Consent Upheaval for National Advance:The DOST S&T fellows program agreement

DOST Secretary Renato U Solidum Jr, delivers the Keynote Address during the 3rd S&T fellows convention.

Launched in July 2021 with an 800-million-peso budget over five years, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Science and Technology (S&T) Fellows Program aims to strengthen the country’s research and development (R&D) capacity. By pooling science experts and empowering them through the program, the initiative boosts the capabilities of DOST’s Research and Development Institutes (RDIs) and Councils to deliver innovative programs, projects, and services that benefit Filipinos.

The DOST hosted its third S&T Fellows Convention today at Chardonnay by Astoria, Pasig City, with the theme “Inobasyon ay Solusyon! Sama-sama sa Iisang Layunin ng Masagana at Matatag na Kinabukasan.” The event underscored innovations and solutions achieved through collaborations between national government agencies, academic institutions, and industry leaders.

The convention highlighted the critical role of the S&T Fellows Program in driving innovation and advancing national development through science, technology, and partnerships. By fostering collaborations across sectors, DOST continues to position the Philippines at the forefront of addressing global challenges with homegrown solutions.

DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. emphasized the program’s role in fostering national progress, stating, “Strengthening the nation’s science and technology workforce is essential for progress. This program is vital to national development, given the potential of S&T Fellows to provide R&D solutions to economic concerns while addressing social and environmental issues of different stakeholders.”

The convention focused on four strategic pillars of DOST: Wealth Creation, Wealth Protection, Human Well-being, and Sustainability. Several high-impact R&D projects led by S&T Fellows were showcased, reflecting the program’s efforts to address pressing societal issues.

One of the standout initiatives is the i-ABC Project, led by Engr. John Paolo Lazarte, an S&T Fellow assigned to the DOST-Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI). This innovative project explores the use of nuclear energy for environmental protection by converting plastic waste into biofilm carriers for wastewater treatment. Through electron beam irradiation technology, the initiative targets both plastic waste reduction and enhanced water treatment in Metro Manila.

Another groundbreaking project, led by Mr. Danilo V. Barcelon, Jr., an S&T Fellow assigned to the DOST-Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI), focuses on the valorization of agro-industrial by-products. By utilizing banana peel waste, the project aims to develop alternative dietary fibers and flours, addressing waste reduction while offering sustainable commercialization opportunities.

In the field of aquaculture, Engr. Glen Espena leads a project designed to enhance local milkfish fry production. The initiative involves the implementation of a Heat-Assisted Temperature Control and Monitoring System for Milkfish Hatcheries, utilizing a Recirculating Aquaculture System. This system integrates a heat pump, electric heater, and automated water quality monitoring to maintain optimal water conditions year-round, reducing reliance on imports and boosting local fish production.

 

(DESIGN BEYOND DESIRE: INTERNATIONAL DESIGN CONFERENCE RETURNS TO SHAPE A LIFE-CENTERED FUTURE)

 

Manila, Philippines- The DTI-Design Center of the Philippines is set to host the 8th International Design Conference on 20 September 2024,at the Maybank Performing Arts Theater in BGC, Taguig City.This Annual flagship event,held in celebration of Design Consciousness Week and as a co-branded event of the Philippines Creative Industries Month ,both held in September,serves as the country's premier platform for design innovation and global knowledge exchange.

With the theme "Design Beyond Desire"this year's International Design Conference probes the critical role of design in crafting compelling,life-centered solutions and systems.The conference aims to equip designers, businesses and policymakers with the tools and insights needed to address real-world challenges and create a meaningful, sustainable and equitable future.

The International Design Conference will feature four Ignite Sessions led by renowned designs experts and thought leaders.These sessions will explore topics such as:

® The Pursuit of Gross National Well-being:How a well being focus can transform public spaces.policies,and services

®Once Upon a Place :Designing Automatic Identities:The role of design and narratives in shaping authentic identities and reputations

®Blind Algorithms and Society 5.0:How design can create a more inclusive,hyper-connected society 

® Designing Beyond Desire: Exploring the role of values, ethics,and sustainable in design.

Panel discussion will follow the ignite session, responding to the International Design Conference audience's clamor for a deeper exploration of the topics raised by the vanguards.Joining the discussion will be Philippines experts and provocateurs who will guide the audiences into new and exciting territories.

