Former President Rodrigo Duterte
DAVAO CITY - Former President Rodrigo Duterte spent a total of P4.5 billion in confidential and intelligence funds for 2021, according to the Annual Financial Report of the Commission on Audit on national government agencies.
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IBINANDERA NI Pangulong Bongbong Marcos ang ilan sa mga nagawa ng kanyang administrasyon sa unang 100 araw ng panunungkulan nito.
Bagama’t naunang sinabi ni Marcos na hindi na kailangan itong ihayag
publiko dahil sa maiksing panahon, inilabas
nito sa kanyang
ang mga iba’t-ibang
WHILE CHINA opposes the operation of the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO), the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) is seemingly campaigning for the continuation of the POGO.
Senator Grace Poe also chided PAGCOR for allowing the POGO operations despite its awareness that such form of gambling has been declared illegal in China. She noted that PAGCOR’s position is that POGOs
not be
SULU – Governor Sakur Tan has warned fixers at the Port of Jolo following complaints from ferry passengers that unscrupulous people have been selling tickets way beyond their nominal value.
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A provincial government photo shows
with
the Port Manager of
Lines
Lester
Zamboanga City.
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valid identification document with photo to all public telecommunications entities or direct sellers for the purpose of registration.
Information that will be acquired through the said registration will be treated as confidential unless users authorize access.
Under the law, telecommunications firms are directed to disclose the full name and address of the SIM card users upon a duly issued subpoena or court order. Apart from this, law enforcement agencies conducting probes on crimes committed through mobile phones may submit a written report to the said firms for access to information of the SIM card registration.
The SIM Card Registration Act is the consolidation of bills from the House of Representatives (House Bill No. 14) and the Senate (Senate Bill No. 1310).
Marcos said the signing of the SIM Card Registration Act sets the tone for the administration’s national policy to ensure that technology should only be used to improve people’s lives. “Moving forward, it is my hope that we will be able to enact even more measures to help bring forth the security, progress, and prosperity that we aspire for our Filipino brothers and sisters and for the entire nation,” he said.
He said the signing is long overdue which will now provide the authorities an effective means of regulating the issuance
of SIM cards to curb the spread of spam text messages and scams. It will soon provide law enforcement agencies with the tools needed to resolve crimes perpetrated with the use of these SIM Cards, as well as provide a strong deterrence against the commission of wrongdoing.
The legislation also has provisions making it paramount to protect the confidentiality and data privacy rights of subscribers, which will take effect upon SIM card purchases.
The bill was first introduced during President Rodrigo Duterte’s term following the emergence of so-called pro-Duterte “troll farms” on social media, especially even before the 2016 presidential election. But Duterte reject-
na-Philippines relations, but also hurt the interests of the Philippines,” he said.
Senator Francis Escudero said at least 36 POGO-related criminal cases were recorded from October 1, 2021 to September 24, 2022, or since the law was passed. He cited two cases of trafficking in person; kidnap-for-ransom, 19 cases; kidnapping with serious illegal detention, two cases; and one case of less serious physical injuries.
ed the bill over concerns that this will give rise to a situation of dangerous
state intrusion and surveillance. He even vetoed the proposed law over the
inclusion of social media registration. (Mindanao Examiner)
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She said PAGCOR also insisted that it does not allow the marketing of online gambling in jurisdictions where it is not allowed, even as most POGOs and service operators in the Philippines cater to Chinese nationals.
“Are you just turning a blind eye? Because if you can tell us categorically that there are no players from China, because it is prohibited, that’s a big lie. Basically, we are condoning them to violate their own laws. You are allowing these POGOs to operate here knowing full well that their clients or their customers are from a country
where online gaming is illegal,” Poe told PAGCOR officials during a recent hearing.
China’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Huang Xilian, has repeatedly warned that the proliferation of crime linked to POGO are harmful to relations between the two nations, adding Beijing strongly opposes all forms of gambling and will continue to take strong measures against it.
“According to the Chinese laws and regulations, gambling in whatever form by Chinese citizens, be it online gambling or gambling overseas, is illegal. Crimes induced by and associated with online gambling not only harm China’s interests and Chi-
Escudero said in 2019, a total of 496,620 POGO-related criminal incidents were recorded; and in 2020, there were 394, 468 criminal incidents reported; and in 2021, there were 375,731 cases.
