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President Aquino
visits Zamboanga 3 months after failed siege, gets update on rehab |
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ZAMBOANGA CITY)
President Benigno S. Aquino III on
Sunday visited this city
three months after fighting between government troops and followers of Moro
National Liberation Front founding chairman Nur Misuari.
The President,
who visited Compostela Valley earlier in the day, arrived after noon and
received an update on government efforts to help the residents.
Officials led
by Mayor Isabelle Climaco-Salazar welcomed the President, wearing shirts
that bore the message "Build Back Better Zamboanga."
With the
President were Cabinet members including: Voltaire Gazmin of defense,
Rogelio Singson of public works, Corazon Soliman of social welfare, Carlos
Jericho Petilla of energy, Chito Cruz of
National Housing Authority, Cabinet Secretary Jose Rene Almendras and
Presidential adviser on Yolanda rehabilitation Panfilo Lacson.
Figures from the Department of
Social Welfare and Development showed at least 23,794 families or 118,819
people from 14 villages had been affected by September's clash.
Of these, 4,883 families or
23,011 people are staying in 13 evacuation centers.
The DSWD has so far extended
P273.79 million in relief to the affected residents, including food and
non-food items, and P1,364,300 for cash-for-work programs.
The Department of Public Works
and Highways said its reconstruction plan focuses on 46 hectares of land
that was affected by fighting. This covers 7,248 families in nine villages.
Singson said the plan also
includes providing for restoring mangroves and residents' security.
He committed to complete roads
and drainage work in 12 months, adding the delivery of houses on stilts may
be completed in 18 months.
Presently, he said government
is acquiring 25 hectares of land to relocate displaced residents.
Mayor Climaco
presented a resolution thanking President Aquino for his help to the
affected residents.
After the
briefing, the President was to inspect the bunkhouse units for internally
displaced persons at the Joaquin Enriquez Memorial Sports Complex in
Zamboanga City.
Following the
Zamboanga visit, President Aquino is scheduled to visit residents in areas
affected by super typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) in Eastern Visayas.
Several
residents in Zamboanga City were displaced after MNLF members tried to
occupy some parts of this city last September.
They engaged
government troops in nearly a month of fighting but the government's forces
eventually retook the occupied areas.
PND (jl) |
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Ban Ki-moon: We don't
want to lose momentum in Philippine rebuilding efforts |
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United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon rreiterated the UN’s commitment
to assist the Philippines recover from the devastation brought about by
Typhoon "Yolanda" and also promised to support the country in its long-term
development priorities.
In a joint-press conference with Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del
Rosario, Ban said his focus is to rally support from governments to continue
aiding the Philippines in its reconstruction efforts to ensure that the
development momentum is not lost.
One of the major focuses of the UN is reviving people’s livelihood such as
in agriculture.
“Our aim is to ensure that at least 72,000 hectares can be planted, so the
vital upcoming 2014 harvest is not lost,” Ban said in his message during the
press conference held at the Manila Peninsula Hotel in Makati City Sunday.
So far, the UN was able to distribute rice seeds to more than 10,000 farming
households in preparation for the next cropping season.
“In the longer term, the United Nations will continue to work with the
government on its development priorities,” he added.
There is excellent cooperation between the UN and its partners and the
Philippines authorities at every level in terms of delivering aid to the
people, he said.
In recent days, deliveries of assistance have scaled up significantly, Ban
said noting that more than four million affected people have received food
assistance.
Some 100,000 hygiene kits and 65,000 water kits have been distributed and 30
water treatment units are now in place.
Ban also reported that more than 200,000 households have received emergency
shelter. Cash assistance has also been provided to help people rebuild
damaged and destroyed houses.
In terms of healthcare, he said more than 180 foreign and national medical
teams have provided emergency health aid and nearly 260 mobile clinics are
now functioning.
Aid agencies have also screened more than 40,000 children for acute
malnutrition, the UN chief said.
The UN fully supports the Philippine government’s launch of the $8.17
billion Reconstruction Assistance on Yolanda which will be carried out in
over four years.
To that end, the UN and partners have launched a one-year Strategic Response
Plan for $791 million dollars, Ban said urging donors to extend more
assistance for Philippine reconstruction.
Ban, who arrived in the country Friday, left for New York Sunday afternoon
with Secretary del Rosario leading the send off party at the Ninoy Aquino
International Airport Terminal I. PND (as) |
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United Nation chief
commends President Aquino for successful work for Mindanao peace |
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United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon praised President Benigno S.
Aquino III for the success of the Mindanao peace process during their
meeting in Malacanang on Saturday, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del
Rosario said on Sunday.
“Let me further commend the Secretary-General for the UN’s contributions to
find durable solutions to peace and security problems around the world,” Del
Rosario said in his remarks during a joint press conference with Ban at the
Manila Peninsula Hotel in Makati City.
“In this regard, let me recall that the Secretary-General praised President
Aquino for the success of the peace process in Mindanao during their meeting
yesterday,” Del Rosario said.
Ban said in his message that while in the Philippines he was able to discuss
with President Aquino and Secretary Rosario other issues of national
importance.
He said: “I commend the Philippine Government’s efforts to promote peace and
democracy and inclusive growth.”
Ban congratulated the government on the progress in the Mindanao peace
process, particularly the power-sharing agreement reached between the
parties in December.
“I hope a final agreement will be reached soon,” Ban said.
Ban arrived in the country last Friday to assess the damage of Typhoon
Yolanda in the Visayas region, oversee the ongoing reconstruction works and
show solidarity to the affected communities. He left for New York Sunday
afternoon.
The Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF)
signed in October 15 last year the Framework Agreement for Mindanao peace
aimed at ending the decades-old separatist struggle of Muslims in the South.
Malaysia has been the facilitator of the ongoing discussions for Mindanao
peace.
Last year’s signing came after 15 years of negotiation between the
government and the MILF, and 40 years of conflict in Mindanao with a
recorded casualty figure of more than 150,000. PND (as) |
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President
Aquino believes that the provinces affected by recent calamities will
get to their feet faster with the signing of 2014 budget |
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President Benigno S. Aquino III believes that the provinces recently
affected by the ravages of natural calamities will once again be on their
feet after the government has the necessary funds from the passing of the
2014 national budget, Presidential Communication Operations Office Secretary
Herminio “Sonny” Coloma, Jr, said on Sunday.
In a briefing aired over government station dzRB Radyo ng Bayan, Coloma said
with the backing of the P2.265 billion budget, the government now has the
resources for social services as well as for work and other economic
services.
“Matibay ang paniwala at paninindigan ng Pangulo na mapapabilis ang
pagbangon at pagpapanumbalik ng sigla ng lokal na ekonomiya ng mga nasabing
bayan at lalawigan matapos niyang lagdaan at isabatas noong Biyernes ang
Pambansang Budget para sa 2014,” Coloma said.
“Sa ilalim ng 2.265-trilyong piso na kabuuang halaga ng budget, mahigit sa
37.2 na porsyento o 841.8-bilyong piso ang inilaan para sa social services,
samantalang tutustusan ng 593.1-bilyong piso ang mga gawain at serbisyong
pang-ekonomiya,” he added.
He said that aside from this, P100-billion has been set aside for the
rehabilitation and construction of buildings and roads damaged by the
natural calamities.
“Naglaan din ang pamahalaan ng kabuuang 100-bilyong piso para sa pagbabagong
tatag at pagsasaayos ng mga mahahalagang gusali, daan, at pampublikong
pasilidad sa mga lugar na tinamaan ng iba’t ibang kalamidad at sakuna, bukod
pa sa pinalaking P13-billion na calamity fund na dati ay P7.5-billion na
siya ngayong tinaguriang National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Fund,”
Coloma said.
He said the President vowed to be transparent and trustworthy with the
spending as he noted the budget would be spent in strict compliance with
what it was meant for.
“Ipinapangako ng Pangulo na magiging wasto at masinop ang paggugol ng
pamahalaan sa budget, at ang lahat ng gastusin ay magiging bukas sa
pagsusuri ng mamamayan, alinsunod sa hangaring inclusive growth and
development sa ilalim ng prinsipyong daang matuwid,” Coloma said. PND (rck) |
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Phl receives fresh
technical assistance from US, Palace announces |
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The Philippine government received a fresh technical assistance from the
United States that is geared toward helping our country brace for various
environmental challenges ahead, Malacañang announced Sunday.
Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio
“Sonny” Coloma, Jr. said the details of which shall be announced formally by
Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima upon his return to Manila from his recent
trip to Washington, D.C.
Purisima has met with his US counterpart, Treasury Secretary Jack Lew, who
presented the new assistance which, Coloma said, may consist of intriducing
new systems and training of personnel to combat the recurring challenges of
climate change.
“Ito ay isa sa pinaka-komprehensibong technical assistance na iginagawad ng
Estados Unidos, at kasunod ito ng partnership for good governance na kung
saan ay malaking halaga ang iginawad sa atin, at doon din po sa Millennium
Challenge Account,” Coloma said of the technical assistance during an
interview over the government-run Radyo ng Bayan.
Coloma added Purisima and Lew also discussed the idea of "fiscal risk
management" for the concept of insurance to help the people recover from the
potential damaging effects of natural disasters into their households and
livelihoods.
The US is among the many countries which is actively supporting the
Philippines in its recovery in the aftermath of super typhoon "Yolanda" (Haiyan)
and other devastating calamities experienced by the country these past few
months. PND (hdc) |
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President Aquino visits residents in
Compostela Valley, one year after 'Pablo' |
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President Benigno S. Aquino III on Sunday brought some Christmas cheer to
residents of Compostela Valley, who lost their homes last year to Typhoon
"Pablo."
The President arrived in Laak town Sunday morning and inspected the core
shelter housing units set up for the affected residents.
During the inspection, he even approached some of the families to ask them
about their conditions.
On Dec. 4 last year, Kidawa village in Laak was hit hard by Typhoon Pablo,
which damaged 553 houses.
With the President were members of his Cabinet, including Secretaries
Voltaire Gazmin of defense, Rogelio Singson of public works, Corazon Soliman
of social welfare, Carlos Jericho Petilla of energy, and Cabinet Secretary
Jose Rene Almendras, Presidential adviser on Yolanda rehabilitation Panfilo
Lacson and Chito Cruz, National Housing Authority general manager. PND (jl) |
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Malacanang wants to
remember 2013 with resilience of Filipinos, looks forward to 2014 with
determination |
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Malacañang does not wish to regard 2013 as a year filled with devastating
crises and calamities, but something that has brought the best out of the
Filipino people’s “resiliency,” as the Aquino administration looks forward
to the New Year with utmost determination in achieving its remaining goals.
Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio
Coloma, Jr. issued this statement Sunday to preview Malacañang’s yearend
message which is currently being prepared in coordination with the National
Economic Development Authority (NEDA).
“Batid naman po natin na sama-sama tayong dumaan at nakaranas ng hindi
lamang, ayon sa katagang ginamit ng Pangulo, hindi lamang sa sunud-sunod na
kalamidad kundi sa patung-patong na paghamon at problema; na hindi pa tapos
ang isa ay naganap na ang kasunod,” Coloma said over the government-run dzRB
Radyo ng Bayan.
Coloma was referring to the Zamboanga standoff, the 7.2-magnitude earthquake
in Bohol and Cebu, typhoon "Santi" in Central Luzon, and the catastrophic
super typhoon "Yolanda" that consecutively struck the nation during the
latter part of 2013.
