Michael Apacible Bulletin

  A Look into the 2023 ICT Budget Utilization in DepEd: Addressing the Gaps In a recent congressional hearing, critical questions were raised about the Department of Education’s (DepEd) utilization of its 2023 budget, particularly regarding the procurement and distribution of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) equipment to schools. The discussion highlighted significant delays and inefficiencies in the allocation of funds intended to improve the country's educational infrastructure. Current Teacher and Student Computer Ratios The hearing began with a query from Congresswoman Gerville Luistro about the current ratio of computers to students and teachers for the year 2023. According to Director Abram Abanil Pitagan, the ratio stands at one computer for every nine students, while for teachers, it is a staggering one computer for every 30 teachers. This data underscores the challenges in facilitating effective e-learning environments, especially given the critical role of ...

  LTO's P51 Million Procurement Scandal: Overpriced and Defective Equipment Returned Manila, Philippines – A recent Senate hearing, led by Senator Raffy Tulfo, unveiled troubling details about a P51 million procurement by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) for fertilizer and breathalyzer units, which were found to be both overpriced and defective. These issues have led to the equipment being returned by recipients such as the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Philippine National Police (PNP). Overpriced Breathalyzer Under Scrutiny During the hearing, Senator Raffy Tulfo expressed deep concern over the inflated price of the breathalyzer units, each costing P68,000. This amount is significantly higher than the market price for similar breathalyzers in other countries, such as the United States, where prices range from P5,000 to P14,000. In Thailand and China, prices are even lower. Senator Tulfo questioned the LTO's procurement process, hinting at possi...

  The Senate Hearing: Unraveling the Biancham and POGO Controversy In a highly charged Senate hearing, key figures, including Harry Roque, were questioned about their involvement in controversial activities related to Biancham, a family-holding corporation, and POGO (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators). Senators Risa Hontiveros and Sherwin Gatchalian led the intense interrogation, seeking to uncover the truth behind these complex dealings. Let's delve into the intricate details and exchanges of the hearing, shedding light on the legal and ethical intricacies involved. Initial Tensions and Statements The hearing began with palpable tension as Harry Roque, clearly frustrated, asserted his right to speak. "Actually as I said earlier, excuse me, excuse me. I'm sorry madam but I am a resource person invited. I was asked to answer," he began, emphasizing his role and the expectation to provide information. Senator Gatchalian quickly responded, "If you disrespect the ...

The hearing discussed various issues regarding waste management, the impact of reclamation projects on Manila Bay, and the integration of environmental programs with flood control. Here is a detailed summary of the key points: Extended Producers Responsibility Law (EPR Law) : The EPR Law mandates corporations to collect their own packaging products. Under this law, 937 corporations with a capitalization of P100M and above, including fast-moving consumer goods corporations, are now involved in the collection of their packaging. The DENR has coordinated with the private sector and LGUs to ensure the collection of plastic products. Budget for Ecological Solid Waste Management : For 2024, the DENR has allocated P334 million for solid waste management. According to the Secretary, this is part of the larger DENR budget of P3.28 billion. The possibility of integrating solid waste management with the flood control program was discussed, which the DPWH and DENR secretaries agreed upon due to th...