Capstone-Intel CEO Advocated for Adoption of Advances Forfeiture Strategies by Philippine Law Enforcement
Manila, Philippines – June 12, 2024 – Capstone-Intel CEO Atty. Nicasio Conti has called on Philippine law enforcement agencies to adopt advanced legal strategies used internationally for the forfeiture of properties involved in crimes such as human trafficking, drug trafficking, illegal gambling, money laundering, illegal POGO (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations), and other cybercrimes and heinous offenses. Atty. Conti highlighted the effectiveness of civil asset forfeiture proceedings, which target property rather than individuals. He cited successful cases from the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada to underscore the potential benefits of these strategies for the Philippines. “In the United States, for instance, civil asset forfeiture has been a critical tool. A notable case, United States v. One 1987 Jeep Wrangler, involved the forfeiture of a vehicle used for transporting illegal drugs. The absence of a legitimate claimant allowed the government to take possession of the vehicle seamlessly,” Atty. Conti explained. He also mentioned the case of United States v. $124,700 in U.S. Currency, where the court ruled in favor of the government after the claimant failed to prove a legitimate source for the seized cash. Atty. Conti pointed to the United Kingdom’s Proceeds of Crime Act 2002, which enabled the National Crime Agency to forfeit a mansion purchased with drug trafficking proceeds. “This case exemplifies how civil recovery orders can be utilized to dismantle criminal enterprises by targeting their assets,” he noted. Additionally, Atty. Conti referenced Canadian practices, such as the forfeiture of luxury vehicles linked to drug trafficking in Ontario. “These cases demonstrate that civil forfeiture is not only effective but also adaptable across different legal systems,” he said. Atty. Conti emphasized that adopting these strategies could significantly enhance the capacity of Philippine law enforcement agencies to disrupt and deter criminal activities. “By focusing on the forfeiture of assets used in or derived from criminal conduct, we can hit criminals where it hurts the most – their finances. This approach not only removes the tools of the trade from offenders but also deprives them of the profits of their illicit activities,” he asserted. He further stressed the importance of targeting illegal POGO operations and other cybercrimes. “The rise of illegal POGO operations and cybercrimes presents new challenges for law enforcement. Implementing advanced forfeiture strategies can be a powerful deterrent against these modern threats,” Atty. Conti added. **** About Capstone-Intel Corporation Capstone-Intel is a high-impact research company that uses innovative research technologies, tools, and methods to convert data and information into breakthrough insights and actionable intelligence outputs. It is committed to helping its clients solve problems, find solutions, grow markets and constituencies, build reputations, navigate risks, manage crises, and be the country’s leading private research and intelligence agency.
Chancellor Mike Tee: Venture in research to improve lives of Filipinos
Following the investiture of Dr. Michael Tee as the 10th Chancellor of the University of the Philippines—Manila, the new chief vowed to undertake innovative research initiatives to further improve the country’s healthcare system and specifically the living conditions of the Filipino people. “We must endeavor for meaningful research that aids in decision-making in public health and clinical services. We must create products that will improve our people’s lives,” Dr. Tee said during the investiture ceremony at the Philippine International Convention Center on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. The chancellor is poised to streamline research activities under his leadership so that Filipino people receive the maximum benefits of these researches. “Our scientists are assured that all offices under our administration shall be at your disposal to make it easier for you to complete your researches so that the Filipino people may benefit from your inventions,” he noted. During the investiture, Dr. Tee was presented as a healthcare professional who continues to pursue engaging research to advance the state of healthcare within the industry. “As a clinician, he continues this pursuit, engaging in research and professional development to keep advancing the state of healthcare and integrating clinical care with the social determinants of health,” said Dr. Jose Tecson III, Vice Chancellor for Planning and Development. Additionally, Capstone-Intel Corporation likewise congratulated Chancellor Tee for his “commendable” contributions in the field of science research as well as his pursuits to improve the healthcare system for the benefit of Filipinos. “His commendable contributions in the field of science and medical research are valuable initiatives to progress the future of healthcare in the Philippines. These undertakings paved the way to uplift and magnify the competencies of Filipino healthcare professionals in the international healthcare arena. Doc Tee was the previous Vice Chancellor for Planning and Development; he was the Assistant to the Philippine General Hospital Director for Public Affairs and PGH Spokesperson from 2004 to 2010. He likewise served as the Editor-in-Chief of the UP-Manila Journal for 2010, 2011, 2013, and 2014; and Director of the UP-Manila Information, Publication, and Public Affairs Office in 2011 and from November 2014 to 2015.
