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thxnews · 5 months
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President Marcos to Sign PHP5.76-Trillion 2024 Budget
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Anticipation Builds for National Budget Approval
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is set to actively sign the PHP5.76 trillion 2024 national budget this coming Wednesday, a move that will mark a significant moment in the Philippines' financial planning. House Speaker Martin Romualdez confirmed this development to reporters in Tokyo, indicating the importance of this event in the country's fiscal management.   The Journey of the 2024 Budget Last week's ratification of the proposed 2024 budget by both the Senate and the House of Representatives was a critical step leading up to this moment. The budget, equivalent to 21.7 percent of the Philippines' gross domestic product, represents a 9.5 percent increase from the PHP5.268 trillion 2023 budget. This escalation underscores the government's commitment to addressing the nation's evolving needs.  
Understanding the 2024 National Budget
Focus on Economic Growth and Development The 2024 national budget, featuring a substantial increment, primarily aims to fuel economic growth and development across various sectors. Moreover, as the country actively navigates dynamic global economic challenges, officials anticipate that this budget will play a crucial role. Not only will it bolster the Philippines' resilience, but also significantly contribute to its progress. Additionally, this proactive approach underscores the government's commitment to adapting and thriving in an ever-changing global economic landscape.   A Comprehensive Financial Blueprint This budget is not just about numbers; it's a comprehensive financial blueprint that will guide the Philippines through 2024, touching upon every aspect of national development, from infrastructure to social services. It aims to address the immediate needs of the Filipino people while laying the groundwork for long-term sustainability and growth.  
PH Fiscal Stewardship
With President Marcos' anticipated signing of the 2024 national budget, the Philippines is poised to embark on a new chapter of fiscal stewardship. Consequently, this budget mirrors the administration's vision for the nation's future, thereby promising to become a cornerstone in the pursuit of economic stability and prosperity. Furthermore, its implementation will signify a pivotal step forward in aligning the country's financial strategies with its long-term developmental goals.   Sources: THX News & Philippine News Agency. Read the full article
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thxnews · 6 months
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Philippines Rice: Harvest Updates and Assurance
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  Securing the Nation's Rice Supply
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Department of Agriculture (DA) sought to allay public concerns by assuring the ample and affordable supply of rice in the market. This reassurance comes as the country nears the completion of the wet season harvest, marking a pivotal moment in addressing rice availability.   Strong Harvest Figures and Affordable Prices According to Arnel de Mesa, Assistant Secretary and Spokesperson for the Department of Agriculture, approximately 90 percent of palay nationwide has been harvested, acquired at a competitive PHP22.00 per kilogram. The current market rate for the harvested volume ranges from PHP23 to PHP25 per kilo at the farmgate. However, he acknowledged a potential price adjustment due to the limited harvestable areas remaining from the current wet season.  
Market Prices and Yield Expectations
De Mesa highlighted the prevailing market prices, indicating an average retail price of PHP42.80 per kilo for regular well-milled rice and PHP45 per kilo for the well-milled variant. Anticipating a total yield of 3.063 million metric tons (MMT) for November and December, he expressed optimism about the harvest season, affirming that Filipino rice farmers are experiencing a favorable year based on data from the Philippine Rice Information System.   “Be RICEponsible” Campaign and National Rice Awareness Month Earlier this month, the Department of Agriculture launched the “Be RICEponsible” campaign, coinciding with National Rice Awareness Month. This long-term initiative, scheduled to run until 2028, aims to educate the public on the intricacies of rice production and emphasizes the significance of every grain.  
