Dispatch for January 3 , 2014 ( Friday ) , 3 PIA Calabarzon PR , 3 Weather Watch,

3 Reg’l. Watch , 4 OFW Watch , 1 PNOY Speech , 15 Online News , 32 Photonews

24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST

Issued At:	5:00 a.m., 03 January 2014
Valid Beginning:	5:00 a.m. today until 5:00 a.m. tomorrow

Predicted Mean Sea Level Pressure
Analysis for 8 a.m., 03 January 2014

Predicted Mean Sea Level Wind
Analysis for 8 a.m., 03 January 2014

Satellite Image
for 5:32 a.m., 03 January 2014

Synopsis:

Trough of a Low Pressure Area (LPA) affecting Mindanao. Northeast Monsoon affecting Northern Luzon.

Forecast:

Bicol Region, Eastern Visayas and Caraga will experience cloudy skies with light to moderate rainshowers and thunderstorms. Metro Manila and the regions of Ilocos, Cordillera and Central Luzon will have partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated light rains. The rest of the country will be partly cloudy to cloudy with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms.

Moderate to strong winds blowing from the East to Northeast will prevail over Luzon and Eastern Visayas and the coastal waters along these areas will be moderate to rough. Elsewhere, winds will be light to moderate coming from the Northeast with slight to moderate seas.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

GALE WARNING

GALE WARNING NO. 94
For: Strong to gale force winds associated with the surge of Northeast Monsoon.

Issued at 5:00 a.m. today, 03 January 2014

Strong to gale force winds is expected to affect eastern seaboards of Visayas.

SEABOARD	WEATHER	WIND FORCE (KPH)/(KNOTS)	SEA CONDITION	WAVE HEIGHTS (meters)
The eastern seaboard of Visayas (Samar and Leyte)	Cloudy skies with light to moderate rainshowers and thunderstorms	(52 - 63) / (28 - 34)	Rough to very rough	3.4 to 4.5

Fishing boats and other small seacrafts are advised not to venture out into the sea while larger sea vessels are alerted against big waves.

The next update will be issued at 5:00 p.m. today.

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Weather Watch shared Dost_pagasa's photo.

7 hours ago

24-Hour Public Weather Forecast
Issued at : 5:00 AM 03 January 2014

Synopsis: Trough of a Low Pressure Area (LPA) affecting Mindanao. Northeast Monsoon affecting Northern Luzon.

Forecast: Bicol region, Eastern Visayas and CARAGA will experience cloudy skies with light to moderate rainshowers and thunderstorms. Metro Manila and the regions of Ilocos, Cordillera and Central Luzon will have partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated light rains. The rest of the country will be partly cloudy to cloudy with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms.
Moderate to strong winds blowing from the east to northeast will prevail over Luzon and Eastern Visayas and the coastal waters along these areas will be moderate to rough. Elsewhere, winds will be light to moderate coming from the northeast with slight to moderate seas.

Over Metro Manila:

Maximum Temperature: 1:30 PM Yesterday --- 31.6ºc
Minimum Temperature: 6:00 AM Yesterday --- 20.0ºc

Maximum Relative Humidity: 5:00 AM Yesterday --- 96 %
Minimum Relative Humidity: 2:00 PM Yesterday --- 62 %

Low Tide Today: 6:36 AM .…..……….. -0.33 Meter
High Tide Today: 11:10 PM .…..……….. 1.25 Meter

Sunrise Today: 6:22 AM
Sunset Today: 5:39 PM

Moonset Today: 7:41 PM
Moonrise Tomorrow: 8:36 AM
Illumination Today : 4 %

For more information and queries, please call at telephone numbers 927-1335 and 927-2877 or log on

to www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph.

— with Michael Kim G. Jimenez.

Photo: 24-Hour Public Weather Forecast
Issued at : 5:00 AM 03 January 2014

Synopsis: Trough of a Low Pressure Area (LPA) affecting Mindanao. Northeast Monsoon affecting Northern Luzon.

Forecast: Bicol region, Eastern Visayas and CARAGA will experience cloudy skies with light to moderate rainshowers and thunderstorms. Metro Manila and the regions of Ilocos, Cordillera and Central Luzon will have partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated light rains. The rest of the country will be partly cloudy to cloudy with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms.
Moderate to strong winds blowing from the east to northeast will prevail over Luzon and Eastern Visayas and the coastal waters along these areas will be moderate to rough. Elsewhere, winds will be light to moderate coming from the northeast with slight to moderate seas.

Over Metro Manila:

Maximum Temperature: 1:30 PM Yesterday --- 31.6ºc
Minimum Temperature: 6:00 AM Yesterday --- 20.0ºc

Maximum Relative Humidity: 5:00 AM Yesterday --- 96 %
Minimum Relative Humidity: 2:00 PM Yesterday --- 62 %

Low Tide Today: 6:36 AM .…..……….. -0.33 Meter
High Tide Today: 11:10 PM .…..……….. 1.25 Meter

Sunrise Today: 6:22 AM
Sunset Today: 5:39 PM

Moonset Today: 7:41 PM
Moonrise Tomorrow: 8:36 AM
Illumination Today : 4 %

For more information and queries, please call at telephone numbers 927-1335 and 927-2877 or log on

to www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph.

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Weather Watch

January 3 , 2013 ( Friday ) as of 6:00-7:00 AM

CAVITE : Sunny

LAGUNA : Sunny

BATANGAS : Sunny

RIZAL : Sunny

QUEZON : Fair Weather

1. PIA Regional Watch

21 hours ago

PIA-4A/QUEZON: The city government of Lucena is scheduled to construct a new and 'one stop shop' city hall building in Lucena City this first quarter of year 2014. The building , if completed would accommodate more or complete services to the clients.

2. PIA Regional Watch

21 hours ago

PIA-4A/QUEZON: The SOLCOM is pooling applicants for permanent positions in the following fields: Lab Tech, PT, Dentist, Radtech, Researchers and Administrative positions with knowledge on computer operations. Must have the corresponding CSC eligibility. Applicants may submit their PDS to Mary Ann Rivera at the SOLCOM headquarter, Lucena City.

3. PIA Regional Watch

22 hours ago

PIA-4A/RIZAL: The Antipolo City Business Permits and Licensing Office encourages local business owners to avoid the rush and apply for their business permits early this year in line with the Business One Stop Shop (BOSS) 2014 to be held from January 2 - 20 at the Ynares Center, Antipolo City.

1. PIA OFW Watch

21 hours ago

*DZMM: Muling hinihiling ang suporta ng mga Pinoy upang mabuo ang blood money para sa OFW na si Joselito Zapanta na maaaring bitayin anumang araw ngayong buwan na ito sa Saudi Arabia. Sinabi ni Philippine Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Ezzedin Tago, kinakailangan pang mabuo ang 1.48M Saudi riyals o P17.5M para makumpleto ang naturang blood money.

2. PIA OFW Watch

22 hours ago

DZMM: Patuloy na sinusubaybayan ng DFA ang security situation ng mga Pinoy sa bansang Sudan na nakataas pa sa alert level 3.

3. PIA OFW Watch

22 hours ago

DZBB: Ipinaalala ng DFA na nananatili pa rin ang kanilang alert level 3 sa South Sudan kung saan pinalilikas na ang mga Pilipino sa nasabing bansa at bawal din ang deployment ng mga bagong OFW doon.

4. PIA OFW Watch

22 hours ago

DZBB: Muling umapela si VP Binay na siya ring Presidential Adviser for OFW Concerns sa publiko para magbigay ng tulong kung pwede sa OFW na si Joselito Zapanta. Anumang araw ngayong Enero ay pwedeng bitayin ang OFW kung hindi mabubuo ang blood money para rito.

Southern Tagalog LGUs, BNS recognized for exemplary performance in nutrition

Friday 3rd of January 2014

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ANTIPOLO CITY, Rizal, January 3 (PIA) --National Nutrition Council Calabarzon and Mimaropa headed by Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator Carina Z. Santiago presented various awards to the local government units and barangay nutrition scholars with exemplary performance in nutrition at the Heritage Hotel, Pasay City last December 6, 2013.

Outstanding cities and municipalities in the provinces and regions of Calabarzon and Mimaropa were conferred Green Banner Awards in line with their respective programs and advocacies in promoting good nutrition. Aside from Green Banner Awardees, Outstanding Barangay Nutrition Scholars for 2012 were respectively awarded.

The municipalities of Atimonan, Quezon; Cuenca, Batangas, Kalayaan, Laguna; Tanza, Cavite and the City of Sta. Rosa, Laguna were given the Green Banner Award for 2013. Special Awards were also given out to Atimonan, Quezon as the Best performing Municipality in Calabarzon; Batangas Province as the Best Performing Province; Cabuyao City as the city with the lowest malnutrition prevalence rate and; Lobo, Batangas, Pagsanjan, Laguna and Sto. Tomas, Batangas as Municipalities with the lowest malnutrition prevalence rate. Brgy. Tagapo, Sta. Rosa City was also awarded as the Regional Outstanding Barangay in the Region.
Provincial Outstanding BNS awards were also given to Soledad D. Clamosa (Brgy. Daang Amaya II, Tanza, Cavite), Ma. Christie R. Balitaon (Brgy. Zone I-Poblacion, Atimonan, Quezon), Merlita B. De Guzman (Brgy. San Jose, Rodriguez, Rizal) and Ronaldo J. Quilao (Brgy. Paciano Rizal, Bay, Laguna). Cecilia G. Santos (Brgy. Kaybagal South, Tagaytay City) was also awarded as Regional Outstanding BNS.

