Wednesday, March 26, 2014

Dispatch for March 27 , 2014 (Thursday) , 3 Weather Watch , 1 PNOY Speech , 16 Online News , 27 Photonews ( Mar.26 )








 1. Weather Watch   

 24-Hour Public Weather Forecast

Issued at 5:00 a.m., 27 March 2014
Valid beginning: 5:00 a.m. today until 5:00 a.m. tomorrow

24-hr Mean Sea Level Pressure
Predicted Mean Sea Level Pressure
Analysis for 8 a.m., 27 March 2014		 24-hr Mean Sea Level StreamliSEs

Predicted Mean Sea Level Wind
Analysis for 8 a.m., 27 March 2014
Satellite Image

Satellite Image 
 

Synopsis:

Easterlies affecting the eastern section of the country.

Forecast:  

The entire archipelgo will have partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms mostly over the eastern section.

Moderate to occasionally strong winds from the east will prevail over the eastern section of the country and the coastal waters along this area will be moderate to occasionally rough. Elsewhere, winds will be light to moderate blowing from the east with slight to moderate seas.



2.   Weather Watch
18 hours ago
PAGASA: TERMINATION OF THE NORTHEAST MONSOON

The northward migration of the Siberian High Pressure Area and the establishment of the Ridge of North Pacific High Pressure Area that extended to the north of the country has shifted the wind direction from northeasterly to easterly. These synoptic conditions signified the recession of the Northeast Monsoon. Gradual increase of the daily air temperature is expected over most parts of the country in the coming days and weather conditions will be mostly hot and sunny associated with warm and humid air with isolated rain showers and thunderstorms, particularly, over the eastern section.

Furthermore, strong easterly winds will prevail, particularly, over the eastern section of Visayas and Mindanao with occurrence of moderate to rough coastal waters.


Dost_pagasa
7 hrs ·
24-Hour Public Weather Forecast
Issued at : 5:00 AM 27 March 2014
Synopsis: Easterlies affecting the eastern section of the country.
Forecast: The entire archipelago will have partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms mostly over the eastern section.
Moderate to occasionally strong winds from the East will prevail over the eastern section of the country and the coastal waters along this area will be moderate to occasionally rough. Elsewhere, winds will be light to moderate blowing from the east with slight to moderate seas.
Over Metro Manila:
Maximum Temperature: 1:50 PM Yesterday --- 34.2 ºc
Minimum Temperature: 2:00 AM Yesterday --- 23.7 ºc
Maximum Relative Humidity: 2:00 AM Yesterday --- 96 %
Minimum Relative Humidity: 1:50 PM Yesterday --- 53 %
High Tide Today: 6:54 PM …..………… 0.93 Meter
Low Tide Tomorrow: 3:04 AM …..………… -0.04 Meter
Sunrise Today: 5:55 AM
Sunset Today: 6:07 PM
Moonset Today: 2:47 PM
Moonrise Tomorrow: 3:36 AM
Illumination Tomorrow: 10 %
For more information and queries, please call at telephone numbers 927-1335 and 927-2877 or log on to www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph.
Like · · · 104347


March 27 , 2014  ( Thursday )  as of 6:00-7:00 AM

CAVITE            :  Sunny 
LAGUNA          :  Fair Weather 
BATANGAS      :   Fair Weather 
RIZAL                :  Sunny 
QUEZON           :  Fair Weather 



President Aquino tells Philippine Science High School graduates: We need scientists!
 
President Benigno S. Aquino III called on the graduates of the Philippine Science High School (PSHS) to dedicate a part of their lives into working towards bettering the lives their fellow Filipino brothers and sisters.

In his speech keynoting the 46th commencement exercises and 50th founding anniversary of the PSHS in Quezon City, the President said the Philippines needs more people like them – experts in the science field – to help make the country a better place for everyone.

“Ang tanong ko nga po: Sino kaya sa inyo ang gagamit ng talento upang tugunan ang mga problema ng ating bansa? Sino kaya sa inyong mga guma-graduate ngayon ang makahahanap ng solusyon sa mga problemang kinakaharap, hindi lamang ng Pilipinas, kundi ng buong sangkatauhan—mga hamon sa sakit, sa kalikasan, sa nagbabagong anyo ng pamumuhay sa mundo? Ilan kaya sa inyo ang magkakamit ng mga award, ng mga scholarship sa ibang bansa at sa ating sariling bansa; ilan kaya ang yayaman at aasenso dahil sa kaalamang natutuhan dito sa 'Pisay' (PSHS) At ilan kaya sa inyo ang pipiliing tumanaw ng utang ng loob sa ating mga Boss—sino kaya ang magiging susunod na Secretary Jun Abaya o Propesora Iye Ferrer? Ilan kaya ang maglilingkod, ilan kaya ang magbubuhos ng oras, pawis, at talino upang iangat ang antas ng pamumuhay ng ating mga kababayan?,” the President said.

“Magsilbi sanang paalala ang araw na ito: Kailangan kayo ng ating bayan. Umaasa nga po ako: Sa mga susunod na panahon, bilang mga alumni na magtatagumpay sa larangan ng agham, ay maninindigan kayo para sa interes ng nakakarami. At ang pagbabagong tinatamasa natin ngayon—itong pagbabalik ng integridad sa gobyerno, itong patuloy na pag-arangkada ng ekonomiya, itong lumalawak na pagkakataon para sa ating mga kababayan—ay simula pa lang ng katuparan ng matatayog na pangarap natin para sa bansa,” he added.

He said that with everyone doing their share and pitching in, the Philippines can become great again and recognized for its talent.

“Sa ngayon, kinikilala na tayo ng mundo bilang modelo ng mabuting pamamahala; kung magpapatuloy tayo, sa inyong pakikiambag, ay kikilalanin tayo bilang ehemplo ng malawakang kaunlaran. Alam naman po natin: Ang tagumpay ng isang lahi ay nagbubukal sa kakayahan nitong tumuklas ng bagong kaalaman. Ang pag-angat ay nakakaayon, hindi sa pagpapatangay sa agos ng panahon, kundi sa pagiging pugad ng inobasyon. Gamit ang siyensya—at sa tulong ng bawat scholar ng 'Pisay' (PSHS) —mangunguna ang Pilipino,” the President said. PND (rck)
TOP
Palace says government focused on achieving inclusive growth
 
The Aquino administration remains focused in attaining inclusive growth in accordance with the development priorities of the government, a Malacanang official said Wednesday.

Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. issued the statement in response to the recent survey conducted by research group Ibon Foundation, showing that many Filipinos struggle to pay for basic goods, such as food and medicine.

“The government remains focused in achieving inclusive growth by reducing poverty and increasing social protection in accordance with the Philippine Development Plan,” Secretary Coloma said in a statement.

“Concerned government agencies are continuously monitoring the movement of prices of basic commodities, and is taking decisive steps to protect the citizens’ purchasing power, especially the most vulnerable sectors of society,” he added.

Secretary Coloma said that the Aquino administration takes cognizance of the results of Ibon’s survey from January 16 to 24 with 1,500 respondents.

During the survey period, 54.8 percent of the respondents said they had difficulty in buying enough food in the past three months, while 53 percent had difficulty in buying medicine or paying for medical treatment.

Coloma, however, noted that in the 2014 national budget, the government allotted P87.1 billion for Universal Health Care, specifically preventive healthcare services and for the health insurance coverage of 14.7 million poor and near-poor families.

In addition, he said, P79 billion was also earmarked to ensure delivery of meaningful social protection services particularly under the expanded P62.6-billion Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino program.

Secretary Coloma also pointed out that the Ibon survey was conducted during the period when inflation had gone up to 4.2 percent, caused mainly by pressures exerted by global developments especially the tapering policies of the US Federal Reserve that affected the peso-dollar exchange rate.

“Our economic managers remain confident that inflation will be kept within the Development Budget Coordination Committee target ranging from three to five percent,” he said.

According to Ibon's latest survey, many Filipinos have difficulty in spending for basic goods, such as food and medicine. The survey also showed that 43 percent respondents said that they had difficulty paying for transportation expenses. PND (co)
TOP
President Aquino nixes transfer of Philippine Science High School campus
 
President Benigno S. Aquino III himself assured students and teachers of the Philippine Science High School (PSHS) that its main campus will remain on Agham Road in Diliman, Quezon City.

President Aquino made the assurance during the 46th commencement exercises and 50th anniversary of the prestigious school on Wednesday.

“Alam kong may mga agam-agam ukol sa nababalitang paglilipat ng inyong campus. Ako na mismo ang magsasabi sa inyo: Mananatili ang'Pisay' (PSHS) sa Agham Road,” he said.

He stressed that Mayor Herbert Bautista, who was also present during the event, will be the first one to oppose the reported transfer.

“Si Mayor Herbert nga ho ang unang tututol kapag ililipat ito. ‘Di ba marami hong nag-aagawang maglagay ng campus sa kanilang mga lugar, papayag ba siyang alisin ang main campus ng Philippine Science High School sa Quezon City? Palagay ko hindi,” the President added.

The PSHS campus in Diliman was its first campus, which was established in 1964. At present, there are 13 campuses of PSHS operating nationwide. Of which, four were constructed under the Aquino administration.

President Aquino said Department of Science and Technology Secretary Mario Montejo is targeting to build PSHS campuses in all 16 regions in the country by 2016. PND (jb)
TOP
Bureau of Customs making its data publicly available for greater transparency, says Palace
 
The Bureau of Customs starts to make public available data to ensure transparency in its transactions, the Palace said on Wednesday.

Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said the Bureau of Customs is part of the government’s Open Data task force and has started publishing new data for greater transparency.

“The one thrust of Commissioner John Sevilla is to open up all the data in the website, sa dashboard ng data.gov.ph at saka may sarili silang portal, ilalabas doon ang mga presyo, ang mga duties, kung sino ang nag-i-import,” Lacierda told reporters in a press briefing in Malacanang.

“All these for the purpose of the public to verify kung ‘yung mga Customs duties na binabayaran, for instance, specific consignees are correct.”

During the launching of the Good Governance Summit last January, when the Open Data was also launched, Commissioner Sevilla invited everyone to look into the BOC’s data and the bureau got good reception from the public, he said.

The new BOC thrust made a basis for everyone who’s interested on Customs data to visit either the Customs website or go to the Customs dashboard of data.gov.ph, Lacierda said.

The idea is to open to the public data and information to ensure transparency, he said.

“We follow the sunlight principle, ‘pag naarawan ‘yan, mas mabuti sa atin. So lahat ‘yan may plano ang Bureau of Customs na ilabas ang mga datos na hindi naman confidential ang nature. So ilalabas ‘yan for everyone to see kung tama ba ang binabayad ng mga consignees,” he added. PND (as)
TOP
Palace thanks Prime Minister Razak for his commitment to Mindanao peace
 
Malacanang expressed its gratitude to Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak for Malaysia’s assistance in facilitating the peace talks between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) that resulted to the scheduled signing of a final peace accord between both sides.

The Department of Foreign Affairs announced the attendance of Prime Minister Razak despite the ongoing crisis in Malaysia in connection with the missing Malaysian airliner with more than 200 passengers onboard.

“We know for a fact that Malaysia is undergoing a crisis owing to the fact of the disappearance of the Malaysian airline. Be that as it may, Malaysia is fully aware of its international commitments and we thank them that despite the difficulty that they’re encountering, that they have accepted our invitation to grace the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro,” Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said in a press briefing in Malacanang on Wednesday.