Duterte
POGO operations started during the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte despite the proliferation of crimes such as money laundering, prostitution, and human trafficking.
The Anti-Money Laundering Council also reported that P14 billion of the P54 billion in transactions by POGO operators from 2017 to 2019 was linked to suspicious activities, including drug trafficking.
Duterte had refused to shut down the POGO operations, citing the huge revenues the government gets from the gambling industry. (Bibo Nueva España, Mindanao Examiner)
Continued from page 1Continued from page 1 sentenced him to reclusion perpetua or up to 40 years in prison for each of the eight cases.
Ampatuan, scion of a political family, behind the gruesome murder of 58 people, mostly journalists, in Maguindanao province in December 2019. His brothers Zaldy and Andal were convicted of 57 counts of murder in 2009, although he was acquitted in the case.
The Sandiganbayan said it found Ampatuan guilty beyond reasonable doubt on four counts of graft and four counts of malversation of public funds through falsification of public documents.
This was also reported by CNN Philippines which said that Ampatuan was sentenced to reclusion perpetua, or 20 to 40 years of jail time, for each of the first three counts of malversation of public funds, 14 to 18 years for the fourth count of malversation, and six to eight years of prison time for each count of graft.
The report, quoting the decision of Sandiganbayan, said that between December 2008 and September 2009, Ampatuan falsified public documents to make it appear that over 79 million in public funds were used to buy rice, sardines, brown sugar, and dried fish from different
suppliers even without such procurement being made for the provincial government.
Suppliers that turned out to be fictitious were H&S Merchandise, Nestor Merchandise, N&S Merchandise, and Isulan General Merchandise. The Department of Trade and Industry, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and the Business Permits and Licensing Section of Isulan, Maguindanao attested that none of these suppliers had been registered and issued permits to conduct business.
The court said Ali Abpi, former Maguindanao Provincial Budget Officer and member of the province's Bids and Awards Committee, was also found guilty of five counts of graft and five counts of malversation of public funds. Abpi was sentenced to reclusion perpetua or up to 40 years jail time for each of the first four counts of malversation, 14 to 18 years of imprisonment for the fifth count of malversation and six to eight years of jail time for each of the five counts of graft.
The court ordered Ampatuan and Abpi to pay 79.75 million, the amount of the diverted funds. They were also permanently barred from holding public office.
“Pieces of evidence have proven beyond doubt
that said accused deliberately and maliciously orchestrated the simulated purchases from fictitious suppliers in order to divert public funds for their benefit. The absence of public bidding and the resort to a negotiated procurement without legal cause bespeak not only of accused Ampatuan and Abpi's breach of their sworn duty as public officials, but also of their fraudulent and malevolent intent to steal public funds,” the Sandiganbayan said in its 162page decision.
CNN Philippines also reported that Ampatuan defended himself from the allegations, saying his signatures were forged and computer generated and that he was out of the country on the recorded dates of purchase, but prosecution witnesses do not know his signature, and some purchases did not have his signatures.
“We are not persuaded, without clear, positive, and convincing evidence, there is, therefore, no basis to declare the signatures of accused Ampatuan on the subject documents as forgeries. Accused Ampatuan cannot evade culpability by the simple expedient of denying his signatures on the disputed documents,” the court said. (Mindanao Examiner, CNN Philippines)
DAVAO CITY - Damosa Land bags the Best Eco-Friendly Housing Development for Ameria and Special Recognition in Sustainable Design and Construction at the 10th PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards held recently at Fairmont Makati hotel in Makati City.
Recognized for its innovative properties and sustainably-built communities, Damosa Land proves its commitment to upholding future-proof developments for the Mindanaoans.
Ameria, a premiere subdivision in Davao del Norte, embodies the company’s vision to uphold a sustainable recovery in the province. Davao. Showcasing the agricultural heritage in the South, it is a community that proudly offers wide open spaces and eco-friendly houses to its future dwellers.
Partnering with Connovate Philippines, a producer of high-performance concrete, houses
in Ameria are known to be durable, future-proof, and environment-friendly. This is because the materials used in their construction emit less carbon footprint and are known to provide a 100-year lifespan – a strong testament to Ameria’s commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly housing practices.