“Sa ating paglingon sa kinabukasan, nandoon po ‘yung determinasyon natin,
hindi lamang na malampasan ang mga nakaraang pagsubok, kundi magtatag pa ng
mas mainam at mas mabuti—‘yung ating sinasabing ‘build back better’ na kapag
naitayo na ang lahat, masasabi nating meron tayong mas mainam at mas
katanggap-tanggap na mga pasilidad, at hindi lamang po maipapanumbalik sa
normal, meron pong pwedeng asahan ang ating mga kababayan na isang mas
maaliwalas na kinabukasan,” the PCOO chief said.
Coloma said NEDA will be issuing its ‘results matrix’ which serves as the
‘scorecard’ for the entire Aquino administration in its implementation of
the reform programs stated under its Philippine Development Plan.
He said this will guide various executive agencies and department in
determining which programs have already been completed, what projects are
still ongoing, and which other development plans have to be given more
attention.
“Puspusan po ang magiging pagsisikap ng pamahalaan na isagawa ang mga
repormang ito at katuwang po ng ating Executive branch ang ating mga
mambabatas dahil marami pa pong mga panukalang batas na dapat na isalang sa
ating lehislatura,” Coloma added.
Coloma said they will be releasing a year-end report to the public before
the end of the month highlighting what the government has achieved in
different aspects of governance this past year and its outlook for the
coming year. PND (hdc) |
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President Aquino: Future
Zamboanga siege bids wont succeed |
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ZAMBOANGA CITY) President Benigno Aquino III on Sunday voiced confidence any
new attempt to occupy this city - like the one by followers of Moro National
Liberation Front founding chairman Nur Misuari last September - will never
succeed.
Speaking before residents affected by September's fighting, the President
said that while the government learned its lessons from the incident, the
residents have shown they will not tolerate such violence.
"Ang lumipas, maraming leksyon na tinuro sa atin at meron tayong mga hakbang
na pinagagawa para siguradong mapilit na di na mangyari ang ganitong klaseng
karahasan at ang pinagdaanan ninyo hindi na maulit muli (I will say this
again: What happened last September has taught us many lessons and we will
not allow this violence to happen again)," he said.
He also noted Zamboanga City has become peaceful again and people's lives
are returning to normal following September's incident.
The President also said that while September's incident was no joke, the
people of Zamboanga showed their strength. He said this inspired government
forces to reclaim the city.
"Hindi po biro ang pagsubok na inyong kinaharap. Nguni't tulad ng ating
nasaksihan, hindi kayo nagpadaig sa takot (What happened last September was
no joke. But you did not yield to fear)," he said.
This courage was also shown by 5,900 police and military forces, Red Cross
volunteers, and even social workers who risked their lives to end the attack
by Misuari's followers.
So far, the President said the government has allocated P273.8 million for
food, financial and cash-for-work assistance.
Government has also allocated resources to address the shelter, medical and
health needs of those affected, he said.
"Naging posible ang ating tagumpay sa paghaharap sa nagdaang krisis dahil sa
pakikiisa at pagtitiwala ng taga-Zamboanga. Maraming salamat po at dahil sa
inyo kami ay nakahugot ng lakas at tatag ng loob upang epektibo naming
magampanan ang aming tungkulin (We succeeded in addressing this crisis
because of the unity and trust shown to us by Zamboanga residents. We thank
you and we drew inspiration from you)," he said.
He also said that with Zamboanga now starting to recover, the government
will do what it can to help them fully return to normalcy.
"Ngayong bumabangon na ang pinakamamahal nating Zamboanga. Narito po ang
inyong gobyerno upang akayin kayo sa bawa't hakbang tungo sa mas mabilis at
ganap na rehabilitasyon (Now that Zamboanga is recovering, your government
is here to help you every step of the way in recovery)," he said. PND (jl) |
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President
Aquino to Zamboanga residents: Remain united while recovering from
September attack |
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ZAMBOANGA CITY) President Benigno Aquino III on Sunday exhorted residents of
this city to remain united and to work as one as they continue to recover
from the effects of a failed siege by followers of Moro National Liberation
Front founding chairman Nur Misuari last September.
In his speech before residents affected by September's fighting, the
President likened efforts by residents to recover to a group that goes out
caroling - the efforts will fail if some members sing out of tune.
"Pag nag-caroling at may sintunado o ibang kinakanta baka walang lalabas sa
caroling natin. Kailangan para mapabilis ito, kapit-bisig. Damayan tayo,
tulungan tayo dahil dapat ang pakay natin maibalik kayo sa mas maayos sa
lalong madaling panahon (When people go out caroling and one of them sings
out of tune, the singing flops. In this present situation, we must be united
and help each other if we want to recover quickly)," he said.
Residents of this city are still recovering from the effects of September's
attempt by Misuari's followers to occupy parts of the city.
Government forces managed to repel Misuari's followers after nearly a month
of fighting, which displaced several residents.
During his speech, President Aquino also presented to the residents the
government's strategy to rebuild their communities.
He said the government is allocating at least P3.5 billion for the road map
to recovery and reconstruction, which includes shelter assistance, repair of
infrastructure, and assistance to some 5,600 affected families.
On the other hand, the President stressed the bunkhouses the affected
families are staying in now are temporary.
In the meantime, he urged them to remain strong and united and serve as a
source of strength and hope for their fellow Filipinos. PND (jl) |
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President
Aquino turns-over bunkhouses in Tacloban City and Palo, Leyte |
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TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte) President Benigno S. Aquino III visited on Sunday anew
the calamity-stricken city to inspect and turn-over bunkhouses for the
residents who were displaced by Typhoon "Yolanda" (internationally known as
Haiyan).
Upon arrival at the Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport around 4 p.m., the Chief
Executive was welcomed by Leyte Governor Leopoldo Dominico Petilla and
Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez.
The President then proceeded to Barangay 62-B National Housing Authority
Bliss Sagkahan in the city for the inspection of bunkhouse units. He,
likewise, visited the site of bunkhouses located at the Regional Government
Center in Candahug, Palo in Leyte.
The President was briefed by Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio
Singson on the progress of the rehabilitation efforts for the affected
communities.
After inspecting the bunkhouse units, the President led the ceremonial
turn-over of bunkhouse units for 48 displaced families in barangays Baras,
San Fernando and Candahug. He was assisted by Social Welfare Secretary
Corazon Soliman, Secretary Singson and Gov. Petilla, among others.
Also in attendance were Presidential Assistant on Rehabilitation and
Recovery Secretary Panfilo Lacson, Energy Secretary Jericho Petilla, and
local officials.
Each bunkhouse with a common toilet/wash area and kitchen will be composed
of 24 rooms with a floor area of about 2.4 X 3.6 square meters to
accommodate a family of five members.
Last month, the Department of Public Works and Highways started the
construction of bunkhouses in Tacloban City and Palo, Leyte as temporary
shelters for families affected by Yolanda.
Singson said that works are on-going for the construction of bunkhouse units
in various sites in Basey and Marabut in Samar.
More similar projects are on mobilization stage with the contractors
awaiting arrival of construction materials and additional manpower to hasten
work in the shortest possible time for the completion of bunkhouses to
benefit a total of 2,400 families.
DPWH designed a temporary bunkhouse made of coco lumber wooden frames, GI
sheet roofing, plywood walls and flooring, and cement footing.
In Samar, about 240 families will benefit from the temporary shelter being
constructed at the two-hectare Basey First Housing Area in Sitio Bangon,
Basey, Samar, as the contractor starts working on the construction of 10
bunkhouses.
Other sites with secured LGU authorization, verified by DPWH, and
contractors on the progress of mobilization includes two hectare area for
960 families in Barangay Amambucale, Marabut, Samar; another two hectare
area for 960 families in Barangay Pago, Tanauan, Leyte; and five hectare
shelter area in Barangays San Roque and Olot, Tolosa, Leyte that will
benefit some 2,400 families.
The President departed at past 5:30 p.m. PND (js) |
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UN Secretary-General
Ban Ki-Moon arrives in the Philippines |
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United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon arrived at Ninoy Aquino
International Airport Terminal I to assess the damage of Typhoon "Yolanda"
and express sympathy to the survivors of the disaster in the Visayas region.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and UN Resident and
Humanitarian Coordinator Luiza Carvalho welcomed the UN secretary general
who arrived 10:20 p.m. Friday.
The UN chief will be in the Philippines from December 20 to 22 to have
firsthand assessment of the devastation of the typhoon as well as to express
solidarity to the affected communities.
Ban met President Benigno S. Aquino III at the Palace Saturday morning as
well as the country’s senior government officials.
After that, Ban was scheduled to travel to the Tacloban City to visit
communities affected by Typhoon Yolanda, considered as one of the most, if
not the most powerful, typhoon in history to make landfall.
On Sunday morning, Ban will hold a joint press conference with Secretary del
Rosario at the Manila Peninsula Hotel in Makati City. PND (as) |
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President Aquino meets with United
Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon in Malacanang |
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President Benigno S. Aquino III received United
Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in a courtesy call at the Malacanang
Palace on Saturday morning.
The UN Secretary-General arrived in the country Friday evening.
Ban was welcomed by the President and Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del
Rosario upon his arrival at the Palace.
Ban will stay in the country from December 20 to 22 to assess the damage of
Typhoon Yolanda and express sympathy to the survivors of the disaster in the
Visayas region.
The UN chief wants to have firsthand assessment of the devastation of the
typhoon as well as to express solidarity to the affected communities.
After his meeting with the President and other top government officials, Ban
is scheduled to travel to Tacloban City to visit communities affected by
Typhoon Yolanda, considered as one of the most if not the most powerful
typhoon in history to make landfall.
Among the Cabinet members who joined the President in his meeting with the
UN Secretary-General were Secretary del Rosario, Cabinet Secretary Jose Rene
Almendras, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Social Welfare Secretary Dinky
Soliman and NEDA chief Arsenio Balisacan.
On Sunday morning, Ban will hold a joint press conference with Secretary del
Rosario at the Manila Peninsula Hotel in Makati City prior to his departure.
PND (as) |
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Aquino appoints new Immigration
Commissioner |
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President Benigno S. Aquino III appointed Siegfred B.
Mison as the new commissioner of the Bureau of Immigration (BI), Malacanang
announced on Saturday.
Mison’s appointment was signed by the President December 18, Deputy
presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a radio interview over dzRB
Radyo ng Bayan on Saturday.
The President also appointed lawyer Nonnatus Cesar R. Rojas as Regional
Prosecutor for the Office of the Regional Prosecutor in Ilocos Region.
The Office of the Regional Prosecutor is under the National Prosecution
Service of the Department of Justice. Rojas became the chief of the National
Bureau of Investigation but he eventually resigned.
The President also designated Vicente B. Malano as acting administrator of
the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services
Administration (PAGASA), and Florita R. Villar as undersecretary of the
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
Other appointees include Gregorio Ramon A. Tingson as commissioner of the
National Youth Commission in Luzon, and Dominador Santos Jr. as new member
of the Board of Dentistry under the Professional Regulations Commission. PND
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Regulators inspecting Metro buses to ensure
public safety, says Palace |
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The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory
Board (LTFRB) continues to check the road worthiness of buses plying Metro
Manila roads to ensure public safety following a tragic Skyway accident this
week, Malacanang said.
