission was issued in 1975, several local government units (LGUs) were removed from Rizal yet the provincial capitol was maintained in Pasig.

"Being declared as the seat of government of the province would generate more economic activities. It would perhaps entice investors to go to the capitol considering that there is no more confusion that it's no longer in Pasig, it's now in Antipolo. Designating the city as capital for purposes of administrative convenience and historical reasons would augur well for the economic development of not just the city of Antipolo but the entire province," Tolentino said.



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The Senate today approved on third and final reading four bills seeking to increase the bed capacity and upgrade the capabilities of several hospitals to improve the delivery of basic health services in the country.

Sen. Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go, chairman of the Committee on Health and Demography, said increasing the bed capacity of the Caraga Regional Hospital in Barangay Washington, Surigao City, Surigao del Norte (House Bill No. 1477) from 150 beds to 500 beds and the Bicol Medical Center (Senate Bill No. 640) from 500 beds to 1,000 beds would make the hospitals more capable in catering to the influx of patients in their respective areas and nearby places.

"I have personally seen the need to improve our health facilities and to increase the number of hospital beds during my visits to our government hospitals all over the country," Go said.

"I saw the deplorable situation where our patients were forced to lie on halls or corridors because the hospital is full. It is not only unhygienic but very cruel and inhumane to the patients as well as to their families. They deserve better," he added.

Go cited a 2018 Department of Health (DOH) data which showed that almost 65 percent of public hospitals nationwide are overcrowded. According to DOH, the Philippines has a one to 1,083 bed to population ratio, which is beyond the recommended ideal ratio of one is to 1,000.

"We are short of more than 40,000 hospital beds nationwide and this figure is only expected to increase even more as the health care requirements of our people expand and as the population of our country grows," Go said.

The Senate likewise approved House Bill No. 5871 which sought to upgrade the Maria L. Eleazar District Hospital in Yagkawayan, Quezon into a Level III General Hospital and House Bill No. 1799 which would upgrade the Talisay District Hospital in Talisay City Cebu into a Medical Center to be known as the Cebu South Medical Center.

"As the world faces a global threat with the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, the readiness of our government hospitals to provide quality, available and efficient health services is of paramount importance," Go stressed.

As legislators, he told colleagues, it is their duty to enact measures that would help address the lack of appropriate facilities, hospital beds and equipment in government hospitals.



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"Suportado natin ang pagdeklara ng State of Public Health Emergency sa buong bansa.

Dahil dito, ma-o-obliga ang pag-uulat sa mga kaso ng sakit, pagpapa-igting ng mga imbestigasyon ukol sa mga nasabing kaso ng sakit, pagpapatupad ng quarantine at isolation, at mabilisang containment para maiwasan ang pagkalat ng sakit.

Kung tutuusin ay dapat ito na ang naging sagot ng gobyerno simula umpisa, lalo na nang magkaroon ng mga PUIs sa ating bansa. Ngayong may katibayan na na mayroong local transmissions, hindi nalalayo na madadagdagan pa ang bilang ng mga mahahawa ng Covid-19.

Ang ating limang mungkahi sa pamahalaan:

1. Dapat libre ang Covid checkup at testing. Hindi na dapat makabawas pa sa budget, lalo na ng ordinaryong mamamayan, ang Covid test. Makakahikayat sa ating mga kababayan ang magpasuri kung alam nila na ito ay libre.

2. Kailangan pagplanuhan din ng gobyerno kung paano ma-de-decentralize ang testing ng mga nakakaramdam ng sintomas ng Covid. Bawat LGU ay dapat may kapasidad at budget na mag-test ng mga taong maaaring may virus.

3. Dapat ding maging handa ang mga ospital ng gobyerno, kabilang na ang mga local hospital, na mag-emergency quarantine ng taong mapa-positive sa Covid.

4. Kung kailangan i-quarantine, hindi dapat no work-no pay ang maging patakaran ng mga opisina. Magpasalamat tayo sa empleyadong iyon na nagsabi ng totoo upang at nagpa-test at nagpa-quarantine, para hindi na makahawa pa.

5. Bigyan ng emergency cash assistance ang mga ma-q-quarantine na manggagawa. Magkakasakit lalo kapag walang pangtustos para sa pamilya.

Para sa ating lahat:

1. Kalma lang. Ang pinakamalala nating pwedeng gawin ay ang magpanic: magpanic buying, at mapakalat ng fake news at maling impormasyon dahil sa panic.

Hindi tayo dapat maging alarmist kahit tumaas man lalo ang bilang ng mga kaso ng Covid-19 sa bansa.

2. Manatiling mapagmatyag. Manatiling mapagbantay. Pangalagaan ang kalusugan. Sundin ang mga protokol upang maiwasan ang lalo pang pagkalat ng sakit:

Panatilihin ang proper hygiene

wasan ang matataong lugar

Kumain ng wasto

Siguruhing maayos ang tulog

Maraming puna sa aksyon ng gobyerno ukol sa Covid-19. Maraming mga bagay na sana ay nagawa, at mga desisyon na sana ay mas pinag-isipan pa. Kasama na rito ang patuloy nilang maluwag na pagtrato sa dumaragsang mga Chinese sa POGO sa bansa. Maigi ring malaman kung ang pagdagsang ito ay naging sanhi ng pagdating ng Covid-19 sa bansa.

May tamang panahon upang balikan ang mga ito. At titiyakin ng Senado na babalikan ang mga ito.

Sa ngayon, kailangang maging prayoridad ng goberyno ang isyu ng Covid-19, at ang pagsiguro na ibubuhos nila ang kanilang buong pwersa upang hindi na lumala pa ang pagkalat ng sakit na ito sa bansa. Dapat nakahanay sa iisang layunin ang lahat ng ahensya ng pamahalaan.

Ito ay isang "all hands on deck situtation."

Kailangang unahin, kailangang tutukan.

Ingat po tayong lahat.



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Mr. President, I rise on a point of personal and collective privilege.

A few days ago, an international survey by the Gender Social Norms Index (GNSI) reported some important - and shocking -- global statistics. Nearly 90% of men and women from all over the world hold some bias against women. Furthermore, according to the index, 50% believe that men make better political leaders, and over 40% feel that men make better business executives. 28% feel that it is justified for a man to beat up his wife.

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, in 2020.

Ang diskriminasyon laban sa mga kababaihan ay nakahabi na sa iba't ibang aspeto ng kanyang buhay. From our earliest memories, we are taught and told to negotiate a world that constantly tells us we are not enough. That unless we conform to its exacting standards, we have no value. It starts innocuously enough: pag batang babae, pinapasuot ng pink, the flouncier, the better. Binibilhan ng doll, or plantsa-plantsahan, o lutu-lutuan. Kung medyo mahilig sa sports, dinidiscourage, baka maging "tomboy", baka magkapeklat ang legs.

It continues when the little girl becomes an adolescent. Lose the baby fat, she is told. The thinner, the better. The sexier, the better. Wag masyadong mahiyain, baka walang manligaw. Dapat demure kumain, baka sabihing matakaw. Wag masyadong pasexy, baka sabihin "easy". Wag pabibo, baka sabihin bossy.

All these is a violence of its own - persistent, pernicious, day-to-day structural violence that creates the lens by which a woman views herself and is viewed by the world. THIS, in a nutshell, is why 90% of women and men hold some form of bias against women. Why, along with economic inequality, women stay in toxic relationships. Why women are paid less than men for the same jobs. Why rape victims are afraid to tell their stories. Why misogyny still remains a potent political tool of strongmen all over the world.

But there are things that can be done. Ways that we can fight back. Today I want to talk about three.

First, our stories matter.

The stories we tell our children matter. In schools and in homes, we need to tell stories of strong, courageous women. Ikwento natin sa ating mga kabataan ang kwento ni Nazaria Lagos, kilalang Florence Nightinggale ng Panay, na kumupkop at kumalinga sa mga katipunero sa kanyang bahay sa Duenas, Iloilo. O di kaya ang kwento ni Lorena Barros, aktibista, student lider at manunulat noong panahon ng Martial law, tinortyur ng mga pwersa ng pamahalaan habang buntis na naging dahilan ng kanyang pagkunan bago siya tuluyang pinatay. Or more recently, we tell them the story of Maria Ressa, journalist and truth-teller, unflinching in the face of various state-sponsored incursions.

Maybe we also tell the stories Filipinas who excel in their fields. In the field of science, there is Reinabelle Reyes, astrophysicist and data scientist, who proved Albert Einstein's theory of relativity correct in a scale larger than our own solar system. Sino sa atin ang di nakakakilala kay Hidilyn Diaz, weightlifter and airwoman, and the first Filipino woman to win an Olympic medal of any color?

Little girls need to be told they can be anything they want to be. To quote Elizabeth Warren, that they can "dream big and fight hard."

Second, the small and invisible things matter.

Inequality persists because we allow the small things to go unquestioned, and the invisible to stay invisible.

Pag pumunta tayo mall, bakit ang baby changing station, nasa ladies' room at wala sa men's room? Dahil ba ang tungkulin ng pagpapalit ng diaper ng sanggol ay automatic na sa nanay? Is care work automatically women's work? Bakit pag punta sa toy stores, may girls' toy section and may boys' toy section, at ang mga science sets, mga sports games, nandun sa boy's section, habang ang mga kulay pink at mga manika at bahay-bahayan ay nasa girl's toys?

When little boys roughhouse each other, or hurt other people, we excuse their behavior and say "boys will be boys". Girls, we hold to a different standard. Kaya walang "girls will be girls," hindi ba?

Third, what we tell our boys matter.

Creating a gender-equal world isn't just talking to girls. It's also talking to boys. Dear men, sa pakikibaka para sa karapatan naming mga kababaihan, kasama kayo. You are part of the struggle for women's rights and gender equality - an important part of the struggle.

To our men, we need you to unlearn "boy's talk" - whether in locker rooms where sexist jokes are exchanged, or in board rooms where big decisions are made. We need you to unlearn the idea that domestic work is women's work and we need you, today, to not only put that toilet seat down, but to change that diaper, wash that dirty plate, sweep that dusty floor, AND TAKE THAT PATERNITY LEAVE. Care work should be shared work. Lastly, we need you -- the men we love, the men we choose -- to unlearn your sense of ownership over us just because of our relationships with you. This includes the clothes that we put on our bodies and all the other choices we make everyday. We are your partners, and we are your equals.

And to all of us, let us raise little boys who do not need to unlearn these things, and who will grow up without the weight of social expectations of what a man should be. As policymakers, we legislators can craft policies that will institutionalize mechanisms towards gender equality, but as parents, as a community, our work is larger. We must come together to raise kind little boys and strong little girls. We must come together to tell women they are worthy, men they are understood, and everybody of all genders that they are accepted. We must come together to craft a fairer, more gender-equal world for all.

HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY SA ATING LAHAT! MABUHAY!



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Considering the speed by which the number of positive cases is increasing, Senator Win Gatchalian urges the whole government to be involved and proactively seek out persons at risk of contracting the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

Gatchalian said it should start from the local government units (LGUs), emphasizing that if their constituents have symptoms of fever, cough and respiratory infections, they should assume their illness could be COVID-19 so that they can immediately take steps to protect others in the household and the community.

In the absence of World Health Organization (WHO)-validated testing kits, Gatchalian said LGUs should be ready to access the nearest testing facility.

To date, only the RITM is accredited by the WHO to test samples for COVID-19. The DOH said, however, that five more hospitals are already being capacitated to test samples for COVID-2019: San Lazaro Hospital in Manila, Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center in Cebu City, Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City, Baguio General Hospital in Baguio City, and Lung Center of the Philippines in Quezon City.

"Sa bilis ng pag-akyat ng mga kaso ng COVID-19 sa bansa, dapat mas paigtingin na ng mga lokal na pamahalaan ang mga hakbang nila upang matukoy kung sino ang mga nanganganib na mag-positibo sa sakit na ito, at mabigyan sila ng angkop na tulong medikal. Sa ganitong mga krisis, mahalaga ang pangunguna ng mga lokal na pamahalaan dahil mas alam ng mga ito ang mga pangangailan ng kanilang mga nasasakupan," said Gatchalian.

Gatchalian also called on the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) to ensure LGUs' strict compliance with Memorandum Circular 2020-018, which defines the tasks of governors, mayors, and "punong barangays" in response to the outbreak.

The said memorandum calls for the organization of the Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams (BHERTs), which should ideally be one per population of 5,000. Each BHERT should be composed of a barangay executive officer, a barangay tanod, and two barangay health workers, one of which should be a nurse or a midwife.

BHERTs are also assigned to visit the homes of persons who came from a COVID-19 affected country, after which they will impose a 14-day quarantine and observation period for the arriving resident. Those who displayed symptoms will be isolated until they can be transported to a DOH-designate referral center.

The Department of Health (DOH) has reported that the number of positive cases in the country has reached ten, including the first two recorded cases of local transmission.

The DOH has also declared Code Red sublevel 1, which calls for intensified steps such as contact tracing, home quarantine for the close contacts of COVID-19-positive patients, improved hospital preparedness, and activation of other laboratories outside the Research Institute of Tropical Medicine (RITM).

Gatchalian stresses that the global outbreak needs all country leaders to mobilize plans, coordinate every part of government, not just the health department but others as well including security, transport, trade, and information, among others.

The lawmaker believes that the country will be able to contain the spread of the dreaded disease with a coordinated and comprehensive approach that engages the entire machinery of government.



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SFMD: This is the legacy of Senate President Sotto to the Senate of the Philippines, because it is under his presidency that we will have a final disposition and delineation of the powers between the Senate and the Executive. Senate President Sotto is asserting the independence of the Senate and the check and balance that we have to protect.

I recall that in 2005 we filed a similar petition in the Supreme Court under my presidency when then President Arroyo tried to limit the investigative powers of the Senate, in the case of Executive Order 464. We filed a case in the Supreme Court and the Supreme Court, in the en banc decision, said that you cannot limit the power of the Senate to investigate in aid of legislation.

In this case, Senate President Sotto has asserted and asked the Supreme Court what are our constitutional boundaries and if our constitutional boundaries say that the Senate should be consulted, then the prayer is to send the termination to the Senate for its concurrence.

Q: Did you cite the VFA termination as your basis?

SFMD: Inevitably yes. Although I want to emphasize that this does not only concern the VFA. In general, it concerns the constitutional boundaries between the two political bodies of our government. In fact, there is also a pending petition in the Supreme Court which pertains to the Rome Statue. In general, it is a continuing effort of the Senate to define our powers. In fact in the last 20 or so resolutions concurring in the ratification of treaties, we have a clause, which says that any withdrawal should be with the consent of the Senate.

We have full faith and confidence in the impartiality of the Supreme Court.



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Sadyang nakakapanuya, kung di man nakakapangilabot, na matapos matanggihan sa hinihinging proteksyon mula sa korte, kinakaharap naman ngayon ng isang grupo ng mga aktibista at human rights defenders ang kasong perjury na isinampa ng matataas na security official ng bansa.

Muli nating nakikita ngayon ang lakas ng mga Goliath na ginagamit ang lahat ng sandata, kabilang ang batas, laban sa maliliit na David ng ating lipunan.

Alam naman natin na ang Pilipinas ay isa sa pinakamapanganib na bansa sa rehiyon para maging isang tagapagtanggol ng karapatang pantao.

Masyadong nagiging madali para masama sa order of battle ng militar para sa pagpapahayag ng pagtutol.

Sa napipintong mga amyenda sa Human Security Act na pinapahaba ang panahong ng pagkakakulong nang walang kasong isinasampa at pinapayagan ang pag-aresto nang walang warrant, nanganganib ang mga human rights defender, aktibista, at ordinaryong mamamayan sa mga paglabag sa mismong pinaglalabang mga karapatan.

We call on the courts to be most judicious in ruling on the case of the activists and to accord them due process that they deserve."



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The bringing of huge sums of money in and out of the country in past months with seeming impunity indicates the urgent need for action from our government, not just by the Executive but also by the Legislative. Our authorities should keep up with, if not keep one step ahead of, criminals who are trying to do the same.

While there is need to address the corruption that is one big reason for authorities' tolerating money laundering, there is also a need to take a long, hard look at gaps in our existing laws, including the Bank Secrecy Law and the Anti-Money Laundering Act.

On the other hand, the amendments to these laws should also make sure that they cannot be weaponized for political purposes. Speaking from experience, I have been at the receiving end of such abuse of the law by the likes of Ador Mawanay, Mary "Rosebud" Ong, Victor Corpus and the Arroyos, who prompted me to waive my rights under the Bank Secrecy Law and challenged them to withdraw all the dollars they claimed I owned. And acting from those experiences, I proposed amendments to the AMLA and filed a bill excluding all public servants from the Bank Secrecy Act.



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Let me begin by telling a sad story. Last year, Rappler ran an article about a girl who they chose to call "Fatima." Three days into the new year of 2019, Fatima woke up to what she thought was any other normal day spent doing household chores and taking care of her younger siblings. Little did she know that before the day would end she would be married to a distant cousin 8 years her senior, someone who she didn't know and hasn't met. At 14 years old, she would become a wife to a total stranger. It was her uncle who sealed the marriage and made the arrangements, and no amount of pleading and bargaining by Fatima and her mother who was also a child bride herself could dissuade him to undo the agreement. In justifying this decision, the girl's grandmother, the family matriarch explained that marriage will lighten the burden of her widowed mother, Isha who was left to feed 11 children, some of them were adopted, like Fatima. The small sari-sari store she used to own was destroyed during the Marawi siege, and only the meager income from a small vegetable patch is what keeps them hardly afloat.

We all know this isn't a rare occurrence, Mr. President. According to a UNICEF report, 750 million women and girls alive today were married before they reached their 18th birthday, and 2% of this number got married even before they turned 15 years old. Also, the Philippines with 726,000 child brides is the 12th highest in the world in terms of absolute numbers. In a 2019 survey by the Oxfam-led Improving Availability of Reproductive Health Services in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao or the ARCHES Project, 253 or 24% out of the 1,058 respondents coming from Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, and the Basulta regions were cases of child marriage, and 97% of them involved girls.

Thirty years ago, the Philippines ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child which clearly sets the minimum age of marriage at 18 years old. Almost a decade earlier, we also became a signatory to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women or CEDAW which obligates states to ensure full, free and informed consent of both parties to the marriage. In many an instance where issues concerning children are being discussed, we always point out to the fact that there are acts that children and young people below the age of 18 are prohibited from doing, among them is being a party to a legal contract which is exactly what establishes the legitimacy of a marriage.

Our usual understanding of the world would point to poverty as the main motivation that drives families to marry off their children at a very young age. Not unlike the case of Fatima whose family was affected by armed conflict, and were further pushed deeper into poverty, many girls like her have suffered the same fate. Internal displacement brought about by armed conflicts and natural disasters have driven impoverished families into greater hardships that many of them seek to somehow be unburdened with mouths to feed, and hope that their young daughters would be better off married to someone who could better care for them.

Poverty may be among the drivers of child marriages, but there is also a more subtle impulse behind this practice. Child marriage, as part of social norms in communities where it is common is often the result of entrenched gender inequality. This gender inequality plays a key role in making girls disproportionately affected by this cultural practice. Female children are falsely seen as contributing less to the household, and is expected to eventually leave to join the family of her husband making them of less value than male children. In a baseline study on violence against women conducted by Oxfam revealed that among the respondents from Maguindanao, social pressure is the main reason why girls enter into marriage early, many of them between the ages of 14 to 17.

Mr. President, in a time when we, together with the rest of the world are slowly making headway in ensuring that young girls are protected and are able to reach their full potential as human beings, the existence of child marriages in our country negates these efforts. Child brides are less likely to remain in school depriving them of economic prospects and other opportunities an education affords. Girls who get married at a very young age are more likely to experience early childbearing, exposing them to higher pregnancy-related complications including childbirth-related deaths.

I would like to direct your attention to this photo of three young girls and two baby boys from the Palaw'on community. To reach their village, one has to travel 5 hours by land from Puerto Princesa in Palawan to the Municipality of Rizal, then another 1 and a half hours from Rizal to the Barangay Proper, and finally, a 4- to 6-hour climb uphill. If you think the baby boys in the care of the two girls are their siblings, I am sad to say that you are mistaken. They are their children.

CHILDREN. HAVING. CHILDREN. All three of these girls, ages 13, 12, and 9 are child brides. Distressful. Heartbreaking. Just by looking at them, one immediately realizes that this practice has to stop.

Medical evidence has also shown that the risk of infant mortality among children of very young mothers is 60% higher than among those born to mothers older than 19. Girls who get married early are also vulnerable to sexually transmitted infections, domestic violence, abuse, and exploitation.

These are but some of the implications arising from child marriages, Mr. President. If we continue to allow this to happen to our children, we are essentially robbing them of their right to a childhood.

It is with this in mind that the Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality wishes to sponsor Senate Bill 1373 under Committee Report 52 entitled, "Prohibiting and Declaring Child Marriage as Illegal."

This bill considers the act of child marriage a public crime, and penalizes any person who facilitates and solemnizes this union. Being conscious of existing cultural practices, the bill introduces a culturally-appropriate program and services that will be responsive to the needs of those who will be affected by this law. The Department of Social Work and Development shall be the lead duty-bearer in the formulation of such program and services, and in the implementation of the law. Mr. President, I realize that there might be some apprehension that the bill may be intruding into established and long-held cultural practices. In all humility, allow me to say that I fully understand this anxiety. May I invite you to watch a short but heartening video of a young Muslim woman, Hanod Ebrahim who is an unwavering advocate of ending child, early, forced marriage.

As history has time and again demonstrated, any aspect of culture is not static, and neither is it monolithic. Culture can be considered not only as practice but also a process, a consequence of material and non-material conditions, and a bearer of values. As such, culture continues to evolve, to grow with us human beings who are fully aware of present realities and necessities, accepting of new knowledge and belated realizations. And among the learnings that we are duty-bound to acknowledge is that our children are our future, and all that we do must be in their best interest.

Bago po ako magtapos, nais ko lang banggitin ang mga advocates na narito ngayon na walang kapagurang itinataguyod ang pagpasa sa panukalang batas na ito: Oxfam, PLCPD, AMDF, UnyPhil, PBSP, mga taga-Barangay Culiat, World Vision, at Forum for Family Planning.

Maraming salamat, at mabuhay po tayong lahat.



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"If we continue to allow child marriages, we are essentially robbing our youth of their right to a safe and nurturing childhood." This was the remark of Senator Risa Hontiveros during her sponsorship of 'Girls Not Brides Act' on Wednesday which seeks to end child marriages in the Philippines.

Hontiveros, who chairs the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality, said that Senate Bill No. 1373 will prevent child marriage by making it a public crime.

"Under the bill, any person who facilitates and solemnizes this union will face a prison sentence of up to 12 years, and fines of up to 50,000 pesos," said Hontiveros. "He or she will be held liable under the Republic Act No. 7610, or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act", she explained.

With an estimated 726,000 children married off before their 18th birthday, the Philippines ranks 12th highest in the world in absolute numbers, the senator noted.

"At a time when we, together with the rest of the world, are slowly making headway in ensuring that young girls are protected and are able to reach their full potential as human beings, the existence of child marriages in our country negates these efforts," she also said.

Hontiveros explained that child brides are less likely to remain in school, depriving them of economic prospects and other opportunities an education affords. These girls, she said, are also vulnerable to sexually transmitted infections, domestic violence, abuse, and exploitation.

The Senator said that even though children below 18 are prohibited under law from being party to a legal contract which is what establishes the legitimacy of a marriage, more than half a million girls are forced against their agency to abide.

She also acknowledged the cultural sensitivities surrounding child marriage, and said that the bill introduces culturally-appropriate programs and services led by the Department of Social Work and Development that will be responsive to the needs of those who will be affected by this law.

"Poverty may be among the drivers of child marriages, but there is also a subtler impulse behind this practice. Child marriage, as part of social norms in communities where it is common, is often the result of entrenched gender inequality," she said.

"Culture can be considered not only as practices but also a process. Culture continues to evolve, accepting of new knowledge and later realizations. We are duty-bound to acknowledge that our children are our future, and all that we do must be in their best interest," Hontiveros concluded



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The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) should not dissuade grass roots fund-raising activities by individuals seeking to help indigent members of their communities, saying that these efforts help expand the coverage of government-funded relief, according to Senator Joel Villanueva.

Instead of threatening to run after people behind fund-raising activities on social media, Villanueva suggested that the department extend leniency from the prevailing regulation and let grass roots fund-raising drives secure the necessary permits after the government has lifted the enhanced community quarantine in Luzon.

The gesture, which Villanueva said is in line with the spirit of the Bayanihan Law, will likewise help provide legal cover for these relief efforts which the lawmaker described as rooted in the Filipinos' "good-natured community fellowship."

"Lahat po ng ating kababayan, nais tumulong sa kapwa natin na nagigipit dahil sa krisis na dala ng COVID-19. Hindi po natin maaalis ito sa ating kamalayan, kaya po hinihiling natin sa DSWD na kung maaari, tumulong gawing legal ang mga fund-raising efforts na ganito," said Villanueva in a statement. "Imbis na takutin ang mga tao gamit ang batas, kalingahin na lang po natin ang mga nais tumulong sa pamamagitan ng pagbigay ng tamang payo sa proseso."

"Ngayong panahon ng krisis, mas nangangailangan tayo ng tulong at pinapakita ng bawat fund-raising drives na ito, na kadalasan ipinaaalam sa pamamagitan ng social media, na handa ang ating mga kababayan na mag-ambag sa kahit na anong halaga upang tumulong sa kapwa," continued the lawmaker, chair of the Senate Committee on Labor, Employment, and Human Resource Development.

Villanueva said he understood clearly what the law, Presidential Decree No. 1564 or the Solicitation Permit law, was trying to achieve, which is to regulate fund-raising activity and prevent nefarious individuals from defrauding others.

But the crisis brought by COVID-19 has made it harder for government to reach out quickly to the vulnerable, that's why some people are helping out others in the most expedient way possible, the lawmaker explained.

"We hope the DSWD considers helping these individuals or groups by providing legal cover to their fund-raising efforts, instead of discouraging future efforts to provide relief to those who need our help," Villanueva said.

Among the requirements under the law's implementing rules and regulations is the need to have the documents notarized. Since notary services are not readily available during this time, Villanueva said the DSWD could instead grant these individuals a 30-day grace period once the quarantine is lifted for them to submit all requirements.

The lawmaker cited Section 4(ee) of the Bayanihan law which authorizes "undertak[ing] such other measures reasonable and necessary to enable the President to carry out the declared national policy subject to the Bill of Rights and other constitutional guarantees."

In the meantime, Villanueva also called on the DSWD to launch a massive information drive on the Solicitation Permit Law, establish an online filing system, streamline the application process and requirements, and expedite the approval process, instead of the average three-day turn-around time of DSWD. In times of crisis, Villanueva noted, there is no time for delay, and bureaucratic processes should not hamper the Filipinos' bayanihan spirit.



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"Binabati natin ang Government Procurement Policy Board (GPPB) sa pag-apruba ng Emergency Procurement sa ilalim ng Bayanihan To Heal As One Act, lalo na Section 6 tungkol sa direktang pagbili mula sa mga magsasaka.

Noong nakaraang mga linggo, nabalita kung paano nasasayang ang mga gulay at iba pang mga pananim dahil sa kawalan ng mamimili. Hirap ding ibyahe ang ani ng mga magsasaka papunta sa mga pamilihan dahil sa mga checkpoint dulot ng Enhanced Community Quarantine.

Sa pakikipag-ugnayan ng ating opisina at ng iba pang stakeholder, maagap na umaksyon ang Department of Agriculture upang tugunan ang problema sa logistics. Mas pinadali ang proseso ng pagbyahe ng mga agricultural goods. Tumulong din tayong hanapan ng mga bibili sa produkto ng ating mga magsasaka, lalo na sa mga LGU na maaring isama ang mga gulay sa kanilang pinapamahaging relief goods. Sa ngayon, nakapaghatid ng 8.6 toneladang sari-saring gulay ang PBSP (Philippine Business for Social Progress) sa mga mamamayan ng Makati sa tulong ng AGREA.

