India's envoy claims that supersonic missiles will soon be sent to the Philippines.

 India's envoy claims that supersonic missiles will soon be sent to the Philippines.

The Philippines will shortly receive the first shipment of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles.

Indian Ambassador to Manila Shambhu Kumaran claims this.

A representative of the armaments firm stated last year that the missiles were scheduled for delivery in December 2023.

Our goal is to arrive as soon as possible. Last week, during the Indian Embassy's 75th Republic Day reception in Makati City, Kumaran told reporters, "I don't have a timeline at this moment, but it's gonna be soon."

When will the delivery of supersonic missiles occur?

He declined to comment on a report published in India's The Economic Times on January 25 that quoted a Defense Research and Development Organization officer saying that the export procedure would start "in the next 10 days" and be completed by March when the goods reached the Philippines.

Although we are working toward it and I don't currently have any details to give, I believe we will have news for you soon," Kumaran stated.

The media was informed by a senior military officer who was aware of the BrahMos delivery but was not permitted to speak to the media that the missiles should reach the Philippines "within the first quarter" of the year.

P18.9-B agreement

As part of the Philippine Navy's shore-based antiship missile system project, the Philippines and the Indian-Russian joint venture BrahMos Aerospace Private Ltd. inked a P18.9 billion deal in January 2022 for three cruise missile batteries.

During the deal signing, then-Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana stated, "The BrahMos missiles, being the fastest supersonic cruise missiles in the world, will provide deterrence against any attempt to undermine our sovereignty and sovereign rights, especially in the West Philippines Sea."

The BrahMos system will be primarily used by the Coastal Defense Regiment of the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC). A few PMC employees received missile system operation training in India last year.

Entering a new ring, Manny Pacquiao gives the first Taiwan combat league more Filipino celebrity power.

 Entering a new ring, Manny Pacquiao gives the first Taiwan combat league more Filipino celebrity power.

The inaugural professional fighting league in Taiwan, Carry Fighting Championship, has selected Manny Pacquiao as its honorary president.

The much-anticipated return of Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao to the ring will involve him playing a significant role in Taiwan's fighting scene rather than competing.

The revolutionary Carry Fighting Championship, Taiwan's first-ever professional fighting championship, has announced that Pacquiao will serve as honorary president. This information was provided by the Taiwan Fighting Sports Co., Ltd.

Taiwan Fighting CEO Jerry Yen said in a statement that Manny Pacquiao's participation "brings great honor to the 'Carry Fighting Championship' and also focuses global attention on Taiwan."

Manny Pacquiao's involvement gives the league a legendary feel, and we think this will be Taiwan's big chance to make an impression on the world boxing scene," he continued.

Carry Fighting Championship is set to make its formal debut in March 2024. Its objectives are twofold: to offer an exciting show and to give Taiwanese boxers a platform.

A clue at the league's ambitious goals to cause a stir abroad, Yen stated that their ambition is to expand possibilities for domestic boxing athletes and bring Taiwan's fighting sports standards to the worldwide arena.

From Sabah, 800 Filipino deportees arrived.

 From Sabah, 800 Filipino deportees arrived.

Social welfare officials reported that some eight hundred deportees from Sabah came here on a commercial vessel on Thursday - Philippines: Zamboanga del Sur / Zamboanga City

This is the second round of deportations that Malaysia has carried out this year as part of its ongoing campaign against undocumented immigrants.

Although Malaysian immigration authorities have been conducting a crackdown on a regular basis, the legal conflict with the heirs of the Sultanate of Sulu began in 2019, which led to increased intensity in these efforts.

The successors of the sultanate won a $14.9 billion award for Sabah from a French arbitration court, over which they have a property claim.

After a Paris appeals court ruled that the arbitral tribunal that issued the verdict lacked jurisdiction to hear the case, Malaysia won a legal battle last year.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Region 9 spokesperson, Ivan Eric Salvador, stated that the deportees arrived at the port on January 25 in the afternoon on board the MV Antonia, a passenger liner operated by Aleson Shipping Lines that regularly travels between this city and Sabah.

According to Salvador, 97 out of the 800 deportees were children, with 61 males and 36 girls among them. There were 602 men and 101 women among the grownups.

For profiling purposes, they are being temporarily housed at the Processing Center for Displaced Persons, one of the DSWD facilities in Barangay Mampang.

"The preliminary analysis indicated that they were detained as undocumented immigrants in Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan," Salvador stated.

The deportees' movement from the port to the DSWD facility was made easier by the Police Regional Office 9 (PRO 9).

Police support

The soldiers from the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 9, Regional Logistics and Research Development Division, and Regional Community Affairs and Development Division were enlisted for the safe and secure transfer, according to Police Brig. Gen. Bowenn Joey Masauding, regional director of PRO 9.

We have a single truck that travels back and forth between the DSWD facility in Mampang and the port region of Zamboanga City. Our time was 3 p.m. It came to an end at roughly ten p.m., Masauding stated.

My profound thanks goes out to our hardworking PNP officers, who are always willing to lend a hand and are especially helpful in ensuring the safety and security of our returning Filipino citizens. Masauding continued, "Our community's collective spirit of compassion and support will inspire hope and bring inspiration in times of crisis and uncertainty."

