Weather Watch shared Dost_pagasa's status.
PAGASA 24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST
Issued at: 5:00 AM, 04 November 2014
Issued at: 5:00 AM, 04 November 2014
24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST
Issued at: 5:00 AM 04 November 2014
SYNOPSIS: at 4:00 am today, the eye of Typhoon “PAENG” was located based on all available data at 1,295 km East of Basco Batanes (20.8ºN, 134.4ºE), with maximum sustained winds of 195 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 230 kph. It is forecast to move Northeast at 15 kph. Northeast Monsoon affecting Northern Luzon.
FORECAST: Central Visayas and Mindanao will have cloudy skies with light to moderate rainshowers and thunderstorms. Cagayan Valley, Cordillera and Ilocos Region will experience partly cloudy skies with isolated light rains. Metro Manila and the rest of the country will be partly cloudy to cloudy with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms.
Moderate to strong winds blowing from the Northeast to Northwest will prevail over Luzon and Visayas and the coastal waters along these areas will be moderate to rough. Elsewhere , winds will be light to moderate coming from the Northwest to West will prevail over the rest of the country with slight to moderate seas.
OVER METRO MANILA:
Maximum Temperature: 3:30 PM Yesterday --- 32.7°C
Minimum Temperature: 6:00 AM Yesterday --- 23.3°C
Maximum Relative Humidity: 6:00 AM Yesterday --- 97 %
Minimum Relative Humidity: 2:00 PM Yesterday --- 62 %
High Tide Today: 7:41 AM ..... 0.71 Meter
Low Tide Today: 2:03 PM ..... 0.18 Meter
High Tide Today: 8:31 PM ..... 0.76 Meter
Low Tide Tomorrow: 2:44 AM ..... 0.18 Meter
Sunrise Today: 5:52 AM
Sunset Today: 5:26 PM
Moonrise Today: 3:24 PM
Moonset Tomorrow: 4:00 AM
Illumination Today: 89 %
For more information and queries, please call at telephone numbers 927-1335 and 927-2877 or log on to www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph.
Issued at: 5:00 AM 04 November 2014
SYNOPSIS: at 4:00 am today, the eye of Typhoon “PAENG” was located based on all available data at 1,295 km East of Basco Batanes (20.8ºN, 134.4ºE), with maximum sustained winds of 195 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 230 kph. It is forecast to move Northeast at 15 kph. Northeast Monsoon affecting Northern Luzon.
FORECAST: Central Visayas and Mindanao will have cloudy skies with light to moderate rainshowers and thunderstorms. Cagayan Valley, Cordillera and Ilocos Region will experience partly cloudy skies with isolated light rains. Metro Manila and the rest of the country will be partly cloudy to cloudy with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms.
Moderate to strong winds blowing from the Northeast to Northwest will prevail over Luzon and Visayas and the coastal waters along these areas will be moderate to rough. Elsewhere , winds will be light to moderate coming from the Northwest to West will prevail over the rest of the country with slight to moderate seas.
OVER METRO MANILA:
Maximum Temperature: 3:30 PM Yesterday --- 32.7°C
Minimum Temperature: 6:00 AM Yesterday --- 23.3°C
Maximum Relative Humidity: 6:00 AM Yesterday --- 97 %
Minimum Relative Humidity: 2:00 PM Yesterday --- 62 %
High Tide Today: 7:41 AM ..... 0.71 Meter
Low Tide Today: 2:03 PM ..... 0.18 Meter
High Tide Today: 8:31 PM ..... 0.76 Meter
Low Tide Tomorrow: 2:44 AM ..... 0.18 Meter
Sunrise Today: 5:52 AM
Sunset Today: 5:26 PM
Moonrise Today: 3:24 PM
Moonset Tomorrow: 4:00 AM
Illumination Today: 89 %
For more information and queries, please call at telephone numbers 927-1335 and 927-2877 or log on to www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph.
PAGASA weather forcaster Manny Mendoza on DZBB: Nakalabas na ng PAR ang bagyong Paeng kaninang pasado 8:00AM at walang naitalang apektadong lugar sa bansa. Makakaranas naman ang gitnang silangan ng Visayas at Mindanao ng maulap na kalangitan habang ang Cordillera, Ilocos at Metro Manila ay makakaranas ng pulo-pulong pag-ulan.
PAGASA weather forecaster Buddy Javier on DZMM:
-Bahagyang humina ang Bagyong Paeng habang papalayo sa bansa
-Bagama't isa pa ring typhoon, taglay na lamang ng bagyo ang lakas ng hanging papalo sa 195kph malapit sa gitna at may 230kph na pagbugso.
-Kumikilos pa rin ito pa-hilagang silangan sa bilis na 15kph at huling namataan sa layong 1,295km silangan ng Basco, Batanes kaninang 4AM.
-Inaasahang lalabas na ng PAR ang bagyo ngayong tanghali.
-Posibleng sa paglabas ng PAR ng bagyo, bababa na muli ang temperatura dahil sa Amihan o Northeast Monsoon.
-Pero dahil sa trough o extension ni Paeng, asahan ang mahina hanggang katamtamang pag-ulan at pagkidlat-pagkulog sa Central Visayas at Mindanao
-Pulo-pulong mahinang pag-ulan naman ang mararansan sa Cagayan Valley, Cordillera at Ilocos Region dulot naman ng Amihan.
-Habang sa Metro Manila at nalalabing bahagi ng bansa, pulo-pulong pag-ulan o pagkidlat-pagkulog naman ang posibleng maranasan.
-May gale warning pa rin sa northern at eastern seaboards ng Luzon at eastern seaboard ng Visayas.
-Bahagyang humina ang Bagyong Paeng habang papalayo sa bansa
-Bagama't isa pa ring typhoon, taglay na lamang ng bagyo ang lakas ng hanging papalo sa 195kph malapit sa gitna at may 230kph na pagbugso.
-Kumikilos pa rin ito pa-hilagang silangan sa bilis na 15kph at huling namataan sa layong 1,295km silangan ng Basco, Batanes kaninang 4AM.
-Inaasahang lalabas na ng PAR ang bagyo ngayong tanghali.
-Posibleng sa paglabas ng PAR ng bagyo, bababa na muli ang temperatura dahil sa Amihan o Northeast Monsoon.
-Pero dahil sa trough o extension ni Paeng, asahan ang mahina hanggang katamtamang pag-ulan at pagkidlat-pagkulog sa Central Visayas at Mindanao
-Pulo-pulong mahinang pag-ulan naman ang mararansan sa Cagayan Valley, Cordillera at Ilocos Region dulot naman ng Amihan.
