Brunei News Gazette

MANILA – Cignal's Joshua Umandal was named the Spikers' Turf Press Corps Player of the Week for his standout performances in recent matches, helping his team maintain an unbeaten record and secure a spot in the Final Four.

According to Philippines News Agency, Umandal achieved a conference-high 36 points through 32 attacks, three blocks, and one ace in Cignal’s recent game against D'Navigators Iloilo on April 17. The match concluded with scores of 21-25, 25-18, 20-25, 25-19, 15-7, marking Cignal's sixth consecutive win. Umandal, a national team mainstay and the 2023 Open Conference Most Valuable Player, expressed his surprise at his own success, attributing much of it to the collective effort of his team rather than his individual performance alone. He highlighted his desire to contribute rather than focus solely on scoring.

Umandal surpassed other nominees including Jude Garcia of Criss Cross, John Diwa of Savouge, and Kenneth Culabat of VNS-Nasty for this weekly accolade, awarded by journalists from various print and online media outlets who cover the league. This recognition comes despite the physical and mental challenges posed by consecutive five-set matches, which Umandal acknowledged as demanding. He emphasized the necessity of overcoming fatigue and maintaining focus to not let the efforts of his team go to waste.

The HD Spikers, with Umandal’s significant contributions, will next face VNS-Nasty on April 24 at Paco Arena in Manila, seeking their seventh consecutive victory in the competition.

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet — The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) has called on the provincial government of Benguet to include mining sites in their cultural heritage mapping efforts. NHCP Secretary General Dr. Ivan Anthony Henares emphasized the significant role mining has played in the region's history and economy during his speech at the awarding ceremony of the Benguet Indigenous Youth Arts Guild (BIYAG) held at the provincial capitol on Monday.

According to Philippines News Agency, recognizing these sites could help preserve structures from the colonial period that might be repurposed into tourism attractions, similar to practices in other countries. This inclusion not only aims to protect these areas but also potentially generate revenue, aiding in their preservation. He highlighted that identifying and maintaining historical sites are key to sustainable development, insisting on the importance of not compromising cultural and environmental integrity.

Henares further noted the advantages brought by the Cultural Mapping Law, which allows for government funds to be allocated for the conservation and protection of historical sites, even those privately owned. He underscored the practicality of preservation over removal, given the durable nature of many historical structures.

ILOCOS - The Department of Health-Center for Health Development in Ilocos Region (DOH-CHD-1) has set a target to immunize 104,281 children this year through its 'Everyday Bakuna Day' program.

According to Philippines News Agency, this initiative aims to address the rise in vaccine-preventable diseases by making immunization services available daily at all primary healthcare facilities in the region.

Dr. Sydiongco stated on Monday that the program allows parents and caregivers the flexibility to bring their children for vaccinations any day of the week, from Monday to Friday, moving away from the traditional "Wednesday vaccination day." This approach is intended to increase accessibility and ensure that more children are protected against diseases like tuberculosis, hepatitis B, poliovirus, diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, Human Papilloma Virus, and others.

Dr. Rheuel Bobis, a medical officer at DOH-CHD-1, emphasized that vaccines for measles, rubella, pertussis, and other vaccine-preventable diseases are provided free of charge at government hospitals and health centers. The urgency of this campaign is highlighted by the recent increase in measles cases in the region, which have risen to 38 to date this year, up from 27 for the entirety of the previous year. Additionally, a confirmed case of pertussis has been recorded, further underscoring the need for widespread immunization.

PASAY CITY - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) emphasized the urgent need for public engagement to tackle the growing issue of plastic waste in the Philippines, reporting an annual production of approximately 2.7 million tons of plastic waste.

According to Philippines News Agency, who spoke at the Earth Day Every Day project launch, a significant portion of this waste ends up in harmful locations such as landfills, dumpsites, rivers, and even the country's water supply systems.

