 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III's Speech at the 35th commencement exercises of Philippine National Police Academy "Mandilaab" Class 2014 |
Silang, Cavite |
31 March 2014 |
Magandang tanghali po sa inyong lahat. Sa araw na ito, binibigyang-pugay natin ang 202 magigiting na kadete ng Philippine National Police Academy. Matapos ninyong lampasan ang apat na taon ng mga hamon at pagsubok, tunay ngang maipagmamalaki natin ang tagumpay ninyong ito—Kayong sinubok ang tatag, at hindi nagpatinag; sinukat ang husay at lakas, at nagpakitang-gilas, kaya’t ngayon ay taas-noong humaharap sa taumbayan para sabihing, “Mga boss, handa na kaming paglingkuran kayo.” Bilang panibagong henerasyon ng mga lingkod-bayang hinubog ng PNPA, tiwala akong buong-loob ninyong haharapin ang mga pagsubok na nag-aabang sa inyo sa labas ng akademya. Inaasahan kong malinaw sa inyo kung ano ang tama at mali; inaasahan kong bilang tagapagpatupad ng batas, kayo naman ay hindi magkukulang sa pagsunod nito: Hindi kayo magiging pulis na magmamaneho nang walang lisensya o magpapasimuno ng tong-pats; hindi ninyo hahayaan ang sariling maging kasangkapan sa pagtakas ng preso, o kaya ay maging bumberong usad-pagong kung sumaklolo pagkatapos ng negosasyon. Sa halip, magsilbi sana kayong bantayog ng katarungan, integridad, at serbisyo. Umaasa akong hindi ninyo bibiguin ang ating mga Boss. Ang tinitiyak ko naman: kung handa kayong tumalikod sa tukso; kung handa kayong tugisin ang tumatakas sa batas, at walang takot kayong susuong sa peligro para protektahan ang inyong kapwa, magiging katambal ng inyong serbisyo ang tiwala ng bawat isang Pilipino. Tandaan din ninyo: Anumang pinalusot ninyong katiwalian sa inyong hanay ay pihadong magdadala ng perhuwisyo sa ating kababayan. Kapag pinili ninyong magbulag-bulagan sa pang-aapi sa karapatan ng mamamayan, asahan ninyong bukas-makalawa, karapatan naman ninyo ang mismong yuyurakan. Batid naman po ninyo ang nagbabagong mukha ng serbisyong pampubliko sa ating bansa. Kabilang nga po sa nanguna sa transpormasyong ito ay ang inyong liderato, sa pamumuno ng kagalang-galang Kalihim Mar Roxas ng Department of the Interior and Local Government. Sa mabuting pamamahala, tinatapos natin ang panahon ng agam-agam dahil sa kakulangan sa armas at kagamitan. Siguro po, mayroon pa sa inyong nakakaalala ng dinatnan nating imahen ng pulis, warden, at bumbero. Isipin na lang natin ang inyong mga kasamahang walang baril na tangan sa serbisyo. Aasa ba tayong kapag ipinakita niya ang kanyang tsapa o hawak na batuta sa tinutugis na kriminal, ay kusa at boluntaryo susuko ang kriminal na tinutugis na ito? Paano kaya reresponde nang mabilis ang ating mga bumbero kung kulang at kakarag-karag naman ang ating mga trak? Sa loob ng matagal na panahon, nakulong sa ganitong sitwasyon ang inyong hanay; pinaasa kayo sa “baka sakali,” sinanay kayo sa “puwede na rin ‘yan,” at pinaniwala pa kayong “brand new yata ‘yan,” samantalang secondhand naman pala, kung suwerte pa tayo. Ang resulta: mababang kalidad ng serbisyo, at mga buhay ninyong lalong nailalagay sa peligro. Malayong-malayo rito ang ginagawa natin sa tuwid na daan. Nakabili na tayo ng 74,879 na glock 17 pistol para sa ating mga kapulisan. Ang karamihan sa mga baril na ito, naipamahagi na sa kinauukulan, at hinihintay na lang na matapos ang ballistics test para natitirang hindi pa napapamudmod. Hindi magtatagal, makakamit na natin ang 1:1 police-to-pistol ratio. Ang good news nga, kasama na rin sa mabibigyan ng mga bagong baril ang mga magpupulis na kasapi ng Class Mandilaab. [Applause] Mahigit dalawang bilyong piso po ang inilaan natin para sa mobility, firearms, investigation, communication, at rehabilitation components ng PNP sa ilalim ng ating Operational Transformation Plan. Ongoing na ang procurement para sa 882 units ng patrol jeep, 17,680 units ng assault rifle, mahigit 200,000 magazine para sa basic assault rifle; at ng halos 5,000 unit ng mobile radio. Bukod dito, inaprubahan na natin ang pagpapalakas sa kakayahan ng ating government arsenal na lumikha ng small arms ammunition, na tutugon sa pangangailangan ng AFP, PNP, at ng mga ahensya nating nagpapatupad ng batas. Para naman sa ating mga tagapangasiwa ng piitan, nakapag-procure na tayo ng 4,888 units ng 9mm pistols upang tugunan rin ang halos 41 porsyento na kakulangan nito. Sa mga susunod pong buwan, inaasahan na rin nating maabot ang 1:1 jail officer-to-pistol ratio. Gayundin, umaarangkada na ang pagpapaunlad sa kapasidad ng Bureau of Fire Protection. Nitong nakaraang taon, napasakamay na natin ang 76 Rosenbauer fire trucks. Mas mataas ang kalidad ng makina at water pump discharge capacity nito, pero mas mura pa rin nating nabili, dahil sa katapatang naghahari ngayon sa ating mga proseso ng procurement. Dagdag pa rito, naglaan din tayo ng P3.6 billion para sa pagbili pa ng tinatayang 300 fire truck, at pagpapatayo ng humigit-kumulang 300 fire station. Talaga naman pong ang dating inakalang imposible, ngayon, isinasakatuparan na natin. Walang magic na ginawa upang mabili ang mga kagamitang ito; sumunod lang ang inyong mga pinuno sa kanilang mga sinumpaang tungkulin. Ngayon, mas may kakayahan na ang ating unipormadong hanay. Inaasahan nga po natin, na kung paanong ginampanan ng inyong pamunuan ang kanilang tungkulin, ganoon din ang ipapamalas ninyong katapatan bilang mga bagong produkto ng PNPA. Malinaw po: May gobyerno nang kumakalinga at nagpapahalaga sa inyong ambag sa lipunan. Ang tapang na ipapakita ninyo sa pagtatanggol ng bayan laban sa krimen, ang dedikasyon ninyong iligtas ang buhay ng ating mga kababayan mula sa sunog, at ang katapatan ninyo sa pagbabantay sa loob ng mga piitan—ito po ang siya mismong diwang magpapasulong sa atin sa tuwid na daan. Ang hamon at atas ko naman sa lahat ng bumubuo ng Class Mandilaab—ang mga Mandirigmang May Dangal at Isipan Laan Para sa Bayan—saan man kayong lugar madestino, anumang luho o tukso ang sumubok sa tibay ng inyong prinsipyo; lagi kayong pumanig sa tama, at sa kung ano ang mas makabubuti sa inyong kapwa. Nawa’y isabuhay at panindigan ninyo ang panata ng bawat kadeteng Mandilaab: ang saysay ng buhay ninyong mga mandirigma, ay nasa pag-aalay nito sa kapwa. Abot-tanaw na po ang permanenteng transpormasyon sa ating lipunan. Binubuksan na natin ang bagong kabanata sa kasaysayan ng ating bansa kung saan ang kumakayod nang husto ay ginagantimpalaan ng pag-asenso. Nawa’y maging alagad kayo ng positibong pagbabago upang magpatuloy ang kaunlarang tinatamasa. Sa gabay at tulong ng Panginoon, at sa pakikibalikat ng sambayanan, lalo pa nating palakasin ang hanay nating tumatahak sa tuwid na daan, diretso sa kinabukasang tunay na mapayapa, patas, at maunlad. Maraming salamat, at maligayang pagtatapos po sa inyong lahat. |
| |
President Benigno S. Aquino III's Speech at the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry diamond anniversary gala night |
Solaire Resort and Casino, Parañanque City |
29 March 2014 |
Sa totoo lang po, ‘pag humaharap ako sa inyo may kaunti akong pressure. Noong umpisa ho kase, Dr. Cecilio Pedro—na malapit na ho yata maging pastor—entrepreneur, parang ngayon pastor, tapos ang galing ho mag-declaim. Ganda ng boses talaga. Palagay ko pupunta na ho sa culture and arts si Dr. San Pedro, shortly. Ang ating pong kagalang-galang na presidente si Dr. Alfonso Siy, ‘pag nakikita ko siya, miski gaano kalakas ang pakiramdam ko, parang feeling ko nanlalata ako. [Laughter] Kailangan ko yata makita, for the first time, kailan siya magiging lacking in energy. He seems to be always full of energy. I was asking him if he is a stockholder of Red Bull or Lipovitan. I am not surprised to see plenty of familiar faces in the crowd tonight. After all, I was just with you for the signing of the memorandum of agreement between your federation and the local government of Leyte. Nevertheless, I made sure to be here tonight, because I want to recognize and underscore your organization’s profound impact not just on the greater economy, but on the day to day lives of our countrymen. I know you do not like to call attention to yourselves, but the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry deserves credit for your contributions for the public good. You were there to lend a helping hand when we set out to end our inherited backlog in classrooms back in 2010. Since we took office, you have donated around 1,360 classrooms, a large portion of which was for public schools. Your work has been a significant boost to our efforts, and it helped us finally end the backlog by December 2013. We even exceeded our target by 13 classrooms. On top of that, every year, you average 45 medical and dental missions in and around Metro Manila, treating around 800 patients for each one. I am also told that, for your 60th anniversary, you are funding the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority’s Green Innovation Technology Center, which will be a hub for a number of our technical-vocational and training programs. And perhaps I can share with you a piece of good news: TESDA, under the able leadership of Director General Joel Villianueva, has reached a new record. Their most recent batch of trainees for the semiconductor industry posted a 91-percent placement ratio. [Applause] But of course, knowing Joel, a person who has tremendous drive, perhaps 99.99% will be in a few months time. And of course, how can we forget your contributions at the wake of Typhoon Yolanda? Whether it is through the 500 housing units you are constructing in Palo, Leyte, or the P150 million you raised for relief and rehabilitation efforts, you have eased the suffering of thousands of our countrymen, helping them along the path to recovery. For all these, allow me to reiterate my