Lumagui: BIR will extend deadlines affected by Super Typhoon Carina and the Southwest Monsoon to July 31

Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr. has stated that he will release an issuance on the extension of submission, filing, and/or payment of several dues because of the inclement weather suffered by taxpayers , until July 31, 2024. The extension was made in recognition of the hardships suffered by taxpayers as a result of the lack of transportation, electricity, internet service, and other basic services during the recent catastrophe brought by Super Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon. Government offices, including that of the BIR, were also closed due to inclement weather. The extension will cover affected areas.

"In this time of need and disaster, the BIR will extend the deadlines of submission, filing, and/or payment of specific dues that coincides with Super Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon. Excellent taxpayer service not only means the improvement of our services, but also that of adjusting to the realities faced by taxpayers in real-time. Please take care of your families and loved ones, we will move the deadline to July 31" Commissioner Lumagui stated.

The dues that will be moved to July 31, 2024 are the following:

SUBMISSION of Quarterly Summary List of Sales/Purchases/Importations by a VAT Registered Taxpayer-Non-eFPS Filers -- For the Quarter Ending June 30, 2024

SUBMISSION of Sworn Statement of Manufacturer's or Importer's Volume of Sales of each particular Brand of Alcohol Products, Tobacco Products and Sweetened Beverage Products -- For the Quarter Ending June 30, 2024 

e-FILING/FILING & e-PAYMENT/PAYMENT of BIR Form 2550Q (Quarterly Value-Added Tax Return) - eFPS & Non-eFPS Filers -- For the Quarter Ending June 30, 2024

e-FILING FILING & e-PAYMENT/PAYMENT of BIR Form 2551Q (Quarterly Percentage Tax Return) - For the Quarter Ending June 30, 2024

The Revenue District Offices covered by the extensions are the following :

Region III

Revenue District Office No. 17A - Tarlac City, Tarlac

Revenue District Office No. 17B - Paniqui, Tarlac

Revenue District Office No. 18 - Olongapo City, Zambales

Revenue District Office No. 19 - Subic Bay Freeport Zone

Revenue District Office No. 20 - Balanga City, Bataan

Revenue District Office No. 21A - Angeles City, North Pampanga

Revenue District Office No. 21B - City of San Fernando, South Pampanga

Revenue District Office No. 21C - Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone (CFEZ)

Revenue District Office No. 22 - Baler, Aurora

Revenue District Office No. 23A - Talavera, North Nueva Ecija

Revenue District Office No. 23B - Cabanatuan City, South Nueva Ecija

Revenue District Office No. 25A - West Bulacan

Revenue District Office No. 25B - East Bulacan

Region IV-A

Revenue District Office No. 46 - Cainta-Taytay

Revenue District Office No. 54A - Trece Martires City, East Cavite

Revenue District Office No. 54B - Kawit, West Cavite

Revenue District Office No. 58 - Batangas City, West Batangas

Revenue District Office No. 59 - Lipa City, East Batangas

Revenue District Office No. 55 - San Pablo City, East Laguna

Revenue District Office No. 56 - Calamba City, Central Laguna

Revenue District Office No. 57- Biñan City, West Laguna

Revenue District Office No. 60 - Lucena City, North Quezon

Revenue District Office No. 61 - Gumaca, South Quezon

National Capital Region (NCR)

Revenue District Office No. 24 - Valenzuela City

Revenue District Office No. 26 - Malabon City/Navotas City

Revenue District Office No. 27 - Caloocan City

Revenue District Office No. 28 – Novaliches

Revenue District Office No. 29 - Tondo - San Nicolas

Revenue District Office No. 30 – Binondo 

Revenue District Office No. 31- Sta. Cruz

Revenue District Office No. 32 - Quiapo-Sampaloc-San Miguel-Sta. Mesa

Revenue District Office No. 33 - Ermita-Intramuros-Malate

Revenue District Office No. 34 - Paco-Pandacan-Sta. Ana-San Andres

Revenue District Office No. 38 - North Quezon City

Revenue District Office No. 39-South Quezon City

Revenue District Office No. 40 – Cubao

Revenue District Office No. 41 - Mandaluyong City

Revenue District Office No. 42 - San Juan City

Revenue District Office No. 43 - Pasig City

Revenue District Office No. 45 – SMART (San Mateo - Marikina - Antipolo - Rodriguez - Teresa)