In a press release Tuesday, the DFA said the Malaysian prime minister will witness signing of Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro on Thursday in Malacanang.

Prime Minister Najib Razak will undertake a working visit to the Philippines on March 27, Thursday, upon the invitation of President Benigno S. Aquino III, the DFA said.

Prior to the signing ceremony, the prime minister will meet with the President to briefly discuss matters of mutual concern between the Philippines and Malaysia.

Malaysia has been the facilitator of peace negotiations between the Philippine government and the MILF since 2001, and has hosted the talks in Kuala Lumpur. It is also the leader of the International Monitoring Team observing the government-MILF ceasefire.

In October 2012, Prime Minister Najib Razak visited the Philippines to witness the signing of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro.

President Aquino met Prime Minister Najib during the Philippine leader’s state visit to Malaysia last month. PND (as)
TOP
Palace doing last minute preparations for the signing of Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro Thursday
 
Malacanang said it is finalizing the preparations for the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro at the Palace grounds on Thursday afternoon.

In a press briefing in Malacanang on Wednesday, Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said a big tent will be erected at the Kalayaan grounds where the signing will take place.

“The reason for holding it there, outside of the Palace itself, is that we had to find a place within the grounds to accommodate over a thousand guests,” he told reporters.

During the signing of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro in October 2012, the event was held at the Palace’s Rizal Hall.

Lacierda said the signing will be at 4:00 p.m. Thursday and they expect the guests to start arriving around 2:00 p.m.

There will also be areas for the Muslim to say their prayers at the Kalayaan Hall in Malacanang.

Lacierda didn’t provide details about the ongoing security preparations but he said there will be a number of usherettes from different agencies who will help.

Among the agencies extending their assistance will be Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) Presidential Management Staff, and the Protocol Office.

“There will also be a station where all the invited guests—some of them will be pre-cleared but there will be a station for some of the guests to undergo security check,” the Palace official said.

Officials who are expected to deliver their respective statements include Presidential peace adviser Teresita Deles and MILF Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim.

President Benigno S. Aquino III and Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Adjul Razak will witness the signing. PND (as)
TOP
 
 
 
 
 
 
OPS2007-ban-balita.jpg (34469 bytes)
‘Kailangan natin ng mga siyentipiko!’ sabi ng Pangulong Aquino sa mga nagtapos sa Philippine Science High School
 
“Ialay ninyo ang bahagi ng inyong mga buhay sa pagsisikap upang maiangat ang buhay ng ating mga kapatid na Pilipino,” sabi ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III sa ika-46 na mga nagtapos sa Philippine Science High School (PSHS) kaalinsabay ng ika-50 anibersaryo ng paaralang nasabi sa Lungsod ng Quezon Miyerkoles.

Binigyang diin ng Pangulong Aquino na kailangan ng Pilipinas ang mga taong katulad ng mga nagtapos na mag-aaral na may kaalaman at kasanayan sa agham upang ang bansa ay maging higit na mainam na pook para sa lahat.

“Ang tanong ko nga po: Sino kaya sa inyo ang gagamit ng talento upang tugunan ang mga problema ng ating bansa? Sino kaya sa inyong mga nagtatapos ngayon ang makahahanap ng solusyon sa mga problemang kinakaharap hindi lamang ng Pilipinas, kundi ng buong sangka-tauhan—mga hamon sa sakit, sa kalikasan, sa nagbabagong anyo ng pamumuhay sa mundo? Ilan kaya sa inyo ang magkakamit ng mga award, ng mga iskolarsip sa ibang bansa at sa ating sariling bansa? ilan kaya ang yayaman at aasenso dahil sa kaalamang natutuhan dito sa “Pisay” (PSHS)? At ilan kaya sa inyo ang pipiliing tumanaw ng utang na loob sa ating mga Boss? Sino kaya ang magiging susunod na Secretary Jun Abaya o Propesora Iye Ferrer? Ilan kaya ang maglilingkod, ilan ang magbubuhos ng oras, pawis at talino upang iangat ang antas ng pamumuhay ng ating mga kababayan?” pagbibigay- diin ng Pangulo.

“Magsilbi sanang paalaala ang araw na ito: Kailangan kayo ng ating bayan. Umaasa nga po ako na sa susunod na mga panahon, bilang mga alumni na magtatagumpay sa larangan ng agham ay maninindigan kayo para sa interes nang nakararami. At ang pagbabagong tina-tamasa natin ngayon—itong pagbabalik ng integridad sa gobyerno, itong patuloy na pag-arangkada ng ekonomya, itong lumalawak na pagkakataon para sa ating mga kababayan—ay simula pa lamang ng katuparan ng matatayog na pangarap natin para sa bansa,” sabi ng Pangulo.

Idinugtong ng Pangulo na sa pagsisikap ng bawa’t isa na gampanan ang kanyang sagutin at pakikipagtulungan, ang Pilipinas ay muling magiging dakila at kikilalanin sa angking talino.

“Sa ngayon, kinikilala na tayo ng mundo bilang modelo ng mabuting pamamahala,. Kung mag-papatuloy tayo, sa inyong pakikiambag, ay kikilalanin tayo bilang ehemplo ng malawakang kaunlaran. Alam naman po natin na ang tagumpay ng isang lahi ay nagbubuhat sa kakayahan nitong tumuklas ng bagong kaalaman. Ang pag-angat ay naaayon, hindi sa pagpapatangay sa agos ng panahon, kundi sa pagiging pugad ng inobasyon. Gamit ang siyensya at sa tulong ng bawa’t iskolar ng ‘Pisay’ (PSHS), mangunguna ang Pilipino,” pahayag pa Pangulo. PND (rck/zaf)
Nakatuon ang pamahalaan sa pagpapaunlad ng bansa, sabi ng Malacanang
 
Patuloy ang administrasyong Aquino sa pagtutuon ng pagsisikap upang matamo ang kaunlaran salig sa mga dapat unahin ng pamahalaan.

Ito ang binigyang diin ni Kalihim Herminio Coloma, Jr. ng Presidential Communications Operations Office Miyerkoles bilang tugon sa isinagawang survey ng research group na Ibon Foundation kung saan lumitaw na malaking Pilipino ang nagsisikap na magkaroon ng pambayad sa mga pangunahing kailangan tulad ng pagkain at gamot.

“Patuloy na nakatuon ang pagsisikap ng pamahalaan na makamtan ang kaunlaran upang mabawasan ang karalitaan at lumaganap ang pagkalingang panlipunan alinsunod sa Philippine Development Plan,” wika ni Kalihim Coloma sa isang pahayag.

“Patuloy ang mga kinauukulang mga ahensiya ng pamahalaan sa pagsubaybay sa presyo ng mga pangunahing bilihin, at gumagawa na ng mahahalagang hakbang upang pangalagaan ang taong bayan, lalo na ang maralitang sektor ng lipunan,” dagdag ni Coloma.

Sinabi ni Coloma na binibigyang pansin ng administrasyong Aquino ang resulta ng survey ng Ibon mula Enero 18 hanggang 24 na ang 1,500 ang tinanong.

Sa ginanap na “survey” 54.8 porsiyento ng mga tinanong ang nagsabing nahihirapan silang makabili nang sapat na pagkain sa nakalipas na tatlong buwan, samantalang 53 porsiyento naman ang nagpahayag na nahihirapan silang bumili ng gamot o magbayad para ,makapag-patingin sa duktor kung maysakit sila.

Binigyang diin ni Coloma na sa pambansang badyet ng 2014, naglaan ang pamahalaan ng P87.1 bilyon para sa Universal Health Care, lalo na sa mga serbisyong ukol sa pag-iwas sa mga karamdaman at upang masakop ng health insurance coverage ang may 14.8 milyong maralitang Pilipino.

Bukod dito, naglaan din ng P79 bilyon upang tiyaking maayos na maisasagawa ang makabuluhang serbisyong panlipunan, lalo na ang nasa ilalim ng pinalawak na P62.6 bilyong programang Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino.

Niliwanag din ni Kalihim Coloma na ginawa ang Ibon Survey nang umangat sa 4.2 porsiyento ang inflation bunga ng mga naganap sa daigdig, lalo na ang patakaran ng US Federal Reserve na nakaapekto sa palitan ng dolar sa piso.

“Patuloy na nagtitiwala ang ating mga economic managers na ang inflation ay mapananatili sa tatlo hanggang limang porsiyento na target ng Development Budget Coordination Committee,” dugtong pa ni Kalihim Coloma.

Salig sa pinakahuling survey ng Ibon, maraming Pilipino umano ang kapos sa pambili ng pangunahing kailangang tulad ng pagkain at gamot. Lumitaw rin sa survey na 43 porsiyento ng mga tinanong ang nagsabing nahihirapan din sila sa gugol sa trasportasyon. PND (co/zaf)
Hindi ililipat ang ‘Philippine Science High School,’ sabi ng Pangulong Aquino
 
Tiniyak ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III sa mga mag-aaral at guro ng Philippine Science High School (PSHS) na hindi aalisin ang main campus sa Agham Road sa Diliman, Lungsod ng Quezon.

Ito ang binigyang diin ng Pangulong Aquino sa talumpati niya sa ika-46 na commencement exercises at ika-50 anibersaryo ng kinikilalang paaralang ito Miyerkoles.

“Alam kong may mga agam-agam ukol sa nababalitang paglilipat ng inyong campus. Ako na mismo ang magsasabi sa inyo: Mananatili ang ‘Pisay’ (PSHS) sa Agham Road,” tahasang wika ng Pangulo.

Binigyang diin pa ng Pangulong Aquino na si Alkalde Herbert Bautista, na panauhin din sa nasabing pagtitipon, ang kauna-unahang tututol sa paglilipat na gagawin.

“Si Mayor Herbert nga ho ang unang tututol kapag ililipat ito. Hindi ba marami hong nag-aagawang maglagay ng campus sa kanilang mga lugar? Papayag ba siyang alisin ang main campus ng Philippine Science High School sa Lungsod ng Quezon? Palagay ko, hindi,” dugtong pa ng Pangulo.

Ang PSHS campus ang kauna-unahang campus na itinayo noong 1964. Sa kasalukuyan, may 13 campuses na ang PSHS sa buong bansa. Sa bilang na ito, apat ang natayo sa ilalim ng administrasyong Aquino.

Inihayag ng Pangulong Aquino na balak ni Kalihim Mario Montejo ng Kagawaran ng Agham at Teknolohiya na maglagay ng PSHS campuses sa lahat ng 16 na rehiyon ng bansa pagsapit ng taong 2016. PND(jb/zaf)
Ibubukas sa sambayanan ang ‘data’ ng Kawanihan ng Aduwana, sabi ng Palasyo
 
Sinimulan na ng Kawanihan ng Aduwana na ibukas sa sambayanan ang mga data na may kaugnayan sa kanilang mga transaksiyon, sang-ayon sa pahayag ng Malacanang Miyerkoles.

Sinabi ng Tagapagsalita ng Pangulo Edwin Lacierda na ang Kawanihan ng Aduwana ay bahagi ng Open Data Task Force at nagsimula nang ilathala ang kanilang mga bagong data para sa ibayong transparency.

