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June 30, 2024 — In a scathing critique, ACT Teachers Partylist Representative France Castro slammed Vice President Sara Duterte over her recent declaration of not requesting confidential funds for the 2025 budget, labeling it as a hollow gesture aimed at deflecting accountability. Castro, known for her advocacy on government transparency, criticized Duterte for boasting about forgoing confidential funds, which are not mandated for her office in the first place. "Why should she boast about not requesting funds that her office is not supposed to have? This is merely a distraction from the unresolved issues surrounding her past use of such funds," Castro pointed out. The legislator raised concerns over Duterte's alleged mishandling of P125 million in confidential funds in 2022, which reportedly were spent within a mere 11 days without proper accountability. "She has yet to satisfactorily explain the utilization of these funds in 2022 and subsequent years," Castro ...

June 30, 2024 - The Philippine Society of Nephrology (PSN) expressed its strong support for PhilHealth's forthcoming plan to expand its benefit package coverage for hemodialysis (HD) treatments. In a statement released today, the PSN called the development a "significant advancement" in ensuring Filipinos with renal disease receive necessary treatment without facing excessive financial burden. The PSN has long advocated for accessible and comprehensive renal care, and PhilHealth's initiative aligns with the organization's mission to support patients and their families. The statement reads, "PSN extends our gratitude to PhilHealth and the government for prioritizing the needs of patients with renal disease and for their continuous efforts to improve the healthcare system." The PSN pledged its continued commitment to working with the Department of Health, PhilHealth, and other stakeholders to further enhance the quality of renal care services in the Phili...

June 30, 2024 - The Land Transportation Office (LTO) will be implementing a "No Plate, No Travel" policy for tricycles in Quezon City starting July 1, 2024. This policy is in accordance with Republic Act No. 4136, Section 18, or the "Use of Number Plates," which mandates the proper use of vehicle plates. The main goal of this policy is to ensure road safety and order in cooperation with the Quezon City government. Key Points of the Policy: No tricycle without a plate will be allowed to operate on Quezon City roads. Tricycle drivers without plates will face apprehension and penalties. The LTO is working closely with the Quezon City government to ensure the smooth implementation of the policy. Benefits of the Policy: Improved road safety for both tricycle passengers and other motorists. Reduced number of colorum or illegally operating tricycles. More efficient enforcement of traffic laws. What Tricycle Drivers Need to Do: Ensure that their tricycles have valid LTO pl...

June 30, 2024 - In response to President Marcos' deliberation on the next Secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd), the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) underscored the need for a profound reorientation of the government's education agenda. ACT Chairperson Vladimer Quetua emphasized that merely appointing a new DepEd Secretary would not suffice without addressing deeper systemic issues. "Regardless of who the President appoints as DepEd Secretary, if the primary objective remains to boost our international rankings to enhance Filipino workers' marketability abroad, we cannot expect meaningful change in education," stated Quetua. Highlighting the inadequacies in education funding and infrastructure, Quetua criticized the Marcos administration's austerity measures in the education sector. "Without addressing the severe shortages in classrooms, facilities, teachers, staff, and resources, the dismal state of our schools will persist," he adde...

June 30, 2024 - The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) advises the public that their hotline number (1-384), will be temporarily unavailable due to a scheduled system maintenance. The agency apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause. While the hotline is down, consumers and businesses can still reach the DTI for inquiries and concerns through the following alternative channels: Email: The DTI encourages the public to send their inquiries through email at ask@dti.gov.ph. This email address is specifically dedicated for receiving queries and concerns from the public. DTI personnel regularly monitor this email address and aim to respond to inquiries within a reasonable timeframe. Facebook: The DTI maintains an active Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/DTI.Philippines/ . The public can send private messages to the DTI through Facebook Messenger. DTI social media handlers are available to respond to inquiries during regular working hours. The DTI plays a vital role in pro...

