Tag: DZBB

Hearings/Investigations, Radio, Statements

Tanong ni Ping: Halos P12B Kontrata ng Medical Supplies, Paano Nasungkit ng Pharmally?

Paano nangyaring ang Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corp., na may kapital na lagpas lang ng bahagya sa P600,000, ay nakopo ang halos P12 bilyong kontrata sa pamahalaan para sa medical supplies sa pagtugon sa pandemya ng Covid-19?

Ito ang nagtatakang tanong ni Senador Panfilo Lacson sa pagpapatuloy ng pagdinig ng Senate Blue Ribbon Committee sa nabanggit na kontrobersya, na pumutok matapos lumabas ang ulat ng Commission on Audit (COA).

Ayon kay Lacson, ang nabanggit na halaga ay bahagi ng P42 bilyon na na inilipat ng Department of Health (DOH) sa Department of Budget and Management Procurement Service (PS-DBM) para ibili ng mga kagamitan sa pagtugon sa Covid-19.

Dahil dito, inatasan ng mambabatas si Pharmally chairman Huang Tzu Yen at director na si Linconn Ong na isumite sa komite ang official records na nagsasaad ng mga kontratang nakuha ng kumpanya pati na rin ang mga kaakibat na halaga.

“Just make sure you base your figures on official records,” paalala ni Lacson, matapos na isiwalat ni Ong na batay sa kanilang “records” ay nakakuha ang Pharmally ng P11 bilyon.

Read in ENGLISH: Lacson: How Did Pharmally Corner Almost P12B in Contracts for Medical Supplies?
Continue reading “Tanong ni Ping: Halos P12B Kontrata ng Medical Supplies, Paano Nasungkit ng Pharmally?” →

Hearings/Investigations, Radio, Statements

Lacson: How Did Pharmally Corner Almost P12B in Contracts for Medical Supplies?

Despite starting up with a little over P600,000, how did Pharmally Pharmaceuticals Corp. corner nearly P12 billion in contracts from the government for medical supplies to address the COVID-19 pandemic?

Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson asked this Monday as he noted the amount is a huge chunk of the P42 billion that the Department of Health transferred to the Department of Budget and Management’s Procurement Service (PS-DBM) to procure the items.

He told Pharmally chairman Huang Tzu Yen and director Linconn Ong to submit to the committee official records showing how many contracts Pharmally bagged, and how much were involved.

“Just make sure you base your figures on official records,” he said, even as Ong cited “records” showing Pharmally may have gotten some P11 billion.

Basahin sa TAGALOG: Tanong ni Ping: Halos P12B Kontrata ng Medical Supplies, Paano Nasungkit ng Pharmally?
Continue reading “Lacson: How Did Pharmally Corner Almost P12B in Contracts for Medical Supplies?” →

Radio, Statements, TV

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

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.

“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,” Lacson said on his Twitter account.

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” →

Radio, Statements

Trillions and counting: The mountain of debt next president has to climb [Inquirer]

From the Inquirer: As the country moves closer to the 2022 general elections, while the replacement of President Rodrigo Duterte is uncertain, there’s one thing definite about what the next president would face—a mountain of debt.

Continue reading “Trillions and counting: The mountain of debt next president has to climb [Inquirer]” →

Radio, Statements

Ping, May Mungkahing Solusyon sa Chinese Vessels sa WPS

Dahil hindi na nakakagulat ang muling pagkumpulan ng mga Chinese maritime militia vessel sa bahagi ng West Philippine Sea, dapat nang mag-isip ng kagyat at epektibong paraan ang mga awtoridad upang maitaboy ang mga ito, ayon kay Senador Panfilo Lacson.

Isa sa mga hakbang na nakikita ni Lacson bilang solusyon ay ang paggamit ng parliamentary-to-parliamentary channels o pag-uusap ng mga Kongreso ng mga bansang magkakaalyado, upang matiyak ang balance of power sa rehiyon.

“We are not really surprised. In a way, we even anticipated the return of the Chinese vessels because the vessels that were in the area earlier were most likely just surveying. Their job was to scout the land and not yet occupy. Ngayon nagbalikan na,” pahayag ni Lacson, chairman ng Senate committee on national defense, sa panayam ng DZBB.

Related: Lacson: ‘Return’ of Chinese Maritime Militia Vessels in WPS an Urgent Wake-Up Call
Continue reading “Ping, May Mungkahing Solusyon sa Chinese Vessels sa WPS” →

Radio, Statements

Lacson: ‘Return’ of Chinese Maritime Militia Vessels in WPS an Urgent Wake-Up Call

The reported “return” of Chinese maritime militia vessels in the West Philippine Sea should be an urgent wake-up call for Filipinos to unite and come up with one strong stand on the issue, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson stressed Thursday.