Bagama't batas na ang Sagip Saka simula pa noong nakaraang taon at dahil dito ay maaari nang bumili direkta ang mga LGU at tanggapan ng pamahalaan sa mga magsasaka at kooperatiba, mas magpapabilis pa ang prosesong ito sa pag-apruba ng Emergency Procurement sa ilalim ng Bayanihan Act.

Para po sa ating mga magsasaka, samahan ng mga magsasaka, o mga kooperatiba, siguruhin na meron tayo ng anuan mga sumusunod bago mabayaran ng sinumang bibili:

1. Certification mula sa Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA);

2. ID mula sa RSBSA; o kaya ay

3. Certification mula sa barangay na ikaw nga ay isang magsasaka.

Sundin lamang ang pamantayan ng GPPB ukol sa Emergency Procurement. Dahil dito, hindi mawawalan ng kita ang ating mga magsasaka, at mayroong mas mabilis at mas malapit na pagkukunan ng pagkain ang mga LGUs.

Bumili ng direkta. Suportahan ang mga magsasaka."



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Senator Imee Marcos said the government should call for a temporary suspension in the payment of the country's debts to increase cash aid for individuals and companies affected by a lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Marcos, who chairs the Senate committee on economic affairs, said that a debt moratorium is a third measure that the Department of Finance can adopt, besides the budget realignments and international loans it has already announced, to continue funding the government's social amelioration program while the true duration of the lockdown remains uncertain.

The budget for interest payments on the country's debts in the General Appropriations Act of 2020 amount to P451 billion, which Marcos said can be used for cash aid by the government under the Bayanihan Heal As One Act.

Marcos added that off-budget payments of P582 billion to amortize the principal amount can also be reserved for cash aid.

More cash aid will be needed if the advance of the global pandemic results in extended lockdowns throughout the world and continues to limit business operations and people's means of earning a living, Marcos said.

Marcos explained that a debt moratorium is in line with the World Economic Forum's call for international cooperation in handling the backlash of the COVID-19 crisis, adding that not even the world's biggest economy, the United States, can deal with the global pandemic on its own.

"Dapat bigyan ng palugit ang mga bansang mas maliit ang ekonomiya at mas mahina ang pamamaraan para sa pagpapagamot ng kanilang mamamayan, lalo na ang mga bansa sa Asya at Africa," Marcos said.



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At last, the Department of Health leadership is making some adjustments to address the COVID-19 threat, but only now after so much time has been wasted.

For one, through the private sector's initiative in coordination with the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases and other government agencies, massive rapid testing will start tomorrow, April 14, if it is not being done already.

Secondly, contact tracing, hopefully, will now be more efficient with the latest guideline issued by IATF for mandatory disclosure of COVID-19 infected persons for more efficient self-quarantine.

Thirdly, after a long and unnecessary delay, the FDA approved the use of test kits - including at least 10 rapid antibody test kits and 23 PCR-based test kits as of April 8. The delay was amid the willingness of private donors to spend big money to help accelerate mass testing through the use of rapid antibody test kits, and even after we asked the FDA about the usefulness of such rapid test kits as early as our March 24 caucus prior to our 18-hour plenary debates to pass Republic Act 11469 (Bayanihan to Heal As One Act) on the same day, with some Cabinet members in attendance.

What I can't understand for the life of me is why the DOH keeps issuing circulars that seem to circumvent Sec 4(j) of the Bayanihan Act that provides for some leeway for donated test kits that otherwise have already been in use in other jurisdictions, by mandating the turnover of all donations to DOH but would not allow its use. This is compounded by a requirement for accreditation that includes, among others, an application by the manufacturer or distributor of such health products. Since these are donations and therefore not for business purposes, how in the world will these donors look for local distributors, or look for the manufacturer to file for an application? Sec 4(j) specifically states that all donated health products need only a certification from the regulatory agency/ies of the country that allows the use of such health products for FDA to approve the same.

On the other hand, there is no saying that Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. is not doing a good job as chief implementer of the government's national response against COVID-19, by playing catch-up for the inadequacies of some people.



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As the country conducts COVID-19 mass testing on Tuesday, Senator Win Gatchalian raised the need to do 10,000 mass testings a day to make the extended Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) reliable. This will identify and isolate those suspected cases of COVID-19 and treat confirmed cases nationwide, according to the senator. If that does not happen, he said, and we lift the ECQ to open the economy, there might be potential COVID-19 cases who could spread the virus and will defeat the purpose of an extended quarantine.

Gatchalian said this will then post the next question, "do we extend it again or not?"

"Kung hindi natin magagawa ang 10,000 mass testings a day at hindi natin mahahanap ang mga suspected, probable at confirmed cases ng COVID-19, sigurado pong kakalat uli ang virus sa buong bansa. Halimbawa, kung pinayagan na natin uling magbukas ang ating ekonomiya, payagan nang mamasada ang mga bus, jeepney o kaya'y MRT. Kapag ganyan ang naging sitwasyon, meron at merong potensiyal na mga kaso ng COVID-19," stressed Gatchalian.

"Halos 50% ng COVID positive ay asymptomatic, ibig sabihin, wala silang nararamdaman. Pero kung tuloy sila sa pag-iikot, siguradong makakahawa sila, lalo na ng mga senior citizen. Duon tayo magkakaroon ng problema dahil almost 80% ng mga senior citizen ay nagkakaroon ng fatalities," he added.

The senator said the challenge in the next two weeks is how the national government can ramp up the volume of mass testing all the way up to 10,000 tests a day. That for him will be a very important milestone.

Gatchalian reiterated the need to capacitate the Local Government Units (LGUs) and provide them with proper guidelines. He said beating COVID-19 starts within the LGUs - test and immediately contain COVID-19 positive patients at the house level or street level. He emphasized this will prevent the spread of the virus in the communities. If the spread is contained, he said, it is only then that we can open the economy.

At the same time, the senator said the Department of Health (DOH) should expedite accrediting hospitals for mass testings so that the existing accredited hospitals won't be overburdened with large number of patients. He said the problem now lies, not with testing kits anymore but, with the limited number of accredited hospitals that will process the tests.

He likewise cited that under the Bayanihan Act, the national government can provide local laboratories with the necessary equipment so they can run their own mass testings.



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As the country conducts COVID-19 mass testing on Tuesday, Senator Win Gatchalian raised the need to do 10,000 mass testings a day to make the extended Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) reliable. This will identify and isolate those suspected cases of COVID-19 and treat confirmed cases nationwide, according to the senator. If that does not happen, he said, and we lift the ECQ to open the economy, there might be potential COVID-19 cases who could spread the virus and will defeat the purpose of an extended quarantine.

Gatchalian said this will then post the next question, "do we extend it again or not?"

"Kung hindi natin magagawa ang 10,000 mass testings a day at hindi natin mahahanap ang mga suspected, probable at confirmed cases ng COVID-19, sigurado pong kakalat uli ang virus sa buong bansa. Halimbawa, kung pinayagan na natin uling magbukas ang ating ekonomiya, payagan nang mamasada ang mga bus, jeepney o kaya'y MRT. Kapag ganyan ang naging sitwasyon, meron at merong potensiyal na mga kaso ng COVID-19," stressed Gatchalian.

"Halos 50% ng COVID positive ay asymptomatic, ibig sabihin, wala silang nararamdaman. Pero kung tuloy sila sa pag-iikot, siguradong makakahawa sila, lalo na ng mga senior citizen. Duon tayo magkakaroon ng problema dahil almost 80% ng mga senior citizen ay nagkakaroon ng fatalities," he added.

The senator said the challenge in the next two weeks is how the national government can ramp up the volume of mass testing all the way up to 10,000 tests a day. That for him will be a very important milestone.

Gatchalian reiterated the need to capacitate the Local Government Units (LGUs) and provide them with proper guidelines. He said beating COVID-19 starts within the LGUs - test and immediately contain COVID-19 positive patients at the house level or street level. He emphasized this will prevent the spread of the virus in the communities. If the spread is contained, he said, it is only then that we can open the economy.

At the same time, the senator said the Department of Health (DOH) should expedite accrediting hospitals for mass testings so that the existing accredited hospitals won't be overburdened with large number of patients. He said the problem now lies, not with testing kits anymore but, with the limited number of accredited hospitals that will process the tests.

He likewise cited that under the Bayanihan Act, the national government can provide local laboratories with the necessary equipment so they can run their own mass testings.



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As the country conducts COVID-19 mass testing on Tuesday, Senator Win Gatchalian raised the need to do 10,000 mass testings a day to make the extended Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) reliable. This will identify and isolate those suspected cases of COVID-19 and treat confirmed cases nationwide, according to the senator. If that does not happen, he said, and we lift the ECQ to open the economy, there might be potential COVID-19 cases who could spread the virus and will defeat the purpose of an extended quarantine.

Gatchalian said this will then post the next question, "do we extend it again or not?"

"Kung hindi natin magagawa ang 10,000 mass testings a day at hindi natin mahahanap ang mga suspected, probable at confirmed cases ng COVID-19, sigurado pong kakalat uli ang virus sa buong bansa. Halimbawa, kung pinayagan na natin uling magbukas ang ating ekonomiya, payagan nang mamasada ang mga bus, jeepney o kaya'y MRT. Kapag ganyan ang naging sitwasyon, meron at merong potensiyal na mga kaso ng COVID-19," stressed Gatchalian.

"Halos 50% ng COVID positive ay asymptomatic, ibig sabihin, wala silang nararamdaman. Pero kung tuloy sila sa pag-iikot, siguradong makakahawa sila, lalo na ng mga senior citizen. Duon tayo magkakaroon ng problema dahil almost 80% ng mga senior citizen ay nagkakaroon ng fatalities," he added.

The senator said the challenge in the next two weeks is how the national government can ramp up the volume of mass testing all the way up to 10,000 tests a day. That for him will be a very important milestone.

Gatchalian reiterated the need to capacitate the Local Government Units (LGUs) and provide them with proper guidelines. He said beating COVID-19 starts within the LGUs - test and immediately contain COVID-19 positive patients at the house level or street level. He emphasized this will prevent the spread of the virus in the communities. If the spread is contained, he said, it is only then that we can open the economy.

At the same time, the senator said the Department of Health (DOH) should expedite accrediting hospitals for mass testings so that the existing accredited hospitals won't be overburdened with large number of patients. He said the problem now lies, not with testing kits anymore but, with the limited number of accredited hospitals that will process the tests.

He likewise cited that under the Bayanihan Act, the national government can provide local laboratories with the necessary equipment so they can run their own mass testings



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Doctors, nurses, medical technologists, health workers, our brothers, sisters, fathers, mothers, daughters, sons and friends in the medical profession; I implore you:

You now hold the power over life and death. In this battle against the virus, you are the frontliners. You are the thin white line that stands between us and catastrophe.

Use that power to demand from government what you need to defeat the enemy.

Make a list of your demands. What you want from government and what you think government needs to do. Whether it is to deliver more PPEs, roll-out a comprehensive mass-testing program, set-up or accredit new testing laboratories, access or produce more testing kits (whether here or abroad), more field hospitals to quarantine PUIs and PUMs, immediate release of daily allowance and other benefits to health workers, an efficient transport system to ferry medical workers, etc.

Whatever you need, whatever you want to fight this virus, put it in writing and send it to the IATF.

Tell them how government should spend our taxes and utilize all other available resources. Tell them to spend it now on things that you need to keep saving lives and to keep protecting yourselves.

We are behind you. Without you, we will have no chance whatsoever to survive this pandemic, not the generals, not the lawyers, not the bankers, not the politicians, not the bureaucrats. No, only you can save us.

You are the most powerful sector in the Philippines right now. Use that power to save lives, and to save your brethren who are falling at the frontlines. Tell government what to do. Tell government you can only continue to fight this battle if they listen and act immediately on your demands. Together, let us make government work for us. Our survival as a people and as a nation depends on it.



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Umapela si Sen. Nancy Binay na akuin na ng gobyerno ang gastusin sa pagpapa-cremate ng mga labi ng mga biktima ng COVID-19.

Ayon kay Binay, isa sa mga dahilan kung bakit marami ang mga labing di nailalabas sa mga ospital ay dahil na rin walang pantubos o pambayad ang pamilya sa punerarya para sa cremation.

"Sa tingin ko, kayang sagutin ng gobyerno ang gastos sa cremation ng mga pamilyang mahihirap, or the government can extend assistance to families who have immensely suffered financially. Nakakalungkot na walang magawa ang mga pamilyang namatayan dahil maliban sa kailangan nilang bayaran pa ang cremation, nawalan pa sila ng trabaho, at ang mas mabigat ay nawalan sila ng mahal sa buhay," ani ng senadora.

Dagdag ni Binay, para mas maging maayos ang pag-handle ng mga labi na nasa mga ospital, bahay o quarantine centers, maaaring pumasok ang DOH at DILG sa isang Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) sa National Federation of Mortuary Stakeholders para sa sistematiko at mabilisang pagkuha ng mga labi na naaayon sa IATF guidelines.

Makalipas ang isang buwan ng lockdown, kasalukuyan pa lamang pinag-uusapan ng DILG, DOH, MMDA at mga lokal na pamahalaan sa Metro Manila ang "management and disposal" ng mga labi na positibo sa COVID-19.

Binanggit ng senadora na sa ilalim ng DSWD Revised Guidelines on AICS para sa burial assistance, kasama ang pag-ako ng kagawaran ang bahagi ng mga nagastos sa punerya at ibang mga gastusin, at halagang P10,000 ayuda sa naiwang pamilya na di kailangan pang magsumite ng case study report.

"Meron binibigay na P10,000 ang DSWD para sa standard burial assistance. Sa sitwasyon ng mga naulilang pamilya dahil sa COVID, maaaring lakihan ng DSWD. Yung pagsagot ng bayarin ay napakalaking bagay na para matulungan natin silang makapag-move on sa gitna ng pandemya," ani Binay.

Nawagan din ang senadora sa mga LGU na mahigpit na i-monitor at tutukan din ang mga crematorium at funeral parlors kung istriktong tumatalima sa mga patakarang inilatag ng IATF at DOH, at alamin kung magkano ang dapat na serbisyo para sa cremation.

Nakikiusap din si Binay sa mga crematorium at puneraya na huwag naman gawing dahilan ang nangyayaring pandemya para makapagsamantala sa mga pamilyang naulila dahil sa COVID-19.

Ayon kay Binay, "Sa nangyayari sa buong mundo ngayon, it's never a good time to die. Malungkot at wala kang karamay. Di ka makapagpaalam man lang sa iyong mga mahal sa buhay. Wala kang last rites, or proper burial. Kaya nakakagalit yung meron kang mababalitaang mga punerarya at crematoriums na nananamantala para pagkakitaan ang pamilyang namatayan."



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Senator Nancy Binay urged the government to shoulder the cost of cremating the remains of victims of COVID-19.

Binay said one of the reasons why there are many unclaimed cadavers in the hospital is because many families do not have the financial resources to handle the cremation costs of their loved ones.

"Sa tingin ko, kayang sagutin ng gobyerno ang gastos sa cremation ng mga pamilyang mahihirap, or the government can extend assistance to families who have immensely suffered financially. Nakakalungkot na walang magawa ang mga pamilyang namatayan dahil maliban sa kailangan nilang bayaran pa ang cremation, nawalan pa sila ng trabaho, at ang mas mabigat ay nawalan sila ng mahal sa buhay," Binay said.

Binay added that the Department of Health or the Department of Interior and Local Government can enter in a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the National Federation of Mortuary Stakeholders to ensure the proper handling of remains in hospitals, homes, and quarantine centers based on IATF guidelines.

A month after the lockdown, the DILG, DOH, MMDA the different LGUs in Metro Manila are only now discussing the "management and disposal" of the remains of COVID-19 deaths.

Binay said that under the DSWD Revised Guidelines on AICS for burial assistance, the department will shoulder part of the funeral cost and the family can receive up to P10,000 assistance even if they do not submit a case study report.

"Meron binibigay na P10,000 ang DSWD para sa standard burial assistance. Sa sitwasyon ng mga naulilang pamilya dahil sa COVID, maaaring lakihan ng DSWD. Yung pagsagot ng bayarin ay napakalaking bagay na para matulungan natin silang makapag-move on sa gitna ng pandemya," Binay said.

Binay also called on all LGUs to strictly monitor crematoriumss and funeral parlors in their areas to ensure that these establishments are adhering to the guidelines set by the IATF and DOH.

Likewise, the senator appealed to crematoriums and funeral parlors not to take advantage of families affected by the current pandemic.

"Sa nangyayari sa buong mundo ngayon, it's never a good time to die. Malungkot at wala kang karamay. Di ka makapagpaalam man lang sa iyong mga mahal sa buhay. Wala kang last rites, or proper burial. Kaya nakakagalit yung meron kang mababalitaang mga punerarya at crematoriums na nananamantala para pagkakitaan ang pamilyang namatayan," Binay said.



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Sen. Cynthia Villar has included in her relief efforts to help communities under the enhanced community quarantine the distribution of vegetable seeds to encourage home gardening and growing of own food.

Villar, chair of the Committee on Agriculture and Food, started the distribution of packed seeds of tomato, eggplant, pumpkin, ampalaya, sweet pepper, hot pepper, corn, sitaw, and mungbean to 61 different barangays in Las Pinas, Cavite and Bulacan.

"I've always advocated for home gardening as a strategy for food security and for the alleviation of nutrient deficiency. It will be a big help for families to have direct access to nutritious foods that they don't have to buy," Villar said.

The lady senator also said home gardening can be practiced by anybody in small patches of land, vacant lots or in containers, making it appealing to families living in urban areas.

She added that the importance of home gardens are also stressed in times of emergencies like typhoon, volcanic eruption, occurrence of frost and now the COVID-19 pandemic, where there are disruptions in the supply of fruits and vegetables.

The packets of seeds distributed by Villar also come with instructions on how to plant and care for the plants.

"We should take advantage of the quarantine, when we are all mandated to stay home and take care of ourselves, to stay productive by starting to plant seeds, grow food and harvest later on," Villar said.

Earlier, Villar encouraged the use of e-learning sites and online tutorials to learn how to plant easy to grow crops. She also said planting is an activity that the family can do together while on quarantine.



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Senator Ronald 'Bato" Dela Rosa expressed full support for the proposed measures which seek to modernize the country's major firefighting force, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), as well as the reclassification of its ranks together with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) to compensate the hard work and dedication of both agencies' personnel to serve the country and its people and to bring it at par with the other law enforcement agencies.

Dela Rosa, Chairman of the Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs, led a public hearing on Wednesday to discuss the proposed bills seeking to modernize the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and the upgrading and renaming of ranks of its personnel including those officials from the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP).

"The bills aim to bolster the efforts of the BFP and its fire prevention program which I totally support considering that fire is an unfortunate event that does not only result in the destruction of property but also the loss of innocent lives," Dela Rosa said during his opening statement.

The former police chief also said that the BFP and BJMP personnel and officials deserve the much-needed attention for improvement to recompense their loyal service to the country and the Filipinos.

"The BFP has not only showcased its gallantry during times of fire emergency. It has well been established that our firemen and firewomen can be a dependable rescue unit in the event of disasters - whether natural or man-made. Just recently, they responded swiftly to the needs of our countrymen caught in the Taal Volcano eruption and not so long ago, they bravely teamed up with our troops in the rescue operations in Marawi," Dela Rosa explained.

"We are also here today to tackle the bills on upgrading and renaming of ranks of the BFP and BJMP. It is not only the fire prevention program that we seek to improve but also the development and personal growth of our hardworking men and women in the BFP and BJMP," Dela Rosa said.

The neophyte senator stressed the urgent need to classify the ranks of the two agencies to be at par with the other line agencies under the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).

"Tila napaghulihan na ng ibang line agencies ng DILG ang BFP at BJMP in terms of rank name and salary grade. We want to address this inequality in the rank classification of our uniformed personnel for they are required and have shown the same amount of sacrifice, dedication and service to the country," Dela Rosa noted.

The public hearing was held in time for the national observance of "Fire Prevention Month" by virtue of Proclamation 115-A signed by then President Ferdinand Marcos.



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Part 3

Mr. President, first of all, I accept the apology of the senator who chairs the Committee on Economic Affairs, Senator Marcos. I accept the apology. However, I have difficulty understanding the explanation that the committee covers a wide range of topics. Because if you look at the resolution, there are five "Whereas" clauses. The three "Whereas" clauses are the background, the citing of the Constitution, what are the IPAs, and what are the jobs of the IPAs. And the last two clauses are very specific on the effect of CITIRA.

So, if you are a resource person and you will receive this, obviously, the topic is CITIRA. That is all I am saying. How do you move forward if this is the resolution? How do you say that in the next hearing, and there is one scheduled on Saturday, you will exclude the concerns on CITIRA? The whole resolution is about CITIRA, dear colleagues.

What do you want me to do? It's all about CITIRA. And to be specific, and that's why I was very clear in saying I was not in the hearing, I had another hearing with our Chairperson Sherwin Gatchalian. Very specifically, our colleague asked the question to the PEZA Director General, what is their feeling about CITIRA? And then after that, she even made a comment that, " So hindi pala totoo ang tsismis na okay na kayo?"

So in response to the statements of the leadership that it is very possible to come out with different reports, of course it's very possible. I already told you. I know that the PEZA Director General was against CITIRA, and then she was on board, and then she was somehow against. So, are we just going to have continuous hearings giving her the floor and the others?

And then the same question was asked the other resource persons there, "Okay ba kayo?" Ang DOF, tinanong din. Okay ba kayo dito sa sunset provision? So bakit ako nag-aksaya ng panahon ko kung mayroon palang ibang maghi-hearing? I can very well focus on something else, Mr. President. I am happy to do so. I just don't want to waste my time and this body's time. I would like a clear resolution on this matter. This will happen again and again if this is clarified very specifically on CITIRA. Somebody else can chair this if that is the decision. But I just want clarity on this.

Thank you.

Part 4

I'd like to put on record that I appreciate every effort that a lot of you have done - to use the words of the Majority Leader - "to mediate." But it's not a matter of mediation. It's a matter of clarifying the jurisdiction. Senator Marcos approached me, she apologized, I accepted.

But the jurisdictional issue remains. She wants to continue to have her hearing on the other related topics. But like I already said, and you may all get a copy of the resolution if you want, the three "Whereas" clauses are the background of the Constitution and what the IPAs are all about. The last two, and the "Now, Therefore" clause is about investigating, in aid of legislation, what is the effect of the incentives scheme on them. That is the very essence of my Committee Report, my dear colleagues, na alam niyo namang inaral ko. So, if one of you and any of you would like to interpellate and make those statements of support or opposition, that is your prerogative. But I have another committee hearing it - and the chairperson herself will say, "Do you still have the heart to inflict CITIRA on these poor exporters?" Why do you have a chairperson on Committee on Ways and Means defending this on the floor if you have another chairperson hearing the same matter?

So that's it. I sound exasperated because I am. I'd like to move on with work. But I cannot unless this jurisdictional issue is resolved. It doesn't have to be now. But please don't try to mediate. Resolve the jurisdictional issue. Thank you.



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Part 1

Mr. President, I just have a point of inquiry. Earlier today, there was a hearing in the Committee on Economic Affairs, and I'll read the title of the resolution that was taken up.

Mr. President, for the information of the body, I'll repeat what I said... Earlier this morning, there was a hearing held by the Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by Senator Imee Marcos on the resolution inquiring in aid of legislation "into the effectivity of the investment promotion agencies and its corresponding incentive regime in generating revenues, creating jobs, and providing business opportunities for the people."

Mr. President, dear colleagues, I think everyone knows that Committee Report No. 50 is CITIRA, which is on the floor. So I would just like to pose my question to the body and ask that, if a subject matter is already taken up on the floor, have we changed our rules? Are we allowed to have another committee conduct a hearing on exactly the same subject matter in another hearing without even informing the chair, even on a personal level?

For the record, this committee is secondarily referred. But we have already conducted numerous hearings on this matter and continue to reach out to our colleagues. We even had a briefing for all the staff of our colleagues, and many of you have sent their staff and I thank you for the time.

So I just pose that question because it is a little bit confusing to this representation that I chair this committee and there will be another hearing, hearing the effect of the CITIRA or the proposed measure by the DOF in another hearing.

The resolution is available for everyone to see, the "Whereas" clause specifically points to the ineffectivity of CITIRA in addressing the need. So will we have parallel hearings now? That is the question I'd like to pose to the body.

Thank you.

Part 2

Mr. President, if I may just clarify. I would be very happy to hear the opinions and concerns of our other colleagues. But just to clarify, in the hearing that Senator Marcos conducted, and she may confirm this, specific provisions of the CITIRA bill were taken up, including the creation of the FIRB, including the footloose industries, the sunset provision. So these are very specific to the CITIRA bill that is on the floor. And the use of the POGOS as analogy is also, to my humble opinion, cannot be used by analogy. The chair of the Committee on Labor, when he decided to have a hearing, we talked about it, and we discussed, which he did manifest on the floor, that he will not touch on the tax measure because there are pending bills in the Committee on Ways and Means on the tax measure. It was not even a lengthy discussion, it was a given, because as the Majority Floor Leader pointed out, it may not be in the rules, but it is a practice that we have had time and again.

And also for the record, and I would also be very happy to hear the confirmation and clarification by the senator who chairs the Committee on Economic Affairs, one of the speakers was no less than the director general of PEZA, who is known to have been very vocal about her opposition, and who as at some point said that she will support, but I guess she changed her mind. So she is the person who was given the platform to speak there.

I don't mind, dear colleagues, you can speak to any resource person. You can invite them to your office, but to have them in a hearing on a matter that was pending on the floor, is a slightly different thing. And that is why I would like to have a healthy discussion on this matter, because it's a little bit difficult when I'm chairing a difficult subject matter, and there are parallel hearings going on with resource persons who have attended my hearing and who have already given their official statements. And I am not aware that they have changed their positions on it.

Thank you, Mr. President.



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Senator Imee Marcos warned that the Philippines has six months left to amend the country's Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA) or risk facing international sanctions that will dampen confidence in the country's business environment and political stability.

Marcos, who chairs the Senate committee on economic affairs, said the country is in the middle of a 12-month observation period set by the world's anti-money laundering body, the Paris-based Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

"Pagdating ng Oktubre, dapat may karagdagang ngipin na ang AMLA at baka mabansagan na naman tayong 'non-cooperative country' o kaya 'high-risk jurisdiction,' gaya nang nangyari noong 2001 bago maisabatas ang AMLA," Marcos said.

The entry of billions of pesos worth of foreign currency in recent months has revived concerns about laundered money being used to set up illegal businesses for gambling, human trafficking, prostitution, and illegal drug dealing, and to fund anti-government and terrorist activities.

Possible AMLA amendments Marcos is considering in a draft bill are to give the Anti-Money Laundering Council "more teeth" to investigate suspicious transactions without being hindered by restraining orders from the lower courts, to add real estate developers and brokers to the list of persons covered by the law, and to consider tax crimes and violations of the Strategic Trade Management Act (RA 10697), or the law against the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their financing, as predicate offenses to money laundering.

If the Philippines fails to pass FATF scrutiny and is marked as a threat to the international financial system, banking sanctions may again be imposed on OFW remittances and slow down their crucial contribution to the country's foreign currency reserves, Marcos said.

Foreign countries may also impose stricter and longer due diligence checks on Philippine companies, affecting the ease of doing business, Marcos added.

The additional costs that will be incurred from stricter business requirements may also force banks to apply higher interest rates, which in turn will raise production costs for local businesses, making both of them less competitive.



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For this year's celebration of International Women's Day, Senator Risa Hontiveros has a message for men: "You should take part in the fight for women's rights."

