24-Hour Public Weather Forecast
Issued at 5:00 a.m., 29 October 2014Valid beginning: 5:00 a.m. today until 5:00 a.m. tomorrow
 Predicted Mean Sea Level Pressure Analysis for 8 a.m., 29 October 2014 |
 Predicted Mean Sea Level Wind Analysis for 8 a.m., 29 October 2014 |
 Satellite Image |
Synopsis:
Tail-end of a cold front affecting eastern section of Central and Southern Luzon. Northeast Monsoon affecting Northern Luzon.
Forecast:
Metro Manila, Central Luzon And
Calabarzon will have cloudy skies with light to moderate rainshowers and
thunderstorms. The Regions of Cagayan Valley, Cordillera and Ilocos
will experience light rains. The rest of the country will be partly
cloudy to cloudy with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms mostly over
the eastern sections.
Cavite holds senior citizens assembly
- October 29, 2014
- Norito A. Cabotaje
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TRECE MARTIRES CITY, Cavite Oct. 29 (PIA)
-- The Provincial Government of Cavite through the Provincial Social
Welfare and Development Office in partnership with the Senior Citizens
of Cavite, Inc. held the 2014 Senior Citizens General Assembly, Oct. 24
Themed “Ang Nakatatanda ay Yaman, Katuwang sa Pag-unlad ng Bayan, Pangalagaan ang Kanilang Kapakanan,” more than 700 senior citizens from the various municipalities of the province attended the said assembly.
Vice Governor Jolo Revilla, in his inspirational message, acknowledged the contribution of senior citizens citing that their wisdom and experience provide the younger generations with inspiration.
“Without them, we will not learn how to respect. Their good examples especially to the youth are worth remembering”, said Revilla.
During the said assembly, nine centenarians, elders with ages ranging from 100 to 108 years were awarded with cash and gifts. Assistive devices like wheelchairs were also distributed for the elders followed by a lecture on senior citizen concern which was discussed by Ms. Cefronia Majuelo, Social Worker II of DSWD Region IV-A.
Also, present in the event were Mr. Alvin Mojica, OIC-PSWDO, Board Member Irene Bencito, Chair of the Committee on Women, Family, Elderly and Social Services, Municipal and City Social Welfare Development Officers, representatives from different departments of the provincial government.
Said assembly is part of the celebration of the Senior Citizens Week, celebrated every year to honor senior citizens and give recognition to their contribution in society. (PICAD/FSC, PIA-4A)
Themed “Ang Nakatatanda ay Yaman, Katuwang sa Pag-unlad ng Bayan, Pangalagaan ang Kanilang Kapakanan,” more than 700 senior citizens from the various municipalities of the province attended the said assembly.
Vice Governor Jolo Revilla, in his inspirational message, acknowledged the contribution of senior citizens citing that their wisdom and experience provide the younger generations with inspiration.
“Without them, we will not learn how to respect. Their good examples especially to the youth are worth remembering”, said Revilla.
During the said assembly, nine centenarians, elders with ages ranging from 100 to 108 years were awarded with cash and gifts. Assistive devices like wheelchairs were also distributed for the elders followed by a lecture on senior citizen concern which was discussed by Ms. Cefronia Majuelo, Social Worker II of DSWD Region IV-A.
Also, present in the event were Mr. Alvin Mojica, OIC-PSWDO, Board Member Irene Bencito, Chair of the Committee on Women, Family, Elderly and Social Services, Municipal and City Social Welfare Development Officers, representatives from different departments of the provincial government.
Said assembly is part of the celebration of the Senior Citizens Week, celebrated every year to honor senior citizens and give recognition to their contribution in society. (PICAD/FSC, PIA-4A)
1. Tanauan City tops 1st Philippine Benchmarking Award
October 29, 2014
TANAUAN CITY, Batangas, Oct. 29 (PIA) -- The City Government of Tanauan won first place in the First Philippine Best Practice and Benchmarking Competition held recently, earning the right to represent the country in the upcoming Global Benchmarking Competition to be held in Orlando, Florida in December 3-4.
With their best organization-wide role of benchmarking in improving and innovating the drive in leadership and commitment, Tanauan City along with the City of Marikina bested other local government units claiming the top spot of the said benchmarking competition.
The said competition was launched by the Philippine Society for Quality Inc., the local affiliate of Global Benchmarking Network in collaboration with the Development Academy of the Philippines, Department of Trade and Industry and University of the Philippines Institute of Small Scale Industries.
This nationwide competition seeks to strengthen business competitiveness in terms of organizational performance through adaptation of global best practices.
The said competition is also in preparation for the integration of ASEAN communties next year. (FSC, PIA-4A with reports from PNA)
Tanauan City tops 1st Philippine Benchmarking Award
- October 29, 2014
- Norito A. Cabotaje
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TANAUAN CITY, Batangas, Oct. 29 (PIA) --
The City Government of Tanauan won first place in the First Philippine
Best Practice and Benchmarking Competition held recently, earning the
right to represent the country in the upcoming Global Benchmarking
Competition to be held in Orlando, Florida in December 3-4.
With their best organization-wide role of benchmarking in improving and innovating the drive in leadership and commitment, Tanauan City along with the City of Marikina bested other local government units claiming the top spot of the said benchmarking competition.
The said competition was launched by the Philippine Society for Quality Inc., the local affiliate of Global Benchmarking Network in collaboration with the Development Academy of the Philippines, Department of Trade and Industry and University of the Philippines Institute of Small Scale Industries.
This nationwide competition seeks to strengthen business competitiveness in terms of organizational performance through adaptation of global best practices.
The said competition is also in preparation for the integration of ASEAN communties next year. (FSC, PIA-4A with reports from PNA)
With their best organization-wide role of benchmarking in improving and innovating the drive in leadership and commitment, Tanauan City along with the City of Marikina bested other local government units claiming the top spot of the said benchmarking competition.
The said competition was launched by the Philippine Society for Quality Inc., the local affiliate of Global Benchmarking Network in collaboration with the Development Academy of the Philippines, Department of Trade and Industry and University of the Philippines Institute of Small Scale Industries.
This nationwide competition seeks to strengthen business competitiveness in terms of organizational performance through adaptation of global best practices.
The said competition is also in preparation for the integration of ASEAN communties next year. (FSC, PIA-4A with reports from PNA)
2. Cavite holds senior citizens assembly
October 29, 2014
TRECE MARTIRES CITY, Cavite Oct. 29 (PIA) -- The Provincial Government of Cavite through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office in partnership with the Senior Citizens of Cavite, Inc. held the 2014 Senior Citizens General Assembly, Oct. 24
Themed “Ang Nakatatanda ay Yaman, Katuwang sa Pag-unlad ng Bayan, Pangalagaan ang Kanilang Kapakanan,” more than 700 senior citizens from the various municipalities of the province attended the said assembly.
Vice Governor Jolo Revilla, in his inspirational message, acknowledged the contribution of senior citizens citing that their wisdom and experience provide the younger generations with inspiration.
“Without them, we will not learn how to respect. Their good examples especially to the youth are worth remembering”, said Revilla.
During the said assembly, nine centenarians, elders with ages ranging from 100 to 108 years were awarded with cash and gifts. Assistive devices like wheelchairs were also distributed for the elders followed by a lecture on senior citizen concern which was discussed by Ms. Cefronia Majuelo, Social Worker II of DSWD Region IV-A.
Also, present in the event were Mr. Alvin Mojica, OIC-PSWDO, Board Member Irene Bencito, Chair of the Committee on Women, Family, Elderly and Social Services, Municipal and City Social Welfare Development Officers, representatives from different departments of the provincial government.
Said assembly is part of the celebration of the Senior Citizens Week, celebrated every year to honor senior citizens and give recognition to their contribution in society. (PICAD/FSC, PIA-4A)
3. DSWD turns over evacuation center
October 29, 2014
Alan C. Ortillano
SANTA CRUZ, Laguna Oct. 29 (PIA) – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) turned over on Monday the P19.4M two-storey pilot evacuation center multi-purpose building to the municipal government here with DSWD Secretary Corazon “Dinky” Soliman leading the ceremony.
During the turn-over ceremonies, Sec. Soliman thanked and praised the officials of the municipal government of Santa Cruz, under the leadership of Mayor Domingo G. Panganiban for having accepted the challenge of establishing, maintaining and managing the pilot evacuation center.
Secretary Soliman stated that while the national and local government is developing new ways to resolve the problem of flooding, establishment of evacuation center of this kind will somehow ease the burden of the evacuees in finding a decent temporary place during calamities, adding that it will lessen the use of public schools as evacuation centers.
The building will also serve as venue for any disaster risk reduction management-related activities of the said municipality.
The said pilot evacuation center located in Brgy. Duhat, boasts of a spacious function area at the ground floor and has 50 rooms at the second floor with child-friendly space, room for lactating mother and DSWD’s psycho-social processing area.
It has a total floor area of 2,139 square meters and first pilot evacuation center constructed in the Region IV-A. (ACOrtillano, PIA Laguna/FSC, PIA-4A)
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Tanauan City tops 1st Philippine Benchmarking Award
- October 29, 2014
- Norito A. Cabotaje
Facebook
Google +
Tweet
Email
TANAUAN CITY, Batangas, Oct. 29 (PIA) --
The City Government of Tanauan won first place in the First Philippine
Best Practice and Benchmarking Competition held recently, earning the
right to represent the country in the upcoming Global Benchmarking
Competition to be held in Orlando, Florida in December 3-4.
With their best organization-wide role of benchmarking in improving and innovating the drive in leadership and commitment, Tanauan City along with the City of Marikina bested other local government units claiming the top spot of the said benchmarking competition.
The said competition was launched by the Philippine Society for Quality Inc., the local affiliate of Global Benchmarking Network in collaboration with the Development Academy of the Philippines, Department of Trade and Industry and University of the Philippines Institute of Small Scale Industries.
This nationwide competition seeks to strengthen business competitiveness in terms of organizational performance through adaptation of global best practices.
The said competition is also in preparation for the integration of ASEAN communties next year. (FSC, PIA-4A with reports from PNA)
With their best organization-wide role of benchmarking in improving and innovating the drive in leadership and commitment, Tanauan City along with the City of Marikina bested other local government units claiming the top spot of the said benchmarking competition.
The said competition was launched by the Philippine Society for Quality Inc., the local affiliate of Global Benchmarking Network in collaboration with the Development Academy of the Philippines, Department of Trade and Industry and University of the Philippines Institute of Small Scale Industries.
This nationwide competition seeks to strengthen business competitiveness in terms of organizational performance through adaptation of global best practices.