In a radio interview Saturday over dzRB Radyo ng Bayan, Deputy presidential
spokesperson Abigail Valte said the Skyway management has been carrying out
measures to avoid the repeat of the incident.
“On the side of government more importantly, I received word from Chair
Gines of the LTFRB that they are continuing their garage inspection, their
physical inventory and road worthiness inspection of buses that are
operating in Metro Manila,” she told dzRB radio.
The LTFRB as of the moment is conducting road worthiness inspection on other
buses plying the metro such as Pascual Liner, she said. As of Saturday, the
LTFRB is checking 151 units of Pascual Liner, she added.
“”Kahit palapit na ang Pasko, patuloy iyong trabaho ng LTFRB at ng LTO para
siguraduhin na mabawasan ang pagkakataon ng mga pangyayaring ganyan,” Valte
said.
A bus being operated by Don Mariano Transit Corp. plummeted from the Skyway
on Monday, killing 18 people and injuring others. Criminal complaints were
filed Tuesday against the owner of Don Mariano Transit Corp. and the bus
driver, according to reports.
The police also reported that the driver figured in the incident was tested
negative for drug use. PND (as) |
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United Nations chief Ban Ki-moon vows to work closely with government in
the rehabilitation of communities affected by 'Yolanda' |
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TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte) United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon commended
on Saturday the courageous leadership of President Benigno S. Aquino III in
dealing with various concerns following the massive destruction of super
typhoon "Yolanda" (Haiyan).
"I appreciate and commend the very courageous leadership of President Aquino
and his ministers, and his team and his people, who have been courageously
addressing this tragedy. This is tragedy that can be overcome when we are
united," Ban said in his message in Barangay 75 here.
The UN Secretary-General praised the Filipino people, especially the
affected families, for displaying resilence and strength in the aftermath of
Yolanda.
Ban said the UN is currently mobilizing at least US$800 million in funds to
help the Philippines to speed up the rehabilitation efforts for the
communities affected by Yolanda.
"We are trying to mobilize at least US$800 million in funds over 12 months.
But this will be just to complement the help your government will do... We
will try to provide life-saving support, water, sanitation, food, water and
shelter, and also in a long-term development strategy," Ban said.
The UN is fully supportive of the Aquino government's Reconstruction
Assistance on Yolanda (RAY), Ban said.
He said the Philippine government is now working on projects for
resettlement, integration and infrastructures.
"The United Nations and the Philippine government will work very closely,"
Ban said.
Launched on December 18, RAY is designed to take rapid action to address
critical immediate needs of the typhoon-affected communities and to develop
and implement a full set of recovery and reconstruction interventions over
the short to medium term.
Ban visited on Saturday the typhoon-stricken city to assess the devastation
caused by super-typhoon Yolanda and express solidarity with the affected
communities and the Filipino people. PND (js)
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President Benigno S. Aquino III"s
Speech at the inauguration of the Tarlac City-Gerona-Paniqui section of
Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway project (TPLEX)
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Tarlac City
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23 Dec 2013
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Secretary Singson, salamat sa mahaba n’yong talumpati.
Siyempre, ating idol po si Mr. Ramon Ang; Governor Vic Yap; Congressman
Henry Cojuangco; Congresswoman Susan Yap-Sulit; Congressman Noel Villanueva;
of course, board member Cristy Angeles and the head of the “Board Members
Spouses Foundation,” Vic Angeles; our former Secretary of the DOTC and one
of my mother’s most efficient cabinet members, and mine too, Ping de Jesus ;
Mr. Isidro Consunji ; Mayor Candido Guiam; Mayor Dennis Go; Mayor Miguel
Rivilla; Mayor Roseller Toledo and Mayor Illuminado Pobre; honored guests;
mga minamahal ko pong kababayan:
Ano ba sa Ilokano–Naimbag nga bigat ka amin apo.
Maayap pa abak kekayungan.
‘Wag na ho ‘yong Bisaya, nagawa ko na ho kahapon ‘yon.
Palagay ko, kita naman naman n’yo sa mukha ko ngayon talagang
masayang-masaya tayo. At umpisahan ko siguro ang aking talumpati na naalala
ko pa nga ho noong panahon na parang–noong kami’y pinayagan ng mga magulang
namin na tumuloy ng Baguio. Mula Maynila papuntang Baguio parang adventure.
Ang haba ng biyahe, parang rite of passage. Of course, ‘yong mga nauna ho sa
akin mas rite of passage ito sa kanila dahil wala ho silang NLEX man lang
noon. Ako ho, inabutan ko naman may NLEX na. Ngayon may TPLEX pa tayo. So, I
can’t really help but really dwell on what the future has in store for us
here in Central and Northern Luzon where everything becomes that much more
accessible, not just to tourism–and we’re targeting about five million
tourists this year from the three million baseline. Areas like the Hundred
Islands suddenly become that much more accessible. Baguio and the
surrounding areas in the CAR suddenly seems like but a short trip away, and
of course, what is an actuality here hopefully we will also see heading
towards the south to which San Miguel is also a very strong partner in
building, finally, the promise of an express way up to Lucena. That was
promised in the early 70s [laughter] not by Mr. Ang, who was still in
college by that time. It becomes a reality, and also it might stretch all
the way up to the Bicol area, but probably beyond my time already.
Dito na po tayo sa mas pormal na parte ng ating talumpati.
Ang pagbubukas na ito ay maagang, at talaga namang maagang, aguinaldo sa
libu-libo nating kababayan, lalo na para sa mga minamahal kong kapwa
Tarlaqueño. Hatid nito ang ginhawa sa biyahe, hindi lang ngayong Pasko,
kundi maging sa darating pang mga taon. Walang duda: Ang Tarlac City-Gerona-Paniqui
section ng Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway o TPLEX project ay patunay
sa mabuting ibinubunga ng pagtutulungan ng pamahalaan at ng pribadong sektor
sa paghahatid ng serbisyo sa ating mamamayan. Nagpapasalamat tayo sa
pakikibalikat ng Private Infrastructure Development Corporation upang
maisakatuparan ang proyektong ito.
Oktubre pa lang, umarangkada na ang mga benepisyong dulot ng pagbubukas
natin ng bahagi ng TPLEX. Ngayon, 20 minuto na lang ang biyahe na inaabot
dati ng isang oras mula Tarlac City hanggang Gerona. Para sa 8,000 motorista
kada araw na nakikinabang sa hatid nitong mas mabilis at maaliwalas na
paglalakbay, talagang napakagandang proyekto nito. Sa pagbubukas ng bahagi
ng TPLEX hanggang Paniqui, 30 minuto na lang ang dating isang oras at
sampung minutong biyahe mula sa Tarlac City, at iyon po’y kung walang
traffic.
Ang good news pa: Kapag nabuo na ang Section 1 ng TPLEX sa susunod na taon,
magiging 30 minuto na lang ang dalawang oras na biyahe mula Tarlac City
patungong Rosales, Pangasinan. Kapag nakumpleto naman ang buong TPLEX, isang
oras na lang ang biyahe mula Tarlac City patungong Rosario, La Union, na sa
ngayon ay inaabot ng tatlo’t kalahating oras. Talagang biyaya po ito sa
humigit-kumulang 20,000 mga biyaherong maseserbisyuhan nito kada araw. At sa
pagbilis ng transportasyon dito sa Tarlac, lalong papaspas ang turismo,
komersyo, at mga serbisyo sa ating bayan at sa mga karatig-probinsya. Ang
resulta: paglago ng ating lokal na ekonomiya na magbubukas ng maraming pinto
ng pagkakataon para sa ating mga kababayan.
Malinaw po: napakahalaga ng maunlad na imprastruktura sa pag-arangkada ng
kalakhang lipunan. Kaya naman bukod sa TPLEX, nakapila na ang iba pa nating
makabuluhang proyekto. Para sa Tarlac, halimbawa, nariyan ang pagsasaayos at
pagpapalawak ng Manila North Road, lalo na ang Paniqui-Moncada Section. Oras
na matapos ito, bibilis ang daloy ng mga kalakal at produkto sa ating pong
rehiyon. Masigasig din nating pinapatag ang mga daanang tutumbok sa kilalang
destinasyon ng ating bansa, upang lalong mawili ang mga turistang bumisita.
Para naman sa ating mga magsasaka, sinusulong natin ang farm-to-market roads
para direkta at mas mabilis na maibenta sa merkado ang kanilang mga produkto.
Simula’t sapul, katuwang natin sa pagsusulong ng ating adhikain ang
masigasig at maaasahang Kalihim na si Secretary Babes Singson. [Applause]
Ito po ay talagang “man of action,” at dahil construction ang ginagawa niya,
“man of steel” rin. Sasabihin mo pa lang sa kanya ang problema, mayroon na
po siyang nakahandang solusyon. Pinangunahan niya ang matuwid na paggugol sa
DPWH, at ang sulit at pulidong konstruksyon ng bawat proyekto. Saludo po
tayo sa kakayahan niyang tugunan ang napakaraming tungkuling nakaatang sa
kanyang balikat. Ang anumang pagsubok na lumapag sa kanyang harap ay lalong
nagtutulak sa kanya na paghusayin ang sarili at pagbutihin pa ang serbisyo.
Ikinalulugod nating ipinapamalas din ng iba pang kasapi ng ating Gabinete
ang ganitong dedikasyon upang tugunan ang bawat pagsubok. Handa silang
maglatag ng makatwiran at malikhaing solusyon sa anumang problema; lagi
silang nagsisikap na higitan pa ang kanilang kakayahan para sa epektibong
paglilingkod sa bayan.
Sa pagbaba ko nga po sa puwesto sa 2016, sa pagbalik ko sa normal–sana po–na
pamumuhay, nananabik akong bagtasin ang TPLEX. Nais din po nating ikutin ang
iba pang bahagi ng bansa bilang isang karaniwang Juan dela Cruz para makita
ang napakaraming positibong pagbabago. Tulad sa isang sikat na kanta, magdra-drive
ako–bitbit ang kompiyansa na talagang tumutungo na tayo sa katuparan ng
ating mga pangarap.
Bago po ako mag tapos, alam ho n’yo talagang akin pong kaisipan ay
punong-puno ng lahat ng posibilidad na puwedeng magnyari dito. Halimbawa po,
sa Bolinao, sila’y nagku-cultivate na ngayon ay tinatawag ng Hapon na “uni.”
Sea urchins sa English. At talaga pong malaki ang merkado nito, pero ‘pag
tinignan po n’yo ‘yong mapa, gaano kalayo ang Bolinao? Paano mo dadalhing
sariwa sa mga seaports or airports? Projects like these undoubtedly opened
up more and more possibilities for our countrymen to engage in gainful
productive and progressive livelihood. Government can do all of these at
some point in time, but the “some point in time” might take ten generations
to accomplish something like this. Together with the private partnership,
who believe in the same vision that we have, then we will achieve the dreams
sooner rather than later, and to that, really, it is truly a splendid
Christmas gift. We understand that the target now is not to finish this
entire project by 2018, but rather earlier. Mayroon hong kasabihan sa
Tagalog, “Baka mausog.” [Laughter] Kaya hindi ko na sasabihin kung kailan
‘yong “earlier.” Pero, si Secretary Singson ho sikat na sika iyan. ‘Pag
nangako ng petsa, ang delivery before due date. Eh nandiyan pa si Mr. Ramon
Ang, sinamahan pa ni Sid Consunji, palagay ko mag-uunahan pa ho ‘yong
tatlong iyan sa finish line. kaya kung hindi n’yo matupad ho ang
pangako n’yo na 2018 dahil napaaga, wala hong sasama ang loob.