Hontiveros made this call to challenge Filipino men to be more proactive in ensuring gender equality among men and women.

"Male privilege should be used one last time to provide a platform for issues surrounding women, then dismantled," declared Hontiveros, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality. "Male privilege is also a structural issue, perpetuated by a system that keeps women oppressed," she added.

At the same time, Hontiveros said that men should unlearn 'toxic macho traits they have grown accustomed to for generations,' especially those that result in violence against women.

"Men need to unlearn this entitlement to women's bodies, clothing and attention," the Senator explained. "This entitlement results in pervasive gender-based abuses directed at women," she further said.

"Sexual harassment, domestic violence, and rape start with the thought of ownership over women," Hontiveros explained, citing that in the Philippines, a woman is raped every hour while one in four women have experienced spousal violence.

"Kailangan I-acknowledge ng mga lalaki na prone sila sa mga traits na ito and yet they also have the power to stop themselves from exercising these traits," the Senator said.

"Kaya ngayong araw, at sa mga araw na susunod pa, men must actively participate in women's call for justice and equality. Sama sama tayo dito," Hontiveros concluded.



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Officials of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) will need to do a lot of explaining on their failure to submit to a mandatory audit when they face the Senate Energy Committee again on Tuesday, March 10.

Committee Chairman Win Gatchalian initially gave the NGCP until February 10 to comply with the order to subject its operations to a mandatory audit following national security concerns. The deadline has been extended until February 17 prior to NGCP's request for an extension.

During the initial hearing early February, Senators were alarmed when NGCP officials themselves admitted to numerous cyber attacks but did not report such incidents to proper authorities.

"With just a single attack, we should already be panicking. Hindi na dapat yan umabot ng maraming attacks," Gatchalian said.

"Nagulat ako. We were merely contemplating on how to deal about future cyber attacks, yun pala nangyayari na pala sa atin. Kaya kung hindi sila papayag na pumasok ang DOE, itutuloy namin ang aming recommendation na i-revoke ang franchise nila." he emphasized.

It was during the last hearing when officials of the Department of Energy (DOE) and the National Transmission Corporation (TransCo) revealed that NGCP officials have refused to be audited several times.

There are mounting fears that NGCP is being controlled and operated by China through the State Grid Corporation of China (SGCC) which has 40% stake in the company.

The committee also found out that a certain Wen Bo had signed contracts as Chief Technical Officer (CTO) of the NGCP. Gatchalian stressed that having a non-Filipino in the top management posts of the company is a clear violation of the Constitution citing Section 11, Article 12 of the 1987 Constitution which states that "all executive and managing officers of any corporation or association must be citizens of the Philippines."

The next hearing will also scrutinize further NGCP's concession agreements, its franchise, and its performance.



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Q: Ngayon po ay nasa state of public health tayo dahilan sa covid-19, ano po iyong assement n'yo diyan? Napapanahon na po ba?

SFMD: Unang-una, liwanagin natin. Mayroon tayong bataas na ipanasa noong Abril 2019, RA 11332, ito ay nagre-require nf mandatory notifeable diseases and health evens of public health concern. Ibig sabihin, may batas na nagre-require ng mandatory reporting on the part of Department of Health. Ano ang nalagay sa batas? Ang DOH ay ma authority to declare an epidemic of national concern kagaya ng covid-19. The law says that when the same threatens national security, the President shall declare state of public health emergency and mobilize government and non-governmental agencies to respond the threats. Una, in cases where the epidemic threatens the national security.

Q: Paano po yung definition kung may bantay na siya sa national security?

SFMD: That is a political decision on the part of the President because he has more information - mayroong declaration na this is a public health issue and a state of public health emergency is declared. Ano po ang ibig sabihin nito? Ang nakalagay sa batas, kapag nagdeklara ng state of public health emergency, mobilization ng government agencies to respond to the threats. Mandatory ang requirement sa batas na ito. Kahit nandiyan ang covid-19 o wala, nandiyan yung listahan ng diseases na dapat i-monotor ang occurrence at dapat i-report kaagad. So, epidemic iyan at kapag nandiyan yung national security concern, the President may declare a state of public health emergency.

Nababasa ko sa pahayagan na sinabi ni Sec. Duque na sabi niya, the declaration would help ease the procurement of supplies and logistics to handle the acute respiratory diseases.

Q: Ibig sabihin, sinasabi ni Sec. Duque na kapag may declaration, easy access sa pondo, wala ng bidding, ganoon po ba iyon?

SFMD: Wala pong nakalagay sa batas na balewalain yung procurement laws, may bidding pa rin iyan. Ang sinasabi lang sa batas ay to mobilize. Bakit iyan? Dahilan sa halimbawa, itong covid-19, kapag ikaw ay may pneumonia o other respiratory diseases, iyan ang nagiging dahilan kung bakit nagkakaroon ng widespread illness...

Q: Kasi iyan daw po yung mas delikadong mamatay...

SFMD: Yes, mas delikado kapay mag respiratory illness ka. Ang tanong: wala bang supply ang DOH ng mga gamot sa pneumonia and othe respiratory ailments?

Q: Parang dapat hindi magkulang kasi hindi ba number one killer sa bansa yung tuberculosis?

SFMD: That's correct. Kaya dapat nandiyan yung gamot sa supply nila. Yung batas ang sinasabi lamang ay mandatory reporting requirement at kung naging national security issue ay pwedeng mag-declare ng public emergency. Ngunit iyan nakalagay sa batas ay to mobilize national agencies to respond to the threat.

Q: Ibig sabihin yung parang sinasabing walang ng procurement at bilhin na yung dapat bilhin, hindi po ganoon iyon?

SFMD: Hindi po ganoon iyon kasi ang dapat nilang bilhin dapat nandiyan na. nakalagay iyan sa budget kaya dapat may adequate supply tayo niyan.

Q: Ano po yung pagkakaiba ng may deklarasyon at walang deklarasyon?

SFMD: Ang ibig lang sabihin, matindin ang monitoring, reporting requirement. Ang tanong diyan: yung reporting ingrastructure ng DOH at sapat ba? Is it in place to have adequate reporting? In fact, may mga nagsasabi na baka masyadong hindi nare-report kasi wala kang naririnig na cases of covid-19? Anong reporting ang natatanggap ng DOH para i-report sa publiko? Sapat ba itong information infrastructure nila? Dapat may listahan sila ng mga diseases na posibleng maging epidemic. They are supposed to maintain a list of notifeable diseases. Ipinasa pa naming ito noong April 2016. Ngunit hanggang ngayon parang wala pang implementing rules and regulations. Mayroon po ba tayong IRR dito?

Sinabi ng Pangulo na dapat may transparency dito at iyon ang utos ng Pangulo at iyon ay sang-ayon sa Saligang Batas na dapat may transparency sa gobyerno. Dito nagkakaroon ng conflict kung sino ang dapat mag-report at dapat bang i-report.

Sa akin, the public should be informed. Iyon ang tungkilin ng pamahalaan sa taumbayan.Ang sabi nga ng Pangulo, transparency. Ang kailangan lang itago rito ay yung private information (pangalan) dahil sa stigma, kung ikaw ay tinamaan ng covid-19. There must be respect of private information.

Q: Mukhang hindi klaro at mukhang nagtuturuan. Kung may IRR ang batas, yung mga ganong issue ay dapat naliwanagan na.

Napakahalaga ng information sa mga panahon nito para makapag-ingat ang taumbayan.

SFMD: Ang bawal lang, yung bawal lang yung maglabas ng private information tungkol sa pasyente. Hindi bawal ang maglabas ng information tungkol sa ospital. Iyan ang importanteng ipaliwanag.

Q: Yung performance ni Sec. Duque, sapat po ba o kulang?

SFMD: Unang-una, huwag kalimutan na itong batas na ito ay mandatory requirement process para malaman ng taumbayan. Hindi natin alam kung may adequate information infrastructure ang DOH para malaman nila ang nagyayari sa buong bansa. Kasi importante iyang information. Wala akong alam that there is an adequate information system in place right no. Bakit wala pang IRR itong RA 11332?

Q: May pagkukulang po ba?

SFMD: Mukhang may pagkukulang in the information.mIyan ang kabuuan ng RA 11332, information sa publiko.

Kasi yung covid-19, wala pang gamt dito kaya yung sinasabing ease in the procurement process, hindi ko maintindihan, dapat yung mga gamot sa pneumonia and other respiratory diseases nandiyan na iyan dapat. Ano yung ipo-procure nila rito sa covid-19 wala pa namang gamot? Kaya hindi ko maintidihan iyang ease of procurement na sinasabi nila.

Q: Bakit po ninyo gustong ipatigil itong POGOs? Alin ba ipatitigilg? Yung lahat o yun lang hindi naka-registered?

SFMD: Ang conclusion, itong POGO ay beyond regulation. Mukhang hindi na kayang i-regulate. Unang-una, may 60 licensed POGOs, sino itong licensees? Other than the 60, mayroon silang sub-licensing.

Q: Yung sub-licensing, nakalisensya sa Pagcor at mayroon silang mga anak?

SFMD: Tama po iyan. Mayroon silang anak. Mayroon silang 200 service providers, sub-licensees. Maliban doon, mayroon ding mga apo, dahila sa may mga hindi licensed na outlets. It has become uncontrollable. Hindi nila alam kung ilang ang POGO licenses at operators, workers, etc. Kaya ang daming mga figures, may ilang libong manggagawa kung saan-saan.

Q: Pangalawa, nagbabayad ba ng income tax ito? Dapat magbayad sila.

SFMD: Sinabi ng Pagcor na P8 billion last year, sinabi nila na possible na maging P20 billion industry ito in the coming years.

Iyan ay registration fees. Hindi iyan income taxes kaya si Sec. Dominguez, gusto niyang mangolekta ng corporate income taxes kaya nag-aaway sila kung ito ay subject to tax.

Sino po ba itong 60 licensees na ito? Mayroong listahan pero hindi alam kung sino yung nasa likod ng mga ito. Yung iba corporation. Limited eh. Wala akong nakitang pangalan ng tao.

Kung income tax, ang katwiran nila dito sila nag-operate pero ang clients abroad.

Ang prinsipyo sa taxation, where the taxable activity takes place. Ang ibig ba sabihin, dito ako nagtrabaho pero binabayaran ako sa ibang bansa? The taxable activity happens here kaya dapat magbayad sila.

Q: Bale dalawa ito, yung corporate income tax and individual tax?

SFMD: Yung mga workers, dapat may withholding tax iyan, yung income earned here.

Q: Nasaan ang problema doon kung hindi namomonitor kung ilan itong POGOs?

SFMD: Dapat sa Pagcor kasi sila ang nagbibigay ng license kaya sila ang supervising agency kaya sila ang dapat magbigay ng information. Taxable po ang operation ng POGOs.

Sino ang dapat magseguro na dapat nakukuhanan ng income tax kasi itong BIR nagreklamo na sinasabi 11 out of 18 registered sa Pagor, ayaw magbayad ng tax?

SFMD: Kasi yung bawat manggagawa, dapat may TIN. Iyan ay obligasyon ng employer na magwithhold ng taxes at i-remit sa BIR. Iyan sigurado ako na taxable iyan. The taxble activity happens in the country.

Q: Kung hindi sila nakokolekta, bakit hindi pagbutihin na lang ang collection kung iyan ang problema?

SFMD: Hindi lang iyon ang problema. Maraming nangyari. Inaamin ng kapulisan, si General Elezar, sinabi niya na mula noong 2017, 73 casino-related kidnappings at ang biktima ay umaabot sa mahigit 80. Mayroong homicide, noong 2019 pito ag pinatay, at pinakamabigat yung prostitution dens na dumami dahilan dito.

Kaya hindi lang dahilan sa hindi naibabayad na buwis, because these are the social problems.

Sinasabi ko, are you saying that okay lang yung may pinapatay, kini-kidnapped, prostitution dens, dahilan sa P8 billion na kinikita natin? Iyang POGO industry, sinabi ng AMLC, 0.029 percent lang sang benefit sa economy. I salute the AMLC for the information that they gather notwithstanding the non-cooperation of these agencies.

Ito po ay nangyari na dumami ito sa nakalipas na tatlong taon. It has become uncontrollable. Kasi ang estimate, 200,000 workers at walang Filipino rito. Karamihan dito mga turista ang permit.

Q: Hindi ito nagbibigay ng trabaho sa mga Filipino?

SFMD: Hindi ito nagbibigay ng trabaho sa mga Filipino. Maliban siguro sa mga restaurants na kinakainan nila, pero that's negligible. Ang sabi nga ng AMLC, less than one-third of one percent ang benepisyo sa teknolohiya.

Q: Kayo po ang nag-akda o isa sa mga nag-akda ng AMLA? bago

SFMD: Ako yung Pangulo ng Senado noon. Bawal gamitin yung ating banking system para labhan yung maruming pera. Kaya tinawag na laundering. Para kang naglalaba ng damit. Ang prinsipyo rito, kung yung pera mo ay galing sa drugs at nagdeposito ka sa bank, iyan ay lagpas sa limit, iya ay tinatawag nating suspicious transaction at obligado ang banks na i-report ito sa AMLC. Ganoon din sa casino, kapag lagpas ng $100,000 dapat i-report ng casinos.

Sa akin simple lang ang solution: alisin mo yung lisensya ng mga iyan. Bawal iyan sa China. Inaamin ng Pagcor, P8 billion daw ang kinita. Kapalit ng P8 billion, patayan, kidnapping? Talagang balewala yung P8 billion kumpara mo sa social cost of having POGOs here.

Q: Sino ang magpapatigil nito? Kailanga ba ng batas?

SFMD: Hindi kailangan ang batas. Walang batas authorizing POGOs. Iyan ay nabuo dahil sa license na ibinibigay ng Pacgor.Ang remedy, hindi batas kung hindi tanggalin ang license. Sa Cambodia, kinansel ng China ang passports. Hindi kailangan na mag-akto ang China dito sa atin. Alisin na lang yung 60 licenses.

Q: Aakto ba ang Pagco ang sabi ninyo nga bakit sila sobrang in love?

SFMD: I do not know. Ano ba ang remedy rito? Simple remedy: alisin yung mga license.

Q: Dapat bang si President ang mag-utos nito?

SFMD: They are getting the signals from the President. I assume that for such an important policy issue, they must consult the President. I do not know the operations of Pagcor.

Q: Who will be put to task?

SFMD: Unang-una, first on the line ang Pagcor, because hindi nila bingyan ng pansin yung malaking dagok sa sambayanan kung hindi ang pera lamang na pumapasok sa kanila.

Q: Bukas daw po ipa-file yung petition sa SC?

SFMD: Iyon po ang plano dahilan sa tapos na ang petition, na-finalize na kahapon. Tumulong po tayo sa paggawa ng petition. Ako po ang haharap na abogado ng senado.

Q: Yung gagamitin po yung Senate Resolution 337 yung gagamitin, bakit hindi na-specify na for VFA?

SFMD: Hindi lang ang VFA ang pinag-uusapan dito kung hindi ang kapangyarihan ng senado sang-ayon sa Saligang Batas nag magbigay ng consent sa pag-withdraw sa treaties.

Kapag sinabi ng SC na dapat magbigay ng consent ang senado, ang hinhingi po natin sa SC ay utusan si ES Medialdea at Sec Locsin na ipadala ang VFA termination sa senado para pagdebatehan.

Sa senado, may 20 tratado na sa ratification dapat may advice at consent ng senado. Maliwanag po iyan. Kaiangan ang abiso ng senado.



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Opposition Senator Leila M. de Lima has thanked veteran Australian legislator for his urgent call on the Australian government to impose travel ban and property-related sanctions against human rights violators around the world, including the Philippines.

De Lima, a known prisoner of conscience, penned a thank-you note addressed to Hon. Chris Hayes, the chief opposition enforcer of the Labor Party, for delivering an impassioned speech about the unabated human rights abuses in Asia-Pacific region.

"I am writing to express my appreciation for your continued and unflinching commitment to raise awareness of human rights issues in my country, particularly with respect to my three-year arbitrary detention and the unabated summary executions of Filipino men, women and children resulting from the Duterte government's 'war on drugs'", she wrote to Hayes.

"The discourse, interest and monitoring of parliaments abroad and the international human rights community on the deteriorating human rights situation in my country and the absence of accountability of those responsible for these violations have served as further impetus in, and strengthened my resolve to continue with my fight for the respect of human rights and the upholding of the rule of law, despite and inspite of my detention," she added.

In his speech before the Australian House of Representatives, Hayes denounced how Mr. Duterte continues to act with impunity even after the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) called for an independent and transparent inquiry in the implementation of the Philippine government's all-out war on drugs.

He cited the unabated extrajudicial and summary executions under the Duterte administration's war on drugs that resulted in the death of more than 20,000 suspected drug offenders, including innocent bystanders, such as children and women.

Last June, at least 18 countries, including Australia, approved the UNHRC resolution calling for an independent investigation on alleged EJKs in the Philippines.

Hayes also cited before the members of the Australian Parliament about the protracted political persecution being experienced by De Lima whose unjust detention has already entered its fourth year last Feb. 24.

"The way [Mr. Duterte] deals with many of his detractors is similar to the case we see with Senator Leila de Lima. She's an elected senator of the Philippines parliament, but she continues to be detained on trumped up charges, certainly politically motivated," Hayes pointed out.

"Senator de Lima's commitment to democracy, justice and respect for the rule of law is certainly commendable and, in these circumstances, most courageous," he added.

The US Senate recently passed a resolution urging the US Department of State to apply the Global Magnitsky Act against Philippine government officials responsible for De Lima's unjust detention as well as for extrajudicial killings in the country.

Hayes said Australia should also pass a similar law to curb human rights violators in the region, most especially to countries which Australia has a strategic and humanitarian relationship with.

"I would like to [draw] attention to a mechanism which is gathering momentum internationally and also proving effective in promoting human rights through its use of foreign policy and is currently being investigated as part of an inquiry by the subcommittee of the Committee of Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade," Hayes said.

"This mechanism is premised on the use of targeted sanctions against serious human rights violators abroad, including issues of visa bans and asset freezes. This is not a new concept, but certainly one which has been enacted in the United States of America, Canada and the United Kingdom and is seen to be part of what is known as the Global Magnitsky movement," he added.

De Lima, the first prominent political prisoner under the Duterte administration, commended Hayes' commitment and courage and said that she is looking forward to when Australia passes its own version of the Global Magnitsky Act.

"It is heartwarming to note that there are efforts in the Parliament of Australia, which are being spearheaded by your goodself and like-minded parliamentarians, to pass a national legislation that will hold human rights abusers and corrupt officials accountable for their actions," she said.

"The Global Magnitsky Movement is gaining momentum, and it is heartening to learn that Australia, known for its record on human rights protection and promotion, is showing the world that respect for human rights and the rule of law cannot and should not be compromised," she added.



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Today, we celebrate International Women's Day to recognize the strides we have made towards gender equality, as well as mark the 25 years since the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action ensured progressive commitments for advancing women's rights.

With this year's theme, "I am Generation Equality: Realizing Women's Rights", we must realize that the requirements for equality, now more than ever, are within our grasp.

As Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Social Justice, Welfare and Rural Development, I have filed bills and resolutions on protecting women in state custody, increasing age of sexual consent, ending child and forced marriage, increasing the number of women in the police force, and calling for an investigation into child cybersex crimes and rise in teenage pregnancies.

I also laud the passage into law of an expanded maternity leave from 60 days to 105 days, as well as penalties for gender-based harassment in public places, including online spaces.

Despite the positive steps we have made in empowering women's rights, a call for justice remains for all those who have been, and continue to be harassed, abused and vilified for being women of courage, conviction, and compassion.

I have been unjustly detained for 1,109 days now. All over the world, many women human rights defenders like me continue to be oppressed and politically imprisoned for speaking truth to power. An increasing number of women parliamentarians like me are being subjected to misogynistic attacks by men in power.

Let us express our outrage against authoritarian world leaders who wield gender-based violence to persecute critics and normalize misogyny and rape culture with their sexist slurs and harassment.

We must work together with full resolve to make gender equality beneficial not just to women and girls, but for all humankind. Our generation has the power to make this universal aspiration a reality.

LEILA M. DE LIMA

PNP Custodial Center, Camp Crame

8 March 2020



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Indicating that more needs to be done to further gender equality around the world, Opposition Senator Leila M. de Lima today called for an end to misogyny and gender-based persecution, especially by those who are in power.

In her International Women's Day Message, De Lima underscored that in the Philippines, women are still attacked and persecuted because they dare to defend women's rights and fight derogatory social norms wielded by oppressive societies.

"I have been unjustly detained for 1,109 days now. All over the world, many women human rights defenders like me continue to be oppressed and politically imprisoned for speaking truth to power," she said.

"An increasing number of women parliamentarians like me are being subjected to misogynistic attacks by men in power," she added.

De Lima has been arbitrarily detained and continues to receive misogynistic attacks by Mr. Duterte and his allies and avid supporters because she consistently opposed the brutal implementation of the administration's all-out war on drugs.

International human rights community have noted how Mr. Duterte and his minions have not relented on their sexist remarks and vile personal attacks against De Lima.

However, De Lima's continued unjust and illegal detention did not stop her from standing up for women's rights in the Philippines. As Senator, she continued to promote empowerment of Filipino women.

"As Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Social Justice, Welfare and Rural Development, I have filed bills and resolutions on protecting women in state custody, increasing age of sexual consent, ending child and forced marriage, increasing the number of women in the police force, and calling for an investigation into child cybersex crimes and rise in teenage pregnancies," she said.

"I also supported the passage into law of an expanded maternity leave from 60 days to 105 days, as well as penalties for gender-based harassment in public places, including online spaces," she added.

The lady Senator from Bicol also highlighted the United Nations theme "I am Generation Equality: Realizing Women's Rights" - a call to advance women's rights to promote real and lasting gender equality around the world.

De Lima also commended the 25th year commemorating the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a gathering of nations in 1995 which committed to advance women's rights and equality around the world.

"Despite the positive steps we have made in empowering women's rights, a call for justice remains for all those who have been, and continue to be harassed, abused and vilified for being women of courage, conviction, and compassion," she said.

"We must work together with full resolve to make gender equality beneficial not just to women and girls, but for all humankind. Our generation has the power to make this universal aspiration a reality," she added.

In this 18th Congress, De Lima has filed Senate Bill (SB) 378 protecting women in state custody, SB 622 increasing the age of consent to 18 to protect minors against rape and other forms of sexual exploitation, and SB 1147 increasing the hiring of more female police officers in the Philippine National Police.



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"We are at a crucial point where communication is vital in confronting a state of public health emergency."

Following the health department's decision to raise the alert system on Covid-19, Sen. Nancy Binay today called on government communication agencies to prioritize public health interests in the light of a possible corona virus outbreak.

"Kailangan mag-step up ang ibang agencies at PCOO in elevating the ante in risk communication. Wag na muna nilang ubusin ang oras nila sa kung anong roadshow sa Europe dahil dapat Pilipinas muna ang bigyan natin ng focus para labanan ang paglaganap ng Covid-19," Binay pointed out.

With alert warning raised to "Code Red Sublevel-1", the senator said the Philippines is already in the threshold of a public health emergency and the Department of Health is in need of risk communication experts to help them explain the facts to the public, local government officials, and even to private institutions.

"In these times of confusion, panic is the enemy. Importante ang role ng risk communication ng gobyerno in order to manage much of the panic around the virus. Ang tanong ko sa PCOO, maliban sa pino-post sa 'Laging Handa PH' Facebook page, meron na ba silang ready and executable national and local risk communication plans for this kind of public health emergency we're in?" the senator asked.

According to Binay, it would be best if Malacanang sets up a high-level risk communication team composed of representatives from different agencies to ensure that information and data coming from government agencies, other than DOH, are vetted and verified.

"I hope PCOO gets its priorities straight. Yung isang oras na video documentary on drug war eh baka pwede rin gumawa ng kahit 2-minuter na infomercials in different dialects. It makes public health officials' jobs harder kapag may mga taong na di naman bihasa sa public health ang nagsasalita para sa DOH, and making it difficult for people to know who to trust. That's why the DOH needs all the help from legit government communication portals in providing factual, timely and honest information to a near-panicking public," the senator added.

USE OF PUBLIC SERVICE TIME

Binay said the PCOO, thru the Philippine Information Agency, can use the free airtime alloted for government public service announcements in national and local TV and radio stations.

Broadcast franchise grantees are required by law to provide adequate public service time to enable the government to reach the public on important issues, and assist in the functions of public information and education like health advisories such as Covid-19.

"I hope the PCOO does have any communication plan in handling a Covid-19 emergency scenario, otherwise it somehow gives us a picture that government is not in control of the situation. The danger of fake news and misinformation is very real. Being ill-prepared during emergencies undermines the trust in our institutions," she noted.

Binay said effective communication is critical during emergencies like the Covid-19 outbreak, as containment remains a major concern for everyone.

"This is no longer a medical issue but a horrifying social issue. Sana, kung gaano ka-intense at persuasive ang ginagawa nilang roadshow para sa Europe, sana ganoon din ka-aggressive ang kampanya nila sa mga probinsya kung paano maiwasan ang Covid-19 at kung ano ang dapat gawin sa pag-contain nito," the senator said.



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Now is the time to be careful and vigilant but don't panic because there is no reason to do so.

Senator Sonny Angara said the "first local transmission" of the COVID-19 in the country did not come as too much of a surprise considering the number of people traveling in and out of the country regularly.

"What is important is that we are able to identify these cases, treat the infected and take all the necessary steps to prevent the disease from spreading," Angara said.

"Kung ikukumpara pa din natin ang bilang ng kaso ng COVID-19 sa Pilipinas ay di hamak na mas maganda pa din ang kalagayan natin sa ibang bansa. Pero hindi ibig sabihin nito ay magiging complacent tayo dahil tulad ng nakita natin sa ibang lugar, mabilis ang pagkalat ng sakit na ito," he added.

Angara advised the Department of Health (DOH) to be very transparent in its reporting and for the appropriate agencies of government to take part in the dissemination of information regarding the COVID-19 cases, the ways to avoid catching the disease and the necessary public advisories on what to do and not to do and the places to avoid.

"Information is the most essential element in addressing the situation and preventing unwanted behavior and reactions. There is too much false information going around in social media so the government should constantly come out with its reports in all forms of media," Angara said.

Wag na natin hintayin na mag panic pa ang mga tao dahil sa may nabasang mali na ulat tungkol sa COVID-19. Ilabas lang natin ang lahat ng impormasyon at sabihin kung ano dapat ang gawin," Angara added.

The DOH said the fifth confirmed case of the COVID-19 in the country is also the first case of local transmission.

It has since raised code red, sub-level 1 and recommended to the President to declare a state of public health emergency, which Health Secretary Francisco Duque III explained is "a preemptive call to ensure national and local government and public and private healthcare providers can prepare for possible increase in suspected and confirmed cases."

Angara, who is chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, also urged the agencies concerned to declare any financial requirements that they need in the efforts to contain the disease.

"There are funds contained in the 2020 General Appropriations Act that can be tapped for this purpose and if these are not enough then the DOH should say so. Kami naman sa kongreso ay handa na kumilos para ibigay ito kung kinakailangan," Angara said.



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Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel F. Zubiri is calling for stronger government response and action against the spread of COVID-19, following the Department of Health's announcement of two new confirmed cases on 6 March 2020.

"We need stricter quarantine measures, and we need protocols not only in our hospitals, but also in places where COVID-19 has been discovered to spread, such as workplaces and areas visited by patients who have been confirmed for the virus," Zubiri said.

"For instance, when the news broke out about the San Juan patient, I saw footage of my friend, Mayor Zamora, inspecting the Greenhills area without protective hazmat gear, with a number of people surrounding him, which could have placed them in danger. What are the protocols for this? This is a place that the patient has been known to frequent, surely it needs to be cordoned off and cleared of people, and anyone who needs to go there must be fully protected and the area fully disinfected."