As the real estate industry adapts to the changing market landscape, PropertyGuru Philippines recognizes developers, like Damosa Land, which are on top of the shifting demand and are advocates for resilient progress.
Known as a homegrown developer of Davao, the company has already established its ground through a wide array of eco-friendly properties in the region whether it be for residential, commercial, or industrial use. A common theme amongst all of their properties is that they always look out for environment-friendly
alternatives that will push for a future-ready community amongst their investors.
Damosa Land was also nominated and shortlisted at the PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards for the following categories: Best MixedUse Development for Bridgeport and Best Waterfront Condo Development for Bridgeport Park.
“I am very happy to witness Damosa Land fulfill another milestone and be recognized for our efforts in pushing for future-ready developments in Mindanao. We have always aspired to establish a sustainable and progressive growth for our fellow Mindanaoans.”
“This award will surely serve as our motivation to work harder in building communities that further showcase the beauty of our region and our unique culture,” said Damosa Land President Ricardo Lagdameo. (Mindanao Examiner)
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The report noted that the Office of the President under Duterte spent P2.25 billion on confidential expenses while another P2.25 billion was spent on intelligence expenses.
The report is prepared annually by the commission, as mandated by the Constitution and the Government Auditing Code of the Philippines.
A total of P9.02 billion was spent by the national government for confidential and intelligence expenses, with P3.995 billion for confidential expenses and P5.086 billion for intel-
ligence expenses.
The confidential and intelligence expenses of the Department of National Defense amount to P1.860 billion (P1.838 billion intelligence and P22.25 million confidential) while the Department of the Interior and Local Government totals P908.45 million (P848.45 million intelligence and P60 million confidential).
The Department of Transportation also spent P6.85 million on confidential expenses and P10 million on intelligence expenses.
Other government agencies have the following
confidential expenses:
1. Department of Justice P258.21 million
2. Department of Finance P60.625 million
3. Department of Foreign Affairs P31.74 million
4. Department of Social Welfare and Development P20.038 million
5. Department of Environment and Natural Resources P15 million
A copy of the financial report was received by the office of President Bongbong Marcos on September 29, 2022. The report can be downloaded from the COA website. (Adrian Ayalin, ABS-CBN News)
MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL -
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) have partnered to urge and empower consumers, as well as the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to use digital technology or the Internet.
DTI Misamis Occidental Provincial Director Jane Marie Tabucan acknowledged the convenience of online shopping. “Thanks to digital transformation, consumers can now shop online from the comfort of their homes and have their purchases delivered right to their doors,” she said.
Tabucan said con-
sumers should have a conscious mindset and make more informed and sustainable choices when purchasing goods and services via online platforms and she also urged businesses to adopt sustainable choices when purchasing goods and services via online platforms.
“Digitalization has an enormous potential to support progress towards sustainability. We call on multi-stakeholder collaboration to make online shopping more sustainable knowing fully that “humans have unlimited needs, but the planet has limited capacity to satisfy them,” she said.
DICT Misamis Occidental Provincial Officer
Engr. Eugene Raposala III said they have many programs such as free Wi-Fi, MSME’s support like cyber security training, data privacy. “All of us are doing online transactions and sometimes we give our information online, others are training on how to transform your business from an ordinary business to digital business,’’ he said.
“The best thing to do is protect your identity, protect your rights, don’t post your ID in your Facebook and social media account and the best way is to think before you click. All of the details and transactions that you will be doing are all at your fingertips,” he added. (Shaine Mae Nagtalon)
The Regional Bantay Asin Task Force said it has inspected two major salt distributors here to check whether they have complied with the addition of iodine to salt as required in the Act for Salt Iodization Nationwide or the Republic Act 8172.
Representatives of salt distributors Arvin International Marketing Incorporated and Artemis Salt Corporation, said they are compliant with the Republic Act 8172.
The addition of iodine to salt is intended for animal and human consumption, which helps to eliminate micronutrient malnutrition in the country.
Arlie Damiles, nutrition officer of National Nutrition Council, said the Food and Drugs Administration requirement for the salt manufacturers, resellers and distributors, should have at least 30-70 parts per million iodine content in salt. Mean-
while, households should have at least 15 parts per million.
“Importante kaayo nga ang gina-consume nato is iodized salt. Kana siya makatabang labi na ma-prevent nato ang Iodine Deficiency Disorder. Dako kaayo ang ikatabang sa iodine sa growth and development sa usa ka bata,” she said.
