Category: Government

MANILA — The Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, expressed his appreciation for the Filipino community in Qatar, highlighting their significant contribution to the country's development. This commendation was made during a bilateral meeting with Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at Malacañan Palace on Monday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the nearly 243,000 Filipinos residing in Qatar have played an integral role in the Arab nation's progress. The meeting also coincided with discussions of strengthening the bilateral ties between Qatar and the Philippines, which have been formally established since May 5, 1981. In 2022, remittances from Qatar to the Philippines totaled USD895.33 million, underscoring the economic connections fostered by the Filipino community.

During the meeting, both leaders witnessed the signing of several agreements and memoranda of understanding aimed at enhancing relations and increasing communication between the private sectors of the two countries. Sheikh Tamim emphasized the importance of the Philippines as a trading and economic partner and expressed his aspirations to improve these relationships further.

President Marcos reciprocated the sentiments, noting that the discussions with Sheikh Tamim are expected to lead to stronger collaboration across various fields of mutual interest. He stressed the potential for enhanced cooperation at commercial, governmental, and people-to-people levels, highlighting the significant potential benefits for both nations.

The meeting underscored a shared commitment to leveraging the strong community and economic ties between Qatar and the Philippines for mutual growth and development.

Bandar Seri Begawan - On the afternoon of April 6th, the Balai Khazanah Islam Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah under the Prime Minister's Office held its own Khatam Al-Qur'an Ceremony, a significant event to mark the conclusion of the Quran reading during Ramadan. The ceremony involved the completion of the Quran's recitation, an essential practice during the holy month.

According to Radio Television Brunei, the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah was led by Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Lailaraja Retired Major General Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Second Minister of Defence, who also serves as the Chairman of the Balai Khazanah Advisory Board. The event also included the presentation of donations to four orphans, children of the department's staff, emphasizing the ceremony's communal and charitable spirit. Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Nazmi bin Haji Mohamad, Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sports and a member of the Balai Khazanah Advisory Board, was also in attendance.

Luang Prabang, Lao People's Democratic Republic - During the 11th ASEAN Finance Ministers' and Central Bank Governors' Meeting (AFMGM) and related meetings, ASEAN leaders emphasized the importance of fostering a resilient and dynamic financial ecosystem. The Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy for Fiscal highlighted the necessity of seamless cross-border payments, private investment attraction, and innovative financing solutions to sustain regional growth.

According to Radio Television Brunei, Key discussions at the plenary session, led by Pengiran Datin Seri Paduka Hajah Zety Sufina binti Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Sani, focused on advancing digital integration to drive financial and economic growth and inclusion across the ASEAN Region. Topics such as public and private sector collaboration in green, blended, and transition finance, the digital economy, fintech, and combating illicit trade were also explored. Dayang Hajah Rokiah binti Haji Badar, Managing Director of the Brunei Darussalam Central Bank (BDCB), was among the notable attendees.

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines - President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has officially signed Republic Act (RA) 11994 into law, establishing a new district engineering office for the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Zamboanga City. Announced on Saturday, the legislation was signed by Marcos on April 4, paving the way for the creation of the Zamboanga City First District Engineering Office. This new entity is slated to be located within the Zamboanga City Special Economic Zone - Zamboanga Freeport Authority in Talisayan village.

According to Philippines News Agency, the establishment of the Zamboanga City First District Engineering Office aims to enhance infrastructure development and maintenance within the city. The existing district engineering office, situated in Barangay Divisoria, will henceforth be recognized as the Zamboanga City Second District Engineering Office, signifying a reorganization intended to improve public works and highway services in the region.

The newly created First District Engineering Office will be responsible for several villages, including Ayala, Baliwasan, and Baluno, among others, covering a wide area from Cabatangan to Zone 4. Meanwhile, the Second District Engineering Office will cater to areas ranging from Arena Blanco to Zambowood, ensuring comprehensive coverage and attention to infrastructure needs across Zamboanga City.

The law mandates the DPWH Secretary to integrate the operationalization of both the Zamboanga City First and Second District Engineering Offices into the department's program, with funding allocated through the annual General Appropriations Act. Passed by the House of Representatives on March 21, 2023, and the Senate on November 2, 2023, RA 11994 is set to take effect 15 days after its publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation, marking a significant step towards improving local infrastructure management and development in Zamboanga City.

CAVINTI, Laguna - Princess Superal is gearing up for her return to the Ladies Philippine Golf Tour (LPGT), taking her place in the competitive roster for the ICTSI Caliraya Springs Championship. The tournament, which boasts a PHP1 million prize pool, is scheduled to take place at the Caliraya Springs Golf Club on April 9. Alongside Superal, the event will feature a strong lineup of players including LPGT leg winners Sarah Ababa and Harmie Constantino, as well as Lois Kaye Go, Mafy Singson, and several others.

According to Philippines News Agency, her focus is more on honing her driving technique than on the competition itself. "The goal is always to win. But since I am working on my long game, I want to focus first on the process more than the results," said the 2014 US Girls' Junior Championship winner. With the guidance of swing coach Bong Lopez at Manila Southwoods, Superal has been diligently preparing for the challenges that await in Caliraya.

