Category: TV

Statements, TV January 23, 2022May 27, 2022

Lacson: Presidency is a Sacrifice I’m Willing to Take

The Presidency is a sacrifice, and I am ready to offer myself.

On this note, Partido Reporma Chairman and standard-bearer Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson stressed his willingness to continue his public service, after seeing the humongous problems facing the country.

“Sa akin tinitingnan ko itong presidency as a sacrifice. Kasi nakapagsilbi na ako. Nagawa ko ang dapat kong gawin, yan ang aking satisfaction sa buhay at matino ang nagawa kong serbisyo. Pero nakita ko ang napakalaking problema at sayang naman ang sabihin ko na ang track record na pinagmamalaki ko (I look at the presidency as a sacrifice. I have already served the public well. But I see the country still faces humongous problems and I feel I can help given my track record),” Lacson said in The Jessica Soho Presidential Interviews Saturday night.

Continue reading “Lacson: Presidency is a Sacrifice I’m Willing to Take” →

Statements, TV January 23, 2022May 27, 2022

Lacson: Integrity is My Most Prized Possession

Integrity is the most prized possession of Partido Reporma Chairman and standard-bearer Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson.

Lacson said he has nurtured this trait throughout his life – including more than 50 years in public service, as a law enforcer and as a lawmaker.

“Yan ang aking pinagmamalaki. Ni minsan hindi ako tumanggap ng suhol kapalit ang serbisyo publiko. Yan ang aking most prized possession in this lifetime (My integrity is what I am proud of. I never accepted any bribe throughout my public service. So it is my most prized possession in this lifetime),” he said in The Jessica Soho Presidential Interviews aired Saturday evening.

Continue reading “Lacson: Integrity is My Most Prized Possession” →

Statements, TV January 19, 2022May 27, 2022

Lacson: Time to Restore Culture of Accountability

Restoring a culture of accountability among government officials will be a priority for Partido Reporma Chairman and standard-bearer Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson should he win the May 9 presidential elections this year.

Lacson said this is the first major step toward fighting the never-ending problem of corruption, as he lamented that we now have a culture where corruption is tolerated and the corrupt are even idolized.

“Yan ang nawala sa atin, ang accountability. Over time, nakasanayan natin na kibit-balikat tayo. Parang iniidolo pa natin pag isang public official yumaman sa questionable na pinanggalingan (We seem to have lost that sense of accountability. Over time, we have learned to shrug our shoulders over issues of corruption. Some of us even idolize the supposed public servants to got rich through questionable means),” he said in an interview on “The Chiefs” on One News Monday evening.

Continue reading “Lacson: Time to Restore Culture of Accountability” →

Statements, TV January 18, 2022May 27, 2022

Lacson to Govt: Ensure Vaccine Accessibility Before Clamping Down on ‘No Vax No Ride’ Policy

The vaccines may be available, but are they accessible?

On this note, Partido Reporma Chairman and standard-bearer Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson said authorities should make sure Covid vaccines are accessible to the public, before clamping down on the “No Vaccination, No Ride” policy with stiff fines and penalties.

Lacson pointed out that the vaccines may not be accessible especially to those without an internet connection, because they usually entail online registration.

Continue reading “Lacson to Govt: Ensure Vaccine Accessibility Before Clamping Down on ‘No Vax No Ride’ Policy” →

Statements, TV November 23, 2021May 29, 2022

Ping: Isyu sa WPS, Kailangan ng Mas Matatag na Tindig Mula sa Gobyerno

Isinulong ni Senador Ping Lacson nitong Martes ang pagkakaroon ng mas matatag na paninidigan para ipaglaban ang ating soberanya at mga karapatan sa West Philippine Sea lalo na’t dumarami ang bansa na namumulat na sa isyu na ito.

“We should be more assertive. Di ba dati napaka-accommodating natin? We are already being bullied because we don’t do too much,” ani Lacson sa kanyang panayam sa CNN Philippines.

“It’s only now na nagkaroon ng awakening not only on the part of our leaders but other countries as well,” dagdag pa ni Lacson patungkol sa mga statements of concern mula sa ibang bansa bunsod ng nangyari noong Nov. 16 kung saan hinarang at tinira ng water cannon ng Chinese vessels ang dalawang Philippine vessels na nagdadala ng supplies sa Ayungin shoal.

Statements, TV November 23, 2021May 29, 2022

Lacson Pushes Consistent Assertiveness from PH on WPS

We should be more assertive – and consistent – in making our stand on the West Philippine Sea.

On this note, Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson pushed Tuesday for a more authoritative stand by the Philippines on its sovereignty and sovereign rights in the area – especially at this time of awakening by other nations on the issue.

“We should be more assertive. Di ba dati napaka-accommodating natin (Were we not too accommodating before)? We are already being bullied because we don’t do too much,” he said in an interview on CNN Philippines.

Statements, TV November 15, 2021May 30, 2022

Ping: ‘Kamay na Bakal’ na Ayon pa Rin sa Batas, Paiiralin Laban sa Kriminalidad

Sakaling mahalal bilang Pangulo sa 2022, nangako si Senador Ping Lacson nitong Lunes na “kamay na bakal” ang kanyang paiiralin sa pagsugpo sa kriminalidad, ngunit naaayon pa rin sa batas.

