1. Weather Watch

24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST

Note: Please refresh the page to ensure that the information is up-to-date.

Issued At:	5:00 a.m., 16 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., 16 January 2014

Predicted Mean Sea Level Wind
Analysis for 8 a.m., 16 January 2014

Satellite Image
for 5:32 a.m., 16 January 2014

Synopsis:

At 4:00 AM today, the Low Pressure Area (LPA) was estimated based on all available data at 120 km East of Guiuan, Eastern Samar (10.5°N 127.0°E). Northeast Monsoon affecting Luzon.

Forecast:

Eastern Visayas and Caraga will experience cloudy skies with moderate to occasionally heavy rainshowers and thunderstorms which may trigger flashfloods and landslides. Bicol Region and the rest of Visayas and Northern Mindanao will have cloudy skies with light to moderate rainshowers and thunderstorms. Cagayan Valley and the Province of Aurora will be cloudy with light rains. Metro Manila and the rest of Luzon will be partly cloudy to cloudy 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 northeast will prevail over Luzon and Visayas and coming from the northeast to northwest over Mindanao. The coastal waters throughout the archipelago will be moderate to rough.

2. WeatherWatch

GALE WARNING NO. 19(AMENDMENT)
For: Strong to gale force winds associated with the surge of Northeast Monsoon.

Issued at 5:00 a.m. today, 16 January 2014

Strong to gale force winds is expected to affect the seaboards of Luzon and the eastern and Central 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 moderate to occasionally heavy rains and thunderstorms

(52- 68 /28 - 36)

Rough to very rough

3.4 to 5.0

THE EASTERN SEABOARD OF SOUTHERN LUZON
(Camarines Provinces, Catanduanes, The Eastern coasts of Albay, Sorsogon, and Quezon including Polillo Island)

Mostly cloudy skies with light rains and isolated thunderstorms

(52- 68 /28 - 36)

Rough to very rough

3.4 to 5.0

THE SEABOARDS OF NORTHERN LUZON AND THE EASTERN SEABOARD OF CENTRAL LUZON
(Batanes, Calayan, Babuyan, Cagayan, Ilocos Provinces, Isabela, La Union, Pangasinan and Aurora)

Partly cloudy skies with light rains

(52- 68 /28 - 36)

Rough to very rough

3.4 to 5.0

THE CENTRAL SEABOARD OF VISAYAS
(Negros Occidental, Guimaras, Iloilo, Capiz, Aklan and Antique)

Mostly cloudy skies with light to moderate rainshowers and thunderstorms

(52- 63 /28 - 34)

Rough to very rough

3.4 to 4.5

THE WESTERN SEABOARD OF CENTRAL LUZON
(Zambales and Bataan)

Partly cloudy skies with light rains

(52- 63 /28 - 34)

Rough to very rough

3.4 to 4.5

THE WESTERN AND SOUTHERN SEABOARDS OF SOUTHERN LUZON
(Metro Manila, Cavite, Batangas, Mindoro Provinces, Marinduque, Romblon, Masbate Including Burias & Ticao Island and Palawan)

Mostly cloudy skies with light rains and isolated 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.

3. Weather Watch

WEATHER ADVISORY

Weather Advisory No. 9
For: Low Pressure Area (LPA)
Issued at: 11:00 AM, 16 January 2014

The Low Pressure Area (LPA) was estimated at 310 km East of Guiuan, Eastern Samar (10.5°N, 128.5°E). This weather system will bring cloudy skies with moderate to occasionally heavy rains and thunderstorms over Caraga Region which may trigger flashfloods and landslides while light to moderate rains and thunderstorms over Bicol region, Visayas and northern Mindanao. Residents are advised to take all the necessary precautionary measures.

Strong to gale force northeasterly surface wind flow associated with the surge of the northeast monsoon is expected to affect the seaboards of Luzon, Visayas and Caraga region. Hence, small seacrafts and fishing vessels are advised not to venture out into the sea due to big waves generated by this weather system.

The next update will be incorporated in the public weather forecast at 5:00 p.m. today while the next advisory will be issued at 11:00 p.m. today.

4. Weather Watch

Tropical Cyclone Update
As of today, there is no tropical cyclone existing within the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).

5. Weather Watch

5 hours ago

PIA-13: PAGASA 24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST issued at 5am 16 January 2014. Synopsis: At 4:00 am today, the low pressure area (LPA) was estimated based on all available data at 120 km east of Guiuan, eastern Samar. Northeast monsoon affecting Luzon. Forecast: Eastern Visayas and CARAGA will experience cloudy skies with moderate to occasionally heavy rainshowers and thunderstorms which may trigger flashfloods and landslides. Bicol region and the rest of Visayas and northern Mindanao will have cloudy skies with light to moderate rainshowers and thunderstorms. Cagayan Valley and the province of Aurora will be cloudy with light rains. Metro Manila and the rest of Luzon will be partly cloudy to cloudy 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 northeast will prevail over Luzon and Visayas and coming from the northeast to northwest over Mindanao. The coastal waters throughout the archipelago will be moderate to rough.

6. Weather Watch shared Dost_pagasa's photo.

37 minutes ago

WEATHER ADVISORY NO. 9

FOR: LOW PRESSURE AREA (LPA)
ISSUED AT: 11:00 AM, 16 JANUARY 2014

The Low Pressure Area (LPA) was estimated at 310 km east of Guiuan, eastern Samar (10.5˚N, 128.5˚E). This weather system will bring cloudy skies with moderate to occasionally heavy rains and thunderstorms over Caraga region which may trigger flashfloods and landslides while light to moderate rains and thunderstorms over Bicol region, Visayas and northern Mindanao. Residents are advised to take all the necessary precautionary measures.

Strong to gale force northeasterly surface wind flow associated with the surge of the northeast monsoon is expected to affect the seaboards of Luzon, Visayas and Caraga region. Hence, small seacrafts and fishing vessels are advised not to venture out into the sea due to big waves generated by this weather system.

For more information and queries, please call at telephone numbers 927-1335 and 927-2877 or log on to www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph.

Photo: WEATHER ADVISORY NO. 9

FOR: LOW PRESSURE AREA (LPA)
ISSUED AT: 11:00 AM, 16 JANUARY 2014

The Low Pressure Area (LPA) was estimated at 310 km east of Guiuan, eastern Samar (10.5˚N, 128.5˚E). This weather system will bring cloudy skies with moderate to occasionally heavy rains and thunderstorms over Caraga region which may trigger flashfloods and landslides while light to moderate rains and thunderstorms over Bicol region, Visayas and northern Mindanao. Residents are advised to take all the necessary precautionary measures.

Strong to gale force northeasterly surface wind flow associated with the surge of the northeast monsoon is expected to affect the seaboards of Luzon, Visayas and Caraga region. Hence, small seacrafts and fishing vessels are advised not to venture out into the sea due to big waves generated by this weather system.

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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PIA Regional Watch

4 hours ago

PIA-4A/BATANGAS: Patuloy ang pagsasagawa ng pamahalaang bayan ng Tuy ng maigting na information dissemination upang ituro sa mga mamamayan ang tamang paghihiwalay ng basura bilang paghahanda sa pagpapatupad ng ecological solid waste management act.

PIA OFW Watch

12 minutes ago

DZBB: Pinaalalahanan ng pamalaan ang mga Pilipino sa Malaysia sa pagkakaroon ng crackdown laban sa undocumented foreign workers doon. Mag-uumpisa ang crackdown sa January 21.

PIA OFW Watch

20 hours ago

DZMM: Pinatutukan ng Senado sa DOLE at DFA ang pagtulong sa mga OFW sa Saudi Arabia para makumpleto ang kanilang mga papeles at maging legal ang pagtatrabaho nila doon. Ayon kay Sen. Bongbong Marcos, sapat na ang dalawang buwan para ma-correct ang status ng Filipino workers sa Saudi para hindi tamaan ng ipinatutupad na Saudization. Ipinamamadali rin ng senador sa mga nasabing ahensiya ang pagsasaayos ng mga dokumento ng mga Pilipinong gusto ng makauwi ng Pilipinas.

Weather Watch

January 16 , 2013 ( Thursday ) as of 6:00-7:00 AM

CAVITE : Sunny

LAGUNA : Cloudy

BATANGAS : Fair Weather

RIZAL : Fair Weather

QUEZON : Partly Cloudy

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Provincial gov’t offices receive ISO certification

Thursday 9th of January 2014

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TRECE MARTIRES CITY, Cavite, Jan. 9 (PIA) – Twenty provincial offices have passed the ISO 9001:2008 certificate of registration from the international certifying body for their excellence in quality management system.

The awarding of ISO 9001:2008 certificate of registration held Monday, January 6, at the provincial gymnasium during the first flag-raising ceremony for the year 2014.

The newly ISO certified offices are the following: Provincial Administrator for Internal Affairs, Provincial Accounting Office, Provincial Budget Office, Provincial Engineer’s Office, Provincial Health Office, Cavite Office Of Public Safety, Provincial Information Office, Provincial Planning and Development Office, Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, Office of the Provincial Agriculturist, Provincial Cooperative Livelihood and Entrepreneurial Development Office, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office, Provincial Jail, Provincial Legal Office, Provincial Veterinary Office, Provincial Population Office, Provincial Housing Development and Management Office, Provincial Youth and Sports Development Office, Provincial Tourism Office and Cavite Quality Management Office.

Governor Jonvic Remulla reminded the employees of the provincial government to live the ISO culture and exert all efforts to maintain the certification and constantly improve service delivery to constituents.

ISO 9001:2008 is a set of standards and requirements for the development of a quality management system commonly applied by private corporations and organizations to help ensure that the needs and expectations of customers are adequately and consistently met. These standards also enable organizations to develop mechanisms for continual improvement of products and services.

The province adopted the principle of instituting quality management system particularly in the four core offices of the provincial government (which was ISO certified almost two years ago) namely the Treasury, Assessor’s Office, Sangguniang Panlalawigan and the Office of the Provincial Governor together with three support offices – the Human Resource management Office, Information Technology Division and the General Services Office.

The Anglo Japanese American (AJA) Registrars granted the Certificate of Attestation to the Provincial Government last May 3, 2012. Later, Cavite was awarded as the first ISO 9001:2008 certified provincial government in the Philippines and in South East Asia on June 12, 2012.

The event was attended by the members of Sangguniang Panlalawigan led by Vice Gov. Jolo Revilla, Dir. Josefina Castilla-Go, regional director of DILG Region IV, Dir. Fernando Mendoza, assistant regional director of the Civil Service Commission Region IV-A, harity Arevalo, field director Region IV-A, Paul Bagatsing of AJA Registrar’s Inc., Jesus Barrera, quality management representative, division and department heads and employees of the provincial capitol. (PICAD/RBF, PIA-Cavite)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=671389253131#sthash.cELm3Ykk.dpuf

Provincial gov’t offices receive ISO certification

Thursday 9th of January 2014

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Provincial gov’t offices receive ISO certification

Thursday 9th of January 2014

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No measles outbreak in Calabarzon

Monday 13th of January 2014

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CALAMBA CITY, Laguna, Jan 13 (PIA) --While the Department of Health (DOH) declared measles outbreak in some cities of the National Capital Region (NCR) early this month, there was no reported occurrence of outbreak in Calabarzon as of this time.

But Calabarzon was not spared from the rising cases of measles in the Philippines. Last year, the total number of laboratory-confirmed measles cases in the region was 458, which was 288 percent higher compared with the 159 confirmed cases in 2012.

