Advocates support the Senate in the swift passage of Maritime Zones Bill

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Maritime specialists, development workers, scientists, and advocates send their unequivocal support to the Senate in swiftly passing the Maritime Zones Bill as it conducts the second hearing to discuss the legislation under the Senate Special Committee on Philippine Maritime and Admiralty Zones (Special Committee); they likewise laud the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) for including the Philippine Maritime Zones Act (MZ Act) among the priority measures that will be adopted within the year 2023.

President Marcos met with the LEDAC last 20 September 2023 for the inclusion of the declaration of the Philippines maritime zones in the Common Legislative Agenda of the 19th Congress. The MZ Act is among LEDAC’s new priority legislations.

The group backs the Senate on its sense of urgency in adopting the MZ Act amidst the varying issues arising in our maritime domain, including escalating tensions on the West Philippine Sea and the continuous destruction of our marine wealth and natural resources, among others.

Earlier this week, Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva released a statement on the installation of floating barriers in the Scarborough Shoal and reiterated the importance of the immediate passage of the MZ Act: “Kaisa po tayo ng Presidente Bongbong Marcos sa paniniwalang prayoridad ang agarang pagpasa ng Philippine Maritime Zones Act na naglalayong magdeklara ng mga maritime zones na nasa pamamahala ng Pilipinas kabilang ang internal waters, archipelagic waters, territorial sea, contiguous zone, EEZ at continental shelf.”

“Congress needs to pass the Maritime Zones Act to clearly delineate the geographical extent of our maritime jurisdictions and define the applicable powers and authorities over our marine waters consistent with international law.”, said Dr. Jay Batongbacal⁩ of the UP Institute for Maritime Affairs and the Law of the Sea (IMLOS).

The MZ Act will declare the country’s maritime zones based on standards set by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). It also reinforces the Philippines’ victory in the South China Sea arbitral ruling which declared illegal the nine-dash line, among others. Mr. Julio Amador⁩, CEO of the Amador Research Services, further emphasized that it is imperative to fortify our claims through the Maritime Zones Act in order for us to effectively protect what is ours.

“Time is of the essence. Everyday we are confronted with news about aggressive and assertive activities that undermine our rights over our own waters. Policymakers should firm up policies and strategies that protect the country's status as an archipelagic and maritime nation. They can by passing a foundational policy clearly defining and declaring the extent of what is ours. The time to pass the Maritime Zones Bill is not after the next incident, not towards the end of the year; it is now.”, adds Amador.

The House of Representatives approved House Bill 7819 or the proposed Philippine Maritime Zones Act in May 2023 while eight (8) versions of the Maritime Zones Bill have been filed in the Senate, as to date. In August 2023, the Senate created the Special Committee to focus on measures in connection with the country's maritime and admiralty zones. This is led by Senator Francis Tolentino with members Senators Sherwin Gatchalian, Ronald 'Bato' dela Rosa, Robin Padilla, Christopher Lawrence 'Bong' Go, Juan Edgardo 'Sonny' Angara, and Risa Hontiveros.

In August 2023, Senate President Miguel Zubiri committed to prioritize the passage of the measure: "We commit to you by the end of the year, before December, we will deliberate it during the budget deliberations. Isasabay namin to, ipapasa namin ang Maritime Zones Act ni Sen. Tolentino and several senators. We are going to pass it."

During the Senate Special Committee hearing today, Senator Tolentino emphasized: “What we’re doing is for the Filipino people. Ang ginagawa natin, para sa Pilipinas.”

Why Money Shouldn’t Prevent You From Seeking Mental Health Treatments

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According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it's estimated that around 1 in 4 people globally will experience a mental health issue at some point in their lives. This shows that mental health issues are common and can affect people of all different ages, backgrounds, and walks of life.

Therefore, those experiencing mental health issues should know it's okay to seek out help. Mental health significantly affects an individual's overall quality of life. Seeking mental health help is important for several reasons. For example, when mental health issues are left untreated, they can impact various aspects of life, including relationships, work, academic performance, and physical health.

However, for many, the costs of regularly meeting with a therapist or having a prescription can cause hesitation. Fortunately, there is good news—there are many different ways to receive affordable mental healthcare.


Getting Affordable Care

If someone needs mental health services but is concerned about the costs, there are several steps they can take to access the help they need without putting too much strain on their finances.


