Trending News Philippines

15/12/2024

NO ONE SHOULD LOSE THEIR JOBS AT THE CITY HALL - SEN. KOKO PIMENTEL

Senate Minority Floor Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III wants to assure Marikina City Hall employees that no one will lose their jobs if he wins as representative of the First District of Marikina City.

In an interview, Sen. Pimentel assured that he will continue to provide the services that were previously given to the district and even expand them, “Yung mga serbisyo na nagbigay ng mga nakalipas na ginagawa sa First District ng Marikina, tuloy-tuloy lang yung pagbibigay ng serbisyo. Dadagdagan pa nga natin e kasi sayang naman yung background natin yung network natin madadag pa natin sa contact natin sa national level all the way sa Malacanang,” he said.

The senator also assured that the quality of the laws he will propose will be high, “Pagdating naman po sa kalidad ng mga batas na ating ipapanukala, makakasiguro po kayo batay sa experience po natin bilang senador na ng matagal na panahon e yung mga kalidad na ating ipapanukala ay gawin natin of the highest level.”

Sen. Pimentel also urged the city hall employees not to worry about their jobs should he win, “Kung ako naman po ay magwagi bilang kinatawan ng first district of Marikina, kahit sino po nakaupo sa City Hall ay kakausapin ko po iyon, kasi kailangan coordinated yung kilos namin. So, papakiusapan ko rin kahit bago yung upo sa City Hall na, as much as possible, walang galawan sa tao. Walang matatanggalan ng trabaho, tuloy-tuloy pa rin po ng normal ang buhay natin dito sa lungsod ng Marikina."

Pimentel is ready to help in streamlining Marikina City’s budget, “Yung budget ng Lungsod, tulungan natin sila paano ayusin. Ang delivery of services galing sa congressman, mas papabilisin natin kasi gawing natin flat. Flat yung organization natin. Yung galing sa taong bayan, diretso na sa opisina ng congressman.”

Sen. Pimentel also emphasized the importance of continuous engagement with the people and staying updated on the district’s needs, “Kasi ang mga concerns ng taongbayan, nagbabago iyan eh over time. Kaya kailangan updated parati ang ating mga kinatawan, ang ating mga mambabatas, kung ano ang mga issues, mga pangarap ng kanilang mga constituents.”

Sen. Pimentel’s statement reassured city hall employees and voters in the First District of Marikina City that his leadership will be stable and effective if he wins in the upcoming elections.

END

15/12/2024

Pagtapos ng christmas party 😂

13/12/2024

COMELEC DECISION: A TEST OF DEMOCRACY AND RESPECT FOR THE LAW

Amidst heated political discussions, the COMELEC division's decision in the case of Marikina Mayor Marcy Teodoro serves as a strong affirmation of their commitment to upholding the law and ensuring fair elections. This ruling is not based on superficial arguments, but on solid legal precedents that showcase the COMELEC's deep understanding of electoral matters.

The transparency and thoroughness exhibited by the COMELEC division members are commendable. Their decision is not simply a technical win; it is a resounding statement that democracy in our country still prevails, thanks to institutions dedicated to their duties.

It is crucial to reiterate that anyone seeking a reconsideration of the decision must present "extraordinary grounds" for it to be overturned. In this particular case, such grounds are evidently absent, making any attempt to alter the ruling a clear disregard for our electoral process.

However, despite the clear and fair decision, Marcy Teodoro's apparent strategy of using a publicity campaign to garner public sympathy is concerning. Could this be perceived as a means to sway the COMELEC? While we refrain from judging his intentions, such actions warrant questioning: Why does public opinion seem to overshadow respect for the legal process?

In their December 11, 2024, decision, signed by Commissioners Ernesto Ferdinand Maceda, Aimee Ferolino, and Socorro Inting, the Comelec stated that Teodoro engaged in material misrepresentation in his Certificate of Candidacy (COC) due to falsely declaring his residency in the First District.

Teodoro's COC was cancelled after it was proven that he had left his domicile of origin in the First District and moved his domicile of choice to the Second District. According to the Comelec, Teodoro wrongly claimed to have returned to Barangay San Roque, First District, from Barangay Tumana, Second District.

