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The Observer.com PBBM extends free bus rides; Okays free rides for students in MRT-3, LRT-2, and PNR 2

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Laguesma at DOLE, seeks dialogues with labor groups 2

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59% support allowing construction of nuclear plant in the Philippines 7

“ANG PANGARAP NYO AY PANGARAP KO”, ‑‑ PRES. MARCOS, JR. “WE are here to repair a house divided, to make it whole and to stand strong again in the bayanihan way expressive of our nature as Filipinos.” Turn to Page 3

Sa pangarap na maging mapayapa ang ating bansa!

Sa pangarap na maging maunlad ang ating bansa!

At sa pangarap na maging mas masinang ang kinabukasan natin at ng ating mga anak

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VOLUME 1, NO. 1 FRIDAY JULY 01, 2022

NATIONAL

The Observer.

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PBBM extends free EDSA Carousel bus rides; Okays free rides for students in MRT-3, LRT-2, and PNR

MANILA -- President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos, Jr. on Friday, 30 June 2022 approved a memorandum submitted by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) seeking to extend the free EDSA Carousel bus rides and provide free rides for students who will be using the MRT-3, LRT-2, and PNR when in-person classes resume in August.

The memo resulted from President Marcos’ recent meeting with transport officials headed by DOTr Secretary Jaime J. Bautista and Executive Secretary Atty. Vic Rodriguez in Malacañang Palace.

“Considering the availability of budget for Service Contracting under GA 2022, the undersigned recommends the continuation of the Libreng Sakay Program for all passengers of the EDSA Bus Carousel,” a portion of the DOTr memo read.

The move will ease the burden of rising living expenses on Filipino families and help them save money, especially with the return of faceto-face classes after more than two years.

The extended Free EDSA Car-

dents will be implemented in MRT3. LRT-2, and PNR,” another portion of the DOTr memo read.

The Department of Education (DepEd), now under Vice-President

ousel bus rides will last until December 2022.

The DOTr will also implement the Libreng Sakay for Students Program in MRT-3, LRT-2, and the PNR while simultaneously recommending halting free rides for all MRT-3 passengers.

According to the DOTr, current MRT-3 fares are already heavily subsidized, which was vital in its decision to recommend discontinu-

ing the free rides for MRT-3 passengers.

“Considering the welfare of students, however, whose learning outcomes have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic, the undersigned recommends implementing a Libreng Sakay for Students Program for the First Quarter of School Year 2022-2023, or from 22 August 2022 to 04 November 2022. The Libreng Sakay for stu-

Solon files reso for charter change, wants longer rule for president THREE weeks before the start of the 19th Congress, Pampanga Rep. Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr. (3rd District) filed a resolution calling to amend the Constitution so that the Philippine president can have a longer rule of two fiveyear terms.

Gonzales claimed that having a six-year term, which cannot be renewed, appears to not be enough for the chief executive to implement long-term programs and policies.

This comes shortly after Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. was sworn in as the 17th president of the Philippines. Gonzales is among the officials in the province who pledged his support for the UniTeam alliance, which Marcos Jr. and his running mate Sara Duterte-Carpio— who were eventually elected — ran under.

Gonzales’ resolution calls on both chambers of Congress to convene in a constituent assembly to amend the law to allow the president to rule for a maximum of two terms— five years each.

“It is hereby proposed that the term of office of the President shall be five years with a re-election to another five-year term, a maximum of a ten-year term. Thereafter, the President shall be prohibited to be a candidate of any elective post,” he said.

He also said that the vice president’s term of service should be five years, with a chance of getting elected in the same post for another five-year term. The resolution allows the second highest official in the land to serve a maximum of two consecutive five-year terms.

Section 4 of the 1987 Constitution states that the president and

vice president will be elected into office for one term of six years, which begins on June 30.

“The President shall not be eligible for re-election. No person who has succeeded as President and has served as such for more than four years shall be qualified for election to the same office at any time. No Vice President shall serve for more than two successive terms.” -1987 Constitution Gonzales’ proposal includes transitory provisions that bar the incumbent and past presidents from running for any elective position.

It also prohibits House members on their third and final term from running as district or party-list representatives in the elections after the ratification of the proposed constitutional revisions.

Likewise, local officials and barangay officials on their final terms will not be allowed to run for the same position in the elections after the ratification.

‘Very short terms’ Gonzales said in his resolution that the President’s current six yearterm “appears to be insufficient” in establishing long-term programs and policies.

“We are now in our road to recovery having more than 12 trillion-peso national debt due to the COVID-19 pandemic and most recently the high prices of fuel due to the Russia-Ukraine War,” he said.

“A long-term solution is wanting, hence a longer term policy on good and competent leadership should be put in place,” he added.

It is for the same reason that Gonzales has also pushed for longer terms of office for congressmen, including both district and party-list

representatives, as well as local elective officials, excluding barangay leaders. However, the resolution also said the officials should not serve for more than two terms in a row.

“The three-year term for members of the House of Representatives, past experiences would show, is a very short term...With the garganteum tasks given to Members of the House of Representatives, a need arises to increase their term of office from three years to five years but limiting them to only two consecutive five-year terms in office,” he said.

Senators, who currently serve for six years with a chance of one re-election for a fresh term, were not covered in Gonzales’ proposal.

‘Strong’ party system The congressman’s resolution makes a brief mention of strengthening the country’s political party system, which critics have described as weak because there are no laws which penalize turncoatism- colloquially known as being a “balimbing.”

“In every Presidential Election, a vote for the President shall be a vote for the Vice-President, provided that both belong to the same Political Party. This is to encourage a strong party system,” he said.

Amending the Constitution is a form of charter change. President Marcos Jr. did not talk about his stand on charter change during the three-month campaign period starting February. But he said in a DZRH radio interview in January that pursuing charter change may be difficult as the public has historically viewed these as attempts by incumbents to remain in power.

Sara Duterte, estimates that more than 38,000 schools in the country are already set for the resumption of face-to-face classes for the school year 2022-2023. (OP)

TURNOVER. Labor Secretary Beinvenido Laguesma (right) receives the agency flag from his predecessor, Silvestre Bello III, at the Department of Labor and Employment central office in Intramuros, Manila on Friday (June 30, 2022). Laguesma is set to meet with employers’ groups in the coming days. (Photo:DOLE-IPS)

Laguesma back at DOLE, seeks dialogues with labor groups

SECRETARY Bienvenido Laguesma of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) will conduct meetings with employers’ groups in the coming days to discuss their concerns.

On Friday, he received the DOLE flag and the Labor and Employment Plan 2022-2028 from his predecessor, Silvestre Bello III, at the Labor Governance and Learning Center of the department’s Blas F. Ople Hall in Intramuros, Manila.

Laguesma also met with other officials during his first day in office and interacted with employees with whom he discussed such issues as wage increase and job security.

“I also talked to the regional directors and we had discussions about issues and concerns that have also been conveyed to me by representatives of various workers groups,” he said in an interview. “In

the coming week, I am scheduled to interact with groups of employers so that I can listen to them to find out what they have to say or do.”

Bello will head the Manila Economic and Cultural Office in Taiwan.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered the new DOLE chief to pursue more programs for the labor sector and continue implementing those done under Bello’s term.

Bello said the DOLE is in good hands under Laguesma, who was also DOLE secretary in 1998 to 2001 under the Estrada administration and started his public service career as a mediator-arbiter at the former Department of Labor in 1976.

“Your fresh mandate to steer the DOLE once more signifies the continuity of the noble initiatives that we have undertaken for the Filipino workers and the people,” he said. (PNA)

MANILA -- A total of P6.20 billion has been released by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to cover the first tranche of the Targeted Cash Transfer (TCT) Program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

The cash subsidy will be distributed to six (6) million beneficiaries from the poorest 50 percent of the country’s population to help them cope with rising prices of fuel and other commodities. Specifically, this includes four (4) million households enrolled under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and two (2) million social pension beneficiaries.

The beneficiaries shall receive

P500 monthly cash subsidies for six (6) months to be distributed in three (3) tranches. This implies they are expected to receive P1000 for the first tranche, which will be distributed through the cash cards issued by the LandBank of the Philippines or other approved modes of distribution.

The implementing guidelines of the TCT program are issued under DOF-DSWD-DBM-NEDA Joint Memorandum Circular No. 1, s. 2022.

The DBM will ensure the timely and prudent release of funds and work closely with all implementing agencies to help ease the burden of the vulnerable population most affected by global crises. (DBM)

By Ferdinand Patinio

DBM releases P6.2 Billion for targeted cash aid

The Observer.

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NATIONAL

ANG PANGARAP NYO AY PANGARAP KO

By Eunice dela Cruz and Andrea Bancud From Page 1

This was the vow of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to all Filipinos as he took his oath as the 17th President of the Philippines at the National Museum of Fine Arts, June 30.

In his speech delivered during his inauguration, Marcos Jr. said he believes that if everyone focused on the work at hand, the country will go far under his watch.

“We will go further together than against each other. Pushing forward, not pulling each other back out of fear, out of a misplaced sense of weakness. But we are the furthest from weak.”

The President assured everyone that he fully understands the gravity of his responsibilities. He said he does not take it lightly and he is ready for the task.

