BusinessMirror December 03, 2024 by BusinessMirror

THE WORLD | A12

PUTIN APPROVES RECORD MILITARY BUDGET TO DEFEAT UKRAINE AS EU LEADERS PLEDGE CONTINUED SUPPORT

THE

By Reine Juvierre Alberto

Cabinet-level Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) tempered its growth outlook for the country after a series of typhoons battered the Philippines in recent months.

O n Monday, the DBCC said the Philippines will miss its goal of growing by 7 percent by yearend, prompting economic managers to adjust their outlook for 2024 to 6 percent to 6.5 percent, from the previous 6 percent to 7 percent.

“Naturally, it’s already December 1 so I don’t think that the economy [will grow] 7 percent this year,” Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto said, noting that a 6 percent growth is “more realistic.”

The country’s economic growth slowed to 5.2 percent in the third quarter from a strong 6.4 percent in the second quarter and 6 percent in the third quarter of 2023. H owever, the country’s economic managers said they remain optimistic about achieving the DBCC target for the year and expect GDP to bounce back in the last quarter due to an anticipated increase in holiday spending, continued disaster recovery efforts, low inflation and a robust labor market.

For 2025 to 2028, the DBCC widened the growth outlook band

to 6 percent to 8 percent from 6.5 percent to 7.5 percent.

“ There’s so much uncertainty.

We thought it best to widen the band to a low of 6 percent to a high of 8 percent,” Recto said.

To achieve this target, DBCC Chairperson and Budget Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman said the government will implement reforms to accelerate infrastructure investments, enhance the ease of doing business and boost national competitiveness, such as the recently enacted CREATE More Act.

The inflation forecast for 2024 was also lowered to 3.1 percent to 3.3 percent from the previous 3 percent to 4 percent.

We are determined to maintain price stability by keeping inflation low and stable amid easing monetary conditions, improving labor market conditions and productivity-enhancing structural reforms,” the DBCC said.

Moreover, the Philippine peso is expected to remain stable at an

See “Typhoons,” A2

SBy Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario

LOWER private consumption amid rising inflation and a weak peso, as well as weak growth in major trading partners were identified by the Asean+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (Amro) as short- and medium-threats to the country’s economic performance.

A s a result, Amro reduced its GDP growth forecast for the Philippines to 5.8 percent this year from the initial estimate of 6.1 percent. However, Amro retained its 6.3 percent outlook for 2025.

Higher costs of basic needs would further reduce households’ ability to afford discretionary items and hence constrain household con-

sumption. The upside risks of high inflation could increase if there were to be a sharp depreciation of the peso caused by external shocks,” Amro said.

A slowdown in major trading partners, such as the US, Europe and China, could pose negative spillovers to the Philippine economy through their impacts on merchandise and services trade, tourist arrivals, overseas remittances and foreign investment inflows,” it added.

A part from these risks, Amro noted that geopolitical risks could also threaten growth in the shortand medium-term. Amro said the escalation of disputes in the West Philippine Sea is expected to reduce trade, investment and

tourist arrivals from China.

A mro said the geopolitical tensions in other regions, such as Ukraine and the Middle East, would lead to supply shocks, like sharp spikes in commodity prices and shipping costs.

“ The persistent and intensified geopolitical tensions between China and the US could lead to global economic fragmentation, causing substantial uncertainties and eroding market sentiments, which would adversely affect foreign investments in the region,” Amro said.

“Nevertheless, the Philippines’s closer ties with the US and other advanced economies may bring opportunities in terms of higher trade and FDIs,” it added.

Slow pace of easing FURTHER , Amro said a slower pace of monetary easing by the United States Federal Reserve can also create uncertainties, particularly next year. This would lead to a further depreciation in the Philippine peso. However, slower monetary policy easing in the US would tend to benefit Philippine government bond yields which are correlated with US Treasury yields. The Amro also noted that the transmission of monetary policy in the Philippines remained challenged. The think tank said “only half of the total change was reflected in the actual bank lending rate.”

See “Amro,” A2

decision nila , [Whatever they give us, whatever their decision is,] we will always find a way to make it work,” Ledesma said. PhilHealth proposed a budget of P150.92 billion in 2025, which includes coverage for 25.58 million indirect contributors. The Senate reduced PhilHealth’s budget to P74 billion while the House decreased it to P68 billion. Congress’s refusal to provide sufficient premiums for PhilHealth contributors is a clear violation of the constitutional right to health,” Sin Tax Coalition said in a statement on Monday. PhilHealth’s budget utilization

See “PhilHealth,” A2

TBy Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan

HE Philippine IT and Business Process Management (IT-BPM) industry and the retailers’ group are unfazed by protectionist policies that may be implemented by President-elect Donald Trump.

The Philippine IT-BPM industry has consistently demonstrated its resilience and adaptability to global changes, and I am confident this will continue,” IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (Ibpap) President Jack Madrid told the BusinessMirror in an e-mail.

In fact, Madrid said, external policies and geopolitical move -

ments “challenge us to innovate, upskill, and fortify our value proposition.”

“ The future of the Philippine IT-BPM sector is not dictated by any single administration or policy. It is built on the enduring strengths of our people and our ability to adapt to change,” added Madrid.

The Ibpap head maintained that demand for “high-quality, technology-enabled services remains unwavering.”

“Companies worldwide rely on the efficiency and scalability that outsourcing offers and this demand transcends political climates,” Madrid underscored.

See “IT-BPM,” A2

PMI better in Nov, but think tank sees hard times ahead

By Cai U. Ordinario @caiordinario

SUPPLY-SIDE challenges

amid adverse weather conditions and inflationary pressures may lead to a “difficult environment” for local manufacturers, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence.

Based on the latest Purchasing Manager’s Index (PMI) report, the country’s score in the index improved to 53.8 in November compared to 52.9 posted in October.

S&P Global Market Intelligence noted that recent typhoons delayed inputs, the worst since October 2021. This is also causing an uptick in input costs and output charges to the highest level in 21 months.

Some supply-side challenges acted as headwinds, as adverse

weather conditions resulting from the recent typhoons hitting the country and rising inflationary pressures make a difficult environment for manufacturers,” Maryam Baluch, Economist at S&P Global Market Intelligence, said. “ Nonetheless, firms remained optimistic about future output, with hopes that improved demand trends and the upcoming election year will provide a boost to the sector,” she added. S &P Global Market Intelligence said supply chain disruptions were observed in the November data. These strains in the supply chain were due to port congestion and flooding brought by recent typhoons. Further, given this, inflationary pressures intensified. S&P Global Market Intelligence not -

Typhoons…

average of P57 to P57.50 against the US dollar this year, despite the peso closing at P59 levels recently.

