democracy – Page 2 – Author Carlo Carrasco

2025 election candidates reminded by BIR of tax obligations

May 20, 2025May 16, 2025carlocarrasco

With the 2025 National and Local Elections over, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) reminded all candidates that they are subject to tax regulations and must prepare themselves to meet with the requirements, according to a news article by the Philippine News Agency (PNA). Failure to do so could mean tax evasion charges.

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

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) is reminding all candidates and political parties who ran in the 2025 elections that they are subject to tax regulations and must comply with key requirements as part of their duties as candidates for public office.

In a television interview, BIR Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. emphasized that all candidates and political organizations, including party-list groups must issue BIR-registered invoices for contributions they receive, whether in cash or in kind.

“At pag nagbabayad sila sa kanilang mga suppliers ay kinakailangan nilang mag-withhold ng 5 percent dun sa kanilang suppliers (They also need to withhold 5 percent when they pay to their suppliers),” he said, as quoted in a news release on Thursday.

He added that candidates must keep track of their expenses and submit detailed reports, or Statement of Contribution and Expenditure (SOCE), not just to the Commission on Elections but also to the BIR.

“Para makita natin na lahat kung compliant ang kanilang obligasyon dito (This is for us to determine if everybody is compliant with their obligations),” he said.

Lumagui further reminded that while candidates and parties are allowed to keep excess campaign contributions, they need to pay taxes on these.

“Pagka sobra naman ang natanggap nila na mga contributions sa mga ginastos nila, kinakailangan nilang bayaran ang income tax patungkol dito sa sobrang natanggap nila (If the contributions they received are more than what they spent, they need to pay income tax on the excess funds).”

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think all the candidates will be able to comply with both the COMELEC and the BIR? Do you know any local candidate who received funds from your local community during the election campaign season?

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

Over 3 million cyber-attacks counted by COMELEC

May 19, 2025May 16, 2025carlocarrasco

In relation to the recently concluded National and Local Elections, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) confirmed that there were more than three million cyber-attacks on their official website and precinct finder apps, according to a news report by The Manila Times.

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

THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) website and precinct finder apps have been the subject of more than 3 million cyberattacks aimed at taking over the systems and to inject malicious information.

Comelec spokesman John Rex Laudiangco said on Wednesday that the attacks were recorded from May 11 to May 14, covering the eve of the elections to the canvassing of votes.

Laudiangco said the Comelec precinct finder registered 76.81 million visits, with about 46.17 million legitimate searches. At least 1.45 million, however, were identified as hacking attacks.

“We’re considering it as DDoS (distributed denial-of-service) attacks,” Laudiangco said.

A DDoS attack is a malicious attempt to disrupt the normal traffic of a targeted server, service or network by overwhelming the target or its surrounding infrastructure with a flood of internet traffic.

On the other hand, Laudiangco said, the Comelec website registered 113.41 million visits with mitigated confirmed attacks of 1.75 million.

Laudiangco said none of the said attempts were successful because of the security measures and constant monitoring being done by the Comelec Cybersecurity Division and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the integrity of the 2025 National and Local Elections was compromised in relation to the revealed cyber-attacks? Who do you think could be responsible behind the many millions of cyber-attacks on the COMELEC website and precinct finder apps?

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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Muntinlupa Mayor Biazon re-elected, teammates dominate 2025 local contests

May 14, 2025May 13, 2025carlocarrasco

With the results of the 2025 Local Elections counted, Muntinlupa City Mayor Ruffy Biazon easily got re-elected and his teammates under the One Muntinlupa banner collectively won most of the other positions, according to a Manila Bulletin news report. The winners have been proclaimed locally by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC).

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

Reelectionist Mayor Ruffy Biazon and his party mates under One Muntinlupa achieved a landslide victory in the May 12 local elections.

One Muntinlupa candidates won all but one of the positions, achieving the seats for mayor, congressman and councilor in the two districts of the city.

At past 2 a.m. on May 13, the City Board of Canvassers (CBOC) proclaimed the winners in the elections in Muntinlupa after canvassing all the election returns from 360 clustered precincts.

