PHILIPPINES TO SUE CHINA IF ALLEGED CYANIDE USE IN WEST PH SEA PROVEN: MARCOS

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday said the Philippines would file charges against China should it find “enough ground” on some Chinese fishermen’s alleged use of cyanide in the West Philippine Sea.

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) said that it received reports from Filipino fisherfolk in Bajo de Masinloc that Chinese fishers were intentionally destroying traditional fishing grounds.

China using cyanide to ‘intentionally destroy’ Bajo de Masinloc: BFAR

“I do know there are cases of cyanide fishing before even here in the Philippines,” he said.

“The reason it has become more alarming is it has become more prevalent,” he added.

When asked if he was keen on filing an environmental case against China, the President said: “If we feel there is enough ground to do so, we will.”

The National Security Council (NSC) said that it was looking into China’s alleged use of cyanide — which supposedly poisons fingerlings and corals — in one of the resource-rich areas within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.

"Ang sabi namin sa BFAR, complete the documentation that you have taken, 'yung mga ebidensya at affidavits na makukuha natin, submit your post-mission reports to the National Task Force on the West Philippine Sea. We will investigate this report," NSC Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya said.

Beijing has denied the allegations and called its supposed use of cyanide as “sheer fabrication.”

MARCOS SAYS 'SENATE WILL TAKE THE LEAD' ON ECONOMIC CHA-CHA

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. on Tuesday said he prefers to have the Senate to “take the lead” in amending economic provisions in the 1987 Constitution, underscoring that the two chambers of Congress agreed on that “very long ago.”

Marcos gave the statement a day after House members filed iResolution of Both Houses No.7 — mirroring a measure filed in the Senate — to constitute the chamber as a Constituent Assembly to change parts of the charter.

“I always say the Senate will take the lead. The Senate is taking the lead,” the President told reporters in a chance interview.

“Between the two houses, they will come to an agreement… It really is a storm in a teacup because this has been decided very long ago by the leaders of both houses,” he said.

Before the filing of RBH No. 7, members of the House and the Senate had been bickering over how to change parts of the 1987 Constitution as some lawmakers were supportive of a move to gather signatures to amend the charter via a People’s Initiative.

Marcos Jr. underscored that while he seems to have been publicly silent on the issue, he has been working with Congressional leaders to iron out the differences between the two chambers.

“Maybe I don’t proclaim... [Pero] matagal na kong nakikipag-usap sa magkabila,” he said.

“What is more important is we get it done. That is what we are doing. We do it quietly, we do it without any fuss,” he said.

“We just want to get those amendments incorporated into the Constitution and to really hike the chances of investment and upskilling of our people,” he said.

The measure comes weeks after the Commission on Elections halted its acceptance of signature forms from individuals who allegedly supports a proposal to launch a People’s Initiative to make the Senate and the House vote jointly when dealing with constitutional amendments.

When asked about his preferred mode of amending the charter, the President said: “What’s happening now.”

LEGAL ACTION VS CHINA OVER CYANIDE USE IN WPS AT MARCOS' DISCRETION — SOLGEN

MANILA — The decision to file environmental charges against China rests with the president, Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra said on Tuesday.

Guevarra made the statement during an interview with reporters, responding to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s announcement of the government's consideration of filing a case against China, pending confirmation of cyanide use in fishing in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

“The OSG’s task is to present legal options to the Philippine government, but the decision to commence any legal action lies with the president in consultation with the National Task Force on the WPS,” Guevarra said.

The government's top lawyer emphasized that the allegations must be verified before the Philippines can proceed with filing charges.

“A possible complaint for environmental damage is one of these options. The recent report on the use of cyanide off Scarborough shoal, serious as it is, needs careful factual verification,” he said.

If China's actions in the West Philippine Sea are confirmed, Guevarra stated that the OSG would work closely with other relevant agencies, including the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Department of Justice (DOJ), the National Security Council (NSC), and members of the National Task Force on the WPS to develop a legal course of action.

DTI SAYS MARCOS' OVERSEAS TRIPS STARTING TO 'YIELD RESULTS' AMID GROWING FOREIGN INVESTMENTS

MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s pitches to world leaders during his overseas trips have started to bear fruit, according to the Department of Trade and Industry.