Deputy Governor Francisco G. Dakila Jr. said the recent peso depreciation is not unique to the

ed a rise in costs from suppliers and raw materials that led to the strongest increase in expenses since February 2023.

H owever, S&P Global Market Intelligence said manufacturers kept a strong optimism regarding the sector’s future output. The optimism of manufacturers reached its highest level since early-2023 due to expectations of higher demand.

November saw the Filipino manufacturing sector ramping up production in anticipation of greater sales in the coming months. Hiring, purchasing activity and postproduction inventories were also raised in preparation. New sales recorded further growth, as demand conditions continued to improve,” Baluch said.

R izal Commercial Banking

currency as this is the story of a strong US dollar.

There’s still a chance that the peso can strengthen especially because of seasonal factors during the Christmas holiday. We are also expecting that there will be

Corporation (RCBC) Chief Economist Michael L. Ricafort said the November PMI marked the 15th consecutive month the manufacturing sector has posted growth.

The PMI score, Ricafort said, is also considered the highest in 2.5 years or since May 2022, and also an improvement compared to the 52.7 posted in November 2023.

He added that the prospects for the manufacturing sector are expected to improve due to lower global crude oil prices which “would help reduce the importation costs and overall input costs of some local manufacturers/producers.”

Lower local policy rate and Fed rates would lead to cheaper loans/credit that would increase demand for manufacturers, faster global and local invest -

support for the peso in line with the fundamentals, including sustained growth of remittances,” Dakila said.

E xternal trade assumptions were also revised downwards to 4 percent from 5 percent due to the observed slowdown in export revenues and the recent performance of the semiconductor industry.

R evenue collection, meanwhile, will improve to P4.382 trillion from the previous assumption of P4.269 trillion. Revenues generated as of end-October rose by 16.8 percent to P3.77 trillion.

O ver the medium-term, the government expects to collect a billion more in revenues a day annually, or about P13.72 billion daily.

These will be supported by

ments, trade and other economic/ business activities, going forward,” Ricafort added.

Earlier, Procurement and Supply Institute of Asia (Pasia) President Charlie Villaseñor told BusinessMirror that local companies and traders should focus on enhancing their supply chains.

Villaseñor said trade disruptions and tensions brought about by the attacks in the Red Sea are not ending anytime soon. (See: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2024/11/27/no-quick-end-tored-sea-attacks-freight-rising/).

According to Dimerco’s Asia Pacific Freight Report (June to July 2024), Philippine ocean freight rates have been “steadily rising over the past month to all destinations due to the increasingly limited space availability.”

recalibrated legislative measures that will provide a significant revenue boost to the government, such as the recently enacted VAT on Digital Services Act, and by tax administration reforms centered on digitalization,” the DBCC said.

Meanwhile, government spending is anticipated to drive economic growth, which will reach P5.908 trillion or 22.3 percent of GDP by the end of 2024.

“ The DBCC will remain steadfast in sustaining the country’s high-growth trajectory and managing inflation, accelerating the implementation of well-targeted social services and structural reforms that will enable us to achieve our goal of reducing poverty incidence and decreasing unemployment rates,” it said.

Such a weak pass-through may hinder monetary policy effectiveness, given the bank-based nature of the Philippine financial system,” the report stated.

“This selected issue attributes the causes of such limited pass-through to an abundance of low-cost funding and the lack of consumer credit data, then discusses policy options to strengthen the pass-through,” it added.

Way forward IN order to address risks, Amro said there is a need to keep a restrictive monetary policy stance while leaving room “to dial back some tightness in light of easing inflationary pressure.” I n Amro’s view, the aggressive monetary policy tightening in 2022 and 2023 led to high real interest rates compared to the neutral rate which is estimated at 4.6 percent.

The report stated that year-todate inflation returned to the upper half of the target range. This gives the BSP room to “gradually adjust” rates, lending support to private investments and space for renewed policy rate hikes if inflationary risks were to re-emerge.

Amro estimates that real interest in the Philippines has surpassed the neutral rate [r-star] since Q3 [third quarter] 2023, and in Q2 [third quarter] 2024 the real interest rate remained at one of the tightest levels compared with the past four hiking cycles since 2010,” the report stated.

Forex interventions

AMRO also recommended that “judicious foreign exchange interventions” need to be implemented to address excessive volatility. The think tank maintained that the exchange rate should continue to be determined by the market and serve as a “shock absorber” for the Philippine economy.

Apart from these, Amro also said the slower pace of consolidation under the Medium-Term Fiscal Program (MTFP) in 2024 has created room for increased spending.

A mro said the MTFP may also be acelerated to ensure revenue mobilization and better spending efficiency. “If higher revenue is achieved due to better-than-expected economic growth, the authorities should consider using the additional revenue to speed up fiscal consolidation.”

should not be determinative of its budget allocation, as PhilHealth is mandated by the UHCA to cover the premiums of indirect contributors,” it added.

Fu nd Management Sector Senior Vice President Renato L. Limsiaco Jr. said PhilHealth has an investible fund worth P485 billion as of November 2024.

The health insurer’s cash position report showed P172.3 billion was collected from members’ premiums as of November, while P148.4 billion—the highest benefit payout so far—was released for benefit payments. This left PhilHealth with a balance of P23.9 billion in excess funds, which will be used to bankroll next year’s expansion of

benefit packages.

“ We don’t have to worry about our financials because this covers the increase in benefit packages,” Limsiaco said.

However, in the case of an unlikely event, such as a shortage in funds, Ledesma said “there will always be a way,” with the Departments of Finance (DOF) and Budget and Management (DBM) sourcing funds.

Ph ilHealth will receive about P40 billion in sin tax collections from the national government while the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office will allocate P21.17 billion this year, which will be used to pay premiums of indirect contributors. Sin Tax Coalition said Congress is

“contravening with the law and reinforcing ayuda politics” by channeling the premium of indirect contributors to Medical Assistance for Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients (MAIFIP), or guarantee letters. The health of the Filipino people should never be politicized. Filipinos should not be made to beg for their right to health through guarantee letters,” it stressed. Holding PhilHealth accountable for ineffectively utilizing its budget when it was supposed to transfer P89.9 billion to the National Treasury, should not come at the expense of reducing the premiums of indirect contributors, it added.