gratitude. Today, on your 60th anniversary, allow me to pose an even greater challenge to all of you: to take an even bigger part in nation-building by truly investing in our people. Perhaps I can elaborate: Historically, Chinese-Filipinos, as an ethnic group, have been widely acknowledged for their keen business sense. My suggestion is, moving forward, perhaps we can work together and find channels through which you can share your business acumen with our countrymen. For instance: perhaps you can create apprenticeship programs, through which aspiring Filipino entrepreneurs can learn from some of our country’s most experienced business people. I encourage you to do this because such a program will expand the menu of options available for our people. It enables Filipinos to learn from their fellow Filipinos, and rely on their innate creativity, skill, and work ethic to build businesses, directly create jobs, and contribute to their local economies. I am also aware that many of you are large players in your respective industries. My invitation to all of you: try to involve more micro, small, and medium enterprises in the larger supply chain. Look at how Jollibee, under Mr. Tony Tan Caktiong, has made a difference in our local communities. They have committed to buy onions from small-scale farmers through the Farmer Entrepreneurship Program. Recently, they have even expanded their program to cover rice, bell peppers, and tomatoes in Quezon, Bukidnon, and Misamis Oriental. I am confident that, if any of you are willing to strengthen your commitment, you can do the same for your industries. The potential for growth is staggering: In 2011, MSMEs and large enterprises generated a total of 6.3 million jobs. Together, we can bring this figure up by seizing opportunities for growth that are just on the horizon. Without doubt, this would be good news for your companies as well. Success for our fellow Filipinos will mean an increase in their income, which necessarily means an increase in their buying power. This leads to more demand for your products and services, which prompts you to hire even more workers to match the demand. In short, such initiatives to equip our people with the wherewithal to mold their own destinies ripple across every sector of society. These spark a virtuous cycle of empowerment, opportunity, and inclusive economic growth. I ask you to consider this because above and beyond the economic benefits, such an initiative would cement your legacy as a group that truly uplifts our countrymen—and at the same time takes a starring role in affirming the Philippines’ stature as a formidable contender in the global marketplace. It is my hope that, decades from now, organizations like yours will continue thinking of new ways to pursue our people’s shared prosperity. After all, it is through such dedication from each of our citizens that our country will ultimately achieve its collective goal: a society where each person has a role in nation-building; a country where no one is left behind; and a Philippines that stands as an example of how positive change is achieved. Thank you, and congratulations on your 60th anniversary. |
DBM gives green light to Bicol Airport Dev't; LRT 1 extension project also a go |
Source: http://www.dbm.gov.ph |
The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) today announced that a Multi-Year Obligational Authority has been issued to the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) in support of the Bicol International Airport Development Project. The new airport in the province of Albay—which will replace the existing airport in Legazpi city—is set to be completed in 2016. Budget Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad also confirmed the release of a separate MYOA to the DOTC for the Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line 1 North Extension Project. The project will mainly connect the LRT 1 Roosevelt station with the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) North Avenue Station, among others, and is scheduled to be completed next year. “The country’s public transportation system has long been due for an overhaul, and we’re making that happen. To date, we’ve given the DOTC the authority to enter into multi-year contracts for the completion of their transport infrastructure projects. This is of course in line with our goal to ramp up infrastructure development towards rapid, sustainable, and inclusive economic expansion,” Abad said. “The DOTC will finish the construction of the new Albay international airport by the end of President Aquino’s term. Improvements like this will help further economic development in the Bicol region. The new airport would also attract more local and foreign tourists to go out and truly experience what it is like when we say, “it’s more fun in the Philippines,” he added. Consistent with the 2011-2016 Philippine Development Plan, the MYOA supports the construction of the Bicol International Airport, which aims to provide the Bicol region a safe, efficient, and dependable transportation system that meets international standards and practices. The total project cost is estimated at P4.7 billion from 2013-2016, with DBM already releasing P150 million for the project this year via the 2014 General Appropriations Act (GAA). Of the P4.7 billion, a total of P2.1 billion has already been spent from 2007 to 2012 for advance works such as earthworks, right-of-way acquisitions, access road construction, and preliminary detailed engineering. On the other hand, the other MYOA released for the LRT 1 extension will provide a common station that will connect LRT and MRT for easy passenger transfer. The already completed Balintawak and Roosevelt stations for LRT 1 are also part of the project. “We understand the challenges that MRT commuters are now facing because of the improvements the government is making in Manila’s major road systems. However, these inconveniences should only be temporary, and the public can definitely expect better transport services as we work on a new interchange station linking the MRT and LRT stations. “This initiative also ties in with the MYOA we issued last month for the contactless smartcard fare collection system. By enhancing our services, we hope to encourage more motorists to make use of our public transport systems to help ease the traffic situation in the metro,” the Secretary added. Estimate of the total extension project cost is P1.4 billion, of which the budget department has already released P629 million this year, also from the 2014 GAA. Construction implementation is expected to start by October this year. |
Bank lending expands further in February |
Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph |
Outstanding loans of commercial banks, net of reverse repurchase (RRP) placements with the BSP, expanded by 19.4 percent in February from the previous month’s growth of 17.1 percent. Similarly, bank lending inclusive of RRPs grew by 18.0 percent from 15.9 percent in the previous month. On a month-on-month seasonally-adjusted basis, commercial bank lending increased by 2.5 percent for loans net of RRPs and by 1.8 percent for loans inclusive of RRPs. Loans for production activities—which comprised more than four-fifths of banks’ aggregate loan portfolio— expanded further by 17.8 percent in February from 16.2 percent in January. The expansion in production loans was driven primarily by increased lending to the following sectors: real estate, renting, and business services (which grew by 20.2 percent); electricity, gas and water (34.8 percent); wholesale and retail trade (18.9 percent); manufacturing (11.3 percent); and financial intermediation (14.5 percent). All the other sectors posted positive growth rates during the month except lending to public administration and defense which declined by 1.7 percent. Similarly, loans for household consumption grew at a faster pace of 9.2 percent from 8.9 percent in the previous month due to the expansion of auto loans and other types of loans (i.e., personal loans and salary loans). With the recent policy measure to adjust the reserve requirement of banks, the growth in bank lending activity is expected to move toward its long-run trend consistent with the pace of expansion in the real sector. Going forward, the BSP will continue to closely monitor credit and liquidity conditions to ensure that bank lending growth continues to reflect the pace of domestic demand while at the same time maintaining price and financial stability. |
Consumer confidence improves in Q1 2014, boosted by better employment and investment prospects |
Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph |
Consumer Outlook Consumer sentiment improved moderately in Q1 2014 based on the Consumer Expectations Survey that was conducted by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas during the period 21 January – 3 February 2014. The overall confidence index (CI) increased to -18.8 percent from -21.3 percent in Q4 2013. Respondents attributed their favorable outlook to the following factors: (a) availability of more jobs, (b) increase in the number of employed family members, (c) more investment prospects, (d) higher income, (e) stronger business activity, and (f) good harvests (e.g., copra, sugarcane and fish). For the next quarter and the year ahead, consumer sentiment continued to be more favorable as the CI increased to 5.4 percent and 19.3 percent, respectively, compared to the readings of the previous quarter. According to consumers, their more optimistic outlook is due to expectations of more job opportunities and good weather conditions in the quarter ahead. The overall consumer confidence is measured using three indicators–economic conditions of the country, family financial situation and family income. For the current quarter, respondents’ outlook on the country’s economic condition and on family finances improved but remained steady on family income. For the next quarter and the year ahead, consumers’ views on all three indicators turned more sanguine as consumers expected continuing improvements in the economy and in their family finances. Consumers cited the following reasons for their upbeat outlook: (a) more financial support from family members as employment opportunities are expected to be better, (b) continued implementation of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), and (c) good governance. By income group, consumer sentiment was mixed with respect to their views on family finances and income. The low-income group showed a consistently more favorable outlook for the current and next quarters as well as for the year ahead. The middle-income group’s outlook weakened in the current quarter but turned more bullish for the next quarter and the year ahead. Meanwhile, the high-income group had a less upbeat outlook for the current and next quarters but anticipated financial conditions to improve in the next twelve months. Across income groups, confidence on the economic condition of the country improved. The percentage of respondents that considered the current quarter as a favorable time to buy big-ticket items was broadly steady at 24.1 percent. The outlook on buying conditions improved slightly for real estate, but remained steady for consumer durables and motor vehicle. Respondents cited that real property is a good investment. Similarly, buying intentions for big-ticket items for the year ahead remained broadly steady at 8.8 percent. Saving Behavior The survey results showed that the number of households with savings continued to pick up at 28.9 percent in Q1 2014 compared to 26.2 percent in the previous quarter. The percentage of households with savings increased among the middle- and low-income groups but declined for the high-income group. The percentage of those that expected to save money in Q1 2014 increased to 38.3 percent from 34.6 percent in Q4 2013. Respondents stated that they are setting aside some amount as savings for the following reasons: for emergency, health and hospitalization, retirement, education, and business capital and investment. Among respondents with savings, majority have bank deposit accounts. Expectations on Selected Economic Indicators Consistent with the higher spending outlook on basic goods and services in Q1 2014, consumers anticipated higher inflation in the year ahead. They expected the inflation rate to settle at 8.4 percent compared to 7 percent in Q4 2013. This indicates that inflationary expectations could be stronger in the next 12 months as the number of respondents with views of higher inflation increased compared to a quarter ago. Their views mirrored the increasing trend in the inflation readings in January (4.2 percent) and February (4.1 percent) 2014 as compared to that in Q4 2013 (3.4 percent). Interest rates were likewise anticipated to edge higher in the year ahead as respondents expecting higher interest rates outnumbered those who said otherwise. Respondents are also of the view that the peso would depreciate against the US dollar in the next 12 months. Their perception could have been influenced in part by the recent weakening of the peso against the dollar (average peso per dollar rate during 21 January – 3 February 2014, the duration of the survey, was ₱45). Respondents that expected higher unemployment declined compared to a quarter ago, indicating an expected improvement in the employment situation for the year ahead. Expenditures of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) Of the 560 households included in the survey that received OFW remittances in Q1 2014, 97 percent used the remittances that they received to purchase food. More than two-thirds (68.9 percent) of the OFW households allocated part of their remittances for education, 62.9 percent for medical payments and 45.9 percent for debt payments. The percentage of OFW households that utilized their remittances for savings rose to 45.4 percent from 41.6 percent in Q4 2013, the second highest percentage since the nationwide survey started in Q1 2007. Similarly, those that allocated their remittances for the purchase of property increased to 13 percent from 12 percent in Q4 2013. Meanwhile, those that apportioned part of their remittances for investment and purchase of consumer durables and motor vehicle went down compared to the previous quarter’s results. |
26 Filipinos to arrive home from Syria |
Source: https://www.dfa.gov.ph |
31 March 2014 – Twenty-six (26) Filipinos are scheduled to arrive from war-torn Syria today, March 31, in line with the Philippine Government’s Mandatory Repatriation Program (MRP). The repatriates will be arriving at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal I at 4:00 p.m. on board Qatar Airways flight QR 926. Upon their arrival, the number of Filipinos repatriated from Syria since March 2011 will reach 5,275. Of that number, 2,248 were repatriated via Lebanon through the combined efforts of the Philippine Embassies in Damascus and Beirut. The repatriates’ airfare was shouldered by the Intenational Organization for Migration in Damascus. The Department of Foreign Affairs continues to appeal all Filipinos who are still in Syria to seek immediate repatriation. For assistance, they may call the Embassy in Damascus at 00963-11-6132626, 00963-949155557, and 00963-934957926 or send an email to damascus.pe@gmail.com. The families of Filipinos in Syria may also provide the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) with up-to-date information regarding their next-of-kin’s present location and contact details in Syria. Those who wish to do so may call the Office of the Undersecretary for Migrant Workers’ Affairs (OUMWA) at (02) 834-3240 or 834-4583 or the DFA’s 24-hour Action Center at (02) 834-3333. |
PHL Ambassador calls on UESCAP Executive Secretary, chairs 353rd ACPR meeting |
Source: https://www.dfa.gov.ph |
31 March 2014 – Philippine Ambassador to Thailand Jocelyn Batoon-Garcia called on Ms. Shamshad Akhtar, the new Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) to personally convey her warm wishes on the latter’s assumption of duty on March 24. Ms. Akhtar also holds the position of Undersecretary General of the United Nations. During the call, the Ambassador conveyed her appreciation of UNESCAP’s work in various Committees, especially on disaster risk reduction (DRR), and the work of other United Nations organizations in connection with relief efforts for the victims of typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan). Executive Secretary Akhtar noted the Philippines’ active role in ESCAP’s work on statistics and DRR, and the planned Ministerial Meeting on Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) to be held in Manila in November 2014. Following the call on Executive Secretary Akhtar, Ambassador Batoon-Garcia chaired the 353rd Meeting of the Advisory Committee on Permanent Representatives and Other Representatives Designated by Member States of UNESCAP Commission (ACPR). |
DSWD hosts ASEAN conference for persons with disabilities |
Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph |
Manila, Philippines - To strengthen the capacity of social work practitioners in member-countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in implementing quality social services for persons with disabilities (PWDS), the Philippines, through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), will host the ASEAN Program Evaluation and Planning Conference for PWDs on April 2 to 4, 2014. Around 40 participants from Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam will attend the conference. For three days, participants will share and exchange good practices on the provision of social services to PWDs. They will also evaluate existing programs as well as develop new strategies to improve service delivery. Social services for PWDs include assistance in the acquisition of prosthetic devices and medical intervention of specialty services, provision of specialized training activities, counseling, family care services, after care services and day care services for disabled children of pre-school age. DSWD Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman emphasized that there is a need for closer collaboration among ASEAN member-countries to share information, knowledge, skills, experiences, and expertise to effectively and efficiently implement social services for PWDs. In the Philippines, DSWD is the main government agency tasked to implement social services for PWDs such as the Early Detection, Prevention, and Intervention of Disability (EDPID); Social and Vocational Rehabilitation Program; Tuloy Aral Walang Sagabal (TAWAG) Project; Community-Based Day Care for Children with Autism; and, Work Center/Sheltered Workshop for upper trainable clients. In close partnership with its attached agency, the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), DSWD also implements the Non-Handicapping Environment (NHE) Project where PWDs are integrated into the mainstream of the community allowing them to fully participate in all community activities. Moreover, the Modified Conditional Cash Transfer (MCCT) includes families with children with disabilities aged 0-14 as beneficiaries of the program. The Philippines also enforces laws that provide for the rights, benefits, and privileges of PWDs such as the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities (Republic Act 9442) and the Accessibility Law (Batas Pambansa Bilang 344), among others. |