He also underscored the advantages of having a government that is responsive to the needs of its people.

“Imagine how much more you’d achieve if government backstops instead of dictating your decisions. Always there to pick you up when you fall; giving what you need to get past a problem. Imagine if it invested in your self-empowerment to bring it closer to taking on whatever challenges come. Imagine, a country that, in almost every sense, is you. Now imagine what you and government can achieve together,” he said.

Marcos Jr., who will also serve as Agriculture secretary said he would improve food sufficiency.

“Food sufficiency must get the preferential treatment the riches free trade countries always gave their agricultural sectors. Their policy boils down to “Don’t do this, we do.

Sa pangarap na maging mapayapa ang ating bansa!

Ang pangarap ‘nyo ay pangarap ko!

Sa pangarap na maging maunlad ang ating bansa!

Ang pangarap ‘nyo ay pangarap ko!

At sa pangarap na maging mas masinang ang kinabukasan natin at ng ating mga anak, ang pangarap ‘nyo ay pangarap ko!

-- President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.

Do what we tell you to.” I’m giving that policy the most serious thought if it doesn’t change or make more allowances for emergencies with long-term effects,” he declared.

He said his administration is drawing up a comprehensive, inclusive plan for economic transformation.

“We will build back better by doing things in the light of the experiences that we have had, both good and bad, it doesn’t matter. No looking back in anger or nostalgia.”

He appealed to everyone to come together and give the country the nudge it needs to turn faster in order to repair and rebuild it while facing challenges innovatively.

“Come, let us put our shoulders to the wheel and give that wheel a faster turn to repair and to rebuild and to address challenges in new ways to provide what all Filipinos need, to be all that we can.”

With faith and commitment, Marcos Jr. also said that the Filipinos dreams are his dreams and he will make them come true.

“Your dreams are mine. Pangarap niyo ay pangarap ko. How can we make them come true? How can we do it together? But I will take it as far as anyone with the same faith and commitment can as if it depended entirely on himself.”

Ending his inaugural address,

he expressed his confidence for the future, “Believe. Have hope. The sun also rises like it did today and as it will tomorrow. And as surely as that, we will achieve the country all Filipinos deserves.”

President Marcos Jr.’s oath taking was administered by Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo. (Edela Cruz and ABancud - PIA CPSD)

VOLUME 1, NO. 1 FRIDAY JULY 01, 2022

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Photo: Darwin Gernale, Celso Quesea - PIA CPSD

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VOLUME 1, NO. 1 FRIDAY JULY 01, 2022

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Mandatory online filing ng retirement claim ng mga self-employed members INANUNSYO ni Social Security System (SSS) President CEO Michael G. Regino na simula Hulyo 1, 2022 ay sakop na ng mandatory online filing ng retirement benefit ang mga self-employed members na may edad na 60-64 taong gulang.

Nauna nang ipinatupad noong Hulyo 2020 ang mandatory online filing ng retirement benefit ng lahat ng employed members, voluntary members, land-based Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) members at self-employed members na may edad 65 taong gulang pataas.

“Simula pa noong 2015 ay naging available na ang ating online facility para sa mga miyembrong nasa technical retirement age na 65. Sa simula pa lang ng pandemiya, may mga enhancements na kaming ginagawa para mas simple at maginhawa ang kanilang pagpafile na hindi na nila kinakailangang pang sumadya sa mga sangay ng SSS. Ang kailangan lang nilang gawin ay i-access ang kanilang My.SSS account, i-click ang Apply for Retirement Benefit sa ilalim ng Benefits section ng E-Services tab, punan ang mga kailangang impormasyon, at isumite ang mga required supporting documents,” pahayag ni Regino.

Ang mga miyembrong may mga sumusunod na “special cases” sa benepisyo sa pagreretiro ay dapat pa ring pumunta at mag-file sa alinmang sangay ng SSS o foreign representative office: May natitirang balanse sa Stock Investment Loan Program (SILP)/ Privatization Loan Program/ Educational Loan/ Vocational Technology Loan; May anak/mga anak na nasa ilalim ng kanilang pangangalaga; Kung saan ang miyembro ay walang kakayahan, nasa ilalim ng

SSS president and chief executive officer (CEO) Michael Regino.

pangangalaga, o nakakulong sa isang naaangkop na institusyon tulad ng penitentiary, correctional institution, o rehabilitation center; May aplikasyon ng Portability Law o Bilateral Social Security Agreements; May adjustment o may re-adjudication ng claim; at May hindi nakuhang benepisyo ng isang namatay na miyembro Ang retirement benefit ay isang cash benefit na ibinibigay sa isang miyembro na hindi na makakapagtrabaho dahil sa katandaan at umabot na sa itinakdang edad ng pagreretiro. Ang kanyang benepisyo ay maaaring buwanang pensiyon para sa mga nagbayad ng hindi bababa sa 120 buwanang kontribusyon bago ang semestre ng pagreretiro o isang bigayan (lump sum) para sa mga nagbayad ng mas mababa sa 120 na kontribusyon.

Maaaring ma-access ang mga kwalipikasyon para makapag-apply sa benepisyo para sa pagreretiro sa https://crms.sss. gov.ph habang ang mga alituntunin at patakaran sa online filing ng nasabing benepisyo sa pamamagitan ng My.SSS Portal ay makikita sa https://bit.ly/SSSCI2021-021. (SSS)

In the photo, SSS Senior Vice President for Account Management Group Mario Sibucao (third from left) and PPSC Vice President for Administration Retired Police Brigadier General Ferdinando Sevilla (fourth from left) showed the MOA between the two government agencies during the signing ceremony held at the PPSC’s compound, witnessed by several SSS and PPSC officials.

SSS-PPSC agreement to benefit nearly 200 job order, contract of service workers THE Social Security System (SSS) said nearly 200 job order and contract of service workers will get social security cove­ rage after SSS and the Philippine Public Safety College (PPSC) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) last June 24, 2022.

SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Regino lauded PPSC in their effort to provide social protection to their fellow workers in the government not covered by the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS). “Regardless of their employment status, workers deserve to have a basic safety net in times of contingencies through SSS membership,” Regino said.

Under the MOA, PPSC’s contract of service and job order workers will be classified as self-employed members of SSS. Government contract of service and job order workers are not covered by the GSIS due to their employment status.

The Observer.

Observer.

NEWS Gatchalian wants focus on numeracy, literacy for K to 3

As a Coverage and Collection Partner, SSS authorized the PPSC to collect and remit their monthly contributions through a salary-deduction scheme under its KaltaSSS-Collect Program.

“As SSS self-employed members, they shall become entitled to social security benefits such as sickness, maternity, retirement, disability, and death benefits. They shall also become eligible for loan programs which include salary, and calamity, among others. Likewise, they will also have additional coverage from the Employees’ Compensation Program (ECP) for work-related contingencies,” Regino added.

As of May 2022, SSS has partnered with 1,261 local government units (LGUs), 398 national government agencies, 98 state universities and colleges (SUCs), and 58 local water districts covering job order and contract of service workers through the KaltaSSS-Collect Program with a total collection exceeding P2.9 billion.

WHILE the incoming administration is set to review the K to 12 program, Senator Win Gatchalian is proposing to refine the K to 3 curriculum to make it more focused on literacy and numeracy.

According to Gatchalian, who is set to retain his chairmanship of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, Arts and Culture in the 19th Congress, large scale international assessments showed that the country’s learners are struggling in the critical learning areas of Math and Reading. This will have negative and long-term consequences on their future and the country as a whole, Gatchalian emphasized.

The senator also cited the observation of experts who flagged that the K to 12 curriculum is too overcrowded and needs decongesting. Because learners are required to learn too many competencies, this affects their ability to master basic competencies, Gatchalian explained.

To address learning loss be-

DSWD is now more accessible with new hotlines THE public can now reach the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) seven days a week as the Department’s Agency Operations Center (AOC) opens additional hotline numbers to receive calls. These are Smart numbers 0943-4648026, 09434648086; and, Globe numbers 0995-7153926, 0995-7153934.

The new hotlines were added by the Department in its goal to be more accessible to the public even on weekends. The AOC is managing these from Mondays to Fridays at 8:00am to 6:00pm, and on Satur­ days and Sundays at 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Apart from the new numbers, the old hotlines, 0932-9333251 and 0918912281, are still active for call and text messages, respectively.

With this, the DSWD is encouraging the public to send their queries, questions, and even complaints through the hotline numbers.

Moreover, the public may reach or get in touch with the DSWD through its official Facebook and Twitter accounts, @dswdserves, or send email messages to inquiry@ dswd.gov.ph.

The DSWD reminds the public to always use official hotline numbers and platforms of the Agency for accurate information and res­ ponse to their concerns.

With more hotline numbers opened and other information sites accessible, the Department aims to guide the public to trust only official channels to protect them from fake news and misinformation. (DSWD)

cause of COVID-19 school closures, Gatchalian proposes learning recovery programs that are intensive on reading and numeracy.