Para kay Lacson na namuno sa Philippine National Police mula 1999 hanggang 2001, kailangang mabuwag ang mga kriminal at abusadong pulis na sangkot sa mga ilegal na aktibidad.

“Against criminals, yes – but in accordance with the rule of law. We will always observe the rule of law,” ani Lacson sa kanyang panayam sa ANC. Si Lacson ang tumatayong standard bearer ng Partido Reporma.

Statements, TV November 15, 2021May 30, 2022

Lacson Presidency to be Tough, No-Nonsense vs Criminality

Should he win the presidential election in 2022, Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson vowed on Monday to implement an iron-fisted approach against criminality but in accordance with the rule of law.

Lacson, who headed the Philippine National Police from 1999 to 2001, said criminals – including abusive policemen involved in criminal activities – should be neutralized due to the threat they pose.

“Against criminals, yes – but in accordance with the rule of law. We will always observe the rule of law,” Lacson – the standard bearer of Partido Reporma – said in an interview on ANC, when asked if he will be “iron-fisted” against criminals if he wins.

Statements, TV November 15, 2021May 30, 2022

Ping, Handang Handa nang Sumabak sa Presidential Debates

Handang handa na si Senador Ping Lacson na ipresenta ang kanyang plataporma sa mga nalalapit na debateng pang-Panguluhan na inorganisa ng Commission on Elections at ng iba pang mga organisasyon.

Ayon kay Lacson, ang mga debateng ito, lalo na ang mga unscripted na tanong, ang magpapakita sa publiko kung gaano kahanda ang mga kandidato na bigyang solusyon ang mga pangunahing problema ng bansa.

“These are unexpected questions testing the capability, competence and experience of each candidate. The final judge will be the people after the debate,” ani Lacson na tumatayong standard bearer ng Partido Reporma standard sa kanyang panayam sa ANC.

Statements, TV November 15, 2021May 30, 2022

Lacson More than Ready for Presidential Debates

Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson is prepared to expound on his platform of government in the upcoming presidential debates organized by the Commission on Elections and by various organizations.

Lacson said the debates – particularly the unscripted questions – will give the public a glimpse of the preparedness of the candidates to deal with the country’s humongous problems.

“These are unexpected questions testing the capability, competence and experience of each candidate. The final judge will be the people after the debate,” the Partido Reporma standard bearer said in an interview on ANC.

Statements, TV October 7, 2021May 31, 2022

Black Propaganda Laban Kay Lacson, Isiniwalat ng Beteranong Mamamahayag

Isang black propaganda campaign laban kay Senador Panfilo Lacson ang inilantad ng isang beteranong mamamahayag nitong Huwebes.

Pagsisiwalat ng kilalang columnist at TV talk show host na si Cito Beltran sa kanyang programa na “Agenda,” isang PR ang lumapit sa kanya para siraan ang senador.

Hindi naman ito pinatulan ni Beltran dahil sa kawalan ng ebidensya.

Statements, TV October 7, 2021May 31, 2022

Black Propaganda Bid vs Lacson Exposed by Veteran Journalist

A black propaganda campaign is targeting Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson, with its proponents approaching a journalist for the job.

Columnist and TV talk show host Cito Beltran bared this to Lacson Thursday morning, during an interview on Beltran’s talk show “Agenda.”

“Nilapitan ako ng isang PR para gibain ka (I was approached by a PR operator to conduct black propaganda against you),” Beltran told Lacson.

Statements, TV October 7, 2021May 31, 2022

Ping: Mga Opisyal ng Gobyerno, Di Dapat Protektado ng Bank Secrecy Law

Lahat ng mga empleyado ng gobyerno–mula sa clerk hanggang sa Presidente–ay hindi dapat isama sa mabibigyang proteksyon sa Bank Secrecy Act, ayon kay Senador Panfilo Lacson.

Para sa senador, makakatulong ito sa pagpuksa sa korupsyon dahil mahihirapan na ang mga opisyal at empleyado ng gobyerno na itago ang kanilang nakaw na yaman.

“Whether janitor or clerk, all the way up to the President, kailangan di ka protektahan ng Bank Secrecy Act,” ani Lacson sa kanyang panayam sa One News nitong Huwebes.

Statements, TV October 7, 2021May 31, 2022

Lacson: Bank Secrecy Law Protection Should Exclude All Gov’t Officials

All public servants – from the clerk all the way to the President – must be excluded from the “protection” of the Bank Secrecy Act, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson said Thursday.

Lacson said this will help curb corruption as government officials and employees who enrich themselves while in office will have a harder time hiding their ill-gotten gain.

“Whether janitor or clerk, all the way up to the President, kailangan di ka protektahan ng Bank Secrecy Act (Whether you are a janitor or clerk, all the way up to the President, you should not be protected by the Bank Secrecy Act),” he said in an interview on One News.

