Daily News PH

WATCH: Pro-Duterte blogger had a close encounter with Trillanes in a forum abroad

2018-02-12T11:11:00.000+08:00

A pro-Duterte blogger had an encounter with opposition Senator Antonio Trillanes during a forum held in Los Angeles, California on February 11, 2018, Manila time.

Maharlika, her name in social media , grabbed the chance to ask Trillanes. Although one of the security team did not allow her to bring her camera, she insisted that she has the right to record everything because she's a blogger.

The blogger in the said video was seen interrupted by several audiences making her to rush asking questions Trillanes.

"Kung sa Senado ay pinatayan niyo ng mikropono ang isang Senador at i ere kung ano man ang gusto niyang sabihin, bakit dito gusto niyo paring piglan? At saan kayo humuhuhgot ng lakas ng loob para pigilin ang mga Pro-Duterte supporter," asked Maharlika to Trillanes.

This blogger even shouted that Duterte is the bringer of change before her time ended with te question proper.

Maharlika recorded another video explaining that the event organizers were preventing her from using the microphone.

Watch the video below!

Source: Facebook

READ: Blogger attacks anti socmed politicians, socmed an alternative to pricey media

2018-02-12T10:45:00.003+08:00

One of the DDS bloggers counter-attacked the senators who are in-charge with the committee hearing against fake news saying PR operators are also using them to spreed disinformation.

Using her Facebook page, Trixie Cruz-Angeles cited Thinking Pinoy's revelation about the so-called #NasaanAngPangulo campaign which she claimed to be a solid evidence to support the argument.

Angeles uploaded images of a public report entitled "Architects of Networked Disinformation" which talks about behind the scenes of troll accounts and fake news productions in the country.

The blogger as well as lawyer, emphasized that this has been the reason why senators are grilling bloggers with the advent of fake news in the country.

"Pero hindi ito kagulat gulat dahil ginagawa na ito dati ng ilang nasa mainstream media. May mga AC-DC nga dyan eh. Attack-Collect, Defend-Collect. Nguni't hindi ganyan ang react ng mga senador na kulang na lang bigyan ng clonidine (gamot sa high blood) para huminahon. Tingin ko it isn't so much the info na maraming gumagawa nito, kahit dati pa. But that with the rise of certain Bloggers, nawalan sila (yung mga trapo) ng control. Since many of the known Bloggers are clear about their political preferences, hindi ganun kadali sila ipatrabaho sa mga PR operators. Imagine any of us writing praises about Kiko or Bam or Risa?" as read in Trixie's post.

According to her, Mocha is one of the bloggers who is not beyond the control of the 'traditional politicians' which makes them think that they should limit her influence to the people.

However, Trixie claimed that they can no longer spin the DDS.

"Too bad for these senators. Di na nila kaya i-spin ito as merely pambabalahura ng DDS. Bahagi ito sa pag distrunka ng mga infrastructure na sumusuporta sa mga elite at elitista. Lumaganap ang paggamit ng socmed bilang alternatibo sa nga nabibiling media. Sorry na lang, po. Bilog ang mundo," she concluded.

As to this writing, Trixie's post has generated 696 different reactions from netizens.

Below is Trixie's full Facebook post:

Source: Facebook

WATCH: Real story behind Hacidena Luisita revealed by Greco Belgica

2018-02-10T11:23:00.000+08:00

2016 Senatorial Candidate Greco Belgica went viral on Facebook after he released the recent update on the real story of Hacienda Luisita, February 9.

In a Facebook video of Belgica with the press, he gave points to them why ex Presidet Benigno Aquno III plundered thru the DAP and PDAF saying it's all about Hacienda Luisita.

"PNoy's selling Mindanao, to the Malaysians. PNoy and Trillanes' drama that they are anti-China when the truth is they conspired secretly to allow China to drill and extracr illegally our aovereign oil and gas and made billions and billions," he added.

Belgica also mentioned other opposition members, Senators Franklin Drilon, Kiko Pangilinan, Risa Hontiveros, and ex-DILG chief Mar Roxas that they plan to escape justice.

"They plan to escape justice and their high crimes and not to be exposed and known to the Filipono people and the international community by their diversionary issuea against PRRD, SAP BONG GO, Mayor Inday Sarah, which are just lies upon lies without evidences," Belgica stressed

According to him, DAP is not just about disbursement acceleration program but the desire to accelerate plunder by government officials.