Several Calabarzon hospitals were also awarded for establishing functional lactation stations aiding in the promotion of breastfeeding in the region with the Laurel Memorial District Hospital as the first District Hospital to Establish a Functional Lactation Station; the Sto. Tomas General Hospital and CP Reyes Hospital as the as the first Private Hospitals to Establish lactation stations and; the Tanauan City Executive Building, Tanauan City Legislative Building and Calamba City Hall as the first cities in Calabarzon to establish lactation stations.

Local chief executives and national government agencies from Calabarzon and Mimaropa were also present at the awarding ceremony to give support to their respective awardees. Laguna Governor E.R. Ejercito and Department of the Interior and Local Government Regional Director Josefina Castilla-Go also delivered commendations to the 2013 awardees. (GG-PIA4A)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=2261388654909#sthash.MPmWCYFi.dpuf

Southern Tagalog LGUs, BNS recognized for exemplary performance in nutrition

Friday 3rd of January 2014

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- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=2261388654909#sthash.MPmWCYFi.dpuf

Southern Tagalog LGUs, BNS recognized for exemplary performance in nutrition

Friday 3rd of January 2014

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- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=2261388654909#sthash.MPmWCYFi.dpuf

Southern Tagalog LGUs, BNS recognized for exemplary performance in nutrition

Friday 3rd of January 2014

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- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=2261388654909#sthash.MPmWCYFi.dpuf

Southern Tagalog LGUs, BNS recognized for exemplary performance in nutrition

Friday 3rd of January 2014

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- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=2261388654909#sthash.MPmWCYFi.dpuf

Southern Tagalog LGUs, BNS recognized for exemplary performance in nutrition

Friday 3rd of January 2014

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- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=2261388654909#sthash.MPmWCYFi.dpuf

Southern Tagalog LGUs, BNS recognized for exemplary performance in nutrition

Friday 3rd of January 2014

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=2261388654909#sthash.MPmWCYFi.dpuf

02 JANUARY 2014.

1. Palace: No time to lose on safe alternatives to fireworks

2. Palace: President Aquino signs P14.6-B supplemental budget for calamity survivors

3. Aquino government elated over United Nations's action adopting Philippine-sponsored resolution on violence against women migrant workers

4. Palace: Phl dip in business ranking a learning point, continuing challenge

5. Government agencies speed up burial of remains of 1,400 Yolanda fatalities

6. Government remains committed to talking peace with leftist rebels, says Palace

7. Palace reiterates respect for Ombudsman, judiciary's independence on PDAF cases

Palace: No time to lose on safe alternatives to fireworks

Saying there is no more time to lose, Malacañang on Thursday called on private and public stakeholders to meet soonest and agree on safe alternatives to fireworks, which had injured more than 800 people during the recent holiday revelry.

Presidential Communications Operations Office head Herminio Coloma Jr. said all parties concerned should iron out their differences on the various approaches to the problem, which range from community fireworks to making safer fireworks.

"We can ill afford to wait for another New Year’s Day celebration marred by similar injuries or deaths. Hence, we call on all stakeholders to reach a common stand on safer alternatives for celebrating New Year’s Day through local ordinances or enactment or amendment of existing national laws," Coloma said at a media briefing.

Coloma said fireworks have posed a threat to safety and health, as the gunpowder inside them can cause tetanus.

Worse, he said such fireworks harm the environment because of their emissions.

"Kaya nga po ang panawagan natin ay para magkaroon ng consensus at paglahok ang lahat ng mga sektor ng ating lipunan. Kailangan po magkaroon ng ugnayan at konsultasyon para naman po marinig lahat ng iba’t ibang panukala at maiwasan ang mga sinabi ninyong unintended or deleterious consequences na dapat din pong huwag payagang maganap (This is why our call is for consensus and the participation of all sectors in society. We must have coordination and consultations so all sides will be heard and there will be no unintended or deleterious consequences)," he said.

On the other hand, Coloma said all concerned sectors should discuss an effective deterrent to using fireworks, considering many Filipinos want to greet the New Year with noise.

Meanwhile, Coloma said the Philippine National Police continues to implement the regulation of firearms, with President Benigno Aquino III himself stressing the need for it.

"Tanggap natin ang panukala na kailangan higpitan ng pamahalaan ang pag-regulate sa paggamit ng mga armas (We agree there is a need to be stricter in regulating the use of firearms)," he added. PND (jl)

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Palace: President Aquino signs P14.6-B supplemental budget for calamity survivors

President Benigno Aquino III has signed the P14.6-billion supplemental budget for 2014 to fund relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts in areas affected last year by super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) and a magnitude-7.2 quake.

In a media briefing, Presidential Communications Operations Office head Herminio Coloma Jr. said the President signed the budget last Dec. 26.

"On Dec. 26, it was signed. ... Pinirmahan na ang joint resolution ng both houses of Congress for the supplemental allocation of P14.6 billion (It was signed Dec. 26. This was the joint resolution by both houses of Congress for the allocation of P14.6 billion)," Coloma said.

Yolanda, which tore through Visayas and Southern Luzon last November, left more than 6,100 dead.

The supplemental budget will also help survivors of other devastating cyclones. It will fund the P40.9-billion rehabilitation plan President Aquino had approved.

Coloma said the rehabilitation plan had gone through several revisions and "various stages of refinement." PND (jl)

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Aquino government elated over United Nations's action adopting Philippine-sponsored resolution on violence against women migrant workers

The Aquino government expressed elation over the action of the United Nations General Assembly adopting the Philippine-sponsored resolution on violence against women migrant workers, Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said on Thursday.

Coloma said during the regular press briefing in Malacanang the UN Assembly adopted by consensus the Philippine-sponsored Resolution No. 68/137 on Violence Against Women Migrant Workers last December 18.

"It urges all governments to consider permitting migrant women workers who are victims of violence to apply for residency permits independently of abusive employers or spouses, in accordance with national laws, and to eliminate abusive sponsorship systems," the Communications Secretary said.

Coloma said the Philippine initiative was prompted by the need to extend protection to thousands of Filipina migrant workers.

According to Coloma, the resolution calls on all countries to grant women migrant workers in domestic service access to gender-sensitive transparent mechanisms for bringing complaints against employers including termination of their contract, in case of labor and economic exploitation, sexual harassment, and sexual abuse and violence. PND (js)

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Palace: Phl dip in business ranking a learning point, continuing challenge

Malacañang said Thursday it will consider as a learning point and a continuing challenge the Philippines' drop in ranking in the Forbes’ Best Countries for Business for 2013.

Presidential Communications Operations Office head Herminio Coloma Jr. said there is room for improvement for the Philippines to fare much better on the list.

"We acknowledge there would be room for improvement in all those aspects ... Para sa atin, tinuturing natin na isang continuing challenge para mas mapahusay ang ating mga business processes (We acknowledge there is room for improvement in all those aspects. We view as a continuing challenge the need to improve our business processes)," Coloma said.

The Philippines had ranked 90th out of 145 countries in the Forbes’ Best Countries for Business List for 2013, slightly lower than in 2012. This was three notches below the country’s rank last year.

On the other hand, Coloma said the Philippines will not be content at being 90th or 87th, but will seek to move as close as possible to the top of the list.

In the meantime, he said the Philippines will consider its dip in the ranking a "learning point and an opportunity for introducing further improvements."

But he said this would require the efforts not only of the government but also of the private sector. PND (jl)

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Government agencies speed up burial of remains of 1,400 Yolanda fatalities

Concerned government agencies are working closely with the Tacloban City government to speed up the burial of some 1,400 fatalities of super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), Malacañang said Thursday.

Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said the Departments of Health and Public Works and Highways sent added equipment while the National Bureau of Investigation redeployed its forensic team on the ground.

Quoting a report from Presidential Assistant for Rehabilitation and Recovery Panfilo Lacson, he said the DOH has sent 1,500 body bags and protective kits for personnel handling the remains while the DPWH sent additional backhoes and payloaders.

"Ginagawa na po ito sa pamamagitan ng puspusang pagtutulungan ng DOH, NBI, DPWH at kanilang pakikipag-ugnayan sa Tacloban City government (The DOH, NBI and DPWH are coordinating with the Tacloban City government in this regard)," he said.

Coloma also said the agencies are considering other suggestions to speed up the burial, including modifying the procedure used by the NBI to identify the remains.

He said some sectors had pointed out that the NBI adheres to the procedures used by the International Police Organization (Interpol), which are rather thorough but would take more time.

"Sa obserbasyon naman po ng ibang mga ahensiya, at ito ay na-convey na rin sa NBI na baka naman pwedeng ma-modify ang procedure on the fact that iyong Interpol procedures are procedures being used to gather evidence in criminal cases, kaya siyempre mas detalyado ito. Ang mga victims of the calamity, hindi naman similarly situated as victims of crimes, kaya I think iyon ang isang punto na tinalakay nila (Some agencies had conveyed to the NBI a suggestion to modify the procedures since Interpol procedures are used to gather evidence in criminal cases and are thus more thorough but time-consuming. Victims of the calamity are not similarly situated as victims of crimes, so I think that is a point that may be discussed)," Coloma said.

He said discussions are ongoing to have the NBI comply with Interpol procedures but at a faster pace. PND (jl)

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Government remains committed to talking peace with leftist rebels, says Palace

The government is not closing its door to restarting a peace dialogue with leftist insurgents believing that despite the hurdles, peace could still be achieved, a Palace official said on Thursday.

In a press briefing in Malacanang, Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said that the President’s peace adviser had issued a statement last week that the government will continue to seek ways to reach a peace pact with the communist group.

The government and Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) have not agreed on many issues to move the peace process forward.

One of the issues is the release of communist advisers from government detention centers as a precondition for the start of the peace discussions.

