DISPATCH for JULY 11, 2014 (Friday) , 5 Weather Watch , 7 Regional Watch , 2 OFW Watch , 1 PNOY Speech , 1 Interview on PCOO Sec. Coloma @ DZRH , 17 Online News, 62 PCOO Photo Releases

PCOO - Photo Releases

  

Issued at 5:00 a.m., 11 July 2014
Valid beginning: 5:00 a.m. today until 5:00 a.m. tomorrow

Predicted Mean Sea Level Wind Analysis for 8 a.m., 10 July 2014

Predicted Mean Sea Level Wind  Analysis for 8 am., 10 July 2014

Satellite Image

Synopsis:

Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) affecting Mindanao

Forecast:  

Davao Region and CARAGA will have cloudy skies with light to moderate rains and thunderstorms. Metro Manila and the rest of the country will be partly cloudy to cloudy with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms.

Moderate to strong winds coming from the southwest to south will prevail over Luzon and its coastal waters will be moderate to rough. Light to moderate winds blowing from the south to southwest will prevail over the rest of the country with slight to moderate seas.

2.  Weather Watch shared Panahon.TV's photo.

about an hour ago

The weather disturbance OUTSIDE the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) was spotted around 2000 km East of Visayas.

According to PAGASA, this weather system is forecast to enter the PAR on Monday, July 14, 2014. As of today, it is too far to affect the country. Since the weather disturbance is still in the Pacific Ocean, it has a possibility to intensify into a Tropical Cyclone/”Bagyo”.

PAGASA advised to keep on monitoring updates.

3.   Weather Watch

3 hours ago

PAGASA weather forecaster Connie Dadivas on DZMM:
- Isang LPA ang namataan sa labas ng Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).Ito ay nasa bandang silangan ng Hilagang Mindanao.
-Posible itong pumasok ng PAR sa susunod na linggo, partikular sa Martes.
-Sa ngayon, inaasahang magiging maganda ang panahon sa Luzon at Visayas na makararanas lamang ng pulo-pulong pag-ulan o pagkidlat-pagkulog.
-Magkakaroon naman ng mahina hanggang sa katamtamang pag-ulan sa Davao at Caraga dahil sa Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ).
-Umiiral pa rin ang Habagat pero mahina ito sa kasalukuyan at halos sa karagatan lamang nagpapaulan.

4.  Weather Watch

14 hours ago

ABS-CBN: Mananaig pa rin ang southwest monsoon na makakaapekto sa malaking bahagi ng Luzon. Samantala, asahan ang pag-ulan sa Mindoro, Palawan at malaking bahagi ng western Luzon. Magandang panahon naman ang inaasahan sa natitira namang bahagi ng Luzon, kasama ang Metro Manila. Asahan ang mahinang pag-ulan sa Samar habang maulap naman sa Leyte at Bohol. Asahan ang pag-ulan sa Davao, Gensan at Cotabato.

5.  Weather Watch

14 hours ago

GMA resident meteorologist Nathaniel Cruz on 24 Oras:
-May paparating na bagyo tayong binabantayan at isa na itong tropical depression, ayon sa Japan Meteorological Agency, pero iyan ay nasa may southeast pa ng Guam.
-Ayon naman sa wind forecast map ng The Weather Company, inaasahang papasok ito ng PAR sa Lunes at Glenda ang ipapangalan sa susunod na bagyo.
-Dalawa ang maging kilos ng bagyo paglapit sa bansa, maaari itong lumiko gaya ng naging kilos ni Florita o dumiretso pa kanluran at tumama sa Northern at Central part ng Luzon.
-Bukas magpapa-ulan pa rin sa Luzon ang hanging Habagat lalong lalo na sa may kanlurang bahagi ng Central at Southern section.
-Walang inaasahang ulan sa Metro Manila bukas ng umaga pero sa hapon at gabi ay mataas ang tsansa ng pag-ulan.
-Uulan naman sa Visayas lalo na sa may western section lalo na sa hapon.
-Asahan naman ang thunderstorm sa Mindanao lalo na sa may ARMM at SOCCSKSARGEN.

Weather Watch

July 11 , 2014 ( Friday ) as of 6:00-7:00 AM

CAVITE             : Sunny

LAGUNA           : Sunny

BATANGAS       : Sunny

RIZAL                : Sunny

QUEZON            : Sunny

1. PIA Regional Watch

23 minutes ago

PIA-4A/LAGUNA: In his opening remarks at the 3rd quarter meeting of the Disaster Response Committee, Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (RDRRMC) chairperson and Office of Civil Defense (OCD) 4A regional director Vicente F. Tomazar mentioned that Calabarzon Region contributed a lot not only in kind but also in prayers in the regions affected by man-made and natural disaster that occurred last year like the Zamboanga siege, the earthquake in Bohol and other neighboring areas, and the catastrophic Supertyphoon Yolanda.

2. PIA Regional Watch

about an hour ago

PIA-4A/BATANGAS: Isang medical and dental mission ang isinasagawa sa ngayon ng pamahalaang panlalawigan ng Batangas sa barangay Dacanlao, Calaca na layong magbigay ng kalingang medikal sa mga Calaqueno.

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3. PIA Regional Watch

about an hour ago

PIA-4A/BATANGAS: Bilang bahagi ng disaster preparedness ng lungsod ng Batangas, isang earthquake drill ang isinasagawa ngayon upang magbigay kaalaman sa mga empleyado nang mga dapat gawin kapag may lindol.

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4. PIA Regional Watch

about an hour ago

PIA-4A/LAGUNA: The Disaster Response Committee of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (RDRRMC) Calabarzon is currently holding its 3rd quarter meeting at the PNP Multi-Purpose Center, Camp Vicente Lim, Canlubang, Calamba City to discuss among others each member agency's disaster response plan. DSWD Field Office IV-A regional director Leticia T. Diokno is the vice-chairperson for RDRRMC Calabarzon Disaster Response Committee.

5.  PIA Regional Watch

20 hours ago

PIA-4A/BATANGAS: In line with the observance of the 36th National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) week on July 17-23, the city government of Batangas has lined up several activities for persons with disabilities. These are: Festival of Talents of PWDs, July 10-11; a stage play, “Balik Tanaw sa Buhay ni Ka Pule,” with Special Education (SPED) students playing roles; Abilympics featuring exhibition games of PWDs that competed at Palarong Pambansa and other international competitions and brought honor in wheelaton, chess, track and field, and badminton; Lakbay Aral at Luneta on July 18 of children with disability; Walk for a Cause, July 20 with registration fee of P150 to raise fund for the purchase of crutches and wheelchairs for distribution to needy PWDs; sports fest on July 21 at Batangas city sports coliseum; July 22, forums on social protection for PWD families and self and enhancement; and free checkup to be administered by Dra. Marizel Dacumos at Bahay Pag-asa. To date, the PWD federation in the city has 1,300 members.

6.  PIA Regional Watch

22 hours ago

PIA-4A/BATANGAS: Batangas city cultural affairs committee vice-chair Eduardo Borbon said the Mabini Film Festival with the theme “Idol Kita, Ka Pule,” to be organized by the city government on July 13, 2014 aims to showcase the works and heroic acts of the Great Plebian and Brain of the Katipunan, Apolinario Mabini and to highlight the celebration of the hero’s 150th birth anniversary on July 23, 2013. Living descendants of Apolinario Mabini are expected to grace the event, according to Borbon.

7. PIA Regional Watch

Yesterday

PIA-4A/BATANGAS: The city government of Batangas will hold a film festival to highlight the celebration of the 150th birth anniversary of Apolinario Mabini. With the theme “Idol Kita, Ka Pule,” the film competition is open to all schools, group, and community in the whole province of Batangas. All the participating films will be exhibited at the Batangas city convention center on July 13, 2014. A cash prize of P50,000 awaits the winning film while individual awards for best actress, best actor, best director, and others will also be given.

PIA OFW Watch

12 hrs

DZBB: Walang report sa DFA na may mga Pilipinong manggagawa na nasaktan o nasawi sa bakbakan ng Israel at grupong Hamas sa Gaza. Sa kabila nito sinabi ni DFA spokesman Charles Jose na inabisuhan na ang mga Pinoy roon na mag-ingat. Pinayuhan ang mga Pilipino sa Israel na makinig sa abiso ng pamahalaang Israel, pinagmo-monitor sa balita at pinaiiwas sa matataong lugar. Sa Afghanistan ay patuloy naman ang paghimok sa mga Pinoy roon na lumikas na dahil a pagtindi ng mga kaguluhan doon.

PIA OFW Watch

13 hrs

ABS-CBN: Patay ang OFW na si Arlyn Carbon matapos itong tumalon sa ika-43 na palapag ng pinagtatrabahuang gusali sa Hong Kong noong Hunyo 30. Sinabi naman ng kapatid ng OFW na posibleng may foul play sa insidente. Patay rin noong June 4 ang OFW na si Engr. Albert Bautista matapos itong masagasaan sa Saudi Arabia. Nagtataka naman ang misis ni Bautista kung bakit putul-putol na ang mga labi nito nang dumating sa Pilipinas.

10 JULY 2014.
	President Aquino highlights contribution of tourism industry to national economy
	Building better communities for ‘Yolanda’ victims not because of Papal visit, Palace says
	2015 national budget must benefit greater segment of society, says Palace