Maraming salamat ho in advance sa inyong lahat. At ulit po, baka puwede ko
na ring batiin kayong lahat ng isang Maligayang Pasko at Manigong Bagong
Taon at nawa’y talagang mapayapa po itong ating Holiday Season. |
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President Benigno S. Aquino III"s video taped message for Christmas 2013
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Rizal Ceremonial Hall, Malacañan Palace
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25 Dec 2013
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Ang kwento po ng Pasko ay nagsisimula sa paghahanap ng tatlong hari sa
Mesiyas. Sa kabila ng kadiliman ng gabi, naging tanglaw sa kanilang
paglalakbay ang liwanag mula sa bituin ng Bethlehem. Ito ang nagsilbing
gabay upang matagpuan nila sa isang munting sabsaban ang banal na
tagapagligtas.
Tuwing sasapit ang Pasko, laging inaasahan ng sambayanang Pilipino ang
pagsasalo-salo ng pamilya’t mga kaibigan.
Para naman sa mga kababayan natin sa ibang bansa, isa ito sa mga
pinakamahirap na panahon, dahil sa kanilang pagkakawalay sa mga mahal sa
buhay.
Sa kabila nito, iisang lahi pa rin tayong nagdiriwang tuwing Pasko; saanman
tayo sa mundo, iisang pamilya pa rin tayong mga Pilipino.
Malinaw natin itong naipamalas sa mga nagdaang trahedya’t pagsubok sa bansa.
Kamakailan, naglibot po tayo sa mga komunidad na naging biktima ng lindol sa
Bohol, at binisita ang mga kababayang sinalanta ng Bagyong Yolanda.
Katulad po ng bituin ng Bethlehem na nagsilbing liwanag at inspirasyon sa
tatlong hari, napuno rin tayo ng sigla at pag-asa sa katatagan ng ating mga
kababayan, sa kabila ng trahedyang kanilang naranasan.
Sa Bohol, dapang-dapang na sila sa sakuna, pero ako po mismo ang nakakita:
Tunay pong bumabangon at lumalaban sila.
Marahil, ito po ang isa sa pinakamahalagang aral sa atin ng Poong Maykapal:
Gawin lamang natin ang lahat ng ating makakaya, at ang Diyos Ama na ang
pupuno sa ating mga kakulangan. Inialay ng Panginoon ang kanyang bugtong
Anak na si Hesukristo, at nagsilbi siyang mabuting ehemplo: Hindi man siya
obligado, hindi man siya pinilit ng kahit sino, pinili niyang magsakripisyo
bilang tao at isalba sa kasalanan ang sangkatauhan.
Sa di hamak na mas maliit na hinihiling sa atin, tayo ba ay magkukulang pa?
Sa palagay ko po ay hindi na.
Sa nalalapit na Pasko, ipinapaalala sa atin ang buod ng ating pagiging
Kristiyano: ang pagmamahal—ang pagmamahal sa atin ng Diyos Ama sa pag-aalay
niya ng kanyang bugtong na anak upang lahat tayo ay mailigtas; ang
pagmamahal at pag-aaruga nina San Jose at Birheng Maria kay Hesus upang
magampanan niya ang kanyang banal na tungkulin; at ang pagmamahal ng mga
Apostoles kay Kristo sa pagsasabuhay ng kanyang mga aral.
Ngayong Pasko, pag-alabin nawa natin ang liwanag ng pagmamahal na alay ni
Hesukristo.
Maging tanglaw tayo ng pag-asa sa ating kapwa-Pilipino.
Isang Maligayang Pasko po sa ating lahat! |
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| Tacloban kids enjoy Christmas treat |
| Source:
http://www.dswd.gov.ph |
|
Tacloban City,
Leyte – Children from northern barangays of this city were treated
to a Christmas party by the Department of Social Welfare and
Development (DSWD) and International Container Terminal Services,
Inc. (ICTS) Foundation yesterday at the Convention Center.
With the theme ‘Pasko na, Tacloban! Magrisyo Kita!’ (It’s Christmas,
Tacloban! Let’s all be merry!), the celebration is one way of
telling the families affected by Typhoon Yolanda that Christmas
should still be celebrated despite the tragedy.
“We want to give hope to the people and encourage them to move on,”
DSWD Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman said.
DSWD and ICTSI gave away huggable bears for the kids and noche buena
packs for the parents.
All throughout the party, the children were all beaming without any
trace of their tragic experience from the typhoon.
The party was capped by a caroling portion where the children
dedicated their christmas songs to the sponsors. |
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| PDIC advises borrowers of Sarangani Rural
Bank to pay their obligations |
| Source:
http://www.dof.gov.ph |
|
The Philippine
Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC), the Receiver of the closed
Sarangani Rural Bank, reminded borrowers of the bank to continue to
pay their loans and transact only with authorized PDIC
representatives.
In a statement, PDIC advised borrowers of the Sarangani Rural Bank
to pay their loans and other obligations directly at any Philippine
National Bank (PNB) Branch under account name,PDIC FAO BURL –
SARANGANI RURAL BANK with Reference Number 373-0949-00013. The
Receiver cautioned borrowers that it has discontinued the engagement
of the bank’s collectors. PDIC has not engaged any person to collect
the loans of the bank. To ensure proper recording of payments made
by borrowers, it further advised borrowers to keep copies of the PNB
Deposit/Payment Slips. The Receiver emphasized that only payments
with validated PNB Deposit/Payment Slips shall be considered valid
payments.
The Monetary Board (MB) placed the Sarangani Rural Bank under the
receivership of the PDIC by virtue of MB Resolution No. 2022 dated
December 5, 2013. As Receiver, PDIC took over the bank on December
6, 2013. Upon takeover, all bank records were gathered, verified and
validated.
Sarangani Rural Bank is a single-unit bank located along P. Acharon
Blvd., General Santos City, South Cotabato.
Borrowers of the bank may also communicate with the PDIC – Loans
Management Department II at (02) 841-4761 or 841-4776. Queries may
also be sent through email atpad@pdic.gov.ph . |
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| Bulacan bridge opens on December
21 |
| Source:
http://www.dpwh.gov.ph |
|
The newly
reconstructed Pulong Buhangin Bridge which connects the town of Sta.
Maria and other eastern municipalities of Bulacan to Metro Manila
and Northern Luzon provinces through North Luzon Expressway (NLEX)
will be open to vehicular traffic this Saturday, December 21, 2013.
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Rogelio L.
Singson said that with the scheduled opening of the bridge,
motorists affected by our project in the past four (4) months can
heave a sigh of relief just in time for Christmas.
The two (2)-lane, 30.80 meter long bridge along Sta. Maria-Norzagaray
Road replaces the old bridge which was further damaged by the
onslaught of typhoons “Pepeng” and “Ondoy” in 2009 and aggravated by
the passing of loaded trucks hauling cements and aggregates.
The new sound and stable bridge was completed at a cost of P14.253
Million with the DPWH-Second Bulacan District Engineering Office
responsible for the implementation and quality completion.
The new bridge is constructed on two (2) abutments resting on bored
pile foundation.
DPWH Second Bulacan District Engineer Ramiro M. Cruz said that the
bridge reconstruction works has affected the movement of people,
goods and services as it necessitated total bridge closure.
Faced with the implementation challenge of diverting vehicular
traffic to circuitous detour roads following closure of old bridge
on August 15, 2013 which has tested the patience of motorists and
commuters, Assistant District Engineer Gene S. Leaño, Project
Engineer Armando R. Juan and Project Inspector Gilbert G. De Leon
work hand-in-hand with the contractor Performance Builders &
Developers Corporation to facilitate the fast-track completion of
the new structure designed with longer useful life.
Pulong Buhangin Bridge is the second replacement bridge project
completed by the DPWH Second Bulacan District Engineering Office in
the town of Sta. Maria, Bulacan for CY 2013 in line with the safer
national roads and bridges program policy of Secretary Singson.
Earlier, the new Sta Maria Bridge 3 along Sta. Maria By-Pass Road -
a major route for motorists especially trucks and buses coming and
going to other parts of Bulacan, Pampanga and Manila as they are
restricted to enter the town proper - was re-opened to vehicular
traffic on September 27, 2013. |
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| PAWB to send team to investigate death of dugong
in Palawan |
| Source:
http://www.denr.gov.ph |
|
The Protected
Areas and Wildlife Bureau (PAWB) of the Department of Environment
and Natural Resources (DENR) is sending a technical team early next
week to investigate the reported death of a dugong (Dugong dugon) in
Busuanga, Palawan.
This, even as PAWB Director Theresa Mundita S. Lim today reiterates
her call on the public to report immediately to the nearest local
office of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)
any sighting or stranding of dugong or any other marine wildlife for
proper investigation and rescue.
Lim made the call in the wake of a report that a 2.6-meter male
dugong was found dead in a seaweed farm in Busuanga last December 6.
Citing a report by the non-government organization, Community
Centred Conservation (C3) Philippines, Lim said the sea mammal had
drowned after getting tangled up in a rope in waters about seven
meters deep.
“The dugong, just like the dolphin and whale, needs to surface for
air periodically,” Lim stressed.
She said the PAWB team will be coordinating with the Palawan Council
for Sustainable Development (PCSD) to discuss measures on how such
incident can be prevented like developing early warning system,
protocol on rescue and release of trapped dugong and other marine
animals in fish cages and seaweed farms.
The PAWB also indicated the need to enhance public information
efforts to educate local residents.
The London-based C3, which has been working to conserve dugongs in
its project site in Busuanga, reported that the entangled dugong was
discovered by two young fishermen Samson Ayso and Edwin Gadiano, Jr
while they were on their way to go fishing in Sitio Minit in Brgy.
Cheey. The two immediately reported the incident to the barangay
fisheries and aquatic resources management council chairman Clemente
Abaño, who in turn, reported it to the C3 Philippines field office.
C3 program officers Danica Lopez and Archie Espinosa rushed to the
area to secure data and, together with Abaño and some barangay
officials, retrieved and buried the dead marine mammal to prevent
the residents from eating the meat.
It was believed the dugong had been dead for more than 24 hours
before it was discovered.
As herbivores, dugongs (also known as duyong) mainly feed on
seagrass and maintain the ecological health of seagrass beds as food
and habitat for other marine animals such as pawikan (sea turtles)
and smaller fishes. However, they are being slaughtered for their
meat, oil, skin and bones.
The seaweed farm, where the dead dugong was discovered, is a known
sighting area for the sea mammal. It was the second time this year
that a dugong was found dead in Palawan, which is regarded as the
animal's final stronghold in the country. Earlier this year, another
adult dugong was discovered dead off Coron Island.
The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the
world's main authority on the conservation of biological species,
lists dugong as threatened and vulnerable to extinction.
In the Philippines, dugong is classified as "critically endangered"
and one of the species covered by Republic Act No. 9147, or the
Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act.