Dr. Nestor F. Santiago, Jr., regional director, DOH - Regional Health Office (DOH-RHO) 4A, said there was an increase in measles cases last 2013 in three provinces in the region, namely: Laguna, 259; Batangas, 88; and Cavite, 57. The cities with the highest number of measles cases were: 1) Sta. Rosa City, 119; 2) Lipa City, 42; and 3) Bacoor City, 23.

Since May 2013, the health workers in these areas have already conducted outbreak response immunization for children 6 months to 59 months old to complete the 2 doses of measles vaccination and ensure increase in the immunization coverage.

Dr. Santiago stressed that significant activities have already been undertaken by the DOH-RHO 4A, in coordination with the local government units, such as: massive information dissemination campaign; delivery of Measles vaccines (MV) and Measles, Mumps, Rubella Vaccines (MMRV) to different provinces to ensure availability of logistics; surveillance of all reported cases; and inventory of cold chain facilities.

Moreover, he said, health advisories have also been sent to local government units, to remind them to mobilize their respective local health workers to conduct catch-up and follow-up immunization of drop-outs and missed children, to ensure high immunization coverage. (MTYMalubag, DOH RHO4A/PIA4A)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=631389601198#sthash.rIIraTU7.dpuf

1. Pres. Aquino leads groundbreaking of San Gabriel Power Plant in Batangas

Tuesday 14th of January 2014

BATANGAS CITY, January 14 (PIA) --President Benigno S. Aquino III led the groundbreaking of First Gen Corp.'s San Gabriel Power Plant in barangay Sta. Rita, this city at about 10:00 o'clock this morning.

Upon arrival the President was accompanied by Energy Secretary Carlos Jericho Petilla,Batangas Governor Vilma santos Recto, and other government officials.

In his speech, Pres. Aquino emphasized his gratitude to First Gen for putting up one of the soon-to-be major natural gas plant in the country that aside from ensuring a steady supply of energy, the said plant will make more efficient use of fossil fuels.

The 414 megawatt power plant which is expected to go on commercial operation in 2016 will sell electricity to Luzon grid which is expected to increase energy demand from 10,294 MW to 11,000 MW.

Last December 16, 2013, First Gen, through First Nat-Gas Power corporation(FNPC), signed an equipment supply contract with Siemens AG and a construction services contract with Siemens, Inc., for the engineering, design, procurement, construction and completion of the 414 MW San Gabriel Combined Cycle Natural Gas-Fired Power Plant.

San Gabriel’s first unit will initially utilize Malampaya gas. It is planned in the future that the project, along with the other two additional planned units, will operate on regasified liquefied natural gas. The San Gabriel Project is intended to be financed through an export credit agency-covered loan and the proceeds of First Gen’s recent US$300-million Reg-S bond offering. It has an estimated project cost of US$600 million.

The project will utilize the SCC6-8000H gas turbine technology, Siemens’ most advanced and efficient gas turbine, which has been proven to achieve more than 60 per cent combined-cycle efficiency.

Aside from an efficient gas turbine technology, the San Gabriel Project will enjoy operations and maintenance synergies with the adjacent 1,000-MW Santa Rita and 500-MW San Lorenzo Combined Cycle Natural Gas-Fired Power Plants. Siemens was also the contractor for the Santa Rita and San Lorenzo power plants, which are effectively owned 100 per cent by First Gen. (PIA-Batangas)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=681389684144#sthash.6e41JBJJ.dpuf

Business One-Stop Shop 2014 ongoing in Antipolo

By: Gideon Gapayao

Friday 10th of January 2014

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ANTIPOLO CITY, Rizal, January 10 (PIA) --The Antipolo City Business and Permits and Licensing Office is currently implementing its annual Business One-Stop Shop (BOSS) activity helping local entrepreneurs fast track their business registration processing.

Requirements for new applications are SEC/DTI registration, barangay business clearance, community tax certificate/corporate tax certificate, contract of lease (TCT), 3R photos of the applicant, zoning clearance, environmental permit to operate, sanitary permit, fire clearance, homeowner’s endorsement (if applicable), authorization letters (if sending a representative) and other national agency clearances depending on the nature of the business.

Renewal of businesses have similar requirements together with the old mayor’s permit complete with attachments and the previous year’s audited gross sales report.
BOSS 2014 is ongoing from January 2-20 at the Ynares Center, Antipolo City. (GG-PIA4A)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=2261389320169#sthash.MyOxQH2c.dpuf

Business One-Stop Shop 2014 ongoing in Antipolo

By: Gideon Gapayao

Friday 10th of January 2014

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- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=2261389320169#sthash.MyOxQH2c.dpuf

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15 JANUARY 2014.

President Aquino says Cashless Purchase Card program addresses corruption

President Aquino says Open Data portal will be available to public starting tomorrow

Palace elated over Sandiganbayan’s forfeiture of Marcoses jewel collection in favor of government

Malacanang congratulates Rose Fostanes for winning the first 'X-Factor Israel'

President Aquino says Cashless Purchase Card program addresses corruption

President Benigno S. Aquino III said on Wednesday that the newly-launched administration’s Cashless Purchase Card (CPC) program will address the alleged misuses of funds in the government.

"Our goal is to institutionalize reforms that make it very difficult for unscrupulous individuals to steal from the people—regardless of who sits in office. This is where the introduction of cashless transactions comes in," the Chief Executive said in his speech during the Good Governance Summit held at the Philippine International Convention Center, CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard in Pasay City.

President Aquino led the ceremonial turnover of the Cashless Purchase Card during the 3-day summit which has for its theme "Good Governance through Open Government and Sustainable Procurement."

The program, which is a joint effort between the Aquino administration and Citibank, enables the government agencies to make financial transactions entirely through electronic means instead of cash or checks.

"A recent study identified that one of the major financial risks remaining is the high volume of cash advances in agencies. The risks of this kind of system are obvious: the presence of large sums of cash in offices can pose a temptation to even the most honest employee—not to mention those who would willingly take advantage of such a situation," President Aquino said.

"It is only appropriate that we celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Procurement Reform Act by introducing a mechanism that modernizes government procurement: the launch of the Cashless Purchase Card or CPC Program. Cashless purchase cards will be issued to agencies, for low-value payments of a restricted number and type of goods and services," the President said.

The turnover ceremony signaled the launch of the pilot phase of the Cashless Purchase Card system, which will be implemented in the three agencies, namely the Department of Budget and Management, the Department of National Defense, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

"We are far from being a cashless society: 98 percent of all retail financial transactions in our country are still made in cash. The government seems to be ahead of the market, with 54 percent of its financial transactions already done through a cashless system. And, for the sake of accountability and efficiency, we are pushing the envelope further," the President stressed.

The President said the cashless card will resemble ordinary credit cards, but will have additional restrictions more suited to the needs of government.

Through the Cashless Purchase Cards and other similar reforms, the President said the government financial transactions should be 100 percent checkless and 80 percent cashless before the end of this year.

"The cashless purchase cards will allow them to procure the necessary materials immediately—and, given that accounting for transactions is automatically done, suspicious use of the card can be tracked easily. On top of that, this system also allows us to capture and collate the correct data, which redounds to real benefits," he said. PND (js)

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President Aquino says Open Data portal will be available to public starting tomorrow

President Benigno S. Aquino III on Wednesday announced the government to launch “Open Data Philippines,” a website that will serve as a portal for national government data made accessible to the public.

During his speech at the Good Governance Summit held in Pasay City, President Aquino said the Open Data Philippines is one of the latest reforms being implemented by his administration in instituting good governance.

The website, which can be accessed through www.data.go.ph, will be made available to the public starting Thursday (January 16).
“We will be unveiling a platform that will collate all relevant government data, not only for use in governance, but also for the information and use of the wider public: Open Data Philippines, will be accessible through www.data.gov.ph beginning tomorrow,” he said.

“Open Data Philippines is a website for publicly available, up-to-date national data—from the total enrollment in public secondary schools over a certain period of time, to the aforementioned budget and procurement data and everything in between,” he added.

President Aquino said the national open data website will not only serve as a repository for national government data made accessible to the public, it will also use reader-friendly visualizations to make statistics understandable, he noted.

“None of us should make the mistake of thinking that Open Data Philippines stops at being a repository of data. Its very name says otherwise. Opening data is about making statistics understandable, through the use of reader-friendly visualizations,” he said.

“The more technologically savvy among our countrymen can also make use of available data to participate and create their own visualizations and applications for the use of others,” he added.

The President cited some of the applications included in the website, such as a tool that will help residents of Metro Manila plan their daily commutes, as well as other applications to make government expenditures more accessible.

“Ultimately, opening data is more than just making columns and rows of figures available for viewing; it is about empowering the people through information,” the President said during the summit.

President Aquino said the website will also help government further improve its programs and policies.

“Open Data is a step towards having all information at our fingertips—which we can use to better assess, improve, and even develop programs and policies,” he said.

President Aquino addressed Wednesday morning the Good Governance Summit held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City. It had for its theme “Good Governance through Open Government and Sustainable Procurement.”

The three-day event, organized by the Department of Budget and Management in partnership with the Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office, was a gathering of the country’s key stakeholders in good governance and transformational leadership, including development partners, Open Data experts and public procurement practitioners.

Some of the highlights in the summit included the presentation of Good Governance Initiatives for 2013-2016; the official launch of Open Data Philippines; and a celebration of procurement reform in the Philippines. PND (co)

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Palace elated over Sandiganbayan’s forfeiture of Marcoses jewel collection in favor of government

Malacanang said it was happy about the recent decision by the Sandiganbayan declaring the Malacanang jewel collection of the Marcoses as ill-gotten but added that it’s too early to decide whether to auction the precious items.

“We are happy that the Supreme Court issued that decision but as to whether what further actions we will take will now depend on the Right of Appeal of the Marcos family,” Presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said in a press briefing in Malacanang on Wednesday.

“It is not final and executory. Until such time that it becomes final and executory in favor of the Republic, that’s the only time that we will make a decision,” he added.

The decision is still subject to appeal and the government does not know at this time if the Marcos family is going to appeal it, he said.

The Sandiganbayan has forfeited in favor of the government the jewelry collections called the Malacanang Collection, one of the three gem collections of Imelda Marcos.

The jewelries were recovered in Malacanang shortly after the late President Ferdinand E. Marcos fled to Hawaii in 1986.

The Malacanang Collection is the smallest collection compared to the Roumeliotes and Hawaii Collections of the Marcoses. The pieces of jewelries were estimated to be worth $110,055 and $153,089 based in a 1991 appraisal.

The Roumeliotes Collection is composed of several pieces of extravagant jewelry and gemstones.

The Hawaii Collection, on the other hand, is a set of jewelries confiscated by American authorities from the Marcoses when they arrived in Honolulu after fleeing the country at the height of the EDSA People Power Revolution. PND (as)

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Malacanang congratulates Rose Fostanes for winning the first 'X-Factor Israel'

The Aquino government extended its congratulation to Filipina immigrant worker Rose “Osang” Fostanes who won the first “X Factor Israel” talent show, a Palace official said.

“The Filipino has an innate talent … has an innate advantage when it comes to the arts, not only singing,” Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Wednesday.

The 47-year-old Fostanes performed Frank Sinatra’s classic “My Way” with an orchestra. The audience and the judges gave her a standing ovation during the performance.

Her mentor Shiri Maimon was so happy when Fostanes was declared as winner.