President Aquino highlights contribution of tourism industry to national economy The tourism sector has made significant contributions to the national economy, giving the government a boost to continue its reform measures to make the gains more sustainable, President Benigno S. Aquino III said on Wednesday. In his message during the grand launch of the Marco Polo Ortigas Manila, the President said that the progress the country has made in the tourism sector, together with the integral reforms in every other sector, has made a massive impact on the economy. "Last year, despite the natural and man-made disasters that struck our nation, we were still one of the fastest growing economies in Asia, registering a GDP growth of 7.2 percent," he said. "We have steadily won the confidence of the international community." Also last year, he said, the most renowned credit rating agencies in the world upgraded the country's credit ratings in a short span of time. The launch of Marco Polo Ortigas Manila serves as proof of the newfound confidence that companies have in the country’s prospects, he noted. He further said that the tourism industry’s potential is huge. Over the past four years, the number of tourists—both domestically and internationally—has increased dramatically. For instance, he said, in 2011, the country recorded 37.5 million domestic travelers, which surpassed the government's original target, not for 2011, but for 2016. “I can emphasize: we surpassed our original target for 2016 five years ahead of time,” he said, adding that because of this development, the government has set the new target of 56.1 million domestic tourists for 2016. The number of international tourists has steadily increased as well, he said, going from an average of about 3 million a year to 4.68 million last 2013. “And we remain committed to pursuing our 2016 goal of 10 million international tourists,” the President added. Among the factors that boosted the Philippine tourism sector were the liberalization of the aviation industry as well as the successful launch of the global tourism campaign of the government, President Aquino said. The P2.3-billion 313-room five-star hotel, which began construction in October 2010, was developed by president and chief executive officer of XinTian Ti Development Corporation, Samuel Po, in partnership with Marco Polo Hotels. Marco Polo Hotels is a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Wharf (Holdings) Ltd., a Hong Kong-listed company with core business interests in property and investments in communications and container-terminal operations.PND (as) TOP Building better communities for ‘Yolanda’ victims not because of Papal visit, Palace says Malacañang said on Thursday that the government is building back better communities for the victims of Typhoon Yolanda because it is their responsibility and not for anything else. Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said that Presidential Assistant for Rehabilitation and Recovery Secretary Panfilo Lacson is making sure that the construction of houses for the victims goes on as planned. “There is really an operation that we build back better. But if there are suggestions that we are doing this just for show, no it is not,” Lacierda said in reply to a reporter’s question wether rehabilitation efforts in areas devastated by Typhoon Yolanda are being done because Pope Francis will visit Tacloban City next year. “Secretary Lacson is on the ground working, making sure that the construction continues... The Pope’s decision to come to the Philippines is just very recent, so that was not part of the equation,” he explained. The Vatican announced early this year that the Pontiff will visit the victims of Typhoon Yolanda in January 2015. “Regardless of whether the Pope is visiting or not, the work of the government goes on. The construction goes on,” he added. Lacierda noted that apart from leading the rehabilitation efforts in areas affected by the typhoon and the earthquake in Bohol, Secretary Lacson is also coordinating with other government agencies to make sure that all matters concerning the victims are addressed. “Nag-request siya (Lacson) kay DTI (Department of Trade and Industry) Secretary Greg Domingo na mag-monitor and he also requested DILG (Department of Interior and Local Government) Secretary Manuel Roxas to deputize the PNP for the reason na madami tayong nakitang substandard materials,” the Palace official said, referring to the recent raid in Cavite, where 40 million pesos worth of steel products were seized by the PNP. Substandard steel materials were blamed for the collapse of buildings in Bohol when a magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck Central Visayas in October 2013. PND (ag) TOP 2015 national budget must benefit greater segment of society, says Palace Malacañang has assured that it will protect the people's interest as it prepares the 2015 national budget, by ensuring that the money will be spent wisely. In a press briefing at the Palace on Thursday, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said that because of the Supreme Court decision on the Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP), some of the projects funded by the program would have to stop. To address the funding needs of ongoing projects, Lacierda said there is a proposal at the House of Representatives to increase the supplemental budget so these projects could continue. "But insofar as the budget is concerned, we are guided now by the Supreme Court decision — even as we deliberate on exhausting our legal remedies," the Palace official said. "Our concern is to ensure that the money that the people have reposed to the government will be spent wisely, judiciously, prudently, and in a manner that will be able to generate all these infrastructure projects in a timely manner." The 2015 national budget is being crafted by the Budget secretary with the help of other Cabinet secretaries, to make sure that all short- and long-term projects are completed. This is why the administration emphasizes budget reform, Lacierda said, underscoring the implementation of zero-based budgeting. He said that this is designed to ensure that the taxpayers’ money will be used efficiently and prudently for the benefit of the greater segment of society. In the midst of allegations that some Cabinet secretaries had benefitted from the DAP, Lacierda asked the public to read the case thoroughly. "Our position is that the Supreme Court did not entirely repudiate the Disbursement Acceleration Program. There was not total repudiation of the DAP. Only four specific acts were called by the Supreme Court as unconstitutional," he said. While there are disagreements on the use of government savings and other measures under the DAP, Lacierda said the Supreme Court had acknowledged in its decision that the program benefited the country economically. PND (as) TOP

10 HULYO 2014 Itinampok ng Pangulong Aquino ang mahalagang naiambag ng industriya ng turismo sa pambansang ekonomya Pagtatayo nang higit na mainam na komunidad para sa mga biktima ng bagyong Yolanda, hindi dahil dadalaw ang Papa, sabi ng Palasyo

Itinampok ng Pangulong Aquino ang mahalagang naiambag ng industriya ng turismo sa pambansang ekonomya Napakalaki ang naiambag ng sektor ng turismo sa pambansang ekonomya na naging daan upang patuloy na maisagawa ng pamahalaan ang mahahalagang reporma, ayon sa Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III Miyerkoles. Binigyang diin ng Pangulo sa mensahe sa maringal na paglulunsad ng Marco Polo Ortigas Manila na malaking pagsulong ang nagawa ng bansa sa sektor ng turismo kaalinsabay ng mahalagang reporma sa bawa’t iba pang sektor na malaking bagay ang ibinunga sa ekonomya. “Noong nakaraang taon, sa kabila ng mga kalamidad na likha ng kalikasan at ng tao na dinanas ng ating bansa, tayo ay nanatiling isa sa pinakamalakas na umuunlad na ekonomya sa Asya na nakapagtala ng 7.2 porsiyentong paglago ng GDP,” wika ng Pangulo. “Patuloy tayong pinagtitiwalaan ng pandaigdig na komunidad at noong isang taon, sa loob lamang ng maikling panahon ay itinaas ng pinakatanyag na credit rating agencies sa daigdig ang credit rating ng bansa natin,” pahayag pa ng Pangulo. Ayon sa Pangulo, ang paglulunsad ng Marco Polo Ortigas Manila ay katibayan ng bagong tuklas na pagtitiwala ng mga kompanya sa ating bansa. Idinugtong ng Pangulo na malaki ang potensiyal ng industriya ng turismo at sa nakalipas na apat na taon, ang bilang ng mga turista—lokal o pandaigdig man—ay walang katulad ang mabilis ang paglaki. Inihalimbawa ng Pangulo na noong 2011, ang naitala ng bansa na domestic travelers ay umabot sa 37.5 milyon na lampas sa orihinal na target hindi para sa 2011, kundi para sa 2016. “Mabibigyang diin ko na nalampasan natin nang maaga ang orihinal na target para sa 2016,” wika ng Pangulo at idinagdag na dahil sa pangyayaring ito, nagtakda na ang pamahalaan ng bagong target na 56.1 milyong domestic tourists para sa 2016. Sinabi ng Pangulo na ang pandaigdig na turista ay patuloy rin ang paglaki ng bilang na halos tatlong milyon sa isang taon hanggang 4.68 milyon noong 2013. “At patuloy ang pagsisikap nating matupad ang pakay na umabot sa 10 milyong turistang pandaigdig ang magtungo sa ating bansa pagsapit ng 2016,” dugtong pa ng Pangulo. “Sa mga bagay na nagpasigla ng sektor ng turismo sa Pilipinas ay ang liberalisasyon ng aviation industry, na tinambalan pa ng paglulunsad ng pamahalaan sa pandaigdig na kampanya sa turismo,” paliwanag pa ng Pangulong Aquino. Ang P2.3 bilyong 313-kuwartong five star hotel na sinimulang itayo noong Oktubre 2010 ay ginawa sa pagsisikap ng pangulo at chief executive officer ng XinTian Ti Development Corporation na si Samuel Po, sa pakikiisa ng Marco Polo Hotels. Ang Marco Polo Hotels ay pagmamay-ari ng The Wharf (Holdings) Ltd., kompanyang nakabase sa Hong Kong na ang pangunahing negosyo ay sa ari-arian at puhunan sa communications and container terminal corporations. PND (as/zaf) TOP Pagtatayo nang higit na mainam na komunidad para sa mga biktima ng bagyong Yolanda, hindi dahil dadalaw ang Papa, sabi ng Palasyo Itinatayo ng pamahalaan ang higit na maaayos na mga komunidad para sa mga biktima ng bagyong Yolanda dahil tungkulin nila ito at hindi dahil sa ano pang ibang kadahilanan. Binigyang diin ng Tagapagsalita ng Pangulo Edwin Lacierda na tinitiyak ni Kalihim Panfilo Lacson, Presidential Assistant for Rehabilitation and Recovery na ang ipinagagawang mga bahay para sa mga biktima ay mayayari nang alinsunod sa plano. “Talaga namang ang sinisikap namin ay makapagtayo nang matitibay na bahay. Nguni’t may mga nagsasabing ganito ang ginagawa namin para pakitang tao, hindi totoo iyon,” sagot ni Lacierda sa reporter na nagsabing ang rehabilitasyon sa mga pook na winasak ng Bagyong Yolanda ay dahil nakatakdang dumalaw si Papa Francis sa Lungsod ng Tacloban sa darating na taon. “Si Kalihim Lacson ang naroon at tinitiyak niyang patuloy ang kostruksiyon. Ang pasiya ng Papa na magsadya sa Pilipinas ay kailan lamang inihayag kaya walang kinalaman iyon sa mga ginagawa sa nasalanta ng bagyo,” dugtong pa ni Lacierda. Inihayag ng Batikano kamakailan na nakatakdang dumalaw ang Papa sa mga biktima ng Bagyong Yolanda sa Enero 2015. “Dadalaw o hindi man ang Papa, tuloy ang ginagawa ng pamahalaan. Patuloy ang kostruksiyon,” dagdag pa ni Lacierda. Binanggit ni Lacierda na bukod sa rehabilitasyon sa mga pook na winasak ng bagyo at ng lindol naman sa Bohol, nakikipag-ugnayan din si Kalihim Lacson sa iba pang mga ahensiya ng pamahalaan upang tiyaking lahat ng bagay na may kaugnayan sa mga biktima ay matutugunan ng pamahalaan. “Hiniling niya (Lacson) kay Kalihim Greg Domingo ng Kalakal at Industriya na magmonitor, gayundin si Kalihim Manuel Roxas ng Interyor at Lokal na Pamahalaan na magtalaga naman ng mga pulis sapagka’t marami tayong nakitang substandard materials,” sabi ni Lacierda na ang tinutukoy ay ang pagsalakay kamakailan sa Cavite kung saan nakasamsam ang pulisya ng halagang P40 milyong steel products. Mahinang klase ang mga materyales na asero na sinasabing siyang dahilan ng pagbagsak ng mga gusali nang lumindol nang 7.2 ang lakas sa Gitnang Kabisayaan noong Disyembre 2013. PND (ag/zaf) TOP

President Benigno S. Aquino III's Speech at the Voyage: The Marco Polo Ortigas Manila Grand Launch Affair