Statements, TV October 7, 2021May 31, 2022

Pantay na Oportunidad sa Gobyerno para sa Kababaihan, Siniguro ni Ping

Siniguro ni Senador Panfilo Lacson na makakakuha na pantay na oportunidad ang mga kababaihan sa paghawak ng mga importanteng posisyon sa gobyerno kapag nahalal siyang Pangulo ng bansa.

Ayon kay Lacson, marami nang babae ngayon ang naging matagumpay sa kanilang pamumuno, kasama na rito si German Chancellor Angela Merkel at New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.

“Napakaraming magagaling na women leaders hindi lang sa ating bansa kundi sa buong mundo rin,” ani Lacson sa kanyang panayaman sa One News nitong Huwebes.

Statements, TV October 7, 2021May 31, 2022

Lacson Leadership Guarantees Equity for Women

Women will get much better opportunities to hold key posts in government, as gender equality will be one of the highlights of a Lacson presidency.

Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson stressed this Thursday as he noted women have excelled as leaders such as German Chancellor Angela Merkel and New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.

“Napakaraming magagaling na women leaders hindi lang sa ating bansa kundi sa buong mundo rin (There are so many great women leaders not just here but around the world),” he said in an interview on One News.

Statements, TV September 9, 2021September 9, 2021

Ping: Pagtugon ng Pamahalaan sa Delta Variant Pinalubha ng Korapsyon

Hindi na nga sapat ay lalo pang pinalupaypay ng korapsyon ang pagtugon ng gobyerno sa lumalalang pananalasa ng Delta variant ng COVID-19.

Ito ang nagdadalamhating pahayag ni Senador Panfilo Lacson sa kasalukuyang estado ng mga hakbang ng pamahalaan sa paglaban sa pandemya kasabay ng pagsasalarawan na nakakapanlumo, nakakadismaya at nakakagigil ang mga nalalantad sa imbestigasyon ng Senado sa mga iregularidad sa pagbili ng mga gamit sa paglaban sa COVID-19.

Isiniwalat ni Lacson sa panayam sa kanya ng ANC na kabilang sa mga iregularidad na ito ay ang nabigong pagtatangka ni dating Department of Budget and Management Procurement Service head Christopher Lao para i-reclassify bilang “confidential” sa ilang mga empleyado ng ahensya.

“While the Delta variant is to be blamed, ang ma-blame mo rin government response. We’re not responding accordingly sa prevailing situation. To make matters worse, may corruption involved. Naroon ang problema,” ayon kay Lacson.

Continue reading “Ping: Pagtugon ng Pamahalaan sa Delta Variant Pinalubha ng Korapsyon” →

Statements, TV September 9, 2021September 9, 2021

Lacson: Corruption Worsening Government Response to Delta Variant

Corruption is weighing down the government’s already insufficient response to the heightened threat from COVID-19 due to the Delta variant of the coronavirus, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson lamented Thursday.

Lacson described as “disheartening, frustrating and revolting” the signs of corruption that have emerged so far in the Senate’s investigation into irregularities in the procurement of medical supplies to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.

These irregularities range from the failed attempt of former Department of Budget and Management Procurement Service head Christopher Lao to reclassify some employees as “confidential” to the Food and Drug Administration’s changing the rules on procurement, Lacson said in an interview on ANC.

“While the Delta variant is to be blamed, ang ma-blame mo rin government response. We’re not responding accordingly sa prevailing situation. To make matters worse, may corruption involved. Naroon ang problema (While the Delta variant is to be blamed for our situation now, government response is not free from blame because we’re not responding accordingly to the prevailing situation. To make matters worse, there is corruption involved. There lies the problem),” he said.

Continue reading “Lacson: Corruption Worsening Government Response to Delta Variant” →

Radio, Statements, TV August 10, 2021August 10, 2021

Ping Nabahala sa Pagkumpirma ng PNP Chief sa ‘Data-Gathering’

Nakakabahala.

Ito ang naging paglalarawan ni Senador Panfilo Lacson sa pag-amin ni Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Guillermo Eleazar sa nagaganap na data-gathering activities sa ilang mga barangay sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng bansa.

Bagama’t una na ito pinabulaanan ng PNP, tuloy-tuloy pa rin ang nabanggit na aktibidad, batay sa huling impormasyong nakakarating kay Lacson na namuno sa ahensiya mula 1999 hanggang 2001.

“The Chief PNP’s admission that such data-gathering activities are going on (and still going on, as per latest information received) is alarming. Being their former chief, I cannot allow the PNP to engage in partisan politics and be ‘bastardized’, worse – using public funds,” banggit ni Lacson sa kanyang Twitter account.

Read in ENGLISH: Lacson Alarmed over PNP Chief’s Admission of ‘Data-Gathering’ Activities
Continue reading “Ping Nabahala sa Pagkumpirma ng PNP Chief sa ‘Data-Gathering’” →

Radio, Statements, TV August 10, 2021August 10, 2021

Lacson Alarmed over PNP Chief’s Admission of ‘Data-Gathering’ Activities

Alarming.

This was how Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson described on Tuesday the admission by Philippine National Police chief Guillermo Eleazar that there are “data-gathering” activities in several barangays nationwide.