The law strictly prohibits the killing, hunting, trading,
transporting or possession of threatened species and their
by-products or derivatives. It imposes the penalty of imprisonment
from six to 12 years, or a fine from P100,000 to P1 million. |
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| Statement of Presidential Adviser on the
Peace Process Teresita Quintos-Deles on the unilateral Christmas
ceasefire |
| Source:
http://www.opapp.gov.ph |
|
Today, the
President approved the unilateral declaration by the Government of a
nationwide Christmas ceasefire to commence at 12:01 am of December
21, 2013, and to end at 11:59 pm of January 15, 2014. By this
declaration, the Armed Forces of the Philippines is directed to
suspend all offensive military operations for the entire duration of
the Christmas ceasefire. Our Security forces will maintain their
defensive readiness in the protection of our people.
The government continues its traditional call for a Christmas
ceasefire to allow those in conflict areas, whether soldier, rebel
or civilian, safe passage to celebrate Advent with their families,
far from all harm. This year, a Christmas ceasefire gains added
urgency with the call for healing and rebuilding that resonate in
this Season and its promise of a new life to all.
In a matter of three months, our people have faced major tragedies
that have left our nation deeply traumatized. Among these, the
onslaught of Super-Typhoon Yolanda in Central Philippines (or
Eastern Visayas) has caused the most extraordinary challenge for our
entire people with the unparalleled and incomprehensible destruction
it has left in its aftermath. It has stretched our nation, indeed
all our minds and hearts, to its limits.
Our nation needs to bind our wounds and focus our energies and
resources on the tasks at hand. It presents to our country and
people the chance to start afresh, to build on new and just
foundations: the common wealth for the common good, innovative
approaches to governance and development based on justice and
fairness, an understanding of nature’s gifts and perils, and the
healing of Mother Earth.
In this season of faith, hope and solidarity, we bind ourselves
together as a people for the long-term effort to rebuild in our
disaster areas and reconstruct the lives, livelihoods and property
of the survivors.
May the peace and goodwill that must dwell in our hearts become
building blocks for a healing and enduring peace in our land. |
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| DSWD receives solar lanterns,
vehicles from donors |
| Source:
http://www.dswd.gov.ph |
|
The Department
of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) recently received a total
of 1,002 units of solar lanterns from Panasonic for Typhoon Yolanda
victims in Eastern
The donation was received by DSWD-Disaster Risk Reduction and
Response Operations Office (DRRROO) Director Restituto Macuto
(right) from Panasonic President Nobou Yasuhira at the National
Resource Operations Center (NROC) in Pasay City.
With built-in rechargeable battery, the lanterns will not only
provide light, but they can also be used as power source to charge
small electronic devices, such as mobile phones.
Each lantern has five LEDs and is designed to emit light 360
degrees. It also provides up to six hours of light at the maximum
brightness setting, or up to 90 hours at the low brightness setting.
On the other hand, the Republic of Botswana donated five units of
Isuzu flatbed trucks for the Department’s ongoing disaster relief
operations.
Pule Mphothwe (left), Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of
Botswana, handed the symbolic key to Dir. Macuto. |
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| Pay your employees correctly on
Christmas and New Year holidays, Baldoz urges employers |
| Source:
http://www.dole.gov.ph |
|
Labor and
Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz yesterday issued an
early appeal to all employers in the country’s private sector,
urging them to observe the pay rules and other core labor standards
during the Christmas and New Year holidays.
"It's Christmas. Our employers should share the blessing and joy of
the season and, in the interest of our workers’ welfare and
protection, pay them correctly during the holidays," said Baldoz as
she reiterated the pay rules applicable for Christmas and the New
Year holidays.
Pursuant to President Benigno S. Aquino III’s Proclamation No. 459,
Series of 2012, Declaring the Regular Holidays, Special
(Non-Working) Days, and Special Holiday (For All Schools) for the
Year 2013, Christmas Day, which falls on a Wednesday, 25 December
and Rizal Day, which falls on a Monday, 30 December are regular
holidays.
Also, the last day of the year, Tuesday, 31 December is a special
(non-working) day, while the day before Christmas, Tuesday, 24
December, is an additional special (non-working) day.
Baldoz added that by virtue of President Aquino III’s Proclamation
No. 655, Series of 2013, Declaring the Regular Holidays, Special
(Non-Working) Days, and Special Holiday (For All Schools) For the
Year 2014, New Year’s Day, a Wednesday, 1 January 2014, is also a
regular holiday.
Baldoz reiterated that “proper observance of the pay rules on
regular holidays and special non-working days is a decent work
standard that encourages productive and proficient workers.”
“Voluntary compliance with labor laws, including correct wage
payment during holidays, denotes workplace excellence and redounds
to the competitiveness of business and the country’s industries,”
she said.
Based on the aforementioned presidential issuances, Baldoz had
issued Labor Advisory No. 6, Series of 2013 laying down the proper
pay rules to be observed for these regular and special non-working
holidays, as follows:
For the Regular Holidays on 25 December (Christmas Day) and 30
December 2013 (Rizal Day); and 01 January 2014 (New Year’s Day):
• If the employee did not work, he shall be paid 100 percent of his
salary for that day. Computation: (Daily rate + Cost of Living
Allowance) x 100 percent. The COLA is included in the computation of
holiday pay.
• If the employee worked, he shall be paid 200 percent of his
regular salary for that day for the first eight hours. Computation:
(Daily rate + COLA) x 200 percent. The COLA is also included in
computation of holiday pay.
• If the employee worked in excess of eight hours (overtime work),
he shall be paid an additional 30 percent of his hourly rate on said
day. Computation: Hourly rate of the basic daily wage x 200 percent
x 130 percent x number of hours worked.
• If the employee worked during a regular holiday that also falls on
his rest day, he shall be paid an additional 30 percent of his daily
rate of 200 percent. Computation: (Daily rate + COLA) x 200 percent]
+ (30 percent [Daily rate x 200 percent)].
• If the employee worked in excess of eight hours (overtime work)
during a regular holiday that also falls on his rest day, he shall
be paid an additional 30 percent of his hourly rate on said day.
Computation: (Hourly rate of the basic daily wage x 200 percent x
130 percent x 130 percent x number of hours worked);
For the special (non-working) day on 31 December and the additional
special (non-working) day on 24 December 2013, the pay following
apply:
• If the employee did not work, the “no work, no pay” principle
shall apply, unless there is a favorable company policy, practice,
or collective bargaining agreement (CBA) granting payment on a
special day.
• If the employee worked, he shall be paid an additional 30 percent
of his daily rate on the first eight hours of work. Computation:
[(Daily rate x 130 percent) + COLA).
• If the employee worked in excess of eight hours (overtime work),
he shall be paid an additional 30 percent of his hourly rate on said
day. Computation: (Hourly rate of the basic daily wage x 130 percent
x 130 percent x number of hours worked).
• If the employee worked during a special day that also falls on his
rest day, he shall be paid an additional 50 percent of his daily
rate on the first eight hours of work. Computation: [(Daily rate x
150 percent) + COLA].
• If the employee worked in excess of eight hours (overtime work)
during a special day that also falls on his rest day, he shall be
paid an additional 30 percent of his hourly rate on said day.
Computation: (Hourly rate of the basic daily wage x 150 percent x
130 percent x number of hours worked).
Any questions about this release? Please call the DOLE Hotline
527-8000 or the DOLE Regional Office nearest your area (for the
DOLE-NCR Office, tel. no. 400-60-11) or the Bureau of Working
Condition at 527-3000 loc 307/303. |
|
|
|
| Press Statement - Sec. Mar Roxas |
| Source:
http://www.dilg.gov.ph |
|
Kinokondena ng
buong pamilya ng Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)
ang patraydor na pag-atake sa pamilya ni Mayor Ukol Talumpa ng
Labangan, Zamboanga delSur, sa Ninoy Aquino International Airport
Terminal 3.
Ikinalulungkot natin na naganap ang walang saysay na karahasang ito
sa gitna ng ating paghahanda para sa pagdiriwang ng Kapaskuhan.
Inatasan ko na ang pamunuan ng Philippine National Police (PNP) na
huwag mag-aksaya ng panahon at agad na tugisin ang mga salarin para
papanagutin sila sa batas.
Inulit ko rin sa PNP ang aking direktiba na doblehin ang presensya
ng pulis sa lahat ng mataong lugar tulad ng airport, seaport, bus
terminal, shopping malls, palengke at simbahan.
Inaasahan ko na hihigpitan ng ating mga pulis ang pagbabantay sa mga
pampublikong lugar para masiguro na laging ligtas sa kapahamakan ang
ating mga kababayan. |
|
|
|
| 15 LGUs vie for eGOV Awards |
| Source:
http://www.dilg.gov.ph |
|
Quezon City -
Fifteen local government units from different parts of the country
will compete for the 2nd e-Governance Awards, an annual activity
recognizing LGUs with best practices in the use of information and
communication technology (ICT).
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the
National ICT Confederation of the Philippines (NICP) will confer the
eGov awards to the 15 LGU finalists on Friday at the DILG-Napolcom
Center in Quezon City.
The eGov Awards, which is a joint venture of the NICP and the DILG,
aims to encourage the effective and efficient utilization of ICT in
the delivery of services and in performing the duties and
responsibilities of LGUs.
It also seeks to document best practices of LGUs in integrating ICT
in their systems and operations which other local governments can
replicate.
Moreover, the institution of the eGov awards will promote
transparency in local governance, and improve the business climate
of LGUs, as well as motivate private and business sectors to
actively participate and invest in local economic activities.
The eGov awards is divided into two categories, namely: 1) Best in
eGov Customer Empowerment (GC2), which is bestowed to LGUs that
utilizes ICT educating and engaging the public through the use of
electronic facilities towards a better, timely and relevant delivery
of services; and 2) Best in eGov Business Empowerment (G2B) which
recognizes the significant effect of an LGU’s laudable practices in
integrating ICT solutions in pursuing the commitment towards
creating a business-friendly and competitive environment.
Participating LGUs were evaluated based on the following criteria:
innovative management (25 pts), which refers to mechanisms and
strategies which contributed to the success of the ICT project;
impact (25 pts), or the major results of ICT programs and its
benefits to the public; relevance of the project (25 pts); and its
replication potential (25 pts), or the project’s applicability in
other agencies or localities.
Among the LGU finalists for the G2B category are the following:
Alaminos City, Pangasinan for its One System, One Government
Program; Cebu City the implementation of the Cebu Traffic Platform;
Quezon City for its Point-of-Sale (POS) Tax Collection; San Simon,
Pampanga for the implementation of its eTax Collections 3; Santa
Maria, Bulacan for its eBPLS Online Application; and Silay City,
Negros Occidental for its Business One-Stop Shop (BOSS).
On the other hand, the finalists for the G2C include: Cebu City’s
Fix My Barangay Project; Province of La Union Electronic New
Government Accounting System (e-NGAS); Legaspi City’s BLAST Project
(Enhanced Tax Revenue Assessment and Collection System (ETRACS) with
Geographic Information System (GIOS) and Unified Land Information
System (ULIS); Leyte Province’s Edukasyon Pantulay Pangkabuhayan
9E2Ps) Advanced Programming for High School Graduates; Mandaue
City’s Bantay Mandaue 161 (Virtual Private Network for Centralized
Disaster and Emergency Command Center; San Carlos City’s (Negros
Occidental) Computerized Application for Leave System (AppLeave);
San Fabian’s (Pangasinan) Community e-Center and College Online
Education; San Fernando, La Union’s Document Tracking System; and
Tagum City’s e-Information: Positive Change for the Progress of
Tagum City.
