I am optimistic that the Philippines will continue to be a significant ally of the United States under the administration of President-elect Donald Trump. The Philippines has established a longstanding strategic alliance with the United States, which has significantly contributed to the maintenance of peace and security in the Asia-Pacific region. I hope we will…
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The issuance of Executive Order No. 74 should no longer come as a surprise considering the President’s pronounced policy of a complete ban on Philippine offshore gaming operators in his last State of the Nation Address (SONA). Patunay ito na pinaninindigan ng Pangulo ang naging desisyon niya ilang buwan na ang nakaraan dahil na rin…
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There have been precedents where former presidents were invited to shed light on pressing issues, so it will not be the first time for former Pres. Rodrigo Duterte. And in these proceedings, the Senate has demonstrated a high level of respect towards former presidents, including my father, while pursuing crucial information. To ensure justice and…
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I join our President in extending heartfelt gratitude to United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed for his benevolent decision to grant pardon to 143 of our kababayans who have committed minor offenses. This act of compassion and understanding brings immense relief to the families of those pardoned and strengthens the bonds of friendship…
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Karapatan ng kahit na sinong Filipino ang iprisinta ang sarili sa taumbayan para manilbihan bilang isang lingkod bayan. Ang pribilehiyong ito na nakasaad sa ating Konstitusyon ay para lamang sa ating mga kapwa at hindi kailanman maaaring ibigay sa mga pekeng Filipino. Bukod sa pagiging isang tunay at walang bahid na pagdududa sa pagiging Filipino,…
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The Senate took a collective stance as early as August of last year and adopted Resolution No. 79, condemning China’s repeated violations and aggressive actions. They urged the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and relevant agencies to take appropriate actions. Senators, crossing party lines, jointly urged our government to intensify its efforts to engage the international…
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Kahanga-hanga ang ipinamalas na katapangan at pagtatanggol sa karapatan ng ating kababayang mangingisda mula sa Zambales sa gitna ng panggigipit ng Chinese Coast Guard. Patunay ito na hindi natitinag ang diwa ng sambayanang Pilipino na itaguyod at protektahan ang soberanya ng ating bansa laban sa mga nanghihimasok sa ating teritoryo. Our fishermen are not only…
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Today is a historic milestone for our Filipino seafarers. The signing into law of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers or Republic Act 12021 is the culmination of my years of hard work in pushing for its passage since the 16th Congress, and I am deeply proud that it has finally come to fruition. The…
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The announcement of the new round of increases in the daily minimum wage for workers in Region IV-A (CALABARZON) and Region VII (Central Visayas) is a positive development but I cannot ignore the fact that the rate of increase is still insignificant. Sa aking palagay, hindi pa rin sapat ito para punan ang tumataas na…
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We must address the logistical requirements of the Philippine Coast Guard to fully support their mission and assist in upholding our nation’s territorial integrity. This is particularly crucial given the challenges they have encountered, as exemplified by the case of BRP Teresa Magbanua. Increasing budgetary support is essential to ensure that all deployed vessels receive…
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