"We meticulously reviewed all the evidence presented by both parties and determined that the evidence submitted by the petitioners was more compelling. This validated their claim that the respondent committed material misrepresentation concerning his residency qualifications, leading to the cancellation of his COC," the Comelec stated.

"By declaring the opposite in his COC, even knowing he did not meet the minimum residency requirement, Teodoro clearly committed material misrepresentation, which the Commission cannot overlook," the decision added.

While election law allows candidates to return to their previous residence, the Comelec emphasized that this must adhere to specific legal requirements.

"Election law mandates that a candidate must provide proof that they have re-established their residency in their domicile of origin for at least one year before the date of the national and local elections in 2025," the ruling stated.

The Comelec was not convinced that Teodoro had re-established his residency in the First District since April 2024.

In its decision, the Comelec cited Teodoro's legal documents from July and September 2024, showing his address in Barangay Tumana, Second District, despite his declaration of having returned to the First District in April 2024.

The division rejected Teodoro's explanation that his lawyer prepared the documents and used a temporary address in the Second District.

The Comelec also pointed out that the documents were notarized, lending them greater weight as evidence in legal and administrative processes. It added that by signing these documents, Teodoro is expected to have been aware of their contents, including the stated address.

The poll body also cited that Teodoro had changed his driver's license to reflect his address in Barangay Tumana, Second District, further strengthening his intent to maintain legal residency there.

The Comelec further added that Teodoro's evidence failed to prove his return to the First District. The resolution of the Election Registration Board allowing the transfer of his voter registration to Barangay San Roque, First District, was not sufficient proof of actual and physical residency there.

The Comelec was also not convinced by the utility receipts presented by Teodoro showing an address in the First District. It said that this address was his domicile of origin before moving to Barangay Tumana, and he likely kept those accounts for convenience even after leaving his former residence.

The cornerstone of democracy is the freedom and integrity of our institutions. The COMELEC, as guardian of our elections, must be allowed to continue their work without pressure from anyone. Any attempt to obstruct or cast doubt on their fairness is not only disrespectful but also a danger to the trust of the Filipino people.

I am also impressed with Chairman George Garcia, who immediately declared that he would inhibit himself if the case were brought to the Comelec En Banc, given that he had been a lawyer for both Teodoro and his opponent, Senator Koko Pimentel.

In these times, it is essential to remind everyone that democracy is not just about the election results but also about the process through which they are achieved. Respect for decisions by independent institutions like the COMELEC is the foundation of our democratic society.

Teodoro should respect the decision of the Comelec.

13/12/2024

The has announced that 3,962 examinees (37.84%) passed the Examinations, with a passing grade of 74%.

13/12/2024

SEN. PIMENTEL ON TEODORO'S DISQUALIFICATION: "THE CONSTITUTIONAL REQUIREMENT IS NON-NEGOTIABLE"

Senate Minority Leader Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III maintains that Marikina Mayor Marcy Teodoro failed to meet the constitutional residency requirement for his congressional candidacy. The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) cancelled Teodoro's certificate of candidacy (COC) for the Marikina 1st District due to "material misrepresentation" regarding his residency.

In a December 12, 2023, interview on One PH's "Sa Totoo Lang," Pimentel highlighted that Teodoro only returned to the first district in September.

He initially planned to run in the second district, leading to the residency issue. Pimentel stated, “Kahit anong tumbling-tumbling ang gawin natin sa facts, wala talaga tayo magagawa kasi 'yung one-year residency, hindi 'yan (basta) batas (lang), nasa Konstitusyon 'yan. That's the constitutional requirement.”

The COMELEC decision (Page 24) details Teodoro's deliberate misrepresentation of his residency, citing his abandonment of his original domicile in the 1st District and acquisition of a new one in the 2nd. While returning to his original domicile is permitted, he needed to prove at least one year of residency there before the 2025 elections.

His COC declaration, knowing he didn't meet this requirement, constituted material misrepresentation.

Pimentel countered Teodoro's claim of political motivations, emphasizing the COMELEC's decision as a legal matter handled by a constitutional body.

He stated, "Ito po'y isang legal issue, at saka ang nagdesisyon dito ay COMELEC, na isang constitutional body, bilang isang tribunal. So it's about election law, at mga professionals po ang nagdesisyon dito, so hindi po ito pamumulitika lamang."

