Marikina Newsph

13/01/2025

PAGBURA SA PANGALAN NI MAYOR MARCY TEODORO SA BALOTA, PINANAWAGAN SA COMELEC

Pinunit ng Pinoy Aksyon for Governance and the Environment ang sample ng balota na naglalaman ng pangalan ni Marikina Mayor Marcy Teodoro bilang panawagan sa Commission on Election (Comelec) na dapat burahin sa balota si Teodoro sa darating na halalan.

Bilang pagtutol, pinunit mismo ng Chairperson ng grupo na si Bencyrus Ellorin ang sample ballot na may pangalan ng alkalde na ang certificate of candidacy ay kinansela ng Comelec first division.

“Ang paghahain ng COC ni Mayor Teodoro para sa Unang Distrito ay isang malinaw na pambababoy sa proseso ng halalan. Wala itong paggalang sa batas, sa mga botante, at sa prinsipyong patas na halalan,” pagdidiin ng grupo.

“Ang desisyon ng COMELEC laban kay Teodoro ay nagsisilbing babala sa mga pulitiko na ang pagtakbo sa kahit anong lugar ay hindi maaaring gawing laro. May mga batas na dapat sundin,” ayon kay Ellorin.

“Swift action from the COMELEC will demonstrate their commitment to protecting every voter’s right. If the rule of law does not prevail, the Filipino people will lose the essence of democracy," dagdag pa ng grupo.

Ang Pinoy Aksyon ay isang independiyenteng organisasyon na naniniwala na ang pagpapatibay sa batas at karapatan ng mamamayan ay nagpapalakas sa ating demokrasya.

Pinuri ng think tank ang COMELEC dahil sa kanilang pagiging mapagbantay sa pangangalaga sa integridad ng proseso ng halalan sa pamamagitan ng paghatol laban sa maling impormasyon at iba pang iregularidad sa paghahain ng Certificate of Candidacy (COC) para sa halalan sa 2025.

Ayon sa grupo, tama ang desisyon ng COMELEC na kanselahin ang COC ni Teodoro dahil sa material misrepresentation.

Naniniwala ang Pinoy Aksyon na dapat itong magresulta sa pag-alis ng pangalan ng alkalde sa opisyal na listahan ng mga kandidato at sa balota para sa halalan Mayo 2025.

Matatandaang sa desisyon noong Disyembre 11, 2024, kinansela ng First Division ng COMELEC ang kandidatura ni Mayor Marcelino Teodoro ng Lungsod ng Marikina bilang kongresista ng unang distrito ng lungsod dahil sa "material misrepresentation."

Natuklasan ng COMELEC First Division na hindi kwalipikado si Teodoro na tumakbo bilang kongresista ng unang distrito dahil siya ay residente ng ikalawang distrito ng lungsod.

Hinimok din ng grupo ang en banc ng COMELEC na agarang gawing pinal ang desisyon at tiyakin na hindi maisasama ang pangalan ng alkalde sa opisyal na listahan ng mga kandidato at balota ngayong eleksyon.

END

10/01/2025

TEODORO’S BALLOT SPOT DOESN'T GUARANTEE VICTORY

Marikina Mayor Marcy Teodoro is in serious trouble despite his name appearing on the ballot for the District 1 congressional race. His candidacy faces a significant threat, with his Certificate of Candidacy (COC) potentially being canceled due to alleged misrepresentation.

If the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) en banc decides to cancel his COC, all votes cast for Teodoro would become meaningless. Philippine election law is clear—a canceled COC means disqualification, regardless of whether the candidate's name is already on the ballot.

COMELEC Chairman George Erwin Garcia has emphasized that if the cancellation holds, those votes will be considered stray votes. This would be a devastating blow to Teodoro’s campaign.

While Teodoro can still file a motion for reconsideration, time is not on his side. A final decision against him would effectively end his congressional bid.

Voters in Marikina must tread carefully. Casting a vote for Teodoro could ultimately amount to a wasted effort, compromising the election’s integrity. It’s crucial for Teodoro’s team to inform the public about these risks.

In summary, this is far from a done deal. Despite his name on the ballot, Mayor Teodoro’s political future remains in jeopardy.

We’ll have to wait and see how this political drama unfolds.

Respect the decisions of the Comelec En Banc.