In a statement, Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo Pascual cited the latest data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), which said foreign direct investments (FDI) inflows in November 2023 rebounded by 27.8% amounting to $1 billion, bringing the 11-month net FDI inflows to $7.6 billion.

“Indeed, we are making it happen in the Philippines. The pipeline of projects initiated during President Marcos Jr.'s presidential visits, along with the goodwill fostered, is starting to yield tangible results, as shown by the latest FDI report from BSP. From January to November last year, we observed a substantial rise in FDIs in manufacturing and a significant surge in FDIs originating from Germany,” Pascual said.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) also reported last week that investment pledges from foreign sources surged 127.2% in the fourth quarter of 2023 to P394.45 billion.

216 HOSPITALIZED DUE TO FOOD POISONING

MANILA — Up to 216 people were rushed to a hospital due to food poisoning in Esperanza, Agusan del Sur on Monday.

The victims, who recently fled from floods that destroyed their houses, complained of abdominal pains, nausea and vomiting after eating food distributed by a food truck of the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) stationed in Barangay Tandang Sora.

The victims were taken to the Esperanza Medicare Community Hospital for treatment.

The incident prompted Gov. Santiago Cane Jr. to suspend the distribution of meals from the PRC food truck.

“The suspension is necessary pending results of laboratory tests conducted on the victims to ascertain the cause of the alleged poisoning,” Cane said in a letter to PRC provincial chapter administrator Darwina Ligan.

“Given the potential risk to public health posed by the reported cases of food poisoning, we believe it is necessary to take immediate action to ensure the safety of our constituents,” Cane said.

The PRC said it has suspended its hot meal program for flood evacuees until the investigation is complete.

It said PRC volunteers are helping the hospital staff in looking after the victims.

“The PRC remains transparent and will closely coordinate with the local government on this matter,” it said in a statement.

UST DRAWS FLAK FOR CENSORING PHOTO

MANILA — Various groups and a lawmaker criticized the University of Santo Tomas (UST) for censoring its online campus media organization over a viral photo. Kabataan party-list Rep. Raoul Manuel called the move oppressive and urged UST to abandon its stringent rules on free expression. TomasinoWeb, the media organization, posted a photo of students in Type B uniforms, but UST's Office of Student Affairs (OSA) ordered its removal, claiming it implied public ridicule. This led to protests and the resignation of TomasinoWeb's adviser, Leo Laparan II. Laparan called the incident censorship and resigned in protest.

The College Editors Guild of the Philippines and the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines criticized UST's actions, calling them attacks on press freedom. The UST Journalism Society condemned the censorship, likening it to colonial repression. UST's public affairs office stated that collaborative efforts are underway to address the issue.

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BOMB SCARE HITS 4 SCHOOLS IN LAGUNA

MANILA — Bomb threats disrupted classes in four public schools in San Pedro, Laguna, reportedly sent by a Facebook user named Vamir Muhhamad. Police are investigating the source of the threats. Similar threats were reported in Metro Manila, Bataan, and Zambales, allegedly sent via email by a Japanese lawyer.

The targeted schools in San Pedro were Pacita 1 Elementary School, Landayan Elementary School, Pacita National High School, and Chrysanthemum Elementary School. Local officials reported the threats to the police, leading to the suspension of classes to ensure safety.

Although the schools were cleared of explosives, authorities implemented strict measures for safety. The local government promised a thorough investigation to identify the perpetrator.

PNP Chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. acknowledged the challenge of investigating bomb threats, emphasizing the importance of a proper response. Last week's threats extended beyond schools, targeting government offices like the National Housing Authority, Commission on Audit, and Department of Environment and Natural Resources, among others. The Department of Information and Communications Technology was also threatened.

The Department of Information and Communications Technology said it also received a threat, highlighting the widespread nature of the incidents. Authorities are on high alert, and investigations are ongoing to ensure the safety and security of the affected areas.

LANAO COPS, SOLDIERS ON ALERT VS TERRORIST RETALIATORY ATTACKS

COTABATO CITY — Police and the military have tightened security at the border of Lanao del Sur and Lanao del Norte to thwart possible attacks by Dawlah Islamiya terrorists

Authorities said the terrorist group could be planning to avenge the death of their three comrades in a series of encounters that also killed six Army soldiers in Munai, Lanao del Norte on Sunday.