“Hindi po nawawalan ng pag-asa o ng determinasyon ang ating pamahalaan na malampasan kung ano man ‘yung mga hamon na nagsisilbing balakid dahil isa pa rin po ‘yan sa mga timetable ng ating pamahalaan,” Coloma told reporters.

“Sinisikap po nating maisulong ang kapayapaan hindi lamang doon sa Mindanao kundi sa iba’t iba pang mga larangan at kasama na diyan ‘yung pakikipag-ugnayan o pakikipag-negosasyon sa CPP-NPA-NDF para po maresolba ang matagal nang usapin hinggil diyan.”

With regards to the threat issued by the CPP to intensify its campaign against government security facilities, Coloma said the military and the police are ready to defend the people and maintain peace.

“Siyempre po tutugunan ‘yan ng ating mga security forces and law enforcement authorities sapagkat tungkulin po ng Sandatahang Lakas na ipagtanggol ang ating mga mamamayan at panatilihin ang kaligtasan ng ating mga komunidad,” he said. PND (as)

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Palace reiterates respect for Ombudsman, judiciary's independence on PDAF cases

Malacañang on Thursday reiterated it will respect the independence of the Ombudsman and the judiciary in handling the cases against personalities linked to the alleged misuse of the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF).

Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said that while the Palace shares the people's wish for the cases to be resolved the soonest, it does not intend to impose any deadline on the resolution of the cases.

"Hindi naman po tayo pwedeng mag-impose ng deadline o timetable. Ginagalang po natin ang independence ng Ombudsman at iyong separation of powers po ng Executive from the Judiciary kaya nagpapahayag lang po tayo ng pakikiisa sa pag-asa ng mga mamamayan na gagalaw itong proseso ng pagkakaroon ng katarungan hinggil doon sa umano'y maling paggamit ng public funds (We cannot impose a deadline or timetable for the resolution of the cases. We respect the independence of the Ombudsman and the separation of powers between the executive and judiciary. But we merely share the hopes of Filipinos that the cases involving the alleged misuse of PDAF will move quickly)," Coloma said at a media briefing.

For now, he said the complaints lodged by the government against some personalities are still being evaluated by the Office of the Ombudsman.

He noted President Benigno Aquino III's New Year message where he said justice in the PDAF case is close at hand referred to the legal progress of the case from investigation to the filing of complaints before the Ombudsman.

Also, he stressed there is no pressure from the Palace on the Ombudsman and the judiciary on the matter.

"Wala pong hinahangad na ganyan kaya nga po doon sa ating pahayag ay ine-emphasize iyong paggalang sa independence ng Tanggapan ng Ombudsman na nilikha ng Konstitusyon para maging independienteng taga-usig ng mga usapin hinggil sa mga government officials (There is no such pressure on the Ombudsman. That is why we are emphasizing our respect for the Ombudsman's independence)," he said. PND (jl)

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Presidential Communications Operations Office - Balitang Malacanang

02 ENERO 2014

1. Dapat nang madaliin ang paghanap ng ligtas na pamalit sa mga paputok, sabi ng Palasyo

2. Nilagdaan ng Pangulo ang P14.6 B supplemental budget para sa mga nakaligtas sa mga kalamidad

3. Ikinalugod ng gobyernong Aquino ang hakbang ng bansang magkakaanib na paggamit ng resolusyon ng Pilipinas laban sa karahasan at kalupitan sa mga migranteng manggagawang babae

4. Hamon sa Pilipinas ang pagbaba sa ‘business ranking,’ sabi ng Palasyo

5. Sinisikap ng gobyerno na maipalibing na ang 1,400 nasawi sa Yolanda

6. Hindi tinatalikuran ng gobyerno ang usapan sa kapayapaan sa “leftists”

7. Inulit ng Palasyo ang pitagan sa Ombudsman, kalayaan ng hudikatura sa mga usapin ng PDAF

Dapat nang madaliin ang paghanap ng ligtas na pamalit sa mga paputok, sabi ng Palasyo

Dapat magpulong sa lalong madaling panahon ang pribado at pampublikong stakeholders para makatuklas ng ligtas na pamalit sa mga paputok na sa katatapos na pagdiriwang ng Pasko at Bagong Taon ay nakasugat ng mahigit na 800 katao.

Ito ang naging panawagan ni Kalihim Herminio Coloma, Jr. ng Presidential Communications Operations Office, upang mapag-usapan ng lahat ng kinauukulan ang mga dapat gawin sa paglutas sa suliranin. Kasama na ang tungkol sa mga may pagawaan ng paputok at pati ang paggawa ng paputok na higit na ligtas gamitin.

“Hindi na tayo dapat maghintay ng susunod pang pagdiriwang ng Bagong Taon na muling magiging dahilan ng mga nasaktan o pagkamatay ng sino man. Kaya nakikiiusap tayo sa lahat ng stakeholders na sikaping magkaroon ng iisang paninindigang tungo sa ligtas na pagdiriwang ng Bagong Taon sa pamamagitan ng mga lokal na ordinansa, dili kaya ay pagpapatibay o susog sa mga umiiral nang pambansang mga batas,” sabi ni Kalihim Coloma sa pulong balitaan sa Malacanang Huwebes.

Sinabi ni Coloma na mapanganib sa kaligtasan at kalusugan ang mga paputok dahil may sangkap ang mga paputok kaya nagkakaroon ng tetanus ang nasusugatan nito na hindi agad nahuhugasang mabuti at napapaturukan ng gamot laban sa tetano.

Binigyang diin ni Coloma na higit sa lahat, nakapipinsala sa kapaligiran ang mga paputok.

“Kaya nga po ang panawagan natin ay para magkaroon ng consensus at paglahok ng lahat ng saktor ng ating lipunan. Kailangan pong magkaroon ng ugnayan at konsultasyon para naman po marinig ang lahat ng mga panukala at maiwasan ang mga sinabi ninyong unintended o delelerious consequences (malulubhang pangyayari) na dapat din pong huwag payagang maganap,” pagbibigay-diin ni Coloma.

Sa kabilang dako, sinabi ni Coloma na dapat nang mag-usap ang lahat ng kinauukulang sektor hinggil sa mabisang hakbang na magpapatigil sa paggamit ng paputok lalo na kung bibigyang halaga ang ugali ng mga Pilipino na nais ang maingay na pagsalubong sa Bagong Taon.

Samantala, sinabi ni Coloma na patuloy ang Pambansang Pulisya sa pagpapatupad ng mga regulasyong may kinalaman sa mga sandata at ang Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III na rin ang nagbigay-diin na dapat gawin ang ganitong hakbang.

“Tanggap natin ang panukala na kailangang higpitan ng pamahalaan ang tuntunin sa paggamit ng mga armas,” dagdag pa ni Coloma. PND(jl/zaf)

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Nilagdaan ng Pangulo ang P14.6 B supplemental budget para sa mga nakaligtas sa mga kalamidad

Nilagdaan na ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III ang P14.6 bilyong supplemental budget para sa 2014 upang itustos sa pagtulong, rehabilitasyon at rekostruksiyon sa iba-ibang panig ng bansa na sinalanta ng Bagyong Yolanda at ng lindol na 7.2 ang lakas noong isang taon.

Sa pulong-balitaan sa Malacanang Huwebes, sinabi ni Kalihim Herminio Coloma, Jr. ng Presidential Communications Operations Office na Disyembre 26 ito nilagdaan ng Pangulo.

“Noong Disyembre 26 nilagdaan ng Pangulo ang pinagsanib na resolusyon ng dalawang kapulungan ng Batasan na naglaan ng P14.6 bilyon,” wika ni Coloma.

Winasak ng Bagyong Yolanda ang Kabisayaan at Timog Luzon noong Nobyembre at mahigit na 6,100 ang nasawi.

Ang supplemental budget ay makatutulong din sa mga nakaligtas sa iba pang bagyong malalakas na sumalanta sa iba pang pook ng bansa. Gagamitin din ang pondong P40.9 bilyon na pinagtibay ng Pangulong Aquino para sa panukalang rehabilitasyon.

Sinabi ni Coloma na ang panukalang rehabilitasyon ay masusing pagsusuri at pagbabagong kailangan. PND(jl/zaf

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Ikinalugod ng gobyernong Aquino ang hakbang ng bansang magkakaanib na paggamit ng resolusyon ng Pilipinas laban sa karahasan at kalupitan sa mga migranteng manggagawang babae

Nagpahayag ng kagalakan ang pamahalaang Aquino sa ginawa ng General Assembly ng Bansang Magkakaanib na gamitin ang resolusyong itinaguyod ng Pilipinas tungkol sa pagmamalupit at karahasan sa mga manggagawang babaing migrante.

Inihayag ni Kalihim Herminio Coloma, Jr. ng Presidential Communications Operations Office sa pulong balitaan sa Malacanang Huwebes na gagamitin ng UN Assembly ang itinaguyod ng Pilipinas noong Disyembre 18 na Resolusyon Blg. 68/137 tungkol sa Kalupitan Laban sa Babaing Migranteng Manggagawa.

“Hinihingi nito sa lahat ng pamahalaan na isaalang-alang ang pagpapahintulot sa mga migranteng babaing manggagawa na mga biktima ng kalupitan o karahasan na makapag-apply ng residency permits para makaaalis sa mapagmalupit na mga pinagtatrabahuhan o mga kabiyak ng puso, alinsunod sa mga pambansang batas at upang masugpo ang mapagmalabis na sponsorship system,” wika ng Kalihim ng Komunikasyon.

Binigyang diin ni Coloma na ang hakbang ng Pilipinas ay bunga ng hangaring mapangalagaan ang libu-libong migranteng manggagawang Pilipina.