WATCH: Radyo 630 Interview with Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia
https://www.facebook.com/share/r/19iK6c8B6A/?mibextid=oFDknk

06/01/2025

THINK-TANK PRAISES COMELEC'S CANCELLATION OF MARIKINA MAYOR'S CANDIDACY

The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has cancelled the Certificate of Candidacy (COC) of Marikina City Mayor Marcelino Teodoro for the 2025 elections due to "material misrepresentation." A think tank, Pinoy Aksyon, lauded the COMELEC's decision, highlighting its vigilance against irregularities in COC filings.

"Ang desisyon ng Comelec sa kaso ni Teodoro ay isang babala sa mga pulitiko na wala karapatan na tumakbo sa anumang lugar na gusto nila. May mga batas na dapat sundin,” Pinoy Aksyon stated in a press release.

The COMELEC resolution stated: “Taking all these circumstances together, We find that the petitioners were able to discharge their burden of proving that Respondent deliberately committed material misrepresentation in his CoC. Hence, we are constrained to grant these Petitions and order the cancellation of his CoC for the position of Member, House of Representatives for the 1st District, Marikina City,”

One of the petitioners against Teodoro is Senator Koko Pimentel, who is also running for the same position. The COMELEC noted that Teodoro's counter-affidavit and position paper "fully support the claim" that he maintained legal residence in Marikina's 2nd District, citing his address in that district in submitted documents. While Teodoro filed his COC for Marikina's 1st District, his submitted address was in Barangay Tumana, 2nd District.

Teodoro's defense was that his original domicile was in Barangay San Roque, 1st District. However, the COMELEC resolution countered: “If respondent (Teodoro) intended to abandon his domicile of choice in Brgy. Tumana and established his residence back in his original domicile in Brgy. San Roque, he should not have used the Brgy. Tumana address in these documents,”

The COMELEC's decision serves as a reminder to politicians that they cannot choose their opponents, and that the rule of law prevails.

Pinoy Aksyon emphasized this point, stating: “Kasi pag hindi nananaig ang rule of law, talo ang mamamayang Pilipino,”

Pinoy Aksyon for Governance and the Environment, Inc. is an independent organization that believes in strengthening laws and human rights for a stable Philippine society.

05/01/2025

SAAN NAPUNTA? COA EXPOSES MARIKINA'S ₱50M CONFIDENTIAL FUND: TOP 8 SPENDER IN METRO!

Marikina City spent ₱50 million on confidential funds over two years, ranking among the top eight highest spenders in Metro Manila, according to a 2023 Commission on Audit (COA) report.

This places it significantly higher than several other cities in the region.

The city allocated ₱25 million annually for confidential funds in 2022 and 2023.

This substantial expenditure contributed to Marikina's placement among the top eight highest spenders on confidential funds in Metro Manila, as detailed in the COA report.

Makati City topped the list, with ₱240 million spent on confidential funds in 2022 and 2023. Other cities with significant spending include:

- Manila: ₱120 million in 2022 and 2023.
- Quezon City: ₱100 million in the same period.
- Pasay City: ₱80 million in 2022 and ₱60 million in 2023.
- Caloocan City: ₱60 million in both years.
- Parañaque City: ₱49.5 million in both years.
- Muntinlupa City: ₱44.29 million in 2022 and ₱44.08 million in 2023.
- San Juan City: ₱17.3 million in 2022 and ₱16 million in 2023.
- Malabon City: ₱15 million in 2022 and ₱13.7 million in 2023.

In contrast, cities like Pasig, Taguig, Mandaluyong, Las Piñas, Navotas, and Valenzuela reported zero confidential expenses during this period.

The question remains: where should these confidential funds be allocated?

According to Joint Circular No. 2015-01, issued by the COA, DBM, DILG, DND, and GCG, local government units' spending on confidential funds should be directly related to their Peace and Order Programs (POPs).

Activities eligible for such spending include crime prevention and law enforcement, capacity building for law enforcement personnel and volunteers, and programs addressing issues like illegal drugs, gambling, insurgency, smuggling, human trafficking, and illegal mining and logging.

Despite these confidential fund expenditures, the COA also reported that Marikina has a debt amounting to ₱3.6 billion.

END

04/01/2025

SENATOR PIMENTEL RENEWS CALL FOR STRONGER ROAD SAFETY MEASURES

Senator Koko Pimentel is again urging for stricter measures to combat the increasing number of road accidents in the Philippines.