"The International Design Conference is more than just a conference;It's a catalyst for transformative action,"said Rhea Mature, Executive Director of the DTI-Design Center of the Philippines."We believe that design has the power to shape a better future,and this year's conference will provide a platform for new thinking, innovative ideas,and radical collaborations to thrive in this brave new world."

As a co-branded event of the Philippines Creative Industries Month,the International Design Conference is a testament to the Philippines growing reputation as a hub for design innovation.The conference is expected to attract a diverse range of attendees from around the Philippines,making it a valuable platform for knowledge sharing and networking.

Admission to the International Design Conference 2024,is Free,and it is open to design professionals,students and faculty, policymakers,MSMEs,and Design businesses.

LOTUS MANILA LAUNCHES EMEYA, THE ALL-NEW ELECTRIC HYPER-GT

 

● Lotus Manila launches the all new Emeya, the first electric grand tourer (GT) from

Lotus, designed for drivers in the Philippines

● The Emeya brings together the brand's rich history, with sports car levels of

performance and latest technologies, to set a new benchmark for what it means to

drive an electric car

● It is one of the fastest electric GTs in the world, with acceleration of 0-62mph

(0-100km/h) in under 2.8 seconds

1

● The car is capable of charging from 10 to 80 percent in 14 minutes, using a 400-kW

(600A capable) DC fast charger, making it one of the fastest-charging electric

vehicles available today

2

● Powerful, efficient, and refined all-electric powertrain delivers the perfect balance of

performance, responsiveness, and range - with a maximum WLTP range of 610 km

(379 miles)

3

● Emeya is available in three variants starting from Php 8,000,000

16 September 2024, Taguig City, Philippines - The Autohub Group, sole authorised dealer

of Lotus in the Philippines, has officially launched the all-new Emeya, the first electric

hyper-GT from Lotus. This model joins the popular British brand's lineup of next-generation

hyper electric vehicles (EVs) as a part of its vision to become an all-electric global luxury

brand.

The car brings together Lotus’ design and engineering DNA, with the latest cutting-edge

technologies setting a new benchmark for what it means to drive an electric car. Emeya

seamlessly blends the excellent dynamic performance that Lotus is renowned for, with

world-class refinement, comfort, usability, and connectivity – bringing drivers the ultimate

grand tourer package.

Emeya is competitively priced in the luxury GT segment and is available in base, S, and R

variants starting from Php 8,000,000.

Emeya is available in six colours including Boreal Grey, Fireglow Orange, Solar Yellow, Akoya

White, Stellar Black, and Kaimu Grey.

Retaining the core Lotus sports car DNA of design, power and precision, safety, dynamic

handling, emotion, and logic, with the latest engineering capabilities and an increased

choice of new features, Emeya is even more powerful, making it an unrivalled GT. This

includes:

● Advanced and active aerodynamic features such as the pioneering active front grille,

rear diffuser, and rear spoiler. All this, combined with a low centre of gravity,

enhances stability when driving and sets a standard in the GT segment for ride and

handling excellence.

Emeya boasts a range of advanced active aerodynamic features to enhance speed and

performance, all of which have been inspired by the world-renowned aerodynamics that

elevated Lotus to success on motor circuits around the world. Key attributes include:

● A power of up to 905 bhp, enabling Emeya to accelerate from 0-100 km/h (0-62

mph) in under 2.8 seconds and 0-200 km/h (0 – 124 mph) in 9 seconds, making it

one of the quickest cars in the world

1

;

● Active aerodynamic features, so that drivers can tailor the driving experience to

their environment. The duality of the combined system can deliver a drag

coefficient of 0.21Cd, or downforce of over 150kg;

● Advanced new high-performance, twin-layer battery designed with cooling

attributes, to deliver even greater repeatability and sustainability of performance -

even under extreme driving conditions such as on a track. This also provides greater

driving range between charges;

● Up to five driving modes including Range, Tour, Sport, Individual, and Track. Drivers

can control the ride height, air suspension stiffness, acceleration response, seat

configuration (with adjustable side bolsters), and more, to optimise efficiency,

performance, and comfort in any environment;

● An electronically controlled air suspension system with advanced onboard sensors

responds to changes in road conditions and automatically adjusts the vehicle set-up.

This ensures the smoothest ride and optimum driving experience for customers; and

● Lightweight carbon ceramic brakes reduce unsprung weight and braking distance –

which contribute to dynamic handling – as well as doubling the lifespan of the

components.