Out of the 15 finalists, top three winners will be chosen from each
category and will receive cash prizes and plaques of recognition. |
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|
|
| DFA, APEC Training Facility hold “APEC
Capacity Building Workshop: Supporting the Philippines 2015 Host
Year” |
| Source:
https://www.dfa.gov.ph |
|
20 December
2013 - The Department of Foreign Affairs’ Office of the
Undersecretary for International Economic Relations (DFA-OUIER), in
partnership with the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Technical
Assistance Training Facility (APEC-TATF) and the United States
Agency for International Development (USAID), held a workshop
entitled, “APEC Capacity Building Workshop: Supporting the
Philippines 2015 Host Year,” from December 12 to 13 at the Sofitel
Philippine Plaza, Manila.
The workshop focused mainly on awareness-building on the APEC
process, the scope of its work and the benefits that can be gained
from APEC membership. Representatives from former APEC-host
economies, such as Peru (2008), the United States (2011) and
Indonesia (2012), also shared their experiences in organizing APEC
events.
In addition to increasing awareness, the workshop was designed to
help equip working level officials to maximize their participation
in APEC meetings and to further develop their skills in conducting
APEC meetings in preparation for the Philippines’ host year. In
support of these objectives, participants were given small group
activities that involved analyzing and resolving an issue within the
APEC context and presenting findings in plenary.
In her opening remarks, APEC National Secretariat Director-General
and DFA Undersecretary Laura Q. Del Rosario said that the workshop
will “help us learn how to put our agenda forward when we host in
2014.” She also reminded participants that the Philippine priorities
should be “running in tandem or congruent with the objectives of
APEC and specifically the Bogor goals.”
Over 100 participants from various government agencies attended the
event. Among the resource speakers were Dr. Alan Bollard, APEC
Secretariat Executive Director; Eduardo Pedrosa, Secretary General,
Pacific Economic Cooperation Council; Peruvian Ambassador to
Australia Luis Quesada; Ambassador Antonio Basilio, former APEC
Senior Official for the Philippines and current APEC Business
Advisory Council Executive Director; Dede Achmad Rifai, Deputy
Director for APEC, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Indonesia; and
representatives from the APEC Secretariat and the US Department of
State
APEC is an intergovernmental grouping currently composed of 21
member economies. Commitments made within APEC are non-binding and
voluntary. APEC focuses on three key areas: Trade and Investment
Liberalisation, Business Facilitation, and Economic and Technical
Cooperation. In 2008, the US launched APEC TATF to support the APEC
Secretariat in a variety of forms, including capacity- building and
training.
The Philippines last hosted APEC in 1996. |
|
|
|
| PHL Consulate General in Xiamen Educates
Filipino Youth on Violence Against Women |
| Source:
https://www.dfa.gov.ph |
|
19 December
2013 - Consul General Julius Caesar A. Flores addresses a gathering
of about 60 Filipino students and officers of the Filipino
Association in Xiamen (FAX) in the evening of December 12 on the
issues surrounding Violence Against Women and the efforts of the
government to curb this social ill. This activity was conducted
within the premises of the Consulate General as a culminating
activity in observance of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence
against Women, spearheaded by the Philippine Commission on Women.
The Consul General also took the opportunity to encourage the
students to become ambassadors of goodwill for the Philippines by
being the best that they can be in everything that they do. The
students are Filipinos nationals taking various courses at Xiamen
University or Huaqiao University-Jimei (Xiamen) Campus. Part of the
activities in the evening of December 12 was a Christmas fellowship
and salo-salo among the students, FAX officers and Consulate General
personnel. |
|
|
|
| PDIC commemorative stamps issued
worldwide |
| Source:
http://www.dof.gov.ph |
|
The Philippine
Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) partnered with the Philippine
Postal Corporation (Philpost) for the issuance of the PDIC
commemorative stamps in celebration of PDIC’s milestone 50th year
anniversary. On December 5, 2013, the Philpost issued the
commemorative stamps, which are now being circulated in more than
1,000 post offices nationwide and in over 190 Philippine postal
administrations worldwide.
The PDIC commemorative stamps’ design depicts a dynamic and growing
community that embodies the virtues of saving and financial
inclusion. This represents the kind of community envisioned by the
PDIC for the Filipino
nation. Its key design elements were the PDIC’s 50th anniversary
logo and the corporate customer service philosophy, “Committed to
Serve.” The milestone issuance passed through the National
Historical Commission of the Philippines and the National Commission
for Culture and the Arts and will be rendered in the archives of
history.
The issuance of the PDIC commemorative stamps is one of the
initiatives that the Corporation undertook to promote public
awareness on depositor protection and financial literacy.
Finance Secretary and PDIC Chair Cesar V. Purisima said that this is
a worthy move that will raise public awareness on the role of PDIC
to provide depositor protection and promote financial stability, and
will encourage our countrymen to save and avail of financial
services of banking institutions. |
|
|
|
| DTI: six of 10 monitored supermarkets
conforming to SRPs of Noche Buena products |
| Source:
http://www.dti.gov.ph |
|
In the
intensified price monitoring activity held last December 18, the
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) found six supermarkets within
Metro Manila that are selling lower or within the Suggested Retail
Prices (SRPs) of Noche Buena products.
These compliant supermarkets are: Liana’s Supermarket, Pasay City;
Rustan’s Supermarket, Makati City; SM Supermarket, Makati City; SM
Hypermarket, Makati City; Robinson’s Galleria Supermarket, Ortigas
City; and Welcome Supermarket Metro Point, Pasay City.
“We commend these supermarkets for conforming to the SRPs of Noche
Buena products. This shows that intensified monitoring of prices
works for the benefit of everybody, business and consumers. We call
on other establishments to follow their lead to ensure that prices
of Noche Buena products are reasonable this Christmas season,” said
DTI-Consumer Welfare and Business Regulation Group (CWBRG)
Officer-in-Charge Atty. Victorio Mario A. Dimagiba.
On the other hand, four supermarkets from the 10 that were monitored
were found to be selling Noche Buena products above the SRPs. These
supermarkets are: Ever Gotesco Supermarket, Ortigas Extension;
Landmark Supermarket, Makati City; Rustan’s Supermarket in
Shangri-La, Mandaluyong City; and Super 8 along Shaw Boulevard,
Mandaluyong City.
“These supermarkets were found selling Noche Buena products from P
0.50 to P 21.25 more than the SRPs. We have issued them Show Cause
Orders (SCO) to explain such high prices on their products,” said
OIC Dimagiba.The products which were sold higher than the SRPs
include ham, fruit cocktail, cheese, sandwich spread, mayonnaise,
pasta/spaghetti, elbow and salad macaroni, spaghetti sauce, tomato
sauce and cream.
From the intensified price monitoring activities that were conducted
in the past two weeks, the DTI has already issued SCOs to a total of
nine supermarkets that were found to be selling Noche Buena products
above the SRPs.
“The DTI enjoins all retailers to stop selling overpriced Noche
Buena products and instead comply with the SRPs. For the consumers,
we urge you to get involved by reporting to us those stores that
sell above the SRP,” added Dimagiba.
Consumers are also advised to ensure that the price tag or shelf
price of a product is the same with the price at the cashier; and to
carefully check and compare the prices and weights of competing
brands.
To check for the SRP list of Noche Buena products, click here.To
report retailers that sell above the SRP, visit the nearest DTI
Office or call DTI Direct 751.3330 or 0917. 8343330. |
|
|
|
| Debt Ratios Remain at Comfortable Levels
in Q3 2013 |
| Source:
http://www.bsp.gov.ph |
|
Bangko Sentral
ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Amando M. Tetangco, Jr. reported that
the country’s outstanding external debt approved/registered by the
BSP stood at US$59.1 billion as of end-September 2013. The more than
US$1.0 billion (or 1.8 percent) increase from the US$58.0 billion
level in the second quarter was largely attributed to: (a) increase
in non-residents’ investments in Philippine debt papers (US$509
million); (b) net availments (US$342 million); (c) positive foreign
exchange (FX) revaluation adjustments (US$113 million); and (d)
previous periods’ adjustments (US$81 million). On a year-on-year
basis, however, the debt stock dropped by US$2.7 billion (or 4.3
percent) from the end-September 2012 level of US$61.7 billion due
largely to the negative foreign exchange revaluation adjustments
(US$3.6 billion).
External debt refers to all types of borrowings by Philippine
residents from non-residents that are approved/registered by the BSP.
External Debt Ratios
“Major external debt indicators remained at prudent levels in the
third quarter of 2013”, the Governor continued. Gross international
reserves (GIR) stood at US$83.5 billion as of 30 September 2013 and
represented 8.4 times the level of short-term (ST) debt under the
original maturity concept and 6.5 times under the remaining maturity
concept. The ratio under the remaining maturity concept is much
higher than the international benchmark of 1.0. [ST accounts under
the remaining maturity concept consist of obligations with original
maturities of one (1) year or less, plus amortizations on medium and
long-term accounts falling due within the next 12 months, i.e., from
October 2013 to September 2014.]
The external debt ratio (a solvency indicator) or total outstanding
debt (EDT) expressed as a percentage of annual aggregate output (GNI)
slightly increased to 18.4 percent from the 18.3 percent in the
previous quarter; but a substantial improvement was noted in the
ratio if compared with the 21.4 percent level a year ago. The same
trend is observed when using GDP as denominator. During the third
quarter, the economy grew by 7.0 percent, a little lower than the
7.5 percent growth posted in June 2013; nonetheless, this is the
fifth consecutive quarter that growth is at least 7.0 percent.
The external debt service ratio (DSR), or the ratio of total
principal and interest payments relative to total exports of goods
and receipts from services and income (XGSI), remained at 7.6
percent in the third quarter but a substantial improvement in the
ratio was noted from the 8.3 percent level a year ago. The ratio,
which measures sufficiency of foreign exchange available to meet
currently maturing obligations, has remained well below the 20.0 to
25.0 percent international benchmark, attesting to the country’s
strong liquidity position.
Debt Profile
The debt portfolio remained heavily leaning towards medium- to
long-term (MLT) maturities, accounting for 83.2 percent of total
outstanding external liabilities. These are scheduled to be paid
over a longer time horizon, translating to more manageable levels of
foreign exchange requirements for loan servicing.
The weighted average maturity for all MLT accounts stood at 20.1
years with public sector borrowings having a longer average tenor of
22.1 years compared to 9.8 years for the private sector.
Short-term external debt accounted for the 16.8 percent balance of
debt stock, and consisted largely of trade credits and bank
borrowings.
Total public sector debt totaled US$42.2 billion as of end-September
2013, higher than the US$42.0 billion level in the previous quarter
due to increase in non-resident investments in Philippine debt
papers as well as upward foreign exchange revaluation adjustments.
Private sector debt likewise grew from US$16.1 billion to US$16.9
billion due to net availments.
The creditor profile was largely unchanged: official creditors
(consisting of multilateral and bilateral creditors) continued to
have the largest exposure at 38.0 percent of total debt, followed by
foreign holders of bonds/notes at 36.7 percent, and foreign banks
and other financial institutions at 17.9 percent. The rest of the
creditors pertained mostly to foreign suppliers/exporters.