His call follows a recent Department of Health (DOH) report indicating 577 road accidents between December 22, 2024, and January 2, 2025.

“Hindi na dapat natin balewalain ang mga aksidente sa kalsada. Kailangan ng mas mahigpit na batas at mas mahusay na pagpapatupad upang maprotektahan ang ating mga mamamayan,” Senator Pimentel stated, emphasizing the urgent need for stronger laws and enforcement to protect citizens.

Pimentel, the sponsor of Senate Bill No. 1015, aims to amend Article 365 of Act No. 3815 (The Revised Penal Code) to address reckless driving and improve road safety.

The bill proposes stricter penalties for traffic violations, improved driver training, and enhanced road infrastructure. It also highlights the need for a societal shift in attitude towards responsible driving.

The proposed amendment to Article 365 would increase prison sentences for reckless driving.

“Maiiwasan at mababawasan ang mga aksidente sa kalsada sa pamamagitan ng pagpapatupad ng mas mahigpit na batas at pagpapahusay sa ating sistema ng transportasyon,“ he added, highlighting the potential impact of stronger laws and improved transportation systems in reducing accidents.

Senator Pimentel concluded by stressing the importance of public awareness and responsible driving, urging motorists to prioritize safety and adhere to traffic laws.

“Tandaan natin na ang bawat buhay ay mahalaga. Maging responsable sa pagmamaneho at sundin ang mga batas trapiko upang maiwasan ang mga aksidente,” he said.

03/01/2025

𝐎𝐏𝐋𝐀𝐍 𝐁𝐈𝐘𝐀𝐇𝐄𝐍𝐆 𝐀𝐘𝐎𝐒: 𝐏𝐀𝐒𝐊𝐎 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒

On 03 January 2025 (12NN - 6PM), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) monitored 69,520 outbound passengers and 67,243 inbound passengers in all ports nationwide.

Moreover, 2,963 deployed frontline personnel in 16 PCG Districts have inspected 605 vessels and 777 motorbancas.

The PCG has placed its districts, stations, and sub-stations on heightened alert from 20 December 2024 to 03 January 2025 to manage the influx of port passengers.

The seafaring public may coordinate with the PCG through its official page or the Coast Guard Public Affairs Service (0927-560-7729) for inquiries, concerns, and clarifications regarding sea travel protocols and regulations during the holiday season.

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03/01/2025

PIMENTEL LEADS IN MARIKINA DISTRICT 1, QUIMBO STRONG IN DISTRICT 2: NEW SURVEY REVEALS VOTER PREFERENCES

Marikina City, January 3, 2025 – A new survey, “Pulso ng Marikeños,” conducted between December 16 and 30, 2024, reveals significant voter preferences in the upcoming Marikina congressional elections.

The survey polled 2,800 respondents in District 1 and 2,900 in District 2.

Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III holds a commanding lead in District 1, securing 2,200 votes (78.57%).

His extensive experience as a lawmaker, commitment to Marikina residents, and initiatives such as the “BTS” program (Baha, Trabaho, Sapatos), medical missions, and livelihood programs were cited as key reasons for his strong support.

Marikina Mayor Marcelino "Marcy" Teodoro (NUP) received 600 votes (21.43%).

In District 2, former House Deputy Speaker Romero "Miro" Quimbo garnered the highest number of votes with 1,500 (51.72%), attributed to his established programs and legislative track record.

Donn Carlo Favis (NUP) received 700 votes (24.14%), while Mauro Arce and Jose Jaime Enage (both Independent) received 450 votes (15.52%) and 250 votes (8.62%), respectively.

Analysis: The survey highlights significant challenges for Mayor Teodoro in District 1.

Some respondents attributed his low vote count to his recent COMELEC disqualification regarding residency concerns, raising questions about potential stray votes.

Further fueling concern, the survey notes a lack of public comment from the Mayor regarding Marikina City’s 3.615 billion debt.

END

01/01/2025

SENATOR PIMENTEL JOINS BARANGAY STO. NIÑO FIESTA IN MARIKINA CITY

Marikina City, January 1, 2025 – Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III joined the Barangay Sto. Niño Fiesta celebrations in Marikina City.

He was warmly welcomed by Marikina residents as he toured the barangay streets, posing for photos with numerous residents using the popular "use your Kokote" pose.