Lacson also said it is time to explore further possibilities, including using parliamentary-to-parliamentary channels, to ensure a balance of power in the region.

“We are not really surprised. In a way, we even anticipated the return of the Chinese vessels because the vessels that were in the area earlier were most likely just surveying. Their job was to scout the land and not yet occupy. Ngayon nagbalikan na (Now they’re back),” he said in an interview on DZBB radio.

Related: Ping, May Mungkahing Solusyon sa Chinese Vessels sa WPS
Continue reading “Lacson: ‘Return’ of Chinese Maritime Militia Vessels in WPS an Urgent Wake-Up Call” →

Radio, Statements

Ping: Mga Naagrabyado sa Talamak na Katiwalian sa DA, Maaring Mahikayat ng NPA

Hindi lamang ang kasiguruhan ng bansa sa pagkain ang nanganganib sa walang habas na katiwalian sa Department of Agriculture (DA) kundi pati na rin ang pambansang seguridad.

Ito ang nakikita ni Senador Panfilo Lacson matapos na mabunyag ang mga gawain tulad ng pagpupuslit papasok sa bansa ng mga pagkain at iba pang produktong agrikultura sa kabila ng produksiyon ng mga ito buhat sa mga lokal na magsasaka.

“There is nothing more basic than food, especially in a pandemic. If corruption infects the Department of Agriculture that should be at the forefront of food security efforts, it goes beyond human conscience. Wala na. Saan pa tayo pupulutin kung ang mga walang kaluluwa walang konsensya pati pagkain ng ordinaryong Pilipino di papatawarin?” mariing pahayag ni Lacson sa panayam sa kanya ng DZBB radio.

“May kumita na sa PPE, may kumita kung saan-saan, may kumita sa smuggling. Pati ba naman itong pagkain sa hapag-kainan, titirahin pa rin?” dismayadong pahayag ng senador.

Related: Lacson Warns: Corruption at DA Threatens Food Security, National Security
Continue reading “Ping: Mga Naagrabyado sa Talamak na Katiwalian sa DA, Maaring Mahikayat ng NPA” →

Radio, Statements

Lacson Warns: Corruption at DA Threatens Food Security, National Security

Mga walang kaluluwa, walang konsensya!

Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson thus scored on Sunday those behind the corruption at the Department of Agriculture, who he said threaten not just the country’s food security but also national security.

“There is nothing more basic than food, especially in a pandemic. If corruption infects the Department of Agriculture that should be at the forefront of food security efforts, it goes beyond human conscience. Wala na. Saan pa tayo pupulutin kung ang mga walang kaluluwa walang konsensya pati pagkain ng ordinaryong Pilipino di papatawarin?” Lacson said in an interview on DZBB radio.

“May kumita na sa PPE, may kumita kung saan-saan, may kumita sa smuggling. Pati ba naman itong pagkain sa hapag-kainan, titirahin pa rin?” he added.

Related: Ping: Mga Naagrabyado sa Talamak na Katiwalian sa DA, Maaring Mahikayat ng NPA
Continue reading “Lacson Warns: Corruption at DA Threatens Food Security, National Security” →

Radio, Statements

Ping: Maaring Desperado na Mga Tao Kaya Nabuo ang Community Pantry
Image Courtesy: CNN Philippines

Senyales ng pagiging desperado na ng mamamayan bunga ng kawalan ng tulong mula sa pamahalaan sa panahon ng pandemya ang paglutang ng mga community pantry sa ilang lugar sa Metro Manila.

Ayon kay Senador Panfilo Lacson, bagama’t isang magandang gawain at ehemplo ng pagtutulungan at pagkakaisa ng mamamayan ang community pantry, sa kabilang banda ay makikita rin ang desperasyon ng mga tao dahil hindi na nila maasahan sa tulong ang pamahalaan.

“It is good that through the community pantries, we see mutual aid by neighbors and barangay residents. But this is also a sign of desperation, that people can no longer rely on government to help them,” pagsiwalat ng mambabatas sa panayam sa kanya ng DZBB radio.

Kasabay nito ay nagpaalala rin ang mambabatas sa mga nagtutungo sa mga nabanggit na lugar.

“That said, those involved in community pantries must also remember to follow the proper health protocols to make sure they do not get infected,” dagdag ni Lacson.

