‘We can manage’ DU30 visits Russia; more laws and reforms

MALACAÑANG confirmed that President Duterte has decided to refuse further grants from the European Union (EU).

“We can manage” and we’ll turn the Philippines into a more independent nation, DU30 said.

*** The EU delegation to Manila said that the Philippines decision will affect grants worth 250 million euros (about 114 billion).

Never mind, just charge it to diplomatic fallout, and we’ll look for other sources, the Palace said.

*** Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea appointed out that blocking the aid from the EU will “enable them not to interfere with our internal affairs.”

”We’re supposed to be an independent nation,” he said, but EU has repeatedly criticized and condemned us for the government’s determined war on drugs.

*** Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella explained that “this is not necessarily humanitarian aid from the EU, [but grants] that may allow it to interfere with the internal policies of the Philippines.”

“The Philippines reserves the right to accept loans and grants that help attain its objectives of promoting economic development, inclusiveness, reducing poverty, attaining peace within its borders and with its neighbors, and fostering a law-abiding society,” he said.

***

However, Abella clarified that refusing EU grants does not mean that the Philippines will also be rejecting aid or grants from other international aid-giving bodies like the United Nations (UN).

“We’ll take it on a case-to-case basis. We can accept or respectfully decline that which we find objectionable,” he said.

*** Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon M. Lopez also said the current zero tariff privilege on 6,274 items enjoyed by Filipino exporters under the EU-GSP Plus scheme should not be affected by the government’s decision not to accept grants from EU.

“Generalized System of Preferences is not a grant; they’re commercial transactions that benefit both sides,” Lopez said.

***

But Lopez suggested that despite the adverse development on grants, the EU and PH should continue to engage each other in other mutually beneficial areas.

Let’s not burn all the bridges, he said.

*** In a related development, President Duterte said he is keen on strengthening the relationship between the Philippines and Russia during his much-awaited visit to Moscow this week.

Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said Duterte’s visit will focus on strengthening socio economic and other ties with Russia and “broadening his horizons, his international relations.”

*** Meanwhile, the government said several pieces of legislation passed earlier have come into full force and effect.

Implementation of more reforms coming, it vowed. *** The Anti-Distracted Driving Law (RA 10913) prohibiting drivers from using communication devices and other electronic and computing gadgets while driving their vehicles or even when stopping at intersections or at red traffic signal has taken effect.

“Anything that can distract, blur, or obstruct the sight of the driver while operating the vehicle, or if he does not have a full view of the roadway, are not allowed anymore,” Land Transportation Office (LTO) Chairman Edgar Galvante said.

*** The law covers all private and public vehicles, including agricultural machines, construction equipment, motorcycles, tricycles, pedicabs, and carriages.

Public safety is the best policy.

*** Likewise, children below 18 years old are no longer allowed to board motorcycles plying major public roads.

Yes, let our children be safe and protected.