Emeya provides drivers with sportscar levels of performance, but with the usability for

everyday use. This includes:

● A spacious boot of up to 509 litres, offering everyday usability and making it the

ultimate touring companion;

● The Emeya frunk also has a capacity of 31 litres, meaning customers have additional

space for their belongings or for their charging equipment;

● Ambient lighting functions that communicate intuitively with the driver. For instance,

when getting an incoming phone call, elements of the dashboard will pulse to notify

the driver of this, and when charging, the ambient lighting on the floating dashboard

will change to green;

● Five massage modes at three different intensity levels, ensuring all occupants have a

relaxing ride, no matter where they are sat

4

;

● Power-assisted doors make entering the vehicle seamless for customers. Sensors

can also detect obstacles ensuring a door will not open if the vehicle is at risk of

damage. In addition, a kick sensor on the tailgate enables customers to easily open

the boot, even when their hands are full; and

● Advanced intelligent panoramic glass roof, which drivers can switch between opaque

and clear. This allows customers to enjoy a feeling of space whatever the time of day.

They also have the option to turn individual sections of the roof opaque, enabling

them to block out direct sunlight while keeping the rest of the roof transparent.

Emeya blends progressive performance with technical artistry throughout its interior and

exterior design. It has been developed with the Lotus philosophy of lightness through form

and materiality, in order to provide drivers with the ultimate progressive luxury experience.

This includes:

● A conscious design with advanced sustainable materials that are also sustainably

sourced, to reduce its carbon footprint. This includes a new luxury thread, Wyron

Truecycle, made from repurposed fibres from the fashion industry. Lotus is the first

automaker in the industry to use this application;

● Knurled metal on all interior touchpoints to offer a deluxe tactility, further enhancing

the sense of refinement;

● Crafted carbon fibre exterior elements, which make a nod to the brand’s racing

heritage, gently reminding occupants that Emeya is a performance car ‘for the

drivers’; and

● A unique daytime running light (DRL) design, which enhances the road presence of

the car. The headlamps stay almost hidden in the aperture beneath the DRLs,

delivering a sleek front-end look.

Emeya makes it easier than ever to own an electric vehicle by giving drivers with the

confidence to complete long-distance journeys, going wherever they need, with its

fast-charging capabilities, including:

● Charging from 10 to 80% in 14 minutes, using a 400-kW (600A capable) DC fast

charger, making it one of the fastest charging electric vehicles (EVs) available today;

● Reaching a peak charging power of 402kW, resulting in an average charging power

of 331kW, between 10% and 80% battery state of charge

2

;

● Combined with a WLTC energy consumption of 18.7kWh/100km, Emeya is able to

gain up to 310-km of range in 10 minutes; and

● The powerful, efficient, and refined all-electric powertrain delivers the perfect

balance of performance, responsiveness, and range - with a maximum WLTP range

of 610 km (379 miles)

3

.

To achieve the fast-charging capabilities in its next generation hyper electric vehicles, Lotus

uses a cell-to-pack battery structure, which means that 20 percent more cells can be

packaged in the same space, compared to a standard module architecture. Emeya also uses

a new cooling system architecture that is designed to improve the thermal performance and

efficiency of the battery, which also contributes to an exceptionally high level of repeatable

performance.

Lotus has incorporated the latest technology hardware, with its own proprietary software to

provide consumers with confidence and safety, every time they drive. This includes:

● Two NVIDIA DRIVE Orin systems-on-a-chip (SoCs), which are used to process data

from 34 state-of-the-art surround sensors up to 30 times a second, offering

360-degree perception with no blind spots; and

● Four deployable LiDARs, 18 radars, seven 8 mp cameras and five 2 mp cameras that

combine to ensure driver confidence by scanning for obstacles at a radius of up to

200m around the car, in every direction, even in low light or inclement weather. They

even reconstruct a virtual environment around the vehicle to define the best

trajectory.

To provide the best possible in-car experience for every customer, Emeya offers:

● A state-of-the-art 15.1-inch HD OLED Lotus HyperOS award winning infotainment

system, which features an interactive 3D display of Emeya to access its numerous

functions. This is powered by Unreal Engine gaming technology, and with it, the car

responds rapidly in real-time to any changes the driver makes and adjusts

accordingly. For instance, touching the screen to open the doors will immediately

open the doors on the car;

● An expansive 55-inch head-up display for the driver, meaning they can clearly see

important vehicle data without taking their eyes off the road; and

● Entertainment is centred around the critically-acclaimed in-car audio system from

world-renowned Lotus partner KEF. Its award-winning Uni-Q™ speaker design and

Uni-Core™ space-saving subwoofer enclosure, combined with Dolby Atmos enabled

3D surround sound system, create a truly immersive soundscape.

