BY ALEX ALAGON
The Children’s Legal Rights and Development Center (CLRDC) urges the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) to reassess its policy of imposing a blanket curfew hour for minors, as per the pronouncement of the DILG prohibiting minors from staying on the streets of Metro Manila starting at 10 p.m.
Drawing from CLRDC’s experience of assisting children who are victims of structural violence and abuse, including those allegedly committed by state actors, the DILG must consider that this policy will only lead to arbitrary arrests and abuse of children at risk (CAR).
As we have documented/witnessed in the past, blanket curfew policies will only lead to arrests and further abuses of children who are already at risk. For instance, in 2018, when the anti-tambay (anti-loitering) campaign directed the Philippine National Police (PNP) to crack down on individuals in public spaces, we have documented situations like the over-congestion of some detention facilities for minors or Bahay Pag-Asa centers, with youth locked up like sardines, taking turns in sitting and lying down to sleep, as they were turned over to these centers for alleged curfew violations. Many of them have also experienced abuses during arrest. This violates the rights of children and further discriminates and places young people at risk for torture/abuse.
There are many children who are forced to be on the streets because of injustices and circumstances beyond their control. Among these children are those exploited sexually or economically; children and youth pushed to the streets due to unjust economic structures; and children abused and neglected who are seeking safety in the streets or outside their homes.
Rowena Legaspi, Executive Director of CLRDC proposed that “instead of implementing a curfew and initiating mass apprehensions of children in street situations, we strongly urge the DILG to strengthen the capacity of the barangays to provide services and support aimed to address the root causes driving these children to the streets (e.g., community-based activities and centers for young people, safe shelters for survivors, strengthening activities and capacity of Barangay Councils for the Protection of Children, financial and material support to address suffering due to inflation, etc.), and implement laws that protect children and uphold their rights, instead of penalizing them.”
Atty. Gian Arabejo, Children’s Legal Rights and Development Center
09778997581
gmarabejo@protonmail.com
MANILA — Velox Networks, the leading Singapore-headquartered cloud telephony provider, announced on April 9 that it’s expanding into the Philippines, its third Southeast Asian market after Singapore and Malaysia. The move comes as the Philippines enacts landmark telecommunications legislation aimed at modernizing the country’s voice and data infrastructure, creating favorable conditions for cloud-native communications providers to enter the market.
The Konektadong Pinoy Act (Republic Act No. 12234), signed in early 2026, mandates the development of shared telecommunications infrastructure and opens the door for new market entrants to provide enterprise communications services. The law addresses long-standing barriers to competition in the Philippines’ telecoms sector, where infrastructure has historically been concentrated among a small number of incumbents.
For Velox, the timing aligns with a broader national effort to upgrade the country’s physical communications infrastructure. The legislation creates a framework for cloud-based providers to deliver voice, messaging, and compliance-grade communications without requiring significant physical network investment.
Martin Nygate, founder & CEO of Velox Networks, said: “The Philippines is at an inflection point. New legislation is finally creating the regulatory framework for modern telecommunications infrastructure, and businesses across the country are ready for enterprise-grade voice solutions that don’t depend on aging copper and cable networks. Cloud telephony eliminates the dependency on physical cable networks entirely. Businesses get enterprise-grade voice infrastructure delivered over the internet — no copper, no spaghetti wires, no legacy PBX hardware. For a country that’s actively trying to move beyond its cable infrastructure challenges, that’s a compelling proposition.”
He added: “We’re not entering the Philippines remotely. We’ve built a team on the ground across Manila and Cebu because we believe this market deserves the same level of service and support we provide in Singapore and Malaysia. The regulatory environment is moving in the right direction, the business community is ready, and we’re committed to being here for the long term.”