In Senate Bill No. 2355 or the Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) Program Act, which was filed during the recently concluded 18th Congress, Gatchalian’s proposed learning recovery program covers the most essential learning competencies under Language and Mathematics for Grades 1 to 10 and Science for Grades 3 to 10. Reading will also be prioritized to develop critical and analytical thinking skills of learners. Literacy and numeracy competencies will be given focus for Kindergarten learners to build on their foundational competencies.

“Upang matugunan natin ang krisis sa sektor ng edukasyon, kailangan tutukan natin ang ating mga mag-aaral at tiyaking natututo sila nang husto. Kailangang matiyak natin na matatag ang kanilang pundasyon lalo na pagdating sa pagbasa at mga numero dahil dito nakas-

Senator Win Gatchalian

alalay ang marami pang mga bagay na dapat nilang matutunan, “ said Gatchalian.

According to the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) 2019, only 19% of Grade 4 learners in the Philippines met the minimum benchmark level required in Math.

Using pre-pandemic data, the World Bank estimates that learning poverty in the Philippines for 2021 is already at 90.5%. Learning poverty is defined as the percentage of children aged 10 who cannot read or understand a simple story. The World Bank also warns that because of COVID-19 school closures, learning poverty will rise by 10% in lower-middle income countries like the Philippines. (OSWG)

U.S. concludes international passenger interdiction training with Philippine border agencies THE U.S. Export Control and Border Security (EXBS) Program and the U.S. Customs Border Protection (CBP) recently concluded a weeklong training with Philippine counterparts on international passenger interdiction aimed at helping improve Philippine border security.

Held from June 20 to 24 in Clark, the training hosted 21 officers of the Philippine Bureau of Customs (BOC) and Bureau of Immigration from the Clark, Manila, Cebu, and Davao ports of entry.

Customs Deputy Collector Dr. Jesus Llorando said there is a need for close collaboration with Philippine border agencies, while Immigration-Clark Terminal Head Supervisor Ma-an Krista Lapid-Legaspi highlighted the importance of passenger interdiction training and the partnership between CBP and BOC. EXBS Regional Advisor Ransom Avilla noted the unique challenges and benefits of border security and regulatory agencies working side by side.

“In light of the pandemic, this iteration of the international passenger interdiction training is very timely as the world borders start

Customs Deputy Collector Dr. Jesus Llorando and CBP Officer Gerard Bradley discuss the procedures for the X-ray machines for carry-on baggage.

to open once again,” said Avilla. “While the focus at the borders has been guarding against COVID-19-infected passengers, we need to focus again on suspicious travelers who may take advantage of the disruption the pandemic has brought.”

The training also included a visit to Clark International Airport, which opened to passengers on May 2. The participants were able to see the challenges of opening the newest airport in the Philippines.

CBP Attaché Pete Acosta facilitated discussions on the similarities of the U.S. international arrival process with those implemented at Clark International Airport. CBP trainers Gerard Bradley and Lisa Caselli also showed participants the latest security features of passports and how they could better identify and detect imposters’ attempts to illegally enter a country.

The EXBS program provides assistance to the Philippine government to improve its border security capabilities, strengthen its strategic trade management system, and improve its capabilities in preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. (U.S. Embassy in the Philipines)

PROVINCIAL DepEd official optimistic about PBBM support for farm schools The Observer.

Observer.com

SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA, Antique – An official of the Department of Education (DepEd) in Antique has expressed hope that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. would support the farm school in the province and other parts of the country as these serve as good training grounds for the new breed of farmers.

DepEd-Antique Superintendent Felisa Beriong, in extending her congratulations to the new President, said she was elated to know that he expressed his intention to temporarily head the Department of Agriculture (DA).

“With Vice President Sara

Duterte-Carpio as our DepEd Secretary and President Marcos to head DA, we could really look forward to more support to the farm schools,” Beriong said.

Antique has a farm school in Barangay Aningalan, San Remigio but there are plans to also open farm schools in other municipalities.

The Aningalan Integrated Farm School, which opened on Sept. 13, 2021, has 35 learners in Grade 7.

Learners, mostly children of farmers in the upland barangays, are being taught how to cultivate rice and other crops, as well as entrepreneurship to be able to market their products.

Lamitan City to build own airport

By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.

ZAMBOANGA CITY – The city government of Lamitan is embarking on an ambitious airport project to boost its development as well as that of Basilan province.

Mayor Roderick Furigay said Saturday they have started the acquisition of land in the area where the airport will be constructed.

Furigay said the lots they have acquired are in the Barangays of Calugusan, Balas, Boahan, and Ubit, which were identified by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) as the ideal site for the airport.

“As far as purchasing of the land is concerned, we are now at 30 percent. We need to acquire not less than 100 hectares of land for the airport project,” Furigay said in an interview.

“We have already acquired 30 hectares of land,” he added.

The city government has allocated PHP30 million while the provincial government added PHP20 million for the acquisition of land

Mayor Roderick Furigay

alone.

He said the airport they envision would have a two-kilometer runway.

Furigay said Basilan could have its own airport like the neighboring provinces of Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

The multi-national companies left Basilan as the rubber plantations were covered by the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program of the government.

Furigay said building the airport is an ambitious project for a city like Lamitan but it is not impossible to have one. (PNA)

Camiguin child labor film bags 8 awards at 2nd DOLEkula Normin film festival

Office snatched the regional grand winner trophy while reaping 8 out of 12 minor awards for its total impact with consideration of all the areas of film making.

The film illustrates the story of 15-year old ‘Mac-Mac’ whose parents pushed him to become a farmer to support himself. Despite the challenges, he is full of hope and positivity, performing well as a top student until tragedy happened that changed his life perspective.

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FARM SCHOOL. Red peppers are grown by learners at the Antique Integrated Farm School in Barangay Aningalan, San Remigio in this undated photo. Department of Education Schools Division of Antique Superintendent Felisa Beriong said on Friday (July 1, 2022) that she is looking forward to the support of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and incoming DepEd Secretary, Vice President Sara Duterte, for the farm school. (Photo courtesy of San Remigio LGU)

DavNor gets choco processor, road and bridge projects

By Che Palicte

Department of Labor and Employment-10 awards Camigiun Provincial Field Office Chief Arlyn Bael (3rd from right) as the regional winner on their DOLEKula “Pangandoy sa Kalubihan” (Dream under the coconut trees) during the awarding ceremony, June 29, 2022 at DOLE-10 Activity Center, Cagayan de Oro City. (DOLE-10)

CAMIGUIN (PIA)--A film that centers on child labor engagement won major prizes at the 2nd DOLEkula Mga Kwento ng Batang Malaya Film Festival of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-10.

The one-minute, no-dialogue social issue film on children exploitation and abuse entitled “Pangandoy sa Kalubihan” (Dream under the coconut trees) produced by DOLE Camiguin Provincial Field

“Since the farm school is just newly opened, there is still a need to further develop the curriculum and for the learners to be able to personally use various farming equipment,” Beriong said.

Learners will also be taught new farming technologies and how to cultivate organic high-value crops, which are in demand in the market.

“It is important that the learners will be taught farming skills that they could apply right in their own family farms or that could provide them with a profitable livelihood so they could really appreciate farming,” she added. (PNA)

VOLUME 1, NO. 1 FRIDAY JULY 01, 2022

DAVAO CITY – Three big-ticket subprojects of the Department of Agriculture-Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP) worth PHP337.5 million were turned over to the province of Davao del Norte.

In a statement Saturday, DAPRDP said the projects were officially handed over to the municipalities of New Corella, Kapalong, and Rehoboth Agriculture Cooperative (RACO) in Panabo City.

The first subproject turned over was the 15.354-kilometer “Rehabilitation of Poblacion – Limbaan -Suawon – Macgum farm-to-market (FMR) with two bridges” worth PHP209 million.

The “Rehabilitation of Capungagan -Boundary San Miguel Farm Market Road” subproject was also transferred to the Municipality of Kapalong.

The 10.6-kilometer FMR road has provided access to barangay roads going to Florida, Mabantao in Kapalong town and Linao, Sawata in the Municipality of San Isidro and New Loon in the Municipality of Asuncion.

The subproject which is worth PHP108 million will support the value chain of existing commodities in the area such as cacao, cardava banana (saba in the Philippines), and coconut.

It would also address the lack of access road from the farm to market, long travel time, and high rate of post-harvest losses.

Meanwhile, one enterprise subproject was also inaugurated – the “Chocolate Processing” which was turned over to RACO in Panabo City.

The said subproject aims to boost the cacao industry not just in Panabo City but the entire Davao del Norte.

“RACO is looking forward to

producing more 100 percent dark chocolate,” the statement added.

DA-PRDP Support Office Mindanao Director Abel James Monteagudo said in his message that the enterprise subproject of RACO is a blessing to cacao farmers in the province.

He added that the DA-PRDP provided them with supplies and material, processing equipment and machinery, a minivan, and one unit chocolate processing building.

The subproject worth PHP20 million will support the 150 beneficiaries by increasing their income and ensuring that the cooperative has a sure market for their chocolate products.

“Through this support, they can now upscale their existing chocolate production by the use of the said facilities and equipment since they can meet the quality and standard set by their buyers,” Monteagudo added. (PNA)

DOLE-10 grants P525K livelihood to PCLs in Bukidnon MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon (PIA)—The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)10 Bukidnon Provincial Field Office granted P525,000 worth of livelihood starter kits to 35 parents of child laborers (PCLs) in Bukidnon as the country joined the global observance of ‘World Day Against Child Labor’ last June 12.