Related: Lacson: Community Pantries Welcome, But May Signal ‘Desperation’ Amid Continued COVID Crisis
Continue reading “Ping: Maaring Desperado na Mga Tao Kaya Nabuo ang Community Pantry” →

Radio, Statements

Lacson: Community Pantries Welcome; Signal ‘Desperation’ Amid Continued COVID Crisis
Image Courtesy: CNN Philippines

While they are a welcome development, the makeshift community pantries that have popped up in parts of Metro Manila amid the continuing COVID-19 crisis may also be considered a sign of desperation, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson said Sunday.

Lacson said it is good that residents take the initiative to help each other, but added such efforts show they can no longer rely on the government for help.

“It is good that through the community pantries, we see mutual aid by neighbors and barangay residents. But this is also a sign of desperation, that people can no longer rely on government to help them,” he said in an interview on DZBB radio.

Related: Ping: Maaring Desperado na Mga Tao Kaya Nabuo ang Community Pantry
Continue reading “Lacson: Community Pantries Welcome; Signal ‘Desperation’ Amid Continued COVID Crisis” →

Documents, PingBills, Radio, Statements, Videos

Ping: Pagbusisi sa Pork Importation ‘Tong-pats,’ Pang-Committee of the Whole ang Level

Pinakamainam na Committee of the Whole ng Senado ang mag-imbestiga sa nagsisebong “tong-pats” sa importasyon ng karne ng baboy na paraan ng Department of Agriculture (DA) upang mapunan ang kawalan umano ng suplay bunga ng pananalasa ng African Swine Flu (ASF).

Ayon kay Senador Panfilo Lacson, maraming aspetong saklaw ang nabanggit na kontrobersiya kung kaya’t tama lamang na buong puwersa na ng Senado ang umungkat sa mga detalye nito.

“I am recommending that the Senate convene into a Committee of the Whole to handle the investigation. The ‘tong-pats’ mess has an impact on foregone revenue and corruption, food security, and health. The Committee of the Whole is best suited for this, instead of having the Blue Ribbon Committee and Committees on Agriculture, Ways and Means and Health handle it separately,” paliwanag ni Lacson.

Masyado aniya na malawak ang problema para pangasiwaan lamang ng isa o ilang komite ng Senado ang pagsisiyasat.

Kabilang sa mga maaring masaklaw ay ang usapin sa food security, kaligtasan ng pagkain, ang nawalang koleksiyon ng pamahalaan at ang kalusugan ng publikong kumukunsumo sa mga ito.

Related: Lacson: Committee of the Whole Best Suited to Handle DA ‘Tong-pats’ Probe
Continue reading “Ping: Pagbusisi sa Pork Importation ‘Tong-pats,’ Pang-Committee of the Whole ang Level” →

Documents, PingBills, Radio, Statements, Videos

Lacson: Committee of the Whole Best Suited to Handle DA ‘Tong-pats’ Probe

Convening the Senate into the Committee of the Whole will be needed to tackle the wide scope of the problems involving the “tong-pats” mess at the Department of Agriculture, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson said Wednesday.

Lacson said the issues stemming from the mess include food security and a revisiting of the Food Safety Act of 2013 (RA 10611); foregone revenues; and public health.

“I am recommending that the Senate convene into a Committee of the Whole to handle the investigation. The ‘tong-pats’ mess has an impact on foregone revenue and corruption, food security, and health. The Committee of the Whole is best suited for this, instead of having the Blue Ribbon Committee and Committees on Agriculture, Ways and Means and Health handle it separately,” he said.

“My resolution seeking the investigation in aid of legislation may also seek to revisit Republic Act 10611, the Food Security Act of 2013, to address possible loopholes that are being exploited,” he added in an interview on DZXL radio. “Wide masyado ang problema, all-encompassing. Kaya mas maganda kung Committee of the Whole na lang ang hahawak.”

Related: Ping: Pagbusisi sa Pork Importation ‘Tong-pats,’ Pang-Committee of the Whole ang Level
Continue reading “Lacson: Committee of the Whole Best Suited to Handle DA ‘Tong-pats’ Probe” →

Radio, Statements

Ping: Koordinasyon sa Anti-Drug Ops Klaruhin Para ‘di na Maulit ang ‘Misencounter’ ng PDEA at PNP

Kailangang pagbutihin ng mga awtoridad ang mga polisiyang ginagamit sa operasyon laban sa ilegal na droga upang hindi na maulit ang madugong misencounter na nangyari sa pagitan ng mga operatiba ng Philippine National Police (PNP) at Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).

