https://www.facebook.com/153507321399311/

Dateline Iloilo, 3rd flr. Street anne bldg. Luna St. , La Paz, Iloilo City (2026)

Q: What is the address?

3rd Flr. Street Anne Bldg. Luna St. , La Paz

02/02/2026

CHIZ TO HEALTH, BORDER AUTHORITIES: KEEP PROTOCOLS AND PREPAREDNESS SYSTEMS FULLY ACTIVE VS NIPAH

Amid rising global concern over the Nipah virus, Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero urged health and border authorities to maintain strict vigilance and ensure that preparedness systems remain fully operational.

Escudero said that although current health advisories place the Philippines at low risk, developments in neighboring regions underscore the need for sustained, proactive monitoring.

“Public safety depends not only on rapid response but on continuous readiness,” he stressed, noting that several Asian countries have already tightened airport health checks following recent Nipah‑related developments abroad.

The Philippines must match this level of alertness to safeguard travelers and communities, he pointed out.

Nipah virus, first detected in Malaysia in 1998, has resurfaced in India, where authorities are enforcing localized containment measures and expanded contact tracing. Outbreaks have also been recorded in Bangladesh, prompting heightened regional surveillance.

The veteran legislator called on the Department of Health and the Bureau of Quarantine to keep border health protocols fully activated, from thermal scanning and symptom monitoring to clear guidance for arriving passengers. These measures, he said, are critical to preventing the entry and spread of high‑risk pathogens.

He also underscored the need for strong inter‑agency coordination among health, transport, and local government units.

“Preparedness is never the work of a single office. It is a shared responsibility that requires synchronized systems, updated data, and timely communication,” he stressed.

The Bicolano senator added that the government should have already internalized the lessons of past outbreaks.

“We should learn from the mistakes of the past, particularly during the COVID pandemic, and strive to do better. That means not repeating those missteps but instead collating and applying the best practices we developed and witnessed, especially from the healthcare professionals and LGUs who were on the frontlines during that time,” he said.

“Early detection and transparent reporting remain the strongest defenses against emerging health threats. I call on our authorities to continue refining surveillance tools and ensuring that frontline personnel are equipped with updated protocols,” he added.

Escudero likewise emphasized the importance of clear and consistent public advisories to curb misinformation and maintain public confidence. Calm, factual communication, he noted, helps citizens understand risks without panic and reinforces trust in institutions.

“As global health landscapes shift, the Philippines must stay one step ahead,” he concluded.

29/01/2026

CHIZ URGES GOV’T TO ADVANCE TRIPARTITE DEAL TO EMPOWER LGUs

Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero is calling on the national government to advance the proposed tripartite agreement among the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Department of Education (DepEd), and the Department of Agriculture (DA), saying the framework will empower qualified local government units (LGUs) to achieve accelerated growth through improved infrastructure, stronger rural connectivity, and better school facilities.

In his recent conversation with Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon, Escudero said he was informed that the proposed agreement identifies two key requirements for LGUs that will be prioritized: demonstrated capacity to implement and complete projects, and a stable peace‑and‑order environment that allows development programs to proceed without disruption.

“The national government should focus on LGUs that have shown they can plan well, execute well, and maintain order,” Escudero said. “When local governments are capable, national‑local partnerships become faster, more efficient, and more impactful.”

“Our LGUs should also take advantage of this new business model by meeting these requirements so they can access more support, unlock bigger opportunities, and deliver development programs more quickly to their constituents,” he added.

The Bicolano senator expressed his delight when he was told by Secretary Dizon that Sorsogon is among the provinces that meet the criteria and could serve as a top choice under the tripartite model, citing its strong governance performance and readiness to implement infrastructure programs.

From 2019 to 2022, during Escudero’s term as governor, Sorsogon completed major infrastructure projects such as the Sorsogon Coastal Road, rehabilitated provincial and barangay roads during the pandemic, and strengthened peace and order through support for Barangay Development Projects under the Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (TF‑ELCAC). These initiatives created a stable environment that enabled development programs to take root and succeed.

The veteran legislator said the tripartite model is applicable to all provinces nationwide, provided that LGUs meet the agreement’s requirements on capacity and peace and order.

Replicating the approach in similarly capable LGUs, he said, can help spur growth across regions.

He added that the DPWH‑DepEd‑DA partnership can serve as a template for future collaborations aimed at improving infrastructure, enhancing education facilities, and supporting agricultural productivity.