Watch the video below!

Source: Greco Belgica

PNoy is not excuse from Dengvaxia, says Ejercito

2018-02-09T11:34:00.001+08:00

Former President Noynoy Aquino is not off the hook from the Dengvaxia controversy, as he may be among those who could be charged for the dengue vaccination program according to Senator JV Ejercito.

The senator said while Aquino may have exercised good faith in deciding to purchase millions of units of the Dengvaxia vaccine, he may still have to answer for his use of government savings for its procurement.

“I personally think that he acted in good faith considering that he assumed that due diligence were done already kaya lang that doesn’t spare you pa rin. Ang talagang ano ko dun is ‘yung use of the savings eh, too big. P3.5 billion is too big an amount for it not to have congressional approval," he added.

During the Senate probe in December 2017, Aquino emphasized that he chose to use government savings from 2015 that were set to expire by the end of that year as no funds have been allotted for the purchase of Dengvaxia as it has not yet been included in the Philippine National Drug Formulary at the time.

On the other hand, the release of funding for the vaccine was criticized that it was allegedly released faster than the usual.

However, Ejercito said the government officials need to answer the procurement of Dengvaxia since the manufacturer Sanofi Pasteur revealed the serious side effect of the vaccine especially among those who are not yet infected with dengue.

“If you will based it on the timeline talagang na-establish that the procurement was done in haste. Those responsible should be made responsible in order for us to also get back the confidence on the DOH (Department of Health) and other government agencies,” Ejercito said.

Senate Blue Ribbon committee chair Senator Dick Gordon previously said his panel may recommend charges to be filed against Aquino and other former government officials.

Source: Politics

WATCH: Projects under PNoy's admin in Sulu seem 'palpak', says ex-Gov

2018-02-09T11:19:00.000+08:00

Former Sulu Governor, Abdusakur Mahail Tan exclaimed the projects in his province installed by the administration of ex-President Benigno Aquino III were not beneficial to their constituents.

In an interview aired during PTVNews, Tan discussed unfinished hospital, storage plants, and housing projects for armed personnel in Sulu.

"Dapat wag kang magalit sa mga complaints ko dapat maging thankful kasi hindi niya kaya na i monitor ang mga performance ng mga tao mo. Kaya concern ako kasi bayan ko, bayan namin, at ayaw naming lokohin namin ang mga mamamayan," said the ex-governor.

Tan also said that he has been reporting this faulty projects to ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman but he remained silent about it.

On the other hand, the executive secretary of ARMM Atty. Laisa Alamia explained the reason behind these unfinished structures. She stressed that these were funded from the Development Acceleration Fund.

"The projects are not yet finished because the lack of available funds. These were funded under the DAP during the PNoy administration. Unfortunately, nagkaroon ang Supreme Court to stop the DAP, to stop all DAP projects," said Alamia.

At present, the executive secretary further said that the only remedy for this is for the provincial engineer to conduct a reassessment and to make another program of works.

Watch the video below!

Source: PTV | Facebook

Filipino kid lectures UP student protesters: Do something worthy in your community

2018-02-07T10:50:00.000+08:00

A Filipino kid based in California, USA wrote a message addressed to the University of the Philippines students who walked out of their classes to stage protests against the alleged tyrany and dictatorship of President Rodrigo Duterte.

Using his Facebook page, Andrei Gabriel Esteban published his advice to the student protesters pointing that the students should be the start of change they are crying to the government.

"May message po ako sa mga students na nag rarally against the government. Ang pagbabago na gusto mo ay dapat magsimula sa sarili mo, gawin mo ito para sa Pilipinas at sa mundo.," as read in Andre's post.

Instead of bashing, the young blogger also advised the student protesters to start the change through simple good deeds and doing something worthy inside the community.

"Start with simple good deeds like helping clean the streets and participating in going green--plant some trees or maybe teach out of school homeless kids around Manila how to write and read instead of wasting your time rallying and shouting against the government. Show the world that you are a Filipino and love your country by doing something worthy in your community," he added.

Andre further told these people to be a volunteer for change instead of being a parasite.

This kid has been viral since October 2017 after President Rodrigo Duterte personally read his handwritten letter which photographed and posted on social media platforms.