She said iodine in salt is volatile since it evaporates if not stored proper-
ly and this is why iodized salt should not be exposed directly under sunlight. It should also be far from hot surfaces or areas such as burners or where there is heat.
Iodized salt should be placed in a non-transparent container, preferably dark color to avoid evaporation. When cooking, Damiles said it is important to add salt to the dish when food is ready to be served.
(Jasper Marie Rucat)PAGADIAN CITY – The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao recently held a multi-stakeholders consultation meeting here, the first of its kind outside the BARMM.
Governor Victor Yu and Rep. Divina Grace Yu attended the meeting held at the Gift Pavilion in Lumbia District.
The conference discussed the 12-point priority agenda of the BARMM which include the following: Stronger BARMM Bureaucracy, Digital Infrastructure and E-Governance, Agri-Fishery Productivity and Food Security, Investment in
Transportation Communications and Other Strategic Infrastructure, Energy Security, Social Protection and Universal Health Care, Disaster Resilience and Climate Change Adaptation, Quality and Holistic Education, Support to Marawi Rehabilitation, Peace Justice and Security, Bangsamoro Culture, Heritage Identity and Diversity.
Yu, who welcomed the participants, also reiterated the priority programs of his administrationHealth, Education and Environment, Agriculture, Roads / Infrastructure, Tourism and Security.
He also take pride of his initiatives in estab-
lishing the Bangsamoro Provincial Consultative Council and the Lumad Elders Association to take care of the needs of the Bangsamoro people and the Subanen community respectively in Zamboanga del Sur province as part of his inclusive administration where he pledged to extend government services to all sectors of the province.
BARMM representatives thanked Yu and the provincial government and other stakeholders, for his warm reception and benevolent programs and equality to Bangsamoro people. (Mindanao Examiner)
Continued from page 1Continued from page 1 withdrawn following their report on the preschool mass shooting that raised questions about their ethics and professionalism.
Immigration Bureau deputy chief Maj. Gen. Archayon Kraithong said Anna Coren and Daniel Hodge departed from Suvarnabhumi airport on Thai Airways International flight TG638 bound for Hong Kong. They left for the airport from the bureau's Suan Phlu office, he said.
The bureau revoked their visas after they reported the story from the crime scene inside the child care centre where 23 children had been murdered. The two had en-
tered the country on tourist visas, which did not allow them to work in the country.
National police chief Gen. Damrongsak Kittiprapas said Coren and Hodge were fined 5,000 baht each for violating tourist visa regulations. They would not face criminal charges because the reporters had no intention to damage any evidence at the crime scene, and were not put on the immigration blacklist, he added.
Damrongsak said the duo apologised for their actions.
Thirty-six people were slain, two dozen of them children, at the day care center in Na Klang district of Nong Bua Lamphu, by
former police Sgt. Panya Khamrab who later shot himself dead.
Lt Gen Yanyong Vejosot, chief of the Provincial Police Region 4, has removed his deputy, Maj. Gen. Paisal Luesomboon, from the position of spokesman for the regional police office. He was replaced by another deputy, Maj Gen Putthipong Musikul.
The reason for the change was not given, but it was believed to be for his inappropriate behavior. Paisal was heard laughing during a phone interview with a broadcaster when he was asked about the number of victims. Police Region 4 includes Nong Bua Lamphu province. (Bangkok Post)
THE UNITED States Agency for International Development (USAID) and its Philippine partners recently gathered more than 750 representatives from government, the private sector, and civil society to highlight the role of local governments in ensuring internet access for marginalized and remote communities across the country.
USAID’s Better Access and Connectivity (BEACON) and Cities for Enhanced Governance and Engagement (CHANGE) projects, in collaboration with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the Department of the Interior and Local Government, and the League of Cities of the Philippines, organized the “Improving Broadband Internet Connectivity in Cities and LGUs” conference where participants were able to share best practices in addressing internet connectivity issues and strengthening policies on ICT governance, financing, and investment.
The COVID-19 pandemic compelled cities to quickly adopt ICT approaches to mitigate impacts, improve accessibility to public services, promote transparency
in government, and enhance citizens’ participation in governance.