Effective Policies Under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
Underlining the effectiveness of programs and policies implemented during President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s leadership, the Department of Agriculture affirmed their positive impact on rice production and the enhanced competitiveness of local rice farmers. This commitment reflects a broader strategy to ensure sustainable agricultural practices and meet the nation's rice demands.   Sources: THX News & Philippine News Agency. Read the full article
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thxnews · 10 months
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Marcos Jr. Assures Overseas Filipino Workers in Malaysia of Their Rights
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  Strengthening Ties and Ensuring Welfare
In an effort to strengthen the bond between the Philippines and Malaysia, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. visited Kuala Lumpur and pledged to safeguard the rights and welfare of the nearly one million overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) residing in the country. During a gathering with the Filipino community on Tuesday, he emphasized the significance of their contributions and the need to ensure they are well-taken care of, have access to good livelihoods, and are provided with ample opportunities.   Acknowledging the Vital Role of OFWs President Marcos acknowledged the pivotal role played by overseas Filipino workers in fostering positive relations with other countries and upholding the Philippines' reputation abroad. He expressed gratitude for the commendable performance and dedication of OFWs, attributing the continuous improvement of the country's reputation to their hard work and commitment. Be it in Malaysia, the Middle East, Europe, America, or anywhere else across the globe, the President recognized the impact of their efforts on enhancing the Philippines' image internationally.   Assurances and Commitment Ensuring the welfare and interests of overseas Filipinos is a top priority for President Marcos's administration. He reassured the Filipino community in Malaysia that his government would address their concerns and protect their rights. Highlighting the substantial remittances from OFWs, he also acknowledged their significant role in contributing to the economic growth of both the host countries and the Philippines.   Focused Plans for the Future President Marcos emphasized the administration's dedication to implementing key plans to further the country's progress. This includes attracting foreign investments, controlling inflation, and enhancing agricultural productivity to ensure food security. He stressed the importance of large-scale investments and conveyed his message to potential investors worldwide, assuring them of the Philippines' stable and welcoming environment for investment.  
State Visit Agenda
During his state visit to Malaysia, President Marcos engaged in several significant activities to strengthen bilateral ties and explore new avenues of cooperation.  
Meeting with Malaysian Royalty and Leaders
President Marcos had a royal audience with King Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah, signifying the cordial relations between the two nations. He also held a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to discuss potential areas of synergy and promote people-to-people exchanges between the Philippines and Malaysia.  
Advancing Agriculture, Tourism, and Digital Economy
One of the primary objectives of President Marcos's visit was to advance cooperation in key sectors. He emphasized the potential for growth in agriculture, tourism, and digital economic collaboration between the two countries, envisioning mutual benefits from such partnerships.   Engaging with the Business Community During his visit, President Marcos also actively engaged with members of the Malaysian business community, fostering meaningful connections to promote lucrative trade and investment opportunities between Manila and Kuala Lumpur. In conclusion, President Marcos Jr.'s visit to Malaysia has reinforced the importance of strong ties between the Philippines and Malaysia. His commitment to safeguarding the rights and welfare of overseas Filipino workers and promoting bilateral cooperation in various sectors bodes well for the future of both nations. As he returns home, the hope is that his visit will serve as a stepping stone for even more fruitful relations between the two countries in the years to come.   Sources: THX News & Philippine News Agency. Read the full article
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thxnews · 10 months
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Bacolod City Police on High Alert Ahead of President Marcos Jr.'s SONA
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  Civil Disturbance Management Team Ready to Respond to Any Untoward Incident
The Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) is maintaining a state of high alert as it prepares for the second State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday. The event coincides with the commencement of a three-day nationwide strike organized by transport groups based in Metro Manila.  
BCPO Director Assures Readiness for SONA
Col. Noel Aliño, the BCPO director, assured the public on Sunday that "Team BCPO is 100 percent ready for the SONA." The civil disturbance management team is on standby and fully prepared to handle any untoward incidents that may arise during the event. Aliño emphasized that the BCPO will exercise maximum tolerance while ensuring the safety and security of Bacolodnons.   BCPO Assists Commuters Affected by Transport Strike In coordination with the city government, the BCPO will also deploy vehicles to assist commuters who may be affected by the transport strike. However, it is worth noting that the majority of public utility jeepney operators in Bacolod have announced that they will not be participating in the strike, including prominent groups like Sentrong Samahan ng Tsuper at Operators Negros and the Federation of Bacolod City Drivers Association.  
Metro Manila Transport Groups Protest PUV Modernization Program
The Metro Manila-based transport groups organizing the nationwide strike are protesting the December 31, 2023 deadline for the consolidation phase of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program. They claim that the program's implementation deprives them of routes under the new local public transport route plan.  
