Category: Government

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is set to meet United States President Joe Biden next month in Washington, D.C., as part of efforts to enhance the bilateral relations between the two countries, the Malacañang announced Tuesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the meeting between Marcos and Biden will occur alongside a trilateral summit involving Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida scheduled for April 11. The discussions aim to acknowledge and build upon the significant advancements in Philippines-United States relations, emphasizing a mutual commitment to further strengthen the alliance.

This forthcoming visit by President Marcos to the U.S. follows recent diplomatic engagements, including visits to the Philippines by U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and the first U.S. Presidential Trade and Investment Mission led by Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo.

Earlier on Tuesday, the White House disclosed its plans to host the first-ever U.S. trilateral summit with the Philippines and Japan, underscoring the strategic importance of the three nations' defense, security, and economic ties. The DFA has expressed that this summit represents a crucial moment to reaffirm the strong alliances and strategic partnerships between the Philippines and the United States, as well as between the Philippines and Japan.

Furthermore, the DFA indicated that the trilateral meeting is seen as a natural extension of the Philippines' historical and robust connections with the U.S. and Japan, aiming to boost coordination and cooperation in areas of common interest.

President Marcos, alongside President Biden and Prime Minister Kishida, is expected to discuss a broad range of issues during the summit. Topics on the agenda include maritime cooperation, infrastructure development, economic resilience, trade, and investments, along with other significant areas such as clean energy, climate action, cybersecurity, and the digital economy.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is set to meet United States President Joe Biden next month in Washington, D.C., as part of efforts to enhance the bilateral relations between the two countries, the Malacañang announced Tuesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the meeting between Marcos and Biden will occur alongside a trilateral summit involving Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida scheduled for April 11. The discussions aim to acknowledge and build upon the significant advancements in Philippines-United States relations, emphasizing a mutual commitment to further strengthen the alliance.

This forthcoming visit by President Marcos to the U.S. follows recent diplomatic engagements, including visits to the Philippines by U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and the first U.S. Presidential Trade and Investment Mission led by Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo.

Earlier on Tuesday, the White House disclosed its plans to host the first-ever U.S. trilateral summit with the Philippines and Japan, underscoring the strategic importance of the three nations' defense, security, and economic ties. The DFA has expressed that this summit represents a crucial moment to reaffirm the strong alliances and strategic partnerships between the Philippines and the United States, as well as between the Philippines and Japan.

Furthermore, the DFA indicated that the trilateral meeting is seen as a natural extension of the Philippines' historical and robust connections with the U.S. and Japan, aiming to boost coordination and cooperation in areas of common interest.

President Marcos, alongside President Biden and Prime Minister Kishida, is expected to discuss a broad range of issues during the summit. Topics on the agenda include maritime cooperation, infrastructure development, economic resilience, trade, and investments, along with other significant areas such as clean energy, climate action, cybersecurity, and the digital economy.

MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has extended an invitation to global business leaders to invest in the Philippines, highlighting the country's recent economic achievements and future prospects. Speaking at the World Economic Forum (WEF) Country Roundtable in Manila, Marcos emphasized the nation's successful economic performance in 2023, which outpaced its ASEAN counterparts and China.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Philippine economy has shown resilient growth, supported by significant investments in durable equipment and public construction. He detailed the administration's commitment to 185 flagship infrastructure projects, amounting to over PHP9 trillion, which focuses on sectors crucial for sustainable development and enhanced connectivity. Marcos pointed out that more than half of these projects are either in progress or approved for implementation, with around a quarter expected to be funded through public-private partnerships (PPP).

In his address, Marcos also highlighted several key regulatory reforms aimed at fostering a stable and conducive environment for PPP investments. These reforms include amendments to the Build-Operate-Transfer Law, the enactment of the Public-Private Partnership Code, and other economic liberalization measures. He encouraged the WEF participants to consider the Philippines as a viable destination for long-term investment and partnership.

The call to invest in the Philippines was supported by WEF President Børge Brende, who reflected on the positive international response to the Philippines' economic direction and policy reforms. Brende suggested that with continued focus on infrastructure and renewable energy investments, the Philippines could significantly increase its economic size in the coming decade.