"Another case involves an area in BGC that is full of restaurants and bars and is frequented by people all the time. Shouldn't these places have been disinfected and monitored? We don't want to create panic amongst our people, but we also don't want to fall into the complacency that initially pervaded in countries like Iran, South Korea, and Italy, and now they have thousands of cases and hundreds of deaths."

"We cannot afford to have slow and reactive government response to COVID-19. I am urging a more proactive approach from our agencies and local governments."

Zubiri also called for the early summer release of schools, "to allow our kids to stay safe at home and to allow our schools to be disinfected."

"There are only a few days left 'til the summer break, so we should ask DepEd to just order the early break, as what has been done to hundreds of millions of school kids all over the world to avoid contamination and spread."

"I also hope DOH is making testing kits available at all hospitals, so anyone with cough and colds can get tested. I don't think this is excessive. Let's not be complacent. We have seen how the virus has completely terrorized other countries. Let us not wait for the same thing to happen to us before we spring to action."



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The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) should ramp up its efforts to encourage employers to adopt telecommuting work arrangements in their respective organizations as appropriate to minimize the risk of spreading COVID-19 among workers, according to Senator Joel Villanueva.

"Telecommuting will help minimize the risk of spreading diseases such as COVID-19 by reducing the need for workers to go from their homes to their places of work, on the road to their offices through mass transport, and gather in their offices," said Villanueva, chair of the Senate Committee on Labor, Employment, and Human Resources Development, who principally authored and sponsored the law, Republic Act No. 11165.

"While it's not for all workers because some need to be physically present in their places of work, telecommuting will also help minimize work disruption and stem the projected economic impact of the disease," the lawmaker continued.

Villanueva also pointed out that employers must adhere to their obligations to occupational safety and health standards, which mandates a safe working environment for workers. Companies are expected to vet the safety of their workplace through designated safety officers who can call for a work stoppage if an imminent danger for workers has been determined.

"Non-compliance to our occupational safety and health standards is against our laws, not to mention, morally reprehensible because it puts the lives of workers at risk. There will always be a way to maintain worker productivity, like putting in place telecommuting work arrangements to make sure office operations continue without a hitch," Villanueva said.

The law's implementing rules and regulations, signed in March 2019, state that employers and workers must mutually agree on the telecommuting policy in their places of work.

The work arrangement "must not be less than the minimum labor standards set by law, and shall include compensable work hours, a minimum number of work hours, overtime, rest days, entitlement to leave benefits, social welfare benefits, and security of tenure," according to the IRR.

Villanueva also called on the Department of Health to be more "forthcoming" in disclosing COVID-19 cases to allow the public, especially workers, to be more discerning as they make their day-to-day decisions like commuting to their places of work.

"We recognize the authority of the DOH in the management and containment of the disease. But all we ask from the agency is that they should be forthcoming with timely, transparent disclosures on cases. There should be no cover ups. Our country already suffers from the malady of misinformation long before this disease began. The remedy is correct, honest, transparent disclosures," Villanueva said.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) projected that the Philippine economy could lose between 87,000 to 252,000 jobs in five sectors, in addition to $669 million to $1.94 billion in GDP, if COVID-19 spreads in the country.

The multilateral lender also estimated that the disease's impact to the Philippine economy, using their moderate-case assumptions that factored precautions the government implemented in January, was around 0.3 percent of GDP.



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On International Women's Day, we celebrate the many milestones on the road to women empowerment, and we recommit ourselves to continue the fight for the rights and equal opportunities of women and girls around the world.

We sometimes wonder what the future would look like if it were led by women.

Through the years, whether it's leading needed conversations about education, gender equality, self-esteem, or climate change, an increasing number of young women are stepping forward as change agents.

There's climate crisis activist Greta Thunberg, transgender activist Nisha Ayub, former Miss Universe title holders Pia Wurtzbach and Catriona Gray, among other young women who have stormed the world with their advocacies.

And there are young women as well, who are simply aware of their society and unflinching in their beliefs and are not afraid to speak out, like my own daughter, Frankie.

Girls and young women are simply unstoppable.

Half the world is women, and half the world is under 25 years of age. Imagine the potential if we invest in women and girls, when we allow them to rise and achieve their full potential. The world would be brighter, more peace, more prosperous for all.

An empowered and empowering Women's Day to all!



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More at: https://pinglacson.net/2020/03/07/on-the-dohs-procedures-in-dealing-with-the-covid-19-phenomenon/

Do we have enough testers to cover a decent number of our population, especially in the more vulnerable areas of the country? If no, the DOH may be underreporting, albeit unintentionally.

Having said that, we do not see the problem of the virus as it actually exists. This is a top health priority, and government must invest heavily not only on prevention and cure by way of research, but also on containment. We have many homegrown medical experts in and out of government.

This is one phenomenon that should bring us together as a nation.



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Senator Risa Hontiveros reiterated her call for a 'work from home' option after a company in Taguig confirmed that an employee tested positive for the 2019 novel coronavirus or COVID-19.

"It is in the interest of workers' health," Hontiveros said on Thursday, asking employers to provide the said 'work from home' option for employees. "Kung pwede namang hindi araw-araw pumasok at mag-commute, mas maiiwasan natin ang risk of transmission," she explained.

Currently, it is unclear if the employee of a professional service firm in Taguig is one of the two confirmed cases in the country recently reported by the Department of Health [DOH].

The Senator also expressed concern about the safety of workers doing frontline services and of those in the service sector. "Mas mataas ang risk kapag nasa frontline at kapag nasa service sector kasi maraming nakakasalamuhang tao araw-araw. Extra protective measures should be provided by employers," she said.

"Dapat may access sa running water, sabon, alcohol, at hand sanitizer ang mga empleyado sa loob ng pagawaan," she added.

The Senator also said that local transmission may be spreading 'under the radar of the health department.' "Local transmission is a real danger. We have the responsibility to protect everyone, including the working public, from this danger by informing them of the real situation," Hontiveros concluded.



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Senator Win Gatchalian has filed a resolution urging economic managers to make an immediate assessment of COVID-19's impact on the country's economy.

Gatchalian, vice chairman of the Senate Commiittee on Economic Affairs, raises alarm over the potential serious implications of the global outbreak, taking its toll on more possible job losses. Flag carrier Philippine Airlines recently laid off 300 personnel in the wake of the imposed travel ban in certain countries that led to revenue losses.

There are mounting fears that other companies would follow suit especially in several tourism supply chains which includes hotels, restaurants, land transport service, logistics, and catering to name a few.

Gatchalian is prodding the government to be more proactive and flexible in using economic policy tools, such as a stimulus package to reinvigorate the economy and prevent or reverse a possible economic crisis.

Citing his own internal computation, Gatchalian estimated that the government will need P28 billion for the stimulus package that will be extended to the tourism-related subsectors, such as hotels, food and beverages, transportation, and recreation and cultural activities, among others.

Gatchalian suggests a three-pronged inclusive approach to help pump-prime the economy. First, the government may help affected tourism-related businesses, particularly the micro, small, and medium enterprises, by extending property tax discounts and temporary Value-Added Tax (VAT) relief.

Gatchalian also proposes for the creation of a financing facility that will extend loans and financial support to the subsectors hit by the outbreak.

Lastly, Gatchalian said the government may embark on rehabilitating the country's cultural landmarks and dilapidated heritage sites to boost domestic tourism which can also provide jobs.

"At this moment, the global coronavirus outbreak threatens to disrupt the world market. It is only prudent for our economic managers to implement policies that will ensure that the domestic demand will remain strong to counter the effects of slowing global economy due to COVID-19," Gatchalian said.

The lawmaker pointed out that with around nine million tourists forecast to arrive in the country this year, the travel restrictions on China and its territories Hong Kong and Macau, Taiwan and North Gyeongsang province in South Korea due to COVID-19 are estimated to push down tourist arrivals to only seven million.



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Senator Leila M. de Lima has commended the more than 1,400 participants who attended the first-ever international forum on lawfare which she describes as the "gathering of the brave" to combat the misuse of lawfare against democratic dissent.

De Lima made the statement after she learned about very positive feedback from the recent holding of the "International Forum on Lawfare: Weaponizing the Law Against Democratic Dissent," held at the De La Salle University, Manila last Feb. 21.

"I would like to thank and congratulate all my fellow defenders of Democracy, Justice, Rule of Law and Human Rights for taking a very vocal, visible, decisive and unequivocal stance against the silencing of democratic dissent through the weaponization of law," she said.

"Even while our government continues to slide backwards into tyranny and repression, it is a source of comfort to know that the rest of Filipino society has not given up the fight for their rights, liberties and sovereignty," she added.

In her keynote address read by her youngest brother, Vicente "Vicboy" de Lima II, De Lima described the first-ever international forum on lawfare as a "gathering of the brave" to stand up against repressive regimes that misuse lawfare against their critics.

[T]his (forum) has to be a gathering of the brave. Brave enough to share their experiences as victims of lawfare. Brave enough to share their expert's take on what turns governments and public servants into oppressors of the people they swore to protect," she said.

"But most of all, brave enough to face the reality that the weaponization and bastardization of the law cannot truly take root and overtake justice as its twin pillar without the complicity or, at the very least, the passive acquiescence of the people," she added.

The one-day international forum on lawfare brought together local and foreign experts from the legal and human rights community, academe, church and civil society leaders who tackled the growing pandemic of lawfare around the globe.

The forum was organized by DLSU, Alternative Law Groups (ALG), Human Rights and People Empowerment Center, and the Committee for the Freedom of Leila de Lima, with the support of news website Rappler as its media partner.

"Lawfare" is a portmanteau of the words "law" and "warfare" to signify a form of war consisting of the spurious use of the legal and judicial system to silence government's adversaries.

"In truth, weaponizing the law victimizes human beings in many ways in different levels. It destroys individual lives. It destroys families. It destroys nations by destroying the trust that holds together the social contract between the government and its people," De Lima said in her speech.

"For that is the very core of the vileness of weaponizing the law: it turns the people's shield from oppression into the very tool of oppression they need protecting from - all for political gain," she added.

Apart from De Lima, other prominent targets of lawfare in the country include former Supreme Court Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, AKBAYAN Senator Risa Hontiveros and Rappler Chief Executive Officer Maria Ressa, all of whom also shared their insights and experiences on lawfare.

"Indeed, we must continue to fight against the bastardization of the Rule of Law, and to reclaim its dignity and role in upholding - and not corrupting! - Justice! That is what the Forum is about, yet it is but a start," De Lima said.

"[H]owever long it takes, we must fight for the fundamental principle that Justice and Rule of Law ought to serve the people, not enslave them in fear of reprisals for simply exercising their fundamental rights and protecting their dignities as human being," she added.

Other foreign and local leaders who shared their views about lawfare include France Insoumise Party General Secretary Marina Mesure, rights activist Mu Sochua of Cambodia, Malaysian human rights lawyer and Chairperson of the Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats' Women's Caucus Jayanthi Balaguru, former University of the Philippines-College of Law Dean Pacifico Agabin, Senators Francis Pangilinan and Risa Hontiveros, former senatorial candidates Jose Diokno, Neri Colmenares, Samira Gutoc, former Reps. Walden Bello, Carlos Zarate, Teddy Baguilat, and Tom Villarin, ALG Sheila Formento, among many others.

Among those who sent their video message to the lawfare forum were United Nations Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions Agnes Callamard, Prof. Richard Falk of Princeton University, France Insoumise Party President Jean-Luc Melenchon, UN Special Rapporteur on the Promotion and Protection of the Right to Freedom of Opinion and Express David Kaye, Hong Kong student activist Joshua Wong, former Lingnan University Prof. James A. Rice, and press freedom and human rights activist Emily Lau.



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Even as the Department of Education (DepEd) is deliberating on the use of the sablay as the standard garb for graduation rites, Senator Sonny Angara encouraged more schools to adopt this as a means to promote Filipino heritage and for practical purposes.

Angara said local government units around the country could take their cue from the Pasig City government and already use the sablay for the graduation ceremonies of their public elementary and high schools.

"This is one idea that was well thought of, long overdue, and ought to be supported. The sablay not only represents the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines, but is also more suitable for our climate. It also gives Filipino graduates an identity and as a plus, it's also fashionable," Angara said.

DepEd undersecretary for administration Alain del Pascua, in an aide memoire, batted for the use of the sablay in place of the toga for graduation ceremonies.

Pascua argued that the toga, with its deep Western roots, "is not Filipino" and "does not inspire loyalty to the nation."

He added that the use of the sablay could also boost local textile production and spur a resurgence of weaving traditions.

"We should encourage and support efforts to promote the strengthening and propagation of Filipino heritage, culture and traditions. In many areas of the country, including indigenous communities, weaving is their source of livelihood and has been around for generations," Angara said.

Angara noted that there could be different designs for the sablay in the various regions, provinces, cities, municipalities or even towns.

"The designs could be based on the heritage of the local indigenous peoples for instance or the ancient writing script baybayin. The sablay will be their canvas. It will bear the signature of a particular area or culture. It will be easily identified around the world as being uniquely Filipino," he said.

Angara has been spearheading a "Tatak Pinoy" or made in the Philippines initiative that seeks to encourage innovation among the different industries in order to add value to the products being offered and to improve competitiveness, among others.

Part of the Tatak Pinoy initiative is the identification of specific industries or products that have the potential to grow and make a niche in the marketplace and to provide the necessary interventions to make this happen.



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Sen. Grace Poe on Thursday urged Filipino women trailblazers to create more opportunities that would help marginalized and struggling women succeed, saying that the presence of "poster girls" in government and other industries was not reflective of the true state of the Filipina.

"It is incumbent on those of us who have succeeded in our careers, to help pave the way for others to follow. We have to hang together or we hang separately so let us help each other," Poe made the appeal in front of women leaders, foreign dignitaries and other guests from various sectors at the #Women2020 Summit, an event organized by non-profit organization Spark! Philippines to mark International Women's Day.

The summit gathered esteemed women and leaders from various institutions to discuss the position of women in leading the new decade and the progression, inclusion, innovation, new opportunities and evolution of the roles of women.

Tasked to speak on how women were changing the world and creating change through gender-responsive legislation, Poe called attention to the disparity that women face in terms of work and opportunities for success, and the double-edged sword that female leaders carried.

"Women's roles in nation-building still appear restrictive. Being a woman in a leadership position has always been a challenge. When a man is tough, people will say he's a good boss or a good leader. But if it's a woman who is tough or strict, she's called [another thing]...it also begins with a 'B' but derogatory," she said.

Poe said that while the Philippines ranked no. 1 out of 32 countries in having the most number of women executives in top leadership roles--43 percent of Filipino women executives hold senior management posts, according to Grant Thornton Internationals' 2020 Women in Business Report--many other women toiled abroad or in the informal sector without benefits or protection.

Many Filipino women were still forced to leave their families to find better paying jobs abroad while others who had no other option worked as vendors, househelps or handicraft makers in the country without occupational benefits, she pointed out.

The senator also noted the rising incidence of teenage pregnancies in the country, with many young women compelled to deal with uncertain future due to lack of access to reproductive health services.

"It would not be accurate to cite the successes of women who have landed in Makati or in BGC such as yourselves. The presence of poster girls in many industries, or in government or in sports is not reflective of the majority of women in our country," she said.

"Because for every Pinay who has reached the summit, there are countless more struggling, stranded, or falling down the slope," she said.

Poe welcomed the summit as "the perfect time" not only to reflect on the gains of the Filipino women but also the things that still needed to be done. "Let us remember that we are only as strong as our weakest link," she said.

The senator, who has championed many bills for women, such as the Anti-Discrimination Bill, the Safe Spaces Act and the First 1,000 Days Act, also emphasized the need for policymakers like her to craft laws that allow women to achieve more "and ride the wave of this complex, fast-paced global evolution."

She said women must be given tools that will help them adapt, innovate and compete in the new decade. "We must do our best to enable all women to participate meaningfully in development," she added.



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It is a test all right, not of the intelligence of the Filipino people but a test and a challenge as well to our intelligence community to verify what I said, a yet-to-be validated information provided by a reliable source who had given me some accurate intelligence reports in the past.

In intelligence parlance, this information may be classified 'A6'. Considering the implications, it is one piece of information still worth looking into.

When an issue that has serious implications - such as the reported presence of Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) members in the Philippines - is raised, credible information is the best way to resolve it. This is without prejudice to the Philippine government's ongoing efforts to verify such information.



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Senator Risa Hontiveros on Friday asked the Department of Health [DOH] to step up its campaign to detect and contain transmission of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus [COVID-19] in the country.

The Senator made the call after DOH's report of the first two Filipino cases of COVID-19, one of whom had no history of travel abroad. "This is the first case of local transmission of COVID-19. Ibig sabihin, may nagkakahawaan na sa loob ng bansa," Hontiveros declared.

"This is a cause for concern and a wake-up call for our health officials. We should not give the public a false sense of security because the danger of local transmission is real," she also said, citing reports of the Taiwanese and Australian nationals who have tested as carriers of the coronavirus after their travel to the Philippines.

Hontiveros urged the DOH to review its screening and testing protocol. "Parang hindi sapat. DOH should intensify its monitoring and surveillance to include all travelers, not just those who come from countries with high prevalence of COVID-19," she urged.

The Senator also said that DOH has to intensify local community health systems in the fight against the virus. "Detection and containment will improve if our community health surveillance and monitoring also improve," Hontiveros pointed out. "Isama natin ang mga local government units at mga barangay sa laban kontra sa virus na ito," she also said.

Hontiveros said that this global outbreak 'will test the country's public health system.' "A weak health system poses a risk to public health. We need the DOH to be hawk-eyed and transparent with the public every step of the way," she concluded.



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Opposition Senator Leila M. de Lima has expressed support to the Senate's move to formally ask the Supreme Court (SC) to rule on whether Mr. Duterte can unilaterally end treaties and international agreements without the Senate's concurrence.

De Lima said while the President is the chief architect of the country's foreign policy, he shares it the Senate, particularly on matters of articulating the national interest in international affairs in the form of treaties and international agreements.

"It has always been my position that the Senate, as an institution consisting of the direct representatives of the people elected nationally, is constitutionally mandated to actively lay down foreign policy as the expression of the national interest in international affairs," she said in her recent Dispatch from Crame 729.

"The very design and spirit of the 1987 Constitution that favors checks and balances over concentration of power is clear on this. While the President is indeed the chief architect of foreign policy, he designs this in partnership with the Senate. It is a shared power," she added.

Last March 2, Senate President Vicente Sotto III and 12 other senators officially adopted Senate Resolution (SR) 337 asking the High Court to rule whether the Senate must concur in the abrogation of a treaty that it was previously concurred.

Under the present 1987 Constitution, Section 21, Article 7 provides that: "No treaty or international agreement shall be valid and effective unless concurred in by at least two-thirds of all the members of the Senate."

"Personally, I would have preferred that what was adopted was the Drilon Resolution (SR 305) which I co-authored, a stronger version which expresses the sense of the Senate that the termination of, or withdrawal from treaties and international agreements concurred in by the Senate shall be valid and effective only upon concurrence of the Senate," De Lima said.

"Nevertheless, the adoption of the Sotto Resolution, SR 337, is sufficient enough as an expression of this desire to challenge the President's authoritarian interpretation of the Constitution when it comes to laying down foreign policy and articulating the national interest in international affairs," she added.

De Lima, a former justice secretary, explained that a treaty or international agreement concurred in by the Senate becomes a law, and the Executive Branch cannot unilaterally reverse or abrogate it without the Upper Chamber's concurrence.

"Once foreign policy is jointly acted upon by the President and the Senate in the form of a treaty or international agreement, this becomes the law of the land, and the Executive cannot unilaterally reverse, modify, annul, or repeal this law unless concurred in by the Senate, or another law is passed by Congress as a whole," she said.

In May 2018, it may be recalled that De Lima was one of the senators from the Senate Minority Bloc who filed a petition before the SC asking to invalidate Mr. Duterte's decision to unilaterally withdraw from the Rome Statute, the treaty that governs the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Because the Supreme Court has continued to be silent on the matter, political pundits believe that Mr. Duterte has been emboldened further to abrogate on other international treaties including the VFA, and possibly with the Mutual Defense Treaty and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).

"For one branch to undo what the sovereign Filipino people have done through their representatives would be a usurpation of the sovereign prerogative. The President is not sovereign," she maintained.

"He is not king. He is but a representative and, in the case of treaties, he possesses no monopolistic claim of representation. He shares it with the Senate. It offends both reason and the intent of the Constitution to hold that while two keys are needed to secure a treaty, only one is needed to disturb or abandon it," she added.

According to the lady Senator from Bicol, the Senate leadership was right in asserting its power vested upon it by the Constitution to exercise checks and balances against presidential possible abuses.

"We cannot and should not allow the repudiation of a treaty based on the personal hostility, whims, caprices and self-serving interests of one individual, that of an unstable Head of State. Senate must step in to check on his abuses," she said.

"And the Supreme Court, both in the earlier Petition on the ICC withdrawal and now, in the proper case soon to be filed on the VFA abrogation, must allow the Senate to do so," she added.



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As graduation season kicks off this month, Senator Win Gatchalian urges the Department of Education's (DepEd) task force on the novel coronavirus to ensure schools' strict adherence to health authorities' safety recommendations on public gatherings.

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, Arts, and Culture made this call amid growing global concern on the COVID-19, which has already infected 87,137 people in 59 countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) already upgraded its global risk assessment of COVID-19 to "very high," its top level of risk assessment in terms of spread and impact.

According to Gatchalian, this should prompt DepEd to ensure that protocols are in place before and during graduation and moving-up ceremonies. Citing WHO's planning recommendations for mass gatherings, Gatchalian emphasized the importance of the schools' constant coordination with local health officials, starting with the undertaking of comprehensive risk assessments.

Based on the WHO guidelines, these assessments should guide the formulation of action plans to mitigate identified risks, the handling of which should be clearly delegated to event organizers and local health care providers. Gatchalian reiterated the importance of information dissemination, which should give advice on proper hygiene, detecting symptoms, and access to local health care, among others.

Systems to identify illness indicators among the participants of these ceremonies should also be in place. Should participants to the rites display COVID-19-like symptoms, isolation areas or transportation to treatment facilities should be immediately available, the lawmaker added.

"Isang masayang okasyon ang pagtatapos ng ating mga mag-aaral at hindi natin dapat hayaang masira ito ng panganib at pangambang dulot ng COVID-19. Kaya naman sa ating paghahanda, mahalagang gawin natin ang lahat ng posibleng hakbang upang masiguro ang kaligtasan ng ating mga mag-aaral, mga guro, ilan pang kinatawan ng mga eskwelahan, at mga magulang," said Gatchalian.

Based on the Department of Health's COVID-19 case tracker as of March 2, 638 individuals in the Philippines have been tagged as "persons under investigation (PUI)." Among these PUIs, three are confirmed cases, 43 are currently admitted, and 592 have been discharged.



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3/6/2020

Sa mata ng batas ni Rodrigo Duterte, isang paglabag ang ipagtanggol ang karapatang pantao kahit ng mga pinakamahihirap nating kabababayan.

In his desperate attempt to silence dissent, he has once again blatantly weaponized the law against those who dare stand up against his atrocious policies. Members of Karapatan, Gabriela, and 63-year-old Sr. Emma Cupin of the Rural Missionaries of the Philippines sought the protection of the courts only for the law to turn the tables against them and accuse them of lying in their petition.

Under Duterte's tyrannical manipulations, human rights defenders are treated as criminals by our justice system while violators are given full protection. Binaboy na ng husto ni Duterte at ng kanyang mga alipores ang Rule of Law, mula sa paninira sa mga kritiko, pag-imbento ng mga kaso, pagkanlong sa mga tunay na kriminal, at pagpatay sa sarili nilang mamamayan.

Saan na makakakuha ng proteksyon ang ordinaryong mamamayan kung ang ating batas ang mismong ginagamit na armas upang usigin ang mga nagsusulong ng makabuluhang pagbabago?

Hindi pa man tuluyang nagiging batas ang bagong Anti-Terror Bill, ganito na kagarapal ang paggamit sa batas laban sa mga itinuturing na "kalaban" ng estado. Nakakakilabot isipin kung ano ang kahihinatnan nating lahat kapag ginawa nang lehitimo ang pagsikil sa karapatan ng makapagpahayag at kumilos para sa tama.

As Duterte clings desperately to a crumbling regime, we expect intensified attacks against democratic discourse and legitimate dissent. As it employs the state machinery against dissenters, it will also use the full force of this machinery to pursue its murderous anti-people policies. So now is not the time to stop, rest and be cowed.

I stand with Elisa Tita Lubi, Tinay Palabay, Roneo Clamor, Krista Dalena, Edita Burgos, Jose Mari Callueng, Wilfredo Ruazol, Joan May Salvador, Gertrudes Libang, and Sr. Emma Cupin. I call on my fellow Filipinos to stand up for our human rights defenders. Defend our defenders! Stop Political Persecution! No to Lawfare! ###

(Access the handwritten version of Dispatch from Crame No. 731, here: https://issuu.com/senatorleilam.delima/docs/dispatch_no._731)



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Opposition Senator Leila M. de Lima has filed a bill which seeks to lower from five to two the number of persons involved in fraud to qualify for the crime of syndicated estafa or other forms of swindling to be punishable by life imprisonment.

De Lima, a former justice secretary, filed Senate Bill 1307 which seeks to amend Section 1 of the 40-year-old Presidential Decree (PD) 1689 by reducing from five to two persons who are involved to qualify for syndicated estafa.

"[T]o properly punish the syndicates behind these elaborate scams, we need to revise our existing law to punish offenders with a minimum required number in a group," she said.

""This way, less burden is placed upon our law enforcers to arrest all the offenders immediately, and at least two members of the syndicate can already be put to trial," she added.

Under Section 1 of PD 1689, syndicated estafa and other forms of swindling shall be punishable by life imprisonment to death if it is committed by a syndicate consisting of five or more persons.

When not committed by a syndicate of five or more, the penalty that the court can be imposed shall be reclusion temporal to reclusion perpetua if the amount of the fraud exceeds 100,000 pesos.

The lady Senator from Bicol explained that some people accused of syndicated estafa often evade the higher penalty because the aggrieved party could not establish the commission of crime was conspired or confederated by five or more persons.

"Syndicated estafa is a social menace that not only preys on our countrymen, but also erodes our faith in our economic system. While there are those who operate alone, most operate in a group," she said.

"By using elaborate scams to abuse the confidence of their victims, the perpetrators who operate in groups are able to commit this crime against multiple victims and over an extended period of time," she added.

According to De Lima, there is a need for a redefinition of the crime of syndicated estafa in order to protect the public from a systematic fraud that erodes the people's confidence in the banking and cooperative system.

"We have all heard their story - of how life savings dried up after having been persuaded by those whose aim was nothing but to abuse the confidence reposed in them," she said.



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The P8 billion in collections from POGOs by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) pales in comparison to the P50 billion in uncollected taxes of the Bureau of Internal Revenue and the P14 billion in suspicious transactions monitored by the Anti-Money Laundering Council.

To say that the economic benefits, which is minimal and negligible at best, are justification enough to keep POGOs in Philippine shores is flimsy and myopic. PAGCOR, the state gaming regulator, cannot simply shift the blame to other agencies for their shortcomings, particularly tax collection.

We remind PAGCOR that it's their responsibility to ensure the entities they regulate comply with prevailing rules and regulations of our country. They are the regulator of POGOs. They should be responsible for the actions of the companies and individuals they regulate. Just look at the number of estimated illegal POGO firms here. Having about 200 illegal POGOs--even more than the 61 PAGCOR-licensed POGOs--is a clear indication that state gaming regulator cannot handle the regulation of POGOs. We're dumbfounded that POGO firms continue to sprout despite the prevailing ban implemented by PAGCOR.

