Year: 2023

MANILA: Maricar Estor, a 20-year-old resident of Manila, has adopted a personal tradition of wearing earmuffs each New Year's Eve for the past 17 years, to shield herself from the loud noises of fireworks and firecrackers. Estor, in an interview with the Philippine News Agency, shared her experiences of palpitations and ear pain caused by the loud sounds of New Year's festivities. She also revealed her practice of using damp handkerchiefs to counteract the fumes from fireworks. Concerned about her pets' well-being, Estor mentioned that she holds her two dogs close to her chest during these times to provide them a sense of security. She often retreats to her bathroom with her pets, finding it quieter than other parts of her house, until the noise subsides.

According to Philippines News Agency, fireworks and firecrackers can lead to serious health issues, including hearing loss. The DOH recently warned the public about the dangers of fireworks, which can produce sound levels between 140 to 150 decibels (dB), resulting in pain and potential ear injuries. The department reported the first case of hearing loss due to a kwitis (mini skyrocket) affecting a 23-year-old woman from Central Luzon. The DOH highlighted that normal conversation levels are around 60 dB, while motorcycles emit 95 dB, and sirens reach 120 dB. Sounds above 120 dB can immediately damage hearing. The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US CDC) also stated that even a single exposure to a loud sound can cause hearing loss, either gradually through repeated exposure or more rapidly with deafening sounds.

Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa emphasized the importance of recognizing symptoms of hearing loss, such as pain, discomfort, ringing, or buzzing in the ears, and advised consulting a doctor if these symptoms occur. Other indicators include difficulty in hearing high-pitched sounds, following conversations in noisy environments, understanding phone conversations, and discerning speech consonants. Herbosa advised the public to enjoy community fireworks from a safe distance and use hearing protection like earplugs or earmuffs when exposed to loud sounds. He also recommended avoiding proximity to sources of loud noises.

The DOH also issued a public advisory regarding the impact of loud noises on pets, particularly cats and dogs. These sounds can cause anxiety, discomfort, and fear in pets. The department advised keeping pets indoors during fireworks displays to reduce the risk of them running away in confusion and fear. The use of calming wraps, vests, or shirts, which apply gentle pressure and can alleviate stress in many dogs, was recommended. Additionally, the DOH suggested working proactively with pets before holidays known for fireworks, using gradual exposure to firework sounds coupled with positive reinforcement, treats, and play. It is also important to ensure pets wear updated identification tags in case they manage to run away.

MANILA: In a significant move to expedite the rehabilitation of Marawi City, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has issued an order to institutionalize and streamline the recovery and reconstruction efforts in the area. This initiative is aimed at enhancing the coordination among various government agencies and ensuring timely completion of projects in Marawi and other affected localities.

According to Philippines News Agency, Under Administrative Order (AO) 14, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on December 22 on behalf of the President, all government agencies involved in Marawi's recovery are directed to expedite the completion of their respective projects and activities, in coordination with the concerned local government units. This directive comes as part of the administration's efforts to facilitate the city's comprehensive recovery from the damage it sustained.

The order assigns specific roles to various departments: The Department of the Interior and Local Government is responsible for maintaining peace and order, while the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development oversees housing projects for affected residents. The Department of Public Works and Highways is tasked with restoring public utilities and repairing infrastructure. The Department of Health and the Department of Social Welfare and Development are to ensure residents' basic needs, and the Department of Trade and Industry is charged with revitalizing business and livelihood activities.

AO 14 also addresses the role of Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM), initially created under AO 3 and amended by AO 9 in 2017. While TFBM has a supervisory role in overseeing the Bangon Marawi Comprehensive Rehabilitation and Recovery Program, the actual execution of projects rests with the designated government agencies.

The order highlights bureaucratic inefficiencies as a cause for delays in the past and mandates TFBM to wind up its operations by December 31, 2023, and be deemed 'functus officio' by March 31, 2024. As part of this wind-down, TFBM is required to revert any remaining balance in its Trust Fund to the Office of the President, conduct an inventory of assets, and submit a comprehensive report.

AO 14 repeals previous orders that established TFBM, emphasizing the need to rationalize functions for efficiency and coherence in bureaucracy, in line with the Rightsizing policy. This move aligns with the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 and the 8-Point Socioeconomic Agenda of the Marcos administration, focusing on improving bureaucratic efficiency.

The publication of AO 14 in the Official Gazette marks its immediate effect, although Malacañang has yet to release a copy of the order.