Salvador reported that 680 of the first group of returning Filipinos arrived on January 11. They provided care for 6,409 deportees in 2023 before they were all returned to their home cities.

locations of origin

Although many also originate from the Eastern and Central Visayas, Mindanao accounts for the majority of the deportee population.

Representative Khymer Olaso of Zamboanga City requested the nat'l. government to investigate and deal with the ongoing influx of low-income undocumented Filipinos into Sabah through the so-called southern backdoor.

Before being elected to parliament, Olaso captained ships for the MV Antonia, and he recalled that deportations had begun in 1992.

He said, "The sad fact is that these Filipinos are undocumented, [having] no papers, but even though the Malaysian government deports them, they will always find ways to return to Malaysia."

The majority of people who smuggle themselves into the nearest neighboring country do so in pursuit of better opportunities, particularly in Sabah's extensive plantations. Traffickers brought a large number of them there.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) began an investigation of trafficking routes last week in collaboration with other government organizations.

On January 21, about a hundred professionals, specialists, and boat crew members sailed here on PCG's BRP Gabriela Silang, beginning a six-day journey meant to strengthen the nation's capacity to stop human trafficking and migrant smuggling.

The journey is noteworthy because, as we all know, human trafficking is a major issue in the nation, according to Justice Undersecretary Nicolas Felix Ty of the Inter-agency Council Against Trafficking.

US DOJ pays SC justices a courtesy call.

 US DOJ pays SC justices a courtesy call.

Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo and Associate Justice Jose Midas Marquez of the Supreme Court received a courtesy call from US Department of Justice representatives to examine potential collaborations.

The SC justices and representatives from the US DOJ's Office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development Assistance and Training met in the conference room on Thursday.

Among the subjects covered during the cordial visit was the potential US government support for the creation of a guidebook and judge education about the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 regulations.

In addition, the discussion covered the appointment procedure and makeup of the Office of the Judiciary Marshalls.

The government looks at third-party electricity transmission initiatives.

 The government looks at third-party electricity transmission initiatives.

Presuming that the expensive and protracted blackout that occurred in Western Visayas earlier this month would never happen again, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. gave the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) and the Department of Energy (DOE) the task of researching the feasibility of permitting transmission projects by third parties.

During a Friday speech at Malacañang, Marcos stated that the country should move past the power outage that affected Panay and Guimaras Islands, resulting in P3.8 billion in losses.

This incident brought home how important these connectivity efforts are. He made this statement during the groundbreaking for the 450-megawatt Mindanao-Visayas Interconnection Project: "We cannot afford to have another round of this costly interruption, not only in Panay Island but anywhere in the country."

The President urged the prompt completion of connectivity projects, stating that the "massive inconvenience and loss for our people should not occur again."

Marcos acknowledged the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines' (NGCP) function in managing the government-owned electricity grid, but he also pointed out that more needed to be done.

As the nation emerges from the pandemic economy, the President stated, "I have also directed the [DOE and ERC] to look into the proposal of allowing third parties to construct transmission projects at the pace required by the country's power needs."

The ERC was instructed "to complete the reset of NGCP's rate without further delay," he continued.

The NGCP faced criticism for its inability to complete 37 transmission projects on time, intended to modernize the state's electrical infrastructure, and for causing the days-long blackout in Western Visayas.

Unplanned maintenance shutdowns were the cause of the power outage that occurred in the area earlier this month.

Due to the NGCP's inadequacies, some MPs demanded that it be reviewed and may be revoked.

50 Chinese ships swarm close to Ayungin Shoal.

50 Chinese ships swarm close to Ayungin Shoal.

An American marine security analyst reported seeing over 50 Chinese warships close to Ayungin Shoal before the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) rotated and resupplied to BRP Sierra Madre.

Former US Air Force official and former Defense Attaché Ray Powell stated last Thursday on X (formerly Twitter) that there are more Chinese vessels in Mischief Reef or Panganiban Reef than there were a week before.

The majority of China's marine militia rotation has been stationed around Mischief Reef, Powell said. "The Qiong Sansha Yu fleet has increased from 14 last week to 35 now, plus 15 smaller ships."

Powell speculates that China may stay until the Philippines' next resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal, also known as Second Thomas Shoal.

Powell speculated that China would maintain a significant troop presence there until after the adjacent 2nd Thomas Shoal in the Philippines receives its next resupply.

Powell reported last week that 27 ships of the Qiong Sansha Yu class had been deployed eastward to Scarborough Shoal and south of the Spratly Islands.

Powell said in December of last year that the Chinese ships were in "invasion" mode close to Ayungin Shoal; the AFP refuted this claim.

Since 1999, BRP Sierra Madre has been anchored near Ayungin Shoal. Over a dozen sailors and Marines are on board. It now serves as a representation of Philippine sovereignty over the offshore area.

On the other hand, resupply trips to the BRP Sierra Madre have grown more challenging due to Chinese warships interfering with Philippine vessels' access to the area.

In addition to being a part of the Philippines' exclusive economic zone and continental shelf, Ayungin Shoal is also a member of the Kalayaan Island Group, over which the nation possesses sovereignty, sovereign rights, and authority.

A string of incidents in the South China Sea has led to accusations between China and the Philippines, which has resulted in increased tensions between the two countries in recent months.

The majority of the South China Sea is claimed by China; however, the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan, Vietnam, and Indonesia also have claims to some of this area.

China denies Beijing's assertion that an international tribunal rejected its claim in a 2016 verdict on a dispute brought by the Philippines.