DOLE-10 Bukidnon chief Raul L. Valmores said each parent-beneficiary received P15,000 worth of starter kits to augment parents’ income and prevent their children from engaging in hazardous jobs and instead keep them learning in school.

“We will be granting P5.9 Million worth of livelihood aid for PCLs under the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP) through Valencia Rural Improvement Multi-Purpose Cooperative, the accredited co-partner,” Valmores said.

Beneficiary Elsa Moreno, an unemployed mother of four, re-

ceived her hog raising business starter kit. Her 16-year-old son, the breadwinner for the family, works as a construction helper.

“As a single parent, I am so thankful today because of DOLE’s financial help. The livelihood grant will help my children’s schooling—especially now that my son is obliged to stop working in a construction firm,” she said.

Moreno’s son was profiled as child laborer under DOLE’s Child

Labor Prevention and Elimination Program (CLPEP). Hence, this allows parents, like her to avail of the livelihood program of DOLE, among other need-based interventions.

Valmores disclosed that 250 schoolchildren will also be given school bags through the efforts of the Bukidnon Federation of Family Welfare Committees (BFFWC) under the Project Angel Tree program of the department.

6

VOLUME 1, NO. 2 SATURDAY JULY 02, 2022

Domestic manufacturing improved for 5 straight months MANILA – The performance of the domestic manufacturing sector has improved for five consecutive months in June this year, according to S&P Global Philippines Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI).

Philippine manufacturing PMI in June recorded a score of 53.8 amid a solid rise in output due to strong demands.

Indices above 50 reflect improvement in manufacturing conditions, while below the neutral mark mean deterioration of manufacturing activities.

Although the production index was slightly lower in June compared to the score of 54.1 in May, S&P Global said manufacturing performance last month reflected solid growth of the sector as the country continues to recover from the coronavirus pandemic.

“Domestic demand remained strong as the lifting of pandemic restrictions allowed customer activity to pick up,” S&P Global Market Intelligence economist Maryam Baluch said on Friday.

The report added that Philippine-based factories have increased employment levels for two straight months in June. Hiring activities rose last month due to greater production requirements and a higher volume of new orders.

On the other hand, orders from foreign markets once again contracted in June due to weak international client demand and supply issues reported by manufacturers.

Export volumes have contracted since March this year, S&P Global added.

BUSINESS

PCCI urges Marcos admin to pursue ease of doing biz efforts

By Kris Crismundo

MANILA – The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), the country’s largest business organization, is urging the new administration to continue policies and measures of the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA).

In a statement Thursday, PCCI president George Barcelon hoped the government would sustain the reforms of ARTA that were started during the Duterte administration.

Barcelon said these initiatives of simplifying the transactions with public offices and efforts of eliminating red tape ensure sustained business confidence and trust in the government.

He added the business community gives importance to eradicating red tape in the bureaucracy to gain confidence of local and foreign investors.

“The PCCI commends ARTA for having accomplished quite a number of milestones that really benefited the business community.

We are happy that ARTA and PCCI have a strong partnership in implementing these policy reforms in government,” Barcelon said.

The PCCI chief cited ARTA’s programs that helped ease doing business and eliminate red tape.

These include the National Effort for the Harmonization of Efficiency Measures of Interrelated

Minimal rollback on LPG prices

MANILA – Industry players implemented a minimal price rollback on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).

Petron implemented a decrease of PHP0.40 per kilogram on LPG. It also slashed AutoLPG prices by PHP0.22 per liter.

“These reflect the international contract price of LPG for the month of July,” Petron’s advisory said.

Solane-branded LPG also followed the rollback at 6 a.m. this day., cutting household LPG prices

by PHP0.36 per kilogram.

The price adjustments reflected a decrease of PHP3.96 to PHP4.40 for a regular 11-kilogram household LPG tank.

Data from the energy department showed that the average price of an 11-kilogram LPG cylinder in Metro Manila last month stood at PHP970. (PNA)

Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corporation (SLIMTIC) president and chief investment officer Michael Gerard Enriquez

Investment management firm exec eyes aggressive BSP hike

By Joann Villanueva

EASE OF DOING BUSINESS. Anti-Red Tape Authority officer-in-charge Ernesto Perez (3rd from left) and ARTA deputy director general Carlos Quita (rightmost) lead the relaunch of Central Business Portal, now Philippine Business Hub, in Quezon City on June 20, 2022. The online platform aims to further ease doing business in the country by reducing steps and periods of starting a business to one step and seven days. (PNA photo by Ben Briones)

Agencies (NEHEMIA) program that aims to address overregulation in sectors of logistics, telecommunication, housing, food and pharmaceutical, and energy; the joint memorandum circulars for building telecommunication towers; integrating the Food and Drug Administration’s electronic license to operate and Center for Drug Regulation and Research into the Central Business Portal; establishing green lane for licenses and authorizations for pharmaceutical companies; and

the Unified Rapid Pass that streamlines registration and fees in logistics sector.

PCCI said ARTA is “one of the most performing agencies of the Duterte administration” for implementing initiatives to improve doing business in the country and eliminate red tape.

Former President Rodrigo Duterte signed the Republic Act 11032, or the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act, in 2018. (PNA)

New DTI chief bares 5 priority programs

MANILA – Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo Pascual has identified his priority areas as the new chief of the agency.

During the turnover ceremony on Wednesday, which was only broadcast on Friday, Pascual cited that his priorities as new DTI chief would are the development of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs); promoting the manufacturing sector; facilitating ease of doing business; attracting investments and expanding export markets; and restructuring the organization.

He said he envisions the expansion of MSMEs – from micro to small, small to medium, and medium to large enterprises.

This, he said, would be possible through adopting digital technology, innovation, linking MSMEs into the supply chain, developing regional industries, and improving their competitiveness.

Pascual also said MSMEs play a critical role in addressing challenges in food security in the country.

He likewise pledged to continue the One Town One Product and Shared Service Facility programs of the DTI that were implemented in the past administrations.

For the manufacturing sector,

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TURNOVER. Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo Pascual (right) and his predecessor Ramon Lopez hold the agency’s flag during the turnover ceremony held at the Board of Investments Penthouse in Makati City on June 29, 2022. Lopez has finished his six-year term, leaving a “sterling legacy,” according to Pascual.

(Photo courtesy of DTI)

Pascual said he eyes to continue DTI’s Manufacturing Resurgence Program and work on closing supply chain gaps in the local market.

He said the department would continue to update and craft industry roadmaps for sectors that will have massive job generation for the country.

As the world remains under a pandemic, Pascual targets to strengthen the pharmaceutical sector. “(W)e will also encourage international pharmaceutical companies operating domestically to contract their manufacturing to local players,” he said.

Pascual also aims to further strengthen the manufacturing of electronic goods and semiconduc-

tors amid the rise of data centers and hyper-scalers amid the increase in digital activities globally.

He likewise echoed the vision of his predecessor Ramon Lopez to have integrated mineral processing in the country for value-adding activities instead of exporting minerals as raw materials.

“The Philippines can be a vital partner for critical minerals, not only exporters, but to be a processor for semi-finished and finished products,” he added.

Under his watch, Pascual said the DTI would be closely collaborating with the Department of Information and Communications Technology to pursue digitalization in the government to further ease doing business in the country. --Kris Crismundo

THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is expected to announce a more aggressive key rate hike in the coming months to help temper not just the accelerating inflation rate but the peso depreciation as well.

In a virtual briefing on Thursday, Sun Life Investment Management and Trust Corporation (SLIMTIC) president and chief investment officer Michael Gerard Enriquez said the central bank has been criticized as being behind the curve visà-vis the large jumps in the Federal Reserve’s key rates, among other central banks.

The BSP’s key rates have been hiked by a total of 50 basis points, at 25 basis points each last May and this month, which monetary authorities said were made to help address acceleration in domestic inflation rate and was provided leeway by the continued recovery of the domestic economy.

After a total of 200 basis points reduction in 2020, which is part of the BSP’s pandemic-related measures, the central bank’s overnight reverse repurchase (RRP) is now at 2.5 percent from record-low 2 percent after the rate reductions two years ago.

On the other hand, the Fed funds rates have been increased by a total of 150 basis points since last March to help temper US’ four-decade high inflation rate.

Enriquez said Philippine monetary officials need to weigh so many things in its tightening move since a faster-than-expected rate jump might negatively impact on domestic growth.

Asked if 50 basis points rate hike would hurt the domestic economic recovery, he said this level “may be able to calm investors.”

“I don’t think a 50 basis points will really hurt the economy because we are coming from a low interest rate environment,” he added.

Enriquez forecasts an 8.2 percent full-year output for the domestic economy this year, within the government’s 7-9 percent assumption for this year.

Growth, as measured by gross domestic product (GDP), in the first quarter of this year expanded by 8.3 percent, an improvement from quarter-ago’s 7.8 percent and a reversal from the -3.8 a year ago.

