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lifewithne · 4 years ago

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ABS-CBN's Franchise Death rings the death knell of Press Freedom?

Ne Alawas Cadiog

JULY 10, 2020 marked the beginning of the death knell of Press Freedom after the House of Representatives tolls the ABS-CBN's franchise application to a dire conclusion. Voting with 70 yes, 11 no, 1 abstain, and 2 inhibits, the House of Representatives denies franchise renewal of the Kapamilya network.

Photo courtesy: PhilStar.com

Photo shows the ABS-CBN compound in Quezon City on May 05, 2020 after the National Telecommunications Commission ordered its shutdown.

The network, which is the largest media conglomerate in the country, faced the threat of a network shut down due to its expired franchise on March 30, 2020.

This was when Solicitor General Jose Calida also filed a Quo Warranto petition in the Supreme Court against ABS-CBN claiming that the corporation is partly-owned by foreigners. ABS-CBN rebutted this claim saying that Philippine Depositary Receipts or PDRs do not refer to ownership, but rather, investments to sustain the corporation's growth.

After ABS-CBN being killed off-air, over 10,000 employees lose their jobs, and subsequent consequences may be feared. With the renewal of their franchise being blocked, organizations and journalists see this as proof of the vindicativeness of the government.

What are the violations of the network as stated in the argument debated over during the span of 12 hearings?

•Critics had accused ABS-CBN of illegal foreign ownership.

➡ Justice Undersecretary Emelline Aglipay-Villar testified in the hearings that ABS-CBN Corporation chairman emeritus Eugenio "Gabby" Lopez III is a Filipino because his parents are Philippine citizens, said Zarate.

DOJ: ABS-CBN's Gabby Lopez Filipino citizen from birth. Lopez earlier told congressmen that he was also a dual American citizen because he was born in the US.

"There’s no distinction made between pure Filipino and dual citizens" when it comes to participation in mass media, said Bayan Muna Party List Representative Carlos Zarate, quoting Justice Assistant Secretary Nicholas Ty.

The Securities and Exchange Commission also testified that "a dual citizen is 100 percent Filipino," Zarate added. SEC agrees, dual citizens are '100 percent Filipino'

• Accusation on the Foreign Ownership

➡SEC Commissioner Ephyro Luis Amatong, noted by Zarate, stated that ABS-CBN's Philippine Depositary Receipts "do not reflect transfer of ownership to foreigners."

PDRs allow foreigners to invest without violating PH laws, says Monsod ABS-CBN PDRs 'compliant' with law.

• On Tax Violation

➡Contrary to allegations of tax irregularities, the Bureau of Internal Revenue testified that the network regularly settled taxes and is one of the country's top taxpayers. In addition, Philippine Economic Zone Authority officials also said the broadcaster has no tax shield. BIR says ABS-CBN has no tax deliquency

•On allegations of election coverage bias

➡The Commission on Elections said the network did not violate any poll law. No complaints vs ABS-CBN on election bias.

ABS-CBN news chief Ging Reyes said that Journalism a 'public service'.

•Violation of Worker's Rights

➡Quoting the labor department, Zarate said that it was typical for any big company to face labor cases and that ABS-CBN complied with standards.

DOLE exec stated that ABS-CBN 'fully compliant' with labor standards.

Before the votation of the House of Representatives happened, the Technical Working Group (TWG) of the Committee on Legislative Franchises after their findings and recommendation which was contained in their 40 pages TWG report, recommends to deny new franchise for ABS-CBN. Consequently, 70 representatives vote "yes" to the denial of their franchise, while 11 representatives stand in favor of ABS-CBN franchise renewal; 2 inhibit, and 1 abstain.

A copy of the TWG Resolution

Here is the list of 70 Representatives who voted for the approval of the TWG recommendation:

1. Rep. Abraham Tolentino

2. Rep. Antonio Albano

3. Rep. Faustino Michael Dy

4. Rep. Jose Antonio Sy-Alvarado

5. Rep. Cyrille Abueg-Zaldivar

6. Rep. Faustino Dy V

7. Rep. Dale Malapitan

8. Rep. Eric Martinez

9. Rep. Divina Grace Yu

10. Rep. Julienne Baronda

11. Rep. Anthony Peter Crisologo

12. Rep. Luis Ferrer IV

13. Rep. John Marvin Nieto

14. Rep. Strike Revilla

15. Rep. Samantha Louise Alfonso

16. Rep. Rolando Valeriano

17. Rep. Joaquin Chipeco Jr.

18. Rep. Eduardo Gullas

19. Rep. Eleandro Jesus Madrona

20. Rep. Frederick Siao

21. Rep. Ian Paul Dy

22. Rep. Gil Acosta

23. Rep. Weslie Gatchalian

24. Rep. Prescious H. Castelo

25. Rep. Alyssa Sheena Tan

26. Rep. Christian Unabia

27. Rep. Raymond Mendoza

28. Rep. Jericho Nograles

29. Rep. Yedda Romualdez

30. Rep. Eric Yap

31. Rep. Claudine Bautista

32. Rep. Esmael Mangudadatu

33. Rep. Enrico Pineda

34. Rep. Dulce Ann Hofer

35. Rep. Sharon Garin

36. Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr.

37. Rep. Janette Garin (Ex-Officio)

38. Rep. Paulo Duterte

39. Rep. J. F. Nograles (F. Hernandez)

40. Rep. Conrado III Estrella

41. Rep. Sandro Gonzales (Rep. P. Pichay)

42. Rep. Mike Defensor (Rep. R. Puno)

43. Rep. Allan Ty (Rep. A. Gonzales)

44. Rep. F. Matugas (Rep. J. Pimentel)

45. Rep. Luis Villafuerte Jr.

46. Rep. Raneo Abu

47. Rep. Dan Fernandez

48. Rep. Rodante Marcoleta

49. Rep. Henry Oaminal

50. Rep. Pablo John Garcia

51. Rep. Deogracias ‘DV’ Savellano

52. Rep. F. Datol (Rep. M. Romero)

53. Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez

54. Rep. Jesus Crispin Remulla

55. Rep. Juan Miguel Macapagal Arroyo

56. Rep. Cristal Bagatsing

57. Rep. Juan Pablo Bondoc

58. Rep. Elpidio Barzaga Jr.

59. Rep. Bernadette Herrera-Dy

60. Rep. Xavier Jesus Romualdo

61. Rep. A. Calixto (Rep. J. Lacson-Noel)

62. Rep. Wilter Palma II

63. Rep. Ma. Theresa Collantes

64. Rep. Ria Christina Fariñas

65. Rep. Camille Villar

66. Rep. Roger G. Mercado

67. Rep. Sharee Ann Tan

68. Rep. Joseph Stephen Paduano

69. Rep. Bayani Fernando

70. Rep. Jose Singson Jr.

Names of the 11 Congressman/Congresswomen who voted against the TWG resolution:

1. Rep. Sol Aragones

2. Rep. Christopher de Venecia

3. Rep. Carlos Zarate

4. Rep. Gabriel Bordado Jr.

5. Rep. Vilma Santos-Recto

6. Rep. Lianda Bolilia

7. Rep. Jose Tejada

8. Rep. Bienvenido Abante

9. Rep. Stella Quimbo

10. Rep. Mujiv Hataman

11. Rep. Edward Maceda

Abstain:

1. Rep. Alfredo Garbin Jr.

Inhibit:

1. Rep. Alfredo Vargas

2. Rep. Micaela Violago

The House Committe moves to keep ABS-CBN off-air and put a halt on their operation even though BIR, DOLE, COMELEC to name some testified the network to be free of violations. Knowing these facts, do you think this a blow to Press Freedom?

Part 2. 2020 is another 1972: Mirroring the Dark Days of Press Freedom - https://lifewithne.tumblr.com/post/623332805633572864/2020-is-another-1972-mirroring-the-dark-days-of

Part 3. Flipping the Other Side of the Coin: On Abuse of Press Freedom - https://lifewithne.tumblr.com/post/623323812956684288/flipping-the-other-side-of-the-coin-on-abuse-of

(Here are the links where you can view the 40 pages TWG findings and recommendation:

https://lifewithne.tumblr.com/post/623392185550782464/page-1-10-of-the-twg-findings-of-the-abs-cbns

https://lifewithne.tumblr.com/post/623392290268954624/page-11-20-of-the-twg-findings-on-abs-cbns

https://lifewithne.tumblr.com/post/623392375248715776/pages-21-30-of-the-twg-findings-on-abs-cbns

https://lifewithne.tumblr.com/post/623392458452123648/pages-31-40-of-the-twg-findings-on-abs-cbns

Published on July 10, 2020

Sources:

https://www.facebook.com/100002510464970/posts/3142671032493215/?sfnsn=mo

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1197788/ill-see-to-it-that-youre-out-president-tells-abs-cbn?utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Facebook#Echobox=1594365959

https://cnnphilippines.com/news/2020/7/10/ABS-CBN-House-franchise-vote.html?fbclid=IwAR3s2_uPsg4rRTIHcUhwYX0z8rFUpze4nHSgUx_L8X1DklrRiCTQqb6AmPA

https://cnnphilippines.com/news/2020/7/10/abs-cbn-franchise-denied-.html?fbclid=IwAR1bt4n9Jx3DL6zQ8nFJKLvhyTnwQxH1tQ9V2VQ0E3Z94fyOugqt6p9_jL0

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2020/07/10/2027049/list-lawmakers-who-voted-and-against-abs-cbn-franchise-renewal

#Press Freedom

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myrandompieces · 4 years ago

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The Battle for Press Freedom

Photo courtesy: Time Magazine

When Covid-19 hits the Philippines, the economy went down. The struggle for life, food to survive and the freedom to know has been crucial. News provides necessary information that we need to be able to understand the virus, to know what are the do's and dont's. But the government deprived this country the freedom to know when they chooses to imprisoned Miss Maria Resa and denying ABS-CBN to renew their franchise amid the Covid-19. "This is a big blow against press freedom in our country and deprived millions of Filipinos of new, entertainment and assistance!" Rodriguez said in a Viber message. (Cepeda, 2020)

There's no exact law that protect and uphold press freedom in the Philippines but there's the 1987 CONSTITUTION OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES – ARTICLE III. The Bill on Rights Section five says "No law shall be passed abridging the freedom of speech, of expression, or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble and petition the government for redress of grievances."

This is the reason why the Philippines is the fifth deadliest country for journalist (Salaverria, 2019) because it's not directed to protect the life and right of every journalist to press freedom disintegrating the media.

President Rodrigo Duterte has personally vowed to put the channel and its subsidiaries out of business, even telling its executives to just sell the company. He earlier also publicly spoke about his ire against ABS-CBN for not airing his political ads during the May 2016 elections, where he eventually won. However, Calida insisted that the case is not motivated by politics. (CNN, 2020)

Photo courtesy: The New York Times

Last May 4 the franchise of ABS-CBN has expired and the government denies for renewal because of the "network’s alleged violations of its franchise, the Constitution, labor and tax laws, and biased reporting and meddling in politics." (Dela Cruz, 2020) "The National Telecommunications Commission has since ordered it to cease its television and radio operations and to stop broadcasting its TV Plus and Sky Direct channels." (Cepeda, 2020)

When the dual citizenship of ABS-CBN chairman emeritus Eugenio “Gabby” Lopez III was questioned, the Department of Justice confirmed he is both Filipino and American. Bureau of Internal Revenue officials also repeatedly told lawmakers that ABS-CBN had been paying the proper taxes in the past two decades. (Cepeda, 2020)

Even the defenders of ABS-CBN in the House of Representative insisted the network deserve a new franchise because the government officials cleared them of any wrong doing. Which is ironic because the government agencies contradicts the allegations of lawmakers.

The hearing ended with 70 votes denying the network for franchise renewal and 11 in favor, two inhibited and one abstained.