Below is Andrei Gabriel Esteban's full Facebook post:

Source: Facebook

Think about the free tuition: Duterte says he's good with rallies but not class walkouts

2018-02-04T12:56:00.000+08:00

The Malacañang Palace clarified that President Rodrigo Duterte is fine with students holding protests against government, but not with them walking out of their classes for demonstrations.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said Duterte does not want students from state universities doing walkouts as they could incur absences that may lead to their dismissal from the school.

Talking about the student protesters from the University of the Philippines, Roque emphasized that in the said university there is a maximum number of absences rule.

"Sa UP, mayroon po kaming maximum absence rule, kapag ikaw absent ng 20 percent, you are automatically dropped from the rolls," said Roque in a press briefing referring to the Article 346 of the Revised UP code.

The spokesperson said that Duterte does not want the students to put to waste the free tuition grant.

Last August 2017, Duterte signed law granting students from SUCs free tuition fee.

"Ito kasi ang kauna-unahang taon na binabayaran natin ang tuition fee ng lahat ng state universities at colleges hindi lang UP. Malinaw po ang sabi ni Presidente, ang tinututulan niya iyong walk out sa klase. Hindi po niya sinusupil ang karapatan ng malayang pananalita at saka karapatan ng peaceful assembly," Harry further stated.

The said statement came after Duterte threatened to kick out students who continue to participate in walk outs.

Earlier this month, the UP students had a National Day of Walkout Against Tyranny and Dictatorship.

Source: Politics

READ: Kiko Pangilinan's tweet on UP protesters went viral

2018-02-04T12:42:00.001+08:00

The National Day of Walk Out Against Dictatorship and Tyrnany staged by the University of the Philippines last February 1 is still on the top of issues in the country.

This has made several politicians and officials to give their opinions after President Rodrigo Duterte has threatened to kick out the students.

Among them is opposition Senator Francisco "Kiko" Pangilinan. In his Twitter account, he tweeted his side on this matter.

"Kahit na si Marcos na pinakamatagal na umupo sa Malacañang, hindi nagawang takutin ang mga mag-aaral ng Unibersidad ng Pilipinas," as read in his tweet which comes with a photo during the said protest day.

The said post has been uploaded by DDS blogger, PCOO Assistant Secretary Mocha Uson on her facebook page with a caption "Anong masasabi ninyo sa bagong pahayag ni Sen. KIKO? Tinatakot ba talaga ni PRRD ang mga estudyante? O mahina lang talaga sa pag intindi ang ilan nating Senador?"

As to this writing, Mocha's post has reach 14600 mixed reactions from netizens.

Below is Mocha Uson's full Facebook post:

Source: Mocha Uson | Facebook

Netizen's message to Leni on Marcos' electoral protest: VP, accept the challenge.

2018-02-02T11:25:00.002+08:00

Nearly two years after the 2016 elections, the electoral protest of former Senator Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. is still on the process of getting recount.

In connection, a netizen gave his comment about this point out that if Vice President Leni Robredo is not hiding anything, her counsel should not block a simple recount.

Mike Acebedo Lopez in his social media account on Facebook said the camp of Robredo is doing everything they can to stop the Presidential Electoral Tribunal from finally putting the issue to rest.

"Alam niyo, if I won something, I'll gladly have all of you revisit my victory, recount whatever needs to be counted again, so the sore loser who can't accept defeat can be humiliated a second time. That's the best way to shut the opponent up," as read in Lopez' post.

He also said that the current SC justice is a friend of ex Pres Noynoy Aquino is helping Robredo's camp to suppress the truth.

Further, he likened the case of Leni to the Bureau of Internal Revenue.

"Parang BIR lang yan. May problema sila sa tax mo, then open your books. Show it. Kaya Leni, accept the challenge," he concluded.

As to this writing, Mike's post has already generated 1900 reactions from netizens.

Below is Mike Acebedo's full Facebook post:

Source: Facebook | Mike Lopez

Andanar suggests all gov't officials to shut down their FB accounts if Mocha's blog will

2018-02-02T10:58:00.000+08:00

Presidential Communications Operations Officer Secretary Martin Andanar challenged all government officials to close their social media accounts if Mocha Uson's Facebook page would be shut down.

Reacting to the notions of senators to shut down PCOO Assistant Secretary for Social Media, Andanar defended Mocha for allegedly spreading fake news.

"Okay, granting Mocha's blog be shut down, there are 1.5 million piblic servants in the cou try and I bet most of them, they have their own Facebook pages and Twitter also, then close all of them also," said Andanar in an interview.