Revenue District Office No. 47- East Makati City

Revenue District Office No. 48 - West Makati City

Revenue District Office No. 49 - North Makati City

Revenue District Office No. 50 - South Makati City

Revenue District Office No. 44 - Taguig City-Pateros

Revenue District Office No. 51 - Pasay City

Revenue District Office No. 52 - Parañaque City

Revenue District Office No. 53A - Las Piñas City

Revenue District Office No. 53B - Muntinlupa City

Revenue District Office No. 116 - Regular LT Audit Division I

Revenue District Office No. 125 - Regular LT Audit Division II

Revenue District Office No. 126 - Regular LT Audit Division III

Revenue District Office No. 121 - Excise LT Audit Division I

Revenue District Office No. 124 - Excise LT Audit Division II

Local Declarations 

Revenue District Office No. 1 - Laoag City, Ilocos Norte

Revenue District Office No. 2 -  Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

Revenue District Office No. 3 - San Fernando, La Union

Revenue District Office No. 4 - Calasiao, Central Pangasinan

Revenue District Office No. 5 - Alaminos City, West Pangasinan

Revenue District Office No. 6 - Urdaneta City, East Pangasinan

Revenue District Office No. 7 - Bangued, Abra

Revenue District Office No. 8 - Baguio City

Revenue District Office No. 9 - La Trinidad, Benguet

Revenue District Office No. 10 - Bontoc, Mt. Province

DOST officials call for science story submissions for 2024 Bantog Awards

 

DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. delivers his speech highlighting the vital role of the media in delivering science and technology information to the public during the 2024 Bantog Media and Science Communication Awards press conference.

The spotlight turns to science communicators as the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) brings back the Bantog Awards for Media and Science Communication with the theme “Driving Development through Science Communication.”

At a press conference held at the DOST-Science and Technology Information Institute (DOST-STII), DOST officials urged media practitioners and content creators to submit their science stories for the awards night scheduled for 10 September 2024.

In his opening message, Dr. Napoleon K. Juanillo Jr., Assistant Secretary for Technology Transfer, Communications, and Commercialization of DOST and Officer-in-Charge of DOST-STII highlighted the important contributions of the media in increasing the level of awareness of the people through their S&T stories.  “We are banking on the Bantog Awards to pave the way to build an ecosystem of science communication practitioners,” said Dr. Napoleon K. Juanillo, Jr.

On the other hand, according to Rodolfo P. de Guzman, Chief of the Communication Resources and Production Division of DOST-STII, the DOST media awards seeks to strengthen its partnership with media practitioners and content creators by recognizing the best stories that promote public interest in science and technology (S&T).

Media’s role in promoting S&T

In his speech, DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. compared media practitioners and content creators to a tulay or bridge that connects S&T information sources—such as DOST, scientists, and engineers—with the public.

He highlighted the crucial role of media practitioners and content creators in transforming scientific data and information into engaging, easily understood content that emphasize the importance of science in our lives.

“With the media’s power to inform the general public, it remains a vital and reliable partner in distributing and disseminating information, resulting in awareness and reinforcing science literacy at all levels of society,” Sec. Solidum said. 

Moreover, DOST Undersecretary for Scientific and Technical Services Maridon O. Sahagun emphasized the importance of media stories in shaping public perception and adaptation to a rapidly changing world, where science, technology, and innovation offer solutions to daily challenges and create opportunities for a more sustainable and progressive future.

Meanwhile, Dr. Juanillo also outlined three key elements of a good science story: (1) it includes a relatable aspect that people can identify with; (2) it explains the scientific process, including choices and biases, as well as how conclusions are reached; and (3) it is relevant to what people value, such as stories affecting their livelihood, health, and well-being.

Bantog Awards returns on stage

First held in 2018, this contest returns with new and more inclusive categories that encompass various media formats such as text, audio, and audiovisual. It also welcomes a diverse range of S&T storytellers or STellers, including not only media writers, reporters, correspondents, information officers, and media organizations but also independent bloggers and social media content creators.

“This time, we are expanding this recognition program to include the growing community of Filipino content creators who bring information to a wider public and open up more space for further public discourses and awareness of science, technology, and innovation,” said Usec. Sahagun.

In 2018, the awards featured only four categories. This year, in response to the diverse and emerging platforms through which S&T is communicated, the number of categories has expanded to 10, including:

1. Best S&T News Story (text);
2. Best S&T News Story (audio);
3. Best S&T Feature Story (text;
4. Best S&T Editorial/Opinion (text);
5. Best S&T Editorial/Opinion (audio/video);
6. Best S&T Investigative Story (video);
7. Best S&T News Story (video);
8. Best S&T Short-form series (video) (e.g., TikTok videos, YouTube shorts, and Facebook and Instagram reels);
9. Outstanding S&T Information Officer; and
10. Outstanding S&T Advocate (Institutional Award)

De Guzman also clarified that the contest will primarily evaluate how effectively the science behind DOST’s programs, technologies, projects, services, and advocacy efforts is discussed and presented, including how these initiatives can benefit the public.