We are aghast by the fact that the P7 billion in net financial flows in the banking system covers a period of three years, an important detail withheld by the AMLC when it testified before to the Senate Committee on Labor last Feb. 11, 2020. Is this deliberate to help cover up the real negative impact of POGOs in our country? We remind the AMLC and our other resource persons that all their statements have been made under oath.

One basic fact is undeniable: allowing the continued operations of POGOs are already causing issues on peace and order situation in the country, as well as our economic stability, among others. Last year, authorities arrested 6,678 illegal foreign workers at legitimate POGO firms. Our Committee also found that immigration officers allowed the entry of 733 international fugitives in 2019. US$447 million in cold cash were allowed to be brought into the country. At least P1 billion have been collected from the Pastillas scam by unscrupulous immigration agents.

The writing on the wall is clear for everyone except PAGCOR. It is high time that PAGCOR act like the state gaming regulator it is chartered



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"Sadyang nakakapanuya, kung di man nakakapangilabot, na matapos matanggihan sa hinihinging proteksyon mula sa korte, kinakaharap naman ngayon ng isang grupo ng mga aktibista at human rights defenders ang kasong perjury na isinampa ng matataas na security official ng bansa.

Muli nating nakikita ngayon ang lakas ng mga Goliath na ginagamit ang lahat ng sandata, kabilang ang batas, laban sa maliliit na David ng ating lipunan.

Alam naman natin na ang Pilipinas ay isa sa pinakamapanganib na bansa sa rehiyon para maging isang tagapagtanggol ng karapatang pantao.

Masyadong nagiging madali para masama sa order of battle ng militar para sa pagpapahayag ng pagtutol.

Sa napipintong mga amyenda sa Human Security Act na pinapahaba ang panahong ng pagkakakulong nang walang kasong isinasampa at pinapayagan ang pag-aresto nang walang warrant, nanganganib ang mga human rights defender, aktibista, at ordinaryong mamamayan sa mga paglabag sa mismong pinaglalabang mga karapatan.

We call on the courts to be most judicious in ruling on the case of the activists and to accord them due process that they deserve."



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The bringing of huge sums of money in and out of the country in past months with seeming impunity indicates the urgent need for action from our government, not just by the Executive but also by the Legislative. Our authorities should keep up with, if not keep one step ahead of, criminals who are trying to do the same.

While there is need to address the corruption that is one big reason for authorities' tolerating money laundering, there is also a need to take a long, hard look at gaps in our existing laws, including the Bank Secrecy Law and the Anti-Money Laundering Act.

On the other hand, the amendments to these laws should also make sure that they cannot be weaponized for political purposes. Speaking from experience, I have been at the receiving end of such abuse of the law by the likes of Ador Mawanay, Mary "Rosebud" Ong, Victor Corpus and the Arroyos, who prompted me to waive my rights under the Bank Secrecy Law and challenged them to withdraw all the dollars they claimed I owned. And acting from those experiences, I proposed amendments to the AMLA and filed a bill excluding all public servants from the Bank Secrecy Act.



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Let me begin by telling a sad story. Last year, Rappler ran an article about a girl who they chose to call "Fatima." Three days into the new year of 2019, Fatima woke up to what she thought was any other normal day spent doing household chores and taking care of her younger siblings. Little did she know that before the day would end she would be married to a distant cousin 8 years her senior, someone who she didn't know and hasn't met. At 14 years old, she would become a wife to a total stranger. It was her uncle who sealed the marriage and made the arrangements, and no amount of pleading and bargaining by Fatima and her mother who was also a child bride herself could dissuade him to undo the agreement. In justifying this decision, the girl's grandmother, the family matriarch explained that marriage will lighten the burden of her widowed mother, Isha who was left to feed 11 children, some of them were adopted, like Fatima. The small sari-sari store she used to own was destroyed during the Marawi siege, and only the meager income from a small vegetable patch is what keeps them hardly afloat.

We all know this isn't a rare occurrence, Mr. President. According to a UNICEF report, 750 million women and girls alive today were married before they reached their 18th birthday, and 2% of this number got married even before they turned 15 years old. Also, the Philippines with 726,000 child brides is the 12th highest in the world in terms of absolute numbers. In a 2019 survey by the Oxfam-led Improving Availability of Reproductive Health Services in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao or the ARCHES Project, 253 or 24% out of the 1,058 respondents coming from Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, and the Basulta regions were cases of child marriage, and 97% of them involved girls.

Thirty years ago, the Philippines ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child which clearly sets the minimum age of marriage at 18 years old. Almost a decade earlier, we also became a signatory to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women or CEDAW which obligates states to ensure full, free and informed consent of both parties to the marriage. In many an instance where issues concerning children are being discussed, we always point out to the fact that there are acts that children and young people below the age of 18 are prohibited from doing, among them is being a party to a legal contract which is exactly what establishes the legitimacy of a marriage.

Our usual understanding of the world would point to poverty as the main motivation that drives families to marry off their children at a very young age. Not unlike the case of Fatima whose family was affected by armed conflict, and were further pushed deeper into poverty, many girls like her have suffered the same fate. Internal displacement brought about by armed conflicts and natural disasters have driven impoverished families into greater hardships that many of them seek to somehow be unburdened with mouths to feed, and hope that their young daughters would be better off married to someone who could better care for them.

Poverty may be among the drivers of child marriages, but there is also a more subtle impulse behind this practice. Child marriage, as part of social norms in communities where it is common is often the result of entrenched gender inequality. This gender inequality plays a key role in making girls disproportionately affected by this cultural practice. Female children are falsely seen as contributing less to the household, and is expected to eventually leave to join the family of her husband making them of less value than male children. In a baseline study on violence against women conducted by Oxfam revealed that among the respondents from Maguindanao, social pressure is the main reason why girls enter into marriage early, many of them between the ages of 14 to 17.

Mr. President, in a time when we, together with the rest of the world are slowly making headway in ensuring that young girls are protected and are able to reach their full potential as human beings, the existence of child marriages in our country negates these efforts. Child brides are less likely to remain in school depriving them of economic prospects and other opportunities an education affords. Girls who get married at a very young age are more likely to experience early childbearing, exposing them to higher pregnancy-related complications including childbirth-related deaths.

I would like to direct your attention to this photo of three young girls and two baby boys from the Palaw'on community. To reach their village, one has to travel 5 hours by land from Puerto Princesa in Palawan to the Municipality of Rizal, then another 1 and a half hours from Rizal to the Barangay Proper, and finally, a 4- to 6-hour climb uphill. If you think the baby boys in the care of the two girls are their siblings, I am sad to say that you are mistaken. They are their children.

CHILDREN. HAVING. CHILDREN. All three of these girls, ages 13, 12, and 9 are child brides. Distressful. Heartbreaking. Just by looking at them, one immediately realizes that this practice has to stop.

Medical evidence has also shown that the risk of infant mortality among children of very young mothers is 60% higher than among those born to mothers older than 19. Girls who get married early are also vulnerable to sexually transmitted infections, domestic violence, abuse, and exploitation.

These are but some of the implications arising from child marriages, Mr. President. If we continue to allow this to happen to our children, we are essentially robbing them of their right to a childhood.

It is with this in mind that the Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality wishes to sponsor Senate Bill 1373 under Committee Report 52 entitled, "Prohibiting and Declaring Child Marriage as Illegal."

This bill considers the act of child marriage a public crime, and penalizes any person who facilitates and solemnizes this union. Being conscious of existing cultural practices, the bill introduces a culturally-appropriate program and services that will be responsive to the needs of those who will be affected by this law. The Department of Social Work and Development shall be the lead duty-bearer in the formulation of such program and services, and in the implementation of the law. Mr. President, I realize that there might be some apprehension that the bill may be intruding into established and long-held cultural practices. In all humility, allow me to say that I fully understand this anxiety. May I invite you to watch a short but heartening video of a young Muslim woman, Hanod Ebrahim who is an unwavering advocate of ending child, early, forced marriage.

As history has time and again demonstrated, any aspect of culture is not static, and neither is it monolithic. Culture can be considered not only as practice but also a process, a consequence of material and non-material conditions, and a bearer of values. As such, culture continues to evolve, to grow with us human beings who are fully aware of present realities and necessities, accepting of new knowledge and belated realizations. And among the learnings that we are duty-bound to acknowledge is that our children are our future, and all that we do must be in their best interest.

Bago po ako magtapos, nais ko lang banggitin ang mga advocates na narito ngayon na walang kapagurang itinataguyod ang pagpasa sa panukalang batas na ito: Oxfam, PLCPD, AMDF, UnyPhil, PBSP, mga taga-Barangay Culiat, World Vision, at Forum for Family Planning.

Maraming salamat, at mabuhay po tayong lahat



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"If we continue to allow child marriages, we are essentially robbing our youth of their right to a safe and nurturing childhood." This was the remark of Senator Risa Hontiveros during her sponsorship of 'Girls Not Brides Act' on Wednesday which seeks to end child marriages in the Philippines.

Hontiveros, who chairs the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality, said that Senate Bill No. 1373 will prevent child marriage by making it a public crime.

"Under the bill, any person who facilitates and solemnizes this union will face a prison sentence of up to 12 years, and fines of up to 50,000 pesos," said Hontiveros. "He or she will be held liable under the Republic Act No. 7610, or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act", she explained.

With an estimated 726,000 children married off before their 18th birthday, the Philippines ranks 12th highest in the world in absolute numbers, the senator noted.

"At a time when we, together with the rest of the world, are slowly making headway in ensuring that young girls are protected and are able to reach their full potential as human beings, the existence of child marriages in our country negates these efforts," she also said.

Hontiveros explained that child brides are less likely to remain in school, depriving them of economic prospects and other opportunities an education affords. These girls, she said, are also vulnerable to sexually transmitted infections, domestic violence, abuse, and exploitation.

The Senator said that even though children below 18 are prohibited under law from being party to a legal contract which is what establishes the legitimacy of a marriage, more than half a million girls are forced against their agency to abide.

She also acknowledged the cultural sensitivities surrounding child marriage, and said that the bill introduces culturally-appropriate programs and services led by the Department of Social Work and Development that will be responsive to the needs of those who will be affected by this law.

"Poverty may be among the drivers of child marriages, but there is also a subtler impulse behind this practice. Child marriage, as part of social norms in communities where it is common, is often the result of entrenched gender inequality," she said.

"Culture can be considered not only as practices but also a process. Culture continues to evolve, accepting of new knowledge and later realizations. We are duty-bound to acknowledge that our children are our future, and all that we do must be in their best interest," Hontiveros concluded.



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Senator Richard J. Gordon on Tuesday stood up against money laundering issues arising from the prevalence of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) in the country.

Gordon pointed out that inordinate and suspiciously large amount of foreign currency, $470-million brought in by 47 individuals from September 2019 to February 2020 alone, without being flagged is an apparent scheme of money laundering being tolerated by authorities.

Republic Act No. 10365, or the Anti-Money Laundering Council Act, as amended, requires covered institutions or persons to report to AML Council within five days all covered transactions and AMLC prescribed period for suspicious transactions. POGOs are required to report suspicious transactions to the AMLC to prevent the growing online casino industry, catering mainly to Chinese players, from becoming a conduit for money laundering.

"It appears that the relevant authorities chose to turn a blind eye to the nefarious activities that come with the prevalence of POGO in our country in exchange for a few billions in tax revenue, or perhaps because of pastillas or any other form it may take. We have a report that one individual was able to bring in huge amounts 45 times. That is what I call done with impunity," the senator said.

Gordon warned that money laundering is a threat to national security because it can be used to fund organized crimes, destabilize governments and erode the integrity of the nation's financial institutions.

"This is very alarming. Hindi natin alam saan talaga galing ang pera at saan dadalhin, ni hindi natin namomonitor kung nasaan ang mga taong ito. The fund could allow syndicates to thrive and perpetuate criminality, exposes the country to and provides fuel for terrorism drug dealers, terrorists, illegal arms dealers, human traffickers, smugglers, corrupt officials and others to operate and expand their criminal enterprises. In extreme cases, it can be used to fund armies or coup'd'etat that can lead to a take-over of government," he said.

"It is also a threat to our economy because it can cause artificial inflation, often times dirty money is used to purchase real properties which will cause the value or price of these properties to increase by creating the illusion of a demand when there is none. It causes a decrease in productive employment by causing businesses to fail, hence workers lose their jobs," Gordon added.



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Senator Richard J. Gordon, Chairman of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, slammed the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) for not acting promptly on the Bureau of Customs' (BoC) report that a certain individual was caught for non-declaration of $700,000 money in cash in 2019.

Gordon stressed, since the BoC has already notified AMLC, the latter should have known about it and acted on it immediately as this can be a case of money laundering. The AMLC, he said, should have checked right away where the money came from and where will the funds be used.

"Kung nakita niyo na nag-report na ang Customs, hindi ba dapat alam niyo iyan? Mayroon kayong intelligence. Ang Customs, nahuli na. Nagastos na iyong pera. That means, there's a problem on your bureaucracy. That's bureaucracy at its worst form," Gordon tells AMLC.

As a response, AMLC Executive Director Mel Racela said that they cannot immediately declare that the funds are money laundered as they have to "assume in good faith."

Gordon did not agree on Racela's reasoning and said that AMLC's failure to act fast could lead to corruption.

"I'm shocked beyond imagination. Kung tayo, magtatagal, sasabihin na lang, 'edi makikipag-CASHunduan na lang kami sa Customs.' You defeat the purpose of the law. Don't you think AMLC has to correct this? Once they cannot establish provenance of the money, that's money laundering," Gordon pointed out.

According to BoC, a total of 60 individuals brought in over $633 million or more that P32 bilion in cash from September 2019 to March this year. Gordon finds this alarming as foreign currencies could be brought by international syndicates and could be used against the country's national security.



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Senator Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go recognized on Thursday, March 5, the contributions of family physicians to Philippine health care, adding that his experience with them and their advice positively influence his health-related advocacies in line with his work as a Senator.

"Malaking bahagi po ng trabahong ginagampanan ko at ng mga panukalang isinusulong ko bilang Senador at Chairman ng Committee on Health ay hango sa naging karanasan at payo ng mga miyembro ng inyong hanay," Go said in his speech at the 59th Anniversary and Annual Convention of the Philippine Academy of Family Physicians (PAFP) at the Reception Hall of the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.

The Senator cited the Malasakit Center, a one-stop shop for financial and medical assistances, as one of the projects that he helped establish upon consultations with doctors. Located in 68 government hospitals so far, the Malasakit Center streamlines the assistances from the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).

Go also recognized the contribution of the PAFP members to the society. "Family physicians are the key frontliners in our fight for a healthier future for the Filipino people," he said.

"As the primary care physicians in communities, schools, workplaces, emergency rooms and hospitals, you are the first doctors that our people encounter. This makes you crucial not only in administering the best course of treatment and care among patients but also in ensuring the efficacy of our healthcare system," he added.

The Senator, who serves as Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, also shared that the DOH, the Philippine Children's Medical Center, and The Medical City recently signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) to perform pediatric liver transplantations in the country.

Under the MOA, the government hospital will identify qualified patients, the private hospital will perform the transplants and the DOH will reimburse the expenses through the PCMC, among other stipulations.

"Para po ito sa mga batang may biliary atresia na inilalapit sa amin ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte. Ngayon, hindi na natin sila kailangang ipadala sa India para maoperahan," Go said.

He also said that he recently filed Senate Bill 1226, or the proposed DOH Hospital Bed Capacity and Service Capability Rationalization Act of 2019.

"Under the current set up, a DOH hospital can only increase its bed capacity and improve its service capability through legislation. However, proposals to adjust hospital capacity and capability compete with multitudes of other proposals in Congress," he explained.

"To expedite the process for improving the capacity and capability of hospitals that are under the jurisdiction of the DOH, the measure seeks to authorize the DOH to increase the bed capacity and service capability of its retained hospitals, and to allow it to promulgate evaluation and appropriate guidelines for changes in capacity and capability," he added.

Go also mentioned that the other bills that he filed seek to establish a national Emergency Medical Services System, establish a Drug Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Center in every province, expand the coverage of the Mandatory Basic Immunization Program, establish Advance Nursing Education Programs in universities and many others.

"Kung mapapansin ninyo, ang lahat ng mga panukalang ito ay hindi lang nakatutok sa pagsugpo ng mga sakit at suliraning medikal kundi nakasentro rin sa pagpapatatag ng kahandaan laban sa sakit at sa pagpapalakas ng kalusugan ng ating mga kababayan," he explained.

He added, "If we want a truly healthier future for the Filipino people, I believe that putting more resources in readiness and prevention is better than putting it in the cure. By pursuing this strategy, not only will we be able to spend far less, but we will also be able to do so much more

"I know that this wisdom lies at the very core of the practice of family and community medicine, which is why I consider you to be an important ally going forward.

"Kaya naman po, inaasahan ko hindi lang ang inyong suporta kundi pati na rin ang inyong aktibong pakikilahok upang tuluyan nang maging ganap na batas ang mga panukalang inilahad ko sa inyo."

The Senator also shared that he defended the 2020 budget of the DOH. "Balak sana nilang i-slash ang budget, ngunit hindi ako pumayag dahil ayokong mawalan ng trabaho ang mga contractual workers. Tiniyak din natin na may budget para maibigay na ang mas mataas na suweldo ng mga nurse ayon sa desisyon ng Supreme Court



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Senator Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go attended a private meeting in Malacañan Palace on Wednesday evening, March 4, on the status of the Bangon Marawi Comprehensive Rehabilitation and Recovery Program (BMCRRP).

The meeting was arranged after representatives of Marawi City residents asked Go to relay their concerns to President Rodrigo Duterte at the public hearing that the Senate Special Committee on Marawi City Rehabilitation conducted on February 21 in Iligan City.

"Hindi istilo ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte na mag-iwan ng proyektong nakatiwangwang. Hindi kami papayag ng Pangulo na mangyari ito... Ako, bilang malapit sa Pangulo, kaya po ako narito, gusto ko po na maging tulay kami ninyo kay Pangulo. Kung may reklamo kayo, may gusto pa kayong iparating sa Pangulo, iparating ninyo na po kaagad ngayon," Go said.

The meeting held in Malacañan yesterday is a fulfillment of Go's promise that he will set a meeting between President Duterte and the stakeholders and relevant government agencies in order for the President to directly hear the various concerns of internally displaced persons (IDPs).

"Ipaparating ko kaagad sa ating mahal na Pangulo kung umusad na ba ang Bangon Marawi project," Go said during his last visit to Marawi.

After hearing the concerns himself during the meeting last night, the President designated Marawi City rehabilitation czar Eduardo del Rosario as point person who will handle funds and work directly with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to speed up reconstruction efforts. Duterte also instructed the DBM to expedite the release of funds for the rehabilitation process.

President Duterte emphasized deadlines and the importance of minimizing delays. He also said that he will personally contribute to the reconstruction of the Grand Marawi Mosque and will visit Marawi City soon.

Another issue that was raised at the meeting is the desire of the IDPs to return to their homes and leave the temporary shelters.

"Gusto nilang marinig ang assurance ng ating Pangulo kasi hindi sila nakakabalik sa kanilang tirahan at wala silang ibang pinapaniwalaan kundi ang salita niyo po na makakabalik sila sa kanilang lupa at mga bahay," Go informed the President.

In response, the President assured the residents of the most affected area that they can visit their houses but military installations will remain to ensure the safety of the area.

"What happened to Marawi was a tragedy to this nation and so, in the aftermath, we will do everything to correct the so many wrongs and injustices committed against the Moros, not only in Marawi and Lanao but everywhere in Mindanao," the President also said.

Senators Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa, Imee Marcos and Francis Tolentino, who are Go's colleagues in the Senate Special Committee, also attended the meeting at the Heroes Hall in Malacañan.

At the public hearing in Iligan City last February 21, Go has said, "Narito ngayon ang Special Committee on Marawi Rehabilitation ng Senado upang dinggin ang mga nagawa, mga hindi nagawa at mga dapat gawin, hindi lang upang makabangon ang Marawi, kundi para makabuo ng panibagong Marawi--isang Marawi na maunlad, mapayapa, at malaya sa mga elementong naging sanhi ng pagkawasak nito, tulad ng droga at terorismo."

Go earlier went to Marawi City, Lanao del Sur on the same day prior to the public hearing to conduct an ocular inspection of the rehabilitation efforts of the government in the area. After the ocular, he also witnessed the opening of the 64th Malasakit Center in the country in Amai Pakpak Medical Center.

"Magtulungan po tayo. Bilang isang Mindanaoan, ako mismo ay gagawin ang lahat ng maaari kong maiambag, lalo na sa mga bagay na may kinalaman sa kalusugan," Go said, adding that a new Malasakit Center was launched in the city already to provide quick, quality and reliable medical services to Filipinos.

He emphasized further that the Duterte Administration does not want to see unfinished projects in the rehabilitation nor see people blaming each other for shortcomings.

"Wala namang sapat na rason upang hindi makabangon ang Marawi dahil may mga nakalaang pondo at may mga donasyon. Suportado rin ng Pangulo ang bawat aksyon na may kinalaman sa rehabilitasyon," Go explained.

The Senator added that it has already been more than two years since the Marawi siege ended in October 2017. Go and, most especially, President Rodrigo Duterte are now looking for concrete outputs that should be fruits of the assistance given by the government and donations from the international community to build a new and better Marawi City for its people.

"The President has two years left in Malacañan. We want to know how the rehabilitation can be completed. We don't want the responsible officials to be negligent now and then put the blame on the President later on when his term ends," Go stressed.

Meanwhile, Go and other Senators have filed a bill entitled "Marawi Siege Compensation Act of 2020," which seeks to provide tax-free compensations for all property owners whose properties were damaged by the Marawi Siege in 2017.



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Q: Walang ginagawang action yung Money Laundering Council?

SEN WIN: Itong pangyayari hindi lang isang beses, tuloy-tuloy lang nangyayari ito kahit na pasok sila sa 10,000 Dollar limit pero kung tuloy-tuloy yung pagpasok dapat naging red flag na ito lalong-lalo na kung nanggagaling ito sa isang negosyo tulad ng POGO nakakatakot dahil hindi maliit na pera yung pumapasok, 500,000 pesos kada pasok at pwede itong gamitin sa money laundering, ibig-sabihin ginagawang legitimate yung pera dito na nanggagaling naman sa illegal na source o nagagamit ito sa mga krimen na nakikita natin. For example, over the last twelve months ang daming prostitution dens na nakikita natin, pano natin nalalaman na hindi pumapasok dito sa mga prostitution den itong pera na pumapasok dito sa atin na nanggagaling sa isang source which is the POGO sector.

Q: Epekto nito sa economy?

SEN WIN: Ang nakikita kong epekto dito hindi natin na mo-monitor kung itong pera na ito nagagamit sa pamumuhunan ng legitimate na negosyo. For example, kung itong mga pera ba na ito napupunta sa mga pagtatayo ng legitimate na negosyo; mga outlet shop, mga tindahan. Ang nakakatakot dito mas madalas natin nakikita yung mga illegal na negosyo tulad ng prostitution den at tulad ng mga pagpapalit ng pera. Nabalitaan natin na meron isang Chinese na pinatay dahil gusto niya magpalit ng pera, yung pagpapalit ng pera, ito ay regulated ng Bangko Sentral, lahat ng money exchange activities dapat nalalaman ng ating gobyerno, dapat na mo-monitor ito dahil malaking tsana napupunta ito sa illegal activities.

Q: Nagpapatayo ng infra mga POGO, meron daw firing range? Hindi ba alarming yun?

SEN WIN: Alarming yan dahil unang-una yung pagtatayo, let's say ng bahay o tirahan nila, hindi natin alam kung ito ay may permit o walang permit but more so ang aking kinakatakutan dito, saan nanggagaling yung pera? Itong pera ba na ito nanggagaling sa lehitimong source? Itong pera ba na ito ay nanggagaling sa human trafficking o pagbebenta ng illegal na droga sa labas at dinadala dito para gawing legitimate cash? Kaya nga meron tayong Anti-Money Laundering Council para ma-monitor yung mga pangyayari ito at hindi gawing money laundering haven ang ating bansa dahil nakikita nila maluwag ang pag mo-monitor at enforcement dito kaya dito nila dinadala yung pera para i-launder.

Q: Sir ano masasabi niyo sa AMLC natin, mabagal?

SEN WIN: Ang sabi ko natutulog, dahil dapat nag re-red flag na ito dahil hindi lang isang beses ito nangyari, tuloy-tuloy, trabaho nila i-monitor ito. Nagkaroon tayo ng pagdinig ngayon dahil gusto natin marinig sa kanila kung bakit sila tila natutulog sa trabaho.

Q: Yung PAGCOR nag report merong at least 200 licensed POGOs and meron tayong more than 100 na unlicensed. According sa economics ang contribution lang talaga ng POGO is less 1% sa economy natin, should we stop POGOs here in the country? You think it's about time?

SEN WIN: Ang tinitignan ko yung nawawala sa atin dahil its already established na close to 50 billion pesos ang nawawala sa atin. On top of that, hindi pa klaro kung pano mino-monitor yung kanilang kita dahil ito ay nangyayari sa internet, hindi natin nalalaman ngayon kung ang kanilang dinedeklara sa PAGOCR ay tama. Kung hindi natin alam, malaking tsansa na ang kanilang dinedeklara ay mas mababa sa kanilang kinikita. Yan ay may epekto din sa tax na kinokolekta natin, yung sinasabi natin 50 billion minimum yan pero kung kanilang idedekalara ay mas mababa pa sa 50 billion makikita natin ang na napaka laking halaga ang nawawala sa atin at kung ilagay naman natin sa konteksto sa ginagawa nating mga tax reform kung saan nagtataas nga tayo ng buwis para makalikom tayo ng mas maraming kita, taliwas naman ito sa mga pumapasok dito na hindi naman nagbabayad ng tama buwis tapos illegal pa ang kanilang mga operasyon.

Q: Kaya natin mag survive economically kahit walang POGO?

SEN WIN: Prior to 2016 wala naman POGO eh at ang ating ekonomiya at isa sa pinaka mabilis sa buong mundo. We were growing at around 6%, pumasok yung POGO we're still growing at around 6%. So ibig-sabihin wala siyang significant contribution sa ating ekonomiya kaya mawala man ang POGO ang medium term na mangyayari diyan, yung mga condominium mababakante pero dahil lumalago naman ang ating ekonomiya, ibig-sabihin may mga bagong negosyo o bagong mga kasal na maghahanap ng condominium, sila yung kukuha naman nito. Kung neto ang paguusapan, walang impact sa atin.

Q: Parang hindi kawalan?

SEN WIN: hindi kawalan sa mga pag-aaral namin, ang kita lang natin dito eh yung sa 6 billion sa PAGCOR. PAGCOR lang ang kumikita pero ang BIR at iba pang mga ahensya hindi naman kumikita. On top of that kino-compute namin ngayon yung gastos naman natin sa pag e-enforce ng criminal laws, meron ding gastos yung paghuli ng prostitution den, may gastos din yung pagiimbestiga ng kidnapping, may gastos din yung pag imbetiga sa mga namatay na Chinese national. So enforcement ng ating criminal laws may gastos din yun, ang gusto natin ay isang komunidad na mapayapa, isang komunidad na wala tayong kinakatakutan na krimen pero ang nangyayari ngayon mga kababayan natin natatakot dahil kung nagagawa nila pumtay at mag kidnap eh ng sarili nilang kababayan, baka sumunod na rin yung mga locals natin.

Q: Kung kayo ang tatanungin is it about time na itigil na yung POGO operations?

SEN WIN: In my opinion, it's about time to suspend the operations hanggang hindi klaro ang mga patakaran at regulasyon na dapat i-pataw sa POGOs, dapat suspendihin na muna kung hindi rin natin makokolekta yan at walang makolekta, dapat suspendihin. Kung talagang hindi natin magagawang makolekta ng tama ang buwis, eh dapat itigil na talaga natin dahil wala tayong napapala. On top of that kung titignan natin yung mga nagtratrabaho doon, less that 10% lang ang pinoy, almost 90% dayuhan, anong trabaho ang nalilikha? walang trabaho na nalilikha. Mabuti kung may mga trabaho rin nalilikha dahil yung trabahong nalilikha nagbabayad sila ng income tax, kung ganun kikita pa rin tayo.