Cities are also finding ways to improve their business environment for ICT services to spur economic activity and create more jobs. However, reliable internet connectivity remains a challenge in many cities and municipalities across the country.
A 2021 survey by Pulse Asia found that about 63% of adult Filipinos had access to the internet, with internet access and usage lowest in Mindanao at 47%.
“With affordable and secure internet connectivity, the government can deliver basic services to more people, create avenues for collective action and stronger partnerships, and improve transparency and accountability in governance. As a friend, partner, and ally, the U.S. government, through USAID, will continue to support the Philippine government in building a future where digital technology promotes inclusive growth, fosters resilient and democratic societies, and empowers all, including the most vulnerable,” said USAID Mission Director Ryan Washburn.
DICT Assistant Sec-
retary Maria Teresa Camba said their vision is to promote an inclusive and sustainable digitally empowered Philippines for all Filipinos where the specific needs of each city and municipality, even those in hard-to-reach islands, can be addressed in order to help them thrive and grow in the digital economy.
USAID said it supports the Philippine government in improving internet connectivity by sharing potential solutions and supporting the development of implementable policies. This assistance, it added, is in line with the U.S. government’s commitment to foster economic growth through improved digital connectivity.
Through its Cities Development Initiative, USAID said it has been working with nine secondary cities across the country to boost the cities’ economic competitiveness, resilience, and responsive governance, with most of the cities becoming trailblazers in providing e-services to citizens, such as online processes for payments and applications for business and construction permitting, and online payment systems for water services. (Mindanao Examiner)
ZAMBOANGA CITY
MANILA
DAVAO CITY
CEBU CITY
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Tan also warned shipping lines not to sell tickets to fixers. The same problem is rampant in Zamboanga City where tickets with fictitious names of passengers are openly sold by fixers at a higher price.
It was unknown how fixers managed to purchase tickets in bulk since shipping lines require a valid government identification card from passengers.
The governor also met recently with Ric Lester Valencia, the Port Manager of Montenegro Shipping Lines in Zamboanga City, to personally address, assess and finally put an end to the concerns of the passengers travelling from Zamboanga to Jolo as well as Jolo to Zamboanga.
Among the concerns and issues discussed were the proliferation of fixers, the sanitary and cleanliness of vessels and other public transportation concerns that had reached Tan.
During the meeting, it was agreed that the allowable passengers should only be equal to the bed capacity of the vessels to avoid overloading and that shipping lines should regularly and thoroughly inspect their vessels to improve cleanliness.
Valencia said they are committed to the safety of the passengers and will fully adhere to the actions that will be taken to fully resolve the public concerns. He as-
sured Tan that they will also do an internal assessment to further improve their services and urged the travelling public to directly inform them of any irregularities so that they can take immediate action.
The governor said he will also meet with other stakeholders, including the security forces deployed at the Port of Jolo, and Brigadier General Neil Alinsangan, regional director of the police in Zamboanga Peninsula, to help in addressing the concerns.
Tan said he will personally monitor the development of the interventions that will be put in place and told shipping lines plying to Sulu to adhere to take measures in addressing the problems raised by passengers.
He previously met with the Regional Ports Management Authority – Jolo Port Manager Jude Jaafar and his staff, and discussed many concerns relayed to him by the business community and travellers regarding the handling of cargo and the inconveniences of passengers.
Traders and boat passengers have complained to Tan regarding many issues, including the presence of fixers at the Port of Jolo, and the operation of receiving, conveying, and loading or unloading merchandise on the pier. (Mindanao Examiner)
Continued from page 1Continued from page 1 programa ng kanyang administrasyon.
Una na rito ang pagbabayad sa mga unpaid claims na Special Risk Allowance (SRA) sa mga health workers mula sa pribado at pampublikong sektor. Ayon kay Marcos, may pondong inilabas ang Department of Budget and Management na halos P1.4 bilyon.
Maraming mga medical workers ang nagrereklamo na walang natanggap na SRA.
Maging sa Zamboanga City Medical Center ay maraming mga medical workers ang
walang nakuhang SRA mula June-December ng 2021 at April-October ng kasalukuyang taon.
Sinabi rin ng Marcos na nakabalik na rin ang 28 milyong magaaral sa kanilang klase o face-to-face learning set up. Pinalawig rin, ani Marcos, ang Libreng Sakay Program para sa mga estudyante habang sinimulan na rin palakasin ang ekonomiya sa pamamagitan nang panghihikayat sa mga negosyante na mamuhunan sa bansa.