“Hangad ni Komisyoner John Sevilla na buksang lahat ang mga data sa website, sa dash-board ng data,gov.ph. at saka may sarili silang portal. Ilalabas doon ang mga presyo, ang mga duties, kung sino ang nag-iimport,” sabi ni Lacierda sa pulong balitaan sa Malacanang.

“Ang lahat nang ito ay upang maberipika ng publiko ang mga binabayarang Custom duties, tulad halimbawa kung sino ang tamang specific consignees.

“Sa paglulunsad ng Good Governance Summit noong Enero, nang ilunsad ang Open Data ay inanyayahan ni Komisyoner Sevilla ang lahat na tingnan ang data ng BOC at malugod namang tinanggap ng publiko ang ginawang ito ng kawanihan,” dugtong niya.

Ang bagong hakbang na ito ng BOC ang magiging daan para sino mang interesado sa data ng Aduwana ay maaaring tumingin sa website ng Aduwana o dili kaya ay sadyain ang Customs dashboard na data.gov.ph, sabi pa ni Lacierda.

“Ang pakay niya ay gawing bukas sa madla ang data at impormasyon,” dagdag pa ni Lacierda.

“Sinusunod namin ang sunlight principle. Pag naarawan iyan, mas mabuti sa atin. Kaya lahat nang iyan may plano ang Kawanihan ng Aduwana na ilabas ang mga datos na hindi naman mga confidential. Ilalabas iyan para makita nang lahat kung tama ba ang ibinabayad ng mga consignees,” dagdag ng Tagapagsalita ng Pangulo. PND (as/zaf)
Pinasalamatan ng Palasyo si Punong Ministro Razak sa pagtataguyod ng kapayapaan sa Mindanao
 
Pinasalamatan ng Malacanang si Punong Ministro Najib Abdul Razak ng Malaysia sa malaking tulong sa usapang pangkapayapaan sa pagitan ng pamahalaan at ng Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) na nagbunga ng nakatakdang paglagda sa final peace accord sa pagitan ng dalawang panig.

Sinabi ng Kagawaran ng Ugnayang Panlabas na dadalo ang Punong Ministro Razak kahit may nagaganap na krisis sa Malaysia kaugnay ng nawawalang eroplanong Malaysian Airlines na mahigit na 200 katao ang sakay.

“Alam namin ang katotohanan na nagdaraan sa isang krisis ang Malayusia ngayon dahil sa pagkawala ng pamasaherong eroplanong Malaysian Airlines. Sa gitna ng nasabing suliranin, lubos ang kabatiran ng Malaysia sa pananagutang pandaigdig kaya lubos kaming nagpapasalamat na sa kabila ng pinagdaraanan nilang ito, tinanggap pa rin nila ang paanyaya nating daluhan ang paglagda sa Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, sabi ng Tagapagsalita ng Pangulo Edwin Lacierda sa pulong balitaan Miyerkoles.

Sa balitang lumabas Martes, sinabi ng DFA na sasaksihan ng Punong Mahistrado ng Malaysia ang paglagda sa Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro sa Malakanyang Huwebes.

Magsasagawa si Punong Ministro Najib Razak ng working visit sa Pilipinas Huwebes, Marso 27, sa anyaya ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III, sabi ng DFA.

Bago isagawa ang seremonya ng paglagda, makikipagpulong ang Punong Ministro sa Pangulong Aquino upang talakayin ang mahahalagang bagay na may kaugnayan sa Pilipinas at sa Malaysia.

Ang Malaysia ang nagsilbing tagapamagitan sa usapang pangkapayapaan sa pagitan ng pamahalaang Pilipino at sa MILF sapul noong 2001 at naging punung-abala pa sa isang usapang idinaos sa Kuala Lumpur. Siya rin ang lider ng International Monitoring Team na nagsilbing tagamasid sa tigil putukan ng pamahalaan at MILF.

Noong Oktubre 2012, dumalaw sa Pilipinas si Punong Ministro Najib upang saksihan ang paglagda sa Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro.

Nagpulong uli ang Pangulong Aquino at si Punong Ministro Najib nang magsagawa ng state visit ang lider ng Pilipinas sa Malaysia noong nakaraang buwan. PND (as/zaf)
Puspusang pinaghahandaan ng Malacanang ang paglagda sa ‘Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro’ Huwebes
 
Puspusang pinaghahandaan ng Malacanang ang gagawing paglagda sa Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro sa bakuran ng Palasyo Huwebes ng hapon.

Sa pulong balitaan sa Malacanang Miyerkoles, sinabi ng Tagapagssalita ng Pangulo Edwin Lacierda na isang malaking ‘tent’ ang ilalagay sa bakuran ng Kalayaan kung saan gagawin ang paglagda sa naturang mahalagang kasulatan.

“Kaya ito gagawin, sa labas ng Palasyo, ay upang magkasiya ang mahigit na isang libong dadalong panauhin,” sabi ni Lacierda sa mga reporter.

Nang lagdaan ang Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro noong Oktubre 2012 ay ginanap ito sa Rizal Hall.

Sinabi ni Lacierda na ang paglagda ay ika-4:00 ng hapon at inaasahan nilang dakong ika-2:00 pa lamang ng hapon ay magdaratingan na ang mga panauhin.

May lugar din sa Kalayaan Hall ng Malacanang kung saan maaaring manalangin ang mga Muslim.

Hindi naman binanggit ni Lacierda ang mga detalya hinggil sa paghahanda sa seguridad nguni’t sinabing may mga ‘usherettes’ na buhat sa iba-ibang ahensiya para umalalay sa mga panauhin.

Kabilang sa mga ahensiyang puspusang tumutulong ay ang Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP). Presidential Management Staff at Protocol Office.

“Mayroon ding istasyon kung saan ang mga inanyayahang panauhin, ilan sa kanila ay daraan sa mga pre-cleared guests subali’t ang ibang panauhin ay daraan sa security check,” sabi ni Lacierda.

Inaasahang magsasalita sa pagkakataong ito sina Presidential Peace Adviser Teresita Deles at Tagapangulong Al Haj Murad Ebrahim ng MILF.

Sasaksihan ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III at ng Punong Ministro Najib Adjul Razak ng Malaysia ang paglagdaan sa kasunduang ito. PND (as/zaf)
 
 
 




 
President Benigno S. Aquino III's Speech at the 46th Commencement Exercises and 50th Founding Anniversary of the Philippine Science High School (PSHS)
Multi-Purpose Gymnasium, Agham Road, Diliman, Quezon City
26 March 2014
 
Salamat po. Maupo ho tayong lahat.

Secretary Mario Montejo; Secretary, Brother Armin Luistro; Secretary Jun Abaya; Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto; Representative Victor Yu; Mayor Herbert “Bistek” Bautista; Dr. Josette Biyo; Ms. Virginia Andres; graduates of the class of 2014 and their families; board of trustees; executive committee; faculty and staff of the Philippine Science High School; fellow workers in government; honored guests; mga minamahal ko pong kababayan:

Muli, magandang umaga po sa inyong lahat.

Nang nalaman kong nakatakda akong magsalita sa graduation dito sa Pisay, agad ko pong naalala ang isa sa aking mga kaibigan noong kami’y nasa kolehiyo. Hinulma siya ng Pisay. Nangyari nga raw pong sa isang klase niya sa Math sa kolehiyo, ginagamit din ang librong ginamit sa Pisay doon sa lecture po ng aming propesora. May isang partikular na Math problem na mali ang solusyon na pinakita ng libro, at natuklasan na ito noong nag-aaral pa ‘yong kaibigan ko sa Pisay. Nagdebate ‘yong aming guro at ‘yong aking kaibigan, hanggang sa dulo, pagkatapos inubos lahat ng blackboard sa classroom, napatunayan ng kaklase kong siya ay tama, ‘yong teacher po nag-walkout at bumalik kinabukasan at humingi ng paumanhin. [Isipin po ninyo: Sa husay ng mga nagtapos sa Pisay, pati ang propesor ng Math sa kolehiyo ay naturuan pa. Kaya kanina nga ho noong inaayos ang buhok ‘yong mga nagtapos, may tinuturo kaya sa akin ‘tong mga ‘to.

Hanggang sa araw na ito, wala pa akong nakikilalang mahinang produkto ng Pisay. Si Secretary Abaya po ay produkto n’yo. Si Senator Recto, Secretary Jun Abaya, saka ‘yong sarili ko po, noong kami’y nasa kongreso pa, maski sa Senado, ay mga pagkakataon na lumalapit ang mga estudyante para kami ay interview-hin. So isang araw po, contrast lang po natin itong eskwelahang ito–hindi ko na ho babanggitin kung anong eskwelahan–mga college students na lumapit sa akin. Medyo mga ten minutes na lang po, mag-uumpisa na ang session. Sabi sa akin, “Puwede ho ba namin kayong ma-interview? Kanina pa namin kayo hinihintay. Please lang po, kailangan namin kayong ma-interview.” Sabi ko, “Puwede bang magpa-roll call lang muna ako; baka naman ma-absent pa ako at nandito na ako. Roll call lang, lalabas naman ako eh at doon na puwede na nating ganapin ‘yong interview.” Sabi po sa akin, unang tanong–sabi nila, tandaan ninyo, “Kanina pa namin kayo hinihintay, kailangan namin kayong ma-interview.” So ang unang tanong nitong mga estudyante ng kolehiyo, “Ano po ang pangalan n’yo?” Ganitong-ganito ang mukha ko, sabi ko, “Kanina pa n’yo pa ako hinihintay?” Pagkatapos po n’on, ‘yong pangalawang tanong, “Ano po ang trabaho n’yo?” Sabi ko, “Susmaryosep!” Eh sa Batasan po kami nagkita. Nakalagay po doon “House of Representatives.” Sa madaling salita po medyo mahaba-haba ‘yong mga tanong niya na wala hong malalim. Kaya noong ako po ay nasa Senado na, mayroon mga estudyante galing na naman sa paaralan na ito. Noong nakita ko ‘yong uniporme, sabi sa akin, “Kailangan po namin kayo ma-interview.” “Pasensiya na kayo, may meeting ako at mamaya na lang tayo mag-usap.” Umiwas na lang po ako.

So balikan po natin ang graduates ng Pisay. Ito pong si Secretary Jun, tuwing magsasalita ay talagang nakatuntong sa katotohanan ang kanyang sinasabi; kaya nga po, tinitiyak kong kapag may pahayag siya ay makikinig ako nang mabuti. Nariyan din po si Propesora Iye Coronel-Ferrer, pinuno ng ating negotiating panel para sa usaping pangkapayapaan sa Bangsamoro. Sa pagsisikap nga po niya, sampu ng kanyang mga kasamahan, bukas na bukas din ay malalagdaan na ang ating Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, na inaasahan nating magdadala ng pangmatagalang kapayapaan, at malawakang kaunlaran, sa Mindanao. Ilan lamang po sila sa mabubuting halimbawa ng mga Pisay alumni na naging matagumpay sa larangan ng serbisyong pampubliko.

Batid ko po: Ang husay nina Secretary Jun, Propesora Iye, at ng iba pa ninyong mga alumni ay nanggagaling sa maagang pagsasanay dito sa inyong paaralan. Naalala ko nga po, noong nasa Kongreso, inaral pa namin kung paano palalakihin ang pondong inilalaan sa Pisay, para lalong masiguro ang lalim ng kaalamang natututuhan ninyo rito. Pero palagay ko naman po, nauunawaan ng lahat na kailangang balansehin ang mga pinaglalaanan ng pondo ng estado.