The X Factor Israel grand finals was held 9PM on Tuesday (January 14, Israel) at the Nokia Arena Tel Aviv in Israel.

“We are very, very proud that she has again given the Philippines pride in showcasing her talent; and now, not only the world knows that we are good, not only in the States, but everywhere that you ask a Filipino to perform” Lacierda said.

“And we would like to congratulate Rose for her victory. It's also a victory for the Filipino people,” he said. PND (js)

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ARCHIVE 2014

15 ENERO 2014

	'Cashless Purchase Card Program,' susugpo sa katiwalian, sabi ni Aquino
	Magagamit na ng madla simula bukas ang 'Open Data Portal' – Aquino

'Cashless Purchase Card Program,' susugpo sa katiwalian, sabi ni Aquino

Ang kalulunsad pa lamang na Cashless Purchase Card Program ng administrasyon ang susugpo sa umano ay hindi tamang paggamit ng mga pondo ng pamahalaaan, sabi ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino Miyerkoles.

“Ang pakay natin ay totohanang mga reporma ang mailatag upang mahirapan ang mga tusong tao na makapagnakaw sa taong bayan sino man ang nakaluklok sa puwesto. Para magtagumpay tayo sa layuning masugpo ang ano mang katiwalian, ang ating gagamitin ay ang cashless transactions, wika ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III sa talumpati sa Good Government Summit na ginanap sa Philippine International Convention Center, CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Lungsod ng Pasay.

Pinangunahan ng Pangulong Aquino ang ceremonial turnover ng Cashless Purchase Card sa tatlong araw na summit na ang paksang diwa ay “Good Governance Through Open Government and Sustainable Procurement.”

Magkatuwang sa pagpapatupad ng programang ito ang administrasyong Aquino at ang Citibank na magiging daan upang ang mga ahensiya ng pamahalaan ay makagawa ng transaksikyong pinansiyal sa pamamagitan ng paggamit ng electronic means, sa halip ng salapi o nga tseke.

“Alinsunod sa ginawang pag-aaral kamakailan, natukoy na ang isa sa mga malaking panganib sa pananalapi ay ang nananatiling malaking halaga ng cash advances sa mga ahensiya. Ang panganib sa paraang ito ay maliwanag: malaking halaga ang hawak sa mga opisina na malamang makatukso sa pinakamatapat mang kawani—huwag nang banggitin pa sa mga talagang handang magsamantala sa ganitong kalagayan,” paliwanag ng Pangulong Aquino.

“Kaya naman angkop lamang na sa pagdiriwang natin ng ika-10 taong anibersaryo ng Procurement Reform Act ay simulan natin ang isang paraang babago sa government procurement sa pamamagitan ng Cashless Purchase Card o CPC Program. Bibigyan ang mga ahensiya ng pamahalaan ng Cashless Purchase Cards na pambayad sa maliliit na halaga ng tatakdaang bilang at uri ng mga bagay at serbisyo,” dugtong pa ng Pangulo.

Ang seremonyang ito ang naghudyat ng paglulunsad ng pilot phase ng sistemang Cashless Purchase Card na ang unang magpapatupad ay ang tatlong ahensiya ng pamahalaan: Kagawaran ng Badyet at Pamamahala (DBM), ang Kagawaqran ng Tanggulang Bansa (DND) at ang Sandatahang Lakas ng Pilipinas (AFP).

“Hindi naman ang ibig sabihin nito ay cashless society (walang pera) na tayo. Siyamnapu’t walong porsiyento ng tingiang transaksiyon pananalapi sa ating bansa ay mananatiling babayaran ng cash o pera. Ang pamahalaan lamang ang mangunguna sa larangang ito dahil 54 porsiyento ng mga transaksiyong pinansiyal ay ginagawa na sa pamamagitan ng cashless system. At para sa tamang pamamahalang matapat at mabisang paraan kaya namin ito puspusang ipinatutupad,”dugtong pa ng Pangulo.

Binigyang diin ng Pangulong Aquino na ang cashless card na ito ay kahalintulad ng karaniwang ginagamit ngayon na credit cards, subali’t daragdagan lamang ang paghihigpit upang matugunan ang pangangailangan ng pamahalaan.

Sa pamamagitan ng Cashless Purchase Cards at iba pang kahalintulad na reporma, sinabi ng Pangulo na lahat ng transaksiyong pinansiyal ng pamahalaan ay dapat nang 100 porsiyentong checkless (wala nang babayaran sa pamamagitan ng tseke) at 80 porsiyento nang cashless bago magtapos ang kasalukuyang taon.

“Sa pamamagitan ng cashless purchase cards na ito, mabibili nila agad ang mga materyales na kailangan at ang pagtutuos sa transaksiyon ay awtomatikong magagawa. Ang kahinahinalang paggamit ng card na ito ay madaling matutukoy. Higit sa lahat, ang paraang ito ay magbibigay sa atin ng pagkakataong makuha at maipon ang tamang data na ang ibubunga ay tunay na kapakipakinabang,” pahayag pa ng Pangulong Aquino. PND (js/zaf)

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Magagamit na ng madla simula bukas ang 'Open Data Portal' – Aquino

Inihayag ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III Miyerkoles ang ilulunsad ng pamahalaan na “Open Data Philippines,” isang website na bukas sa madlang nagnanais makaalam ng mga data tungkol sa pambansang pamahalaan.

Sa talumpati niya sa Good Goverrnment Summit na ginanap sa Lungsod ng Pasay, sinabi ng Pangulong Aquino na ang “Open Data Philippines” ay isa sa pinakahuling repormang ipinatutupad ng administrasyon niya tungo sa mabuting pamamahala.

Ang website ay mabubuksan sa pamamagitan ng www.data.gov.ph. at matutunghayan ng madla simula sa Huwebes (Enero 16).

“Bubuksan namin ang isang platapormang titipon ng lahat ng mahalagang data tungkol sa pamahalaan, hindi lamang para gamitin sa pamamahala, kundi para sa kaalaman at magagamit din ng higit na maraming hangad gumamit nito. Ang Open Data Philippines ay mabubuksan sa pamamagitan ng www.data.gov.ph. beginning tomorrow,” sabi pa ng Pangulo.

“Bukas ang Open Data Philippines ay website para sa madla tungkol sa up-to-date national data –buhat sa kabuuang bilang ng mga nag-aaral sa mataas na paaralang bayan sa loob ng isang panahon, hanggang sa karampatang badyet at procurement data at iba pang mga bagay,” dugtong ng Pangulo.

Sinabi ng Pangulong Aquino na ang national open data website ay hindi lamang magsisilbing lagakan ng mga data ng pambansang pamahalaan, kundi bukas din sa madla upang magamit ito at nang maunawaan ang istatistika.

“Hindi tayo dapat magkamaling isipin na ang Open Data Philippines ay para lagakan lamang ng data. Sa pangalan lamang nito, mauunawaan nang ang mga istatistika rito ay madaling maunawaan dahil nilagyan pa ng mga larawan,” sabi ng Pangulo.

Ayon sa Pangulo, maaari ring magamit ng mga kababayan natin ang mga data rito at lumikha ng sarili nilang visualization para magamit naman ng iba.

Sa maaaring pakinabang ng madla sa website, lalo na ng mga taga-Metro Manila ay ang pagpaplano ng kanilang biyahe araw-araw, gayundin para makita ang gugulin ng gobyerno.

Binigyang diin ng Pangulo na sa pagbubukas ng data na ito ay hindi lamang para makita ng madla, kundi higit sa lahat, upang mabatid ng sambayanan ang impormasyong dapat na malaman nila.

Bukod dito, sinabi ng Pangulong Aquino na makatutulong ang website na ito sa pamahalaan para mapabuti pa ang mga programa at patakaran.

“Ang Open Data ay hakbang para ang lahat ng impormasyon ay nasa dulo na lamang ng ating mga daliri—na makatutulong para mataya natin, mapabuti at makalikha ng mga programa at patakaran,” wika ng Pangulo.

Nagtalumpati ang Pangulong Aquino Miyerkoles ng umaga sa “Good Governance Summit” na ginanap sa Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) sa Lungsod ng Pasay na may paksang diwang “Good Governance through Open Government at Sustainable Procurement.”

Ang tatlong araw na pagtitipong ito ay pinamamahalaan ng Kagawaran ng Badyet at Pangangasiwa, kabalikat ang Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office. Tampok sa pagtitipong ito ang paghaharap ng Governance Initiatives for 2013-2016 at ang inilunsad na Open Data Philippines” at ang procurement reform sa Pilipinas. PND (co/zaf)

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President Benigno S. Aquino III's Speech at the Good Governance Summit

PICC, CCP Complex, Roxas Blvd., Pasay City

15 Jan 2014

Good morning to each and everyone.

When I accepted the mandate of the people back in 2010, I did so without the expectation that I would just get on a merry-go-round, and wait the rest of the term out—perpetuating the status quo and perhaps even exacerbating existing problems. Rather, I did so with the resolve to effect transformational change and fulfill the promise I made in my campaign, which said, “Kung walang corrupt,” translated when there is no corruption there is no poverty, walang mahirap—where there is no corruption, there will be no poverty. Of course, I also entered office knowing that there would be many challenges along the way. Allow me to give you an example, which would best serve our discussion for today.

Early on in our administration, there was a need to procure rifles for our police service. Some of you may know that there are many different rifle systems in the world. We decided that an M4 assault rifle would best fit the needs of our personnel—and we then went through the normal bidding and procurement processes to seek potential suppliers.

For some reason, what looked like the winning bidder turned out to be supplying a completely different rifle system—on a platform that used completely different mechanisms and technologies, but was dressed up to look like an M4. In this situation, what we wanted to get and what we were about to get were two very different things. On top of that, we were going to procure this at a price much higher than the normal M4s.

What really caught my attention was that this particular supplier was already on the postqualification stage of a process that was supposed to take several phases. If their rifles had passed these evaluations, we would have been obligated to procure items that we did not need or want in the first place. Fortunately, they failed to pass the postqualification stage; and I received the information in time, and was able to call the attention of the people involved, and direct our leadership to conduct investigations and to stop this unnecessary procurement.

One can argue that all the necessary steps were followed religiously. However, when you are almost obligated to accept the delivery of an item you never wanted to order, there is something inherently wrong in the situation. And even though we were ultimately able to get the right rifles at reasonable prices, this anecdote shows us an unpleasant aspect of governance: that sometimes, even if all the processes are followed, the end result still would not necessarily redound to the benefit of our people. Perhaps that is one facet: faulty processes that might have made it easier for things to fall through the cracks. Another facet is that certain people who had to make decisions did not have the necessary data, which would have allowed them to know from the start that these particular rifles should not have been prequalified, much less postqualified.

This presents a picture of the challenges our administration continues to confront today. Many of these are rooted in systems and processes that, while they may have served their purpose at one time, are badly outdated. Even worse, they are susceptible to abuse, which could lead to inefficiency, wastage, and opportunities for the unscrupulous to steal from the nation’s coffers.

This is why we have taken every step necessary to ensure that, under our administration, the National Budget is crafted for the benefit of our people. One innovation we introduced in the 2014 budget cycle was that of the General Appropriations Act or GAA- As-Release Document system. The GAA is the law that contains the budget. In the past, special allotment release orders—the very famous SAROs–or notices of cash allotment were needed before agencies could begin utilizing their budgets. Some unscrupulous individuals saw this as an avenue to line their pockets. They would delay the issuance of these documents, asking for incentives—or in plain language, bribes—in exchange for the release of documents. With the GAA-As-Release-Document System in place, the law that contains the budget is the release document itself. This effectively solidifies our legislators’ power of the purse—a mandate that, by law, is theirs in the first place. In effect: with the dawn of the first day of 2014, around 86 percent of the Budget was released to agencies—lessening opportunities for corruption and giving these agencies the ability to begin implementing their projects right away.