Willy Tee Ten, President of the Autohub Group expressed, "We are so excited to be bringing

the all-new Emeya to the Philippines. This launch marks a new era in luxury electric vehicles,

blending advanced aerodynamics with unparalleled performance and everyday usability.

This vehicle exemplifies Autohub Group’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in

the automotive industry.”

Dan Balmer, President and CEO of Lotus Cars Asia Pacific and Middle East commented,

“The arrival of Lotus Emeya is set to redefine the benchmark of sustainable luxury driving in

the Philippine market. We are thrilled to bring this revolutionary vehicle to passionate

Filipino drivers who seek the best in both technology and driving experience.”

Lotus Manila is committed to continually providing esteemed customers in the Philippines

exceptional ownership services and experience at the new state-of-the-art home of Lotus.

As a special offer for the Lotus Emeya Debut, Lotus Manila is providing complimentary XPPF

Paint Protection Film to help ensure your Emeya retains its showroom finish for years to

come, along with a VK Series V-Kool Tint and a 7kW home charger for customers who

reserve until 31 October 2024.

LOTUS MANILA RE-OPENS DOORS AND UNVEILS BRAND-NEW EMEYA IN NEW BGC SHOWROOM

 

● Official opening of Lotus Manila showroom in the heart of Metro Manila

● Debut of the all-new Lotus Emeya - the first four-door electric hyper Grand Tourer (GT)

● Full model range now available to esteemed customers in the Philippines

● Unwavering commitment to deliver exceptional customer experiences in the Philippines

16 September 2024, Taguig City, Philippines - Lotus Philippines ignited the local

automotive scene with the official opening of its showroom in Bonifacio Global City (BGC).

The event marked a momentous occasion for Lotus, solidifying its presence in the

Philippines and offering a dynamic luxury driving experience in the heart of Metro Manila.

Esteemed guests also witnessed the much-anticipated reveal of the stunning Lotus Emeya.

The car brings together Lotus’ design and engineering DNA, with the latest cutting-edge

technologies to set a new benchmark for what it means to drive an electric car. Emeya

seamlessly blends the excellent dynamic performance that Lotus is renowned for, with

world-class refinement, comfort, usability, and connectivity – bringing drivers the ultimate

grand tourer package.

On this special occasion, Lotus Emira, an iconic sports car with class-leading driving

dynamics and enhanced comfort for everyday usability; and the first of a new breed of pure

electric performance SUVs - Eletre - were also on display at the new home of Lotus.

"We are incredibly excited to unfold this new chapter in the Philippines as we re-open our

doors to the state-of-the-art showroom in BGC," said Willy Tee Ten, President, Autohub

Group. "The investment in this facility marked our unwavering commitment to elevating the

Lotus brand and delivering exceptional customer experience in the Philippines.”

Dan Balmer, President & CEO of Lotus Cars in Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa commented,

“We are proud of our continued partnership with Autohub Group in the Philippines.

Together with the professional team at Lotus Manila, we look forward to welcoming our new  and existing customers to experience the complete Lotus model range at this dedicated

space.”

The grand opening of the Lotus showroom marks a significant step forward for the iconic

brand in the Philippines. Lotus Manila showroom is located at 38th Street corner 11th Avenue

Triangle Drive, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

-ends

Climate Movement Demand Immediate End to Coal Expansion: Nationwide Protests Call for Coal Phase-Out

 

Quezon City, Philippines – Today, thousands of Filipinos mobilized to demand an immediate end to coal expansion, ahead of the COP29 Climate Summit. Protests were held in key areas including Sual in Pangasinan, Mariveles in Bataan, Masinloc in Zambales, Batangas City, Mauban and Pagbilao in Quezon Province, Puerto Princesa in Palawan, Naga and Toledo Cities in Cebu, Zamboanga City, Kauswagan in Lanao del Norte, Maasim in Saranggani, Malita in Davao Occidental and Villanueva, Misamis Oriental. These areas are where coal plants continue to damage local communities.