For more information about the guidelines and entry requirements of the various categories, you may visit this link.

You may submit your entries through this form: https://bit.ly/Bantog_CallForEntries.

Davao to Host Inaugural Event of PBWx Series on July 30!

Davao City, Philippines – Launching the Philippine Blockchain Week (PBWx) nation-wide series, organizers peg Davao City the jump off point for ChainReact: Igniting a Digital Revolution in the Philippines on July 30, 2024 at the Arcadia Event Center.

 

Supported by the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCCI), Davao City Investment and Promotions Center (DCICP) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology, ChainReact will be a catalytic event in the Philippine blockchain landscape uniting industry leaders, innovators, and blockchain enthusiasts in driving digital transformation and innovation in the region.

"Launching the first PBWx series in the vibrant city of Davao is truly a great honor and we are thrilled to bring the transformative conversations to the local community!”  says Janelle Barretto, one of the conveners of Philippine Blockchain Week. “Our collaboration with the Davao City Investment and Promotions Center,  Department of Information and Communications Technology, as well as the Davao City Chamber of Commerce highlights the powerful synergies between public and private sectors in driving innovation and economic growth in the region.” she added. 

From the host city, Belinda L. Torres, President of Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, echoes the enthusiasm. "Davao City Chamber is excited to partner with Philippine Blockchain Week in this month's General Membership Meeting. We believe that understanding the vastness and entirety of Blockchain will be beneficial for the business community.  This is inevitable, thus we are looking forward to the Davao Chamber Members and the business sector in general to learn how we can utilize Blockchain to our advantage.”

Chain React will also see the launch of DTaka, the newest e-wallet that caters to the digital lifestyle of the modern-day Filipino with a universal rewards program.  

“We are thrilled to announce DTaka’s partnership with PBWx as a major sponsor. This collaboration highlights our commitment to innovation and growth in the Philippine blockchain ecosystem.”, says Emmanuel Samson, CEO of DTaka.

Residents of Davao and the southern Philippines are encouraged to seize this opportunity!  Join ChainReact and be part of a digital wave that promises to reshape the future.

For ticket information and to learn more about the event, please email info@pbw.ph.  

About PBWx:  PBWx is a series of dynamic blockchain events designed to strengthen the Philippine blockchain landscape. Taking inspiration from the renowned TEDx talks, PBWx aims to bring revolutionary ideas that spark transformative conversations within local communities by facilitating world-class learning sessions with local and global industry experts.

Map Timeline 

PBWx 2024 roadshow series kicks off in Davao City on July 29-30, with follow up events every month thereafter in Bacolod, Bataan and Manila.

Robot program by Filipino students to be tested on International Space Station

Quezon City - The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) is pleased to announce that

team Inflection Point of the Batangas State University (BatStateU) will be the first-ever Philippine team to join Kibo Robot Programming Challenge (Kibo-RPC).

Hosted by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) in cooperation with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the Kibo-RPC is an international programming challenge for the youth to gain scientific, technical, and mathematical skills for manipulating space robots. Student teams will code a program for Astrobee, NASA’s free-floating robot, within the Japanese “Kibo” module aboard the International Space Station (ISS).

Team Inflection Point is composed of six first-year aerospace engineering students from BatStateU: Andrew Cabile, Howell Dela Cruz, Benedict Lontok, Ahron Martinez, Amer Panganiban, and John Royeth Samson. Their entry scored 260.2 points during simulation conducted by PhilSA staff using JAXA’s simulator, acquiring the highest average score among all the PH entries.

“Upon seeing this competition, we immediately joined without knowing much, thinking that we will obtain knowledge and experience along the way. We weren't expecting that our curiosity and desire to learn would enable us to dive deep through this competition and dedicate ourselves to obtaining the best results, leading to the win that none of us would see coming a few months back. Expect us to do what we can in the final round as we dare mighty things," said the team.

Following the preliminary round, each winning team from the participating countries and regions

will advance to the in-orbit final round, which will take place aboard the ISS later this year.

PhilSA led and organized the local call for proposals for this year’s Kibo-RPC Philippines. 29 team

applications were received nationwide from 2 April to 27 May 2024 and seven (7) teams successfully submitted their APK source codes. These teams include students from Batangas State University, FEATI University, Mapúa University, Polytechnic University of the Philippines - Santa Rosa Campus, Lyceum of Alabang, Polytechnic University of the Philippines - Santa Rosa Campus, and Rizal Technological University.