Greater efficiency, integrity, and true service—these are the principles behind the reforms we have made in our budgeting process. But we know that we cannot look at the big picture alone: there is also a need to examine the details and ensure that each agency can make best use of the funds allotted to them. This is not merely about agencies adhering strictly to the proper bidding and procurement processes, in some cases, it requires them to modify processes to become more efficient. Our Department of Public Works and Highways, or DPWH, is a remarkable example. The old process, or one of their old processes, involved potential bidders for infrastructure projects writing letters of intent; their names would then be posted in a list. This facilitated collusion among bidders who would know who their other competitors would be: they would speak to each other and agree to synchronize bids, defeating the purpose of the public bidding process. DPWH Secretary Babes Singson no longer requires these publication of lists in the bidding process—facilitating true competition which has led to the Filipino people getting the infrastructure they need: The right projects, at the right quality, at reduced costs, completed within a reduced time-frame, all because we put the right people on the job. As a matter of fact, to date, the DPWH has saved not less than 19 billion pesos.

I hope these examples have made it clear: all these processes and systems—all of these laws are there to serve the people. The people are not here to be at the mercy of processes, especially when these processes have already become obsolete and counterproductive. After all, government exists precisely to improve the lot of the people they swore to serve and from whom they received their mandate. And so, we continue to ask ourselves these questions: How do we further plug leaks in systems to prevent graft and corruption? How do we make our processes that much more efficient?

Our goal is to institutionalize reforms that make it very difficult for unscrupulous individuals to steal from the people—regardless of who sits in office. This is where the introduction of cashless transactions comes in. A recent study identified that one of the major financial risks remaining is the high volume of cash advances in agencies. The risks of this kind of system are obvious: the presence of large sums of cash in offices can pose a temptation to even the most honest employee—not to mention those who would willingly take advantage of such a situation.

We are far from being a cashless society: 98 percent of all retail financial transactions in our country are still made in cash. The government seems to be ahead of the market, with 54 percent of its financial transactions already done through a cashless system. And, for the sake of accountability and efficiency, we are pushing the envelope further.

It is only appropriate that we celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Procurement Reform Act by introducing a mechanism that modernizes government procurement: the launch of the Cashless Purchase Card or CPC Program. Cashless purchase cards will be issued to agencies, for low-value payments of a restricted number and type of goods and services. They will resemble ordinary credit cards, but will have additional restrictions more suited to the needs of government. Through the Cashless Purchase Cards and other similar reforms, government financial transactions should be 100 percent checkless and 80 percent cashless before the end of this year.

The first phase of the CPC Program will take place in the first quarter of 2014, with the Department of Budget and Management, and the Department of National Defense, and the general headquarters of the Armed Forces of the Philippines as pilot agencies for implementation. A limited number of cards will be distributed to these agencies, with allowable purchases likewise limited to medical supplies, meals, the transportation of official documents, airline tickets, and construction supplies for minor repairs. If all goes well, the program will be rolled out and cashless purchases cards will be distributed in other national government agencies next year.

Even in this initial implementation, the CPC system will already help improve the overall fiscal management of government—and will help the thousands of officials who must deal with the needs of their agencies every day. So, in the future, a government director in a far-flung province need not go through lengthy processes, if money is needed for minor construction to repair their office. The cashless purchase cards will allow them to procure the necessary materials immediately—and, given that accounting for transactions is automatically done, suspicious use of the card can be tracked easily. On top of that, this system also allows us to capture and collate the correct data, which redounds to real benefits. For one, a bigger sample size of data will allow us to refine our understanding of programs that need funding. It will also make it easier for the Treasury to determine how much cash is needed on a daily basis—giving us an accurate record, which government can use in future decision making.

Data such as those gathered through the Cashless Purchase Cards serves as the lifeblood of another program we will be launching in this summit. We will be unveiling a platform that will collate all relevant government data, not only for use in governance, but also for the information and use of the wider public: Open Data Philippines, which is accessible through www.data.gov.ph beginning tomorrow.

Open Data Philippines is a website for publicly available, up-to-date national data—from the total enrollment in public secondary schools over a certain period of time, to the aforementioned budget and procurement data and everything in between. As the project progresses, we can only expect the wealth and depth of data available online to grow, with information on anything and everything we can think of.

None of us should make the mistake of thinking that Open Data Philippines stops at being a repository of data. Its very name says otherwise. Opening data is about making statistics understandable, through the use of reader-friendly visualizations. The more technologically savvy among our countrymen can also make use of available data to participate and create their own visualizations and applications for the use of others. Among those already included in the website are applications that can help Metro Manila residents plan their daily commutes. Other applications seek to make government expenditures more accessible. Ultimately, opening data is more than just making columns and rows of figures available for viewing; it is about empowering the people through information.

This is also something our government can make use of. As President, I thought that I would have access to all kinds of information any time, every time, and all the time. To a degree, that is true. But it is not as simple as punching a few keys on a keyboard. Sometimes, it actually involves wading through documents that are fragile, given their age—and that only happens, of course, if you can find out immediately where these documents are located. Open Data is a step towards having all information at our fingertips—which we can use to better assess, improve, and even develop programs and policies.

The Cashless Purchase Card program and Open Data Philippines are only the latest in a long list of reforms we have implemented towards instituting good governance. Everything else, including some of our plans for the future, can be found in the brochures that were included in your kits. I encourage you to read and familiarize yourself with them. Not only will they give you information that you can use over the next few days, they will also show you how strongly we are committed to living out the principles of integrity, accountability, and transparency. They will also show you that our administration is not in the business of building castles in the air.

Earlier, when I spoke of upgrading systems and processes, I did not mean this only in a technological sense. We are upgrading in the truest sense of the word—exploring every possible avenue to improve the way we serve our countrymen. Sometimes, it has been as simple as staying the course, and making sure that existing programs fulfilled their mandates—such as truly chasing after tax evaders, smugglers, and the corrupt, to hold them accountable for their actions. Other times, they were groundbreaking in the sense that our administration pursued modernization on an unprecedented scale—for example, in the projects we have launched today.

What ties all these initiatives together is the efficiency and the persistence with which we have pursued them—our determination to let Filipinos truly reap the tangible benefits of good governance. Moving forward, these will continue to characterize our efforts. These will allow us to reach greater heights and move from success to success, as we make good governance the norm—a firm foundation that succeeding administrations can hopefully build on, for the benefit of the Philippines.

Thank you, and may you have a successful summit.

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INTERVIEW OF COMMUNICATIONS SECRETARY HERMINIO COLOMA, JR.

DZBB / Saksi sa Dobol B by Joel Zobel

January 16, 2014

Q: Secretary Sonny, magandang umaga. Si Joel Zobel, live ka sa DZBB.SEC. COLOMA: Magandang umaga naman sa iyo, Joel.

Q: Tumaas ang paniniwala ng mga negosyante na sangkatutak po iyong katiwalian na naganap sa gobyerno noong nakalipas na taon. Ito ay base po sa SWS survey. How does the Palace react to this, Secretary?

SEC. COLOMA: Tinututukan po natin ang resulta ng mga surveys tulad niyan dahil tungkulin po ng pamahalan na maghatid nang katanggap-tanggap at mainam na serbisyo-publiko. Kaya puspusan pa rin naman po ang pagsisikap na magpanukala at magpatupad ng mga reporma katulad nga po nung inilahad kahapon doon sa governance summit, iyon pong Cashless Purchase Card; at iyon pong mga necessary reforms na isinagawa, katulad po ng budget and release document. Wala na pong SARO or NCA. Bahagi lang po ito ng pangkalahatang pagsisikap ng pamahalaan na mapabuti ang serbisyo-publiko.

Q: Iyong Cashless Purchase Card, Secretary, papaano natin matitiyak na fool-proof ito at hindi po mapapasukan ng anomalya itong bagong sistemang ito sa pamahalaan?

SEC. COLOMA: Sabihin na lang po natin na patuloy pa ring titignan kung paano ito magagamit sa mga transaksyon. At kung meron pa pong makita na puwang na hindi po natigil ang mga depekto ay patuloy pa rin naman po itong pagbubutihin.

Q: Doon naman po sa isyu ng unauthorized bonuses na pinamudmod ng mga GOCCs. Ano ang latest directive coming from the Palace kaugnay ng balitang ito? I understand, kahapon po parang may directive po yata si Presidente, pinagpapaliwanag itong mga GOCCs na ito tungkol doon sa report na iyan ng COA.

SEC. COLOMA: Ang nangangasiwa po sa ating mga korporasyon ng pamahalan ay ang Governance Commission for government corporation, iyong GCG. At kahapon po ay nagpalabas po sila ng direktiba na pinapasumite po sa mga naturingang korporasyon ang kanilang paliwanag doon sa naiulat sa pahayagan. Pero sinabi din po doon sa kanilang statement na iyong mga napahayag ay bahagi ng audit findings. At sa kanilang pagkaalam, wala pa namang naiisyu na final notice of disallowance or notice of suspension doon sa mga korporasyon na pinagpapaliwanag hinggil sa paggawad nila ng mga bonuses.

At sa aspeto pong iyang ay nagpaliwanag na po ang ilang korporasyon. Ang sinabi nila ay naaayon naman sa batas iyong kanilang iginawad. Iyong iba naman ay nagsabi na hindi naman iyon bonus, kung hindi retirement benefits kaya hindi dapat isama doon sa sinasabing patakaran na sumobra daw dahil hindi naman pala bonuses in the first place.

Kaya’t hihintayin na lang po natin ang paliwanag ng iba’t ibang korporasyon. Ang mahalaga po dito ay iyong prinsipyo ng accountability of public officials. Kinakailangang tumalima sila sa mga pamantayan na itinatakda ng batas at handa silang magpaliwanag sa publiko dahil ang atin pong itinataguyod ay iyong open and transparent government.

Q: Kung saka-sakaling mapatunayan na hindi po ito awtorisado at talagang sabihin ng COA na kinakailangang isoli ninyo iyong pera, paano po matitityak na maisusoli po iyong pera, kung iyong iba ay nakapagretiro na, iyong iba ay nagastos na iyong pera?

SEC. COLOMA: Meron naman pong mga patakaran sa batas kung paano ipapatupad iyan.

Q: Matanong ko na rin po sa inyo ito bago ko po kayo pakawalan, Secretary, ngayong umaga. Iyong abogado po ni dating Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo nagsabi na—kasi ilang mga personalidad na rin po ang bumisita sa dating Pangulo doon sa kanyang hospital suite sa VMMC. At sinasabi nga po ng abogado, si Atty. Topacio, na patunay lang daw po ito na marami daw nakikisimpatiya sa dating Pangulo doon sa persecution na ginagawa ng administrasyon kay CGMA. Ano po ang reaksyon ng Palasyo dito po sa pahayag na ito?

SEC. COLOMA: Batas po ang pinaiiral dito ‘no. Meron pong naisampang mga kaso laban sa dating Pangulo kaya po ang Sandiganbayan at ang Regional Trial Court ng Pasay City ang may hurisdiksyon sa kanyang kasalukuyang confinement sa Veterans Memorial Medical Center. Wala pong persecution na isinagawa laban sa kanya at wala pong ill-will o masamang layunin ang ating Pangulo. Wala pong personalan dito sa kasong ito. Ang ginagawa lang po ay naaayon sa batas, sapagka’t iyan po ang tungkulin ng Pangulo at ng pamahalaan, ang pagpapatupad sa batas.