From spaghetti wires to cloud infrastructure
The Philippines’ telecommunications challenges are visible on virtually every street. Tangled masses of overhead cables — commonly referred to as “spaghetti wires” — have become a defining feature of the country’s urban landscape and a persistent safety hazard. Recent government action has intensified efforts to address the problem: the Metro Manila Council passed a resolution requiring the removal or underground burial of overhead cables, while Cebu City has enacted ordinances mandating underground cabling for new developments.
House Bill 1403, the Anti-Dangling Wires and Cables Act, proposes nationwide standards for cable management and penalties for non-compliance. Together, these measures signal a national shift away from legacy physical infrastructure toward modern alternatives.
Addressing the Philippines’ Enterprise Communications Gap
The Philippines is home to over one million micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), many of which still rely on personal mobile phones and consumer messaging apps for business communications. As regulatory scrutiny around data privacy and communications compliance increases across Asia, the gap between consumer-grade tools and enterprise requirements is widening.
Velox’s platform provides:
- Cloud-based business phone numbers that separate personal and professional communications
- Automatic call recording and archiving for regulatory compliance and quality assurance
- CRM and business tool integrations that log every interaction automatically
- Multi-location support enabling unified communications across Manila, Cebu, and regional offices
- Enterprise-grade security and uptime without the cost of physical infrastructure
Velox has established a 12-person Philippines team distributed across Manila, Cebu, and other key cities, combining local market knowledge with the company’s regional technology platform. The Philippines becomes Velox’s third operating market in Southeast Asia, following Singapore and Malaysia.
MAJOR General Alvin V. Luzon, commander of the 10th Infantry Division, called for renewed patriotism amid evolving national challenges during the 84th Araw ng Kagitingan on Thursday, April 9.
Luzon, in his keynote speech at the Veterans Monument in Davao City, paid tribute to the unwavering resolve of the Filipino war veterans in Bataan, Corregidor, and Bessang Pass.
“Outnumbered, weakened yet unyielding, they chose to stand and fight; their valor secured the freedom we now uphold,” he said.
Luzon emphasized that while battles may have been lost in history, the Filipino spirit remains unbroken.
“While Bataan fell, the fight did not end, the spirit of resistance did not perish, it endured, it adapted, it moved, it led on across our archipelago, most especially in Mindanao,” he said, underscoring that the courage demonstrated during World War II continues to inspire generations of Filipinos today.
He described World War II veterans as a “living link” to the nation’s past, describing them as the “embodiment of valor” whose sacrifices ensured the country’s survival.
“Because of your courage, we stand here free, because of your sacrifice, our nation endures. We honor you with our deepest respect and highest salute,” he said.
He stressed that Araw ng Kagitingan is not only a remembrance of past heroism but also a continuing story of resilience and patriotism among Filipinos who “refuse to surrender,” even as the nature of threats facing the country evolves.
The battlefield may change, he said, the fight for the nation never ends, pointing out that present-day struggles by external threats and pressures, such as the energy crisis, affect security and stability.
“This may differ from past battles, but the values required remain the same,” he added, noting the need for courage, determination, unity, and patriotism.
He called on Filipinos to practice patriotism beyond words but in deeds, urging citizens, especially the youth, to express their love for the country through concrete actions.
“The heroes we honor today, fought for the Philippines, they hope we continue to build a nation strong in faith, united in purpose, and proud of its freedom. Let us prove ourselves worthy of their sacrifice,” he stressed.
The Araw ng Kagitingan commemoration honors the bravery and sacrifice of Filipino soldiers who fought during World War II.
MANILA, Philippines — The spirits industry has long been seen as a male-dominated field, but Ms. Myrna Delos Reyes has shown that women also occupy important roles in maintaining its heritage and shaping its future. As Tanduay’s Senior Vice President for Quality and Technical Operations, she leads the division that serves as the center for the company’s innovation and scientific excellence.
“I began my journey at Tanduay as a laboratory analyst, a role that gave me a deep foundation in the science behind every bottle. Over the course of my career, I’ve grown into my current position as SVP. It’s been a path built on curiosity, hard work, and a genuine love for what we do,” Delos Reyes shared.