“This is exactly how the Local Government Code envisioned development — strong national support matched with capable, empowered LGUs delivering results on the ground,” Escudero pointed out.

“When we back LGUs that are ready and proven, progress becomes faster, fairer, and felt by more families,” he concluded.

28/01/2026

Grab, MOVE IT Strengthen On-trip Protection with Expanded COCOLIFE Partnership

MANILA, PHILIPPINES, 27 JANUARY 2026 – Grab Philippines and motorcycle taxi platform MOVE IT have expanded their emergency insurance support with COCOLIFE, widening hospital assistance and financial protection for both rider-partners and passengers in a bid to make coverage more accessible and comprehensive for users of the on-demand mobility services.

Through the deepened partnership, rider-partners and passengers gain 24/7 access to a wider network of more than 700 COCOLIFE-accredited hospitals nationwide for emergency situations involving a Grab or MOVE IT ride.

The expanded hospital assistance with COCOLIFE strengthens Grab Philippines and MOVE IT’s protection ecosystem by addressing the most time-critical gap in on-trip incidents: emergency care and hospitalization support for both rider-partners and passengers.

It is designed to complement existing coverage across the platforms. Grab and MOVE IT’s group personal accident insurance, administered through AIG Philippines, continues to provide complimentary on-trip protection for fatal injuries, permanent disablement, and accident-related medical expenses for passengers and partners, while AXA-backed life and disability protection remains an incentive-based benefit for top-performing driver-, delivery-, and rider-partners.

“Safety and protection have to keep evolving with the realities our partners and passengers face every day,” said Ronald Roda, Managing Director of Grab Philippines. “This expanded support with COCOLIFE builds on our work to strengthen welfare protection in the gig economy. Grab and MOVE IT remain committed to the people who make every trip possible, and to the passengers who place their trust in us with every booking. We’ll keep investing in stronger safety nets so partners can keep earning with confidence, and passengers can ride with greater peace of mind.”

Under the expanded coverage, Grab and MOVE IT riders and passengers nationwide are entitled to hospital assistance for accidents that occur while a trip is active on the platform. The policy provides up to P50,000 per member per year to help cover essential accident-related healthcare costs, with benefits available for emergency room, inpatient, and outpatient services across COCOLIFE’s accredited hospital network nationwide – with additional assistance available subject to case assessment.

The claiming process was also streamlined so users can access care more quickly during emergencies. A rider or passenger may proceed directly to any COCOLIFE-accredited hospital, which then coordinates with COCOLIFE, Grab, and MOVE IT’s support teams for verification and approval. Once cleared, the user can immediately receive the necessary medical treatment, whether for ER care, admission, or outpatient services.
For on-the-ground assistance, the Grab and MOVE IT Emergency Response Unit works alongside the Incident Response Team to facilitate transfers and endorsements to accredited hospitals when needed, helping ensure prompt admission and treatment.

“Our partnership with COCOLIFE is a clear demonstration that our investment in safety goes far beyond the road — it is protection built on malasakit, from the moment our rider-partners are onboarded to the care we extend after every trip,” said Wayne Jacinto, General Manager of MOVE IT. “We know the risks on our urban roads can carry real financial consequences, and we are committed to shielding both our partners and passengers from those shocks so users of our platforms keep moving forward with dignity and security.”

(In photo are, from left, Clarize Morito, Grab Philippines Head of Central Operations; Wayne Jacinto, MOVE IT General Manager; COCOLIFE Healthcare Division Head Atty. Alloysius Yebra; and First Vice President and Head of Sales and Marketing Department Christopher V. Tan following the signing of the memorandum of agreement between the on-demand service platforms and COCOLIFE.)

27/01/2026

CHIZ SEEKS WIDER PROTECTION BENEFITS FOR WORKERS IN POWER SECTOR

After championing VAT-free electricity to ease household costs, Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero has filed Senate Bill No. 498 to mandate insurance coverage and additional benefits for line workers who build, maintain, and repair the country’s electrical transmission and distribution systems.

“They perform both critical and dangerous work,” Escudero said in the bill’s explanatory note. “Yet a number of them do so bereft of any form of coverage against death, accidents, illness, and other fortuitous events that could be sustained in the line of duty.”