Q: At the same time hindi rin sila kumakain sa restaurant natin?

SEN WIN: May mga ganun pa, yung mga restaurant ay para sa kanila, sila rin ang may-ari, sila rin ang kumakain doon. Isa sa mga Nakita ko sa social media yung pagsara ni Mayor Vico Sotto ng isang kainan na walang business permit. Ibig-sabihin itong kainan na tinatayo wala ring permit, so wala ring permit yung POGO, wala ring permit yung restaurant, so wala talaga tayong napapala.

Q: Dapat bang sumunod ang ibang lungsod?

SEN WIN: Yes, yung mga local officials dapat maging alisto na yung modus ng POGO at POGO related businesses na hindi kumukuha ng business permit at may mga illegal na ginagawa. Nakakatakot yan dahil kung nako-corrupt nila ang Bureau of Immigration, malaking tsansa na nako-corrupt na nila ang ating ibang opisyales na kapulisan. Kapag na-corrupt po ang kapulisan natin, sino pa ang tutulong at mag e-enforce ng ating mga batas?

ABS-CBN PROVISIONAL AUTHORITY

Q: Segue way lang ako sa ABS, inapprove yung reso, today in-announce ni Gadon na mag fa-file ng petition sa SC, kasi nga yung legal basis ng letter, anong effect nun pagdating sa SP kung meron man, sa intent?

SEN WIN: yung intent ng Senate Resolution is sense of the Senate na dapat bigyan ng provisional authority yung ABS-CBN pero malaking tsansa na ma cha-challenge ito after May 5pero hindi naman natin sinasabi na kung ma-challenge ito ay matatalo na kaagad dahil nga wala namang ganitong challenger in the past. Nasabi nga kahapon ni Senate President Sotto na mahigit 300 plus na provisional authority ang na issue before pero itong 300 plus wala naman nag cha-challenge sa korte, wala naman nag fa-file ng case against the provisional authority. Once again, unchartered territory ito dahil ito ay bago at depende na yan sa makikita ng Korte Suprema, pero kami naman sa Senado kampante tayo dahil may legal opinion na ang Department of Justice. Doon sa hearing natin at sa ating pag aanalisa, legally sound naman ang suggestion ng DOJ at ito ay pwedeng gawing basehan sa pag depensa ng pag issue ng provisional authority.

Q: Walang effect yun sa challenge ni Sen. Gadon with respect to strength of the so-called appeal to the NTC? Walang effect doon sa intent sa panawagan sa NTC?

SEN WIN: Dahil provisional authority itong i-issue, ma cha-challnege talaga yan at in-expect natin yan dahil nga high profile ang ABS-CBN, maraming gustong i-test itong provisional authority theory pero in my view dahil pinagaralan ng mabuti ito ng DOJ, we're taking the view of the DOJ, may legal basis naman yung pag issue ng provisional authority, lalo na kung merong resolution na manggagaling sa Senado.



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Q: Good morning Senator Win.

SEN WIN: Magandang umaga po at sa ating mga listeners.

Q: Ito pong GMRC at Values Education Act, na-ratify na po. Ano po ba itong GMRC?

SEN WIN: Bibigyan ko lang po ng kaunting background ang ating mga listeners. Sumang-ayon ang Kongreso, both Lower House and Upper House na ibalik ang GMRC at gawing core subject dahil ang GMRC po ay lumabnaw at ito ay naihalo sa ibang subjects. Hindi po ito nabibigyan ng gaanong importansya sa pagtuturo. Ngayon kasi, sa dami ng impluwensyang natatanggap ng isang bata, lalo na sa social media, nakakaapekto ito sa asal at pag-uugali ng ating mga kabataan. Minabuti ng ating mga mambabatas na ibalik ito at gawing core subject sa ating basic education, sa elementary at high school.

Q: And because it is ratified na po, next school year po ba ay sisimulan na itong ipatupad?

SEN WIN: Tama. This coming 2020, mag-uumpisa na yan. Ang concept nito ay from Kindergarten to Grade 6, good manners and right conduct po ang ituturo. From Grades 7 to Grade 10, i-eexpand yan to values education. Importante ring matuto ang ating mga kabataan ang tinatawag nating values kung paano maging mabuting mamamayan, kung paano mahalin ang ating bansa at yung iba't iba pang values gaya ng pagmamahal, respeto sa kapwa at nasyonalismo. Pagdating naman po sa Grades 11 and 12, ito naman ay ihahalo ulit sa ibang subjects dahil ang bata sa Grades 11 and 12 ay may kaisipan na.

Q: That's good po na may focus sa murang edad ay naituturo na ito. Minsan po kasi kahit sa mismong tahanan ay hindi po ito naituturo, nakakalimutan o wala nang oras. At least sa school ay makakapag-focus po na habang nasa murang edad hanggang pagtanda ay bitbit na nila.

SEN WIN: Correct. Hindi rin natin iiwanan ang responsibilidad sa magulang at tahanan. Kasama sa batas na gagawa ang Department of Education na maging partner ang magulang at komunidad sa pagtututo ng GMRC at values education. Hindi natin pwedeng iwan rin lang ito sa ating mga guro at eskwelahan, kasama po ang komunidad at mga magulang.

Q: Maybe they could have activities together. Minsan nakakatuwa na ang mga bata ang nagpapaalala pa sa mga magulang na 'that's bad', eto yung natutunan ko sa school.

SEN WIN: Correct. Ang importante ho rito ay hindi lang konsepto at istorya ang ituturo kundi kasama ang mga activities, character building activities for example, role playing na ituturo rin sa kanila para maging malalim at mabigyan ng focus ang GMRC.

Q: Sinasabi na tayong mga Pilipino ay very personalistic, malinis din tayo sa sarli pero pagdating sa komunidad, medyo kulang tayo dun.

SEN WIN: Tama ho. Aminado tayo ngayon na ang mundo ay iba na dahil sa internet at sa teknolohiya. Ngayon po, ang information ay nadadala na natin sa bulsa sa pamamagitan ng cellphone. Yun po ay accessible sa mga bata at nakakaapekto sa kanila. Kaya ho importante na bigyang diin ho ang ang GMRC dahil ang impluwensya ho sa kanila ay pwede nang mangyari anumang oras at kahit saan.

Q: Nakakalimutan o nababawasan. Tayo nga lang ho ang may salitang malasakit eh. Sabi nga ng mga foreign friends ko, kapag pinapa-explain nila, sabi ko there's no exact word for malasakit in English pero tayong mga Pilipino ang meron yan na sana ay hindi makalimutan lalo na ay maituro sa ating mga kabataan.

SEN WIN: Ang importante sa batas na ito ay gagawin siyang core subjects so kung ano po ang pagturing sa Math and Science, ganun din po ang atensyon sa GMRC.

Q: Isa sa mga bagay na naiisip natin na sa pagtuturo, napakalaki ng impluwensya ng mass media. Sa totoo lang, the classroom is limited compare to the impact of television, radio at iba pang mga social media natin. Napakabigat ng atensyon sa ABS-CBN, sa prangkisa, ano ba ang magagawa ng mass media para tuloy-tuloy rin ang pagtuturo natin ng GMRC?

SEN WIN: Importante po ang self-regulation ng mass media. Yung mass media, hindi nabibigyan ng mabigat na regulasyon ng pamahalaan. Yung content nila ay self-regulated yan at importante rin na ang self-regulation mechanism ng mass media, lalo na ang tv at ang radio, one-way yan eh. Hindi gaya ng social media na two-way communication. Kapag may lumabas ho sa TV, wala nang balikan ho yan kaya importante ang self-regulation. For example, kung meron pong mga palabas na hindi maganda, na makakasira ng values ng ating bansa, dapat wag nang ipalabas yan.

Q: Ito pong resolution para nga sa patuloy na operasyon ng ABS-CBN ay inaprubahan na ng Senado, what's next po?

SEN WIN: Ito po ay simple resolution at ang ibig sabihin nito ay ini-express ng Senado na bigyan ng NTC ng provisional authority ang ABS dahil based on the timetable, hindi talaga mabibigyan ng prangkisa ang ABS pagdating ng May 4. So ang aming pagbabalik sa Senado ay May 11 so ibig sabihin, by May 5, wala nang prangkisa ang ABS. So ang sinasabi ngayon ng Senado sa NTC ay bigyan muna nila ng provisional authority para makapag-operate sila habang dinidinig ang prangkisa ng ABS. Ngayon, ang debate rito ay whether that provisional authority is enough or may legal standing sa pag-ooperate sa ABS. Malaking debate ito kagaya na lang ng ating Chief Justices, iba-iba ang kanilang opinion pero ang aming pinanghahawakan sa Senado ay ang pagdinig sa Senado. Sinabi ng ating Justice Secretary na pwede silang bigyan ng provisional authority basta sinabi ng Kongreso at Senado.

Q: Tsaka matagal nang practice yan eh.

SEN WIN: Correct. Ngayon lang ho nabigyan ng malaking attention dahil ang ABS ay malaki, giant ang ABS. Kung titignan natin ang history, yung maliliit na radio stations sa probinsya na paso na ho ang kanilang prangkisa, binibigyan naman ng provisional authority hanggang makuha nila ang kanilang prangkisa.

Q: Pero kailangan din po ng resolution mula sa Lower House?

SEN WIN: In this case dahil kulang na ang oras, ang pinanghahawakan po ng Senado ay ang kanilang sulat na binigay. Si Speaker Cayetano, nagbigay ng sulat na ang tema ay kapareho po ng simple resolution ng Senado. Yun po ang pinanghahawakan ng Senado ngayon.



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Q: Good evening po Senator Win.

SEN WIN: Good evening po sa lahat ng ating tagapakinig at tagapanuod.

Q: Para po maintindihan ng ating mga kababayan, ano po ang inyong isulong kanina na pinagbotohan ninyo rito tungkol sa prangkisa ng ABS-CBN?

SEN WIN: Nagkaisa ang mga Senador na magpasa ng isang resolusyon na sinasabi sa NTC na magbigay ng provisional authority sa ABS. Kung matatandaan natin, ang prangkisa ng ABS ay mag-eexpire sa May 4 pero kami next week ay mag-aadjourn na ang session kaya wala nang oras para maaprubahan ang prangkisa at babalik kami ng May 11. So pagbalik naming, expired nay un. In the meantime na wala pang prangkisa, ang Senado ay nagbigay ng expression na magbigay muna ng provisional authority ang ABS para makapag-operate sila ng tuloy-tuloy.

Q: Parang guidance sa NTC?

SEN WIN: Correct. Parang guidance for NTC at magkaroon sila ng basis na magbigay ng provisional authority kasi ang sinasabi ng NTC ay kailangan nila ng basis. Ang basis na ito ang gagamitin nila, itong resolution na pinagbotohan ng mga Senador.

Q: Ang naalala ko po Senator, ang NTC sinasabi nila na parang naiipit sila dahil naninindigan sila na hanggat walang franchise renewal, hindi sila makakapaglabas nitong provisional authority at hinihintay pa po nila ang final decision ng kanilang legal team. Naipaabot po ba sa Senado kung ano ang desisyon ng legal team nila or recommendation po ng legal team?

SEN WIN: Dalawang bagay ang dapat nating bigyang-diin. Unang-una, hindi ito bago. Itong provisional authority ay ginagawa na ito ng NTC, maraming beses na. In fact, kanina sinabi ni Senate President Sotto na ang provisional authority ay hindi bago, more than 300 times na nag-issue ang NTC ng provisional authority sa iba't-ibang kompanya na nangangailangan ng prangkisa at hindi nabigay on time ang prangkisa. So hindi bago ito. Matagal na nila itong ginagawa. Subalit ng nagkaroon kami ng hearing dito, ang opinion ng DOJ ay dapat may resolusyon na manggagaling sa Kongreso kaya kahit na ginagawa na ito ng NTC matagal na, para mabigyan ng basis ang NTC, sumang-ayon ang mga Senador na mag-issue ng resolusyon.

Q: Wala naman po bang magiging conflict sa parating binibring up ni former Chief Justice Renato Puno na back in 2003 nga daw, na rule ng Supreme Court na hindi pwedeng walang bagong prangkisa before mabibigyan ng provisional authority?

SEN WIN: Talagang magkakaroon ito ng malaking debate pagdating ng May 4. Sa aming palagay, dahil nga ng pagdinig namin ay sinabi ng DOJ na kakailanganin ng resolusyon, ay sumang-ayon kami bilang mga Senador. Pero hindi ibig sabihin na sa May 5, kapag nawala na ang prangkisa, ay magkakaroon ito ng kalinawan dahil iba pa rin ang may prangkisa. Ang prangkisa ay talagang batas yan at matibay yan. Ang provisional authority ay manggagaling lang sa NTC. Hindi ito kasintibay ng isang batas kaya ito ay magiging debate at pwedeng maging issue pagdating ng May 5 at hindi natin maiiwasan kung may kukwestyon nito sa korte. Hindi natin maiiwasan yan.

Q: Sinabi po rin kanina ni Senator Drilon na it is still up to the NTC to decide if it will grant the temporary license or not. Ito ay kahit meron na po kayong naging move sa Senado, meron na rin pong opinion dyan ang DOJ. Pero sa tingin nyo po ba, ibibigay nila?

SEN WIN: Kasi ang nangyari ngayon, ang Kongreso nagpadala ng isang sulat na nagsasabi na pwedeng bigyan ng provisional authority, ang Senado naman through a resolution sinasabing pwedeng bigyan ng provisional authority pero hindi ibig sabihin na hindi pwedeng kwestyunin ito pagdating ng May 5. Kagaya ng sinabi ko, iba ang may prangkisa. Batas yan eh, matibay na matibay. Itong provisional authority, hindi ito kasingtibay ng prangkisa. Pupwedeng maging issue ito pagdating ng May 5.

Q: Malaking hamon sa ito sa mga mag-aabogado.

SEN WIN: Correct. Magiging legal battle ito pagdating ng May 5 dahil dito mag-eexpire, dito magkakaroon ng malaking tanong. Even kung pakinggan mo ang mga chief justices natin, iba-iba ang opinion nila eh. Iba ang opinion ni Chief Justice Puno, iba ang opinion ni CJ Panganiba, iba rin ang opinion ng ibang mga dalubhasa sa batas. Kung may iba't-ibang opinion, hindi malayo na magkaroon yan ng debate pagdating ng May 5.

Q: Senator Win, lumalabas po dito na ang pinakaipit po talaga, the final decision will come from NTC.

SEN WIN: Correct. Kung ako naman, dahil nga ito ay ginagawa na nila sa ibang pagkakataon, alam rin nila ang legal basis nito at kung ano ang pwede nilang gamitin na legal cover. Kasi hindi ito ang unang beses, hindi lang naha-highlight in the past pero hindi bago itong provisional authority.

Q: May sinasabi po sila na iba ang sitwasyon ng ABS ngayon.

SEN WIN: Hindi iba. Iba ang sitwasyon ngayon dahil naha-highlight ang ABS-CBN. Napakalaking sitwasyon ito pero kung titingnan natin ang ibang stations na maliliit, nabibigyan nila ng provisional authority. So ngayon, iba dahil ang attention ay nasa ABS pero conceptually, nagagawa na rin nila ito in the past.

Q: Would you give us a reason po kung bakit napaaga itong schedule first hearing sa Kamara?

SEN WIN: Discretion nila yan kung kelan sila magbibigay ng hearing but the sooner the better.

Q: Maraming salamat po Senator Win Gatchalian.



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Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon lambasted Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) for pushing for the continued operation of Philippine offshore gaming operations (POGOs) to keep the negligible P8 billion it collects from fees and licenses, totally disregarding the rising social problems and gambling-related crimes brought about by allowing POGOs in the country.

"For P8 billion that you get from fees, you are saying that they should be here? That statement, I must say, is a stupid statement. Basta may pera na pumasok, all these evil things we tolerate," Drilon stressed.

"I am disappointed at the statement today of Pagcor, saying that we are in favor of POGOs continuing its operation because of the income earned. That is a shortsighted statement," Drilon said during the Senate Blue Ribbon's hearing on the influx of foreign currency brought into the country mostly by Chinese nationals on Thursday.

Pagcor said that it collects P8 billion from fees and licenses from POGOs, which is just 0.03% of the economy.

Anti-Money Laundering Council Executive-Director Mel Georgie Racela confirmed that they monitored P14 billion worth of transactions that were related to suspicious POGO activities from January 2017 to October 2019, he noted. These include drug trafficking related activities and swindling.

Citing figures from the risk assessment conducted by the council, Drilon underscored the 63 casino kidnapping related cases from 2017 to 2019, which victimized Chinese businessmen engaged in online gaming.

The Philippine National Police said there are more or less 10 cases of POGO-related homicide cases.

NCRPO Chief Elise Eleazar also admitted that prostitution has seen an increase in the past three years due to POGO operations. He said that the PNP had already launched 10 police operations against prostitution dens involving foreign nationals, which resulted in the arrest of 60 suspects, 59 of whom are Chinese citizens.

The Pagcor admitted that there are about 120 non-licensed POGOs illegally operating in the country. AMLC on the other hand reported that in 2019 alone, 200 internet-based POGOs illegally serviced online gaming operations.

"Is it worth all these problems that we face? The P8 billion income generated by Pagcor from POGOs is nothing compared to the social problems brought about by POGOs," Drilon underscored.

"All these things happened since POGOs came into our shores. What benefits are we taking about?" Drilon lamented.

"Disgusting is a very mild term to describe your assessment of the POGO operations," he added.

Drilon said that all these social problems that the country is facing today are enough basis to ban POGO operations in the country.

"It is a policy issue. To us, the policy should be to terminate these POGOs because of all these nefarious activities that we see today," he reiterated.



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3/5/20

In my Dispatch yesterday, I made the argument that while the 1987 Constitution did not explicitly provide for the procedure in treaty abrogation, its very spirit or philosophy and the Framers' intent unmistakably requires Senate concurrence not only for treaty-making but for treaty-unmaking as well. An effective check and balance had to be instituted in the hope that never again will the Filipino people undergo the harrowing experiences of a dictatorship.

There is also the underlying principle that any law passed, including the fundamental law, is constructed with the basic legal precepts in mind. This includes the legal dictum that a law can only be repealed by another law.

A bill that becomes a law can no longer be changed by the executive without going through Congress. More pointedly, treaties already concurred in by the Senate become an expression of the national interest in international affairs that even the President as chief architect of foreign policy cannot contravene without Congress's or the Senate's approval.

Treaties are the act of the sovereign through their nationally-elected representatives in the Senate. Being an act of the sovereign, a non-sovereign cannot abrogate them. I say it again--the President is not the sovereign. In the Philippines, the President is not king.

Another reason why the 1987 Constitution did not spell out details for certain actions like treaty abrogation is because the framers did not imagine a Duterte autocracy. If they did, the Constitution would have an additional one thousand pages, with annexes to boot, of what the president can and cannot do. The framers would have spelled out the following:

The President cannot kill or order murders;

The President cannot falsely accuse and persecute political enemies;

The President cannot pressure members of the judiciary on how to decide a case;

The President cannot surrender national territory to a foreign country;

The President cannot be an agent, spy, or official of a foreign country;

The President cannot allow the invasion of the country by foreign workers, criminals, and mafia syndicates;

The President cannot treat the police and security forces as his personal army;

The President cannot cover-up the wrongdoings of favored public officials, including PNP scalawags;

The President cannot employ an elected Senator as a personal caregiver;

The President cannot molest and harass women, etc., etc., etc.

In short, if only the framers of the 1987 Constitution imagined a Duterte presidency, they would have explicitly provided in the Constitution that the President of the Philippines cannot, at any point in time, be a narcissistic sociopath devoid of any morals or empathy whatsoever.

(Access the handwritten version of Dispatch from Crame No. 730, here: https://issuu.com/senatorleilam.delima/docs/dispatch_730)



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Opposition Senator Leila M. de Lima has expressed outrage over the unabated killings of members of the legal profession, noting that the Philippines is fast becoming a very dangerous place for lawyers to practice their profession.

De Lima, a former justice secretary, said the murders of two lawyers that took place last month showed how their assassins have become more emboldened, reveling at the gangsterism and mafia culture that have become prevalent nowadays.

"[T]his regime is populated by gangsters who have watched too much mafia movies and copycat the most inhumane and grotesque assassination techniques depicted in such movies," she said in her recent Dispatch from Crame 721.

"Pumping bullets into a father in front of his daughter's school just before she is about to get in the same car takes the cake," she added.

News reports showed that lawyer Bayani Dalangin, whom the Integrated Bar of the Philippines recalled as a "good, brilliant and respected lawyer," was attacked in his office in Talavera, Nueva Ecija during a meeting with his clients.

Former Bureau of Corrections Legal Division Chief Fredric Santos was reportedly ready to spill the beans before the Senate about what he knows on the alleged anomalies surrounding the expanded Good Conduct Time Allowance policy.

These cases are only two of the growing list of 48 unresolved killings involving judges, prosecutors, lawyers and other members of the legal community since Duterte took power in 2016. Most assailants in these killings have remained unidentified.

"There will be a reckoning. Not today. But all those responsible for lives snuffed out without justice but with impunity will meet their own end," the former human rights chief said.

"The gangsters now lording it over us should watch the mafia movies to their endings, so they will learn how gangsters like themselves eventually end up, either behind prison or in a pool of their own blood," she added.

Since 2017, De Lima has called for independent inquiries to these lawyer killings. In the 17th Congress, she filed Senate Bill (SB) 1721 which seeks to increase penalties against perpetrators who commit offenses against workers in the legal and justice sector.

In the 18th Congress, she filed SB 780, seeking to amend Article 14 of the Revised Penal Code (RPC) to add, as an aggravating circumstance, the crime having been committed against lawyers and justice sector officials.

In 2018, despite being restricted by her prolonged unjust detention, De Lima called out the Duterte administration to resolve not only the harassment and attacks against lawyers but also the surge of killings by masked gunmen.

"[N]othing is sacred to the gangsters who are now in high posts of government. Not human life, not decency, not even the appearance of civility and moral uprightness," the lady Senator from Bicol said.

"These people revel in their gangsterism and mafia culture. As they have so propagated in Davao City, so they have now spread this culture throughout the entire nation for us to accept and live with," she added.



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Senator Leila M. de Lima has sought for a Senate inquiry into the alleged irregular use and disbursement by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) of its PhP300-million confidential and intelligence funds.

Last Feb. 12, De Lima filed Senate Resolution 321 urging the appropriate Senate committee to look into the possible misuse and alleged irregular disbursement of the DICT's confidential, intelligence and extraordinary funds purportedly for surveillance in 2019.

"There is (a) need to determine the propriety of appropriating confidential and intelligence funds, which are given to agencies involved in protecting national security and upholding peace and order, to the DICT," she said.

Last Feb. 3, DICT Undersecretary Eliseo Rio resigned from his post after he divulged the lack of transparency in the disbursement of the department's confidential, intelligence and extraordinary funds amounting to some PhP300 million.

According to him, these funds were released in three tranches - PhP 100 million each on Nov. 8, Dec. 3, and Dec. 17 last year - as a "cash advance for confidential expenses in connection with cybersecurity activities."

The Commission on Audit (COA) has reportedly flagged down the alleged irregular releases of these funds from confidential expenses. Only the first disbursement has been reportedly liquidated so far.

These cash advances done during the last quarter of 2019, according to COA Audit Observation Memorandum 2020-001 issued last Jan. 20, left the DICT with "very little time in accomplishing its desired cybersecurity programs."

The lady Senator from Bicol explained that the Senate need to ascertain the extent that these confidential and intelligence operations do not violate the country's laws on data privacy and much less, violate the rights of due process.

"The Senate, in the exercise of its oversight function, is now duty-bound to scrutinize how DICT made use of its confidential and intelligence funds, especially since such function is clearly absent in its mandate under the law," she said.

"If unchecked, confidential and intelligence funds, can be subjected to massive corruption due to its limited transparency. This, it must be strictly monitored and implemented in accordance with law," she added.

Last month, De Lima supported Senate Resolution 310 reviving the Senate Select Oversight Committee on Intelligence and Confidential Funds tasked to scrutinize the government's use and disposal of intelligence, confidential and extraordinary funds.

In July 2019, she has also filed Senate Bill 377 which seeks to create a Joint Congressional Intelligence Committee (JCIC) to ensure that government agencies are accountable to the use of intelligence and confidential funds entrusted to them.

Under SB 377, all entities of the Philippine government which conduct intelligence activities and receive intelligence funds must keep the JCIC fully informed of all its intelligence activities, including any significant anticipated intelligence activity and any significant intelligence failure.

Once enacted into law, the measure mandates concerned government offices to obtain a signed letter from the President, or from the respective head of the constitutional body in cases involving entities enjoying fiscal autonomy, specifically authorizing the proposed intelligence activity before any amount is disbursed and expended for the proposed intelligence activity.



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Good Manners and Right Conduct (GMRC) is set to return to the school curriculum, as the bicameral report for the GMRC and Values Education Act bill was approved on Wednesday.

Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel F. Zubiri, principal author of the bill, stressed that GMRC is lacking in the current K-12 curricula across both public and private institutions. The bill is sponsored by Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian, who chairs the Senate Committee on Basic Education, Arts and Culture. Other co-authors are Sens. Cynthia Villar, Joel Villanueva, Nancy Binay, Panfilo Lacson, Sonny Angara, Bato Dela Rosa, Frank Drilon, Christopher "Bong" Go, Risa Hontiveros, Lito Lapid, Imee Marcos, Manny Pacquiao, Kiko Pangilinan, Koko Pimentel, Bong Revilla, Vicente Sotto III, and Francis Tolentino.

"Kita naman po sa news kung gaano na napariwara ang ating kabataan. Kulang sila sa guidance. You all saw the CCTV footage of how those teenagers set that man's balloons on fire, inadvertently bringing physical harm to him, on top of destroying his means of livelihood. Clearly, may pagkukulang tayo sa mga batang ito. Napabayaan silang lumaki nang walang respeto, walang malasakit, o kahit sense of consequence man lang."

"We need to teach GMRC in our kids' formative years, so they can develop good habits at a young age. This is how they do it in Japan, and the kids there are unbelievably responsible. Napakagaling. Kahit maliliit na bata napaka-disiplinado."

This bill will institutionalize a comprehensive GMRC and Values Education program in the K-12 curriculum of the Department of Education, replacing the current Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao curriculum. GMRC will be integrated into daily activities in the kindergarten level, and then it will be taught as a separate subject from Grades 1 to 6. Grades 7 to 10 will be taught a Values Education subject, into which GMRC shall be integrated. For Grades 11 and 12, Values Education shall be integrated in all subjects under the K-12 Basic Education Curriculum.

This bill marks the return of GMRC after it was dissolved as a subject and assimilated into other classes upon the implementation of the K-12 program in 2013.

"Our kids are growing up in a period of great technological change. Technology can be a wonderful tool for learning, but it can also stunt their moral development. 'Di sila matututo maging magalang, responsable, at disiplinado online," Zubiri said. "Values education remains the domain of the family and the school. This is why we need a strengthened Values Education program, and why we need the return of GMRC in our schools.



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On top of the P10 billion- Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF), additional funds totaling more than P100 billion were released to aid farmers during the transition to rice tariffication. Sen. Cynthia Villar made this observation a year after the enactment of Republic Act 11203 or the rice tariffication law.

"Last year, farmers started to receive the benefits of the law through seed distribution, credit and extension programs. Soon, farm machineries will be distributed to rice-producing towns under the law's mechanization program," Villar said.