June 30, 2024 – In a move to simplify the process of real property transactions, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has abolished the five-year expiration date for electronic Certificates Authorizing Registration (eCARs). This change is implemented under Revenue Regulation (RR) No. 12-2024, which takes effect on July 5, 2024. Previously, eCARs – a BIR-issued document that verifies the payment of property taxes and allows the transfer of ownership – were only valid for five years. Taxpayers who failed to present the eCAR within that timeframe were required to request a reissuance, causing unnecessary burden and delay. “The eCAR is now valid until its presentation to the Registry of Deeds (RD),” said BIR Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. “We have removed the five-year validity period for the benefit of taxpayers. Under the Ease of Paying Taxes Act, the BIR aims to be a service-oriented agency, and this change reflects that commitment.” The new regulation applies only to eCARs issued el...

The OWWA Rebate Program is an initiative by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who have been OWWA members for ten years or more. This program aims to return a portion of the membership fees OFWs have contributed to OWWA every two years. How much can I get from the OWWA Rebate? The amount you receive from the rebate depends on the number of years you've been a member and the total amount of your contributions. A qualified OFW can receive anywhere from Php 941.25 to Php 13,177.50 . Who is eligible for the OWWA Rebate? To be eligible for the OWWA Rebate, you need to meet the following requirements: You have been an OWWA member for 10 years or more up to December 31, 2017 . You have made five (5) or more membership contributions . Neither you nor your family has previously availed of any OWWA program or service. You are a legal beneficiary of a deceased QUALIFIED OFW . How to Apply for the OWWA Rebate You can apply for the OWWA Re...

Child labor is a complex issue with devastating consequences for children around the world. The Philippines is taking a stand against this practice through the National Council Against Child Labor (NCACL), a powerful collaboration between government agencies dedicated to protecting children's rights. A United Front Against Child Labor Established in 2019 by Executive Order No. 92, the NCACL brings together 19 government agencies under a single banner. This united front ensures a comprehensive approach to tackling child labor. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) serves as the Chairperson, providing leadership and expertise in labor regulations. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) acts as Co-Chairperson, bringing their knowledge of social welfare programs and vulnerable communities. The remaining 17 agencies each contribute their specific strengths to the council's efforts. Beyond Legislation: A Multifaceted Approach The NCACL's role goes beyon...

June 30, 2024 - Sheikha Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan, wife of the UAE President, welcomed Louise Araneta-Marcos, the First Lady of the Philippines, on her working visit to the UAE. The meeting, held at Qasr Al Bahr in Abu Dhabi, focused on strengthening ties between the two nations, particularly in culture, arts, and heritage. Both First Ladies expressed their desire to enhance cooperation in these areas. A particular focus was placed on enriching the cultural landscape and supporting early childhood development and investment in human capital. Sheikha Salama emphasized the UAE's commitment to cultural development and fostering creative talent. She also briefed Mrs. Marcos on the UAE's initiatives in women's empowerment, highlighting the opportunities and support provided for women's participation in national development. The First Lady of the Philippines commended the UAE's progress and expressed admiration for the role Emirati women play in the country's su...

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) reminds taxpayers of several upcoming deadlines for the 1st Semester of 2024: June 30, 2024 Manufacturers/Assemblers/Importers: Submit a Sworn Statement for each brand/model of Automobile, Alcohol Products, Tobacco Products, and Sweetened Beverage Products. For companies with specific fiscal year endings: Fiscal Year ending February 29, 2024: Submit proof of electronically filed BIR Form 1702 – RT/EX/MX, along with Audited Financial Statements (AFS), 1709 (if applicable), and other attachments through eAFS or manually. Fiscal Year ending May 31, 2024: Submit a soft copy of your Computerized Books of Accounts and other accounting records. Submit soft copies of your Inventory List and Schedules stored on a DVD-R/USB with a notarized sworn declaration. VAT registered taxpayers using eFPS must submit their Quarterly Summary List of Sales/Purchases/Importations for the fiscal quarter ending May 31, 2024. Register your Computerized Books of Accounts and...

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) plays a critical role in the Philippines. As the government's primary revenue collection agency, it's responsible for ensuring the smooth operation of the country by gathering taxes that fund vital public services like infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Here's a closer look at the BIR and a key service they offer: The Backbone of Philippine Revenue: Established in 1904, the BIR has over a century of experience in tax administration. It falls under the Department of Finance and is led by a Commissioner, currently Romeo D. Lumagui Jr. The BIR is responsible for collecting various internal revenue taxes, fees, and charges. This includes income tax, estate tax, value-added tax (VAT), and excise tax. They play a crucial role in nation-building by generating over half of the Philippine government's total revenue. The Digital TIN ID: A Convenient Taxpayer Tool Alongside traditional tax collection methods, the BIR embraces digitaliza...