"All for one, one for all including all senators, congressmen, and even that of the President, let's shut them down," he added.

Earlier this week, an inquiry on fake news conducted by the Senate committee on public information and mass media, Sen. Grace Poe wondered if this could be the time to shut down Mocha's blog since she is now a government official and no longer a private individual.

Andanar also emphasized that the senate hearing became a Mocha Hearing and not about fake news.

Mocha Uson's blog has five million followers, in which she has been showing her support to Pres. Rodrigo Duterte since the election period.

Source: Manila-Shimbun

WATCH: New Clark City, coming up

2018-01-25T12:20:00.001+08:00

Tired of the congestion challenges in Metro Manila? Then this might be the answer to your daily rants.

A video showing solution to the congestion problems in the National Capital Region went viral on social media platform, Facebook.

In the said video uploaded by Thinking Pinoy on January 24, the plan was modeled after the Putrajaya in Malaysia.

"GOOD NEWS: NEW CLARK CITY, COMING UP! #NewClarkCity is a solution to current challenges in congestion. It will provide a comfortable life for all Filipinos and will greatly benefit the new generation. Modeled after the Putrajaya in Malaysia, the NGAC will have disaster-resilient backup offices accessible even in times of calamities," as read in the caption of the said post.

The plan states that a 9450 hectares will be designed as a metropolis which is resilient to catastrophes and traffic. In addition, it is the new solution to avoid the deteriorating quality of life.

Government agencies will be relocated to this area to create one-stop shop with the purpose to deliver a more efficient and effective public service.

In addition to the government facilities, a world-class sports center will be placed in Clark City. This will be the home of athletes for the upcoming SEA Games 2019.

As to this writing the said video has already generated 50,000 views and 4300 reactions from netizens.

Watch the video below!

Source: Facebook | TP, Facebook | BBB Philippines

Duterte tells Congress to probe his alleged ill-gotten wealth

2018-01-25T12:05:00.001+08:00

President Rodrigo Duterte has asked the Congress to investigate the consistent allegation that he has undeclared wealth.

In his speech facing the media before his flight to India, Duterte said it is about time for the allegation to put an end.

“That is why I want to… Congress to proceed. Mag-imbestiga kayo. As a matter of fact ako yung mismo nag-i-insist para malaman ninyo ‘yung totoo,” he said.

He emphasized that there is nothing to see even they will push through the investigation.

“It’s about time that magharapan tayo. Kaya ko binibira lahat. Wala kayong makalkal sa akin,” he added.

VERA files reported that Duterte and his daughter, Davao City Mayor Sara Carpio, have undeclared wealth amounting to around Php100 million.

According to the files, Sara failed to declare between P44.25 million to P85.73 million in the investments from 2006 to 2014 in their respective Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN).

Malacañang responded to the report by daring VERA Files to show proof of the undeclared investments.

Source: Politics

Mocha Uson fires back on Karen Davila's comment: Masaya akong magsauli nito

2018-01-25T09:57:00.001+08:00

Presidential Communications Assistant Secretary Mocha Uson slammed ABS-CBN News Anchor Karen Davila with regards to her tweet pertaining on the prestigious alumni award.

Using her Facebook page with millions of followers, Mocha emphasized that it is not a big deal for her if she wish to return the award as an answer to Davila's tweet.

"If I were Mocha Uson I'd surprise them all by returning the award. Salamat UST Alumni sa pagkilala, ayoko pong mag-away kayo, higit pa sa papel na ito ang pagkatao ko. #Justathrough," as read in Karen's tweet published on January 22, 2018.

“Ms. Karen Davilla para sa kaalaman mo lang. Wala pong issue sa akin na isoli ang award na yan kaya lang po ayaw ko naman lumabas na ingrata o mayabang ako. Ako na nga ang binagyan ng award ako pa ang magsosoli. Ngunit kung gusto po nila ito bawiin ako po ay masayang isosoli ito," said Uson.

The social media blogger described the awards a simple recognition that she is an alumna of UST and a public official.

Using a medical technology graduate of UST, was among the public servants who received the Thomasian Alumni Award for Government Service over the weekend.

The award created clamor to the extent that the Alumni President resigned from his post due to harsh opinion. Some groups, including the UST Student Council, however denounced Mocha’s inclusion in the alumni roster, saying she does not deserve the recognition due to her alleged involvement in peddling fake news.