Sang-ayon kay Coloma, nakasaad sa resolusyon ang panawagan sa lahat ng bansa na pagkalooban ang babaing migranteng manggagawang nasa domestic service ng pagkakataon sa mekanismo na gender-sensitive transparent para maidulog ang kanilang mga hinakdal laban sa mga pinaglilingkuran, kasama ang pagtapos sa kontrata nila, sa kaso ng paggawa at economic exploitation, sexual harassment at sexual abuse at pagmamalupit. PND (js/zaf)

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Hamon sa Pilipinas ang pagbaba sa ‘business ranking,’ sabi ng Palasyo

Itinuturing ng Malacanang na paraan para matuto at patuloy na hamon sa Pilipinas ang pagbaba ng ranggo nito sa Best Countries for Business ng Forbes para sa 2013.

Sinabi ni Kalihim Herminio Coloma, Jr. ng Presidential Communications Operations Office na may puwang para sa pagbabago ang Pilipinas upang sikaping makakuha nang higit na mataas na marka sa hinaharap.

“Kinikilala namin ang pagkakataon para mapabuti ang lahat ng aspeto. Para sa atin, itinuturing nating patuloy na hamon ito upang maging higit na mapahusay ang ating mga proseso sa larangan ng negosyo,” sabi pa ni Coloma.

Ang Pilipinas ay binigyang ng ranggong ika-90 sa hanay ng 145 bansa sa Listahan ng Forbes ukol sa “Best Countries for Business” para sa 2013 na mababa ng tatlong notches sa nakuha ng Pilipinas noong 2012.

Sa kabilang dako, sinabi ni Coloma na hindi masisiyahan ang Pilipinas na malagay lamang sa ika-90 o ika-87 puwesto kaya sisikapin nito na makaangat patungo sa itaas.

Idinugtong ni Coloma na itinuturing ng Pilipinas ang pagbaba ng ranggo nito na “leksiyon at pagkakataon upang gumawa ng karagdagang mga pagbabago pa.”

Gayunman, sinabi ni Coloma na ang pag-angat na hangad ng bansa ay hindi lamang kailangang ang pamahalaan ang magsikap, kundi pati ang pribadong sektor. PND (jl/zaf)

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Sinisikap ng gobyerno na maipalibing na ang 1,400 nasawi sa Yolanda

Nakikipagtulungan ang mga ahensiya ng gobyerno sa pamahalaan ng Lungsod ng Tacloban upang maipalibing na ang may 1,400 nasawi sa napakalakas na bagyong “Yolanda,” ayon sa Malacanang Huwebes.

Sinabi ni Kalihim Herminio Coloma, Jr. ng Presidential Communications Operations Office na ang Kagawaran ng Kalusugan at Kagawaran ng Pagawaing Bayan at Pambansang Lansangan ay nagpadala na ng dagdag na mga kagamitan, samantalang ang Pambansang Kawanihan ng Pagsisiyasat naman ay nagtalaga na ng forensic team nila sa Tacloban.

Ayon naman kay Presidential Assistant for Rehabilitation Panfilo Lacson, nagpadala na ang DOH ng 1,500 body bags at protective kits para sa mga tauhan nilang nangangasiwa sa mga bangkay at ang DPWH naman ay nagpadala ng karagdagang backhoes at payloaders.

“Ginagawa na po ito sa pamamagitan ng puspusang pagtutulungan ng DOH, NBI, DPWH at sa pakikipag-ugnayan nila sa pamahalaan ng Lungsod ng Tacloban,” sabi pa ni Coloma.

Isinasaalang-alang ng mga ahensiyang ito, sabi ni Coloma ang mga mungkahi para mapabilis ang paglilibing sa mga bangkay, kasama na ang pagbabago sa mga tuntuning sinusunod ng NBI para makilala ang mga bangkay na nasabi.

Sinabi ni Coloma na may mga sektor na nagsabing sinusunod ng NBI ang mga tuntuning ginagamit ng International Police Organization (Interpol) na napakapuspusan at matagal pa.

“Sa obserbasyon naman po ng ibang mga ahensiya, ito ay naipabatid na rin natin sa NBI, baka naman puwedeng baguhin nila ang tuntuning sinusunod nila dahil ang gamit ng Interpol ay para sa pagtitipon ng katibayan laban sa mga kasong kriminal kaya masusing masyado at detalyado. Ang mga biktima naman ng kalamidad ay iba ang katayuan. Kaya nga, palagay ko, tama namang baguhin ang paraang sinusunod ng NBI,” dagdag ni Coloma.

Ayon pa kay Coloma, tinatalakay na ang bagay na ito kaya kung susundin ng NBI ang paraan ng Interpol dapat lamang na bilis-bilisan nila ang pagsusuri. PND (jl/zaf)

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Hindi tinatalikuran ng gobyerno ang usapan sa kapayapaan sa “leftists”

Hindi sinasarahan ng pamahalaan ang pintuan tungo sa muling pag-uusap ukol sa kapayapaan sa mga makakaliwang rebelde sa kabila ng mga sagabal at umaasa pa ring makakamtan ang kapayapaan.

Binigyang diin ito ni Kalihim Herminio Coloma, Jr. ng Presidential Communications Operations Office nang sabihing ang tagapayo ng Pangulo sa kapayapaan ay naglabas ng pahayag noong isang linggo na patuloy ang pamahalaan sa pagsisikap na humanap ng paraan upang magkaroon ng kasunduang pangkapayapaan sa pangkat ng mga komunista.

Hindi magkasundo sa maraming isyu ang pamahalaan at ang Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) kaya hindi makausad ang proseso ng kapayapaan.

Isa sa mga isyu rito ay ang kondisyong hinihingi sa pamahalaan ng mga komunista na palayain muna ang mga tagapayo nila bago magsimula ng pag-uusap sa kapayapaan.

“Hindi po nawawalan ng pag-asa o ng determinasyon ang ating pamahalaan na malampasan kung ano man ang mga hamon na nagsisilbing balakid dahil isa pa rin po iyan sa mga timetable ng pamahalaan natin,” wika ni Coloma.

“Sinisikap po nating maisulong ang kapayapaan hindi lamang doon sa Mindanao, kundi sa iba’t ibang pang mga larangan at kasama diyan ang pakikipag-ugnayan o negosasyon sa CPP-NPA-NDF para malutas na po ang matagal nang usapin hinggil diyan,” sabi ni Coloma.

Tungkol naman sa banta ng CPP na pag-iibayuhin nila ang kampanya laban sa mga pasilidad na pangkapanatagan ng pamahalaan, sinabi ni Coloma na nakahanda ang mga tauhan ng hukbo at ang pulisya na ipagtanggol ang sambayanan at panatilihin ang kapayapaan.

“Siyempre po, tutugunan iyan ng ating mga alagad ng batas at ng tagapangalaga ng kapayapaan sapagka’t tungkulin po ng Sandatahang Lakas na ipagtanggol ang ating mga mamamayan at panatilihin ang kaligtasan ng ating mga komunidad,” mariing wika ni Coloma. PND (as/zaf)

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Inulit ng Palasyo ang pitagan sa Ombudsman, kalayaan ng hudikatura sa mga usapin ng PDAF

Inulit ng Malacanang Huwebes ang pitagan nito sa kalayaan ng Ombudsman at hudikatura sa paghawak ng mga usapin laban sa mga taong nasasangkot sa mga umano ay tiwaling paggamit ng Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF).

Binigyang diin ito ni Kalihim Herminio Coloma, Jr. ng Presidential Communicatons Operations Office na bagaman kaisa ng sambayanan ang Palasyo sa hangaring malutas agad ang mga kasong nasabi, hindi naman pakay nito na gipitin at bigyan ng taning ang paglutas sa kaso.

“Hindi naman po tayo puwedeng magbigay ng taning, deadline o timetable. Iginagalang po natin ang kalayaan ng Ombudsman at ang separasyon ng kapangyarihan ng Ehekutibo sa Hudikatura kaya nagpapahayag lamang po tayo ng pakikiisa sa pag-asa ng mga mamamayan na gagalaw itong proseso ng pagkakaroon ng katarungan hinggil doon sa umano ay maling paggamit ng pondo ng bayan,” sabi ni Coloma sa pulong-balitaan sa Malacanang.

Sa kasalukuyan, ang mga sumbong na iniharap ng pamahalaan laban sa ilang tao ay sinusuri pa ng Tanggapan ng Ombudsman.

Binanggit ni Coloma na sa kalatas ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III ukol sa Bagong Taon ay sinabi nito na ang katarungan para sa kaso ng PDAF ay abot-kamay na ang tinutukoy ay ang mga prosesong legal ng kaso mula sa pagsisiyasat patungo sa paghaharap ng sumbong sa Ombudsman.

Binigyang diin din ni Coloma na walang “pressure” na ginagawa ang Palasyo sa Ombudsman at sa hudikatura sa mga usaping ito.

“Wala pong hinahangad na ganyan. Kaya nga po doon sa ating pahayag ay binibigyang-diin ang paggalang sa kalayaan ng Tanggapan ng Ombudsman na nilikha ng Kostitusyon para maging independiyenteng tagausig ng mga usapin hinggil sa mga pinuno ng pamahalaan,” wika pa ni Kalihim Coloma. PND (jl/zaf)

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02 JANUARY 2014

CSC cites GSIS anew for service excellence under anti-red tape act

GSIS offers H.E.L.P for members in hard-hit Yolanda areas

GAA-as-release-document regime kicks off; Abad: GAA reforms break ground for transparency, accountability

First batch of Filipino health professionals arrive in Germany

PHL embassy in Athens conducts Consular outreach in Thessaloniki

Start 2014 on time

IRR of Philippine Statistical Act of 2013 takes effect, NSO and three other major statistical agencies merge

VP Binay again asks for help in raising Zapanta blood money

Schedule of SS and EC contributions, effective for the applicable month of January 2014

One year after – New moon shines over ‘Pablo’-hit towns

PHL-Myanmar Agreement on Visa Exemption Takes Effect on January 4, 2014

Traffic advisory along Manila North Road, effective: 27 December 2013 (Friday) until: 6 January 2014 (Monday)

Bank lending grows further in November

GSIS offers H.E.L.P for members in hard-hit Yolanda areas

Anticipated post-holiday slowdown weighs on lower shipments

CSC cites GSIS anew for service excellence under anti-red tape act

Source: http://www.gsis.gov.ph

State pension fund Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) capped the year with an 'excellent' rating from the Civil Service Commission (CSC) for exemplary service and for complying with the provisions of Republic Act 9485 or the Anti-Red Tape Act (ARTA).