Reine Juvierre S. Alberto

M adrid said this in response to analysts’ comment that Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) firms and overseas Filipinos as well as climate change efforts could be the most vulnerable to the Trump administration’s protectionist policies starting next year. (See: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2024/11/27/trump-policies-could-affect-bpos-ofwssay-analysts/) Global Source Partners Country analysts from the United Statesbased think tank, Diwa Guinigundo and Wilhelmina Manalac, said the Philippine government should also expect a reduction in foreign assistance from the United States due to its “America First” policy under Trump’s mantra “Make America Great again” (MAGA).

Upskilling crucial MADRID, however, pointed out that the Philippines must double down on its competitive edge—its people, as it prepares and ensures that it continues to seize global opportunities.

Upskilling the workforce in emerging technologies like AI, data analytics, and cloud solutions is crucial. Collaboration between government, academic, and industry stakeholders will ensure we remain an indispensable partner for global enterprises,” Madrid also told this paper.

For his part, PRA President Roberto Claudio Sr. said “Consumers’ consumption...will not be so affected… we still feel Filipinos enjoy their shopping. Filipinos have their own preferences so we feel that the consumption will further increase. In fact, our eco-

nomic statistics show a very good 2025 and even up to 2027 so we expect good consumer consumption.” However, he added, “it will take a little time” before any Trump decision and tariff tweaks “will have any effect on us.”

O xford Economics earlier said Trump floated the possibility of imposing tariffs of 60 percent or more on Chinese goods and also suggested a blanket 10 percent tariff on all US imports.

Former Tariff Commissioner George N. Manzano told the BusinessMirror recently that should the Trump administration double down on “America First” policies, this could reduce US engagement in global trade and investments. This could weaken trade and investment flows between the US and Asean countries,” Manzano told this paper. (See: https://businessmirror.com. ph/2024/11/29/trump-second-termunlikely-to-benefit-asean-analysts/)

Russian sub’s sighting at WPS alarms Marcos

BY Butch Fernandez @butchfBM, Samuel Medenilla

@sam_medenilla & Rex Anthony Naval

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos expressed concern on the confirmed presence of a Russian attack submarine within the West Philippine Sea (WPS) last week.

News reports said that Ufa-490, a Russian Improved Kilo II-class diesel-electric submarine, had just come from Malaysia, when it was spotted 80 nautical miles west off Mindoro after it surfaced on November 28.

The Navy’s BRP Jose Rizal monitored the surfaced Russian submarine, while it passed through the country’s territorial waters.

“That’s very concerning. Any intrusion into the West Philippine Sea, of our EEZ [Exclusive Economic Zone], of our baselines is very worrisome,” Marcos told reporters in an interview with Palace reporters at the sidelines of an event at the Manila Boystown Complex in Marikina on Monday.

Marcos said he will let the Armed Forces issue additional details about the incident, which happened as Russia and China conducted a joint naval exercises in the South China Sea (SCS).

Senators concerned SENATORS reacted with “great concern” to reports of the sighting of a Russian attack submarine in the West Philippine Sea.

Senate Defense Committee chairman Jinggoy Estrada said: “This situation is concerning, raising significant questions about the stability and security of our already volatile maritime domain, which is a flashpoint for geopolitical tensions.”

In a statement on Monday, Estrada said: “The presence of foreign military assets, especially those with offensive capabilities, increases the risk of misunderstandings and conflicts in an already sensitive region. We urge the relevant authorities—the Department of National Defense, the Armed Forc-

es and the Department of Foreign Affairs—to take immediate action and clarify the intentions behind this incursion.

In a separate statement, Senator Joel Villaneva said the matter “underscores the need for heightened vigilance in safeguarding our territorial waters. We thank our Coast Guard and the Navy for their unwavering commitment as the guardians of our seas, ensuring the safety and security of our maritime territory.”

He said the recent enactment of the Maritime Zones Act and the Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act has at least provided the country with “stronger legal tools to assert and protect our sovereignty over our waters.”

Villanueva said: “We must remain vigilant, united, and proactive in defending our national interests, while fostering diplomatic efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region.” China continues to claim it has

sovereignty on almost the entire SCS, including the WPS, even after it was invalidated by the 2016 Arbitral Tribunal Ruling.

“Upon receiving the report, the Navy immediately deployed assets to monitor and address the situation, ensuring the security of Philippine waters,” the military said.

The Armed Forces added that the guided missile frigate, BRP Jose Rizal , was immediately deployed and was in radio contact with the Russian submarine.

With this, the identity of the submarine, crew complement, and navigational intent was quickly determined.

“The Russian vessel stated it was awaiting improved weather conditions before proceeding to Vladivostok, Russia. Philippine naval forces, including BRP Jose Rizal , escorted and monitored operations to ensure the submarine’s compliance with maritime regulations within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone,” the military said in a statement.

It added that this incident shows its “unwavering commitment” in safeguarding the country’s maritime sovereignty while maintaining professionalism in interactions with foreign naval vessels.

“Our operations remain consistent with international maritime laws and demonstrate our dedication to regional peace and cooperation,” the Armed Forces added.

In a television interview in state run PTV on Monday, National Security Council Assistant Director General Jonathan

E. Malaya said government uniformed personnel were able to communicate with the crew of the Russian submarine when it entered the Philippine EEZ.

He said the crew of the submarine said they were just passing through the country’s EEZ on its way to the Russian naval base in Vladivostok after participating in Passing Exercises with the Royal Malaysian Navy in Kota Kinabalu.

“Its [crew] said they were just waiting for the weather to improve so they surfaced. They asked permission from us [if they can remain in the EEZ] until they are ready to return to Russia. And eventually by the afternoon [of November 28], they informed us they will be returning to Russia. So the monitoring of the Russian attack submarine went smoothly,” Malaya said.

Malaya explained the submarine was allowed to pass through since it was traversing the country’s EEZ, which is considered high seas or “international waters.”

“So technically, the Russian ship is exercising freedom of navigation,” he said.

The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos) allows submarines to pass through another country’s territorial waters as long as they navigate on the surface and show their flag.

Last month, Marcos signed into law Republic Act 12065 or the Archipelagic Sea Lanes (ASL) Law, which designated three lanes, where international sea vessels can pass through within Philippine territorial waters.

The said lanes are the Balintang Channel located north of Luzon between Batanes and the Babuyan Islands; the Sibutu passage located in Southwest Mindanao stretching from Borneo up to Mindoro; and the Celebes Sea which is also in Southwest Mindanao.

The new law aims to allow the country to not only raise awareness of the country’s maritime territories, but also to better monitor the ships and aircrafts passing through the country’s waters and air space.