-Habang sa Metro Manila at nalalabing bahagi ng bansa, pulo-pulong pag-ulan o pagkidlat-pagkulog naman ang posibleng maranasan.
-May gale warning pa rin sa northern at eastern seaboards ng Luzon at eastern seaboard ng Visayas.
PIA-4A/LAGUNA: The Cavinti Cave System, according to DENR
Region 4A Calabarzon, has been classified as Class II, open for ecotourism
subject to observance of relevant rules and regulations, and seasonal closure
due to flooding inside the cave.
PIA-4A/LAGUNA: The Department of Tourism said recently
that the Cavinti Cave System is a candidate for ecotourism destination in
Region IV-A which conform with the categories for the selection of priority
sites such as its physical attributes, eco-tourism products, social
preparedness, market, institutional aspect and accessibility.
PIA-4A/CAVITE: After the inspection of the Monsignor Shwartz Memorial Center, President Aquino and his party proceeded to the Girlstown gymnasium for the program proper. In his inspirational message, the President praised the students of the Shwartz Memorial Center for their hard work and for serving as inspiration to the future generation and the country as well. He also thanked the leadership of the Sisters of Mary for their hard work in molding their students to become responsible individual. Meanwhile, the President mentioned the accomplishments of his administration focusing on assisting and promoting the educational needs of the students who belong to the poorest family in the country. After his inspiring message, PNoy had a photo opportunity with the students and administrators of the said school. He left the Sisters of Mary Girlstown at exactly 2:54 PM.
PIA-4A/BATANGAS: The city government of Tanauan and Lyceum of the Phils. University-Laguna recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement on research support of the University to the City of Tanauan regarding eco-tourism in the six lakeshore barangays.
PIA-4A/CAVITE: President Benigno S. Aquino III arrived at the Sisters of Mary Girlstown at exactly 1:38 PM.
PIA-4A/BATANGAS: Inihayag ng Batangas PNP na maituturing na generally peaceful ang naging paggunita ng mga Batangueno sa nagdaang Undas.
PIA-4A/CAVITE: President Benigno S. Aquino III is expected to visit today The Sisters of Mary Girlstown in Barangay Biga 2 in Silang. He will inspect and observe the conduct of classes at the following: Post Secondary Workshop Building; Technical Drafting Room; Mechatronics Hardware Room, among others.
|
..jpg)
 |
INTERVIEW OF COMMUNICATIONS SECRETARY HERMINIO COLOMA, JR.
|
| DZMM / Garantisadong Balita by Gerry Baja |
03 November 2014
|
| GERRY BAJA: Secretary, sisimulan pa lang ho ba ito o gumugulong na itong online petition page? SEC. COLOMA: Sa ngayon, Gerry, ay pinag-aaralan kung paano ito maisasagawa. Nagtakda ang tanggapan ng PCDSPO ng consultation period ‘no. Sinimulan nila noong September 13, tatagal ito ng dalawang buwan hanggang sa pangalawang Sabado mula ngayon – iyong November 15 – para makalap lahat ng mga suhestiyon na manggagaling sa ating mga mamamayan kung paano ang pinakamainam na sistema o proseso hinggil dito. GERRY BAJA: Oho, napakaganda ho nito, Secretary. So, ito pala ay inaayos pa at maaaring tumagal ng dalawang buwan pa bago maging operational, Secretary? SEC. COLOMA: Iyong consultation period na itinakda noong unang in-announce ito, Gerry, noong September 13 ay hanggang November 15. So, dalawang linggo na lamang at maaari nang— GERRY BAJA: Okay, puwede nang mag-post? SEC. COLOMA: Aalamin natin ‘no. Itong consultation nga ay isinasagawa kung ano ang pinakamainam na sistema para dito. GERRY BAJA: Oo. Iyong sistema, pati ho iyong threshold yata ng signatures at kung gaano iyong ibibigay na time, na panahon, para sa isang partikular na petisyon, gaano ito tatagal bago—at isasalang sa signature campaign? Ganun po? Iyon po iyong mga aayusin pang proseso o mekanismo? SEC. COLOMA: Ganoon nga, Gerry. Batay sa magiging resulta ng konsultasyon na kasalukuyang umaandar na. GERRY BAJA: Oho. Bakit ngayon lang ho ito, Secretary? Bakit sa mga nakaraang panahon, eh ang tagal naman ho nating nasa high-tech na tayo ngayon, bakit ho ngayon lang naisipang simulan? SEC. COLOMA: Siguro kailangang linawin lang natin, Gerry ‘no. Noong August of 2010, isang buwan lang makalipas magsimula ang panunungkulan ni Pangulong Aquino, ay nagbukas na ng website ang Tanggapan ng Pangulo. At dito sa website na ito ay mayroon nang social media platforms, katulad ng Facebook at Twitter. At sa paggamit nga nito sa buong bansa ngayon, si Pangulong Aquino ang isa sa limang pinakamaraming Facebook fans ‘no at isa rin siya sa pinakamaraming Twitter followers -- nasa top 10. Kaya’t sa simula’t sapul naman ay naging pormal na patakaran ni Pangulong Aquino iyong pagkuha ng saloobin ng mga mamamayan dahil tinuturing nga niyang mahalagang malaman ang tinig at saloobin ng kaniyang mga boss. GERRY BAJA: At ito hong mga Twitter, Facebook page na ito, tinitingnan ho iyan ng Pangulo? SEC. COLOMA: Opo. Siya po mismo, tinitingnan niya. Kami naman, nagbibigay ng mga periodic report at random, dahil napakarami naman po hindi kakayaning sasagutin lahat. Sinasagot po at tinutulungan iyong mga merong mga idinulog na kahilingan. Kaya marami naman pong plataporma ang pamahalaan sa ngayon. Bukod doon sa President’s website, ang bawat kagawaran ay mayroon ding mga website at requirement din nga po na magkaroon sila ng direct link sa mga mamamayan hinggil sa mga serbisyo na kanilang inihahatid. GERRY BAJA: Opo. At ito pong online petition platform na ito, ‘pag naging operational na, ay aabot din po ito kay Presidente, sa kaniya mismong mata, mababasa niya kung ano itong mga petisyon na ito at kung gaano karami itong mga nagpepetisyon na ito? SEC. COLOMA: Ganoon nga po ang konsepto. Kaya nga ang host nitong platapormang ito ay iyong Official Gazette. Ang Official Gazette po ay record ng mga presidential issuances katulad ng Executive Orders, Administrative Orders, Memorandum Circular, mga talumpati ng Pangulo. Ito ay official record po ng pamahalaan at isa sa mga venue na kung saan ay nakikipagtalakayan at nakikipag-ugnayan ang pamahalaan sa mga mamamayan. GERRY BAJA: Oho. Meron ho bang “rules” diyan, Secretary, halimbawa kung anong klaseng hinaing o petisyon lang ang puwedeng i-post? Bawal mag-post ng ganito, halimbawa, may hihilingin na, “Sibakin ninyo na iyan, Presidente,” o “pagbakasyunin ninyo na iyan si ganito, ganito?” Puwede rin ho bang ilagay iyon? SEC. COLOMA: Iyon nga ang inaalam ngayon, Gerry, dito sa kasalukuyang consultation period. Tinatanggap iyong mga suhestiyon hinggil diyan, at kapag nabuo na ay maglalabas ng mga konkreto at partikular na guidelines kung paano makakalahok ang mga mamamayan. GERRY BAJA: Ay, sigurado ho magiging interesado ang ating mga mamamayan diyan lalo na iyong laging naka-online, at iyan ang kanilang pagkakataon para maiparating ang kanilang mga hinaing. Secretary, bago ko kayo bitawan, papalapit na po itong unang taon ng Yolanda. Ano pong latest, ano pong update natin mula sa Palasyo ng Malacañang tungkol sa pangyayaring ito? Gunitain natin itong napakalagim na trahedyang ito na naganap sa ating bansa. SEC. COLOMA: Buo ang determinasyon natin, Gerry, na mag-build back better at magtatag nang mga mas resilient o matibay na mga kumunidad bunsod ng ating naging karanasan, na humataw iyong pinakamalakas na super typhoon sa atin. Nabuo na iyong Comprehensive Rehabilitation and Recovery Plan. Ito ay detelyadong nakabatay sa mga post-disaster need assessment na ginawa ng isandaan at pitumpu’t-isang munisipalidad at siyudad na apektado ng Yolanda. At sumusulong na iyong mga proyekto sa limang larangan: iyong infrastructure, sa pangunguna ng DPWH; iyong social services sa DSWD; resettlement, ito po iyong NHA at iyong Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council; at iyong livelihood naman sa pagtataguyod ng Department of Trade and Industry. Maisabi lang natin dito, Gerry, sa ating karanasan, ang transition natin doon sa rehabilitation mula sa relief – iyong una kasi relief, iyong pagbibigay ng pagkain, emergency shelter – inabot iyon ng pitong buwan, at pagkatapos ay naitaas na natin doon sa antas ng rehabilitation. Doon sa ibang mga lugar na dinalaw ng ganiyang klaseng kalamidad, hindi kukulangin sa isang taon iyong kanilang ginugol na panahon. Nagpapakita lamang na malakas talaga iyong determinasyon ng ating mga kababayan na makabawi mula doon sa kalamidad. Ayon kay Secretary Soliman, ang mga kababayan nating nawalan ng tahanan ay nasa transition housing ngayon. Wala na tayong pamilya sa evacuation center o mga mahihinang klaseng shelter sapagka’t nailipat na sila sa transition housing. Ang hamon lang sa atin ay iyong magtatag nang mas matitibay at malaki ang— GERRY BAJA: Mas disente siguro ho. Disenteng pansamantalang tirahan. SEC. COLOMA: Hindi lang iyon, Gerry. Iyong sa mga permanent resettlement kasi, tinitingnan natin iyong livelihood ng ating mga kababayan. At tinitiyak din na maayos iyong kanilang lilipatan kasi meron tayo ngayong mga geo-hazard maps, na kung ito ba ay vulnerable to flood o kaya landslide. Kasi baka naman nailipat natin sila doon sa lugar na mahina naman ang pundasyon ng lupa. Kaya lahat ng mga factors na iyan ay isinasaalang-alang at umaasa tayo na magiging maayos ang pagpapatupad nitong rehabilitation program. Naglaan na ng 52 billion ang ating pamahalaan simula noong 2013 hanggang sa kasalukuyan. For 2015 naman ay kulang-kulang 80 billion ang inilalaan, at iyong nalalabing mga 35 billion ay para sa 2016. At inaasahan nang ating pamahalaan, sa pangunguna ni Secretary Lacson, na sa June 2016 – sa pagtatapos ng termino ng administrasyon – ay up to 95% nitong rehabilitation plan ang mapapatupad at makukumpleto. GERYY BAJA: Opo. Sa Sabado po iyang November 8, first year ng Yolanda, may plano ho bang bumisita ang Pangulong Noynoy Aquino? SEC. COLOMA: Iaanunsyo po natin kapag naisapinal na iyong mga plano. Pero tiyak po magkakaroon ng angkop na paggunita sa kalamidad ng Yolanda dahil marami po talagang aral tayong napulot dito na maaari nating magamit sa pagtatatag nang mas matibay na mga kumunidad. GERRY BAJA: Panghuli na lang. Isa pang isyu, Secretary. Ano hong nangyari kay Health Secretary Ona? May mga lumalabas hong balita na hindi raw ho—parang nagalit daw ho o nairita ang Pangulo kay Secretary Ona kaya ito ay napilitang magbakasyon. SEC. COLOMA: Meron po siyang hiniling na isang buwan na bakasyon, at ang nakasaad po doon ay for personal and health reasons kaya ito naman po ay pinagbigyan. Ang kaniyang leave na nag-umpisa noong October 28 ay hanggang November 27. GERRY BAJA: Hanggang November 27. SEC. COLOMA: Iyon po ang hiniling niya na leave of absence. GERRY BAJA: Bakasyon lang po ito, hindi ho siya papalitan na? SEC. COLOMA: Iyon po ang batay sa kaniyang request at sa pinagbigyang request niya. GERRY BAJA: Oho, dahil—ay may sakit, for health reasons. SEC. COLOMA: Health and personal reasons po ang nakasaad doon sa kaniyang request. GERRY BAJA: Health and personal reasons. Napaka-importante ho ngayon ng Kalihim ng Kalusugan dahil sila po iyong naghahanda nang husto para ho dito sa banta ng Ebola, hindi ho ba? SEC. COLOMA: Ganoon nga, Gerry. At sa kabila naman ng development na iyan ay patuloy pa rin iyong puspusang paglalatag natin ng matibay na depensa laban sa Ebola Virus Disease, at ito ay pinagtutulungan ng Department of Health at iba’t iba pang mga kagawaran ng ating pamahalaan. Tuluy-tuloy ay preparasyon at paglalatag ng malakas na depensa laban sa Ebola, Gerry. GERRY BAJA: Opo, okay. Secretary Coloma, salamat po sa inyong oras. Magandang umaga po. SEC. COLOMA: Maraming salamat at magandang umaga, Gerry. |
| SOURCE: News Information Bureau - Data Processing Center |
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Coco farmers in Pablo-hit provinces get P155.8-M support; Abad: Fund to help generate agri-based jobs in the region |
| Source: http://www.dbm.gov.ph |
| Efforts to rehabilitate areas affected by Typhoon Pablo continue with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) releasing P155.8 million to the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) for the rehabilitation of slight-to-moderately damaged coconut trees in the provinces of Compostela Valley and Davao Oriental. Charged against the 2013 Supplemental Appropriations (RA 10634), the fund shall be used for projects under the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) livelihood cluster addressing crop production. Of the P155.8-million release, P115.2 million shall be used for coconut replanting while P40.6 million shall be used for coconut fertilization. “Post-Typhoon Pablo rehabilitation is still needed in provinces like Davao Oriental, which generates close to 90 percent of its jobs from coconut production. This release will not only help our farmers reestablish their livelihood, it will also help jump-start economic activity in the region,” Budget Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad said. Coconut replanting will cover the procurement and distribution of seed nuts and seedlings with the provision of technical support on nursery establishment and planting. Meanwhile, coconut fertilization will entail the delivery and distribution of fertilizer and the provision of technical support on fertilizer application. “In coordination with other agencies, the PCA will ensure that our coconut farmers will get the support they need with the right materials and technology. More importantly, this is part of our push to ‘Build Back Better’ by creating a widespread culture of resiliency, which is crucial in agri-based communities,” Abad added. As of October 2014, P10.42 billion has already been released to various agencies under the Task Force Pablo Rehabilitation Plan to fulfill the requirements of livelihood, social services, infrastructure, and resettlement programs in Compostela Valley and Davao Oriental. The agriculture department and its attached agencies received a total of P302.9 million, of which P115.8 million was allotted to PCA for crop production. |
| With better seeds, other appropriate modern technologies: Yolanda-affected farming, fishing communities rebuilding stronger -- DA |
| Source: http://www.da.gov.ph |