MANILA: The Bureau of Customs (BOC) in Clark, Pampanga, intercepted three parcels containing suspected shabu, with an estimated street value exceeding PHP100 million. This significant seizure underscores the ongoing efforts to curb drug trafficking in the Philippines.

According to Philippines News Agency, the illegal drugs, valued at approximately PHP103,113,600, were initially flagged as 'suspicious' during an X-ray inspection at the port. The parcels, which arrived on December 18 and were declared as 'brochures' originating from Texas, Pennsylvania, and Illinois in the United States, underwent detailed examination. Subsequent inspection revealed that they contained plastic pouches filled with crystalline substances, suspected to be shabu.

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) conducted a chemical laboratory analysis, confirming the seized substances as shabu, classified as a dangerous drug under Republic Act (RA) 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Following this confirmation, Austria issued Warrants of Seizure and Detention against the shipments for violating RA 10863, the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, in relation to RA 9165.

BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio emphasized the Bureau's commitment to partnering with law enforcement agencies to prevent the entry of illegal drugs into the country. He acknowledged the challenges ahead but reiterated the Bureau's resolve to strengthen collaborations with partner agencies. In a statement released on Saturday, Rubio stated, "Though there is still much work to do in the Bureau of Customs to achieve greatness in our efforts to stop any illegal attempts to import controlled substances into the country, we will continue to strengthen our coordination with our partner law enforcement agencies in protecting our nation from the damaging effects of drug trafficking."

This incident represents a significant success in the ongoing battle against drug smuggling and highlights the vigilant efforts of the Bureau of Customs and other law enforcement agencies in the Philippines.

MALASIQUI: The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in Pangasinan is stepping up its efforts to attain a full drug-free status for the province through community drug symposiums and promoting drug-free workplaces. This initiative is part of a broader campaign to combat illegal drug activities in the region.

According to Philippines News Agency, as of December 29, 1,157 out of 1,272 drug-affected villages in Pangasinan, accounting for 92 percent, have achieved a drug-cleared status. However, Camacho clarified that this status does not signify the total eradication of illegal drugs. Continuous efforts by law enforcement and local government units (LGUs) are necessary to maintain this status.

Under PDEA guidelines, a barangay can only be declared free from illegal drug activities after thorough validation. This includes ensuring the non-availability of drug supply, absence of drug transit activity, clandestine drug laboratories, marijuana cultivation sites, drug dens, and the presence of drug pushers and users. Camacho also noted that this status could be revoked if a village fails to address reported drug-related activities.

The regional office requires barangays or LGUs to respond or take action within 30 days upon receiving a memo about drug-related issues. This may involve interventions such as rehabilitation or legal actions against identified drug personalities.

In 2022, PDEA Pangasinan conducted seven high-impact operations, resulting in the confiscation of PHP3.6 million worth of illegal drugs (shabu and marijuana) and the arrest of 54 high-value targets. Currently, 30 out of 43 drug-affected municipalities and one out of four drug-affected cities in the province have achieved a drug-cleared status.

Camacho emphasized the ongoing need for demand reduction and law enforcement activities. The villages still not drug-cleared are those with drug personalities who have not surrendered or were identified since 2016. Appropriate interventions, including rehabilitation or arrest, are crucial for these cases.

Pangasinan recently inaugurated its first provincial reformation facility in Burgos town on December 7. This facility, part of the Balay Silangan community program, is expected to significantly aid municipalities without such facilities and are still grappling with drug issues. Eight municipalities have signed a memorandum of agreement with the provincial government for the use of this reformation facility.

The Balay Silangan program, launched in 2018, aims to reform drug offenders into self-sufficient and law-abiding citizens. This reformatory program serves as an alternative intervention for drug personalities who are not users and are ineligible for medical treatment in Department of Health-supervised facilities.

HARARE: In the wake of a devastating El Niño climate event, Zimbabwe's Hwange National Park, located hundreds of kilometers north of the capital, Harare, is experiencing a significant wildlife crisis. The park has recently reported the death of 15 elephants due to hunger and thirst, a figure that is part of a larger toll of approximately 100 elephant deaths.

According to Philippines News Agency, this isn't the first time El Niño-induced droughts have had a deadly impact on Zimbabwe's wildlife. In 2019, over 200 elephants in the country succumbed to a severe drought. Currently, Hwange National Park, which houses a population of about 45,000 elephants, is facing an acute crisis as these animals require around 200 liters of water daily.