Grand Ballroom, Marco Polo Ortigas Manila, Ortigas Center, Pasig City

09 July 2014

It is good to finally make it here today. I understand that, due to my schedule, you have pushed this event back a number of times, and I apologize for your having to do that. And thus, I must thank you for your patience, and for your insistence on having me here. Of course, I really wanted to be present for this event so I could congratulate your company, as well as a Filipino entrepreneur who is truly worthy of our admiration—Mr. Samuel Po. Now, I do not really know you that well, Mr. Po, as you know; in fact, this is probably my first real interaction with him. But I do admire him for the trust he has put in our country and in our people.For those who might not be aware, Mr. Po is the man behind one of the most successful diaper brands in our country—and I am, on the one hand apologetic for not being your client [laughter], and on the other hand glad that I am not your client [laughter]—namely, EQ diapers. And through the years, he has made his fortune not simply through luck, but through foresight. He realized that there was a potentially large market for this product in our country, and that the Philippines would grow fast enough that our people would be able to transition from using non-disposable diapers to disposable ones. In the same token,perhaps it bodes well for us that in Mr. Po’s judgment, there will also be a large enough market for tourists here to justify the amount they have invested in this hotel, which, I understand, costs P2.37 billion to construct. I certainly have great expectations for Marco Polo Ortigas. I am told that Mr. Po shares my perfectionist leanings, and that he spared no expense when it came to this hotel’s most minute details, aspiring to put up the best five-star hotel in the country. The recent performance of our tourism industry, however, is showing that this is money well spent—and that perhaps we can chalk another one up for the strategic foresight of Mr. Po. From the time this hotel began construction in October 2010 to its grand inauguration today, the economic landscape of our country has indeed changed dramatically. Even before our administration took office, we had already identified the massive promise of tourism. After all, our country has some of the most breathtaking natural gifts in the world—from the majestic landscape of Batanes up north, to the pristine beaches in the Sulu archipelago down south, whose tourism potential we can hopefully harness in the foreseeable future as peace dawns in the region. Our people are renowned for their innate hospitality, and because the jobs that arise from tourism do not require people to have very extensive training or, even in certain instances, college degrees—all that is needed is a sincere willingness to work, a friendly demeanor, and passion for your country. This is why, from the very beginning, we went all out for tourism. Since 2010, it has become far easier for tourists to move in and around the Philippines. We worked overtime to liberalize aviation, which has created a more consumer-friendly market, and given tourists a wider menu of flight options when visiting the Philippines. We made sure that the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines kept working with our local airlines to get our country out of the watch lists of the United States and the European Union—which they have succeeded in doing. On top of this, we also launched a highly successful global campaign, based on a simple truth about our country: that it is, indeed, more fun in the Philippines. The results have been clear: Over the past four years, the number of tourists—both domestically and internationally—has increased dramatically. For instance, in 2011, we recorded 37.5 million domestic travelers, which surpassed our original target for, not 2011, but 2016. Perhaps I can emphasize: we surpassed our original target for 2016 five years ahead of time. Now, we have chosen to aim higher, setting our new 2016 target at 56.1-million domestic travelers. The number of international tourists has steadily increased as well, going from an average of around three million a year to 4.68 million last 2013—and we remain committed to pursuing our 2016 goal of ten-million international tourists. Naturally, the progress we have made in tourism, together with our integral reforms in every other sector, has also made a massive impact on our economy. Last year, despite the natural and man-made disasters that struck our nation, we were still one of the fastest growing economies in Asia, registering, I assume you know, a GDP growth of 7.2 percent. We have also steadily won the confidence of the international community. Last year, the most renowned credit rating agencies in the world made it unanimous: the Philippines is investment grade. On top of this, in the short span of time we have been in office, the Philippines has erased its reputation as the “Sick Man of Asia,” and has fostered a new image, being referred to by various publications and organizations as “Asia’s Bright Spot” and “Asia’s New Tiger.” And this hotel only serves as proof positive of the newfound confidence that companies have in our country’s prospects. All these developments confirm the accuracy of Mr. Samuel Po’s prediction. The demand for your hotel rooms will maintain an upward trajectory in the coming years—sustained by tourists who are looking to discover our country, or business people who are looking at the Philippines as a potential investment destination, or even, perhaps, by an ever-expanding middle class who are gaining the wherewithal to enjoy the fruits of their hard work.Indeed, perhaps sooner rather than later, I will be receiving an invite to yet another Marco Polo grand launch affair. The increasingly bright prospects that this hotel represents reminds me of a truism—that it takes courage to bet on an emerging market like the Philippines. But if we continue on the path to progress that we have been treading these past four years, I am very confident that even more investors will change their mind about our country; more and more people will be envious of Mr. Po, because he is an earnest believer in the potential of the Filipino people.Indeed, Mr. Po, along with all those who have reaped the benefits of investing in our people, they are all proving to the world: It is always a sure thing to bet on the Filipino. For your continued faith, I truly am grateful. Just as Marco Polo, the traveler from whom you derived your name, became renowned for his account of his journey to the East, I am hopeful that this Marco Polo hotel truly becomes another gateway for tourists to discover our country, so that they may tell their friends, their family, and their colleagues back home just how fun it is here in the Philippines. Indeed, I extend my utmost gratitude to all of you for your continued belief in the dynamism of our country and in the kindness, the loyalty, and the skill of the Filipino worker. Truly, with the confidence of partners such as you—and with the continued cooperation and support of the Filipino people—we can give rise to a Philippines that is better, more inclusive, and, without doubt, even more fun. Thank you. Good evening.

