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BusinessMirror Editorial
US Senate exposes failures in protecting kids on social media
Child safety and protection in the digital age is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive approach. The recent hearing by the US Senate Judiciary Committee was an important step in shedding light on the failures of social media platforms in safeguarding children online. It brought to the forefront the urgent need for action and accountability.
A daunting challenge: PHL population growth outpaces agri output
IN the next three decades, the country’s population will cross the 130 million-mark. (See, “Filipino population may breach 130-M mark in next three decades—PSA data,” in the BusinessMirror, January 31, 2024). Per the 2020 census conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the number of Filipinos has reached more than 109 million. By next year, this is expected to expand to 114 million.
National unity essential for a prosperous and strong Philippines
The recent announcement of a so-called independence movement in Mindanao has sparked concerns and highlighted the need for national unity in the country. President Marcos has rightly called for unity among Filipinos to achieve the vision of a “Bagong Pilipinas” or New Philippines. It is essential that the country remains united to overcome challenges and work towards genuine development that benefits all Filipinos.
PHL’s corruption problem demands urgent action
The recent release of the 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) by Transparency International (TI) paints a disheartening picture for the Philippines. While the country managed to inch up one spot compared to the previous year, it still finds itself among the ranks of the perceived “most corrupt” nations. This is a grave concern that demands immediate attention from the government and society as a whole. (Read the BusinessMirror report: “Slightly up, PHL still on ‘most corrupt’ list in index, February 1, 2024”).
Urgent need to address global cancer inequities
The latest estimates released by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), ahead of World Cancer Day on February 4, paint a grim picture of the global burden of cancer. The numbers are startling: 20 million new cancer cases and 9.7 million deaths in 2022 alone. These statistics highlight the urgent need to address the growing burden of cancer and the glaring inequities in cancer care worldwide.
Urgent investments needed to boost food production
Companies all over the world, especially big ones, allot funds for their capital spending. These firms make investments in various areas to improve their services, increase output and prop up their bottom line. They put money into technology, spend it on the recruitment and training of more people, invest in research and development or establish more branches.
Farewell, CNN Philippines: A great loss for the nation
Today is a sad day for Philippine journalism as we bid farewell to CNN Philippines, which will cease operations across all media platforms. The closure of CNN Philippines marks the end of an era for a media company that has served as a trusted source of news and information for the Filipino people. And we can’t help but reflect on the significant impact it has had on journalism, media plurality, and the quest for truth.
Ensuring transparency in PCSO’s lotto games
The recent controversies surrounding the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) have raised concerns about the trustworthiness of its lotto games. The allegations of a “favored winner” and rumors of manipulation have tarnished the reputation of the agency. It is crucial for the PCSO to address these issues promptly and transparently to maintain the trust of the betting public.
Long overdue benefits for elderly and PWDs
The recent assurance given by a San Miguel Corp. official to the House of Representatives regarding the implementation of a 20-percent discount on expressways and skyways in Metro Manila, southern Luzon, and northern Luzon is a long-awaited and positive development. This move will benefit approximately 10 million senior citizens and 1.4 million persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the country. It is high time that these vulnerable groups receive the privileges and benefits they are entitled to under the law. (Read the BusinessMirror report: “Seniors, PWDs to enjoy toll discounts soon, vows SMC,” January 24, 2024).
Urgent action needed to address illegal lead smelting in Pampanga
Protecting the environment and ensuring the safety and well-being of communities should be a top priority for any government. Unfortunately, the recent revelations about allegedly illegal lead smelting operations in San Simon, Pampanga highlight a worrisome situation that demands immediate attention. It is imperative that the government takes swift action to address this issue and prevent further harm to both the environment and the people living in the affected areas.
World Bank exposes PHL’s digital crisis
The World Bank’s recent Policy Note on the Philippines’ Internet connectivity paints a grim picture of our digital landscape. With low investment in telecom infrastructure, the country has become synonymous with expensive broadband services, sluggish speeds, and a shocking statistic: half of Asean’s population without mobile broadband services. It is a concerning revelation that demands immediate attention from policymakers and industry leaders.
Government urged to leverage import fees to boost PHL coffee industry
The Philippines has been a net importer of coffee since 1997, according to an industry roadmap prepared by the government. The country’s current output is simply not enough to keep up with increasing demand of households and cafes for coffee. Local farms could only supply 15 percent of the country’s annual requirement, while the rest is imported.
Empowering OFWs: The need for financial literacy initiatives
The recent announcement by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) regarding the substantial increase in personal remittances of overseas Filipino workers from January to November 2023 is a cause for celebration and reflection. Despite global uncertainties and economic challenges, our hardworking OFWs have once again demonstrated their unwavering commitment to their families and the economic development of our nation.
MMDA questions traffic study’s methodology
Metro Manila has often faced criticisms for its traffic congestion. Detractors use this as a deterrent to dissuade foreign tourists from visiting the country. While it is undeniable that Manila’s traffic can be overwhelming at times, it is crucial to acknowledge that traffic congestion is not unique to Metro Manila. Many other global cities face similar challenges.
WHO appeals for $1.5 billion to protect vulnerable people
The World Health Organization (WHO), the leading international body responsible for public health, on Monday launched an appeal for $1.5 billion to protect the health of the most vulnerable populations in 41 emergencies around the globe. The appeal covers the emergencies that demand the highest level of response from WHO this year, with the aim to reach over 87 million people. It is being issued in a context of complex emergencies cutting across crises of conflict, climate change and economic instability, which continue to fuel displacement, hunger, and inequality.
Awe-inspiring respect for non-interference
The People’s Republic of China, a country known for its deep concern for human rights and freedom of speech, has accused several nations of “interfering in China’s internal affairs” after world leaders sent messages to Taiwan’s president-elect Lai Ching-te following his victory on Saturday. The PRC has strongly declared that it does not meddle in other nations’ internal affairs. Thus, it expects the same respect for its own domestic matters, particularly when it comes to Taiwan.