Yulo-Loyzaga highlighted the alarming fact that about 20 percent of the nation's plastic waste ultimately contaminates the ocean. She remarked on the comprehensive challenges posed by plastic waste, noting that it includes everyday items from market packaging to food wrappers, totaling about 61,000 metric tons of solid waste produced daily in the country. The upcoming 2024 Earth Day celebration, themed 'Planet vs. Plastics,' aims to raise awareness about the enduring nature of plastics and their severe implications for public health, ecosystem viability, and climate change mitigation efforts.

The DENR Secretary also pointed out the pervasive issue of microplastics, which have been found in raindrops, and the broader environmental impact of plastics produced from fossil fuels. She underscored the economic losses due to the disposal of recyclable plastics, which cost the Philippines approximately USD89 million annually.

The Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Act, which became law on July 30, 2022, was cited as a critical legislative step toward addressing this issue. This law shifts the responsibility for waste management from local governments to producers and manufacturers, promoting the reduction of plastic usage through the development of more sustainable packaging and the enhancement of recycling efforts.

Yulo-Loyzaga noted that over 800 large companies have committed to initiatives aimed at reducing plastic use, including developing alternative packaging solutions and enhancing recycling processes. These companies also pledged to engage in educational activities to elevate public awareness of the environmental impacts of plastic pollution.

Emphasizing the need for a collaborative effort, Yulo-Loyzaga called for a whole-of-society approach to achieve meaningful progress towards reducing plastic pollution. She stressed that effective change starts at the individual level and requires active participation from all sectors, including households, educational institutions, and experts.

BACOLOD CITY, Negros Occidental — The Panaad Sa Negros Festival, known as the "festival of all festivals" in Negros Occidental, concluded on Sunday with total sales amounting to PHP19.25 million, reflecting a decrease from the previous year. The week-long event, which featured 32 local government unit (LGU) pavilions along with agriculture and veterinary exhibits, trade fairs, food alleys, and garden shows, took place from April 15 to 21 at the Panaad Park and Stadium.

According to Philippines News Agency, this year's festival sales were down by 18.65 percent, equivalent to a PHP4.413 million drop from last year's PHP23.663 million. Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson cited a reduction in the purchasing power of the Negrense middle class as a key factor behind the lower sales figures. He noted that while attendance was high, spending did not match the levels seen in previous years.

Governor Lacson observed significant attendance at key events such as the Best of Festival Dances Competition, Pop Dance Competition, and the Lin-ay Sang Negros coronation night, with venues filled to capacity. However, he pointed out that the young demographic present at the festival tended not to spend as much.

The 2023 edition marked the first full-scale return of the Panaad Sa Negros Festival since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic three years ago. In his closing remarks, Governor Lacson praised the collaborative efforts of the LGUs with the provincial government, which he said exceeded constituents' expectations for this year's event. He encouraged attendees to cherish the memories and connections made during the festival as they look forward to a hopeful future for Negros Occidental.

PUERTO PRINCESA, Palawan — The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) in Puerto Princesa is intensifying its efforts to combat potential fire outbreaks as the city faces an unprecedented heat wave. This move follows a recent wildfire in Barangay San Rafael that consumed approximately 60 hectares of open fields on April 18.

According to Philippines News Agency, the office has upgraded its early warning systems to ensure swift response to fire incidents, potentially preventing them from spiraling out of control. The city has also equipped its firefighters with personal protective gear and specialized tools, including 10-cubic meter water tankers designed for extinguishing forest fires.

Timbancaya detailed further enhancements, including the acquisition of a man bucket capable of reaching up to the fourth floor of a building and plans to procure a rescue ladder that could reach the city's tallest structures. Additionally, village personnel have been supplied with sirens and public address systems to rapidly alert both authorities and residents in the event of a fire.

The CDRRMO is also preparing for the heat wave's broader impacts, including potential threats to agriculture and public health. Although the city's Incident Command System (ICS) for extreme drought conditions is established, it has not yet been activated. The ICS is designed to enable collaborative efforts among various city hall departments to mitigate risks associated with severe weather events.

The CDRRMO noted that the current heat wave, which began on March 27 and persisted until April 22, might be the most severe on record for Puerto Princesa, surpassing the high temperatures of the 2016 and 2019 dry spells. Between April 17 and 22, the city's heat index never dipped below 42 degrees Celsius, with forecasts predicting highs of 44 degrees in the coming days.

