Find inspiration from Immaculate Conception narrative — Marcos

BY JOSEPH PEDRAJAS

Dec 8, 2023 10:33 AM

  

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​President Marcos on Friday, Dec. 8, urged Filipinos to draw inspiration from the narrative of the Immaculate Conception in overcoming limitations.

Marcos also called on the faithful to find inspiration in gathering strength as well as to fortify their Christian faith by sharing blessings to the poor and marginalized.

"During these challenging times for our country, let us draw inspiration from the narrative of the Immaculate Conception as we overcome our limitations and draw on our strengths to see the world with grateful hearts and explore the deep meaning of our purpose in life," the President said in his message during the observance of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary. 

"May this auspicious occasion allow us to fortify our Christian faith and inspire our fellow faithful to share our blessings to the poor and marginalized as a way of perpetuating peace, generosity, and kindness around us," he added.

Marcos also asked Filipinos to fervently pray for the continued guidance of the Lord Almighty and the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary for the building of the "Bagong Pilipinas" (new Philippines) that the country aspires for.

The feast of the Immaculate Conception is the belief that Mary was free of original sin from the moment of her conception.

The observance of the feast began with a Papal encyclical by Pope Pius IX when he formally defined the dogma of the Immaculate Conception, Ineffabilis Deus, on December 8, 1854.

Duterte to publishers: Nurture seeds of knowledge

BY JOSEPH PEDRAJAS

Aug 18, 2023 07:26 PM

  

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Vice President Sara Duterte on Friday urged publishing companies to continue in their pursuit as she acknowledged their roles in nurturing the "seeds of knowledge."

"Let us nurture the seeds of knowledge that, when planted today, will yield a bountiful harvest for generations to come," Duterte said as she graced the opening of the Philippine Book Festival in Davao City.

In making her call, the Vice President noted the significance of books as well as the authors behind it in sharing knowledge and expertise to the people, giving inspiration and entertaining the people through stories. 

That is where the Department of Education (DepEd) also puts importance, Duterte, DepEd chief, said.

 

Photo courtesy of VP Sara Duterte's Facebook page

"Recently, we launched the MATATAG Curriculum with great emphasis on basic competencies, including writing, reading—and comprehension," she said.
"Over the past few years, we have seen a painful decline in the ability of our young learners to read and write," she added.

She said the MATATAG Curriculum is a revised and improved version of the K to 10 program to correct the latter’s flaws that affected the learners’ writing and reading skills. 

"Our direction is not only for our learners to possess the power of writing and reading—but, most importantly, for them to value this power as it could help them navigate life successfully," she said.

"Our campaign necessitates rekindling our learners’ interest in the written word through reading books and other materials that could ignite their curiosity, give space for their creativity, and nurture their intellect," she added.

Duterte called on publishers and authors to stand united to foster a lifelong learning and a culture that “embraces diversity, empowers minds, and sparks the flames of imagination.”

The recent book festival, she said, proves the important role of books in people’s lives and in the nation.

"May this festival illuminate our path toward a strong Philippines—where the pages of our shared story are etched with the enduring ink of knowledge, wisdom, and inspiration," she added.

16 European countries back PH territorial integrity over WPS

A total of 16 European nations have backed the Philippines in its fight for sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea as the world commemorates this month Manila’s victory against Beijing with regards to South China Sea dispute through the 2016 Arbitral Ruling issued by The Hague.

A joint statement on Tuesday issued by Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Austria, Romania, Slovakia, Finland and Sweden supports the Philippines’ territorial integrity as China continues its unilateral claim over the whole of South China Sea.

The embassies of the 16 countries cited the significance of the ruling, which was based on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), by saying it is “a significant milestone” in contributing to the maintenance of rules-based order and the settling of dispute.

They said it is “legally binding upon the parties to those proceedings, and a useful basis for peacefully resolving disputes between parties.”

"The EU (European Union) reiterates the fundamental importance of upholding the freedoms, rights and duties established in UNCLOS, in particular the freedoms of navigation and overflight," the European nations, which are also members of the EU, said.

Despite the ruling, China continues its claim over the South China Sea on the basis of its unilateral nine-dash line. It is a party to the UNCLOS.

When the Philippines filed an arbitration case against China over the West Philippine Sea, a part of the bigger South China Sea, China refused to participate.

The 26 countries further said they are committed to secure, free and open maritime supply routes in the Indo-Pacific, in full compliance with international and “in the interest of all.”

Several countries have expressed concern over an open Indo-Pacific maritime route amid reports of maritime harassments, including those committed by Chinese personnel against Filipinos.

"The EU supports the swift conclusion of talks aiming at an effective Code of Conduct between ASEAN and China that is fully compatible with UNCLOS and also respects the rights of third parties," the said countries added.

Germany, France back PH complaint on Chinese harassment

BY JOSEPH PEDRAJAS

Jul 8, 2023 01:17 PM

  

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Germany and France have expressed support for the Philippines after another incident of harassment involving China's Coast Guard against its Filipino counterpart right in the country's waters.