ASL will take effect once it is approved by the International Maritime Organization (IOM) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (Icao). Samuel P. Medenilla

‘Focus on accountability not ‘What if’ scenarios’

By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie

ASENIOR leader of the House of Representatives on Monday refuted Vice President Sara Duterte’s assertion that she could have won the presidency in the 2022 elections but chose to “give it away,” emphasizing that the presidency is determined by destiny, history, and the will of the people.

In a news conference, House Assistant Majority Leader Pammy Zamora of Taguig criticized Duterte’s statement, urging the Vice President to focus on accountability instead of entertaining “what if” scenarios.

“Then why didn’t she run if she had it in the bag? She should have ran [for President].”

Zamora questioned Duterte’s decision to seek the vice presidency in 2022 while claiming she had overwhelming support for the

presidency.

“I mean, what was that statement for? Then she should’ve filed to run for president. But she didn’t. She filed to run for vice president, and now she’s our vice president. So, that’s what it is,” Zamora stressed.

Zamora also responded to Duterte’s accusations that lawmakers were “gaslighting” and “terrorizing” the Office of the Vice President (OVP) and its staff amid congressional investigations into the alleged misuse of hundreds of millions of pesos in confidential funds.

“If there’s smoke, there’s fire,” Zamora said, rejecting the Vice President’s claims.

“These hearings began after Congressman Valeriano’s speech, which was referred to the committee for investigation,” Zamora explained, referring to Manila Rep. Rolando Valeriano’s motion for the House Committee on Good

Government and Public Accountability to look into the OVP’s fund management.

“During the hearings, numerous acknowledgment receipts and documents emerged. These could have been addressed early on,” she added.

Zamora emphasized that the investigation is not harassment but a pursuit of transparency.

“It’s not gaslighting. We’re seeing a lot of evidence, and we still have many questions left unanswered. This isn’t terrorism. If they had answered our questions from the start, the hearings could have ended by now,” she said.

House Assistant Majority Leader Zia Alonto Adiong said that legislative oversight is a constitutional duty, not a personal attack.

“What we are trying to exercise here is the mandate of the legislature,” Adiong, who represents Lanao del Sur, said. “The only way for us to find out is to hold these

PCG protects Filipino fishers at Rozul Reef

THE Coast Guard (PCG) on Monday said it deployed two ships to Rozul Reef at the West Philippine Sea (WPS) following reports that Filipino fishermen there were harassed by a People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) helicopter on November 28.

“On November 28, the PCG received video footage and photographs from a fishing boat that returned to Quezon, Palawan, which captured the harassment of Filipino fishing vessels by a PLAN helicopter in Rozul Reef,” it said.

“In response, the PCG commandant, Adm. Ronnie Gil Gavan, ordered the deployment of the BRP Melchora Aquino [MRRV] 09702 and BRP Cape Engaño [MRRV4411] to ensure the safety and

security of Filipino fishermen exercising their right to fish freely in Rozul Reef.

“This deployment also aims to provide evidence of the active presence of Filipino fishermen in the WPS. Despite the potential harassment from the Chinese Coast Guard, their confidence in fishing in the WPS has significantly increased due to the firm stance and commitment of the President not to surrender a square inch of our territory to any foreign power,” the PCG stressed.

It added that it remains committed to safeguarding the rights of Filipino fishermen and stands in support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s commitment to uphold our sovereignty, sovereignty rights, and maritime jurisdiction in the WPS. Rex Anthony Naval

Marcos orders continuous relief, rehab efforts in typhoon devastated areas

By Samuel P. Medenilla @sam_medenilla

REHABILITATION and relief efforts in areas devastated by the series of typhoons that hit the country in the last two months will continue even during the Christmas holidays, President Marcos said.

The chief executive gave the assurance during his speech during his visit at the Manila Boys Town Complex (MBTC), in Marikina City, on Monday.

“We are doing everything to implement our prayer for every Filipino to feel the Christmas spirit,” he said in Filipino during the event.

“Do not think we have forgotten you. Whatever you need, our local government officials and the DSWD [Department of Social Welfare and Development] are there [to help],” he added.

The country was hit by tropical cyclones Kristine (international name: Trami), Leon (international name: Kong-Rey),Marce (international name: YinXing), Nika” (international name: Toraji), Ofel (international name: Osagi), and Pepito (international name: ManYi) from October to November.

Tinquiries and to hold anybody accountable. ’Yun lang naman . That’s all we aim to achieve—in aid of legislation.”

Adiong clarified that the investigations focus is on evidence, not personalities.

1-Rider Rep. Rodge Gutierrez also criticized Duterte’s remarks, suggesting that they were an attempt to divert attention from unresolved issues regarding confidential funds.

“She’s answering the issue by bringing up politics and the presidency, but I think what we have to note here is that this issue goes way back—before the Good Government Committee and before people were talking about whether it’s the presidency or not,” Gutierrez said.

He reminded the Vice President that the investigations originated from budget deliberations where critical questions were left unanswered.

The said weather disturbances left thousands of people displaced and millions of damage to infrastructure and agriculture.

To provide more funding aid to those affected, Marcos urged government offices to downscale their Christmas parties and donate their savings to provide help in typhoonhit communities.

Aside from disaster victims, Marcos also said he will make sure the marginalized, including the victims of sexual abuse and exploitation, who are staying at the Marillac Hills and Haven for Women in Muntinlupa and the homeless at the MBTC will be cared for during the Christmas holidays. He led in the distribution of rice, food packs, medicines, vitamins, toiletries, and infant supplies as gifts and assistance to those who are staying in both facilities. To provide comfort and support, the President handed over 20 sacks of 50- kilo rice to Marillac Hills and 10 sacks for the Haven for Women. He also extended food packs, medicines, vitamins, toiletries and infant supplies.

“We will make sure that every Filipino will have a merry Christmas this 2024,” Marcos said.

By Joel R. San Juan @jrsanjuan1573

HE Sandiganbayan has affirmed with finality its earlier decision acquitting Sen. Jinggoy Estrada of direct bribery and indirect bribery in connection with the alleged misappropriation of his P183 million pork barrel funds from 2004 to 2010.

In an eight-page resolution written by Associate Justice Maria Theresa Mendoza-Arcega, the Sandiganbayan Special Fifth Division denied the motion for reconsideration filed by the prosecution seeking the reversal of its ruling issued on August 22, 2024.

The said ruling granted Estrada’s motion for reconsideration of its January 19, 2024 decision, which found him guilty of the said offenses.