Senator Pimentel took the opportunity to greet and interact with the residents, inquiring about their well-being.

Pimentel expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome he received from Marikina residents during his visit to Brgy. Sto. Niño on the first day of 2025.

END

30/12/2024

KOKO EXPRESSES GRATITUDE FOR DSWD AID IN MARIKINA

Marikina City, December 30, 2024 – Senate Minority Leader Koko Pimentel today released the following statement, expressing gratitude for the continuous support provided by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to the residents of Marikina City: “Maraming, maraming, maraming salamat po, Secretary Rex Gatchalian ng DSWD, sa tuloy-tuloy na pagpapadala ng mga tulong para sa Marikenyo!” He said in a post on his Koko Pimentel page.

Pimentel also extended New Year’s greetings to his neighbors in Provident Villages: “Manigong Bagong Taon po para sa ating mga kapitbahay na PTJTODA, dito sa Provident Villages!” He added.

He concluded his statement with a message of unity and cooperation for the new year: “Amin pong panalangin ang pagkakaisa, pagkakasundo, at pagtutulungan ng bawat isa ngayong bagong taon.”

“Happy New Year, Marikeños!” Pimentel added.

📷 Koko Pimentel FB

30/12/2024

President Marcos Jr. Signs 2025 National Budget, Marking a Pivotal Step Towards "Bagong Pilipinas"

Manila, Philippines – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. today signed into law the General Appropriations Act (GAA) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025, marking a significant milestone in the Administration’s commitment to economic growth and social development. The signing ceremony took place at the Ceremonial Hall in Malacañan Palace on December 30, 2024.

Republic Act (RA) No. 12116, titled “An Act Appropriating Funds for the Operation of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines from January 1 to December 31, 2025,” was meticulously reviewed to ensure alignment with the Administration’s objectives outlined in the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028.

The 2025 National Budget prioritizes key areas crucial to building a “Bagong Pilipinas,” including:

- Social Services: Significant investments in education and health will ensure accessible and quality services for all Filipinos.
- Infrastructure Development: The budget addresses critical infrastructure needs, aiming to improve connectivity and economic opportunities across the country.
- Agricultural Support: Increased funding for agriculture will bolster food security and empower Filipino farmers.
- Green Investment: The budget prioritizes sustainable development initiatives, promoting environmental protection and climate resilience.
- Disaster Preparedness: Enhanced disaster preparedness measures will strengthen the country’s ability to respond to natural calamities.

The signing of the 2025 National Budget signifies a concrete step towards the Administration’s vision of a more prosperous, inclusive, and resilient Philippines.

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29/12/2024

LOOK: 23 individuals, including a minor, were arrested by the PNP-CIDG for illegal mining in Brgy. San Andres, Bunawan, Agusan del Sur.

(📸: PNP-CIDG)

29/12/2024

Gracious God, as we journey near and far this holiday season, we lift up all commuters – those who drive, ride, or walk. Watch over them, protect them from harm, and guide their steps. Grant them safe travels, patience on crowded roads, and the joy of reaching their destinations. Amen.

29/12/2024

KOKO HONORS FORMER MARIKINA MAYOR MARIDES "MCF" FERNANDO

MARIKINA CITY, December 28, 2024 – Senate Minority Leader Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III recently visited former Marikina City Mayor Marides "MCF" Fernando at Barangay IVC.

Mayor Fernando served as Marikina's 10th mayor from 2001 to 2010.

Senator Pimentel lauded Mayor Fernando, wife of the late Mayor Bayani Fernando, for her exemplary leadership and steadfast commitment to "Palabra de Honor," highlighting her integrity and dedication to public service.

In a Facebook post featuring a photo of the meeting, Senator Pimentel stated: "Courtesy call on one of Marikina’s best mayors, Mayor “MCF” Marides Fernando. A visionary mayor & someone who values ‘Palabra de Honor’."

Their discussion covered Marikina's past successes and its continued development.

END

28/12/2024

SENATOR PIMENTEL OPENS MARIKINA CITY CHRISTMAS CHESS FESTIVAL

MARIKINA CITY, Philippines – Senate Minority Leader Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III officially opened the Koko Pimentel Marikina City Christmas Chess Festival at Ayala Feliz Mall Event Center on December 28, 2024.