Maging ang mga state visits ng Pangulo sa iba’tibang bansa ay malaki ang naitulong sa negosyo da-
hil sa mga pledges ng mga investors at sa maraming trabaho na mabibigyan nito.
Sinabi pa ni Marcos na may dagdag pondo na rin para sa mga magsasaka sa ilalim ng High Value Crop Program, gayun rin sa mga nasalanta ng kalamidad sa bansa.
Inilahad rin ni Marcos ang suporta ng kanyang pamahalaan sa Mindanao peace process at sa pag-apruba nito sa mga miyembro ng Bangsamoro Transition Authority sa autonomous region. (Alvin Baltazar, Mindanao Examiner)
FAITH IS a very rich virtue. Much like the virtue of charity it has many definitions. Faith in God means to believe, to trust and to obey Him. St. Thomas Aquinas calls faith the door to spiritual life. It is the door to our relationship with God.
One of the definitions of faith in the Catechism of the Catholic Church states that, “Faith is first of all a personal adherence of man to God. At the same time, and inseparably, it is a free assent to the whole truth that God has revealed. As personal adherence to God and assent to his truth, Christian faith differs from our faith in any human person. It is right and just to entrust oneself wholly to God and to believe absolutely what he says. It would be futile and false to place such faith in a creature (both humans and created things).” (CCC 150)
We practice faith in our everyday life and oftentimes we are not aware of it. We have faith in a jeepney driver that he would drive us safely to our intended destination. We have faith in a restaurant where we eat, that the food served is safe to consume. We have faith in our barber or hairdresser, that he or she would cut our hair according to our instructions. Faith is important in our dealings with others otherwise we would not interact with anyone nor go out of the house anymore because we trust no one.
Faith in God is not just a belief that He exists because even the demons do that. “You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.” (James 2:19) But it is also trusting in God’s goodness who has previously shown love and care for us on many occasions.
And it is continually trusting in Him even at times we could not understand what He does in our lives especially when we suffer because we trust that it is for our good (see Romans 8:28). Even without the Bible telling us that God is someone who is good, we could ascertain it from the way the universe was created.
The universe was made with order, beauty and with provisions to live in it, such as water, the air we breathe, sources of food, etc. If someone
gives you a nice gift or provides you with the basic needs in life you can conclude that this person is good and that he or she loves you and cares for you.
After having trusted God as a Person, it will simply follow that we should also trust His teachings. Belief in God’s teachings through the Word of God or the Bible for example does not mean we don’t use our intelligence anymore and just accept all His teachings by heart.
An example would be God revealing to us that He is a Being composed of Three Persons, God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit which is something we can analyze, appreciate and later on decide to believe or make an act of faith to believe. Or God’s teachings on the afterlife of Heaven, Hell and Purgatory that we would have not known unless God revealed these to us.
These teachings are not contrary to reason because they appeal to our intellect precisely because they are reasonable or they make sense and because God is the God of Truth or even more accurately, He is Truth Himself (John 14:6). Nevertheless, it would also mean that we could not totally understand these teachings in complete detail in this life because these are mysteries, and can only be fully understood in the next life. Faith comes when we trust what we can’t fully know.
Lastly, faith in God also means obedience to Him and to His commandments. Obedience means our faith is not just in words but most importantly in deeds.
“As the body without spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.” (James 2:26) God’s Ten Commandments and The Beatitudes are an expression of His character. God’s nature is goodness, kindness, love, justice, mercy, humility, generosity, chastity, etc. The goal is to become like God through obedience (imitating Christ’s obedience to the Father) so as to share in God’s Divine Life partially here on earth and fully later on in heaven. “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1)
IN THE gospel, there is a part where Christ lamented about the lack of faith of the people. “This generation is an evil generation,” he said. “It seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it, except the sign of Jonah.” (Lk 11,29)
We need to understand that faith is the original and ultimate source of truth about everything—about God, about ourselves, about the world and the whole of creation. We need to understand that faith is a gift from God the Creator who wishes to share his knowledge of everything with us who have been created to be like him, his image and likeness, sharers of his divine life and nature.
