PHP20/Kg Rice Sold at Kadiwa ng Pangulo Program

In a recent development, the “Kadiwa ng Pangulo” (KNP) program held in the Bicol Region saw several participating stalls selling rice at an affordable price of PHP20 per kg. The Presidential Communications Office (PCO), citing information from the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), confirmed that the rice was sold on April 25 during the launch of the KNP at NIA’s Albay-Catanduanes Irrigation Management Office (ACIMO) in Ligao City, Albay.

The PCO further stated that members of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries, elderlies, and persons with special needs were among those prioritized to receive the PHP20 per kg. rice. Regular customers, however, were able to purchase rice at PHP35 per kg.

The NIA, as quoted by the PCO news release, said, “It serves as a way for Irrigators Associations (IAs) to return the blessings they received from the government to less privileged people for their community.” In addition to rice, the NIA also reported that different fruits and vegetables, several delicacies, and other farm products were sold at affordable prices.

The successful implementation of the project was made possible through the concerted efforts of NIA Regional Manager Engr. Gaudencio M. De Vera, Albay-Catanduanes IMO Manager Engr. Jessie D. Baynas, and ACIMO IA Federation president Melanio Bañares.

The NIA emphasized its commitment to increasing rice production towards the realization of the “Bagong Pilipinas” envisioned by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. This initiative is a significant step towards achieving that goal.

A Step Forward for Eggplant Farming: Understanding the Court’s Decision on Bt Eggplant

Eggplants, or ‘talong’ as they’re known in the Philippines, are a staple in many dishes across the country. But farming them isn’t always easy. Pests can destroy crops, and farmers often have to use chemicals to protect their plants, which isn’t always safe or environmentally friendly. This is where the story of Bt Eggplant begins.

What is Bt Eggplant?

Bt Eggplant is a type of eggplant that has been modified using biotechnology to resist certain pests. Bt stands for Bacillus thuringiensis, a naturally occurring bacteria that produces a protein harmful to specific insects. By incorporating this into the eggplant, the plants can defend themselves, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.

The Legal Journey

Recently, the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) developed this Bt Eggplant, hoping it would help farmers. However, not everyone was convinced. Some groups were worried about the environmental and health impacts of introducing a genetically modified crop. They took their concerns to court, asking for a Writ of Kalikasan—a special order that protects the environment.

The Court’s Decision

The Court of Appeals made a decision that was a bit of a mixed bag. They granted the Writ, which means they recognized the concerns of the petitioners. But they didn’t cancel UPLB’s permission to grow Bt Eggplant commercially. Instead, they told the Department of Agriculture and other government agencies to follow certain guidelines to ensure safety.

What Does This Mean for the Future?

UPLB has followed all the rules so far and will continue to do so. They believe Bt Eggplant can make eggplant farming safer, boost farmers’ incomes, and be better for the environment. The university respects the court’s decision and is working with the government to figure out the next steps.

As the national university, UP has a duty to push the boundaries of science and technology, including modern biotechnology, to help the Philippines reach its agricultural goals while keeping sustainability and safety in mind.

In Conclusion

The decision on Bt Eggplant is a significant step in balancing innovation with environmental and public health concerns. It shows that while the Philippines is open to new technologies, it also takes caution seriously. For the farmers and consumers, this could mean a future with safer, more sustainable eggplant production.

Trafficking Victim Rescued, Escort Stopped in Davao Airport

29 April 2024 — A female victim, known by the alias “Nina”, was rescued by immigration personnel at the Davao International Airport after a male trafficker attempted to escort her out of the country.

Nina was intercepted while attempting to board a Scoot Airlines flight to Singapore on Saturday afternoon. Initially claiming to be traveling as a tourist with her employer, Nina later admitted that she had been recruited to work as a household service worker in the United Arab Emirates for an undisclosed amount.

She revealed that her male companion had instructed her to state that she was traveling abroad as his personal house helper for a short vacation. Upon verification of the man’s records, it was discovered that he had previously sponsored a trip with another woman, who failed to return on her declared return date. The man admitted to having escorted another female victim, who left for Singapore but subsequently transferred to Thailand.

