Tag: Bongbong Marcos

Philippines To Tackle Plastic Pollution With Nuclear Technology

Philippines To Tackle Plastic Pollution With Nuclear Technology

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During his recent address at a high-profile forum in Pasay City, Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr., stated that the nation will use nuclear technology to deal with plastic pollution and it will involve foreign partners, according to a news article published by Nuclear Engineering International.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news article of Nuclear Engineering International. Some parts in boldface…

Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has said the Philippines is committed to partnering with international organisations to tackle plastic pollution using nuclear technology. He was addressing the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) International High-Level Forum on the Nuclear Technology for Controlling Plastic Pollution (NUTEC Plastics) in Pasay City.

“It affects biodiversity, public health, supply chains, and the lives of our coastal and urban communities. Addressing it requires going beyond regulation and advocacy. It requires technology that is credible, scalable, grounded in rigorous science,” he said.

“And that is why the Philippines is proud to champion the NUTEC Plastics Initiative of the IAEA. NUTEC Plastics embodies the kind of innovation that we need – solutions that merge advanced nuclear applications with environmental protection, to translate scientific progress into tangible benefits for industry and for society.”

Marcos said the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute of the Department of Science & Technology, together with the Industrial Technology Development Institute and industry partner Envirotech, had developed a new process that transforms low-value plastic wastes into durable, commercially viable materials under the Post-Radiation Reactive Extrusion of Plastic Wastes Project (PREx).

“The PREx Prototype House stands today as a tangible output of this initiative. But beyond a demonstration of breakthrough nuclear technology, it is a prototype of the future circular economy,” he added. Radiation technology enhances polymer properties, reduces material degradation, and creates new industrial uses for plastics, Marcos said.

He also referred to the marine microplastics monitoring laboratory established with the IAEA at the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute. The laboratory equips Filipino researchers with the tools to quantify microplastics pollution with scientific precision. “Data generated here informs global models, strengthens policy interventions, and helps us track the real-time impact of plastics on marine ecosystems,” he added.

He said the Philippines was committed to building networks with regulators, scientists, investors and community stakeholders, as the Republic Act 12305 (Philippine Nuclear Law) signed in September.

This establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework covering nuclear safety, security, safeguards and the peaceful applications of nuclear technology.

“Our engagement with the IAEA and our support for science-based responses to plastic pollution reflect that same conviction: that durable progress comes not from acting alone, but from strengthening the international system that makes such cooperation possible,” Marcos said.

IAEA launched the NUTEC Plastics initiative in 2021 to help countries use nuclear science to monitor and reduce plastic pollution. The programme now supports more than 100 member states, including the Philippines, in tracking microplastics in coastal areas, identifying different types of plastics, and applying reliable, cost-effective laboratory methods based on harmonised global protocols. It also trains scientists and promotes radiation technologies that turn low-value plastic waste into useful materials.

The role of nuclear science and technology in helping countries tackle the global challenge of plastic pollution is the focus of a major IAEA event that opened on Tuesday in Manila. The International High Level Forum on NUTEC Plastics will showcase concrete results achieved by this flagship initiative launched by the IAEA in 2020.

Addressing the NUTEC Plastics Forum, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said: “Looking at plastic pollution from the atomic level allows us to understand microplastic pollution and its movements through marine ecosystems, which supports well-informed policy decisions to deal with it. And by using irradiation we can reduce the amount of plastic waste by turning it into valuable products like building materials.”

Masato Kanda, President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) told the forum’s opening session that, in the Philippines, ADB is planning a $1bn programme to develop a sustainable and resilient blue economy. “Complementing this, we are harnessing digital solutions to simulate the flow of plastic pollution in the Pasig River to help rejuvenate this important waterway. We are also deepening our collaboration with the IAEA across the board: from food security to energy transition.”

NUTEC Plastics presently works with 53 countries to improve plastic recycling and develop bio-based plastics, and with 102 countries to monitor marine microplastic pollution. Every day, the equivalent of 2000 garbage trucks full of plastic are dumped into the world’s oceans, rivers and lakes. Every year, 19-23m tonnes of plastic waste leaks into waterways, disrupting habitats and livelihoods. Since plastic is not biodegradable, it breaks down into ever smaller fragments, which eventually degrade into microplastics. Microplastics can easily infiltrate into ecosystems and the food chain through water, air and soil.