Ayon kay Senador at dating PNP Chief Panfilo Lacson, ang isa sa mga sistemang dapat na isagawa sa usapin ng ilegal na droga ay dapat na ang PDEA ang magsisilbing “overseer” sa operasyon kung saan nakatutok lamang ito sa intelihensiya habang ang pagsalakay o pagtimbog ay ipapaubaya na sa mga sinanay na tauhan ng PNP.

“We have to resolve the trust issue between the PNP and PDEA. But it would be better if the PDEA acted as overseer in anti-drug operations, and focus on intelligence-gathering, whether it is technical or human intelligence,” paliwanag ni Lacson sa panayam sa kanya ng DZBB.

Ang nabanggit na sistema ay ginagamit na ng ibang bansang nagpapatupad ng seryosong kampanya laban sa ilegal na droga.

“In other countries, the output of intelligence work is shared with specially trained police units, with one or two PDEA operatives accompanying or ‘guiding’ the police force in the operation. That is the ideal situation where coordination is smooth and tight. The last thing we need is the reluctance of our agencies to work together because of what happened,” dagdag pa ni Lacson.

Related: Lacson Stresses Policy Adjustments to Prevent Repeat of PNP-PDEA ‘Misencounter’
Continue reading “Ping: Koordinasyon sa Anti-Drug Ops Klaruhin Para ‘di na Maulit ang ‘Misencounter’ ng PDEA at PNP” →

Radio, Statements

Lacson Stresses Policy Adjustments to Prevent Repeat of PNP-PDEA ‘Misencounter’

The government may need to adjust its policies to prevent a repeat of the deadly “misencounter” between Philippine National Police and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency operatives in Quezon City last Wednesday, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson said Sunday.

Lacson said one such adjustment would involve the PDEA “overseeing” anti-drug operations and focusing on intelligence work, and leaving the assault operations to specially trained police personnel.

“We have to resolve the trust issue between the PNP and PDEA. But it would be better if the PDEA acted as overseer in anti-drug operations, and focus on intelligence-gathering, whether it is technical or human intelligence,” he said in an interview on DZBB radio.

“In other countries, the output of intelligence work is shared with specially trained police units, with one or two PDEA operatives accompanying or ‘guiding’ the police force in the operation. That is the ideal situation where coordination is smooth and tight. The last thing we need is the reluctance of our agencies to work together because of what happened,” he added.

Related: Ping: Koordinasyon sa Anti-Drug Ops Klaruhin Para ‘di na Maulit ang ‘Misencounter’ ng PDEA at PNP
Continue reading “Lacson Stresses Policy Adjustments to Prevent Repeat of PNP-PDEA ‘Misencounter’” →

Radio, Statements

Ping: Frontliners, Naghihintay Kung Kailan at Paano Mababakunahan
Image Courtesy: Bloomberg

Dapat na alam ng mga frontliner ang detalye ng vaccination plan ng pamahalaan – kung talagang may ganoong plano.

Ipinunto ni Senador Panfilo Lacson na isa ito sa pagtutuunan niya ng pansin sa pagdinig na isasagawa ng Senado sa pamamagitan ng Committee of the Whole sa Lunes.

Ayon sa mambabatas, mga frontliners ang nasa bungad ng panganib sa pagharap ng Pilipinas sa pandemya ng COVID-19 kung kaya’t tama lamang na maimpormahan ang mga ito sa mga galaw ng pamahalaan tungkol sa bakuna.

“The frontliners deserve to know because they are the ones who go to the morgues, they are the ones who attend to COVID patients. They deserve to know if they would be prioritized in the vaccination program. There is no reason for the officials concerned to ask for an executive session on this because there is nothing confidential or classified about it. Wala namang kalaban dito; ang kalaban natin dito, sakit. Hindi naman yan sasagot,” banggit ni Lacson sa panayam sa DZBB.

Related: Lacson: Frontliners Deserve to Know Details of Overall Vaccination Plan
Continue reading “Ping: Frontliners, Naghihintay Kung Kailan at Paano Mababakunahan” →

Radio, Statements

Lacson: Frontliners Deserve to Know Details of Overall Vaccination Plan
Image Courtesy: Bloomberg

Frontliners who have risked their lives amid the ongoing pandemic deserve to know the details of the government’s overall vaccination plan – if there is one, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson said Sunday.

Lacson said this is one of the points he will pursue when the Senate Committee of the Whole holds its first hearing on the matter on Monday.