The proposed Line Workers Insurance and Benefits Act seeks to require private distribution utilities, electric cooperatives, and transmission or grid operators to provide insurance coverage and entitlements such as retirement and disability benefits, death and burial assistance, and medical expense reimbursements.

“The coverage of my proposed bill also extends to drivers, helpers, and support crew who are deployed alongside line workers during construction and maintenance operations,” the senator pointed out.

“Employers will be responsible for paying the full cost of insurance premiums, which cannot be deducted from employee wages. This provision ensures that workers receive full protection without bearing the financial burden,” he added.

The veteran legislator explained that the measure draws from House Bill No. 7561, which was approved by the House of Representatives in the 19th Congress. “The provision of insurance coverage and other benefits would ensure that our line workers, as well as their families, are protected from the risks and perils of their chosen occupation,” he said.

Escudero expressed hope that SB 498, which is currently pending before the Senate Committees on Energy and Labor, will be taken up soon as session resumes next week, stressing the urgency of protecting line workers who face daily hazards in the performance of their duties.

The measure complements the Bicolano senator’s broader legislative agenda focused on consumer relief and labor protection. By turning the spotlight on line workers, Escudero highlights his commitment to both affordability and dignity in public service delivery.

14/01/2026

Expanding Financial Access in Visayas and Mindanao

From Mobility to Opportunity: BDO, Unistar Help 68,000 Filipinos Earn and Move Forward

Through its partnership with Unistar Credit and Finance Corporation, a nationwide financing company, BDO Unibank (BDO) has supported 68,409 workers to acquire motorcycles used for delivery, logistics and transport services.

These units were purchased through Transcycle, Unistar’s motorcycle retail brand with 280 branches, 55% located in Visayas and Mindanao, reflecting a strong presence in underserved areas where access to credit remains limited.

“For many riders, owning a motorcycle brings a unique sense of freedom, independence and mobility, while opening doors to better income and daily opportunities. Being able to support these journeys is what makes our work truly meaningful, especially for riders and families across Visayas and Mindanao,” shared Matthew Siy Cha, CEO of Unistar Credit and Finance Corporation.

While motorcycles remain a practical means of mobility for many Filipinos today, BDO recognizes the importance of transitioning toward a cleaner and more efficient transport system. The Bank continues to support projects that promote the development of green infrastructure in line with its long-term commitment to a low carbon economy.

“We believe that access to financial services is essential for economic empowerment. Through BDO’s ASEAN Sustainability Bond, we are helping Filipinos gain the financial tools they need to build sustainable livelihoods,” said Charles M. Rodriguez, BDO’s Executive Vice President and Head of Institutional Banking Group.

The initiative’s impact goes beyond individual borrowers. Micro and small businesses gain from more efficient and affordable delivery and transport services, helping them reach customers faster and reduce operational costs. Local communities also benefit from improved access to goods and essential services. This creates a ripple effect that enhances productivity and supports entrepreneurship, particularly in underserved areas.

Through the ASEAN Sustainability Bond, BDO demonstrates how financial institutions can drive social impact and economic growth—empowering Filipinos to participate in the country’s evolving digital and service-driven economies toward a more sustainable and equitable future.

13/01/2026

ESCUDERO PUSHES TARGETED VAT EXEMPTION ON ELECTRICITY IN SENATE BILL 496 TO EASE COSTS FOR HOUSEHOLDS AND BUSINESSES

Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero is advocating for a targeted exemption of electricity from the 12 percent value-added tax (VAT) under Senate Bill 476, saying it would ease the burden on households and businesses without undermining fiscal stability.

Escudero acknowledged the recent remarks of Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, who cautioned against proposals to revert the expanded VAT to 10 percent owing to the government’s P1.6 trillion debt, and emphasized that his measure differs fundamentally as it does not reduce VAT across the board but instead zeroes in on electricity, a sector where relief is most urgently needed.

“While broad tax cuts may strain government revenues, lifting the tax on electricity is a fiscally responsible choice. It balances social equity with economic necessity, ensuring that families and industries feel relief without compromising our ability to service debt, among others,” Escudero said.

The veteran legislator noted that electricity costs in the Philippines remain among the highest in Asia, inflating the prices of goods and services. He urged his colleagues to hasten the deliberation of Senate Bill No. 476, which he filed last year and now pending before the Committees on Ways and Means and Energy.