Villar said the distribution of farm machineries was delayed last year because of the change of leadership in the Department of Agriculture from Emmanuel Piñol to William Dar but SARO-BMB-E-20-001084 was already received for the amount of P5 billion.

Aside from the P10 billion RCEF, Land bank and the DA Agricultural Credit Policy Council implemented the P4.8 billion Expanded Survival and Recovery Assistance Program or SURE AID which provided a one-time loan assistance of P15,000 at 0% interest for eight years. This program helped rice farmers with farms measuring one hectare and below whose income were affected by the drop in the farm gate price of palay.

Also for the benefit of small hold farmers, a P3 billion unconditional cash assistance was implemented. The program was funded by the Department of Finance and provided P5,000 each to 600,000 farmers owning one hectare and below.

In order to ensure that the palay produce of local farmers will be bought at a reasonable price, P7 billion was allocated under the National Food Authority to procure palay from local farmers. The P31 billion budget for rice subsidy under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program was also used to procure rice from local farmers and distributed to beneficiary households.

Farmers also received assistance under the P7 billion National Rice Program which included provision for hybrid seeds, fertilizer for inbred seeds, irrigation support and rehabilitation and improvement of small scale irrigation projects; agriculture, machineries, equipment and facilities support services; extension services; and research and development.

Assistance to farmers was also funded in the National Irrigation Administration worth P36 billion; P1 billion allocation to the PhilMech/PhilRice; and Farm to Market Roads worth P9.9 billion.

Villar said improvement of our country's credit rating was also attributed to the enactment of the law which allowed us to save about P35 billion in interest payments of our government's loans from other countries.

"Improving farmer's competitiveness is not something that we can do overnight.These programs were rolled out to provide a ready market for local rice and deter unscrupulous traders from taking advantage of our farmers in the initial phase of its implementation," Villar said.

Villar said once fully implemented, mechanization will bring down the cost of labor of palay production from P4.60/kg to P1.20/kg. The inbred seeds will increase the harvest from 4 MT/hectare to 6 MT/hectare thereby doubling the farmers' income.

For year 2019 to 2024, RA 11203 provides for the allocation of P5 billion for the procurement of rice farm equipment to be given out to 947 rice producing towns in the Philippines at the rate of P5 million per town. This includes tractors, tillers, planters, seeders, harvesters, threshers, drying and milling to be implemented by PhilMech.

P3 billion was alloted for the distribution and production of inbred seeds at the rate of 20 kgs/ hectare every planting season to be implemented by the Philippine Rice Institute. P1 billion will go to cheap credit with a 2% interest per year to be implemented by the Land Bank and the Development Bank of the Philippines.

P 1 billion will be used to fund training programs to be implemented by the Agriculture Training Institute, Philmech, PhilRice at P100 million each per year, and the Technical Skills Development Authority at P700 million per year through the farm schools.



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Villanueva: For the 0.04 percent impact ng POGO industry ditto sa ating bansa. Yung cash inflow versus our GDP was 0.04 percent which is about P7 billion pesos at compared to a what we are getting out of it, the social ills that goes with the industry .

Makikita natin na hindi ganun kalaki at hindi sapat at hindi commensurate sa ating narranasan, ano? Bumabaha na ng salapi na nilau-launder dito sa bansa natin. Imagine P22 billion pesos came in na hinand- carry hanggang gayon wala tayong nababalitaan kung anong ginawa dito.

Doon sa mismong datos ng pagpasok ng mga foreign workers and we are talking about the legal foreign workers walang maibigay satin ang task force , ang PAGCOR, and DOLE.

Dun sa issue ng trafficking, ganun din po. Yung pastillas palang, scheme, isang billion na yung inaanticipate yung corruption na nangyari.

We talk about the tax not being paid- withholding taxes pa lang no less than the secretary of finance already made mention of abut P2.5 billion to P3Billion pesos a month and we are only talking about withholding taxes.

And then, the BIR official during our hearing, made a statement na at least P50 bllion pesos ag hindi nababayarang buwis pag iko-compute mo yung corporate income tax, value added tax, withholding tax.

Then, there's the issue of franchise tax, I think it is very important na mattackle natin yun. Bakit hindi nagbabayad ng frachise tax young offshore gaming na company ng POGOS. Ang kanilang paniniwala, hindi kasi sila nag-ooperate daw ditoo, which is ridiculous. Why would they get the license of PAGCOR? Tapos sasabihin nila hindi sila sakop ng pagababyad ng franchise tax.

But the million dollar question, is anong ginagawa ng PAGCOR? Sino kakampi ng PGCOR? POGO or the Rep of the Phil? Eh sila ang ating state gaming regulator? Bakit di nila tulungan ang BIR na habulin ang mga ito? Bakit hindi nila tulungan ang BIR na kolektahin itong 5% franchise tax. Wala hong ka-effort, effort eh.

Hindi ho natin maintindihan bakit ganun. At the same time, ang ating pinaka malaking concern ay yung hindi ito nakakalikha ng trabaho para sa ating mga kababayan. For example, itong tatalong kumpanya na ito-- Big Empire Technology, Jin Ding Yuan, tsaka itong Great Empire Gaming, 3483, 3226,3086 mga epleyado nila. Ilan ang emleyado na Pilipino? ZERO.

Wala ho silang empleyado na Pilipino, galling ho mismo sa PAGCOR ang datos na ito. ZERO eh, wala hong napoproduce na trabaho. Yung binanggit natin kahapon sa plenaryo yung real estate bubble, hindi lang siya isyu na hindi makapasok yung negosyante sa atin, yung hindi makapag create ng jobs.

Halimbawa yung nilabas na data ni Sen. Gordon about BPOs and POGOs, about 8% more ang demand ng POGOs so yung mga nagpaprenta mas siguro pina-prioritise nila yung POGO then dun sa BPO. Pero alam natin na duns a BPO, makaka-produce tayo ngtrabaho, sa POGO hindi.

Another isyu is yung mga kababayan natin na nangangarap na magkaroon ng condo unit, parang hindi na mangyayari ho yun kung papayagan natin ito. Dun na nga ho papasok yung real estate bubble.

Ang worse, kung mangyari yung nangyari sa Cambodia na bigla na lang silang umalis, because ngayon nakikita na natin yung Chinese government pinapauwe na nila yung mga kababayan nila, yung iba kina-cancel na yung passporss.

So, pag umalis ho yan, what's gonna happen sa buildings natin and sa units na biglaan ho ano?

So these are the things na kailangan ho i-anticipate natin what's gonna happen.

But, let me reiterate my call, parang sirang plaka na po ako, itigil muna natin ang operasyn ng POGO.

Parang di naman tayo nadadala na kasi very glaring yung mga nangyayri na hindi positibo ang epekto nito sa ating bayan, sa ating kababayan, lalong lalo na sa ating kapaligiran, considering yan na nga yun human trafficking, yung prostitution dens na pinapsara, kidnappings, ets.

Question: Sir, sa AMLAC report, walang binabanggit about specific about laundering?

ANS: Wala silang binaggit during that time na specifics no but were very clear in saying that there's this big threat, big threat of money laundering with these schemes with the present situation, status of operations ng POGO and hindi din natin... kasi nung nakita natin yung limpak-limpak na dolyar na dinadala na hinahand-carry dito sa ating bayan and parang okay lang, dun palang parang may problema na tayo eh. Importante talaga na umamin at sabihin ng ahensya ating pamahalaan, even the inter agency na nagbibigay ng permiso sa kanila na magstay ditto at magkaroon ng employment permit or working permit, sila mismo eh alam nila na dapat itigil muna ito hanggang, at least, makita natin na we are ready for this.

Question: Is it about time na si Presidente maglabas ng strong directive sabihin an itigail na natain ito even the extend of the damage?

ANS: You know what I question is, are these members of the inter agency task force, giving the president the same information na ibinibigay po sa amin dito sa Senado? Kasi, kung ako po ang Pangulo at ito rin yung data na binibigay nila sa ating pangulao at yung the same answer din po yung binibigay sa ating pangulo I will not be surprised na ang ating pangulo mismo ang magsasabi na itigil muna natin yan. Siguraduhin muna na tin na we'll be able to handle this particular industry at masiguro na meron talagang positibo na effect itong POGO sa ating bayan.

Question: Sir, kanina may binanggit si Sen. Gordon and Sen. Rissa na yung softness ng Duterte administration and its official ay dahil sa closeness, softness din ni Presidente sa pakikipag relasyon natin sa China?Do you also believe that?

ANS: Kinukwestyon ko po yun, spagakat again yung bottom line din nito ano ba yung report na ibinibigay sa ting pangulo. Pareho bas a binibigay po sa atin? Sapagkat

A: Glaring po masyado at hindi ko maintidihan at hanggang ngayon hindi ko maisip kung bakit patuloy pa natin ine-entertain yung idea na sige magdala pa tayo ng marming illegal foreign workers. Nitong nakaraan na taon, 6,678. Sige magdala pa tayo ng mga international fugitives, na noong nakaraan na taon ay 733 from 100 lang po iyan. Ganoon po kalaki ang spike. Ngayon itong money laundering issues, na nakakabahala po talaga. Anong gagawin dyan, saan gagamitin yan? Kung hindi pa rin natin ito nararamdaman at wala parin tayo pagnanais na icorrect ito, then it will give us the asuerance na wala na tayo maasahan pag ganoon. Hindi lang softness, when you look at the data information coming from the different agencies of our government.

Q: Maling info? Lumalabas na sa TV

A: That's what I've been questioning, what are they reporting to the president. For example, let's talk about tax evasion, major tax evasion. Mismong secretary of finance na ang nagsasabi. Every month that would pass, 2.5 to 3 billion pesos a month withholding tax pa lang. paapbayaan natin? Last year, 50 billion pesos ang hindi natin nakolekta, and yet we will tackle another round of tax measures here in the senate, in congress. Doon pa lang.

A: ang Bureau of Immigration. Nakita na natin itong pastillas, itong money laundering activities. Doon pa lang. if I'm a member of the interagency task force, I would call a meeting and seek audience with the president and report all these and say, the sane thing to do is to suspend this operations until such time we are ready for it.

Q: Tolerate ng pangulo?

A: Because I give the benefit of the doubt to the president whatever information he is getting. He might be getting information na hindi natin alam. But what I'm saying, as the chairperson of the committee on labor and human resources development, as a member of the Senate, I've seen enough. Two, three weeks ago, I already mentioned it I have seen enough to say suspend, stop the operations of POGO. Can you imagine until now of the 41 offshore gaming operations yung POGO not one of them is paying the franchise tax. Ang BIR humihingi ng tulong, at parang ang PAGCOR, okay lang, bahala kayo, na-kokolekta naman namin yung two percent na regulatory fee, na patuloy natin kinukwestyon natin sapagkat hanggang ngayon ni-hindi tayo masagot ng pamahalaan kung magkano ba talaga yung gross gaming revenue. As we speak right now, they are earning. Ni wala tayong assurance na yung mekansmo nila para sukatin ang kita nitong mga ito ay tama at masisiguro na yung nakokolektang buwis para kay juan dela cruz para sa ating bayan kapalit ng mga money laundering activities itong prostitution dens, itong kidnapping, itong mga international fugitives na ito e worth it bay an. Klaro po na dapat itigil ito.

A: Yesterday, I have to say this also, a lot of members of the senate in yesterday's discussion shared the sentiment of this representation.

Q: Tungkol dito sa pogo?

A: Panahon na for the task force kasi sila yung inatasan. because we know how busy the president is. He is like watching 200 channels every day, and this is just one channel. It is the responsibility of the members of the task force to tell the president what is really happening. It is the responsibility of, for example, the department of finance, dahil taxes ito. We want to collect more for our people pero hindi natin magawa kasi hindi tayo tinutulungan ng ating state gaming regulator and okay lang sa atin?

A: It's time for them to speak up. Ang payo natin sa advisers ng pangulo, itong mga information na binibigay sa atin sa senado, tingnan po din nila. Kagaya ng sinabi niyo kanina, nandito na, nakikita na, nasa news na, they have all the resources to verify all these information at I think common sense dictates na dapat itigil muna ito.

Q: Elaborate sa foreign workers

A:Well we have been saying we're not against foreign workers in the country. We have to emphasize that. Kapag may foreign workers dito sa ating bansa, ibig sabihin may mga Pilipino na hindi capable, able, o willing to do the job. Ang mangyayari, mga highly technical po iyan. Kung POGO naman, Chinese speaking. Marami naman sa atin na Chinese speaking. Ang TESDA po, mayroon language skills institute na pwedeng mag train ng mga aplikante para ma-train sila magsalita ng mandarin o anumang Chinese language.

A: Ang nakakalungkot po sa tatlong malaking kumpanya, mahigit tatlong libo ang kanilang mga workers, ni-walang napo-produce ni isang trabaho para sa ating mga kababayan. Samantala, kung iko-kompara natin sa ibang industriya, tulad ng BPO, yung mga call centers, alam natin na mas makaka-produce ng trabaho. Pangalawa, mas sustainable, sapagka't ito, it will drive our economy. Magkakaroon ng economic activity.

A: Dito sa nangyayari, imagine, yung mga service provider, may lisensya ng pagcor, tapos dito nahuhuli yung mga illegal foreign workers. May lisensya ng pagcor, pero dito nahuhuli yung mga international fugitives. Hindi pa ba sapat na dahilan iyon para i-close ito. Hindi ba tataas ang ating kilay kung maririnig natin na yung nahuli na isang kumpanya diya sa pasig na ilang daan na illegal foreign workers, biglang nakikipagusap at handing bayaran ang 1.2 billion pesos na withholding tax para makaoperate ulit. You could just imagine how much money is being used in this particular industry



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Senators filed P.S. Resolution No. 344 expressing the sense of the Senate authorizing the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to issue a provisional authority to ABS-CBN Corporation, its subsidiaries and/or affiliates, until the Congress' final disposition of the franchise renewal bills.

Prior to the resolution, Senator Ramon Bong Revilla, Jr. filed S. No. 1374, "An Act Amending Section 1 of Republic Act No. 7966 which aims to extend the term of the franchise until Dec. 31, 2020, believing that 10 months are enough for the congress to tackle the issue granting ABS-CBN its new franchise, and to avoid any legal question that may rise during the said period.

In an interview with DZMM's Dos Por Dos hosted by Anthony Taberna, the veteran legislator pointed out that the proposed provisional authority is a "temporary resolve," until the Congress arrives at a final disposition regarding the network's franchise renewal.

"Itong provisional authority ay medyo gray area ito, dahil ako'y naniniwala na dapat mayroong muna na valid at existing na prangkisa na galing sa Kongreso bago makapagbigay ng permit o authority ang NTC. But desperate time calls for desperate measure," Revilla said.

He further urged Congress to finally and speedily tackle the ABS-CBN Franchise bills to secure the employment of its more than 11,000 employees.



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The Senate on Wednesday adopted a resolution "expressing the sense of the Senate" to allow television giant ABS-CBN Corp. and its subsidiaries to operate beyond the expiration of its franchise set on May 4, 2020.

Senate Resolution 6, filed by Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon on February 26, 2020, expresses the sense of the Senate that ABS-CBN "should continue to operate pending final determination of the renewal of its franchise by the 18th Congress."

The resolution, in consideration with Senate Resolutions 7, 8 and 344 filed by "almost all" senators, was adopted without any objection from among those present in plenary.

The adopted resolution can be used as basis by the National Telecommunications Commission to grant ABS-CBN a provisional authority to continue its broadcast operations after the franchise expires.

During the previous hearing of the Committee on Public Services, chaired by Sen. Grace Poe, Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra suggested that Congress should allow, through a resolution, NTC to issue a provisional authority to operate to ABS-CBN Corp.

During interpellation and period of amendments, Drilon agreed that his concurrent resolution be made a simple resolution since the same does not have "the force and effect of the law."

Replying to the question of Sen. Aquilino Pimentel III, Drilon explained that the concurrent resolution does not have the force and effect of a law. "It only formally conveys the sense of the Senate about extending the franchise and does not need the signature of the President," Drilon said.

Senate President Vicente Sotto III, at the start of the interpellation, asked why the NTC needs Congress to come out with a resolution when it issued in the past provisional authorities to operate to several corporate giants such as GMA 7, Smart Communications and CBCP, among others.

Drilon said the resolution, though just an expression of the sense of the Senate, "would give some degree of legal stability" if Congress could issue authority to the NTC.

Asked by Sen. Francis Tolentino as to how it would affect the quo warranto petition filed by Solicitor General Jose Calida, Drilon said the matter before the Supreme Court is separate from the resolution to be adopted by the Senate.

"Let the ABS-CBN defend its position before the Supreme Court... (and) it's the look-out of the Supreme Court (Justices) if they will be influenced (by the resolution)," Drilon said.



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Mr. President, Article 6, Section 12 of the Constitution provides:

"All Members of the Senate and the House of Representatives shall, upon assumption of office, make a full disclosure of their financial and business interests. They shall notify the House concerned of a potential conflict of interest that may arise from the filing of a proposed legislation of which they are authors."

Mr. President, just for the record, this representation is not an author nor a sponsor of Concurrent Resolutions 6,7, and 8, and Senate Resolution 344, all tackling the matter of the ABS-CBN franchise.

But having said that, Mr. President, my wife, Sharon, is also a contract artist of ABS-CBN and kahit na po mawala ang ABS-CBN, palagay ko hindi naman ho gugutumin ang ating butihing maybahay at kabiyak. Ngunit gaya nga ng nabanggit kanina, 'yung mga maliliit na manggagawa ng estasyon ang maaapektuhan.

Hindi lamang po ito. Ang buong bansa ay maaapektuhan 'pag nawala po ang ABS-CBN dahil milyun-milyon ang umaasa sa ABS-CBN kapag mayroon pong bagyo, kapag mayroon pong pagputok ng bulkan, pagka mayroon pong trahedya o kaya kalamidad.

The right to information as well as the freedom of the press, Mr. President, is likewise an issue here. Just for the record, Mr. President.



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Senator Imee Marcos said she will appeal to President Duterte today to give up part of a military reservation area in Marawi to hasten the return of the city's internally displaced persons (IDPs) who were left homeless during the 2017 terrorist siege.

Marcos issued the statement ahead of a closed-door meeting in Malacanang Wednesday afternoon among the IDPs, President Duterte, and members of the Special Senate Committee on Marawi City Rehabilitation.

"Kaya itong gawin ni Presidente Duterte sa ilalim ng Administrative Code para makauwi na ang mga Maranao at makapagsimula ng panibagong buhay," Marcos explained.

Marcos cited that the Mindanao State University, where IDPs converged Feb. 21 to air their grievances to the Senate special committee, stands on land once belonging to the military.

Land titling issues continue to delay the return of IDPs and the reconstruction of their homes in Marawi, after almost two and a half years since a five-month terrorist siege on the city ended in October 2017.

"Paano makakabalik ang mga taga-Marawi sa kanilang sariling bayan kung napakaraming dokumentong hinihingi sa kanila bukod pa sa hanggang ngayon ay wala pa ring mga pasilidad para sa tubig at kuryente," Marcos said.

Less than half of Marawi's long-time residents hold land titles and other legal documents proving property ownership, which are required by the city government for them to visit and rebuild their homes.

"Outright titling ang solusyon, kung sasang-ayon ang pangulo. Kung papalarin, maaring makakauwi na ang mga IDP bago mag-anibersaryo ng Marawi siege sa May 23 ngayong taon," Marcos said.



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More at: https://pinglacson.net/2020/03/04/sponsorship-speech-for-foreign-service-officers-at-the-commission-on-appointments/

Mr. Chairman, distinguished members of the Commission on Appointments, this Representation as Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, presided over a public hearing this morning to deliberate on the nominations of two Ambassadors Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Department of Foreign Affairs, and one Foreign Service Officer Class IV.

The Committee likewise deliberated on the ad interim appointments of 21 Senior Officers of the Department of Foreign Affairs consisting of one Senior Official who is promoted to the rank of Chief of Mission, Class I; one Senior Official promoted to the rank of Chief of Mission, Class II; one Official promoted to the rank of Career Minister; and 18 Senior Officials promoted to the rank of Foreign Service Officer, Class II.

Your Committee, after deliberating on their qualifications and fitness during the public hearing, determined that they are fit and qualified to be in the posts where they are nominated and therefore ruled to recommend to the plenary their appointments for the consent and approval of this body.

It is therefore my honor and privilege to recommend that the Commission give its consent to the nomination of the following Department of Foreign Affairs Senior Officers, namely:

AMBASSADOR IMELDA MACAPUNDAG PANOLONG. The subject-nominee joined the Department in 1991 as a contractual employee under the Office of Cultural Affairs and Public Information Services. For 28 years, she modestly built her career in the foreign service organization, having completed her tours of duty in Islamabad, Pakistan as Third Secretary and Vice Consul; Manama, Bahrain as the First Secretary and Consul; Toronto, Canada as the Deputy Consul General; Jakarta, Indonesia as Minister and Consul General; Los Angeles, California as Deputy Consul General; and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia as Consul General until her current nomination as Ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman.

Among her academic and career distinctions, she is most notable as the first Muslim woman in the Philippine diplomatic corps to be promoted to the rank of Career Minister and later, Chief of Mission, Class II.

Mr. Chairman and distinguished colleagues, it is my privilege and honor to recommend that this body give its consent to the appointment of AMBASSADOR IMELDA MACAPUNDAG PANOLONG as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Sultanate of Oman, with the rank and emoluments of a Chief of Mission, Class II.

I so move, Mr. Chairman.

Our second nominee is an economist and public servant who has been in government service since 1973. He held several positions at the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) until 1979, when he started his diplomatic service career as Foreign Service Officer IV.

AMBASSADOR ENRIQUE AUSTRIA MANALO is well-reputed in the foreign service and was even remarked as "a quiet but seasoned diplomat who has dealt with diplomatic crises, including the South China Sea disputes, with impressive calmness..." He served the Department in many capacities, including his subsequent stints as the Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, to the Republic of Ireland, and to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Most recently, he also assumed the post as Acting Secretary of Foreign Affairs from 08 March to 17 April 2017.

As testament to his long and excellent display of leadership and professionalism, he was conferred with the Order of Lakandula, Rank of Bayani in 2018 by President Rodrigo Duterte; and in 2017, the Felipe Agoncillo Lifetime Service Award (FALSA) by the DFA and the Gawad Mabini Award with the rank of Dakilang Kamanong.

Mr. Chairman, it is with distinct privilege and honor to recommend that this body give its consent to the nomination of AMBASSADOR ENRIQUE AUSTRIA MANALO as Permanent Representative of the Republic of the Philippines to the United Nations in New York, United States of America with the salaries and emoluments of a Chief of Mission, Class I.

I so move, Mr. Chairman.

At this point, Mr. Chairman, I am honored to recommend to this Commission the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of MR. JOSE MARIA ANCHETA CARIÑO to the rank of Chief of Mission, Class I.

I so move, Mr. Chairman.

Mr. Chairman, I likewise recommend to this august body the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of MS. MYLA GRACE RAGENIA CATALBAS MACAHILIG to the rank of Chief of Mission, Class II.

I so move, Mr. Chairman.

Mr. Chairman, I recommend to the Commission the confirmation of the ad interim appointment of MR. ARNEL MARCOS SANCHEZ* to the rank of Career Minister.

I so move, Mr. Chairman.

Mr. Chairman, I likewise recommend to the Commission the confirmation of the ad interim appointments of the following officials to the rank of Foreign Service Officer, Class II:

Mr. Anthony Salazar Aguirre
Ms. Angella Gilberto Llenos Alfafara*
Mr. Juan Paolo Gonzalez Alix
Mr. Joaquin Ricardo Ramos Aragon
Ms. Darell Ann Roque Artates*
Ms. Marie Cris Panes Chieng*
Mr. Jahzeel Abihail Guariño Cruz*
Mr. Alexander Joseph Ayson Estomo*
Ms. Domini N. Fañgon-Kitade
Mr. Alan Roi Quilino Gabriola*
Ms. Laarni Zorayda Suriaga Gandarosa*
Ms. Beatriz Ines L. Herrera-Davila
Ms. Dyan Kristine B. Miranda-Pastrana *
Ms. Ella Karina Rivera Mitra*
Mr. Joel Mendoza Peralta*
Mr. Enrik Fort Estrada Revillas*
Ms. Anne Kristine del Mundo Salvador*
Mr. Alex Ocillos Vallespin*

And last but not least, Mr. Chairman, it is also my distinct privilege to recommend that this body give its consent to the nomination of MS. CHRYZL TORRES SICAT to the rank of Foreign Service Officer, Class IV.

I so move, Mr. Chairman.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman.



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"Deport these criminals. Filipinos' safety comes first."

This was the remark of Sen. Risa Hontiveros in her bid to call on the government to trace all criminal elements and blacklisted fugitives who have entered the country due to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators industry or POGO.

Hontiveros, who chairs the Senate Committee on Women, previously alleged that tour operators have been offering manufactured Philippine birth certificates and passports to Chinese nationals. These tour operators are part of the Bureau of Immigration's [BI] 'pastillas' scam, the Senator noted.

"Napag-alaman natin na parte din ng 'pastillas' scam ang VIP treatment of blacklisted fugitives. These criminals pay more than the P10,000 'service fee' and are allowed entry into the Philippines," she shared.

"Klarong klaro na napakarami nang kriminal na nakapasok sa bansa ngayon, no thanks to our corrupt BI officials. They welcomed these criminals with open arms and set up and enabled this 'pastillas' system to persist."

Additionally, Hontiveros cited reports on the money laundering links to the POGO industry. The Bureau of Customs stated that $447 million (P22.68 billion) entered the country from September 2019 to February 2020, half of which was attributed to Chinese nationals.

"POGO is a big mess," she said. "Ilang beses ko na sinabi ito, pero kailangan ulitin: POGO brings in crimes. Hulihin na ang mga blacklisted, ang mga sangkot sa money laundering, at anumang krimen. They need to be deported immediately!" she concluded.



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Senator Richard J. Gordon on Tuesday stood up against money laundering issues arising from the prevalence of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) in the country.

Gordon pointed out that inordinate and suspiciously large amount of foreign currency, $470-million brought in by 47 individuals from September 2019 to February 2020 alone, without being flagged is an apparent scheme of money laundering being tolerated by authorities.

Republic Act No. 10365, or the Anti-Money Laundering Council Act, as amended, requires covered institutions or persons to report to AML Council within five days all covered transactions and AMLC prescribed period for suspicious transactions. POGOs are required to report suspicious transactions to the AMLC to prevent the growing online casino industry, catering mainly to Chinese players, from becoming a conduit for money laundering.

"It appears that the relevant authorities chose to turn a blind eye to the nefarious activities that come with the prevalence of POGO in our country in exchange for a few billions in tax revenue, or perhaps because of pastillas or any other form it may take. We have a report that one individual was able to bring in huge amounts 45 times. That is what I call done with impunity," the senator said.

Gordon warned that money laundering is a threat to national security because it can be used to fund organized crimes, destabilize governments and erode the integrity of the nation's financial institutions.

"This is very alarming. Hindi natin alam saan talaga galing ang pera at saan dadalhin, ni hindi natin namomonitor kung nasaan ang mga taong ito. The fund could allow syndicates to thrive and perpetuate criminality, exposes the country to and provides fuel for terrorism drug dealers, terrorists, illegal arms dealers, human traffickers, smugglers, corrupt officials and others to operate and expand their criminal enterprises. In extreme cases, it can be used to fund armies or coup'd'etat that can lead to a take-over of government," he said.

"It is also a threat to our economy because it can cause artificial inflation, often times dirty money is used to purchase real properties which will cause the value or price of these properties to increase by creating the illusion of a demand when there is none. It causes a decrease in productive employment by causing businesses to fail, hence workers lose their jobs," Gordon added.



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Senator Richard J. Gordon stated Wednesday that now is the right time to implement Republic Act No. 11235 or the Motorcycle Crime Prevention Law as the number of crimes committed by riding-in-tandem assassins continue to rise.