Capstone-Intel advocates for utilizing modern technologies to combat crime
In response to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for government agencies to bolster the Department of Interior and Local Government’s National Crime Prevention Program (NCPP), Capstone-Intel Corporation issued a resounding endorsement of leveraging modern technology to enhance crime-fighting efforts nationwide. On Thursday, April 18, Malacanang issued Memorandum Circular No. 46, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, directing all government agencies and instrumentalities, as well as local government units (LGUs), to support and cooperate in the implementation of the 2024 NCPP. “Capstone-Intel firmly believes that the integration of modern technology is paramount in the battle against crime,” said Atty. Nic Conti, Chief Executive Officer of Capstone-Intel Corporation. “With advancements in surveillance systems, data analytics, and artificial intelligence, law enforcement agencies can gain invaluable insights and act swiftly to prevent criminal activities,” he added. Capstone-Intel emphasized the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors to deploy state-of-the-art solutions effectively. “By fostering partnerships with technology companies, law enforcement agencies can leverage cutting-edge tools tailored to their specific needs, thereby bolstering their capabilities in crime prevention and detection,” said Conti. Capstone-Intel reaffirms its commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at enhancing public safety and security through innovative technological solutions. “As a leading provider of intelligence and security solutions, Capstone-Intel stands ready to collaborate with government agencies to implement effective crime prevention measures that safeguard communities and uphold the rule of law,” said Conti. Capstone-Intel is partnered with Innefu Labs Pvt. Ltd. of India, a leading provider of intelligence and security solutions specializing in cutting-edge technologies to safeguard communities and organizations against emerging threats. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, Capstone Intel delivers comprehensive solutions tailored to meet the evolving needs of its clients.
Capstone calls out gov’t: pass laws to mainstream, end cybersecurity issues
Following the recent hacking attempt on the Bureau of Customs’ (BOC) systems, Atty. Nick Conti, Chief Executive Officer of Capstone-Intel Corporation, argued that it is high time that the national government, especially its attached agencies, address and mainstream these cybersecurity issues that are currently being faced by these government agencies. “The national government, specifically the Department of Information and Communications Technology, should craft cybersecurity protocols and pass laws that cater to protecting networks, systems, and both government and public data from unauthorized access or cyber attack,” Atty. Conti said. “It is deeply alarming since not only does it threaten government operations, it likewise terrorizes potential compromises of public information that could be used by hackers to advance their hidden agendas against the national government,” he added. Previously, a string of hacking incidents were reported on several government agencies, including BOC and the Philippine Coast Guard, among others, and it’s alarming that no one is getting apprehended for this, he said. According to Atty. Conti, information security consulting companies can actually help government departments solve these cybersecurity issues and ensure that confidential information of the public is not compromised or leaked. “Companies that offer solutions to these kinds of pressing problems, like Innefu, can alleviate and deter these concerns from prospering not only in the government but also in the private sector,” said Atty. Conti said. He likewise said that these cybersecurity concerns are “worrying” considering that the trends in the digital landscape are quickly changing to the point that the national government and its concerned departments can no longer keep up to strengthen its security measures alongside these issues. “It’s crucial that the Philippine government maximize these information security firms at this point, considering that the trends in the digital landscape are fast changing and worrying. As long as these hacking incidents persist, our public security remains at stake,” he added.