“Do we have a clear vaccination plan? Based on our conversations with doctors and frontliners, it appears we don’t. But frontliners are waiting to know when they would be prioritized in the vaccination program,” he said in an interview on DZBB.

“The frontliners deserve to know because they are the ones who go to the morgues, they are the ones who attend to COVID patients. They deserve to know if they would be prioritized in the vaccination program. There is no reason for the officials concerned to ask for an executive session on this because there is nothing confidential or classified about it. Wala namang kalaban dito; ang kalaban natin dito, sakit. Hindi naman yan sasagot,” he added.

Related: Ping: Frontliners, Naghihintay Kung Kailan at Paano Mababakunahan
Continue reading “Lacson: Frontliners Deserve to Know Details of Overall Vaccination Plan” →

In the News, Radio, Statements

#PINGterview: P68B Skeleton Projects, Isantabi Muna sa 2021

In an interview on DZBB, Sen. Lacson addressed questions on:
* realigning P68B in ‘skeleton projects’ for areas hit by recent typhoons
* reports of getting COVID-19 vaccine

MORE DETAILS:
 Continue reading “#PINGterview: P68B Skeleton Projects, Isantabi Muna sa 2021” →

In the News, Radio, Statements

#PINGterview: Walang Pondo para sa COVID-19 Vaccine/Response sa 2021 kung Reenacted ang Budget

In an interview on DZBB/GMA News TV, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
* effect of reenacted budget on COVID-19 response in 2021
* connection between DPWH lump sums and delay of budget bill in the House of Representatives

QUOTES and NOTES:
 Continue reading “#PINGterview: Walang Pondo para sa COVID-19 Vaccine/Response sa 2021 kung Reenacted ang Budget” →

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV

#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, Radio, Statements, TV

#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” →

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV

Questions for the “Big Elephant” on the PhilHealth Mess

When he appears on Tuesday, I’ll ask him, being the incumbent ex-officio chairman of PhilHealth who was present during the shouting match in their last board meeting that effectively triggered these controversies, why he has been very quiet in spite of all the anomalies being openly discussed with so many unanswered questions involving highly questionable transactions by PhilHealth in the procurement of IT equipment, IRM funds distribution and manipulation of the agency’s financial statements which no less than COA has red-flagged on top of recurring disallowances and suspension in billions of pesos year in and year out.

I’ll ask him what he intends to do or recommend to the President.

*****

QUOTES FROM DZBB/GNTV INTERVIEW…
Continue reading “Questions for the “Big Elephant” on the PhilHealth Mess” →

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV

#PINGterview: 3 Strikes sa PhilHealth; Wala Nang Mapuntahan Kundi Mag-Resign?

In an interview on DZBB and GMA News TV, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
* Senate efforts to address COVID-19 situation [01:48]
* 3 issues hounding PhilHealth that the Senate probe will focus on [04:33]

QUOTES and NOTES:
Continue reading “#PINGterview: 3 Strikes sa PhilHealth; Wala Nang Mapuntahan Kundi Mag-Resign?” →

Radio, Statements, TV

On the Reported Shouting Match over Corruption at PhilHealth

Unabated corruption and mismanagement of Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) funds has been a topic of discussion among Senate President Sotto and me, along with some senators from the majority bloc, for quite some time now.

But the reported shouting match in a recent virtual conference between the PhilHealth president and some board members involving almost P1 billion worth of questionable transactions, including a total overprice of P98 million – if true, says it all.

I am now drafting a resolution calling for a Senate Committee of the Whole inquiry. As expressed by SP Sotto to me last night, this inquiry will be one of the Senate’s top agenda after our session resumes on Monday.

That such corruption occurred amid the COVID-19 crisis makes it more disgusting and abominable. Nakakasuya na sobra. Needless to say, there is urgency that the Senate has to act on the matter immediately, as part of its oversight mandate, having passed the Universal Health Law.

When the Senate investigated issues surrounding PhilHealth and the Department of Health – including instances of conflict of interest involving the family of DOH Secretary Francisco Duque III with the family-owned Doctors Pharmaceuticals Inc. having contracts with the Department of Health, and the PhilHealth regional office renting a Duque-owned building; and with the Secretary’s pattern of failure prompting 14 of us in the Senate to file a resolution seeking his resignation – we had high hopes the shenanigans at PhilHealth would end with a new leadership. Sad to say, how wrong we were.