| The ongoing rehabilitation efforts in farming and fishing communities in Leyte and other parts of Eastern Visayas is paving the way for a more modern and dynamic local agri-fishery sector, the Department of Agriculture today said. Director Bernadette San Juan of DA Regional Field Unit 8 said the agency’s Yolanda rehabilitation program has given farmers access to new technologies and services, and as a result, local food producers could be enjoying higher productivity now than in the pre-Yolanda period. For instance, more palay growers are now able to use certified and hybrid seeds provided by DA and other partner organizations, subsequently increasing the farmlands planted to these higher-yielding varieties. Based on reports gathered from the different local government units, area planted to certified seeds expanded to 94,401 hectares this year, from 50,305 hectares in 2013. It represents an increment of 87.6 percent. Farmers also benefit from the intensified training on balanced fertilization and other rice growing technologies, it added. “Some municipal agriculturists are telling us of farmers in their respective areas increasing their output from 70 cavans per hectare to 130 cavans per hectare,” San Juan said. She however explained that they have yet to come up with final figures on the yield improvement pending the completion of ongoing field validations. Clearing operations after the typhoon and the use of machineries during land preparation stage, availability of quality seeds, installation of more small scale irrigation equipment and relatively favorable agro climatic situation for the entire region helped expand area planted by nearly by nearly 2,000 hectares, from 298,474 hectares in 2013 to 300,202 hectares this year. “This just show that we are building back better – and in a more sustainable manner,” San Juan said. Palay output in Eastern Visayas grew by 1.37% growth during the second quarter of 2014, as it recovered from 5.83 percent decline during the first quarter of the year, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority. Based on PSA’s July Round forecast, full-year regional palay harvest is estimated to reach 993,890 metric tons, half a percentage point bigger than in 2013 at 989,794 MT. (DA OSEC) |
| DSWD, now ISO-certified |
| Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph |
| The regulatory services of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) recently received its certification from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). The DSWD’s ISO 9001-2008 certification covers the five regulatory services of Standards Bureau namely: Registration of Auxiliary Social Welfare and Development Agencies, Registration and Licensing of Social Welfare Agencies (SWAs), Accreditation of SWAs’ Programs and Services, Endorsement of Duty-Free Entry, and National Authority to Conduct Fund Drives. The Standards Bureau is responsible for fulfilling the regulatory and quality assurance roles of the Department ISO 9001:2008 sets out the criteria for a quality management system. It can be used by any organization, large or small, regardless of its field of activity. ISO 9001:2008 is implemented by over one million companies and organizations in over 170 countries. This standard is based on a number of quality management principles including a strong customer focus, the motivation and implication of top management, the process approach and continual improvement. Using ISO 9001:2008 helps ensure that customers get consistent, good quality products, and services. The certification is valid for three years – from August 3, 2014 to July 19, 2017. DSWD Undersecretaries Angelita Y. Gregorio-Medel and Parisya H. Taradji, and Standards Bureau Director Marites M. Maristela received the certification from AJA Registrars, Inc. Vice-President Paul Bagatsing on October 17, 2014 at the DSWD Central Office in Batasan, Quezon City. Other DSWD officials and staff were also present during the awarding ceremony. “After two rigorous audit stages, we are pleased that DSWD has successfully completed the requirements for certification,” DSWD Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman said. Sec. Soliman vowed that the DSWD will continue to streamline documentation and processing systems to provide smoother, faster, and more efficient delivery of its frontline services. |
| Roxas bares DILG Programs for LGUs; Local Execs upbeat |
| Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph |
| CLARK, PAMPANGA – Before an audience of local chief executives from Mindanao, Interior and Local Government Sec. Mar Roxas presented nationwide programs of the department to help local government units (LGUs) deliver services better and faster. During the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) Mindanao Island Cluster Conference at the Oxford Hotel on Tuesday, Roxas said that the DILG is about to procure a more than 2,000 new patrol cars in the next two years, to be distributed to all municipalities in the country. He also said that the process of bidding for about 400 new fire trucks has also started this year. “We will have to coordinate with you to identify municipalities with no or old patrol cars and fire trucks so they can benefit from the program first,” the secretary told the mayors and local officials. He also said that the DILG is set to distribute a Disaster Preparedness Checklist as part of the DILG’s Oplan Listo, that draws from all the best practices of different LGUs in terms of disaster preparedness. "Seryosohin po natin ang disaster preparedness. Huwag po natin balewalain ito...kaya po dapat ngayon pa lang habang peace time naisip at napagplanuhan na natin kung ano ang gagawin pagdating ng sakuna (Let's take disaster preparedness seriously. Let's not ignore this aspect of governance, that's why as early as now, we should have already planned our response in case a disaster strikes.)," Roxas explained to the mayors. 'A friend and ally of the people' During the Conference, 1,490 mayor-members of the LMP crossed party lines and unanimously endorsed a resolution describing Roxas as “a man of honor, integrity and unsullied reputation whose character is above and beyond suspicion” and as “a man of moral courage who leads by example and adheres to the rule of law, observing only the highest norms of public service in the interest of the Filipino people.” The Resolution also commended the DILG Chief for “expanding the Grassroots Participatory Budgeting Process,” described as the only program that empowers local governments to implement nationally funded projects through consultations with civil society organizations. “Gawin ninyo ang tama. Gawin ninyo ang tuwid. Gawin ninyo ang serbisyo sa publiko, reresbakan namin kayo [ni Pangulo] (Do what's right. Follow the straight path. Serve the public and you have our [and the President's] support.),” said Roxas as a form of assurance that the development of LGUs is integral to the success of the administration's reforms. |
| DILG Launches 'Charlie' for Disaster Preparedness |
| Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph |
| DILG-NAPOLCOM CENTER - "Let's make disaster preparedness more understandable," said Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas during the soft launch of CHARLIE a centralised alert system that uses local response strategies for better disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM). Using best practices by the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the Department of Science and Technology, Roxas introduced a flowchart that will guide town and city mayors in making the "minimum critical preparations" that are translated to step-by-step actions during and after a disaster strikes. "You can treat this as a checklist of what has to be there at the very least. Mahirap yung nalilito tayo (It's hard to work while confused.) The chance of confusion in coordinating disaster response is very high," Roxas explained. Using the signalling system of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), an area is declared under CHARLIE status if it is exposed to the highest risk brought about a typhoon or an earthquake. Roxas also explained that before the actual implementation of this new system, comprehensive pre-disaster risk assessments are to be conducted in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development. That way, response strategies can be based on the actual needs of specific areas. "Gusto rin nating magtugma ang bagong sistema at yung plano natin (We also want to harmonize the new system with our local DRRM plans.)," the secretary remarked. But he has also admitted that sticking to local DRRM plans the way "playbooks" should be followed can be very challenging for local executives. "The law requires each local chief executive to have DRRM plan for his/her own municipality. Pero alam nating kapag tumama na ang sakuna, madalas hindi na nasusunod yung plano (But we know that in the height of disasters, we rarely follow our plans.)," he added. Safety for all The DILG aims to provide all local government units (LGUs) with the necessary materials such as landslide and flood susceptibility maps, as well as the flowchart which comes with a manual of operations. The secretary has set the target in December for the finalization and release of these materials. "Hindi natin hinahaluan ng politika ang DRRM, ano man ang chaleco (We're not mixing politics with DRRM here, wherever you belong.)," he reiterated. This protocol is part of DILG's OPLAN Listo, which aims build the capacities of local government units in preparing for and responding to disasters, anytime and anywhere they may strike. |