Survey: Only 14% of Filipinos are firmed that DOH services are accessible, affordable
A survey report from Capstone-Intel showed that 14% percent of Filipinos who participated in the survey revealed that they are “very satisfied” with the accessibility and affordability of healthcare services provided by the Department of Health (DOH). “Generally, 38% of the respondents are satisfied with the accessibility and affordability of the healthcare services provided by the DOH. It is closely followed by 31% of the respondents who feel more neutral about its accessibility and affordability,” Capstone said in its survey report. The survey showed that although 38% of Filipinos are generally satisfied with the healthcare services provided by the DOH, the 31% neutral result is worth noticing as it may have other conflicting values that influence their neutrality about the accessibility and affordability of DOH’s healthcare services. Over 15% of Filipinos said that they are “dissatisfied” with the affordability and dissatisfied with DOH-provided services while 3% are “very dissatisfied.” Filipinos between the ages of 18 and 75 from different regions in the country participated in the survey. The total number of respondents is 1205. The survey was conducted from August 1 to August 10, 2023, but the Omnibus Report containing the comprehensive inputs from the survey was only released this February 2024. Regional satisfaction Among the regions, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) (56%), Region X-Northern Mindanao (52%), and RegionIV-B–MIMAROPA (46%) are the regions with the highest number of respondents who answered that they were satisfied with the accessibility and affordability of healthcare services provided by the DOH. In 2023, Capstone-Intel reported that public perception of the DOH’s performance was “Good.” The survey aimed to gauge public satisfaction with DOH across areas like transparency, timeliness, access to healthcare services, and communication.
42% of working Filipinos under 18-24 years old earn less than P10K a month – survey
The latest figures from Capstone-Intel revealed that 42 percent of Filipino workers under the age group of 18-24 years old who participated in the survey earn less than P10,000 monthly. This was revealed in the recently released 2023 Omnibus Survey Report on Filipinos’ adherence to yearly preventive check-ups. “Among the respondents, the majority of those in the 18-24 years old age group earn less than P10,000 (42 percent). In the 25-34 age group, most of the respondents earn between P20,001 to P35,000 (25 percent), followed by those earning P10,001 to P20,000 (24 percent). For the remaining age groups, the majority of respondents earn between P35,001 to P65,000,” the report said. The respondents’ financial capacity, mainly coming from their income, was the primary reason why only 35 percent of the Filipino respondents under the 18-24 age group only consult medical professionals when they are feeling sick. “Furthermore, 24 percent of respondents aged 18-24 rarely undergo physical examinations and screening tests,” the report likewise said. Filipinos between the ages of 18 and 75 from different regions in the country participated in the survey. The total number of respondents is 1205. The survey was conducted from August 1 to August 10, 2023, but the Omnibus Report containing the comprehensive inputs from the survey was only released this February 2024. The 2023 survey from Capstone-Intel noted that less than half of Filipinos (40 percent) undergo yearly medical check-ups. Meanwhile, a third of them only consult a doctor when unwell, and 15 percent rarely go for regular check-ups and health screenings. In terms of check-ups, sex-wise, a higher percentage of men (42 percent) get annual checkups compared to women with 37 percent. On the other hand, the omnibus report on Filipinos’ adherence to yearly preventive medical checkups stated that more women (35 percent) only see a doctor when they are sick compared to men (30 percent). Meanwhile, over 56 percent of respondents in the National Capital Region had the greatest rate of yearly medical checkup compliance among all regions.