Biazon, who ran unopposed for his second term, was proclaimed by the CBOC with total votes of 209,498.

Reelectionist Muntinlupa Rep. Jaime Fresnedi, who also ran under One Muntinlupa, won his second term with 177,504 votes, defeating rival Silverio Garing who got 56,710 votes.

*Muntinlupa City Mayor Biazon (middle) and Congressman Jaime Fresnedi (2nd from right) proclaimed winners by the COMELEC. (photo source – City Government of Muntinlupa)*

In the vice mayoral race, independent candidate and former councilor Stephanie Teves-Wong won with 127,709 votes. One Muntinlupa’s Allen Ampaya placed second with 88,435 votes while incumbent Vice Mayor Artemio Simundac placed third with 25,003 votes.

For councilor, One Muntinlupa won all the seats in Muntinlupa’s two districts.

In District 1, proclaimed winners are One Muntinlupa’s Alexon Diaz, Raul Corro, Rachel Arciaga, Paty Katy Boncayao, Jedi Presnedi, Walter Arcilla, Ting Niefes and Amanda Camilon.

In District 2, the winners are Reggie Landrito, June Metong Sevilla, Kaye Anne Rongavilla, Ryan Bagatsing, Arlene Hilapo, Sha Sha Baes, Dado Moldez and Cornelio Martinez.

*District 1 City Council winners proclaimed. (photo source – City Government of Muntinlupa)*

*District 2 City Council winners proclaimed. (photo source – City Government of Muntinlupa)*

According to the Commission on Elections (Comelec) Muntinlupa, of the 314,934 registered voters in the city, 250,672 voted on May 12 or a turnout of 79.6 percent.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? If you are a resident of Muntinlupa City, are you satisfied with the way the local elections and vote canvassing were organized? What do you look forward to from the City Government during the 2^nd term of Mayor Biazon?

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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For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagement, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

Uninterrupted power supply on Election Day promised

May 9, 2025May 6, 2025carlocarrasco

With the 2025 National and Local Elections all set for May 12, the Energy Task Force on Election (ETFE) gave its assurance to the public that uninterrupted power will be done, according to a news article by the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

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

The Energy Task Force on Election (ETFE), led by the Department of Energy (DOE), has assured the public of uninterrupted power supply nationwide during the May 12 midterm polls.

In a virtual briefing Monday, DOE Undersecretary Felix William Fuentebella said the energy sector is “fully prepared” to provide stable electricity and fuel throughout the voting, transmission, and canvassing periods.

“We assure the public that the energy sector is fully prepared to ensure an unimpeded power supply before, during, and after the elections,” Fuentebella said.

“Contingency plans are in place, and we are in constant coordination with security agencies to help ensure a smooth and secure election process,” he added.

The ETFE, a multi-agency body led by the DOE, works closely with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and security forces, including the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine National Police, and Bureau of Fire Protection to ensure a smooth and credible elections.

Since January, the task force has held regular coordination meetings and inspections to assess readiness and implement contingency plans, while field personnel have conducted maintenance on transmission lines, polling stations, and backup systems, especially in remote and off-grid areas.

The DOE official said the energy sector has mapped out priority areas and is monitoring potential vulnerabilities, particularly in Visayas and Mindanao.

“We have taken all necessary steps to support the smooth and credible conduct of the 2025 elections. The Department of Energy, through the ETFE, stands ready to respond and coordinate with our partners to maintain uninterrupted energy access across the country,” Fuentebella added.

He said the task force will closely monitor potential worst-case scenarios, including the simultaneous occurrence of natural disasters such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and low-pressure weather systems that could trigger power disruptions.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think stable and sufficient electricity will be provided during and after the elections? Do you think power outages could still happen during the canvassing period?

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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Malacañang declares May 12 (Election Day) a holiday

May 7, 2025May 6, 2025carlocarrasco

To allow voters nationwide to be participate in the 2025 National and Local Elections, Malacañang declared May 12 a holiday, according to a news article by the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

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

Malacañang declared Monday, May 12, as a special non-working holiday throughout the country for the 2025 national and local elections.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, on the authority of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., signed Proclamation 878 on Tuesday declaring a nationwide holiday to “enable the people to properly exercise their right to vote.”