Faith gives us the overall picture of things. While it has to be learned, and the learning process obviously requires certain stages, not to mention tremendous effort also, we need to understand that the pursuit to have the fullness of faith should be of prime importance to us. We need to do everything to acquire that faith in its fullness.
We have to be wary of our tendency to set aside faith or at least to have recourse to it only from time to time, because we may feel that with our human knowledge brought about by our sciences, technologies, philosophies and ideologies, etc., we can already be on our own and declare some independence from God and from the faith that he gives us.
Part of the problem we have in this regard is that belief that by resorting to faith, we would be undermining our human powers, our capacity to know, our reason, etc. Nothing can be farther from the truth. Faith, in fact, requires the full use of our human faculties. It does not do away with them, nor treat them as unimportant. Faith
would not be faith if it ignores our reason.
We just have to realize that our reason alone cannot cope with all the reality and the truths that are relevant to us. These are truths that are spiritual and supernatural in character, and therefore are beyond what our human powers can handle.
But despite the limitations of our human powers, we have the capacity to live by faith if only we are humble enough to accept the truths of our faith since they are given to us not just by a human authority but by God himself who reveals himself in Christ who in turns makes himself present and actively intervening in our lives, through the Church and the many instrumentalities in the Church.
For this, we really need to have a living contact with Christ who is the fullness of God’s revelation to us. He is the substance, the content and the spirit of our faith. So, the first thing that we have to do is to always look for him in whatever thing we are thinking, saying or doing. We need to check our attitudes and dispositions. Do we really look for him, in the manner spelled out by Christ himself, that is, with constancy and determination? Christ said: “Ask, and it shall be given you. Seek, and you shall find. Knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” (Mt 7,7)
What obviously would help is the habit of reading and meditating on the gospel, at least for a few minutes everyday. In that way, we get to know Christ better, and to familiarize ourselves with his words, deeds and reactions to the different situations he encountered. Let’s remember that since he is “the way, the truth and the life,” everything in him will always be a guide to us.
government.
“As I share your club’s conviction in the importance of upholding the universal right of free speech and press freedom as well as giving and receiving accurate information, I’m committed to remain open with you, constantly communicating our progress as we move forward. I urge you to effectively communicate to the public the government’s efforts and initiatives towards our country’s development,” he said.
Whatever difficulties the press may encounter, Marcos made a commitment to always be ready “to lend an ear and listen to you and your concerns.”
PRESIDENT BONGBONG Marcos has vowed to protect free speech and press freedom in the country and called on members of the media to help effectively communicate government efforts.
Marcos made this remark during a recent event organized by the Manila Overseas Press Club (MOPC) at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza in Pasay City, where he reiterated that his administration will maintain open lines of communication with the media, which he considers an important partner of the
The President also underscored the crucial role of the press in building an active citizenry that contributes to society’s development. “The nation counts on the media in improving access to information and increasing awareness on issues that affect our country and the world. Your proactive participation in keeping a well-informed citizenry forms part of our collective goal to empower Filipinos and establish a more robust Philippines,” he said.
Marcos assured the members of the media that his government would continue to articulate its plans to the press, including the MOPC, the oldest press club in the Philippines, founded in 1945. (OPS, Mindanao Examiner)
GINGER IS helpful for sore and tired muscles. Ginger is effective for inflammation, as are pain relievers. In a study of patients with knee arthritis, pure ginger juice reduced stiffness and pain by 40%. Ginger is also great for nausea, quick healing and nurturing your voice.
Salabat (Ginger tea):Salabat tea):
Try to drink a cup of hot salabat in the morning and around afternoon. According to Dr Rafael Castillo, it’s not just for improving the voice because it has many benefits.
1. Improves blood circulation - It helps im-
prove blood circulation especially for those with High blood pressure or high cholesterol. It helps to cleanse the bloodstream.
2. Strengthens Immune System - It has Gingerols and Gingerdiol that help fight viruses and
bacteria, and boost our immunity. It also helps fight off cancer cells.
3. Eliminates the aches and pains caused by monthly visits or dysmenorrhea.
4. Reduces inflammation or inflammation - It helps to reduce arthritis, and pain in other parts of the body.
5. For stress - Brings a smile to the lips as it drives away stress. It helps to calm our nerves.
6. Regulates digestion and absorption or absorption of nutrients from our foods.
7. It helps to improve memory and other functions of our brain.
Good for two. Golden Haven Boalan in Zamboanga. Near main gate about 20 meters,
pathwalk, near a tree.
location, Phase 1, Section
and Section 17.