The said competition is also in preparation for the integration of ASEAN communties next year. (FSC, PIA-4A with reports from PNA)
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President Benigno S. Aquino III's Speech at the 13th
CEO Forum and 118th General Membership Meeting (GMM) of the Semiconductor
and Electronics Industries in the Philippines (SEIPI)
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The Peninsula Manila, Ayala Avenue cor. Makati Ave, Makati
City
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28 Oct. 2014
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| Good noon. I made it a point to be here today to recognize the efforts and the achievements of your industry. Amidst much uncertainty in the global economy these past years, the semiconductors and electronics industry in our country has continued to buck the odds, writing an impressive story of resilience in the process. This, in large part, is due to the work of the people in attendance today, along with all the Filipinos who work in your industry. Some of our countrymen might not be aware of just how massive a role your sector plays in our national economy, so perhaps you will allow me to go through some of the numbers, which tell a compelling story. This industry has long been a source of livelihood for hundreds of thousands of Filipinos. The good news is: Over the past years, this number has been increasing. In January to August of 2013, around 260,000 Filipinos found direct employment in semiconductors and electronics, but as Dr. Lachica mentioned earlier, in January to August of 2014, this number rose by 27 percent, to 331,000. At this point in time, the industry likewise provides indirect employment to 2.3 million workers. On top of this: The semiconductors and electronics industry is also responsible for a significant portion of our exports. Last year, total exports from the industry was recorded at almost $24 billion, which accounts for 42.2 percent of our country’s total exports, with early data giving us reason to be optimistic for an even stronger performance this year. Without doubt, through the years, your industry has established itself as an important channel through which our countrymen can make use of their skills and build long careers, allowing them to reassume control of their destinies; in essence, you have been a true partner of our country in the pursuit of inclusive growth. This is why we are doing everything in our power to help your industry maintain, if not build on, your momentum. Through our close cooperation, we are ensuring that you have the manpower your industry needs, and that government is able to serve its people well, thereby ensuring that the cycle of empowerment continues. Many of you have worked with TESDA Secretary Joel Villanueva to optimize the Training for Work Scholarship Program for your sector, and the results have been nothing short of stellar. From April to September of this year, we were able to graduate 1,994 students from the program, 1,913 of whom have already found jobs. That is equivalent to an employment rate of nearly 96 percent, and I am confident that as we strive to fulfill the goal of training 5,172 scholars, Secretary Villanueva and TESDA will do their best to maintain the program’s effectiveness, if not improve on it, and reach a 100 percent employment rate. And if we do it before Christmas, that will serve as your Christmas gift to me, Joel. [Laughter and applause] Not to mention, when I attended your event last year, I was informed that our country’s turnover rate in electronics employment is at five percent yearly, which is remarkable, considering that one of the larger competitor countries in the industry had, and has, a turnover rate of five percent monthly, or, when extrapolated, 60 percent yearly. This 55-percent difference is massive. It means that our people are not only highly trainable; they also tend to stay in your corporations longer, gaining the wisdom and efficiencies brought about by longer tenures. This, in turn, redounds to improved performance for your companies vis-à-vis your competitors and definitely a significant comparative advantage. Indeed, the Filipino is the backbone of your industry’s success, and it naturally behooves all of us to capitalize on their potential by moving up the value chain. This is the precise reason we decided to put up the Advanced Device and Materials Testing Laboratory, or ADMATEL, under our Department of Science and Technology, allowing your companies not just to build products, but also to test them here instead of abroad. As we heard earlier, more and more companies from your organization are availing of its services, from 16 companies last year, to 41 this year, and I am hopeful that this number will have increased even more the next time I see you—assuming you invite me next year. [Laughter] We have also been exploring our country’s capacity to design our own products, which is behind our drive to establish the Electronics Product Development Center in Bicutan, meant to assist product designers to improve the quality of their designs. The opening of this facility will be a significant step in opening the door for electronics products that are completely homegrown. We are also aware that your industry, along with many others, is concerned about the potential shortfall of energy in 2015. I would like to assure all of you today that government is doing everything within its capacities to meet our energy requirements and, by doing so, sustain and even improve on our economic momentum. We are seeking authority from Congress, under section 71 of the Electric Power Industry Reform Act, or EPIRA, to contract additional power reserves, so that we can ensure that there will be power, regardless of the situation. We are also looking to other methods that can help. For instance, we are working to expand private sector participation in our Interruptible Load Program, through which we will compensate major power-users if they disconnect from the grid and use their own generators. I am told that 33 members of your organization have signed up for this program, which I am thankful for, and I encourage all of you here to explore the possibility of joining us in this endeavor. You know, in a recent meeting with some members of the private sector, we were discussing the power situation, and we reiterated: Government is no longer in the business of producing power nor of distributing power; but if there is no power, it is only the Executive that will be blamed for all of the omissions. Our administration is also hard at work to find ways to reduce power prices. This is precisely why our Department of Energy formed Task Force Electricity, whose goal is to harness the ideas of stakeholders, look at all the cost components of electricity bills, and ultimately reduce the price of power. All these efforts make it clear: Your government will stand by you as your industry grows. After all, we know just how deeply your success is tied to the success of our people and our economy. This means that each and every person working in your factories and in your boardrooms has an important role to play in building the Philippines we all aspire for. Thus, I encourage everyone in this room today to continue your efforts, to move forward with the same vigor and innovative spirit, and push your industry into an era of unprecedented triumph. Rest assured, government will continue to match your efforts, listen to your concerns, and do everything possible to give you even more reasons to operate here in the Philippines, or perhaps to even double down on your investments, because we know that, if we work close together, and if we maximize the synergies between us, then, without doubt, we can write a new, prosperous chapter not just in your industry’s growth story, but in our country’s history books. I bid you all: Thank you and good day. |
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President Benigno S. Aquino III's Q & A at the
13th CEO Forum and 188th General Membership Meeting of the Semiconductor and
Electronics Industries in the Philippines
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| Manila Peninsula, Makati City |
| 28 October 2014 |
| Q: Mr. President, as you very well know, our industry is so dependent on
reliable power and reasonably priced power. In your recent state of the
nation address, you have tasked the Honorable Department of Energy Secretary
(Jericho) Petilla to look into this issue of power. May we have an update of
what is the status now of how we are moving to solve this problem with
power? Thank you, Mr. President. PRESIDENT AQUINO: Well, one of the things that we asked for from Congress was the ability to contract; and contracting was to get, if I remember correctly, two or three generating plants we could rent. Diesel generators providing about 300 megawatts. Unfortunately, there is a need of six months to install these facilities to include all of the civil works attendant to it—fuel tanks, the ports that will service, etcetera. Congress has not given us that power as of yet; and of course, the emergency period or the critical period is from March, April, May, June and July next year. So that doesn’t seem to be an option at this point in time. We are running both Malaya 1 and 2 as an addition but as you know, these are vey, very old plants. I am told, for instance, that spare parts for these plants are fabricated as opposed to off-the-shelf items. Now, there is a caution that we cannot use, utilize them to their full-rated capacity because doing so has two major problems: first is the need for fuel, which they consume something in the neighborhood of, if I remember correctly, about 2 million liters per day; and the capacity to resupply these fuel farms are about 600,000 liters a day. Now, if you run them at full capacity of about, again, about 300 or so megawatts each, there is a 90 percent probability that they will conk out. Running them at about 230 will give us, again, a 50-50 chance for them conking out. So, we will have about 120 megawatts for each one. Now, there are other reconditioned—or the workable plants that are being operated. One is called… One is in—sorry, I’m going all of these from memory—it’s I think Navotas or Novaliches—Navotas. About… Millennium power plant. We are told that this will be online by the critical period. I think they’re starting by March. It will provide about 210 megawatts. So, Congress and some members of the private sector are very, very inclined to just utilize the so-called Interruptible Load Program. My caution was these backup generators are precisely that backup generators, not base load plants. And there is no assurance that… I’m just trying to give you the picture as I see it so as not to raise false hopes. The reason we wanted the plants, the base load plants, was precisely because they have demonstrated capability to produce the attendant power. Unfortunately, the cost is also high; between 6 to 12 billion pesos of something that we hope we will not utilize. But it is better to have and not need than to need and not have. Unfortunately, others are taking a more optimistic look that the Interruptible Load Program will suffice to carry us through. The main issue is really the occurrence of forced outages and the graphs presented by the Department of Energy point out that there is really a substantial danger and that there are too many of these; some of the newer plants were not producing the rated capacity they have been derated. And we would not want to be able to say that we prepared for the worst and we hoped for the best. So hopefully, all of these steps that are being undertaken and hopefully we will have a mild or non-existent El Niño situation next year, will not produce the emergency situation and that we will all have the necessary power. Now, in terms of bringing down the prices, there are already three companies that are embarking on what is termed 'merchant' as opposed to lock-in power contracts. We hope that this will—in the contestable portion the market will be reduced, I think, from one megawatt to about 750. So more competition, perhaps, will encourage more merhant suppliers and in turn, the competition will bring down the prices to more reasonable levels. And still we are… I have to also add: Government has also sought to reduce consumption. We have distributed something like 8.6 million of the higher efficiency bulbs in an effort to reduce power consumption and lessen the demands, especially as we face next year’s potential crisis. Thank you. Q: Mr. President, good afternoon. Let me start first by thanking your leadership and the administration for being a strong support and also PEZA (Philippine Economic Zone Authority), which has been a strong advocate for us. My question is: As you probably aware we have been lagging in investments, new investments in the electronics industry as compared to our ASEAN neighbors over the last several years. Could you help us understand from the roadmap standpoint, what are some of the things that your administration is looking at to increase investments from the electronics industry as we move forward? Thank you. PRESIDENT AQUINO: May I refer you to the main man who is doing all of the roadshows to directly engage all of these potential investors. SECRETARY GREGORY DOMINGO: Well, the primary answer to that is really creating a better business environment for investments to come in in the Philippines. And actually in the last four years, we’ve seen really a huge increase in our Foreign Direct Investments, (FDI) starting out with about a billion in 2010; it went up to 2 billion in 2011; and about 3 billion in 2012; and 3.8 billion, 2013. And as of the latest figure writing up to August, it’s already 4 billion dollars FDI this year. So it seems like good governance agenda of the President has been very well received, which resulted in the credit ratings upgrades, trying to have more transparent bidding procedures, etcetera. So all of this is really reaping dividends; and we continue to work on improving the business environment and continue the discussions with the private sector so we go hand-in-hand, including the development of roadmaps for many of the sectors including the electronics industry. PRESIDENT AQUINO: Can I just add, perhaps anecdotally. During our recent trip to the US, we were talking with the major appliance—consumer appliance company manufacturer. He employs some—well, the factory is that he sub-contracts his projects to employ something in the neighborhood of about 600,000 workers in a single country. And he stated during our meeting that he saw a report on the Philippines, perhaps a CNN program, and because of this he was encouraged to seek us out and to start exploring the potential of moving his operations from that particular country to the Philippines. He was that gung-ho. In fact, he was not just looking for contractors for his products but actually even promising to provide engineering scholarships to provide the necessary talent for the continued R&D that he needs. And thank you for your question, it reminds me to confer with Secretary Domingo the status of this particular proposal Sorry. Last point is, obviously we were ignored for the longest period of time and it’s been in the last few years that we’ve suddenly gotten back into the limelight and we do intend to maximize our exposure by really proving to all investors that it is really worth their while and a very sounded decision to invest not just in the country but more importantly in the people. Q: Good afternoon. First of all congratulations on the sustained GDP (gross domestic product) growth of the country in the past years. As we all relish this growth, a couple of future events come to mind. How will the Philippines maintain or increase its competitiveness after the ASEAN integration? And how sustainable will this growth be after 2016? Certainly focused on education as you just mentioned on the younger half of the population, it is a good focus area and it is as critical as we think. Are