On Thursday, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) disclosed a significant cybersecurity lapse that has put the personal data of approximately 28 million passport holders at risk. During a Senate hearing focused on the department’s proposed budget for 2025, Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Adelio Cruz revealed that the national printing office failed to implement essential cybersecurity measures to safeguard this sensitive information.
Tourism Secretary Reflects on Local Governance Experience
In a related development, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco shared insights from her tenure as a local chief executive, emphasizing how those experiences have shaped her current role at the national level. Speaking at The Manila Times’ Model Cities and Municipalities Forum, Frasco expressed her surprise at being appointed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as the tourism chief in 2022. Under her leadership, the Department of Tourism (DoT) has developed the National Tourism Development Plan, aimed at positioning the Philippines as a premier tourism destination.
Recognition of Exemplary Local Government Units
The Manila Times recently honored outstanding local government units (LGUs) during the Philippine Model Cities and Municipalities 2024 Awards. Following a rigorous evaluation process involving 26 cities and 12 municipalities, Bacnotan in La Union and Baguio City were recognized as the top LGUs. Bacnotan excelled in categories such as Technology Territory, Safe Haven, and Food Security Enabler, while Baguio City was celebrated as the Top Model City for its achievements in Education Hub, Family First, and various other categories. This event, themed “Reinventing, reinvigorating urban living,” showcased the progress made in urban development across the nation.
Angkas CEO Enters Political Arena
George Royeca, the CEO of the ride-hailing platform Angkas, has announced his candidacy for Congress, advocating for the representation of the informal sector, which he describes as the backbone of the local economy. Known as “Mr. Angkas,” Royeca has played a pivotal role in transforming the ride-hailing landscape in the Philippines, with the app boasting over 8 million downloads and a network of 50,000 biker-partners.
Former Mayor Alleges Political Conspiracy
In a separate matter, former Iloilo City mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog testified before a congressional panel, denying allegations of being a drug protector as claimed by former President Rodrigo Duterte in 2017. During an emotional session, Mabilog revealed a purported conspiracy aimed at implicating opposition figures in drug-related activities in exchange for his removal from Duterte’s controversial narco-list. He emphasized his commitment to anti-drug initiatives during his tenure, which received commendations from law enforcement agencies.
Philippines’ Talent Ranking Declines
In business news, the Philippines has experienced a decline in its global ranking for nurturing and attracting skilled workers, now positioned 63rd out of 67 economies in the International Institute for Management Development’s (IMD) 2024 report. This marks a drop of three places from the previous year and a significant decline from its 48th position just four years ago. The country’s scores in investment and development, appeal, and readiness have all decreased, reflecting challenges in fostering a competitive talent pool.
Chess Tournament Highlights
In the realm of sports, Johnny Wellem Carzano emerged victorious at the Diyandi Festival Rapid Chess Tournament held in Iligan City. Competing against a formidable field, Carzano completed the tournament undefeated, securing seven wins and a draw over eight rounds, which earned him the championship title along with a cash prize of 15,000 pesos and a trophy.
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