• SunStar Philippines
• 3 gün, 20 saat, 34 dakika

• SunStar Philippines
• 3 gün, 20 saat, 40 dakika

• SunStar Philippines
• 3 gün, 20 saat, 49 dakika

• SunStar Philippines
• 3 gün, 20 saat, 54 dakika

Sa gitna ng kalamidad, lalong nangingibabaw ang diwa ng bayanihan. At dahil sa inyong pakikiisa at pagmamalasakit, patuloy na naihatid ng Operation Bayanihan ng GMA Kapuso Foundation ang tulong at pag-asa sa mga kababayan nating naaapektuhan ng lindol sa Dava

• GMA Network
• 3 gün, 13 saat, 39 dakika

LAPU-LAPU CITY, Cebu- A topping-off ceremony was held by the Lapu-Lapu City Government on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, marking the structural completion of the first five-story building under the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino (4PH) Socialized Housing Project in Barangay Calawisan, Lapu-Lapu City. The city is the first in Central Visayas to achieve a structural […]... Keep on reading: Lapu first city to top-off 5-story 4PH socialized housing bldg

• Inquirer
• 3 gün, 21 saat, 51 dakika

(UPDATE) THE Department of Health (DOH) revealed on Wednesday that almost half of the 600 super health centers — or 297 out of 600 — funded nationwide have not been built. Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said based on their investigation, some super health centers were completed, while some were in different phases of completion. “When we investigated, some were completed only on paper, others were stuck in Phase 1 — just foundations covered in weeds. So... after investigating, we have 297 nonoperational or nonfunctional super health centers funded since 2021.” Super health centers are facilities designed to decongest hospitals and to provide accessible health care at the community level, which started in 2021. Herbosa added that a super health center can be constructed in a span of two years. During his inspection at the Concepcion Dos Super Health Center in Marikina, he revealed that the project should have started in 2022, but it was only in 2023 that its first phase began. “According to the billboard, it started Dec.15, 2023. So it should have been completed,” he said during the inspection, implying that only Phase 1, or its foundation, has been completed. The two-story health center was initially funded at P11.5 million in 2022, but the Marikina local government unit (LGU) later modified the design to a four-story building with a birthing center, leading to additional funding and project delays. “The LGU decided to expand it, so they took funds from other Super Health Centers to cover the new design. The total funding reached P21.4 million, but what’s been built is still only the foundation,” Herbosa said. Marikina debunks DOH claim The government of Marikina debunked these claims, however, saying the city completed all works covered by the funds released by the DOH. Marikina City Mayor Marjorie Ann “Maan” Teodoro said the project’s delay was due to the DOH’s failure to provide the remaining funds needed for the succeeding construction phases. “The facts are clear. The funds released by the DOH were only for the first phase of construction. It is therefore false to claim that the entire facility could have been completed with such limited funds,” she said. She added that the city government had finished the entire first phase — covering foundation and structural works — as certified by the DOH itself. Teodoro said Marikina has decided to use its own local funds to continue the project to ensure that residents receive the quality health care services they rightfully deserve. “DOH should not mislead the people about the truth. When they release funds, it should be complete. The public suffers because of what DOH is doing,” she said. Teodoro said Marikina has always cooperated with the national health agency, even providing city-owned lands for the Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center. “Marikina stands for transparency, accountability and genuine public service — not excuses or misinformation,” the mayor stressed. City administrator Dr. Mark Castro explained that the Phase 1 scope only covered foundation works, which the city has already completed. “The city really finished it. There’s nothing being hidden here. We requested additional funds, but none were given. The funds were insufficient,” Castro said. He added that the local government has been following up with the DOH for an additional P180 million to complete the ground to fourth floors. Because of the delay, the city allotted P200 million from its 2026 Annual Implementation Plan to continue the project. “Once the P180 million is funded, there will be a new completion date. But we’ll make sure the LGU does not neglect this kind of program, especially since it’s for health. The people of Marikina will benefit from it, so we will not abandon it,” Castro said.