City Administrator Clarifies Strike Participation
City Administrator Pacifico Maghari III clarified that there is no specific group in Bacolod joining the transport strike on Monday. Many transport leaders have expressed their decision not to participate, expressing gratitude for the efforts of Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez in assisting them with the issuance of provisional authority (PA) from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board.   Assistance for Stranded Commuters Maghari added that in anticipation of potentially stranded commuters, the BCPO will provide free rides through its "Libre Sakay" service. This initiative involves deploying mobile vehicles to specific locations covered by all 10 police stations in the city, aiming to alleviate the impact of the strike on the commuting public. Almost 1,300 traditional jeepneys in Bacolod granted PA until year-end, ensuring continued transportation options for residents. Bacolod's BCPO committed to maintaining peace, and order, and supporting welfare during President Marcos Jr.'s SONA and transport strike.   Sources: THX News & Philippine News Agency. Read the full article
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thxnews · 10 months
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Marcos Jr. Inaugurates Mindanao Vital Connectivity Infrastructure Project
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  Advancing Connectivity and Economic Growth
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing the country's major infrastructure as he led the inauguration of the Improving Growth Corridors in Mindanao Road Sector Project (IGCMRSP) in Zamboanga Peninsula. During the event in Alicia, Zamboanga Sibugay, he emphasized the government's dedication to constructing roads, bridges, ports, and airports nationwide to foster unity among Filipinos. The IGCMRSP, a vital part of the administration's Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 and the 8-Point Socioeconomic Agenda aims to strengthen physical connectivity, boost economic growth, and foster peace and order initiatives in Mindanao.   Expanding the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area Network The ASEAN Growth Area Network initially focused on enhancing road connections in Zamboanga Peninsula and Tawi-Tawi, has now expanded to include additional road and bridge developments. President Marcos highlighted its significant benefits, which go beyond improving the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) road network. The project is expected to catalyze economic development in the region and amplify the effects of peace and order initiatives in Mindanao. President Marcos expressed gratitude to the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for its support, fostering hopes for continued collaboration in future projects to drive the nation's progress.   IGCMRSP: Transforming Connectivity in Mindanao Project Distance (km) Number of Bridges Core Projects Alicia-Malangas Road 24.03 8 Tampilisan-Sandayong Road 15.3 3 Lutiman-Guicam-Olutanga Road 29.7 0 Non-Core Projects R.T. Lim-Siocon Road 24.5 8 Guicam Bridge 1.2 0 Curuan-Sibuco Road 33.05 2 Siay-Gapol Road 17.9 2 Gutalac-Baliguian Road 7.3 7 Tawi-Tawi Bridges Nalil-Sikkiat Bridge 0.54 0 Tongsinah-Paniongan Bridge 0.57 0 Malassa-Lupa Pula Bridge 0.68 0 Note: The data includes the distance in kilometers (km) for each road project and the number of bridges associated with each project. The "Core Projects" refer to the primary projects within the IGCMRSP, while the "Non-Core Projects" and "Tawi-Tawi Bridges" are additional developments under the same initiative.  
Fostering Economic Growth and Peace in Mindanao
Once completed, the IGCMRSP will significantly enhance the capacity of the BIMP-EAGA road network, playing a crucial role in supporting economic growth in the region. By improving road connectivity, the project is also expected to have a positive impact on the peace and order situation in Mindanao. With a focus on creating stronger connections and fostering progress, the IGCMRSP reflects President Marcos Jr.'s vision of a more interconnected and prosperous Philippines.   Sources: THX News & PCO. Read the full article
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thxnews · 1 year
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Marcos Calls for Regular Upgrades of the Uniform Government Systems
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  President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to conduct a regular upgrade of the e-Gov system to ensure its effective implementation at the local level, Malacañang said Wednesday. Marcos issued the directive to Information and Communications Technology Secretary Ivan John Uy during a sectoral meeting at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Tuesday to discuss the Department of Information and Communications Technology’s pending projects and cybersecurity concerns, Communication Secretary Cheloy Garafil said in a statement. The President told Uy to help the local government units (LGUs) adapt to the rollout of the e-Gov system, a single operating system for all government transactions to ensure faster, more streamlined, and more convenient delivery of public services nationwide.   “So again, it all boils down to that. That’s really the essence of digitalization. Let’s be sure that we are able to upgrade this system. Set it up to get them (LGUs) ready, so they know how to operate it,” he said, as quoted by the Presidential Communications Office.   "Let's capacitate our LGUs so they can adapt to the system," Marcos told Communications Technology Secretary Ivan John Uy.   In December 2022, the Department of Information and Communications Technology launched the eGov Super App, a platform that seeks the development, implementation, and integration of e-Local Government Units (eLGU), e-Government Application (eGovApp), eGovpay, e-Travel, and e-Cloud. During the sectoral meeting, Uy said the eGov system would enable local government to save a lot of money and boost income generation.   “So medyo gagaan ‘yung ano natin downloading. Makakatipid ho sila (Downloading would be easier. They would be able to save a lot of money). And their income generation capacity will increase tremendously because there will be efficiencies in the collection,” he said.   Communication Secretary Cheloy Garafil said the eGov Super App is set to be launched early next month. She noted that the priority projects include centralizing government cloud services through e-Cloud; getting citizens’ feedback and complaints through e-Report; and integrating all government services into one platform through eGov app.  