Insurance Coverage

Check if you have health insurance that includes mental health coverage. Many health insurance plans offer therapy, counseling, and psychiatric services coverage. Review your policy or contact your insurance provider to understand the extent of your coverage.


Additionally, Medicare also covers mental health services! Medicare is similar to Medicaid in that it's a federally-run health insurance plan. Also, it's similar to a private health insurance plan, with deductibles and copays. Medicare is divided into four parts, and you might be eligible for more than one.


Medicare Part A: covers inpatient mental health care

Medicare Part B: covers outpatient mental health care

Medicare Part D: covers prescriptions


In-Network Providers

If you have insurance, try to find mental health professionals who are in-network with your insurance plan. In-network providers typically have negotiated lower rates, which can help reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.

Community Mental Health Centers

Local community mental health centers often provide affordable or even free mental health services to individuals who cannot afford private therapy. Government agencies often fund these centers and offer various services.

Nonprofit Organizations

Many nonprofit organizations focus on providing mental health support and services. These organizations might offer low-cost or free counseling options.

Online Therapy Platforms

Some online therapy platforms offer more affordable options compared to traditional in-person therapy. These platforms connect individuals with licensed therapists through video, chat, or phone calls.

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)


Check if your workplace offers an Employee Assistance Program if you're employed. EAPs often provide a limited number of free counseling sessions for employees.

Universities and Training Clinics

Universities with psychology or counseling programs often have training clinics where graduate students provide supervised counseling services at reduced rates.




Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko

Local Support Groups

Support groups might not replace therapy, but they can provide valuable emotional support and a sense of community at little to no cost. Many local organizations or churches host support groups for various mental health concerns.


Telehealth Options

With the rise of telehealth services, you might find more affordable options for online therapy sessions. And the great thing about telehealth services is the flexibility. You can find a therapist that works with your time and schedule.

The Importance of Mental Health Treatments

There are many reasons why mental health treatments are important. Here are a few of them.

Early Intervention

Like physical health issues, early intervention for mental health concerns can often lead to better outcomes. Addressing issues early can prevent them from worsening and becoming more difficult to manage over time.

Improved Well-being

Mental health professionals are trained to help individuals understand their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. People can develop coping strategies, communication skills, and tools to manage their emotions and challenges through therapy and counseling.

Reduced Stigma

Seeking help for mental health issues helps to reduce the stigma associated with these conditions. By being open about seeking treatment, individuals contribute to a more supportive and understanding societal attitude toward mental health.

Suicide Prevention

Many individuals who struggle with mental health issues also experience suicidal ideation. Seeking help can provide essential support and resources to prevent suicide.

Learning Coping Skills & Resilience

Mental health professionals can teach valuable coping skills and strategies that empower individuals to manage stress, anxiety, depression, and other challenges healthier.


Also, learning how to navigate and cope with mental health challenges can enhance an individual's resilience and ability to bounce back from difficulties. Therapy gives people hope for a better and much brighter future.

Validation and Support

Talking to a mental health professional provides a safe and non-judgmental space to express feelings and concerns.

A therapist is a neutral party—someone who isn't your parent or friend. They can provide unbiased advice and encouragement. This validation and support can be immensely beneficial, especially to individuals who feel like no one understands them.

Understanding and Self-awareness

Therapy and counseling help individuals better understand themselves, their triggers, and their patterns of thinking and behavior. This self-awareness can lead to personal growth and positive change.

The Effect on Relationships

Improved mental health can positively impact relationships with family, friends, and colleagues.

Therapy helps to give a different perspective on things and can help you view the people in your life through a different lens. Also, effective communication and emotional regulation learned through therapy can lead to healthier interactions.




Photo by Văn Thắng

Final Thoughts

Remember that seeking mental health help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Mental health is vital to overall well-being, and taking steps to care for your mental health is an important investment in your future happiness and success. Money shouldn't prevent you from becoming your best version of yourself. Reach out to a professional today to begin your journey.

How To Navigate Efficient Courier Service Experience

Wazzup Pilipinas!?



Finding a smooth experience might be challenging in today's courier services. Fortunately, several tips and tricks may help you have a pleasant and productive shipping excursion. An exceptional experience is described by timely and reliable package delivery. But this is only possible if you take charge of your shipping.