*****

QUOTES from DZBB/GNTV INTERVIEW:
Continue reading “On the Reported Shouting Match over Corruption at PhilHealth” →

In the News, Radio, Statements

#PINGterview: CHR, May Mahalagang Papel sa Anti-Terrorism Law

In an interview on DZBB/GMA News TV, Sen. Lacson answered questions on the Anti-Terrorism Law:
* active role of the Commission on Human Rights in the Anti-Terror Law [10:31]
* encouraging the filing of petitions on the Anti-Terrorism Law to boost public discussion [14:48]

QUOTES and NOTES:
Continue reading “#PINGterview: CHR, May Mahalagang Papel sa Anti-Terrorism Law” →

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV

#PINGterview: Pagtatama sa Patuloy na Disinformation vs Anti-Terror Bill

In an interview on DZBB/GMA News TV, Sen. Lacson sets the record straight on pieces of disinformation against the Anti-Terrorist Act of 2020 – including safeguards against possible abuse; and the role of the Anti-Terrorism Council.

QUOTES and NOTES:
Continue reading “#PINGterview: Pagtatama sa Patuloy na Disinformation vs Anti-Terror Bill” →

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV

#PINGterview: May Pondo sa Next Round ng Ayuda; Huwag Gutumin ang Pamilya Dahil sa Kapabayaan ni Mayor o ni Kap!

In an interview on DZBB/GMA News TV, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
* sufficiency of funds for 2nd tranche of social amelioration [0:16]
* 18M beneficiary families should get 2 months’ amelioration [1:07]
* possible supplemental budget [13:02]
* delay of funds due to ‘incompetence’ of some mayors, barangay heads [18:11]
* alleged ‘doble presyo’ of PPEs purchased by DOH, and related issues [20:18]

NOTES and QUOTES:
 Continue reading “#PINGterview: May Pondo sa Next Round ng Ayuda; Huwag Gutumin ang Pamilya Dahil sa Kapabayaan ni Mayor o ni Kap!” →

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV

#PINGterview: ECQ Extension, Supplemental Budget vs COVID-19 Needed?

In an interview on DZBB/GMA News TV, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
* possible supplemental budget to deal with COVID-19 [0:26]
* at least P989B unused from 2019 budget [2:40]
* local officials naipit sa Social Amelioration Program [17:39]
* DBM circular barring release of 35% of 2020 budget’s appropriations [19:45]
* lockdown until June? [24:17]

NOTES and QUOTES:
 Continue reading “#PINGterview: ECQ Extension, Supplemental Budget vs COVID-19 Needed?” →

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV

#PINGterview: On the Senate Resolution Seeking Sec. Duque’s Resignation

In an interview on DZBB/GMA News TV, Sen. Lacson cited the reasons for Senate Resolution 362, which sought the resignation of DOH Secretary Francisco Duque III for his “failure of leadership, negligence, lack of foresight and inefficiency in the performance of his mandate as DOH Secretary, resulting in poor planning, delayed response, lack of transparency and misguided and flip-flopping policies and measures in addressing the COVID-19 pandemic that endangered and continues to endanger the lives of our health care professionals, other frontliners, and the Filipino people.”

NOTES and QUOTES:
 Continue reading “#PINGterview: On the Senate Resolution Seeking Sec. Duque’s Resignation” →

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV

#PINGterview: Pagbigay ng Ayuda sa COVID19-Affected Areas, Dapat Ibigay Agad at Bantayin!

In an interview on DZBB/GMA News TV, Sen. Lacson stressed at least P200B in assistance to poor families affected by the COVID19-triggered quarantines should be distributed soonest, with scrutiny from the Joint Congressional Oversight Committee.

NOTES and QUOTES:
 Continue reading “#PINGterview: Pagbigay ng Ayuda sa COVID19-Affected Areas, Dapat Ibigay Agad at Bantayin!” →

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV

#PINGterview: Daily Wage Earners, Priority sa Tulong; Kukupit ng Tulong, Walang Karapatang Mabuhay!

In an interview on DZBB/GMA News TV, Sen. Lacson stressed the need for lawmakers to prioritize help for daily wage earners amid the COVID19-triggered lockdowns, while preventing corruption in the implementation of aid for those affected.

NOTES and QUOTES:
Continue reading “#PINGterview: Daily Wage Earners, Priority sa Tulong; Kukupit ng Tulong, Walang Karapatang Mabuhay!” →

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV

#PINGterview: Proactive na Tayo vs Terorismo!