Radiation can transform plastic waste into durable, high value materials and products. It can also create biodegradable bio-based plastics as an alternative to conventional petroleum-based plastics. To date, eight countries have NUTEC upcycling projects underway in cooperation with commercial partners. Argentina, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines are at the forefront in demonstrating the feasibility of using irradiation to recycle plastic waste to produce construction materials, industrial additives, railway ties and other durable products. These countries have already tested prototype processes and are moving toward pilot-scale industrial production.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? By having many foreign partners, are you convinced the Philippines will be able to end its plastic pollution crisis using nuclear technology and other related solutions?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

IAEA Director General Says Philippines Is At The Right Moment For Push To Nuclear Energy

IAEA Director General Says Philippines Is At The Right Moment For Push To Nuclear Energy

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Recently the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) visited the Philippines, met with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr., and revealed to the press that the nation is at the right moment to start the push for nuclear energy, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of Manila Bulletin. Some parts in boldface…

The Philippines is at the “right moment” to begin pushing for nuclear energy use amid its aim to achieve energy security and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels like coal, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said.

IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi made this remark during the International High Level Forum on Nuclear Technology (NUTEC) Plastics in Pasay City on Tuesday, Nov. 25.

He underscored that the Philippines is not new to nuclear power.

“Let’s go a little bit back in history. Your country was a pioneer long, long, long before any other countries in this region and in the world were looking at nuclear energy. But the reality is that I like to say that the Philippines is not a newcomer, it’s a revisiting country,” he said in a press conference.

“It’s a country that is reviewing, taking into account its technological capacities, what was being done here in the late 70s, early 80s, and considering that it is perhaps the right moment, as many other countries in the world, to avail itself of a notion of a clean energy that is providing solutions in many parts of the world. Why not here?,” he added.

The Philippines, during the time of former president Ferdinand Marcos Sr., once attempted to build a nuclear power plant in Bataan. While it was completed, it was never operated because of safety concerns, political issues, and corruption allegations.

Grossi said that what the Philippines is doing today with its nuclear energy push is “extremely important,” adding that small- or big-sized nuclear projects are significant and require initial capital investment.

He also noted that banks and international financial institutions in the past have turned their backs on nuclear power plants because of their “bad image.”

“But with passage of time and the safety record of nuclear and the ability to demonstrate by the industry that banks are a conservative, of course, in what they finance, there has been an important change which was initiated earlier this year when I signed with the president of the World Bank a similar agreement,” he shared.

“So, when the World Bank sent this, you know how it happens in the economy in general, when they sign from the leading institutions, the leading financing institutions in the world that there is no problem, basically, there is really no problem, no technical problem, no fundamental problem in financing nuclear,” he added.

The IAEA director pointed out that with China, India, and Pakistan, Asia “and in particular this region, is the most dynamic in terms of nuclear growth in the world.”

Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, and Indonesia, he cited, are also starting their own nuclear programs, as well as African countries that need grants and loans for their own nuclear push.

“People talk about the exponential growth of renewable energy, which is a very good thing, I must say. I am very positive about renewable energies,” Grossi asserted, lamenting the lack of subsidies and access to finance in the past.

“So, I believe that we are entering now a new phase. We will see how far it goes, we will see how fast it goes, but it is clearly, in my opinion, a watershed that has happened. Very important. So, it’s a very good day in that sense,” he added.

The IAEA official also met with President Marcos on Tuesday during a courtesy call at Malacañan Palace.

Grossi, who assumed office in 2019, is on his first official visit to the Philippines for the International High-Level Forum on Nuclear Technology for Controlling Plastic Pollution (NUTEC Plastics): Scaling Solutions and Partnerships for Global Impact.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Are you convinced that the Philippines is ready to move forward by using nuclear power for the nation’s energy requirements?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Investors’ Interest In Nuclear Energy In The Philippines Remains Strong

Investors’ Interest In Nuclear Energy In The Philippines Remains Strong

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The future of a nuclear-powered Philippines remains achievable as the Department of Energy (DOE) confirmed that investors are strongly interested in nuclear energy in the country, according to a BusinessWorld news report.