First on your journey is selecting the perfect courier company and tracking your shipment. You can plan and anticipate the delivery of your shipment thanks to real-time information on its whereabouts. Efficiency involves determining the safest and quickest routes, eliminating errors and delays, optimizing your packing, and reducing the likelihood of transit-related damage.

It involves open and effective communication with your courier service to ensure that your expectations and theirs are perfectly aligned. Here are some pointers for navigating a successful courier service experience.

 
1. Choose The Right Courier Service For Your Needs

In courier services, there are many options available with different offerings. In making choices, the lodestar of your selection is reputation. You must seek a courier service that stands tall amidst the waves.

Consider the track record in the industry, the murmurs of approval that travel from ear to ear. A courier service Toronto with a good track record is a reassuring lullaby that restates your worries. The trust builds with every package successfully delivered and every promise fulfilled.

Besides the reputation or a history of excellence, ensure the choice aligns with your needs and values. It's about developing relationships beyond commercial transactions and fostering cooperation that improves your experience. Choose wisely because this decision is critical to seamless deliveries, to promises kept, and marked by excellence from start to finish.

 
2. Pack Your Items Carefully

When shipping your items, the road ahead is full of twists, turns, and unexpected bumps. The secret to ensuring your precious cargo arrives safely and sound is in packaging. Packaging is the shield against the chaos of transportation.

First, choose sturdy boxes or containers to withstand the journey's challenges. Avoid the dreaded overstuffing. Just like a backpacker's backpack, your boxes have their limits. Stuffing them to the brim can lead to disaster during handling. Nobody likes a squished package.

Next, label the boxes with clear and confident markers. Clearly state what lies within on all sides of the box. Ensure you have a sturdy pen or marker on hand. Include details that will ensure your package arrives at its destination securely. You'll overcome shipping difficulties if you have solid boxes and proper labeling.

 
3. Provide Accurate Shipping Information

When your package leaves your hands and ventures into courier services, the journey can either be smooth sailing or a rollercoaster of unexpected detours. The correct address, a contact number ready to receive a call, and those little nuggets of wisdom you share as special instructions make the journey seamless.

At a sorting facility, packages zip around in controlled chaos. Your package can stand out because of the meticulous details you've provided, ensuring it's not lost in the shuffle. Provide contact information like a phone number to be used in case of need. The line of communication ensures that any hitches may be fixed immediately.

You have the authority to ensure this voyage succeeds. Your cargo will avoid delays and hiccups thanks to your attention to detail, proper address, and specific contact number. In logistics, careful attention to detail ensures that your package arrives where it's meant to, when it's meant to, in perfect harmony.

4. Track Your Package

In modern package delivery, you can trace the footsteps of your package as it makes its way through the routes and destinations. It's a virtual map or an electronic trail that mirrors the physical journey of your package.

Package tracking transforms uncertainty into certainty, which turns waiting into anticipation. With a few clicks or taps, you can watch over your package, ensuring it's on the right track. Through the courier company's website or app, follow a journey that unveils the whereabouts of your cargo.

As your package moves from hub to hub, you're right there with it, following its progress, tracking its every move. You know when your package arrives at a sorting center, when it's out for delivery, and when it finally finds its way to its destination. Package tracking can replace uncertainty with confidence. Watch as your package journeys from the sender to the recipient.

 
5. Be Patient

In courier services, delays occasionally sneak into the mix. If your eagerly awaited parcel takes slightly longer than anticipated, don't fret; it's all part of the courier adventure. Keep calm and contact your courier service for information and reassurance.

When your package takes its sweet time to reach you, take a deep breath and wait. The world is full of surprises; not all are pleasant. Traffic jams, pesky weather quirks, and other unforeseen twists can wrench even the most meticulously planned delivery schedules.

While your package takes its time, remember that good things come to those who wait. In this case, your eagerly awaited parcel is just around the corner. Feel that itch to know more? Go ahead and reach out to your courier service. Pick up the phone, tap out an email, or use your favorite mode of communication to connect with your courier service.

 
Bottom Line

For successful courier service navigation, you must be meticulous in your planning. Selecting the best courier service is the key as it influences whether you'll sail across calm waters or encounter rough waves. Armed with transparency, reliability, and a proven track record, your chosen partner guides you through the shipping cosmos.

A simplified procedure turns a potential setback into a moment of happiness. The secret is in the small things, in streamlining each process to guarantee promptness and dependability. Optimizing your shipping processes cannot be overstated, with the demand for seamless service surging.