Extending scholarship assistance to Ilocano youths through Ilocos Norte’s Sirib Express |
Source: http://www.owwa.gov.ph |
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration- Regional Welfare Office 1 (OWWA-RWO1) partners with the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN) for the Sirib Express, a program initiated by Governor Imee Marcos that is geared towards the development of education in the province. The Sirib Express is a one-stop roving shop which focuses on extending youth services in school campuses like educational scholarship, sports equipment, employment assistance, guidance counseling, free seminars and workshops on photography, graphic design, husbandry, personality development, responsible adolescence and the like. This program, derived from the Ilocano word “sirib” which means knowledge, evaluates the needs of the youth and establishes opportunities for out-of-school youths, indigents, and job-seeking graduates. Part of this program is information dissemination regarding the opportunities that government could provide to deserving students including the scholarship program of OWWA for the dependents of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). OWWA gives an orientation on the different scholarship program offered by the agency which includes the Skills for Employment Scholarship Program (SESP) for technical- vocational courses, OFW Dependent Scholarship Program (OFWDSP) and Education for Development Scholarship Program (EDSP) for baccalaureate courses and the Education and Livelihood Assistance Program for the survivors of deceased OFWs. OWWA also accepts referrals from PGIN on the students who are qualified to avail of the program. The agency also renders counseling to those who want to seek for advice on the scholarship program suited for them. The schedules for the Sirib Express for the month of March are as follows: · March 12, 2014- Luzong National High School, Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte · March 17, 2014- Badoc Civic Center, Badoc, Ilocos Norte · March 20, 2014- Banna National High School, Banna, Ilocos Norte · March 25, 2014- Marcos National High School, Marcos, Ilocos Norte OWWA is optimistic that through this partnership, more students will be aware of the scholarship programs of OWWA that could help them pursue their college education. |
OWWA most helpful to Pinoys abroad: SWS |
Source: http://www.owwa.gov.ph |
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is generally considered as the most helpful government agency to Filipinos living abroad, according to a survey by the Social Weather Stations. The survey, conducted from December 11-16 2013, showed that 37% of Filipinos based abroad trusted OWWA. OWWA, headed by Administrator Carmelita Dimzon, is an attached agency of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). Aside from the OWWA, other respondents also answered: Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), 22%; Philippine Overseas Employment Administration, 18%; Department of Labor and Employment, 15%; Commission on Filipinos Overseas, 4%; None/Don't know, 4% The national survey asked respondents the question: "Sa inyong palagay, aling ahensiya ng pamahalaan ang may pinakamalaking tulong sa mga Pilipinong naninirahan sa ibang bansa?" The SWS Fourth Quarter 2013 report interviewed a sample size of 1,550 respondents. The survey has an error margin of ± 3%. |
One in every 10 Filipina teens is a Mom! |
Source: http://www.nscb.gov.ph |
Based on the results of the 2013 Young Adult Fertility and Sexuality Study (YAFS) conducted by the University of the Philippines Population Institute (UPPI) and Demographic Research Development Foundation, one in every 10 Filipina teen aged 15 – 19 years old is already a mother! Further, 2.6% of Filipina teens in the same age group are already pregnant with her first child, while 13.6% have begun childbearing. Aside from teenage fertility, it is also worth noting the sexual behavior of today’s youth aged 15 – 24 years old. Among the males, three out of four have ever watched pornographic movies/videos, while only two out of five females have done the same. In terms of engaging in premarital sex (PMS), more males have engaged in PMS at 35.5% compared to females at 28.7%. As today is the age of social media, majority of the female Filipino youth (56.0%) have a social networking account; while only half of the males have an account. However, very few have a personal blog at two percent each for both females and males. Other indicators relating to health, lifestyle and media exposure of the youth, which are highlighted in YAFS, are also presented in this year’s Factsheet on Women and Men (WAM) (http://www.nscb.gov.ph/gender/factsheet 2014). The Factsheet on WAM focuses on the latest statistical updates on women and men in the Philippines. This year’s edition contains 80 indicators covering 15 socio-economic sectors and gender concerns, namely: 1) Population; 2) Education; 3) Health and Nutrition; 4) Work and Economic Participation; 5) Family Income and Expenditures; 6) Agriculture; 7) Public Life; 8) Trade and Industry; 9) Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), specifically on Goal 3; 10) Tourism; 11) Social Welfare and Development; 12) Violence Against Women; 13) Child Abuse; 14) Gender Development; and 15) Filipino Youth. A comparison among ASEAN countries in some indicators disaggregated by sex is also available. The Factsheet includes data from the latest statistical reports and publications, such as the 2012 Family Income and Expenditure Survey (FIES), October 2013 Labor Force Survey (LFS), 2012 Survey on Overseas Filipinos (SOF), among others. It hopes to provide relevant and user-friendly information on gender issues that are deemed important to planners, researchers and other users for gender and development advocacy, planning, programming and policy setting. The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)’s release of the 2014 Factsheet on WAM is in support of this year’s celebration of Women’s Month. LINA V. CASTRO Interim National Statistician |
Oceana Gold (Philippines) Inc. and union sign first CBA |
Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph |
National Conciliation and Mediation Board Executive Director Reynaldo R. Ubaldo yesterday reported to Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz the settlement of the Notice of Strike involving Oceana Gold (Philippines) Inc., and its union, the Pun Oh Ohhaan Hi Kiphodan, leading to the conclusion of the CBA between the parties. Citing a report from RCMB-II Director Estrella B. Rosal, Ubaldo said the parties signed their CBA at the mining site at Didipio, Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya on February 12, 2014. The new CBA, the first for the company and its union, will benefit 270 employees with an economic package amounting to P65 million for the first 3 years, Ubaldo said. The collective bargaining agreement covers the period from January 1, 2014 to December 31, 2018. The union filed a Notice of Strike with RCMB-II on December 10, 2013 after negotiations at the plant level ended in a deadlock. “Parties started negotiations as early as August 2013,” Ubaldo said. “They could not agree on certain items in the economic provisions, prompting the union to file a notice with RCMB-II.” After six conciliation conferences conducted by RCMB Director Rosal from December 17, 2013 to February 6, 2014, the parties ended the impasse to conclude their first CBA. Ubaldo hailed Rosal for facilitating settlement and commended the parties for choosing the win-win solution to resolve the impasse instead of bringing the issue to the picket lines. Pun Oh Ohhaan Hi Kiphodan represents 270 employees in the company for collective bargaining purposes. It is headed by Wendy Nicano, union president. OceanaGold (Philippines) Inc., is engaged in gold and copper mining. It employs 523 employees and is located at Didipio, Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya. It is managed by Brennan Lang, General Manager. |
In Valenzuela, 33 informal sector workers receive P152-K in livelihood grant from DOLE-NCR |
Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph |
In 2011, Franklyn Miranda, a former factory worker who studied welding at the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), received a welding machine from the Department of Labor and Employment-National Capital Region (DOLE-NCR) under its Livelihood Enhancement Assistance Program. Making the most of what was given to him, Miranda made sure that the products he crafted were of the finest quality. His big break came in October 2013 when he was awarded a contract by the SM Mall of Asia to decorate the mall premises in time for the Christmas season. To help him out in the contract and to spread the good opportunity, he hired 15 welders to work on the project for 45 days. The SM Mall of Asia management was so pleased with Miranda and his team’s work that it recommended him to other SM malls. Miranda shared his story with 33 new beneficiaries of the DOLE Livelihood Enhancement Program recently, during the awarding by the DOLE-NCR CAMANAVA Field Office of a P152,620 livelihood assistance grant held at the Marulas Covered Court in Valenzuela City. On hand to listen to him were Congressman Magi Gunigundo, Brgy. Marulas Chairman Adel Gunigundo, and the head of the DOLE-NCR CAMANAVA Field Office, Director Andrea Cabansag. The beneficiaries, all from the informal sector, received raw materials, equipment, and supplies worth P152,620. "This livelihood grant is essential for the beneficiaries' chosen livelihood undertaking, such as auto mechanic