END

11/12/2024

The Comelec has disqualified Marikina Mayor Marcy Teodoro from the congressional race for fraudulent residency claims.

Marikina City Mayor Marcy Teodoro has been disqualified from running for Congress in the 1st District of Marikina by the Comelec First Division on December 11, 2024.

The decision was signed by Commissioners Ernesto Ferdinand Maceda, Aimee Ferolino, and Socorro Inting.

The disqualification stems from Teodoro's declaration in his Certificate of Candidacy (COC) that he is a resident of the 1st District, despite acknowledging that this is not true.

The Comelec deemed this a material misrepresentation or fraud, a sufficient reason to cancel his candidacy for the 2025 elections.

The Comelec highlighted that while returning to one's previous district is permitted, Teodoro needed to demonstrate actual residency and re-establishment of domicile in the 1st District for at least one year prior to the election.

The Comelec determined that Teodoro had left his domicile of origin in the 1st District and established a new domicile of choice in the 2nd District.

The Comelec emphasized that while there is no legal barrier to returning to one's original domicile, election law requires proof of re-establishment of residency in the 1st District for at least a year before the 2025 national and local elections.

The Comelec's decision stated that Teodoro's declaration in his COC, despite knowing he did not meet the minimum residency requirement, constituted a material misrepresentation that the Commission could not overlook.

The Comelec further explained that Teodoro's residency claim in the 1st District was a deliberate and serious misrepresentation, leading to the cancellation or invalidation of his COC.

The Comelec pointed out that Teodoro himself admitted to owning a house in Barangay Tumana, 2nd District, and successfully transferred his residence there.

Therefore, he needed to provide clear and concrete evidence of intent, actual change of residence, and actual residency in the 1st District.

The Comelec stressed that establishing a new residence is not just a declaration, but requires demonstrating three crucial aspects: actual relocation, intent to abandon the previous residence, and actual residency in the new location.

In Teodoro's case, he failed to provide sufficient proof of his return to the 1st District.

The Comelec concluded that they were not convinced that Teodoro had re-established his residence in the 1st District since April 2024.

As stated by the petitioners, Teodoro lacked sufficient and verifiable concrete actions to support his intention to return and reside in the 1st District.

END

11/12/2024

KOKO CALLS FOR CRIMINAL CHARGES VS SMUGGLING, PRICE-FIXING COMPANIES

The Department of Agriculture's (DA) blacklisting of ten companies for illegal agricultural trade practices has been praised by Senate Minority Leader Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III, who is urging the department to swiftly file criminal charges against them.

“Hindi sapat ang pagbablacklist lamang. Kailangan maparusahan ang mga nagkasala. Dapat may pananagutan ang mga kumpanyang ito sa kanilang mga ginawa,” Pimentel stated, emphasizing that blacklisting alone is insufficient; the guilty parties must face punishment and accountability.

The DA's Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) blacklisted the companies for smuggling and other unlawful activities.

These include LVM Grains Enterprises, Kysse Lishh Consumer Goods Trading, JRA and Pearl Enterprises Inc., Betron Consumer Goods Trading, RCNN Non-Specialized Wholesale Trading, and Golden Rays Consumer Goods Trading.

Kysse Lishh, RCNN, Chastity Consumer Goods Trading, and Golden Rays operate without import licenses.

Licensed importers La Reina Fresh Vegetables Young Indoor Plants Inc., Vegefru Producing Store, and Yom Trading Corp. were also blacklisted for anti-competitive practices like price manipulation and collusion.

Pimentel stressed the importance of swift justice, stating, “Make an example of these 10 companies para huwag nang tularan. This, however, will only be meaningful if the wheels of justice move swiftly.”

He added that this action sends a strong message that the government is committed to protecting farmers and consumers from unethical traders. He further urged the DA to continue its efforts against agricultural smuggling and related illegal activities.

10/12/2024

Good morning from Asul TV -Roy Bato

10/12/2024

Koko Seeks Clarification on Disaster Relief Provisions in PH-Japan RAA

Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III today sought clarification from Senator Imee Marcos on whether the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan would include provisions for disaster relief.

