Day: January 20, 2025

Manila: The Department of Agriculture (DA) announced on Monday that a food security emergency for rice could be declared on January 22. This follows the approval of a resolution by the National Price Coordinating Council (NPCC) last week. The decision is aimed at addressing the escalating retail prices of rice in the country. According to Philippines News Agency, DA spokesperson Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa stated in an interview that Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. is expected to take action on the declaration by Wednesday. Tiu Laurel has indicated the likelihood of declaring a food security emergency to facilitate the

San Jose de Buenavista: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Antique’s capital has initiated a series of voters’ education events and roadshows aimed at students, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and persons deprived of liberty (PDLs). These activities are designed to inform and engage these groups in the electoral process, ensuring their participation in the upcoming midterm polls. According to Philippines News Agency, San Jose de Buenavista Election Officer III Johnna Catilo highlighted that the focus of the voters’ education and roadshow on automated counting machines (ACM) is to enhance voter awareness and promote transparency. The initiative included around 100 Grade

Negros Oriental: The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Negros Oriental has implemented a 60-day price freeze on basic commodities after the province was placed under a state of calamity due to Mt. Kanlaon’s volcanic activity. According to Philippines News Agency, DTI-Negros Oriental provincial director Nimfa Virtucio confirmed that the price freeze, approved with guidance from their regional office, will apply across the province, with prices varying by congressional district based on existing costs. A list of affected commodities-including coffee, canned sardines, processed milk, powdered milk, instant noodles, detergent bars, and bottled water-will be published in a local newspaper

Bicol: The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Bicol (DSWD-5) has provided relief assistance to families and communities affected by the weather disturbances Kristine (Trami) and Pepito (Man-Yi) in 2024, and the recent shear line. According to Philippines News Agency, DSWD-5 Regional Director Norman Laurio reported that the agency delivered PHP10.5 million worth of family food packs (FFPs) and non-food relief items to the affected areas across the region over the weekend. In Catanduanes, 962 FFPs were distributed in Barangays Balatohan, Kilikilihan, JM Alberto, and Tobrehon in San Miguel town. In Capalonga, Camarines Norte, 104 families in Barangays Catabaguangan

Manila: Senators unanimously approved on Monday House Bill (HB) No. 10841, which seeks to fix the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) commandant’s term of office, and Senate Bill (SB) No. 2837, which aims to extend the corporate term of the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation (PSALM). According to Philippines News Agency, Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada explained his affirmative vote by emphasizing the importance of a long-term leadership structure in the PCG. ‘This bill is an important step forward in strengthening the Philippine Coast Guard,’ Estrada said. ‘A fixed term for the commandant will ensure continuity and stability,