Reacting to haters, Mocha said they should just focus on important issues such as the controversial dengue vaccine where lives of many children are in peril.

“BTW Ms.Karen mas madami pa sigurong mas mahahalagang issue ang dapat pag-usapan sa programa mo na mas makakatulong sa ating mga kababayan kesa sa issue na ito. #justathought,” she said.

As to this writing, Mocha's post has reached 32000 reactions from netizens.

Below is Uson's full Facebook post:

Source: Politics, Facebook | Mocha Uson

Kiko Pangilinan to ex-LP members: Bawal ang balimbing

2018-01-22T12:10:00.000+08:00

Senator Francis 'Kiko' Pangilinan is firm on rejecting former Libreal Party (LP) members who made shift to enter other political parties when President Rodrigo Duterte came to power.

In his speech during the LP's 72nd anniversary, Pangilinan was optimistic that the party will regain its former glory in the future.

“I am asked if those who left would be allowed back later. If it were up to me, I won’t allow those who left to come back,” he said.

The party's rank shrunk down after former President Benigno Aquino III ended his term as some of the politicians wanted to be associated with the Duterte administration in order to survive.

Pangilinan however said that LP will continue tow ork despite having less members compared during the PNoy administration.

“We in the Liberal Party, we have been through hell and back. And we in the Liberal Party, to borrow and paraphrase the words of the poet Dylan Thomas: ‘We will not go quietly into this dark night,'” he said.

Source: Politics

READ WHY: Spox Roque slams Robredo's remarks on Duterte admin

2018-01-22T12:00:00.000+08:00

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque commented on Vice President Leni Robredo's remarks during the Liberal Party Anniversay saying it was out of touch, January 22.

Using his official Facebook Page, Roque emphasized that Robredo's statement was out of touch with the existing realities on ground.

"The Philippines under the administration of President Duterte is the third happiest country in the world (Gallup International) and the fifth highest country in terms of economic optimism index (Gallup International). Ninety-six percent of Filipinos entered the new year with hope – the highest recorded since 2002 (Social Weather Stations). Fewer Filipino families considered themselves poor or mahirap (Social Weather Stations)," the spokesperson elaborated when Robredo said that she can see darkness in the country.

Harry also highlighted the Filipinos' high level of hope and optimism have been complemented by high satisfaction, approval, trust ratings. He enumerated the evidences of his argument towards Robredo.

The data he used was the results of all the SWS Survey in which they tackled about President Rodrigo Duterte's performance, satisfaction, and trust rating.

"Net satisfaction rating of the Duterte cabinet remains the highest since 1990 at + 32, according, according to the last quarter 2017 SWS survey," Roque elaborated.

He concluded that Filipinos can feel the genuine and meaningful change in the present administration.

"Genuine and meaningful change has been felt by our people. The darkness that Vice President Robredo may be referring to perhaps pertains to the future of those discredited politicians who wish to return to power," he said.

As to this writing, Roque's statement has already generated 2600 reactions from netizens.

Below is Roque's full Facebook post:

Source: Facebook

Ex-Pres PNoy says LP will rise again soon

2018-01-21T13:40:00.000+08:00

Former President Benigno Aquino III stressed the Liberal Party will rise again during its 72nd founding anniversary.

PNoy on his speech was confident to say that LP will stand again because of the supporters who attended the celebration.

"Maski na matagal-tagal na tayong binubugbog, mukhang malapit na tayong bumangon ar pabugbog muna. Mas maliwanag yung bukas dahil nandito kayong lahat," he said.

Vice President Leni Robredo was also reported to be in the gathering.

"Maraming nagsasabi na saan ba tayo patungo? Marami yung nagsasabi binabali tayo ng kadiliman pero sana po huwag tayong mawala ng pagasa," the VP stressed.

Ifugao representative Teddy Baguilat Jr. in a separate statement said that 500 LP members took their oaths in simultaneous ceremonies in Manila, Cebu, and Naga.

Baguilat who led the oath taking in Naga described the new members as card-bearing, committed, and non-political.

In Cebu City, it was Sen. Francis Pangilinan who led the ceremony.

"Habang ang ilang kasamahan o kababayan natin, mga pulitiko at iba pang mga grupo ay paalis at lumilisan at iniiwan ang partido liberal, hindu totoong tayo ay mawawala," Pangilinan said.