• The Manila Times
• 3 gün, 14 saat, 1 dakika

VICE President Sara Duterte said she used her confidential funds to investigate the involvement of former Ako Bicol Party-list representative Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co in the laptop scandal of the Department of Education (DepEd) when she still headed the department. It was the first time she revealed the use of the department’s confidential funds after being accused of fund misuse by the House Good Government Committee. In a press briefing in Zamboanga on Tuesday, Duterte said that they had been investigating the link of Co to the DepEd laptop scandal where it procured overpriced laptops for teachers that were below specification. “May I just say that there were confidential funds that went in that investigation, that Sunwest is the contractor of the DepEd laptops,” Duterte said. She mentioned this in the context of the Marcos administration not doing its own investigation and accused them of “perpetuating” themselves in power. The Manila Times reached out to Co and his office but has yet to receive a reply. Duterte also said she believed the Marcos administration is selective in its investigation to control the narrative. “If the Office of the President (OVP) is going to be involved in the investigation, it suddenly dies or is forgotten, so that means they are controlling the narrative,” Duterte said. She also said she is not in favor of making President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. resign, describing such calls as “pointless.” “I never said ‘Marcos Resign.’ What I said was to take a drug test... That is a hanging open challenge that until now he is not doing. That is a betrayal of public trust because when you are a president or a vice president, you consecrate yourself to the service of the nation,” Duterte said. She stressed that Marcos not taking a drug test constitutes a “betrayal of public trust,” and said the signing of the “doubtful” 2025 national budget was also a “culpable violation of the Constitution.” She also denied that Cavite 4th District Rep. Francisco Barzaga, who has been mounting calls for Marcos to resign, was acting on her orders, noting that the last time she talked to the young lawmaker was during the 2022 campaign, where he supported the “UniTeam” tandem. Duterte also said that she agrees with the proposal of Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo for the OVP to have its own charter, including a permanent staffing pattern and residence.

• The Manila Times
• 3 gün, 14 saat, 2 dakika

THE iconic Philippine jeepney is being featured in Frankfurt, Germany, as part of a weeklong celebration of the country’s culture. The Philippines is the Guest of Honor at the Frankfurt Book Fair 2025, which opened Wednesday. In a Facebook post, the National Book Development Board (NBDB) said the display was part of a celebration of Philippine culture. NBDB Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade said the “vehicle mirrors the vibrancy, openness and relational nature of the Philippines.” She explained that the jeepney’s exterior “reflects the Filipino spirit,” while its windowless design signifies Filipinos’ openness to others and its seating “embodies our deeply relational culture.” Tugade said that the shared payment system on jeepney rides spoke to the Filipino value of community, as passengers rely on one another in passing the fare to the jeepney driver. Filipino poets took part in the opening of the event, after the welcome speech of Juergen Boos, Frankfurt Book Fair director. The book fair will end on Oct. 19.