The rigorous training regimen Superal follows includes playing four times a week, in addition to range practice and short game work. This preparation is part of her broader campaign, which will continue next month on the Japan Step Up Tour.

Notably, Superal made history as the first amateur to win an LPGT event at John Hay in 2013. Her most recent title in the circuit came in 2021 at Eagle Ridge, although she narrowly missed the Hallow Ridge title to Chanelle Avaricio in sudden death the following year.

Superal's achievements extend beyond the LPGT, including a victory at the 2022 Asia Pacific Cup in Indonesia, where she outperformed major winners such as So Yeon Ryu, Hyo Joo Kim of Korea, and New Zealand's Lydia Ko. Her participation in the ICTSI Caliraya Springs Championship is eagerly anticipated, as she aims to showcase her improved game and vie for the title among a field of esteemed competitors.

MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has made several strategic appointments across a range of government bodies, filling crucial roles to ensure the continued smooth operation and oversight of various sectors. These appointments span from the leadership of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) to key positions in finance, science, education, and more.

According to Philippines News Agency, Sabuddin Abdurahim has been designated as the new head of the NCMF, stepping into the role previously held by Secretary Guiling Mamondiong. Abdurahim, who served as a First District Board member in Tawi-Tawi, officially took office after swearing in before Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin at Malacañan Palace on March 27.

Further appointments announced include Renato Reside Jr., now Undersecretary of the Department of Finance, and Antonio Tabora Jr., who assumes the role of Presidential Assistant for the Cordillera Administrative Region at the assistant secretary level. In the Office of the President, new designees are Cynthia Vergara as Assistant Executive Secretary for Internal Audit and Alexander Flores as Assistant Secretary in the Deputy Executive Secretary's Office for Support Services and Auxiliaries.

Additional appointments include Elmer Jude Mesina as Deputy Director-General of the Philippine Information Agency and Rolando Martinez as Director IV at the Philippine Space Agency. President Marcos also named Marcelino Villafuerte II as Director III for the Department of Science and Technology's weather and astronomical services, alongside other significant placements in social security, education, and local government roles.

The Department of Finance's Land Bank Securities Inc. sees new board members such as Gonzalo Benjamin Bongolan and others, while the Department of Health and the National Economic and Development Authority also welcome new leadership figures. These appointments reflect a broad effort by the Marcos administration to ensure leadership across critical sectors, aiming for effective governance and responsive public service.

AGUSAN DEL NORTE — Representative Dale Corvera of Agusan del Norte's 2nd District, who serves on the House Committee on Basic Education and Culture, has publicly commended President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for sanctioning the allocation of PHP1.34 billion to refurbish heritage school buildings across the Philippines.

According to Philippines News Agency, more than 2,000 heritage school edifices across the nation are in dire need of financial aid for their restoration. He highlighted that numerous historic school structures, vital to preserving the nation's cultural legacy, have deteriorated or are no longer in use. With the newly approved funds, approximately 600 classrooms in over 80 heritage schools are set for restoration.

Among the notable beneficiaries are the Gabaldon Schoolhouses, constructed from 1907 to 1946. These schools are named after Isauro Gabaldon, a former legislator who championed the Gabaldon Act of 1907. This landmark legislation, enacted by the Philippine Assembly, earmarked PHP1 million for the establishment of modern public school facilities across the country, a project that spanned from 1908 to 1915.

Rep. Corvera expressed optimism that this funding would kick-start ongoing efforts to conserve these vital structures, linking them to broader educational and cultural preservation endeavors. He emphasized that restoring these buildings would not only address the pressing need for classroom space but also foster a deeper appreciation for cultural heritage among Filipino students.

The funding initiative, as Corvera notes, symbolizes a significant step towards connecting the nation's youth with their historical roots, ensuring that they maintain a strong sense of identity and continuity with their past.

MANILA - The Philippine government has announced the appointment of Erwin Erfe as the new Deputy Chief Public Attorney of the Public Attorney's Office (PAO), an update confirmed by Malacañang on Tuesday. This strategic appointment aims to bolster the leadership within PAO, ensuring continued legal support and advocacy for the public.

According to Philippines News Agency, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed the appointment paper on March 27, formalizing Erfe's new role. The announcement was initially made by PAO Chief Persida Rueda-Acosta via an X post, where she also shared the official appointment papers.

Erfe steps into the position previously held by Silvestre Mosing, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his prior role as the director of PAO's Forensic Laboratory Division. His transition to deputy chief is expected to enhance the operational effectiveness and strategic direction of the PAO, an essential institution committed to providing legal assistance to underprivileged Filipinos.

The PAO plays a critical role in the Philippine justice system, offering free legal aid to those who cannot afford private legal representation. With Erfe's appointment, the PAO is poised to continue its mission with renewed vigor and leadership, ensuring access to justice for all sectors of society.

MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has appointed Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Peralta as the officer-in-charge (OIC) of the Philippine National Police (PNP), filling the leadership vacuum created by Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr.'s retirement. This transitional leadership ensures the continuity of the PNP's critical functions and services across the country.