Further endorsing the President's efforts, Dr. Cecilio Pedro, president of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc., praised Marcos' dedication to promoting the Philippines abroad, noting the potential impact of increased foreign investment on job creation and national progress.

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) announced an expansion of its satellite registration efforts to ensure broader voter participation in the 2025 midterm elections. This initiative aims to reach potential voters in remote and underrepresented areas across the country.

According to Philippines News Agency, the decision to enhance satellite registration services reflects the Commission's commitment to inclusivity. Speaking to members of the Tigwahanon tribe in Sitio Kalinawan, Kibongcog, Garcia emphasized that every voter's access, regardless of location or background, is crucial. The Commission's efforts to decentralize the registration process have made it more accessible, even in the urban centers of Metro Manila.

Garcia highlighted the importance of bringing registration services to the Philippines' most remote areas, allowing indigenous and rural populations to register without the need to travel to urban centers. He also mentioned the possibility of deploying battery-operated automated counting machines in the upcoming elections, contingent on the number of registered voters in these areas.

During the satellite registration event, 71 indigenous peoples, including first-time voters Mary Grace Ibalao, 19, and 74-year-old Datu Deimas Sumu-nao, were able to submit their applications for new voter registration or for transfer. Ibalao expressed her excitement about participating in the upcoming elections, while Sumu-nao emphasized the importance of supporting candidates who understand the unique needs of indigenous communities.

The nationwide voter registration campaign is scheduled to run until September 30, providing ample opportunity for new voters to register and for existing voters to update their records in preparation for the 2025 polls.

MOSCOW - Voter participation in the 2024 Russian presidential election surpassed the 55% mark on the second day of polling, as reported by the country's election authority.

According to Philippines News Agency, the three-day voting process commenced on Friday, with incumbent President Vladimir Putin vying for a fifth term. Competing against him are Vladislav Davankov from the New People Party, Leonid Slutsky of the Liberal-Democrat Party of Russia, and Nikolai Kharitonov from the Communist Party. Commission head Ella Pamfilova revealed in a Moscow press briefing that over 94,000 polling stations have been set up across Russia, operating from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time, alongside 295 stations in 144 countries for overseas voting.

Additionally, Russian citizens have the option to cast their votes online via the State Services portal. The Commission noted a significant turnout on the first day, with 36.12 percent of voters participating. During this period, there were reports of eight attempts to set fire to polling station buildings. Furthermore, Russian internet service providers detected a surge in DDoS attacks, predominantly originating from Ukraine and North America, targeting over 90,000 attempts against the Central Election Commission, the State Services portal, and other government websites.

The preliminary results of the election are anticipated to be announced after 9 p.m. Moscow time on Sunday.

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Brunei - His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, has extended a congratulatory message to His Excellency Asif Ali Zardari on the occasion of his appointment as the new President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. The message symbolizes the warm diplomatic relations between Brunei Darussalam and Pakistan and the Sultan's support for the new leadership.

According to Radio Television Brunei, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah expressed his best wishes to President Zardari, emphasizing the importance of continued friendship and cooperation between the two nations. The congratulatory gesture reaffirms Brunei's commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and supporting mutual interests in the Islamic world and beyond.

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Brunei - His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, has extended a congratulatory message to His Excellency Asif Ali Zardari on the occasion of his appointment as the new President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. The message symbolizes the warm diplomatic relations between Brunei Darussalam and Pakistan and the Sultan's support for the new leadership.

According to Radio Television Brunei, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah expressed his best wishes to President Zardari, emphasizing the importance of continued friendship and cooperation between the two nations. The congratulatory gesture reaffirms Brunei's commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and supporting mutual interests in the Islamic world and beyond.

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Brunei - The Ministry of Religious Affairs organized the 14th Munajat Night Special Programme for Women, an event dedicated to spiritual preparation ahead of Ramadan. The programme included a talk on preparing both spiritually and physically for the blessed month, emphasizing Ramadan as a time of immense blessings and forgiveness. The event was part of broader efforts to encourage Muslims to maximize the opportunities for spiritual growth and repentance during Ramadan.