Other Initiatives
Uy also enumerated the Department of Information and Communications Technology’s other priority initiatives during the sectoral meeting with Marcos, according to a Facebook post by state-run Radio Television Malacañang. He presented the National Information and Communications Technology Development Agenda 2023-2028 consisting of the National Broadband Plan, Digital Transformation of the National Government, and Enhancing Information and Communications Technology Competency of Filipinos through Upskilling and Reskilling. He also discussed the state of Philippine Cybersecurity, the proposed National Cybersecurity Response Organization, and the Department of Information and Communications Technology’s ongoing unified countermeasures. In 2022, the Philippines ranked 71st out of 131 economies in the global Network Readiness Index, a significant jump from its 85th ranking in 2021 because of its good performance on e-commerce legislation, high-tech exports, and Information and Communications Technology services exports.   Sources: THX News, Presidential Communications Office & Philippine News Agency. Read the full article
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thxnews · 1 year
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Marcos New Steps to Prevent Natural Disasters and Aid Recovery
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  President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has issued an executive order constituting the disaster response and crisis management task force to ensure clear command unity in government efforts in confronting challenges brought about by natural disasters through evidence- and science-based approach in crisis management. Through Executive Order No. 24 issued last April 30, President Marcos created the Disaster Response and Crisis Management Task Force composed of the: Office of the Executive Secretary, Department of National Defense (DND), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Office of Civil Defense (OCD). Under the EO, which takes effect immediately, the President will designate the task force’s chairperson and vice chairperson from among its members, with the member agencies also designating senior officials to act as their representatives to the task force. Among the task force’s functions include overseeing and coordinating preparation, monitoring and evaluation of disaster risk management plans and programs on disaster preparedness and response, as well as providing leadership in developing approaches to disaster prevention, mitigation and response. It is also tasked to collaborate with relevant government agencies and local governments, ensure an integrated approach in disaster preparedness and response, and deliver accessible assistance programs to affected communities. The task force is mandated to establish a calibrated national disaster mobilization system, exercise oversight powers over government agencies with relevant mandates on disaster preparedness and response, and engage the assistance of consultants, experts and professional advisors. Other functions include managing and overseeing the implementation of national, local and community-based disaster resilience programs, convening the members of the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council for declaring and lifting a state of calamity, and approving disbursements from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund. In support of regional and local disaster risk reduction management councils, the task force will organize Quick Response Groups which can be deployed during or in anticipation of the imminent impact of a disaster. Through the whole-of-government approach, the President’s EO mandates all government agencies, including government-owned or controlled corporations and government financial institutions, as well as state universities and colleges, to provide the necessary support and assistance to the task force. The implementation of the order will be funded by existing appropriations of the member-agencies of the task force, as may applicable, the contingent fund, and other funding sources identified by the Department of Budget and Management.   Sources: THX News & PCO. Read the full article
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thxnews · 1 year
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Marcos Promises to Promote 'Free Media Environment'
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  As it marks the 30th World Press Freedom Day, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) on Thursday reaffirmed the government's commitment to promoting a free media environment where journalists can work safely without fear of reprisals. In a statement, the PCO acknowledged that journalists and media organizations face threats, intimidation, harassment, violence and other challenges in fulfilling their essential role to provide the public with relevant information. The Presidential Communications Office said: "On this World Press Freedom Day, the Presidential Communications Office recognizes the vital role of a free and independent press in fostering democracy, promoting transparency, and upholding the principles of human rights." "We honor the brave journalists who risk their lives every day to bring us the news and the stories that shape our world."   