• The Manila Times
• 3 gün, 14 saat, 3 dakika

(UPDATE) THE contractor couple at the center of a widening bribery scandal, Pacifico and Cezarah Rowena Discaya, will no longer coope rate with the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) in its investigation of anomalous flood control projects, the panel’s executive director Brian Hosaka said Wednesday. In an interview after Wednesday’s hearing, Hosaka said the couple, better known by their nicknames Curlee and Sarah, who gained notoriety for flaunting their wealth in several interviews, invoked their right against self-incrimination. “They (the Discayas) are now saying they will no longer appear before the commission and cooperate,” Hosaka said. He said the contractor couple withdrew their cooperation after they saw a media interview of ICI Commissioner Rogelio Singson, who said no one has yet qualified to be considered a state witness. “They explained that they were thinking that when they cooperate before the ICI, they will be getting a favorable recommendation from the commission as state witness,” he said. The ICI official, however, said Singson’s remarks were his opinion, and not that of the commission. Hosaka said that the Discayas’ move would not affect the investigation, since the testimony and affidavits they presented before the body were already sufficient for the case buildup against those involved in the anomalous flood mitigation projects. The ICI official also said additional information from other resource persons could help the case. “There are many sources of information. In fact, many have already testified, and we will connect them to each other to find what really happened, and file cases against those involved,” Hosaka said. “But definitely, we will get to the bottom of this. We will continue our investigation to find out those who are truly liable.” Sarah and Curlee are among the contractors embroiled in anomalous flood control projects. The Discayas arrived at the ICI early Wednesday for the continuation of the closed-door hearings. Curlee, who is under Senate custody, was the first to arrive at the ICI office in Taguig, shortly before his wife, Sarah. It was their third appearance before the commission. During the previous congressional inquiries, the Discayas admitted to owning nine construction firms and even conceded that some of these companies had competed against each other for the same government projects, practically admitting to violating the government procurement law. Assistant Ombudsman Jose Dominic Clavano IV described the decision as “misguided.” “They are misguided. Cooperation with the government is their only option right now. It will serve the public’s interest as well,” Clavano said. Airtight cases The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said it has compiled enough evidence to build an airtight case against government employees and private contractors linked to 421 ghost flood control projects. Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon said on Wednesday that the evidence in their possession was more than enough to pin down the brains of the nonexistent projects. “We will be providing the ICI with both testimonial and documentary evidence. We are now compiling them for submission to the Independent Committee on Infrastructure,” he said. “We will not just file cases, but we will also ensure that the culprits will be put behind bars,” Dizon added. Dizon said ICI adviser, retired PNP chief Rodolfo Azurin Jr., told him that 15 to 20 cases will be filed before the Office of the Ombudsman within the next few weeks. But Dizon did not identify the people who will be charged or say if the list includes lawmakers, saying that he did not want to preempt the ICI. The 421 validated ghost projects were part of the initial 8,000 that were inspected by the DPWH together with personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Department of National Defense, and the Department of Economy, Planning and Development. Of the 421, Dizon said, 261 are located in Luzon, 109 are in the Visayas, and 51 are in Mindanao. He said the number is expected to increase as there are still thousands more that need to be validated. The DPWH reported a total of 238,200 infrastructure projects from 2016 to 2025, with about 12.5 percent or 29,800 of these being flood control projects. “We already issued show-cause orders to the DPWH officials and contractors linked to the said ghost projects,” he said, adding that administrative and criminal charges would be filed as well. Dizon said that all public works officials and contractors will be charged with malversation through falsification of public documents and violations of Republic Act (RA) 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, and RA 12009, or the New Government Procurement Act. Furthermore, Dizon said that public works officials involved, if proven guilty, will also be dismissed from the service and risk losing their professional licenses from the Professional Regulation Commission. He added that contractors found guilty of undertaking ghost and substandard projects would be permanently barred from participating in public works projects. “Once the project of a certain contractor is proven to be ghost or substandard, the contractor will be automatically blacklisted and banned for life aside from criminal charges,” Dizon said. More lookout bulletins Meanwhile, the ICI has requested the Department of Justice (DOJ) to issue a lookout bulletin against 19 people in connection with its ongoing probe into anomalous flood control and other substandard infrastructure projects. In a statement, the ICI said it sent a request to the DOJ for issuance of an immigration lookout bulletin order (ILBO) on Oct. 13 to prevent the possible flight of personalities linked to the questionable projects currently under investigation. Those named in the request were former Caloocan 2nd District representative Mary Cajayon-Uy, Arturo Atayde, Alvin Tan, Bong Marasigan, Elmer de Leon, Ed Fuentebella, Johnny Santos, John Mary Vianney Parago, Alvin Mariano, Ryan Uy, Darryl Recio, Nestor Venturina, Benjie Tocol and Romeo Magalong Jr. An ILBO was also sought against DPWH district engineers Ramon Devanadera, Johnny Protesta Jr., Aristotle Ramos and Michael Rosaria, and project engineer Angelina Garucha. The ICI earlier sought the issuance of an ILBO against several high-ranking officials and lawmakers, including former speaker Martin Romualdez and former Senate president Francis Escudero, Senators Joel Villanueva and Jinggoy Estrada, and former senators Ramon Revilla Jr. and Nancy Binay. An ILBO is an order to immigration authorities to monitor individuals who may be leaving the country. It differs from a hold departure order, which is a court-issued directive preventing an individual from leaving the country. The ICI said the individuals, who included more than a dozen lawmakers and former DPWH officials, were “subjects in a relevant position that operates to make them an inevitable personality during the fact-finding process.” On Tuesday, Romualdez, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s cousin, appeared before the ICI to testify concerning questioned insertions in the national budget and his involvement in DPWH flood control projects when he was still the speaker. Former Ako Bicol Party-list representative Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co, who was placed on the lookout bulletin on Sept. 25, was also summoned for his role as House appropriations panel chief in previous years, but he is still abroad somewhere and has not appeared before the commission.