Two of its branch offices, namely Dagupan and General Santos obtained scores of 95.81% and 92.77%, after the conduct of the ARTA- Report Card Survey by CSC to rate agency performance and client satisfaction in frontline service delivery.

Both branches will receive the Seal of Excellence from the Commission which includes a wall mountable glass seal and Php100,000 cash for the purchase of equipment and materials that will further improve the delivery of its frontline service.

GSIS's Bacolod branch, with a rating of 91.57%, also received the same award in September 2013.

In 2012, only two offices passed the service review out of the 52 surveyed by the Commission. This year, 19 offices obtained an average score of 90%, equivalent to an excellent rating.

Along with Dagupan, General Santos and Bacolod, six other offices rebounded from "failed" ratings and garnered "excellent" scores – Surigao (93.86%), Bohol (93.28%), Laguna (93.01%), Antique (92.70%), Masbate (90.34%), and Bulacan (90.20%). The rest of the offices received a "good" rating.

"We are encouraged by the results of the survey. It's a validation of our effort to transform GSIS into a more efficient service-focused institution by streamlining the structure and simplifying the chain of command," President and General Manager Robert Vergara said.

Vergara said that under the rationalization program completed in 2012, GSIS reconfigured the previous 16 regional offices, 25 branch offices and 18 satellite offices nationwide, into 56 full service, one-stop shop branch offices with branch managers empowered and entrusted with greater responsibilities under a decentralized system.

The set-up enabled a quicker and more systematic way of providing service to members and addressing operational problems which resulted previously in service delays.

As a result of the more empowered and strengthened branch offices, GSIS reported a 40% decline in pending requests of members and pensioners to operations (monitored through the Transaction Monitoring System) from 240,000 some of which dated as far back as 2008, to 140,000 pending transactions by year-end 2012.

Along with the restructuring of the organization, the pension fund also established an extension office in Pasig City last October and deployed 25 service desks in remote areas to bring its services closer to its more than 1.7 million members and pensioners.

In addition, stakeholders can call a 24/7 contact center (847.4747) for any inquiry on GSIS's benefit programs and services.

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GSIS offers H.E.L.P for members in hard-hit Yolanda areas

Source: http://www.gsis.gov.ph

Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) President and General Manager Robert G. Vergara today announced that the pension fund will offer a Home Emergency Loan Program (HELP), a one-time special loan of up to Php200,000 to rebuild the homes of members who are either living or working in the 126 areas that were hardest hit by Yolanda.

Under HELP, members may apply for a loan based on their total length of service in the government. Members who have been in the government for 10 years or more may borrow a maximum amount of Php200,000 while those who have been in the service for five years or more but less than 10 years, may take out up to Php100,000.

In addition, those who have been in the service for less than five years may obtain a maximum loan of Php30,000.

Vergara said that HELP is in response to the President’s instruction to all government agencies to extend the necessary financial support that will enable Yolanda victims to rebuild their homes and resume productive livelihood and employment activities.

GSIS will accept applications starting January until March 2014 in any of its 56 branch and extension offices nationwide. An approval from the members’ agency authorized officer (AAO) will be required by the pension fund before processing the loan.

The loan will bear an interest of 6% and is payable in 10 years. The first monthly amortization of the loan will be in July 2014.

The program may be availed only once and is not subject to renewal.

HELP is the latest GSIS program geared at assisting Yolanda victims. The other programs include the grant of a six-month loan moratorium for members and pensioners living or working in worst-hit areas; an enhanced emergency loan with higher credit limit of Php40,000 for members with outstanding emergency loan balance; and for the first time, a pensioners' emergency loan of Php20,000.

For more inquiries on HELP, members may call the contact center at 847.4747.

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GAA-as-release-document regime kicks off; Abad: GAA reforms break ground for transparency, accountability

Source: http://www.dbm.gov.ph

Greater efficiency in budget implementation and improved transparency and accountability in the expenditure process. And best of all, no more fake SARO scams.

This is the Department of Budget and Management’s (DBM) battle cry for 2014, as the 2014 General Appropriations Act (GAA) takes effect on the first working day of the year, signalling a new regime—the first of its kind in the country’s governance history—that establishes the General Appropriations Act (GAA) as the government’s official budget release document.

Under the GAA-as-Release-Document budget regime, departments and agencies will no longer need to secure Special Allotment Release Orders (SAROs) to obligate funds—which involves entering into contracts and kick-starting the procurement process—for a particular project. Instead, an agency can begin obligating funds as soon as the 2014 GAA is implemented on the very first working day of the fiscal year.

“The 2014 GAA, as signed by President Benigno S. Aquino III last December 20, already stands as the government’s primary budget release document. This means that all the disaggregated budget items in the GAA are already considered released to their respective agencies, with the exception of lump-sum funds that have yet to be itemized, and which will require prior approval before their release,” Budget and Management Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad said.

“The GAA-as-Release-Document regime is a huge departure from the longstanding practice of using SAROs and other release documents to move funds towards projects under various departments and agencies. By making the GAA as the release document for all budgetary items, we’ve practically eliminated the delays that have plagued fund releases, since agencies no longer have to secure SAROs and other release documents to obligate their funds. Instead, they can begin obligating funds as early as today: the first working day of the year, when the GAA officially takes effect,” he added.

As clarified by the Budget chief, some budgetary items will still require prior clearance and approval before the funds for these can be released to their respective agencies. These include lump-sum funds within an agency’s budget that have not been itemized prior to the approval and enactment of the 2014 GAA, as well as Special Purpose Funds, including Budgetary Support to Government Corporations.

Other budgetary items that will likewise need clearance prior to release are those with conditions and requirements specified under the 2014 GAA’s General/Special Provisions and Budget Affirmation/Veto Message in the GAA, and all automatically appropriated items, including Special Accounts in the General Fund.

Besides ramping up the speed and efficiency of fund releases, the GAA-as-Release-Document regime is expected to prevent or minimize irregularities in the release of public funds to agencies, such as those involving the circulation of fake SAROs.

“In 2013, we were made aware of a well-established and highly coordinated racket that centered on the dissemination of fake SAROs. We asked the National Bureau of Investigation to launch a probe into this, the official results of which we’re still waiting for. Altogether, however, it appears that unscrupulous individuals have taken advantage of the necessity of release documents so that these parties were able to profit from the distribution of fake SAROs.

“With the new GAA-as-Release-Document regime in place, however—and the fact that SAROs are no longer needed for majority of the fund releases we’ll be making this year—we don’t just intend to accelerate releases so that they can properly fund our key programs and projects. We also mean to thwart those who’ve made the budget implementation process a hotbed of graft and corruption. This is part of our deliberate, focused campaign to facilitate greater transparency and accountability in the expenditure process, so that every peso spent by government will indeed benefit all Filipinos,” Abad said.

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First batch of Filipino health professionals arrive in Germany

Source: https://www.dfa.gov.ph

02 January 2014 - The first batch of Philippine health professionals to work in Germany under the Philippine-German labor agreement signed on March 2013 arrived in Frankfurt on December 15, 2013.

The four nurses, Ms. Vanessa S. Preclaro (25), Ms. Krystel Anne B. Sumido (28), Ms. Eowyn C. Galvez (26) and Mr. Ruel C. Galias (50), are employed by the Nordwest Krankenhaus Hospital in Frankfurt. Ms. Preclaro works at the Cardiology Department, Ms. Sumido is assigned to the Neurology Intensive Station, while Ms. Galvez and Mr. Galias work at the Stroke Unit of the hospital.

Before coming to Germany, the three lady nurses were employed as intensive care and operating room nurses at the Makati Medical Center. They had no previous international employment experience. Mr. Galias, who is much older and like a kuya (older brother) to them, has been working abroad already. His recent employment was as operating room and emergency room nurse in Abu Dhabi, where his wife also works as a nurse.

Nordwest Krankenhaus is a modern hospital founded in 1963. Functioning as an academic teaching hospital of the Goethe-University Frankfurt am Main, it belongs to the Frankfurt Hospital Foundation of the Holy Spirit, which has a long tradition since the Middle Ages of providing medical care to sick and indigent persons. Nordwest Krankenhaus has become known beyond Frankfurt for its specialization in 10 medical disciplines and for its four clinical research institutes.

The four Filipino health professionals finished their German language courses at Goethe- Institute, the German Cultural Center in Manila. They have passed the Certificate B.1 level examinations, although some of them have already finished taking the B.2 level course but have not yet taken the examinations.

According to the hospital administration, the four Filipino professionals are presently hired as assistant nurses. In January, they will undergo further language and nursing training to acquaint them with the technical German used in hospitals, and to equip them with the necessary communication skills for their profession. Once they pass the language and nursing examinations in about four to five months, they will be promoted to full professional status and their salaries will likewise be adjusted accordingly.