As part of the West Philippine Sea (WPS), the Philippines includes portions of the South China Sea that are located within its continental shelf and exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

Marcos and Duterte promise changes in PH education.

 Marcos and Duterte promise changes in PH education.

Declaring that the school system of the Philippines ought to place the children of the country "at the center of our great reform movement," President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. pledged on Thursday to keep changing it "to ensure that no one is left behind."

Marcos invited the Filipino people to work with the administration to transform the nation's educational system as envisioned in the "Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines)" campaign during his speech during Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte's Basic Education Report (BER) 2024 at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza in Pasay City.

The realization of the "Bagong Pilipinas," he stated, is contingent upon everyone's sustained efforts to overhaul the educational system for the benefit of Filipino youth.

The introduction of the Matatag curriculum, enhanced teacher welfare, digitization, and the construction of additional classrooms and school buildings to accommodate the expanding enrollment and needs of students were among the achievements of the Department of Education (DepEd) that Duterte highlighted in her report.

According to VP Duterte, the DepEd is currently keeping an eye on the Matatag curriculum pilot program, which spans grades K–10, to identify any areas that would require improvement before the curriculum's full deployment in the next academic year.

Its abbreviation represents:

Make the curriculum up to date to generate citizens who are responsible, engaged, and prepared for the workforce;

acted to hasten the provision of facilities and services for basic education;

tended to the needs of students by encouraging their well-being, inclusive education, and a healthy learning environment;

Help educators to improve their teaching.

She also mentioned a revision of the senior high school curriculum, Catch-Up Fridays, and the introduction of a National Learning Camp.

During her stewardship began in 2022, the DepEd completed the construction of 24 additional schools, bringing the total to 63. Additionally, more than 3,637 classrooms were created, according to Duterte.

Government to fully support UN rapporteur - DFA

 Government to fully support UN rapporteur - DFA

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) declared that the government is providing its "full support" for effectively executing UN Special Rapporteur Irene Khan's mandate during her visit to the nation, in the spirit of transparency and collaboration.

Khan began his 10-day official visit on January 22 and is there to assess the country's progress in granting people the freedom to express themselves.

In keeping with international human rights norms, the DFA stated on Thursday that this visit demonstrates the Philippines' dedication to promoting a strong atmosphere for freedom of speech and thought.

"As part of the government's open and constructive engagement on human rights with relevant UN mechanisms," the DFA stated, Khan is the third SR to visit the Philippines since 2022.

She will conduct several cooperative and varied dialogues to assess the status of the nation's rights to freedom of opinion and expression," the statement continued.

As of August 1, 2020, Khan serves as a special rapporteur for the UN.

In keeping with international human rights law and norms, she is mandated to promote freedom of opinion and expression offline and online, according to the DFA.

UN SRs are "independent experts" who are assigned by the Human Rights Council to focus on either global themes or particular national circumstances.

Khan, according to the DFA, has a "very positive" opinion of how vibrant the Philippine media is.

She is going to Metro Manila, Baguio City, and Cebu City to "explore" legislative and policy frameworks to see if they are impeding media freedom, information access, the safety of journalists and their sources, or freedom of thought and expression in the digital era.

China applauds the most recent One-China Policy statement made by Marcos.

 China applauds the most recent One-China Policy statement made by Marcos.

According to news on Thursday, the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines has praised President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.'s assertion that the country upholds the One-China Policy.

According to the Chinese Embassy, Taiwan is a province of China and as such falls under the jurisdiction of the People's Republic of China.

Marcos claimed in an exclusive News on Tuesday that Beijing was irritated by his congratulations to Taiwanese president-elect Lai Ching-te, but that the Philippines still adheres to the One-China Policy and that it was just "common courtesy."

Official diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Taiwan, an autonomous, democratic island that has been divided from the Chinese mainland since 1949, are nonexistent.

Meanwhile, Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that following Marcos' congratulations to Lai, China had increased pressure on the Philippines.

But since Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. thanked Taiwan, China has been putting a lot of pressure on the country and making derogatory remarks, according to Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).

The MOFA of Taiwan stated that it strongly denounces China's nefarious activities and exhorts all democratic nations that share its values to keep working together to thwart China's authoritarian expansionism in the area and around the globe."

PEZA, SMBC, and RCBC collaborate to draw in Japanese capital.

 PEZA, SMBC, and RCBC collaborate to draw in Japanese capital.

To draw in more Japanese investment, the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) has teamed up with Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp. (SMBC) and Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC).

With SMBC and RCBC, PEZA established a memorandum of understanding (MOU) designating them as partners in the agency's investment promotion efforts.

According to PEZA director-general Tereso Panga, "the goal of this MOU is to promote economic development—constantly positioning the nation as an appealing investment destination characterized by agility and responsiveness to the needs and demands of our dynamic investors."

Our distinguished Investment Promotion Partners (IPPs) will work together to actively promote and grow investments, particularly those from Japanese businesses, he continued.

Having registered 807 commercial enterprises (RBEs) under the PEZA, Japan continues to be the leading country in terms of ecozone investment.

As of October 2023, P797.84 billion in investments, $13.45 billion in exports, and the creation of 336,442 direct jobs were the outcomes, according to PEZA.

According to Panga, between July 2022 and December 2023, the PEZA approved nine large-scale projects totaling P60.41 billion from Japanese investors.