• The Manila Times
• 3 gün, 14 saat, 4 dakika

(UPDATE) PUBLIC trust in President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte continued to decline, as Filipinos remained most concerned about rising prices and governance, according to two nationwide surveys released this week. The latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) poll, commissioned by the Stratbase Group and conducted from Sept. 24 to 30, showed both top leaders losing public confidence amid persistent economic challenges. President Marcos’ trust rating dropped to 43 percent from 48 percent in June, while Vice President Duterte saw a sharper decline from 61 percent to 53 percent — her steepest fall this year. “These results reflect a shifting public mood. Filipinos are reassessing their confidence in the country’s top leaders, with both experiencing dips in trust, though the vice president’s decline is more significant,” said Stratbase Group President Victor Andres Manhit. The survey indicated that Duterte’s trust remained high in Mindanao (82 percent) but fell across other major regions — Balance Luzon (40 percent, from 49 percent), Visayas (56 percent, from 63 percent) and Metro Manila (44 percent, from 51 percent) — signaling a narrowing of her national support base. Marcos’ ratings, meanwhile, rose slightly in the Visayas (40 percent, from 37 percent) but slipped in Metro Manila (46 percent, from 50 percent) and Mindanao (27 percent, from 33 percent). Both leaders also saw weaker trust among younger and lower-income Filipinos, with Marcos’ support among Class E dropping from 50 to 38 percent, and Duterte’s ratings declining among Class D (52 percent, from 62 percent) and Class E (63 percent, from 68 percent). Manhit said the movements in trust levels show how “governance performance directly influences public sentiment.” “When people see decisive, transparent action on the issues affecting their daily lives, confidence follows. When they don’t, it erodes — no matter how popular the leader once was,” he added. The erosion in trust comes as another nationwide poll found that economic pressures remain the top concern for Filipinos. The Pahayag 2025 Third Quarter Survey (PQ3-2025), conducted by PUBLiCUS Asia Inc. from Sept. 27 to 30, revealed that 27 percent of respondents cited inflation as their most urgent issue for President Marcos to address. It was followed by growing government debt (13 percent), underemployment (10 percent), natural disasters and climate risks (10 percent), and food supply disruptions (9 percent). Despite these challenges, the survey showed broad public backing for reform-oriented policies. Nine in 10 respondents supported initiatives such as lifestyle checks for officials, expanded PhilHealth coverage under the “No Balance Billing” policy, and increased fare discounts for students, senior citizens and persons with disabilities. The same poll reflected strong demand for transparency in infrastructure spending, with 86 percent of voters supporting the public release of contractors allegedly cornering a fifth of the P545.65-billion flood control budget, and 84 percent backing the creation of an Independent Commission for Infrastructure. PUBLiCUS also reported high approval for the administration’s recent initiatives, including the launch of the “Sumbong ng Pangulo” platform (82 percent), Marcos’ warnings to erring officials during his State of the Nation Address (82 percent) and the recent change in Senate leadership (79 percent). Manhit said the convergence of declining trust and economic anxiety underscores the growing public demand for “accountability-driven governance.” “Filipinos today are no longer swayed by rhetoric alone. They expect results — especially on the economy,” he said. The SWS survey had 1,500 respondents and a ±3 percent margin of error, while the PUBLiCUS Pahayag survey covered an equal number of registered voters nationwide through its online research panel. Marcos not bothered The Palace said Marcos is not bothered by the drop in his trust rating in the latest survey of SWS. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said Marcos continued to do his job, including fighting corruption, to improve the lives of Filipinos, especially those affected by recent calamities that struck the country. “President Marcos Jr. is clearly seen as someone who is truly working and fighting against corruption,” Castro said in a statement. “He is relentless in his efforts to improve the lives of every Filipino, even amid the calamities we are facing,” she added. Castro said that people have become more aware of who was genuinely working and caring for them — and who was focused only on personal interests. “Even though he doesn’t mind the numbers in the surveys, he is glad that our fellow citizens are now feeling that the president and the government are there for them,” she added.