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) recently urged Marcos to declare May 12 as a holiday to allow registered voters to cast their ballots.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Is there a great majority of your local community members who will actually go out and vote on May 12?

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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DICT tackling election troll armies and fake news online

May 3, 2025April 27, 2025carlocarrasco

In relation with the 2025 National and Local Elections scheduled for May 12, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) recently launched a campaign versus troll armies and fake news online with protecting election integrity in mind, 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…

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has started a crackdown against fake news and organized ‘troll armies’ on social media to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.

In a news release on Wednesday, DICT Secretary Henry Aguda announced the agency’s collaboration with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on several key initiatives to enhance the technological infrastructure of the elections.

“These initiatives include the establishment of Configuration Hubs, where DICT personnel will assist in managing the hubs during the election process, as well as the development of online services such as the Precinct Results Finder, Registration Status Verifier, and Election Results Website, all aimed at ensuring transparency and providing real-time access to election data,” Aguda said.

The DICT’s Cybersecurity Bureau is also rolling out critical initiatives such as vulnerability assessment and penetration testing (VAPT) to identify and mitigate security risks, and ensure the security for digital infrastructures throughout the election process.

“A key technological advancement in securing the election is the deployment of (Philippine National) Public Key Infrastructure (PNPKI) digital certificates, which will be used by teachers serving as electoral board members. These certificates will ensure the integrity, confidentiality, and authentication of election data,” he said.

Aguda also recognized the growing the influence of social media platforms in the elections and welcomed the stance of technology giants — Tiktok, Google, and Meta — who pledged to ban paid political ads on their platforms.

“We must be proactive, not reactive. The threats are evolving. From fake news to deepfakes and organized troll armies –our election system must be ready to face them head-on,” he said.

Google, in particular, has implemented the ban on election advertisements since the start of the official campaign period.

“[It is] a move that supports the shared goal of a clean, fair, and credible election,” he said.

On Tuesday, Aguda convened the Comelec Advisory Council (CAC) in Taguig City as part of its mission to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process ahead of the 2025 polls.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the DICT will succeed in its campaign versus fake news and online trolls?

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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Mayoral candidate Carlo Aguilar proposes local pension fund for senior citizens of Las Piñas City

April 30, 2025April 24, 2025carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Las Piñas, mayoral candidate Carlo Aguilar highlighted his proposal of creating a local pension fund to support the senior citizens of the city, according to a Manila Bulletin news report. For the newcomers reading this, Carlo Aguilar previously served as a City Councilor and is running for the city’s top opposition against incumbent Vice Mayor April Aguilar along with some other candidates.

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

Las Piñas City mayoral candidate Carlo Aguilar is proposing the creation of a local pension fund that will provide monthly financial support to the city’s senior citizens.

Aguilar said the creation of a local pension fund will help ease the everyday burden being faced by thousands of elderly residents who rely on limited government assistance.

He said currently, only around 11,000 seniors in Las Piñas receive the ₱1,000 monthly social pension from the national government.

Aguilar said the proposed local pension fund seeks to expand the assistance coverage to the city’s estimated 60,000 senior residents. It will begin with the most vulnerable sectors or those without access to a pension from the SSS or GSIS.

“No lolo or lola should be left behind. Our elderly should not have to choose between buying medicine and buying food because a thousand pesos is simply not enough in today’s economy,” Aguilar said.

Aguilar said the monthly amount will be determined through reviews and consultations with senior groups and other stakeholders. He explained that the fund will be made possible through budget realignment, partnership with the private sector, and elimination of wasteful spending.

“There needs to be a full review of the city’s existing expenditure program to identify non-essential items that can be redirected toward the pension fund. Tapping the corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs of big companies is also part of the proposed financing strategy for the fund,” Aguilar said.

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 believe that a high number of Las Piñas senior citizens don’t have access to financial support from the local and national governments? Do you think the establishment of a local pension fund for senior citizens makes a lot of sense? Are many voters in your local community planning to vote for Carlo Aguilar for Mayor on May 12?