According to Radio Television Brunei, the Munajat Night, held in conjunction with a special talk on Preparation Before Ramadan, saw participation from notable individuals including Datin Hajah Nahriah binti Haji Awang Asbi, the wife of the Minister of Religious Affairs, and Dayang Hajah Florinda binti Haji Mejenis, Head of the Meraih Berkah Group. The gathering brought together religious members of the Meraih Berkah Group, women congregants from several mosques, and officers and staff at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, highlighting the community's collective endeavor to welcome Ramadan with open hearts and minds.

PASAY CITY, Philippines — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. departed for Melbourne to attend the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit, where he plans to affirm the Philippines' stance on key regional and international issues. Invited by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, President Marcos's participation marks a significant engagement commemorating 50 years of diplomatic relations between ASEAN countries and Australia.

According to Philippines News Agency, the summit offers a vital platform for the Philippines to express its national positions and prepare for future ASEAN Dialogue Partner Summits. In his departure speech at Villamor Air Base, he emphasized the importance of the event in reinforcing the Philippines' gratitude towards Australia for its consistent support of the rule of law, including backing for the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Award.

The President outlined the summit's agenda, highlighting two primary sessions: the Leaders' Plenary and the Leaders' Retreat. During these engagements, Marcos intends to review and enhance ASEAN-Australia cooperation, share insights on pressing global and regional issues, and explore avenues to strengthen bilateral relations.

Additionally, President Marcos announced plans for bilateral meetings with Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Hun Manet and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Mark Luxon. The President also aims to connect with the Filipino community in Melbourne and advocate for investment opportunities through the Philippine Business Forum organized by the Department of Trade and Industry.

A key event during the visit will be the inauguration of the expanded Victoria International Container Terminal, showcasing Australia's first fully automated container terminal. Marcos is scheduled to deliver a keynote address at the Lowy Institute, underscoring the Philippines' active role in global diplomacy and its contribution to a rules-based regional security framework.

President Marcos reassured that the government's engagements with ASEAN and other international partners would continue to prioritize the Philippines' national interest and contribute to regional peace, stability, security, and prosperity. This visit underscores the longstanding diplomatic ties between the Philippines and Australia, established on July 4, 1946, and the significant Filipino community residing in Australia, which plays a crucial role in the bilateral relationship through substantial remittances.

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN — The National Munajat Night Assembly, a spiritual gathering in anticipation of the holy month of Ramadhan, was held in conjunction with the 40th Brunei Darussalam National Day Celebration. The 127th iteration of this solemn assembly took place at Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit Mosque in Mukim Kilanas, organized by the Ministry of Religious Affairs in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sports.

According to Radio Television Brunei, The event was marked by the recitation of Sayyidul Istighfar and Surah Al-Fatihah, 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, serving as Acting Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports.

During the assembly, Pengiran Ahmad Faris Ramadhani bin Pengiran Sellahhuddin, a Mosque Affairs Officer, delivered a tazkirah titled 'Di Ambang Ramadhan,' emphasizing the exceptional blessings Allah Subhanahu Wata'ala bestows upon the followers of Prophet Muhammad Shallallahu 'Alaihi Wasallam during Ramadhan. The event was attended by Cabinet Ministers and congregants from 68 mosques, suraus, and religious halls nationwide, both in person and virtually, highlighting the nation's collective spiritual preparation for the forthcoming month of Ramadhan.

PASAY CITY, Philippines — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. departed for Melbourne to attend the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit, where he plans to affirm the Philippines' stance on key regional and international issues. Invited by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, President Marcos's participation marks a significant engagement commemorating 50 years of diplomatic relations between ASEAN countries and Australia.

According to Philippines News Agency, the summit offers a vital platform for the Philippines to express its national positions and prepare for future ASEAN Dialogue Partner Summits. In his departure speech at Villamor Air Base, he emphasized the importance of the event in reinforcing the Philippines' gratitude towards Australia for its consistent support of the rule of law, including backing for the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Award.

The President outlined the summit's agenda, highlighting two primary sessions: the Leaders' Plenary and the Leaders' Retreat. During these engagements, Marcos intends to review and enhance ASEAN-Australia cooperation, share insights on pressing global and regional issues, and explore avenues to strengthen bilateral relations.