Gayon pa man, mulat akong hindi biro ang mag-aral dito. Alam kong ang ilang mga paksa sa Math, Biology, Chemistry, at Physics ay nasa antas na ng pangkolehiyo; pati nga sa English at Filipino ay nakikipagsabayan ang mga mag-aaral ninyo. Dagdag pa rito ang iba’t ibang pressure na nararamdaman ng isang normal na mag-aaral sa high school. Marami rin sa inyo ang hindi lumaki sa marangyang buhay—mga anak ng mga tricycle driver, tindera, o magsasakang marangal na nagtratrabaho upang makatulong sa inyong mga gastusin. Ang tagumpay ninyo sa araw na ito ay maipagmamalaki ng napakaraming nag-ambagan para siguruhing makakapagtapos kayo: Ang inyong mga pamilya, ang mga guro at ang mga administrador ng Pisay, ang buong komunidad at ang mga alumni at benefactor na nagbibigay ng donasyon sa Pisay Foundation, pati na ang mga karaniwang Pilipinong nagbayad ng tamang buwis at nagpasok ng pondo sa kaban ng bayan.

Dahil nga po napakaraming nagsumikap para masigurong makakuha kayo ng mataas na kalibre ng edukasyon, dapat din nating siguruhin na hindi kayo mababagabag o magugulo sa pag-aaral ang mga estudyante ng Pisay. Alam kong may mga agam-agam ukol sa nababalitang paglilipat ng inyong campus. Ako na mismo ang magsasabi sa inyo: Mananatili ang Pisay sa Agham Road. Si Mayor Herbert nga ho ang unang tututol ‘pag ililipat ito. [Applause] ‘Di ba marami hong nag-aagawang maglagay ng campus sa kanilang mga lugar, papayag ba siyang alisin ang main campus ng Philippine Science High School sa Quezon City? Palagay ko hindi.

Sa labas naman po ng Diliman, patuloy pa rin ang ating suporta sa PSHS system. Isipin po ninyo: ako po ay naabisuhan na ang orihinal na plano para sa Philippine Science High School System ay 16 na campus. Nang tayo ay nahalal sa puwesto noong 2010, matapos ang 46 na taon mula nang itatag kayo noong 1964, mayroon nang siyam na campus na nagagawa. Ngayon po, 13 na ang campus ng Pisay sa buong kapuluan. Bago tayo bumaba sa puwesto, ang target po ni Kalihim Mario Montejo ng DOST ay magkaroon nang sariling mga Pisay ang 16 nating rehiyon. [Applause] Harinawa po, matutupad na rin ang orihinal na plano para sa Philippine Science High School system.

Patuloy po ang matibay na suporta ng ating administrasyon sa Pisay, dahil sa tuwid na landas, hindi puwedeng daanin sa “baka sakali” o “sana umabot tayo sa paroroonan” ang ating paglalakbay. Kung nais talaga nating idiretso ang tinatamasa natin ngayong pagbabago, hindi puwedeng idaan sa haka-haka ang mga proyekto; hindi puwedeng magkulang sa siyentipikong batayan ang ating mga plano.

Halimbawa na lamang po ang ating tugon sa panganib na dulot ng nagbabagong klima. Isang bansa tayong binubuo ng napakaraming isla, kaya nga napakarami ring mga komunidad na nakatira sa mga dalampasigan. Dito humahampas ang ‘di bababa sa 20 bagyo na dumadalaw sa atin kada taon. Hindi naman po puwedeng sabihin sa ating mga kababayan, “Good luck, sana makalusot kayo sa susunod na pagdating ng bagyo.” Sa halip, kailangan ng mahuhusay na meteorologist na magbibigay ng maaga at wastong babala para mailikas ang mga komunidad mula sa baybayin. Kailangan ng tamang prediksyon kung saan, at kung gaano kataas at kalawak ang tatamaan ng mga storm surge. Kailangan ng epektibong early warning system para ang lahat ay maabisuhan kaagad. Lahat ng ito, nakasalalay sa mga eksperto sa siyensya.

Isa pa pong halimbawa: Sa susunod na taon, papasok ang Pilipinas sa tinatawag na demographic sweet spot, kung saan ang bulto ng ating populasyon ay tutuntong sa working age. Tinatayang sa 2019 naman, papasok tayo sa isang middle income sweet spot, kung kailan papalo sa average na 6,000 dolyar ang per capita income ng ating mga kababayan kada taon. Ano po ang epekto nito? Habang umaasenso tayo, at habang lumalaki ang kita at panggastos ng mga tao, dadami rin ang makakabili ng iba’t ibang bagay tulad ng sasakyan. Sa ngayon, nasa tinatayang 200,000 sasakyan na ang nabebenta kada taon; may mga pag-aaral na nagsasabing pagdating ng 2019, baka umabot ito sa humigit-kumulang kalahating milyon kada taon. Ngayon pa nga lang po, nagsisimula nang itayo ang mga planta ng mga automobile manufacturer. Kaakibat ng pagdami ng mga sasakyan sa kalsada, lalaki rin ang pangangailangan sa imprastruktura. Ang patung-patong na flyover na dadaanan ng mga sasakyan; ang mga public transit system tulad ng mga subway para sa mga namamasahe; ang makabagong gusali na papasukan ng mga nagtatrabaho—lahat po ito, kailangan ng mga dalubhasa sa siyensya.

Malaki rin ang larangang ginagampanan ng ating mga scientist sa pagpapatupad ng ating agenda ng mabuting pamamahala. Halimbawa: Sa inyong mga naririto, mahihirapan na siguro akong maghanap ng computer illiterate. Bumibili na rin siguro kayo ng sarili ninyong mga gadget o computer. Teknikal ang kaalamang kailangan para sa pagbili ng mga gamit na ito; kailangan ng tamang pananaliksik para masigurong sulit ang ibinabayad ninyo. Ilan na ba sa atin ang nakaranas ng mahusay na sales talk, at nakumbinsing bilhin ang isang bagay na napakaraming mga feature na nagpapamahal lang, pero hindi naman talaga kailangan? Tulad ng kiniwento ng isang kaibigan ko: Nagtataka siya bakit ang init ng silya ng kanyang sasakyan. Mayroon palang heater ‘yong kanyang sasakyan sa Pilipinas. [Laughter]

Mailalapat ang kaisipang ito sa paggastos sa kaban ng bayan. Kung alam natin ang mismong kailangan, matutukoy din natin kung ano mismo ang angkop na teknolohiyang tutugon dito. Gagastos tayo para lang sa nararapat; hindi masasayang ang pondo ng gobyerno. Kaya nga po: Inatasan natin ang DOST na bumuo ng grupo ng mga ekspertong hindi kayang bolahin ng mga supplier, lalo na po pagdating sa big-ticket items.

Malaki rin ang ginagampanang larangan ng siyentipikong proseso sa paglaban natin sa korupsyon. Halimbawa nga nito ang kontrata ukol sa dredging para sa Ilog Pasig. Ang sabi ng contractor, nag-dredging daw sila. Para makasiguro, tinanong natin ang DOST at ang mga eksperto ng UP-National Institute of Geological Sciences: Ang resulta ng kanilang pag-aaral, kung may dredging man na nangyari, siguradong hindi ito sumunod sa napag-usapan sa kontrata. Ngayon po, gumagawa na tayo ng mga hakbang para masigurong mananagot ang dapat managot. Ang malungkot nga lang po, iilan lang itong mga eksperto natin na kayang sumuri ng mga tinatawag na borehole sediments. Siguro naman, sa hanay ninyo, may susunod sa kanilang mga yapak, upang madagdagan naman ang bilang ng ating mga eksperto.

Ang tanong ko nga po: Sino kaya sa inyo ang gagamit ng talento upang tugunan ang mga problema ng ating bansa? Sino kaya sa inyong mga guma-gradruate ngayon ang makakahanap ng solusyon sa mga problemang kinakaharap, hindi lamang ng Pilipinas, kundi ng buong sangkatauhan—mga hamon sa sakit, sa kalikasan, sa nagbabagong anyo ng pamumuhay sa mundo? Ilan kaya sa inyo ang magkakamit ng mga award, ng mga scholarship sa ibang bansa at sa ating sariling bansa; ilan kaya ang yayaman at aasenso dahil sa kaalamang natutuhan dito sa Pisay? At ilan kaya sa inyo ang pipiliing tumanaw ng utang ng loob sa ating mga Boss—sino kaya ang magiging susunod na Secretary Jun Abaya o Propesora Iye Ferrer? Ilan kaya ang maglilingkod, ilan kaya ang magbubuhos ng oras, pawis, at talino upang iangat ang antas ng pamumuhay ng ating mga kababayan?

Magsilbi sanang paalala ang araw na ito: Kailangan kayo ng ating bayan. Umaasa nga po ako: Sa mga susunod na panahon, bilang mga alumni na magtatagumpay sa larangan ng agham, ay maninindigan kayo para sa interes ng nakakarami. At ang pagbabagong tinatamasa natin ngayon—itong pagbabalik ng integridad sa gobyerno, itong patuloy na pag-arangkada ng ekonomiya, itong lumalawak na pagkakataon para sa ating mga kababayan—ay simula pa lang ng katuparan ng matatayog na pangarap natin para sa bansa. Sa ngayon, kinikilala na tayo ng mundo bilang modelo ng mabuting pamamahala; kung magpapatuloy tayo, sa inyong pakikiambag, ay kikilalanin tayo bilang ehemplo ng malawakang kaunlaran. Alam naman po natin: Ang tagumpay ng isang lahi ay nagbubukal sa kakayahan nitong tumuklas ng bagong kaalaman. Ang pag-angat ay nakakaayon hindi sa pagpapatangay sa agos ng panahon, kundi sa pagiging pugad ng inobasyon. Gamit ang siyensya—at sa tulong ng bawat scholar ng Pisay—mangunguna ang Pilipino.

Balang araw, ang mga medalya ninyo sa mga Math at Science Olympiad ay madadagdagan ng mas malalaking karangalan para sa mga bagong-tuklas na kaalaman. Sinanay kayo sa agham para pagdating ng panahong kayo na ang namumuno, siguradong nakatuntong sa katuwiran at katotohanan ang mga desisyong makakaapekto sa ating mga kababayan. Buong sambayanan ang nag-ambagan para mabigyan kayo ng pagkakataong ito: Pagdating ng panahong kayo naman ang may pagkakataong makatulong sa inyong kapwa, tutugon kaya kayo ng “Salamat sa naibigay ninyo, pero uunahin ko muna ang sarili ko?” O pipiliin ba ninyong mag-alok miski maikling bahagi ng inyong buhay, upang masuklian naman ang pagkakataong handog sa inyo ng isang Pisay education? Umaasa ako: Sa sandaling maharap kayo sa sangandaang ito, pipiliin ninyong magbalik naman sa kapwa, at sa ganoong paraan ay makatulong para dumami pa ang mabibigyan ng pagkakataon, at ang mga makikinabang sa inyong kakayahang nilinang ng institusyong ito.

Napansin ko lang po, Secretary Montejo, na hindi yata maganda acoustics nitong gym na ‘to. Baka gusto mong pag-aralan at pagtulungan natin. [Applause] Napansin ko rin po, at naalala ko ‘yong mga turo ng mga Heswitang mga best friend ni Brother Armin, importante raw ‘yong healthy mind para may healthy body. Napansin ko lang po ‘yong apat na basketball goal na nakita ko dito sa inyong campus, wala ni isa may net. At ‘yong soccer field po butas-butas po ang net–iyon, sagot ka na po iyon. [Applause] Padala na lang po n’yo ‘yong bill, at bubunuin namin iyan ni Asec. Delantar iyan.