Due to SMBC's well-known worldwide reach, PEZA may be able to reach a wider range of foreign investors through this relationship, which could lead to an increase in FDI and reinvestments in the economic zones. However, Panga said that the partnership with RCBC might simplify procedures inside the economic zones, increasing their effectiveness and drawing in new investors.

"PEZA gains leverage for the benefit of our locators and stakeholders, especially in starting up their business operations in the Philippines, given the financial expertise of SMBC and RCBC," he continued.

The managing executive officer of SMBC and co-head of the APAC Division, Yuichi Nishimura, expressed hope for the expansion of the Philippine economy.

"I have no doubt that the Philippine economy will keep expanding at a remarkable rate and shift toward a more robust and sustainable economic model," Nishimura stated.

The tight relationship between the Philippines and Japan is unaffected by the shifting global landscape, despite increased geopolitical danger and uncertainty. He continued, We are still fully committed to collaborating with our Philippine colleagues to achieve a more prosperous future for both of our nations.

Eugene Acevedo, president and CEO of RCBC, stated, "The success of this collaboration depends on our role as a bridge between the Philippines and the Japanese market." We are building an ecosystem with PEZA and SMBC that will enable smooth interactions between Japanese investors and the exciting potential the Philippines has to offer.

As PEZA continues to be aggressive in its investment promotion activities in the East Asian market, Panga previously stated that they were looking to boost investments from Japanese investors to as much as P80 billion this year from P52.2 billion.

When questioned about the Department of Justice's recent opinion on the subject of work-from-home (WFH), Panga restated the agency's stance in support of permitting flexible or hybrid work schedules.

PEZA maintains its stance that it will only permit flexible or hybrid work arrangements to preserve our esteemed ecozone locators and support the President's demand for special treatment for all present and prospective investors. According to Panga, this is the proper course of action to stay up with progressive economies that have long since accepted WFH as the new workplace reality following the pandemic.

China pressured the Philippines following Marcos' congrats - Taiwan

 China pressured the Philippines following Marcos' congrats - Taiwan

Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs claimed on Wednesday that following President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.'s congratulations to Taiwanese president-elect Lai Ching Te, China has increased pressure on the Philippines.

Marcos and "other international friends for their congratulations on Taiwan’s successful completion of elections," the Taiwanese foreign ministry commended in a statement.

More than 100 countries around the world expressed their sincere congratulations to Taiwan for the peacefully conducted democratic elections that were held on January 13, the Taiwanese government said.

"However, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has noted that since Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. congratulated Taiwan, China has been strongly pressuring the Philippines and making crude and insulting comments," it stated.

China's petty reaction, Taiwan claimed, "stands in stark contrast, demonstrating that China's communist system does not understand the true meaning of democracy and flagrantly tramples democratic values," while other nations were applauding Taiwan's democratic accomplishments.

The declaration was made the day after Marcos claimed that the Philippines was still following the One-China Policy in an exclusive interview.

He continued, calling his congratulations to the incoming president of Taiwan "common courtesy."

China encouraged Nauru to switch diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China immediately after the elections, and it also prompted remarks criticizing Taiwan's sovereign status from Bangladesh, the Maldives, and the Solomon Islands, according to the Taiwanese ministry.

Additionally, it stated, "China has put pressure on ASEAN nations to adopt the false narrative of the so-called 'one China principle'."

The Taiwanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that it denounced "China’s malicious actions in the strongest terms and calls on all like-minded democratic countries to continue cooperating to help stop China’s authoritarian expansionism in the region and the world."

Taiwan's ministry remarked, "MOFA once again extends its heartfelt gratitude to President Marcos of the Philippines and other international friends for their congratulations on Taiwan's successful completion of elections."

Taiwan will persistently uphold democratic achievements, being a beacon of democracy and freedom as well as a bulwark of human rights and the rule of law in Asia, it continued.

Marcos authorized 'Horizon 3' for AFP modernization — Teodoro

 Marcos authorized 'Horizon 3' for AFP modernization — Teodoro

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. reports that President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. has approved changes for "Horizon 3" of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) modernization program.

In a news conference with the Manila Overseas Press Club on Tuesday night, he stated, "Next, we are embarking into what we call the 'Rehorizoned 3' capability enhancement and modernization program where the President recently approved an array of capabilities."

According to him, domain awareness, connection, C4ISTAR communication intelligence capabilities, command and control, and deterrence capabilities in the maritime and aerial domains are only a few.

Teodoro continued, "The Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept is a new defense concept that the Philippines is starting to implement."

The Armed Forces will initially change to ensure that Philippine corporations and those permitted by the Philippine environment can explore and exploit all natural resources peacefully and without hindrance within our exclusive economic zone and other areas under our jurisdiction, he continued.

Teodoro had previously stated in September 2023 that he had given the AFP instructions to review and amend the target properties that will be purchased because they might not be appropriate at this time.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic's consequences, there were delays in the modernization program's asset purchase.

But it also presents a fresh chance for us to reconsider and broaden the scope of our modernization. Therefore, if funding is available and subject to new modernization standards, I believe it would be preferable and provide better value for every peso invested, Teodoro had stated.

The people's initiative (PI) to amend the Constitution was rejected by the Senate (cha-cha).

 The people's initiative (PI) to amend the Constitution was rejected by the Senate (cha-cha).