Zimbabwe's Meteorological Services have noted that the rainy season, typically spanning from November to March, has seen little rainfall this year due to El Niño. The drought conditions are predicted to persist into 2024. This severe weather pattern, characterized by extreme temperatures and erratic rainfall, has become a hallmark of the climate crisis affecting the Southern African nation, disrupting natural water sources and impacting wildlife significantly.

Compounding the issue is the heightened threat of poaching. As animals become emaciated due to the drought, poachers are exploiting their vulnerability. Msimanga Tshuma, a resident of Hwange, expressed concerns to Anadolu Agency about the increasing poaching activities targeting weakened animals, particularly elephants, for ivory.

The drought has also forced animals to migrate across national borders in search of food and water, only to find scarce resources in neighboring regions. The situation is not isolated to Zimbabwe; neighboring Botswana and other parts of Southern Africa are experiencing similar hardships. The Famine Early Warning Systems Network (FEWS NET), a collaboration between the US Agency for International Development and Department of State, reports that the region is facing one of its worst droughts in years, affecting over 20 million people and wildlife due to significant livestock and crop losses.

Leonard Zwide, a conservationist based in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, criticized the lack of adequate planning and preparation for such droughts by authorities. He pointed out that waterholes, often supplied by solar-powered boreholes, are failing due to dropping water tables, and no timely precautionary measures have been taken.

The crisis in Hwange National Park is exacerbated by the lack of major rivers, with the park relying on solar-powered pumps at 104 boreholes or wells. However, these are currently unable to draw sufficient water to meet the needs of the wildlife. Daphine Madhlamoto, chief ecologist of the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks) at Hwange, acknowledged the increasing number of animal deaths, particularly among elephants, who are highly dependent on water.

The IFAW has indicated that relief in the form of summer rains in Zimbabwe is still weeks away amidst the ongoing El Niño conditions.

MANILA: The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has introduced a virtual option for the annual reporting of registered foreign nationals residing or working in the Philippines. This new system allows them to complete their annual report through an online platform.

According to Philippines News Agency, the virtual annual report system is designed to offer convenience while ensuring compliance with legal requirements. In a statement released on Saturday, Tansingco detailed that the process is entirely online, enabling foreign nationals to book, pay, and report from their homes. To use this service, applicants are required to visit the BI’s online services website at http://e-services.immigration.gov.ph to schedule their appointment.

The Virtual Annual Report initiative is part of the BI's efforts to modernize its laws and processes. The law mandates registered foreign nationals to personally report to the BI within the first 60 days of each year, submitting the necessary documents for the Annual Report.

In addition to the online option, foreign nationals can also choose to report in person at two designated malls in Metro Manila or at other BI offices nationwide for the 2024 Annual Report. The BI's head office in Manila has arranged for physical reporting at the 3rd Level Center Atrium of Robinsons Manila and the Government Service Express (GSE) Unit of SM Mall of Asia. These locations will be open for reporting from Mondays to Fridays, excluding holidays, between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.

The bureau has specified the requirements for the annual report, including a fully completed online registration available on the BI’s e-services website. Foreign nationals must present their original valid alien certificate of registration identity card (ACR I-Card) with valid visas, as well as a valid passport.

The BI exempts certain groups from physically reporting, including foreign nationals under 14 years of age, those over 60, individuals who are mentally or physically incapacitated, pregnant women, and foreigners with medical conditions.

BUENAVISTA: In a commemorative event in Buenavista, Acting Governor Edgar Denosta encouraged the people of Antique to embrace the values and principles of Dr. Jose Rizal, the Philippines' national hero. During the event, Denosta led the province's homage to Rizal, highlighting his role as a visionary leader and a national icon.

According to Philippines News Agency, the celebration of Rizal's martyrdom, marked by a wreath-laying ceremony at the Evelio B. Javier Freedom Park in San Jose de Buenavista, served as a reminder of Rizal's enduring impact on Filipino society. He stressed Rizal's unwavering dedication to the welfare and progress of both the province and the nation. The Acting Governor expressed his desire for the commemoration to act as a catalyst for the public to uphold the values championed by Rizal.

Adding to the commemoration's significance, Antique provincial administrator Neri Duremdes, who previously served as the Deputy District Grand Master of Masons in the province, paid tribute to Rizal, acknowledging his membership in the Masonic order. Duremdes emphasized the importance of Rizal Day to both Masons and all Filipinos who cherish freedom. He highlighted the need for the younger generation to look up to Rizal as a role model, citing his strong sense of patriotism that continues to unify and strengthen the nation.