Maraming salamat po. Maligayang bati sa lahat sa inyong pagtatapos itong araw na ito.




26 MARCH 2014
Malaysian Prime Minister Najib to witness signing of Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro
Increased private sector investments in agri dev’t needed for regional integration – NEDA
P26-B already mobilized for Yolanda aid
Women find worth in welding
At Manila Mega Job Fair, Baldoz urges qualified jobseekers to make a go for 40,000 job vacancies from 127 employers
Labor justice eludes abused OFW as suspended agency that deployed her restrains POEA
DPWH appointees to key posts
Opportunities for spanish investments
Secretary Del Rosario welcomes UNDP administrator, Phl and UNDP vow to strengthen ties
DFA statement on the proposed United Nations General Assembly Resolution on Ukraine
SSS meets Bicol stakeholders
Phil-waves: Where theory and practice meet
Agri department invites new lawyers to work for agency
BI commissioner moves anew to speed up processing
March 2014 Mechanical Engineer Licensure Examination results released in two (2) working days
Ombudsman denies Corona’s Motion for Reconsideration
Malaysian Prime Minister Najib to witness signing of Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro
Source: http://www.opapp.gov.ph
25 March 2014 – Malaysian Prime Minister Dato' Sri Haji Mohammad Najib bin Tun Haji Abdul Razak will undertake a Working Visit to the Philippines on 27 March 2014, upon the invitation of President Benigno S. Aquino III, in order to witness the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.

Prior to the signing ceremony, Prime Minister Najib will meet with the President, to briefly discuss matters of mutual concern between the Philippines and Malaysia.

Malaysia has been the facilitator of peace negotiations between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (GPH-MILF) since 2001, and has hosted the talks in Kuala Lumpur. It is also the leader of the International Monitoring Team observing the GPH-MILF ceasefire.

Prime Minister Najib previously visited the Philippines on 14-15 October 2012 to witness the signing of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro. The last meeting between President Aquino and Prime Minister Najib was during the former’s State Visit to Malaysia on 27-28 February 2014.
Increased private sector investments in agri dev’t needed for regional integration – NEDA
Source: http://www.neda.gov.ph
MANILA – As ASEAN countries gear up for economic integration by 2015, the Philippine government needs to enhance collaboration with the private sector to promote agricultural competitiveness, according to the National Economic and Development Authority.

“As Southeast Asian economies collectively gear up for regional integration, it is important to understand how public-private partnership schemes could facilitate the modernization of the agriculture sector and the revitalization of rural economies,” said Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan in his speech during the 2014 Asia Pacific Agricultural Policy Roundtable held at the Marriott Hotel in Pasay City on March 17.

Citing the lessons learned from the 2013 APAP forum, the NEDA Director-General explained that “one of the critical constraints to agricultural growth is the absence or the lack of efficient infrastructure system, particularly transport, power supply, and communication infrastructure.”

Balisacan added that this effectively increases the cost of doing business, which prevents small farmers from taking advantage of the opportunities in the rapidly growing areas, urbanized centers and foreign markets.

He emphasized the crucial need of increasing productivity and production, expanding markets, improving participation and value-adding activities, and building disaster resilience in enhancing agricultural competitiveness.

“However, the government cannot do this alone,” the Cabinet official added.

Balisacan also underscored that the Updated Philippine Development Plan 2011-2016 incorporates enhancing public-private partnership for agricultural development, especially for infrastructure and value chain development and management.

“The interventions include irrigation infrastructure, food supply chain and post-harvest services, production centers for various farm inputs, fish-farming infrastructure, and market and trading centers, among others,” said Balisacan.

He added that private sector investment, particularly in research, has been devoted to seed acquisition, exchange, distribution, and improvement of genetic stocks of crops, forest species, livestock, and fish using conventional and biotechnology applications.

“Investments may also be made in the production and distribution of improved seed and livestock, production of fertilizers and pesticides, and the development of more efficient management practices to optimize crop production,” said Balisacan.
P26-B already mobilized for Yolanda aid
Source: http://www.dbm.gov.ph
Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad confirmed that P26.2 billion in funds have already been released as of March 10 for post-disaster projects and activities in areas affected by Typhoon Yolanda.

In a bi-weekly report on releases for Typhoon Yolanda related projects, the DBM said that fund releases to date represent a P1.52-billion increase over releases made by end-February, which amounted to P24.7 billion.

“The Administration continues to work with LGUs and key implementing agencies in delivering post-disaster aid to Yolanda-stricken areas. Although it’s been nearly six months since the super typhoon struck, the victims of the disaster are still in the process of rebuilding their communities,” Abad said.

“The funds released so far will definitely allow the agencies to carry out rehabilitation and reconstruction projects in areas affected by Typhoon Yolanda. Along with ensuring the country’s continued growth, mobilizing post-calamity aid is still a priority for the Aquino administration,” he added.

In the report, the DBM said that operations units in the agency’s Central Office have already received requests for Yolanda aid totaling P15.1 billion.

Fund sources against which the releases may be charged are under the category of Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Funds. These include FY 2013 and 2014 appropriations for the Calamity Fund/National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund, the Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Program, and Supplemental Appropriations.

Altogether, the allocations for these fund sources amount to P51.4 billion.

Abad also said that in view of previous announcements, unobligated allotments and unreleased appropriations for Maintenance and Other Operating Expenditures (MOOE) and Capital Outlay (CO) under the 2013 General Appropriations Act (GAA). These allocations—which was pegged at an estimated P10.2 billion—will be treated as Continuing Appropriations for calamity-related purposes, subject to National Budget Circular (NBC) No. 553.

“The DBM will continue to issue monthly and quarterly reports on releases made for Yolanda-related projects. Such reports are not just a matter of compliance, but also of principle: we need to be as transparent as possible on how much in public funds are already available for post-disaster initiatives. This move towards transparency and accountability also serves to inform the public—Yolanda victims in particular—of the aid they can and should expect from the government,” Abad said.
Women find worth in welding
Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph
Madalag, Aklan - March is Women’s Month – a fitting occasion to pay tribute to extraordinary women who, despite all odds, became successful in their endeavors, being able to help their families and contribute to the community.

Such are the stories of Sherlina Hungay, Genie Nanson, Lovely Tello, and Marian Cadevida.

These women challenged the prevailing notion in rural areas that females are not fit to enter professions traditionally seen as male-dominated. There are still those who believe in the notion that only men should work, as it was the woman’s duty to stay at home.

But the four women proved their detractors wrong by having completed training in welding, which still remains largely a man’s profession, here in the Philippines.

The training was made possible through the Gender Incentive Grant (GIG) from the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) through the Millennium Challenge Account-Philippines (MCA-P) and implemented through the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS), one of the core poverty alleviation programs of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

These women used the negative perception against women welders as motivation to work hard to prove to others, and themselves, that they had the capacity to rise to the challenge.

From housewife to welder

“Dati akong ‘taga’. Taga-linis, taga-laba, taga-luto (I used to be ‘taga’. I clean, I wash, I cook),” Sherlina, 33, joked.

As a Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program beneficiary, she was among the priority-trainees of a skills training provided by the Technical Education Skills Development Authority (TESDA) through the GIG from Kalahi-CIDSS.

When asked by the Pantawid Pamilya Parent Leader, “Kaya mo ba talaga (Do you really think you can do it?), her response was, “Kakayanin ko ito para sa pamilya ko (I will do this for my family).”

Sherlina had no prior experience in working, being a housewife who took care of her three children. She even considered the possibility of working as a domestic helper abroad to earn money for her family, as she and her husband struggle daily to make ends meet. Her spouse works as a job-order construction worker at the municipal government.

After the training, Sherlina had to pass the assessment so she can become a full-fledged welder.

She recalled how anxious she felt when she was waiting for the results.

“Sobra ang nerbiyos ko sa assessment baka hindi ako makapasa. Nakakahiya sa asawa ko (I was so nervous during the assessment because I might not pass. I would be so ashamed to face my husband).”

Her fears were unfounded since she passed the assessment without any problem.

Sherlina gave her testimony during the graduation ceremony that was given by Kalahi-CIDSS to the women-trainees.

“Kung ano ang kaya ng asawa ko, kaya ko rin (I can do whatever my husband can),” she proudly shared.

She continued, “Matagal na kaming mag-asawa, pero ngayon ko lang naramdaman na mataas ang tingin niya sa akin. Masarap sabihin sa sarili na napakita ko na kaya ko (We have been married for several years, but it was only when I was going through training that I felt that he had high respect for me. It feels good that I was able to prove to myself that I could do this).”

Now, Sherlina has this to say about herself, her tone proud: “ ‘Taga’-welding ako (I am a welder).”

‘Just watch me’

Like Sherlina, Genie, 27, of Barangay San Jose, has a family of her own, with two children.

Genie’s spouse was supportive of her joining the training, even though she admitted that her husband would have preferred that she joined the plumbing classes instead, as he was worried about her safety.

Still, he agreed when she told him her preference was welding because that was what she really wanted to do. In fact, she shared that he would always give her money for fare just so she could attend the trainings.

Her neighbors were skeptical that Genie would be able to complete the training. She narrated that right from the time when they learned that she would be joining the training, they began mocking her that she would not finish the program.

Genie, however, did not mind them, even though there were times that their comments were already offensive. Instead, she used this as her motivation.

The start of the training was difficult. Genie shared how she accidentally burned herself in one of the sessions, and how it took some time before she got used to the welding equipment.

Still, she persevered, and like Sherlina, passed the assessment.

It was this same persistence that pushed her to seek on-the-job training from the Kalahi-CIDSS Area Coordinating Team (ACT).

She shared, “Parati kong kinukulit ang ACT para isali ako (I persistently ask the ACT to include me),” referring to the invitation given to the trainees to have their training during the construction of the Kalahi-CIDSS sub-projects in or near the town.

This statement was affirmed by the Kalahi-CIDSS Area Coordinator, Ivy Colas, who said that Genie would always go up to different members of the team to request to be given the opportunity to use her welding skills in one of the different sub-projects that will be implemented in the municipality.

Genie’s persistence eventually paid off when two Kalahi-CIDSS infrastructure sub-projects, a school building and a bridge, were put on schedule for construction, and she was tapped as one of the welders who will be working on these.

She did not even back down when her neighbors threatened to watch her first day on the job as a welder.

“Sinabihan ako ng ilang mga kapitbahay na papanoorin nila ako kung kakayanin ko. Sagot ko, sige panoorin niyo ako (My neighbors told me that they will watch me if I can do it. I told them to just watch me),”

Her bravura is not just at the surface level. According to the Area Coordinating Team and Engr. Nelson Zapanza, the TESDA instructor who trained her and the other women in welding, Genie is a very skilled welder.

When she herself realized this, Genie developed confidence in herself, and she is grateful to Kalahi-CIDSS for this.

Above all, Genie is thankful for the lessons and the break she was given. She said, “May oportunidad na kami para maiangat ang sarili namin, para matuto kami (We now have the opportunity to learn and to improve ourselves).”