Enriquez expects the second quarter output to post lower figure due to the impact of higher inflation rate but expansion is seen to be higher in the third and fourth quarters. (PNA)

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FEATURES

VOLUME 1, NO. 2 SATURDAY JULY 02, 2022

7

“Our survey numbers suggest that proposals to add nuclear power to the Philippine energy mix may enjoy considerable support among the general public. -- PUBLiCUS

59% support allowing construction of nuclear plant in the Philippines

By PUBLiCUS

MANILA -- The latest PUBLiCUS survey results suggest that a majority of Filipinos support the construction of a nuclear power plant in the Philippines.

59 percent of respondents to the 2022 PAHAYAG Second Quarter Survey, conducted by PUBLiCUS Asia Inc. between June 16-22, 2022, said they ‘approve’ or ‘strongly approve’ of ‘allowing the construction of a nuclear power plant in the Philippines’.

22 percent of respondents said they ‘disapprove’ or ‘strongly disapprove’ of the construction of a nuclear plant. This is the third-highest total disapproval rating among all 14 issues tested on the survey, behind ‘allowing the construction of more coal plants in the Philippines’ (26%) and ‘accreditation of bloggers/vloggers in Malacañang’ (24%).

“Our survey numbers suggest that proposals to add nuclear power to the Philippine energy mix may enjoy considerable support among the general public. At the same time, nuclear energy’s relatively high disapproval rate indicates that it could be a polarizing issue in future policy discussions,” said Atty.

Aureli Sinsuat, Executive Director of PUBLiCUS. Meanwhile, only 47 percent of respondents said they ‘approve’ or

‘strongly approve’ of the construction of additional coal power plants in the Philippines.

“It is interesting to note that our respondents appear to view nuclear power as a more appealing conti­ nuous energy source than coal. This could provide an opening for advocates to lobby more aggressively for the addition of nuclear power to the energy mix,” Sinsuat said.

Sinsuat also said it would be reasonable to expect “significant policy continuity” between the Duterte and Marcos Jr. administrations in the field of nuclear energy.

“This February, President Duterte issued Executive Order No. 164 adopting a national position for the introduction of nuclear power into the country’s energy mix. President Marcos Jr. lauded EO 164 during the campaign pe­riod and voiced clear intent to follow through with the national nuclear energy policy. Thus, we can expect significant policy continuity in favor of nuclear power between the Duterte and Marcos Jr. administrations,” he said.

The 1,500 registered Filipino voters respondents who participa­ ted in the 2022 PAHAYAG Second Quarter Survey were randomly sampled by PureSpectrum, a USbased panel marketplace with multinational presence, from their national panel of more than 200,000 Filipinos. The sample-wide margin of error is +/- 3%.

Note from PureSpectrum: “Samples provided by PureSpectrum are not affiliated with any bias or political party. All opinions voiced in the interpretation and analysis of the data are those of the writer and/or project sponsor.

Karapatan ng mga bata sa paggamit ng internet, protektahan

By Adora Rodriguez BILANG pagprotekta sa mga bata laban sa panganib online, nagsama sama ang iba’t ibang organisasyon at pribadong sektor upang pag-usapan ang karapatan ng mga bata sa paggamit ng internet.

“Ayon sa Philippine Kids Online Survey, 90% ng mga batang Pilipino ay kumokonek sa internet habang 59% sa kanila ay gumagamit nito ng walang sumusubaybay,” sinabi ni UNICEF-Philippines Corporate Alliance Officer Georgina Belardo sa “Ako Para sa Bata” virtual conference noong Nobyembre 18.

Ibinahagi ng UNICEF ang dapat gawin upang maprotektahan ang mga karapatan ng mga bata online.

“Kailangan gabayan at turuan ang mga bata tungkol sa impormasyon na naangkop ilabas sa internet,” ani ni Belardo.

Dinagdag ni Belardo na kailangan maprotektahan ang mga bata mula sa mapanganib na bagay sa internet, tulad ng kabastusan, karahasan, at kasinungalingan.

“Kailangan may mga batas ang mga business at private sector companies para protektahan ang mga bata sa mga ito,” aniya.

Pinaalalahanan din ni Belardo ang lahat na kailangang maprotektahan ang mga bata sa harassment, bullying, at iba pang pang-aabuso sa internet.

“At panghuli, kailangan maprotektahan ang mga bata sa mga advertising na makakaapekto sa kaniyang physical at mental health,” aniya.

Sa pangunguna ng Child Protection Network Foundation, ipinakita na mahalaga rin alamin ang responsibilidad ng pribadong sector gaya ng social media companies at internet service companies bilang importanteng stakeholders sa pagprotekta ng mga bata sa digital space.

Binigyan-diin din sa conference na ito na lahat tayo ay may iba’t ibang tungkulin at kontribusyon sa pagprotekta sa mga bata sa kanilang paggamit ng internet.

(ARR/PIA-IDPD)

8 NEWS Pasig mayor vows intensified anti-corruption drive VOLUME 1, NO. 2 SATURDAY JULY 02, 2022

By Lade Jean Kabagani

PASIG Mayor Vico Sotto has pledged to continue weeding out corruption and institutionalizing good governance during his second three-year term.

Sotto renewed his commitment after the arrest of a City Hall employee and his cohort over an alleged robbery-extortion case.

“In the last three years, we have started to de-normalize corruption and institutionalize good governance in our local government. A tiring and mostly thankless job, but we guarantee that in the next three years, we will push even harder and do even better,” he posted on Twitter late Friday.

According to the police report, the suspects were caught in an entrapment operation while receiving a PHP600,000 bribe inside a fastfood chain along Caruncho Avenue in Barangay Malinao on Friday.

They will be charged with robbery, extortion, and violation of Republic Act Nos. 9485 (Anti-Red Tape Act) and 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act).

Based on the initial investigation, the complainant applied for a permit at the Office of the Building Official but lacked some documents.

One of the suspects introduced himself as an employee of the city’s Business Permits and Licensing Of-

CAUGHT IN THE ACT. An employee of the Pasig City local government suspected of extortion is nabbed while receiving bribe money at a fast-food chain in Barangay Malinao on Friday (July 1, 2022). He and his alleged cohort offered the complainant speedy processing of documents in exchange for PHP600,000, according to the police report.

FREE SHOTS. Mayor Vico Sotto talks to persons with disabilities and senior citizens availing of free flu vaccination at the Pasig City Mega Parking on Saturday (July 2, 2022). It was one of the events held in line with the celebration of the 449th Pasig Day.

fice and offered speedy processing of his application for building and occupancy permits and electrical installation, among others, in exchange for PHP600,000.

Policemen recovered a bundle of money amounting to PHP500,000 – 499 pieces of PHP1,000 boodle money and one piece marked mon-

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Coast Guardians at your service

IN the midst of the onslaught of typhoon “Fabian,” the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), headed by Commandant, Admiral George V Ursabia Jr, has mobilized its resources, and deployed its personnel in affected areas, to provide all the necessary assistance.

This is in response to the directive of DOTr Secretary Art Tugade, to immediately extend humanitarian service to our kababayans during this time.

In Marikina City, the Coast Guard District NCR - Central Luzon (CGDNCR-CL) mobilized two (2) Deployable Response Groups, composed of 13 personnel from the NCR, and six (6) personnel from the Special Operations Group NCR - Central Luzon.

In coordination with the MDRRMO, the team is closely monitoring the water level in the

city, particularly at the Marikina River and Brgy. Tumana, while proactively preparing for further actions to be taken, to ensure everyone’s safety and welfare.

Meanwhile, the CGDNCR-CL also mobilized a Deployable Response Group to Brgy.

Burgos, Rodriguez, Rizal, composed of nine (9) personnel from the Headquarters Coast Guard District NCR-CL, and three (3) personnel from the Special Operations Unit NCR-CL. An additional Deployable Response Group, composed of fifteen (15) personnel, was deployed by the Coast Guard Station Laguna, to further assist in the conduct of disaster response operations. Moreover, the team is on standby for possible search and rescue operations, as they are continuously monitoring and assessing the area. (DOTr)

(AMS) reiterated their willingness to reach a consensus on targets covering protected areas and resource mobilisation. Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Viet Nam, called for greater openness and com-

promise to guide the progress of crafting the targets. They urged developed country Parties to deliver on their commitments to fund and support capacity-building activities of developing country Parties to the CBD.

ey – and a mobile phone.

The employee’s cohort “committed to becoming prosecution witness,” the police said.

Pasig also slapped criminal charges against three employees in October 2020 -- two for stealing almost PHP1 million for ghost employees and one for extortion.

Mayor Aguilar and daughter Vice Mayor take their oath for another term

LAS PIÑAS CITY -- Mayor Imelda ‘Mel’ Aguilar and daughter Vice Mayor April Aguilar took their oath of office held at the Mayor’s office on Thursday, June 30, 2022.

The mother and daughter tandem were sworn into office by Las Piñas Regional Trial Court (RTC) Executive Judge Elizabeth Yu-Guray together with the winning councilors who won in the recent May 9 national and local elections.

Mayor Aguilar will be rendering her services to the constituents for the third and last term as the city chief executive.

She vowed to continuously serve her constituents even better through the “Tuloy ang Tapat at Progresibong Serbisyo” program.