For the newcomers reading this, more Filipinos expressed through a survey their preference for nuclear power for electricity, PhilATOM was signed into law by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, and Meralco is preparing its bid for a nuclear power license.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of BusinessWorld. Some parts in boldface…

INVESTORS are still keen on developing nuclear energy projects in the Philippines, the Department of Energy (DoE) said, as the government prepares to start accepting applications next year.

Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin said there is significant investor interest in nuclear energy projects in the Philippines, as some companies have already presented their ideas.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Ms. Garin said companies want to go into nuclear energy as they see it as a possible solution to serve baseload capacity and to cater to the increasing demand from data centers.

“They’re very interested and are waiting for us to finalize the site selection and site evaluation,” she said in mixed Filipino and English.

The DoE plans to begin accepting applications for nuclear energy projects by 2026 as part of efforts to integrate nuclear power into the country’s energy mix by 2032.

Under the Philippine Energy Plan, the country aims to integrate nuclear energy into the power mix with at least 1,200 megawatts (MW) of capacity by 2032, increasing it to 2,400 MW by 2045 and to 4,800 MW by 2050.

“I understand, the companies are waiting for us to guide them on which are the areas that are more feasible. But some companies have already approached DoE to enter into a memorandum of agreement, non-exclusive, to explore the possible nuclear power plant development,” Ms. Garin said.

She said some energy firms have expressed interest in nuclear energy development such as power distributor Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) and power generation firm Aboitiz Power Corp.

In a separate interview, Meralco Executive Vice-President Chief Operating Officer Ronnie L. Aperocho said that the company waiting to see the ongoing development of Romania’s first small modular reactor before proceeding on its own.

“There is a requirement from PhilATOM (Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority) that the first-of-its-kind technology must run of at least about two years without any incidents before we can adopt it here in the Philippines. So, we have to go through that two-year requirement,” he said in mixed Filipino and English.

In September, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. signed Republic Act No. 12305, the Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act, which created PhilATOM.

PhilATOM is an independent quasi-judicial body tasked with overseeing all nuclear and radiation activities in the country. Under the law, PhilATOM will hold sole and exclusive jurisdiction over the regulation of nuclear energy and radiation sources in the Philippines, ensuring their peaceful, safe and secure use.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think nuclear power in the Philippines will become a reality over the next several years?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Las Piñas Congressman Points To Construction Firm Of Former City Councilor Over Multiple Public Works Contracts Worth Billions

Las Piñas Congressman Points To Construction Firm Of Former City Councilor Over Multiple Public Works Contracts Worth Billions

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Recently Las Piñas City’s congressman Mark Santos pointed to the construction firm of former city councilor and mayoral candidate Carlo Aguilar having cornered multiple public works contracts worth several billions of Pesos since 2016, according to a Malaya Business Insight news report.

For the newcomers reading this, former councilor Aguilar is the cousin of Senator Mark Villar who himself took office as secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in 2016 during the administration of then Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte. During the 2025 National and Local Elections, Aguilar ran for mayor under the banner of the Villar political family but lost to then Vice Mayor April Aguilar.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of Malaya Business Insight. Some parts in boldface…

LAS Piñas Rep. Mark Anthony Santos yesterday said a construction firm of Carlo Aguilar cornered 161 public works contracts worth billions since 2016, the same year that his cousin Sen. Mark Villar was appointed as secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) by then President Rodrigo Duterte.

“The scale, frequency, and consistency of these awarding raise serious red flags that warrant immediate scrutiny,” he said in a statement, adding there is a “deeply alarming pattern” in national infrastructure spending.

The Villar family was linked to the flood control controversy after Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla said Aguilar’s I&E Construction was awarded P18.5 billion worth of flood control and infrastructure projects during his tenure as public works secretary under the Duterte administration.

Santos said according to official documents he has obtained, I&E Construction Corp. secured multiple projects in Las Piñas starting in 2016, including the construction and rehabilitation of a flood control structure along the Alabang–Zapote Road, worth P6.9 billion.

In the same year, he said, the DPWH awarded a P64.5-million contract to I&E for the construction of a slope protection structure along Naga Creek, also in Las Piñas.