Age is no barrier

Lovely Tello and Marian Cadevida, both 18, are also qualified welders, having gone through the same training as Sherlina and Genie.

It is not just their youth that Lovely and Marian have in common. Both joined the training because their families could not afford to send them to college.

Both signed up for the welding classes because they just stayed at home, occasionally helping out in household tasks.

As Lovely shared, “Gusto ko makapag-aral kahit vocational lang (I want to be able to study, even if it is just a vocational course).”

Marian, meanwhile, said, “Hindi ako nakatapak ng college. Sumali na lang ako sa welding training kesa nasa bahay lang ako. At least may matutunan (I was not able to go to college. I joined the training instead of just staying at home. At least I would be able to learn something).”

She even shared that she was unsure about her own abilities in the past. It was only when she was able to experience welding firsthand that she began to have faith in herself.

She narrated, “Akala ko nung una hindi ko kaya. Kaya ko pala maski babae ako. Nalaman ko na kaya ko noong actual na (I thought at first that I would not be able to do it. I found out that I actually could, even if I am a woman, but I only learned this when I was actually welding already).”

Marian and Lovely not only could do welding, they were able to keep up with the other trainers, which include men and older women, proving that neither gender nor age are barriers in skills building.

Women in welding

There may only be a few women who joined the welding training but through these classes, the participants not only learned a new skill, they were also able to develop confidence in themselves.

Admittedly, these women still have a long way to go after the training. Even so, it is a good first step, especially since, according to Engr. Zapanza, welding is a profession that can suit both men and women.

As he said, what matters in the workplace is not gender, but rather skill and talent, and the trainees have a lot of that going for them.
At Manila Mega Job Fair, Baldoz urges qualified jobseekers to make a go for 40,000 job vacancies from 127 employers
Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph
 Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz yesterday challenged the unemployed and under-employed in the country's capital, Manila, to try and make a go for any one of the more than 40,000 job vacancies that 127 employers, both local and overseas, will bring today to the Manila Mega Job Fair at the San Andres Sports Complex in San Andres, Malate, Manila.

The job fair, an employment facilitation program of City Hall and its newly-institutionalized Public Employment Service Office, is being held in cooperation of the DOLE National Capital Region headed by Regional Director Alex Avila and the Manila Field Office led by Director Leonides Castillon.

In her message during the brief program opening the job fair, Baldoz lauded the city for institutionalizing its PESO, saying it will put the City Hall in a good position to lick the city's unemployment and under-employment problems.

She also urged the more than 3,000 job seekers who braved the early morning traffic to line up and apply for the tens of thousands of vacancies at the job fair.

"If you are qualified and get accepted, go for it and earn the experience. If you are a "near-hire", assure the employer you need only a short training and ask for a break. Not everyone gets this opportunity to meet face to face with employers, so don't hesitate. Apply for a job and don't be choosy," said Baldoz.

One of the employers looking for workers at the job fair are Atlanta Group of Companies which need preventive and mold maintenance managers, safety engineers, plant engineers, technical staff, accountants, auditors, account officers for fire protection systems, junior systems programmers, IT support coordinators, sales assistants, collectors, account officers for PVC windows, account officers for poutry groups, account officers for water district; and account officers for Star products (PPR, Sobent, Tempipe, and Balzemaster).

Another prospective employer, Armadillo Holdings, Inc. is in need of accounting assistants software developers, technical support staff, purchasing specialists, vendor relations officers, operations assistants, corporate social responsibility heads, front desk associates, sales executives, reservations associates, sous chefs, and sales and marketing managers. The experience for these positions ranges from six months to five years.

Dessert Plus, Inc., on the other hand, is in need of accounting assistants, accounting clerks, quality assurance staff, audit clerks, sales coordinators, service crew, and production crew.

Japan Homes, a multi-product home store, is joining the job fair to look for cashiers, promodizers, associate store supervisors, office staff, warehouse staff, pick-uppers, packers, and scanners.

Microcadd Institute, Inc. needs front desk clerks, marketing staff, sales staff, graphic artists, utility, driver, accounting officers, utility staff, drivers, accounting officers, encoders, admin staff, MMA instructor, autocad instructor, and autocad operator.

Suyen Corporation, manufacturer of popular Bench fashion products and accessories, is in need of electricians, drivers, forklift operators, store supervisors, cashiers, stock clerks, and sales clerks.

Th outsourcing company, Teleperfromance, is in need of 1,000 technical service representatives/customer service representatives.

"I appreciate that 21 companies under the banner of the Philippine Association of Local Contractors (PALSCON), a DOLE partner, is participating in the job fair," said Baldoz.

The other companies that have confirmed their participation include Bumex Express Credit, Inc.; Celine Marketing; Dermcare; Eurotiles Industrial Corporation; Forever Flawless; Golden Donut, Inc.; Mercury Drug Corporation; Puregold Price Club, Inc.; Simpleware Business Solutions, Inc., SM City Manila; Tobys Sports; Yakult Philippines; M&H Food Corporation; Big Buddha Restaurant, Inc.; Pancake House Group, Inc.; Firefly Electric Corporation; Philcopy Corporation; Silicon Forest Philippines, Inc.; David Teahouse; SM Lifestyle Entertainment, Inc.; Rustan Marketing Specialists, Inc.; and Specialty Food Retailers Specialists, Inc.

The National Bureau of Investigation, Philippine National Police, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG, Social Security System, Bureau of Internal Revenue, and Philippine Postal Corporation set up booths at the job fair location to make it easier and faster for job seekers obtain documents they needed for their job application.

Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada, who conceived the job fair under his Employment Regeneration Assistance Program, or ERAP, said this is the first mega-job fair under his watch. A presentation of the City Ordinance, "An Ordinance Enhancing the Job and Skills Database of the Manila PESO from the Barangay Level" and the signing of a DOLE-City Hall memorandum of agreement on employment facilitation highlighted the job fair. Baldoz and the mayor also launched the DOLE Employment Kiosk.

Mayor Joseph Ejercito Estrada was joined by Vice Mayor Isko Moreno; City Councilor Joey S. Hizon III, chairman of the City Council's Committee on Labor and Employment; and City Council members Robert R. Ortega Jr.; and Antonio G. Capistrano, together with Victor Quintos, City Personnel Officer and PESO Manager; and Beth Alonzo, Consultant, Office of the City Mayor, and Former President, National PESO Federation of the Philippines.
Labor justice eludes abused OFW as suspended agency that deployed her restrains POEA
Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph
Remember Melody Polintang-De Jesus, the OFW who suffered abuse in the hands of her female employer in Jeddah? Well, it may take a little more time for Polintang-De Jesus to obtain labor justice after a regional trial court in Mandaluyong City last week temporarily stopped the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration from enforcing its order on 21 February preventively suspending the license of Mayon International Trading Corporation, the overseas recruitment agency that deployed OFW Polintang-de Jesus to her abusive employer in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. A report of POEA Administrator Hans Leo J. Cacdac said Judge Ofelia Calo of RTC Branch 211 in Mandaluyong City had granted the petition for injunction/temporary restraining order filed by Mayon International Trading Corporation. The TRO was issued on 6 March 2014 against the order of preventive suspension, or OPS, issued by the POEA in Case No. RV140200284. The case arose when OFW De Jesus ran away on 9 January 2014 to the Philippine Overseas Labor Office in Jeddah from her employer, Fawas Abdulrahman Abdulsalam Sultan (who has since been charged by the POEA in a disciplinary action case), with a fresh wound on her lower right leg, and with traces of burn scars on both her upper arms and left lower extremities as a result of the harm inflicted by her female employer. Apparently, the employer used a flat iron to attack Polintang-De Jesus. The OFW said that in her six months' stay with her employer, there were eight or more instances when the latter burned her skin using a flat iron. The first was during the third day of her work when she was seen crying after she was not allowed to call her family to inform her of her safe arrival in Jeddah. The second time was when her employer got mad after seeing trace of old milk in the feeding bottle she just cleaned. Furthermore, other instances of burning her skin were done without any reason and include slapping her face and pulling her hair. She said she did not receive the right compensation provided in her employment contract, and was deployed in harsh working conditions. POLO-Jeddah Assistant Labor Attache Oliva B. Macawili said De Jesus was deployed by Mayon International Trading Corporation and Saudi Recruitment Agency (SRA) Snood Manpower Employment Office in July 2013 to work as a domestic helper under the sponsorship of Fawas Abdulrahman Abdulsalam Sultan. Administrator Cacdac immediately placed Mayon International Trading Corporation under preventive suspension, and Snood Manpower Employment Office blacklisted. The employer, on the other hand, is now facing criminal charges in a Saudi prosecutor's office. "What makes this case revolting is that OFW De Jesus’ husband, Dandi De Jesus, went to Mayon International Trading Corporation three times to seek help, but failed," said Baldoz. OFW Polintang-De Jesus was supposed to receive 8,800 Saudi riyal as payment for her five months' and 26 days’ work, but only received 3,000 Saudi riyal. She was also required to work at the house of the female sponsor’s mother from 5:00 P.M. until 2:30 A.M. “These are clear violations of the provisions of the Standard Employment Contract entered into by the employer and the employee,” Baldoz said, referring to the document and its provisions was agreed upon both by the Saudi and Philippine governments last year. The standard employment contract contains 19 articles that spell out clear and specific provisions on the employment of the Filipino HSWs. Among the articles in the SEC that OFW De Jesus’ employer violated were the provisions on the basic monthly salary; work hours; just and humane manner treatment of the HSW and the special provision that the HSW shall work solely for the employer and his immediate household, where, the employer shall, in no case, require the worker to work in another residence. Baldoz ordered Administrator Cacdac to continue monitor developments about the case, even as she strongly reminded licensed Philippine recruitment agencies (PRAs) that they should exercise utmost responsibility in ensuring that the rights and welfare of all OFWs they send to a foreign country are respected and well-taken care of. She also warned them and their foreign counterparts or principals that the government will not take lightly, but act swiftly, on cases of abuse and violation of rights in coordination with and in accordance with the laws of host governments.
DPWH appointees to key posts
Source: http://www.dpwh.gov.ph
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Rogelio L. Singson swore in a new batch of appointees to key posts in the Department. The appointees who took their oath of office are Region 2 Director Melvin B. Navarro, Region 1 Director Melanio C. Briosos, and Bureau of Equipment Assistant Director Toribio Noel L. Ilao.
Opportunities for spanish investments
Source: http://www.dpwh.gov.ph/
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Rogelio L. Singson discusses infrastructure investment opportunities in the Philippines with the visiting official delegation of Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs José Manuel García-Margallo and which may be of interest to representatives from major Spanish businesses. The Spanish delegation was headed by Fernando Eguidazu Palacios, Director General of International Economic Relations; Antonio Jose Fernandez-Martos Montero, Director General of Trade and Investments; and Rafael Luengo Lazaro, Adviser for Economic Affairs of the Minister. Getinsa Ingineieria, a Spanish engineering firm which ventured with the Ayala Corporation bagged in year 2012 the contract for the on-going construction of 4-kilometer Daang Hari-South Luzon Expressway Link Road Project, the very first infrastructure-building project auctioned by the President Benigno S. Aquino administration under Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework.
Secretary Del Rosario welcomes UNDP administrator, Phl and UNDP vow to strengthen ties
Source: https://www.dfa.gov.ph
26 March 2014 – Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario welcomed United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Administrator Helen Clark today at the Department of Foreign Affairs.