Citing the latest information reaching him, Lacson – who headed the PNP from 1999 to 2001 – also said such activities are still ongoing, amid the PNP’s initial denial.

Basahin sa TAGALOG: Ping Nabahala sa Pagkumpirma ng PNP Chief sa ‘Data-Gathering’
Continue reading “Lacson Alarmed over PNP Chief’s Admission of ‘Data-Gathering’ Activities” →

Statements, TV August 5, 2021August 5, 2021

Korapsiyon, Labis na Paghihigpit, at Pagiging Benggador, Bawal sa Lacson Presidency

Walang korapsiyon, walang hindi makatuwirang paghihigpit sa pribadong sektor, at walang paghihiganti sa mga umapi at sumira sa kanyang pagkatao.

Ito ang tiniyak nitong Huwebes ni Senador Panfilo Lacson na maaasahan ng mga Pilipino sa ilalim ng kanyang pamumuno.

“I’ll be unforgiving especially on acts of corruption. It’s a crime against the Filipino people. We have so many tax measures yet we see people stealing from government coffers. That should not be forgiven,” banggit ni Lacson na naglantad sa Senado ng iba’t ibang mukha ng katiwalian sa pamahalaan, sa panayam ng ANC.

Read in ENGLISH: Corruption, Overregulation, Vindictiveness: Three Big NOs under Lacson Presidency
Continue reading “Korapsiyon, Labis na Paghihigpit, at Pagiging Benggador, Bawal sa Lacson Presidency” →

Statements, TV August 5, 2021August 5, 2021

Corruption, Overregulation, Vindictiveness: Three Big NOs under Lacson Presidency

No corruption, no overregulation, no vindictiveness. These are three of the things Filipinos can expect from a Lacson presidency in 2022.

Sen. Panfilo Lacson stressed this Thursday as he detailed various aspects of good governance – including the business climate and the anti-drug war – under his watch.

“I’ll be unforgiving especially on acts of corruption. It’s a crime against the Filipino people. We have so many tax measures yet we see people stealing from government coffers. That should not be forgiven,” Lacson, who has exposed cases of corruption in the Senate, said in an interview on ANC.

Basahin sa TAGALOG: Korapsiyon, Labis na Paghihigpit, at Pagiging Benggador, Bawal sa Lacson Presidency
Continue reading “Corruption, Overregulation, Vindictiveness: Three Big NOs under Lacson Presidency” →

Statements, TV July 27, 2021July 27, 2021

Ping: Hidilyn Diaz, Dapat Nang Maging Commissioned Officer ng AFP

Dapat maging ganap na commissioned officer ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) si Tokyo Olympics Gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz dahil sa pambihirang karangalan na inialay ng atleta sa bansa.

Ito ang mungkahi ni Senador Panfilo Lacson sa liderato ng Philippine Air Force (PAF), kung papayagan ng batas at regulasyon ng AFP.

“As chairman of the Senate Committee on National Defense and Security, I would strongly recommend to the AFP leadership that she be given a rank as a commissioned officer of the PAF. It’s the least the service can give her,” banggit ni Lacson sa panayam sa CNN Philippines.

“Such a commission – either as a reserve or regular officer – is not just in recognition of her extraordinary feat, but also in recognition of her great potential to provide a good example to her fellow soldiers both as an athlete and as a leader,” dagdag ng mambabatas.

Statements, TV July 27, 2021July 27, 2021

Lacson: Hidilyn Diaz Deserves to be Commissioned as AFP Officer for Olympic Feat

For bringing honor and inspiration to her country and people, Philippine Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz deserves to be commissioned as an officer of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

On this note, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson suggested Tuesday to the Philippine Air Force (PAF) leadership that Diaz, a sergeant, be given such a commission, subject to existing laws and AFP regulations.

Statements, TV June 14, 2021June 14, 2021

Ping: Vaccine Passport sa Kaluwagan ng mga Umuuwing OFW, Dayuhang Negosyante

Hindi na dapat pang maabala ang paggalaw ng mga umuuwing overseas Filipino workers (OFW) at mga dayuhang mangangalakal na ganap nang bakunado sa mga bansang pinanggalingan kaya dapat na magkaroon ng vaccine passport.

Ito ang rekomendasyon ni Senador Panfilo Lacson matapos ang samu’t saring reklamo ng mga pumapasok sa bansa bunga ng napakahigpit pa ring protocol na ipinapatupad ng mga awtoridad kahit pa sa mga kumpleto na ang bakuna laban sa COVID-19 sa mga bansang pinagmulan.

Ayon kay Lacson, dahil sa mga polisiyang ito ay nagdadalawang-isip na umuwi ang maraming OFW kahit pa napakahalaga ang pakay nila, bunga na rin ng matagal na pagkakatengga bago makarating sa patutunguhan batay sa umiiral na protocols.

“For our returning OFWs, at most, we might require them to take a swab test then allow them to go home, then require them to stay at home for 10 days. No need to require them to stay at a hotel. Most of the time, OFWs return to the country because of an emergency. But if you are an OFW and you are required to be quarantined for 10 days, how many days of your leave will go to waste? I don’t think that makes sense,” banggit ni Lacson sa panayam ng ANC.