the efforts to provide enough educational facilities as well upgrade the quality of education aggressive enough? Thank you. PRESIDENT AQUINO: Well, are they aggressive—can I answer the last portion? Are they aggressive enough? You know, perhaps it’s something instilled by my parents in me I should never be satisfied so, I keep pushing everybody if they have reached… Kunyari, for instance, when I was reading the portion of the speech of asking Joel (Villanueva) to achieve a 100 percent, I was wondering how that can become a 110 percent? And again, I think we will redefine certain parameters of the 110 percent from current standards now will just be the next 100 percent that is striving for. We believe the greatest single resource of the country is the people; hence all of the investments, not just in education but also in other social concerns like health. I am told that we have 82 percent of the population already employed—enrolled rather—in PhilHealth. We have expanded not just the coverage but we've also expanded—in terms of coverage, in terms of people but also coverage in terms of diseases so that a catastrophic illness will not bring you back below the poverty line. The Conditional Cash Transfer program has been expanded to include families with high school children so that hopefully, also, with TESDA’s help and other agencies, they will have employable skills even at the high school level. I understand some of your trainings are actually high school graduates and have actually been employed. So, that I think is proof positive of the concept. Now, with regards to how do we sustain this after 2016? Then perhaps I will vote for the right candidate. And if I can ask you also to discern properly as to whom is extolling populist sentiments with no substance as opposed to that which you, not only says the right things but you whom you can trust to deliver the same. And at the end of the day, again, I have to reemphasize this is really a collective effort. ‘Yung even… There are some quarters that were saying I should try and go for a second term. I don’t think that’s a right solution. We all have a time card in this world and we have to prepare for the eventuality of being called to meet our Maker. So, there has to be that continuation of people of like mind who will deliver on the promises that are real and not just self-serving or nice, pleasant to hear. Thank you. Greg just showed this to me. From 2010 to 2014, the Department of Education had a budget in 2010 of 161.41 billion. By 2014 it was 281.77 billion; growth, according to this figures, 74.57 percent. CHED (Commission on Higher Education) from 1.67 billion in 2010 is now 6.94 billion; growth of 315.57. TESDA (Technical Education and Skills Development Authority) from 2.89 billion in 2010 to 5.12 billion in 2014. And I assume all of these figures will also rise in the 2015 budget. Q: Good afternoon. During your last or your meeting with Prime Minister (Shinzo) Abe this year, were you able to discuss on ways of attracting more Japanese companies moving into the Philippines following Brother, Murata, and Canon as Dan Lachica mentioned? PRESIDENT AQUINO: As you know Mitsubishi has bought the former Ford plant to set up as stamping plant. They are waiting for the final details of the roadmap to be able to determine whether it’s a 40,000 unit facility, or a 100,000, or a 200,000 unit facility [Tama, 'di ba?]. Now, besides that, we actually met with Keidanren and amongst the proposals that they had was Japanese firms would want to have Japanese banks whom they have grown accustomed to dealing with over the decades. And towards that end, we have put the suggestion before Congress; Congress has enacted a law that has opened up our banking sector, which will redound to, again, more competition in the financial sector, more competitive products for all of you, and, again, it redounds to greater efficiencies for the economy. So, I guess, it’s not a question of how to attract the Japanese investors per se, but to make sure that the interest that is already there is not stymied by so much bureaucratic red tape; and that I think is one of Greg’s main focus, to ensure that all the steps necessary to set up a business are reduced to the very minimum, that we faithfully execute our laws but at the same time, they do not prove a hindrance to all of these companies that are coming in. Now, having come in, we also want to make sure that if it’s the talent that they need that the talent does exist or if it doesn’t exist, that we are developing that talent towards that—their goals, our mutual goals of our increased growth. And I think you will see... Well, Greg tells me that it’s already happening in terms of all of... Come to think of it, almost weekly I get some Japanese trade delegations amongst others, and in so many different sectors. Siguro can we just leave it up to the photos of their inaugurations and groundbreaking ceremonies rather than enumerating them right now because there are days when I really feel that—‘yung concept natin of “baka mausog,” is very apparent. I just want to make sure that we don’t jinx anything. Q: Mr. President, sometime in July this year, JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) funded a study trip to Mumbai, India, and this trip was represented by the private sector, the public sector, and also from the academe. This is actually about how India resurrected their manufacturing activity through the visionary leadership for manufacturing. Can you share with us if we also have a similar plan on how to support and increase the manufacturing activity in the Philippines? PRESIDENT AQUINO: In very broad strokes, first, I think one of our major disadvantages has been the issue of power and the cost of power, which at times, is parang the highest in the region. So, a lot of the effort has been precisely to come up with the more... Well, number one, ensure the supply, availability, reliability. Second, encourage more and more of these investors in the power sector to come in to be able to produce that—a market that it’s truly more and more competitive to come up with more reasonable rates. Now, we are surprised that there has been a resurgence of manufacturing even as we have not yet fully addressed that issue of the energy situation. So, there are various reasons for this, amongst them inherent advantages of investing in the Philippines but also more importantly perhaps geopolitics across the globe. Now, again, we’re trying to tackle all and each and every one of the problems that are presented from the bureaucratic red tape to infrastructure, necessary infrastructure support to education concerns in terms of investing again in our people as the figures we mentioned earlier showed to a whole diff[erent]... Well, we’ve even increased the negotiating panels under DTI (Department of Trade and Industry) from... [What was it, 6?] We inherited a bureaucracy of about 15 experts to deal—to handle all the free trade agreements. Their training and recruiting eventually will get to about 60 to 80 because we are being hard pressed also by various trading partners to come up with the FTAs (free trade agreements). SECRETARY DOMINGO: We are also working now on getting accredited for GSP (Generalized Scheme of Preferences) Plus within the EU (European Union); and we are hoping for a decision by December of this year. The GSP Plus if were approved—we are currently under their GSP program. The GSP Plus, if were approved, will open up a few thousand tariff lines in bringing the tariff down to zero. So, that will be a very significant thing for the Philippines if we are able to get that status from the EU and that should bring a lot of more manufacturing and that will be a boost over and above what we are getting now. PRESIDENT AQUINO: I just feel like I was a student undergoing a thesis defense before, but there are so many other components. For instance, we have also worked on getting back the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) Category 1 status, which has been achieved. We have gotten the restrictions on our flights to the EU also lifted. We are still working on the EMSA (European Maritime Safety Agency) regulations with regards to our seafarers. Why is that important? Roughly about between a fourth to a third of all seafarers are Filipinos. And under the EU flag vessels, there are something like 80,000 of them whose certifications might be rescinded since we were not in compliance with the, I think, a 1978 agreement. This was passed on to us or we inherited this and we have made substantial progress on it so much showed that we have not gotten the decertification, but it’s still a work in progress. That entails setting up a single agency; entails, again, improvements in the curriculum, the trainors, the evaluators of the programs. So we have a very efficient MARINA (Maritime Industry Authority) administrator who has really advanced the cause of retaining their certification. So that also is being attended to and a whole lot of other things. |
| SOURCE: Presidential News Desk |
|
INTERVIEW OF COMMUNICATIONS SECRETARY HERMINIO COLOMA,
JR.
|
DWIZ / Balita Nationwide by Rey Langit and Alex Santos
|
28 October 2014
|
| REY: Secretary, magandang umaga po sa inyo SEC. COLOMA: Magandang umaga sa iyo, Rey. REY: Opo. Kapiling din po natin, Secretary, si Pareng Alex Santos. SEC. COLOMA: Magandang umaga, Alex. ALEX: Good morning po. REY: Secretary, related po rito sa bagong survey po ng SWS kaugnay po ng poverty rito sa Metro Manila, specifically. Papaano po nag-react dito ang Malacañang? SEC. COLOMA: Patuloy pong nagsisikap ang pamahalaan na maibsan ang kahirapan ng ating mga mamamayan dahil ito po ang pinakamalaking hamon sa ating bansa. Habang tinatamo po natin iyong isa sa pinakamabilis na antas ng pag-unlad ng ekonomiya sa buong Asya, kinakailangan pong tiyakin natin na hindi maiiwanan iyong mga nasa laylayan ng ating lipunan. REY: While it’s true, Secretary, na patuloy ang pag-angat po ng ekonomiya ng bansa, bagama’t dito sa binanggit nilang malnourished na mga kabataan rito po sa Metro Manila, dito po ba sa budget for 2015 ay nabigyan po ito ng significance ng Executive, Secretary? SEC. COLOMA: Ang pinakamalaking bahagi ng ating 2015 budget, umaabot ng halos 38%, ay nauukol sa poverty reduction at social protection, Rey. Isa sa pinakamalaking programa dito iyong Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program o iyong Conditional Cash Transfer, at sakop nito iyong halos, I think, lampas na sa four and a half million families. At dinagdagan pa iyong budget para dito, itinaas pa iyong antas ng benepisyo. Dati ang covered lamang ay iyong mga anak na nag-aaral sa mababang paaralan. Ngayon ay hanggang makatapos sila ng high school, patuloy iyong ayuda sa kanila ng pamahalaan para matiyak na sila ay makakatapos ng high school at magkaroon nang magandang oportunidad sa hanapbuhay. REY: So, in other words, Secretary, parang natugunan na rin iyong panawagan ni Senador Grace Poe na mahalagang rebyuhin ang budgetary items para mabigyan nang higit pang pagpapahalaga ang feeding program at saka poverty po? SEC. COLOMA: Tama iyon, Rey. At tukuyin natin na binago ng Aquino administration iyong istratehiya sa paglaban sa kahirapan. Iyong inabutan nating programa ay alinsunod doon sa konsepto na trickle-down approach. Ibig sabihin niyan, palaguin ang ekonomiya at umasa tayo na iyong benepisyo nito ay aabot sa pinakailalim o sa pinakamahirap. Kaya nga trickle-down ‘no – manggagaling sa itaas, bababa ito; sana umabot din sa baba. Hindi na po ganoon iyong istratehiya natin ngayon. Ang istratehiya natin: Hindi na natin hihintayin na umabot sa baba – dahil sa karanasan nga ay hindi umaabot – kaya tuwiran na iyong pagbigay ng tulong sa kanila. Inaabot na mismo sa kanila iyong cash para hindi po mapariwara ang mga dukhang pamilya, at para matiyak na iyong mga anak ng mga pamilyang ito ay makakatapos ng kanilang pag-aaral dahil kinikilala po natin iyong edukasyon ang susi sa pag-angat mula sa kahirapan. Marami po sa atin ang nakakita na dahil sa edukasyon ay naitataas ang antas ng kabuhayan. ALEX: Opo. Okay, Secretary, dumako ho tayo dito sa Joint Resolution po sa Kongreso, ng Senate at ng Congress, dito po sa sinasabi ho nilang termination po ng Visiting Forces Agreement sa panig po ni Senador Miriam Defensor- Santiago at ng Kongreso. Ano po ang tugon dito ng Malacañang po? SEC. COLOMA: Hindi po tayo sang-ayon diyan dahil ang Visiting Forces Agreement ay kasama sa istratehiya ng Tanggulang Pambansa ng Pilipinas. REY: Related pa rin po rito sa Congress, Secretary. Mayroon po bang dapat ipangamba itong mga nasa oposisyon at saka mga progresibong legislators hinggil po rito sa “errata” na sinasabi nilang maaaring gamit daw po sa 2016 national elections? SEC. COLOMA: Walang batayan ang pagtuligsa dito, Rey. Pangkaraniwan na bahagi ito ng pagbubuo ng budget. Dahil napakakapal na dokumento iyan ‘no, napakadaming mga partikular na item. Kaya’t ayon nga sa naipaliwanag na ng DBM, otsenta porsiyento doon sa tinatawag na “errata” ay typographical error. Pangkaraniwan naman iyan ‘no. Mayroon mga na-displace na maliit na salita, na nagkapalit ng lugar. Sa riyalidad, iyong draft budget ay inihahanda under time pressure para umabot nga doon sa submission; kapag binubusisi na ito, binabalangkas at masusing pinag-aaralan sa Kongreso, nakikita iyong mga pagkakamaling ganyan. Pangkaraniwan iyan. Hindi naman iyan sinasadya. Iyong nalalabing bahagi na 20%, mayroon kasing request iyong mga mambabatas na i-itemize iyong mga appropriation doon, katulad ng participatory budgeting, iyong nagbibigay ng assistance sa mga mahihirap na munisipalidad. Naghahanap sila ng detalye, binigay sa kanila iyong detalye. Bahagi ito nang tinatawag na errata. Siguro naman kung hiningi nila at ibinigay sa kanila, hindi na nila mamasamain iyon dahil sinusunod naman iyong kahilingan nila. Sa karanasan kasi sa mga budget hearing, Rey, maraming hinihinging dagdag na impormasyon ang ating mga mambabatas, at binibigay naman ito ng Ehekutibo para sa kapaliwanagan ng lahat. REY: So, walang basis itong isinisigaw ni Congressman Neri Colmenares na parang undermining po ang power ng Congress sa pagpasa ng errata na na- deliberate na sa committee at saka plenary level? SEC. COLOMA: Tatalakayin naman po nila iyan sa plenaryo at demokratikong proseso naman ang susundin. Dapat ay kung ano ang kagustuhan ng mayorya o nakararami, iyon ang susundin dahil iyon po ang patakaran sa isang demokrasya. Puwede naman po nilang ilahad iyan sa plenaryo at puwede naman iyang matalakay. ALEX: Opo. Isa po sa mga kinukuwestyon po dito, ito pong P8 billion contingent fund para po sa Bangsamoro Basic Law. Secretary, hindi pa ho napapasa itong BBL, bakit na po tayo nagbigay ng pondo na po dito? SEC. COLOMA: Pag-aaralan natin ano. Sorry, Alex, ngayon ko lang narinig iyan. Kung anu’t ano pa man, tinitiyak kong mayroong katuwiran iyan. Baka pinaghahanda lang na kapag naipasa iyong Bangsamoro Basic Law—hindi ko lang alam ‘no. Ako ay nag-aano lang ng haka-haka dahil sa iyo ko lang narinig ngayon iyan for the first time. Baka naman ang tinutukoy diyan ay iyong gastusin para sa plebisito na isasagawa at iba pang mga karagdagang gastusin doon sa transition period. Dahil kapag naipasa ito, may transition period, mapi-phase out na iyong ARMM at papalitan ito ng Bangsamoro Transitional Authority. Posible na naglalaan na rin ng halaga dahil kailangan ito ng budget para sa operasyon nila. Pero hindi iyan—ako ay gumagawa lang ng educated guess kasi nga ngayon ko lang narinig iyong sa pagbanggit mo. ALEX: Opo. Dahil kasama daw po ito sa … among the items in the errata na hindi daw ho natalakay daw ito sa Kongreso, Secretary. SEC. COLOMA: Kaya nga’t mayroon naman silang pagkakataon na talakayin iyan doon sa plenaryo. REY: All right. Well said, Secretary. Nice to hear your voice again. Maraming salamat po and good morning. SEC. COLOMA: Maraming salamat, Alex at Rey. Magandang umaga sa inyo. |
| SOURCE: News Information Bureau - Data Processing Center |
|
INTERVIEW OF COMMUNICATIONS SECRETARY HERMINIO COLOMA,
JR.