Under the Philippine-German labor agreement, all deployments to Germany must be coursed through the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA). Pre-screened applicants are required to take the German language courses organized for them by the Goethe-Institute. A second batch is expected to arrive Germany in January 2014.

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PHL embassy in Athens conducts Consular outreach in Thessaloniki

Source: https://www.dfa.gov.ph

02 January 2013 - The Philippine Embassy in Athens conducted a consular outreach in Thessaloniki from December 21 to 22, 2013.

The consular outreach was conducted with the support of Atty. Nikolaos Margaropoulos, the Philippine Honorary Consul in Thessaloniki, and the Filipino Organization in Northern Greece headed by its President, Ms. Violeta Magnaye.

The consular team provided a total of 50 services. The Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Athens likewise extended its services to Filipinos in Thessaloniki.

Thessaloniki is located in Northern Greece and is the country’s second largest city.

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Start 2014 on time

Source: http://www.dost.gov.ph

Start the new year right, be on time. Science Secretary Mario G. Montejo thus urges everyone to be on time for all celebrations, events, and appointments this new year.

“Being on time should be one of the habits we develop starting 2014,” Sec. Montejo said. “And being on time means we sync all our watches and clocks with the Philippine Standard Time.”

A country with 7,107 islands and various ethnic backgrounds, the Philippines has constantly grappled with problems in time synchronization. Offices, media establishments, and people follow different times such as “office time”, “church time”, among others, that are based on various sources.

To address time conflicts, the Philippine Standard Time (PhST) was enforced through RA 10535 that was signed into law in May this year by Pres. Benigno S. Aquino III. Its implementing rules and regulations were likewise ratified in December.

“With the implementation of the PhST, all people in the country’s 7,107 islands should now follow one common time,” Montejo said. All media offices, especially those in the broadcast industry, are obliged to issue only the PhST or else they face huge penalties. People commonly use TV or radio time-checks to set their time pieces.

Moreover, Montejo also aspires that following the correct time thru the PhST will change the so-called “Filipino time” practices of Pinoys. “Filipino time” means starting events or activities and arriving at them later than schedule, often a 15-minute to one-hour delay.

“’Filipino time’ should now mean ‘on time’,” Montejo urged.

“The PhST should unite Filipinos not only in technical terms but also in our cultural sense of time,” he added. “Being on time shows respect to the value of time and that of other people’s time.”

The PhST shall be observed especially during the countdown for the coming year of 2014. Filipinos and netizens who want to join the DOST PhST One Time advocacy can use #PinoyAkoOnTimeAko
in their posts, blogs, and other social media activities.

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IRR of Philippine Statistical Act of 2013 takes effect, NSO and three other major statistical agencies merge

Source: http://www.census.gov.ph

The Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act No. 10625, otherwise known as the “Philippine Statistical Act of 2013” took effect on December 29, 2013 after its publication in a newspaper of general circulation on December 14. Thus, the National Statistics Office (NSO), the primary statistical arm of the government, along with three other major statistical agencies engaged in the collection and compilation data for planning and policy purposes will now be known as the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

Sections 3 and 5 of RA 10625 mandate the reorganization of the Philippine Statistical System and the creation of the PSA through the merging of the NSO, National Statistical Coordination Board, Bureau of Agricultural Statistics of the Department of Agriculture and the Bureau of Labor and Employment Statistics of the Department of Labor.

The PSA, which shall be headed by the National Statistician, shall be primarily responsible for all national censuses and surveys, sector statistics, consolidation of selected administrative recording systems and compilation of national accounts. Moreover, Section 6 (e) of the law also directs the PSA to carry out, enforce and administer civil registration functions in the country as provided for under Act 3753, the Law on Registry of Civil Status. Thus, its main tasks include planning; development and prescription; dissemination and enforcement of policies, rules and regulations; and coordination of government-wide programs governing the production of official general-purpose statistics and the delivery of civil registration services.

The law also provides for the creation of the Philippine Statistical Research and Training Institute (PSRTI) to replace the Statistical Research and Training Center (Section 17). The PSRTI, which shall be headed by an Executive Director, shall be chiefly accountable for the development of a comprehensive and integrated research and training program on the theories, concepts and methodologies for the promotion of the statistical system, among others. Both the PSA and PSRTI shall be attached to the National Economic and Development Authority for policy coordination.

The Philippine Statistical Act of 2013 was signed into law by President Benigno S. Aquino III on September 12, 2013 to repeal Executive Order 121 entitled “Reorganizing and Strengthening the Philippines Statistical System (PSS) and for Other Purposes”. Its primary objectives are: 1) to rationalize and promote efficiency and effectiveness in the delivery of statistical services; 2) to maintain an integrated statistical system characterized by independence, objectivity and integrity so as to enhance responsiveness to the requirements of equitable national development; 3) to promote the orderly development of a statistical system capable of providing timely, accurate and useful data for the government and the public; and 4) to support decentralization through the establishment of the statistical infrastructure necessary to service the statistical needs of local development planning.

Section 29 of RA 10625 instructs the PSA to carry out the reorganization of the PSS in such a manner that the agencies absorbed by it shall continue to perform their respective functions during the transition period so as not to unduly delay the production of statistics from ongoing censuses, surveys and administrative records.

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VP Binay again asks for help in raising Zapanta blood money

Source: http://ovp.gov.ph

Vice President Jejomar C. Binay Thursday reiterated his appeal to the public to help raise the blood money for Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) Joselito Zapanta, who could be executed any time this month in Saudi Arabia.

Philippine ambassador to Saudi Ezzedin Tago informed Binay that Zapanta’s family needs to raise at least SAR 1.48 million (P17.5 million) to complete the SAR 2 million being renegotiated with the victim’s family.

“Once again, I ask everyone to help raise funds for Joselito. Let us start this year by helping save the life of a fellow Filipino and bringing joy to his family,” Binay said. Donations for Zapanta may be made to the Riyadh Philippine Embassy’s sub-account in the Saudi Hollandi Bank: Account Number 037-040-790-022, International Bank Account Number (IBAN): SA 61-5000-0000-0370-4079-0022, Swift Code: AAALSARI.

Zapanta was meted the death sentence for killing Imam Ibrahim, a Sudanese national.

Ibrahim’s family demanded SAR 5 million for the execution of a tanazul or affidavit of forgiveness and prevent the imposition of the death penalty, but later reduced the amount to SAR 4 million.

The payment of the blood money was originally due on November 12, 2012, but was extended to March 12, 2013. A second extension was granted, with the deadline moved to November 3, 2013.

The Philippine government has so far raised around SAR 520,831.

Binay believes that if Zapanta can present a higher amount than what has been currently raised, Ibrahim’s family might reconsider and accept the offer.

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Schedule of SS and EC contributions, effective for the applicable month of January 2014

Source: http://www.sss.gov.ph

SE/VM/OFW members who have already paid their contributions in advance for the applicable months of January 2014 onwards based on the old contribution schedule are advised as follows:

Those with advance payments at the minimum MSC of P1,000 (P5,000 for OFW members) shall settle underpayments amounting to P6.00 per month (P30.00 per month for OFW members); otherwise, such advance payment shall be deemed as ineffective contributions; and
Those with advance payments at an MSC other than the minimummay opt to pay the corresponding increase in contributions to retain posting at the same MSC; otherwise, such advance payment shall be posted at the applicable lower MSC.

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One year after – New moon shines over ‘Pablo’-hit towns

Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph

The Alvar couple talk with a DSWD Field Office XI staff regarding livelihood ventures.

Cateel, Davao Oriental- It is 9 o’clock in this cold December evening but Barangay Poblacion, the center of this town is still teeming with people, specifically at Eduard’s Grill, the most popular dining place in the entire municipality.

Decorative lights, in keeping with the Yuletide season, adorn homes and establishments.

Overhead, a full moon glows, bathing the town in an ethereal light prompting one resident to exclaim, “Tapos na talaga ang unos, nakabangon na ang Cateel (The storm has passed. Cateel has risen).”

This is the cheerful scenario that now greets visitors and travelers here. Hardly are there signs that this picturesque coastal town comprising of 16 barangays once bore the brunt of Typhoon Pablo’s fury as it struck Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley provinces on December 4, 2012.

Year of trials and challenges

Sarah I. Bulala, Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer (MSWDO), acknowledged that the year following ‘Pablo’s’ devastation has been “full of trials and challenges.”

She notes however, that “with the help of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the provincial government, non-government organizations (NGOs) and various local and international organizations, [the town has] recovered.”

According to Bulala, DSWD continues to provide Cash-for-Work (CFW) for the victims.

CFW is the provision of compensation based on prevailing regional wage to disaster victims in exchange for doing community work, such as clearing roads of debris, declogging of canals, and repair of small community facilities.

Aside from CFW, the DSWD, together with International Organization for Migration (IOM), Red Cross, Plan International, and other humanitarian and government organizations, provided seminars on livelihood.

“Women’s groups were also organized to engage in gardening, which is both therapeutic and income-generating,” Bulala added.

“Likewise, DSWD’s other programs such as Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino, Supplemental Feeding, and Social Pension for indigent senior citizens, helped us a lot in achieving normalcy,” she said.

On the other hand, Cateel Vice-Mayor Isidro S. Castro emphasized the fast-tracking of livelihood assistance as the local government’s priority, along with the ongoing construction of new houses and repair of damaged government facilities, such as day care centers.

“We have rebuilt 25 out of the 40 destroyed day care centers in the municipality,” Vice-Mayor Castro said.

“We are halfway to total recovery but much still needs to be done. It will take maybe three to five years for us to fully recover and achieve economic self-sufficiency,” the Vice-Mayor further explained.

A second-class municipality, it mainly depends on palm oil production and planting of fast-growing trees like Falcata and rubber trees. Peanuts and vegetable farming are the people’s main source of livelihood.