[HOME] INTERVIEW OF COMMUNICATIONS SECRETARY HERMINIO COLOMA, JR. DZRH / Damdaming Bayan by Milky Rigunan and Joe Taruc 10 July 2014 JOE: Secretary Sonny Coloma, Mr. Secretary, magandang umaga po. MILKY: Secretary, good morning. SEC. COLOMA: Magandang umaga sa iyo, Manong Joe at Milky. MILKY: Kumusta po. JOE: Secretary, ano ang reaksiyon ninyo kapag ka naririnig ninyo na kahit papaano ang hinihiling ng ating mga kababayan iyong magpakita o magpaliwanag si Budget Secretary Butch Abad tungkol dito sa DAP isyu? SEC. COLOMA: Sila po ay...sila po ng Pangulo ay patuloy na nag-uusap ‘no hinggil diyan sa isyu na iyan. At katulad nga po ng sinabi ni Secretary Lacierda kahapon, ang pangunahing pinagkakaabalahan ni Secretary Abad ay iyong paghahanda sa National Budget dahil nga po mayroong commitment ang administration na atin pong isinagawa simula pa noong 2011, na iyon maagang pagsumite ng budget sa Kongreso na nauuna pa doon sa nakatakdang one month after SONA. Kung maaalala natin, Joe, itong nakaraang tatlong taon ay parating one day after SONA sina-submit na. Bago i-submit ito tatalakayin pa sa Gabinete, mayroon ngang pagpupulong ang Gabinete bukas para talakayin iyong budget proposal na isusumite sa Kongreso. Iyon po ang dahilan kung bakit minabuti po na doon muna sa National Budget magtuon ng pansin si Secretary Abad. JOE: Ibig sabihin ‘eh, kapag ‘ka nasimulan baka hindi na matigilan? SEC. COLOMA: Sa pag-determine lang ng priorities, Joe. JOE: Oho, kasi pupuwede naman kahit na kalahating oras o bente minutos ay makaharap niya, halimbawa; sa isang press con ang mga kagawad ng media. Kahit na limitado iyong oras ng pagtatanong. SEC. COLOMA: Isa pang mahalagang dahilan, Manong Joe, ay mayroon pang mga pinag-aaralang legal options ang ating pamahalaan, kabilang na nga iyong pagsumite ng Motion for Reconsideration. At doon sa ihahain na motion, kapag naganap ito, ay doon babalangkasin iyong posisyon ng pamahalaan para maging malinaw at madali itong maunawaan, mas mainam siguro na hintayin na lang iyong pagbubuo ng posisyon ng pamahalaan hinggil diyan. Para huwag naman magsanga-sanga kung saan-saan iyong usapan. JOE: Secretary, medyo didiretsuhin po kita ano ho. Ano po ang inyong reaksiyon ukol dito sa ‘di umanoy ay kumukulo daw na iringan sa pagitan ng mga taga-Samar at taga-Balay? SEC. COLOMA: Wala pong katotohanan. JOE: Iyon po ay lumutang bigla-bigla kahapon; Grace Poe at Chiz Escudero na maaring manukin ng administrasyon? SEC. COLOMA: Wala pa rin pong pinagtutuunan ng pansin hinggil sa pulitika dahil ang focus po ay iyong budget at iyong mga repormang ipapatupad pa. Wala pong pinagkaka-abalahan na hinggil sa pulitika, Manong Joe. JOE: Pero sa Malakanyang galing kahapon iyong balita ha, tungkol dito sa Grace, Chiz. SEC. COLOMA: Basta po hindi po sa amin nanggaling iyan. MILKY: Pero, Secretary, balik ho ulit ako sa DAP. Ang sabi ho kasi ng mga mamamayan, hindi ho titigil ang naturang kontrobersiya hanggat hindi nagsasalita at nagpapaliwanag si Secretary Butch Abad? SEC. COLOMA: Ang Pangulo po mismo ay magsasalita hinggil diyan. MILKY: Siya mismo— SEC. COLOMA: Kaya siguro po ay mas matimbang ‘no kapag ang Pangulo na ang nagsalita. MILKY: Ang kontrobersiya po ba sa DAP ay masasama sa State Of the Nation Address ni Pangulong Noynoy Aquino? SEC. COLOMA: Hintayin na lang po natin, dahil mayroon namang takdang panahon para diyan. JOE: Okay, kasi iyong iba naghihintay din. Well, definitely iba...ibibida at ibabandera ng Pangulo iyong anti-corruption campaign ng administration, lalo na iyong pagkakapakulong sa tatlong kagawad ng Senado. Eh pero hindi maiwasan siguro magpaliwanag tungkol dito, ano ho? SEC. COLOMA: Ang mahalaga diyan, Joe at Milky, iyong pagbibigay ng makatotohanan at makabuluhang pag-ulat sa ating mga mamamayan na “boss” ng ating Pangulo at ng pamahalaan. Sa mga nakaraang SONA ng Pangulo, iyan ang palaging nagiging tema at mahalagang elemento diyan ay iyong paghimok sa mga mamamayan na makiisa sa pamahalaan, at magkaroon po ng solaridad ang iba’t ibang sektor ng lipunan dahil iyong nation building po sangkot po tayong lahat. JOE: Okay, Secretary, iyong isa na lamang. Iyong ipinatatanong dito ng ating mga kababayan, ito pong mga nagte-text dito ano ho. Ang kanilang itinatanong kung ano raw ang nagiging reaksiyon ng Pangulong Aquino ukol dito naman sa kampanya ng gobyerno para mapatatag ang mga presyo ng mga pangunahing bilihin? SEC. COLOMA: Mismong ang Pangulo po ang nag-isyu ng derektiba. May dalawang linggo na ang nakararaan para paigtingin ang pagtitiyak na mayroong sapat na supply ng bigas at mga pangunahing pagkain sa lamesa ng bawat tahanan ng ating bansa, dahil highest priority po iyan, iyong stability of supply and prices ng basic foods item. Hindi po natin tinatantanan. Kaya po nagsagawa na ng malawakang pagsisiyasat, marami na pong raid ang isinagawa sa mga warehouse. May labingpitong tao po na pinagharapan na ng kaso sa Bulacan. Patuloy pa rin po iyong pagtugis doon sa mga hinihinalang nagho-hoarding at doon din po sa mga sobra ang patubo. Pananagutin po silang lahat dahil nga ang pakay ay pairalin ang sapat na supply at matatag na presyo. JOE: Oho, sana po ang papanagutin din natin ay iyon pong mga manager ng mga bodega ng NFA na nagpahintulot na magamit iyong kani-kanilang mga inventory para dito sa ganitong uri ng operation. SEC. COLOMA: Tama iyong, Joe, ano sa...ang ginawa so far ni NFA Administrator Arthur Juan, na bagong hirang pa lamang. Pinagpapaliwanag po iyong Regional Director sa Region III at iyong Provincial Manager sa Bulacan. Kung paano nangyari na iyong NFA rice ay napasakamay ng mga commercial traders. At mayroong ginawang paghahalo o pag ahh...iba pang mga tila labag sa batas. Iyan po ay isinagawa na. JOE: Iyong re-sacking, iyong ganiyan. Iyong paglalabas ng stock nila kung hatinggabi. Iyong mga 18 wheelers na nanggagaling sa mga napakalalaking bodega, ay siguro dapat alamin kung sino ang may kinalaman dito? SEC. COLOMA: Kaya nga, Joe, pinapapanagot na iyong Regional Director at iyong Provincial Manager, at sinasagawa rin ito sa lahat ng lugar na matutuklasang mayroong ganiyang iregularidad. JOE: Oho. Secretary, dito naman sa Kamara de Representantes, ano ho. Papaano ho kayo nagre-react na mababalitaan natin o mayroong nag-file ng impeachment complaint, pagkatapos mayroon tayong mga kakampi na nagdedepensa naman sa Pangulo ano ho. Pero hindi po ba mas maganda kung malinaw para sa kanila kung ano ho iyong isyu? SEC. COLOMA: Kinikilala po natin na karapatan ng mga kagawad ng Karama de Representantes ang paghahain ng impeachment. Dahil iyan po ay nakatakda sa Saligang Batas. Iyon naman pong mga kaalyado ng Pangulo at ng pamahalaan, batid po nila iyong isyu dahil sila po mismo ang author ng General Appropriation Act. At ang pinag-uusapan dito, Joe, sa isyu ng Disbursement Acceleration Program ay iyong interpretasyon ng savings, unobligated allotment, iyong mga so called cross-border transfers. Batid po iyan ng ating mga kagawad ng Kamara, sapagkat sila mismo ang humuhubog at bumubuo ng General Appropriations Act. JOE: Okay, Mr. Secretary, maraming salamat po. MILKY: Salamat, Secretary Coloma. SEC. COLOMA: Maraming salamat, at magandang umaga, Milky at Manong Joe. SOURCE: News Information Bureau - Data Processing Center [HOME] 10 JULY 2014 NAPOLCOM recommends to PNoy the promotion of 5 police officials to star ranks POEA prevents OFWs from returning to Afghanistan BSP rediscount rates for July 2014 and availments as of June 2014 FDI Net Inflows surge by fourfold to US$597 million in April, reach US$2.4 billion in first four months of 2014 Another credit-rating upgrade: R&I says infrastructure investments, reforms to boost incomes in PH 649 families fescued from danger zones under Oplan Likas Call for submissions to Kritika Kultura Literary Section, Issue 24 DTI prompts importers to get over 7,000 containers out from Manila ports CIDG cracksdown 40M-worth of substandard construction steel products PHL Consulate General in Sydney holds lecture on Apolinario Mabini’s role in PHL revolution PHL Ambassador to Turkey visits Mersin, discusses Sister - City agreement and improvement of trade PH exports grow by 6.9 percent in May ’14 DA to reduce effects of El Niño on rice production P320.8-M Infra Projects Pour In Caraga SSS seminar for informal sector workers in Antipolo Ombudsman dismisses state university Prexy Statement of Secretary Joel Villanueva on TESDA DAP-funded projects NAPOLCOM recommends to PNoy the promotion of 5 police officials to star ranks Source: http://www.napolcom.gov.ph The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) recommended to President Benigno S. Aquino III the promotion of one (1) Police Chief Superintendent to Police Director (equivalent to two-star General in the military) and four (4) Police Senior Superintendents to Police Chief Superintendent (equivalent to one-star General). NAPOLCOM Vice-Chairman and Executive Officer Eduardo U. Escueta said that the Commission recommended to President Aquino the promotion to Police Director of P/Chief Supt. Juanito Vaño, Jr. who is presently the Acting Director for Logistics. The Commission also recommended the promotion to Police Chief Superintendent of four (4) Police Senior Superintendents, as follows: P/Sr. Supt. Ericson Velasquez, Acting Executive Officer of the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management; P/Sr. Supt. Alexander Pumecha, Acting Executive Officer of the Directorate for Research and Development; P/Sr. Supt. Arnold Albis, Acting Deputy Regional Director for Administration, Police Regional Office 5; and P/Sr. Supt. Federico Dulay, Jr., Acting Deputy Regional Director for Administration, Police Regional Office 11. Escueta said that the NAPOLCOM approved and recommended to President Aquino their promotion to star rank positions after P/Director General Alan LM Purisima, the Chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), recommended their promotion and certified that they meet all the requirements for promotion. |TOP| BSP rediscount rates for July 2014 and availments as of June 2014 Source: http://www.dbm.gov.ph The BSP announced today the rediscount rates applicable on loan availments by banking institutions for July 2014 and availments as of June 2014. For loans under the Peso Rediscount Facility, the rediscount rates effective 15 November 2013 up to the next policy rates revision are as follows: Loan Maturity Rate (%)  RW I1 RW II 2 30 days 5.6250 3.5000 90 days 5.6875 3.5000 180 days 5.7500 3.5625 360 days n/a 3.6250 The Peso rediscount rates for RW I and RW II are based on the applicable BSP one-month repurchase rate and overnight reverse repurchase rate, respectively, plus term premia for longer maturities per Circular No. 806 dated 15 August 2013. Meanwhile, for loans under the Exporters Dollar and Yen Rediscount Facility (EDYRF), the rates for the month of July are as follows: Loan Maturity Rate (%)  Dollar Yen 1-90 days 2.2307 2.13286 91-180 days 2.2932 2.19536 181-360 days 2.3557 2.25786 The EDYRF rates are based on the respective 90-day London Inter-Bank Offered Rate (LIBOR) as of 30 June 2014 plus 200 basis points plus term premia for longer maturities pursuant to Circular No. 807 dated 15 August 2013. Under the Peso Rediscount Facility, total availments of thrift and rural banks amounted to P735 million for the period 01 January to 30 June 2014, 95.2 percent lower than the P15,468 million total in the same period last year. Of the availments for the period, 82.1 percent went to commercial credits, 3.6 percent to agricultural and industrial credits, and 14.3 percent to other credits consisting of permanent working capital (5.8 percent), other services (4.8 percent), CAPEX (2.3 percent), and housing (1.4 percent). Under the EDYRF, aggregate dollar availments of a universal bank and a thrift bank for the period 01 January to 30 June 2014 amounted to US$4.8 million and benefitted two exporters. This represents a 93.7 percent decrease in availments compared to the US$75.6 million grants for the same period last year. On the other hand, there was no Yen-denominated availment under the EDYRF for the period 01 January to 30 June 2014. |TOP| FDI Net Inflows surge by fourfold to US$597 million in April, reach US$2.4 billion in first four months of 2014 Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph Net inflows of foreign direct investments (FDI) surged to US$597 million in April 2014, four times higher than the US$149 million recorded in the same period last year.1,2 The significant rise in FDI in April was driven by the spike in investment inflows in debt instruments (or intercompany borrowings) to US$518 million from US$23 million a year ago. In addition, reinvestment of earnings increased by 26.2 percent to US$80 million compared to US$63 million in the previous year. Meanwhile, equity capital placements yielded net outflows of US$1 million. This developed as withdrawals of US$79 million more than offset the US$78 million gross equity capital placements. The bulk of these equity capital investments—which emanated largely from the United States, Japan, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and Germany—was channeled mainly to activities related to real estate; financial and insurance; accommodation and food service; and transportation and storage. On a cumulative basis, FDI net inflows reached US$2.4 billion for the first four months of 2014. This was 9.1 percent higher than the US$2.2 billion net inflows during the same period last year as net inflows were recorded across FDI components. The sustained increase in net inflows continued to reflect strong investor confidence in the country’s solid macroeconomic fundamentals. By FDI component, net investment inflows in debt instruments increased by 42 percent to US$1.6 billion in January-April 2014 from US$1.1 billion in the previous year. Moreover, reinvestment of earnings rose by 1.3 percent year-on-year to US$265 million in January – April 2014. Meanwhile, net equity capital placements reached US$635 million as gross equity capital placements of US$954 million more than compensated for the withdrawals of US$320 million during the period. Equity capital investments flowed in mostly from the United States, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, and Taiwan. These were channeled mainly to financial and insurance; real estate; manufacturing; wholesale and retail trade; and mining and quarrying activities. ------------------------ 1 The BSP adopted the Balance of Payments, 6th edition (BPM6) compilation framework effective 22 March 2013 with the release of the full-year 2012 and revised 2011 BOP statistics. On 21 March 2014, the BSP released the BPM6-based series from 2005-2013. The major change in FDI compilation is the adoption of the asset and liability principle, where claims of non-resident direct investment enterprises from resident direct investors are now presented as reverse investment under net incurrence of liabilities/non-residents’ investments in the Philippines (previously presented in the Balance of Payments Manual, 5th edition (BPM5) as negative entry under assets/residents’ investments abroad). Conversely, claims of resident direct investment enterprises from foreign direct investors are now presented as reverse investment under net acquisition of financial assets/residents’ investments abroad (previously presented as negative entry under liabilities/non-residents’ investments in the Philippines). 2 BSP statistics on FDI covers actual investment inflows, which could be in the form of equity capital, reinvestment of earnings, and borrowings between affiliates. In contrast to investment data from other government sources, the BSP’s FDI data include investments where ownership by the foreign enterprise is at least 10 percent. Meanwhile, FDI data of Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) do not make use of the 10 percent threshold and include borrowings from foreign sources that are non-affiliates of the domestic company. Furthermore, the BSP’s FDI data are presented in net terms (i.e., equity capital placements less withdrawals), while the IPAs’ FDI do not account for equity withdrawals. |TOP| Another credit-rating upgrade: R&I says infrastructure investments, reforms to boost incomes in PH Source: http://www.dof.gov.ph The Philippines has secured another credit-rating upgrade, this time from Japan-based R&I, which sees consistent rise in per-capita income in the country as a result of immense growth in infrastructure investments and continuity of reforms. R&I raised the country’s long-term foreign-currency issuer rating by a notch from the minimum investment grade of BBB- to BBB. The rating was assigned a “stable” outlook, which means it is unlikely to change within a year. At the same time, the credit watchdog maintained the country’s short-term debt rating at a-2, which indicates high certainty that short-term financial obligations would be paid. “The Philippines’ economy continues to show strong growth, thanks to brisk investment coupled with private consumption driven by remittances from overseas Filipinos,” R&I said in a report released Wednesday. “This should allow for relatively high growth and raise per-capita income levels steadily,” it stressed. Per-capita income in the Philippines has been modest compared with those of more advanced neighbors, but the country is catching up in this area. From $3,684 in 2009, per capita income in the country (using current prices and purchasing power parity) increased to $4,649 last year. R&I recognized the country’s healthy fiscal situation, saying this helps fulfill the plan of boosting public spending. “Savings in interest payments, thanks to fiscal consolidation, help the government to finance infrastructure projects. Budget execution is also expected to accelerate,” it said. This year’s state budget for infrastructure at P404.3 billion, R&I cited, is 40 percent more than last year’s. R&I also said the rollout of more projects under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) program would help drive more job-generating investments and sustain the rise in incomes. “Furthermore, public-private partnerships, which utilize private capital [for funding public infrastructure], are underway, albeit gradually, and will likely boost investments,” R&I said. Earlier this year, the government awarded contracts for two PPP projects, namely the P1.72-billion automated fare collection and single ticketing system for the MRT and the LRT, and the P17.5-billion Mactan Cebu International Airport expansion project. This brings to seven the total number, and to P62.6 billion the aggregate cost, of the PPP projects awarded so far. R&I also recognized the country’s sound macroeconomic fundamentals, including ample foreign-exchange reserves, improving manageability of government debt, and within-target inflation. It also said reforms instituted by the Aquino administration, including legislative and administrative reforms in tax collection, helped improve the investment climate. R&I expressed belief reforms will be sustained even beyond 2016. “There is risk that the next government will not be as reform-minded as the Aquino administration. However, pressures from growing international relationships, such as the establishment of the ASEAN Economic Community in 2015, along with public expectation for sustained reform initiatives, should deter the post-Aquino government from going backwards,” it said. Meantime, Governor Amando M. Tetangco Jr. of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas welcomed the upgrade, saying this validates soundness of existing policies. “The latest development on the country’s credit standing is a recognition of a host of favorable macroeconomic indicators, particularly an inflation outlook that is conducive for business and the stability of the financial system amidst a difficult operating environment,” Tetangco said. “The upgrade is an expression of confidence, in part, on the ability of the Monetary Authority to implement appropriate and timely measures that ward off threats to the economic stability we are enjoying. The BSP will continue to craft policies that will help maintain this stability,” The BSP chief added. Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima likewise affirmed the focus on sustainability of favorable trends for the economy. “Reforms that this government has started to institutionalize help ensure that the positive momentum will not falter,” Purisima said. “On the fiscal front, administrative and policy reforms implemented by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC) will make it easier in the future to keep the growth trend in public revenues,” he said. Investor Relations Office (IRO) Executive Director Editha Martin said the country’s upward movement in the credit-ratings scale bodes well for raising the country’s international profile as an investment destination. “It is always good to have institutions outside the government point out the strengths of the Philippine economy. The string of credit-rating upgrades that the country has secured in recent years makes it difficult for investors not to notice the Philippines,” Martin said. |TOP| 649 families fescued from danger zones under Oplan Likas Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph As a result of government efforts to clear Metro Manila’s informal settler families (ISFs) from dangerous waterways, Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas led today the ceremonies for the turnover of the cleared three-meter easement of Maricaban Creek in Pasay City to barangay officials of Barangay 180 and 183. Roxas said the creek’s 3-meter easement is now cleared after around 649 ISFs living along the waterway voluntarily relocated in a resettlement site located in Brgy. Hugo in Trece Martirez City since November 2013 under the government’s “Oplan Likas” program. “Walang ibang hangad ang pamahalaan kundi masigurong ang mga mamamayan ay malayo sa sakuna o anumang peligro dulot ng kalamidad. Kaya natutuwa ako na sa pamamagitan ng Oplan Likas ay nabibigyan ng pagkakataon ang ating mga kababayan na manirahan sa isang ligtas na pamayanan,” said the DILG Secretary, who is also Vice-Chairperson for Disaster Preparedness. “Oplan Likas” or “Lumikas para Iwas Kalamidad at Sakit,” which is being spearheaded by the DILG, aims to relocate ISFs living along so-called danger zones in various parts of Metro Manila to safe, decent, and affordable housing units as part of President Aquino’s “Covenant with the Poor.” Other agencies involved in the program are the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), National Housing Authority (NHA) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Maricaban Creek is one of the eight priority waterways identified by the government that have to be widened and dredged and cleared of structures. The other waterways are: San Juan River, Manggahan Floodway, Estero Tripa de Galina, Tullahan River, Pasig River, Estero de Maypajo and Estero de Sunog Apog. The DILG Chief said the clearing of the 3-meter easement along the Maricaban Creek also makes way for the implementation of the Metro Manila Flood Control Project of the DPWH. This includes the dredging of rivers, improvement of urban drainage system, and dike/river wall construction and excavation. As of now, dredging activities are already being undertaken in the area and the first phase of the revetment wall had already been completed. “The relocation will pave the way for the unimpeded development of flood management system for Metro Manila. The vacated communities will be secured by the government and properly marked as danger zones to prevent building of structures in the future,” Roxas said. During the activity, Brgy. Captain Pio Arce of Brgy. 180 expressed his gratitude to Roxas and said that the sangguniang barangay has passed a resolution accepting responsibility for the 3-meter easement to ensure that the ISFs will not return to the area again. Brgy. 183 issued a similar resolution. “Dahil sa tulong ninyo, mababawasan na ang pagbaha dito sa aming lugar at makakaasa rin po kayo na wala ng ISF na maninirahan malapit sa creek,” Arce said. One of the relocatees, Norma Lectonin, who is now living in the relocation site in Trece Martirez City, also shared that her family, along with the other families, is happy with her new home and adjusting very well in their new community. “Salamat po sa ating mahal na Pangulo at kay Sec. Roxas dahil mayroon na po kaming maayos at ligtas na tahanan at hindi na kami nababahala sa baha at malakas ang bagyo,” she said, adding that most of them have engaged in small enterprises like sari-sari store and carinderia to make a living. As of June 30, 2014, housing units amounting to a total of P147.6-million have already been distributed to 738 ISFs from the Maricaban area. A total of 1,845 starter food packs and 550 health kits have also been given to the families aside from the P18,000 financial assistance per family. “Bago magtapos ang buwang ito, inaasahan ko na sa tulong ng lokal na pamahalaan ay wala ng ISF sa buong kahabaan ng Maricaban Creek,” Roxas said. In attendance