Brunei News Gazette

WASHINGTON - The US House of Representatives has passed a comprehensive $95 billion aid package aimed at supporting Ukraine, Israel, Taiwan, and other allies, in addition to implementing a series of national security measures that could include a ban on TikTok unless it is sold to a US company.

According to Philippines News Agency, the package was divided into four separate bills to be voted on individually and then combined. This strategy, however, has sparked controversy among some far-right House Republicans. The measures, beyond direct aid, involve using seized Russian assets to fund initiatives, and implementing sanctions aimed at Russia, China, and Iran.

The legislation began with a decisive vote of 360 to 58 to potentially ban TikTok in the United States unless ownership changes to a US entity. Subsequently, the House approved a bill to provide assistance to Taiwan and other Indo-Pacific allies by a vote of 385 to 34, and a $60.8 billion package for Ukraine by 311 to 112, amid vocal support from Democrats who displayed Ukrainian flags and chanted in support.

The final piece of the package included $26 billion in aid for Israel, which passed with a 366 to 58 vote. Concerns had been growing that delays in approving the Ukrainian aid might adversely affect the country’s ability to combat Russian forces.

The Senate is expected to act on these measures next week, with President Joe Biden indicating readiness to sign them into law promptly. In a statement, Biden expressed gratitude towards Johnson, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and other lawmakers for their commitment to national security, urging swift action to address urgent needs on Ukrainian battlefields.

This legislative action has not been without its detractors, with at least three far-right Republicans threatening leadership challenges over the decision to move forward with these bills.

MANILA — The forthcoming state visit of Qatari Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani to the Philippines is poised to significantly enhance the longstanding partnership between the two nations, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced today. The visit, scheduled for Sunday and Monday, is expected to serve as a catalyst for deepening bilateral ties, which have been maintained for over four decades.

According to Philippines News Agency, the visit by the Qatari Amir could escalate cooperation across various sectors, including trade, investment, food security, and tourism. The Philippines and Qatar have long enjoyed productive interactions, particularly in the realms of labor and development, with ongoing efforts to expand socio-economic and cultural collaboration.

Melicor highlighted that both Doha and Manila share common interests and positions on numerous global issues, supporting each other in international forums. “In enriching the enduring people-to-people ties between the Philippines and Qatar, there are initiatives to explore possible engagements in culture, education, and sports,” Melicor stated.

Further expanding the scope of their cooperation, the two countries are looking to include agriculture, climate change, and energy security. Melicor also noted that Qataris are being encouraged to invest in economic sectors in the Philippines that have recently been opened to foreign investors.

During his visit, Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani will engage in bilateral talks with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Cabinet secretaries to discuss political relations and ways to strengthen economic and socio-cultural connections. The visit will also feature the signing of several bilateral agreements in areas such as climate change, consular matters, and youth engagement.

Qatar is home to approximately 273,000 Filipino nationals and remains one of the top Middle Eastern destinations for land-based Filipino workers. The country’s strategic economic diversification, part of the National Vision 2030, has positioned it as one of the most influential in the region. “The Philippines also recognizes Qatar’s active efforts to preserve and strengthen a rules-based international order,” Melicor added.

Pasig City – Eya Laure of Chery Tiggo continued her impressive performance in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference, securing her second consecutive Player of the Week award for the period of April 16 to 20. In the recent matches held at the PhilSports Arena, Laure showcased her skills by contributing significantly to her team’s victories against PLDT and Akari Chargers.

According to Philippines News Agency, Laure’s performance included nine attacks, three blocks, and seven excellent digs in the match against PLDT, which ended in sets of 25-22, 25-16, 25-20. She replicated her form against the Akari Chargers, recording nine attacks, three blocks, and two aces to lead the Crossovers to a 25-17, 25-20, 25-17 victory. Currently, Chery Tiggo is tied for the lead with Petro Gazz, Creamline, and Choco Mucho, all at 8-2, but is trailing slightly in points, making their next matches crucial for securing a semifinal spot.

Laure expressed gratitude for the guidance from her coach and former collegiate mentor Kungfu Reyes, emphasizing the importance of his teachings in her professional development. As Chery Tiggo prepares for their next game against Galeries Tower, Laure underscored the team’s focus on respect for their opponents and the need for continuous improvement and preparation.