The residents were trained on farming methods suited to the town’s terrain.

Focus on recovery

The struggle towards economic sufficiency after the onslaught of ‘Pablo’ was a concern shared by the local government units (LGUs) of Boston and Banganga, two other towns in Davao Oriental badly hit by the typhoon.

As Ma. Consolacion P. Cabrera, MSWDO of Boston puts it, “We are still recovering, specifically with the loss of our livelihood, but with the help of the national and provincial governments, it will not take us long to achieve our goals.”

Cabrera cited the Kapitbisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehesive and Integrated Delivery of Social-Services-Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (KALAHI-CIDSS-PAMANA) program implemented by the DSWD as instrumental in the town’s recovery.

The program is implemented in all eight barangays of Boston and is responsible for the construction of day care centers, barangay health stations, water systems and mini-market.

For his part, Banganga Mayor Arturo Monday stated, “By next year, we will be fully recovered. Our priorities now are ensuring food security and the livelihood of the people.”

Mayor Monday imparted this message to the LGUs and residents of Leyte and Samar provinces devastated by typhoon ‘Yolanda’ last November 8, “Let us set aside politics so help and recovery will easily reach the affected populace.”

“You have to be very strong, forget the past and focus on recovery as we have done,” the Mayor emphasized.

New homes for the New Year

Earlier this month, the provincial government and DSWD-Field Office XI turned over some 72 permanent housing units under DSWD’s Modified Shelter Assistance Program (MSAP) to the beneficiaries in Better Living Village at Purok Madre de Cacao.

Gerry S. Tabura, newly-elected President of the Neighborhood Shelter Assistance Association (NASA) expressed their gratitude to the DSWD, and to the municipal and provincial governments for their new homes, saying, “Now that we have permanent houses to live in, we can really start anew.”

Each of the pink, yellow and white houses in the village measures 80 square meters and can withstand extreme wind and rain.

Cash grants

Couple Renie and Mila Alvar of Brgy. Dapnan, Banganga, on the other hand, chose to have their permanent house built on the site where their destroyed house used to be.

The couple is also thankful that aside from the housing assistance, they are also beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilya.

Renie said that the program has helped them a lot during those critical times of starting anew.

Of their eight children, two are Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries.

Their daughter Mia, 12, was chosen as the Exemplary Child of Pantawid Pamilya and has participated in the National Children’s Congress held last October in Manila.

Their children became Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries in 2011.

Renie and Mila shared that the things they learned during the Family Development Sessions (FDS) helped them recover after the typhoon.

“We were taught responsible parenthood and disaster preparedness which proved valuable before, during and after the typhoon,” Mila said in the vernacular.

“We also believe in sariling sikap na hindi parating umaasa sa tulong ng iba (doing things on our own, and not just relying on other people’s help),” the couple explained.

With their savings, they expanded their modest sari-sari store beside their new house.

Lessons learned

The three worst ‘Pablo’-hit towns in the province are adjacent to each other. From this town, it takes only 30 minutes to reach Boston travelling towards Surigao Sur, and an hour to Banganga.

These are also the farthest towns in the province.

The local officials are one in saying that they have all learned some valuable lessons from the disaster.

Mayor Monday reflected, “We need to work together to build the capacities of LGUs for disaster preparedness. Likewise, we must reform by ensuring that there is equal delivery of services to everyone regardless of political affiliation, religion, gender, and social status.”

Rudy A. Monday, Chairman of Brgy. Dapnan, Banganga, stated, “What happened is a wake-up call to us so we may conserve and protect the environment.”

This viewpoint was shared by Vice-Mayor Castro who underscored, “The issues concerning climate change and environmental protection must now take precedence over everything else, or else we may yet suffer from more devastating calamities.”

Better communities

DSWD-FO XI Director Priscilla N. Razon summed it all up in saying, “It was our first experience in handling a massive disaster, and it was not easy for all of us. We have encountered several challenges along the way like telling various sectors what the government has been doing.”

“Through it all, I feel so blessed for having the full support of the DSWD management, a responsive and cooperative staff and the overwhelming response of the local and international groups which stood by us and helped us from disaster relief operations to recovery and rehabilitation stage.”

She adds, “I also admire the resiliency of the affected LGUs and residents. They held fast to our promise not to lose hope because the government is on hand to assist them, and we delivered, new homes and livelihood opportunities.

“More blessings will be coming, and together with our LGU partners and the people themselves, we are now building better homes and better lives.”

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PHL-Myanmar Agreement on Visa Exemption Takes Effect on January 4, 2014

Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph

27 December 2013 - Beginning 04 January 2014, Filipino nationals holding ordinary passports may now enter Myanmar without a visa and stay there for up to 14 days.

This is the date of effectivity of the Agreement between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the Government of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar on the Visa Exemption for Holders of Ordinary Passports, which was signed during the State Visit to the Philippines of Myanmar President U Thein Sein last December 05.

The visa-free entry agreement is expected to boost tourism, trade and investment between the Philippines and Myanmar.

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Traffic advisory along Manila North Road, effective: 27 December 2013 (Friday) until: 6 January 2014 (Monday)

Source: http://www.dpwh.gov.ph

THE PUBLIC IS PRE-WARNED OF THE EXPECTED TRAFFIC BUILD UP - AS MORE PEOPLE ARE EXPECTED TO COME HOME TO CELEBRATE NEW YEARS DAY - ALONG MANILA NORTH ROAD (MNR), TARLAC-PANGASINAN (CARMEN) BOUNDARY TO PANGASINAN-LA UNION (SISON) SECTION DUE TO THE NEEDED ROAD REHABILITATION WORKS BEING UNDERTAKEN BY THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND HIGHWAYS (DPWH) PANGASINAN 3RD DISTRICT ENGINEERING OFFICE (DEO) FROM DECEMBER 27, 2013 (FRIDAY) UPTO JANUARY 6, 2014 (MONDAY).

MOTORISTS ARE ADVISED TAKE THE FOLLOWING ALTERNATE ROUTES, ESPECIALLY DURING PEAK HOURS - FROM 7:00AM TO 9:00AM AND 4:00PM TO 7:00PM:

-CARMEN-ROSALES-STA. MARIA-ASINGAN-BINALONAN (MAGILAS TRAIL)
--BINALONAN-LAOAC-POZORRUBIO
--URDANETA-MANAOAG-SAN JACINTO-SAN FABIAN-DAMORTIS JCT., LA UNION (FOR LIGHT VEHICLES ONLY)
--BINALONAN-LAOAC-MANAOAG-SAN JACINTO-SAN FABIAN-DAMORTIS JCT., LA UNION (FOR LIGHT VEHICLES ONLY)
--MANILA NORTH ROAD JCT.-GUILING-ROSALES POBLACION (PROVINCIAL ROAD) (EXCEPT LONG ARTICULATED TRUCKS)

THE MOTORING PUBLIC IS FURTHER ADVISED TO AVOID OVERTAKING OR COUNTERFLOWING AT THESE CHOKEPOINTS AND ON APPROACHING STATIONARY VEHICLES QUEUES.

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Bank lending grows further in November

Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph

Outstanding loans of commercial banks, net of reverse repurchase (RRP) placements with the BSP, grew by 14.8 percent in November from the previous month’s expansion of 13.6 percent. Similarly, the growth of bank lending inclusive of RRPs expanded at a faster pace of 13.8 percent from 13.5 percent in the previous month. On a month-on-month seasonally-adjusted basis, commercial bank lending increased by 1.5 percent for loans net of RRPs and by 0.6 percent for loans inclusive of RRPs.

Loans for production activities—which comprised more than four-fifths of banks’ aggregate loan portfolio— expanded by 13.2 percent in November from 12.3 percent in October. The expansion in production loans was driven primarily by increased lending to the following sectors: real estate, renting, and business services (which grew by 21.8 percent); electricity, gas and water (35.0 percent); wholesale and retail trade (13.5 percent); manufacturing (9.6 percent); and construction (58.4 percent). However, declines were observed in lending to transportation, storage and communication (-3.4 percent); financial intermediation (-2.1 percent); and public administration and defense (-0.2 percent).

Meanwhile, loans for household consumption grew by 9.0 percent from 11.2 percent in the previous month, reflecting the slowdown in the growth of credit card loans.

The continued expansion in bank lending is expected to support the sustained growth of the domestic economy. Going forward, the BSP will ensure that credit and liquidity conditions constantly keep pace with overall economic growth while remaining consistent with its price and financial stability objectives.

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GSIS offers H.E.L.P for members in hard-hit Yolanda areas

Source: http://www.gsis.gov.ph

Under HELP, members may apply for a loan based on their total length of service in the government. Members who have been in the government for 10 years or more may borrow a maximum amount of Php200,000 while those who have been in the service for five years or more but less than 10 years, may take out up to Php100,000.

In addition, those who have been in the service for less than five years may obtain a maximum loan of Php30,000.

Vergara said that HELP is in response to the President’s instruction to all government agencies to extend the necessary financial support that will enable Yolanda victims to rebuild their homes and resume productive livelihood and employment activities.

GSIS will accept applications starting January until March 2014 in any of its 56 branch and extension offices nationwide. An approval from the members’ agency authorized officer (AAO) will be required by the pension fund before processing the loan.

The loan will bear an interest of 6% and is payable in 10 years. The first monthly amortization of the loan will be in July 2014.

The program may be availed only once and is not subject to renewal.

HELP is the latest GSIS program geared at assisting Yolanda victims. The other programs include the grant of a six-month loan moratorium for members and pensioners living or working in worst-hit areas; an enhanced emergency loan with higher credit limit of Php40,000 for members with outstanding emergency loan balance; and for the first time, a pensioners' emergency loan of Php20,000.