Q: Okay, salamat po sa oras at magandang umaga, Secretary. Thank you.

SEC. COLOMA: Maraming salamat.

SOURCE: News Information Bureau - Data Processing Center

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15 JANUARY 2014

Skilled Occupational Shortage List: An industry recommendation and result of a survey--Baldoz

In Kuwait, POLO sees demands for nurses and allied medical professionals

POEA closes down visa consultancy office

NSCB Sec Gen Albert is new PSAI President

DPWH to use DOST's/UPs Project "NOAH" and "DREAM" data sets for planning

DILG launches Seal of Good Local Governance

Statement of the GPH Peace Panel in talks with the MILF On the appointment of Cotabato Archbishop Orlando B. Quevedo as Cardinal by Pope Francis

PNoy admin kickstarts Good Governance Meet

Philippine Embassies in Damascus and Beirut repatriate 21 Filipinos from Syria

DENR, GIZ to release report on management effectiveness of Ph protected areas

Former Romblon prof, DOST’s Most Outstanding Provincial S&T Director

SSS cuts UMID processing time, cites steps for claiming RTS cards

Announcement: PRB Vacancies (January 13, 2014)

PCW launches film making contest for 2014 Women’s Month

DepEd sets early registration on January 25

Skilled Occupational Shortage List: An industry recommendation and result of a survey--Baldoz

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

Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz yesterday said the Philippine Skilled Occupational Shortage List is a recommendation of various industries and is still being developed as a parallel effort to the government's labor market signaling activities to address jobs and skills mismatch.

"This is part of our efforts to examine the skills requirements of industries and to verify and update industries which are considered as "key employment generators," said Baldoz.

She explained that the skilled occupational shortage list is derived from two sources, the top-down information from the Bureau of Labor and Employment Statistics Integrated Survey and the bottom-up information from the Project Jobs Fit: The DOLE 2020 Vision.

"Coming up with the list sends a signal to employers, industry, professional groups, and education and training institutions to expand and open up training and education, and for scholarship grants to be allocated for the identified shortages on skills and professions. The list could also be used as basis in the formulation of policy on the deployment or entry of skilled workers to promote "brain gain" and technology transfer," she elaborated. The entry of workers in the shortage list has been recommended to be exempted from publication requirement in the issuance of alien employment permit.

"It would also offer industries greater access to qualified workers for employment creation and employment preservation in the domestic economy. By ensuring the continued availability of qualified workers, we are making our industries competitive," she added.

Baldoz also said that the skilled occupational shortage list, which is temporary, contains a potential 40 identified hard-to-fill occupations, but was whittled down to 15, with each occupation defined by a standard qualification requirement.

The 15 are architect, chemical engineer, chemist, environmental planner, fisheries technologist, geologist, guidance counselor, licensed librarian, medical technologist, sanitary engineer, computer numerical control machinist, assembly technician, test technician, pilot, aircraft mechanic.

The new JobsFit Labor Market Information (LMI) Report 2013-2020 contains a list of 272 occupations identified as in-demand and 110 occupations listed as hard-to-fill. The study also identified 43 cross-cutting occupations which are both in-demand and hard-to-fill. In contrast, the 2010 JobsFit Report only contains 126 occupations, 64 of which were deemed in-demand and 62 occupations identified as hard-to-fill.

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In Kuwait, POLO sees demands for nurses and allied medical professionals

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

More hospitals and medical facilities are being constructed in Kuwait and the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) forecasts that this development will demand 1,500 new jobs for nurses and other allied medical professionals. Citing POLO-Kuwait’s labor market information report from the International Labor Affairs Bureau (ILAB), Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz yesterday said that alongside with the demand for medical professionals, engineers, architects, and other skilled workers are also needed in the oil and construction industries. “The Kuwait Oil Co. (KOC), Kuwait National Petroleum Co. (KNPC), the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Education are among the primary companies and government agencies needing these workers,” Baldoz said. A temporary stock estimate of Filipino workers in Kuwait shows that there are 2,997 undocumented and 166,973 documented workers in the country which consist of 21,658 professionals; 19,249 skilled workers; 23,853 semi-skilled; 88,478 household service workers (HSW); and 13,735 unskilled workers. The figure is consistent with that of the Kuwait Immigration Office. Based on the job orders, there are 13,217 skilled OFWs, including new, replacement and Balik-Manggagawa (BM), being deployed annually in Kuwait. Yearly, the country deploys 36,603 household service workers (HSW) in Kuwait based on the verified new and replacement contracts while 9,658 are Balik-Manggagawa HSWs. Filipino workers make up 6.70 percent of the total foreign workers in Kuwait. Amidst media reports that Kuwait does not need more foreign workers due to the government’s commitment to boost the rate of Kuwait nationals in the labor market from 31 percent to 34 percent by end of 2014, POLO says that demand for Filipino workers will continue by at least 2 percent due to the increasing preference for Filipino professionals and skilled workers. Therefore, the labor market report recommends that the standards and quality of the Filipino professionals be maintained and upgrading of their expertise and proficiencies through continuing education and trainings prioritized. Moreover, it stated that in order for the overseas Filipino workers to capture this labor market, accreditation of the Filipino professionals such as engineers, nurses, and others in the different professional societies in Kuwait should be worked out. “It will give the Filipino professionals equal employment opportunities in Kuwait because industries and government entities employ only those professionals accredited by the society,” the report explains. “The issuance of Kuwait Counter Trafficking Law last 17 August 2013 will work in favour of foreign workers, including the OFWs, since it prescribes corresponding penalties ranging from fines to penalty of death upon commission of acts constituting trafficking in person,” Baldoz said. The labor chief, on the other hand, reminds all would-be OFWs to exercise caution in dealing with recruitment agencies and overseas job offers. “They should be very careful and critical, as there are illegal recruiters and bogus job offers despite regulations against human trafficking. Always deal with recruitment agencies licensed by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration,” Baldoz said.

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NSCB Sec Gen Albert is new PSAI President

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

The National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) has a new Secretary General in the person of Jose Ramon G. Albert, a doctoral degree holder in statistics from the State University of New York and a senior research fellow of the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS).

Appointed by President Benigno S. Aquino III on September 13, 2012, Dr. Albert assumed office as the new NSCB Secretary General on September 24, 2012. Socioeconomic Planning Secretary and NEDA Director General Arsenio M. Balisacan signed his assumption of duty at the National Economic and Development Authority office in Pasig City. Colleagues in the Philippine Statistical System (PSS) and the management and staff of the NSCB warmly welcomed the assumption of duty of the new NSCB Secretary General.

Secretary General Albert graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics as a Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Scholar at the De La Salle University in Manila in 1985. He was also an Awardee for Excellence in Mathematics. He took his Master of Science in Statistics at the State University of New York at Stony Brook in 1989 where he also earned his doctoral degree in Statistics in 1993.

Prior to his appointment as NSCB Secretary General, Dr. Albert is a Consultant of development agencies such as the United Nations Statistical Institute for Asia and the Pacific (UNSIAP), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the World Bank Group, the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and the Department for International Development. He has also served as Consultant of various government agencies of the following countries: Malaysia's Economic Planning Unit, Lao's Department of Statistics, the Qatar General Secretariat for Development Planning, the Malawi Ministry of Economic Planning and Development, and Ethiopia's Central Statistics Agency, among others.
He had also worked as Professorial Lecturer of Statistics at the University of the Philippines, Diliman; Graduate School of Business, De La Salle University, Manila; and, as Adjunct Faculty Member of the Asian Institute of Management, Makati City.

For many years, Dr. Albert has been actively involved in various efforts towards statistical development of the country being a member of various NSCB Technical Committees/ Technical Working Groups on Poverty Statistics, Survey Design, Seasonal Adjustment of Philippine Time Series and Population and Housing Statistics, cognizant of his statistical expertise on these areas.

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DPWH to use DOST's/UPs Project "NOAH" and "DREAM" data sets for planning

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

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will partner with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the University of the Philippines (UP) Training Center for Applied Geodesy and Photogrammetry in its infrastructure planning for roads, bridges and flood control projects.

DPWH Secretary Rogelio L. Singson, in a seminar held at the DPWH Head Office conducted by DOST, UP, and Office of the Civil Defense, has directed the usage of the latest technologies as tools for planning infrastructure projects to ensure their resiliency and structural integrity.

“As results of the damage inflicted to our infrastructure based on our experience from the “Habagat,” Typhoons “Sendong,” “Pablo” and the supertyphoon “Yolanda,” and Bohol earthquake, we can now modify the standard designs of our projects, specifically, roads, bridges, and flood control structures,” said Secretary Singson.

In the briefing attended by DPWH key officials, including Regional Directors and planning staff, Dr. Alfredo Mahar Lagmay explained DOST’s Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards or Project NOAH and its component projects such as Hydromet Sensors Development, DREAM-LIDAR 3-D Mapping Project, Flood NET-Flood Management Modeling Project, Hazards Information Media, Strategic Communication Intervention, Disaster Management using WebGIS, Enhancing Geo-hazards Mapping through LIDAR, Doppler System Development, Landslide Sensors Development Project, Storm Surge Inundation Mapping Project, and Weather Information – Integration for System Enhance (WISE).

Dr. Lagmay said that these tools or data sets are useful in future planning of infrastructure projects for infra agencies.

Secretary Singson directed the DPWH Planning Service, Project Management Office for Major Flood Control projects, the Regional Directors and their Planning Officers including the District Engineering Offices to make use of the high-resolution flood hazard maps, landslide hazard maps, Digital Surface Model, Digital Surface Model and other available planning tools.

Intensive trainings for DPWH concerned personnel shall be conducted nationwide to teach them on how to use these available technologies as basis for planning and monitoring.

Dr. Lagmay said that the designed models or maps are accurate, reliable and detailed in relation to hazards.

He cited the DPWH for providing historical data on water levels in the different rivers in the country that were helpful in their installation of more sophisticated water level sensors.

For his part, Dr. Eric Paringit of UP-DREAM project has explained the details and possible usage of Disaster Risk and Exposure Assessment for Mitigation (DREAM) data sets in coming with standard designs of infrastructure suited to the localities.

Dr. Paringit has also reported that the DPWH Pangasinan 3rd District Engineering Office has already made use of the flood hazard map in planning flood control projects along Aloragat river in the province of Pangasinan.

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DILG launches Seal of Good Local Governance

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

After the successful run of the Seal of Good Housekeeping (SGH) by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) comes the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) orPagkilala sa Katapatan at Kahusayan ng Pamahalaang Lokalwhich will be launched today (January 15, 2014) during the Good Governance Summit at the PICC in Manila.

DILG Secretary Mar Roxas said the SGLG, which originated from the SGH program in 2010, is introduced to provide greater challenge to our local governments to continue good governance practices while providing better services.

SGLG’s predecessor, the Seal of Good Housekeeping, only measured the levels of compliance to the Department’s Full Disclosure Policy, particularly in the areas of budget, revenues and procurement, among others, having no adverse COA findings, as well as meeting the requirements of anti-red tape act.