Having been with Tanduay for more than 36 years now, she has proven that women can also build lasting careers and occupy one of highest positions in an industry that has been traditionally identified with men.
From the Lab to the Top
Becoming the SVP of a highly-respected spirits company that has been in the industry for more than a century wasn’t easy. Delos Reyes recalled that when she first joined Tanduay, women in technical roles were a rarity.
“But that never discouraged me. If anything, it strengthened my resolve. Today, I’m glad to see more women entering the field, and I hope my journey inspires even more to do so,” Delos Reyes said.
For her, the biggest challenge that women face in a male-dominated field is earning the trust and respect of her peers.
“My approach has always been simple: let your work speak for itself. Demonstrating technical competence, staying prepared, and showing up consistently. That’s how you build credibility, regardless of gender,” she said.
Finding a Home in Tanduay
Delos Reyes is grateful for having found a great and stable company in Tanduay.
“What truly makes it special is the family I’ve found here. The relationships I’ve built over 36 years, the shared struggles, the milestones, the laughter, are all irreplaceable. This company feels like home,” she said.
Delos Reyes is especially thankful for having the opportunity to work alongside Tanduay’s celebrated Master Blender, Maestro Faustino Munarriz.
“He was my mentor and, in many ways, my guiding light. He believed in my potential at a time when I was still finding my footing, and his encouragement shaped the professional I became. I carry his lessons with me every single day,” she said.
Women Driving Quality and Innovation
Delos Reyes’ professional journey reflects that of many women who continue to redefine what it means to work in traditionally male-dominated industries .
“Women bring a different perspective to the table, one that values nuance, storytelling, and experience. In the rum industry, that translates to more thoughtful flavor profiles, more inclusive branding, and products that speak to a wider audience. Women aren’t just consumers; we are creators, innovators, and decision-makers shaping what rum means today,” she said.
These contributions are especially important for Tanduay as it moves toward premiumization.
“Women at Tanduay have been instrumental in driving quality and innovation, two pillars of premiumization. From product development to quality control to brand strategy, we bring precision, passion, and a commitment to excellence. As Tanduay reaches new markets and elevates its offerings, the contributions of women behind the scenes have been both quiet and profound,” Delos Reyes pointed out.
Asked what her advice is to women who are looking to enter a male-dominated field, Delos Reyes said, “Come prepared, not just skilled, but confident in your expertise.”
“Know your craft inside and out. When you walk into a room and demonstrate true technical competence, it becomes very hard for anyone to overlook you. Your knowledge is your power. Never underestimate it,” she stressed.
THE GOVERNMENT released P710,000 in immediate and livelihood assistance to several “friends rescued” (FRs) during an Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) distribution rite at the Bukidnon Police Provincial Office on April 8, 2026.
Colonel Oliver S. Navales, provincial police director, welcomed the beneficiaries and stakeholders, while Brigadier General Seigfred C. Tubalado, commander of the 403rd Brigade, administered the oath of allegiance as the FRs committed to community building.
The assistance package, administered by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), was distributed by a panel of provincial leaders, including Rhona Pedraza-Abadilla, DILG-Bukidnon provincial director, Ellen T. Salumintao, provincial social welfare and development officer, and Lt. Col. Antonio G. Bulao I, 89th Infantry Battalion commander.
Senior agriculturist Artemio A. Usman and provincial legal officer Atty. Gen. Yvish R. Ladesma also showed up to support the program.
Sustainable reintegration
Beyond immediate cash aid, the beneficiaries received livelihood packages and agricultural seedlings designed to jumpstart sustainable income sources. To ensure long-term success, the Department of Social Welfare and Development conducted profiling for each recipient to facilitate continued access to social services.
Authorities emphasized that the E-CLIP remains a cornerstone of the government’s peace and development strategy in Bukidnon, providing a viable path for those who choose to lay down their arms and contribute to a progressive province.