The simulation was conducted simultaneously for all seven (7) teams and the JAXA Simulator

was able to run 10 simulations per program/team, from which individual and average scores were collected. Insights on each team’s mission performance, time record, and scores were also generated during the preliminary round.

This also marks the first year of the Philippines joining the KIBO-RPC.

‘The Power of Slow’: A Refreshing Beverage Redefining Hydration for the Modern Filipino

Lionheart Farms, a Palawan, Philippines-based company that produces high-quality, organic products made from coconut flower sap, is excited to announce the launch of “The Power of Slow” by CÓCOES, a revolutionary coconut flower beverage designed to redefine refreshment.

"The Power of Slow" is pure sustainable energy, a premium coconut flower drink crafted to energize your active life without the jitters or crashes. Fueled by natural nutrients and minerals, and harvested from the sustainable bounty of coconut palms, it's nature's answer to sustained energy and mindful hydration.

This Palawan-made all-natural beverage redefines hydration, tapping into the natural sweetness of the coconut flower and offering a delicious and naturally healthy alternative to sugary beverages prevalent in today's fast-paced world. Truly, this unique beverage goes beyond hydration; it's an invitation to embrace a slower pace and savor the simple pleasures in life.

A Gateway to Mindfulness and Wellbeing

"We're thrilled to introduce 'The Power of Slow' to consumers, initially across the Philippines and later to the world," said Christian Eyde Moeller, president and CEO of Lionheart Farms. "Our mission is to inspire a culture of mindfulness and appreciation for ourselves, our health, our environment, and our joyful moments. We believe 'The Power of Slow' embodies this ethos, offering a delicious escape from the daily grind and a gateway to a more mindful way of living."

Aligned with the Growing Demand for Natural and Sustainable Beverages

The Power of Slow arrives at a perfect time. Consumers are increasingly seeking natural and sustainable alternatives in the beverage industry. The market for plant-based beverages was estimated at USD 27.90 billion in 2022 and it is expected to hit around USD 73.19 billion by 2032, poised to grow at a CAGR of 10.12% between 2023 and 2032, driven by a growing focus on health and wellness.

Empowering Filipino Farmers, One Sip at a Time

Lionheart Farms goes beyond crafting a delicious beverage. "The Power of Slow" by CÓCOES is a commitment to empowering Filipino coconut farmers. By utilizing the often-overlooked potential of the coconut flower, Lionheart Farms innovatively creates a sustainable and profitable source of income for these vital members of the agricultural community.

Experience the Power of Slow

The Power of Slow by CÓCOES will be available starting May 2024 at select partner retailers nationwide and on our e-commerce site. This will further be launched during the International Food Exhibition (IFEX) Philippines 2024 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila in Pasay City on May 10-12, 2024.

To learn more about this innovative beverage and its story, visit our website: www.cocoes.com/slow. 

Join the Movement. Embrace the Power of Slow. 

Connect with The Power of SLOW

Website: www.cocoes.com/slow

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drinkthepowerofslow

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drinkpowerofslow/

About CÓCOES

CÓCOES is a (brand by Lionheart Farms), dedicated to producing innovative coconut-based products that prioritize quality, sustainability, and community impact. Through its commitment to excellence and ethical practices, CÓCOES aims to redefine the beverage industry with products that are not only delicious but also socially and environmentally responsible.

Website: www.cocoes.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cocoesph/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cocoesofficial

About Lionheart Farms

Lionheart Farms is a Palawan, Philippines-based company that produces high-quality, organic products (i.e., beverages, condiments, sweeteners) made from coconut flower sap. Committed to sustainability and fair trade practices, the company empowers local communities and provides consumers with healthy, delicious alternatives.

Website: www.lionheartfarms.com.ph

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lionheart-farms/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lionheartfarmsofficial 

Balik Scientist advocates technology-based Tamaraw conservation

To protect one of the country’s critically endangered species, Dr. Nikki Heherson A. Dagamac, a Balik Scientist and biology expert, has embarked on a mission to assess and monitor the elusive Tamaraw (Bubalus mindorensis) in its natural habitat in Mindoro.

Project MATAPAT or Multidisciplinary Approaches for TAmaraw Protection Against Threats seeks to assess the present status of Tamaraw in Mt. Calavite Wildlife Sanctuary (MCWS) and to identify priority areas of conservation in Occidental Mindoro. 

This project was supported by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) and implemented by the Department of Biological Sciences, University of Santo Tomas (UST) in collaboration with D’Aboville Foundation, Demo Farm Inc. (DAF), Tamaraw Conservation Program (TCP), and DENR-MCWS Protected Area Management Office.