“With the recent contravention of DOE on the coal moratorium, havoc will intensify. Coal has been ruining lives and harming the environment and communities for decades,” said Ian Rivera, National Coordinator of the Philippine Movement for Climate Justice (PMCJ). “Despite a 2020 moratorium, Secretary Lotilla’s move has opened doors for the resurgence of coal. This would not have happened if the government through the DOE had not tied the country’s energy development to the deadly and expensive imported fossil fuels. The high cost of LNG (liquified natural gas) in the global market has turned the heads of energy companies to coal not only in the Philippines but also in Asia. The country will continue its fossil fuel addiction, if clean and cost competitive renewables will not be given due attention by BBM (Bongbong Marcos) and DOE. We demand an immediate halt to new coal plants and a swift phase-out of existing ones,” he added.

While coal is making its way again globally, the Asia People’s Movement on Debt and Development is leading the charge to prevent the resurgence in Asia. “ On September 13 we are joining hundreds of mobilizations all over the world calling for an end to fossil fuels.  In Asia more than a hundred actions will take place in several countries including the Philippines. We are calling on Asian governments to stop the expansion of coal in our countries and implement a rapid, equitable and just phase-out of existing coal. Our electricity needs can be met with renewable energy, which is less costly, quicker to build, easier to make accessible to all communities and reduces reliance on imported fuels,” stressed Lidy Nacpil, the Asia Coordinator of APMDD.

A Battleground for Coal Expansion

New coal projects are pushing forward despite their known dangers. In Luzon, Mariveles is set to add 2 units of 150-megawatt (MW) coal plant, and Masinloc is expanding with an additional unit of 315 MW facility, worsening pollution and health issues.

Palawan also faces a threat with a proposed 15 MW coal plant in Nara, adding to the frontline fight against coal.

“The proposed coal expansions in Mariveles and Masinloc will not only worsen  pollution, health problems and climate crisis; it will also impact the high cost of electricity as these coal are imported. We need an immediate stop to these projects,” said PMCJ Luzon Campaigner Erwin Puhawan.

In the Visayas, Toledo City, Cebu, “Threat to life and destruction will escalate  by the recent expansion announcement of Aboitiz’s Therma Visayas Incorporated (TVI) of its 169 MW coal plant. If this is constructed, it will join the eight existing and operating coal plants in the city. These coal plants are already causing health issues and damaging the Tañon Strait Protected Seascape.” quote Citizens of Coal Communities for Clean Air and Climate Justice (C4CJ), a multisectoral coalition of organizations opposed to coal and campaigning for healthy air in Toledo City. Local communities are pushing for comprehensive Health Impact Assessments on all operating coal plants in Toledo City.

In Concepcion, Iloilo, the town faces a 135 MW coal plant that adds to ongoing environmental and health concerns. Coal plants in Iloilo experienced forced outages in the first half of this year, affecting the economic activities and businesses of Iloilo city. The city government is now serious about shifting to renewable energy.” Estela Patalinghug, the PMCJ Visayas Region Coordinator has emphasized.

PMCJ Mindanao Coordinator Rara Ada added, “Our communities in Mindanao are already suffering from coal pollution. New projects will only make things worse. We demand a total phase-out of coal by 2035.” PMCJ in Mindanao is reacting to the continued operation of coal plants in Villanueva, Misamis Oriental, Malita in Davao Occidental, Kauswagan in Lanao del Norte, and Maasim, in Saranggani. These areas will continue to suffer extreme coal impacts as expansion will be expected in the town of Villanueva in Misamis Oriental and Zamboanga City, as a result of the violation of coal moratorium by DOE Secretary Lotilla and President BBM.

Renewable Energy as a Viable Alternative

PMCJ highlighted renewable energy sources like solar and wind as practical alternatives to coal. “Renewable energy is not only feasible but essential for our health and economy,” said Lito Vasquez, PMCJ Visayas Policy Adviser. The cost of renewables has become so competitive that it begs to question the government why it continues to promote coal. The DOE Secretary has been facing a graft charge at the Ombudsman for his alleged violation of a coal moratorium by favoring Aboitiz Power’s power plant expansion in Toledo, City.

Today’s Global Day of Action kicks off a broader campaign leading into the Global Week of Action for Climate Finance and Fossil-Free Futures, aiming to drive home the urgent need to end coal.