The prosecution, in its motion for reconsideration, argued that the anti-graft court gravely erred when it reversed its original finding of indirect bribery and direct bribery against Estrada.

However, the Sandiganbayan held that the issues raised by the prosecution were already dis -

cussed extensively in its August 22, 2024 ruling.

“Besides, the instant motion seeks to revisit the factual findings of Estrada’s acquittal that would place the latter in double jeopardy,” the Sandiganbayan explained.

Double jeopardy is a legal principle that an accused cannot be tried twice for the same offense based on the same conduct. Its purpose is to protect the accused from harassment, oppression, and abuse of power by the state.

In reversing its previous decision, the Sandiganbayan gave weight to Estrada’s claim that his conviction for direct and indirect bribery violated his constitutional right to be informed of the case of the accusation against him.

He pointed out that the instances of indirect bribery and direct bribery were not specifically alleged in the complaint, thus depriving him of the opportunity to prepare his defense to counter the allegations. Furthermore, Estrada insisted that the prosecution failed to present evidence to prove his guilt beyond reasonable doubt for the said crimes.

Sandiganbayan affirms Jinggoy acquittal

RUSSIA Kilo class Improved submarine

Legislator to CCC, DOF: Ensure right to affordable power, poverty eradication

By Jovee Marie N. dela Cruz @joveemarie

AN economist-lawmaker on Monday urged the Climate Change Commission (CCC) and the Department of Finance (DOF) to ensure that decarbonization efforts prioritize the right to affordable energy and the eradication of poverty, as he warned that the cost of fully decarbonizing the Philippine economy could reach as high as P18 per kilowatthour.

Albay Rep. Jose Clemente “Joey” Sarte Salceda, chairman of the House of Representatives’ Committee on Ways and Means, said the CCC and DOF should “keep the country’s right to affordable energy at the heart of our decarbonization efforts,” as proposals are being discussed to push highemitting industries like the power sector and manufacturing to decarbonize.

Salceda, who served as the first Asian co-chairman of the United Nations Green Climate Fund (GCF), made the statement during a House Committee on Ways and Means hearing on the tax provisions of the proposed Low Carbon Economy Act. The bill seeks to establish a carbon emission pricing framework to promote invest -

‘Panguil Bay Bridge structurally sound’

By Lorenz S. Marasigan @lorenzmarasigan

THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) assured the public on Monday that the structural integrity of the Panguil Bay Bridge, that connects Tangub in Misamis Occidental and Tubod in Lanao del Norte, remains unaffected despite early signs of damage to its asphalt pavement.

DPWH Unified Project Management Office—Roads Management Cluster 2 (UPMO-RMC 2) Project Director Teresita V. Bauzon clarified that the defects are limited to the pavement and do not compro -

Mixed oil price movements this week

OIL companies will increase the price of gasoline products and slash diesel and kerosene prices this week, they said on Monday.

The pump price of gasoline will go up by P0.90 per liter starting 6:00 a.m. of Tuesday, December 3. Kerosene prices will go down by P0.40 per liter while that of diesel will be decreased by P0.90 per liter.

Petron, Shell, Caltex, PTT, Phoenix, Total, Unioil, Jetti, Seaoil, PetroGazz said they will implement the new pump prices at 6am. Cleanfuel, meanwhile, said it will adjust its prices at 4:01 p.m.

The Oil Industry Management Bureau of the Department of Energy said the price rollback was brought about by the steady crude oil prices amid a US-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah and the downward trajectory of consumption in China. Meanwhile, the sustained production cuts are blamed for the price increase. Oil companies adjust their prices every week to reflect movements in the world oil market.

Last November 26, oil companies implemented an increase of P1.15/liter for gasoline, P1.10/liter for diesel and P0.80/liter for kerosene. This brought the year-to-date, total adjustment of gasoline and diesel at a net increase of P10.45 per liter and P9.75 per liter, respectively. On the other hand, kerosene has a total net decrease of P1.50 per liter.

Lenie Lectura

mise the bridge’s overall safety. She said the contractor, Namkwang-Kukdong-Gumgwang joint venture (NKG JV), has been directed to repair the damaged asphalt at no additional cost to the government.

The completion certificate for the project has not yet been issued.

The agency said it conducted an assessment of the bridge, following reports of early signs of deterioration. It was revealed that overloading was the primary cause of the damage.

Vehicles exceeding the prescribed 30-ton weight limit began crossing the bridge before proper controls were enforced. It added

that torrential rains further aggravated the situation, deforming the pavement and expanding potholes.

To address these issues, portable weighing scales have been installed at both ends of the bridge in Tangub City and Tubod.

However, Public Works Senior Undersecretary Emil Sadain noted that the 24/7 operation of these facilities is hampered by funding limitations, affecting the deployment of personnel for night shifts. He also emphasized the importance of enforcing the antioverloading policy under Republic Act 8794 to safeguard the bridge and other national infrastructure.

ments in low-carbon economic development.

Citing Articles 3 and 4 of the Paris Agreement, Salceda emphasized that climate obligations must be based on equity and take into account the economic and social priorities of developing countries like the Philippines.

“These two combined give us the right to affordable energy,” Salceda said in the hearing.

“Our meeting these obligations is contingent on rich countries taking the lead,” Salceda added.

Salceda expressed his position that efforts to decarbonize the Philippine economy should not come at the expense of development and of Filipino consumers, who he says may have to pay as much as P18 per kilowatt

Emergency repairs on the Tangub City to Tubod direction commenced on December 1, 2024, with the section expected to be fully passable by 7:00 a.m. on December 2.

To minimize disruptions, the Tubod to Tangub City direction has been temporarily opened to twoway traffic. Repairs on this section will begin once the initial work is completed and are projected to finish by December 3.

Moving forward, the contractor has been tasked to submit a comprehensive repair plan, including a revised asphalt mix design and waterproofing measures, to ensure long-term durability.

The DPWH advises motorists to maintain a steady pace and avoid stopping on the bridge to ensure smooth traffic flow.

Subic boosts maritime emergency response capability

By Henry Empeño

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT—Subic authorities have taken concrete steps to strengthen maritime emergency response in this free port in a bid to improve disaster preparedness and resilience and enhance both business and environmental sustainability.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said the agency recently partnered the Coast Guard (PCG), Bureau of Customs (BOC), National Police Maritime Group, and the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (Namria) to establish the InterAgency Task Force for Maritime Incidents and Emergency Response (IATF-MIER).