German Ambassador to the Philippines Anke Reiffenstuel said an "aggressive behavior," particularly when Chinese personnel made a dangerous maneuver against the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), "has no place in the South China Sea."

She called for respect toward the rules-based maritime order, with the 2016 Arbitral Ruling pertaining to the Philippines' sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea, as the "center."

Reiffenstuel also agreed with the sentiment of US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson, who had earlier expressed concern about China's "irresponsible" behavior in the waters.

Meanwhile, France also called for a dialogue between concerned parties to resolve possible disputes.

The French Embassy in Manila said it is concerned about the recent developments and is calling for "for respect for international law and the resolution of disputes through dialogue."

"We are resolutely opposed to any use of force or threat to do so. We recall, in this regard, the Arbitration award rendered under UNCLOS on the 12th of July 2016," it added.

On June 30, the PCG said it was "constantly followed, harassed and obstructed" by the CCG after providing support in the naval operation of the Philippine troops.

The incident happened in the waters off Ayungin Shoal, an area legally and internationally recognized as part of the Philippine territory but is being claimed by China.

Japan and the US—which have close relations with the Philippines—had also expressed concern about the incident.

Manalo to DFA: Uphold PH interest, serve people

BY JOSEPH PEDRAJAS

Jun 23, 2023 11:29 AM

  

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Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Enrique Manalo on Friday called on the Philippines' thousands of diplomats and their staff to reflect on their journey of serving the country's interest before the international community and serving the people as the agency celebrated its 125th anniversary.

In his video message on the occasion of the DFA's anniversary, Manalo said the agency, since its establishment, "has been true to its task of proclaiming our people, our values, and our aspirations."

DFA has helped "shape our nation and the world around us in profound ways," as it has been "an enduring symbol of Philippine pride and independence to the rest of the world," he added.

Despite challenges it has faced over a period of time, DFA has not only survived but flourished, Manalo said. The department has thrived as a fruitful servant of the nation, he added.

"You my dear colleagues, the more than 2,800 personnel of DFA are the lifeblood of this institution," he said.

"Each day, wherever you are, you bring to life the values of patriotism, integrity, professionalism, excellence and service," he added.

Manalo joined his colleagues in the department and the foreign service "in taking immense pride" in the role they play for nation building.

He called on them to forge ahead towards a future where DFA's legacy shines brightly for the country it serves and for the generations to come.

"A meaningful celebration of the 125th DFA Day is a celebration of each of you and your day-to-day service. As we remember this day, our past achievements as a department and as a nation, let us also ponder that our greatest triumphs are still waiting to be realized," he said.

Marcos' Eid'l Fitr message: Sustain learning obtained during Ramadan

BY JOSEPH PEDRAJAS

Apr 21, 2023 12:59 PM

  

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President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on Friday wished that the entire Filipino Muslim community would sustain the learnings they had during the observance of the holy month of Ramadan.

In his message for the Eid'l Fitr, or the festival of breaking the fast, Marcos said the "values, teachings and practice" that the community obtained throughout the month should "form the foundations of your characters as you continue to fulfill righteous deeds and strive to live a virtuous life moving forward."

"In the spirit of solidarity, the entire Filipino people also join the Muslim community in observing this solemn and festive occasion for we recognize the Islamic faith and embrace it as part of our own collective consciousness," he said.

"With our many faiths informing all our actions and bridging all our differences as a diverse set of peoples, we can transcend any challenge and still remain united under the banners of camaraderie, respect, and love," he added.

Marcos cited the sacredness of the occasion as the Muslim brothers and sisters gather for a congregational prayer and spend the rest of the day in merriment with their families, friends, and relatives.

"This reflects how Allah, the Most Gracious and Most Merciful, rewards those who have demonstrated steadfastness in the midst of spiritual rejuvenation. Indeed, He fulfills His promise that, for every sacrifice, He will provide relief," he said.

Marcos also wished that the Filipino Muslim community's wishes and prayers be granted.

DFA services to go digital

BY JOSEPH PEDRAJAS

Apr 17, 2023 02:22 PM

  

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Various services being offered by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) will soon go digital as the agency formalized its collaboration with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).

DFA Secretary Enrique Manalo and DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy on Wednesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the digitization of Philippine consular services, which are the processing of the Philippines passports, visas and apostille.

Both secretaries agreed to "collaborate and work on a synchronized and well-coordinated ICT system," according to DFA.

"The MOU is envisioned to promote and ensure the integration, interoperability and interconnection of the DFA and DICT’s respective systems and applications with each other to achieve a more effective and efficient delivery of frontline services," it added.

Also present during the signing ceremony at the DFA headquarters were: DFA Undersecretary Jesus Gary Domingo, DICT Undersecretary David Almirol, and DFA-Office of Consular Affairs (OCA) Assistant Secretary Henry Bensurto. 

Duterte to Mindanao student leaders: Rebuild torn communities with peace, trust

by Joseph Pedrajas

Vice President Sara Duterte has called on Mindanao youth to help the government rebuild their communities affected by conflict with peace and trust for the success of the Philippines.