Photo courtesy: ABS-CBN

1. Rep. Raneo Abuse

2. Rep. Cyrille Abueg-Zaldivar

3. Rep. Gil Acosta

4. Rep. Atonio Albano

5. Rep. Samantha Louise Alfonso

6. Rep. Juan Miguel Macapagal Arroyo

7. Rep. Cristal Bagatsing

8. Rep. Julienne Baronda

9. Rep. Elpidio Barzaga Jr.

10. Rep. Claudine Bautista

11. Rep. Juan Pablo Bondoc

12. Rep. Antonio Calixto

13. Rep. Prescious Castelo

14. Rep. Joaquin Chipeco Jr.

15. Rep. Ma. Theresa Collantes

16. Rep. Anthony Peter Crisologo

17. Rep. Francisco Datol

18. Rep. Mike Defensor

19. Rep. Paulo Duterte

20. Rep. Faustino Michael Dy

21. Rep. Faustino V. Dy

22. Rep. Ian Paul Dy

23. Rep. Conrado Estrella III

24. Rep. Ria Christina Fariñas

25. Rep.Dan Fernandez

26. Rep. Bayani Fernando

27. Rep. Luis Ferrer IV

28. Rep. Pablo John Garcia

29. Rep. Janette Garin

30. Rep. Sharon Garin

31. Rep. Weslie Gatchalian

32. Rep. Sandro Gonzales

33. Rep. Eduardo Gullas

34. Rep. Bernadette Herrera-Dy

35. Rep. Dulce Ann Hofer

36. Rep. Eleandro Jesus Madrona

37. Rep. Dale Malapitan

38. Rep. Esmael Mangudadatu

39. Rep. Rodante Marcoleta

40. Rep. Eric Martinez

41. Rep. Francisco Matugas

42. Rep. Raymond Mendoza

43. Rep. Roger Mercado

44. Rep. John Marvin Nieto

45. Rep. Jose Fidel Nograles

46. Rep. Jericho Nograles

47. Rep. Henry Oaminal

48. Rep. Joseph Stephen Paduano

49. Rep. Wilter Palma II

50. Rep. Enrico Pineda

51. Rep. Jesus Crispin Remulla

52. Rep. Strike Revilla

53. Rep. Yedda Romualdez

54. Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez

55. Rep. Xavier Jesus Romualdo

56. Rep. Deogracias Savellano

57. Rep. Frederick Siao

58. Rep. Jose Singson Jr.

59. Rep. Jose Antonio Sy-Alvarado

60. Rep. Alyssa Sheena Tan

61. Rep. Sharee Ann Tan

62. Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr.

63. Rep. Abraham Tolentino

64. Rep. Allan Ty

65. Rep. Christian Unabia

66. Rep. Rolando Valeriano

67. Rep. Luis Villafuerte Jr.

68. Rep. Camille Villar

69. Rep. Eric Yap

70. Rep. Divina Grace Yu

11 voted in favor for networks franchise renewal:

1. Rep. Sol Aragones

2. Rep. Christopher De Venecia

3. Rep. Carlos Zarate

4. Rep. Gabriel Bordado

5. Rep. Vilma Santos

6. Rep. Lianda Bolilia

7. Rep. Jose Tejada

8. Rep. Bienvenido Abante

9. Rep. Stella Quimbo

10. Rep. Mujiv Hataman

11. Rep. Edward Maceda

Rep. Alfred Vargas and Rep. Micaela Violago inhibited from voting. Rep. Alfredo Garbin Jr. abstained.

Photo courtesy: Philstar News

Reference

Cepeda, M. July 10, 2020. Rappler.com. Retrieved from

GOV.PH. Official Gazette. Retrieved from

https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/constitutions/the-1987-constitution-of-the-republic-of-the-philippines/the-1987-constitution-of-the-republic-of-the-philippines-article-iii/#:~:text=No%20law%20shall%20be%20passed,prohibiting%20the%20free%20exercise%20thereof.

PFA. 2020. Philippine Franchise Association. Retrieved from

Dela Cruz, D. July 8, 2020. The Manila Times. Retrieved from

CNN. February 10, 2020. CNN Philippines. Retrieved from

Rubio, B. July 10, 2020. Philstar Global. Retreived from

Salaveria, L. December 2019. Inquirer.Net. Retreived from

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puntodei · 3 years ago

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Fact-checking at pag-iwas sa maaaring conflict of interest

Fact-checking at kahalagahan nito ngayong laksa-laksa ang trolls sa social media

Gamit na gamit ang social media sa maraming pamamaraan. Sa pagtitinda, pagtuturo, pagsisimba at gayon din sa pamamahayag. Pero mabuti nga ba ang paggamit?

Sandamakmak ang fake news sa Facebook, Twitter at Tiktok ngayong pandemya kung saan karamihan ay nakasandal na sa social media pagdating sa balita. Naalala ko pa nung mga nakaraan, napakaraming paniwalang-paniwala na dadamputin daw ang walang mga bakuna laban sa COVID na nagdulot ng matinding panic sa masa. Nagdulot ng gitgitan sa mga malls para makapagpabakuna, at hindi malabong nagdulot din ng karadagang kaso ng COVID dahil sa wala ng mga distansya. Sino ang pasimuno? Ang pangulo.

Nakakatakot ang mga maaaring maging resulta ng fake news. Nakakatawa rin. Sa TikTok kung saan ginawa na itong history book ng mga supporters ni Duterte at ng mga Marcoses, malinaw na bulag na bulag sila ng tinatawag nilang "golden era" kaya nais daw nilang makabalik ang mga Marcoses sa palasyo. Nahila sila ng mga bayarang vloggers na sinakop na lahat ng platforms para makapagpalaganap ng kasinungalingan. Hindi ko na rin masisisi ang mga BBM supporters kung bakit hangang-hanga sila sa mga Marcoses -- sila ay biktima lang din ng fake news at historical revisionism. Napakain sila ng kasinungalingan ng textbooks na ginagamit ng DepEd.

Ngayon, kitang-kita naman siguro kung gaano kahalaga ang fact-checking. Maaaring magamit ang prosesong ito sa mga pang-agham na diskurso at maaari rin naman sa pang-politika. Pero isa lang ang aaral, magtiwala tayo sa mga "legit" na pahayagan, huwag sa kakausbong lang.

Conflict of interest totoo nga ba sa industriya ng pamamamahayag

Isa ang conflict of interest sa pinaka-iniiwasang usapin ng mga pahayagan dahil ito ay maaaring makapagdungis sa pangalan ng kanya-kayang publikasyon. Maaaring maging conflict of interest ang pagtanggap ng anumang bagay mula sa kahit sino man lalung-lalo na kung ang nagbigay ay isa sa mga subject ng iyong artikulo.

Lantaran din ang isyung conflict of interest sa mga ahensyang Philippine News Agency (PNA) na nasa ilalim ng kontrol ng palasyo. Isa ang PNA sa pinagmumulan ng mga balitang umiikot sa mga pahayagan. Gayunpaman, kitang-kita ang pag-iwas ng PNA sa pagbalita nang hindi maganda laban sa administrasyon na siyang nagpapasahod sa kanilang ahensya. Malinaw na malinaw, ito ay conflict.

Gayon din ang sitwasyon ng kasalukuyang pahayagan kung saan ako nagtatrabaho. Lantaran ang conflict of interest dahil na rin pagmamay-ari ng mga Romualdez ang aming tabloid. Napakalaking mukha ng mag-asawang Martin at Yedda araw-araw, arawan ding pagpaskil ng mga balita at propaganda na nagpopromote kay Bongbong Marcos at pagbabalita nang laban sa oposisyon. Nakakasuka.