The two-day festival (December 28-29) features competitions in Rapid & Blitz, Open, Women's, Junior's, Kiddies', and Senior divisions.

The festival promotes sportsmanship and community engagement, reflecting Senator Pimentel's ongoing commitment to the city.

A keen chess player himself, Senator Pimentel has also sponsored a monthly chess tournament since 2022.

END

27/12/2024

LET'S SUPPORT MMFF 2024 - SEN. PIMENTEL

Senate Minority Leader Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III is encouraging all Filipinos to show their support for the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) by watching the ten films currently in theaters.

He stressed the vital role of this support in celebrating Filipino cinema and uplifting local filmmakers.

“Suportahan natin ang ating mga Pilipinong artista at direktor!” Pimentel said, highlighting the importance of backing Filipino talent.

He further emphasized the cultural significance of the MMFF, stating, “Ang MMFF ay hindi lamang isang festival; ito ay pagdiriwang ng ating kultura at talento.”

Pimentel lauded the MMFF as a key platform showcasing Filipino creativity and artistry.

He believes that patronizing local films is essential for the continued growth and progress of the Philippine film industry.

He added, “Panoorin natin ang mga pelikula, at ibahagi natin ang ating karanasan sa ating mga kaibigan at pamilya,” encouraging viewers to share their experiences.

Pimentel expressed optimism that this year's MMFF entries will not only provide excellent entertainment but also raise the standards for Filipino films.

The ten films included in MMFF 2024 are: “And the Breadwinner Is…,” “Espantaho,” “Green Bones,” “Hold Me Close,” “Isang Himala,” “My Future You,” “Strange Frequencies: Taiwan Killer Hospital,” “The Kingdom,” “Topakk,” and “Uninvited.”

27/12/2024

Marikina City Extends Tax Payment Window with Significant Discounts

Posted inNews Marikina City Extends Tax Payment Window with Significant Discounts Posted by News Desk December 27, 2024No Comments Marikina City, Philippines – The City Treasury Office will remain open from December 28-31, 2024 (Saturday, Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday) to accept payments for Real Pr...

26/12/2024

WILLIE REVILLAME AND OTHER TV PERSONALITIES MAKE IT TO TOP 12 SENATORIAL SURVEY

The Social Weather Survey (SWS) has released a list of the current standing of senatorial candidates for the upcoming 2025 elections.

Respondents were asked, if the election were held today, who they would vote for as Senators of the Philippines.

From a list of 70 names, here are the Senators chosen by the respondents:

Erwin Tulfo; Ramon "B**g" Revilla, Jr.; B**g Go (PDPLBN); Pia Cayetano (NP); Tito Sotto (NPC); Ben Tulfo (IND); Ping Lacson (IND); Manny Pacquiao (PFP); Willie Revillame (IND); Abby Binay (NPC); Lito Lapid (NPC); and Camille Villar (NP).

Senator Bato Dela Rosa (PDPLBN), Senator Imee Marcos (NP), and former Senator Kiko Pangilinan (LP) are in 15th place.

The survey was conducted from December 12 to 18 through face-to-face interviews with a total of 2,097 registered voters from different parts of the country.

The survey was funded by Stratbase Consultancy, which provided a list of 70 candidate names.

26/12/2024

"USE YOUR KOKOTE" VS. TEXT SCAMMERS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON—PIMENTEL

Senate Minority Leader Koko Pimentel warned the public against scammers this holiday season.

He urged Filipinos to be vigilant against scams, especially with the increase in gift-giving and online shopping.

“Mag-ingat po tayo ngayong kapaskuhan,” Pimentel reminded. “Maraming scammer ang naghahanap ng pagkakataon para manloko.”

“Use your KoKote always,” he added.

He emphasized the National Telecommunications Commission’s (NTC) advice to avoid clicking links embedded in suspicious text messages.

“Huwag po tayong magpapadala sa mga mensaheng hindi natin kilala ang pinagmulan,” Pimentel clarified. “Bago kayo mag-click, siguraduhin ninyong lehitimo ang pinagmulan ng mensahe,” he added.

Pimentel also said that scammers can easily obtain personal information and money from victims.

He reiterated the NTC’s call for the public to report suspicious text messages and online scams through their website or the NTC Hotline at 1682.

“Ang pag-iingat ay susi para maiwasan ang mga scam,” Pimentel asserted.