In terms of currency mix, the country’s foreign debt was essentially
unchanged, with U.S. dollar-denominated accounts comprising 51.2
percent, followed by the Japanese Yen – 20.2 percent, multi-currency
loans from the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank - 12.0
percent, and 18 other currencies – 16.6 percent. |
|
|
|
| Robust Current Account Sustains BOP Surplus in
Q3 2013 |
| Source:
http://www.bsp.gov.ph |
|
The country’s
balance of payments position yielded a surplus of US$1.2 billion in
Q3 2013 even as this was lower than the US$4.5 billion surplus
recorded in the comparable quarter a year ago. Although tempered by
the increase in net outflows in the financial account, the current
account surplus sustained the BOP surplus. The current account
surplus improved significantly during the quarter, buoyed by robust
net receipts of primary and secondary income as well as of services.
Global growth prospects have improved as economic activity in major
advanced economies, particularly the U.S., Japan, and some core
economies in the euro area have started to recover. The
strengthening demand from the county’s major trading partners
resulted in slightly higher exports in Q3 2013 relative to Q3 2012.
Meanwhile, the country’s strong macroeconomic fundamentals boosted
direct investment flows into the country during the quarter.
The sustained surplus in the BOP allowed the accumulation of gross
international reserves to US$83.5 billion as of end-September 2013,
representing a 1.8 percent increase (or US$1.5 billion) relative to
the year-ago GIR level of US$82 billion. At this level, reserves
could sufficiently cover 12 months’ worth of imports of goods and
payments of services and income. It was also equivalent to 8.9 times
the country’s short-term external debt based on original maturity
and 5.9 times based on residual maturity.
Third Quarter 2013 Developments
Current Account. The current account registered a surplus of US$3.2
billion (equivalent to
5 percent of GDP) in Q3 2013, significantly higher by 42.5 percent
than the US$2.2 billion surplus in Q3 2012. The continued strong
performance of the current account was supported by higher net
receipts of secondary income and services along with the reversal of
the primary income balance from net payments to net receipts. These
factors more than offset the higher deficit in trade in goods.
The deficit in trade in goods increased slightly by 2.7 percent to
US$3.1 billion in Q3 2013 compared to the US$3 billion deficit
recorded in the same quarter last year. This developed as the
increase in imports (US$801 million) exceeded that of exports
(US$719 million).
Net services receipts amounted to US$796 million in Q3 2013, higher
than the US$777 million recorded in the comparable quarter a year
ago. The modest 2.5 percent gain was on account of increased net
receipts from other business services, particularly technical,
trade-related1 and other business services.
The primary income account balance reversed to net receipts of
US$275 million in Q3 2013 from US$372 million net payments in Q3
2012. The reversal was attributed largely to the: a) increase in
receipts from earnings of resident overseas Filipino (OF) workers;
and b) reduction in net payments in investment income.
Net receipts in the secondary income account grew by 7.6 percent to
US$5.2 billion compared to the year-ago level of US$4.9 billion.
This developed on account of the 7.1 percent expansion in personal
transfers to reach US$4.9 billion during the quarter in review.
Capital Account. The capital account yielded US$26 million net
receipts during the review quarter, 21.4 percent lower than the
US$33 million recorded in the same quarter a year ago. This was due
primarily to the decrease in capital transfers to the NG.
Financial Account. The financial account registered net outflows (or
net lending of residents to the rest of the world) of US$1.2 billion
in Q3 2013, more than twofold the US$510 million net outflows
recorded in the same period in 2012. This was driven mainly by the
30.9 percent decline in inflows stemming from residents’ net
incurrence of liabilities which more than compensated for the 7.6
percent drop in outflows from residents’ net acquisition of
financial assets.
The direct investment account posted US$589 million net inflows (or
net borrowing by residents from the rest of the world) in Q3 2013,
significantly higher than the US$42 million net inflows recorded in
the same quarter last year. This developed as residents’ net
incurrence of liabilities (or foreign direct investments)
aggregating US$1 billion, exceeded their net acquisition of
financial assets amounting to US$428 million.
Portfolio investments registered net outflows of US$217 million
(indicating net lending of residents to the rest of the world) in Q3
2013, a turnaround from the US$61 million net inflows posted in the
same quarter in 2012. Net outflows in the portfolio investment
account resulted mainly from residents’ net repayment of liabilities
amounting to US$330 million, which were partly offset by their net
disposal of financial assets totaling US$113 million.
Net outflows of other investments (indicating net lending of
residents to the rest of the world) reached US$1.6 billion in Q3
2013, notably higher than the US$595 million recorded in the same
quarter last year. This resulted mainly from higher net acquisition
of financial assets by residents amounting to US$3.1 billion coupled
with a decline in their net incurrence of liabilities amounting to
US$1.5 billion.
January-September 2013 Developments
The BOP position for the first three quarters of 2013 yielded a
surplus of US$3.8 billion. This was lower, however, than the US$5.8
billion surplus in the comparable period last year. The sustained
favorable external payments position emanated mainly from the marked
improvement of the current account surplus due to the higher net
receipts from secondary income and services, along with the lower
deficit in trade in goods. This development was in contrast to the
trend observed in the financial account, which reversed to net
outflows from net inflows in the same period a year ago. The
significant turnaround was caused primarily by the net outflows in
other investments, resulting from the combined effects of higher net
acquisition of financial assets and lower net incurrence of
liabilities. Partly offsetting these net outflows were the higher
net inflows of direct and portfolio investments
Current Account. The current account recorded a higher surplus of
US$9.1 billion (4.6 percent of GDP) in the first nine months of 2013
compared to US$4.9 billion (2.8 percent of GDP) a year ago. The 84.2
percent increment was underpinned by robust net receipts from
secondary income and services, and the narrowing of the trade in
goods deficit. The lower net payments posted in the primary income
account also supported the considerable improvement of the current
account.
The trade in goods deficit was reduced by 11.4 percent as goods
exports declined at a slower pace compared to that of imports. Major
contributors to the decline in exports and imports were electronic
products and semi-processed raw materials, respectively.
The surplus in the services account grew significantly by 57.6
percent to US$3.9 billion in the first three quarters of the year,
on account mainly of the higher net receipts from technical,
trade-related, and other business services which increased by 26.6
percent.
The primary income account registered lower net payments of US$294
million in the first nine months of 2013 compared to US$975 million
in the comparable period a year ago.
Net receipts in the secondary income account increased by 6 percent,
propped up mainly by the 5.3 percent growth in remittances of
non-resident OF workers, which reached US$13.7 billion.
Capital Account. Net receipts in the capital account reached US$72
million in the first three quarters of 2013, 18.2 percent lower than
the US$88 million registered in the same period a year ago. This was
due mainly to lower capital transfers to the NG.
Financial Account. The financial account yielded net outflows
amounting to US$1.4 billion in January-September 2013, a turnaround
from net inflows of US$3.6 billion in the comparable period in 2012.
Net outflows emanated mainly from the other investment account while
higher net inflows were recorded in the direct and portfolio
investments.
The direct investment account yielded net inflows amounting to
US$1.4 billion, higher by about 65.5 percent than the level posted
in January-September 2012 as the rise in residents’ net incurrence
of liabilities outpaced those of their net acquisition of financial
assets. Foreign direct investments remained robust driven by the
increase in non-residents’ investments in debt instruments.
The portfolio investment account recorded a moderate increase in net
inflows in the first three quarters of 2013 to reach US$1.7 billion.
Net inflows resulted from residents’ net incurrence of liabilities
(or foreign portfolio investments) of US$1.1 billion coupled with
net disposal of their foreign financial assets amounting to US$650
million. The primary sources of net portfolio investment inflows
were residents’ net resale to non-residents through secondary market
trading of bonds originally issued offshore by the NG and
non-residents’ net subscription of debt securities issued by
residents.
The other investment account posted net outflows of US$4.6 billion
in the first three quarters of 2013, a sharp reversal of the US$1
billion net inflows recorded last year. Residents’ net acquisition
of financial assets consisted mainly of their net placements of
currency and deposits in foreign banks and loans extended by local
banks to non-residents. |
|
|
|
| Statement of the Department of Education on the
Rationalization Plan |
| Source:
http://www.deped.gov.ph |
|
The Department
of Education (DepEd) clarifies that the Rationalization Plan is in
accordance with Executive Order (EO) 366 issued in 2004. EO 366
directs a strategic review of the operations and organizations of
the Executive Branch. It is meant to improve the quality and
efficiency of government services by focusing government efforts and
resources on its core services. This will improve the ability of the
Department to respond to the needs of students, teachers, and
schools.
The Rationalization Plan only covers non-teaching staff in the
Central Office, Regional Offices, and Schools Division Offices.
Schools are not included. The DepEd Rationalization Plan was
submitted to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) February
14, 2013 and was approved on November 15, 2013. It was drafted in
consultation with officials and employees from all levels
nationwide, including representatives from the Employees’ Union and
the various national associations.
As provided by EO 366, employees deemed “affected” by the
Rationalization Plan have several options to choose from.
Those who wish to stay in government service may opt to apply
for similar positions they qualify for or choose to convert their
items into
Co-Terminus with the Incumbent (CTI) status. CTI status means the
employee
holds on to their item until they choose to retire, resign, or get
appointed to
another position. They will be assigned to where their services and
skills are
needed.
Employees may choose to leave government service, in which case
they will be entitled to more benefits than regular retirement or
separation.
Aside from what they will be getting from GSIS, they will also get
additional
incentives from government (through DBM) as stated in Section 10 of
EO 366.
(Please see excerpts from EO 366 below.)
The DepEd has instituted a help desk to clarify common questions and
help affected personnel with their options. Heads of offices, who
have been briefed on the plan earlier, have also been conducting
dialogues with employees to explain the plan and discuss options.
For more information, check: http://www.deped.gov.ph/index.php/programs-projects/department-of-education-rationalization-plan
Excerpt from EO 366
SECTION 10. Personnel Who Would Opt to
Retire or Be Separated from the Service. — Affected personnel, with
appointments attested by the CSC, whether hired on a permanent or
temporar
basis, who would opt to retire or be separated from the service, and
those
hired on a casual or contractual basis, if qualified, shall be given
the option
to avail themselves of any of the following, whichever is beneficial
to them:
10.1
Retirement gratuity provided under RA 1616 (An Act Further Amending
Section
Twelve of Commonwealth Act Numbered One Hundred Eighty-Six, as
Amended,
Prescribing Two Other Modes of Retirement and for Other Purposes),
as amended,
payable by the last employer of the Affected personnel, plus the
refund of
retirement premiums payable by the Government Service Insurance
System (GSIS),
without the incentive herein provided.
10.2
Retirement benefit under RA 660 (An Act to Amend Commonwealth Act
Numbered One
Hundred and Eighty-Six entitled “An Act to Create and Establish a
Government
Service Insurance System, to Provide for its Administration, and to
Appropriate
the Necessary Funds Therefor,” and to Provide Retirement Insurance
and for
Other Purposes) or applicable retirement, separation or unemployment
benefit|
provided under RA 8291 (An Act Amending Presidential Decree No.
1146, as
Amended, Expanding and Increasing the Coverage and Benefits of the
Government
Service Insurance System, Instituting Reforms Therein and for other
Purposes),
if qualified, plus the following applicable incentives:
10.2.1
½ month of the present basic salary for every year of government
service and a
fraction thereof, for those who have rendered 20 years of service
and below;
10.2.2
¾ month of the present basic salary for every year of government
service and a
fraction thereof, computed starting from the 1st year, for those who
have
rendered 21-30 years of service; and
10.2.3
1 month of the present basic salary for every year of government
service and
fraction thereof, computed starting from the 1st year, for those who
have
rendered 31 years of service and above.