In total, Santos said, I&E bagged 13 public works contracts that year, the same year that Villar was appointed as DPWH head.

“There are so many projects, it’s one after the other, worth billions. These projects didn’t just fall from the sky. The public deserves full transparency on how and why a single family-linked contractor repeatedly secured massive government contracts,” he said in mixed Filipino and English.

He urged the Office of the Ombudsman, the Commission on Audit (COA) Congress to look into “potential conflicts of interest, preferential treatment or violations of procurement laws.”

He also called on the DPWH to release all documents related to bidding, awards, and implementation of the 161 projects to ensure full transparency.

Santos cited the testimony of former public works undersecretary Roberto Bernardo before the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee that commissions from approved DPWH projects were divided among officials: half to Aguilar and the remaining half was split between former undersecretary Maria Cabral and Bernardo, himself.

Santos said that in 2017, I&E secured six government infrastructure projects, including the P62.9-million construction of slope protection and other improvements at Talon Creek (from CAA Bridge to Talon Bridge).

Santos said the following year, I&E “captured” 12 multi-million-peso DPWH projects at a time when Mark’s mother, Cynthia, was an incumbent senator and his sister Camille was the lone representative of Las Piñas.

He said documents would show that the largest project that year was the construction of slope protection, including a box culvert and the removal of informal settlers, amounting to P120.7 million.

Santos said all 12 projects were implemented in Las Piñas “along routes leading to malls, subdivisions, and other business interests of the Villar family.”

In 2019, I&E got 14 additional government projects, including the P96.4 million for a flood control structure along the Las Piñas River and its tributaries and two major projects in Mariveles, Bataan: the P94-million road leading to tourism port facilities at the Freeport Area, and the P114.2-million network development program for the Bagac–Mariveles Road.

Santos, who noted that the Villar family has roots in Bataan, said Aguilar’s firm secured 10 government projects in 2020, including various local infrastructure improvements totaling P144.7 million, and the P96.5-million construction of port facilities in Mariveles.

The following year, he said, I&E was awarded 15 projects. Even after Villar resigned as DPWH secretary in October 2021 to run for senator, I&E “continued to secure contracts, cornering 22 projects in 2022, including the ₱144.7-million Laguna Lake Highway Extension (Phase 3), and the ₱289.301-million General Nakar–Dingalan Road, Package A in Quezon province,” Santos said.

This year, Santos said, the construction firm was awarded 17 government infrastructure projects, even as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered for a thorough investigation into the scam.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a resident of Las Piñas City, what is your reaction to this development? Do you think congressman Santos’ quest for truth behind the many projects involving I&E Construction will lead to a full investigation by the national government?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

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President Marcos Calls On HSBC To Help investors See Economic Opportunities In The Philippines

President Marcos Calls On HSBC To Help investors See Economic Opportunities In The Philippines

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As the signs are clear that economic growth of the Philippines has weakened, President Marcos called on financial giant HSBC to help foreign investors realize the economic opportunities in the country, according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) news article.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news article of the PNA. Some parts in boldface…

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has called on international bank HSBC to help more foreign investors see the huge economic opportunities the Philippines has to offer.

“Together let’s build a more progressive Philippine economy, where people can access reliable financial services, obtain meaningful opportunities, and live more dignified, comfortable lives,” he said in a speech at HSBC’s 150th year anniversary gala in Taguig City on Tuesday night.

“Let us continue creating an environment where investors, stakeholders, and most importantly, our citizens see the Philippines as a nation of promise,” he added.

He acknowledged the foreign bank’s support for government initiatives, including its participation in recent bond issuances such as the SEC-registered USD3.3 billion-equivalent dual currency global bond that aims to ensure the continuation of vital government programs.

“These programs, whether on infrastructure, education, or social protection, directly benefit our people, especially those who rely on stable public services,” he said.

He also cited HSBC’s strong collaboration with relevant economic agencies and its contribution to increasing the country’s exposure to foreign investors.

From its first branch in Binondo in 1875, Marcos said HSBC’s growing presence in the Philippines serves as a vote of confidence in the future of the Philippines.