Assessment techniques employed by Dr. Dagamac’s team included camera trapping and census in MCWS’s Strict Protection Zone (SPZ). This was done through the project component, Tamaraw Inventory and Movement using Approaches for Wildlife Analysis (TIMAWA). The research team assessed and monitored the population of tamaraws by deploying 20 infrared camera traps situated in 100 locations for 1400 camera trapping days. 

In addition, another component of the project focused on habitat suitability analysis utilizing ecological niche modeling to identify areas that are highly suitable for the translocation of tamaraws.

Tamaraw is an endemic dwarf buffalo of Mindoro. Currently considered critically endangered under the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Administrative Order No. 2004-15, it has been assessed for the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species in 2016.

According to the Tamaraw Conservation and Management Action Plan 2019-2028 (DENR 2019), their species are threatened by habitat loss and degradation, fires that involve slash-and-burn farming, invasive non-native plants (e.g., weeds or grasses), and unregulated wildlife poaching and hunting both from residing indigenous communities and other external groups.

Project MATAPAT worked closely with the Iraya-Mangyan tribes in camera trapping and habitat assessment activities in MCWS.

However, through the course of the project, Dr. Dagamac was able to capture other endangered, endemic, and elusive species present in Mindoro, such as the Mindoro warty pig and Philippine brown deer. This is essential progress in habitat assessment and sustainability.

Before returning to the Philippines, Dr. Dagamac, a long-term Balik Scientist, worked as a research associate at the Institute of Botany and Landscape Ecology, University of Greifswald in Germany, and Visiting Adjunct Professor at the Thai-Nguyen University of Agriculture and Forestry in Vietnam.

During his engagement with UST, Dr. Dagamac also mentored 15 graduate students and more than 100 undergraduate students. He is also the founder of the Initiatives for Conservation, Landscape Ecology, Bioprospecting, and Biomodeling (ICOLABB), where he was able to hone the research collaboration skills of young and budding researchers on biodiversity assessment and conservation. (Rudolph John M. Cabangbang, Michelle P. Caparas, and Jesselle S. Laranas, DOST-PCAARRD S&T Media Services)

DOST-PCAARRD boosts ‘Queen’ pineapple R&D with new CNSC laboratory

The Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) and Camarines Norte State College (CNSC) continue to strengthen the Queen pineapple industry with the new CNSC Queen Pineapple Research and Development (R&D) Institute (QPRDI) laboratory and nursery.

Located at the CNSC-Labo campus, the QPRDI facilities were improved through the funding and support of DOST-PCAARRD under the Institution Development Division (IDD) led by Dr. Fezoil Luz C. Decena.

As the implementing agency of the Queen Pineapple Research and Development (R&D) Center under DOST's Niche Centers in the Regions (NICER) for R&D Program, CNSC has been working on research initiatives to boost the local Queen pineapple industry since 2021. Under DOST’s NICER program, this is the second center to be institutionalized among all R&D centers monitored by DOST-PCAARRD’s Crops Research Division (CRD).

During the inauguration ceremony, CNSC President Marlo M. De La Cruz acknowledged the support given by DOST, DOST-PCAARRD, and the local government of Labo and Camarines Norte to their institution. He also emphasized the importance of their partner agencies in sustaining the ongoing and future efforts of QPRDI.

CNSC officials such as Vice President for Research and Extension Rosalie A. Almadrones, Labo Campus Director Arden Peejay L. Ezaki, and QPRDI Director Arlene C. Alegre also expressed their gratitude during the ceremony. 

DOST-PCAARRD Deputy Executive Director for R&D Juanito T. Batalon recognized the establishment as a strategic move to address CNSC’s challenges in terms of research and extension, covering production, varietal improvement, pest and disease management, and technology development. 

Meanwhile, DOST-PCAARRD’s CRD Director Leilani D. Pelegrina mentioned that through the new facilities, more opportunities are expected to open and create bigger impacts for the industry, especially for local Queen pineapple farmers.

The inauguration ceremony of the QPRDI laboratory and nursery was attended by CNSC officials, representatives from the local government of Labo and Camarines Norte, and DOST-PCAARRD staff led by Dr. Batalon, along with CRD Dir. Pelegrina and IDD Facilities Development and Management Section Head Engr. Ruel Carlo L. Tanqueco. (Danica Louise C. Sembrano and Victor P. Alcantara, DOST-PCAARRD S&T Media Services)

DESCRIPTION: DOST-PCAARRD and Camarines Norte State College (CNSC) continue to strengthen the Queen pineapple industry through the inauguration of the new CNSC Queen Pineapple Research and Development (R&D) Institute (QPRDI) laboratory and nursery in Camarines Norte.