Local officials said seven terrorists, not three as earlier reported, were killed in the firefights that broke out in the hinterlands of Barangay Ramain.

The Army fatalities were identified as Cpls. Rey Anthony Salvador, Reland Tapinit and Rodel Mobida; Pfc. Arnel Tornito, and Pvts. Michael John Lumingkit and James Porras.

“We are not taking chances. We are guarding against possible retaliations by the terrorists. This group is known for attacking people to avenge their comrades killed in clashes with government forces,” Bangsamoro police director Brig. Gen. Allan Nobleza said yesterday.

Army chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido told journalists that they received information that seven terrorists were killed in the encounter in Barangay Ramain.

Galido said the Army could not confirm the figure without the actual body count.

Sources said two of the wounded terrorists were cousins of Khadafi Mimbesa, mastermind of a bomb attack on Mindanao State University in Marawi City in December.

The victims were attending a mass at the university’s gymnasium when a bomb exploded.

The explosion killed four people and wounded more than 40 others.

Mimbesa was one of nine Dawlah Islamiya terrorists killed in a military operation in Piagapo, Lanao del Sur on Jan. 26.

DEPED SETS END OF SCHOOL YEAR 2023-2024 ON MAY 31

MANILA — The Department of Education on Tuesday announced adjustments to the current school year at it gradually shifts back to the June to March school year.

DepEd moved the end of school year 2023-2024 to May 31, 2024, while the break will be from June 1 to July 26.

School Year 2024-2025 will start on July 29 and will end on May 16, 2025.

DepEd also adjusted the schedule of school activities, with the Third Quarter Examinations to be held on March 25-26, while the Fourth Quarter Examinations will be on May 16-17, 2024.

National activities will also be held on the following dates:

Palarong Pambansa: July 6-17, 2024

National Festival of Talents: July 9-13, 2024

National Schools Press Conference: July 9-13, 2024

Learners' Convergence: July 9-15, 2024

Class days will be shortened by at least 7 or 8 days because of the revision to the school calendar, DepEd Undersecretary Michael Poa said.

Despite this, DepEd assures that there will be no disruption in the learning of students.

"Hindi kasi talaga natin pwede bawasan kaagad iyon kasi hindi matutunan ng mga bata ng lahat ng competencies," he said.

"That is why we needed to do consultation even with teachers para masigurado na iyong ating learning competencies natin ay hindi naman siya mapuputol doon sa taon na ito at walang hahabulin for the next year," he added.

Poa said adjustments in the succeeding school calenders are expected as the department is aiming to go back to June-March class schedule beginning school year 2026-2027.

"Talagang ito ang gusto ng ating mga kababayan. As you know, may survey na lumabas na majority of Filipinos want to go back to the April-May [school break]," Poa explained to reporters.

GO PUSHES WELFARE OF ENTERTAINMENT WORKERS

MANILA — Sen. Bong Go praised the approval of the Eddie Garcia bill, Senate Bill 2505, aimed at protecting movie and television workers from unfair treatment and poor working conditions. The bill was proposed following Garcia's death in 2019. Go emphasized the industry's role in shaping the nation's culture and economy, acknowledging the efforts of workers behind the scenes, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill also mandates compliance with health and safety laws and establishes a tripartite council for the industry. Go is also advocating for the Media and Entertainment Workers Welfare Act to enhance protection and benefits for media workers.

FILIPINO LUXURY JEWELRY BRAND LAUNCHES PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM FOR ASPIRING ENTREPRENEURS

MANILA — A Filipino luxury jewelry brand has launched a partnership program for aspiring entrepreneurs, aiming to share its success with others. Jhaena Jewels, led by founder and CEO Haena Sia-Foo, started as a personal shopping service for friends and grew into live-selling sessions with up to 50,000 viewers. Sia-Foo believes that through Jhaena Jewels, anyone can achieve their dreams and nurture another brand like it.

The brand's community, which includes buyers and friends, has been a crucial part of its growth, inspiring Sia-Foo to create a reseller and affiliate program. This program aims to help community members achieve their dreams, mirroring their support for the brand.