repair, poultry, vegetable, meat vending, tailoring, and shoes and umbrella repair," said Director Cabansag in a report to Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz and DOLE-NCR Regional Director Alex Avila. In a message to the 33 informal sector workers, Secretary Baldoz said the program does not end in the award of the raw materials, supplies, and equipment. She posed a challenge to each beneficiary to make good in their business. "Your success is DOLE’s accomplishment. Above anything else, we would like all beneficiaries of DOLE livelihood programs to succeed in their chosen undertakings, to help uplift their lives, and thus enable them provide livelihood to the people in their communities.” she said. “Take care of what was given to you and make it grow. We will help in all ways we can but you also have to work hard and strive,” she added. Among the beneficiaries who were inspired by Miranda’s story is auto-mechanic Danilo Cruz, who has been working as one for 10 years. While he has a shop, he rents most of his tools and equipment from other auto-mechanics. The DOLE awarded him a drill and a grinder he can use for his business. "Currently, I employ two mechanics, enabling them to finish a full-body car repair in a month. With the equipment from the DOLE for which I am very thankful, I can hire two more auto-mechanics so they can finish a full-body car repair and painting in just three weeks. I can accept more customers and hopefully, substantially increase the income of my automotive repair shop," Cruz said. End/rhev With reporting from DOLE-NCR CAMANAVA Field Office |
Guimaras trade fair showcases eco-friendly products in Iloilo |
Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph |
Guimaras will showcase its eco-friendly products in a trade fair dubbed Guimaras EcoBazaar on 31 March - 6 April 2014 at Lower Ground Floor, SM City Iloilo. Now on its 4th year, the EcoBazaar serves as a venue for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises(MSMEs) of the province to promote their products and provide opportunity for them to increase product visibility and generate market leads. A total of 18 MSMEs will participate in this year’s Eco Bazaar. Ma. Carmen I. Iturralde, Officer-in-Charge of Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Guimaras Provincial Office said that this annual marketing event features the province’s varied products made of local materials. She added that DTI encourages the MSMEs to continuously improve their products to become more competitive. The products to be exhibitedare originally made in the province which include eco-friendly bags, gifts and souvenir products, housewares, and processed food. Guimaras mangoes, known as the sweetest in the world, will also be sold during the fair. Specifically, products available during the fair are handwoven bags and purses made of pandan leaves and pineapple twine, native mats and slippers, housewares and kitchen utensils from coco shells, wooden refrigerator magnets and key chains,mango-based processed foods such as dried mango andmango ketchup, jams and pickles,cashew nuts, fruit-based pies and delicacies, banana and camote chips, ginger tea, fresh mangoes and other fruits, and a lot more. The Guimaras Eco Bazaar is also a way to offer a glimpse of Guimaras’ wonders prior to the province’s Manggahan Festival in April. |
Deles hopes peace deal with MILF will ‘find its way into people’s lives’ |
Source: http://www.opapp.gov.ph |
Manila – Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos Deles on Friday expressed hopes that the highly acclaimed Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) signed by the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on Thursday will create a big difference in the lives of people, especially those in conflict communities. “We’ve always said that signing a peace agreement is a big achievement, but it only marks another stage,” she said during a media forum held at the Manila Hotel. “We hope that it will find its way not just into the law but also into the lives of people,” added Deles, pointing out that the bigger challenge that lies ahead is delivering the commitments on the ground. Deles added that the CAB should also translate into food on the table, better health, as well as market-related jobs, enabling people to lead better lives and determine their own future. The CAB serves as the basis for the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) which is now being drafted by the Bangsamoro Transition Commission for submission to the President by end of March. Afterwards, the draft law will be presented to Congress for scrutiny and passage, and subjected to a plebiscite in the proposed Bangsamoro territory. Once the BBL is ratified, an enhanced Bangsamoro autonomous region will be established, replacing the current Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. Deles likewise reiterated the government’s commitment to deliver what it has signed. “The commitment in the CAB stands for so much work that has already been done by the government and what it is still committed to do.” “Tuwid na daan (straight path),” she said. “We don’t make false promises that we can’t deliver.” |
Summer is the best time to fight dengue mosquitoes—DOST study |
Source: http://www.dost.gov.ph |
Summer may be the best time to eliminate the breeding sites of dengue-causing mosquitoes to prevent a dengue epidemic in the coming rainy season. This was revealed by Dr. Frances Edillo of the University of San Carlos in her talk during the 32nd anniversary celebration of the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD). Her statement stems from a DOST-PCHRD funded study, which she led in Cebu City, proving that transovarial transmission of the dengue virus occurs in the study site. Transovarial transmission is the transmission of a virus from the mother mosquito to its offspring. Horizontal transmission, on the other hand, is the transmission from mosquito to humans and vice versa. The study is limited to Aedes aegypti, the more common vector or carrier of the dengue virus in the country. The research group collected larvae and pupae from house and field premises in four randomly selected sites in Cebu City, every month from November 2011 to July 2012. Using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), a technique for making multiple copies of a gene from a sample DNA, the researchers were able to determine the presence of three of the four dengue serotypes or variations from the collected samples. These identified serotypes are DENV-1, DENV-3, and DENV-4. The research also revealed that the month of April registered the highest minimum infection rate in the mosquito samples. Edillo explained that if the larvae and pupae infected with dengue virus survive to become mosquitoes in the following rainy season, these mosquitoes could set off an epidemic among humans via horizontal transmission. In addition, she noted that Cebu City exhibits a pattern wherein a dry season with a low number of dengue cases is followed by a rainy season with a high number of dengue cases. |
BI commissioner moves anew to speed up processing |
Source: http://www.immigration.gov.ph |
Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Siegfred B. Mison has moved anew to cut red tape in the agency’s processing of various alien documentations. Mison, in a recent operations order, directed concerned Bureau offices to strictly observe timelines in the processing of applications for visa conversion/extension and ACR I-Card issuance/renewal designed to expedite and facilitate the processing of said applications. Under the order, all concerned offices are directed to review, evaluate and indicate recommended action within a specific number of working days upon receipt, depending on the type of transaction. The BI Chief said his order to set timelines is aimed to improve, facilitate and expedite the processing of the applications. All applications received by the Central Receiving Unit (CRU), upon making sure that all documents are complete and in accordance with existing checklists, must be transmitted to the concerned offices within the same working day of receipt. “There is a need to enhance the existing procedures and guidelines in the processing of these applications to eliminate bureaucratic red tape, “he pointed out. Mison said there is also need some key reforms for the issuance and renewal of the Alien Certificate of Registration Identity Card (ACR I-Card) to avert graft and corrupt practices and improve the efficiency of delivery of such frontline services. He explained that, under the BI’s “Good guys in, Bad guys out” program, foreigners with bona fide intention to apply for appropriate visa are presumed to be “good guys” which should be extended tourist and/or investment-friendly immigration services. |
DA CHIEF: Peace unlocks vast potential of Agri sector in Mindanao |
Source: http://www.da.gov.ph |
