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President Marcos Approves Gradual Return to Traditional School Calendar

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has approved the reversion of the Philippines’ school calendar to its traditional schedule. Starting with the 2024-2025 school year, the academic year will run from July to April, with an eventual goal of a June to March timeline. This change aims to align the school calendar with the country’s seasonal patterns, reducing weather-related disruptions and enhancing educational quality. The transition will be gradual, allowing institutions ample time to adjust. This move is expected to improve attendance rates and academic performance while also aligning school activities with national events and agricultural cycles.

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SEN. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go. Contributed Photo

The Push for More Super Health Centers in the Philippines

Super Health Centers (SHCs) are essential components of the Philippine healthcare system, providing primary care, early disease detection, and preventive services at the community level. These centers help decongest larger hospitals and enhance healthcare accessibility, especially in remote areas. Senator Bong Go’s advocacy for SHCs, including securing funding for over 700 centers, underscores his commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure and ensuring quality medical care for all Filipinos. His efforts aim to create a robust and resilient healthcare system, promoting health equity and better health outcomes nationwide.

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Zubiri Steps Down as Senate President

The Philippine Senate is undergoing a significant leadership change with Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri poised to resign. Reports suggest a faction of senators orchestrated Zubiri’s removal, paving the way for Senator Francis Escudero to potentially assume the role. This transition, confirmed by Senate Majority Leader Emmanuel Joel Villanueva, is expected to impact legislative priorities and the political landscape. The new Senate President will face the challenge of uniting the chamber and advancing its agenda amidst evolving dynamics. Observers are keenly watching how this change will influence key issues like economic recovery and national security.

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Ernest John Obiena of the Philippines clears the bar in the men's pole vault during the 2024 USATF Los Angeles Grand Prix at UCLA's Drake Stadium on May 18, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. PHOTO BY KATHARINE LOTZE/GETTY IMAGES/AFP

Condensed Summary of EJ Obiena’s Victory and Lauren Hoffman’s Performance

Filipino pole vaulter EJ Obiena clinched a gold medal at the LA Grand Prix, marking his third championship win this year and solidifying his position as a top contender for the Paris Olympics. Meanwhile, Filipino American Lauren Hoffman delivered a commendable performance in the women’s 400 meters hurdles, finishing fifth and narrowly missing the Olympic qualification standard. Her ongoing quest for Olympic qualification highlights her dedication and resilience as she competes against top-tier athletes. Stay tuned as both athletes strive for glory at the Paris Games.

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ACT Teachers party-list Rep. France Castro speaks during a briefing on the Commission on Elections’ proposed P5.2-billion budget for 2023 at the House of Representatives in Quezon City on Sept. 9, 2022. PHOTO FROM THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES WEBSITE

House Investigates Alleged ‘Gentleman’s Agreement’ with China on West Philippine Sea

The House of Representatives is set to investigate an alleged ‘gentleman’s agreement’ between former Philippine President Duterte and Chinese President Xi Jinping regarding the West Philippine Sea. The inquiry will examine the terms and implications of the purported agreement, which involves the Philippines refraining from sending materials to its outpost on Ayungin Shoal. This investigation aims to clarify the agreement’s impact on national sovereignty and territorial integrity, especially in light of the 2016 arbitral ruling that invalidated China’s claims in the region. Key figures, including Duterte, will be called to testify, shedding light on the geopolitical dynamics at play.

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