“Panahon na para itaas ang pamantayan ng good local governance mula sa balangkas ng matino at tapat na pangangasiwang pinansyal.Tunay na napakahalaga nito - ngunit kulang sa pagsukat ng kung ano ang makabuluhan para sa mamamayan,” said Roxas.

According to the DILG Secretary, a total of 1,372 LGUs or close to 84 percent of the total number of LGUs, have already met the minimum requirements of good housekeeping, which only shows their readiness to take on more challenges.

“Ibig sabihin, handa na ang karamihan ng mga LGUs para sa mas mataas at malawak na pamantayan ng good local governance,” he said.

With the introduction of the SGLG, Roxas said the DILG aims for a condition where LGUs do not only sustain the practice of accountability and transparency (Good Financial Housekeeping), but are also able to prepare for the challenges posed by disasters (Disaster Preparedness), and are sensitive to the needs of vulnerable and marginalized sectors of the society (Social Protection),” he said.

Moreover, the SGLG also drives LGUs to encourage investment and employment (Business-Friendliness and Competitiveness); protect the constituents from threats to life and security (Peace and Order); and safeguard the integrity of the environment (Environmental Management), he said.

For an LGU to become an SGLG recipient, an LGU needs to pass all the three core assessment areas – Good Financial Housekeeping, Social Protection and DisasterPreparedness, and at least one from the essential assessment areas – Business-Friendliness and Competitiveness, Peace & Order or Environmental Management.

LGUs meeting the minimum criteria shall not only be conferred with the SGLG, but will also entitle them to a package of incentives, such as the Performance Challenge Fund and access to other national performance-based programs.

For LGUs that do not make the mark, Roxas said the Department will provide capacity development interventions for them to help them earn the Seal.

“Walang iwanan.Tutulungan natin silang maiangat ang kakayahan ayon sa pamantayan ng SGLG sa pamamagitan ng capacity development assistance ng DILG at Local Government Academy,”he said.

To be implemented annually starting this year, the SGLG will cover all provinces, cities and municipalities.The DILG with partner organizations shall select qualified LGUs starting on the third quarter, while the awarding shall take place in October of each year.

“The SGLG symbolizes integrity and good performance of local governments.Let it be a continuing challenge for provincial, city and municipal governments to do better today and in the years to come,” said Roxas.

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Statement of the GPH Peace Panel in talks with the MILF On the appointment of Cotabato Archbishop Orlando B. Quevedo as Cardinal by Pope Francis

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

The Government of the Philippines (GPH) negotiating panel congratulates Cotabato Archbishop Orlando B. Quevedo for his elevation by Pope Francis to the College of Cardinals. Indeed, his appointment is a wonderful blessing–a portent of many positive developments to come as we push for peace in the south. It reflects the recognition that the Vatican gives to the peace process in Mindanao, our very own contribution to the global call of Pope Francis to work for peace.

Cardinal Quevedo is a beacon of hope, and his new role will surely augur well to the Mindanao peace process. A Mindanawon, he deeply understands the diverse causes of the conflict that has tormented his homeland for decades.

Throughout the decades, Cardinal Quevedo actively promoted interreligious dialogue among the tri-people (Christians, Muslims and Lumads), which is one of the cornerstones of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate’s mission in Mindanao, in line with the efforts to achieve just and lasting peace in the island.

Directly and indirectly, Cardinal Quevedo has accompanied the GPH Panel in the highs and lows of the political negotiations. He always provided encouragement and support to us during challenging times.

We believe that as a Cardinal, he will do even greater things to help achieve our people’s desired peace.

We pray and sincerely wish him all the best as we all strive to foster a culture of peace not just in the communities but, more importantly, in the hearts of everyone regardless of creed and culture.

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PNoy admin kickstarts Good Governance Meet

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

Four years into his term and with a broad range of reforms already in place, President Benigno S. Aquino III and his administration will mark the country’s successes in governance reform during the Good Governance Summit, a three-day event that kicks off on January 15 in the Philippine International Convention Center in Manila.

The Good Governance Summit will draw in many of the country’s key stakeholders in good governance and transformational leadership, gathering champions of reform in both the public and private sector, as well as leaders in the development industry, civil society and members of the academe. Local and international experts in government transparency, public procurement, and members of the public will likewise comprise the event’s speakers and participants.

“The Summit is not just a celebration of the progress we’ve so far made in instituting transparent, accountable, and participatory governance. More crucial is its forward-looking approach, where we look at the challenges of bureaucratic reform square in the eye—as daunting as they are—and use our experience in the previous four years to overcome these same challenges.

“While it’s true that we’ve accomplished much in our campaign to reform government, so much still remains to be done. The Good Governance Summit is essentially an expression of our continuing readiness and commitment to effecting fruitful transformation in the Philippine bureaucracy,” Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad said.

Some highlights that participants can expect from the three-day event include the ceremonial turnover of the Cashless Purchase Card on the first day, as well as the official launch of Open Data Philippines on the second day.

The Cashless Purchase Card program is a joint effort between the Aquino administration and Citibank, through which the government’s financial transactions will be made entirely through electronic means instead of cash or checks. The Cashless Card will function in much the same manner as a corporate credit card, which government employees and offices can use for their procurement needs. The turnover ceremony will signal the launch of the pilot phase of the Cashless Purchase Card system, which will be implemented across three agencies: the DBM, the Department of National Defense, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

“The bureaucracy’s dependence on petty cash and checks for various official purchases has unfortunately made many of our financial transactions prone to abuse and corruption. The Cashless Purchase Card will strike at the root of these irregularities by allowing government to enter into transactions through purely electronic means, and within a system that’s updated in real-time, easy to monitor, and completely trackable. Best of all, it makes the subsequent auditing and accounting process much quicker, easier, and more transparent,” DBM Undersecretary and Chief Information Officer Richard “Bon” Moya said.

Meanwhile, Open Data Philippines will be the single and comprehensive portal for government data, with more than 400 data sets spanning all departments and agencies made accessible to the public through http://wwww.data.gov.ph.

“The official launch of Open Data Philippines underscores the exact same spirit of openness and participative governance that President Aquino’s reform agenda is founded on. With hundreds of data sets now accessible to anyone with an internet connection, the public can now take a better look at government data and subject them to closer scrutiny. Are government agencies fulfilling their targets? Are we spending public funds properly so that basic services are promptly and efficiently delivered?

“The information in Open Data Philippines can help answer these and many other questions, and we believe that the accessibility of this information will help spur public engagement further, so that more and more Filipinos will become our partners in instituting lasting reform,” Presidential Spokesperson Sec. Edwin Lacierda said.

Other highlights in the event include the presentation of results of the 2013 Annual Enterprise Survey on Corruption, the presentation of the Seal of Good Local Governance, and the presentation of Public Financial Management Reforms under the Aquino administration.

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Philippine Embassies in Damascus and Beirut repatriate 21 Filipinos from Syria

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

14 January 2014- The Philippine Embassies in Damascus and Beirut, Lebanon once again facilitated the successful repatriation to the Philippines of another batch of 21 Filipinos from Syria on January 8.

The group was brought by the personnel of the Philippine Embassy in Damascus to the Syrian-Lebanese border by bus.

A team from the Embassy in Beirut composed of Vice Consul Dennis John Briones and Cultural Officer Gladys Perey assisted in the same-day cross-border repatriation. The Embassy team frist assisted the group when they crossed the Syrian-Lebanese border. After undergoing entry immigration procedures in Masna’a, the Embassy team escorted the repatriates direnctly to the Rafik Hariri International Airport in Beirut.

At exactly 4:30 P.M., the repatriates left Beirut for Abu Dhabi where they took their flight to Manila. The group arrived in Manila on January 9 via Etihad Airways flight EY 424.

This was the 44th cross-border operation undertaken by the two Embassies. Their arrival brought the number of Filipinos repatriated from Syria to 5,137. Of that number, 2,112 were repatriated via Lebanon.

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DENR, GIZ to release report on management effectiveness of Ph protected areas

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

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ) will unveil on Wednesday a report assessing management effectiveness of 61 out of 240 protected areas (PA) in the country.

DENR Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje will keynote the event which will be held at the Oakwood Premier Joy-Nostalg Center in Pasig City.

The National Management Effectiveness and Capacity Assessment (NMECA) report will be presented by its authors, Dr. Ernesto Guiang and Gilbert Magno Braganza.

Also expected to grace the occasion are members of the panel of reactors consisting of former Senator Edgardo Angara, author of the National Integrated Protected Areas System or NIPAS Act; former DENR Secretary Victor O. Ramos; League of Municipalities president Leonardo Javier, Jr.; Elvira Baladad and Dr. J. Prospero E. de Vera III.

Mr. Berthold Schirm of GIZ and principal advisor of the Protected Area Management Enhancement Project will also be on hand to give the closing remarks and to handover the NMECA report to Paje.

The study was part of PAME Project being implemented by the Biodiversity Management Bureau (formerly Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau) of the DENR, with P450 million-support from the German government’s Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU) through GIZ.

Experts in their respective fields led the study teams that finalized the results of the report. Among them are Silliman University President Ben Malayang III, former DENR Assistant Secretary Raphael Camat, Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) Director Dr. Gil Saguiguit Jr., and University of the Philippines in Los Baños Chancellor Rex Victor Cruz.

The PAME program began in 2012 and is set to be completed in five years. It aims to enhance the management of 60 existing terrestrial and marine protected areas in the country and to establish 100 new ones by 2017.

The program also seeks to help the government assess and improve the effectiveness of Protected Area Management in identified Key Biodiversity Areas (KBA). The same may be worked out through the introduction of improved planning, legal financial and protected systems, as well as strengthening the management and technical competencies of relevant DENR staff. It also calls for the improvement of legislative conditions for the protection and management of KBA’s while raising awareness about the value of biodiversity conservation and protected area management.

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Former Romblon prof, DOST’s Most Outstanding Provincial S&T Director

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

MANILA, Jan. 13 (PIA) - A former professor of statistics and agricultural engineering at the Romblon State University was adjudged as the best provincial science and technology (S&T) director of the entire Department of Science and Technology (DOST) system during the Outstanding Provincial S&T Director awarding ceremony at the DOST Executive Lounge in Bicutan, Taguig City recently.

Dr. Bilshan Servañez of Region IV-B Romblon, who has been in government service for 22 years, bested three other finalists to garner the esteemed award. Engr. Mario dela Peña of Region VII Siquijor grabbed first place, while Felina C. Malabanan of Region IV-A Batangas and Angelita Parungao of Region III Bulacan, took runner-up positions in the annual awarding rites.

“This is important for me,” says Dr. Servañez of the recognition. “This is actually an affirmation of the decision that I made.”

Twenty-two years ago, he made the shift from the academe to industry, choosing to work at the DOST office in Romblon. “I took up engineering and wanted to become a scientist,” he narrates. Thus, he jumped ship and moved to the Department for the chance to apply to actual use the things he learned in engineering school. From that time on, Dr. Bilshan Servañez never looked back.

“We are a province with a backwater economy so we only have small industries there. The only huge industry we have is the marble industry,“ he shares, “but what we lack in size, we make up in number.”

According to him, the Romblon office is presently handling about 62 SETUP projects in Romblon. Citing the distant location of the market in their area and the problems involved such as transportation costs, Dr. Servañez stated that as a solution, DOST cultivates the local market for these SETUP products which they produce at top level quality.

However, he added that some of the products do end up in the bigger market, such as peanut butter which they sell to a locator in Shoe Mart. “The next time you eat pancakes or waffles with peanut butter, think Romblon,” he says.