Statements, TV June 14, 2021June 14, 2021

Lacson Pushes Vaccine Passport Prioritizing OFWs, Foreign Investors

Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson batted Monday for a vaccine passport system that will make traveling to the Philippines easier for vaccinated people, especially for returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and foreign investors.

Lacson said many returning OFWs and foreign investors are reluctant to come to the Philippines because of tight protocols, especially those that may require them to spend more than a week in a quarantine facility not necessarily of their choice.

“Also, our tourism sector and investment will suffer. If a potential investor who would like to come here learns of the requirements that include a swab test and stay at a quarantine facility not of his or her choice, would he or she still come?” he added.

Statements, TV June 12, 2021June 12, 2021

Ping, May 2 Rekomendasyon sa Matagumpay na Pagbabakuna

Mas masigasig pang hakbang ng mga vaccination czar at pagbibigay kalayaan sa mga nangangasiwa at nagpapatupad ng pagbabakuna na gumamit ng epektibong sistema ang susi para maging matagumpay ang misyon ng pamahalaan na herd immunity laban sa COVID-19.

Isiniwalat ito ni Senador Panfilo Lacson bilang payo sa mga awtoridad matapos ang pinakahuling pagpupulong sa pagitan ng ilang senador na kinabibilangan niya, Senate President Vicente Sotto III at Senador Ronald Dela Rosa; at ni testing czar Vivencio Dizon at contact tracing czar Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong.

“We advised them to be more assertive. Senate President Sotto even said that if they are sure they are right and their ‘superiors’ are wrong, they can ‘defy’ them. Also, it is the people on the ground such as mayors who can appreciate the situation better. So it is important that they be given flexibility and more autonomy in the implementation of the vaccination program,” banggit ni Lacson sa panayam sa kanya ng CNN Philippines.

Isiniwalat din ni Lacson na magdadaos ang Senado ng Committee of the Whole hearing sa Martes, Hunyo 15, alas-10 ng umaga, bilang bahagi ng oversight function nito para alamin kung paano ginamit ng pamahalaan ang P82.5 bilyon na inilaan sa programa sa pagbabakuna, at mga kaakibat na paraan at sistema.

Statements, TV June 12, 2021June 12, 2021

Lacson: Flexibility, More Practical Regulations Key to Success of Vaccination Drive

More assertiveness from the country’s vaccination czars and more flexibility for implementers and decision-makers on the ground will be crucial to the success of the government’s efforts to accelerate its COVID-19 vaccination drive and achieve herd immunity quickly, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson said.

Lacson stressed this following a meeting Thursday night between him, Senate President Vicente Sotto III and Sen. Ronald dela Rosa on one hand, and testing czar Vivencio Dizon and contact tracing czar Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong on the other.

He also said the Senate will conduct a Committee of the Whole hearing on Tuesday, June 15, to exercise its oversight function on the government’s utilization of its P82.5-billion for the vaccination program and to evaluate the protocols and guidelines used by the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases. The hearing is initially scheduled at 10 a.m.

Statements, TV May 11, 2021May 11, 2021

Ping: Malaking Problema Kung Biro at Pagsiseryoso ng Pangulo, ‘di na Matukoy

Hindi nakakatuwa ang “pagbibiro” ng Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte para sa mamamayang Pilipino, lalo na sa mahalagang isyu tulad ng teritoryo natin sa West Philippine Sea.

Ito ang naging tugon ni Senador Panfilo Lacson sa pagsasalita ng Pangulo sa publiko nitong Lunes ng gabi, kung saan ay sinabi nitong nagbibiro lamang siya nang sabihin noong 2016 na siya ay magdi-jetski patungo sa Spratlys.

“It’s very hard to read his mind. He may be sending mixed signals such that we don’t know if he’s serious or joking. His spokesperson would say he is joking, but there are times he seems serious in his statements. We don’t know anymore. We have a very big problem in our hands,” banggit ni Lacson sa panayam ng ANC.

Statements, TV May 11, 2021May 11, 2021

Lacson: President’s ‘Joking’ Statements No Laughing Matter

What President Rodrigo Duterte may consider a “joke” could be no laughing matter for Filipinos especially when it involves key issues like our territory in the West Philippine Sea, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson said Tuesday.

Lacson said this after the President said Monday night that he was only joking when he said during the 2016 campaign that he would ride a jet ski to the Spratlys.

“When he addresses the nation, we don’t know when he is joking or serious. Is it up to us to understand which is which? It’s really hard for Filipinos,” he added.

Statements, TV May 10, 2021May 10, 2021

Ping: Tantanan Muna Katiwalian, Bangayan Kahit Ngayong Pandemya Lang

Bunga ng kinakaharap na ga-bundok na problema ng bansa na lumala pa dahil sa pandemya, nananawagan si Senador Panfilo Lacson ng kahit na pansamantalang pagkalma sa katiwalian sa pamahalaan at bangayan ng nagbabanggaang grupong pulitikal.