VICE PRESIDENT Sara Duterte slammed the country’s current state during the 84th Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) commemoration on Thursday, April 9, asserting that the government has failed the soldiers.
Speaking at the commemoration at the Veterans Monument in Davao City, the Vice President described the national sovereignty and domestic stability as “eroded.”
“We remember those who stood their ground in the face of overwhelming odds, who chose duty over comfort, and who offered their lives so that future generations could inherit a nation worth living and fighting for,” Duterte said in her message.
“Sadly, the state of our nation today reveals how we failed the Filipino soldier,” she added.
Duterte argued that the nation has moved away from being “independent, self-reliant” as envisioned by the Constitution.
“Yet, in the absence of a coherent and truly independent foreign policy framework, our soldiers are often left navigating conflicts shaped by external pressures rather than national interests,” she said.
Filipino soldiers, she said, are being used as pawns in geopolitical struggles, noting this shift not only weakens national defense but also damages the morale of the Filipino people.
The Vice President further warned of a “creeping return of insurgency” in various parts of the country, which she linked to “deeper systemic failures, poverty, injustice, and unfulfilled promises”.
Duterte expressed alarm about the Bangsamoro peace process, which she characterized as “faltering”.
“Justice, trust, and sustained commitment are absent,” she said, stressing this leaves the soldiers and the youth to pay the price when the fragile foundations of peace break apart.
“We must demand accountability from our leaders. We must insist on policies that uphold our sovereignty, protect our constitution, and genuinely serve the Filipino people,” Duterte said.
She stressed that soldiers should not only be celebrated in ceremonies, but supported in reality, with clear direction and a government that stands firmly behind them.
“Let us honor soldiers and law enforcement who died in wars past, and those as recent as last week, not only with words, but with the courage to correct what is wrong, to speak the painful truth, and to rebuild a nation worthy of sacrifice,” the vice president said.
The vice president led the wreath-laying at the Veterans Memorial Monument, along with MGen Alvin V. Luzon, commander of the 10th Infantry Agila Division, who was the guest of honor.
THE NEWLY formed Inter-Agency Task Force on Emergency Socioeconomic Crisis Response (IATF Crisis) has adopted three resolutions aimed at drastic resource conservation within the local government.
The measures were approved during the task force’s first regular meeting on Monday, April 6, and made public on Tuesday evening on the city government’s Facebook page.
Harvey Lanticse, City Information Office acting head, said the resolutions are directed to the city government’s resource management.
Under IATF Crisis Resolution No. 1, all city government offices have been urged to reduce their fuel consumption by 15%.
The task force has granted exemptions to priority offices, including those in the emergency and health sectors, to ensure that vital public safety and medical services are not compromised.
“While we cushion the impact of the increase in oil price, we want to ensure the basic and urgent services to the residents continue,” Lanticse said.
He added that the task force will craft guidelines to reduce fuel consumption as per the recommendation of the City Planning Office, which will be cascaded in the offices.
He stressed that carpooling and priority use of vehicles, among others, will be included in the guidelines.
Asked about the DC Bus operations, the official said it will continue as the people need it most during this time.
On the other hand, Resolution No. 2 is a temporary moratorium on motorcades to further tighten restrictions. The task force directed the Business Bureau to deny all requests for motorcades within the city.
This ban will remain in place for the entire duration of the ongoing fuel crisis to prevent unnecessary fuel use on city streets.
In addition to fuel restrictions, the city is also targeting broader utility savings as stated in Resolution No. 3, which adopts energy efficiency and conservation (EEC) measures.
Lanticse said this is based on a series of recommendations from the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO), which will be applied across all city government offices.
“These are basic measures, one is to lessen the use of electricity, such as turning off lights, limiting the temperature of the air conditioner, things like that,” he said.
A monitoring team from the city planning is formed to ensure compliance.
He stressed that energy conservation has to start within the government without sacrificing essential services, especially in the health and emergency sectors.