June 30, 2024 - The Philippine Army (PA) issued a public advisory today, June 30, 2024, reminding Filipinos to be cautious of fake recruitment schemes circulating online. "The Philippine Army reminds the public that official recruitment announcements and online application forms can only be found on the Join the Army's official website at https://jointhearmy.ph/ ," stated the PA in a social media post. This announcement comes amid reports of fraudulent websites and social media pages posing as legitimate Philippine Army recruitment channels. These fake platforms often lure aspiring soldiers with false promises or mislead them into paying fees, which is strictly prohibited by the PA. Colonel Louie Dema-ala, the Philippine Army spokesperson, emphasized, "The Philippine Army DOES NOT ACCEPT PAYMENT OF ANY KIND from its applicants and aspiring soldiers." Dema-ala urged Filipinos to be vigilant and to report any suspicious online pages or social media accounts clai...

The Department of Education (DepEd) is gearing up for the administration of the National Career Assessment Examination (NCAE) for Grade 10 students in the upcoming School Year 2024-2025! This important assessment aims to help students make informed decisions about their future educational and career paths. Download NCAE SY 2024-2025 ORIENTATION PPT What is the NCAE? The NCAE is a standardized test designed to assess a student's aptitude for different academic tracks in Senior High School (SHS). These tracks include: Academic Track ( Humanities and Social Sciences [HUMSS], Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics [STEM], and Accountancy Business and Management [ABM]) Technical-Vocational-Livelihood (TVL) Sports Arts and Design Who will take the NCAE? All Grade 10 learners, both in public and private schools with government permit or recognition, will be required to take the NCAE. When and How will the NCAE be conducted? The NCAE will be administered within a five-day t...

What Is a Digital TIN ID? The Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) ID is a valuable document for individuals in the Philippines. It serves as a valid identification when dealing with both private and government agencies. The good news is that you can now obtain a digital version of your TIN ID, which offers convenience and accessibility. Steps to Obtain Your Digital TIN ID: Visit the BIR Website: Access the official Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) website at www.bir.gov.ph using a computer or mobile device with internet connectivity. Navigate to the eTIN System: Look for the eTIN system on the BIR website. This system allows you to manage your TIN-related transactions online. Create an Account: If you haven’t already, sign up for an account on the BIR’s Online Registration and Update System (ORUS) website. Visit ORUS and click on “New Registration.” Make sure your BIR records include your email address, as you’ll need it for account registration. Log In to the eTIN System: Once regist...

June 29, 2024 – The Government of the Philippines proudly announces its ninth consecutive Tier 1 ranking in the United States Department of State's Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report, affirming its unwavering commitment to combat human trafficking and protect victims. The Tier 1 ranking, the highest distinction in the TIP Report, recognizes the Philippines' adherence to international standards in eliminating human trafficking through robust prevention, victim protection, prosecution of offenders, and strategic partnerships led by the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT). Secretary [Name] emphasized, "This accolade drives us to redouble efforts in our mission to eradicate human exploitation. Under President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr.’s leadership, we are resolute in our pursuit of a trafficking-free world." The Philippines acknowledges the global cooperation crucial in addressing human trafficking and urges continued collaboration to achieve lasting i...

June 29, 2024 - Fifty-nine (59) overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who returned from Israel due to the ongoing conflict with Hamas were met with immediate assistance from the government upon their arrival at the NAIA Terminal 3 on Thursday, June 28, 2024. The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) provided each returning OFW with financial aid amounting to Php 100,000. They will also receive comprehensive reintegration assistance and job facilitation services to help them find new employment opportunities. In addition to the DMW and OWWA's financial assistance, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) provided each OFW with livelihood assistance worth Php 20,000. The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) also distributed skills training vouchers to the returning workers. The Department of Health (DOH) was present to offer onsite medical assistance, ensuring the returnees' health and well-be...