during the turnover rites were Pasay City Rep. Emi Calixto-Rubiano, DPWH Secretary Rogelio Singson, and Barangay Captains Pio Arce and Maria Lita Landagan of Brgy. 180 and 183, respectively. |TOP| Call for submissions to Kritika Kultura Literary Section, Issue 24 Source: http://www.ncca.gov.ph Kritika Kultura is now accepting contributions to its literary section, for possible inclusion in the February 2015 issue. Writers may submit any one of the following for consideration: 1. Suite of 3-5 poems or a long poem 2. Short story 3. Excerpt from a novel (please include a brief overview of the novel’s project) 4. Essay 5. Work of translation (please secure the permission of the author whose work you are translating, and include a brief introduction explaining your process of translation) 6. Hybrid work that can be accommodated within the journal’s .pdf format Works in Filipino, regional, and other languages must be accompanied by an English translation. Submission Guidelines Please e-mail your original and unpublished contribution to the literary section of Kritika Kultura to kkliterary@gmail.com (cc:kritikakultura@gmail.com). Simultaneous submission is accepted, but Kritika Kultura must be notified immediately if the work is accepted or published elsewhere. For both the subject heading of the email and the filename of the submission, please use your last name and the genre-label of the work (for instance, dela Cruz_Poetry). Email your submission as a file attachment (.docx and/or .pdf format); please do not indicate your name within the pages of the attachment. As an in-line text in your email, include a brief bio-note (100 to 150 words), as well as your institutional affiliation and professional e-mail address. All contributions must be submitted on or before August 31, 2014. Please give the journal a response time of four months after the deadline before you inquire about the status of your submission. Kritika Kultura is a refereed electronic journal of literary, cultural, and language studies, based in the Department of English, Ateneo de Manila University and accessible at http://kritikakultura.ateneo.net/. It is indexed in the MLA International Bibliography, Thomson Reuters (formerly ISI), and other major databases. For further details regarding editorial policy, please refer to the website of the journal. |TOP| DTI prompts importers to get over 7,000 containers out from Manila ports Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) once again urged industries and warehouse owners/ operators to help in accelerating the flow of goods to and from Manila ports. DTI-Consumer Protection Group (CPG) Undersecretary Atty. Victorio Mario A. Dimagiba clarified, “The DTI is involved in a government committee that develops plans in decongesting the ports in the city of Manila. Now that traffic of delivery trucks and vans in Manila City is easing, it is essential that the transport of products to and from the ports and their distributors is fast and frequent to decongest the ports and to provide supplies in the markets for consumers’ purchases.” Initially, the DTI urged industries and warehouse owners/ operators to cooperate and ensure that their businesses and warehouses are open at night time and weekends to accept deliveries. By the start of June, the City of Manila allowed a 24-hour express trade lane of the City of Manila for containerized trailer trucks at the innermost lane of Roxas Boulevard bound south and north to Anda Circle; and at the outermost lane bound south and north from Anda Circle to R-10. In a recent committee meeting, the Department of Finance (DOF) led the crafting of action plans to further reduce the congestion of Manila ports. “This time, the Department was tasked to prompt importers with over 7,000 containers to immediately get their containers out from the Manila ports. Last Friday, we had discussions with BOC, PPA, International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI), and Asian Terminals, Inc. (ATI) on identifying who these port users are and who among them are needed to be prompted on their containers,” Dimagiba recounted. In the said meeting, BOC, PPA, and the port operators ATI and ICTSI agreed to ready their lists of more than 7,000 importers, traders, and, distributors that own or rent containers that DTI will be reminding to bring these containers out of the Manila ports. “We anticipate for the flow of goods in the market to normalize in several weeks as truckers manage their deliveries with industries through the express trade lane; and as container owners and operators bring the products out the ports," Dimagiba asserted. “But it is vital that each sector of this trade cycle cooperates in this endeavor. We have witnessed the effects of these circumstances and the buying public have unfortunately borne the impacts such as low of supply and spikes in prices of basic goods,” he added. For more information, call DTI-CPG at 751.4748/ 40. |TOP| CIDG cracksdown 40M-worth of substandard construction steel products Source: http://pnp.gov.ph Php 40 million worth of substandard angle bars and deformed bars were unearthed by the AFCCU detectives of Police Director Benjamin B. Magalong, CIDG Director, led by its Chief, PSSUPT Bartolome R. Bustamante together with the DTI technical team and Industry partners yesterday (July 8, 2014) in Golden Gate Business Park, Barangay Buenaviste, General Trias, Cavite. Based on a report to Magalong by AFCCU Chief Bustamante, , the CIDG agents, at 10 this morning, served a search warrant issued by Manila RTC Branch 53 for violation of Article 18 of RA 7394 also known as Consumer Act against STEELTOWER STEEL CORPORATION owned by ALEX GO, ANDREW GO, JASON ANG, JAMES ANG and JINTUAN WU. Magalong said the search yielded to the seizure of 16,000 pieces of 8 mm rolled steel bars, 600 tons angle bars size 4.5x50x50, uncertified GI wires, substandard angle bars of assorted sizes with counterfeit lsc logo and uncertified/unmarked roofing materials. Magalong revealed that sometime in April 2014, Secretary Panfilo M. Lacson, the Presidential Assistant for Rehabilitation and Recovery (PARR), recommended to DTI Secretary Gregory L. Domingo the deputation of the CIDG to assist in the enforcement of and conduct of operations against the proliferation of said materials. Magalong further stated sub-standard construction materials are being smuggled into the country from different ports and are eventually transported and sold in Yolanda-affected areas. Some of these products were held by the Bureau of Customs for misdeclaration but others made its way to the local market. Magalong added the detectives need at least 2 days to haul these products. With the effort of Secretary Lacson and with the assistance of the CIDG in effecting the aforementioned warrant, the discovery prevented additional devastation to the already bleak life of the victims of strongest tropical typhoon Yolanda. |TOP| PHL Consulate General in Sydney holds lecture on Apolinario Mabini’s role in PHL revolution Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph 10 July 2014 - The Philippine Consulate General in Sydney, in cooperation with the Order of the nights of Rizal (OKOR), organized a lecture as part of the Consulate General’s activities to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Apolinario Mabini on July 5. Entitled “When God Provided the Weapon: From Rizal’s La Liga Filipina to Bonifacio’s Katipunan to Mabini and the Revolution-1892 to 1898 and beyond”, the lecture by Professor Floro Quibuyen covered the Philippine Revolution and the roles of heroes Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio and Apolinario Mabini in the struggle for independence. According to Professor Quibuyen, Rizal inspired Bonifacio, who began and organized the armed resistance against the Spaniards, and Mabini, who provided the structure for a revolutionary government under Aguinaldo. Professor Quibuyen expressed admiration for Mabini who came from a humble background and had to support himself through school. He said that despite having to work for his board and lodging by teaching children and doing odd jobs, Mabini obtained in Colegio de San Juan de Letran, the highest academic distinction of “sobresaliente”, matching Rizal’s scholastic achievement at the Ateneo de Manila. Prof. Quibuyen added that Mabini’s intellect was put to full use while serving under the administration of Aguinaldo. The Professor also noted how Mabini was steadfast in pursuing the Philippines’ independence even as he was exiled to Guam and when he returned to Manila. Philippine Consul General Anne Jalando-on Louis thanked OKOR Sydney Chapter Commander Ralph Posadas and Professor Quibuyen, himself an OKOR member, for collaborating with the Consulate General on the lecture. The members of the OKOR Canberra Chapter led by Commander Ariel Pattugalan, also attended the event. Other guests included Knight Grand Officer of Rizal (KGOR) and Blacktown City Councillor Jess Diaz, Knight Grand Officer of Rizal (KGOR) Ricardo de Vera and OKOR Regional Commander for Australia, New Zealand and Oceania Philip Rañoso. The members of OKOR, their families, Filipino community leaders, and members of the media were also present at the event. In her message, Consul General Louis noted how Mabini, despite suffering from his physical condition, continued to give of himself fully to the cause of Philippine independence and to serve his country, including as the first Secretary of Foreign Affairs. Consul General Louis expressed hope that Mabini’s brilliance and heroism, rooted deeply in patriotism, will be a source of inspiration for Filipinos today. The lecture program also featured musical numbers by OKOR member Richard Peralta and by Mr. Rene Tinapay. |TOP| PHL Ambassador to Turkey visits Mersin, discusses Sister - City agreement and improvement of trade Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph 10 July 2014 – Philippine Ambassador to Turkey Maria Rowena Mendoza Sanchez visited Mersin, Turkey’s largest seaport city, on June 20 to meet with its local leaders and its business sector and promote the Philippines. Ambassador Sanchez expressed to Governor Hasan Basri Guzeloglu the Philippines' keen interest in enhancing its trade relations with Mersin. Ambassador Sanchez and Deputy Mayor Özgür Sanal, on the other hand, agreed to revive the Davao-Mersin Sister City Agreement. In her meeting with the Mersin Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ambassador Sanchez briefed the Chamber on the positive developments in the Philippine economy, and invited the Chamber to consider the Philippines as a viable trade and investment partner in the Asia Pacific. Ambassador Sanchez was joined by her spouse, Mr. Mario Sanchez, Philippine Honorary Consul in Mersin Sukru Diyab, and the Embassy’s official translator during her visit to Mersin, Efe Acunaz. |TOP| PH exports grow by 6.9 percent in May ’14 Source: http://www.neda.gov.ph MANILA— Philippine exports grew by 6.9 percent in May 2014 and overall outlook for the rest of the year continues to be upbeat, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA). The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), an attached agency of NEDA, reported today that total revenues from exports rose to US$5.5 billion during the period from US$5.1 billion or 4.1 percent in May 2013. To date, total exports increased by 5.8 percent from US$23.0 billion in the same period last year to US$24.4 billion. Stronger sales in minerals, manufactures, total agro-based, and forest products propelled the growth in merchandise exports by 6.9 percent. Revenues from mineral products grew by 58.0 percent, from US$395.6 million in May 2013 to US$625.0 million in May 2014 mainly due to increased shipment to the People’s Republic of China (PR China), Japan, and Switzerland. Similarly, overseas sales of manufactured goods expanded by 3.3 percent to US$4.2 billion in May 2014 from US$4.1 billion in May 2013. “The positive outturn in the manufactured segment of the export industry during the period, a reversal from the 3.2 percent year-on-year contraction in May 2013, was broadly in line with a stronger global manufacturing activity,” said Emmanuel F. Esguerra, NEDA Deputy Director-General and currently Officer in Charge. Total agro-based exports also picked up its pace in May 2014 as revenues increased to US$450.9 million during the period from US$380.8 million in May 2013. Major contributors to this growth were coconut products, fruits and vegetables, and other agro-based products. Export revenues from coconut