“The resurgence of coal will put our common future in the balance as it will further close the timeline for climate catastrophe. This is a form of oppression by a handful of energy companies, banks, investors, international finance institutions and northern governments who continue to profit on the business of fossil fuels at the expense of the lives of the 99% of the population of the world. We demand immediate action now to end coal and make the ban permanent for the health of our people and our planet,” Rivera concluded. ###

#GWAC2024 #EndCoal #RenewableEnergyNow

Chairman Arthur P. Casanova,signing of books

 

Chairman Arthur P. Casanova will be at the Manila International Book Fair 2024 to sign books on September 15, 2024 at 10 a.m. at the booth of the Filipino Language Commission at 2/F Function Hall, No. 2-92. 
Among the books that he will be signing are Batang Mandirigma and Five Other Dulâ, Mga Lân for Teatrong Pambatá, Mga Dulaang for Dulaang Pambatá and the latest Collection of Dramatic Works of Mindanawon.
Free publications (subject to availability) will be provided to those who visit the KWF booth. Buyers can choose from more than 60 books in the growing collection of KWF Aklat ng Bayan from reference books on Filipino literature and culture, researches, translated classic works, and other reading materials.

Lumagui:BIR Strengthens partnership with top Business Groups in an effort to improve Taxpayers Service;Dds another 3 for a total of 12 business groups

 

BIR Commissioner Romeo D. _Lumagui, Jr. (center) together with BIR officials and personnel, pose for a group photo alongside the returning members of the Multi-Sectoral Group, including the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Tax Management Association of the Philippines, Management Association of the Philippines, Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines, Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Association of Certified Public Accountants in Public Practice, Association of CPAs in Commerce and Industry, Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc., and the Joint Foreign Chambers of the Philippines, as well as the new members of the group, specifically the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc., Makati Business Club, and Alliance of Tech Innovators for the Nation._

*BIR Press Release*

_September 11, 2024_

Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr. continues the BIR's productive relationship with its Multi-Sectoral Group through a Memorandum of Agreement signing held last September 10, 2024. The Multi-Sectoral Group represents the different industries under the private sector. Through the Multi-Sectoral Group, the private sector can voice out their concerns with current and proposed polices and regulations of the BIR. Regular dialogues and consultations with the private sector is in keeping with Commissioner’s Lumagui thrust for excellent taxpayer service.

"The BIR welcomes both the old and new members of our Multi-Sectoral Group. The retention of old members and the addition of new members show that our relationship with the private sector is a productive and fruitful one. The private sector is, and always will be, our partner in nation-building. Regular discourse and exchange of ideas between the BIR and representatives from the private sector will create a more stable taxation system in the Philippines" Commissioner Lumagui stated.

Returning members of the Multi-Sectoral Group include Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Tax Management Association of the Philippines, Management Association of the Philippines, Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines, Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Association of Certified Public Accountants in Public Practice, Association of CPAs in Commerce and Industry, Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc., and Joint Foreign Chambers of the Philippines.

There are also new members of the Multi-Sectoral Group, specifically, Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc., Makati Business Club, and Alliance of Tech Innovators for the Nation.###

BOC, Search worth 85 Million Pesos of Frozen Goods in Parañaque Warehouse

 

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) conducted a major enforcement operation on September 5, 2024, in a warehouse in Parañaque City, uncovering PhP85 million worth of meat products and foodstuffs with foreign markings.

The operation was carried out following the issuance of a Letter of Authority (LOA) and collaboration among the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service – Manila International Container Port (CIIS-MICP), Enforcement and Security Service – MICP (ESS-MICP), Philippine Coast Guard-Task Force Aduana (PCG-TFA), and the Department of Agriculture – Inspectorate and Enforcement (DA-IE).

Upon presenting the LOA to the warehouse representative, authorities conducted a thorough inspection, discovering a large quantity of frozen food products, including duck, chicken, and pork meat, along with various foodstuffs marked in Chinese and other foreign languages. The total estimated value of these goods is PhP85 million.

To secure the items, the team placed temporary padlocks and seals on the warehouse. Customs Examiners will conduct a detailed inventory of the goods in the presence of CIIS and ESS agents and representatives from the warehouse.

The BOC's unwavering commitment in enforcing strict measures against smuggling and ensuring compliance with customs regulations are evident in this operation, which underscores the ongoing collaboration between agencies to protect local industries from unfair practices.

Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio emphasized the BOC's commitment to safeguard the agricultural sector, stating, "We rigorously monitor and regulate agricultural imports to prevent the entry of illicit products that could undermine the integrity of our agricultural industry. Our stringent inspection protocols and enforcement measures ensure that only compliant goods enter the market."