June 28, 2024 – The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) commends the swift action of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Cebu in apprehending Fire Inspector Roy Mat Castro, Chief of the Fire Safety Enforcement Section of the Cebu City Fire Office, yesterday, June 27, 2024, on charges of soliciting money in exchange for a position in the recruitment process. The BFP expresses its gratitude to the NBI Cebu for their prompt response in bringing the perpetrator to justice. This serves as a testament to the effectiveness of the BFP's ongoing internal cleansing campaign in the recruitment and promotion of firefighters. Inspector Castro's arrest is just one of many under the BFP's Oplan Santindig Campaign, which aims to rid the fire service of corrupt individuals. We encourage anyone who has been a victim of such extortion schemes within the BFP to come forward and cooperate in ensuring a clean and efficient public service from our firefighters. Please report any incidents to...

June 28, 2024 - Kiyomi Watanabe has officially secured her place in the 2024 Paris Olympics! The International Judo Federation confirmed that Watanabe earned one of the two continental quotas in the women's category of the -63kg class. Watanabe is a powerhouse Judo athlete, boasting an impressive record as a four-time Southeast Asian Games gold medalist and an Asian Games silver medalist. This will be her second consecutive Olympic appearance, having previously competed in the Tokyo 2020 Games. She was even one of the Philippines' flag bearers alongside boxer Eumir Marcial. Judo, originating in Japan, is a martial art emphasizing throws and grappling techniques. It became an Olympic sport in 1964, and since then, it's grown into one of the most popular events at the Summer Games. Watanabe's return to the Olympics is a testament to her dedication and hard work. She'll be aiming to improve on her performance in Tokyo, where she was unfortunately eliminated in the Rou...

June 28, 2024 - The Philippine Paralympic scene is abuzz with excitement as Jerrold Pete Mangliwan, the nation's premiere wheelchair racer, secures his spot at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games! This marks Mangliwan's third consecutive Paralympic appearance , a testament to his unwavering dedication and exceptional athletic talent. Mangliwan's qualification comes on the heels of his triumphant performance at the 4th Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China. There, he dominated the track, clinching the coveted gold medal in the Men's 400M-T52 category. He further solidified his position as a force to be reckoned with by securing a well-deserved silver medal in the Men's 100M-T52 race. This latest accomplishment adds to Mangliwan's already impressive athletic resume. The seasoned competitor previously represented the Philippines at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Paralympics and the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics . Notably, he was even bestowed the honor of being the flag bearer f...

June 28, 2024 - Cendy Asusano, a rising star in Philippine para-athletics, has secured her spot at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games! This exciting news comes after her impressive performance at the World Para Athletics Championships held last May in Kobe, Japan, where she placed a commendable 4th in the Women's Javelin Throw F54 category. Asusano's journey to Paris began at the recent 12th ASEAN Para Games in Cambodia. There, she dominated the field, clinching gold medals in both the Shot Put F54 and Javelin Throw F54 events. Her prowess extended to the Discus Throw F54 as well, where she secured a well-deserved bronze medal. These exceptional results not only solidified her position as a top contender in the region, but also served as crucial stepping stones towards Paralympic qualification. "Cendy's dedication and perseverance are truly inspiring," said Philippine Paralympic Committee (PPC) President, [Insert PPC President's Name]. "Her performance at t...

June 28, 2024 - President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday pledged to continue programs aimed at enhancing the livelihood of Boholanos, particularly farmers and fisherfolk. He made this commitment during the distribution of Presidential Assistance to Farmers, Fisherfolk, and Families (PAFF) in the province. "We will not stop and we will not tire in our efforts to address your needs. We will relentlessly implement programs that will benefit you, carry out various projects that will bring comfort to your lives, and invest in your welfare and prosperity," the President stated. He led the ceremonial distribution of PhP100 million in cash assistance to the provincial governments of Bohol and Cebu. "My fellow Filipinos, we are bringing a hundred million pesos in cash assistance for Boholano and Cebuano farmers, fisherfolk, and their families. Fifty million pesos each has been allocated for the two provinces, and each beneficiary will receive ten thousand pesos," the Pre...