The Senate has issued a manifesto in which it rejects the Cha-cha people's initiative (PI) to amend the Constitution and warns of the possibility of a no-election scenario. As soon as the Senate reconvened on Tuesday, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri read the manifesto in front of the entire body.

Zubiri continued to read from the manifesto and added, "Today, the Senate stands as the nation's last bastion of democracy as it rejects this brazen attempt to violate the Constitution, the country, and our people."

It emphasized, "This Senate of the people will not allow itself to be silenced."

The upper chamber emphasized the need to "guard against any sinister and underhanded attempt to change the Constitution by exploiting our democratic process under the guise of a people's initiative," even as it acknowledged the right of the people to advocate for changes to the Constitution.

According to their platform, the only thing this so-called PI wants is for the Senate and the House of Representatives to vote on any amendments to the 1987 Constitution together.

Although it appears straightforward, the intention is clear: by taking the Senate out of the picture, it will be simpler to amend the Constitution," the statement stated.

It goes on to say, "It is a clear preface to additional revisions, amendments, or even an overhaul of our entire Constitution." The manifesto also issued a warning: if the PI is successful, constitutional amendments may be made with or without Senate consent—" or worse, even in the absence of all senators."

The Senate reaffirmed that the concept of bicameralism and the system of checks and balances would be undermined if the two houses were permitted to vote simultaneously on any changes to the Constitution. The upper house would be "powerless to stop even the most radical proposals" if this were to occur, such as allowing foreigners to acquire land. "We are unable to halt the removal

Filipinos assert that the land defended by the country's ancestors is unconquerable and will oppose anyone who treads on its beaches.

 Filipinos assert that the land defended by the country's ancestors is unconquerable and will oppose anyone who treads on its beaches - President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

"The Spirit of Malolos commands us to resist you," PBBM said to the invaders.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. declared that the area guarded by the country's forefathers remains unconquerable and that Filipinos will resist those who trample the country's frontiers, armed with the spirit of the First Philippine Republic.

Speaking at the 125th-anniversary celebration of the First Philippine Republic at Barasoain Church in Malolos City, Bulacan, President Marcos stated that this is the only way that we can respect those who formed our Republic, those who fought for its values, and those who lost their lives in the war.

And the battle rages on today, for the noble cause of freedom still faces formidable foes, some overt, others covert, but all with the same unwavering determination. The Spirit of Malolos tells us to oppose those who "trample our sacred shores," since the land our predecessors battled for is unconquerable.

The President claims that despite difficult times and a changing world full of complicated issues, the history of Malolos City continues to motivate Filipinos to surmount the barriers obstructing the country's march toward progress.

Apart from the foreign forces that challenge the nation, the President stated that there are no armies to defeat or trenches to overrun in the battles that Filipinos fight today.

He said that more lives are lost in the Philippines' battle on poverty, hunger, and illness than in any armed conflict.

Marcos declared, "Their defeat necessitates the use of modern weapons forged by patriots against enemies, neither taking no prisoners nor ceasing or ceding any ground."

Marcos stated that in the course of waging this war, the government improved agriculture, increased the number of hospitals and schools, provided energy and water to every household, and pushed for greater employment opportunities and higher wages to fight poverty.

The President noted that the administration is also attempting to create national unity, ensure peace from all sides, increase public access to street lighting, and pursue equitable treatment under the law.

Following the Revolutionary Government of the Philippines, the Malolos Constitution was enacted on January 22, 1899, as part of the Philippine Revolution against Spanish invaders and the Spanish-American War, establishing the First Philippine Republic in Malolos, Bulacan.

Historians refer to it as the Malolos Republic, which Emilio Aguinaldo led to formal establishment. 

PBBM on the purportedly "paid" People's Initiative signature drive: Comelec need to void them

 PBBM on the purportedly "paid" People's Initiative signature drive: Comelec need to void them

On Tuesday, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. declared that the Commission on Elections needs to nullify signatures on the People's Initiative that were acquired in return for cash.

"Well, after paying for the signature, the Comelec will not accept it. So nothing good will happen," he said in an interview after the official launch of the Lung Transplant Program of the Lung Center of the Philippines (LCP) and the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI) in Quezon City.

Marcos also denied rumors that signatures were being purchased for the campaign, pointing out that there have been reports that offer incentives to signatories. He declared he would question Congressmen about the veracity of the reports.

"So, as far as I know, there is no such thing. What is said is not to pay in cash, but to promise some kind of benefits. We looked at it, and I said, "I asked our legislation, is that true?" he said.

In response to proposals that agencies halt the implementation of their social service programs so as not to be unduly utilized in the endeavor, President Marcos stated that the government could not withhold or postpone the implementation of any of its services because so many Filipinos required aid.

"Our releases have not changed, they are still constant. That's not good because there are people who really need it," he said.

Instead, Marcos stated that the Comelec need to be permitted to carry out its duties of verifying the signatures.

"We just let Comelec do their job and their work to validate the signature. And if there's suspicion that there is such a thing, those signatures don't really count," he said.

Each congressional district must collect the signatures of at least 3 percent of its registered voters for a people's initiative to be deemed significant. 

Reiterating that ICC lacks jurisdiction over PH, PBBM says it will not assist in the inquiry.

 Reiterating that ICC lacks jurisdiction over PH, PBBM says it will not assist in the inquiry.