The Presidential Communications Office condemned all attacks on press freedom and called for the protection of journalists and media workers worldwide. They then said: "We believe that a vibrant and independent press is crucial for a healthy democracy, and we will continue to work towards ensuring the freedom of the press is protected and respected in our country,"   Last week at the 50th anniversary of the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP), President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. vowed to continue working “hand-in-hand” with the media to strengthen press freedom, assuring media practitioners of the state’s continued commitment to protecting them and their rights in the practice of their profession. He also committed to “work hard” to “climb our way up” in the global press freedom rankings. In his speech, the President cited the media’s “instrumental role” in informing the citizenry, shaping public opinion, and “even triggering social mobilization and change.” The chief executive then urged the press to “lead and foster public discussion, truth and credibility, the rule of law, especially in the practice of broadcasting, news reporting and information-dissemination.”   Marcos also credited KBP for fully establishing itself as an “institution of national significance” and for being an “efficient instrument of public service in Philippine society.”   Sources: THX News & Philippine News Agency. Read the full article
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goldiers1 · 1 year
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Mindanao Peace Process: Opapuru's Keys to Success
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  The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) on Monday attributed the success of the Mindanao peace process to the support provided by local and international stakeholders.   "The success of the Mindanao peace process has a vibrant support from the stakeholders as well as the international community," it said in a statement.   OPAPRU bared this after Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian compared the situation of China with Taiwan to those in Mindanao. "We took note about the statement of Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian comparing the internal tension in China with Taiwan to the Mindanao peace process," the body said.   OPAPRU said the Bangsamoro peace process ever since has been facilitated by a third-party country to ensure fairness and maintain the integrity of the peace negotiations. "Now in its implementation phase, the role of the international community in the southern peace process is very crucial to help deliver the peace dividends," it added.   OPAPRU also noted that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., during the UN General Assembly, has earlier showcased the positive experience in the Bangsamoro peace process to which other countries with internal conflicts can replicate. "We encourage countries with similar situations such as ours to follow the same path in resolving conflicts peacefully and not resort to unnecessary threat of force, intimidation, and/or violence," it added.   OPAPRU also believes that the success of the Bangsamoro peace process can be replicated no matter how difficult it is. "We believe that to address the Taiwan Strait Crisis, we need genuine and inclusive dialogue, respect, and good faith by all parties," it noted.   Sources: THX News & Philippine News Agency. Read the full article
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goldiers1 · 1 year
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President Marcos Encourages Electoral Reforms
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  President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has urged the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to immediately act on the several electoral reforms proposed during the preparatory consultations with various stakeholders. During his speech at the first-ever 2023 National Election Summit at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza in Pasay City, he said, “It is encouraging to know that prior to this summit, the preparatory consultations with various stakeholders in the public and private sectors were conducted nationwide. From these pre-summit meetings, it has come to the attention that several reforms in the election process must be made.”   “And given these findings, let us take these matters seriously as the outputs obtained from these activities are indisputably significant. We must act on it decisively and enforce concrete measures to turn our plans into reality.”   The chief executive also urged the Comelec to “open yourselves to the recommendations of our experts and Filipino voters, who are partners in ensuring free, orderly, honest, and credible elections.” “As a democratic and republican government, we derive our power from the people, we recognize that sovereignty is exercised by its citizens through suffrage. On this note, I underscore the COMELEC’s critical role as the guardians of our people’s sovereign will in ensuring the integrity of the electoral process,”   President Marcos said, noting the poll body must ensure “accurate and unalterable” results to maintain the sanctity of the elections and people’s trust. With the advent and the use of modern technologies, the President said the government can implement positive reforms and make election result transmission faster and maintain its accuracy. The President said the Comelec should continuously discuss how to improve the election processes, including the calibration of the capacity of teachers as electoral board members and integration of voter education in the curricula of the K to 12, tertiary level, and the National Service Training Program.   President Marcos also said, “So as we engage with discussions amongst our students and the Filipino youth, we likewise promote and encourage them to form and cast an informed vote, as well as discerningly choose the leaders of our society,”   “It is therefore timely that we hold this summit to enhance the preparations for the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections in October this year and all our other future electoral exercises.”   Sources: THX News & Republic of the Philippines. Read the full article
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