|
| DZRB / Balita at Panayam by Alan Allanigue |
28 October 2014
|
| ALAN: Secretary Coloma, sir, magandang umaga po. SEC. COLOMA: Magandang umaga, Alan. ALAN: Yes, sir. This early, we understand na may mga kautusan na po ang Pangulong Noy sa iba’t ibang government agencies lalo’t higit iyong may kinalaman po sa celebration o sa paggunita ng All Saints’ Day, Sec. Sonny, sir? SEC. COLOMA: Ang layunin ng ating Pangulo at pamahalaan ay magkaroon ng maayos at ligtas na paggunita sa ating mga mahal sa buhay na pumanaw sa darating na Undas kaya’t pinaghahanda nang husto ang mga kinauukulang ahensiya para tiyakin ito, Alan. Iyong kahandaan ng mga sasakyang panlupa, pandagat at panghimpapawid; iyong kaayusan sa mga terminal; iyong kaligtasan sa pagbibiyahe; iyong seguridad ng ating mga mamamayan na maglalakbay, lahat ng aspetong iyan ay inaasikaso ng ating pamahalaan. ALAN: Opo. Sa ibang usapin po, Secretary Coloma, sir, dito po sa panukalang 2015 National Budget. Ano po ang latest considering that the Congress will adjourn sa kanilang session po sa October 29, sir? SEC. COLOMA: Ang batid po natin ay naglalayon ang ating mga mambabatas sa Kamara na maaprubahan ang national budget for 2015 on third reading. Naipasa na po nila iyan on second reading noong nakaraang buwan. At ngayon pong linggo, bago sila mag-recess, ay nais nilang maaprubahan na rin ito on third reading para po maihain na sa Senado. At ang Senado naman ay patuloy na nagdaraos ng mga committee hearing na hahantong din sa pag-apruba nila ng national budget. Pagkatapos nilang aprubahan ito, lilikha ng conference committee na iha-harmonize iyong dalawang version ng Kamara at ng Senado. Kaya’t umaasa tayo na magagawa ang lahat ng ito sa loob ng nakatakdang timetable para maaprubahan ito ng Kongreso at malagdaan ng Pangulo sa loob ng taong ito, at maipatupad sa unang araw ng 2015. ALAN: And base ho doon sa mga initial reports na nagmumula sa Malacañang, more than one-third of the proposed 2015 national budget ang mapupunta sa mga social services ng pamahalaan, Sec. Sonny, sir? SEC. COLOMA: Ang pinakamalaking bahagi ay ilalaan sa poverty reduction and social protection, halos 38% ito, dahil pinaiigting iyong pagtulong sa ating mga kababayan na nabibilang sa mga pinakamahirap na pamilya. Dadagdagan iyong suporta sa Conditional Cash Transfer, at mas marami pang pamilya ang makikinabang dito. Iyong mga anak ng mga benipisaryong pamilya ay pag-aaralin hanggang makatapos ng high school para tumaas iyong probabilidad na sila ay makakakuha kaagad ng trabaho at mas mataas ang kikitain nila sa kanilang paghahanapbuhay. ALAN: Idugtong ko na rin po rito, Sec. Sonny, iyong survey na isinagawa ng Social Weather Stations, tungkol ito doon sa self-rated poverty. At mukhang sinasabing tumaas daw nang bahagya itong mga nagsasabing nahihirapan sila, base dito sa self-rated poverty na ito na isinagawa ng SWS survey, sir? SEC. COLOMA: Iyan ang dahilan kung bakit isinasagawa iyong pagpapalaki ng budget na gugugol nang mas malaking halaga ang pamahalaan para tugunan ang problema ng kahirapan. Sa ating estratihiya ay nakatutok ang pagpapatupad ng mga programang pangkabuhayan sa mga lalawigan na pinakamaraming mahihirap at doon sa lalawigan na parating dinadalaw ng kalamidad dahil iyong pagiging apektado ng kalamidad ang nagpapahirap sa kabuhayan ng ating mga mamamayan. ALAN: Oho. At meron ding kahalintulad na government survey naman na nagpapakita naman ho, Sec. Sonny, ng decline sa poverty incidence, Secretary Coloma, sir? SEC. COLOMA: Bagama’t nakakita tayo ng ganiyang mainam na resulta, nananatili ang riyalidad na marami pa ring mga pamilyang Pilipino ang nasa level ng kahirapan kaya’t hindi po natin tinatantanan ang ating pagsisikap na sila ay maiangat mula sa kahirapan. ALAN: Ayun, okay. Secretary Coloma, sir, baka meron po kayong nais na ibalita rin o mensahe para sa ating mga tagasubaybay, sir? SEC. COLOMA: Iyon na lamang hinggil sa paghahanda para magkaroon ng maayos at ligtas na pag-alala sa ating mga mahal sa buhay na pumanaw sa panahon Undas. Pagtulungan po natin ito. ALAN: Okay. Secretary Coloma, sir, muli salamat po nang marami for the updates from the Palace. SEC. COLOMA: Maraming salamat at magandang umaga, Alan. |
| SOURCE: News Information Bureau - Data Processing Center |
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| DSWD hosts ASEAN training to improve services for PWDs |
| Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph |
| The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will
lead the Association of South East Asian Nations’ (ASEAN)
Training of Trainers on the Development and Management of
Inclusive Programs and Services for Persons with Disabilities
(PWDs) on October 28 to 30 at the Century Park Hotel, Manila. The three-day conference is supported by Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF). It will gather various social workers and professionals from government and recognized non-government agencies from Myanmar, Vietnam, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines. DSWD Secretary Corazon Juliano- Soliman said that the Philippines fully supports an inclusive, barrier-free, and rights-based society for PWDs, and provision of auxiliary social services is a means of restoring their social functioning and participation in community affairs. Auxiliary social services are supportive interventions that include the acquisition of mobility and assistive devices, assistance and provision of medical intervention on specialty services, and promotion of positive attitude towards PWDs. “It reduces the hindering effects of disability through provision of programs and services that will enhance their capability to attain a more meaningful, productive and satisfying way of life and ultimately become self-reliant and contributing members of society,” Sec. Soliman explained. Topics to be discussed include Global Trends for PWDs by United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), New Programs and Strategies for PWDs in the Philippines by Asia Pacific Development Center (APCD), and Community-Based Rehabilitation for PWDs by KASAMAKA-Community Based Rehabilitation Foundation, Inc. ASEAN member-countries will also present their country papers on best practices focusing on the different auxiliary programs and services for PWDs, and advocacy strategies. “We are happy to host this international event. We hope that through this capability building training for program implementers, we can strengthen and improve our service delivery for PWDs in the region,” Sec. Soliman enthused. |
| Banks' Consumer Loans Sustain Increase |
| Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph |
| Consumer loans (CLs) by universal, commercial (U/KBs) and thrift
banks (TBs) reached Php 803.3 billion at the end of second quarter
this year, an increase of 18.1 percent from the Php 680.4 billion in
CLs during the same period last year. Consumer lending also sustained its quarter-on quarter growth as the latest figure reflects an increase of 9.3 percent from the Php 735.1 billion posted in the previous quarter. CLs rose on account of continued increase in investments of households in residential real estate and auto loans. Credit card loans also rose, although at a slower pace during the period. While the consumer lending expanded, the ratio of the banks’ non-performing CLs to total CLs slightly decreased to 5.0 percent at end-June from 5.2 percent a quarter earlier. U/KBs and TBs also set aside loan loss reserves of 67 percent of their non-performing CLs as a safety net against consumer credit risks. As a percentage of total lending, the 16.5 percent CL exposure of Philippine banks remained low compared to its peers in Southeast Asia. In end-June this year, the consumer credit exposure in Malaysia stood at 62.2 percent; Indonesia, 28.4 percent; Thailand, 27.5 percent; and Singapore, 25.5 percent. As part of efforts to promote high credit standards, the BSP monitors the quality of consumer and other types of bank lending. This is essential to fostering financial stability, which is a key policy objective of the BSP. |
| PHL expands enduring trade relations with SoKor |
| Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph |
| With the recent visit of a 15-member business delegation from the
Republic of Korea to the Philippines, both countries gear up to
develop business synergy and fortify long-standing trade relations. “The Philippines is more than ever open and ready to accommodate Korean businesses. I encourage our Korean friends to consider the country not only as trade partner but also as a potential investment destination,” Department of Trade and Industry-Management Services Group (DTI-MSG) Undersecretary Nora K. Terrado said during the recent seminar on investment opportunities organized by the Board of Investments (BOI) for the delegation. The delegation, led by ASEAN-Korea Centre (AKC) Secretary General Hae Moon Chung, sent an investment and market research mission to the Philippines. It is composed of AKC officials, industry associations, and companies engaged in electronics, agri-business, and construction industries. The mission was coordinated through the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) in Seoul, Korea. The ASEAN-Korea Centre is an intergovernmental organization consisting of ten ASEAN member states and Korea. It is mandated to increase trade volume, accelerate investment flows, invigorate tourism, and enrich cultural exchanges between ASEAN Member States and Korea with emphasis on the promotion of mutual understanding through people-to-people exchanges. “The Philippines will continue to be at forefront of the enviable economic performance of ASEAN as a whole,” Chung said. He cited that in 2013, ASEAN emerged as the second largest investment destination and second largest trading partner of Korea with a trade volume of US$135 billion, a 3-% increase compared to USD 131B a year earlier. Foreign direct investments (FDI) from Korea to ASEAN amounted to USD 1.7B in 2012 and USD 3.5B in 2013. Chung noted that the ASEAN and Korea are undertaking joint consultations for the modernization and improvement the ASEAN-Korea Free Trade Agreement by year 2015. The completion of this consultation will have an effect on strengthening and reinforcing the economic cooperation between ASEAN and Korea. Chung added that ASEAN and Korea are on the way to achieve the USD 150-B bilateral trade volume by 2015, and USD 200B by year 2020. Aside from the investment opportunities seminar and business meetings, the delegation also visited three Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) and toured selected Korean locators. These IPAs include the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), and Clark Development Corporation (CDC). Korean Embassy to the Philippines Ambassador Hyuk Lee noted that these special economic zones are home to hundreds of Korean companies. He added that they have set up shops like many other Korean individuals who have found success in the Philippines by riding on the popularity of Korean progress. “This is a clear indication that investment climate in this country (Philippines) is really excellent. Indeed, now is an opportune moment for Koreans to invest in the Philippines,” Lee said. Last year, committed Korean investments as approved by IPAs amounted to USD 200M, ranking South Korea as the Philippines’ 6th source of IPA-approved foreign investments, according to BOI data. On the trade side, South Korea ranked as the Philippines’ 5th major trading partner, 6th export market and 5th import supplier, Philippine exports to South Korea went up by 17.96% from USD 2.88B 2012 to USD 3.4B in 2013, while Philippine imports from South Korea increased by 6.5% from USD 4.53B in 2012 to USD 4.82B in 2013, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) as cited and processed by the Export Marketing Bureau (EMB). |
| Roxas on Ebola: We are ready |
| Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph |
| Interior and Local Government Sec. Mar Roxas assured that the
DILG-PNP are ready to do their share in meeting the dreaded ebola
virus disease under President Aquino’s “whole government approach”
that was first applied during the MERS- Corona Virus threat. The DILG chief said during that time, the Philippine National Police’ role was to “trace the passengers that had come home but who have tested positive for the MERS-COV. Speaking during the 97th Foundation Anniversary of the Philippine Nurses Association (PNA), Roxas said the government cannot be complacent knowing that “we do have 12 million Filipinos abroad. And who knows if someone among them may have at some point coming home encountered a carrier?” But Roxas said the entire government has prepared contingency plans just like when the country was faced with the MERS-Corona Virus. He recalled that during the height of the MERS-COV scare, the entire government worked in concerted effort to address the problem. He said, “It's not just a healthcare issue, it is a whole of people issue that's why it was the whole of government led by the President that addressed, not just tried but successfully addressed that matter.” The President recently signed an executive order forming an interagency task force to manage emerging infectious diseases in the country. Roxas said the government’s past experiences in dealing with different infectious diseases like MERS-COV, SARS, and Bird Flu have taught the people that “we must be prepared, even as the entire government is ready with its contingency plans.” |
| 'Let's fight crime together' - DILG to PNP, volunteer groups |
| Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph |
| CAMP CRAME - On Wednesday, DILG Sec. Mar Roxas sat down with the
Philippine National Police and five radio communication
organizations to discuss a new coordinating system for immediate
reporting and response to criminal activities in Metro Manila. Volunteer groups operating nationwide such as PCRG, REACT Philippines and KABALIKAT-CIVICOM were invited to deploy experienced members to monitor and report criminal activities, starting from 12 high-crime areas identified by the NCR police. These areas include MRT stations along EDSA and Fairview in Quezon City, as well as Manila's university belt. "We are harnessing existing means of communication and are improving a system that seeks to eradicate crime in our cities," said secretary Mar Roxas. The plan, to be formalized and piloted in early November, uses the latest data of the PNP-NCRPO as basis for the volunteer groups' area of assignments. Their sole responsibility is to immediately report incidents to the police who will respond and conduct arrests. "This is not to encourage vigilantism among our volunteer partners as we also want to ensure their safety above all," the secretary added. The secretary also underscored the importance of the "augmentation force" in the government's anti-crime campaign. The DILG hopes to see better figures upon the implementation of the new coordinating system. "We are inviting more groups to help us keep our communities safe by standing guard with the police 24/7," the secretary ended. |
| Bangsamoro Law to benefit all -- solons |
| Source: http://www.opapp.gov.ph |
| TACURONG CITY, SULTAN KUDARAT – Lawmakers declared Friday that they
hope to pass the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) swiftly as it
is beneficial to people from all sectors—whether they are
Christians, Muslims, or indigenous peoples (IPs) and will bring
