As a nation facing its own security concerns amid limited resources, we welcome the substantial financial support allocated by the US Senate to bolster our defense capabilities against security threats. This move underscores the importance of standing together in times of crisis. The aid package not only strengthens our strategic partnerships but also delivers a…
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On this 82nd Araw ng Kagitingan, we pay homage to the sacrifices and bravery of our guardians of peace and freedom – our war veterans and our dedicated uniformed personnel. Ngayon, higit na makabuluhan ang araw na ito dahil nahaharap tayo sa panibagong hamon na ipagtanggol ang ating soberanya laban sa mga mapang-aping mga dayuhan.…
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Nothing is barring local government units and school heads from switching back to blended or distance learning due to the scorching weather we’ve been experiencing now since the Department of Education issued an existing department order (DO No. 44 series of 2022) in the event of suspension or cancellation of in-person classes. Naiintindihan natin ang…
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Minsan ko nang pinanindigan sa isang privilege speech na walang kasunduan o pangakong binitawan ang aking ama, ang dating President Joseph Estrada, sa pagtanggal ng BRP Sierra Madre sa Ayungin Shoal at ito’y pinatotohanan pa ng mga noo’y defense and security officials gaya ni dating Defense Sec. Orlando Mercado. It’s disappointing, to say the least,…
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Bilang mambabatas, ipinagmamalaki ko ang pagkakaroon ng mahalagang papel sa pagpasa ng mga landmark bills na ito – ang New Philippine Passport Act at ang No Permit, No Exam Prohibition Act. By mandating the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to create an online application portal and electronic one-stop shop, we make passport application easier and…
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Today, we stand united in grief and resolve. The recent ambush in Maguindanao del Sur that killed four soldiers is a stark reminder of the sacrifices of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in their unwavering commitment to protect our country from the enemies of the State. We must come together to condemn these acts…
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The increased presence of Chinese dredging vessels operating in Zambales province is a matter of serious concern. The authorities claim that the purpose is to rehabilitate the heavily silted river channels and prevent flooding, but recent news reports suggest otherwise. These vessels are extracting sand from our rivers and transporting it to the reclamation areas.…
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I respect the opinions and role of my colleagues from the House of Representatives but I believe that they are mistaken in their interpretation of the Constitution. The power to propose amendments to the Constitution was given not to a unicameral body, but to a bicameral body – which is what we have today —…
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I commiserate with the Armed Forces of the Philippines on the loss of six valiant men who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Their unwavering commitment to safeguarding our nation cost them dearly and we honor their memory with utmost respect and gratitude. In this somber moment, I extend our deepest condolences…
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It is worth noting that the Senate has heeded the President’s earlier call to be at the forefront of crafting proposed Charter changes, specifically on the economic provisions in the Constitution, preserving the bicameral nature of the legislation. This was even before the “word war” between the two Chambers escalated. By taking the lead in…
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