On Tuesday, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. restated that the International Criminal Court (ICC) lacks jurisdiction over the Philippines and that his government will not assist the ICC in its inquiry into the previous administration's drug war.

The President said this in response to questions on whether the government approved of reports that ICC representatives were in the Philippines, whether the government would assist with the investigation, and whether or not the government had authorized their entry.

Permit me to repeat this one hundred times. I disagree that the ICC has jurisdiction over the Philippines. I don't because I see it as a danger to our national sovereignty. President Marcos stated in a media interview held after an event in Quezon City that "the Philippine government will not lift a finger to help any investigation that the ICC conducts."

However, as ordinary people, they can come and visit the Philippines but we will not help them. In fact, we are watching them, making sure that they are not— that they do not come into contact with any agency of government,” he added.

Additionally, Marcos stated that he gave the order to refuse to collaborate with the international body's envoy if the ICC contacts local governments or law enforcement officers.

That we would not participate in any manner, shape, or form in any of the investigations the ICC is conducting here in the Philippines because we do not acknowledge your jurisdiction, "Huwag niyong sasagutin, ‘yun ang sagot natin." the President declared.

After the investigation was put on hold in November 2021, the ICC approved its reopening in January 2023. The government's appeal against the investigation's restart was also turned down by the ICC Appeals Chamber in July 2023.

Despite acknowledging jurisdiction issues, President Marcos stated in November of last year that reentering the international tribunal is "under study."

In 2019, former president Rodrigo Duterte's government saw the Philippines withdraw from the Rome Statute as a result of the tribunal opening an investigation into his administration's drug war.

UN rapporteur lands in Manila

 UN rapporteur lands in Manila

Irene Khan, a Special Rapporteur for the United Nations, arrived in the Philippines on Monday and will be there for ten days to assess the country's progress in granting people the freedom to express themselves.

Khan will carry out her mission in the nation from January 23 to February 2, according to a post made by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on X, formerly Twitter.

"The Department of Foreign Affairs stated that after her visit, Khan is expected to produce a final report to be considered during the 59th Session of the UN Human Rights Council in June 2025. The Philippines welcomes UN Special Rapporteur Irene Khan on her 10-day visit focused on free speech and opinion," the DFA wrote on X.

In a spirit of transparency and collaboration, the DFA stated that the Philippine government "is giving its full support for the successful implementation of the UN SR's (Special Rapporteur) mandate during her country visit." "This visit underscores the Philippines' commitment to fostering a robust environment for freedom of expression and opinion, in alignment with global human rights principles," the DFA said.

Khan is the Philippines' third Special Rapporteur since 2022, "as part of the government's open and constructive engagement on human rights with relevant UN mechanisms," according to the Department of Foreign Affairs.

To "explore" legal and policy frameworks on the safety of journalists and their sources, freedom of opinion and expression in the digital age, media freedom, information access, hate speech, and the expression of marginalized peoples, including indigenous peoples, Khan will travel to Metro Manila, Baguio City, and Cebu City.

The Philippine government and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights have arranged for her to meet with representatives of civil society, private companies, and government officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Department of Justice, and the Presidential Task Force on Media Security.

Since August 1, 2020, Khan has served as the United Nations special rapporteur on the promotion and defense of the right to freedom of opinion and expression. Promoting freedom of speech and opinion "both offline and online, under international human rights law and standards," according to the DFA, is part of her role.

AFP Western Command conducted an airdrop mission to deliver supplies to Ayungin Shoal

 AFP Western Command conducted an airdrop mission to deliver supplies to Ayungin Shoal.

Ayungin Shoal received supplies via an airdrop mission carried out by AFP Western Command.

Following recent Chinese intimidation, PCG will accompany Filipino fishermen.

 Following recent Chinese intimidation, PCG will accompany Filipino fishermen.

In response to yet another instance of Chinese harassment in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) pledged on Monday to protect Filipino fishermen.

The Bajo de Masinloc and other areas of the West Philippine Sea are routinely monitored by the PCG and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR). Still, the most recent occurrence happened during a "lull time," according to PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela.

On January 12, when neither a PCG nor BFAR vessel was present, this occurred, declared Tarriela.

However, to ensure that this quiet period doesn't occur again, we are working with the BFAR.

Our Filipino fishermen claim that the Coast Guard and the BFAR always have greater leeway when there is a public vessel around since they are more concerned with the PCG vessels and the BFAR.

According to a source, the Zambales fishermen were given an order by the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) to return the seashells they had collected.

The tragedy happened close to the Bajo de Masinloc's south entrance.

The PCG claimed that it had taken action to obtain sworn statements from the people involved in the event and that it had successfully identified the source of the video making the rounds online.

The CCG recently harassed fishermen from the Philippines. We find this extremely concerning and denounce this most recent provocative behavior.

The Northern Luzon Command, which is in charge of patrolling the region, has not received any reports of this nature, according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Currently stationed close to the Philippine Sea boundary in the South China Sea is the destroyer USS John Finn.

 Currently stationed close to the Philippine Sea boundary in the South China Sea is the destroyer USS John Finn.

A live-fire gunnery exercise is conducted by USS John Finn (DDG 113).