Unlike most luxury brands that cater to the privileged, Sia-Foo wants her community to feel valued and not forgotten. The partnership program allows individuals to promote and resell Jhaena Jewels online using a unique code, following an affiliate marketing model. This business-to-business (B2B) approach enables entrepreneurs to source products from the brand and sell them under their brand.

Sia-Foo's goal is not just about earning money but also about making people happy. The brand has gained recognition in fashion editorials and has been worn by celebrities like Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray. The flagship store's opening in Olongapo City was attended by celebrities and local officials, highlighting the brand's growing presence.

ENTERTAINMENT & LIFESTYLE

DOMINIC ROQUE ADDRESSES ISSUES ON CONDO, GAS STATION, PRENUP WITH BEA ALONZO

MANILA — Actor Dominic Roque issued a statement to address several issues brought up by veteran showbiz columnist Cristy Fermin.

The entertainment writer previously said that Roque's high-end condominium was owned by a male politician and the family of his ex-partner Bea Alonzo were allegedly investigating his finances.

Fermin added the condo unit was "pang super mayaman" and allegedly owned by a "napaka-kontrobersyal na pulitiko" that wasn't in the Congress or Senate.

With assistance from attorneys in Fernandez & Singson Law Offices, Roque condemned the "malicious and defamatory public statements of Ms. Fermin" and such issues were made "under the guise of entertainment news without any effort from her to confirm" from the actor.

Roque confirmed leasing a condo unit owned by Dapitan City Mayor Bullet Jalosjos, but denied that he was a "benefactor."

"[Roque] is embarrassed and apologizes to Jalosjos and his family for being dragged into the public conversation because of the malicious, defamatory public innuendos of Ms. Fermin," the statement read on that matter.

The statement also denied another politician Congressman Bong Suntay was a "suspected benefactor" of Roque, and that Fermin "made the innuendo that unreasonably casts doubt on" Suntay's sexuality.

Jalosjos confirmed the condo in question was his and Roque had been staying there for three years now, even showing a receipt as proof.

The lawyers further pointed out Roque does not own a Clean Fuel gas station as they are all company-owned, with Suntay mentioning Roque was a brand ambassador for the gas station as early as five years ago.

Roque, Jalosjos, and Suntay are all friends that are a part of the motorcycle riding group Euro Monkeys, which also includes Dingdong Dantes, Richard Gutierrez, and Kim Atienza.

The attorneys concluded the statement saying Roque "never fought nor had a disagreement over a prenuptial agreement" with Alonzo.

"Reckless statements relating to the alleged disagreement over a pre-nuptial agreement between them are not only unverified but merely based on speculations intended to produce a negative image on the parties concerned," the statement ended.

Talent manager Ogie Diaz and television host Boy Abunda announced Alonzo and Roque ended their engagement days before the actors confirmed the split in a joint statement.

In the days following the breakup, Roque asked fans to spare Alonzo from bashing as their separation was a mutual agreement.

VHONG NAVARRO THANKS COCO MARTIN FOR CASTING SON IN 'BATANG QUIAPO'

MANILA — Kapamilya host Vhong Navarro is one proud father to his son Yce after he has been cast in the ABS-CBN hit teleserye "FPJ's Batang Quiapo."

In his Facebook account, Vhong shared the 10-minute trailer of the show celebrating its first anniversary.

"Yahoo! Thank you, Lord. Nakaka-proud na mapabilang ang anak ko at makasama sa cast ng Batang Quiapo. Good luck Yce Navarro! Aabangan ko to!" Vhong said.

He then thanked Coco Martin for including his son. Yce is Vhong's son with actress Bianca Lapus.

"Maraming salamat, Direk CM," he wrote.

Apart from Yce, Jaime Fabregas, Elijah Canlas, Tessie Tomas and Nonie Buencamino will also join the hit series.

Also joining the roster are Malou Crisologo, Ara Davao, Renz Fernandez and Dan Alvaro.

"FPJ's Batang Quiapo" airs every Monday to Friday, 8 p.m. on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, Cinemo, A2Z, TV5, iWantTFC and TFC.

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THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

The happiness that is genuinely satisfying is accompanied by the fullest exercise of our faculties and the fullest realization of the world in which we live. - Bertrand Russell