PROVIDED: That the GSIS
shall pay, on the day of separation, the
retirement/separation/unemployment
benefits to which are affected employee may be entitled to under RA
660 or RA
8291 and whenever there is an option, the one which the affected
employee has
chosen as the most beneficial to him/her.
PROVIDED FURTHER: That
for the purpose of complying with the required number of years of
service under
RA 8291, the portability scheme under RA 7699 (An Act Instituting
Limited
Portability Scheme in the Social Security Insurance Systems by
Totalizing the
Workers’ Creditable Services or Contributions in Each of the
Systems) may be
applied, subject to existing policies and guidelines.
10.3
Those with that three (3) years of government service may opt avail
of the
separation gratuity under RA 6656 (An Act to Protect the Security of
Tenure of
Civil Service Officers and Employees in the Implementation of
Government
Reorganization), plus the appropriate incentive provided under
Section 10.2.
No affected employees who opted for retirement/separation shall
receive less than an aggregate of
Fifty Thousand pesos (P50,000.00) as his retirement/separation
gratuity
benefits from both the National Government and the GSIS. |
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President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his message during the
inspection of Bunkhouses for internally displaced persons at the Joachin
Enriquez Memorial Sports Complex in Zamboanga City on Sunday (December
22). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
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President Benigno S. Aquino III presides over the briefing on Zamboanga
City Roadmap to Recovery and Reconstruction ( at the Passengers Terminal
of the 3rd Air Division, Edwin Andrews Air Base in Barangay Sta. Maria,
Zamboanga City on Sunday (December 22) . Present in the briefing are
Zamboanga City Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar, Presidential
Assistant for Rehabilitation and Recovery Panfilo Lacson, DSWD Secretary
Corazon Juliano-Soliman, DPWH Secretary Rogelio Singson, Energy
Secretary Carlos Jericho Petilla, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin,
Cabinet Secretary Jose Rene Almendras, National Housing Authority (NHA)
General Manager Chito Cruz, and Habitat for Humanity chief executive
officer and managing director Charlito Ayco. (Photo by Gil Nartea /
Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
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President Benigno S. Aquino III inspects the bunkhouse units for
internally displaced persons at the Joachin Enriquez Memorial Sports
Complex in Zamboanga City on Sunday (December 22). (Photo by Gil Nartea
/ Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
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(PALO, Leyte) President Benigno S.Aquino III addresses residents of
Barangay Candahug here following the turnover of bunkhouse units to 48
families in 3 barangays Sunday (December 22). (Photo by Marcelino Pascua
/ PCOO) |
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(PALO, Leyte) President Benigno S. Aquino III leads distribution of the
certificates for occupancy of bunkhouse units to 48 families in 3
barangays here assisted by DSWD Secretary Dingky Soliman, Governor
Dominic Petilla, Palo Mayor Remedios Petilla and DPWH Secretary Rogelio
Singson. (Photo by MARCELINO G.PASCUA) |
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(PALO, Leyte) President Benigno S. Aquino III checks out bunkhouse units
with DPWH Secretary Rogelio Singson, Gov. Dominic Petilla and DSWD
Secretary Dinky Soliman Sunday (December 22). (Photo by Marcelino Pascua
/ PCOO) |
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(TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte) President Benigno S.Aquino III waves to the
residents before boarding vehicle after the inspection of bunkhouse
units Sunday (December 22). (Photo by Marcelino Pascua / PCOO) |
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(TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte) President Benigno S. Aquino III with Rep.
Ferdinand Martin Rumualdez (L), Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez and
Governor Dominic Petilla (R) inspect bunkhouse units Sunday (December
22). (Photo by Marcelino Pascua / PCOO) |
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(TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte) President Benigno S. Aquino III with Rep.
Ferdinand Martin Rumualdez (L), Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez and
Governor Dominic Petilla (R) inspect bunkhouse units Sunday (December
22). (Photo by Marcelino Pascua / PCOO) |
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United Nations (UN) Secretary General
Ban Ki-Moon reviews the honor guards during the foyer honors accorded
him at the Malacañan Palace Main Lobby upon arrival for the courtesy
call on Saturday (December 21, 2013). The UN Chief is also scheduled to
visit communities that were devastated by super typhoon Yolanda in
Tacloban City, one of the areas hit hardest by the super typhoon when it
made landfall in the Visayas and Southern Luzon last November 08, 2013.
(Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
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President Benigno S. Aquino III bids
farewell to United Nations (UN) Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon at the
Malacañan Palace Grounds after the courtesy call on Saturday (December
21, 2013). The UN Chief is also scheduled to visit communities that were
devastated by super typhoon Yolanda in Tacloban City, one of the areas
hit hardest by the super typhoon when it made landfall in the Visayas
and Southern Luzon last November 08, 2013. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Robert
Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
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President Benigno S. Aquino III and
United Nations (UN) Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon troop the line during
the Departure Honors at the Malacañan Palace Main Lobby for his Courtesy
Call on Saturday (December 21, 2013). The UN Chief is also scheduled to
visit communities that were devastated by super typhoon Yolanda in
Tacloban City, one of the areas hit hardest by the super typhoon when it
made landfall in the Visayas and Southern Luzon last November 08, 2013.
(Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
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President Benigno S. Aquino III
exchanges views with United Nations (UN) Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon
during the Courtesy Call at the President’s Hall of the Malacañan Palace
on Saturday (December 21, 2013). The UN Chief is also scheduled to visit
communities that were devastated by super typhoon Yolanda in Tacloban
City, one of the areas hit hardest by the super typhoon when it made
landfall in the Visayas and Southern Luzon last November 08, 2013.
(Photo by Ryan Lim / Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
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President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes
United Nations (UN) Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon during the Courtesy
Call at the President’s Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Saturday
(December 21, 2013). The UN Chief is scheduled to visit communities that
were devastated by super typhoon Yolanda in Tacloban City, one of the
areas hit hardest by the super typhoon when it made landfall in the
Visayas and Southern Luzon last November 08, 2013. (Photo by Ryan Lim /
Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau / Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo
Bureau / PCOO) |
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President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers
his speech during the ceremonial signing of Republic Act No. 10633, the
Php 2.265-trillion General Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2014 at
the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (December 20). Also in
photo are Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, Jr., Senators Cynthia
Villar and Juan Edgardo Angara and Committee on Finance chairman Senator
Francis Joseph Escudero. (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang
Photo Bureau) |
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President Benigno S. Aquino III signs
into law Republic Act No. 10633, the Php2.265-trillion General
Appropriations Act (GAA) for Fiscal Year 2014, in a ceremony at the
Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (December 20, 2013).
Witnessing the ceremony are Senate President Franklin Drilon, Vice
President Jejomar Binay, Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Jr., Committee on
Appropriations chairperson Representative Isidro Ungab, Representative
Leopoldo Bataoil, Committee on Finance chairman Senator Francis Joseph
Escudero, Representatives Ben Evardone, Gabriel Quisimbing, Romero
Federico Quimbo, Pangalian Balindong, Jorge Banal, Maria Zenaida Angping,
Cesar Sarmiento, Emil Ong and Mariano Piamonte. (Photo by: Lauro
Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
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President Benigno S. Aquino III signs
into law Republic Act No. 10633, the Php 2.265-trillion General
Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2014, in a ceremony at the Rizal Hall
of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (December 20). Witnessing the
ceremony are Vice President Jejomar Binay, Speaker Feliciano Belmonte,
Jr., Representatives Romero Federico Quimbo, Gabriel Quisimbing,
Pangalian Balindong, Jorge Banal, Maria Zenaida Angping and Cesar
Sarmiento. (Photo by: Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
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President Benigno S. Aquino III signs
into law Republic Act No. 10633, the Php 2.265-trillion General
Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2014, in a ceremony at the Rizal Hall
of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (December 20). Witnessing the
ceremony are Senate President Franklin Drilon, Vice President Jejomar
Binay, Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Jr., Committee on Appropriations
chairperson Representative Isidro Ungab and Deputy Speaker Henedina
Abad, Representative Leopoldo Bataoil, Committee on Finance chairman
Senator Francis Joseph Escudero, Representatives Ben Evardone, Gabriel
Quisimbing, Romero Federico Quimbo, Pangalian Balindong, Jorge Banal,
Maria Zenaida Angping, Cesar Sarmiento, Emil Ong and Mariano Piamonte.
(Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
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President Benigno S. Aquino III signs
into law Republic Act No. 10633, the Php 2.265-trillion General
Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2014, in a ceremony at the Rizal Hall
of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (December 20). Witnessing the
ceremony are Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Jr. and Representatives
Pangalian Balindong, Maria Zenaida Angping, Cesar Sarmiento and Emil Ong.
(Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
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President Benigno S. Aquino III signs
into law Republic Act No. 10633, the Php 2.265-trillion General
Appropriations Act (GAA) for Fiscal Year 2014, in a ceremony at the
Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (December 20). Witnessing
the ceremony are (seated from left) Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa,
Jr., Senators Cynthia Villar and Juan Edgardo Angara, Senate President
Franklin Drilon, Vice President Jejomar Binay, Speaker Feliciano
Belmonte, Jr., Committee on Appropriations chairperson Representative
Isidro Ungab, Deputy Speaker Henedina Abad, Majority Leader Neptali
Gonzales II and Budget and Management Secretary Florencio Abad. (At the
back) Representatives Bai Sandra Sema, Mercedes Alvarez, Leopoldo
Bataoil, Committee on Finance chairman Senator Francis Joseph Escudero,
Ben Evardone, Gabriel Quisimbing, Romero Federico Quimbo, Pangalian
Balindong, Jorge Banal, Maria Zenaida Angping, Cesar Sarmiento, Emil Ong,
Mariano Piamonte, Giorgidi Aggabao, Enrique Cojuangco, Joaquin Carlos
Rahman Nava, Eric Singson, Ma. Carmen Zamora, Thelma Almario and Mel
Senen Sarmiento. (Photo by: Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
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Please
email us at
pcoo.edp@gmail.com
if you need a copy of last week's photo releases of
PNOY
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Hello, I am Mr JONES CHRIS, isang pribadong loan tagapagpahiram na nagbibigay sa buhay ng panahon pagkakataon pautang. Kailangan ba ninyo ang isang utang mapilit upang bayaran ang iyong utang o kailangan mo ng isang loan upang mapahusay ang inyong negosyo? Ikaw ay na tinanggihan ng bangko at iba pang mga pinansyal na institusyon? Kailangan ba ninyo ng isang pagpapatatag loan o mortgage? naghahanap para sa karagdagang dahil kami ay dito upang gawin ang lahat ng iyong mga pinansiyal na problema sa isang bagay ng nakaraan. ipahiram namin pondo sa mga indibidwal na nangangailangan ng pinansiyal na tulong, na magkaroon ng isang masamang credit o nangangailangan ng pera upang magbayad ng mga bill, upang mamuhunan sa negosyo sa isang rate ng 2%. Gusto kong gamitin ang medium na ito upang ipaalam sa iyo na namin magbigay ng isang maaasahang at beneficiary assistance at magiging handa upang mag-alok ng pautang. So-ugnay sa amin ngayon sa pamamagitan ng email sa: joneschrisloan@gmail.com)
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