Tag: Press Statement

Statement on the P50 pay hike for NCR workers

Magpakatotoo tayo. Ang kasalukuyang minimum wage ng mga manggagawa sa pribadong sektor sa iba’t ibang rehiyon na nasa P361 hanggang P645 ay hindi sapat upang bumuhay ng kahit isang maliit na pamilya sa araw-araw. Based on consultations with various stakeholders during the Senate hearings on the proposed legislated wage increase–which I conducted as the then…
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Statement on calls to open bicam deliberations on the national budget

While bicameral deliberations on the national budget have traditionally been held behind closed doors to reconcile the differing versions of the two Houses of Congress, I am not opposed to any initiative that promotes transparency and strengthens public trust in our institutions. In fact, I introduced Senate Bill No. 2251 in May 2023—a measure that…
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Statement appealing for peace and safety of Filipinos in the Middle East

Diplomacy should always prioritize tact over aggression, and dialogue must take precedence over hostility. I stand with those who strongly advocate for restraint, open communication, and the de-escalation of the armed conflict between Israel and Iran. Malayo man ang kaguluhang ito, hindi natin maiwasang mag-alala sa lumalalang sitwasyon lalo na’t hindi na mabilang ang mga…
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Statement on Filipinos affected by the conflict in Israel

I urge all our kababayans in Israel to stay connected with our Philippine Embassy personnel for safety updates, advisories, and access to any immediate assistance they may need. While Malacañang has assured that contingency plans are in place for those who wish to return home—along with additional measures to assist those injured, displaced, or rendered…
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Statement on heightened vigilance in the West Ph Sea

I call on our maritime and naval forces to enhance vigilance and increase patrols, as well as to take proactive measures in monitoring potential threats or violations by Chinese ships and militia vessels in the West Philippine Sea. The incident that occurred on Saturday, June 7, when a Chinese vessel ran aground near Pag-asa Island—just…
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Statement on the postponement of the presentation of articles of impeachment

While among the functions and responsibilities of the Senate is to act as an impeachment court, its primary mandate is to legislate – to craft, deliberate, and pass laws that promote the general welfare of the people. The passage of the priority bills should take precedence as asserted by Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero as…
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Statement on China claiming indisputable sovereignty over Spratly Islands

Sandy Cay, also known as Pag-asa Cay 2, and the nearby Pag-asa Island are part of the Kalayaan Group of Islands (KIG) and have never been within China’s territory, not even in their wildest dreams. No amount of absurd and baseless claims can justify the China Coast Guard’s aggressive actions, which have recklessly endangered the…
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Statement on the president ordering the courtesy resignation of cabinet secretaries

Cabinet members serve at the pleasure of the President. If the President deems it necessary to revamp his official family, I don’t see anything wrong with it—especially if such a move is in pursuit of assembling a leadership team that can deliver efficient, accountable, and responsive governance. As the Chief Executive and appointing authority, he…
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Statement on Pres. Marcos’ willingness to reconcile with the Dutertes

By expressing his desire to reconcile with the Dutertes, the President demonstrates his intent to rise above political bickering and focus on national healing and progress.  Gaya nga ng sinabi ng Pangulo, ngayong tapos na ang eleksyon, tapos na ang batuhan ng putik, mas mabuti na ituon naming mga halal na opisyal ang atensyon sa…
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Statement on the Vancouver Festival tragedy

I extend my heartfelt condolences to our kababayans in Vancouver, especially to the families of the victims of this tragic incident. During this time of profound sorrow, I stand with their loved ones in grief and prayer. Sa mga ganitong pagkakataon, ipamalas natin ang ating pagbabayanihan upang ipakita ang suporta, pagkakaisa at bigyan ng lakas…
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