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phgq · 4 years ago

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Alternative learning system law 'a win for marginalized learners'

#PHnews: Alternative learning system law 'a win for marginalized learners'

MANILA – Two members of the House of Representatives on Tuesday lauded President Rodrigo Duterte’s signing of the Alternative Learning System (ALS) Act which would institutionalize the parallel learning system for non-formal sources of knowledge and skills.

House Majority Leader Martin Romualdez and Tingog party-list Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez said the enactment of ALS Act is a win for millions of out-of-school children, youth, and adult learners, as well as indigenous peoples, learners with disabilities, and other marginalized sectors, as it improves the delivery of basic education to the underserved and disadvantaged.

“This law will strengthen the State support and mechanisms so our learners will be able to complete the appropriate and functional literacy, life skills and basic education they deserve,” Yedda said. “The passage of this priority measure of Tingog party-list is a signal of hope for the future of our marginalized learners.”

Romualdez said Duterte’s approval of the measure is consistent with his commitment to improve the lives of the Filipino people, especially learners who wanted to pursue non-formal education.

“This is a step towards the fulfillment of our goal to provide education for all,” Romualdez said. “Through this law, the government will not just support our ‘out-of-school children in special cases’ and adults, but also ALS teachers.”

In the Senate, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian said the ALS institutionalization “is a timely and urgent measure considering the disruptions brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic in the education sector.”

Before the pandemic, the World Bank reported that about 24 million Filipinos aged 15 and above have not completed basic education and around 2.4 million children aged 5 and 14 are not in school. When the pandemic struck, around 2.3 million learners in K to 12 were not able to enroll. For those participating under the existing ALS programs, around 45 percent of the previous year's participants did not enroll.

“By building an ALS Community Learning Center in every city and municipality, we can make this program more accessible to millions of out-of-school children in special cases----such as learners with disabilities, Indigenous Peoples, children in conflict with the law, and those from other marginalized sectors ----and adults,” said Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate committee on basic education, arts and culture.

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go also lauded Duterte for signing the law institutionalizing the ALS program in the country.

"Education is a constitutionally enshrined right which the State must protect and promote. Thus, ensuring education for all should be a top priority. For this to be achieved, it is vital that opportunities to learn and receive quality education are accessible to all those who so desire," said Go, co-author of the new law.

Under the law, the Department of Education (DepEd), in consultation with the Department of Budget and Management and the Civil Service Commission (CSC), shall create teaching positions and allocate corresponding salary grades to help strengthen the ALS Teachers Program.

ALS teachers will also be entitled to promotion to the next higher levels based on the qualification standards of the CSC.

Based on the signed law, the ALS is more conducive to a non-traditional student’s academic success as it takes into consideration their specific needs and concerns.

It provides them with specialized programs and alternative education approaches and strategies which they otherwise would not be able to receive within the formal learning system.

Specifically, students can develop knowledge, skills and selected competencies through a combination of learning modalities, including face-to-face learning sessions, modular instruction, digital instruction and workshops, among others.

Out-of-school children in special cases are children of official school age who are not enrolled in elementary or secondary schools due to economic, geographic, political, and cultural factors, and even social barriers.

They can also include learners with disabilities or conditions, indigenous peoples, children in conflict with the law, and other marginalized sectors. (PNA)

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "Alternative learning system law 'a win for marginalized learners'." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1126452 (accessed January 06, 2021 at 02:41AM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "Alternative learning system law 'a win for marginalized learners'." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1126452 (archived).

#Philippines #News #Filipino #Pinoy #Tourism #Politics #Culture #Editorial #Environment #Society #History

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reflectionofyesterday · 4 years ago

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An abuse of press freedom or a law we need to follow?

Kate Hernando

Photo Courtesy: ABS-CBN News

There are big questions rose after the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) issued a cease-and-desist order demanding ABS-CBN Corp. immediately cease all broadcasting. It is an order that dictates any form of broadcasting made by the network will be recognized as illegal or suspicious.

Is it an abuse to press freedom? Or just a law we need to follow? Does history repeating itself?

Photo Courtesy: Nolisoli.ph

Prior to the 2020 shutdown of ABS-CBN it also happened way back the 23rd of September year 1972 when Former President Ferdinand E. Marcos declared “Martial Law” which forcefully closed different radio and television stations including newspapers except others who’s in favor of the President which excludes the stated network (ABS-CBN).

Photo Courtesy: ABS CBN News

After receiving the cease-and-desist order given by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), ABS-CBN released a statement which gave importance on providing crucial and timely data for the people amidst the pandemic happening in the world. House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano gave an assurance to the network that there would be no move to shutdown it. Regardless of the situation, the network still made ways to provide information to the public which clearly their right.

Photo Courtesy: Manila Today

After the expiration of franchise in May, the network had been forced to off air. July 10, 2020 is the second time that ABS-CBN had been shut down by the government. This issue really contradicted the freedom of the press as accorded in Constitution Section 4, Article III of the Constitution provides that “No law shall be passed abridging the freedom of speech, of expression, or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble and petition the government for redress of grievances.”

Photo Courtesy: ABS CBN News

Photo Courtesy: Jire Carreon/Rappler

A big number of Journalist and Human Rights groups pummels the dismissal of ABS-CBN having numerous lives influence by it being shut down. It maybe a “grievous attack on press freedom”, the Human Rights Watch (HRW) expressed also stating that this event demonstrates that we are beneath a de facto military law (Martial Law) that abuses human rights most especially the freedom of the press. They believe that the shut down of the network would affect many lives of Filipinos most especially the ones who lives in far and isolated areas that depends on ABS CBN radio and television stations. This will not just deprive the people’s freedom of the press but also their right to information and entertainment.

Photo Courtesy: Manila Today

The first announcement of cease-and-desist order of the big media (ABS-CBN) caused a lot of rallies and protests towards the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) and the government itself starting with the #NoToABSCBNShutdown which became trending on all social media platforms most especially on Twitter. This hashtag trend also made way for different hashtags like defending press freedom and support to the existence of the network.

After 2 months of being temporarily shut down, the franchise renewal of the network heard 13 times in the Congress considering the last hearing as the decision if they would allow ABS-CBN to renew their franchise or not.

The request for renewal of franchise of ABS-CBN Corp. was denied by the House of Representatives Committee on the 13th Hearing, July 10, 2020.

The Technical Working Group who evaluated whether the ABS-CBN should still be given a renewal or not released numerous things on why they recommended to deny it.