peace and progress in Mindanao and the rest of the country. Cagayan de Oro second district Representative Rufus Rodriguez, who chairs the House of Representatives' Ad Hoc Committee on the BBL, said during a public hearing in this city that “the BBL [hopes to bring peace and progress to] all Bangsamoro and Filipinos. It is not only for the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).” The BBL is the legal iteration of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) signed by the Government of the Philippines and the MILF as the final political settlement of the armed conflict in the south. The BBL will entrench the Bangsamoro political entity that will replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao by 2016. “This [proposed BBL] is good for all ethnic and religious groups in Mindanao, including indigenous peoples and Christians,” said Rodriguez. He explained that this is because the BBL will provide for genuine autonomy with enhanced fiscal and political powers that will empower the people in the proposed Bangsamoro region. Rodriguez noted that in the BBL, “there will be no [religious] discrimination of Christians” and “vested property rights will be recognized and protected.” According to Rodriguez, cases of unjust dispossession of lands or land-grabbing cases will have to be settled through the proper justice mechanisms. This is in accordance with the CAB under the section on transitional justice and reconciliation, as part of the normalization process. At the same time, he noted that peace and progress in the Bangsamoro will positively affect its neighbouring areas, including Sultan Kudarat, even if they are not part of the proposed territory of the Bangsamoro. On the concerns of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), Sulu 1st district Representative Tupay Loong said that the Ad Hoc Committee is undertaking an initiative for “the MNLF and the MILF to come together and come up with a common position to be put in the BBL, as both groups advance the same cause for the Bangsamoro people.” Loong shared that this is parallel to the efforts of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to consolidate the concerns of both Moro fronts through the recently activated Bangsamoro Coordination Forum. Aside from Rodriguez and Loong, other lawmakers who are part of the 75-member Ad Hoc Committee on the BBL that were also present during the public hearing in this area include: Sultan Kudarat 2nd district Representative Arnulfo Go, Maguindanao 2nd district Rep. Zajid Mangudadatu, North Cotabato 1st district Rep. Jesus Sacdalan, Maguindanao 1st district and Cotabato City Rep. Bai Sandra Sema, Zamboanga City 1st district Rep. Celso Lobregat; Anak Mindanao party list Rep. Djalia Hataman, Misamis Occidental 1st district Rep. Jorge Almonte; and ACT Partylist Rep. Antonio Tinio. Simultaneous public hearings were also held in Koronadal City and General Santos City with other members of the committee. |
| Ferrer acclaimed by int'l body for role in Bangsamoro pact |
| Source: http://www.opapp.gov.ph |
| BANGKOK, THAILAND – Government of the Philippines chief negotiator
Prof. Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, the world's first woman to sign a major
peace agreement as lead negotiator, received acclaim from N-Peace
Awards, an international, Asian-based awarding body for spearheading
the completion and signing of the historic Comprehensive Agreement
on the Bangsamoro (CAB) between the GPH and Moro Islamic Liberation
Front (MILF). Launched in 2011 by the United Nations Development Program, the N-Peace Awards give recognition to notable peace workers from around the globe. N-Peace is a country network of peace advocates in Asia seeking to advance women, peace and security issues. It supports women's leadership for conflict prevention, resolution and peace-building and promotes the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, and related resolutions at regional, national and community levels. N-Peace honors Coronel-Ferrer for being “an inspiring mobilizer and campaigner for peace in the Philippines and beyond.” She is one of two awardees in the “Campaigning for Action-Women and Men Mobilizing for Peace” category. Afghanistan’s Hajji Khalil, a former Taliban jihadist who now heads a provincial Peace Council was the other awardee. He was cited for involving more than 1,500 fellow-Talibans in the activities of the Afghan Peace and Reintegration Program, ably mediating numerous tribal conflicts, and supporting the empowerment of Afghan women. During the Awards Ceremony held Friday, October 24 at the VIE Hotel in this Asian city, N-Peace Awards further cited Coronel-Ferrer for "having campaigned and mobilized people and resources and influenced policies around several issues, from banning landmines to getting women's voices and priorities on the decision-making table." She was also cited for being “hugely influential" and for "her leadership role in the CAB, which was signed in March 2014, signaling the end of the five-decade armed conflict between Moro combatants and the government.” Coronel-Ferrer was collectively selected by a special panel composed of a group of prominent peace leaders in different parts of the world. Women making peace happen Coronel-Ferrer, a political science professor at the University of the Philippines, served as a senior panel member of the government in talks with the MILF when negotiations resumed in July 2010 under the Aquino administration. In December 2012, she was appointed GPH peace panel chair. Prior to her leadership in the peace talks, she was among the 27 Filipinos nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2005 for her active role in peace building. In 1995, she co-founded with lawyer Soliman Santos, Jr., the Philippine Campaign to Ban Landmines (PCBL) , which successfully lobbied the government to sign the international treaty prohibiting the use, production and trading of landmines. As co-chair of the Non-State Actors Working Group of the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL), she led missions urging non-state armed groups to also stop using landmines. Among the armed groups who committed to the mine ban were the MILF and the communist Revolutionary Proletarian Army (RPA). The ICBL won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1997. Coronel-Ferrer was also co-founder and lead convenor of the Sulong CARHRIHL, a national network of organizations promoting the observance of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law. Sulong CARHRIHL facilitated the drafting of the National Action Plan (NAP) on the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women and Peace Building which was adopted by the Philippine government in 2010. The women who were mobilized in drawing up the NAP organized the Women Engaged in Action on 1325 (WEAct 1325). The network's founding convener, Miriam College (MC) professor and director of the MC's Center for Peace Education, Jasmin Nario-Galace, nominated Coronel-Ferrer for the award. Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos Deles, a 2012 N-Peace Philippines' Role Model for Peace awardee, said earlier this year that “the Philippine government has blazed a trail, ahead of many other countries, for women’s participation in its peace processes,” noting the leadership of Coronel-Ferrer and other women in the peace process. For her part, Coronel-Ferrer noted that the CAB is "unique not only because it is the first of such agreement to be signed by a woman, not only as one of two chief signatories to a comprehensive agreement, but also because a total of three women -- one half of the 6-person negotiating team of the GPH, and about one-fourth of the total number of signatories signed it." Advice to negotiators Asked to give advice to future peace negotiators during the awarding rites, Coronel-Ferrer highlighted the importance of the ability to trust the other party, and to be trustworthy as well. "The success of the negotiation is in building the trust that would enable everyone to change things and move forward from the burden of the past to the shared future for all, men and women," she said. She also noted how all the awardees have shown perseverance and courage in their work. "I don't think I need to give advice to women and men who are very determined in their work and know clearly what they want to achieve." "The life skills we learned from our own life experiences, these are the same skills we are using now in our work and in our communities," she added. Continuing role for peace The GPH and MILF peace panels will continue to exist as a mechanism to oversee the implementation of the CAB which provides a road map for the creation of a Bangsamoro region by 2016, anchored on achieving shared security and shared prosperity in the country. A proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law, the legal iteration of the CAB, was filed last month in both houses of Congress that is expected to entrench the proposed Bangsamoro political entity. Coronel-Ferrer continues to lead the government panel not only in the implementation of the agreement but more importantly, in lobbying for people's support in the establishment of the Bangsamoro. With Coronel-Ferrer spearheading the government team, women issues are put front and center in the implementation of the agreement. The CAB puts primacy in the role and political participation of women in the future Bangsamoro. Meanwhile, other leading figures in peace building recognized by the N-Peace Awards included Shah Zaman from Pakistan and Wai Wai Nu from Myanmar for the “Youth Generation” category; Rabiah Jamil Beg from Pakistan for the “Breaking Stereotypes – Women and Media” category; and the organization in Myanmar called Democracy and Peace Women Network for the “Thinking Outside the Box” category. The winners of the public vote for “Untold Stories – Women Transforming their Communities” category were Hasina Jalal from Afghanistan; Syarifah Aliyyah Shihab from Indonesia; Mi Khin Khin Kyu from Myanmar; Bimala Kadayet from Nepal; and Mona Parkash from Pakistan. |
| Message of NEDA Sec. Arsenio M. Balisacan at the SEIPI’S 13th CEO’S FORUM & 118th GMM |
| Source: http://www.neda.gov.ph |
| MESSAGE: SECRETARY ARSENIO M. BALISACAN Economic Planning Secretary and NEDA Director-General SEIPI’S 13th CEO’S FORUM & 118th GMM “The Government’s Perspective: Economic Programs and Projects Towards Inclusive Growth” 28 October 2014, 8:00 AM, The Peninsula Manila, Makati City Members of the Semiconductor and Electronics Industry of the Philippines Foundation, Inc., colleagues from the government, friends from the private sector, ladies and gentlemen, good morning! I would like to express my appreciation to SEIPI for inviting me to speak at this event, which provides a good avenue for us to continue strengthening the partnership between the public and private sector. Allow me to begin this presentation by discussing the government’s strategic framework for inclusive growth as well as the recent performance of the economy based on various inclusive growth indicators. Immediately following this, I will discuss a number of issues and challenges, and identify some possible measures that we can take to address them. I will then conclude by presenting the updated targets of the Philippine Development Plan and our future development directions. Shown in the slide [refer to slide 3] is an illustration of our framework for inclusive development, as reflected in the Philippine Development Plan Midterm Update. As you can see, attracting as many investments as possible – from both local and foreign investors – is central to our development agenda. These investments are expected to generate quality employment, which can absorb even the low-skilled workers. As you know, creating high-quality and remunerative jobs is one of the ways by which people can be lifted out of poverty. To encourage investments, we continue to ensure macroeconomic stability; improve our business climate; provide adequate and appropriate infrastructure; enhance the quality of labor through human capital development; and harness science, technology and innovation, among others. In the process of implementing our inclusive growth strategies for the past three years, we have seen improvements in our economic development indicators. The Philippines currently enjoys a strong macroeconomic environment conducive to sustained and rapid growth, characterized by low and stable inflation, favorable interest rates, sustainable fiscal and external positions, and a stable financial sector. This improvement partly explains sustained optimism among consumers and investors, and also lowers our credit risk, as shown by the credit ratings upgrade issued by various international credit watchdogs. Optimism from investors, both local and foreign, has resulted in improved investments. Net foreign direct investments (FDI) grew, on average, by 53.9 percent from 2010-2013. For the first seven months of 2014 alone, net FDI reached US$4 billion, a notable increase of 56.1 percent from US$2.6 billion in the same period last year. Meanwhile, higher approved total investments were recorded in 2013, or higher by 8.1 percent compared to last year. However, approved investments from foreign nationals declined by 5.2 percent to PhP274 billion from PhP289.1 billion. Approved investments from Filipino nationals, on the other hand, increased by 17.5 percent to PhP480 billion. Our GDP growth path reflects the optimism of the private sector, as well as the country’s robust macroeconomic fundamentals. In fact, the Philippines emerged as one of the best performers among Asian economies, next only to China. From 2010-2013, the economy grew, on average, by 6.3 percent in real terms. Even more encouraging is that despite the series of natural disasters that hit in the latter part of 2013, the Philippine economy managed to meet and even exceed the target growth of 6.0 to 7.0 percent. The expansion reflects the stronger manufacturing sector on the supply side, and the resurgence of investments on the demand side. We are also seeing improvements in employment and poverty indicators. I am pleased to note that in the latest Labor Force Survey, the country’s employment level increased by around 1.1 million, driving down the unemployment rate to 6.7 percent in July 2014 from 7.3 percent a year ago. The quality of employment remains a concern, although the underemployment rate declined to 18.3 percent from 19.2 percent in the same period in 2013. Meanwhile, the estimated poverty incidence among Filipinos declined by 3.0 percentage points (ppts) to 24.9 percent from 27.9 percent a year ago, while individuals in extreme poverty also declined by 2.7 ppts to 10.7 percent from 13.4 percent in 2013. While recent economic performance provides evidence that our inclusive growth strategies are gaining traction, we still recognize the need to ramp up our efforts and sustain the momentum, in order to lift even more Filipinos out of poverty. Assessing our recent economic performance allows us to identify issues and challenges that need to be addressed. These include challenges in infrastructure; science, technology and innovation; labor and available skills; and cost of doing business. These issues, if left unresolved, could negate our gains and even adversely affect attainment of our goals, particularly our plan to attract more investments that could provide quality jobs for our people. In the area of infrastructure, the government remains on guard to provide the necessary measures to mitigate if not prevent the effects of power supply instability as well as the slowdown in the logistics chain due to traffic and port congestion. To address the power supply instability, the government will continue to encourage public-private sector programs to augment existing power supply and/or manage demand. In terms of logistical bottlenecks, the government has identified various short-term measures to ease port congestion, including declaring the Batangas and Subic ports as extensions of the Port of Manila, among others. In the area of science, technology and innovation, the challenge is the limited technological capacity of SMEs in producing a local supply of raw materials. Thus, to encourage innovation and improve the value-added of SMEs to the economy, the government is working to make available innovative, appropriate and cost-effective technologies, implement continuous learning programs to