The mayor said that on her last term as the city chief executive, she will be focusing more on health services most especially in administering vaccines for the protection of city residents in the fight against Covid-19.

Mayor Aguilar likewise expressed optimism that elected councilors through the City Council under the leadership of Vice-Mayor April will even work harder and continue to pass resolutions and ordinances in making the city more progressive and for the betterment of the city residents.

She added that the services and programs which her administration had previously initiated will still continue but needs to double the efforts for more improvement that will benefit the Las Piñeros.

Joining the Aguilars in taking

their oath of office before Executive Judge Guray are District 1 Councilors Mark Anthony G. Santos; John Jess Anthony C. Bustamante; Felimon A. Aguilar III; Rex H. Riguiera; Oscar C. Peña and Florante S. Dela Cruz.

Also taking their oath of office are District 2 Councilors Henry C. Medina; Luis I. Bustamante; Ruben C. Ramos; Lord Linley R. Aguilar; Danilo V. Hernandez and Emmanuel Luis C. Casimiro. (Las Piñas City PIO)

ASEAN member states urge parties to work together on ambitious yet realistic biodiversity targets

NAIROBI, Kenya -- Focusing on commonalities was the resounding call made by the ASEAN Member States during the last working group meeting of the post-2020 global biodiversity framework held on 21–26 June 2022 in Nairobi.

The negotiations in Kenya were conducted to reach a consensus on the proposed parts of the global agenda in preparation for the 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP 15).

Key discussions highlighted

the contribution of nature to climate change mitigation and adaptation, cost- and benefit-sharing, as well as digital sequencing information on genetic resources. Financing and the development of a plan for resource mobilisation and other means of implementation were also negotiated.

The discussions also strengthened the role of indigenous peoples, local communities, women, youth, and other stakeholders to ensure that all voices will be heard and that no one will be left behind.

In a closing statement, the participating ASEAN Member States

TECHNOLOGY

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9

TESDA, Petron launch state-of-the-art automotive training facility

TESDA online program available in mobile app

By Jastine Angelo Don THE Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) on Thursday has introduced a mobile app that will help more Filipinos to access online skills training program.

The TESDA Online Program (TOP) Mobile App, will enhance the mobile learning experience of TOP leaners since they can access the offered courses even without an internet connection and then sync their progress when they have access.

“The TOP is a web-based platform that provides an effective and efficient way to deliver technical-vocational education and training (TVET) at the learner’s own place and time,” TESDA noted.

TESDA Secretary Isidro Lapeña clarified even with the introduction of TOP Mobile App, the learning platform can still be accessed through TOP website at https://e-tesda.gov.ph/.

“The TESDA Online Program

and the TOP Mobile App have been strengthened and redesigned to better bridge the digital divide and to create a more exciting digital learning experience for our learners,” Lapeña added.

Further, TESDA now introduced courses with accessibility features that will help persons with disabilities (PWDs).

Screen-reading capabilities, Filipino Sign Language, and audio narration were integrated to TOP courses such as Food Processing NC II and Bread and Pastry Production NC II. “Enrollees will be given a e-Certificate of Completion after finishing a course. However, only those who enroll and complete courses for full qualifications can undergo competency assessment and receive a National Certificate,” TESDA stated.

Interested learners can download the TOP Mobile App through Google Play Store and App Store.

(JAFD/PIA-IDPD)

DepEd-LCC adopts National Literacy Framework

By Josephine Babaran THE Department of EducationLiteracy Coordinating Council (DepEd-LCC) members convened for the 150th Meeting primarily to discuss the approval of the Resolution on the Adoption of the National Literacy Framework.

With the Council’s issuance of this Resolution, additional reference and evidence-based data and information are now made available for the revision and enhancement of the Functional Literacy, Education and Mass Media Survey (FLEMMS) survey tool, K-12 curriculum education, teacher education curriculum, and design of curriculum for localized and contextualized literacy advocacies and activities at the grassroots level.

The said Resolution was an output of the study conducted by the Philippine Normal University (PNU) research team led by Dr. Heidi Macahilig, one of the council members.

Updates on the National Literacy Awards (NLA) regarding the conduct

of the regional search and the onsite validation of entries for the Special Award of Excellence in Literacy (SAEL) category were also discussed during the said meeting.

Meanwhile, the Council commended the LCC Secretariat for its competence and effectiveness in facilitating the implementation of LCC programs and projects during the first two quarters of 2022.

The 150th LCC Meeting was attended by Mr. Zaldy I. Masangkay of the DILG, Ms. Josephine L. Babaran of Philippine Information Agency, Ms. Susan M. Carandang of National Economic and Development Authority, Dr. Heidi B. Macahilig of PNU, and Mr. Enrico R. Mendoza, Ms. Czarina D. Abellonar, Ms. Jem Beryline S. Bualat, Ms. Marikka P. Mampusti, Mr. Ryan Rodrigo, Ms. Jonnabel D. Escartin, Mr. Kean Osmund F. Aquino, Ms. Ma. Teresita C. Manlolo and Mr. Wilfredo A. Catangui of the LCC Secretariat.

LCC meetings are held every quarter of the year and the next meeting is set to be conducted in September 2022. (JLB/PIA-IDPD)

THE Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and Petron Corporation formally inaugurated today a modern automotive training facility at the government agency’s Taguig complex.

TESDA Secretary Isidro Lapeña and Petron Corporation General Manager Lubin Nepomuceno led the inauguration of the TESDA-Petron Car Care Center (TPCCC).

The training facility, which occupies an area of approximately 400 sq. m in TESDA Building 9, is the result of a Memorandum of Agreement signed between TESDA and Petron three months ago.

Under the agreement, TESDA with Petron Corporation, shall strengthen training programs under the automotive sector that will be offered to identified clients and to Petron’s auto-mechanic technicians.

The TPCCC will be utilized to offer higher-level Automotive Training and Servicing Program which will focus on Preventive Maintenance Schedule (PMS), and later will include Automotive Servicing and allied diploma programs.

Also, TESDA is working with Petron to update the current training regulations for Automotive

Servicing. This will help ensure the delivery of demand-driven technical vocational education and training (TVET) delivery and help create job security for the graduates through industry partners.

The TESDA Chief thanked Petron for partnering with the agency in helping produce highly skilled Filipinos in the automotive sector.

He also assured future graduates that they will be job-ready once they finish the training programs given by TESDA. “This facility will be opened to the public for them to experience world-class training for higher-level qualifications for automotive servicing,” according to TESDA Secretary Isidro Lapeña during the launching ceremony.

Through this project with Petron Corporation, our goal of providing in-demand skills development among the Filipino learners for the automotive industry will be achieved. This will also help increase the employability of technicians who will be trained using state-of-the-art tools and equipment of Petron Car Care Center inside the TESDA Complex,” added Lapeña.

Meanwhile, Nepomuceno in his message shared that, “As the industry leader and only remaining refiner in the country, Petron has always been earnest in fulfilling our role in nation-building. We fuel countless journeys and power multiple industries, but we believe that true development starts with creating better opportunities for all.”

PROJECT Smarter Philippines through Data Analytics, Research and Development, Training, and Adoption (SPARTA) launched its 11 Microspecialization pathways in June via Zoom, Facebook, and Youtube to allow scholars to further upskill themselves in analytics.

The new tracks allow SPARTA learners to study another aspect of Data Science and Analytics (DSA) to complement their main pathways within a shorter learning period while still equipping themselves with the proper skill sets.

The Microspecialization Path-

ways are the following: Domain Knowledge: Analytics Project Management; Domain Knowledge: Finance and Risk; Domain Knowledge:Human Resources: Domain Knowledge: Urban Planning; Data Governance; Operational Analytics; Data Visualization; Research Methods; Statistical Techniques; Computing; and Methods and Algorithms.

Development Academy of the Philippines Vice President and SPARTA Project Lead, Dr. Alan S. Cajes, opened the virtual event by recognizing that the program has

scholars who are extremely passionate about analytics. Cajes said that because of this, “gusto namin kayong bigyan pa ng mas maraming opportunities para ma-improve ang inyong skills at mas i-explore ang DSA sa pamamagitan ng aming Microspecialization pathways.”

He encouraged the scholars to take advantage of the new tracks saying: “isang paraan upang mas maintindihan ninyo ang inyong piniling main pathway at kasabay naman nito ay makakuha rin kayo ng certificates para mas mapaganda ang inyong credentials.”

By Ma. Cristina Arayata

will be produced (here) will be very useful in translating results from the laboratory bench to the clinical setting,” Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Fortunato de la Peña said. “[The facility] is basically a pre-clinical research facility where the equipment are for mice for research,” he said in a Viber message.

According to De la Peña, the establishment of the RRC will provide opportunities for collaborations within the local and international academe, the industry, and hospitals.

“This advanced field of research will surely attract researchers from all over the country who likewise aim to partake in the battle against cancer and the early and late effects of radiation exposure,” he added.

The DOST envisions the RRC to be at the forefront of pre-clinical

SPARTA rolls out Microspecialization Pathways

PNRI launches Radiation Research Center THE Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) launched on Wednesday a center for radiation research, a field that could be pivotal in developing radiation safety standards and in assuring the safety of nuclear workers and the public in the event of nuclear accidents and emergencies.