Ayon sa mambabatas, hindi pa malinaw ang hinaharap at kinakailangan na isipin ng lahat na Pilipino ang kapakanan ng bayan at kalimutan na muna, lalo na ng mga mapagsamantala, ang pagpapalago ng sariling bulsa.

Una nang pumasok ang mga impormasyon sa tanggapan ng mambabatas hinggil sa korapsiyon sa pagbili at suplay ng testing kits at mga makina, face masks, face shields, personal protective equipment (PPE) at mga kahalintulad na kagamitan sa pagtukoy at proteksiyon laban sa COVID-19.

Statements, TV May 10, 2021May 10, 2021

Lacson to Corrupt, Bickering: Think of National Interest, Give Us a Break!

With the myriad of problems the country is facing made worse by the pandemic, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson on Monday called for a much-needed and long-overdue break from corruption and bickering.

Lacson said no one – especially those who continue to engage in corruption to profit from the pandemic – should be exempted from putting national interest above personal aggrandizement.

“All of us Filipinos should think of the national interest and unite to promote it. Those Filipinos engaging in corruption now, especially those wanting to make dishonest money from COVID, are not exempt from this,” Lacson said as he cited information reaching him involving corruption in the procurement and supply of testing kits and machines, face masks, face shields, personal protective equipment (PPE) and similar items.

“Can they at least forget about their greed during the pandemic? I am not saying they can resume their corrupt ways once the pandemic is over, but especially during this period when we face so many problems, they should pause if they cannot stop,” he added in an interview on Eagle News.

Statements, TV April 20, 2021April 20, 2021

Ping, May Payo sa Commander-in-Chief sa Sigalot sa WPS

Chinese vessels at Julian Felipe Reef. Image Courtesy: AP

Hindi nararapat para sa Commander-in-Chief na maglabas ng mensaheng magbubunsod ng interpretasyon na tila sumusuko na ang pamahalaan sa pakikipaglaban sa Tsina para maangkin ang bahagi ng West Philippine Sea.

Ito ang naging tugon ni Senador Panfilo Lacson, Chairman ng Senate Committee on National Defense, makaraang ihayag ng Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte na maaring mauwi sa madugong sagupaan ang situwasyon kapag pinilit ng Pilipinas na igiit ang pang-angkin nito sa mga lugar.

“He’s the leader of our country and he’s the commander-in-chief of our armed forces. He can think of anything and speak about anything except surrender. Remember, we have an arbitral ruling in our favor and it’s permanent although it’s unenforceable. There are so many things to think about except surrender. We cannot wave the white flag, so to speak,” banggit ni Lacson sa panayam ng CNN Philippines.

Ayon kay Lacson, posibleng malagay sa alanganin ang kasarinlan ng Pilipinas kapag hindi ito nasolusyunan.

“I am not saying the President is actually raising the white flag but that’s the implication. If the officers and men of the AFP would take it that way, it could be disastrous to Philippine sovereignty,” dagdag ni Lacson.

Statements, TV April 20, 2021April 20, 2021

Lacson: Commander-in-Chief Cannot ‘Surrender’ on WPS Issue

The Philippines’ Commander-in-Chief cannot afford to send the wrong message – especially implied surrender or resignation – on our territorial disputes with China in the West Philippine Sea, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson said Tuesday.

Lacson said this after President Rodrigo Duterte said Monday night that the Philippines may risk bloodshed and a no-win situation if it asserts its jurisdiction.

Statements, TV, Videos March 19, 2021March 19, 2021

Lacson: Lockdowns to Help Curb Spike in COVID Cases Should be Time-Bound

While suggestions for stricter lockdowns to curb the continuing increase in COVID cases may make sense at this time, such lockdowns should be time-bound to protect a still-battered economy, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson said Friday.

Lacson said an enhanced community quarantine (ECQ)-type lockdown whose length is “open-ended” can threaten to kill the economy that has yet to recover from a similar measure last year.

“I would support a time-bound ECQ-type lockdown but only in areas with an unusually high number of COVID infections, so as not to further punish an already suffering economy. For now, these may include identified areas in Metro Manila, Calabarzon and Central Visayas as the daily records would indicate,” Lacson said.

The time-bound nature will allow the business sector to “plan in advance their way forward and make adjustments in their business activities like production, marketing and the like,” he added.

Continue reading “Lacson: Lockdowns to Help Curb Spike in COVID Cases Should be Time-Bound” →

Statements, TV, Videos March 12, 2021March 12, 2021

Lacson: Without Acceleration of COVID Vaccination, No Herd Immunity till 2033

*Image Courtesy: National Task Force Against COVID-19 Facebook page*

Unless the government accelerates the pace of its COVID vaccination efforts, herd immunity may have to wait until about 2033, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson stressed Friday.

Lacson also said there is still much room for improvement in the government’s response to the pandemic, a year after it imposed community quarantine in Metro Manila to stop the spread of COVID.

“Unless we accelerate the pace of vaccination, medyo matatagalan tayo. As of March 10, 114,615 had been vaccinated. At the rate of about 4,000 a day, assuming that the vaccination is not accelerated and assuming we will have the vaccines for the 70-million targeted population for herd immunity, we might not achieve herd immunity until 2033 at the rate we’re doing it now. But if we accelerate and I hope the government would accelerate the vaccination rollout, then maybe we can advance the timetable,” he said in an interview on CNN Philippines.