Lopez's double citizenship

As indicated by the TWG report, Lopez is a double resident, both a characteristic brought into the world Filipino and an American resident. It referred to a protected arrangement expressing that "double devotion of residents is hostile to the national intrigue and will be managed by law".

Issuance of PDRs

The report additionally noticed that the issuance of Philippine depositary receipts (PDR) to outsiders has permitted remote possession in ABS-CBN, which could have abused the 1987 Constitution. It said the component of "corporate layering" utilized by ABS-CBN and ABS-CBN Holdings adequately makes the PDR holders the aberrant proprietors of the fundamental portions of load of ABS-CBN. It featured that the remote holders of PDRs for all intents and purposes own 187 million fundamental portions of ABS-CBN Corp., which is as of now 62 percent of the aggregate.

ABS-CBN TV Plus Box, KBO pay-per-see

The report said the ABS-CBN utilized recurrence Channel 43 to produce various stations or projects to be remembered for its advanced TV administration, TV Plus Box, which proceeded even past the termination of the showing grant in June 2015. As indicated by the NTC, ABS-CBN had no position to scramble or lock from the non-paying open its TV Plus Boxes, which are plainly just "allowed to-air" under its authoritative establishment.

Inability to regularize representatives

The TWG report referred to the Department of Labor and Employment's authentic explanation on July 1 proclaiming that its work assessors discovered infringement of laws and work measures by ABS-CBN and that there are 67 pending bodies of evidence against the organization in the National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) and different courts.

It noticed that previous workers who have recently documented bodies of evidence against ABS-CBN affirmed that they were wrongfully excused in light of the fact that they shaped associations. These previous workers likewise proclaimed that they were made to sign business contracts containing a waiver of the privilege to regularization. The individuals who wouldn't sign a business contract containing a waiver of regularization were minimized to extend workers and later excused.

The TWG featured that solitary 25 percent or 2,661 of the all out 11,701 specialists of ABS-CBN are standard representatives.

Expense issues

ABS-CBN guaranteed it is making good on appropriate expenses, which is purportedly demonstrated by the Tax Clearance gave by the Bureau of Internal Revenue. ABS-CBN has likewise kept up that it didn't disregard the terms and states of its administrative establishment by profiting of expense motivators offered by the legislature.Be that as it may, the board said an assessment freedom doesn't exculpate a citizen of duty liabilities and misconducts, nor from demonstrations of extortion or tax avoidance.

One-sided detailing, interfering in governmental issues

The board has avoided giving a finding on the supposed one-sided revealing of the system, affirmed interfering in governmental issues, just as the substance of its projects. In any case, it urged ABS-CBN to painstakingly analyze itself and comprehend where all the "industrious protests" about one-sided announcing, wrong program content, and political interfering are originating from.

70 Representatives who voted for the approval of the TWG recommendation:

1. Rep. Abraham Tolentino

2. Rep. Antonio Albano

3. Rep. Faustino Michael Dy

4. Rep. Jose Antonio Sy-Alvarado

5. Rep. Cyrille Abueg-Zaldivar

6. Rep. Faustino Dy V

7. Rep. Dale Malapitan

8. Rep. Eric Martinez

9. Rep. Divina Grace Yu

10. Rep. Julienne Baronda

11. Rep. Anthony Peter Crisologo

12. Rep. Luis Ferrer IV

13. Rep. John Marvin Nieto

14. Rep. Strike Revilla

15. Rep. Samantha Louise Alfonso

16. Rep. Rolando Valeriano

17. Rep. Joaquin Chipeco Jr.

18. Rep. Eduardo Gullas

19. Rep. Eleandro Jesus Madrona

20. Rep. Frederick Siao

21. Rep. Ian Paul Dy

22. Rep. Gil Acosta

23. Rep. Weslie Gatchalian

24. Rep. Prescious H. Castelo

25. Rep. Alyssa Sheena Tan

26. Rep. Christian Unabia

27. Rep. Raymond Mendoza

28. Rep. Jericho Nograles

29. Rep. Yedda Romualdez

30. Rep. Eric Yap

31. Rep. Claudine Bautista

32. Rep. Esmael Mangudadatu

33. Rep. Enrico Pineda

34. Rep. Dulce Ann Hofer

35. Rep. Sharon Garin

36. Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr.

37. Rep. Janette Garin (Ex-Officio)

38. Rep. Paulo Duterte

39. Rep. J. F. Nograles (F. Hernandez)

40. Rep. Conrado III Estrella

41. Rep. Sandro Gonzales (Rep. P. Pichay)

42. Rep. Mike Defensor (Rep. R. Puno)

43. Rep. Allan Ty (Rep. A. Gonzales)

44. Rep. F. Matugas (Rep. J. Pimentel)

45. Rep. Luis Villafuerte Jr.

46. Rep. Raneo Abu

47. Rep. Dan Fernandez

48. Rep. Rodante Marcoleta

49. Rep. Henry Oaminal

50. Rep. Pablo John Garcia

51. Rep. Deogracias ‘DV’ Savellano

52. Rep. F. Datol (Rep. M. Romero)

53. Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez

54. Rep. Jesus Crispin Remulla

55. Rep. Juan Miguel Macapagal Arroyo

56. Rep. Cristal Bagatsing

57. Rep. Juan Pablo Bondoc

58. Rep. Elpidio Barzaga Jr.

59. Rep. Bernadette Herrera-Dy

60. Rep. Xavier Jesus Romualdo

61. Rep. A. Calixto (Rep. J. Lacson-Noel)

62. Rep. Wilter Palma II

63. Rep. Ma. Theresa Collantes

64. Rep. Ria Christina Fariñas

65. Rep. Camille Villar

66. Rep. Roger G. Mercado

67. Rep. Sharee Ann Tan

68. Rep. Joseph Stephen Paduano

69. Rep. Bayani Fernando

70. Rep. Jose Singson Jr.

11 Congressman/Congresswomen who voted against the TWG resolution:

1. Rep. Sol Aragones

2. Rep. Christopher de Venecia

3. Rep. Carlos Zarate

4. Rep. Gabriel Bordado Jr.

5. Rep. Vilma Santos-Recto

6. Rep. Lianda Bolilia

7. Rep. Jose Tejada

8. Rep. Bienvenido Abante

9. Rep. Stella Quimbo

10. Rep. Mujiv Hataman

11. Rep. Edward Maceda

Abstain:

1. Rep. Alfredo Garbin Jr.

Inhibit:

1. Rep. Alfredo Vargas

2. Rep. Micaela Violago

The government stated their side so as the ABS-CBN Corp.