| City of Milan Promotes Knowledge of Italian Language for Better Integration of Migrants |
| Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph |
| 31 October 2014 – The City Council of Milan through its project “Integration access” is promoting the internet platform www.milano.italianostranieri.org to help migrant workers in Milan better integrate into the Italian society. The project is financed by the Ministry of Labour and Social Policies – General Directorate for Immigration and Integration Policies. Italy’s integration laws create a very tight link between the level of knowledge of the Italian language and renewal and issuance of permit of stay or “permezzo di sogiorno.” The website creates an online map and interactive platform that allows the foreign residents including migrant workers to orient themselves on the availability and accessibility of Italian language courses aimed to help foreigners facilitate the process of their settlement in Milan. The Philippine Consulate General in Milan is arranging an open forum between the Filipino community and the City of Milan to introduce the internet platform to the Filipino migrants to help them integrate into the local society and improve their quality of life. |
| PHL Position on West Philippine Sea Receives Support at UBC Forum in Vancouver |
| Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph |
| 31 October 2014 – The Philippines’ recourse to international arbitration over the West Philippine Sea dispute received the support from academics and participants in a forum held on October 20 at the University of British Columbia (UBC). The forum, titled “Sea of Discontent, a Roundtable on the South China Sea Dispute,” featured six expert academics of various backgrounds who took turns in presenting the many issues embedded in the disputes. Dr. Cesi Cruz, a Filipino-American, and assistant professor at the UBC Institute of Asian Research and UBC Department of Political Science, dissected the Philippine position at the roundtable. Dr. Cruz, who received her Ph.D in Political Science from the University of California in San Diego and her M.A. in Political Science at Canada’s McGill University, described the Philippines as being the “most behaved” among the West Philippine Sea claimant countries, by resorting to arbitration, peaceful settlement, and not making “extralegal claims” on any territory. She defended the Philippine government’s move to bring the matter to arbitration within the framework of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). “The Philippines is justified in pursuing arbitration because China already occupies the disputed islands, anyway—if China wins, it will continue to occupy; but it the Philippines wins, China could either be persuaded to withdraw, or if it refuses to comply and continue to occupy the islands, it would be doing so clearly without legal basis,” she said. Dr. Cruz was one of six expert panelists at the forum. The other panellists are Richard Paisley, director of the UBC Global Transboundary International Waters; Dr. Glen Hearns, principal at Aristods Consulting and co-director at the UBC Transboundary International Waters; Dr. Paul Schuler, post-doctoral fellow at the Stanford University; Professor Ian Townsend-Gault, associate professor at the UBC Faculty of Law and director of the UBC Southeast Asian Legal Studies; and Dr. Alexander Woodside, professor emeritus at the UBC Department of History. The panelists agreed on a more assertive role for Canada in the region, the need for cooperation, the urgency of saving the environment; and the importance of international law. |
| Philippines Wins FinanceAsia Best Borrowers Award |
| Source: http://www.dof.gov.ph |
| Award earned for first ever transaction as an investment grade sovereign The Republic of the Philippines was awarded as the “Region’s Best Borrower” by FinanceAsia’s Fixed Income Research Poll 2014. The award cited the country’s innovative execution of the Accelerated 1-Day Switch Tender Offer and the concurrent US$ 1.5 billion new 10-year bond issue completed in January 2014. FinanceAsia hosted the awards dinner to congratulate all the winners of this year’s Fixed Income Research Poll last 29 October 2014, coinciding with the 3rd Annual Borrowers & Investors Forum- Southeast Asia in Singapore. The Philippines targeted 11 series of bonds with a notional value of US$9.6 billion, where tendering investors could choose between switching into the new bond or tendering for cash. The bonds were tendered through dealer managers, saving time and reducing market risk exposure for the Philippines. Global investor response to the new 10-year bond issue was 9-times oversubscribed, with an orderbook of approximately US$ 13.5 billion from 500 investors reflecting strong demand.Deutsche Bank Securities, Inc., Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited and Standard Chartered Bank acted as joint lead global coordinators for the Philippines on this transaction. The Accelerated ‘Switch’ Tender Offer was the first of its kind conducted in Asia, proving the Philippines’ sophistication as a sovereign issuer. This also marked the first international USD offering from the Philippines since January 2012 and its first as an investment grade sovereign. Robust investor demand allowed the Philippines to aggressively price the securities and realize cost savings while extending the maturity of outstanding debt. The transaction also enabled the country to retire outstanding high coupon bonds, further bolstering fiscal strength through prudent and proactive liability management. The above transaction was followed by a domestic bond exchange in August as part of the strategy to rebalance the domestic portfolio and term out maturities. FinanceAsia also highlighted the Government’s efforts to boost the development of the local capital market in promoting liquidity in the GS market and consolidating its debt portfolio. This was achieved by increasing the volume at auction and the re-issuance of outstanding benchmark securities. The success of this strategy is evidenced by the year-on-year decline in the number of outstanding securities and the secondary market activity of re-issued securities. Treasurer of the Philippines Rosalia de Leon welcomed the news saying, “We are thankful for the recognition given by the international investors’ community in response to our efforts in proactive liability management. This reflects well on the development of the Philippine debt market and emboldens us to pursue more innovative strategies to managing sovereign debt.” |
| Philippines Signs World Bank Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Project |
| Source: http://www.dof.gov.ph |