On the part of the government, he said the administration continues to strengthen its financial systems to protect depositors.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, he added, is refining capital, liquidity, and governance standards to ensure that banks are resilient.

The country, he said, also adopts reforms such as the Basel III New Standardized Approach, the National Risk Assessment, and clearer guidelines for the disqualification of erring officers.

“Today, as HSBC adapts to a rapidly changing economy, we are confident that the bank will remain true to its commitment to making its services more inclusive, more secure, and accessible to Filipinos,” the chief executive said.

HSBC, the leading international bank in the country, serves 41 million clients across 57 markets, with over USD3 trillion in assets.

In his remarks, HSBC Interim Group Chairman Brendan Nelson said the firm has “strong” confidence in the Philippines and is ready to work with the country to sustain its growth momentum.

He said HSBC is “determined to continue growing” in the Philippines as he noted its strategic position in Southeast Asia, one of the regions, he noted, is set to benefit most from the “configured globalized world.”

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think economic growth of the Philippines will get stronger in 2026? Do you think foreign investors will take a new look at the Philippines for economic opportunities soon?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

AI Eyed For Integration Into Philippine Government Operations

AI Eyed For Integration Into Philippine Government Operations

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During the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) recently held in South Korea, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr., stated that his administration is pursuing artificial intelligence (AI) and integrate it across the agencies of the Philippine government sooner than later, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of Manila Bulletin. Some parts in boldface…

President Marcos said his administration is determined to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) across government agencies “as much as we can, as soon as we can,” warning that waiting too long would mean missing out on opportunities for innovation and efficiency.

“You’re missing a chance if you wait,” Marcos told reporters here on Saturday evening, Nov. 1.

“AI is going to come. Parang alon ‘yan, eh. Kahit anong gawin mo, mababasa ka (AI is like a wave — no matter what you do, you’ll get wet),” he added.

The President said the Philippines must quickly learn how to use AI “in the best, secure, and benevolent way” to serve the public, warning that failure to adapt could leave the country behind.

“If you do not learn how to swim, if you do not learn how to use AI properly, may iwanan ka talaga (You’ll be left behind),” he said.

According to Marcos, AI’s rapid evolution makes it necessary for governments to study and apply the technology carefully.

“What AI can do one month ago is different from what AI will be able to do one month from now. That’s why people can’t quite understand it — it learns,” he said.

He described AI as “such a powerful tool” that could transform governance, public service, and economic competitiveness.

“You must take advantage of it as quickly as possible. You have to learn how to use it as quickly as possible,” the President said.

He added that other world leaders in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) share the same sense of urgency.

“That’s one of my big takeaways from APEC. All the other leaders as well — they recognize how quickly AI will overwhelm us if we do not learn how to handle it properly,” he said.

Not a one-size-fits-all approach – Asked whether he plans to issue a directive guiding agencies on AI adoption, Marcos said it was too early to impose a blanket policy.

“It’s not yet clear what AI you use for government,” he said.

“Each department has a slightly different AI. We have to learn — we’re still studying,” he added.

The President said the government intends to consult both local and international experts to identify which applications of AI are most useful and which areas require caution.

“We have to talk to the experts — the whole world — and find out what does it do well, what doesn’t it do well,” he said.

Still, Marcos emphasized that AI adoption must be people-centered, helping Filipinos rather than replacing them.

In my opinion, using AI for governance and public service still looks uncertain. Considering how powerful or sophisticated AI has gotten today, it can be prone to abuse by the government. Worse, there is no guarantee right now how to protect human users from getting overwhelmed in the event that AI becomes self-aware and turns rogue against humanity. Just two years ago, GMA Network came up with fake sportscasters (both generated by AI) which caused some controversy here in the Philippines and only reminded people that AI has no soul and no humanity. Apart from being harmful to human workers in the business world, lots of AI applications made errors that affected users in varying ways. AI is currently not so effective in Japan in relation to finding solutions to their rice production problems. Watch and learn from the videos below.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think AI will really be helpful with regards to governance and public service? Do you think Congress should first make a new law and a series of rules covering AI? What safety measures should be taken to protect people in case rogue AI happens? Do you think the AI move is a convenient strategy of the administration to keep people’s attention away from the flood control corruption scandals and the weakening economic growth of the country?  