increase their competitiveness, and invest in research and development (R&D) activities. By doing so, we can help them produce goods and services that would meet requirements not only of large enterprises but also international markets, if they want to go global. When it comes to enhancing the competitiveness of Filipino talent pool, the government is committed to expand Science and Technology (S&T) graduate scholarship programs to promote science-related professions. Meanwhile, to address the skills mismatch, we will strengthen our efforts to enhance the competencies of our labor supply through training and education as well as through academe-industry linkage. We aim to produce highly skilled Filipino workforce needed by industries, and who are competitive enough to take advantage of economic integration. Lastly, measures to further improve our business climate will continue to be a priority. To address the loss of potential benefits due to unnecessary bureaucratic processes, the government is keen on further simplifying business regulations. To do this, we are implementing the strategies and reforms identified by the National Competitiveness Council, such as the use of Green Lane Units (express registration of corporations and partnerships) and full implementation of the Philippine Business Registry. The PDP 2011-2016 Midterm Update also supports legislative reforms, except those provided under the Constitution, that aim to liberalize investment areas to increase investments and generate employment. Indeed, we have a lot to do, and the work is far from easy. That is why we are grateful for the support and partnership of the private sector, as we continue working to achieve the following targets: • GDP growth within the range of 6.5 to 7.5 percent in 2014 and ultimately, 7.5 to 8.5 percent in 2016. The industry sector is projected to grow the fastest, while the services sector is expected to remain robust during the period. • Reduction of the unemployment rate from 7.0 percent in 2012 to 6.6 percent in 2016. Consequently, we aim to improve the quality of employment, in terms of reduction of underemployment rate from the current 20 percent to about 17 percent in 2016. • Lastly, improvement in the well-being of Filipinos, that is, reduce the income poverty to 19 percent by 2016 and the incidence of multi-dimensional poverty from 28.2 percent in 2008 to 17 percent by 2016. The latter measure recognizes that poverty is not just about income, but about being deprived of a good quality of life. In working to improve these two indicators, we reiterate our commitment to ensuring that economic growth will benefit all, and that the poor will enjoy a better quality of life. That being said, the government is keeping an eye on the growth drivers, and on harnessing their potential to achieve our growth targets. One sector with high potentials to contribute to employment generation and poverty reduction is the manufacturing sector. There is clear evidence that the robust growth of the manufacturing subsector can drive impressive GDP growth. Manufacturing continues to grow robustly, averaging 7.9 percent annually in the last four years, which is a clear break from only 2.9 percent from 2004 to 2009. We see that by sustaining the robust growth of the sector, we’re actually creating opportunities for quality employment for low skilled workers. Efforts such as the Manufacturing Resurgence Program will help boost the sector’s capabilities. The electronics industry has a significant role to play, as it accounts for almost a fifth (i.e., 20.6 percent in 2013) of the country’s manufacturing gross value added (as evidenced by the red portion of the figure). It has the biggest contribution to the growth of the manufacturing sector in recent years. As can be seen, electronics industry contributed, on average, 4.2 percentage points to the average growth of the manufacturing sector of 7.9 percent from 2010-2013. In addition, based on the 2006 Input-Output Table of the Philippines, the output multiplier of the sector, i.e., manufacture of semi-conductor devices and other electronic components, is relatively high at 3.78, which means that an additional ₱1.00 investment in the sector would result in a ₱3.78 increase in the country’s total output. The sector ranked 1st out of 240 sectors with the highest backward linkage because its production of output requires substantial intermediate inputs from many other industries. Meanwhile, it ranked 8th with the highest forward linkage index. These figures only validate the significant role of the electronics industry in achieving rapid and sustained growth of the country. Despite the downward trend of electronics exports in recent years, several indicators point to the recovery of the industry. This builds our optimism that it will contribute to stronger growth of manufacturing. The recovery of demand for automotive, communications, industrial and consumer electronics from key buyers in Europe, US and Japan as well as the surge in the worldwide sales of semiconductors are seen to boost the electronics industry’s growth potentials. These indicate that the industry will remain a major contributor of valuable export products thereby propelling further growth. As we go hand in hand in working towards inclusive growth, we assure you that government continues its efforts to reduce transactions costs, address bottlenecks, and accelerate the roll-out of much needed infrastructure projects. We encourage the electronics industry to move up the value chain, develop new growth areas, and seize opportunities in Southeast Asia as free trade in the region is implemented in 2015. Thank you and good day! |
| DepEd, DPWH to construct 1,500 classrooms with PAGCOR funds |
| Source: http://www.deped.gov.ph |
| Manila—The Department of Education (DepEd) signed a memorandum of
agreement with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation
(PAGCOR) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for
the construction of around 1,500 classrooms worth P2B. DepEd Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC said, “Our vision is to be a pillar of national development in investing in education. Over the past years, PAGCOR has made substantial changes to ensure that part of vision is really implemented.” Luistro expressed his gratitude to the agencies that continue to help in ensuring that “Filipino students get what they deserve.” He said, “We want to thank PAGCOR for being the biggest and most consistent partner in substantially investing in education, and DPWH for ensuring that school buildings will have building integrity.” “Classrooms are the most basic social infrastructure that we should continue to provide all over the country,” DPWH Secretary Rogelio Singson said. He added that DPWH will deliver their commitment in building classrooms that are safe and beneficial for the students. PAGCOR Chairman Cristino Naguiat, Jr. said, “Kami ay nagagalak na kami ay kabahagi kami ng DepEd para sa aming project na “Matuwid na Daan para sa Paaraalan.” Naguiat reiterated PAGCOR’s commitment in the continued delivery of education to the learners. He said that PAGCOR believes that the future of the country lies in the youth. “The classrooms we are going to build are for them. Tuluy-tuloy po ang ating pagtulong sa DepEd. Hindi po tayo nagtatapos dito. Makakaasa po kayo na may karagdagan pa ito—either sa school buildings or computers. Let us work together for the dreams of our youth to be realized.” The classrooms to be built will be constructed by DPHW in accordance to the “build-back better” design with specific PAGCOR design elements. PAGCOR shall designate certain locations based on DepEd’s data on classroom needs which will be prioritized for the construction of classrooms. |
| DepEd jumpstarts Abot-Alam Program in Cavite Province |
| Source: http://www.deped.gov.ph |
| The Department of Education (DepEd) launched the Abot-Alam Program
in the Province of Cavite to gather the support of the local
stakeholders to take part in mapping the out-of-school youth (OSY)
and enrolling them into different programs and opportunities for
education, employment, and entrepreneurship. Undersecretary for Partnerships and External Linkages Mario Deriquito highlighted the importance of the support of local stakeholders to make this undertaking happen. “After the stakeholders have agreed to work together to implement Abot-Alam in the province, the next step is to get organized and to get started,” he explained. During the launch, Undersecretary Deriquito also introduced the first batch of fifty OSYs from Cavite who will enroll under TESDA’s Training for Work Scholarship Program and will be employed by one of the Abot-Alam partners. The Division of Cavite has initially mapped 6,838 out-of-school youth in the different municipalities. The City Divisions of Bacoor and Dasmariñas have also successfully launched Abot-Alam and are currently implementing the program with their respective stakeholders. The OSYs identified during the mapping will be offered opportunities for education through the Alternative Learning System of DepEd and its partners, skills training and employment through TESDA and partner companies, and entrepreneurship opportunities. One partner providing employment is the Makati Development Corporation (MDC), the construction arm of Ayala Land, Inc.. MDC has opened opportunities for at least 800 OSYs in NCR, Laguna, and Cavite, where they are currently implementing development projects. These OSYs will be given free training by TESDA and will be employed by MDC once they pass the assessment and obtain their National Certification. Present in the launching were representatives from various government agencies and non-government organizations, namely: the office of the government, provincial TESDA, DTI, DOLE, Cavite State University, Arnold Janssen Catholic Mission Foundation Inc., and Makati Development Corporation. Abot-Alam envisions a Zero OSY Philippines come 2016. This program is proof of the government’s continued thrust to provide all Filipinos access to quality education and ensure that no learner is left behind. |
| Philippines Wins ITU Council Seat for Asia in Busan, South Korea |
| Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph |
| 28 October 2014 - The Philippines was elected to the International
Telecommunications Union (ITU) Council for a second four-year term
for one of 13 seats representing member-states in Asia and
Australasia at the ITU’s 19th Plenipotentiary Conference (PP-14)
held on October 27 at the Busan Exhibition and Convention Center
(BEXCO). The Philippines received 115 out of 167 valid votes for eighth place in a tie with Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia. In all, 13 countries were elected out of 18 vying for 13 seats in Region E, which groups a total of 49 countries. “We recommit ourselves to our work in the evolving ITU, in particular in pushing for our agenda to advance the use of information technology in disaster risk reduction and in bridging the digital divide,” said delegation head, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Undersecretary Louis Napoleon Casambre, Executive Director of the Information and Communications Technology Office (ICTO), after the victory. “Information and communication technology (ICT) is undeniably one of the most relevant technologies in the world today in building economies and creating opportunities that impact lives by connecting nations, industries and families,” said Undersecretary Casambre, citing the role of ICT in rescue and rehabilitation in areas affected by the Bohol quake and Typhoon Yolanda/Haiyan in 2013. Delegation co-head Philippine Ambassador to South Korea Raul S. Hernandez cast the Philippines’ vote at the Voting Station 5 during the 10th Plenary Session on the sixth day of the quadrennial conference. “This hard-won victory was the result of five months’ close coordination and effective teamwork by Philippines’ ITU Council campaign team, which is composed of several government agencies and the private sector,” Ambassador Hernandez said. “Such tight cooperation among stakeholders no doubt led to this convincing success.” The team is composed of the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) ICTO, the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), the Department of Foreign Affairs’ Office of the United Nations and International Organizations (UNIO), the Philippine Permanent Mission to the UN in Geneva and the Philippine Embassy in Seoul as well as the private sector. “The strong showing of the Philippines in these elections, from the last spot in 2010 to eighth place today, is the result of several months of combined efforts of UNIO, the Mission and several overseas posts to ensure that the Philippines will be reelected to this governing body of the ITU,” remarked Ambassador Cecilia B. Rebong, Permanent Representative of the Philippines to the UN in Geneva. “More importantly, the reelection is a manifestation of the trust and confidence of ITU member states to the leadership of the Philippines in information communication technology,” she added. Apart from the Philippines, the other newly elected ITU Council members from Australasia are China, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Australia, Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh, Thailand, India and Pakistan. There were 35 other countries from four other regions elected to serve on the 48-member ITU Council for the 2015-2018 term at the same plenary session, together with 12 members of the Radio Regulations Board. The ITU Council acts as the Union’s governing body in the interval between the quadrennial Plenipotentiary Conferences. "The Union is strong. And given the number of candidates for these elections, it shows there is still interest for this union," ITU Secretary-General Hamadoun Toure said. The Philippine delegation at PP-14, which is being held from October 20 to November 7 this year, is composed of 20 members from the government and private sectors in the Philippine information and communication industry, led by the ICTO and the NTC. Private sector representatives which attended the PP-14 include Globe Telecom, PLDT-Smart Communications, Institute of Electronic Engineers of the Philippines (IECEP), Federation of International Cable TV and Telecommunications Association of the Philippines (FICTAP) and its member cable operators. The Philippines has been an active member of the ITU since 1912. The ITU is an international organization within the United Nations System where governments and the private sector coordinate operations of international IT networks and services. |
| DOLE-NWPC productivity toolbox has a module on innovation |
| Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph |
| Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz bared that
the integrated, ladderized productivity toolbox of the National
Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC), an attached agency of the
DOLE, will include a training program on innovation and enterprise
