Philippine Asian News Today | Page 13

July 16 - 31, 2016 respect the outcome of the case before the Permanent Court of Arbitration as an important contribution to the ongoing efforts to pursue a peaceful resolution and management of our disputes,” Duterte said. The five-member Arbitral Tribunal upheld the Manila’s position that China’s “nine-dash line” maritime claim is excessive and encroached into the Philippines’ 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Duterte said his administration will pursue a “human” approach for development with PHILIPPINE ASIAN NEWS TODAY improvements in health, social welfare, education, food and housing. He said addressing global warming will be a top priority. “But upon a fair and equitable equation. It must not stymie our industrialization,” he added. Duterte also promised to reform the tax system and continue sound economic policies. “We will lower personal and corporate income tax, and relax the bank secrecy law,” he said in his speech at the House of Representatives. The president also vowed protection for women’s rights, calling abuses against women “unacceptable.” The President called for streamlined processes and better government services. The validity of a driver’s licenses will be extended from three to five years, while passport will be made valid for 10 years from the current five. Duterte said the newly created Department of Information and Communications Technology will formulate a plan o accelerate the deployment of fiber optic cables to improve internet speed. He also said there will be free WiFi in selected public places. FIRST STATE OF THE NATION ADDRESS-17th Congress President Rodrigo Roa Duterte walk the plenary hall upon his deliver her speech (july 25) at the plenary hall in Batasang Pambansa,(Photo by MARCELINO PASCUA/PPD/Malacanang Photo. WWW.PHILIPPINEASIANNEWSTODAY.COM A13