Tag: Press Statement

Statement on divorce bill

I have been and still am not in favor of legalizing divorce in our country. Instead of pushing for an absolute divorce law, which is proscribed by the Constitution, perhaps a bill with a well-defined ground for nullifying a marriage would be a much welcomed alternative. In fact, I filed a bill during the 15th…
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Statement on the signing of the Eddie Garcia Law

The enactment into law of Republic Act No. 11996, “An Act Protecting the Welfare of Workers in the Movie and Television Industry” also known as the “Eddie Garcia Law” is a significant milestone in protecting and promoting the welfare of industry stakeholders. Finally, we have a law that ensures better safety and working conditions for…
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Statement on the release of ex-PDEA agent Jonathan Morales from Senate detention

Despite the seriousness of the issues that former PDEA agent Jonathan Morales is facing before the Senate — particularly his lying under oath before the Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs — I have decided to also give my consent to releasing him from Senate detention because of humanitarian considerations. Binigyan ko ng konsiderasyon…
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Statement on reported new China regulation allowing its coast guard to detain trespassers

We’re awaiting the pronouncement of the Department of Foreign Affairs if they have received any official document on this. Nonetheless, we have taken note of this matter. While we respect China’s right to safeguard its territorial interests, we also emphasize the importance of adhering to international norms and agreements. The Philippines remains committed to upholding our…
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Statement on the successful mission of Atin Ito Coalition

Nakakabilib at nakakaalab ng damdamin ang katapangan at hindi natitinag na determinasyon ng mga kababayan natin na ipaglaban ang soberanya ng bansa sa gitna ng mga balakid at panganib na kailangan nilang suungin. I stand in awe of the remarkable efforts of these brave men and women from the Atin Ito Coalition for their extraordinary…
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Statement on the public hearing on the alleged PDEA leaks

Sa pagpapatuloy ng pagdinig ng komiteng ito, nais ko lamang bigyan linaw ang ilang mahahalagang bagay para sa publiko. Ang pagsiwalat ng mga diumano’y dokumento mula sa Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, kung mapapatunayan na wala itong basehan o katotohanan at pawang gawa-gawa lamang ay sumasaklaw sa privacy concerns, due process, at reliability of information. Ang…
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Statement on alleged audio recording between a Chinese diplomat and a ranking military general

Claims on the alleged “new model” arrangement to ease tension in the West Philippine Sea are nothing but another apparent disinformation campaign by the Chinese government. China’s claim is nothing more than smoke and mirrors. We will not be swayed by falsehoods. Their recent assertions are nothing more than a trap, designed to divert attention from…
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On study on salary hike for government workers

When the budgetary deliberations begin, it is expected that the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) will be adequately prepared to present its comprehensive study on the feasibility of providing an additional round of salary increments for government workers in the upcoming years. Regardless of the President’s directives, our economic managers have already anticipated the…
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Statement on the President rejecting use of water cannon vs Chinese vessels

I express my solidarity with the President regarding his firm decision to abstain from employing water cannons or any other offensive weapons as a countermeasure against China’s persistent aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea. Instead, it is our responsibility to remain steadfast in safeguarding our maritime and sovereign rights through a rule-based approach. We…
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Statement on the President’s order to RTWPBs to review minimum wage rates

With no less than the President calling for a prompt review of minimum wage rates in all regions, this already ensures the possibility of a new salary increase for our workers. I strongly support taking a proactive approach towards ensuring fair compensation for our workers, especially in light of the rising cost of goods and…
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