development. “Greater productivity and enhanced competitiveness can only be realized if workers and employers are equipped with requisite knowledge, skills, and understanding and appreciation of innovation and enterprise development,” said Baldoz in drumming up public awareness on the productivity toolbox. The course, "Innovation and Enterprise Development Training Program", is a component of the NWPC’s ladderized productivity toolbox. It is a two-day training composed of four learning approaches: (1) on-site training; (2) action planning; (3) consultation; and (4) and incentivizing. This training targets enterprise owners, as well as labor representatives, as participant-beneficiaries. Resource persons for this training will include speakers from managers who attended Phase Two of the productivity and innovation training course in Singapore under the joint DOLE-Nanyang Polytechnic-Temasek Foundation memorandum of agreement signed last year. After the training, Baldoz said participants are expected to demonstrate different outcomes like value-additions or development to existing products, services, projects, and programs; improved service delivery; and enhanced workforce skills to innovation. “This training is a convenient tool for MSMEs. It only lasts for two days, but it is fully-equipped with helpful and enhanced modules and knowledge, as well as experience-sharing activities for participants,” said Baldoz. “Also, don’t forget that this training is free, like the rest of the courses in the DOLE-NWPC Productivity Toolbox,” Baldoz confidently said on promoting the use of the toolbox by MSMEs. On the first day of the training program, participants are expected to have a full grasp of the innovation process and the basics of ‘design thinking’ towards innovation in the workplace. A more depth understanding of customers’ persona is also included in the first-day training module. On the second and last day, participants are expected to have a group evaluation of the best practices they learned on innovation, then to formulate steps for its enhancement. Concluding the training is a requirement for the participants to identify the best innovative idea they can contribute to their workplace. The Productivity Toolbox is a need-based, ladderized package of developmental assistance to MSMEs to ensure that they transition to more viable and competitive enterprises and eventually, comply with labor laws, including safety and health standards. Consisting of five basic training courses; six intermediate training courses; and three advanced training courses, or a total of 14 courses, it provides a menu of productivity tools and technology which MSMEs can adopt depending on their capacity-building needs. It also forms part of the DOLE's package of development assistance to MSMEs in support of the productivity-based pay scheme, or the second tier, of the Two-Tiered Wage System, a reform which Baldoz has initiated and which the DOLE has been pursuing since 2011. “MSMEs, especially those which are just starting, may avail of the basic training courses under the ladderized Productivity Program, or the Productivity Toolbox, to improve their labor and human relations; improve working conditions, including safety and health; enhance their processes; instill positive work values; and apply basic productivity concepts in their workplaces,” said Baldoz. The Productivity Toolbox and its content can previewed at the NWPC website, www.nwpc.dole.gov.ph. |
| DOE renews commitment of ensuring oil supply during the aftermath of natural disasters |
| Source: https://www.doe.gov.ph |
| (Taguig City) As part of its duty of protecting the consumers, the
Department of Energy (DOE) attended the 7th Industry Emergency
Response Event (IERO) hosted by the Philippine Institute of
Petroleum (PIP) last October 22, 2014. Heading the DOE delegation was Undersecretary Zenaida Monsada who also gave the keynote address. She cited the importance of the availability of the oil supply during the restoration and rehabilitation efforts most especially in the critically damaged regions. “We must understand that fuel is an indispensable factor in relief operations and even in restoration efforts.” said Usec. Monsada. The 7th IERO tackled the experiences during the Bohol Earthquake and the onslaught of Typhoon Yolanda in the Visayas. Both natural disasters happened last year. The event also became an avenue where different stakeholders from the public and private sectors can actively express their concerns and lessons learned from the recent disasters. The event was capped with the signing of a memorandum of agreement with the DOE, the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Office of Civil Defense (OCD)/The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) and members of the PIP. The MOA contains the commitments of the entities in ensuring a steady oil supply in the advent of natural disasters. The DOE will continue its role as the focal and point agency in oil supply related matters. |
| New Book on Philippine Foreign Service Launched |
| Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph |
| 28 October 2014 - The Foreign Service Institute (FSI) of the
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) hosted the launching of the
newest book of Philippine Consul General Marciano R. de Borja
entitled “The State Department Boys: Philippine Diplomacy and Its
American Heritage” on October 23 at the Carlos P. Romulo Library of
the DFA. The book is part of the ADST-DACOR book series and was
published and released by New Academia Publishing of Washington,
D.C. in July 2014. The book deals with the story of the 40 pioneer Filipino diplomats who attended a special training program in the State Department between December 1945 to September 1947. They eventually played pivotal roles in the Philippine diplomacy and helped the fledgling Philippine Republic hold its own in the international arena. In his remarks, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario said “The book is not only a vivid account of the travails and triumphs of the so-called trailblazers; it also puts a spotlight on the Philippines’ progress in asserting its rightful place in the community of nations. The State Department Boys are now the acknowledged pioneers in our national pursuit to achieve an independent, pragmatic, and principled Philippine Foreign Policy.” On the other hand, Dr. Ricardo T. Jose, Professor of History at the University of the Philippines said “the book fills a void in Philippine diplomatic history, the professional diplomats became pillars of the Philippines’ Department of Foreign Affairs and had sterling careers in building the institution and crafting Philippine Foreign Policy, thus the author has now given these men and their efforts due recognition”. Philippine Consul General De Borja holds the rank of Chief of Mission II in the Philippine Foreign Service and is currently Consul General in Guam. His previous foreign assignments include the Philippine Embassies in Japan, Chile and Spain and Philippine Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York. He holds degrees from the University of the Philippines and the University of Navarra (Spain) and studied International Politics at the University of Tokyo. He is also the author of FSO IV: Starting a Career in the Philippine Foreign Service (1999) and Basques in the Philippines (2005). The book launching was attended by Secretary Albert F. del Rosario, US Ambassador Philip S. Goldberg, Undersecretary Rafael Seguis, Undersecretary Evan Garcia, Professor Ricardo T. Jose of the University of the Philippines, Executive Director Ruy Moreno of the Center for Global Best Practices, DFA Assistant Secretaries, DFA and FSI Officers and staff, members of the academe and business community as well as 14 young diplomats from Timor Leste who are undergoing training at the FSI. |
| Convergence Initiative Provides Agrarian Reform Community With Livelihood Project |
| Source: http://www.dar.gov.ph |
| Agrarian reform beneficiaries in the municipality of Makilala in
North Cotabato will soon enjoy an increase in their household income
after the government launched a coffee production project aimed at
augmenting their income. DAR Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer Marion Abella said the project which is worth P470,000, seeks to produce 31,000 coffee seedlings to be planted in at least 50 hectares of agricultural lands along streams and riverbanks in Barangay Kawayanon of Makilala town. The barangay is home to the Makilala South West Agrarian Reform Community. “Planting these coffee seedlings is like hitting two birds with one stone. First, it supports the National Greening Program (NGP) of the government by planting high-value commercial crops, and second, it provides our agrarian beneficiaries with additional income,” said Abella referring to the project jointly undertaken by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). “Aside from their traditional crops of rice and corn, the farmers will have additional income when they sell their harvested coffee beans because there’s a big market here for coffee beans,” said Abella. The DAR, DA and DENR tapped the Kawayanon Multi-Purpose Cooperative (KMPC) as the agrarian reform beneficiaries organization for the implementation of the project by facilitating coffee seedling production, site clearing, hole-digging and planting of the seedlings. “To ensure the sustainability and profitability [of the project], the three agencies will provide the farmers with technical and financial support,” said Abella. The project is being pursued under the National Convergence Initiative--a government strategy that seeks to reduce poverty in the countryside by providing livelihood projects, infrastructure, agricultural technology trainings and access to credit. |
| DA, Nestle seal partnership for coffee dev’t |
| Source: http://www.da.gov.ph/ |
| The Department of Agriculture (DA) and Nestle Philippines
Incorporated renewed their cooperation on the development of the
local coffee industry through expansion of nurseries in the country. “This partnership aims to help uplift the lives of the country’s coffee farmers and fill the gap in the local coffee supply and demand,” Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala said. Alcala and Nestle Philippines Chairman and CEO John Martin Miller sealed a Memorandum of Agreement for the establishment of new robusta coffee nurseries in five areas all over the country totaling to over 30 hectares on October 27, 2014 in Rockwell Club, Makati City. The Agri chief said that the agreement aims to boost the productivity of the country’s coffee farmers by making available excellent planting materials. “The joint venture, likewise, aims to empower local farmers to sell their coffee produce at competitive market price,” he added. “Through this, the DA aims to enable farmers to acquire good planting materials for their farm and benefit from Nestle’s advanced technology on coffee production,” he continued. “With the domestic demand of more than 70, 000 metric tons (MT) of green coffee beans, our current production is only about 30, 000 MT. Thus the partnership will help us fill the gap of more than 40, 000 MT,” explained Alcala. Miller said that Nestle’s renewed partnership with the government is a clear manifestation of the steadfast commitment of all parties involved towards the uplift of the agriculture sector in the country, and in particular of the livelihoods of coffee-growing farmers. “Since 2010, our partnership has extended reach to no less than 32, 000 farmers and provided nine million robusta coffee plantlets to those farmers,” he said. “The 12.5-hectare Bukidnon Integrated Coffee Center (BICC) in NOMIARC established in 2011 which houses a mother plant garden, a plantlet nursery, training center, and a demo farm composting area has increased plantlet capacity by 25% translating to about 500, 000 plantlets and allowed more farmers to access to these much needed planting materials.” “The MoA signing guarantees additional nursery and R&D capacity not only to the BICC but also to further regions across the country,” added Miller. Based on industry reports, coffee farming in the country is dominated by small farmers who mostly own an average of one to two hectares farm, and a large percentage of local coffee trees are matured at about 20 years and above. “Obtaining excellent planting materials are important to enable farmers to replace old trees or start new coffee farms,” Alcala explained. He added that the partnership will have the capability to assist the need for more planting materials of the coffee industry to attain coffee self sufficiency and uplift the lives of small coffee farmers. The five areas for the nurseries to be established under the MoA include: Quirino Experimental Station (QES) in Quirino, Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) in Bukidnon, Central Mindanao Integrated Agricultural Research Center (CEMIARC) in North Cotabato, Trento Research and Experimental Station in Agusan del Sur, and expansion of the previously established nursery in Northern Mindanao Integrated Agricultural Research Center (NOMIARC) in Bukidnon. High Value Crop Development Program Director Jennifer Remoquilo explained that the DA provided the areas which Nestle will use in establishing nurseries and clonal gardens for development of improved robusta coffee seedling varieties. She added that the seedlings produced in these nurseries will not only help local farmers obtain good planting materials, but is aimed to help other government agencies involved in coffee expansion program as well including Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of National Defense, Philippine Coconut Authority, and Local Government Units among others. (Catherine Nanta, DA-AFID) |
| Ombudsman indicts state college officials for graft |
| Source: http://www.ombudsman.gov.ph |
| A former president and the officers of the Bids and Awards Committee
(BAC) of Marikina Polytechnic College (MPC) are facing indictments
for violating the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (R.A. No.
3019) over irregular bidding and procurement from 2005 to 2006 in
order to suit favored bidders/contractors. In a 36-page Resolution, Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales ordered the filing of Information for violation of Section 3(g) of R.A. No. 3019 against former MPC President Manuel R. Pangilinan, BAC Chairman Efren Azares, BAC Members Alejandrina Ancheta and Ermielinda Flaminiano and Saturnino Quintal, and Procurement Officer Juanito Macapanas. In addition, Pangilinan faces eight counts of violation of Section 3(e), as Azares, Ancheta, Flaminiano and Macapanas face three counts of violation of Section 3(e), while Quintal faces two counts of violation of Section 3(e). According to the Resolution, Pangilinan and the BAC officials rigged the bidding for the procurement of various items ranging from journals, plaques, repair and maintenance of vehicle, equipment for its “Go Negosyo” program, buffing and skiving machines, duplicator machines with multifunction copier, concrete poles and floor tiles. Several procurement violations were committed by Pangilinan and the BAC such as awarding of projects even prior to the deadline set for the submission of bids, splitting of contracts, overpricing, non-submission of eligibility requirements, lack of purchase requests, and lack of Approved Budget for the Contract. Aside from criminal indictments, Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales found substantial evidence to hold Pangilinan, Azares, Ancheta, Flaminiano, Quintal and Macapanas guilty of Grave Misconduct and Dishonesty. In a separate 32-page Decision, Ombudsman Morales imposed the penalty of dismissal from the service. Section 3(g) of R.A. No. 3019 punishes a public officer for, on behalf of the Government, entering into any contract or transaction manifestly and grossly disadvantageous to the same, whether or not the public officer profited or will profit thereby, while Section 3(e) punishes a public officer who, in the discharge of his official functions, acts with manifest partiality, evident bad faith, or gross inexcusable negligence causing undue injury to any party, including the government, or giving any private party unwarranted benefits, advantage, or preference. |
| August 2014 Results of Licensure Examination for Teachers released in fifty one (51) working days |
| Source: http://www.prc.gov.ph |
| The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and the Board for
Professional Teachers (BPT) announces that 25,301 elementary
teachers out of 70,786 examinees (35.74%) and 26,767 secondary
teachers out of 77,803 examinees (34.40%) successfully passed the
Licensure Examination for Teachers (L.E.T.) given last August 17,
2014 in Hong Kong and 24 testing centers all over the Philippines.