In a gathering of student leaders in Sultan Kudarat State University on Monday, Duterte, who concurrently serves as the secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd), also appealed to make education accessible to the youth as “literacy is one of the casualties of war” that hinders the island’s progress.

Vice President Sara Duterte talks to the student leaders of Mindanao at Sultan Kudarat State University on Monday. (OVP photo)

“Together, let us rebuild our conflict-affected communities with the values of peace, mutual trust, and conflict transformation that will empower us to achieve our shared goals for sustainable development and inclusive socio-economic advancement,” Duterte said. 

The vice president lamented the violence that persists in many parts of Mindanao as the youth “have suffered the misfortune of chronically interrupted learning progress.”

“Meanwhile, our youth, especially those who have forcibly dropped out of school are vulnerable to being recruited by groups that espouse violence and terrorism,” she added.

But Duterte said she “never lost faith in the power of the Filipino youth,” and that DepEd commits to hone children to be nation builders to “unlock Mindanao’s full potential.”

“As the Secretary of the Department of Education, I hold on to this promise as we work hard to institutionalize peace and boldly introduce reforms in our basic education curriculum,” she said.

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She then challenged the student leaders to be the change they want for the societies and sustain its ties with the government to achieve their goals.

“As a fellow Mindanawon, I urge you to partner with the government in empowering your peers to become fellow catalysts of peace, reconciliation, and non-violence in your communities,” she said.

PH offers sympathies with quake-hit Türkiye

by Joseph Pedrajas

The Philippines has expressed sympathies with Türkiye and its people following the devastating earthquake that struck one of its major cities and left dozens dead.

As of press time, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Monday it has not received any information that a Filipino citizen has been affected by a quake that hit Gaziantep on the Türkiye-Syria border. Filipinos in Hatay, Adana, and Mersin are also safe. 

Residents search for victims and survivors amidst the rubble of a building that collapsed, following an earthquake in the village of Azmarin, near the Turkish border in the north of Syria’s rebel-held northwestern Idlib province, early on February 6, 2023. At least 100 have been reportedly killed in north Syria after a 7.8-magnitude earthquake that originated in Türkiye and was felt across neighboring countries. OMAR HAJ KADOUR / AFP

But DFA said the Philippine Embassy in Ankara will continue to reach out to the Filipino communities there. Based on statistics, there are around 4,006 Filipinos in Türkiye, mostly concentrated in Istanbul in the northwest.

“We wish for the speedy recovery of the wounded and deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones of the victims,” DFA said as it expressed condolences to Türkiye and its people.

A total of 76 individuals were reported dead in the quake, according to Turkish officials, which expect the figures to rise.

Gaziantep, Kahramanmaraş, Hatay, Osmaniye, Adıyaman, Malatya, Şanlıurfa, Adana, Diyarbakır, and Kilis, are among the provinces that have suffered damages, officials added.

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“The Philippine Embassy is ready to assist Filipinos affected by the earthquake and may be reached via telephone and WhatsApp (+905345772344) and via email at ankara.pe@dfa.gov.ph,” DFA said.

Marcos declares December 26 non-working day

by Joseph Pedrajas. MB

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has declared December 26 as special non-working day to give Filipinos ample time to celebrate Christmas with their families.

Marcos signed Proclamation No. 115 as he noted that Christmas Day or December 25 falls on Sunday—which is the usual day off for most working Filipinos.

The President believed that a longer weekend will encourage families “to get together and strengthen their relationship towards a more productive environment.” 

Declaring the date a non-working day “will promote domestic tourism” as well, he added.

Marcos already ordered the Department of Labor and Employment to issue the appropriate circular to implement the proclamation for the private sector.

Earlier, Malacañang updated the list of regular holidays and special non-working days for 2023, allowing “long weekends.”

Proclamation 90, released Nov. 11, amended Proclamation 42, declaring the regular holidays and special non-working days.

Christmas is about love, forgiveness — VP Sara

by Joseph Pedrajas

It is not important if the Christmas celebration is big or fancy because the season is, in fact, about spending time with your loved ones and giving forgiveness, Vice President Sara Duterte said.

At the ceremonial lighting of a 42-foot Christmas tree in Laguna on Thursday night, Duterte also said what is important in celebrating Christmas is that “we, our loved ones and our family are happy and we forgive those who have wronged us.” 

Photo courtesy of VP Sara Duterte

“Yan talaga yung tema ng pasko— pagmamahal, pagpapatawad, pagbibigay, (That’s the theme of Christmas—love, forgiveness, giving) kindness,” she said.

“‘Yan din yung message natin sa ating mga kababayan dahil ang pananawagan natin ay unity kaya meron ding kalakip yon ng pagpapatawad hindi lang sa pulitika but even sa personal lives natin (That’s also my message to my fellow: the call for unity because it also entails forgiveness not only in the area of politics but also in our personal lives)— working together with our neighbors, with our officemates, with our family,” she added in an eventual interview with reporters.

The Vice President then thanked Laguna residents for supporting her and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during the elections as well as for supporting her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte.

As chief of the Department of Education, she also called on the parents to instill the value of education to their children.