During the continuation of the investigation on the Good Conduct Time Allowance (GCTA) Law, Gordon, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights, said that the 15 individuals from the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) who were killed were mostly done by riding-in-tandem criminals. The most recent case was the assassination of BuCor legal service chief Atty. Fredric Anthony Santos who was shot dead in Barangay Poblacion, Muntinlupa City by unidentified riding-in-tandem hitmen last month.

Just this morning, three cases of riding-in-tandem attacks were reported including the incident involving Filipina actress Kim Chiu. According to reports, her vehicle was fired by two gunmen onboard a motorcycle in Quezon City.

Gordon reiterated the need to immediately implement RA 11235 that aims to secure the public from crimes committed using motorcycles. Thus, he called on the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to come up with its implementing rules and regulations (IRR) so that the law can be implemented right away.

"Riding-in-tandem assassins are still terrorizing the country. There is no time to tarry; there is an urgent need to implement this law to stop these crimes. Hindi tayo dapat napapatay ng kahit sino. Hindi tayo papayag dito sa Senado na hindi ma-solve ang mga kasong 'yan. Mas marami pang pinatay ang riding-in-tandem kaysa sa Coronavirus at hindi nakakatawa 'yan," Gordon said.

According to the news monitoring of Gordon's office, there are 64 riding-in-tandem cases in the country from January 1 to March 4 of this year alone. Most of which are civilians with 37 cases, while 12 victims were government employees



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Senator Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go reiterated on Wednesday, March 4, his commitment to help Filipino athletes at the public hearing for two Senate Bills (SBs) that seek to create a Philippine Boxing and Combat Sports Commission.

"I express my full support for the objectives of Senate Bill No. 193 and Senate Bill No. 805...These bills not only aim to strengthen and develop the quality of professional boxing and combat sports in the country but also ensure the protection and welfare of its athletes," Go said at the public hearing that the Senate Committee on Sports conducted jointly with the Committee of Health and Demography and Committee on Finance.

"The achievement of the objectives under the proposed Senate Bills can be a step in the right direction. This will not only provide a big boost to Philippine boxing and other combat sports; it will also secure the country's rightful place as a serious contender in the sporting world," he added.

The Senator acknowledged the contribution to the country of great Filipino boxers, including eight-division world champion Senator Manny Pacquiao, who filed SB 193. "Ang diskarte, tapang, at galing na kanilang pinamalas sa loob ng boxing ring ay nagbigay ng malaking karangalan sa bansa at sa buong lahing Pilipino."

He called for greater support for them. "Sana ay maisip din po natin na naabot nila ang tagumpay sa kabila ng konting suporta na nagmumula sa gobyerno. Paano na lang kaya kung itodo pa natin ang ating suporta sa mga ito?"

Go also noted "the emergence and popularity" in the country of combat sports. "I sincerely believe that, if we also give our full support to these emerging combat sports, they will become a source of prestige, honor and medals for the country," he said.

He then urged other government officials to support the plight of boxers and other combat sports athletes. "Napatunayan na po ng ating mga atletang Pilipino ang kakayahan nila sa larangan ng sports. Sa pamamagitan ng mga panukalang ito, patunayan din po natin--bilang mga miyembro ng Senado at ng gobyerno--na sinusuportahan natin ang mga atleta ng ating bayan."

Support for the bills

As Chair of the Senate Committee on Sports, Go presided the hearing where resource persons from both the public and private sectors shared their positions on the bills.

Most representatives of relevant government agencies expressed support for the bills, including the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), Department of Health (DOH), Pag-IBIG Fund, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).

Representatives from the Muay Thai Association of the Philippines and Elorde Boxing also expressed support.

However, the Games and Amusements Board (GAB), which regulates and supervises professional sports and allied activities in the country, is against the creation of the new commission. "While we laud the initiative, feeling namin nagagawa na namin ang mga gustong gawin at ang mga gusto pang ipagawa sa amin, maaari naman naming gawin basta maalalayan lang po kami nang konti," GAB Chairman Abraham Kahlil Mitra said.

Through their president, the members of the Association of Philippine Professional Boxing Ring Officials also stated that they are "fine with the leadership" of Mitra.

Likewise, the Department of Budget and Management said that "the creation of the proposed commission is deemed not necessary since its proposed functions, programs, projects and activities are already inherent or currently being undertaken by the different offices or units" of the PSC and GAB.

Pacquiao clarified that he is "not questioning the capability of GAB" and he understands the agency's position, but as a boxer for more than 25 years, he "can say that it's necessary to establish a commission to handle and focus on the sport."

"Napakahirap talaga. Muntik na akong madisgrasya bago ko narating ito ngayon. Maraming mga kailangang gawin at hakbang para sa ating mga atleta, especially 'yung mga SSS, PhilHealth, medical requirements before the fight or regularly," Pacquiao said. He also pointed out that the country has a Philippine Racing Commission for horse racing, so he believes that there should also be one for boxing since it is a more difficult sport.

Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa and representatives from the Governance Commission for GOCCs (GCG) and Lakay Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Top Team also participated in the hearing. When the team's Chairman, Mark Sangiao, aired the difficulties that combat athletes face, Go asked him to submit a formal letter so that the Senator can find ways to address the problems.

Go's questions

Since creating the Philippine Boxing and Combat Sports Commission will affect the functions of GAB, Go asked the DBM if there were instances "in the bureaucracy where we separated one of the functions of a government agency and created a new one."

Ma. Elsa Rivera of DBM answered that the government has addressed the issues of redundant functions of government offices through Executive Order No. 366, signed in 2004. "We already did that during the Rationalization Plan. Those agencies with similar functions, it's either we merged them or we placed them in a single agency so that there will be no duplications of functions," she said.

She cited as an example the establishment of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), which absorbed the National Statistics Office (NSO), National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) and statistics-related functions of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

Go also asked Mitra, "Since you believe that you can safely regulate professional boxing and combat sports, in what way can GAB be assisted to ensure that these sectors are fully managed and the boxers and combatants are well taken care of, as they would hopefully be, under the proposed Senate bills?"

The GAB Chairman said that the agency needs additional funding and the DBM has been informed of the matter.

Before suspending the hearing, Go said that another hearing will be scheduled so that other resource persons who were not able to attend will be given a chance to participate.



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Local hospital bills sponsored by Senator and Senate Committee on Health chair Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go were approved on second reading with only minor amendments during the Senate regular session on Tuesday, March 3.

The bills which hurdled second reading on the Senate floor include:

- House Bills (HB) 1477 or "An Act Increasing the Bed Capacity of the Caraga Regional Hospital in Barangay Washington, Surigao City, Surigao del Norte from One Hundred Fifty (150) to Five Hundred (500) Beds, and Appropriating Funds Therefor";

- HB 5871 or "An Act Upgrading the Maria L. Eleazar District Hospital in the Municipality of Tagkawayan, Province of Quezon into a Level III General Hospital to be known as the Maria L. Eleazar General Hospital Under the Direct Supervision and Control of the Department of Health, and Appropriating Funds Therefor";

- HB 1799 or "An Act Upgrading the Talisay District Hospital in Talisay City, Province of Cebu, into a Medical Center to be known as the Cebu South Medical Center, Amending for the Purpose Republic Act No. 7799, and Appropriating Funds Therefor"; and

- Senate Bill (SB) No. 640 or "An Act Increasing the Bed Capacity of Bicol Medical Center from Five Hundred (500) Beds to One Thousand (1,000) Beds, Upgrading its Service Facilities and Professional Health Care Services, Authorizing the Increase of its Medical Workforce Complement, Amending for the Purpose Republic Act No. 8053, and Appropriating Funds Therefor".

No senator registered to interpellate on the proposed measures.

Go has been vocal about the growing need of the country to improve its hospital facilities and augment their bed capacity. In a committee public hearing on February 12, Go said that he has personally seen the need to improve the country's health facilities during his frequent visits to government hospitals, saying, "Nakakalungkot po na kulang ang ating mga pasilidad at equipment para tugunan ang pangangailangang medikal ng mga Pilipino."

He also cited data from the Department of Health (DOH) which further justify the need to improve public hospitals.

"The country has a one-is-to-1,083 bed-to-population ratio. This is beyond the recommended ideal target ratio of one-is-to-1,000," Go declared, adding that the government needs additional 131,250 beds to reach its target.

"Currently, we have 88,394 beds or 67 percent of the target. In 2018, almost 65% of public hospitals were overcrowded," he added.

Go also noted the timeliness of the measures given the current Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) situation affecting several countries worldwide, including the Philippines.

"In light of the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, the readiness of our government hospitals to provide quality, available and efficient health services was highlighted," Go stated.

"It is just timely that we discuss today measures that are aimed towards the improvement of our government hospitals," he added.

Known as an advocate of improved access to health care, Go has authored and supported measures in his first year as senator to accomplish this undertaking.

In July last year, he filed the landmark "Malasakit Center Act of 2019" which mandates the establishment of Malasakit Centers in 73 hospitals that are run by DOH all over the country and in the Philippine General Hospital in Manila, ensuring easier access to government medical and financial assistance to Filipinos.

In his previous statements, the Senator expressed his commitment to ensuring better health services for Filipinos, saying, "Ibigay natin sa Pilipino ang mabilis, maayos at maaasahang serbisyo, lalo na pagdating sa pangangailang pangkalusugan."

"As I have said many times, pera nila ito, ibalik sa kanila sa pamamagitan ng mabilis, maayos, at maaasahang serbisyo mula sa gobyernong may malasakit," he added.



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Senator Win Gatchalian says Good Manners and Right Conduct (GMRC) will soon be taught again as a regular subject in schools as both houses of Congress approved the measure that will institutionalize GMRC and Values Education in the K-12 curriculum.

On the part of the Senate, Gatchalian headed the bicameral conference which reconciled differences in the proposals of both chambers. Under the bicam agreement, GMRC and Values Education will replace the current Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao (ESP) subject.

GMRC will be taught as a separate subject from Grades 1 to 6 and integrated in the daily learning activities of kindergarten students. Values Education will also be taught as a regular subject from Grades 7 to 10, and integrated in current subjects in Grades 11 to 12.

The approved measure gives both GMRC and Values Education the same time allotment as that of the other core subjects, which addresses the inadequacy of time currently allotted to ESP. Under the present curriculum, ESP is only given 30 minutes per day at the primary level and two one-hour sessions per week at the secondary level.

Gatchalian recognized the authors and co-sponsors of the bill - Senators Joel Villanueva, Miguel Zubiri and Ping Lacson.

"Mahalaga ang GMRC at Values Education sa paghubog natin ng mga susunod na henerasyon ng mga mamamayang Filipino, ngunit napabayaan natin nitong mga nakaraang taon ang pagtuturo nito. Sa pagpasa ng batas na ito, hindi lang natin ibabalik ang GMRC at Values Education, mapupunan din natin ang mga naging pagkukulang nito," said Gatchalian, sponsor of the bill and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, Arts, and Culture.

The proposed measure also mandates the inclusion of character-building activities such as role-playing in the classroom, community immersion, teacher-parent collaborations, school initiated values formation, and other forms of experiential learning.

To ensure that teachers handling the subject have the necessary expertise, the bill gives preference to teachers with the certification, diploma, and training on values education and allied disciplines. Currently, 70 to 90 percent of teachers teaching Values Education are not certified to teach the subject.

Gatchalian also emphasized that GMRC and Values Education will not be an additional cause of curriculum congestion, one of the biggest pain points in the implementation of the K-12 program. A congested K-12 curriculum led to students' insufficient mastery of basic competencies.

GMRC was removed as a regular subject when the K-12 curriculum was implemented in 2013. Instead, it was integrated in ESP and other subjects like Araling Panlipunan.



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March 4, 2020
Delivered by Hon. Win Gatchalian, Senator of the Republic:

Mr. President, esteemed colleagues, good afternoon.

I have the honor of submitting for ratification a copy of the Bicameral Conference Committee Report on the Disagreeing Provisions of Senate Bill No. 1224 and House Bill No. 5829, also known as the "GMRC and Values Education Act."

The Senate and the House panels have met and discussed to work out a reconciled version of our respective bills. We have come up with a legislation that, on its face, may appear to be merely legislating that the subjects of GMRC and Values Education be taught in the K to 12 Curriculum. But I believe, Mr. President, that the core of this measure is to create a "space" in every school day of every learner in K to 12 to be taught on, and to learn about, VALUES. When this bill becomes a law, our children will be taught GMRC and Values Education with the same amount of time that they are taught Math, Science, English, and other core subjects.

Napakahalaga ng GMRC at Values Education sa buhay ng bawat bata na pumapasok sa bawat silid aralan. Sa kanilang murang pag-iisip, napakarami nilang nakikita sa kanilang paligid, lalo na sa social media, na maaaring magdala sa kanila sa maling landas dahil sa kakulangan ng sapat na pag-gabay at paliwanag. Ngunit kung araw-araw nating natuturuan ang mga bata sa eskwelahan - hindi lang sila matututo ng magagandang asal - kundi pati na rin kung paano maging mabuting tao.

Mr. President, ako ay nagpapasalamat sa buong Kongreso sa pagkilala sa pananagutan ng Estado sa paghubog ng mga susunod na henerasyon ng mga mamamayang Filipino.

I especially thank my colleagues and principal authors - Sen. Zubiri, Sen. Villanueva, and Sen. Lacson - who made it their advocacy to mandate the institutionalization of GMRC and Values Education in the K to 12 Basic Education Curriculum. Thank you also to Sen. Hontiveros for her invaluable contribution as conferee when we threshed out several issues during the bicameral conference.

Mr. President, the comprehensive details of the disagreeing provisions are reflected in the Joint Explanatory Statement. With the permission of the Body, I move that said Joint Explanatory Statement on the Disagreeing Provisions of Senate Bill No. 1224 and House Bill No. 5829 be read in toto into the Record, and that the Bicameral Conference Committee Report be ratified. Thank you very much and good afternoon.



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Worried that the Philippines has become a laundromat for dirty money, Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon reiterated his calls for the closure of Philippine offshore gaming operators or POGOs in the country.

In an interview with radio stadio DzMM, Drilon expressed dismay that the Philippines is being used by organized syndicates as a "washing machine" to wash their dirty money despite the Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA) that has been in place since 2001 when he was Senate President.

"Ginagawa tayong labandera. Yung ating banking system, financial system in general, ay ginagawang washing machine kung saan yung maruruming pera na kung saan-saang panig ng mundo nanggaling ay dinadala dito bansa at ipapasok sa casino o bangko o kung saan man at paglabas ay malinis na," Drilon said.

Drilon made the remarks as the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, chaired by Senator Richard Gordon, is set to investigate on Thursday the influx of foreign cash brought to the country mostly by Chinese nationals.

The minority leader said that the country's becoming a labanderaof dirty money has become possible because of the proliferation of POGOs in the country.

"Sa akin po, hindi ba nag-umpisa ito lahat ng magtayo ng POGOs sa ating bansa? To me, the solution is we stop overseas gaming in the country. It does not bring us any substantial benefit," he stressed.

During the session on Tuesday, Drilon urged his colleagues to examine the matter carefully and consider expressing the sentiment of the Senate that POGO operations should be stopped.

"All of what you have exposed in this chamber, the shenanigans of what we se here, all happened because of the policy decision to allow overseas gaming operations in our country," Drilon pointed out, referring to Gordon's privilege speech on illicit activities connected to the operations of POGO industry.

"This is about time that we should examine this policy. We are a policy-making body. Should we continue this policy of allowing overseas gaming in the country with all the illicit activities that come with it?" Drilon emphasized.

"What is happening in our country is apparently rooted in the very presence of POGOs run by the Chinese. If there were no POGOs, all of these nefarious activities would have no purpose," Drilon said.

He cited how the Chinese government has taken a very strong position on their citizens engaged in gambling and has taken a very strong campaign in that resulted in the closure of online gaming in Cambodia.



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SFMD: Ang polisiya ay hindi dapat pagamit yung ating financial system para sa laundering ng pera, or sa madaling salita, nilalabhan mo yung maruming pera at paglabas sa ating bangko, malinis na. Para itong yung laundry shop tulad ng Lavandera Ko. Ginagawa tayong labandera. Yung ating banking system ay ginagawang washing machine kung saan yung maruruming pera na kung saan-saan nanggaling ay dadalhin dito bansa at ipapasok sa casino o bangko o kung saan man at paglabas ay malinis na. Iyan po ay bawal sa ating batas kaya may tinatawag tayong reporting requirement kung saan kung $100,000 ang inilabas sa casino, dapat i-repot sa AMLC. Ang prinsipyo diyan ay dapat kilalanin mo kung sino yung mga taong ito na magpapasok ng pera sa mga casino. Kami rin nagtataka kung saan ginagamit ito kasi kapag pinasok mo rito sa bansa, syempre may paggagamitan ka. Ginagawang labandera ang ating banking system. Lahat po iyan covered - casino, register of deed, banks, moneychangers. Sa buong mundo, ito yung sinusunod nilang sistem na nanggagaling sa FATF (Financial Action Task Force).

Q: Ang tanong, noong ito ay pumasok sa airport, kapag idineklara na sa customs, after declaration wala na silang power para i-hold ka o suriin kung saan galing ang pera, but they can report sa AMLA as they see fit. Afterwards, bahala na si Batman. Talaga bang hindi ito pwedeng i-hold sa customs?

SFMD: Ang pagkaalam ko, hindi talaga pwedeng i-hold iyan, dahilan sa wala ka pa namang pruweba, at that point, na gagamitin ang ating financial system para labhan itong perang ito. Halimbawa, ipapasok yung $1 million at itabi mo sa bahay mo, hindi krimen iyan. Ngunit kapag ginamit mo yung ating financial system para malinis ang pera mo, iyon ay bawal sa ating AMLA. Ang bawal ay kapag ginamit ang ating financial system - banks, casinos, etc - para lumabas na malinis yung pinanggalingan ng maruming pera. Halimbawa, kapag pinasok mo sa casino, bumili ka ng chips, hindi ka naman naglaro, at after 5 minutes, pinalitan mo ng cash yung chips at magkakaroon ka ng certification na ito ay casino winnings. Iyan po ang nagiging sistema ng mga money launderers.

Q: Ang sinasabi ng customs, pumasok ito, nagdeklara at tinimbre nila sa AMLC. Tanong lang, kung nangyari iyong reporting nila, papaano po kaya ang proseso ng pag-trace non kung totoong yung pinasok na pera, halimbawa, ay gagamitin sa casino?

SFMD: Kapag naglaro ka sa casino, yung pera dadalhin sa cashier para kumuha ng chips. Kung wala kang intention na magsugal, yung chips ina iyan ika-cash mo at sasabihin mo na iyon ay casino winning kaya naging lehitimo. Iyan ang patakaran ng mga sindikato na ina-address ng AMLC.

Q: Gaano po dapat kalalim yung investigation? Kung tinimbre ng customs na ganito at ang deklarasyon ay gagamitin sa casino, hindi po ba dapat may red flag na yung may dalang pera kung talagang nilaro it sa casino?

SFMD: Ang reporting requirement ng casino dapat i-monitor closely ng AMLC.Kapag lagpas ng $100,000, dapat i-report na. Iyan ay dapat i-report either an ordinary transaction or a suspicious transaction, at dapat imbestigahan ng AMLC kung sino ito at kung bakit may ganitong klaseng pera. Iyon po ang very purpose ng AMLA - para hindi magamit ang ating financial system para labhan ang maruming pera.

Q: Kapag dumating yung pera na cash, hindi ba dapat yung customs tatanungin kung saan galing yung pera at kung may dala silang papel kung saan galing ito? Hindi po ba dapat automatic iyon sa customs?

SFMD: Wala po sa batas iyan. Ang sinasabi nating covered institutions yung mga financial system na siyang may obligation na mag-report sa AMLC. Sa customs, sa ating pagkakaalam, ire-report lang nila sa kanilang superior yung pumasok na pera. Ngunit wala sa batas ngayon yung pagbabawal o pagpaparusa sa pagpasok ng pera so long as you declare it. Ngayon paglabas mo at hindi mo maipaliwanag kung saan galing, that's another matter.

Q: Sa tingin po ninyo, hindi kailangang palakasin ang batas sa punto ng kapag may dumating na tao at may dalang malaking cash na foreign currency ay dapat hingan siya ng papel para magpatunay kung saan galing iyong pera at ano yung pinanggalingang transaction.

SFMD: Pag-aralan natin nang husto iyan. Bukas ang isipan ko diyan. Ngunit kailangang pag-aralan nang husto dahilan sa mga naririnig natin sa customs na tanim bala. Ngayon kung bigyan mo sila ng ganong discretion, hindi ko alam kung uubara yun sa ilalim ng sistema natin ngayon.

Q: Ang AMLC kaya may kakayahan din para i-trace kung saan ginastos itong pera na pinapasok sa bansa?

SFMD: Hindi ko po alam ang capacity ng AMLC on that point. Given the technology today, mayroon dapat silang kakayahan na i-trace. Sa ngayon, sigurado ako na mayroong silang kakayahan para i-trace yung mga pinasok sa casino and banks, particularly. Yung mga covered institutions, may compliance officer iyan na magsasabi sa AMLC na dapat i-report yung mga suspicious transactions.

Q: Sa POGOs, paano namo-monitor kung ang laro ay hindi sa land-based casino kung hindi through internet?

SFMD: Hindi lahat pwedeng ilagay sa batas given our record of implementation. Sa akin po, hindi ba nag-umpisa ito lahat ng magtayo ng POGO. Sa Cambodia, itinigil iyanng sistema ng POGO

Sa akin, ang solusyon ay isara natin ang POGO.Wala namang dagdag sa ating ekonomiya. Kung meron man, maliit lang. Tumataas lang ang real estate price, nagkakaroon ng bubble sa real estate kaya kapag umalis sila maraming vacant spaces, babagsak ang presyo ng mga pinaparentahan na mga opisina. Tapos siguro yung mga restaurants. Ang advantage dahilan sa POGO ay sobrang liit kumpara sa mga disadvantage. Nagiging labahan ng mga POGO players itong ating bansa. Isara na yung mga POGOs. It does not bring us any substantial benefit.



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3/4/2020

I support the move of Senate President Sotto, as backed up by a majority vote of the Senate, to bring before the Supreme Court the matter of requiring Senate concurrence in the abrogation of treaties and international agreements.

Although SP Sotto's Resolution does not categorically express the position that Senate concurrence is necessary in the abrogation of treaties, the mere fact that it is elevating the issue to the SC necessarily implies that at least a majority of the Senate intends to defend the power and prerogative of the body on matters relating to the termination of treaties and international agreements.

Personally, I would have preferred that what was adopted was the Drilon Resolution (Proposed Senate Res. No. 305) which I co-authored, a stronger version which expresses the sense of the Senate that the termination of, or withdrawal from treaties and international agreements concurred in by the Senate shall be valid and effective only upon concurrence of the Senate. Nevertheless, the adoption of the Sotto Resolution, Res. No. 337, is sufficient enough as an expression of this desire to challenge the President's authoritarian interpretation of the Constitution when it comes to laying down foreign policy and articulating the national interest in international affairs.

It has always been my position that the Senate, as an institution consisting of the direct representatives of the people elected nationally, is constitutionally mandated to actively lay down foreign policy as the expression of the national interest in international affairs. The very design and spirit of the 1987 Constitution that favors checks and balances over concentration of power is clear on this.

While the President is indeed the chief architect of foreign policy, he designs this in partnership with the Senate. It is a shared power. Once foreign policy is jointly acted upon by the President and the Senate in the form of a treaty or international agreement, this becomes the law of the land, and the Executive cannot unilaterally reverse, modify, annul, or repeal this law unless concurred in by the Senate, or another law is passed by Congress as a whole.

Foreign policy expressed in treaties and international agreements forms part of Philippine law. Only with Senate concurrence or an act of Congress can treaties and international agreements be thereafter repealed, reversed, modified, annulled, or otherwise terminated. Malacanang's unilateral act of treaty abrogation therefore puts the President above the law. But no one is above the law, not even Duterte, no matter how much we allowed him to be in the past.

Another key point, and something Sen. Hontiveros and I stressed in our Joint Memorandum filed in the case questioning Duterte's unilateral withdrawal from the Rome Statute/ICC, is this. More than an Executive or a Legislative act, treaty-making, and, thus, treaty-unmaking, is a sovereign act of the Filipino people acting through the joint actions of two branches of government. Two branches, not one. For one branch to undo what the sovereign Filipino people have done through their representatives would be a usurpation of the sovereign prerogative. The President is not sovereign. He is not king. He is but a representative and, in the case of treaties, he possesses no monopolistic claim of representation. He shares it with the Senate. It offends both reason and the intent of the Constitution to hold that while two keys are needed to secure a treaty, only one is needed to disturb or abandon it.

Finally, we cannot and should not allow the repudiation of a treaty based on the personal hostility, whims, caprices and self-serving interests of one individual, that of an unstable Head of State. Senate must step in to check on his abuses. And the Supreme Court, both in the earlier Petition on the ICC withdrawal and now, in the proper case soon to be filed on the VFA abrogation, must allow the Senate to do so. ###

(Access the handwritten version of Dispatch from Crame No. 729, here: https://issuu.com/senatorleilam.delima/docs/dispatch_no._729)



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Opposition Senator Leila M. de Lima has filed a bill proposing for a substantial increase on fines by those who would tamper with birth and death certificates as she noted that the law in question has not been updated in more than four decades.

Last Feb. 3, De Lima filed Senate Bill 1305, which seeks to amend Section 9 of Presidential Decree (PD) 651 and adjust for inflation the measly fines, starting from PhP500.00 to PhP1,000.00, as required by the archaic law.

"In 2017, the 17th Congress enacted Republic Act. No. 10951, which adjusted for inflation various penalties and fines imposed under the Revised Penal Code (RPC) to ensure that the level of punishment will remain commensurate to the crimes," she said.

"This bill proposes to increase the penalty for failure to register or falsification of the civil status of persons, with a fine ranging from PhP40,000.00 to PhP1,200,000.00," she added.

De Lima, who chairs the Senate Committee on Social Justice, Welfare and Rural Development, noted that birth and death certificates are important not only for records or proper documentation but also for its probative value - wherein civil registry records are deemed as prima facie evidence in Courts and other government offices.

"The importance of maintaining the integrity of our civil registry cannot be overstated - aside from documenting our citizens, its probative value requires its sanctity be eternally preserved," De Lima, a lawyer, said.

"Under this bill, the fine under PD No. 651 will be made at par with correctional penalties under the RPC pursuant to RA 10951," she added.

Last November, De Lima filed a resolution urging her colleagues to investigate the growing babies-for-sale trade in the Philippines.

The modus operandi of those who thrive on these crimes involves faking or tampering the birth certificates of newborn babies so that they can sell them to desperate individuals or couples seeking for a child. Worse, babies bought by syndicates are taken to child sex and prostitution rings.

De Lima, the most prominent critic of the brutal implementation of the "war on drugs" that left more than 20,000 Filipinos killed, called out the alleged practice of some individuals tampering with death certificates of the victims in order to hide the real cause of their demise.

The Philippine Alliance of Human Rights Advocates (PAHRA) reported that there are families who find it difficult to file legal cases because the victims have been given death certificates with erroneous or insufficient details regarding the death of the victim.

PAHRA also revealed that informants also described funeral parlors encouraged families to waive their right to demand an autopsy. Others were convinced to allow the death certificate to not state the real cause of death of the victim, and to not use any death-related documents to file cases.

Urging her colleagues to act on the urgency of her measure, De Lima recalled the words of lawyer Jose C. Sison, who emphasized on the importance of these documents in judicial proceedings.

"[Civil Registry Documents] are valuable aids not only in expediting the tedious proceedings of evidence presentation but also necessary and useful tools in the quest for truth and justice," she said, quoting Sison.

"The integrity of these documents must be maintained so that their great probative value can at all times be preserved," she added.



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