The Navy said this week that the destroyer USS John Finn (DDG-113) is officially a member of the forward-deployed naval forces in Yokosuka, Japan. The destroyer of the Arleigh Burke-class arrived in Yokosuka on Saturday, according to a news release from the U.S. 7th Fleet. On Monday, it became a component of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15 and Commander, Task Force 71 (CTF-71).

Cybersecurity leaders from the UK and the Philippines are brought together by the British Embassy in Manila.

Cybersecurity leaders from the UK and the Philippines are brought together by the British Embassy in Manila.

Leading specialists, public servants, and business executives from the Philippines and the UK convened at a symposium on January 16 to discuss the growing sophistication and frequency of cyberattacks and to jointly devise ways to strengthen digital defenses.

Martin Kent, His Majesty's Trade Commissioner for Asia-Pacific
The purpose of the event is to establish a forum for information sharing and to promote cybersecurity collaborations between the Philippines and the United Kingdom. A panel discussion on trends, dangers, and practices in cybersecurity was attended by experts from the Philippines and the UK. Emmanuel Herve of BSI Asean led the session.

Another panel on the value of cooperation between governmental organizations, commercial businesses, and academic institutions in tackling cybersecurity challenges took place after this. Prominent vendors of cybersecurity solutions, including BT, CyberQ Group, NCC Group, and British Standards Institution, also displayed cutting-edge tools and technology intended to protect digital assets.

"Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility that requires international cooperation. The British Embassy Manila is committed to fostering collaboration between the United Kingdom and the Philippines in addressing the challenges posed by cyber threats. This event serves as a testament to our dedication to building a safer digital future together," said Martin Kent, His Majesty's Trade Commissioner for Asia Pacific, expressing enthusiasm for this historic event.

The cybersecurity incident demonstrates the dedication of the British Embassy in Manila to advancing a safe and reliable digital environment. Events such as this are essential in providing people and businesses with the knowledge and resources they need to navigate the ever-changing cybersecurity scenario as the digital landscape continues to change.

Cybersecurity is a high concern for the United Kingdom, and we are happy to be working with the government and private sector companies in the Philippines to promote this, according to British Ambassador to the Philippines Laure Beaufils. Ensuring the safety and security of our populace while advancing economic growth and prosperity are imperative. The United Kingdom will persist in funding inventive collaborations to cultivate competencies and augment commercial potential in order to tackle the dynamic cyber security terrain within our nations."

Additionally, Ambassador Beaufils declared Attorney's participation. The UK Government's first UK-Southeast Asia Women in Cyber Network welcomed Irish Salandanan – Almeida, Chief Privacy Officer of Globe Telecom, and Assistant Secretary Mary Rose Magsaysay of the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center.

Professionals from the Philippines and the UK participated in a panel discussion about cybersecurity trends, threats, and procedures.
The network aims to foster a friendly environment, offer opportunities for significant personal growth, and give delegates the chance to polish and expand their leadership abilities in this dynamic field. Over the course of the year, this will be provided through mentorship, exposure to UK best practices, training sessions led by subject matter experts, networking opportunities, and a hands-on group project. The Women in Cyber Network seeks to give members the resources and connections they need to advance in their professions in cybersecurity.

Visit to the Philippines by a US State Department official.

 Visit to the Philippines by a US State Department official.

As part of a three-nation tour, a US State Department representative will stop in the Philippines for economic talks from January 22 to February 1.

The US Undersecretary of State for Energy, Environment, and Economic Growth, Jose Fernandez, is scheduled to visit South Korea, the Philippines, and Vietnam to fortify economic ties with important allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific area.

Fernandez will talk about how diversifying the supply chain can strengthen the Philippines' economy.

Additionally, he will highlight potential investment prospects in the vital minerals industry.

Following US President Joe Biden's visit to Vietnam in September 2023, Fernandez will concentrate on expanding trade prospects, promoting sustainable energy, collaborating on supply chains and semiconductors, and strengthening economic cooperation with Vietnam.

Additionally, he will endeavor to elevate US-Vietnam relations to the level of an all-encompassing strategic alliance.

Fernandez is scheduled to co-chair the 8th US-ROK Senior Economic Dialogue in South Korea.


The US State Department released a statement saying, "Undersecretary Fernandez will promote public-private partnerships, advance investment opportunities, and emphasize the importance of close cooperation in areas of common concern, including strengthening economic, energy, health, climate, and food security during his meetings with government, business, and civil society leaders in all three countries."

Filipino fishermen were once again driven out of Bajo de Masinloc by the China Coast Guard.

 Filipino fishermen were once again driven out of Bajo de Masinloc by the China Coast Guard.

According to reports, a member of the Chinese Coast Guard boards a fishing boat and forbids it from leaving until the fishermen return their collected seashells to the ocean.

Speaking on Sunday, January 21, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesman Commodore Jay Tarriela said that the recordings uploaded on January 19 had a known origin and that statements from individuals involved were being obtained.

According to a statement provided by one Jack Tabat of Zambales, which Tarriela referenced, the event occurred on January 12th, while Filipino fishermen were on board FB Legendary Jo and near Bajo de Masinloc's south entrance.

Tariella said on X, the former Twitter platform, "The fishermen were told to return the shells they had gathered to the sea and were subsequently driven away." "Tabat also recorded a Chinese Coast Guard official seizing the fishing boat and obstructing its departure until the fishermen returned their collected seashells to the water."

Four of the CCG officers disembarked to chase the Filipino fishermen away as at least five of them approached them in a rubber boat.