It is further announced that of the 25,301 elementary teacher
passers, 21,649 are first timers and 3,652 are repeaters. For the
secondary teachers, 23,820 passers are first timers and 2,947 are
repeaters. The Board for Professional Teachers is composed of Dr. Rosita L. Navarro, Chairman; Dr. Paz I. Lucido, Vice Chairman; Dr. Paraluman R. Giron and Dr. Nora M. Uy, Members. The results of examination with respect to six (6) examinees were withheld pending final determination of their liabilities under the rules and regulations governing licensure examination. Registration for the issuance of Professional Identification Card (ID) and Certificate of Registration will start on November 5, 2014. The requirements for the issuance of Certificate of Registration and Professional Identification Card (ID) are the following: 1) duly accomplished Oath Form or Panunumpa ng Propesyonal; 2) latest Community Tax Certificate (Cedula); 3) 1 piece passport size picture (colored with white background and complete nametag); 4) metered documentary stamp for the Oath Form; and 5) the Initial Registration Fee of P600 and Annual Registration Fee of P450 for 2014-2017. Successful examinees should PERSONALLY register and sign in the Roster of Registered Professionals. The dates and venues for the oathtaking ceremonies of the new successful examinees in the said examination WILL BE ANNOUNCED LATER. |
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Updated:
28 OCTOBER 2014
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| Alternative photo archive with high resolutions | |
| Please click on thumbnails to magnify | |
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President Benigno S. Aquino III expresses his views during the 13th CEO Forum and 118th General Membership Meeting of the Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines (SEIPI) at The Peninsula Manila in Makati City on Tuesday (October 28). The SEIPI is the largest organization of foreign and Filipino semiconductor and electronics companies in the Philippines. Also in photo are Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority director general Emmanuel Joel Villanueva, SEIPI president Danilo Lachica and St. Microelectronics managing director Virginia Melba Cuyahon. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III expresses his views during the 13th CEO Forum and 118th General Membership Meeting of the Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines (SEIPI) at The Peninsula Manila in Makati City on Tuesday (October 28). The SEIPI is the largest organization of foreign and Filipino semiconductor and electronics companies in the Philippines. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the 13th CEO Forum and 118th General Membership Meeting of the Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines (SEIPI) at The Peninsula Manila in Makati City on Tuesday (October 28). The SEIPI is the largest organization of foreign and Filipino semiconductor and electronics companies in the Philippines. Also in photo are Technical Education and Skills Development Authority director general Emmanuel Joel Villanueva, SEIPI president Danilo Lachica and St. Microelectronics managing director Virginia Melba Cuyahon. (Photo by Exequiel Supera / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the 13th CEO Forum and 118th General Membership Meeting of the Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines (SEIPI) at The Peninsula Manila in Makati City on Tuesday (October 28). The SEIPI is the largest organization of foreign and Filipino semiconductor and electronics companies in the Philippines. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the 13th CEO Forum and 118th General Membership Meeting of the Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines (SEIPI) at The Peninsula Manila in Makati City on Tuesday (October 28). The SEIPI is the largest organization of foreign and Filipino semiconductor and electronics companies in the Philippines. Also in photo are Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority director general Emmanuel Joel Villanueva, SEIPI president Danilo Lachica and St. Microelectronics managing director Virginia Melba Cuyahon. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III expresses his views at the 13th CEO Forum and 118th General Membership Meeting of the Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines (SEIPI) at The Peninsula Manila in Makati City on Tuesday (October 28). The SEIPI is the largest organization of foreign and Filipino semiconductor and electronics companies in the Philippines. Also in photo are Technical Education and Skills Development Authority director general Emmanuel Joel Villanueva and SEIPI president Danilo Lachica. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Exequiel Supera / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III exchanges pleasantries with the members of the Philippine Army Dragon Boat Team, led by Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc, during the courtesy call at the President’s Hall Sala of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (October 27). The 17-man team posted world records and won Gold medals in the 200-meter and 500-meter small boat categories in the 9th International Dragon Boat Federation Club Crews World Championships in Standiana Bacin, Ravenna, Italy last September. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Rolando Mailo / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III greets members of the Philippine Army Dragon Boat Team, led by Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc, during the courtesy call at the President’s Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (October 27). The 17-man team posted world records and won Gold medals in the 200-meter and 500-meter small boat categories in the 9th International Dragon Boat Federation Club Crews World Championships in Standiana Bacin, Ravenna, Italy last September. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Rolando Mailo / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III confers the Order of Lakandula with a rank of Grand Officer (Maringal na Pinuno) on outgoing United Nations Resident Coordinator Luiza Carvalho during the Farewell Call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (October 27). The Order of Lakandula is the Order of Political and Civic Merit of the Republic. Also in photo are Social Welfare and Development Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and her spouse Jose Renato Carvalho. (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III confers the Order of Lakandula with a rank of Grand Officer (Maringal na Pinuno) on outgoing United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator Luiza Carvalho during the Farewell Call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (October 27). The Order of Lakandula is the Order of Political and Civic Merit of the Republic. Also in photo are Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and her spouse Jose Renato Carvalho. (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III confers the Order of Lakandula with a rank of Grand Officer (Maringal na Pinuno) on outgoing United Nations Resident Coordinator Luiza Carvalho during the Farewell Call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (October 27). The Order of Lakandula is the Order of Political and Civic Merit of the Republic. Also in photo is her spouse Jose Renato Carvalho. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III confers the Order of Lakandula with a rank of Grand Officer (Maringal na Pinuno) on outgoing United Nations Resident Coordinator Luiza Carvalho during the Farewell Call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (October 27). The Order of Lakandula is the Order of Political and Civic Merit of the Republic. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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Jesus Is Lord Church Worldwide spiritual director and international president Bro. Eduardo “Eddie” Villanueva leads the congregation for a pray over and blessing for President Benigno S. Aquino III during the 36th anniversary of the Jesus Is Lord Church Worldwide at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park, Manila City on Friday (October 24). The Jesus Is Lord Church aims to bring all peoples to the kingdom of the living God regardless of race, status, belief and religious affiliations through the saving, healing, delivering, and transforming power of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his message during the 36th anniversary of the Jesus Is Lord Church Worldwide at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park, Manila City on Friday (October 24). The Jesus Is Lord Church aims to bring all peoples to the kingdom of the living God regardless of race, status, belief and religious affiliations through the saving, healing, delivering, and transforming power of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Ryan Lim/ Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 36th anniversary of the Jesus Is Lord (JIL) Church Worldwide at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park, Manila City on Friday (October 24). The JIL Church aims to bring all peoples to the kingdom of the living God regardless of race, status, belief and religious affiliations through the saving, healing, delivering, and transforming power of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Gil Nartea/ Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III exchanges pleasantries with Shiota Tochi Co. Ltd. officials, headed by its Executive Director Keigo Iue during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (October 24). The Shiota Tochi Group provides housing and operates a leisure business including management of a large scale shopping facility, resort hotel and golf course in Japan. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III receives a copy of the 40th PBC Resolution presented by 40th PBC chairman George Barcelon, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry chairman Atty. Miguel Varela and PCCI president Alfredo Yao, during the 40th Philippine Business Conference (PBC) and Expo closing ceremony at the Fiesta Pavilion of the Manila Hotel in One Rizal Park, Manila City on Friday (October 24). With this year's theme: “Proudly Pinoy: Partnering Towards Sustained Growth," the PBC and Expo is an annual business summit that provides a collaborative venue for business leaders, government officials and other development stakeholders to exchange ideas on issues on business and the economy, and share business opportunities. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech following presentation of the 40th PBC Resolution by 40th PBC chairman George Barcelon, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) chairman Atty. Miguel Varela and PCCI president Alfredo Yao, during the 40th Philippine Business Conference (PBC) and Expo Closing Ceremony at the Fiesta Pavilion of the Manila Hotel in One Rizal Park, Manila City on Friday (October 24). With this year's theme: “Proudly Pinoy: Partnering Towards Sustained Growth, the PBC and Expo is an annual business summit that provides a collaborative venue for business leaders, government officials and other development stakeholders to exchange ideas on issues on business and the economy, and share business opportunities. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 40th Philippine Business Conference (PBC) and Expo Closing Ceremony at the Fiesta Pavilion of the Manila Hotel in One Rizal Park, Manila City on Friday (October 24). With this year's theme: “Proudly Pinoy: Partnering Towards Sustained Growth," this PBC event and expo is an annual business summit that provides a collaborative venue for business leaders, government officials and other development stakeholders to exchange ideas on issues on business and the economy, and share business opportunities. Also in photo is 40th PBC chairman George Barcelon. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 40th Philippine Business Conference (PBC) and Expo Closing Ceremony at the Fiesta Pavilion of the Manila Hotel in One Rizal Park, Manila City on Friday (October 24). With this year's theme: “Proudly Pinoy: Partnering Towards Sustained Growth," this PBC event and expo is an annual business summit that provides a collaborative venue for business leaders, government officials and other development stakeholders to exchange ideas on issues on business and the economy, and share business opportunities. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with GMR Group of Companies chairman G. M. Rao during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (October 23, 2014). GMR Group is an infrastructural company with interests in Airports, Energy, Highways and Urban Infrastructure sectors. Founded in 1978, the Group is well diversified and professionally managed. Employing the Public Private Partnership model, the Group has successfully implemented several iconic infrastructure projects in India. It has a global presence with infrastructure operating assets and projects in several countries including Turkey, South Africa, Indonesia, Singapore, the Maldives and the Philippines. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Lauro Montellano, Jr. - Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III greets GMR Group of Companies chairman Mr. G. M. Rao during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (October 23). The GMR Group, founded in 1978, is an infrastructural company with interests in airports, energy, highways and urban infrastructure sectors. Employing the Public Private Partnership model, the Group has successfully implemented several iconic infrastructure projects in India. It has a global presence with infrastructure operating assets and projects in several countries including Turkey, South Africa, Indonesia, Singapore, the Maldives and the Philippines. Also in photo are Megawide Construction Corporation chief executive officer Michael Consiquien, GMR-Megawide Cebu Airport Corporation Louie Ferrer and Meena Raghunathan of GMR Foundation. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III receives from GMR Group of Companies chairman G. M. Rao a glass Swan figurine during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (October 23). The GMR Group, founded in 1978, is an infrastructural company with interests in airports, energy, highways and urban infrastructure sectors. Employing the Public Private Partnership model, the Group has successfully implemented several iconic infrastructure projects in India. It has a global presence with infrastructure operating assets and projects in several countries including Turkey, South Africa, Indonesia, Singapore, the Maldives and the Philippines. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III greets GMR Group of Companies chairman G. M. Rao during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (October 23). The GMR Group is an infrastructural company founded in 1978 with interests in airports, energy, highways and urban infrastructure sectors. Employing the Public Private Partnership model, the Group has successfully implemented several iconic infrastructure projects in India. It has a global presence with infrastructure operating assets and projects in several countries including Turkey, South Africa, Indonesia, Singapore, the Maldives and the Philippines. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) officials, headed by JETRO Chairman and CEO Hiroyuki Ishige, during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (October 23). JETRO is a government-related organization that works to promote mutual trade and investment between Japan and the rest of the world. Also in photo is JETRO minister and deputy chief of mission Tetsuro Amano. (Photo by Lauro Montellano Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III exchanges pleasantries with Japan External Trade Organizations (JETRO) officials, headed by JETRO chairman and chief executive officer Hiroyuki Ishige during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (October 23). JETRO is a government-related organization that works to promote mutual trade and investment between Japan and the rest of the world. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Lauro Montellano Jr / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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