Located at its compound in Quezon City, the Radiation Research Center (RRC) was funded by the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development for PHP76 million.

“The Philippines has been lacking in terms of pre-clinical research on radiation effects in cancer and normal cells. With the multi-disciplinary capabilities offered in the newly established RRC, I am certain that the exceptional innovations in radiation research that

research and collaborations on radiation oncology and drug development, as well as in dosimetry.

De la Peña noted that by investigating radiation effects in the pre-clinical setting, the country will be able to innovate cancer care tailored for Filipino patients and improve treatment outcomes.

Project leader Chitho Feliciano said that currently, researchers do basic research and development studies at the RRC. According to Feliciano, radiation protection activities and nuclear regulations are anchored on research results obtained in radiobiology. (PNA)

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VOLUME 1, NO. 2 SATURDAY JULY 02, 2022

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17 Orchard Road, Eastwood, Q.C. Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 With over 130 stylishly furnished guestrooms; a spacious fitness center with rooftop swimming pool; a stately ballroom; a rejuvenating spa and chic salon; plus a myriad of dining options, EASTWOOD RICHMONDE HOTEL invites you to experience convenience and luxury all under one roof. Reacquaint yourself with world-class service that is undeniably warm and gracious.

Marco Polo Plaza Cebu *****

Cebu Veterans Drive, Nivel Hills, Lahug Cebu City 6000, Philippines Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 Marco Polo Plaza, Cebu is located in the prestigious Nivel Hills district where it dominates the Cebu City skyline. The hotel is surrounded by 7.5 hectares of lush greenery, and is 25 minutes from Mactan International Airport and only 10 minutes from the business and commercial centers of Cebu City. The 329 well-appointed guest rooms and suites are equipped with wireless broadband Internet.

CEBU

Crown Regency Boracay -

Boat Station 3, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 Located at the Boat Station 3 white beachfront, the 40-unit resort owes its design inspired by a sun-drenched island. A beautiful view of the sunset, creating an amazing display of amber hues exemplifying the passion of fire. Essences of the Fire element are shown in patterns of sunshine as streaks of sunlight penetrate the warm and vibrant interiors of the resort.

Marriott Hotel Cebu *****

Torre Venezia ***

#62 Timog Ave., cor. Scout Santiago St., QC, 1103, MM, Phils.

Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 Towering along Timog Avenue, Quezon City, Torre Venezia offers contemporary accommodation for guests traveling for both business and leisure. It is conveniently located within the country’s media center, wellness hub, and developing business and commercial districts. Its proximity to mass transit systems, highways, and major thoroughfares, makes it a very accessible destination.

Balabag, Boracay, Malay, Aklan, Philippines Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 Experience the crystal clear waters and powder-white sand of the island like never before with Boracay Regency. With its striking Mediterranean-inspired architecture, landscaped gardens and expansive beach front, this is a resort that stands unparalleled in beauty and service in the entire island. Boracay Regency allows you to relax and luxuriate within its 285 world-class rooms.

Cardinal Rosales Avenue Cebu City, 6000 Philippines Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 Located in an upscale financial district with shopping, recreation and leisure activities at our doorstep, the Cebu City Marriott Hotel offers an incredible location for business or leisure travel. We’re adjacent to the Ayala Center, a sprawling shopping and commercial complex, and just 10 minutes from downtown and the Cebu International Convention Center.

Crown Regency Hotel Fuente ****

Osmena Blvd. Cebu City 6000, Philippines Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 At the Center of Cebu City, Philippines rises the Fuente Towers, hosting the prestigious Crown Regency Hotel & Towers.

The tallest structure outside Metro Manila, the 23-storey, 22,000-square meter Fuente 1 and its equally arresting twin the 38storey, 36,000- square meter Fuente Tower 2 majestically tower over the Queen City of the South.

Fernandina 88 Suites Hotel ***

# 222 P. Tuazon Blvd., Cubao, Q.C. Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 Discover the pleasure of Luxury Living at suprisingly affordable room rates at Fernandina 88 Suites Hotel located at the heart of Araneta Shopping Center, Cubao, Quezon City. This twelve storey hotel has amenities that perfectly suit the needs of Tourists, Businessmen and Families while staying in a strategic location where first class malls and restaurants are all a few steps away.

Boracay Regency Beach Resort *****

SUBIC

Regalia Tower Suites ***

15/F Tower B, P. Tuazon Ave., Cubao, Quezon City 1109 Philippines Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 The Regalia Tower Suites - the condotel component of the Regalia Park Towers in the Araneta Center provides de luxe hotel accommodation and services in the heart of this dynamic business center. It is just a stone’s throw-away to what the Araneta Business and Shopping Center has to offer.

The Observer.

Observer.com

Cebu Parklane International Hotel ****

Corner Arch. Reyes Ave. and Escario St. Cebu City, Philippines Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 It must be The Parklane! A hip new hotel with a cool, stylish point of view. Its art deco design blends beautifully with its state-of-the-art facilities and the city’s blue skyline and surrounding hills. The Parklane’s signature of excellence is defined by its perfect location, fine amenities and personalized service. Or right inside its doors!

Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort ****

Buyong, Maribago, Mactan Cebu, Philippines Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699

Island,

Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort is a AAA 5 hectare resort that sits on prime white beach sand in Mactan Island, Cebu, Philippines. Maribago Bluewater has 2 lagoon-shaped swimming pools, 102 luxuriously furnished cottages with hot & cold running water, mini bar, refrigerator, individual airconditioning and individual private verandas.

Fridays Boracay *****

Boracay Island Malay 5608, Aklan Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 A resort that truly spells out an enjoyable and memorable stay in Boracay. That would be Friday’s! We are a Department of Tourism “AAA” accredited self-contained 34-room resort taking pride with our astounding amenities: freshwater swimming pool, beachfront bar, and 120-seat capacity restaurant considered by many to be the finest in the island.

La Carmela de Boracay Resort Hotel ***

Near Boat Station 2, Balabag, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan Province, Philippines Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 Enjoy your dream in one of the world’s finest beaches in the Heart of Boracay. La Carmela de Boracay, one of the newest resort hotels in the island, offers you all these at affordable rates. Note: There will be a seventy five pesos (Php75) per person Environmental Fee and fifty pesos (Php50) per person Terminal Fee to be paid at the Caticlan Jetty Port

Fairways and Bluewater Resort and Country Club ***** Newcoast, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan, Philippines Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699

Imagine the mesmerizing detail of a tropical retreat: shimmering white sand, sensuous sun and a somnolent sea. A tropical sea. A tropical toast. A dive into adventure. And yield - to the wild sensation of sun, sand, and sea. A breathless apparition, Fairways & Bluewater, Newcoast, Boracay reinvents an island adventure the way it’s meant to be.

ADVERTISING: 0927-862-3600

Court Meridian Hotel & Suites

Lot B, Waterfront Road corner Rojas St. Central Business District, Subic Bay Freefort Zone Court Meridian Hotel & Suites Located right at the center of Subic Freeport, along waterfront, the hotel takes pride in its 67 spacious and fully furnished luxury guestrooms, equipped with superior amenities. Their facilities and services are designed to give the guests maximum comfort and convenience. Housed in a very quiet environment, close to the seas and nature, Court Meridian Hotel has become an ideal place for tourist, nature lovers and people wanting to unwind from the daily pressures of work. Away from the hassles of noise and distractions, Court meridian Hotel makes a perfect choice from team building sessions, strategic planning, seminars and social events.

The 67 rooms of Court Meridian Hotel enjoy views of Subic and the working street or the vibrant Waterfront Road. Each has a separate shower, fully stocked mini bar, king size bed and innovative luxury modern appointments, ensuring a comfortable stay. Rooms are categorized into Deluxe, Executive Suite, Superior, Superior deluxe with veranda and Superior deluxe without veranda.

Truly, Courtyard Inn is unrivaled when it comes to having a Subic hotel that offers everything you need and then some. It features modern amenities, contemporary style, and a relaxed atmosphere in all its guest rooms that is perfect for any type of visitor. Restaurants, parks, churches, bay walks, water sports rentals, karaoke bars, billiard halls, and coffee shops at the Freeport can’t be nearer when staying at Courtyard Inn Subic.

Courtyard Inn is your gateway to fun in the freeport. The hotel’s prime location places it in the heart of a leisure hub.

Enjoy jet skiing and other aquasports, nature treks and motorbiking in any of the nearby sports outlets. Courtyard Inn’s younger guests can enjoy the children’s playground.

The Observer.

Observer.com

ARTS&TRAVEL

VOLUME 1, NO. 2 SATURDAY JULY 02, 2022

DOT positions New Clark City as premier tourism investment hub

MANILA – The Department of Tourism (DOT) is rooting on the development of the Clark Freeport Zone (CFZ) and the New Clark City in order to further boost the recovery of the country’s tourism industry.

