Here’s a quick roundup of today’s top stories:
China’s ‘monster ship’ near Zambales ‘grave concern’ – Palace
Malacañang on Tuesday expressed “grave concern” over the presence of China’s so-called monster ship off the coast of Zambales, adding that the Philippines is actively challenging its presence.
“We view it with concern, so far we have been challenging the presence of that monster ship,” Executive Lucas Bersamin said in a press conference.
Martial law not on Marcos’ mind; economy is priority – Palace
Implementing martial law is not on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s mind, following the reorganization of the National Security Council (NSC), the Palace said on Tuesday.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin made the pronouncement in response to former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, who accused Marcos of following his father’s footsteps in gearing for the return of martial law.
SSS chief: Only amendment of law can stop premium hike
The chief of the Social Security System (SSS) remained firm that the one percent contribution increase, which starts this January, can no longer be canceled unless there are amendments in the law.
In a Palace briefing on Tuesday, SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Robert Joseph de Claro explained that the contribution hike is only in adherence to Republic Act (RA) No. 11199, or the act Rationalizing and Expanding the Powers and Duties of the Social Security Commission to Ensure the Long-Term Viability of the SSS.
Bill seeking ABS-CBN franchise to operate filed in House
A bill seeking to grant ABS-CBN Corporation a franchise to operate has been filed in the House of Representatives.
Albay Rep. Joey Salceda filed House Bill No. 11252 on Tuesday afternoon.