Ms. Clark, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, is in Manila from March 25 to 27 to strengthen UNDP’s partnership and cooperation with the Philippine government and to witness the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on Bangsamoro. She will visit Tacloban today to meet with local officials and get an overview of the recovery efforts post-Yolanda.

Secretary Del Rosario expressed gratitude and appreciation for the continued support of the United Nations, its member-states and the UN Country Team, saying that, “the UNDP’s immediate relief assistance in the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda was crucial.”

“UNDP played a vital role in post-Yolanda recovery and rehabilitation efforts,” the Secretary noted.

Secretary Del Rosario sought the organization’s continued engagement in sourcing additional funding assistance from bilateral and multilateral partners for the typhoon-affected areas.

Ms. Clark commended the Philippines for its resiliency in the face of numerous natural calamities. She said that “the Philippines is able to build back better,” adding that “the country can assume a leadership role in raising awareness for disaster risk reduction, especially in the light of climate change.”

The Secretary also thanked UNDP for its support and assistance in the Bangsamoro peace process.

The Secretary and Ms. Clark likewise discussed the Philippines’ progress in meeting the Millenium Development Goals (MDGs).

The Secretary said that “The Philippines is confident that it will meet its targets.”

For her part, Ms. Clark assured Secretary Del Rosario that the UNDP will continue to support the Philippines in order to meet these goals.
DFA statement on the proposed United Nations General Assembly Resolution on Ukraine
Source: https://www.dfa.gov.ph
The Philippines remains deeply concerned with developments in Crimea and hopes for a diplomatic solution. In this regard, the Philippines takes note of UNGA Resolution 3314 and calls for maximum restraint to be shown by all parties. We support actions toward de-escalating tensions in the region and for comprehensive, inclusive and peaceful dialogue and reconciliation, with full respect for the rule of law, to be pursued by all parties. The Philippines is studying carefully the matter regarding the UN resolution from the point of view of protecting the territorial integrity of a state.
SSS meets Bicol stakeholders
Source: https://www.sss.gov.ph
Top Social Security System (SSS) officials met with a total of 317 participants, mostly employers from the Bicol region, during the SSS Stakeholders Forum held at the Oriental Hotel in Legazpi City, Albay on March 11.

The Legazpi forum, which is part of the first SSS Regional Visit for 2014, featured three presentations, namely: “Strengthening the Social Security System” by President and Chief Executive Officer (PCEO) Emilio de Quiros, Jr.; “SSS Member Service Facilities” by Vice President (VP) for Member Services Mario Sibucao; and “Highlights of 2013 Accomplishments” by VP for Management Services and Planning May Catherine Ciriaco. The employers also had the opportunity to get direct feedback on their SSS concerns during the Open Forum from members of the SSS panel, including (background, from left) SSS Legazpi Branch Head Elenita Samblero, VP Sibucao, Bicol Division Head Nilo Despuig, PCEO de Quiros, VP for Luzon Operations Josie Magana, VP Ciriaco and VP for Public Affairs and Special Events Marissu Bugante.
Phil-waves: Where theory and practice meet
Source: http://www.denr.gov.ph
Manila, Philippines -- The Phil-WAVES mission in the Philippines last February demonstrated the successful convergence of theory and practice of natural capital accounting. The two-week mission was comprised of training on the System of Environmental Economic Accounting (SEEA 2012) central framework conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) and scoping visits to the two ecosystem pilot sites, Laguna Lake Basin and Southern Palawan last February 12 and February 17-20, 2014 respectively.

Numbers crunching

ABS conducted a one-week training course introducing participants from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), regional statistics offices, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and the Mines and Geoscience Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR - MGB) to the main building blocks of System of Environmental-Economic Accounting (SEEA). Using a combination of presentations and workshop exercises, the participants gained an understanding of SEEA concepts and techniques and how these could be translated to support informed policy making.

As part of this training, ABS also conducted a separate, more focused session on the production of mineral accounts. This specialized training also included background and technical information on producing monetary estimates for mineral assets.

Around the Laguna Lake Basin

A scoping visit was conducted around the Laguna Lake Basin, with three major stopover points: the Caliraya Botocan Kalayaan (CBK) power plant, the Panguil EcoPark and the Maynilad water filtration plant.

The Laguna Lake Basin, a main hub of commerce, energy production and ecotourism in the Philippine capital of Manila, also provides a host of ecosystem benefits such as flood mitigation and fish habitat.

The Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA), the lead government agency for the Laguna Lake ecosystem account, welcomed the use of ecosystem accounting to craft strategic plans that would integrate land and water management and assess the overall value of the lake and its watersheds.

The information to be generated by the project will be crucial in modeling the causal relationships between the quality of the water in Laguna Lake and the silt and pollutant loads of waters draining into the lake. LLDA intends to use the ecosystem accounts to support strategic plans on the development of payment mechanisms for water use and in the long-term to plan sustainable financing schemes.

Southern Palawan

The Phil-WAVES Team also conducted a scoping visit in Southern Palawan to be better acquainted on the various land uses of this region, which is abundant in natural resources and rich in biodiversity.

“Being an area of rich biodiversity, Palawan has a high potential for eco-tourism. At the same time, it has abundant mineral resources, forests and agricultural land. Which of these types of uses can you allow to maximize the value of the country over the long term?” said Bebet Gozun, WAVES Country Coordinator, explaining how WAVES could be used as a tool to better assess the costs and benefits of varying land uses.

The TWGs visited a mining area, an oil palm plantation, conducted dialogue with the community of rice farmers comprising Indigenous Peoples (IPs) and non-IPs, visited a model agricultural / coconut farm, and the Palawan tribal center.

It was determined by the TWG that the Southern Palawan ecosystem account would be used to address policy issues related to competing land uses such as mining, expansion of land for industrial plantations particularly oil palm plantations, and decline of rice productivity.

Expanding WAVES within the academe

Dr. Agustin Arcenas from the University of the Philippines School of Economics and Dr. Gem Castillo from Resources, Environment and Economics Center for Studies are the latest additions to the Phil-WAVES TWG. Dr. Arcenas and Dr. Castillo were contracted to support the valuation and policy work of the ecosystem accounts for the Laguna Lake basin and Southern Palawan respectively.

WAVES will also collaborate with the two to develop training materials, draw on local experts as well as students to support the analytical work and data collection. Building expertise and technical capacity in the academe was an identified strategy to institutionalize wealth accounting as an evidence-based tool for sustainable and inclusive development.
Agri department invites new lawyers to work for agency
Source: http://www.da.gov.ph
Wanted: Good lawyers for farmers and fishers.

A week after the results of the 2013 bar examinations are out, the Department of Agriculture has urged the country’s new lawyers to consider working for the Department as a way of serving the public through the agri-fishery sector.

“The Office of the Secretary, the legal division and other offices offer several plantilla positions for lawyers, and fresh bar passers are definitely most welcome to apply,” Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala said.

Recent fund controversies involving several rural cooperatives and similar organizations have showed the vulnerabilities of the sector from abuse by several parties to advance their selfish interests at the expense of small farmers and fishers, many observers noted.

Secretary said he trusts that the world-class expertise and the big heart to serve of Filipino lawyers will help in many ways to protect the welfare of our small farmer and fishers.

“It’s a noble act to do, especially that our small farmers and fishers are among the weakest members of the society, at least in terms of legal support,” he said.

Secretary Alcala said interested applicants may get in touch with the Office of the Chief of Staff at OSEC via 02-9202223, or e-mail eup_osec@yahoo.com to submit their credentials or for further details.

The Department is currently implementing its rationalization plan as part of the government’s broader effort to streamline the bureaucracy and hire needed personnel to achieve higher efficiencies and ultimately provide better service to the public. (Mac Garcia, DA OSEC)
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.
March 2014 Mechanical Engineer Licensure Examination results released in two (2) working days
Source: http://www.prc.gov.ph
The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announces that 793 out of 1,310 passed the Mechanical Engineer Licensure Examination and 22 out of 42 passed the Certified Plant Mechanic Licensure Examination given by the Board of Mechanical Engineering in Manila and Cebu this March 2014.

The members of the Board of Mechanical Engineering who gave the licensure examinations are Engr. Leandro A. Conti, Chairman and Engr. Vicente B. Vosotros, Member.

The results were released in two (2) working days after the last day of examinations.

Registration for the issuance of Professional Identification Card (ID) and Certificate of Registration will be on April 7 & 8, 2014. Those who will register are required to bring the following: duly accomplished Oath Form or Panunumpa ng Propesyonal, current Community Tax Certificate (cedula), 1 piece passport size picture (colored with white background and complete nametag), 2 sets of metered documentary stamps and 1 short brown envelope with name and profession and to pay the Initial Registration Fee of P600 and Annual Registration Fee of P450 for 2014-2017 for MECHANICAL ENGINEER; Initial Registration Fee of P450 and Annual Registration Fee of P420 for 2014-2017 for CERTIFIED PLANT MECHANIC. Successful examinees should personally register and sign in the Roster of Registered Professionals.

The date and venue for the oathtaking ceremony of the new successful examinees in the said examinations WILL BE ANNOUNCED LATER.
Ombudsman denies Corona’s Motion for Reconsideration
Source: http://www.ombudsman.gov.ph
In a 15-page Joint Order signed today, Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales denied the Motion for Reconsideration filed by former Chief Justice Renato Corona and his wife, Cristina Corona, in connection with their case for ill-gotten wealth.

Finding no cogent reason to reverse the Resolution dated January 14, 2014, Ombudsman Morales directed the immediate filing of a petition for forfeiture with the Sandiganbayan, along with the sets of criminal Informations for eight (8) counts of Perjury and eight (8) counts of violation of Republic Act 6713 (Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees).

During investigation, the special panel of investigators determined that from 2001 to 2011, the spouses Corona earned a total income of P30,369,120.13, of which P27,145,472.68 was earned by CJ Corona as an official at the Office of the President, a Justice of the Supreme Court, member of the Senate Electoral Tribunal (SET), and member of the House of Representatives Electoral Tribunal (HRET). Meanwhile, Cristina Corona earned P3,223,647.45 for the period 2007-2010, based on the Alpha List submitted to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) by the John Hay Development Corporation (JHDC) where Mrs. Corona was employed.

The Resolution stated that from 2002 to 2010, Corona’s actual cash deposits ballooned from P1,337,072.28 to P137,937,207.88, and by 2010 the cumulative discrepancy between his Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN) declaration and his actual cash deposits amounted to P134,437,207.88.

The Resolution also cited the Land Registration Authority (LRA) records on several properties owned by the Corona spouses in Quezon City, Makati City and Fort Bonifacio in Taguig City, which were established to be significantly undervalued by P17,297,145.00.

In sum, the Office of the Ombudsman determined that the Coronas’ unexplained wealth is at least P130,336,212.88, computed as follows:
Details

Amount (P)
Net Increase in Net Worth
Add:
1.   2010 Undeclared Bank Deposits
2.  Undervalued Cost of Real Properties

Less:   
Combined Income of    the Corona Spouses 

                       8,970,980.00
 
                   134,437,207.88
                    17,297,145.00  
 
 
                    (30,369,120.13)
TOTAL UNEXPLAINED WEALTH

               130,336,212.88
The amount of P130,336,212.88 is a conservative estimate as it does not include their cost of living allowance commensurate to their social stature and expenses entailed by their travels abroad.