“We also bring our marble to the province. We have several contributions to the marble industry - cutting machine, turning machines, polishing machines, lathe machines – we deploy all these to the marble sector,” Dr. Servanez proudly states.

He also mentioned their linkages, explaining that he submits proposals to other agencies as well, such as the Department of Labor and Employment.

All these factors, Dr. Servañez believes, are what make them tick, thus making his big win as Most Outstanding Provincial S&T Director of the year possible.

DOST’s top four provincial S&T directors received citations and cash prizes. (Angelica A. de Leon, S&T Media Service, DOST-STII /PIA-Caraga)

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SSS cuts UMID processing time, cites steps for claiming RTS cards

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

The Social Security System (SSS) has cut down the processing time of members' identification cards to 10 working days, enabling it to eliminate its production backlog and bring the total number of SSS-issued IDs under the Unified Multi-purpose Identification System (UMID) to over three million so far.

The 10-working day processing time starts from the date of application up to the date the UMID card package is released to the Philippine Postal Corporation (PhilPost) for delivery to the member's mailing address.

“UMID production entails much more than printing a member's photo and personal details on a plastic card. The system uses biometric technology to confirm a person's identity and prevent issuance of multiple UMID cards that may be used to defraud SSS of undeserved benefits and services,” SSS said.

UMID applications start with the data capture, or the enrollment of biometric information – such as fingerprints, photo and signature – and encoding of the applicant's name, address, parents' names and other demographic data. To ensure that only one UMID card will be issued to an individual, the member's fingerprints are compared with other fingerprints in the database during the centralized biometric data matching process. This is done overnight, after the applications are received at the branches.

Applications with a fingerprint match are immediately investigated by SSS, while those passing the uniqueness check are assigned a Common Reference Number (CRN), and then sent for card printing and personalization of the contactless smartchip, which takes three working days.

To ensure good quality, each printed card undergoes visual inspection within one to two working days, depending on the volume of cards, and then forwarded for card packaging, a one-day process that also includes the readability check and data verification of the smartchip. Afterwards, the UMID card package is sent to PhilPost for delivery via registered mail as the final step. Mailing takes five to seven working days for addresses in Metro Manila, seven to 10 working days for outside Metro Manila, and 10 to 20 working days for remote areas.

For applicants still waiting for their UMID card after two months, it is likely that their UMID application was rejected due to a previously issued card with the same fingerprint but different SSS number --- which indicates a fraudulent application using multiple identities.

“Another, and more common, possibility is that their UMID card was declared as RTS (return-to-sender) and sent back to the SSS by PhilPost after three unsuccessful mailing attempts. RTS cards are caused by the change in the member's mailing address or the lack of people to claim the card during the time of delivery,” SSS said.

Members can claim their RTS card at the SSS branch where they had applied for the UMID. To check their UMID card status, members can check the list found in the SSS Website (www.sss.gov.ph), email sss_id@sss.gov.ph, contact the SSS Call Center (920-6446 to 55), or call the concerned SSS office, using the SSS Branch Directory uploaded at the SSS Website as reference.

Members claiming their UMID cards must present one primary ID or document such as government-issued IDs, birth or baptismal certificate, or company ID. Two secondary IDs and documents, one of which bearing the member's photo, can also be used in claiming the card.

“A representative can also claim the UMID card on behalf of the member by showing a letter of authorization. The letter must be signed by the member and mention the IDs and documents of both the SSS member and representative that will be presented while claiming the UMID card. SSS' identification requirements for the representative are the same as those for members,” SSS said.

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Announcement: PRB Vacancies (January 13, 2014)

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

Pursuant to Executive Order No. 496 and PRC Resolution No. 2013-737, the PRB Screening Committee invites qualified applicant/professionals to fill up the vacancies in the following Professional Regulatory Boards:

Aeronautical Engineering (Presidential Decree No. 1570)
Agricultural Engineering (Republic Act No. 8559)
Agriculture (PRC Resolution No. 2000-663)
Chemical Engineering (Republic Act No. 9267)
Chemistry (Republic Act No. 754)
Electrical Engineering (Republic Act No. 7920)
Environmental Planning (Presidential Decree No. 1308)
Fisheries (PRC Resolution No. 2000-664)
Foresters (Republic Act No. 6239)
Geodetic Engineering (Republic Act No. 8560)
Geology (Republic Act No. 4209)
Guidance Counseling (Republic Act No. 9258)
Interior Design (Republic Act No. 8534)
Landscape Architecture (Republic Act No. 9053)
Marine Deck Officers (Republic Act No. 8544)
Marine Engineer Officers (Republic Act No. 8544)
Medical Technology (Republic Act No. 5527)
Metallurgical Engineering (Presidential Decree No. 1536)
Mining Engineering (Republic Act No. 4274)
Naval and Architecture Engineering (Republic Act No. 4565)
Nutrition and Dietetics (Presidential Decree No. 1286)
Physical and Occupational Therapy (Republic Act No. 5680)
Professional Teachers (Republic Act No. 7836)
Radiologic Technology (Republic Act No. 7431)
Sanitary Engineering (Republic Act No. 1364)
Social Workers (Republic Act No. 4373)

Interested parties may submit applications to the Committee through the PRB Selection Committee Secretariat of the Professional Regulation Commission within thirty (30) days from the date of this publication. The qualification criteria (subject to the provisions of applicable laws) and required documents are posted in the PRC website. Application forms may be downloaded from this LINK.
Under no circumstances will applications be entertained without the required documents and updated clearances.
(orig. signed)
ENRIQUETA G. BAUTISTA
Chairman, PRB Screening Committee
Approved by:
(orig. signed)
TERESITA R. MANZALA
Chairperson, Professional Regulation Commission

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PCW launches film making contest for 2014 Women’s Month

Source: http://pcw.gov.ph

College students across the country may now get the chance to showcase their artistry and creativity as the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) launched a film making contest in line with the upcoming Women's Month Celebration.

The short film-making contest, which runs from January 10 to February 21, aims to raise public awareness on women's issues, particularly the vital role of women in disaster response, media, peace building, politics and governance, and reproductive health.

Entries must depict current issues and challenges being faced by women in the aforementioned categories and must highlight the rights and roles of women in responding to these issues as provided under the Magna Carta of Women (R.A. 9710).

Interested teams may join in all five categories.

Video entries must be all original and should have not been previously published, recorded or released.

For the complete contest mechanics, you may visit PCW website (http://bit.ly/1dLhK64).

Should you have questions regarding the contest, you may contact Information Resource Management Division (IRMD) at 735-1654 local 131or 735-8509 or email irmd@pcw.gov.ph. Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/philippine.commissiononwomen.

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DepEd sets early registration on January 25

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

PASIG CITY – The Department of Education (DepEd) has set January 25, 2014 (Saturday) as the date for early registration in all public elementary and secondary schools nationwide. One goal of DepEd Order No. 2 s.2014 is to gather information to base its preparations to address potential gaps that may arise even before regular enrolment.

“We want to prevent logistical problems when the new school year starts in June,” explains Education Secretary Br Armin Luistro FSC. “If our school heads know how many students they will have ahead of time, they can better prepare classrooms and seats and learning materials.”

The specific target of the early registration are all five-year olds to ensure their enrolment in kindergarten and all six-year olds to ensure that they are enrolled in Grade 1 come June.

Other targets of the early registration are out-of-school children (OSC) and out-of-school youth (OSY) from the disadvantaged groups, including street children ages 5 to 18. These targeted learners will be provided with their preferred education delivery system which could either be formal through the alternative delivery mode (ADM) or through the alternative learning system (ALS).

To ensure universal participation, DepEd has enlisted the assistance of local and barangay officials for the early registration of OSC, the OSY, those with difficulty in learning and the indigenous peoples (IPs).

The early registration will see DepEd working closely with the LGUs, the Parent-Teachers Associations, barangay officials, civil society groups, civic organizations and the business sector to ensure wide sectoral participation in the exercise.

“Our collective aim is a smooth June school opening, that is why we are preparing as early as January,” Luistro said.

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Last Updated: 15 JANUARY 2014
Google+ Photo Releases of PNoy
Please click on thumbnails to magnify


			President Benigno S. Aquino lll attends the Good Governance Summit 2014 with the theme of "Good Governance through Open Government and Sustainable Procurement" at the Philippine International Convention Center, CCP CCP Complex in Pasay City on Wednesday (January 15). Also in photo are from left, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda, DepEd Secretary Armin Luistro, DILG Secretary Mar Roxas II, DOJ Secretary Leila De Lima, DBM Secretary Florencio Abad, Secretary to the Cabinet Rene Almendras, Central Bank Governor Amando Tetangco, Presidential Legislative Liason Officer Manuel Mamba. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan/Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino lll receives from Citibank Corporate and Investment Banking Vice Chairman Jay Collins and Citibank CEO Philippines Batara Siantun an enlarged cashless purchase card, during the ceremonial turn-over of the Cashless Purchase Card System at the Good Governance Summit 2014 with the theme of " Good Governance through Open Government and Sustainable Procurement " at the Philippine International Convention Center, CCP Complex in Pasay City on Wednesday (January 15). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan/Rey Baniquet/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino lll delivers his speech during the Good Governance Summit 2014 with the theme of "Good Governance through Open Government and Sustainable Procurement " at the Philippine International Convention Center, CCP Complex in Pasay City on Wednesday (January 15). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan/ Ryan Lim/ Rey Baniquet/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the groundbreaking ceremony of San Gabriel Power Plant Project in Brgy. Sta Rita, Batangas City Tuesday, January 14, 2014 as Francis Giles Puno, President and COO of First Gen Corp., Batangas Governor Ms. Vilma Santos-Recto, DOE Secretary Jerico Petilla, First Gen Vice President Richard Tantoco, Mr. Oscar Lopez of Lopez Griup of Company and Ernesto Pantangco also of First Gen listen. First Gen operates the San Gabriel Power Plant and is the leading clean and renewable energy company in the Philippines with an installed capacity of 2,763 megawatts. (Photo by Ryan Lim/Malacanang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the ceremonial laying of the San Gabriel Power Plant Project time capsule in Brgy. Sta Rita, Batangas City on Tuesday (January 14). with the President Chair and CEO of First Gen Corp Federico Lopez which operates San Gabriel Power Plant is the leading clean and renewable energy company in the Philippines with an installed capacity of 2,763 megawatts. (Photo by Ryan Lim/Malacanang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III leads the ceremonial laying of the San Gabriel Power Plant Project time capsule in Brgy. Sta Rita, Batangas City on Tuesday (January 14). Assisting the President are Federico Lopez, Chair and CEO of First Gen Corp.; Lopez Group of Company; Emiritus Oscar Lopez, DOE Sec. Jerico Petilla, Batangas Governor Ms. Vilma Santos-Recto, Richard Tantoco, Exec. Vice President, First Gen Corp. and Francis Giles Puno, President and COO First Gen Corporation First Gen Corporation First Gen operates San Gabriel Power Plant and is the leading clean and renewable energy company in the Philippines with an installed capacity of 2,763 megawatts. (Photo by Ryan Lim/Malacanang Photo Bureau)

			Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Sonny Coloma presents Minister Yoshitaka Shindo of Japan Internal Affairs and Communications with token of appreciation during their bilateral meeting Monday (January 13) held at the Edsa Shangri-La in Mandaluyong City. (Photo by Luisito L Iglesias / NIB)

			Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Sonny Coloma is shown an exhibit of computer technology Minister Yoshitaka Shindo of Japan Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications and Ambassador Toshinao Urabe of Japan during the bilateral meeting Monday (January 13) held at the Edsa Shangri-La Hotel in Mandaluyong City. (Photo by Luisito L Iglesias / NIB)

			Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Sonny Coloma with Minister of Internal Affairs and Communications Yoshitaka Shindo and Japan Ambassador to the Philippines Toshinao Urabe exchanging pleasantries during a bilateral meeting Monday (January 13) held at the Edsa Shangri-La Hotel in Mandaluyong City. Also in photo (second from right) is PCOO Assistant Secretary Jess Anthony Yu. (Photo by Luisito L Iglesias / NIB)

			Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Sonny Coloma greets Minister of Internal Affairs and Communications, Yoshitaka Shindo, and Japan Ambassador to the Philippines Toshinao Urabe (January 13) during a bilateral meeting held at the Edsa Shangri-La Hotel in Mandaluyong City. (Photo by Luisito L Iglesias/NIB)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III leads the traditional toast for the New Year’s Vin d’ Honneur at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (January 10). The annual reception which marks the 27th Vin d’ Honneur since the 1986 EDSA Revolution was attended by government officials, members of the Diplomatic Corps, officials of international organizations and businessmen. (Photo by Lauro Montellano Jr./ Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his message during the New Year’s Vin d’ Honneur at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (January 10). The annual reception which marks the 27th Vin d’ Honneur since the 1986 EDSA Revolution was attended by government officials, members of the Diplomatic Corps, officials of international organizations and businessmen. (Photo by Ryan Lim/ Gil Nartea/ Lauro Montellano Jr./ Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III, accompanied by the Papal Nuncio to the Philippines and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Archbishop Guiseppe Pinto and Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, leads the traditional toast for the New Year’s Vin d’ Honneur at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (January 10.) The annual reception which marks the 27th Vin d’ Honneur since the 1986 EDSA Revolution was attended by government officials, members of the Diplomatic Corps, officials of international organizations and businessmen. (Photo by Ryan Lim/ Gil Nartea / Rey Baniquet/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III accepts the credentials of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to the Philippines, His Excellency Safdar Hayat, during the presentation of credentials at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (January 09, 2014). Also in photo is Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau/ Exequiel Supera / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)

			His Excellency Safdar Hayat, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to the Philippines, reviews the honor guards during the arrival honors accorded him at the Malacañang Grounds for the presentation of credentials on Thursday (January 09). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			Islamic Republic of Pakistan Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Philippines, His Excellency Safdar Hayat, signs the Palace Guest Book at the Reception Hall of the Malacañan Palace for the presentation of credentials on Thursday (January 09). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III exchanges views with Norwegian Foreign Minister Borge Brende during the Courtesy Call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (January 09, 2014). Norway is the Philippines’ 61st export market in 2012 and Norwegian investments are mostly in maritime and power sectors. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III exchanges views with Norwegian Foreign Minister Borge Brende during the Courtesy Call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (January 09, 2014). Norway is the Philippines’ 61st export market in 2012 and Norwegian investments are mostly in maritime and power sectors. Also in photo are Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Teresita Quintos-Deles, Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Emilio Aguinaldo Abaya and Presidential Assistant for Rehabilitation and Recovery Panfilo Lacson. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes Norwegian Foreign Minister Borge Brende during the Courtesy Call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (January 09, 2014). Norway is the Philippines’ 61st export market in 2012 and Norwegian investments are mostly in maritime and power sectors. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau / Exequiel Supera / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)

			Norwegian Foreign Minister Borge Brende signs the Palace Guest Book at the Reception Hall of the Malacañan Palace for the courtesy call on Thursday (January 09, 2014). Norway is the Philippines’ 61st export market in 2012 and Norwegian investments are mostly in maritime and power sectors. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III leads his official family in prayer before presiding over the meeting on Yolanda Rehabilitation at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (January 09). Also in photo are Health Secretary Enrique Ona, Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima, Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala, Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo, Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II, Social Welfare and Development Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman, Presidential Assistant for Rehabilitation and Recovery Panfilo Lacson, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Education Secretary Armin Luistro and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority director general Emmanuel Joel Villanueva. (Photo by Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III presides over the meeting on Yolanda Rehabilitation at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (January 09). Also in photo are Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez, Jr., Health Secretary Enrique Ona, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima, Commission on Higher Education (CHED) chairperson Patricia Licuanan, Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II, Social Welfare and Development Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman and Presidential Assistant for Rehabilitation and Recovery Panfilo Lacson. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III presides over the meeting on Yolanda Rehabilitation at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (January 09). Also in photo are Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez, Jr., Health Secretary Enrique Ona, Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima, Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II, Social Welfare and Development Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman and Presidential Assistant for Rehabilitation and Recovery Panfilo Lacson. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III leads his official family in prayer before presiding over the meeting on Yolanda Rehabilitation at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (January 09). Also in photo are Health Secretary Enrique Ona, Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima and Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala. (Photo by Rey Baniquet / Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III with MMDA chairman Francis Tolentino talks to the MMDA rescuers who helped the Yolanda victims recently during the launching of the new Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Traffic Signalization System and Command and Control Center at the new MMDA Command and Control Center in Orense Street, Guadalupe Nuevo, Makati City on Wednesday (January 08). The new upgraded Information Technology (IT)-based traffic signalization system is set towards elevating mobility management through a comprehensive and integrated approach. Also in photo is Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. (Photo by Robert Viñas / Rodolfo Manabat/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III with MMDA Chair Francis Tonlentino graces the launching of the new Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Traffic Signalization System and Command and Control Center at the new MMDA Command and Control Center in Orense Street, Guadalupe Nuevo, Makati City on Wednesday (January 08). The new upgraded Information Technology-based traffic signalization system is set towards elevating mobility management in the future, through comprehensive and integrated approach that improves not just vehicle movement, but also the overall network movement of people, goods and services. Phase 1 of the project includes the installation of 25 new fiber optic, high definition Pan-Tilt-Zoom Traffic Control/Video surveillance cameras and 36 45-inch video screens to monitor activities, where around 150 CCTV and IP cameras are currently installed all over Metro Manila. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the launching of the new Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Traffic Signalization System and Command and Control Center at the new MMDA Command and Control Center in Orense Street, Guadalupe Nuevo, Makati City on Wednesday (January 08). The new upgraded Information Technology-based traffic signalization system is set towards elevating mobility management in the future, through a comprehensive and integrated approach that improves not just vehicle movement, but also the overall network movement of people, goods and services. Phase 1 of the project includes the installation of 25 new fiber optic, high definition Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) Traffic Control/Video surveillance cameras and 36 45-inch video screens to monitor activities, where around 150 CCTV and IP cameras are currently installed all over Metro Manila. (Photo by Gil Nartea/ Benhur Arcayan/ Robert Viñas/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III watches the video launching of the new Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Traffic Signalization System and Command and Control Center at the new MMDA Command and Control Center in Orense Street, Guadalupe Nuevo, Makati City on Wednesday (January 08). The new upgraded Information Technology-based traffic signalization system is set towards elevating mobility management in the future, through a comprehensive and integrated approach that improves not just vehicle movement, but also the overall network movement of people, goods and services. Phase 1 of the project includes the installation of 25 new fiber optic, high definition Pan-Tilt-Zoom Traffic Control/Video surveillance cameras and 36 45-inch video screens to monitor activities, where around 150 CCTV and IP cameras are currently installed all over Metro Manila. Also in photo is Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. (Photo by Gil NArtea/ Benhur Arcayan/ Robert Viñas/ Rodolfo Manabat/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III accepts the credentials of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Lithuania to the Philippines, His Excellency Egidijus Meilunas, during the presentation of credentials at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (January 08). Also in photo are Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and Chief of Presidential Protocol Ambassador Celia Anna Feria. (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes Independent State of Samoa Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Philippines, His Excellency Leiataua Tuitolova’a Dr. Kilifoti Eteauati, during the presentation of credentials at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (January 08). Also in photo are Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and Chief of Presidential Protocol Ambassador Celia Anna Feria. (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes Republic of Zambia Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Philippines, His Excellency Miles Kaweche Banda, during the presentation of credentials at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (January 08). Also in photo are Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and Chief of Presidential Protocol Ambassador Celia Anna Feria. (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III accepts the credentials of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Sudan to the Philippines, His Excellency Khalid Abdelgadir Shukri, during the presentation of credentials at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (January 08). (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes Portuguese Republic Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Philippines, His Excellency Joaquim Alberto de Sousa Moreira de Lemos, during the presentation of credentials at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (January 08). Also in photo are Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and Chief of Presidential Protocol Ambassador Celia Anna Feria. (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III accepts the credentials of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Botswana to the Philippines, His Excellency Jacob Dickie Nkate during the presentation of credentials at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (January 08). Also in photo is Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario. (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III accepts the credentials of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia to the Philippines, His Excellency Dr. Dibaba Abdetta during the presentation of credentials at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (January 08). Also I n photo is Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario. (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III prepares to receive the credentials of non-resident ambassadors in a ceremony at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (January 08). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III huddles with Ambassadors Khalid Abdelgadir Shukri of Sudan; Jacob Dickie Nkate of Botswana; Titi Amina Pardi of Suriname; Dr. Dibaba Abdetta of Ethiopia; Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario; Joaquim Alberto de Sousa Moreira de Lemos of Portugal; Miles Kaweche Banddo of Zambia; Egidijus Meilunas of Lithuania; and Leiataua Tuitolova’a Dr. Kilifoti Eteauati of Samoa for a group photo souvenir during the presentation of credentials at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (January 08). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes Republic of Lithuania Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Philippines, His Excellency Egidijus Meilunas, during the presentation of credentials at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (January 08). Also in photo are Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and Chief of Presidential Protocol Ambassador Celia Anna Feria. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III accepts the credentials of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Independent State of Samoa to the Philippines, His Excellency Leiataua Tuitolova’a Dr. Kilifoti Eteauati, during the presentation of credentials at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (January 08). Also in photo are Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and Chief of Presidential Protocol Ambassador Celia Anna Feria. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III accepts the credentials of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Zambia to the Philippines, His Excellency Miles Kaweche Banda, during the presentation of credentials at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (January 08). Also in photo are Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and Chief of Presidential Protocol Ambassador Celia Anna Feria. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes Republic of Sudan Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Philippines, His Excellency Khalid Abdelgadir Shukri, during the presentation of credentials at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (January 08). Also in photo are Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and Chief of Presidential Protocol Ambassador Celia Anna Feria. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III accepts the credentials of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Portuguese Republic to the Philippines, His Excellency Joaquim Alberto de Sousa Moreira de Lemos, during the presentation of credentials at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (January 08). Also in photo are Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and Chief of Presidential Protocol Ambassador Celia Anna Feria. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes Republic of Botswana Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Philippines, His Excellency Jacob Dickie Nkate during the presentation of credentials at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (January 08). Also in photo are Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and Chief of Presidential Protocol Ambassador Celia Anna Feria. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Philippines His Excellency Dr. Dibaba Abdetta during the presentation of credentials at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (January 08). Also in photo are Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and Chief of Presidential Protocol Ambassador Celia Anna Feria. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III accepts the credentials of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Suriname to the Philippines Her Excellency Titi Amina Pardi during the presentation of credentials at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (January 08). Also in photo are Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and Chief of Presidential Protocol Ambassador Celia Anna Feria. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

			President Benigno S. Aquino III, accompanied by Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and Chief of Presidential Protocol Ambassador Celia Anna Feria, prepares to receive the credentials of non-resident ambassadors in a ceremony at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (January 08). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

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