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Ban On POGOs Institutionalized

Ban On POGOs Institutionalized

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The ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) has officially been institutionalized recently as Republic Act Number 12312 has been signed into law by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr., according to a news article by the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

Back in July 2024, the ban on POGOs was declared and there were some economic effects that followed (click here and here). POGOs are notorious for being connected with varied forms of crime and human rights abuses. It should be noted that even though the ban was in effect, there were still POGO operations uncovered in Parañaque City (click here, here and here) which itself has been a hot spot of criminal activities involving Chinese nationals for many years now.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news article of the PNA. Some parts in boldface…

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has signed Republic Act (RA) 12312, institutionalizing the ban on Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) and declaring their operations and other related activities illegal.

RA 12312, or the Anti-POGO Act of 2025, signed by Marcos on Oct. 23, repeals RA 11590, which previously legalized offshore gaming operations.

“The State recognizes that the maintenance of peace and order, the protection of life, liberty, and property, and the promotion of the general welfare are paramount for the meaningful enjoyment of democracy. The State likewise values the dignity of every human person and guarantees full respect for human rights,” the new law stated.

“To this end, offshore gaming operations in the Philippines are hereby banned and declared unlawful,” it added.

RA 12312 prohibits the establishment, operation, or conduct of offshore gaming in the Philippines; the acceptance of any form of betting for offshore gaming operations; acting as a POGO gaming content or service provider; the creation and operation of a POGO hub; and the introduction, use, or possession of POGO gaming equipment or paraphernalia.

The law orders the permanent cancellation of all licenses previously issued for POGO operations.

All Alien Employment Permits and certificates of exemption and exclusion issued by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), as well as any visa or work permit issued by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) or other visa-issuing agencies to POGO workers, have also been revoked.

“Upon the effectivity of this Act, the DOLE, the BI, and other visa-issuing agencies shall not be allowed to issue any visa or work permit to any person for purposes related to offshore gaming operations,” the law stated.

“The BI shall ensure that any foreign national whose visa is cancelled in accordance with this provision shall be deported directly to the country of his or her birth or citizenship, in coordination with the appropriate embassy or consulate.”

Under RA 12312, all POGOs, as well as POGO gaming content providers, accredited service providers, and local gaming agents whose licenses have been revoked, remain liable for taxes, duties, regulatory fees, and all other charges up to the last day of their operations.

These are due and payable to the government for obligations arising from or in connection with their operations.

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) is directed to audit persons and entities to determine any outstanding tax liabilities, despite the revocation of licenses and closure of operations.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think there are still POGOs or even tiny POGO-like operations still operating secretly around the country right now?  

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

President Marcos Congratulates Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi

President Marcos Congratulates Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi

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Shortly after Sanae Takaichi took office as Prime Minister of Japan, Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr., recently congratulated her, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of the Manila Bulletin. Some parts in boldface…

President Marcos has extended his congratulations to Japan’s newly-elected Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae, the first woman to assume the post.

“Congratulations to Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae on her historic election as Japan’s first female Prime Minister,” Marcos said in a statement on Wednesday, Oct. 22.

“Her assumption demonstrates Japan’s firm democratic advocacy, and reflects the country’s commitment to progress and representation,” the President added.

Marcos expressed his eagerness to work with Prime Minister Takaichi in strengthening the Philippines’ and Japan’s bilateral cooperation, especially as both countries prepare to mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026.

“I look forward to working with her in commemorating the 70th Anniversary of Philippine-Japan diplomatic ties in 2026, and in deepening the Philippine-Japan Strengthened Strategic Partnership for the peace and prosperity of our peoples,” the President said.

Most recently, the Prime Minister met with President Marcos formally in Malaysia. For details, click here.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think bilateral ties between Japan and the Philippines will grow stronger now that President Marcos and Prime Minister Takaichi have officially met? Do you think Filipinos who intend to migrate to Japan have doubts about Prime Minister Takaichi knowing that she will be tough on illegal immigration?  