Eya Laure emerged victorious over several notable players for the weekly honor, including her teammate Jennifer Nierva, and other competitors from Farm Fresh, Creamline, Petro Gazz, and Cignal. This recognition underscores her pivotal role in Chery Tiggo’s performance this season, as they aim to maintain their strong form in the upcoming matches.

MANILA – The Philippine government has announced plans to create 1 million digital jobs by 2028, an initiative expected to generate PHP24 billion to support public services and infrastructure projects.

According to Philippines News Agency, who shared the goal in a Facebook post on Saturday, this effort follows discussions with the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) at Malacañang, where they reviewed the Digital Infrastructure Work Plans. "With PSAC, we're aligning training programs with market demands, preparing our workforce, and opening doors to digital innovation and economic growth in the country," Marcos stated.

PSAC revealed on Sunday that during their meeting, President Marcos ordered a strategic focus on this job creation target. He also emphasized the role of the Inter-Agency Council for Development and Competitiveness of the Philippine Digital Workforce, which is pivotal in spearheading public-private partnerships for skill development and training tailored to the digital economy. This council operates under the mandate of the recently enacted "Philippine Digital Workforce Competitiveness Act."

A key project discussed was the "10,000 Digital Civil Servants" initiative, starting with foundational training for about 40 participants in Singapore, who will subsequently lead a broader training program in the Philippines to enhance the government's digital service capabilities.

The meeting also addressed expanding internet coverage to Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDA) to help close the digital divide. Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla introduced a program focused on securing submarine cables and transmission lines critical for uninterrupted digital connectivity.

Additionally, PSAC committed to developing a comprehensive proposal for nationwide digital connectivity to support the infrastructure needed for these expansions. "With these government-endorsed initiatives, we are set to transform the Philippine digital infrastructure, ensuring competitiveness in the global digital economy and fostering digital inclusivity for all Filipinos," said PSAC Digital Infrastructure Sector Lead and UnionDigital President and CEO Henry Aguda.

The PSAC, created by Marcos in July 2022, comprises leaders and experts from six key sectors, including agriculture, digital infrastructure, jobs, healthcare, infrastructure development, and tourism, providing guidance on achieving the country’s economic goals.

MANILA — Malacañang on Sunday issued a directive mandating all government agencies and local government units to enhance their support for a key anti-hunger initiative. Memorandum Circular No. 47, signed on April 19 by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, specifically calls for robust participation in the Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP) program.

According to Philippines News Agency, the EPAHP program, which is a principal initiative of the Task Force on Zero Hunger, seeks to institutionalize efforts to curb hunger and enhance food and nutrition security. The program aims to connect community-based organizations with potential markets and provide them with credit assistance for food production, processing, and distribution.

The directive underscores the necessity for all government entities to actively engage in the EPAHP program to boost the government's capacity to achieve zero hunger, ensure food and nutrition security, and promote sustainable agriculture. The Task Force on Zero Hunger is charged with overseeing the program's consistent and effective implementation in collaboration with pertinent government agencies.

Furthermore, the task force is expected to improve the provision of farm production technologies and extend services to government-supported family farms and rural organizations. It also aims to increase the sustainability of the EPAHP program by fostering private sector involvement, establishing relevant policies in local government units, and encouraging community participation in procurement processes. The memorandum also includes directives for the construction, repair, and enhancement of irrigation facilities and related structures in rural areas.

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has mandated that all national agencies and local government units (LGUs) intensify their support for the Philippines' fight against criminality.

According to Philippines News Agency, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on April 18, national government agencies and LGUs are directed to assist in the execution of the 2024 National Crime Prevention Program (NCPP) spearheaded by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). The NCPP aims to establish safe communities, protect the rights of Filipinos, and curb criminal activities nationwide, aligning with the Philippine Development Plan for 2023-2028.

The DILG had presented the 2024 NCPP to the Office of the President on February 22, 2024. In this strategic framework, the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) is appointed as the lead agency. NAPOLCOM, which functions under the DILG, oversees the administration and regulation of the Philippine National Police and provides advice to the president regarding police operations and administration.

The implementation of the memorandum circular begins immediately, marking a coordinated government initiative to enhance national security and crime prevention.

MANHATTAN – A 37-year-old man, Max Azzarello, who set himself on fire near the Manhattan courthouse where former President Donald Trump was standing trial, has died from his injuries. The incident occurred outside the Manhattan Criminal Courthouse, drawing immediate emergency response.