The Bureau of Immigration’s (BI) Immigration Protection and Border Enforcement Section (I-PROBES) suspects that the man was recruiting Filipinos to work in the Middle East, only to leave his victims stranded.

BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco issued a public warning against such schemes, stating, “These traffickers dupe victims into agreeing to such schemes, only to leave them penniless in the middle of an unfamiliar foreign country. Aspiring workers should never agree to such arrangements.”

Both Nina and the male escort were turned over to the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT). The male escort now faces charges of human trafficking related to the incident.

Commissioner Tansingco expressed gratitude to the IACAT for their active pursuit of cases against traffickers, saying, “It makes our job meaningful because we know that these escorts are finally put behind bars.”

Ensuring Student Safety: A Priority for the Learner Rights and Protection Office (LRPO)

In every educational institution, the safety and protection of students should be the top priority. The Learner Rights and Protection Office (LRPO), under the Department of Education (DepEd), is committed to ensuring that students’ rights are upheld and their well-being is safeguarded.

No Abuse Should Be Tolerated: Report It!

The LRPO emphasizes that no form of abuse should be ignored, whether it happens inside or outside of school. They encourage students to be brave and report any incidents of abuse through the LRPO hotlines.

What is LRPO?

The LRPO serves the following key functions:

1. Providing Protection:

   It offers protection to students against any form of abuse, whether physical, emotional, or sexual. No instance of abuse should be ignored.

2. Handling Complaints:

   The LRPO receives complaints from students, teachers, parents, and other stakeholders. If there are incidents of abuse within or outside the school premises, they can be reported to the LRPO.

3. Guidance and Support:

   The LRPO provides information and guidance to students regarding their rights. Its aim is to empower students with knowledge and equip them to advocate for themselves.

How to Reach LRPO?

If you have questions or need to report any incidents of abuse, here are the ways to get in touch with the LRPO:

1. Hotlines:

   • 📞 LRPO Hotline: (02) 8632-1372
   • 📱 Mobile Hotline: 0945-175-9777

2. Email:

   • 📧 weprotectlearners@deped.gov.ph: Email the LRPO for inquiries or complaints related to students’ rights and safety.
   • 📧 kumustaka@deped.gov.ph: Email the LRPO for mental health-related queries.

3. Facebook Page:

   • 🌐 Facebook Page: LRPO Facebook Page

For other inquiries or reports, you can also reach out to the DepEd Public Assistance and Action Center (PAAC) through the following channels:

• 📞 Landline Number: (02) 8638-7529 and 8636-1663
• 📧 Email: depedactioncenter@deped.gov.ph

By utilizing these resources, we can ensure that students’ safety and rights remain at the forefront. Let us not disregard any form of abuse and work together to maintain a safe and conducive environment in our schools.

Celebrate Your Moves: Happy International Dance Day!

Today, April 29th, is International Dance Day! Established in 1982, this global celebration is a chance to honor the art form of dance and its power to bring people together.

Why Dance?

Dance transcends cultures, languages, and ethnicities. It's a universal language that allows us to express ourselves through movement. Whether it's the graceful steps of ballet, the energetic moves of hip-hop, or the rhythmic pulse of traditional folk dances, dance has a way of moving us.

Celebrating Dance Day

There are many ways to celebrate International Dance Day:

• Take a dance class: This is a perfect opportunity to try a new style of dance, like salsa, tap, or contemporary. Many studios offer special introductory classes on International Dance Day.
• Attend a dance performance: Immerse yourself in the magic of live dance by attending a local performance by a professional company or student group.
• Organize a dance party: Gather your friends and family and throw a dance party celebrating all types of dance.
• Learn about famous dancers: Research and learn about the lives and accomplishments of renowned dancers throughout history.
• Share your love of dance: Post videos of yourself dancing on social media using the hashtag #InternationalDanceDay.

The Message of Dance

International Dance Day is also a time to reflect on the importance of dance education and participation. Dance promotes not only physical fitness but also creativity, discipline, and self-expression.