| Purisima: Investing on BRT system supports rapid and sustainable growth Finance Secretary Cesar V. Purisima signed the loan agreement for the World Bank’s Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Project on behalf of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines last 14 October 2014. The project is set to improve the overall performance of the urban passenger transport system in the Project Corridor in Cebu City, with an emphasis on the quality and level of service, safety, and environmental efficiency. The Cebu BRT Project includes the development of segregated BRT bus-ways from Bulacao to Ayala, with a link to Cebu’s South Road Property, a feeder service between Ayala and Talamban with signal priority, 33 stations expected to service 330, 000 people per day in 2015, 176 buses, an area stop light control for the whole city of Cebu, and a central transport control room. The World Bank will provide funding of USD 116 million from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and USD 25 million from its Clean Technology Fund (CTF). The project, once complete, is expected to service an average of 433, 000 individual trips per day. The Cebu BRT is projected to save 25 minutes of travel time and P7.50 in fares. In signing the agreement, Secretary Purisima said, “Our improved public finances have enabled us to spend more confidently on public investments supporting our rapid growth. As Cebu City is fast becoming one of our prime urban centers, investing in sound infrastructure lays solid groundwork for a more sustainable growth trajectory.” The Philippine government and the World Bank chose to undertake the development of a bus rapid transit system because of its low cost (5% to 10% of rail), quick construction (around 2 years), and its higher quality of service despite having the same capacity as rail. Cebu City was also a prime location for the BRT system, as it is governed by a single local government unit supportive of the project and has high Public Utility Jeep (PUJ) dominance with no significant bus presence. The Department of Transportation and Communications will serve as the implementing agency. The project is expected to run from 2013-2018, and will be operation from 2018 to 2030 and beyond. |
| DOJ completes Study on Harbor Pilots in Ports |
| Source: http://www.doj.gov.ph |
| The Department of Justice - Office for Competition (DOJ-OFC) announced its findings on the transport sector focused in the harbor pilots operating in the country's ports. The study conducted jointly with the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) was done to assess, identify and resolve competition issues in the movement of cargo and goods starting with the ports of entry. It is the result of the 2013 Memorandum of Agreement between the DOJ and PPA. "The objective is to push for competition reforms. The mandate of the DOJ is to level the playing field, clear conflicts of interest and institute competition reforms for economic justice," said DOJ Secretary Leila M. De Lima. Among the major competition-related issues that surfaced are: (1) monopolization of pilotage services due to exclusive privilege granted to harbor pilots association, (2) lack of transparency in harbor pilots' transactions, and (3) non-compliance of harbor pilots with the prescribed rates and services. A key recommendation was for the liberalization of the pilotage industry. "Improving efficiency at each step of the supply chain of the goods that pass through our ports will benefit consumers and end-users. Reduced cost of transport will ultimately result to lower prices," said PPA General Manager Juan C. Sta. Ana. The Philippines is focused on improving indicators in the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business Report (ranking 108th for 2014 and 95th for 2015) and the Global Competitiveness Index (ranking 59th for 2013-2014 and 52nd for 2014-2015). |
| Philippines Jumps to No. 95 in Latest World Bank-IFC Ease of Doing Business Report—NCC MEDIA STATEMENT |
| Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph |
| The Philippines jumped to No. 95 out of 189 economies worldwide in the latest World Bank-International Finance Corporation (IFC) Ease of Doing Business report. That was an improvement of 13 countries from a rank of No. 108 based on last year's published report of the IFC. The Philippines also moved up to No. 5 in ASEAN from No. 6 last year and No. 8 in 2012. The country has moved up 53 countries since 2011. There may be some confusion arising from a different set of numbers presented in IFC's Doing Business website. Those numbers are based on a new methodology applied to last year's results and are not to be confused with the published results which formed the basis for both the NCC's and the World Bank-IFC's statements released this morning. Advanced copies of the Doing Business report were made available to us as recently as Monday, October 27 and reflected the published version of the results. This year's report illustrates the areas where the Philippines has made great strides as well as areas where we need to make improvements. Through our Doing Business Task Forces, the NCC will continue to introduce changes designed to bring the country to the top-third of global rankings by 2016 from its starting point in the bottom-third of the tables three years ago. GUILLERMO M. LUZ National Competitiveness Council (NCC) Co-Chairman, Private Sector Original Source: http://www.competitive.org.ph/stories/1015 |
| European models show autonomy as win-win solution for conflict resolution -- diplomats |
| Source: http://www.opapp.gov.ph |
| MANILA – Autonomy has proven to be a win-win solution for countries trying to address long-drawn conflict situations, European diplomats said during a Media and Peace Program Roundtable forum organized by the Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility (CMFR). “Granting autonomy to the constituents of the Åland Islands had proven effective in settling a massive political and military crisis in Finland in 1921,” said Dr. Kimmu Kiljunen, Special Representative for Peace Mediation of the Foreign Minister of Finland. “The same impact is what the Philippine government is trying to create with the creation of the Bangsamoro in Mindanao,” he added. The Åland Islands are an archipelagic region in the Baltic Sea that hosts a population of mostly Swedish descent. It was part of the Kingdom of Sweden until Russia claimed the territory under the Treaty of Fredrikshamn in 1809. In 1917, Finland declared sovereignty over Åland, whereas the Åland islanders sought reintegration with Sweden. With Finland’s initial rejection of the Åland Islands proposal, political and military tensions arose, until in 1921, the Finnish Parliament offered extensive autonomy to the Åland Islands, assuring the latter that their Swedish heritage, language, and culture and traditions will be respected. According to Dr. Kiljunen, 97% of the Åland Islands population wanted to separate from Finland back in 1918, yet today there is unanimous acceptance and support for their current setup as an autonomous region. Adding to the discussion was Thomas Phipps of the British Embassy in Manila, who likewise shared successful iterations of peaceful conflict resolutions and devolution based on the experience of the United Kingdom. Phipps talked about the Irish-British conflict from 1916 to 1922, wherein Northern Ireland demanded to separate from the UK. Eventually, the parties in conflict agreed to a peaceful resolution which resulted in the UK Parliament granting Northern Ireland the right to self-rule as a devolved government