MANILA: A 72-year-old man in Manila has sustained injuries from a fireworks-related incident, the Department of Health (DOH) reported on Saturday. This incident, caused by a 'kwitis' (skyrocket) lit by another individual, highlights the continuing issue of fireworks-related injuries in the National Capital Region.

According to Philippines News Agency, the senior citizen is the oldest among the 11 new cases of fireworks-related injuries reported as of Friday, bringing the total number to 107 for the year. These incidents predominantly occurred at home and on the streets, affecting individuals of all ages, with the youngest being a six-year-old. Additionally, the DOH reported a new case of amputation involving a 19-year-old male from Cagayan Valley, whose left hand was severely injured by an illegal 'Pla-Pla,' a potent rectangular-shaped firecracker.

The department noted a clear trend in the data, indicating that such injuries often happen at home or nearby, mostly involving young males but also affecting passive bystanders regardless of age or gender. There have been no further reports of ingestion-related incidents so far.

The DOH reiterated its previous advice, stating that observing community fireworks displays from a safe distance remains the safest way to celebrate the New Year. The report also identified the most common fireworks that lead to injuries, including boga (improvised cannon), Five Star, kwitis, Piccolo, Pla-Pla, luces (sparklers), and Whistle Bomb, responsible for nearly 70% of the injuries.

DUMAGUETE: In a stirring call to action, a youth leader and former city official of Dumaguete emphasized the importance of the youth in society, urging them to draw inspiration from national hero Dr. Jose Rizal. During the 127th commemoration of Rizal's martyrdom, the youth were encouraged to be proactive agents of change in promoting peace, progress, and nation-building.

According to Philippines News Agency, former Sangguniang Kabataan Federation president and city councilor, the event held at Quezon Park on Saturday was not just a commemoration but also a platform to inspire the youth. In his address, Macion highlighted the significant roles played by young leaders like Rizal and Andres Bonifacio in Philippine history. He noted that Rizal was only 26 when he wrote 'Noli Me Tangere' and Bonifacio was in his late 20s when he joined La Liga Filipina and founded the Katipunan.

Macion stressed the idea that today's youth can contribute to society without needing to make extreme sacrifices. He encouraged them to work towards enhancing the country's freedom, making it more robust and inclusive. Echoing these sentiments, Vice Mayor Ma. Isabel Sagarbarria, who presided over the ceremonies, called on Filipinos to remember Rizal's sacrifices. She emphasized the need for the community to serve selflessly and highlighted the importance of involving the youth in nation-building, supported by guidance from elders.

The commemoration event began early in the morning with the sounding of sirens, pealing of church bells, and an inter-faith prayer. It included a flag-raising ceremony where the flag was hoisted to half-mast, followed by a wreath-laying at Rizal's monument. The ceremony was further dignified by a 21-gun salute and the playing of 'Taps' by soldiers of the 11th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army.

The event saw participation from city government employees, representatives from various government agencies, non-government organizations, and civil society, all gathered to honor the memory of the national hero.

LINGAYEN: The province of Pangasinan is poised to sustain its growth trajectory in 2024, with significant emphasis on infrastructure development, food security, and power supply. Governor Ramon Guico III, in a conversation with the Philippine News Agency, outlined the province's strategies and plans for the coming year.

According to Philippines News Agency, 2023 was a year marked by extensive planning, funding, and legal groundwork to facilitate various development projects. A notable project is the PHP34-billion Pangasinan Link Expressway project Phase 1, a joint venture and tollway concession agreement with San Miguel Holdings Corporation (SMHC), signed on October 19. This 42.76-kilometer expressway, expected to connect eastern and western parts of Pangasinan, is seen as a catalyst for enhanced transportation and tourism, and broader economic opportunities in the region.

The first phase of the expressway, with a four-year construction target, includes segments from Binalonan to Manaoag, Manaoag to Calasiao, and Calasiao to Lingayen. Once completed, it is expected to significantly reduce travel time within the province. The agreement also entitles Pangasinan to a 5 percent share in toll and commercial development revenues.

Another key project underway is the PHP800-million Bolinao Airport, with ongoing land acquisition efforts. The airport will initially feature a 1,500-meter runway, capable of accommodating aircraft like the Airbus A320, with plans for further expansion.

To attract more infrastructure investments, the province is considering the Joint Venture for Innovative Start-Up Ordinance measure. This proposal aims to involve private corporations and firms in developing infrastructure projects and services, offering a more inclusive approach compared to existing Private Public Partnership (PPP) and Joint Venture (JV) codes.