Given the recent escalation in hostilities between the Philippines and China, this is the most recent instance of harassment Filipino fishermen have experienced at the hands of the CCG.


According to Tarriela, the PCG "intends to gather testimonies from these fishermen as well" and is awaiting the arrival of the involved Filipino boat.

Canada and the Philippines sign an agreement for defense cooperation.

 Canada and the Philippines sign an agreement for defense cooperation.

The defense minister in Manila stated that the signing of a memorandum of understanding on defense cooperation by the Philippines and Canada on Friday could eventually result in a troop agreement between the two nations.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro stated in a statement, "I'm glad to hear that there is a strong intention on both sides to deepen and strengthen the relationships by forging new milestones in our defense relations to culminate, perhaps, with the Visiting Forces Agreement."

Teodoro did not specify the nature of a potential VFA with Canada; however, the Philippines already has a VFA with the US that permits the movement of thousands of US soldiers in and out of the country for war games and drills.

According to the Ministry of Defense, the memorandum will expedite collaboration between the military and defense establishments in both nations for military education, training exchanges, information exchange, peacekeeping missions, and disaster relief.

Our greatest assets are our mutual confidence and trust in one another, Teodoro continued. "This trust is strengthened by the fact that we conduct business with one another in an honest, transparent, and rule-based manner, and it will endure political shifts and the passage of time."

Canada has stood behind the Philippines against China's growing assertiveness in the South China Sea, supporting the Permanent Court of Arbitration's 2016 decision that China's claims in the region lacked legal foundation. China disputes that conclusion.

The October agreement between the Philippines and Canada to utilize Ottawa's Dark Vessel Detection (DVD) system to combat illicit, unreported, and unregulated fishing by vessels that have turned off their location transmitters to avoid detection was followed by the signing of the memorandum.

The Philippines has seen multiple maritime conflicts with China in its exclusive economic zones and territorial waters; the DVD system will also improve the country's knowledge of its maritime domain.

The Philippines will keep drawing attention to Chinese actions in the West Philippine Sea.

 The Philippines will keep drawing attention to Chinese actions in the West Philippine Sea.

A Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) officer stated that the government of the Philippines will keep exposing China's hostility in the West Philippine Sea.

China's Assistant Foreign Minister Nong Rong and Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Theresa Lazaro previously met and, according to the DFA, "presented their respective positions on the Ayungin Shoal, and assured each other of their mutual commitment to avoid escalation of tensions."

In previous confrontations, the Chinese coast guard and maritime authorities in the West Philippine Sea blocked Philippine vessels and even fired water cannons at them. The encounters grew tense.
"I hope(d) China will now know the meaning of commitment and sincerity, that whatever you promised and agreed upon on the conversation table should also be implemented on the ground," expressed PCG Commodore Jay Tarriela in a tweet.

If there is still tension in the West Philippine Sea, we will not think twice about exposing their aggressive behavior and provocative activities," he continued.

"Continuous assertive transparency will prove to the world whether China truly honors their words or it remained disconnected with their actions," Tarriela added.

As determined by the historic 2016 case, China continues to dispute the decision, claiming historical claims over the South China Sea, while the Philippines asserts its sovereignty and fishing rights in its exclusive economic zone.

Former associate justice Antonio Carpio of the Supreme Court stated that while talks between China and the Philippines are "good," they "will not resolve the dispute."

New West PH Sea joint patrol was discussed by the US envoy with DND and AFP.

 New West PH Sea joint patrol was discussed by the US envoy with DND and AFP.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and representatives of the Philippine Armed Forces convened with US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson to deliberate on strategies for defense collaboration, encompassing the establishment of fresh cooperative patrols inside the West Philippine Sea.

Without a doubt, we anticipate that both of our militaries will work together, exercise, and take all necessary steps—both bilaterally and multilaterally—to guarantee the security of our peoples in the upcoming year, Carlson added.

AFP commander General Romeo Brawner Jr. said that the joint patrols were required to properly enforce an international order based on rules, but the US ambassador provided no information on discussions for future joint patrols.

The combined patrols should continue, according to retired Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio, who was a member of the legal team that defeated China at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in 2016.

In particular, since we will be sending a service ship and a drill ship to Reed Bank, we ought to have many joint patrols each year. This is because we should send a joint patrol in case the Chinese Coast Guard tries to drive our service ship and drill ship away.

In November 2023, the Philippines and the United States carried out their inaugural joint patrol in the West Philippine Sea and other oceanic regions close to Taiwan that were under the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone.

China objected to these patrols, saying they were interfering with ongoing South China Sea negotiations with other nations.

Regarding Carpio's statement, neither the Department of Foreign Affairs nor the Chinese Embassy have yet to respond.

 US ships thousands of tanks, M1 Abrams, and military hardware to the Philippines.

The United States ships dozens of tanks, and military hardware, including M1 Abrams, to the Philippines.

The transfer of M1 Abrams tanks to the Philippines intensifies fighting even as Biden tries to prevent a wider confrontation.

The US sent a package last week that included up to $200 million in new military aid for the Philippines, coinciding with the arrival of the Abrams tanks in the country. According to the Pentagon, the package includes 155mm and 105mm rounds, artillery munitions for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), anti-tank missiles from TOW, and weapons for air defense such as the AIM-9 Sidewinder missile.