Peace in Mindanao will unlock the vast agricultural and economic potential in the region, this is how optimistic Department of Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala is after the GRP and MILF finally signed a peace agreement following decades of conflict in the region. Alcala said that the DA has already been allocating financial resources for Mindanao to realize its bright prospects in food and agribusiness. He highlighted existing government programs and interventions and assistance which include the Mindanao Rural Development Program (MRDP). “The MRDP is geared towards improving incomes and food security in poor communities. Through MRDP, and with help from local government units, the DA implemented infrastructure, livelihood enterprises, and biodiversity conservation initiatives,” he said. Aside from these, Alcala recognized that the majority of the country’s agricultural exports come from the region. It is the country’s premier food source and agribusiness hub, generating more than P4 billion worth of agricultural exports, accounting for 60% of total agri exports. He said that Mindanao also have large land holdings that can be used by multinational companies. These companies, according to the agricultural chief, can be confident of profits since the vastness of the region ensures economies of scale and a steady supply of workers and investors. Among Mindanao’s top exports are crude, refined coconut oil, banana, and pineapple. Last year, the country shipped organic rice from Cotabato to Dubai. “Recently, we have an advantage over our poultry products. We also shipped our first batch of Peking duck grown in Bukidnon. We are also supplying at least 90% of chicken sold in Japan. Last December we were given a go signal by the South Korean government so we can start sending our chicken to South Korea. A team from the United Arab Emirates will be coming where they will validate our halal chicken. As we all know, UAE is a hub where we can send our poultry products to other countries too,” he said. “If we have the right technology, the right government intervention, and have the right kind amount of money that we can spend for children’s education, people in Mindanao can embrace peaceful means of livelihood especially in the agriculture sector,” he said. (Paolo Capino, DA OSEC) Reference: ATTY. EMERSON U. PALAD Undersecretary and Chief of Staff Mobile: +639219780403 |
Japan approves PCAF-proposed 2KR project for Yolanda-hit farmers, fishers |
Source: http://www.da.gov.ph |
With its enduring commitment to extend aid to Filipinos in need, the Government of Japan (GOJ) has approved the funding for the AKBay-Agrikultura: Kaagapay ng Bayang Pinoy Program-Phase II for Typhoon Yolanda-Affected Areas under the Japanese Grant Assistance for the Food Security Project for Underprivileged Farmers (2KR Program). A fund support of P139,979,500.00 from Japan's Official Development Assistance (ODA) was approved for this project. The project aims to contribute to the Philippine Government's recovery and rehabilitation efforts being provided to agriculture and fishing communities affected by Typhoon Yolanda (international name Haiyan) in Region VIII. Through the project, the Japanese Government will provide income-generating opportunities to farming and fishing households affected by Typhoon Yolanda and help them re-establish their livelihood. The project was proposed and will be managed by the Philippine Council for Agriculture and Fisheries (PCAF), an attached agency of the Department of Agriculture (DA), in collaboration with DA Regional Field Office VIII. It will be implemented for one year targeting around 8,500 farmer and fisher families and cover the first five severely damaged municipalities in four badly hit provinces in Region VIII, namely, Leyte, Eastern Samar, Biliran and Western Samar. Project components include grant assistance for planting materials or fishing boats and paraphernalia worth P15,000 per farmer/fisher household with no repayment. The DA and PCAF will also undertake capacity-building activities that will prepare farmer and fisher households to undertake the livelihood endeavors provided by the program. These include trainings on basic project management, skills enhancement, technology and record-keeping. Typhoon Yolanda’s onslaught in many areas in the Luzon and Visayas regions on November 8, 2013 caused multi-billion peso worth of damages, mostly in agriculture and infrastructure. “While the immediate needs of the affected families were provided, there is a need for continuing help through livelihood opportunities that would provide sustainable means to assist the victims towards recovery,” the Japanese Embassy said in a statement. Japan’s 2KR program has been making positive impact in the livelihood of many Filipino farmers in the past 30 years. With this newly approved project, the GOJ reaffirms their country’s commitment, as the top donor of the ODA to the Philippines, to support the efforts of the Philippine Government to alleviate poverty and achieve food self-sufficiency. ' The project also serves as a continuing testimony of strategic partnership between Japan and the Philippines towards the future. (DA-NAFC) Reference: ARIEL T. CAYANAN Executive Director National Agricultural and Fishery Council (02)920-3992/(02)929-8234 |
PRC cancels Tacloban City as Testing Center for April 2014 Criminologist exams |
Source: http://www.prc.gov.ph |
Manila, March 28, 2014 – The Professional Regulation Commission announces the cancellation of Tacloban City as examination center for the Board Licensure Examination for Criminologists (BLEC) set on April 3-5, 2014. Examinees who are supposed to take the said examinations in Tacloban City are advised to transfer to the nearest and most accessible PRC Testing Centers. The PRC and the Professional Regulatory Board of Criminology decided to cancel Tacloban City as testing center due to the non-availability of schools/testing centers, examination equipment and facilities in the area as a result of the devastation brought by super typhoon Yolanda. The April 2014 BLEC will be held simultaneously in the cities of Manila, Baguio, Cagayan De Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Legazpi, Lucena, Tuguegarao and Zamboanga. |
PDIC to pay depositors of the closed Rural Bank of Pres. M.A. Roxas (Zamboanga del Norte) starting April 2 |
Source: http://www.pdic.gov.ph |
The Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) will start servicing the deposit insurance claims of depositors of the closed Rural Bank of Pres. M.A. Roxas (Zamboanga del Norte), Inc. on April 2 to 4, 2014 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Servicing of claims for the bank’s Head Office will be conducted at the bank’s premises located along National Road, Poblacion, Langatian, Pres. M.A. Roxas, Zamboanga del Norte. Meanwhile, servicing of claims for the bank’s Dipolog Branch will be conducted at F.B. Lacaya St., Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte. Depositors with validated deposit balances of P50,000.00 and below, with complete mailing address found in the bank records or updated through the Mailing Address Update Form, and without any outstanding obligation with the bank do not need to file a claim. Depositors whose accounts have balances of more than P50,000 and those who have outstanding obligations with the closed Rural Bank of Pres. M.A. Roxas regardless of type of account and amount are required to file their deposit insurance claims. The announcement on the claims settlement operations of Rural Bank of Pres. M.A. Roxas is posted at the bank’s premises and on the PDIC website, www.pdic.gov.ph. When filing deposit insurance claims, depositors are advised to personally present their duly accomplished Claim Form, original copy of Savings Passbook, and original copy of two (2) valid photo-bearing IDs with signature of the depositor. Depositors may also file their claims through mail and enclose the same set of document requirements. Depositors who are below 18 years old should submit either a photocopy of their Birth Certificate issued by the National Statistics Office (NSO) or a duly certified copy issued by the Local Civil Registrar as an additional requirement. Claimants who are not the signatories in the bank records are required to submit an original copy of a notarized/authenticated Special Power of Attorney of the depositor or parent of a minor depositor. The procedures and requirements for the filing of deposit insurance claims are posted in the PDIC website, www.pdic.gov.ph. The Claim Form and format of the Special Power of Attorney may also be downloaded from the PDIC website. Depositors who are not able to file their claims during the claims settlement operations period may submit their claims either through mail to PDIC or personally at the PDIC Office, 4th Floor, SSS Bldg., 6782 Ayala Avenue corner V.A. Rufino Street, Makati City starting April 14, 2014. In accordance with the provisions of the PDIC Charter, the last day for filing deposit insurance claims in the closed Rural Bank of Pres. M.A. Roxas is on March 20, 2016. After this date, PDIC as Deposit Insurer, shall no longer accept any deposit insurance claim. The PDIC said that all valid claims will be paid. For deposits to be considered valid, it must be recorded in the bank’s records and must have evidence of inflow of funds, based on the results of PDIC examination. PDIC, as Receiver, has the authority to adjust the insurance rate on the unpaid interest offered by a bank if this is deemed unreasonable. For more information, depositors may contact the Public Assistance Department at telephone numbers (02) 841-4630 to 31, or e-mail at pad@pdic.gov.ph. Depositors outside Metro Manila may call the PDIC Toll Free Hotline at 1-800-1-888-PDIC (7342). |
Replenishing supplies in Ayungin Shoal |
Source: http://ovp.gov.ph |