• The Manila Times
• 3 gün, 14 saat, 5 dakika

THE Land Transportation Office (LTO) assured the public that there is no longer a backlog in the production of vehicle license plates, as the agency works to improve its delivery system to ensure faster distribution to motorists. LTO chief Marcus Lacanilao said the backlog issue has been resolved following his personal inspection of the plate manufacturing facility at the agency’s central office. He said the production continues without interruption, and finished plates are immediately sent to regional offices nationwide. However, Lacanilao acknowledged that many vehicle owners have yet to receive their plates due to problems with the delivery system and courier services. To address this, the LTO is in talks with its partner couriers to consider implementing a door-to-door delivery scheme similar to the one used for passports. “This will make it more convenient for motorists to receive their plates and help eliminate the operations of fixers who profit from facilitating plate release,” he said. Lacanilao also advised vehicle owners who have yet to receive their official plates to secure authorization from the LTO so they may continue using their vehicles with improvised plates while waiting for the official ones. Earlier, the LTO suspended the implementation of the “no plate, no travel” policy, which was initially set to take effect on Nov. 1. Lacanilao said the move was meant to give motorists ample time to claim their plates and allow the agency to streamline its distribution system.

• The Manila Times
• 3 gün, 14 saat, 6 dakika

The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, the marketing and promotions arm of the Department of Tourism (DOT), has unveiled a new set of winter escapade packages designed for travelers seeking to trade freezing temperatures for the Philippines’ mild and inviting climate. The packages, available from October 1 to December 31, 2025, spotlight Clark as the centerpiece of this seasonal offering. With Korean stars Kim Myung Soo (popular actor-singer widely recognized for lead roles in Angel’s Last Mission: Love and Numbers, and formerly a member of INFINITE) and Choi Bo Min (actor-singer best known for A-Teen 2 and Shadow Beauty, and member of K-pop boy group Golden Child) helping curate and promote the campaign, TPB Philippines aims to tap into their massive fan base and the aspirational pull of Korean celebrity culture. By showcasing the Philippines through the lens of these well-loved figures, Clark is positioned as a warm-weather alternative just a short flight away from many East Asian gateways. Its temperate conditions during the winter months make it an ideal hub for outdoor sports such as running, as well as for wellness retreats where visitors can relax and recharge. Developed in collaboration with DOT-accredited operators, the packages curated with the Korean stars blend wellness, sport, and culture. Travelers can enjoy scenic runs and outdoor activities that showcase Clark’s open spaces and nature trails without the harsh winter chill; spa and wellness experiences, including the Philippines’ traditional hilot therapy designed to restore balance and vitality; and curated excursions to nearby heritage sites, beaches, and natural destinations, ensuring a deeper cultural connection beyond the typical getaway. “In December, the Philippines—especially Clark and its nearby destinations—offers a milder climate where visitors can enjoy scenic running trails, wellness sanctuaries, and cultural journeys that blend relaxation with discovery,” said TPB Philippines Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles. “These winter escapade packages are designed to let travelers return home feeling recharged, inspired, and connected. By spotlighting the country through the journeys of Choi Bo Min and Kim Myung Soo, we inspire their fans and followers to consider the Philippines as their next winter destination.” K-pop has evolved into a global phenomenon with a loyal following that transcends borders, and together the two Hallyu idols command close to 2.5 million Instagram followers with a combined reach of nearly 3 million. As both celebrities promote their firsthand experience of the Philippines, TPB seeks to convert this worldwide fandom into concrete travel demand. The campaign is strategically positioned to encourage travelers from colder climates to consider itineraries that reflect Bo Min and Myung Soo’s activities, thereby supporting increased arrivals and reinforcing the Philippines’ appeal as a year-round destination of choice for international travelers. "The Department of Tourism continually enhances our tourism offerings to captivate the Korean market, focusing on experiences that resonate deeply with Korean travelers. Our packages emphasize golf tourism, with world-class courses set against stunning backdrops, as well as educational tourism opportunities that showcase the Philippines as a hub for learning and cultural exchange. Additionally, the vibrant dive sites provide an unparalleled underwater adventure. We are committed to providing diverse and enriching experiences that highlight the Philippines as a premier destination for Korean tourists,” enthused Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. With direct flights linking Clark, Manila, Davao, and Cebu to major cities across Asia, and with accredited tour operators offering curated itineraries, the Philippines stands ready to welcome more travelers looking for warmth, wellness, and adventure this winter.