The IATF-MIER, Aliño said, is a whole-ofgovernment approach to manage maritimerelated incidents by tapping into the expertise of specialized agencies concerned in protecting the country’s navigational waters. The accord “primarily aims to ensure efficient handling of environmental emergencies in Subic,” Aliño said, adding that the task force will also undertake information and education

campaigns in nearby coastal communities to heighten awareness on the prevention of maritime incidents.

“This is timely in light of the recent oil spills along the coast of Bataan, [that wreaked] havoc on marine life, as well as the livelihood of maritime stakeholders,” he added.

Aliño also announced in a press briefing, the donation by the United States Embassy in Manila of six units of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones that are expected to further strengthen Subic’s capacity to handle maritime emergencies and respond to pollution incidents.

Paired with Starlink mobile internet also from the US Embassy, the drones are expected to augment the emergency response operations of the IATF-MIER and boost monitoring and response capabilities of SBMA seaport, fire, and law enforcement departments.

Aliño added that the US Embassy has already provided comprehensive training to SBMA personnel on the effective and proper use of the drones.

Meanwhile, SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Port Operations Ronnie Yambao

Marikina mayor strengthens protection for children

TO further strengthen children’s rights to prevent abuse, neglect, exploitation, and violence, Marikina Mayor Marcelino

“Marcy” Teodoro signed the ordinance adopting the 2024 Children’s Code of Marikina City during the culmination of the 32nd National Children’s Month on Saturday.

Teodoro signed Ordinance 74, Series of 2024, also known as “The 2024 Children’s Code of Marikina City,” which was introduced by Councilor Marife Dayao, chairman of the City Council’s Committee on Women’s and Family Affairs.

“The City of Marikina stands with the State as Parens Patriae or Parents of the Nation and as much recognizes the honored duty to update and enhance its local laws to align with the national and international standards, policies and frameworks to better serve the best interests of children within its jurisdiction,” the ordinance said.

In his speech during the program, Teodoro said: “This is also a time for the entire community, especially the government, to

remember and give due importance to our responsibility to children.”

According to the measure, the Local Code on Children in the City of Marikina enacted in 2000 has significantly contributed to the protection and welfare of children in the city. However, it noted that it must be updated to address emerging issues, challenges, and evolving needs of children in the current context.

“There is a need to adopt a new Children’s Code for 2024 that reflects contemporary standards, responds to recent developments, and reinforces the City’s commitment to the holistic growth, protection, and empowerment of children,” it stated.

The ordinance provides that the local government is committed to adhering to the following core principles in all its endeavors for the children in the city:

Right to Life, Survival, and Development— Every child has the inherent right to life, survival, and development that includes the physical, mental, emotional, social, and

said the SBMA Seaport Department has also procured oil spill equipment for effective pollution preparedness and response.

The equipment will be used by the IATF-MIER for oil spill response and other emergency operations, he added.

The Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plan (Sopep) oil spill kit, Yambao said, has a capacity of 416 liters, and uses a foam-filled oil spill boom, as well as oil spill dispersant certified by the Coast Guard.

For 2025, Yambao said the SBMA Seaport Department has planned a P100-million project for the installation of oil spill equipment in various port terminals, including the Naval Supply Depot (NSD) Compound, Ship Repair Facility (SRF) Compound, Boton, and the New Container Terminal (NCT) at the Leyte Wharf.

Aside from addressing emergency situations, the IATF-MIER is also tasked with identifying potential emergency situations that can cause illness or injury to humans and the environment, and propose mitigation efforts to prevent adverse environmental impacts or effects to humans.

cultural aspects of the child’s well-being. Best Interests of the Child—All decisions and actions concerning children made by governments through their courts of law, administrative authorities, legislative bodies, and both public and private social organizations must be done with the best interests of the child as paramount consideration;

Non-Discrimination—Government shall ensure that all children are able to enjoy their rights irrespective of their or their parent’s or legal guardian’s race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression (SOGIE), language, religion, political or other opinion, nationality, ethnic or social origin, property, disability, birth, or other status; Respect for the Views of the Child— Children have the right to be heard and participate in all matters that affect them. The child’s views shall be given due weight and consideration.

Mayor Marcy said that the city’s celebration of the 32nd National Children’s Month was a child-led activity led by 16 barangay child representatives.

hour of electricity if the country were to completely decarbonize.

Salceda also expressed concerns about tax incentives and government funds being spent on decarbonization efforts without counterpart climate financing from developed countries.

“Not a single centavo should come from Filipinos. We are the victims here,” Salceda asserted.

“For every decarbonization effort we undertake, we should be compensated. That’s the essence of the Paris Agreement.”

Salceda stressed that developed nations must take the lead in reducing carbon emissions and provide financial support to developing countries.

“There is no provision in the Paris Agreement that says we

should do this on our own,” Salceda said. “If they want us to contribute to their goals, they must pay us.”

Salceda, meanwhile, paid tribute to Filipino leaders who played pivotal roles in international climate negotiations.

He highlighted Ambassador Bernarditas Muller’s contributions to the UN Green Climate Fund and CCC consultant Baby Supetran’s advocacy for the Loss and Damage Fund, which addresses the impacts of climate change on vulnerable countries.

As the Philippines continues to pursue climate resilience, Salceda reiterated the need for policies that balance environmental sustainability with economic development and social equity.

‘Sustainable Development’–the Mandate for the Future

IBy Henry J. Schumacher

T is good to see that quite a number of organizations have made fundamental shifts to redesign their operations behind sustainable principles. These are sustainability leaders. Designing operations and products with sustainability principles in mind must become the norm in every organization.

Increasingly, society expects more from business than financial sustainability; it expects that companies undertake work to ensure the social and environmental sustainability of their operations and products.

However, capitalism is better than critics try to make it. Capitalism has the ability to change, keeping long-term profits in mind, but declaring money (making money) and purpose (keeping purpose high on the agenda) as twins.

Additionally, investors are forcing companies to think in sustainability. If company managements do not follow, investors will boycott the shares of those organizations.

Given the quarterly focus on record earnings being expected by investors, the question whether this is sufficient “reason-to-be” is only fair. Companies additionally have to realize that the generation of the Millennials is exactly raising the issue of “purpose” of a company. Because of the fact that the issue of “maximizing profits” versus “fair profit and focus on purpose” is raised regularly now, more and more companies are taking “sustainable development” more seriously. One large multinational company is talking about “inclusive capitalism.”

In this context, I like to encourage everybody to also think about a range of issues, such as:

Do products help customers be sustainable?

AS customers’ behaviors change, their demand for sustainable products and services increases. This “virtuous cycle” moves the

society in a more sustainable direction and builds market opportunities at the same time. Demand for electric vehicles, for example, is on an exponential growth curve.