Which side should weigh more?

Does the history repeat itself or the government simply following the law?

I did my part. Please do yours.

Reference: Philippine National Agency

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visayanbizpost · 6 years ago

Photo

Yedda Romualdez is shoulder to cry on for Batocabe’s wife

She can only comfort the family for their great loss. Full Story at http://dlvr.it/Qx44Qt Reblogged by Visayan Business Post - Local News for the Global Visayan

#Philippines #Visayanbizpost #VBP #GlobalVisayan

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pacificast · 8 years ago

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Peace negotiations

“LET’S give peace a chance. We need to make a united stand for us to attain a just, peaceful and lasting solution to the long running armed conflict.” Thus said Leyte 1st District Rep. Yedda Marie Kittilstvedt-Romualdez as she called on the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF) to… http://dlvr.it/NN23yq | #PacificastNewsfeed

#Newsdesk

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phgq · 4 years ago

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House OKs bill raising statutory rape age to 16

#PHnews: House OKs bill raising statutory rape age to 16

MANILA – The House of Representatives on Tuesday approved on third and final reading a measure raising the age of statutory rape from the current 12 years old to 16 years old to protect young people from sexual exploitation and abuse.

With 207 affirmative votes, three negative votes, and no abstention, the chamber passed House Bill 7836 which sets the age of sexual consent to 16 and amends the 23-year-old Anti-Rape Law, as well as the Revised Penal Code.

Tingog party-list Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez, one of the principal authors of the bill, said “this progress means a step closer to the justice we have been fighting for our children victimized by heartless individuals and the gap in present laws.”

Romualdez appealed to the Senate for the immediate passage of the bill.

"Definitely, no children should be left without sufficient protection especially from rape. Child rape is an ugly and painful reality that we must collectively confront and address immediately and decisively. But it is not enough that we are indignant,” Romualdez said.

Romualdez said the establishment of a minimum age of sexual consent is the most important and critical criteria in protecting minors from sexual violence since the present Anti-Rape Law establishes the age of sexual consent at twelve years.

“This means any sexual intercourse with a minor who has not reached the age of twelve is automatically regarded as rape, regardless of whether they say or appeared to have voluntarily engaged in the sexual act. However, the moment that child reaches the exact age of twelve, the law assumes that the child is mature enough to give consent to another person for any sexual activity,” Romualdez said.

If the bill is passed into law, Romualdez said any adult who has sexual intercourse with a minor below 16 years old will be guilty of rape even if the minor has given his or her consent to the sexual act.

“By establishing the crime of statutory rape to be any sexual activity with a child, of either sex, under the age of 16 - the law makes certain the punishment of those who commit such crime, without unnecessarily furthering the emotional and physical trauma of the child that may be brought about by a lengthy court proceeding or the need for any further physiological or material evidence,” Romualdez explained.

The measure seeks to impose reclusion perpetua or 40 years imprisonment for the crime of statutory rape against minors who are under 16 years old.

Statutory rape is non-forcible sexual activity in which one of the individuals is below the age of consent or the age required to legally consent to the behavior.

Current Philippine laws provide that sexual intercourse with children below 12 years old is illegal and tantamount to rape.

The bill also defines grooming as the predatory conduct of establishing a relationship, trust, or emotional connection with a minor under 18 years old to perpetrate sexual abuse and exploitation.

When grooming results in the consummation of any acts of sexual abuse or exploitation, the person responsible for the grooming shall be liable for rape.

Under the measure, subsequent valid marriage between the victim and offender will not extinguish criminal liability.

It shall also consider as aggravating circumstances in the commission of rape the following: when the victim becomes pregnant, when the victim suffers a permanent mental or psychological disability, or when grooming is used. (PNA)

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "House OKs bill raising statutory rape age to 16." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1123508 (accessed December 02, 2020 at 03:25AM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "House OKs bill raising statutory rape age to 16." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1123508 (archived).

#Philippines #News #Filipino #Pinoy #Tourism #Politics #Culture #Editorial #Environment #Society #History

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phgq · 4 years ago

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Bill raising statutory rape age to 16 okayed on 2nd reading

#PHnews: Bill raising statutory rape age to 16 okayed on 2nd reading

MANILA – The House of Representatives on Wednesday approved on second reading a bill raising the age of statutory rape from the current 12 years old to 16 years old to protect young people from sexual exploitation and abuse.

The lower chamber passed through voice voting House Bill 7836, which seeks to provide stronger protection against rape, acts of sexual exploitation and sexual abuse, and increasing the age of determining the commission of statutory rape.

The measure seeks to impose reclusion perpetua or 40 years imprisonment for the crime of statutory rape against minors who are under 16 years old.

Statutory rape is non-forcible sexual activity in which one of the individuals is below the age of consent or the age required to legally consent to the behavior.

Current Philippine laws provide that sexual intercourse with children below 12 years old is illegal and tantamount to rape.

The bill also defines grooming as predatory conduct of establishing a relationship, trust, or emotional connection with a minor under 18 years old for the purpose of perpetrating sexual abuse and exploitation.

When grooming results in the consummation of any acts of sexual abuse or exploitation, the person responsible for the grooming shall be liable for rape.

Under the measure, subsequent valid marriage between the victim and offender will not extinguish criminal liability.

Tingog Party-list Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez, who is one of the principal authors, said any adult who has sexual intercourse with a minor below 16 years old will be guilty of rape even if the minor has given his or her consent to the sexual act under the proposed law.

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "Bill raising statutory rape age to 16 okayed on 2nd reading." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122958 (accessed November 26, 2020 at 02:53AM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "Bill raising statutory rape age to 16 okayed on 2nd reading." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1122958 (archived).

#Philippines #News #Filipino #Pinoy #Tourism #Politics #Culture #Editorial #Environment #Society #History

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phgq · 4 years ago

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Solons seek creation of gov’t-run cancer specialty hospital

#PHnews: Solons seek creation of gov’t-run cancer specialty hospital

MANILA – Two lawmakers at the House of Representatives on Thursday called for the creation of a government-run cancer specialty hospital that will cater to the needs and concerns of cancer patients, especially the poor.

House Majority Leader Martin Romualdez and Tingog party-list Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez said establishing a national cancer center would ensure a comprehensive high-quality cancer care services at more affordable prices.

Under House Bill 1150, the Romualdezes sought the creation of the Philippine National Cancer Center (PNCC) patterned after the Philippine Heart Center (PHC), the National Kidney Transplant Institute (NKTI), the Lung Center of the Philippines (LCP) and the Philippine Children’s Medical Center (PCMC).