Since the party was founded in 1946 by former President Manuel Roxas, it already produced three presidents of the land.

Source: GMA News

Mocha Uson hits Rappler founder: Maria Ressa na feeling entitled

2018-01-21T11:58:00.001+08:00

PCOO Assistant Secretary for Social Media Mocha Uson explained the reason why people hate Rappler more compared to ABS-CBN and Philippine Daily Inquirer using her Facebook page, January 20.

Using her page with millions of followers, Uson said that people mock the online media source because of Maria Ressa who feels entitled for everything.

"Akala niya talaga the world owes her so much. May pa take back the internet pa siya. Akala mo naman sa kanya ang social media," said the blogger.

The avid Duterte follower also added that Ressa is acting as if she's above the law for not conforming with the law of journalism.

"Ngayon hindi daw siya susunod hanggang hindi susunod ang gobyerno sa Rule of Law as if above the law siya," Mocha also said.

The blogger slammed Ressa saying that she might have been a spoiled brat when she was younger. She further advised the journalist to be ashamed of herself and act true.

"Puro its all about you. Tanungin nga kita nakakatulong ka na ba sa bayan natin? O mas magandang tanung ano ba talaga ang bayan mo," she concluded.

As to this writing, Mocha's post has already generated 14,500 mixed reactions from netizens.

Below is Mocha Uson's full Facebook post:

Source: Facebook | Mocha Uson

READ: Is this real? Rappler was Aquino's admin machine to remove ex-CJ Corona

2018-01-21T11:28:00.000+08:00

Columnist Bobi Tiglao on his social media account described online media outlet Rappler as the propaganda machine used by the Aquino administration against the former Chief Justice Renato Corona when he was in trial.

Tiglao said that Rappler was used to justify the removal of Coron from his public post when it published that he bribed senators with 100million php from the Disbursement Acceleration Program.

"Rappler's launching was rushed to provide propaganda vs. Corona during his trial which started Jan. 12 2012 and ended May. Corona's removal has been Rappler's biggest achievement," Tiglao added.

On the other hand, the columnist said the rejection of Rappler's documents is a karma.

"I don't think the case would prosper, but at least it reminded us Rappler's role in the unprecedentes removal of chief justice by the incumbent president," he concluded.

As to this writing, Bobi's post generated 1800 reactions from netizens.

Below is Bobi Tiglao's full Facebook post:

Source: Facebook | Bobi Tiglao

READ: Bong Go breaks his silence, says he will exit if there will be evidence

2018-01-19T13:59:00.000+08:00

Long time aide and Special Assistant to the President, Christopher 'Bong' Go finally broke his silence as he answers the allegations that he is connected with the naval ship transaction.

In the Facebook Page of Thinking Pinoy published January 18, 2018, a photo of the official statement of Go was uploaded with a caption "Pia Ranada Robles, ang homework mo, bilis!'.

The said statement has also been published in the official page of Go on January 17.

Go said his name has been unfairly dragged in the issue and he hasn't even see the controversial document which was reported in the online media source, Rappler.

"My name has been unfairly dragged in this issue,I am not privy to the frigate transaction of the DND. I have never seen the controversial document white paper that is alleged to have come from me, much less, handed the same to Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana," as read in the photo.

The long time aide of President Rodrigo Duterte said he will resign if it can be proven that he intervened.

At the end og his statement, Go said it should be the Aquino administration to be investigated since it was then when the deal was made.

"It should be emphasized that the frigate project was already a done deal in 2016 during the time of former Pres. Aquino."

As to this writing, TP's post has already generated by 11000 reactions from netizens.

Below is Bong Go's full statement:

Source: Facebook | Bong Go's Page

WATCH: Never forget Cory's direct attack on press freedom, says Thinking Pinoy

2018-01-18T13:09:00.001+08:00

Social media page Thinking Pinoy powered by RJ Nieto shared an insight about the best example for direct attack on press freedom after the Securities and Exchange Commission revoked Rappler's registration.

Some spectators concluded that President Rodrigo Duterte is behind the said issue saying he is oppressing the press freedom.

Using the social media page, Thinking Pinoy uploaded a video clip that shows the late President Cory Aquino is the one who directly attacked press freedom in 1987 when Philippine Star columnist Luis Beltran wrote she hid under her bed during a coup'd'etat.