How is trust established and maintained with stakeholder?

INTANGIBLES such as brand image and goodwill are often the most important valuable assets for most organizations. The value of customer loyalty and advocacy never have been more important than in this age of digital transformation—a highly connected world enabled by social media. Trust is built on competence and character. Character is demonstrated through openness, honesty, consistency and follow-through. Figure out what might be important to customers in their decisionmaking process and make it easy for them to access credible, timely and accurate information. Research data suggest that some companies are creating real strategic advantages by adopting sustainability measures that their competitors can’t easily match.

While I try to get the message across that “sustainable development” should be the battle cry of the future, we need to see the future as bringing yet-unforeseen opportunities rather than unanticipated threats. We need to understand that consumers no longer just buy products but buy experiences. Supply chains of the future will have to address the real-time needs of customers, as captured, and interpreted by the data analytics capabilities.

I have a big question: if we could protect human rights, grant everybody the right to vote, establish free markets and let individuals, ideas and goods move throughout the world as easily as possible, there will be peace and prosperity for all? My heart says YES; my mind—unfortunately— has a different opinion.

The consequence: we have to understand that our businesses, communities and our planet deserve a sustainable future, and our hearts and brains have to create an environment that supports equity, sustainability, and expands economic opportunities that will lead to prosperity and peace.

I would appreciate your feedback and your answer to my above question; contact me at hjschumacher59@gmail.com.

PhilRice pushing for sale of half-cup rice in bid to cut yearly 255K MT wastage

By Ada Pelonia @adapelonia

THE Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice)

is pushing for the issuance of an executive order (EO) that will promote the sale of half-cup rice in food establishments of government offices to reduce wastage.

Citing data from the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI), PhilRice development communication division head Hazel Antonio-Beltran said the Philippines wastes 255,000 metric tons (MT) of rice annually, which could feed around 2.79 million Filipinos.

At present, Beltran noted that 47 local government units (LGUs) in the country are implementing the half-cup rice through respective ordinances.

“The (ES) that we proposed through [Private Sector Advisory Council] to President Marcos Jr. is for roll-out first in the government offices soon,” Beltran told reporters on Monday, speaking in Filipino.

“Then when we see that it has a significant effect on wastage and it really reduced the wastage in our government offices, that’s the time we will recommend it for the private sector as well,” she added.

Beltran hoped that the EO would be released next year, adding that they would conduct a study under the order for two years.

She noted that once they gather the data, it can be applied as a reference to promote the policy in restaurants and eventually use it as a basis for creating a bill.

For as long as there’s no available food wastage data from food establishments, “it will be hard to prove its impact,” she said in Filipino, noting that the current data is based only on household wastage.

‘Revive old bill’

MEANWHILE , the Department of Agriculture (DA) called for the revival of the bill that would allow the sale of half-cup of rice.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. filed Senate Bill 1863 when he was a senator during the 16th Congress, which would penalize food establishments refusing to serve half-cup of rice.

DA Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa said Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. is keen on reviving this bill.

“Secretary [Laurel] is really interested in helping, reviving, and crafting a new bill that will hopefully cater to the possibility of having an option [to avail this half-cup rice serving],” de Mesa told reporters on Monday.

In November 2023, Iloilo First District Representative Janette Garin filed House Bill 9536, which mandates restaurants and food establishments to allow serving half-cup portions of rice.

DA rural devt plan now has cold storage, abattoir infra

THE Department of Agriculture (DA)

wants to expand farm infrastructure to include cold storages and slaughterhouses under its Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) scale-up program.

According to Agriculture Undersecretary for Operations Roger Navarro, the DA has many projects under the PRDP scaleup, which will run until 2028.

“The most important is the post-harvest facility for rice and corn and the other one is the cold storages for fishery and for consolidation of our vegetables,” Navarro told reporters partly in Filipino on the sidelines of DA-PRDP Scale-Up Exhibit on Monday.

Meanwhile, Agriculture

Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa explained that the scale-up program is designed to respond to the needs for investment on agri-infrastructures beyond the existing ones.

“The original design of PRDP responded mostly to farm-tomarket roads [and] bridges,” De Mesa told reporters on Monday, speaking partly in Filipino.

“With the scale-up program, it will be focused on other infrastructures that will create a bigger impact in the sector other than roads and bridges,” he added, noting that among these projects will be cold storages and slaughterhouses.

In his speech, DA Assistant Secretary for Operations and PRDP National Project Director U-Nichols Manalo noted the latest updates regarding the program’s implementation.

“In its decade-long run, the original PRDP has funded and completed 503 rural infrastructures worth P31

Peza greenlights ₧201.5-B investments in just 11 mos

By Andrea E. San Juan @andreasanjuan

THE Philippine Economic Zone Authority (Peza) said it has surpassed its P200-billion fullyear target of investment pledges as it has just greenlit a “record-breaking” P201.55 billion in investments from January to November 2024.

The investment promotion agency said this is 43.06 percent higher than the P140.88 billion investments approved in the same 11-month period in 2023, and 14.7 percent higher than the full-year investment pledges of P175.71 billion

The P201.55-billion investment approvals can be translated to 239 new and expansion projects approved in the 11-month period this year.

According to Peza, these projects are expected to generate over $3.9 billion in export earnings and provide direct jobs to over 70,000 Filipinos.

In November 2024 alone, the investment promotion agency said it approved 41 new and expansion projects worth P77.79 billion. These projects are seen to drive $831.02 million in exports and create 30,623 direct jobs.

Among the 41 new and

expansion projects are various types of industries, including 22 in export manufacturing; 10 in the IT and Business Process Management (IT-BPM) sector; 2 domestic projects; 2 ecozone development projects; 1 project into utilies; 3 facilities and 1 into logistics.

Peza said 19 of these projects will be located in Region IV-A (Calabarzon); 7 will be in the National Capital Region (NCR); 4 in Region III or Central Luzon; 8 in Region VII or Central Visayas; 2 will be located in Region X or Northern Mindanao and 1 in Region V or Bicol region.

billion and 667 rural enterprises worth P2.93 billion benefitting more than 3 million Filipinos across the archipelago,” Manalo said.

“Meanwhile, the recently launched PRDP Scale-Up already has a portfolio of 75 approved infrastructure subprojects worth P11.44 billion, 30 of which are already under construction, and 60 proposed enterprise subprojects amounting to P6.31 billion,” he added.

For her part, World Bank Team Leader to the PRDP Mio Takada expressed the international organization’s support for the PRDP since its inception.