“Kailangang government-funded para hindi madehado ang mga mahihirap na cancer patients. Iyan ang ating malasakit sa kanila (It should be government-funded so that indigent cancer patients won’t be at a disadvantage. That shows our compassion for them),” they said.

They said the proposal would complement the Cancer Control Act that President Rodrigo Duterte signed in February last year aimed at institutionalizing a national integrated program to fight cancer cases and improve cancer survivorship in the country.

“We have to complement the newly signed law on battling cancer by building the cancer specialty government hospital to take care of cancer patients. Remember that cancer is the third leading cause of death in the country,” they said.

Speaker Lord Allan Velasco has vowed to push for adequate funding for the effective implementation of the National Integrated Cancer Control (NICC) law during the bicameral conference on the proposed PHP4.506-trillion national budget for 2021.

Velasco stressed the importance of the NICC law to ensure that cancer treatment and care will be more equitable and affordable for all, especially for the underprivileged, poor, and marginalized Filipinos.

“The importance of this law and its full implementation cannot be overstated. We have to make sure that it is sufficiently funded so it could effectively serve its purpose of strengthening government efforts to combat cancer and increasing the fighting chance of patients to overcome the disease,” Velasco said.

Under Republic Act No. 11215, the NICC Program will serve as the framework for all cancer-related activities of the government to “decrease the overall mortality and impact of all adult and childhood cancer”.

“The State shall adopt an integrated and comprehensive approach which includes the strengthening of integrative, multidisciplinary, patient and family centered cancer control policies, programs, systems, interventions and services at all levels of the existing health care delivery system" the law reads.

The program also aims to lessen the incidence of preventable cancer, prevent cancer recurrence, provide timely access to optimal cancer treatment and care, make treatment affordable and accessible, and eliminate various forms of burden on patients and their families.

The law mandates the Department of Health to provide early and sufficient access to cancer medicines and "ensure the highest possible chance of survival among people with cancer".

The law created the Cancer Assistance Fund, which will support the cancer medicine and assistance treatment program.

Earlier, Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte requested Velasco and House Committee on Appropriations Committee chair Eric Yap to ensure adequate funding to assist cancer patients.

“My mom is a cancer survivor. Diagnosed in 2016 and successfully recovered more than a year after treatment and long-term survivorship transitions. It is our duty to provide help to every fellow citizen to our best. Give them a second chance to live,” Duterte said. (PNA)

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "Solons seek creation of gov’t-run cancer specialty hospital." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1120161 (accessed October 30, 2020 at 02:45AM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "Solons seek creation of gov’t-run cancer specialty hospital." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1120161 (archived).

#Philippines #News #Filipino #Pinoy #Tourism #Politics #Culture #Editorial #Environment #Society #History

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phgq · 4 years ago

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Disaster resilience department bill gets final House nod

#PHnews: Disaster resilience department bill gets final House nod

MANILA – The House of Representatives on Tuesday approved on third and final reading a measure creating the Department of Disaster Resilience (DDR).

With 241 affirmative votes, 7 negative votes, and one abstention, the chamber passed House Bill 5989, otherwise known as the proposed “Disaster Resilience Act”.

The bill has been identified by President Rodrigo Duterte as a priority measure during his fifth State of the Nation Address last July 27.

Under the bill, the DDR shall be the primary government agency responsible for “leading, managing, and organizing national efforts to prevent and reduce disaster risks; prepare for and respond to disasters; and recover, rehabilitate, and build forward better after the destruction.”

Albay Rep. Joey Salceda, a principal author of the measure, said the creation of the DDR will ensure that the country is able to anticipate and proactively respond to emergencies and disasters, which he expects to intensify with worsening climate conditions.

Salceda said the DDR will help the country deal with disasters and emergencies “not as unfortunate incidents whose impacts are beyond our control, but as risks that can be mitigated.”

“We can no longer deny the fact that climate change is real, that we are a volcanically and tectonically active country, and that we face several typhoons each year. Disasters are a fact of Philippine life. But we can mitigate the human and socioeconomic costs of these disasters. DDR will help ensure that we have a full-time agency in charge of keeping us strong and ready for disasters,” Salceda said.

Salceda said the DDR would be an institutionalized agency coordinating the national response to disasters and emergencies, replacing the ad-hoc and primary secretariat-type work of the current National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).

Salceda said the DDR will lead in the continuous development of strategic, holistic, and systematic approaches to disaster management, including prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response, recovery, and rehabilitation, and anticipatory adaptation strategies, measures, techniques, and options.

TINGOG party-list Rep Yedda Marie Romualdez and House Majority Leader Martin Romualdez, who are also authors of the bill, appealed to the Senate leadership to expedite its passage.

“We appeal to the Senate to expedite the passage of this measure that would institutionalize the cohesive, and comprehensive framework for disaster preparedness, prevention and mitigation, and response in our country,” the Romualdez couple said.

“We look forward to collaborating with them on this crucial piece of legislation for the welfare and safety of Filipinos. We are confident that the Senate is one with our goal to pass this bill into law this year.”

The DDR may undertake and implement certain emergency measures in anticipation of, during, and in the aftermath of disasters to protect and preserve life and property and ensure and promote public safety and welfare.

Among these emergency measures include carrying out preemptive and forced evacuation; imposition of curfew; and temporary takeover of any private utility or business, subject to payment of just compensation when there is imminent danger of loss of lives or damage to property.

The proposed law also establishes the National Disaster Operations Center (NDOC), Alternative Command Centers (ACC), and Disaster Resilience Research and Training Institute (DRRTI). (PNA)

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "Disaster resilience department bill gets final House nod." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1116255 (accessed September 23, 2020 at 01:12AM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "Disaster resilience department bill gets final House nod." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1116255 (archived).

#Philippines #News #Filipino #Pinoy #Tourism #Politics #Culture #Editorial #Environment #Society #History

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phgq · 4 years ago

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Biliran Province State University to implement seven major projects this year

#PHinfo: Biliran Province State University to implement seven major projects this year

NAVAL, Biliran, March 3 (PIA) –The Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) is set to implement seven major projects this year.

The implementation of the seven major infrastructure projects this year in BiPSU’s main campus in Naval and in Biliran town campus, is one of the major reports presented in the 18-page State of the University Address of BiPSU University President, Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr.

Cañezo presented the seven major projects complete with visual presentations in his second State of the University Address on February 26, at the state-of-the-art university gymnasium, in the presence of community stakeholders and BiPSU officials and employees.