BIR is Grateful for the Congratulatory Remarks of Senator Grace Poe on its 91% Tax Filing Accomplishment during Budget Hearing*

 

_Photo caption: Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr. during the Senate budget hearing on August 27, 2024. (Screen capture from the recorded video on Senate of the Philippines's official Facebook page)_

Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr. attended the Senate budget hearing last August 27, 2024, which was presided over by Senator Grace Poe, Chairperson of the Committee on Finance. During the hearing, Commissioner Lumagui was congratulated by Senator Poe for the agency's remarkable achievement of reaching 91% in total tax returns filed electronically for the first half of the year.

 

"The men and women of the BIR are grateful to Senator Grace Poe for recognizing our efforts in digitalizing our services, particularly the filing of tax returns. Since 2022, the BIR has been consistent in creating a service-oriented culture amongst its ranks. As proof of our commitment to taxpayer service, we have achieved a 100% Nationwide ISO certification this 2024, the first government agency to do so. Our services are now up to par with international standards," Commissioner Lumagui stated.

 

From January to June of 2024, the BIR recorded a 91% share of electronically filed returns, with only 9% of returns filed manually. Approximately 12.25 million returns were filed during the said period, with 11.17 million filed online, and only 1.09 million filed manually.###

PCSO pursue to enlarge resources,arrange welfare conference

 

MANILA -- The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) on Thursday (Sept. 5) hosted its  Charity Summit with the aim of enlisting the support and cooperation of other stakeholders, while also mapping out strategies on improving the delivery of charity services in the country.

In his message, PCSO General Manager Melquiades "Mel" Robles stressed the importance of the summit even as he enumerated at least four of their stated goals.

The objectives include creating a powerful network that transcends boundaries, and connecting them to serve the most vulnerable in our society, and provide a platform for knowledge exchange among delegates.

They also intend to identify opportunities for innovation and improvement in the delivery of charity programs and services.

Participants also discussed challenges and explored opportunities to advance the goals, initiatives, and advocacies of charitable institutions, and how they can make a difference on the lives of the people, especially the poor.

Robles emphasized "We have a unique opportunity to foster collaboration and strengthen the charitable sector. Through our combined efforts, we can contribute to the development of a more just, equitable, and compassionate society for all.

"As President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. always says, "Sama sama tayong babangon muli tungo sa isang bagong Pilipinas! (Together we will rise again toward a new Philippines)". 

The event which was held at the Manila Hotel also kickstarted activities for the 90th Anniversary of the PCSO, which coincides with the National Day of Charity on October 30 as declared in Proclamation No. 598 signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.

With the theme “Building Bridges through Partnership and Cooperation with Charitable Institutions,” the summit gathered some 200 participants in a hybrid format.

Some of the participants include representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), charitable institutions, NGOs, PCSO partner agencies and other stakeholders.

Candidates of the Mutya ng Pilipinas 2024 also graced the event, as the pageant will award one of them as "Miss Charity". 

The winner of this special award will attend the National Day of Charity celebrations on October 30.

New tool offers solution for comprehensive data on women’s empowerment in agri dev’t

 

essential for making a real impact on the ground.

Transitioning from theoretical frameworks to practical applications, former PIDS President Dr. Celia Reyes addressed the challenges of integrating gender-sensitive indicators into national development programs and surveys.

“Incorporating these indicators into national surveys will allow us to monitor progress at a larger scale and make informed decisions that truly benefit women, especially in rural areas,” she asserted during her comments on the two IFPRI presentations. She underscored the need for robust, context-specific data to drive effective interventions and address regional challenges.

PIDS Senior Research Fellow Dr. Jose Ramon Albert, also providing comments to the presentations, stressed the importance of data disaggregation to fully capture the essence of women’s empowerment.

“Data disaggregation is essential for understanding the different dimensions of empowerment,” Albert explained. “It allows us to see not just where women stand, but also how various factors such as age, education, and geographic location affect their empowerment,” he continued. This level of detail, he argued, is crucial for designing interventions that are tailored to the specific needs of different groups of women.

Albert cautioned that treating women as a homogenous group is ineffective for policy development. “By looking at the data more closely, we can develop policies that are more targeted and effective in addressing the unique challenges faced by women in different contexts,” he stressed.

Watch the recording of the webinar at https://bit.ly/pidslive081424. ###