Capstone-Intel reminds gov’t: enhance finance technology infra in PH, make digital banking more accessible, secure
Following the recent holiday season, where most Filipinos tend to use online banking for their transactions, it has been proven that digital financing is now at the forefront of convenience among Filipinos and now plays a crucial part in the Philippine economy. This was seen in a survey conducted by Capstone-Intel last November 22 to 29, 2023, which involved about 1,503 respondents across the country where it was revealed that about 9 out of 10 Filipinos are now using finance applications for their daily transactions, highlighting a need to build a safer finance technology infrastructure in the country as more Filipinos embrace digital financing The results show that among the digital finance applications and technologies used by respondents include GCash with 94% of respondents claiming they have and are using the mobile payment service. This was followed by PayMaya with 39%, ShopeePay with 26%, bank applications with 18%, GrabPay with 8%, and other fintech applications with 5%. Meanwhile, only 2% of the total respondents claimed that they are not using any finance applications. Looking at the significance of the data, Capstone-Intel Research and Publications Director Ella Kristina Domingo-Coronel said that small-scale businesses in the country are now utilizing the use of digital financing, and while these are privately owned, the Philippine government has to step up in ensuring that they are safely regulated and enhanced for the safety of Filipino consumers. “As we can see, even ‘sari-sari’ stores now have a digital financing option for their customers. This means that the accessibility and availability are there. That’s why even though these fintech applications are owned by the private sector, the national government has to enhance the country’s finance technology infrastructure, including the measures that safeguard the consumers in order to ensure the safety of Filipinos,” Domingo-Coronel said Domingo-Coronel also highlighted that even though the country has now embraced online financing in some of its processes, the current state of the Philippines’ financial technology still has to be popularized across all demographics and normalize the usage of digital financing in all processes, either for public or private transactions. “While we see a considerable amount of Filipinos using digital financing, we also observe several complaints about the inconvenience of online financing in the country including the sluggish performance of these apps, its unending maintenance that burdens the consumers using online financing to pay their bills, and of course, the struggle with online scams,” she noted. “I would say that we still have to promote the utilization of digital financing in the Philippines in order to weaken the negative outlook of the public about this option and normalize the usage of these fintech applications for us to amplify public confidence on digital financing,” she added. She noted that the COVID-19 pandemic saw the significance of digitizing banking transactions and this occasion led to the advancement of the fintech industry, emphasizing that everyone should capitalize on this development for swift economic mobility in this industry. “It was deemed possible by the pandemic for the Philippines to upgrade their banking processes, that’s why now that we are back to the usual setting, it is high time that we capitalize on this because not only it saves the time of the consumers, the digital era is already here and we have to keep up with the demands of the changing financial economic environment,” she said. ***** Capstone-Intel Corporation is a high-impact research company that uses innovative research technologies, tools, and methods to convert data and information into breakthrough insights and actionable intelligence outputs. It is committed to helping its clients solve problems, find solutions, grow markets and constituencies, build reputations, navigate risks, manage crises, and be the country’s leading private research and intelligence agency.
Commuter Safety and Protection Convenor says drivers’ refusal to cooperate in PUV modernization is ‘hostage-taking’
As the government pushes for the full-scale implementation of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program, a notable fraction of jeepney drivers still refuse to consolidate and their defiance, which compromises the overall welfare of commuters, is tantamount to “hostage-taking.” This was the direct statement of the National Center for Commuter Safety and Protection, Inc. Convenor Elvira Medina in a media forum held by Capstone-Intel Corporation about the current state of transportation in the country. The nationwide survey of Capstone-Intel which aimed to explore public perception on transportation in the Philippines, revealed that the majority of Filipinos “approve” of the initiative with over 70% positive sentiments online. The survey also showed that the jeepney still remains to be among the most commonly used modes of transport across the country. Medina supported the accuracy of Capstone-Intel’s survey as it aligns with the latest statistics saying over 70% of jeepneys have already consolidated but about 30% still have not. The survey was also timely because of the transport strike last December 14-15 in protest of the jeepney modernization program. Medina slammed those who refuse to partake in the modernization for putting commuters in discomfort. “What I’ve been telling the press before and even now, what these people are doing is that they are blackmailing the government and using commuters as hostages. ‘Hindi kami lalabas, kawawa ang commuters ninyo.’ Hindi ba hostage taking ‘yon?” she said. Consequently, distress among commuters affects the economy as a whole, said Medina. “They refuse to ply the commuters which are mostly people who are working. It’s the commuters that deliver the goods, the products and the services that are being used by the country’s economy and the people who are preparing themselves to be the next employees or generators of the economy and these are the students. So dalawang sectors ‘yung kanilang tina-target and this is definitely against the law,” she said. Medina also pointed out the boundary system, or the scheme engaging drivers to drive jeepney units of owners or operators for an arranged unit use fee, has to see its end. “Boundary system is an evil in the system. That is one of the things that the government wants to address – make the drivers know they are owners because they are cooperatives. Sila na ‘yung mag-ma-mayari in the long run but it is the cooperative’s responsibility to make sure that all their amortizations are paid,” she said. Old jeepneys are ‘rolling coffins’ Over and above other issues about jeepney modernization, commuter safety and security are the primal concern for the strong push of the initiative. This is because old, traditional jeepneys offer little to no safety to commuters given their antiquated design and functionality. Medina said most jeepneys have life spans of over fifty years already and this poses serious risks to the lives and safety of commuters. “None of them have handbrakes and most of the seats are not welded and the body. So I’ve been asking those who interviewed me in the press, are you going to allow your children to take a ride in a vehicle that has no handbrake or the seats are not welded. Will you take the chance?” Medina said. Medina resolutely described old-type jeepneys as “rolling coffins. They are all putting our lives in danger,” she added. Capstone-Intel’s Chief of Public Affairs Atty. Nic Conti supported the issue of safety and believes that the government should score a solution balancing the Filipino traditional transport with local and international mass transport standards. “Bakit po mahalaga ang kaligtasan ng pasahero? Tao po sila at sila po ang dahilan kung bakit may negosyong ganito? Part of the modernization is actually installing additional safety measures like an anti-lock braking system, speed limiter, etc.,” he said. “At importante po na makita natin na ‘yung modernization ay balansehin ‘yung very iconic and traditional yung way of transport natin yung jeepney parang na-identify na po ang mga Pilipino sa jeepney. Still, we have to align and upgrade our transport pagdating po sa standards hindi lang po local but international standards at that,” he added. **** To know more about the data, please click here. Capstone-Intel is a high-impact research company that uses innovative research technologies, tools, and methods to convert data and information into breakthrough insights and actionable intelligence outputs. It is committed to helping its clients solve problems, find solutions, grow markets and constituencies, build reputations, navigate risks, manage crises, and be the country’s leading private research and intelligence agency.
Supermarket group says nat’l gov’t must develop local industries amid ‘pressing’ food insecurity
Amid the easing inflation rate in the Philippines, the president of a retail group revealed that in order for the Philippines to “have a brighter future” in the next 20 years, the government has to establish its local industries as Filipinos bear the brunt of “shrinkflation.” This was highlighted during the media forum organized by Capstone-Intel Corporation when it revealed its latest survey on food security where it said only approximately six out of 10 Filipinos will be food-secured in the next six months. According to Steven Cua, president of the Philippine Amalgamated Supermarkets Association (PAGASA), although the country has reached the curb of rising inflation rates, the nation is now facing “shrinkflation” in order for retailers to cater to the budget of consumers. “Shrinkflation, pinag-uusapan natin, nagtataas ang presyo, lumiliit ang laman. Sobrang liit na eh [halos] wala nang laman. Sobrang liit na, eh. For example ‘yung sardinas, 155 (grams) is the regular size [of sardines] naging 140 (grams) para mag-shoot sa budget ng mamimili,” Cua said. As per the results of the survey, most households (46 percent) said they spend P1,001 – P2,500 on food purchases weekly, adding that the consistent rise in food costs could financially distress Filipino households. “Stability in food costs is critical for family budgeting nationwide. Persistently elevated food inflation could rapidly push more households into financial distress without mechanisms to offset price pressures on key dietary necessities,” Capstone-Intel Research and Publications Director Ella Kristina Domingo-Coronel said, referring to the results of the survey. Cua said that due to these rising food costs, the national government has to support the establishment of its local industries in order to address the pressing food