The Bureau of Immigration (BI) recently inaugurated its new day care center and breastfeeding area at its head office in Intramuros.
The facility, which is a project under the BI’s Gender and Development (GAD) program, was inaugurated last December 12 and is now open for use for the transacting public as well as BI employees.
The event was attended by GAD Focal Point System (GFPS) Chairperson BI Deputy Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado as well as key personnel of the BI’s GFPS.
Assistant Secretary Majken Anika S. Gran-Ong of the Department of Justice attended as the Guest of Honor. She highlighted the importance of the facility for women and mothers who might be going to the BI for various immigration transactions.
BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco said that the facility is a priority project of the BI’s GFPS, and is aimed at providing convenience and support both to visitors and working parents.
Recognizing the importance of family-friendly policies and fostering a conducive work environment, the BI launched the center equipped with a play area for children, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for children of visitors and employees.
In line with the commitment to promoting maternal health and supporting breastfeeding mothers, a dedicated breastfeeding area has also been established within the premises. The area is designed to offer privacy and comfort for mothers to nurse their infants or express milk while at the BI Main Office.
“This project aims to improve our services by making our facilities comfortable and accessible for all,” said Tansingco.
New Year celebration generally peaceful – PNP
The Philippine National Police reported a largely tranquil New Year 2024 celebration nationwide on Monday.
“Naging mapayapa naman pangkalahatan nationwide iyong ating naging monitoring po sa pagsalubong po ng Bagong Taon,” PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Jean Fajardo said.
Fajardo noted that, until 4 a.m. on Monday, there had been 11 occasions where guns were fired illegally, adding two recent ones from Sunday at 1 and 2 p.m. In the first, an intoxicated policeman in Zamboanga fired his gun near the barracks.
Authorities now detain the officer and is confronting both legal and internal charges, which could result in termination, Fajardo announced. The PNP will continue its increased alert into next week to ensure safety at travel hubs post-New Year festivities.
On December 30, the Philippine National Police reported the apprehension of 12 people for contraband firecrackers, noting 36 cases of illicit handling and trade. Officers confiscated 28,754 illegal fireworks valued at approximately 244,130 pesos, with ‘five-star’, ‘sawa’, and ‘plapla’ brands being most common. Caught individuals risk a year in jail, fines up to 30,000 pesos, and revocation of their permits and licenses.
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