June 28, 2024 - Filipino athlete Jerrold Pete Mangliwan is revving up for his third Paralympic stint after securing qualification for the 2024 Paris Games! This is a momentous occasion not just for Mangliwan, but for the entire Philippine Paralympic movement. Mangliwan, a wheelchair racer, has been a beacon of inspiration for athletes with disabilities. His journey to Paris began with a stellar performance at the recent 4th Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China. There, he dominated the track, clinching a gold medal in the Men's 400M-T52 category and a silver medal in the Men's 100M-T52 category. The "T52" classification signifies athletes with spinal cord injuries, leg weakness, or amputation who primarily use wheelchairs for mobility. This isn't Mangliwan's first Paralympic rodeo. He previously represented the Philippines in the 2016 Rio Games and the 2020 Tokyo Games. In fact, he even had the honor of being the Philippine flagbearer for the Tokyo Paralymp...

In a world where obstacles often dictate destinies, Nicasio Espiritu stands tall as a testament to resilience and unwavering determination. His story, rooted in Moalboal, Cebu, is one that resonates far beyond the shores of his hometown—a story of overcoming physical challenges and societal barriers with unwavering strength and faith. Nicasio's life took a drastic turn in 2008 when severe gangrene led to the amputation of both his legs. For many, such a loss would signal the end of an era, a defeat in the battle of life. But for Nicasio, it became a pivotal moment—a moment where he decided not to let his disability define him. "I did not think about what was lacking in me," Nicasio reflects. "The quality of my work when I had complete legs is still the same as my work now." With makeshift tools and sheer determination, Nicasio delved into welding—a skill that not only became his livelihood but also his lifeline. His dream of owning a welding shop persisted, fuel...

Don't miss out on your pensions! All pensioners are reminded of the scheduled ACOP for the month of July. Please submit your compliance before the end of the month to ensure uninterrupted receipt of your pensions. Happy birthday to all SSS pensioners born in July! As part of your birthday celebration, we encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity to comply with the ACOP program. By submitting your ACOP Reply Form and other required documents before the end of the month, you can guarantee that your pensions will continue to be released on time. Who should comply? Retirement pensioners residing abroad Total Disability Pensioners Death Survivorship pensioners Dependent children under Guardianship Schedule of Compliance Birth month of the Pensioner-Member Birth month of the Deceased-Member Reminders: Retirement pensioners residing in the Philippines who are over 80 years old are still required to comply with the ACOP program. Retirement pensioners who are also Death-Survivorsh...

Gone are the days of waiting in long lines at the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Revenue District Offices (RDOs) just to apply for your Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) card. The BIR, in its continuing pursuit of modernization and streamlining taxpayer services, introduced the Digital TIN ID! This digital alternative offers a convenient way to secure your TIN credentials without the hassle of physically going to an RDO. Here's a quick rundown of the benefits of getting a Digital TIN ID: Convenience: Apply for your TIN ID anytime, anywhere, as long as you have an internet connection. No need to adjust your schedule for long queues! Faster Processing: The application process is designed to be efficient. Compared to the traditional method, securing your Digital TIN ID can be completed in a shorter period. Accessibility: The Digital TIN ID is readily available on your smartphone or computer. No more worries about losing your physical card. Security: The Digital TIN ID co...

June 28, 2024 - The latest data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority reveals that the General Wholesale Price Index (GWPI) for May 2024 showed a moderated annual increase compared to previous months, reflecting a broader trend of deceleration across various commodity groups. At the national level, the GWPI rose by 2.3 percent year-on-year in May 2024, down from 2.6 percent in April 2024 and significantly lower than the 5.0 percent recorded in May 2023. This slowdown was largely influenced by subdued annual increases in miscellaneous manufactured articles, which saw its growth rate drop to 0.3 percent from 2.0 percent in April 2024. Among the major commodity groups, notable decreases in annual growth rates were observed in beverages and tobacco (3.1 percent from 4.4 percent), crude materials except fuels (4.2 percent from 8.4 percent), and manufactured goods classified by materials (1.1 percent from 1.6 percent). Conversely, mineral fuels, lubricants, and related materials po...