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

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Nomura Sees 2025 Philippine Economic Growth Slowing Down To 4.7%

Nomura Sees 2025 Philippine Economic Growth Slowing Down To 4.7%

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In its latest economic report, Nomura Global Markets Research sees the economic growth of the Philippines slowing down to 4.7% this and they pointed to an expected decline in government spending, according to a news report by BusinessWorld.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of BusinessWorld. Some parts in boldface…

PHILIPPINE ECONOMIC GROWTH may slow to 4.7% this year, as government spending is expected to further decline amid the corruption investigation in infrastructure projects, Nomura Global Markets Research said.

In a report dated Oct. 27, Nomura Chief ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Economist Euben Paracuelles and Macroeconomic Research Analyst Yiru Chen said the gross domestic product (GDP) forecast was slashed to 4.7% this year from 5.3% previously as downside risks increased due to the corruption scandal involving flood control projects.

“This pencils in GDP growth slowing to just 4% in the second half from 5.4% in the first half and is based on the assumption that the decline in government expenditures in September will worsen in the next 3-4 months,” they said.

Nomura’s latest forecast is below the government’s 5.5-6.5% GDP growth target for the year and is slower than the 5.7% growth in 2024.

“Taking into account the sharp drop in fiscal spending in September, we think the ‘bad scenario’ on the growth impact of the ongoing corruption scandal is materializing,” they said.

Third-quarter GDP data will be released on Nov. 7.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. had flagged anomalous flood control projects during his State of the Nation Address in late July. This sparked several investigations into alleged corruption involving lawmakers, government officials, and private contractors.

Latest Treasury data showed government expenditures declined by 7.53% in September, worsening from the 0.7% drop in August, mainly due to lower spending by the Department of Public Works and Highways. Nomura also noted that government spending declined by 2.8% in the third quarter, a reversal of 1.6% growth in the second quarter.

“Excluding interest payments and debt servicing, expenditure growth slumped even more to -10.2% y-o-y (year on year) in September from -3.5% in August, the weakest since 2020. This suggests a relatively rapid deterioration in the pace of budget disbursements after President Marcos brought to light the corruption scandal of flood control projects,” they said.

Nomura also noted that the reallocation of funds to other types of capital expenditures such as school buildings has been “challenging” to implement.

“In addition, we incorporate some spillovers into other components of domestic demand, which were also evident in these previous episodes, including household consumption spending. Our forecast continues to take into account the impact of the US tariffs, which, as we have argued before, pose significant headwinds for goods exports,” they said.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the GDP growth of the Philippines will end up below 5% for 2025 as a whole? Are you convinced that investigations and embarrassing details from flood control projects are turning away foreign investors already?  

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

DEPDev Secretary Says Philippines Likely To Hit Low-End Of 2025 GDP Growth Target

DEPDev Secretary Says Philippines Likely To Hit Low-End Of 2025 GDP Growth Target

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Recently the Secretary of the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) expressed confidence that the economy of the Philippines will hit the low-end target of GDP growth for 2025, according to a BusinessWorld news report.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of BusinessWorld. Some parts in boldface…

Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan said he is confident Philippine economic growth will hit the lower end of the target this year, despite a slowdown in the third quarter.

“The growth that we are expecting for 2025 is now 5.5 to 6.5% The low-end of the range is still very much achievable,” he told reporters on the sidelines of an event on Oct. 16.

Economic managers will meet next week to assess whether revisions to this year’s growth outlook are needed, he added.

Budget Secretary and Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) Chairperson Amenah F. Pangandaman on Wednesday told BusinessWorld that the gross domestic product (GDP) target for 2025 “remains attainable.”

Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto earlier said flagged a slowdown in the third quarter and possibly until early 2026 as corruption probes curb public spending.

Aside from slower public spending, Mr. Balisacan said weather disruptions may have dampened economic activity in the July-September period.

“There may be a bit of a slowdown (in third quarter) because of these supply shocks that we have seen. There are so many typhoons that we have seen during the quarter, many days of work suspension. So economic activity is really affected,” he said.

Asked whether third quarter growth could fall below the 5.5% annual GDP growth in the second quarter, Mr. Balisacan said: “Hopefully not.”

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Would you be satisfied to see the economy of the Philippines grow by 5.5% this year? Do you think there will still be a lot of challenges and problems in the 4th quarter that could somehow bring economic growth below 5.5% for the entire year?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco