Decrease Sulfur Dioxide Emission of Kanlaon Volcano

• Temporary Suspension of Consular Operations at DFA Aseana and Nationwide Off-Site Passport Services from June 12 to June 17
• BI Deports Japanese National Allegedly Linked to 'Luffy' Gang
• Tougher Penalties Proposed for Illegal Foreign Workers in the House of Representatives
• Palawan Shaken by Strong Earthquake
• Decrease in Sulfur Dioxide Emission and Volcanic Activity at Kanlaon Volcano
• Senator Lito Lapid Initiates Investigation into Pampanga POGO Hub Raid

Decrease in Sulfur Dioxide Emission and Volcanic Activity at Kanlaon Volcano

In the past 24 hours, the emission of sulfur dioxide and volcanic earthquakes at Kanlaon Volcano have temporarily decreased, as reported by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

According to the latest monitoring by Phivolcs, the sulfur dioxide flux recorded stands at 3,304 tons, a significant decrease from the previous 4,397 tons reported last Sunday. Additionally, six volcanic earthquakes have been detected around the volcano, indicating its continued activity.

Phivolcs also observed moderate steaming, with a plume reaching approximately 300 meters in height towards the northeast of the volcano. Ground deformation at the volcano's base remains swollen.

Phivolcs reiterates its warning to the public, prohibiting entry into the 4 km permanent danger zone and any aircraft flights near the volcano's summit. The agency also cautions that sudden steam eruptions or phreatic explosions could occur.

Despite these observations, Phivolcs has maintained alert level 2 for Kanlaon Volcano due to the ongoing signs of activity.

The continuous monitoring and vigilance of Phivolcs serve as crucial reminders for residents and visitors to remain cautious and adhere to safety protocols in the vicinity of Kanlaon Volcano. As the situation evolves, Phivolcs will provide updates and necessary guidance to ensure the well-being and safety of all individuals in the area.

The recent developments at Kanlaon Volcano highlight the dynamic nature of volcanic activity and the importance of proactive monitoring and risk mitigation measures to safeguard lives and property in volcanic-prone regions. Stay tuned for further updates as Phivolcs closely monitors the situation at Kanlaon Volcano.

Temporary Suspension of Consular Operations at DFA Aseana and Nationwide Off-Site Passport Services from June 12 to June 17

In a recent announcement, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has informed the public about the temporary suspension of consular operations at several of its offices nationwide on June 12 and June 17.

According to the released statement by the DFA, there will be no consular operations at DFA Aseana, Consular Offices (COs), and Temporary Off-Site Passport Services (TOPS) Sites across the country on June 12 and June 17, 2024, due to the declaration of regular holidays under Presidential Proclamation No. 368 dated October 11, 2023, and Proclamation No. 579 dated June 4, 2024.

June 12 is recognized as Independence Day, while June 17 marks Eid'l Fitr (Feast of Sacrifice).

Regular consular operations will resume on June 13 and June 18.

Affected applicants with confirmed appointments for consular services on June 17, 2024, at DFA Aseana and Consular Offices (COs) will be accommodated from June 18, 2024, Tuesday, to July 18, 2024, Friday. Similarly, affected TOPS applicants with confirmed appointments on June 17, 2024, will be accommodated at their respective Supervising Consular Offices (SCOs) from June 18, 2024, Tuesday, to July 18, 2024, Friday. These applicants are advised to adhere to the same time slot of their appointment, as per the DFA's instructions.

Furthermore, the Passport Releasing Service Center at Double Dragon Meridian Park in Pasay City will also be suspended on the mentioned dates.

For additional information, affected passport applicants can reach out to the following: DFA Aseana - passportconcerns@dfa.gov.ph / oca.concerns@dfa.gov.ph, as detailed by the DFA in their communication.

The DFA assures that necessary arrangements have been made to accommodate affected applicants during the specified period and advises individuals to follow the guidance provided to ensure a smooth and efficient process. The temporary suspension of consular operations aims to observe the holidays and allow staff to celebrate these significant occasions before resuming regular services promptly.

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BI Deports Japanese National Allegedly Linked to 'Luffy' Gang

In a recent development, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) has deported a Japanese national suspected to be a member of the notorious "Luffy" gang, which has been implicated in numerous cases of theft and fraud in their home country.

Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco disclosed that the 54-year-old Takayuki Kagoshima was closely monitored by Japanese police escorts as he boarded a Japan Airlines flight bound for Narita, Tokyo, departing from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) at 10:00 am.

Tansingco further revealed that Kagoshima is the seventh suspected member of the "Luffy" gang to be deported by the BI since his presence was reported in the country.

Previously, the BI had deported six other members of the syndicate in February and March, following a summary deportation order issued against them by the BI board of commissioners in October of the previous year.

Kagoshima was apprehended in Pasay City last March 4 by operatives of the BI fugitive search unit (FSU).

Tansingco emphasized, "There will be no letup in our campaign to hunt and deport all foreign fugitives who are hiding in the country. We cannot allow the Philippines to become a refuge for these wanted criminals."

According to BI deputy spokesperson Mabulac, Kagoshima is subject to an outstanding arrest warrant issued by a court in Fukuoka prefecture, Japan, where he is charged with theft.

Kagoshima has been on the BI's wanted list since October 2023, with a summary deportation order issued against him, along with eight other syndicate members, for being deemed undesirable aliens.

Based on BI travel records, Kagoshima arrived in the country on November 7, 2022, and has since not left the Philippines, resulting in automatic overstaying.

Japanese authorities have linked Kagoshima to the "JP Dragon" syndicate, known for swindling cash cards from its victims by eluding law enforcement.

The successful deportation of Kagoshima underscores the BI's unwavering commitment to ensuring that the Philippines remains free from the influence of criminal elements seeking refuge in the country. This decisive action sends a strong message that illegal activities will not be tolerated, and those involved will face the full force of the law.

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Tougher Penalties Proposed for Illegal Foreign Workers in the House of Representatives

In a bold move to combat the issue of illegal foreign workers in the country, Bicol Saro party-list Rep. Brian Raymund Yamsuan is pushing for stricter penalties and hefty fines for foreigners found to be working illegally in the Philippines.

Under House Bill (HB) 1279, Yamsuan advocates for harsher punishments, including imprisonment of up to six years and a significant increase in fines imposed on them – from the current P10,000 to P50,000 for each year of violation of labor laws.

The proposal comes in the wake of the recent arrest of 37 Chinese nationals for allegedly running prohibited retail and restaurant operations in Parañaque City. This incident has sparked concerns about the prevalence of illegal activities conducted by foreign nationals within the country.

Furthermore, a resolution has been filed by senators calling for an investigation into complaints from several Multinational Village owners in Barangay Moonwalk regarding the influx of Chinese nationals suspected to be involved in illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGOs).

In a separate incident, authorities apprehended 10 Chinese nationals on May 2 in Multinational Village for alleged human trafficking activities.

Yamsuan emphasized the importance of distinguishing between foreign nationals who abide by the law with valid employment permits and those who engage in illegal activities that disrupt the peace and order of communities. He stressed that while the country welcomes foreign workers who contribute positively to the economy, those operating unlawfully must face the consequences.

According to Yamsuan, the current fine of P10,000 for foreign workers caught working illegally is deemed insufficient and should be raised to P50,000 per year or a fraction thereof for continuous violations as proposed in the bill.

Under HB 1279, non-resident foreigners holding EPs but choosing to switch jobs or employers without proper notice and approval from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) may face fines ranging from P50,000 to P100,000.

Moreover, any employer or authorized representative proven to have hired non-resident foreigners for illegal work in the country could be fined between P100,000 to P200,000 under the proposed legislation.

"In all cases, the fines imposed herein shall be without prejudice to other administrative, civil, or criminal liability that may incur by reason of such act or omission," the bill states, emphasizing the seriousness of enforcing the regulations to uphold the integrity of the labor market and protect the rights of both local and foreign workers alike.

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Palawan Shaken by Strong Earthquake

Today, the province of Palawan was struck by a powerful earthquake, causing concern among residents in the region, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

According to Phivolcs data, a magnitude 5.1 earthquake was recorded on the Richter scale at around 2:58 pm, with the epicenter located 091 km southeast of Roxas, Palawan. The quake had a depth of 026 km and originated tectonically.

The tremor was felt at intensity III in Roxas, Palawan, and intensity I in Cuyo and Narra, Palawan. There have been no reports yet of any damages caused by the earthquake, and no aftershocks are expected in the coming days.

Furthermore, at 11:18 pm last night, Sarangani Island in the town of Sarangani, Davao Occidental, also experienced an earthquake. The magnitude of this quake was recorded at 4.3, with a depth of 016 km and a tectonic origin.

On the other hand, at precisely 3:53 am, Balut Island in the same town of Sarangani, Davao Occidental, was once again shaken by a magnitude 3.9 earthquake.

These recent seismic activities serve as a reminder of the constant seismicity in the region and the importance of being prepared for such natural events. Residents are urged to stay alert and follow safety protocols in case of any future occurrences.

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Senator Lito Lapid Initiates Investigation into Pampanga POGO Hub Raid

Senator Lito Lapid has taken a proactive stance by initiating an investigation in the Senate regarding the raid conducted by the Presidential Anti-Crime Commission (PAOCC) personnel at a POGO hub in Porac, Pampanga.

In light of the situation, Senator Lapid emphasized the importance of uncovering the truth behind the operations of the said POGO establishment. He stressed the need for a thorough investigation to identify the true owners of the lands and buildings utilized by the POGO, as well as the company running its operations. This, he believes, is crucial in revealing the full extent of those involved in the POGO activities.

Furthermore, Senator Lapid appealed to journalists to uphold balance and responsibility in their reporting to prevent innocent individuals from being wrongly implicated in the Pampanga POGO operations.

"We urge our media colleagues, as well as those in social media, to exercise responsibility and discernment before making baseless accusations to avoid unjustly targeting innocent and blameless individuals," Senator Lapid stated.

In connection with this, Senator Lapid commended and supported the exceptional actions of the PAOCC personnel and other government law enforcement and intelligence agencies. He noted that the raids conducted at the POGO hubs in Tarlac and Pampanga not only yielded substantial evidence for criminal charges but also highlighted the need to address loopholes in existing laws to prevent any abuse of regulatory processes.

Senator Lapid echoed the public sentiment for the protection of national interests and the accountability of those involved in illegal POGO operations.

"The heinous crimes uncovered in the POGO raids in Bamban, Tarlac, and Pampanga must not only be condemned but also necessitate swift government action to hold accountable those behind these criminal activities. This should go hand in hand with the formulation of new policies to combat illegal POGOs and similar operations in the country," Senator Lapid further explained.

Senator Lapid's decisive actions underscore a commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice prevails in cases of illegal activities, particularly in the realm of POGO operations. As the investigation progresses, the public can expect transparency and diligence in uncovering the truth and addressing any violations effectively.