The seven approved major projects with available funds are, Automotive Laboratory Building, Main Campus Drainage System, Faculty and Staff Wellness Center, Graduate School and Administration Building through the efforts of TINGOG Partylist Representative Yedda Romuladez and House Majority Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, a three-storey Academic Research Building, Repair and Renovation of classrooms in Biliran Campus sourced from the income of the university, and the Procurement of Agriculture, Fishery and Natural Resources Laboratory Machinery and Equipment, and the Procurement of Laboratory Equipment and Facilities for Biliran Campus amounting to P20, 016, 000.

He personally thanked Biliran Congressman Gerardo J. Espina, Jr. for endorsing these projects before the House of Representatives,

Senator Joel Villanueva before the Senate of the Philippines, and the Department of Budget and Management and the Commission on Higher Education for the support of the projects.

Cañezo also presented the completed projects of the university for two years, and these are: BiPSU Student Center with fully air conditioned inter-faith room, student lounge, student hall that accommodates academic, sports and other social activities, houses the different support services office, fully installed with lights and sound system; BiPSU Gymnasium with state-of-the-art and fully air conditioned convention center with LED and wall and upgraded lights and sound system, sports center that has complete facilities including hydraulic basketball ring and wood tiled court and fully equipped control room; 3-Storey Ceramics Building, Roofing System for one basketball court, two volleyball courts and one lawn tennis court; Upgrading of the Electrical System in both Naval and Biliran Campuses; and completed Dormitory Building in Biliran Campus.

He also reported the on-going construction of the state-of the-art with elevator BiPSU Technology Building that will house the School of Engineering, School of Management and Entrepreneurship, and School of Technology and Computer Studies. (nbq/rsv/PIA Biliran)

***

References:

* Philippine Information Agency. "Biliran Province State University to implement seven major projects this year." Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1068441 (accessed March 03, 2021 at 03:56PM UTC+08).

* Philippine Infornation Agency. "Biliran Province State University to implement seven major projects this year." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1068441 (archived).

#Philippines #News #Filipino #Pinoy #Tourism #Politics #Culture #Editorial #Environment #Society #History

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phgq · 4 years ago

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Bill extending estate tax amnesty gets final House nod

#PHnews: Bill extending estate tax amnesty gets final House nod

MANILA – The House of Representatives on Tuesday overwhelmingly approved on third and final reading a measure extending the availment period of the estate tax amnesty amid the continuing threat posed by the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

With 209 affirmative votes, zero negative votes, and no abstention, the chamber approved House Bill 7068, which seeks to extend the availment period of the estate tax amnesty from two years to four years by amending Republic Act 11213 or the Tax Amnesty Act of 2019.

House Ways and Means Committee chair Joey Salceda, the sponsor of the bill, said the estate tax amnesty allows the transfer of long unsettled estates so these can be productive.

“The original deadline of availment and payment on April 23, 2020 has since been extended four times, with the new deadline set until December 31, 2020, however, only 23,911 persons have availed of the amnesty, earning only PHP1.362 billion out of the potential PHP6 billion-plus. Thus, it is apt that we extend it through legislation,” Salceda said.

The authors of the bill are Majority Leader Martin Romualdez, Tingog Party-list Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez, and Deputy Majority Leader Wilter Wee Palma II.

They said the measure will provide economic relief for Filipinos at this time of crisis, noting that the pandemic led to unemployment, bankruptcies, and stalled economic activities.

“The people lost a precious period of time and possible sources of income in order to avail of this tax amnesty program of the government. This drawback may take some time to recover, and while the Covid-19 pandemic still persists, people will have extreme difficulty in paying their taxes, much more in settling their estate tax dues even with this tax amnesty program. Hence, this bill proposes to extend the availment period of the estate tax amnesty,” they said.

The lawmakers said the proposed amendment will enable those who want to take advantage of the amnesty program to have ample time to recoup their resources and get back on their feet so they can still apply and pay their estate tax dues.

RA 11213 was approved by President Rodrigo Duterte on February 14, 2019.

Under the law, the government provides the taxpayers a one-time opportunity to settle estate tax obligations through an estate tax amnesty program that gives reasonable tax relief to estates with outstanding estate tax liabilities.

Taxpayers who avail of the estate tax amnesty enjoy immunity from the payment of estate taxes, civil, criminal, and administrative cases and penalties.

The estate tax amnesty covers the estate of decedents who died on or before December 31, 2017, with or without assessments duly issued, whose estate taxes have remained unpaid or have accrued as of December 31, 2017.

Under the law, the executor or administrator of the estate, or if there is executor or administrator appointed, the legal heirs, transferees, or beneficiaries, who wish to avail of the estate tax amnesty shall do so within two years from the effectivity of the implementing rules and regulations of RA 11213. (PNA)

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "Bill extending estate tax amnesty gets final House nod." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1115502 (accessed September 16, 2020 at 12:52AM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "Bill extending estate tax amnesty gets final House nod." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1115502 (archived).

#Philippines #News #Filipino #Pinoy #Tourism #Politics #Culture #Editorial #Environment #Society #History

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phgq · 4 years ago

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House OKs bill extending estate tax amnesty on 2nd reading

#PHnews: House OKs bill extending estate tax amnesty on 2nd reading

MANILA – The House of Representatives on Wednesday approved on second reading a measure extending the period of the estate tax amnesty amid the continuing threat posed by the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.

The chamber approved through voice voting House Bill 7068, which seeks to extend the availment period of the estate tax amnesty from two years to four years by amending Republic Act 11213 or the Tax Amnesty Act of 2019.

House Ways and Means Committee chair Joey Salceda, the sponsor of the bill, said the estate tax amnesty allows the transfer of long unsettled estates so these can be productive.

The authors of the bill are Majority Leader Martin Romualdez, Tingog Party-list Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez, and Deputy Majority Leader Wilter Wee Palma II.

They said the measure will provide economic relief for Filipinos at this time of crisis, noting that the pandemic led to unemployment, bankruptcies, and stalled economic activities.

RA 11213 was approved by President Rodrigo Duterte on February 14, 2019.

Taxpayers who avail of the estate tax amnesty enjoy immunity from the payment of estate taxes, civil, criminal, and administrative cases and penalties.

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "House OKs bill extending estate tax amnesty on 2nd reading." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1114933 (accessed September 10, 2020 at 02:22AM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "House OKs bill extending estate tax amnesty on 2nd reading." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1114933 (archived).

#Philippines #News #Filipino #Pinoy #Tourism #Politics #Culture #Editorial #Environment #Society #History

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