insecurity in the country, highlighting that if not taken into consideration, more Filipinos will become unemployed in the coming years. “Either we have to come up with new brands or a lot of foreigners are coming in with their brands. That’s another surge of [unemployment]. Mawawalan ng trabaho ang mga Pinoy, tapos imported na lang para mas mura and heyday for smugglers,” he noted. “You have to think of our own. We have to develop our industries if 20 years from now we want to see a brighter future,” he added. PAGASA likewise said that although food prices have already “slowed down” he hopes that the inflation rate would also slow down. Cua also said that in developing local industries, the government also has to study the market in order to fully grasp the needs of the consumers. Meanwhile, Capstone-Intel’s Chief Data Scientist Dr. Guido David said that while food security is an issue that needs to be addressed, the problem of food insecurity is not an issue that the country would face in the next six months. “My impression is, we personally feel the security for food but we are also aware that we have to sort out issues regarding food security. Food security is an issue but not an issue for the next six months. So, ‘yun ‘yung impression ko,” he said. During the forum, Capstone-Intel’s survey revealed that while the majority of the respondents, or 59 percent have described themselves as “very secured” or “secured” in terms of food security for the next six months, 42 percent have some concern with 34 percent saying they are neither secured nor insecure and 8 percent either “insecure” or “very insecure.” **** To know more about the data, please click here. Capstone-Intel is a high-impact research company that uses innovative research technologies, tools, and methods to convert data and information into breakthrough insights and actionable intelligence outputs. It is committed to helping its clients solve problems, find solutions, grow markets and constituencies, build reputations, navigate risks, manage crises, and be the country’s leading private research and intelligence agency.
Nationwide survey reveals alarming statistics: 59% of Filipinos lack private medical insurance
Medical insurance plays a crucial role in ensuring access to affordable and quality healthcare services. It provides financial protection to individuals and families by covering a portion or all their medical expenses. Moreover, it acts as a safety net, providing individuals with the peace of mind that they will be able to receive necessary medical treatment without worrying about the financial implications. In line with this, Capstone-Intel Corporation conducted an extensive analysis of Filipino attitudes towards private medical insurance. To gather accurate data, Capstone-Intel conducted a nationwide survey from August 1 to 10, 2023, involving a total of 1,205 respondents. The conducted study involved asking the respondents regarding their possession of private medical insurance. The findings revealed that 35% of respondents indicated having private medical insurance, while 59% did not, and 6% were uncertain. Furthermore, the data revealed information about how those who possessed private medical insurance obtained it. Specifically, 44% of individuals personally paid for their insurance, 43% obtained it through their employment, 17% were beneficiaries of the head of their household, and 11% were beneficiaries of their children. Additionally, the study sought to understand the reasons behind the lack of medical insurance among respondents. The results indicate that 63% cited the high cost of insurance as the primary factor influencing their decision. Furthermore, 30% mentioned reliance on government health programs as sufficient for their healthcare needs. A subset of 22% cited coverage limitations and exclusions as a deterrent to obtaining insurance, while 15% admitted to a lack of awareness or understanding regarding available medical insurance options. Capstone-Intel, in response to the existing gap in private medical insurance coverage, has put forth a proposal to address this issue. “One effective approach is to create educational campaigns that explain the advantages of private insurance, such as shorter wait times for appointments, access to a wider network of healthcare providers, and comprehensive coverage for a range of medical treatments and procedures. These campaigns can be disseminated through various channels, including social media, television and radio advertisements, and informational materials distributed in healthcare facilities and community centers,” it said. “Additionally, it is important to simplify the process of obtaining private medical insurance for the public. This can be achieved by partnering with insurance companies and healthcare providers to offer user-friendly online platforms where individuals can compare different insurance plans, understand their coverage options, and easily enroll in a plan that best suits their needs. Furthermore, providing financial incentives, such as subsidies or tax credits, can make private insurance more affordable for individuals with lower incomes. By streamlining the enrollment process and making private insurance more accessible, the public can be empowered to take charge of their healthcare and benefit from the advantages of private coverage,” said Capstone-Intel. **** To know more about the data, please click here.