products posted a significant growth of 31.1 percent in May 2014 mainly due to higher international prices. But the volume of shipments in coconut products fell due to the natural slowdown in copra production, as well as the long-term negative impact of Typhoon Yolanda in coconut-producing areas and the effect of the coconut scale insect (CSI). “On fruits and vegetables, higher volumes of bananas were shipped to major markets such as Japan, PR China, South Korea, Kuwait, and Iran. The rehabilitation of banana plantations damaged during Typhoon Pablo in December 2012 also significantly improved supply conditions which supported the exports growth of the said commodity group,” he added. Forest products also posted a positive growth of 34.2 percent during the period. “However, while overall export outlook for the year is positive, sales in total agro-based exports may decline due to the adverse impact of a possibly prolonged dry spell in the coming months,” said Esguerra. Other contributory factors include negative outturns in shipments of coconut products. Along this line, the NEDA official reiterated that to attain the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) Midterm Update FY 2014 target of US$69.0 billion, policies should remain supportive of higher exports growth. “In the short-term, efforts must be intensified to help the areas vulnerable to the adverse impact of a prolonged dry spell. Measures to contain the spread of coconut scale insect (CSI) must also be stepped up. Moreover, the capacities of exporters to improve product quality and packaging in line with internationally-accepted standards and practices must be enhanced,” said Esguerra. “In the long term, to ensure the sustainability of manufacturing exports, the government needs to intensify the Industry Roadmapping Project. This includes the on-going Manufacturing Resurgence Program, complemented by continuing measures to improve the country’s business climate, as well as to increase overall productivity and innovative capacity,” he added. Esguerra also reiterated the pressing need to address the overhanging issue concerning power. Japan remains as the country’s top export market with a total value of US$1.12 billion, accounting for 20.4 percent of our total revenues from merchandise exports during the period. This is followed by the PR China with a 17.5 percent share and the USA with 13.7 percent. DDG Esguerra is the OIC of the NEDA Secretariat while Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan is on official business abroad from July 7 to 13, 2014. |TOP| DA to reduce effects of El Niño on rice production Source: http://www.da.gov.ph The Department of Agriculture (DA) said it plans to further reduce rice production risks due to El Niño, especially in upland and rain-fed areas, as part of the strategies of the National Rice Program and the DA’s climate change resiliency and adaptation measures. Agriculture Assistant Secretary and concurrent National Rice Program Director Edilberto de Luna said the DA is ready for the looming prolonged dry spell. “We will not be caught unprepared, especially now that the weather is becoming harder and harder to predict,” de Luna added. Despite the recent rains, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) earlier said El Niño may still occur and peak by the end of the year. As early as April, the DA had started preparing for the possible occurrence of El Niño in the Philippines. The department has begun cloud seeding operations and has released rice varieties that are tolerant to drought and is putting in place policy initiatives, water management and conservation measures. Modern farming and fishery technologies have also been utilized to cushion the effects of El Niño. According to de Luna, besides preparing for El Niño, the National Rice Program also intends to increase the volume and percentage share of the first semester rice output. The 2013 first semester harvest was 7.998 million metric tons, representing 43 percent of the country’s total rice production. The country’s small-scale irrigation systems and facilities are also being improved to make it more resilient to the disastrous effects of harsh weather and other calamities, de Luna said. He added that the DA means to further enhance the climate change awareness and adaptation capacity of farmers and other stakeholders. |TOP| P320.8-M Infra Projects Pour In Caraga Source: http://dar.gov.ph Agrarian reform beneficiaries in Caraga Region will soon enjoy greater economic opportunities as the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), delivers various infrastructure projects in support of the country’s rural development program. The P320.8 million worth of infrastructure include farm-to-market roads (FMRs), irrigation program, bridges, potable water system, warehouse, solar dryer, school buildings, health center, and post-harvest facilities. DAR Regional Director Faisar Mambuay said the development of Caraga Region, being one of the poorest regions in the country, aims to reduce the incidence of poverty and raise the standard of living of farmers. “Caraga, whose residents consists mainly of farmers and fishermen, will greatly benefit from these infrastructure facilities. These [infra projects] will enhance the rural economy and in the process, create job opportunities in the region,” Mambuay said. Among the projects that were turned over recently include the farm-warehouse and post-harvest facilities of Tubod town in Surigao del Norte, Libas and Jabonga in Agusan del Norte, and Tagbabapsa in Remedios Trinidad Romualdez, Agusan del Norte. Last month, the Level II Pump in Doña Carmen, and Level II Pump in San Jose, both in Tagbina, Surigao del Sur, were completed, and turned over to the local government units (LGUs), and farmer beneficiaries in the two areas. The road projects with corresponding bridges in the four areas of Tagbina were already completed, while the Phase II Marga-Hubasan road concreting project also in Tagbina is ongoing. |TOP| SSS seminar for informal sector workers in Antipolo Source: https://www.sss.gov.ph  About 200 informal sector workers, mostly tricycle drivers and market vendors, attended the Social Security System's (SSS) “Social Protection for All” Seminar held last June 27 at the Ynares Multi-Purpose Hall in Antipolo City. SSS-related lectures during the event include updates on SSS benefits, the AlkanSSSya Program, and an orientation on Philippine social protection delivered by SSS Commissioner and labor representative Atty. Ibarra Malonzo (standing, center). Seated at the panel were (from left) SSS Antipolo Assistant Branch Head Dr. Ronald Ibay, SSS Antipolo Branch Head Berlita Fabrero, SSS MRD Head Eugenia dela Cruz, and SSS Member Relations Department (MRD) Member Education Section Head Bella Bermudo. The SSS panelists responded to various questions from the audience about SSS coverage, benefits and programs during the Open Forum. Commissioner Malonzo, who also heads the Coverage and Collection Committee of the Social Security Commission, initiated the series of SSS seminars to promote the importance of social protection among informal sector workers who are often vulnerable in the face of financial contingencies. The seminar was held in partnership with the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, Public Transporation Regulatory Board, City Council of Antipolo and local workers' organizations. |TOP| Ombudsman dismisses state university Prexy Source: http://www.ombudsman.gov.ph Cagayan State University (CSU) President Roger Perez was dismissed from the service for Grave Misconduct and indicted for Malversation, Indirect Bribery and violations of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (Republic Act No. 3019) for utilizing the university’s resources for his house improvements. In a nine-page Joint Resolution, Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales found that Perez utilized government materials, equipment, laborers and electricity for the construction of steel windows and steel staircase in his residence. Records show on several occasions in August 2006, Perez took various materials and equipment from the CSU warehouse for delivery to his house while security logbooks also show that laborers also took equipment and materials from the CSU warehouse and were brought to Perez’s house. Insofar as the charge of indirect bribery is concerned, records show that in March 2006 CSU ordered P2,385,765 worth of pre-cast gutter from Freyssinet Filipinas Corporation for the CSU gymnasium. It was determined that following the completion of the gym and payment to Freysinnet, Perez also received a check issued in his name amounting to P140,400.00. “The use of public properties, equipment and labor services for personal gain is a classic case of Malversation, violation of Sec. 3(e) of RA 3019 and Grave Misconduct,” the Resolution explained, adding that “to aggravate matters, respondent Perez appears to have solicited and received in his own name the amount of P140,400.00 from Freyssinet.” Ombudsman Morales emphasized that “Perez’s singular act of receipt and acceptance of money is not sanctioned at all by law…the receipt itself (by respondent) from a corporation doing business in which he was President is prohibited by the law governing conflict-of interest situations.” Aside from facing criminal indictments, Perez was dismissed from the service and meted out the accessory penalties of cancellation of eligibility, perpetual disqualification from holding public office, forfeiture of retirement benefits, and bar from taking civil service examinations. Meanwhile, the charges against Merlito Medenilla were dismissed for lack of merit. Section 3(b) of RA No. 3019 prohibits public officials from directly or indirectly requesting or receiving any gift, present, share, percentage, or benefit, for himself or for any other person, in connection with any contract…wherein the public officer in his official capacity has to intervene under the law. On the other hand, Section 3(e) thereof declares it unlawful when a public official causes any undue injury to any party, or giving any private party any unwarranted benefits, advantage or preference in the discharge of his official administrative functions through manifest partiality, evident bad faith or gross inexcusable negligence. |TOP| Statement of Secretary Joel Villanueva on TESDA DAP-funded projects Source: http://www.tesda.gov.ph A total of P1.1 billion was released to the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in October 2011 from funds coming from the Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP). The fund was used to augment TESDA's Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP), which has provided free technical vocational education and training to thousands of students. Out of the P 1.1 billion, P500 million went to the BPO-IT (Business Process Outsourcing-Information Technology) sector, through the Business Processing Association of the Philippines (BPAP), and P600 million to support the skills requirement in four priority sectors – agriculture/agri-business; tourism, retirement, health and wellness; general infrastructure; and electronics/semi-conductor. The scholarship projects implemented with the BPAP yielded a total of 65,048 graduates, and an employment rate of 70.7 percent (45,961). The projects with the other priority sectors produced a total of 73,632 graduates, and an employment rate of 60 percent (44,179). Of the P1.1 billion, around P38 million or 3 percent were unutilized and went to the National Treasury. Among the reasons for the failure to use the fund was the delay in the processes of some private sector partners, the dropout rate, and the inability to fully implement scholarship programs in some areas because of calamities. As to reports about the 61 alleged ghost scholars out of the 210,000 scholars of TESDA, we found out that some are already working abroad, while others could not be traced because they have changed contact numbers. We made this clear to COA and it accepted our explanation. Adhering to the COA recommendation, TESDA ordered several schools that failed to implement the scholarship program to return the money alloted to them. TESDA also ordered the closure of some schools that were found to have irregularities in their tech-voc programs. Amid its findings, COA did not issue any notice of disallowance or notice of suspension for this spending. We are prepared to present documents when necessary to show that this fund has reaped gains for the beneficiaries. |TOP|