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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COMELEC precinct finder available online

April 24, 2025April 23, 2025carlocarrasco

To help voters prepare themselves for the 2025 National and Local Elections scheduled for May 12, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has prepared the precinct finder online which people can visit now by clicking https://precinctfinder.comelec.gov.ph/voter_precinct

The precinct finder can help registered voters locate their respective precincts and the name of the venue where the precinct is located at. Voters only need to type their respective names in full, their birthdates, place of registration, and city or municipality.

Voters who will be participating in the May 12 elections are encouraged to click https://precinctfinder.comelec.gov.ph/voter_precinct

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Candidate for Mayor launches bid with promise to make Las Piñas a progressive and modern city

March 30, 2025March 29, 2025carlocarrasco

Recently in the City of Las Piñas, former City Councilor Carlo Aguilar launched his election campaign for the office of Mayor with a promise to make the city both modern and progressive, according to a Manila Bulletin news report. For the newcomers reading this, Aguilar is s the nephew of former senator and business tycoon Manny Villar and is running under the banner of the Nacionalista Party (NP). He filed his candidacy for Mayor months ago.

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

Las Piñas mayoral aspirant Carlo Aguilar officially launched his campaign on Friday, March 28, vowing to transform Las Piñas into a progressive and modern city.

Aguilar detailed his vision for a “New Las Piñas,” a stark contrast to what he described as “Last Piñas,” lamenting that the city has been left behind in terms of infrastructure, economic development, and quality of public services compared to other Metro Manila cities during his campaign rally held at San Ezekiel Moreno Parish Church along C5 Extension in barangay Pulanglupa Uno.

The campaign kickoff was attended by all local candidates under the Nacionalista Party including party chairman Cynthia Villar who is running for the city’s lone seat in Congress.

In his speech, Aguilar underscored the urgent need for a leadership shift in Las Piñas, stating that the city’s decline in competitiveness, urban planning, and basic services has made life increasingly difficult for residents.

“We were once a leading city, but today, we are lagging. Roads remain congested, economic growth is stagnant, and our services have not improved. It’s time for a new Las Piñas. We need leadership that listens, leadership that acts, and leadership that puts the people first.” Aguilar said.

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 new leadership at the City Government is needed to truly modernize the city and make it progressive? If the local elections were held today, would you be voting for Carlo Aguilar for Mayor? Do you consider Las Piñas a less competitive city compared with other Metro Manila cities?

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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GCash implements temporary measures to avoid vote-buying

March 20, 2025March 12, 2025carlocarrasco

With the 2025 National and Local elections all set to happen on May 12, the popular e-wallet service GCash recently implemented temporary measures to curb potential vote-buying, according to a GMA Network news report.

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

GCash has imposed a temporary daily transaction limit on “Express Send” and “Send via QR” to avoid vote-buying in the 2025 midterm elections.

In an advisory, GCash said the daily transaction limit will be implemented until May 12, 2025, the day of the elections. Normal transactions will resume the following day, May 13, 2025.

“Ang mga hakbang na ito ay para sa patas at ligtas na halalan. Sa pagpigil sa financial influence sa boto ng mga tao, masisigurong tunay na boses ng mamamayan ang resulta ng eleksyon,” GCash said.

“Babantayan ng GCash ang mga transactions para matiyak na hindi ito ginagamit sa ilegal na election activities,” it added.

(These steps are implemented to ensure fair and safe elections. By preventing financial influence on people’s votes, we can ensure that the election results truly reflect the people’s voice. GCash will monitor the transactions to ensure that money will not be used in illegal election activities.)

Once the daily limit is reached, GCash said its users can transact on the following day. GCash also said business users are included in the temporary restrictions.

“Any unusual transaction flow between accounts, digital banking and digital wallets, including unusual large cash withdrawals involving the amount exceeding P500,000, encashment of checks, during election period, which have no underlying legal/trade obligation, purpose or economic justification or the amount involved is not commensurate with the business or financial profile of the client, shall be considered suspicious transactions of vote buying and vote selling,” the Commission on Elections (Comelec) Resolution 11104 read.

Let me end this post by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think GCash made the right moves in relation to the upcoming national and local elections?

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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