According to Philippines News Agency, Azzarello was quickly transported to a hospital after self-immolating in Collect Pond Park, located directly across from the courthouse. Despite efforts to save him, including intubation, he succumbed to his injuries. Social media videos captured the harrowing moment, showing Azzarello engulfed in flames before collapsing to the ground.

Prior to the incident, New York police reported that Azzarello had posted an online message warning of an impending "fascist world coup," just hours before his drastic action outside the courthouse.

BRUNEI MUARA — The Zone Four Mosque Takmir Committee, in collaboration with the Brunei Muara District Mosque Affairs Office, hosted an Aidilfitri Get-Together Ceremony on the night of April 20th. The celebration aimed to bring together the Mosque Takmir Committee, the Muslimah Group, and the youth, fostering a sense of community during the festive season.

According to Radio Television Brunei, The event was attended by Awang Misli bin Haji Abdul Karim, Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs. It featured a video presentation and performances by members of the celebration's committee, adding to the festive atmosphere of the evening. This gathering not only celebrated the occasion of Hari Raya Aidilfitri but also strengthened the bonds within the mosque community across different generations and groups.

KAMPUNG KIULAP — The Single Mothers Movement Association (Persatuan Gerakan Ibu Tunggal) held a Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration at a local hotel on the afternoon of April 21st, focusing on the empowerment and independence of its members. The event marked a significant moment for the association, which has been actively supporting single mothers since its inception.

According to Radio Television Brunei, the primary goal is to ensure that all members achieve success and can sustain themselves independently. Since its establishment on December 8, 2021, the association has grown to include over 170 members from across the four districts of the region. The Hari Raya event also served as a platform to strengthen relationships among single mothers, aligning with the association's objective to empower and support its members. During an interview with RTB, several members shared their experiences and the sources of strength that have helped them overcome their challenges.

TUTONG — Orphans and underprivileged families from Kampung Kuala Ungar and Kampung Merimbun in the Tutong District celebrated Hari Raya Aidilfitri with a special event organized to bring joy and support to the community. The event took place recently, involving the distribution of green packets and souvenirs to those in need.

According to Radio Television Brunei, the event was a collaborative effort by the Kampung Kuala Ungar and Kampung Merimbun Village Consultative Council, 'Persatuan Kereta Tahan Lasak Brunei' (PKTLB), and the Brotherhood Group. A Member of the Legislative Council participated in the festivities, distributing green packets to attendees. Additionally, 41 underprivileged individuals received souvenirs during the celebration. This Hari Raya event was part of a series of community support activities, following the 'Titian Amal Ramadan Programme' hosted by PKTLB during Ramadan, aimed at providing aid and fostering community spirit among residents.

MANILA – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has issued a directive for extended construction hours and continuous emergency repairs on government infrastructure projects to accelerate the administration's ambitious 'Build, Better, More' program.

According to Philippines News Agency, this initiative is designed to expedite the completion of essential infrastructure developments across the Philippines. "Under the Build, Better, More program, we will intensify ongoing infrastructure projects. Construction hours will be extended and emergency repairs will be conducted round-the-clock to ensure timely completion," Marcos stated.

He further emphasized that the priority will be given to projects that not only meet quality standards but also address the government’s focus on climate resilience. These projects are expected to endure over time and withstand severe weather events, reducing the need for frequent repairs. "So the public won't be bothered by substandard infrastructure projects that need to be fixed repeatedly in just a few years or after a typhoon," he explained.

The 'Build, Better, More' program aims to continue what the administration calls the 'Golden Age of Infrastructure' by enhancing the construction and maintenance of crucial projects, including farm-to-market roads, mass transport systems, airports, expressways, bridges, and ports.

BRUNEI MUARA — The Brunei Muara District Scouts Association celebrated Hari Raya Aidilfitri with an open house event on the afternoon of April 21st, at the association's headquarters. The celebration was marked by the presence of notable attendees including Skip Haji Junaidi bin Haji Hussin, Chief Commissioner of the Brunei Darussalam Scouts Association.

According to Radio Television Brunei, The event featured a variety of activities, including a lucky draw and performances by scout members. The open house provided an opportunity for community members and scouts to come together in celebration, enhancing the festive atmosphere.