In a phone patch interview on DZBB and GMA News TV, Sen. Lacson notes the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 that was passed in the Senate will lead to a more proactive fight against terrorism, while containing safeguards to prevent possible abuses.

QUOTES and NOTES:
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In the News, Radio, Statements, TV

#PINGterview: After VFA, What’s Next?

In a phone patch interview on DZBB and GMA News TV, Sen. Lacson cites the possibilities after the Visiting Forces Agreement, including possible intervening events that could ‘undo’ its abrogation. 

QUOTES and NOTES:
Continue reading “#PINGterview: After VFA, What’s Next?” →

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV

#PINGterview: Supplemental Budget, Other Options for Slashed 2020 Calamity Funds

In a phone patch interview on DZBB and GMA News TV, Sen. Lacson discusses a possible supplemental budget and other options to make up for the P4B cut in the 2020 calamity fund.

QUOTES and NOTES:
 Continue reading “#PINGterview: Supplemental Budget, Other Options for Slashed 2020 Calamity Funds” →

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV

#PINGterview: Saan Napunta ang P4B Kaltas sa 2020 Calamity Fund?

The Senate sought P20B in calamity funds in the 2020 budget, but the bicameral conference committee approved only P16B. Where did the P4B go? Sen. Lacson answers questions on the subject in a phone patch interview on DZBB and GMA News TV.

QUOTES and NOTES:
 Continue reading “#PINGterview: Saan Napunta ang P4B Kaltas sa 2020 Calamity Fund?” →

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV

#PINGterview: Galawang Ninja? Ping Details How Pork is ‘Hidden’ in 2020 Budget

In a phone patch interview on DZBB and GMA News TV, Sen. Lacson detailed how pork items that violate the Supreme Court’s 2013 ruling outlawing pork are ‘hidden’ in the 2020 budget.

QUOTES and NOTES:
 Continue reading “#PINGterview: Galawang Ninja? Ping Details How Pork is ‘Hidden’ in 2020 Budget” →

In the News, Radio, Statements

#PINGterviews: Dapat Magalit Tayong Lahat sa Pork! | Dec. 11, 2019

In interviews on DZBB and with Senate media, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
– Pork in the 2020 budget
– Possible Senate probe of issues involving SEA Games organizing committee

QUOTES and NOTES:
Continue reading “#PINGterviews: Dapat Magalit Tayong Lahat sa Pork! | Dec. 11, 2019” →

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV

Interview on DZBB/GNTV: Baloyo Pa More; Gen. Albayalde’s Fate | Oct. 6, 2019

In an interview on DZBB/GNTV, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
– continued drug recycling by P/Maj Baloyo’s ‘colleagues’ who are still out there
– fate of Chief PNP Albayalde and race for his successor
– generals reportedly involved in drug trade

QUOTES AND NOTES:
 Continue reading “Interview on DZBB/GNTV: Baloyo Pa More; Gen. Albayalde’s Fate | Oct. 6, 2019” →

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV

Interview on DZBB/GNTV: Technology and Other Solutions vs BuCor Woes; National ID vs Graft | Sept. 15, 2019

In an interview on DZBB/GNTV, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
– technology-based solutions to stop corruption at BuCor
– proposed legislation to address BuCor woes
– accusations that the probe is targeting Sen de Lima

QUOTES and NOTES:
 Continue reading “Interview on DZBB/GNTV: Technology and Other Solutions vs BuCor Woes; National ID vs Graft | Sept. 15, 2019” →

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV

Interviews on DZBB/GNTV, DZRH: Faeldon Testing Closeness to the President | Sept. 3, 2019

In interviews on DZBB/GNTV and DZRH, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
– onion-skinned, thick-faced, and callous public officials
– actions Malacanang can take after Senate hearing
– BuCor chief Faeldon testing closeness to President Duterte

QUOTES and NOTES: 
Continue reading “Interviews on DZBB/GNTV, DZRH: Faeldon Testing Closeness to the President | Sept. 3, 2019” →

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV

Interview on DZBB/GNTV: ‘Pera-Pera’ sa Bilibid; Constitution as Basis for ‘Designated Survivor’ Bill | Aug. 30, 2019

In an interview on DZBB/GNTV, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
– More Chinese drug convicts released from PH facilities
– Convicts in Chiong sisters’ 1997 rape-slay released
– Constitution as basis for the ‘Designated Survivor’ bill

Quotes from the interview…
 Continue reading “Interview on DZBB/GNTV: ‘Pera-Pera’ sa Bilibid; Constitution as Basis for ‘Designated Survivor’ Bill | Aug. 30, 2019” →