Continue reading “Lacson: Without Acceleration of COVID Vaccination, No Herd Immunity till 2033” →

Statements, TV January 25, 2021January 25, 2021

Ping: Pagpapawalambisa sa UP-DND Accord, Puwede Ipagpaliban

May mga pangyayari na puwedeng pagbatayan para ipagpaliban muna ang pagpapawalambisa sa 1989 UP-DND Accord.

Ayon kay Senador Panfilo Lacson, ang listahan ng mga estudyante ng University of the Philippines na diumano’y naging miyembro ng New People’s Army (NPA) at napatay sa pakikipagsagupaan sa militar ay isa sa mga pangyayaring dapat na tingnan.

“I think it is prudent now for Secretary Delfin Lorenzana to at least suspend the termination of the UP-DND accord and hold a dialogue as he already mentioned he would do,” paliwanag ni Lacson, chairman ng Senate Committee on National Defense and Security, sa panayam ng CNN Philippines.

Ayon sa mambabatas, lumalabas na base sa maling impormasyon ang naging basehan ng DND para i-terminate ang kasunduan, dahil ang mga nasa listahan nila na diumano’y nahuli o napatay ay buhay at malaya pa pala.

“They based their decision to terminate the UP-DND accord, signed way back, on what appears now to be false information. They included personalities that they said were captured or killed in action by the military, but turned out to be alive and not captured at all,” banggit ni Lacson.

Statements, TV January 25, 2021January 25, 2021

Lacson: Prudent to Suspend UP-DND Accord Termination

Recent developments involving decisions based on “false” information may merit at least a suspension of the Department of National Defense’s decision to end its agreement with the University of the Philippines, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson said Monday.

Lacson said this after DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana apologized for an “unpardonable gaffe” involving the military’s list of UP students supposedly recruited by the New People’s Army and killed or captured in clashes.

“I think it is prudent now for Secretary Delfin Lorenzana to at least suspend the termination of the UP-DND accord and hold a dialogue as he already mentioned he would do,” Lacson, who chairs the Senate Committee on National Defense and Security, said in an interview on CNN Philippines.

Statements, TV January 19, 2021January 19, 2021

Ping: Isyu sa Sinovac, Sana Naturuan ang Vaccine Officials na Maging Matapat

Sana naging instrumento ang kontrobersya sa Sinovac para matuto ng seryosong aral sa katapatan at walang ikinukubling transaksyon ang mga opisyales na nangangasiwa sa bakuna laban sa COVID-19.

Binigyang diin ito ni Senador Panfilo Lacson, kasabay ng pagsasabing hindi sana natuon sa Sinovac ang atensiyon ng Senado kung hindi nagpatumpik-tumpik ang mga opisyal.

“If they had been more forthright and honest in their responses in our first hearing, hindi mafo-focus sa Sinovac,” banggit ni Lacson sa panayam sa ANC.

Ayon pa sa mambabatas, palagiang handa ang dalawang kapulungan ng Kongreso na makipagtulungan sa ehekutibo kaya nararapat lamang na malaman din nila kung paano ginugugol ang mga pondong kanilang inaaprubahan.

“When the Senate hearings raised more questions than answers about Sinovac, our officials were both tongue-tied and stuttering, leaving us with a string of flip-flopping pronouncements,” bahagi ng privilege speech ni Lacson nitong Lunes.

Statements, TV January 19, 2021January 19, 2021

Lacson Hopes Vaccine Officials Learned Hard Lesson on Transparency

While there is still a long way to go as far as the government’s vaccination efforts are concerned, the controversy involving COVID-19 vaccines from Sinovac should be a hard lesson on honesty and transparency for officials in the program, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson said Tuesday.

Lacson said that had the officials been forthright about the conditions of negotiations with Sinovac early on, there would have been no speculations or suspicions about the matter.

“If they had been more forthright and honest in their responses in our first hearing, hindi mafo-focus sa Sinovac,” he said in an interview on ANC, stressing that while Congress – the Senate and House of Representatives – are willing partners of the executive department, in return, lawmakers “need to be informed also what happened to the appropriations we gave you.”

Statements, TV January 19, 2021January 19, 2021

Ping: Panibagong ‘Pact’ sa UP at Security Sector, Dapat Buuin

Kailangan na magkaroon ng panibagong kasunduan ang University of The Philippines (UP) at security sector bunga ng pagkakapawalambisa sa kasunduan noong 1989 na nagbabawal sa pagpasok ng pulis at militar sa unibersidad nang walang coordination.

Ayon kay Senador Panfilo Lacson, chairman ng Senate Committee on National Defense, kailangang mapapanatili ang academic freedom sa loob ng “State U.”

“Once the pact is terminated, what will the security sector do? We don’t know that yet. Probably they could come to an agreement that there are boundaries to be observed,” banggit ni Lacson sa panayam ng ANC.