For more inquiries on HELP, members may call the contact center at 847.4747.

|TOP|

Anticipated post-holiday slowdown weighs on lower shipments

Source: http://www.neda.gov.ph

MANILA ---The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said merchandise imports contracted in October 2013 in anticipation of sluggish business activity after the holiday season.

This statement came after the National Statistics Office reported that merchandise imports declined by 8.6 percent to $4.8 billion in October 2013, from $5.3 billion a year ago.

“This outturn may be related to the rapid growth of imports (over 7%) in the previous three months. It may also be reflective of the less optimistic outlook of businesses on their own operations as they anticipate a lower volume of business activity in the first quarter of 2014,” Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan said.

Still, he noted that based on the fourth quarter (Q4) Business Expectations Survey of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, the overall level of confidence of businesses in the economy for next year remains buoyant.

The Cabinet official explained that the uptick in confidence index to 52.3 percent from 42.8 percent in the third quarter of 2013 indicates optimism from the business sector.

“Notwithstanding the overall decline in imports in October 2013, total inward shipments from our top trading partners were mostly goods that are essential for growth,” Balisacan, who is also NEDA Director-General, highlighted.

He stressed that the goods imported during the period are capital goods. These include power generating and specialized machines, aircraft ships and boats, and telecommunications and electrical machinery, as well as materials and accessories for the manufacture of electrical equipment.

The decline in merchandise imports in October 2013 was accounted for by lower overseas purchases of mineral fuels and lubricants and raw materials and intermediate goods.

The combined share of these two product categories is 53.6 percent of total imports and in effect, outweighed the positive growth in the value of imported capital and consumer goods.

For the first ten months of 2013, the total value of merchandise imports contracted marginally by 0.8 percent to $51.2 billion.

Given the faster growth in merchandise exports, total trade-in-goods deficit decreased by $1.0 billion to $6.1 billion in January to October 2013 versus the same period last year.

China remains our top source of inward shipments in October with a 13 percent share, followed by the USA and Japan at 9.6 percent and 8.8 percent, respectively.

Major trade-oriented economies in the East and Southeast Asian region showed mixed import growth performances in October 2013.

Vietnam, Hong Kong, Malaysia, China, Korea, Singapore and Japan recorded positive growth rates in October, while Taiwan, Thailand and Indonesia experienced declines in imports during the period.

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Last Updated: 30 DECEMBER 2013
Google+ Photo Releases of PNoy
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			President Benigno S. Aquino III offers a wreath during the commemoration of the 117th anniversary of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal at the Rizal Park in Toledo Street, Tarlac City, Tarlac on Monday (December 30) wiith the theme: “Rizal: Inspirasyon Noon, Ngayon, at Bukas.” (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno Simeon Aquino III troops the line during the military honors accorded to him upon arrival for the commemoration of the 117th anniversary of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal at the Rizal Park in Toledo Street, Tarlac City, Tarlac on Monday (December 30) with the theme: “Rizal: Inspirasyon Noon, Ngayon, at Bukas." (Photo by Gil Nartea Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III leads the flag raising ceremonies for the commemoration of the 117th anniversary of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal at the Rizal Park in Toledo Street, Tarlac City, Tarlac on Monday (December 30) with the theme: “Rizal: Inspirasyon Noon, Ngayon, at Bukas.” (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III offers a wreath during the commemoration of the 117th anniversary of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal at the Rizal Park in Toledo Street, Tarlac City, Tarlac on Monday (December 30) with the theme: “Rizal: Inspirasyon Noon, Ngayon, at Bukas." (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III, assisted by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Emmanuel Bautista and National Historical Commission of the Philippines Chairperson Maria Serena Diokno, offers a wreath during the Commemoration of the 117th Anniversary of the Martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal at the Rizal Park in Toledo Street, Tarlac City, Tarlac on Monday (December 30) with the theme: “Rizal: Inspirasyon Noon, Ngayon, at Bukas.” (Photo by: Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III leads the flag raising ceremonies for the commemoration of the 117th anniversary of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal at the Rizal Park in Toledo Street, Tarlac City, Tarlac on Monday (December 30) with the theme: “Rizal: Inspirasyon Noon, Ngayon, at Bukas." (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno Simeon Aquino III, accompanied by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Emmanuel Bautista, troops the line during the military honors accorded to him upon arrival for the commemoration of the 117th anniversary of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal at the Rizal Park in Toledo Street, Tarlac City, Tarlac on Monday (December 30) with the theme: “Rizal: Inspirasyon Noon, Ngayon, at Bukas.” (Photo by: Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III prepares for a photo opportunity with child star Ryzza Mae Dizon, nephew Joshua Aquino and James "Bimby" Yap Jr. and sister Kris after watching the "My Little Bossings" where his nephew Bimby and sister Kris Aquino are lead stars in the said movie. According to MMDA report, "My Little Bossings" leads the box office race in terms of ticket sales for the opening day. (Photo by Gil Nartea/Malacanang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III with nephews Bimby and Josh and sister Kris celebrate the Christmas Day (December 25) by watching the "My Little Bossings" where his nephew James "Bimby" Yap Jr. and sister Kris Aquino are lead stars in the said movie. According to MMDA report, "My Little Bossings" leads the box office race in terms of ticket sales for the opening day. (Photo by Gil Nartea/Malacanang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with outgoing People’s Republic of China Ambassador to the Philippines Ma Keqing during her Farewell Call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (December 23). In photo are Chinese Embassy in the Philippines Deputy Chief of Mission Sun Xiangyang and Political Counsellor Wu Zhengping. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III greets outgoing People’s Republic of China Ambassador to the Philippines Ma Keqing during her Farewell Call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (December 23). (Photo by Rodolfo Manabat / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III greets Chinese Embassy in the Philippines Deputy Chief of Mission Sun Xiangyang during the Farewell Call of outgoing People’s Republic of China Ambassador to the Philippines Ma Keqing at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (December 23). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III poses with Miss International 2013 Bea Santiago and Binibining Pilipinas Charities, Inc. chairperson Madame Stella Marquez-Araneta for a photo souvenir during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañang Palace on Monday (December 23). She was crowned during the 53rd edition of the pageant held at the Shinagawa Prince Hotel Hall in Tokyo, Japan on December 17, 2013. It is the 5th Miss International crown for the Philippines. Stella Marquez-Araneta was the first Miss International in 1960. (Photo by Rodolfo Manabat / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)

			Miss International 2013 Bea Santiago took a selfie with President Benigno S. Aquino III during her courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañang Palace on Monday (December 23). She was crowned during the 53rd edition of the pageant held at the Shinagawa Prince Hotel Hall in Tokyo, Japan on December 17. It is the 5th Miss International crown for the Philippines. Santiago bested 66 candidates from countries around the globe. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			Miss International 2013 Bea Santiago poses during her courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañang Palace on Monday (December 23). She was crowned during the 53rd edition of the pageant held at the Shinagawa Prince Hotel Hall in Tokyo, Japan on December 17, 2013. It is the 5th Miss International crown for the Philippines. Santiago bested 66 candidates from countries around the globe. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III congratulates Miss International 2013 Bea Santiago during her courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañang Palace on Monday (December 23). She was crowned during the 53rd edition of the pageant held at the Shinagawa Prince Hotel Hall in Tokyo, Japan on December 17. It is the 5th Miss International crown for the Philippines. Santiago bested 66 candidates from countries around the globe. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the Inauguration of the Tarlac City-Gerona-Paniqui Section of the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La union Expressway Project at the Toll Operation center in Barangay San Pascual, Tarlac City, Tarlac on Monday (December 23). Once completed, it will cut travel time from Tarlac to La Union to only an hour. Also in photo are Tarlac 1st District Representative Enrique Cojuangco, Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson, San Miguel Corporation president and chief executive officer Ramon Ang and Tarlac Governor Victor Yap. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the Inauguration of the Tarlac City-Gerona-Paniqui Section of the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La union Expressway Project at the Toll Operation center in Barangay San Pascual, Tarlac City, Tarlac on Monday (December 23). Once completed, it will cut travel time from Tarlac to La Union to only an hour. Also in photo is SMC president and chief executive officer Ramon Ang. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the Inauguration of the Tarlac City-Gerona-Paniqui Section of the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La union Expressway Project at the Toll Operation center in Barangay San Pascual, Tarlac City, Tarlac on Monday (December 23). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the Inauguration of the Tarlac City-Gerona-Paniqui Section of the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La union Expressway (TPLEX) Project at the Toll Operation center (TOC) in Barangay San Pascual, Tarlac City, Tarlac on Monday (December 23). Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with San Miguel Corporation president and chief executive officer Ramon Ang during the Inauguration of the Tarlac City-Gerona-Paniqui Section of the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La union Expressway (TPLEX) Project at the Toll Operation center (TOC) in Barangay San Pascual, Tarlac City, Tarlac on Monday (December 23). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III, assisted by Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson, Tarlac 1st District Representative Enrique Cojuangco and SMC president and chief executive officer Ramon Ang, undrapes the project marker of the newly completed Tarlac City-Gerona-Paniqui Section of the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La union Expressway (TPLEX) during the inauguration ceremony at the Toll Operation Center in Barangay San Pascual, Tarlac City on Monday (December 23). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III, accompanied by San Miguel Corporation president and chief executive officer Ramon Ang, Tarlac 1st District Representative Enrique Cojuangco and Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson, leads the inaugural drive-through to formally open the Tarlac City-Gerona-Paniqui Section of the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La union Expressway (TPLEX) Project in Barangay Guiteb, Ramos, Tarlac on Monday (December 23). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			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)

			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)

			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)

			(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)

			(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)

			(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)

			(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)

			(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)

			(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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