• Manila Bulletin News
• 3 gün, 14 saat, 6 dakika

THE Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) said on Wednesday that it aims to fully implement its Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (Yakap) nationwide by the end of the year. Launched in Metro Manila in July, PhilHealth CEO Edwin Mercado said they are still studying the issues of its implementation in Metro Manila before it is expanded nationwide. “Our target is that at the end of the year, we’ll have Phase 4 implementation,” said Mercado. Among the programs under Yakap is the Guaranteed and Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment, which offers 75 free medicines with a limit of P20,000 annually. When asked if the 75 medicines will be expanded, Mercado said, “75 is just a fraction of what we consider essential,” stressing that they are still checking but assured the public that it will be expanded “within the year.” Mercado also reported progress in pharmacy accreditation for the program. As of Sept. 30, 304 pharmacies nationwide have been accredited, with 56 in Metro Manila alone. “Pharmacy chains are waiting to start. Now that they have experience in Manila, they’re also talking to us about their branches in other parts of the country,” he said. The expanded benefit program, formerly known as the Konsultasyong Sulit at Tama (Konsulta) benefits package, has a total fund of P15.3 billion. Mercado also welcomed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s order for the additional P60 billion in funding for PhilHealth, saying it will help sustain and expand benefit coverage.

• The Manila Times
• 3 gün, 14 saat, 7 dakika

THE Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has expressed strong support for Sen. Bong Go’s move to make financial literacy and entrepreneurship part of the basic education curriculum. During the Senate hearing on the 2026 proposed budget of the Department of Finance and its attached agencies on Tuesday, SEC Chairman Francis Lim said financial literacy is “the best tool for financial protection.” “I hope the SEC can work with you to make financial literacy a reality,” Lim told Go, commending the senator’s initiative to equip young Filipinos with essential financial skills. Go authored Senate Bill 672, or the proposed Financial Literacy and Entrepreneurship as Core Subjects in Basic Education Act, which seeks to integrate financial discipline and entrepreneurial education into the country’s high school curriculum. The senator, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Youth, has repeatedly warned about the growing number of online investment scams and illegal lending operations that have victimized Filipinos, including through the misuse of his name. “There are so many investment scams now. I myself have been a victim of these. They use my name and say, ‘Invest here, you’ll earn this much, you’ll be given these benefits,’” Go said, noting that artificial intelligence and deepfake technology are increasingly being used by scammers. He urged the public to remain vigilant, saying: “We must always verify and seek the truth. Report any fraudulent activity you encounter to the authorities.” Go emphasized that promoting financial literacy among the youth is crucial in combating online fraud, misinformation and financial exploitation.

• The Manila Times
• 3 gün, 14 saat, 8 dakika

MARIKINA City has launched Marikina e-Concern, the first fully digital platform in the National Capital Region (NCR), allowing residents to report local issues directly to City Hall. Marikina City Mayor Marjorie “Maan” Teodoro told The Manila Times on Tuesday, Oct. 14, that through the new platform, residents can sign up using an email address and mobile number, select the type of concern — such as drainage, garbage, streetlights, stray animals, or damaged roads — and upload a photo as proof. Each report automatically generates a timestamp and confirmation message before being routed to the proper department for action. “The goal is to make Marikina faster, more transparent, and more caring,” Teodoro said. The mayor noted that the city spent minimal to no additional funds for the project, since it was developed in-house by Marikina’s Management Information Systems (MIS) team. “Instead of spending big, we used the city’s existing systems and resources,” she said, adding that the project forms part of Marikina’s digital transformation to modernize government services. Departments were directed to acknowledge reports within a few hours and, when possible, take action within 24 hours. “Of course, it depends on the type of concern — if it’s simple trash or a broken post, we can act fast. But for major infrastructure, there’s still a process,” Teodoro explained. “What’s important is that all reports are recorded, monitored, and addressed.” When asked whether the system was inspired by former vice president Leni Robredo’s MyNaga app, Teodoro said the concept was uniquely adapted to local needs. “We’re always open to learning from other cities, and we salute the best practices of Naga and other LGUs,” she said. “But the Marikina e-Concern was really developed for Marikeños — it’s uniquely Marikina: simple, responsive, and compassionate.”

• The Manila Times
• 3 gün, 14 saat, 9 dakika