Under the Escudero measure, the following transactions shall also be exempt from VAT: sale of electricity by generation, transmission and distribution companies and electric cooperatives; and services of franchise grantees of electric utilities.

“SB 476 seeks to address the high electricity cost by exempting electricity sale from value-added tax. Such tax relief can lower operating costs of industries and businesses, temper inflation, and increase disposable household income while generating revenue through increased economic activity and consumption,” he pointed out.

The senator from Sorsogon also said that removing VAT on electricity is a direct anti-inflationary measure. “Every peso saved on power bills translates to more affordable goods and stronger competitiveness. This is a targeted strike against inflation, not a blanket reduction that risks fiscal imbalance.”

Escudero further clarified that his proposal should not be conflated with calls to revert EVAT to 10 percent, saying: “Secretary Recto is right to be cautious about across-the-board cuts. My measure is different. It is surgical, not sweeping. It addresses one of the most pressing pain points of our economy while respecting fiscal realities.”

06/12/2025

ICI CLEARS CHIZ FOR LACK OF EVIDENCE

The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) has cleared Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero and former Senators Grace Poe and Nancy Binay of any liability in connection with the flood control mess after it found no sufficient evidence to warrant the filing of case.

The ICI the other day has recommended the filing of charges against several individuals, including incumbent and former government officials, to the Office of the Ombudsman for their role in the multi-billion-peso non-existent and sub-standard infrastructure projects, mostly ghost flood control projects.

Retired Supreme Court Justice Andres Reyes, chair of the ICI, said the recommendations were based on face-to-face interviews with and testimonies of senators, members of the House of Representatives, whistleblowers, contractors, and government officials, as well as affidavits and documents gathered the panel tasked to probe the flood control mess.

The ICI did not find any guilt or liability on the part of Escudero, Poe, and Binay to recommend the filing of charges against them because of insufficient evidence to support the claims of former Public Works Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo linking them to the flood control controversies.

Bernardo did not offer any direct or material evidence to back up his allegations when he appeared before the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, leading the ICI to sidestep the filing of cases against the three unlike other former and incumbent officials who have been recommended to be charged.

Reyes has emphasized that the ICI needs witnesses who can attest to the direct involvement of the accused in wrongdoing, including receiving of commissions or kickbacks from the flood control projects.

“We need witnesses. Mga driver, mga katulong, kusinera, butler, secretary, accountant. We need more witnesses,” Reyes said.

Among the personalities recommended by the ICI for the filing of possible cases of plunder, direct and indirect bribery, and corruption of public officials are former Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr., former party-list Rep. Zaldy Co, former Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan, former Public Works Undersecretaries Maria Catalina Cabral and Roberto Bernardo, and Commission on Audit Commissioner Mario Lipana.

Escudero said the ICI’s recommendations were “based on evidence, weighed for their merit and the witnesses’ claims judged based on their credibility.”

“In my close to three decades in public service, there has never been any allegation of wrongdoing against me. We have always adhered to our laws in everything that we do and will continue to serve with integrity and accountability. We respect all the legal processes and will continue to cooperate with the ongoing probes in order to uncover the truth and hold to account all who were involved, based on evidence,” Escudero said.

In a separate statement, Poe said the action of the ICI proves that there is no evidence to support the filing of charges against her.

“This is no surprise to me and to the people who know me because I [have] always conducted myself with utmost integrity,” Poe said.

According to Binay, now the sitting Mayor of Makati City, the allegations against her were all part of the attempt to divert attention away from the people actually behind the flood control anomalies.

26/11/2025

STATEMENT OF SEN. CHIZ ESCUDERO

Since we first ran for public office in 1998, we have worked to consistently comply with our election laws because this is the foundation of public trust.

The Commission on Elections decision affirms what we have always believed and practiced—that transparency, honesty, and adherence to the rules matter, and that the truth prevails when the process is fair.

The Comelec’s ruling strengthens my faith in our institutions and reinforces my commitment to continue serving with integrity and accountability.

Sen. Francis Joseph “Chiz” G. Escudero

26/11/2025

CHIZ SAYS MARCOS ADMIN’S EVIDENCE-BASED APPROACH GOOD FOR FLOOD CONTROL PROBE

Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero commended on Tuesday President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for pursuing evidence-based investigations into the flood control budget irregularities that have led to the filing of corruption and malversation cases, stressing the importance of accountability and cautioning against diversions that only protect the guilty and harm the innocent.