CAGAYAN DE ORO – A prominent House leader has publicly disagreed with economists from the University of the Philippines School of Economics regarding constitutional restrictions on foreign ownership, which he identifies as a major barrier to foreign investment in the Philippines.

According to Philippines News Agency, chair of the House Committee on Constitutional Amendments, the current limitations on foreign equity within the Philippine Constitution are key deterrents for foreign businesses considering investments in the country. His comments were in response to a position paper from UPSE professors, who argued that removing these restrictions might increase uncertainty for investors due to potential legislative changes. The professors urged lawmakers to focus instead on improving infrastructure, connectivity, addressing corruption, and enforcing the rule of law to attract foreign direct investments.

Rodriguez countered that addressing economic restrictions and other investment factors are not conflicting goals and should be pursued simultaneously. He criticized the UP economists for their stance against constitutional economic amendments, labeling them as obstructive to development and employment. In contrast, Rodriguez highlighted support from the Foundation for Economic Freedom (FEF), which includes notable former economic leaders like Gary Teves, Gerardo Sicat, and Felipe Medalla. They support amending the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution to enhance legislative flexibility and attract more foreign investments, which they believe would lead to job creation and economic growth.

The FEF responded to the UP economists by stating that amending restrictive economic provisions would clarify uncertainties for investors caused by the current constitutional contradictions and legislative efforts to address them. They also noted the risk of enacted laws being challenged as unconstitutional, referencing ongoing Supreme Court cases regarding the Public Service Act, which affect the telecommunication and transportation sectors' policy environment.

The House recently passed Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) 7, aiming to amend economic constitutional provisions regarding public utilities, education, and advertising, which includes legislative measures to potentially relax these restrictions. The Senate is set to resume discussions on the corresponding RBH 6 when Congress reconvenes on April 29.

DEL CARMEN, Siargao - A new ferry route linking Dinagat Islands with Siargao Island was inaugurated on Monday, marking a significant step expected to increase tourism flows and economic exchanges between the two islands. The route commenced with a maiden voyage from Del Carmen on Siargao Island to Cagdianao on Dinagat Islands.

According to Philippines News Agency, the mayor of Del Carmen, the event was attended by local officials and stakeholders, emphasizing the route's potential to facilitate the transportation of agricultural products and bolster local tourism. The ferry journey, taking approximately one hour, was completed with the arrival of the passengers at Cagdianao port, where they were greeted by Dinagat Island Governor Nilo Demerey Jr. and Mayor Marc Adelson Longos.

The initiative is part of a broader effort to integrate the economic activities of the islands, with Coro highlighting the establishment of a food hub in Del Carmen by the provincial government of Dinagat. This hub aims to streamline the supply chain for essential goods, including vegetables, fruits, poultry, and meat, responding to the growing demand in tourist hotspots like General Luna on Siargao.

Governor Demerey underscored the strategic importance of the new ferry service, which allows for direct shipment of goods between the islands without transiting through mainland Surigao del Norte. He expressed optimism about the new route's role in opening up various opportunities for both tourism and agricultural sectors.

The maiden voyage was not just a ceremonial trip but also a functional one, carrying 47 passengers that included local officials, media personnel, and both local and international tourists. Governor Demerey also announced plans to evaluate the impact of this new connection on the islands' tourism and economy after a year.

LANAO DEL NORTE – Lanao del Norte province is enacting new legislative measures to bolster its reproductive health programs and strengthen environmental protection, as announced by local officials this Monday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the proposed legislation focuses on conserving natural assets including watersheds and mountain ranges. Buandang, who chairs the Committee on Environmental Protection, noted that these measures are critical for maintaining ecological balance and ensuring a sustainable water supply. He emphasized the importance of legal safeguards for coastal wetlands and the management of prominent green spaces such as Mt. Torong Torong, the San Antonio Eco Park, and the Provincial Capitol Children's Park.