During the interpellation period on Senate Resolution No. 1248 (SRN 1248) on Monday, December 9, 2024, Senator Pimentel expressed interest in understanding if the agreement would encompass training and operations related to disaster relief activities.

In response, Senator Marcos affirmed that disaster relief and training were indeed key features during the RAA negotiations and would play a central role in the agreement. She emphasized that both countries are situated in regions prone to earthquakes and volcanic activity, making disaster preparedness and response a crucial aspect of the partnership.

Senator Pimentel's inquiry highlights the importance of incorporating robust disaster relief provisions within the RAA, ensuring both countries are well-equipped to respond effectively to natural calamities.

10/12/2024

Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights Holds Public Hearing on Key Bills Today

The Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights, chaired by Senate Minority Leader Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III, holds a public hearing today, December 10, 2024, at 1 p.m. to discuss crucial legislation.

The agenda includes:

- S. Nos. 1996, 2111 and 2659 - The Fiscal Autonomy Act of the Judicial Branch of Government: This bill seeks to grant the Judiciary greater financial independence, aiming to enhance its efficiency and effectiveness.

- H. Nos. 10804, 10214, 10086, 10085, 10084, 9869, 8905, 8838, 8837 and 8836 - Citizenship Bills: These bills address various aspects of citizenship, including naturalization and dual citizenship.

- P.S. Res. No. 701 - Urging the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights to Look into the Questionable Practice of Local Sports Associations of Not Considering Naturalized Citizens as Local Players in Domestic Leagues: This resolution seeks to address the issue of discrimination faced by naturalized citizens in local sports leagues.

10/12/2024

President Marcos Jr. Breaks Ground on Expanded OFW Hospital Cancer Care Center

SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga – December 10, 2024 – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. today led the groundbreaking ceremony for a new cancer care center at the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) Hospital in San Fernando, Pampanga. The expansion will significantly enhance the hospital's capacity to serve the healthcare needs of OFWs and their families.

The OFW Hospital, inaugurated in 2022, is the Philippines' first and only medical institution dedicated to providing comprehensive healthcare services to OFWs and their dependents. Current services include laboratory and radiology services, outpatient and inpatient care, minor surgery, and urgent care.

This expansion, spearheaded by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), will add hemodialysis and cancer care units, addressing the high incidence of chronic kidney disease and cancer within the OFW community. The project envisions transforming the 50-bed hospital into a leading tertiary care center offering specialized services tailored to the unique health challenges faced by migrant workers. The new Cancer Care Center will be named the "Bagong Pilipinas Cancer Care Center."

09/12/2024

MT. KANLAON ERUPTION

An explosive eruption occurred at the summit vent of Kanlaon Volcano at 3:03 PM today, 9 December 2024. The eruption produced a voluminous plume that rapidly rose to 3,000 meters above the vent and drifted west-southwest. Pyroclastic density currents or PDCs descended the slopes on the general southeastern edifice based on IP and thermal camera monitors.

KANLAON VOLCANO IS NOW ON ALERT LEVEL 3.



Link to Alert Level Raising Bulletin: https://www.facebook.com/PHIVOLCS/posts/901321128858519

09/12/2024

Di maganda na pagtawanan yung may pinagdadaanan."
Ganito ang naging tugon ng content creator na si Phillip Hernandez, o mas kilala bilang Davao Conyo, sa reply ng isang netizen sa kanyang Instagram story prompt.

Photo courtesy of Pilipino Star Ngayon

09/12/2024

Ano?

08/12/2024

08/12/2024

Pimentel and Quimbo Celebrate Marikina's Barangay IVC Fiesta

MARIKINA CITY, Philippines (December 8, 2024) – Senate Minority Leader Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III and District 2 Congresswoman Teacher Stella Quimbo joined forces today to celebrate the Fiesta of Barangay IVC in Marikina City.

Accompanied by former Marikina Mayor Del De Guzman, the trio greeted residents with festive well-wishes, sharing in the celebration of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.

Senator Pimentel took the opportunity to personally inquire about the well-being of the community, underscoring his commitment to the people of Marikina.

The warm reception from the residents showcased their strong support for Pimentel, Quimbo, and De Guzman.

The event highlighted a collaborative spirit focused on community engagement and shared celebration.