In the realm of food security, the provincial government, in coordination with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, has initiated salt harvesting at the 473.8-hectare Pangasinan Salt Center in Bolinao. Approximately 33 metric tons of salt were harvested from December 21 to 29, with a production target of 15,000 to 20,000 metric tons in the next cycle.

The government's corporate farming program aims to boost rice, corn, and high-value crop production. This initiative involves partnerships with private entities and farmer associations, providing high-quality seeds, fertilizers, and mechanization support. The program also extends to the fishery sector, with distribution of equipment and skills training for farmers.

In the medical sector, the province's 14 government-run hospitals received a PHP287-million subsidy for medical assistance to indigent and financially incapacitated residents. This funding is part of the Medical Assistance for Indigent Patients (MAIP) program.

On the renewable energy front, Pangasinan is targeting a solar power capacity of 1.5 gigawatts by 2025. Several renewable energy companies have been granted permits to construct solar farms in the province, including projects in San Manuel, Sual, Bugallon, and Aguilar.

These initiatives reflect Pangasinan's commitment to fostering economic development, enhancing infrastructure, ensuring food security, and embracing renewable energy as key drivers of its growth in 2024 and beyond.

CEBU CITY: The Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño, under the guidance of the Augustinian friars, has officially announced the commencement of the 459th Fiesta Señor 2024. The festivities will start with a 'walk with Jesus' on January 11 at 4 a.m., initiating a nine-day novena dedicated to the Sr. Sto. Niño. This early morning penitential walk will be followed by a Holy Mass.

According to Philippines News Agency, the novena will conclude on January 19 with a 'walk with Mary' at 4 a.m., leading into the Misa de Traslacion at 5 a.m. at the Basilica. Significant events include the Traslacion on the same day, transferring the sacred image of the Holy Child Jesus to Mandaue City at 6:45 a.m., and another Traslacion to Lapu-Lapu City scheduled to start at noon on January 20. The following day will also feature a traditional solemn foot procession at 1 p.m., just after a reenactment of the first Mass, baptism, and wedding in Asia, dating back to 1521.

The Augustinian friars have highlighted alterations in the procession routes, a decision made in collaboration with local stakeholders. The 'walk with Jesus' will now traverse a shorter path from Fuente Osmeña and Osmeña Blvd., returning to the Basilica. In contrast, the 'walk with Mary' will take the V. Rama-B. Rodriguez corridor, deviating from the usual route from the Guadalupe Church via Capitol Site. These changes are attributed to the ongoing construction of the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (CBRT) terminals.

Due to the extensive construction along Osmeña Blvd., the traditional solemn foot procession will instead follow a six-kilometer southern cross towards Natalio Bacalso Ave. The Basilica's advisory, dated November 15, 2023, emphasizes that these route adjustments were jointly decided by the Basilica del Sto. Niño and the Cebu City Government, prioritizing the safety of all devotees.

The advisory further urges devotees of Señor Santo Niño de Cebu participating in the processions to be cautious of the yellow separators of the CBRT development on Osmeña Blvd. The Basilica, in coordination with the Cebu City government led by Mayor Michael Rama, has committed to implementing necessary safety measures for the devotees during these events.

MANILA: Highlighting the need for responsible gun use, Senator Nancy Binay urged gun owners, particularly those in military and police services, to refrain from indiscriminate firing as part of the New Year's Eve celebrations. In a recent press release, the senator emphasized safety and advocated for alternative, creative ways to welcome the New Year, moving away from the traditional use of guns, fireworks, and firecrackers.

According to Philippines News Agency, Senator Binay reminded the public of the responsibilities that come with gun ownership. She stressed the importance of avoiding unnecessary use of firearms to prevent casualties, especially during festive occasions. The senator's call comes in the wake of reports from the Philippine National Police (PNP) indicating a number of illegal firearm discharges in the lead-up to the New Year.

The PNP has reported at least seven incidents of illegal firearm discharge since December 16, resulting in one injury. Among the seven reported incidents, five offenders, including two police officers, two members of the Philippine Army, and a civilian, have been arrested, and their weapons have been confiscated. Two other cases involve unidentified individuals.

Earlier this month, the PNP decided not to seal the muzzles of service firearms, a practice skipped again this year. The decision was based on the compliance of police officers with directives against indiscriminate firing and the need for readiness in responding to crimes.

Senator Binay also called for strict monitoring of vendors selling illegal firecrackers. She urged the PNP and local government units to enforce Republic Act 7183 rigorously. This act regulates the sale, manufacture, distribution, and use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices, aiming to ensure public safety during celebrations.