Additionally, President Marcos announced plans for bilateral meetings with Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Hun Manet and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Mark Luxon. The President also aims to connect with the Filipino community in Melbourne and advocate for investment opportunities through the Philippine Business Forum organized by the Department of Trade and Industry.

A key event during the visit will be the inauguration of the expanded Victoria International Container Terminal, showcasing Australia's first fully automated container terminal. Marcos is scheduled to deliver a keynote address at the Lowy Institute, underscoring the Philippines' active role in global diplomacy and its contribution to a rules-based regional security framework.

President Marcos reassured that the government's engagements with ASEAN and other international partners would continue to prioritize the Philippines' national interest and contribute to regional peace, stability, security, and prosperity. This visit underscores the longstanding diplomatic ties between the Philippines and Australia, established on July 4, 1946, and the significant Filipino community residing in Australia, which plays a crucial role in the bilateral relationship through substantial remittances.

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Brunei — A unique 'Masjid Tour' programme was conducted on the morning of March 3rd at the Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Mosque in the nation's capital. Organized by the As-Syahadah New Convert Youth in collaboration with the Islamic Da'wah Centre and supported by the Mosque Affairs Department, the event was inaugurated by Awang Misle bin Haji Abd Karim, Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary for Administration and Finance at the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

According to Radio Television Brunei, the programme is designed as a goodwill initiative aimed primarily at tourists, particularly non-Muslims, to strengthen propagation efforts within the country. Visitors were guided through the main prayer room and the mosque's compound, offering them a close view of the mosque's stunning architecture and enlightening them on its historical significance. The initiative underscores Brunei's commitment to fostering understanding and appreciation of Islamic culture and architectural heritage among the international community.

MANILA — In response to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s recent appeal for adherence to traffic regulations, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) has announced plans to bolster the presence of traffic enforcers across the country.

According to Philippines News Agency, the initiative aims to ensure the observance of traffic laws, including proper passenger loading and unloading practices, the preservation of bicycle lanes, and the enforcement of other road safety measures.

Mendoza emphasized the LTO's commitment to collaborating with local government units (LGUs), the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to maintain discipline on the roads, highlighting the importance of such efforts in safeguarding public safety. He also reached out to leaders of transportation groups, urging them to ensure their members comply with traffic laws to support the President's vision of a disciplined and safe road environment for all users.

The call to action aligns with President Marcos' broader campaign for a "Bagong Pilipinas" (New Philippines), which advocates for enhanced road safety through strict adherence to traffic regulations. The President specifically called on public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers to respect designated loading and unloading zones, avoid bike lanes, and encouraged vendors to keep sidewalks clear for pedestrians, who are also reminded to use pedestrian lanes.

This move reflects the administration's dedication to improving road safety and discipline as essential components of national progress and public welfare.

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN — His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, has extended heartfelt congratulations to His Highness Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of the State of Kuwait, and His Highness Sheikh Dr. Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, the Prime Minister, along with the royal family, government, and people of Kuwait on the occasion of the country's 63rd National Day.

According to Radio Television Brunei, the Sultan of Brunei expressed his wishes for the continued prosperity and well-being of Kuwait and its citizens. This gesture underscores the strong bilateral relations and mutual respect between Brunei Darussalam and the State of Kuwait, reflecting the Sultan's commitment to fostering diplomatic ties and friendship with countries around the world. The exchange of congratulatory messages on significant national occasions is a longstanding tradition that reinforces the bonds of solidarity and cooperation among nations.

TEMUBURONG DISTRICT — Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD), in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs, has introduced a new physical market initiative known as 'Projek Tunas', with its latest addition, 'Ruang Niaga Projek Tunas', now open at the Government Departments Building in Pekan Bangar, Temburong District.

According to Radio Television Brunei, this initiative is part of BIBD's broader efforts to support the Bruneian government in achieving the second and third goals of Wawasan Brunei 2035. 'Ruang Niaga Projek Tunas' is aligned with BIBD's commitment to fostering inclusive finance by aiding segments of the community in need of support and skills enhancement, particularly through entrepreneurship programs under the bank's social enterprise outreach.