"Beltran, who openly criticized Aquino for her incompetence, said his words should not have been taken literally. Nevertheless, Beltran and the Star issued groveling apologies to the President Aquino for the supposed misunderstanding. Aquino didn't accept Beltran and the Star's apology. She still pursued the case, with her even sitting on the witness stand WHILE SHE WAS STILL THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC, as shown in the accompanying video clip," as read in the caption.

The page in 1992, the court ruled in favor of Aquino and sentenced Beltran and Star Editor Max Soliven to 2 years in prison and ordered them to pay Php2 million in damages.

"The Duterte Government simply rescinded Rappler's corporate registration, which does not prevent Rappler from covering Malacanang. It is a mere administrative case that involved no jail sentences and no fines. Meanwhile, the Aquino Government -- through no less than Cory Aquino herself -- aggressively sent two journalists to jail," TP added.

The page defended Duterte that if he is a badass, he could sue Rappler reporter Pia Ranada Robles who said Christopher Bong Go influenced the naval ship deal, but he didn't.

"If there's a government that really directly attacked press freedom, it's the Government of Cory Aquino, the Government of the person that the Yellow Bleeding Hearts adore. Never Forget," TP added.

As to this writing the said post has already generated 7800 mixed reactions from netizens.

Watch the video below!

Source: Facebook | Thinking Pinoy

Robredo reacts on alleged plan to abolish OVP: Tao ang magpapasya

2018-01-17T11:37:00.000+08:00

Vice President Leni Robredo broke her silence as she stressed the alleged plan to abolish her office should come from the Filipino people, not elected officials.

In an interview on January 16, 2018, Robredo said that the people gave her the mandate when they elected her as vice president.

"Yung pagkahalal sa amin, sa akin bilang pangalawang pangulo, ang alam kong ibinigay sa akin anim na taon. Ang puwede lang bumawi nu’ng mandatong ‘yun, taumbayan din,” she said. “Kaya lahat ng proposals, amendments sa Konstitusyon, kailangang tanungin ‘yung mga tao kung sang-ayon sila dito," said Robredo.

Robredo added that whatever the decision will look alike, she will respect it since it's the voice of Filipino people.

“Kung palagay ng taumbayan hindi na kinakailangan iyong Pangalawang Pangulo, tayo naman, parati tayong magrerespeto sa kagustuhan ng taumbayan. Pero kinakailangan kahiligan ito ng tao, hindi ng ibang politiko,” said Duterte.

The vice president issued her statement when asked about the plans of the government to revise the constitution in order to for us to shift to federal government.

Amendments proposed by a subcommittee of the House committee on constitutional amendments leaves no room for a vice president.

However, the subcommittee said that Robredo will stay in her post until 2022 “to exercise her powers and prerogatives as VP under the 1987 Constitution.”

The proposal states that the new federal government will have a President and a Prime Minister, who will serve as head of state and head of government, respectively.

President Rodrigo Duterte has been championing a shift to federalism since the campaign period for the 2016 polls.

Duterte argued federalism would decentralize power and wealth away from "Imperial Manila" and empower the other regions

Source: Politics, Rappler, ABS-CBN News, Rappler

Duterte: Prove Go is involved in warship procurement and I'll fire him

2018-01-17T11:22:00.001+08:00

President Rodrigo Duterte will fire his long-time side kick, Christopher Bong Go, if the online multimedia source Rappler can give a proof he meddled in the Philippine Navy's project to purchase two new warships amounting to P15.5 billion.

Duterte gave an ultimatum to Rappler to lay the cards that would prove Go is involved in the said project within 24 hours during a media interview in Pasay City, January 16.

“Find a way na magsabi ka ng totoo nag-intervene kami. I’ll give it to you,” Duterte told Rappler reporter Pia Ranada.

“And if you can find, I will ask Bong to resign tomorrow. Work on it tonight. Let me know tomorrow and I will fire him if he did intervene, even for one word,” he added.

Earlier on Tuesday, Rappler posted an article entitled 'Bong Go intervenes in P15.5 project to acquire PH warships."

On the said report, Rappler supported their news thru using the document they obtained in which Go gave Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana a white paper allegedly endorsing a company to be installed in the warships.

The special assistant to the president, allegedly summoned a navy officer involved in the project to discuss the selection of the combat management system, the report stated.