The IATF Crisis will regularly conduct a meeting twice a month, every first and third Monday of the month, on top of the meetings of the sub-committees.
The city government formed an IATF-Crisis to address the economic strain in the city caused by international geopolitical tensions.
FILIPINOS can continue to rely on God for guidance amid economic difficulties and political tensions, trusting that He can also use the country despite these challenges.
In his CIA 365 vlog on Facebook on Tuesday, April 7, Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano shared his ‘3Ps framework’ – purpose, potential, and power — and explained how it applies to both the nation’s current situation and everyone’s personal life.
“Sobrang daming pagsubok ang ating dinadaan and everyone is telling us that it will get worse with what’s happening… But remember that God always gives hope, always gives an answer,” he said.
Cayetano said the 3Ps can apply to the country, stressing that God can use the Philippines as an instrument of blessing or use other nations to help Filipinos in times of need. He cited the Biblical story of Joseph, where one nation was able to help others survive a crisis.
“Nagkaroon ng napakalaking famine, pero ginamit si Joseph. Noong marami pang ani, nakapag-store siya sa warehouse. Kaya ginamit ang Egypt noon. Kaya pwedeng gamitin ni Lord ang kahit anong city at kahit anong probinsya. Pwedeng gamitin ni Lord ang Pilipinas o pwedeng gamitin yung iba at maging blessing sa atin,” he said.
On a personal level, he said every person is given a purpose by God along with the potential and resources needed to fulfill it. He cited his own work on legislation to strengthen Filipino families, saying that if God intends for him to accomplish more, God will provide the ability and support needed to accomplish it.
“If God meant to sponsor 10 (laws) and I only sponsored five, hindi ko nagawa ang potential ko. And if talagang 10 (laws) yung purpose ko, bibigyan Niya ako ng power at ng resources para doon sa 10 (laws),” Cayetano said.
SENATOR Francis “Chiz” Escudero is urging the national and local governments to immediately provide a “fuel differential subsidy” to drivers of public jeepneys, taxis, tricycles, and transport operators this April, saying the temporary aid is needed to help them cope with oil price shocks that have already disrupted operations nationwide.
Escudero issued the call as transport groups in various locations, such as Iloilo, Cagayan de Oro, Bacolod, and Cebu have reported severe financial strain due to the rapid rise in fuel costs, with some cooperatives slashing trips and others warning of possible shutdowns if no immediate intervention is provided.
“I hope the national and the local government can give them a fuel differential subsidy to PUJ/PUV/tricycles in the form of cash or voucher for fuel while the crisis is subsisting and the prices are still high for this month of April,” he added.
“Sana ay mabigyan ng karagdagang tulong ang ating mga drivers at transport operators bukod sa nailaan na ng pamahalaan para sa kanila sapagkat hindi naman talaga sapat ang subsidiyang binibigay,” the veteran legislator said.
In Iloilo province, several cooperatives have already reduced deployed units by more than half as diesel prices more than doubled, leaving operators with little to no income after fuel expenses.
In Cagayan de Oro, the city council declared a state of emergency after transport groups reported that fuel costs were consuming almost their entire daily income. Meanwhile, in Cebu, modern jeepney operators warned that their operations were on the brink of collapse as fuel prices continue to surge.
The Bicolano senator said the same assistance should also be extended to farmers and fishermen after a farmers’ group reported during a recent Senate hearing that the number of fisherfolk going out to sea in several Luzon provinces has dropped by nearly half due to spikes in prices of petroleum products.
“We must act quickly to prevent deeper disruptions in food production and supply,” Escudero stressed. “Huwag nating kalimutan ang ating mga magsasaka at mangingisda na gumagamit rin ng gasolina at lubhang apektado sa mataas na presyo.”
Escudero said the proposed subsidy should cover the difference between regular fuel prices and the unusually high rates seen this month, stressing that the measure is intended only as a temporary buffer.
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