Vice President Jejomar C. Binay urged China to refrain from doing acts that will raise tension in the disputed Ayungin Shoal. This was after reports that a Philippine Navy research vessel transporting food and supplies to the Ayungin Shoal was blocked by two Chinese Coast Guard vessels on Saturday. In a statement, Binay said “Ayungin Shoal is part of the Philippines’ continental shelf, and it is our responsibility & right to replenish supplies for our naval & marine contingent in the area.” “We are confident that China will respect our rights and refrain from any action that will heighten tensions over our territorial disputes,” the statement added. Binay also noted how China’s coast guard ships eventually did not interfere with our rights in resupplying our outpost in the shoal. “Despite our dispute with China I am still confident that we can transcend this problem and remain steadfast friends within a global community based on the rule of law and mutual respect,” he said. Meanwhile, Binay also congratulated the “intrepid Navy & Marines who unflinchingly asserted our sovereignty & rights even in such far flung outpost.” “I urge the Department of National Defense and the Armed Forces of the Philippines to extend to them all the needed support and I encourage our countrymen to pray for their safety,” he added. China claims almost the entire South China Sea, displaying its reach on official maps with a so-called nine-dash line that stretches deep into the maritime heart of Southeast Asia. The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan also have claims over the territory, which is believed to be rich in oil and gas and is also a major shipping lane. |
PHL needs `strong` medium-term structural reforms, says foreign expert |
Source: http://www.pids.gov.ph |
The Philippines should implement strong medium-term structural reforms to ensure growth, according to an expert in international business and investments during a seminar-forum at the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS). The country outperformed other emerging markets in Asia in the first half of 2013, noted Dr. Dan Steinbock, research director for international business at the India, China, and America Institute in the United States, during the Pulong Saliksikan on "Navigating in uncharted waters: Advanced and emerging economies after the US Fed`s tapering" at the Romulo Hall of Neda sa Makati Building last Feb. 18. However, natural calamities such as last year`s typhoon "Haiyan" (local name: "Yolanda") could derail the Philippines` economic growth, highlighting the need for the government to adopt medium-term structural reforms. "The impact of typhoon `Haiyan` prevented the economy from ending the year on a high note," Dr. Steinbock said. "The typhoon did affect agricultural production, which will increase price pressures in near term, and upside risks to core inflation, which could be exacerbated by strong aid-related capital inflows." The current account surplus is enough to support the peso, but does not necessarily ensure an upside in growth. "There is a need for structural reforms to address issues on exports, regional maritime disputes, and natural disasters," Dr. Steinbock said. Moreover, the country should sustain its momentum, he said. It is important to know where the country is headed to even after President Aquino ends his term in 2016, Dr. Steinbock said. He lauded the country`s fiscal situation as shown by the decline in the debt-to-GDP ratio, but said it was important to know if the result of fiscal reforms was truly structural. With an overwhelmingly young demographic profile, "economic growth must be accompanied by job creation to address the country`s unemployment rate," he said. The manufacturing sector should be a top priority for rapid industrialization, he added, noting China`s refocusing on global manufacturing, which has vastly improved the Chinese economy`s growth potential. Dr. Steinbock also lauded the Philippines` initiative for public-private partnerships in infrastructure and public services development. However, more reforms are needed to boost foreign direct investments (FDIs) to the country, he said. He pointed out that the Philippines` share of FDI flows to gross fixed capital formation (GFCF) shrank to 5.6 percent in 2012 from 10.3 percent prior the 2008 crisis period. "The country should have reforms favorable for FDIs, given the abundance of alternatives for foreign investors to invest in other Southeast Asian countries and elsewhere," he said. |
 |
Last Updated: 31 MARCH 2014 |
 |
Google+ Photo Releases of PNoy |
|
| Please click on thumbnails to magnify |
|
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 35th Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) commencement exercises of the Mandilaab Class of 2014 at the PNPA Grandstand, Camp General Mariano Castañeda in Silang, Cavite on Monday (March 31). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
Jubilant members of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Mandilaab Class of 2014 celebrate during the 35th PNPA commencement exercises at the PNPA Grandstand, Camp General Mariano Castañeda in Silang, Caviteon Monday (March 31). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
President Benigno Simeon Aquino III delivers his commencement address during the 35th Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Commencement Exercises of the Mandilaab Class of 2014 at the PNPA Grandstand, Camp General Mariano Castañeda in Silang, Cavite on Monday (March 31). Class Valedictorian, Police Cadet Glenn Tabo Santelices, will receive the Presidential Kampilan Award, the Chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Kampilan Award and a Plaque of Merit, 1st Place. The academy was established under Section 19 of Presidential Decree 1184 and became a primary component of the Philippine Public Safety College (PPSC) pursuant to Section 67 of Republic Act 6975 which was created to provide preparatory education and training to the three uniformed bureaus of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), namely, the PNP, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP). Also in photo is Presidential Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
President Benigno Simeon Aquino III delivers his commencement address during the 35th Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Commencement Exercises of the Mandilaab Class of 2014 at the PNPA Grandstand, Camp General Mariano Castañeda in Silang, Cavite on Monday (March 31). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
President Benigno Simeon Aquino III presents the Presidential Kampilan Award to Police Cadet Glenn Tabo Santelices for topping the Mandilaab Class of 2014 during the 35th Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Commencement Exercises at the PNPA Grandstand, Camp General Mariano Castañeda in Silang, Cavite on Monday (March 31). Also in photo is Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Benhur Arcayan / Rolando Mailo / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO) |
||
 |
President Benigno Simeon Aquino III, together with Presidential Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr.; PPSC president Atty. Ruben Platon, Ph.D; Vice President Jejomar Binay; Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II; PNPA director P/CSupt. Noel Constantino; and PNP Director General Alan Purisima, lead the singing of the Philippine National Anthem during the 35th Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) commencement exercises of the Mandilaab Class of 2014 at the PNPA Grandstand, Camp General Mariano Castañeda in Silang, Cavite on Monday (March 31). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
President Benigno Simeon Aquino III, together with Vice President Jejomar Binay, Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II and PNPA director P/CSupt. Noel Constantino, lead the singing of the Philippine National Anthem during the 35thPhilippine National Police Academy (PNPA) commencement exercises of the Mandilaab Class of 2014 at the PNPA Grandstand, Camp General Mariano Castañeda in Silang, Cavite on Monday (March 31). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III, accompanied by PNPA director P/CSupt. Noel Constantino, troops the line during the arrival honors for the 35th Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) commencement exercises of the Mandilaabe Class of 2014 at the PNPA Grandstand, Camp General Mariano Castañeda in Silang, Cavite on Monday (March 31). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the ceremony of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) 60th Diamond Anniversary Gala Night, Grand Ballroom, Solaire Resort and Casino on Saturday (March 29). the FFCCCII is the largest organization of Filipino businessmen of Chinese heritage. It has been a moving force in the Filipino-Chinese community. Also in photo are former president Joseph Estrada, Senate President Franklin Drillon and FFCCCII President Dr. Alfonso Siy, among others. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacanang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the ceremony of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) 60th Diamond anniversary gala night at the Grand Ballroom, Solaire Resort and Casino on Saturday (March 29). The FFCCCII is the largest organization of Filipino businessmen of Chinese heritage. It has been a moving force in the Filipino-Chinese community. Also in photo are former president Joseph Estrada, Senate president Franklin drillon and FFCCCII President Dr. Alfonso Siy, among others. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacanang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the ceremony of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) 60th Diamond Anniversary gala Night at the Grand Ballroom of Solaire Resort and Casino on Saturday (March 29). The FFCCCII is the largest organization of Filipino businessmen of Chinese heritage. It has been a moving force in the Filipino-Chinese community. Also in photo are former President Joseph Estrada, Senate President Franklin Drillon and FFCCCII President Dr. Alfonso Siy. (Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacanang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his message at the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) 60th Diamond Anniversary Gala Night at the Grand Ballroom, Solaire Resort and Casino on Saturday (March 29). The FFCCCII is the largest organization of Filipino businessmen of Chinese heritage. It has been a moving force in the Chinese-Filipino community. (Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacanang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III Graces the ceremony of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) 60th Diamond Anniversary gala night at the Grand Ballroom of Solaire Resort and Casino on Saturday (March 29). The FFCCCII is the largest organization of Filipino businessmen of Chinese heritage. It has been a moving force in the Chinese-Filipino community. Also in photo are former president Joseph Estrada, Senate President Franklin Drillon and FFCCCII President Dr. Alfonso Siy, among others. ( Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacanang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his message at the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) 60th Diamond Anniversary gala night at the Grand Ballroom, Solaire Resort and Casino (March 29) . The FFCCCII is the largest organization of Filipino businessmen of Chinese heritage. It has been a moving force in the Filipino-Chinese community. (Photo by Exequiel Supera / Malacanang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the ceremony of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) 60th Diamond Anniversary gala Night at the Grand Ballroom, Solaire Resort and Casino on Saturday (March 29). The FFCCCII is the largest organization of Filipino businessmen of Chinese heritage. It has been a moving force in the Chinese-Filipino community. Also in photo are former President Joseph Estrada, Senate President Franklin Drillon and FFCCCII President Dr. Alfonso Siy, among others. (Photo by Exequiel Supera / Malacanang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III exchanges pleasantries with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) president Akihiko Tanaka during a courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (March 28). JICA in the Philippines provides cooperation in economic growth, poverty reduction, disaster mitigation, as well as other development issues such as health and governance, and in promoting peace and development in conflict-affected Mindanao. With these focus points, JICA aims to promote inclusive and dynamic development to secure a better future for Filipinos. Also in photo are JICA Philippines Chief Representative Takahiro Sasaki, JICA Director General Keizo Takenaka and Japan Embassy in the Philippines Deputy Head of Mission Tetsuro Amano. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III exchanges pleasantries with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) president Akihiko Tanaka during a courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (March 28). JICA in the Philippines provides cooperation in economic growth, poverty reduction, disaster mitigation, as well as other development issues such as health and governance, and in promoting peace and development in conflict-affected Mindanao. With these focus points, JICA aims to promote inclusive and dynamic development to secure a better future for Filipinos. Also in photo are JICA Philippines Chief Representative Takahiro Sasaki, JICA Director General Keizo Takenaka, Japan Embassy in the Philippines Deputy Head of Mission Tetsuro Amano, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos-Deles and Secretary to the Cabinet Jose Rene Almendras. (Photo by Exequiel Supera / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO) |
||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III exchanges pleasantries with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) president Akihiko Tanaka during a courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (March 28). JICA in the Philippines provides cooperation in economic growth, poverty reduction, disaster mitigation, as well as other development issues such as health and governance, and in promoting peace and development in conflict-affected Mindanao. With these focus points, JICA aims to promote inclusive and dynamic development to secure a better future for Filipinos. Also in photo are JICA Philippines Chief Representative Takahiro Sasaki, JICA Director General Keizo Takenaka, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima and Secretary to the Cabinet Jose Rene Almendras. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III exchanges pleasantries with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) president Akihiko Tanaka during the Courtesy Call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (March 28, 2014). JICA in the Philippines provides cooperation in economic growth, poverty reduction, disaster mitigation, as well as other development issues such as health and governance, and in promoting peace and development in conflict-affected Mindanao. With these focus points, JICA aims to promote inclusive and dynamic development to secure a better future for Filipinos. Also in photo are JICA Philippines Chief Representative Takahiro Sasaki and JICA Director General Keizo Takenaka. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Exequiel Supera / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III exchanges pleasantries with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) president Akihiko Tanaka during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (March 28). JICA in the Philippines provides cooperation in economic growth, poverty reduction, disaster mitigation, as well as other development issues such as health and governance, and in promoting peace and development in conflict-affected Mindanao. With these focus points, JICA aims to promote inclusive and dynamic development to secure a better future for Filipinos. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III greets Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) president Akihiko Tanaka during a courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (March 28). JICA in the Philippines provides cooperation in economic growth, poverty reduction, disaster mitigation, as well as other development issues such as health and governance, and in promoting peace and development in conflict-affected Mindanao. With these focus points, JICA aims to promote inclusive and dynamic development to secure a better future for Filipinos. Also in photo is Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Exequiel Supera / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak during the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro at the Kalayaan grounds of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (March 27). (Photo by Rodolfo Manabat/ Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
President Benigno Aquino III in a photo opportunity with the members and officials of the peace panel as GPH Peace Panel chairperson Professor Miriam Coronel-Ferrer holding a copy of the signed Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro during the signing ceremony at the Kalayaan Grounds of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (March 27). Photo By Robert Viñas/Malacanang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III and Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak, MILF chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Teresita Quintos-Deles in a photo opportunity with the official’s of the peace panel after the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro at the Kalayaan grounds of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (March 27). (Photo by Robert Viñas/ Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III and Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak witness MILF Peace Panel chairman Mohagher Iqbal, GPH Peace Panel chairperson Professor Miriam Coronel-Ferrer and Malaysian facilitator Tengku Ghafar affix their signature to the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro in a ceremony at the Kalayaan grounds of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (March 27). Also in photo are MILF chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim and Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Teresita Quintos-Deles. (Photo by Gil Nartea/ Robert Viñas/ Rodolfo Manabat/ Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro at the Kalayaan grounds of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (March 27). Also in photo are Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Teresita Quintos-Deles and MILF chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim (Photo by Gil Nartea/ Robert Viñas/ Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III receives a copy of the signed Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro during the signing ceremony at the Kalayaan grounds of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (March 27). Also in photo are Malaysian Prime Minister Dato' Sri Haji Mohammad Najib bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Teresita Quintos-Deles MILF chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim,MILF Peace Panel chairman Mohagher Iqbal GPH Peace Panel chairperson Professor Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, Malaysian facilitator Tengku Dato Abdul Ghafar.(Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III and Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak and MILF chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim grace the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro at the Kalayaan Grounds of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (March 27). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan/ Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
||