During the first Central Luzon Tourism Investment Summit and Business Exchange (CLTISBEX) Hybrid Edition held recently at Hilton Clark Sun Valley Resort, the DOT, in collaboration with the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) and the Subic-Clark Alliance for Development (SCAD), showcased how CFZ and the New Clark City may be positioned as premier tourism hubs -- Clark as a modern sustainable aerotropolis and a preferred MICE (Meetings, lncentives, Conferences, Exhibits) destination and the New Clark City as an ideal destination for sports tourism in the Asia-Pacific r egion.

In a news release, DOT 3 Regional Director Caroline Uy said “through the help of the private sector, the goal is to transform the Clark Freeport Zone into a preferred business and tourism destination in the Asia Pacific region and enable investors to find long-term economic returns.”

Clark is strategically located in Pampanga where it could be easily accessed by the Philippines’ major foreign tourist markets like China, Hong Kong SAR, Singapore, South

11

Korea, and Japan.

There were a total of 35 foreign and local investors from the Philippines (5), China (25), Singapore (2), Japan (1), Taiwan (1), and United Arab Emirates (1) that participated in the summit.

The event concluded with a total of PHP127 million investments lead which were mostly generated

Clark is already home to some 1,153 companies. These business ventures provided opportunities to a total of 121,341 professionals and workers inside the freeport zone. during the Business-to-Business (B2B) meetings among 77 buyers and sellers.

As of December 31, 2021 Clark is already home to some 1,153 companies which are also referred to as locators. These business ventures provided opportunities to a total of 121,341 professionals and workers inside the freeport zone which originally employed only 20,000 workers at the time of its opening.

In terms of exports, CFZ has

New Clark City (Photo courtesy of DOT)

since generated a total export of $5.40 billion with a total investment of PHP265 billion.

This will generate more gains to the industry, especially now that the DOT is also positioning Clark as a MICE destination.

Uy specifically noted that as a MICE venue, CFZ offers 80 convention/meeting halls, 3,648 hotel rooms, 126 dining facilities, and 45 tourism attractions such as Clark Safari, Clark Bike Path, Clark Museum and Theater, Aqua Planet, Clark International Speedway, and Dinosaurs Island.

Sagada reopens natural caves for trekking

NATURAL HABITAT. A grey heron takes flight on a mangrove forest along Carigara Bay in Leyte in this undated photo. This town’s wide forest will be greener after an agreement among the government, private groups, and the academe strengthening the advocacy. (Photo courtesy of DENR Region 8)

Partnership steps up forest protection in Leyte town

By Liza Agoot

By Elvie Roa

SAGADA, Mt. Province – “Revenge tourists” or travelers whose trips have been held back by lockdowns due to the pandemic can finally marvel anew at the splendor of Sagada’s famous natural caves after the town swung open its doors.

Municipal tourism officer Maria Teresa Abad on Friday urged tourists to register online via https:// umali-kayo.sagada.gov.ph/views/ pages/tourist/accommodations.php to generate a quick response (QR) code, which will be required at the border checkpoint upon entering the Sagada-Dantay Road from the national highway.

“We are now open. We have allowed two bus lines to transport tourists and locals from Baguio City,” she said in Ilocano.

Abad said women who are in charge of the border checkpoint will also require tourists to be fully vaccinated and must show their vaccination cards, before being allowed to enter the place.

GL Trans and Coda Lines, which have scheduled daily trips, can accommodate fully vaccinated tourists.

Abad, however, clarified that for now, only the Sumaguing Cave, Lumiang Cave, and the Balangagan Cave have been opened to tourists

CARIGARA, Leyte – This town’s wide forest will be greener and its protection strengthened after an agreement among different actors from the public and private sectors, and the academe.

The town’s remaining forests and wildlife are now protected and preserved following the signing of the memorandum of agreement for all the member agencies of the Multi-Sectoral Forest and Environmental Protection Committee (MFEPC) at this town’s municipal hall on Friday.

First Gen’s Energy Development Corporation (EDC) is the prime mover in the mission hoping to preserve the rich lands for these to flourish.

Other MFEPC members are the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the local government of Carigara, Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Bureau of Fire Protection, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Agriculture, Perpetual Help Community Cooperative, Eastern Visayas State University, Holy Cross Parish, and people’s organizations.

Based on the Global Forest Watch data, Carigara has 3,720 hectares of natural forest, extending

REOPENING. The St. Mary the Virgin church, built by the Episcopalian denomination in early 1900 remains a popular landmark in Sagada, Mountain Province in this photo on Friday (July 1, 2022),. The local government has reopened its doors to tourists and has allowed public utility buses to transport visitors fully vaccinated against the coronavirus disease 2019. (PNA photo by Liza T. Agoot)

for trekking.

She said the other destinations, meanwhile, are undergoing rehabilitation and thus are still closed to the public.

Abad said the local government made sure all establishments and tour guides were ready to take in tourists again before the decision to reopen the town was made.

Sagada, which continues to maintain its serene environment, has become a popular tourist destination, especially among foreigners.

Among its popular attractions are its caves, waterfalls, and hanging coffins. The town is also popular for its culture and tradition that people still practice now. (PNA)

over 66 percent of its land area in 2010.

By 2021, the municipality has already lost 906 hectares of natural forest.

The Carigara Bay Wetlands has been identified as one of the seven bird sites in Eastern Visayas where diverse and numerous species of migratory birds have been documented.

The partnership will augment and support the limited manpower of the EDC and DENR-led forest protection team.

“We at DENR are grateful to all of the members of this committee who are committed and find time to be here, to help us in the protection of your remaining forest here in Carigara” said Crisostomo Badeo, Jr., chief of the Community Environment and Resources Office based in Palo, Leyte The forest in Carigara is a part of the geothermal reservation protected by EDC, the operator of the 711-megawatt Leyte Geothermal Project, the world’s largest geothermal steam field, that straddles Ormoc City and the town of Kananga.

As a member of the MEFPC, EDC commits to organize a village forest protection brigade for the town’s two communities- Paglaum and Caghalo - and provide financial support and insurance to the members.

The Observer

ARTS&TRAVEL .com

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VOLUME 1, NO. 2 SATURDAY JULY 02, 2022

BEST TOURIST SPOTS are the best option and have a great cancelation policy.* There aren’t many places in the world that live up to all the hype.

When we told fellow travelers we were traveling to the Philippines they all said one of the best places in the Philippines is El Nido. El Nido is the kind of place you could spend a week and never get bored.

Most of your time in El Nido will be spent out exploring the islands on the day tours. We highly suggest Tour A and Tour C if you only have time for two tours. Secret Beach on El Nido Tour C we could spend the beach all day.

Crazy limestone cliffs surrounded by turquoise waters and hidden beaches are what to expect on day tours. After a day exploring the islands El Nido town has a great beach town vibe, with beach bars and happy hour specials to catch the sunset. A great selection of restaurants and hotels for every budget. El Nido is an adventure in itself getting to but it’s totally worth it.

If you considering purchasing a drone this is when you’d want one. Sadly on our trip, we didn’t have ours yet, it’s the perfect place to bust out the DJI Mavic and don’t forget to bring a Mavic ND filter.

Coron is a great place to visit in the Palawan and one we’d rec-

INSIDE

THERE are 7,641 islands in the Philippines how do you decide which ones to visit?

We asked 30 travel experts what their favorite place in the Phillippines was and made this list of the best tourist spots in the Philippines. No matter where you go in the Philippines won’t be disappointed.

We’ve broken the list into the 3 island groups that make up the Philippine archipelago: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Dividing 7,000+ islands into three groups is a very rough sorting, it will serve as a starting point to help understand the tourist areas of the Philippines.

The Luzon islands include Luzon itself, Palawan, Mindoro, Marinduque, Masbate, Romblon, Catanduanes, Batanes, Polilio, and surrounding smaller islands. Luzon Island is the largest island in the Philippines, it’s 40,541 square miles in size.

You’ll more than likely start your Philippines trip here landing at the Manila airport. If you’re island hopping in the Philippines via plane most flights fly to Manila and then onward. *When looking for the best price and biggest selection of hotels in the Philippines check prices on Booking.com, we’ve found they

Sagada re‑ opens natural caves for trekking

DOT positions New Clark City as premier tourism investment hub

ommend at least 3 nights unless you’re diving then you’ll need more time. Coron should be on all divers Philippines bucket list. Many of the dive sites you’ll need to be advanced open water certified and if you’re not yet it’s a great place to get certified. You’ll get the certification and see some amazing stuff too.

If you’ve ever seen a picture of Coron it’s more than likely from Kayangan Lake, which is visited on day trips from Coron Town. Like other islands in the Philippines day trips to the surrounding islands will keep you busy during the day and at night you’ll head back to “town.”

Coron Town itself isn’t much of a party town, most tourists are exhausted after a day in the sun so call it an early night. We highly suggest making sure you stay at a hotel with a generator as power outages in Coron happen all the time sometimes lasting all night. We stayed at the Corto del Mar hotel which was great and they had really good food too.

Note: If you’re traveling to Coron by plane pick an earlier flight with Cebu Pacific. We had the afternoon flight and it got canceled after a delay because the airport in Coron doesn’t have runway lights so all planes much land before sunset.

Partnership steps up forest protection in Leyte town

W here to Stay, Drink & Dine...

H O T E L S A N D R E S TA U R A N T D I R E C T O R Y

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