In parallel, provincial population officer Annete Daniel highlighted the Service Delivery Network for Adolescents Health and Development (ISDN4AHD). This network, integral to the province’s implementation of the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Law, facilitates the pooling and sharing of resources to optimize service delivery and impact. Daniel explained that ISDN4AHD includes a referral system connecting various stakeholders to maintain a continuum of information and services mandated by the law.

MANILA — The Supreme Court has overturned a decision by the Commission on Elections (Comelec), which had rejected a disqualification petition against Cagayan Governor Manuel Mamba filed before the 2022 elections. The court found that the Comelec committed a "grave abuse of discretion" and has remanded the case back to the Comelec en banc for proper review as of April 16.

According to Philippines News Agency, the case was elevated to its attention after the Comelec en banc overturned an initial decision by its Second Division, which had disqualified Governor Mamba based on substantial evidence that he violated Section 261(v) of the Omnibus Election Code. This section prohibits the unauthorized release, disbursement, or expenditure of public funds during the campaign period. The petitioner, Ma. Zarah Rose Lara, who also ran for governor, filed the petition on May 10, 2022, at 6:21 p.m., more than 24 hours after the elections had concluded.

The controversy arose when the Comelec en banc deemed Lara's petition filed the next business day, May 11, at 8 a.m., after Mamba was proclaimed the winner at 1:39 a.m. that day. However, the Supreme Court ruled that the petition was validly filed within the day of the proclamation, noting that disqualification petitions could be submitted at any time during the 24-hour period of the proclamation day, as per Article 13 of the Civil Code.

The court also emphasized the need for Comelec procedures to adapt to modern technological realities, recognizing that email submissions are not constrained by traditional office hours. The Supreme Court stated that the Comelec, with its significant resources, should be capable of accessing and processing filings made via email outside of regular office hours. This decision underscores the court's directive that procedural rules should align with substantive laws and adapt to technological advancements to ensure fairness and accessibility in electoral processes.

CEBU CITY - On Labor Day, a job fair featuring approximately 3,000 vacant positions will take place in Cebu City, aiming to provide numerous employment opportunities for local residents.

According to Philippines News Agency, regional director of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-Central Visayas, the event marks the 199th Labor Day celebration and will be held at the SM Seaside City's wing atrium.

The job fair, themed "Sa Bagong Pilipinas: Manggagawang Pilipino, Kabalikat at Kasama sa Pag-asenso," will include a wide variety of positions. Among the highlighted opportunities are 600 vacancies for instructors of English as a second language, targeting different employers. Additionally, 100 positions for online instructors are available for those seeking either part-time or full-time teaching roles.

Further job openings at the fair include 200 vacancies for service crew members, 100 for customer service associates, 100 for customer service advisors, and 100 for sales associates. Estillore also noted that the fair would feature 30 openings for counter-service professionals and 10 for business center operations officers, with a prominent chain of malls among the employers.

This substantial offering underscores the region's commitment to fostering employment and supporting the local workforce in their career advancement.

MAKATI CITY — The Department of Agriculture (DA) has introduced a proposal to maintain up to 10 days of buffer stock of key agricultural products to prevent illegal price manipulation. This proposal was presented during a meeting with the National Price Coordinating Council (NPCC) held at the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) office on Monday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DA's plan aims to stabilize commodity prices by increasing the available supply, thereby reducing market prices. Nograles noted that this stockpiling would include essential items such as rice, corn, sugar, onion, pork, and fertilizers. The implementation of this strategy is pending as the DA is currently developing the necessary implementing rules and regulations (IRR).

Nograles added that while immediate implementation is not confirmed, the IRR will outline specific circumstances under which the government may activate this buffer stocking. She emphasized that the availability of such stocks would serve as a deterrent to hoarders and those engaged in price manipulation by allowing government intervention at any moment.

DTI Undersecretary Jose Edgardo Sunico highlighted that this would mark the first utilization of the Price Act's provision on buffer stocking by the DA. Republic Act 7581, or the Price Act, permits the procurement and distribution of basic necessities or prime commodities to regulate prices in regions experiencing shortages or needing price adjustments.

DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual has expressed support for the DA's initiative, viewing it as a vital tool to help manage inflation pressures. This proposal represents one of several measures the government is considering to address economic challenges.