It said the world-renowned Island of Boracay was awarded the “Top Island in Asia.”
Of the Top Ten Islands,
Palawan ranked eighth. The Philippines was also awarded one of the Top Countries in the World ranking 30th.
Other citations of the country in the CNT Readers’ Choice Awards, ranked by almost a quarter of a million voters, in-
clude Top Resort in Asia awards for Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort (5th), El Nido Resort – Pangulasian Island (8th), and Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa, Cebu (20th).
“We are extremely grateful for these international awards for the Philippines based on the opinion and experience of travelers from all over the world. As we usher in this new era of travel post-pandemic, our focus is to continue building confidence towards travel to the country by ensuring improvement in ease of access, prioritizing tourist safety and convenience, and encouraging sustainable tourism practices,” Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said.
She said recognitions such as these affirm the efforts to herald not only
the country’s natural wonders but also the readiness to become the premier tourist destination in Asia.
“The Department of Tourism is one with all our tourism stakeholders, from the local government units, private sector partners, and our fellowmen in celebrating these victories for the Philippines from Condé Nast Traveler.”
“We are confident that the acclaim for our flagship destinations will help garner more international interest for our country. With President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s thrust to expand and equalize tourism opportunities nationwide, the development and promotion of our other emerging destinations will follow suit soon,” Frasco said.
Palawan, which gar-
nered an 88.99 rating, is joined by equally heralded island destinations from Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, and Japan in the CNT Asia list.
“With the relaxation of the Philippines’ mask mandate and our efforts towards the continuous review and recalibration of the country’s existing health and safety protocols, taking into consideration the current health situation, and benchmarking on the best practices of ASEAN countries, our tourists can now all the more enjoy our nature-based tourism destinations like Boracay and Palawan all over the archipelago while still being assured that their health and well-being remain our priority,” Frasco said. (Cebu Examiner)
CEBU – Over 3,700 workers who lost their jobs at the Mactan Economic Zone in Lapu-Lapu City received financial aid from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
DSWD said it released some P18.2 million to at least 3,744 retrenched workers of Sports City Incorporated. “The displaced workers received cash aid and family food packs through the Assistance
to Individuals in Crisis Situation during the convergence activity organized by several offices to assist the individuals affected by the closure of the factory,” DSWD said.
Alan Tanjusay, Undersecretary for Inclusive and Sustainable Peace, reiterated the instruction of President Bongbong Marcos and DSWD Secretary Erwin Tulfo to help the workers immediately.
Before the distribution of assistance, the
DSWD, together with the representatives from the city government and the offices of the congressional representatives, and other government agencies, conducted a multi-stakeholders meeting to see how they can help those who lost their jobs.
The DSWD said it extended assistance to the affected workers following the request from the city government. (Zaldy De Layola)
TACLOBAN CITY – A whale shark was decapitated by the propeller of a cargo ship in Sogod Bay in San Ricardo town in Southern Leyte province.
San Ricardo municipal agriculturist Lauro Elejerde, Jr. said the incident happened recently. The name of the cargo vessel was not made public.
“The whale shark’s body was totally separated and it's very obvious that a propeller of the cargo vessel slashed the marine mammal,” Elejerde told the Philippine News Agency in a phone interview.
The four-meter-long shark was found just a few meters away from Benit Port, the gateway of Leyte Island from Mindanao. Cargo vessels have regular trips between Southern Leyte and Surigao.
Elejerde said it took two hours for divers from the Philippine Coast Guard to pull the carcass to the shore since the upper limb sank to the sea floor. The Philippine Coast Guard buried the dead shark after collecting tissue samples.
The Port of Benit is located at the opening of Sogod Bay, a migratory area of whale sharks feasting on zooplankton, according to Elejerde.
Whale sharks have been attracting divers in Sogod Bay over the years.
Whale shark is a large elasmobranch of the family Rhincodontidae characterized externally by a broad, flattened head, a huge and nearly terminal mouth, very large gill slits, three prominent longitudinal ridges on its upper flanks, a large first dorsal fin, a semi-lunate caudal fin and a unique pattern of light spots and stripes on a dark background. (Sarwell Meniano)