During the Senate plenary deliberations on the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) budget, Escudero said the administration, as stated by Secretary Vince Dizon, has indeed chosen to follow the evidence wherever it leads, even when politically sensitive.

“Binabati ko po ang administrasyon dahil hindi sila sumunod at nagpadala sa anumang script o sarswela para ilihis ang mga tunay na salarin tulad ng sinabi ko nung ako ay huling tumayo at nagsalita dito sa Senado,” he said. “Ayon mismo kay Secretary Dizon, ang sinusundan lamang nila, base sa kautusan ng Pangulong Marcos, ay kung saan sila dinala ng ebidensya.”

The Ombudsman has already filed corruption and malversation charges before the Sandiganbayan against former Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co, former DPWH Undersecretary Wilfredo Bernardo, former DPWH Bulacan 1st District Engineer Henry Alcantara, former DPWH Bulacan 1st District Assistant Engineer Brice Hernandez, and directors of Sunwest Corporation in connection with flood control project anomalies.

The Independent Commission for Infrastructure, which has been tasked by the President to lead the investigations, has turned over documents to the Office of the Ombudsman in relation to the role of former House Speaker and Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez in the anomalies to determine possible administrative or criminal accountability under the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards, and other applicable laws.

The Bicolano senator praised the administration for its determination to uphold justice, even when investigations touch close to home. He noted that the President’s directive to “follow the evidence” has ensured that accountability is pursued consistently and without diversion.

“Alam kong hindi naging madali ang desisyong ito para kay Pangulong Marcos nang malaman niya na posibleng sangkot ang kaniyang pinsan. Kaya, binabati ko ang kaniyang sigasig na panagutin ang mga tunay at dapat managot, at ang pagtutol niya sa anumang dibersyon dahil marami nang mga inosenteng tao ang nadamay sa tangkang paglilihis na ito,” he stressed.

Escudero reminded the public that while anger against corruption is justified, judgment must be based on facts and evidence, and not on speculation or intrigue.

“Dapat lang tayong magalit sa korupsyon at anumang uri ng pag-abuso sa kapangyarihan. Subalit, huwag tayo maging padalos-dalos sa paghusga. Maging mapanuri din tayo sa mga mema na nais lamang magpunla ng pagkakawatak-watak natin di lamang dito sa Senado kundi sa buong bansa,” he concluded.

24/11/2025

SORSOGON EXECS SAY LGU HAS ALREADY COMPLIED WITH COA’S 2021 AOM

The Provincial Government of Sorsogon said that its past and present local executives have already complied with the audit observation memoranda (AOM) issued by the Commission on Audit (COA) in 2021 in connection with projects carried out during the period.

This means that the complaint filed recently against Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero, who once served as provincial governor, and the province’s present and former officials with the Office of the Ombudsman lacked merit and basis, and at best, a product of politicking and harassment.

In a statement signed by acting Provincial Accountant Sheena Gacosta Credo, Provincial Internal Audit Officer Atty. Cesar Balmaceda, and Provincial Legal Officer Atty. Ron Ely Espinosa, the provincial government said the allegations against present and former local officials, including member of the Bids Awards Committee, failed to verify if the AOM had already been complied with in accordance with the recommendations of the COA.

“These COA reports are from the different Audit Observation Memoranda issued to the officials of the Province of Sorsogon. However, the complainant has not verified if the concerned personnel had satisfactorily complied with the recommendations of the COA with respect to AOMs as reported in COA reports for 2021,” the provincial government said.

“Following the reply, explanations and actions of respondents to the AOMs issued, the COA had not issued any suspension or disallowance to said allegations complained of by Mr. Aceron because the reply, explanations and actions of the respondents complied with the COA’s recommendations as per COA Report 2022,” according to Sorsogon officials.

18/11/2025

grabe nga akusasyon sa utod kag bayaw.

hatred can be sensed sa babaye nga ini!

18/11/2025

when your personal interest is greater that your love for your family!

Zandro Marcos to Sen. Imee Marcos: Hindi ito asal ng Isang tunay na Kapatid.

Dateline Iloilo

02/02/2026

29/01/2026

28/01/2026

27/01/2026

14/01/2026

13/01/2026

06/12/2025

26/11/2025

26/11/2025

24/11/2025

18/11/2025

18/11/2025

Address

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Shortcuts

Share