Statements, TV January 19, 2021January 19, 2021

Lacson: Boundaries Should be Observed after Ending of 1989 UP Pact

With the termination of a 1989 pact banning the entry of police and military forces without prior coordination, the security sector should come up with an agreement with the University of the Philippines on boundaries to be observed, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson said Tuesday.

Lacson, who chairs the Senate Committee on National Defense, said this is to prevent the move from negatively affecting the culture of academic freedom in the state university.

“Once the pact is terminated, what will the security sector do? We don’t know that yet. Probably they could come to an agreement that there are boundaries to be observed,” Lacson said in an interview on ANC.

In the News, TV December 14, 2020December 14, 2020

#PINGterview: Enough Funds for COVID Vaccines in 2021 Budget

In an interview on CNN Philippines, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
* funds for COVID-19 vaccines in the 2021 budget
* more agencies with cuts in the 2021 budget

MORE DETAILS:
Continue reading “#PINGterview: Enough Funds for COVID Vaccines in 2021 Budget” →

In the News, Statements, TV, Videos October 22, 2020October 22, 2020

#PINGterview: ‘Uniform’ Appropriations for Several Districts Spotted in DPWH’s 2021 Budget

In an interview on ABS-CBN News Channel, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
* P1-M ‘uniform’ appropriations for at least 42 congressional districts in DPWH’s 2021 budget
* need to prioritize vaccines, R&D in 2021 budget

QUOTES and NOTES:
Continue reading “#PINGterview: ‘Uniform’ Appropriations for Several Districts Spotted in DPWH’s 2021 Budget” →

In the News, Statements, TV, Videos October 20, 2020October 20, 2020

#PINGterview: Updates on the 2021 Budget, Anti-Terror Law IRR

In an interview on CNN Philippines, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
* ‘violations’ by the House in passing the P4.5-trillion 2021 budget bill
* possible institutional amendments for R&D, COVID vaccines
* implementing rules and regulations of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020

QUOTES and NOTES:
Continue reading “#PINGterview: Updates on the 2021 Budget, Anti-Terror Law IRR” →

Statements, TV, Videos October 9, 2020October 9, 2020

On the President’s ‘Option’ to Take a Direct Hand in Resolving the Budget Impasse

It is the President’s option to do whatever is necessary, even taking a “direct” hand in resolving the Speakership issue, with the timely passage of the 2021 national budget as his only consideration. After all, anything that has to do with national interest should involve the President.

This is one credit I would give to the President. As the leader of the coalition of political parties in the House of Representatives, I don’t think there is impropriety if he steps in to resolve the impasse between conflicting groups that are both his allies anyway. A few calls to the leaders of those coalitions can simplify matters.

Having said that, how can the Senate accept a printed copy of an unapproved House version of the budget bill, as proposed by Speaker Cayetano? We can only file a committee report once the General Appropriations Bill is transmitted to us after it has been approved on third and final reading. Why do they have to wait for Nov. 16 to approve the budget on third and final reading? I can’t understand any of this.

Our priority in the Senate remains the same – to pass on time a national budget that will allow us to deal with the effects of the pandemic. This includes scrutinizing the budget bill to make sure huge sums are not lost to incompetence or greed.

*****

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV October 4, 2020October 4, 2020

#PINGterview: Sec. Duque, ‘Di Pa Lusot sa PhilHealth Mess; DPWH Lump Sums, Pondohan ang Universal Health Care?

In an interview on DZBB/GNTV, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
* options on further actions regarding anomalies at PhilHealth
* possible use of questionable sums in DPWH budget to address budget shortage for health care in 2021

QUOTES and NOTES:
Continue reading “#PINGterview: Sec. Duque, ‘Di Pa Lusot sa PhilHealth Mess; DPWH Lump Sums, Pondohan ang Universal Health Care?” →

In the News, Statements, TV September 11, 2020September 14, 2020

#PINGterview: ‘Haggling’ in DPWH’s Budget for 2021?

In an interview on ANC, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
* items in the proposed budget for 2021
* PhilHealth anomalies
* appointment of Cezar Mancao II to DICT

QUOTES and NOTES:
Continue reading “#PINGterview: ‘Haggling’ in DPWH’s Budget for 2021?” →

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV August 28, 2020August 28, 2020

#PINGterview: Paano Maibabalik ang Ninakaw na Pondo ng PhilHealth?

In an interview on DZAR, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
* Speeding up of the IRR for the Anti-Terrorism Law
* How PhilHealth members can get back the money they lost to corruption

QUOTES and NOTES:
Continue reading “#PINGterview: Paano Maibabalik ang Ninakaw na Pondo ng PhilHealth?” →

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV August 23, 2020August 23, 2020

#PINGterview: Mga Pwede Kasuhan sa PhilHealth, Tukoy Na

In an interview on DZBB/GNTV, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
* charges that may be filed vs accountable PhilHealth execs
* who is the PhilHealth mafia
* remedial legislation
* cooperation of task force led by DOJ

QUOTES and NOTES:
Continue reading “#PINGterview: Mga Pwede Kasuhan sa PhilHealth, Tukoy Na” →

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