So, today, let's celebrate dance! Put on your dancing shoes, crank up the music, and let your body move. Happy International Dance Day!

Serbian National Wanted for Illegal Drugs Arrested in Angeles City pen_spark

April 29, 2024 - The Bureau of Immigration (BI) apprehended a 60-year-old Serbian national, Predrag Mirkovic, on April 25 inside a bar in Angeles City, Pampanga. Mirkovic was wanted by US federal authorities for selling illegal drugs.

According to a report submitted to Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco by the BI's Fugitive Search Unit (FSU), Mirkovic's arrest stemmed from a mission order issued by Tansingco upon request from the US government. US authorities informed the BI about Mirkovic's outstanding arrest warrant issued by a district court in Maryland for conspiracy to possess and distribute controlled substances.

The BI-FSU also received a separate complaint from a concerned citizen alleging Mirkovic's involvement in illegal drug trafficking within Angeles City. The complainant urged the BI to deport Mirkovic, considering him an undesirable alien.

Furthermore, a warrant for Mirkovic's arrest was issued by a regional trial court in Calamba, Laguna, for allegedly violating Republic Act 9262, or the Anti-Violence Against Women Act, filed by his estranged Filipina partner.

Mirkovic will be detained at the BI's Warden Facility in Taguig City while awaiting deportation proceedings.

TESDA Scholarship: A Gateway to Skills Development in the Philippines

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is a government agency in the Philippines that provides technical education and skills development. One of the ways it does this is through its scholarship programs.

What is the TESDA Scholarship?

TESDA offers several scholarship programs aimed at providing direct financial assistance to deserving TVET (Technical Vocational Education and Training) enrollees across all regions in the country. These programs are designed to address equity and access issues, ensuring that even the most disadvantaged Filipinos have the opportunity to gain valuable skills and knowledge.

Provinces Offering the TESDA Scholarship

TESDA scholarships are available across all provinces in the Philippines. For instance, in Zamboanga del Norte, TESDA offered over 540 scholarship slots for different programs. In Laoag City, TESDA offered new scholarship grants on modern rice farming to help boost farmers’ income.

Requirements for the TESDA Scholarship

The requirements for the TESDA Scholarship vary depending on the specific program. However, some general requirements include[6]:

• Filipino Citizenship: The applicant must be a Filipino citizen.
• Education: The applicant must have completed at least 10 years of basic education and met the training requirements of the chosen course.
• Profiling: The applicant must have undergone the NCAE/MATB/YP4SC Profiling.
• Certification: The applicant must not be a holder of an NC III certificate or higher.
• Scholarship Status: The applicant must not have an ongoing scholarship grant from another government agency.
• Graduation Status: The applicant must not be a college graduate.

Benefits of the TESDA Scholarship

The TESDA Scholarship offers a range of benefits to its recipients:

1. Free Skills Training: Scholars are entitled to free training in their chosen field.
2. Assessment: Scholars receive free assessment, which is crucial for determining their proficiency in their chosen field.
3. Book Subsidy: Scholars receive a subsidy for books and other learning materials.
4. Starter Tool Kits: For certain courses, scholars are provided with starter tool kits.
5. Daily Allowance: Scholars are given a daily allowance called the Training Support Fund (TSF) at P160/day.
6. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): For courses that require safety equipment, scholars are provided with the necessary PPE.
7. Internet Allowances: To support online learning, scholars are given internet allowances.
8. Entrepreneurship Training: Scholars have access to entrepreneurship training, which can help them start their own businesses.

These benefits aim to address equity and access by providing direct financial assistance to deserving TVET enrollees across all regions in the country. The goal is to enhance employability and explore new industries. However, it’s important to note that the benefits may vary depending on the specific scholarship program.

In conclusion, the TESDA Scholarship is a valuable opportunity for Filipinos to gain technical and vocational skills that can improve their employability and income potential. With scholarships available across all provinces, it’s an accessible option for many. However, it’s important to check the specific requirements and benefits for each scholarship program to ensure eligibility. With the right preparation and commitment, a TESDA Scholarship can open the door to a brighter future.