On the charges for perjury, the Resolution found that the sworn declarations in Corona’s SALNs were false, as Corona failed to include the numerous peso and dollar bank accounts (in his 2003-2010 SALNs), a condominium unit at The Columns, Makati City (in his 2004-2009 SALN), and a condominium unit at Spanish Bay Tower in Taguig City (in his 2005-2009 SALN).

CJ Corona was found to have only declared P6,800,000.00 as the acquisition cost of a condominium unit in Bellagio I in Taguig City in his SALN for 2010, when the true acquisition cost is P14,510,000.00. In his SALNs from 2003 to 2009, CJ Corona also undervalued the property located at La Vista in Quezon City by P8,000,000.00.

CJ Corona was also charged with violation of RA 6713, for not filing true and detailed SALNs for 2003-2010, when the value of his declared cash assets, and the actual bank deposits had substantial discrepancies, and his real assets in Makati, Taguig and Quezon City were not declared.




Last Updated: 26 MARCH 2014
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    All systems go for the historic signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro between the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front as Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Teresita Quintos-Deles and Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda lead a dry run on Thursday (March 27) at the Malacañan Palace Grounds. The ceremony will be witnessed by our Muslim brothers signifying the Aquino administration’s sincerity toward achieving peace with people of the Islamic faith. Eighteen months since the accomplishment of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro, the government peace panel has produced four annexes, one addendum, and five terms of reference en route to the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro. (Photo by Robert Viñas/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with Science and Technology Secretary Mario Montejo during the 46th commencement exercises and 50th founding anniversary of the Philippine Science High School (PSHS) at the main campus, PSHS multi-purpose gymnasium in Agham Road, Diliman, Quezon City on Wednesday (March 26). Founded in 1964, PSHSl – Main Campus is the flagship campus of the PSHS System, a specialized public high school system in the Philippines that operates as an attached agency of the Department of Science and Technology. Also in photo is PSHS executive director Dr. Josette Biyo. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the 46th commencement exercises and 50th founding Anniversary of the Philippine Science High School (PSHS) at the HS Main Campus, PSHS multi-purpose gymnasium in Agham Road, Diliman, Quezon City on Wednesday (March 26). Founded in 1964, PSHS –main campus is the flagship campus of the PSHS System, a specialized public high school system in the Philippines that operates as an attached agency of the Department of Science and Technology. Also in photo are PSHS executive director Dr. Josette Biyo, House Committee on Science and Technology chairperson Zamboanga del Sur 1st District Representative Victor Yu, Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya, Science and Technology Secretary Mario Montejo and Education Secretary Armin Luistro. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the 46th Commencement Exercises and 50th Founding Anniversary of the Philippine Science High School (PSHS) at the main campus, PSHS multi-purpose gymnasium in Agham Road, Diliman, Quezon City on Wednesday (March 26). Founded in 1964, PSHS – main campus is the flagship campus of the PSHS System, a specialized public high school system in the Philippines that operates as an attached agency of the Department of Science and Technology (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 46th Commencement Exercises and 50th Founding Anniversary of the Philippine Science High School (PSHS) at the main campus, PSHS multi-purpose gymnasium in Agham Road, Diliman, Quezon City on Wednesday (March 26). Founded in 1964, PSHS – Main Campus is the flagship campus of the PSHS System, a specialized public high school system in the Philippines that operates as an attached agency of the Department of Science and Technology. Also in photo are PSHS executive director Dr. Josette Biyo and Science and Technology Secretary Mario Montejo. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 46th Commencement Exercises and 50th Founding Anniversary of the Philippine Science High School (PSHS) at the main campus, PSHS multi-purpose gymnasium in Agham Road, Diliman, Quezon City on Wednesday (March 26). Founded in 1964, PSHS – main campus is the flagship campus of the PSHS System, a specialized public high school system in the Philippines that operates as an attached agency of the Department of Science and Technology. Also in photo are PSHS executive director Dr. Josette Biyo, Science and Technology Secretary Mario Montejo, Education Secretary Armin Luistro and Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes the first batch of Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) graduates of Cadet Engineering Program at the Heroes Hall in Malacanang Tuesday (March 25). As part of the Good Governance and Anti-Corruption Program, DPWH implemented its first Cadet Engineering Program in partnership with First Pacific Leadershio Academy to set new entry standards for civil engineers in the bureaucracy. (Photo by Lauro montellano Jr / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the courtesy call of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) graduates of Cadet Engineering Program at the Heroes Hall in Malacanang Tuesday (March 25). As part of the Good Governance and Anti-Corruption Program, DPWH implemented its first Cadet Engineering Program in partnership with First Pacific Leadershio Academy to set new entry standards for civil engineers in the bureaucracy. With the President is DPWH Secretary Rogelio "Babes" Singson.. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes the first batch ofi the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) graduates of Cadet Engineering Program at the Heroes Hall in Malacanang Tuesday (March 25). As part of the Good Governance and Anti-Corruption Program, DPWH implemented its first Cadet Engineering Program in partnership with First Pacific Leadershio Academy to set new entry standards for civil engineers in the bureaucracy. With the President are DPWH Secretary Rogelio Singson and Executive Director of First Pacific Leadership Academy Roy Evalle. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Rolando Milo / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III exchanges views with Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs Jose Manuel Garcia-Margallo during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (March 24). Spain is one of the biggest donors to the rescue and rehabilitation efforts in areas hard hit by super typhoon Yolanda. Relations between the Philippines and Spain have enjoyed an active exchange of trade and investments. Also in photo are Kingdom of Spain Ambassador to the Philippines Jorge Manuel Domecq, Instituto Cervantes Secretary General Rafael Rodriguez-Ponga and Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario. (Photo by Exequiel Supera / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III exchanges views with Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs Jose Manuel Garcia-Margallo during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (March 24). Spain is one of the biggest donors to the rescue and rehabilitation efforts in areas hard hit by super typhoon Yolanda. Relations between the Philippines and Spain have enjoyed an active exchange of trade and investments. Also in photo are Kingdom of Spain Ambassador to the Philippines Jorge Manuel Domecq and Instituto Cervantes Secretary General Rafael Rodriguez-Ponga. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs Jose Manuel Garcia-Margallo during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (March 24). Spain is one of the biggest donors to the rescue and rehabilitation efforts in areas hard hit by super typhoon Yolanda. Relations between the Philippines and Spain have enjoyed an active exchange of trade and investments.

Total trade between the two countries from January to October 2013 is valued at US$385,130,000 while the total investments from Spain from January to September 2013 amounted to US$200,000. Philippines’ total exports to Spain are valued at US$ 122.26 million, while the total imports from Spain amount to US$262.87 million. There were 17,126 Spanish tourists who visited the Philippines last year, and there is great potential in increasing tourism exchanges between the two countries.

An estimated 40,000 Filipinos live in Spain. Also in photo are Kingdom of Spain Ambassador to the Philippines Jorge Manuel Domecq and Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario. (Photo by Exequiel Supera / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs Jose Manuel Garcia-Margallo during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (March 24). Spain is one of the biggest donors to the rescue and rehabilitation efforts in areas hard hit by super typhoon Yolanda. Relations between the Philippines and Spain have enjoyed an active exchange of trade and investments.

Total trade between the two countries from January to October 2013 is valued at US$385,130,000 while the total investments from Spain from January to September 2013 amounted to US$200,000. Philippines’ total exports to Spain are valued at US$ 122.26 million, while the total imports from Spain amount to US$262.87 million. There were 17,126 Spanish tourists who visited the Philippines last year, and there is great potential in increasing tourism exchanges between the two countries.

An estimated 40,000 Filipinos live in Spain. Also in photo are Kingdom of Spain Ambassador to the Philippines Jorge Manuel Domecq and Instituto Cervantes Secretary General Rafael Rodriguez-Ponga. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III huddles with newly inducted officials of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP), Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (Philexport) and Anvil Business Club during the oathtaking ceremony at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (March 24). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his message during the oathtaking ceremony of the newly elected officials of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP), Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (Philexport) and Anvil Business Club at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Monday(March 24). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III inducts into office the new set of Anvil Business Club Officers, led by Anvil president Reginald Yu, during the oathtaking ceremony at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (March 24). Also in photo are Senator Edgardo “Sonny” Angara and Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III inducts into office the new set of Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (Philexport) Board of Trustees and Officers, led by Philexport president Sergio Ortiz-Luis, Jr., during the oathtaking ceremony at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (March 24). Also in photo are Senator Edgardo “Sonny” Angara and Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo. (Photo by Exequiel Supera / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III inducts into office the new set of Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) Board of Governors and Officers, led by ECOP president Edgardo Lacson, during the oathtaking ceremony at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (March 24). Also in photo are Senator Edgardo “Sonny” Angara and Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo. (Photo by Gil Nartea /Malacañang Photo Bureau)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III inducts into office the newly elected officials of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP), Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (Philexport) and Anvil Business Club at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (March 24). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III inducts into office the new set of Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Board of Directors and Officers, led by PCCI president Alfredo Yao, during the oathtaking ceremony at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (March 24). Also in photo are Senator Edgardo “Sonny” Angara and Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo. (Photo by Exequiel Supera / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III inducts into office the newly elected officials of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP), Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (Philexport) and Anvil Business Club at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (March 24). Also in photo is Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III inducts into office the newly elected officials of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP), Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (Philexport) and Anvil Business Club at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (March 24). Also in photo are Senator Edgardo “Sonny” Angara and Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with PhilHealth president and chief executive officer Alexander Padilla during the launching of Alaga Ka para sa Maayos na Buhay (ALAGA KA) Program at the Quezon Memorial Circle in Elliptical Road, Quezon City on Monday (March 24). The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and the Department of Health (DOH) leads the simultaneous launching of the program in all 17 regions in order to provide the country’s 14.7 million indigent families with greater access to primary health care services. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the launching of Alaga Ka para sa Maayos na Buhay (ALAGA KA) Program at the Quezon Memorial Circle in Elliptical Road, Quezon City on Monday (March 24). The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and the Department of Health (DOH) leads the simultaneous launching of the program in all 17 regions in order to provide the country’s 14.7 million indigent families with greater access to primary health care services. Also in photo is Health Secretary Enrique Ona. (Photo by Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the launching of Alaga Ka para sa Maayos na Buhay (ALAGA KA) Program at the Quezon Memorial Circle in Elliptical Road, Quezon City on Monday (March 24). The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and the Department of Health leads the simultaneous launching of the program in all 17 regions in order to provide the country’s 14.7 million indigent families with greater access to primary health care services. Also in photo are Education Secretary Armin Luistro, Health Secretary Enrique Ona and PhilHealth president and chief executive officer Alexander Padilla. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the launching of Alaga Ka para sa Maayos na Buhay (ALAGA KA) Program at the Quezon Memorial Circle in Elliptical Road, Quezon City on Monday (March 24). The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and the Department of Health leads the simultaneous launching of the program in all 17 regions in order to provide the country’s 14.7 million indigent families with greater access to primary health care services. Also in photo are Education Secretary Armin Luistro, Health Secretary Enrique Ona, PhilHealth president and chief executive officer Alexander Padilla and Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
       
    President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the launching of Alaga Ka para sa Maayos na Buhay (ALAGA KA) Program at the Quezon Memorial Circle in Elliptical Road, Quezon City on Monday (March 24). The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and the Department of Health leads the simultaneous launching of the program in all 17 regions in order to provide the country’s 14.7 million indigent families with greater access to primary health care services. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
       
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