“You think, you think you can convince Lorenzana and the guys there, you can bribe them? Or you would think na sila papayag na kami ang mag-bribe then the way I talk, the way I’ve been firing people?” said the president in disbelief about the allegation against Go pointing out he is not a 'military man'.

Source: Inquirer, Politics, GMA Network

Duterte admits he fired Licuanan

2018-01-16T14:05:00.000+08:00

President Rodrigo DUterte admitted that he ordered the dismissal of Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Chairperson Patricia Licuanan who publicized her resignation earlier on Monday.

In his speech during the inauguration of the Region 11's new crime laboratory in Davao City, Duterte said many will follow.

"I have dismissed Licuanan today, the (chairperson) of Ched... and many will follow. Do not look at me as a saint. We are all the same, but I said, not so much about vices and everything, faults and maybe personal deficiencies. But money has not really been an issue," he added.

The revelation of Rody came less than 12 hours after the ex-chair announced her resignation.

In addition, she also said Executive Secretary Medialdea asked her to resign from her post even if her term will expire in July 2018.

Licuanan was tagged in controversy in the past months. In December last year, she admitted logistical issues that were hampering on-time release of scholars’ allowances, including their lack of requirements submitted to the agency.

PBA Representative Jericho Nograles also accused her of taking on excessive foreign trips last year.

“I’m poised to terminate about 39 police officers or two to 3 generals,” said Duterte emphasizing that people should expect more government officials to be removed from office as part of his will to curb graft and corruption.

Source: Rappler, Sunstar, Politics

Roque slams Rappler's founder: Journalists should be first to follow law

2018-01-16T13:47:00.000+08:00

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque slammed Rappler and it's founder, Maria Ressa, for her claims that the closure order of the online news outlet is the idea of President Rodrigo Duterte.

In an interview with ANC anchored by Karen Davila, Roque explained the news outlet violated the constitutional ban on foreign ownership in media thru selling Philippine depository rights (PDR) to eBay found Pierre Omidyar and Ressa throught she could get away from it.

“She wanted to skirt prohibition and still enable her to raise funds from aboard. But she was wrong, you can’t question the jurisdiction of the SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission),” said Roque.

The SEC issued a 29-page decision last January 11 whereas it quoted that the company is liable for violating the constitutional and statutory Foreign Equity Restrictions in Mass Media enforceable through rules and laws within the mandate of the Commission.

The spokesperson exclaimed Ressa was out of line when she declared that Rappler was being singled out by the government.

“My point is you’re a news agency and you will exercise public trust. You criticize people when they violate the laws of Constitution, why can’t you comply with the Constitution? What makes you so special or you want a special rule for yourself because you are in the profession of journalism. Should not journalists, like lawyers, be the first to comply with the law?” said Roque.

The decision was signed by SEC Teresita Herbosa and three SEC Commissioners: Antonieta Ibe, Ephyo Luis Amatong, and Emilio Aquino. Another Commissioner, Blas James Viterbo, did not take part, in the decision-making.

Source: Inquirer, Sunstar, Politics

Another PNoy's admin appointee, resigns from post

2018-01-15T10:48:00.002+08:00

Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Chariman Patricia Licuanan resigned from her post, January 15.

Licuanan, who was appointed during the administration of ex-President PNoy Aquino, announce her resignation during the flag-raising ceremony at the CHED central office in Quezon City.

The chairman said she was asked to resign by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea.

"Over the weekend I received a call from Executive Secretary Medialdea asking me to resign as chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education. While my term by law ends in July 2018, I have decided it is time to go," said Licuanan.

"It has become obvious that there are persons determined to get me out of CHED by hurling false and baseless accusations against me in what appears to be a fishing expedition and a well-orchestrated move in media," she added.

The resignation of Licuanan came on the same day when Representative Frederick Siao of Iligan delivered his privilege speech and filed a resolution calling for a congressional probe into the alleged delay of the release of the living allowances of 9500 government scholars.

Licuanan admitted logistical issues had hampered the on-time release of the scholars' allowances, including their lack of requirements submitted to CHED. She added only around 4,000 scholars have not yet received their living allowances.

"I must strongly denounce malicious allegations of corruption and mismanagement of funds. It has been my personal commitment to stamp out corruption in CHED since day one, despite the odds and the strong resistance. The K to 12 Transition Program has been implemented with the highest level of ethical stewardship and every peso is accounted for," she said.

Source: Rappler, Inquirer, Politics