Last Updated: 10 JULY 2014
Google+ Photo Releases of PNoy
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			President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the Voyage: The Marco Polo Ortigas Manila Grand Launch Affair at the grand ballroom of the Marco Polo Ortigas Manila in Meralco Avenue at the Ortigas Center in Pasig City on Wednesday (July 09). Also in photo are Marco Polo Ortigas Manila general manager Adriano Vences, Frontier Ortigas Hotel and Resort Corporation owner Samuel Po, Marco Polo Hotel Group president Eric Waldburger and Bureau of Internal Revenue Commissioner Kim Jacinto-Henares. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the Voyage: The Marco Polo Ortigas Manila Grand Launch Affair at the grand ballroom of the Marco Polo Ortigas Manila in Meralco Avenue at the Ortigas Center in Pasig City on Wednesday (July 09). Also in photo are Marco Polo Ortigas Manila general manager Adriano Vences, Frontier Ortigas Hotel and Resort Corporation owner Samuel Po and Marco Polo Hotel Group president Eric Waldburger. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III congratulates Marco Polo Hotel and Frontier Ortigas Hotel and Resort Corporation owner Samuel Po after his speech during the Marco Polo Ortigas Manila grand launch affair at the Marco Polo Ortigas Manila in Meralco Avenue at Ortigas Center on Wednesday (July 9). (Photo by: Robert Viñas/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the Marco Polo Ortigas Manila grand launch affair at the Marco Polo Ortigas Manila in Meralco Avenue at Ortigas Center on Wednesday (July 9). (Photo by: Robert Viñas/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III with Marco Polo Hotel owner Samuel Po during the Marco Polo Ortigas Manila grand launch affair at the Marco Polo Ortigas Manila in Meralco Avenue at Ortigas Center on Wednesday (July 09). (Photo by: Robert Viñas/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the Voyage: The Marco Polo Ortigas Manila Grand Launch Affair at the Marco Polo Ortigas Manila in Meralco Avenue at the Ortigas Center on Wednesday (July 9). (Photo by: Robert Viñas/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III exchanges views with Dr. Alberto Gasbarri, chief organizer of the papal international apostolic visits and Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle during the initial coordination meeting on forthcoming Papal visit at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (July 04). Also in photo are Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. and Presidential Management Staff Head Julia Andrea Abad. (Photo by: Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III greets Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle during the initial coordination meeting on the forthcoming Papal visit at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (July 04). Pope Francis is expected to come to the Philippines in January 2015. (Photo by: Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes Dr. Alberto Gasbarri, chief organizer of the papal international apostolic visits during the initial coordination meeting on the forthcoming Papal visit at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (July 04). Pope Francis is expected to come to the Philippines for a state visit in January 2015. (Photo by: Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III, assisted by Philippine Air Force (PAF) Commanding General Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Delgado, presents the command plaque and streamer during the awarding ceremony for the 67th Anniversary of the PAF at the Haribon Hangar of the Air Force City in Clark Air Base, Pampanga on Tuesday (July 01). This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Soar High PAF for Peace, Freedom and Development”. The PAF was founded on July 1, 1947- two years after the end of World War II. It traces its lineage to the Philippine Army Air Corp, which was established in 1941. Also in photo is PAF Commanding General Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Delgado. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			The Aerobatic Demonstration and Opener Pass of the PAF during the 67th Anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at the Haribon Hangar of the Air Force City in Clark Air Base, Pampanga on Tuesday (July 01, 2014). This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Soar High PAF for Peace, Freedom and Development”. The PAF was founded on July 1, 1947- two years after the end of World War II. It traces its lineage to the Philippine Army Air Corp, which was established in 1941. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III answers questions directed to him during the 67th Anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at the Haribon Hangar of the Air Force City in Clark Air Base, Pampanga on Tuesday (July 01). This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Soar High PAF for Peace, Freedom and Development." The PAF was founded on July 1, 1947- two years after the end of World War II. It traces its lineage to the Philippine Army Air Corp, which was established in 1941. (Photo by Ryan Lim/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III acknowledges the men and women in uniform participating in the pass-in review during the 67th Anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at the Haribon Hangar of the Air Force City in Clark Air Base, Pampanga on Tuesday (July 01). This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Soar High PAF for Peace, Freedom and Development”. The PAF was founded on July 1, 1947- two years after the end of World War II. It traces its lineage to the Philippine Army Air Corp, which was established in 1941. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III acknowledges the men and women in uniform participating in the pass-in review during the 67th Anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at the Haribon Hangar of the Air Force City in Clark Air Base, Pampanga on Tuesday (July 01). This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Soar High PAF for Peace, Freedom and Development”. The PAF was founded on July 1, 1947- two years after the end of World War II. It traces its lineage to the Philippine Army Air Corp, which was established in 1941. Also in Photo are Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and PAF Commanding General Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Delgado (Photo by Ryan Lim/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III addresses the 67th Anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at the Haribon Hangar of the Air Force City in Clark Air Base, Pampanga on Tuesday (July 01). This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Soar High PAF for Peace, Freedom and Development”. The pPAF was founded on July 1, 1947- two years after the end of World War II. It traces its lineage to the Philippine Army Air Corp, which was established in 1941. Also in photo are Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Emmanuel Bautista (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III addresses the 67th Anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at the Haribon Hangar of the Air Force City in Clark Air Base, Pampanga on Tuesday (July 01). This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Soar High PAF for Peace, Freedom and Development”. The PAF was founded on July 1, 1947- two years after the end of World War II. It traces its lineage to the Philippine Army Air Corp, which was established in 194. Also in photo are Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Emmanuel Bautista and PAF Commanding General Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Delgado (Photo by Ryan Lim / Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III reviews the troops during the 67th PAF Anniversary at the Haribon Hangar of the Air Force City in Clark Air Base, Pampanga on Tuesday (July 01). This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Soar High PAF for Peace, Freedom and Development." The PAF was founded on July 1, 1947- two years after the end of World War II. It traces its lineage to the Philippine Army Air Corp, which was established in 1941. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Rey Baniquet/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III, accompanied by Philippine Air Force (PAF) Commanding General Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Delgado, reviews the troops during the 67th PAF Anniversary at the Haribon Hangar of the Air Force City in Clark Air Base, Pampanga on Tuesday (July 01). This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Soar High PAF for Peace, Freedom and Development." The PAF was founded on July 1, 1947- two years after the end of World War II. It traces its lineage to the Philippine Army Air Corp, which was established in 1941. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Gil Nartea / Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno Aquino III delivers his message during inauguration of the Iloilo River Plains Subdivision Phase 1 in Brgy. Lanit, Jaro District, Iloilo City on Friday (June 27). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno Aquino III inspects the rowhouse and a model housing unit, assisted by Senate President Franklin Drilon (L) and NHA General Manager Chito Cruz (R) during the inauguration of the Iloilo River Plains Subdivision Phase 1 in Brgy. Lanit, Jaro District, Iloilo City on Friday (June 27). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno Aquino III leads the unveiling of the marker for the low-cost housing project, assisted by National Housing Authority General Manager Chito Cruz during inauguration of the Iloilo River Plains Subdivision Phase 1 in Brgy. Lanit, Jaro District, Iloilo City on Friday (June 27). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno Aquino III leads the unveiling of the marker for low-cost housing project, assisted by Senate President Franklin Drilon, during inauguration of the Iloilo River Plains Subdivision Phase 1 in Brgy. Lanit, Jaro District, Iloilo City on Friday (June 27). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno Aquino III expresses his condolences to the family of Marines 1st Lieutenant Roger Flores at Cosmopolitan-Somo Memorial Park in Iloilo City. Lt. Flores is one of the victim of ambush in Patikul, Sulu. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno Aquino III visits the wake of Marines 1st Lieutenant Roger Flores at Cosmopolitan-Somo Memorial Park in Iloilo City. Lt. Flores is one of the victims of the ambush in Patikul, Sulu. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno Aquino III delivers his speech during the unveiling of the marker of four bridges along the Iloilo circumferential road C1 at Brgy. Unka Pavia in Iloilo City on Friday (June 27). Also in photo are Senate President Franklin Drillon, DILG Sec. Manuel Roxas, DPWH Sec. Rogelio Singson, , Usec. Engr. Romeo Momo, Iloilo Governor Arthur Denfensor Jr., Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog, Pavia Mayor Michael Gorriceta, and Iloilo Rep. Arcadio Gorriceta. (Photo by Ryan Lim - Lauro Montellano / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno Aquino III with Senate President Franklin Drillon and DPWH Sec. Rogelio Singson conduct a drive through and inspection of the bike lane in the 2KM section of the proposed Senator Benigno Aquino Jr. road widening project at Brgy. San Rafael in Madurriao District, Iloilo City on Friday (June 27). Photo by Ryan Lim - Lauro Montellano / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno Aquino III with a group of bikers from Iloilo and Senate President Franklin Drillon during the inauguration of the 2KM section of the proposed Senator Benigno Aquino Jr. road widening project at brgy san Rafael Madurriao Distric, Iloilo City on friday (June 27). (Photo by Ryan Lim - Lauro Montellano / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno Aquino III, with Senate President Franklin Drillon, checks out the bike lane in the 2KM section of the proposed Senator Benigno Aquino Jr. road widening project at Brgy. San Rafael in Madurriao District, Iloilo City on Friday (June 27). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno Aquino III inspects the proposed Iloilo Convention Center at Iloilo Business Park, Brgy. Old Airport, Mandurriao District, Iloilo City on Friday (June 27). Also in photo are Senate Pres. Franklin Drillon and DPWH Sec. Rogelio Singso, and DILG Sec. Manuel Roxas among others. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno Aquino III during the briefing on the proposed Iloilo Convention Center at the Iloilo Business Park, Brgy. Old Airport, Mandurriao District, Iloilo City on Friday (June 27). Also in photo are Senate Pres. Franklin Drillon and DPWH Sec. Rogelio Singson. (Photo by Ryan Lim - Lauro Montellano / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno Aquino III leads the inaugural drive-through of the Jaro Bridge II in Brgy. Ungka Pavia, Iloilo City, with Senate President Franklin Drillon and DPWH Sec. Rogelio Singson at the inauguration rites held in Iloilo City on Friday (June 27). (Photo by Ryan Lim - Lauro Montellano / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno Aquino III leads the unveiling of marker of the four bridges along Iloilo circumferential road at Brgy. Unka Pavia, Iloilo City on Friday (June 27). In photo are DILG Sec. Manuel Roxas , DPWH Sec. Rogelio Singson, Senate President Franklin Drillon, Usec. Engr. Romeo Momo, Iloilo Governor Arthur Denfensor Jr., Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog, Pavia Mayor Michael Gorriceta, and Iloilo Rep. Arcadio Gorriceta. (Photo by Ryan Lim - Lauro Montellano / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno Aquino III joins for a group photo op during Philippine Bar Association 123rd Foundation Anniversary with held at Manila Polo Club on Thursday (June 24). Also are photo is PBA president Atty. Beda Fajardo and DOJ Secretary Leila de Lima. (Photo by Robert Viñas/ Malacanang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno Aquino III is welcomed by the Philippine Bar Association officials 123rd Foundation Anniversary of the organization held at Manila Polo Club on Thursday (June 26). (Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno Aquino III delivers his speech at the 123rd Foundation Anniversary of the Philippine Bar Association held at Manila Polo Club on Thursday (June 26). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno Aquino III converses with Philippine Bar Association President Atty. Beda Fajardo during the organization's 123rd Foundation Anniversary held at Manila Polo Club on Thursday (June 26). (Photo by Robert Viñas / Ryan Lim / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno Aquino III converses with DOJ Secretary Leila de Lima during Philippine Bar Association 123rd Foundation Anniversary held at Manila Polo Club on Thursday (June 26). Photo by: (Ryan Lim/ Malacanang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno Aquino III and Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. pose with the newly Elected officers of the National Press Club, (1st row From left) Treasurer Mina Navarro, Vice-President Benny Antiporda, President Joel Sy Egco, Secretary Ma. Kristina Maralit, Auditor Rolly Gonzalo.(2nd row from left) Board of Directors Arlie Calalo, Paul Gutierrez, Alvin Murcia, Leonel Abasola, Nats Taboy, William Depasupil, Jean Fernando, Ronniel de Guzman, Jun Mendoza, Bobby Ricohermoso during the Induction Ceremony of the National Press Club of the Philippines (NPC) and Board of Directors held at the Reception Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (June 24). Photo by Ryan Lim/ Malacanang Photo Bureau.
			President Benigno Aquino III congratulates the newly elected officers National Press Club headed by President Joel Sy Egco (3rd from right), Vice President Benny Antiporda (4th from right)Treasurer Mina Navarro (5th from right). The induction ceremony of the National Press Club of the Philippines held at the Reception Hall of the Malacañan Palace Thursday (June 24). Photo by Ryan Lim/ Malacanang Photo Bureau.
			President Benigno Aquino III administered the oath of the newly elected officers of the National Press Club headed by President Joel Sy Egco (3rd from right), Vice President Benny Antiporda (4th from right), Secretary Ma. Kristina Maralit (2nd from right), Auditor Rolly Gonzalo (right), and Treasurer Mina Navarro(5th from right). The induction ceremony of the National Press Club of the Philippines held at the Reception Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (June 24). Photo by Ryan Lim/ Malacanang Photo Bureau.
			President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech at Megaworld’s 25th anniversary, Silver Tie Gala at Marriott Hotel Manila in Newport City Andrews Avenue, Pasay City, Wednesday (June 25). ( Photo by: Benhur Arcayan/Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III receives a coffee table book, Chronicles of Visions, from Chairman and CEO Andrew Tan of Megaworld Corporation, during the Silver Tie Gala of Megaworld’s 25th anniversary at Marriott Hotel Manila in Newport City Andrews Avenue, Pasay City, Wednesday (June 25). ( Photo by:Benhur Arcayan/ Rodolfo Manabat/PCOO/NIB )
			President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the Silver Tie Gala of Megaworld’s 25th anniversary at Marriott Hotel Manila in Newport City Andrews Avenue, Pasay City, Wednesday (June 25). Also in photo, Chairman and CEO Andrew Tan of Megaworld Corporation. ( Photo by: Benhur Arcayan/Malacañang Photo Bureau )
			President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his arrival speech at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal II on Tuesday night (June 24) following his one-day visit to Japan. (Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III escorted by AFP Vice Chief of staff Lieutenant General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. arrives at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal II on Tuesday night (June 24) following his one-day working visit to Japan. (Photo by Robert Viñas/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			HIROSHIMA, Japan – President Benigno S. Aquino III tours the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park during his one-day working visit to Japan on Tuesday (June 24). (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			HIROSHIMA, Japan – President Benigno S. Aquino III along with Philippine goverment officials tour the facilities of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park during his one-day working visit to Japan on Tuesday (June 24). (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			HIROSHIMA, Japan – President Benigno S. Aquino III offers a bouquet of flowers at a cenotaph in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park as part of his one-day working visit to Japan on Tuesday (June 24). (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			HIROSHIMA, Japan – President Benigno S. Aquino III shares the stage with Japan International Cooperation Agency officials for a group photo souvenir following the Consolidation for Peace for Mindanao Conference organized by the group, along with the Research and Education for Peace of the Universiti Sains Malaysia at the Sheraton Hiroshima Hotel on Tuesday (June 24). (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			HIROSHIMA, Japan – President Benigno S. Aquino III addresses the Consolidation for Peace for Mindanao Conference organized by the Japan International Cooperation Agency and the Research and Education for Peace of the Universiti Sains Malaysia at the Sheraton Hiroshima Hotel on Tuesday (June 24). (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			HIROSHIMA, Japan – President Benigno S. Aquino III is welcomed by JICA president Akihiko Tanaka upon arrival at the Hiroshima International Airport to participate in the Consolidation for Peace for Mindanao Conference organized by the Japan International Cooperation Agency and the Research and Education for Peace of the Universiti Sains Malaysia on Tuesday (June 24). (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III answer questions from members of the media while on board the plane to Hiroshima International Airport to participate in the Consolidation for Peace for Mindanao Conference organized by the Japan International Cooperation Agency and the Research and Education for Peace of the Universiti Sains Malaysia on Tuesday (June 24). (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Ryan Lim/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III poses with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe during the joint press conference after the summit meeting and working lunch at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence in Tokyo on Tuesday (June 24). The meeting was an opportunity for the two leaders to exchange views on recent regional developments and discuss areas of cooperation to enhance the Philippines-Japan strategic partnership. (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III poses with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe during the joint press conference after the summit meeting and working lunch at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence in Tokyo on Tuesday (June 24). The meeting was an opportunity for the two leaders to exchange views on recent regional developments and discuss areas of cooperation to enhance the Philippines-Japan strategic partnership. (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			TOKYO, Japan – President Benigno S. Aquino III listens as Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe delivers his remarks during the joint press conference after the summit meeting and working lunch at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence in Tokyo on Tuesday (June 24). The meeting was an opportunity for the two leaders to exchange views on recent regional developments and discuss areas of cooperation to enhance the Philippines-Japan strategic partnership. (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			TOKYO, Japan – President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his remarks during the joint press conference with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe after the summit meeting and working lunch at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence in Tokyo on Tuesday (June 24). The meeting was an opportunity for the two leaders to exchange views on recent regional developments and discuss areas of cooperation to enhance the Philippines-Japan strategic partnership. (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			TOKYO, Japan – President Benigno S. Aquino III upon arrival for the Summit Meeting & Working Lunch with Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence in Tokyo on Tuesday (June 24). The meeting was an opportunity for the two leaders to exchange views on recent regional developments and discuss areas of cooperation to enhance the Philippines-Japan strategic partnership. (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			TOKYO, Japan – President Benigno S. Aquino III listens to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe during the Summit meeting at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence in Tokyo on Tuesday (June 24). The meeting was an opportunity for the two leaders to exchange views on recent regional developments and discuss areas of cooperation to enhance the Philippines-Japan strategic partnership. (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Gil Nartea/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III poses with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe during press conference after the summit meeting and working lunch at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence in Tokyo on Tuesday (June 24). The meeting was an opportunity for the two leaders to exchange views on recent regional developments and discuss areas of cooperation to enhance the Philippines-Japan strategic partnership. (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			TOKYO, Japan – President Benigno S. Aquino III greets Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe during the Summit Meeting & Working Lunch at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence in Tokyo on Tuesday (June 24). The meeting is an opportunity for the two leaders to exchange views on recent regional developments and discuss areas of cooperation to enhance the Philippines-Japan strategic partnership. (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			TOKYO, Japan -  President Benigno S. Aquino III arrives at the Tokyo Haneda International Airport on Tuesday (June 24) for a one-day working visit here. The President will meet with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Tokyo and speak at the Consolidation for Peace for Mindanao Conference in Hiroshima organized by the Japan International Cooperation Agency and the Research and Education for Peace of the Universiti Sains Malaysia. Also in photo are Consul General Marian Jocelyn R. Tirol-Ignacio, head of Mission Gilberto G. B. Asuque and Philippine Navy Captain Samuel Z. Felix. (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III, accompanied by Armed Forces of the Philippines Vice Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr., reviews the honor guards during the send-off ceremony at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal II on Tuesday (June 24). The President left for a one-day working visit to Japan where he will meet with Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Tokyo and speak at the Consolidation for Peace for Mindanao Conference in Hiroshima organized by the Japan International Cooperation Agency and the Research and Education for Peace of the Universiti Sains Malaysia. (Photo by Rolando Mailo / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his departure statement during the send-off ceremony at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal II on Tuesday (June 24). The President left for a one-day working visit to Japan where he will meet with Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Tokyo and speak at the Consolidation for Peace for Mindanao Conference in Hiroshima organized by the Japan International Cooperation Agency and the Research and Education for Peace of the Universiti Sains Malaysia. (Photo by Rolando Mailo / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
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