“The PRDP is one of the most important projects for the World Bank which is why we decided to continue with the Scale-Up. Today, we will see the massive innovations and day-to-day hard work of all the officials and PRDP team and how all these developments have changed the lives of farmers in the Philippines,” Takada said.

The DA, World Bank, and the European Union opened the PRDP Scale-Up Exhibit in Quezon City wherein 23 proponent groups of the program from North Luzon, South Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao will showcase their products, including heirloom rice, coffee, chocolates, coconut products, seaweeds, and vegetables.

The exhibit will run from December 2-6, 2024, which coincides with the wrap-up meeting of the 18th World BankEuropean Union Implementation Support Mission to the DAPRDP and the 3rd to the DAPRDP Scale-Up. Ada Pelonia

Panga added that the signing of CREATE MORE into law gives Peza “more leverage in promoting the Philippines a the best investment hub in S outheast Asia.”

“We are bridging the East with West and I foresee the positive performance trajectory being sustained further in the coming year,” the Peza chief said. Meanwhile, in the 11-month period this year, Peza said it approved 6 projects of Filipino micro,small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that will bring in P238.121 million in investments and 356 new job opportunities.

“This is in addition to the countless MSMEs engaged in manufacturing, services, transportation, food and beverage, and other industries that benefit from or are integral to the value chain of Peza locators,” the agency said.

Peza Director General Tereso O. Panga pointed out, “As expected, investment approvals would pick up in the last quarter of the year. So far, we have already achieved P201 billion, with one more board meeting left in December. This only proves that investor confidence in the Philippines and in Peza continues to thrive due to the government’s investor-friendly policy direction partnered with the ease of doing business inside our zones.”

1st impeachment complaint filed vs VP Sara

By Jovee Marie N. Dela Cruz @joveemarie

THE first impeachment complaint was filed on Monday against Vice President Sara Duterte at the House of Representatives, citing multiple allegations of grave misconduct and constitutional violations.

The complainants, a coalition of civil society leaders, religious figures, former officials, and sectoral representatives, presented 24 articles of impeachment, accusing Duterte of betraying public trust, engaging in bribery, and committing other high crimes.

The complainants were Teresita Quintos Deles, Fr. Flaviano Villanueva, SVD, Fr. Robert Reyes, Randy Delos Santos (uncle of Tokhang victim Kian Delos Santos), Francis Aquino Dee, Leah Navarro, Sylvia Estrada Claudio, Alicia Murphy, Sr. Mary Grace De Guzman, SFIC, and former Magdalo Rep. Gary Alejano, among others. They were accompanied by former Senator Leila De Lima, who acted as the group’s spokesperson.

The complaint was formally endorsed by Akbayan Partylist Rep. Perci Cendaña, who described it as a critical step in the fight for accountability and justice.

“Today, I formally endorse

the first-ever and historic impeachment complaint filed by our citizens against Vice President Sara Duterte. This moment marks a critical juncture in our nation’s demand for accountability. I stand in full support of the brave citizens calling for Duterte to answer for her blatant violations of the Constitution, egregious corruption, and complicity in mass murder,” he said.

Cendaña emphasized that the impeachment is a necessary step toward ending what he described as a “nightmare” for the Filipino people.

“The effort to hold Sara Duterte accountable is inseparable from the broader campaign to make her father and their allies answer for their high crimes. The Duterte regime’s bloody war on drugs claimed tens of thousands of lives, leaving behind a trail of grieving families demanding justice, closure, and healing. Such closure remains elusive while the perpetrators of these atrocities continue to evade accountability and cling to power,” he added.

Meanwhile, Deles said the Vice President has reduced public office to a platform for violent rhetoric, personal enrichment, elitist entitlement, and a shield for impunity.

“Her actions desecrate our

institutions, and her continued grip on power insults every Filipino who stands for good governance and the rule of law,” Deles said.

De Lima, for her part, underscored the significance of the impeachment complaint.

“Public office is not a throne of privilege; it is a position of trust. Sara Duterte has desecrated that trust with her blatant abuses of power. This impeachment is not just a legal battle but a moral crusade to restore dignity and decency to public service,” he said.

Last Friday, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. stood firm that he does not support calls for the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte, as it would not benefit the Filipino people.

The complaint asserted that Vice President Duterte has violated her constitutional oath and engaged in gross misconduct during her tenure, detailing numerous instances of corruption, abuse of power, and dereliction of duty.

The first charge was for culpable violation of the Constitution and graft and corruption, topped by her failure to properly account for the P125 million in confidential funds granted to the Office of the Vice President (OVP) in 2022.

The second charge is for

bribery and illegal wealth accumulation, topped by the alleged amassing of P111 million in personal accounts and hundreds of millions in joint accounts with her father, Rodrigo Duterte, between 2007 and 2015.

The third, Betrayal of Public Trust, entails her alleged abandonment of duties during Super Typhoon Carina, leaving for Germany in the midst of a crisis, and her failure to condemn Chinese aggression in the West Philippine Sea. The charge on Other High Crimes cited, among others, her alleged direct involvement in extra-judicial killings through the Davao Death Squad during her terms as Mayor.

Meanwhile, the complainants called on Congress to act with urgency and impartiality to uphold the rule of law and hold Vice President Duterte accountable for the serious allegations brought against her.

“Our complaint is a clarion call to dismantle the culture of violence, corruption, and impunity which were the hallmark of the Vice President. Today, we rise for those who can no longer speak for themselves, demanding that Congress take decisive action to uphold truth, justice, and accountability,” Fr. Flaviano Villanueva.

DOE seeks ‘serious’ RE players as 105 projects get show-cause letters

Continued from A16

The DOE issued revised omnibus guidelines last June.

One significant change is the requirement to obtain a certificate of authority (COA) before signing a renewable energy contract.

The COA is a critical step in the development process, as it empowers developers to secure the necessary permits

and conduct essential surveys and prefeasibility activities even prior to the commencement of the official 25-year contract. By allowing these activities to take place earlier, developers can better prepare for project implementation and address potential challenges proactively. This streamlined approach not only accelerates the project timeline but also enhances the overall efficiency of the

development process.

The COA is valid for five years for offshore wind projects, three years for biomass, geothermal, hydropower, ocean and onshore wind projects, two years for floating solar, and one year for land based solar projects.

Additionally, the revised omnibus guidelines simplified the process for obtaining incentives for renewable energy projects. Developers

now secure a certificate of registration (COR) from the DOE after confirming the commercial viability of their projects. In the case of biomass and solar energy projects, developers can secure the

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