According to Philippines News Agency, dated March 27, Lt. Gen. Peralta's appointment is effective from March 31, 2024, and will continue until a permanent chief is named or further orders are issued. This strategic move is intended to maintain stability and effective governance within the national police force during this interim period.

Lt. Gen. Peralta, a graduate of the Philippine Military Academy "Sambisig" Class of 1991, was serving as the deputy chief for administration, the second-in-command within the PNP hierarchy. His extensive experience includes roles such as the Chief of the Directorial Staff, the head of the Police Regional Office 1 in the Ilocos Region, and the leadership of the Southern Police District in Metro Manila.

The need for this appointment arose as Gen. Acorda reached the mandatory retirement age for PNP officers last December but received an extension until the end of March. His official retirement is to be commemorated at a ceremony in Camp Crame, Quezon City.

Following the announcement, the PNP released a statement affirming its dedication to its mission under Lt. Gen. Peralta's guidance, emphasizing continued service, integrity, and excellence. The force expressed its commitment to introducing new programs that will further enhance its administrative and operational capacities.

The PNP also called for unity within its ranks, urging all personnel to support the newly designated OIC in achieving the organization's objectives of ensuring national safety and security. This appeal underscores the importance of cohesive leadership and collaboration within the police force to effectively address and respond to the country's law enforcement and public safety needs.

Col. Jean Fajardo, PNP's information chief and spokesperson, indicated that the organization's 232,000 members are prepared to support the leadership transition, highlighting the collective readiness for the upcoming turnover ceremony.

BOLKIAH GARRISON – In a compassionate outreach during the holy month of Ramadan, the Ministry of Defence of Brunei Darussalam orchestrated a donation presentation ceremony for orphans and civilian personnel in need. The event, which took place simultaneously across Bolkiah Garrison, Penanjong Garrison, and Lumut Camp on the morning of March 29, aimed to offer support in anticipation of the forthcoming Hari Raya Aidil Fitri celebrations.

According to Radio Television Brunei, Retired Brigadier General Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Alirupendi bin Haji Perudin, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence, was present at Bolkiah Garrison to distribute donations to recipients from Brunei Muara District and Temburong District. The ceremony also featured the recitation of Surah Yaasin and Tahlil, underscoring the spiritual significance of the occasion. Meanwhile, Dayang Poh Kui Choon, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence, and Dayang Alina binti Abang Haji Omarzuki, Acting Director of Administration and Manpower, handed out donations at Penanjong Garrison and Lumut Camp, respectively, catering to beneficiaries from Tutong and Belait Districts.

MANILA—President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expressed his gratitude to India for the rescue of Filipino seafarers aboard the MV True Confidence, following an attack in the Gulf of Aden on March 6. The appreciation was conveyed during Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar's visit to Malacañang Palace.

According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos lauded the Indian government's prompt and decisive response to the incident involving the Houthi rebels' assault, which resulted in the rescue of the ship's crew, including Filipino nationals. The collaboration underscored by this act of assistance is seen as a significant gesture, reinforcing the diplomatic bonds between the Philippines and India.

The event was an occasion for high-ranking officials from both nations to engage, reflecting the mutual interest in bolstering bilateral ties. In attendance were notable Philippine and Indian officials, acknowledging the collaborative effort that facilitated the rescue and care of the attacked vessel's crew.

The Indian Navy's medical team played a crucial role in providing immediate care to the survivors, ensuring their safety amidst the crisis. Regrettably, the assault claimed the lives of three crew members, including two Filipinos. Following the incident, all surviving Filipino seafarers were successfully repatriated, marking a somber yet crucial operation in safeguarding nationals abroad.

MANILA - President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has urged Filipinos to embrace the spirit of Holy Week by demonstrating kindness and selflessness, emphasizing the importance of this period for reflection and spiritual growth. In his message for the commencement of Holy Week, observed from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday, Marcos highlighted the significance of this time for the predominantly Catholic Philippines, which boasts the third-largest Catholic population globally.

According to Philippines News Agency, Holy Week serves as a profound opportunity for Catholics to commemorate the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, urging the faithful to delve into the essence of their beliefs and enact positive change through their actions. He stressed the importance of humility and acceptance of human imperfection as a conduit to experiencing the divine.

The president's message underscored the dual nature of Holy Week as a time for both inward contemplation and outward expression of faith through acts of charity and kindness. Marcos encouraged Filipinos to ponder life's mysteries and find meaning in the interplay of joy and sorrow, drawing inspiration from the fundamental teachings of Christianity.

Marcos further articulated his vision for the Filipino people to become beacons of hope and compassion, particularly in challenging times. He aspired for the community's Holy Week observances to translate into acts that kindle light in others' lives, advocating for love and hope to prevail over despair.

In concluding his message, President Marcos expressed his aspiration for the Catholic community to be remembered not merely for personal achievements but for the positive impact they have on others, reinforcing the message of Holy Week as a catalyst for communal solidarity and benevolence.