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV

Interview on DZBB/GNTV: Senate Hearing on Chinese Incursions, Revisiting Anti-Graft Laws | Aug. 20, 2019

In an interview on DZBB/GNTV, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
– Senate hearing into Chinese ships’ incursions
– revisiting anti-graft laws

Quotes from the interview…
 Continue reading “Interview on DZBB/GNTV: Senate Hearing on Chinese Incursions, Revisiting Anti-Graft Laws | Aug. 20, 2019” →

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV

Interview on DZBB/GNTV: Europe Trip, Reward for Questionable PhilHealth Action? | Aug. 18, 2019

In an interview on DZBB/GNTV, Sen. Lacson questioned the trip to Europe of at least one PhilHealth official following the PhilHealth board’s reversal of a decision of the Court of Appeals. Sen. Lacson also answered questions on:
– special audit needed for PhilHealth
– PhilHealth ‘mafia’
– conflict of interest involving DOH Sec Duque and kin

Quotes from the interview…
 Continue reading “Interview on DZBB/GNTV: Europe Trip, Reward for Questionable PhilHealth Action? | Aug. 18, 2019” →

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV

Interview on DZBB/GNTV: PhilHealth Mafia, Revisiting Anti-Graft Laws | Aug. 15, 2019

In an interview on DZBB/GNTV, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
– PhilHealth mafia and related irregularities
– revisiting existing anti-graft laws

Quotes from the interview…
 Continue reading “Interview on DZBB/GNTV: PhilHealth Mafia, Revisiting Anti-Graft Laws | Aug. 15, 2019” →

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV

Interview on DZBB/GNTV: On the Metrobank Robbery | July 17, 2019

In an interview on DZBB/GNTV, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
– updating laws to deal with crimes like the Metrobank robbery
– PH invoking national dignity in UN-HRC resolution on killings

Quotes from the interview…
Continue reading “Interview on DZBB/GNTV: On the Metrobank Robbery | July 17, 2019” →

In the News, Radio, Statements, TV

Interview on DZBB/GNTV: National Dignity in UN-HRC Resolution and WPS Issues | July 14, 2019

In an interview on DZBB/GNTV, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
– national dignity factor in UN-HRC resolution on killings
– ‘double standard’ in UN, WPS issues?
– reported claim that VP Robredo’s stand on UN-HRC resolution is a ground for impeachment

Quotes from the interview…
Continue reading “Interview on DZBB/GNTV: National Dignity in UN-HRC Resolution and WPS Issues | July 14, 2019” →

In the News, Radio, TV

Interview on DZBB/GMA News TV: WPS Issue a Matter of Nationalism | June 30, 2019

In an interview on DZBB/GMA News TV, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
– Nationalism amid West Philippine Sea row
– On possibly bigger graft case at PhilHealth
– Corruption at the Bureau of Customs

Quotes from the interview…
 Continue reading “Interview on DZBB/GMA News TV: WPS Issue a Matter of Nationalism | June 30, 2019” →

In the News, Radio, Statements

Interview on DZBB: China’s ‘Cabbage Strategy’ in the West PH Sea | June 24, 2019

In an interview on DZBB, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
– China’s ‘cabbage strategy’ in the West Philippine Sea
– potential issues surrounding ‘joint investigation’ of Recto Bank incident

Quotes from the interview…
 Continue reading “Interview on DZBB: China’s ‘Cabbage Strategy’ in the West PH Sea | June 24, 2019” →

In the News, Radio, Statements

Interview on DZBB: PhilHealth Row and Universal Health Care | June 16, 2019

In an interview on DZBB, Sen. Lacson answered questions on the PhilHealth row, including:
– possible implications on the government’s Universal Health Care program
– how the NBI is handling the case
– how the National ID system can help stop fraudulent health claims
– how the public can help prevent a repeat of the mess

Quotes from the interview…
Continue reading “Interview on DZBB: PhilHealth Row and Universal Health Care | June 16, 2019” →

In the News, Radio, Statements

Interview on DZBB: Leadership 101 vs Corruption; Senate Panel Chairmanship | May 30, 2019

In an interview on DZBB, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
– ‘one-standard’ leadership needed to stamp out corruption
– raising taxes amid ‘continued’ corruption at the Bureau of Customs
– passing on Senate committee to Senator-elect dela Rosa

Quotes from the interview…
Continue reading “Interview on DZBB: Leadership 101 vs Corruption; Senate Panel Chairmanship | May 30, 2019” →