that remained a subordinate of the national sovereignty. Key to the resolution of the conflict was that “the national government gave the people a say on the issue,” said Phipps. “This commitment was the contributing factor that helped secure the peace in Northern Ireland.” “In the end, the people chose what they believed made the most economic sense as a people,” he further added. “That meant staying with the UK and receiving the economic and political support they needed while being able to autonomously determine their path to progress.” The Åland Islands and Northern Ireland experiences share many parallels with the prospective Bangsamoro entity, said the experts. Dr. Kiljunen however made clear that historical contexts and issues in conflict always vary from one situation to the other, so peaceful resolutions successful in certain places and conditions cannot be replicated directly, but rather adapted to suit the particular concerns and interests of the local situation. The diplomats affirmed that key to the resolution of any conflict is the matter of trust. “Secessionist sentiments are always rooted in mistrust. By assuring real autonomy in the Bangsamoro (through the provisions in the finalized Bangsamoro Basic Law), the Philippine government will be able to build real trust that will curb any feared intentions of secession,” Dr. Kiljunen said. For Phipps, “peace in Mindanao can help the Philippines realize its potential to become the world’s 16th largest economy by 2050.” “If the Philippines can successfully achieve peace through the creation of the Bangsamoro, it can become a positive regional and global example to help put an end to various other conflicts in the world,” he added. |
| Expert tells “market-fit” is key to successful tech commercialization |
| Source: http://www.dost.gov.ph |
| Find the product market-fit to increase the chances of technology commercialization success. This was one of the points raised by Prof. Federico C. Gonzalez, technical expert at the De La Salle University Innovation Technology Office (DITO) in a training-workshop on the Commercialization of Intellectual Property Protected Technologies organized by the Technology Application and Promotion Institute (TAPI) of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). Drawing from American technopreneur Marc Andreessen, Gonzalez said that most of the time, start-up failures happen when funds are depleted before finding the product-market fit. Product-market fit happens when the product created is able to fulfil a good market, that is, one with many potential customers. He added that even the best product without a definite market would most likely fail. He admits though that there are few exceptions wherein in an “exceptional product” successfully created a market. Gonzalez added that in targeting markets, it is not always necessary to look for the mainstream consumers. “Find out why there are non-customers and find a solution,” he said. According to Gonzalez some non-customers can be constrained by skills, wealth, access, or time. When creating products, technopreneurs/inventors must address those constraints: make simpler, less expensive, more accessible, quicker products. For instance, the creation of e-books has allowed greater accessibility and saves time of customers. He pointed out that there are also overshot customers, or those people who find the existing products overwhelming, or do not feel the need to keep up with the latest technologies. “He may have the money to buy an iPhone, but thinks that he can do or buy other things with P30,000,” explained Gonzalez. Gonzalez added thatm usually, leading firms chase mainstream customers while new entrants chase the overshot customers. He also emphasized in getting customer inputs to reduce failure in product market fit. This can be done by reading blogs, getting feedbacks from customers, surveys, among others. Meanwhile, Prof. Nestor B. Nisperos, Jr., also of DLSU, discussed patent valuation, or the process of determining the patent value for a particular entity at a moment in time. Patent value is the economic benefits that come from patents. Underscoring the importance of patent value, Nisperos mentioned that Motorola Mobility was able to sell its 17,000 patent portfolio to Google at $12.5 B in 2011. He said that the conduct of a patent valuation may be done in relation to a research and development (R&D) funding decision, a product life cycle management decision (when entering or exiting a market), and a business strategy, among others. |
| World-class Cebu Airport services soon: GMA-Megawide takes over operations from MCIAA |
| Source: http://www.dotc.gov.ph |
| Immediate Improvements Begin, New International Routes Added in December Airline passengers using the country’s second-busiest gateway airport can expect better, more customer-oriented services soon as the GMR-Megawide consortium formally took ove rthe operations and maintenance (O&M) requirements of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) last November 1st. “This is a major step in our thrust to modernize our transportation facilities, and in delivering world-class services that the public deserves. As a major international destination for business travelers and tourists alike, we are excited to bring the Mactan-Cebu airport at par with the best in the world,” said Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) Secretary Jun Abaya. With O&M functions turned over to GMR-Megawide, passengers can expect immediateenhancements within the next three months. One of the first improvements will equip the immigration section with passport readers and computers and will relocate it to a larger area. This will shorten queuing time and maximize the use of airport space, as MCIA’s annual passenger count is expected to increase from 4.5million today to 12.5 million in 2018. To provide a more pleasant, comfortable experience for the public, basic airport facilities will also be modernizedthrough interior design improvements. These include simple enhancements such as importing new seats for the waiting areas and rehabilitating comfort rooms.In addition, an air-conditioned room will be constructed at the arrival area to accommodate greeters and well-wishers. MCIA’s IT system will also be upgraded to allow theintegration of screening areas and check-in counters, which willfurther expedite passenger processing. Meanwhile,the airport is also opening more international routes beginning next month. Direct flights from Cebu to Osaka and to Nagoya will be available to the public come December, and flights from Cebu to Narita will be added in early 2015. “These developments give us a peek into the dynamic future that the DOTC is working on for Cebu. We believe that our airport modernization efforts will spur economic growth in the province and the region, especially through tourism and job creation,” Abaya added. The DOTC and Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority’s (MCIAA) 25-year Concession Agreement with GMR-Megawideentails the construction of a new, world-class international passenger terminal building (PTB), which will be constructed beginning next year and will be opened in 2018. The consortium will also refurbish the existing PTB, for completion in 2019. MCIA is envisioned to be the world’s first resort airport, incorporating a locally-inspired design that is hoped to be a tourist attraction in itself. |
| BSP Brings "Money Matters for Kids" Exhibit to Cebu City |
| Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph |
| The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) will open its 5th Money Matters for Kids (MMK) Exhibit at the BSP Cebu Regional Office on 5 November 2014. This is the first time that the Exhibit will be brought outside Metro Manila after it was launched in 2011. The MMK is an interactive exhibit on financial literacy designed to provide young children aged 12 and below, with a fun way of learning the concepts of money, saving, spending, and sharing, as well as the importance of saving for the future. This exhibit is a component of the BSP’s integrated Economic and Financial Learning Program that aims to empower financial consumers to make informed financial decisions and improve their financial well-being. After four (4) runs, the MMK Exhibit reached a total of 19,906 children and adult exhibit viewers. Dr. Johnny Noe E. Ravalo, Assistant Governor of the BSP’s Financial Supervision Research and Consumer Protection Sub-Sector and Atty. Leonides B. Sumbi, Acting Director of the BSP Cebu Regional Office, will lead the ribbon-cutting ceremony to formally open the Exhibit. Elementary school pupils from City Central Elementary School and B-Kim Center of Arts and Sciences will be the special guest to view the interactive exhibit which features hands-on tools that encourage kids to play and study while exploring money-related themes. The Exhibit will give them a chance to play the roles of bank managers and tellers and to know the concept of deposits and withdrawals through a make-believe bank and a mock-up Automated Teller Machine (ATM). It will also educate them on how to budget and to differentiate between needs and wants in addition to distinguishing between genuine and fake banknotes. The MMK Exhibit, initiated by the BSP’s Financial Consumer Affairs Group, will be open to the public from 5 to 14 November 2014 from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the BSP Regional Office, Cor. Osmena Boulevard and P. Del Rosario Streets, Cebu City. |
| Search on for 2014 DepEd-BSP Best Finance Educator |
| Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph |
| Nominations to the Department of Education (DepEd) - Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) awards program for the best finance educators in public elementary schools may now be submitted to BSP Manila or at any BSP regional office or branches. The program aims to promote saving as a habit and money management as a discipline among schoolchildren. Now on its third year, the search for the 2014 GURO ng PAG-ASA was launched in October when DepEd Secretary Br. Armin A. Luistro FSC issued DepEd Memorandum No. 108 s. 2014 which includes the guidelines and nomination forms for the search. Three national winners will be named 2014 GURO NG PAG-ASA (Gantimpala para sa Ulirang PagtutuRO ng PAG-iimpok at Araling PanSAlapi) and will receive a cash prize of one hundred thousand pesos each (P100,000.00). They are the outstanding teachers who have integrated financial lessons developed by DepEd and the BSP in three subjects: Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao (EsP), Edukasyong Pantahanan at Pangkabuhayan (EPP), and Araling Panlipunan (AP). The schools they represent will also receive a brand new computer with printer and an LCD projector with screen. Regional finalists will receive P50,000.00 each. Meanwhile, the winner of the Bida sa Pag-iimpok at Pangkabuhayan (BSP) Award will receive a special prize. Requests for more information may be sent to the Corporate Affairs Office of the BSP at 7087140 or through email atrgarcia@bsp.gov.ph. DepEd Memorandum No. 108 s. 2014 with guidelines and nomination forms |
| TESDA, Temasek Foundation training program gets high evaluation mark |
| Source: http://www.tesda.gov.ph |
| The trainers training program conducted jointly by Temasek Foundation-Singapore, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, and ITE Education Services (ITEES)-Singapore yielded positive results. This was the finding of the TVET Impact Evaluation done by Temasek Foundation and TESDA with the engagement of KPMG consulting firm, through field surveys and focused group discussions. The TVET Impact Evaluation objectives are 1) to know the impact of the project on its trainers, their graduates, their institutions, and employers of the graduates; 2) to gather learning points from the program; and 3) to share the results and learning with stakeholders. The respondents of the survey, who were among the technical vocational education and training (tech-voc) trainers who attended the training, as well as their students/graduates, gave high rating on the four principles in which the program was evaluated. These four principles are: Satisfaction – The extent of satisfaction of the direct participants and students of the training program. Scalability – The understanding of how program participants, partner agencies, TVET institutions have been able to multiply the benefits of the program in their sector. Impact – The impact on the students, graduates, participants and participating TVET institutions and broader community. Sustainability – The level of ownership of partner agencies and participating TVET institutions to sustain efforts in ensuring longevity of the program and enhancing credibility amongst local communities. "We are buoyed by the positive evaluation for this training. Our trainers are working hard, and it is paying off," Secretary Joel Villanueva, TESDA Director General, said. The Temasek Foundation-TESDA-ITEES TVET Trainers’ Training Program was conducted in 2010 for 60 technical vocational education and training (TVET) lead trainers from various private and public institutions across the country in Manila and Singapore. As part of the trainers’ commitment, they conducted multiplier sessions that produced additional 600 TVET Trainers, based on the multiplier ratio of 1:10. The 2010 program aimed to upgrade the trainers' qualifications from TQ 1 (Trainer/Assessor) to TQ 2 (Training Designer/Developer) and to enable them to act as catalysts to assist TESDA in its goal of enhancing the overall quality of TVET trainers in the country. TQ I, now entitled TM I (Trainer’s Methodology Level I), being the entry level, qualifies the holder as a trainer and assessor in his discipline. A TM I level trainer plans and facilitates learning sessions, supervises work-based learning, conducts competency assessment, maintains training facilities, and utilizes ICT in facilitating learning. A TM II level trainer (formerly known as TQ 2), on the other hand, conducts training needs analysis, designs training curricula, and develops learning materials and assessment tools, facilities maintenance system, e-learning materials. The evaluation was done through survey questionnaires and focus group discussions. The respondents were the trainers as well as their students. Among the key findings were as follows: *Satisfaction. A high degree of satisfaction with the training program was found. Students were satisfied with their teachers' enhanced approached to classroom delivery, adopting a wide-range of student-centric technique such as group discussions, industry site visit, research and use of digital media, among others. *Scalability. Majority of the survey participants (92%) indicated that they have shared the knowledge and skills learned from the training program. The multiplier training sessions were found to be very interesting and useful. There was also knowledge sharing practices among returning program participants beyond the program requirements. They said that they were able to apply the knowledge and skills obtained to their current jobs. *Impact. The training proved beneficial to the participants professionally, with 82 percent of those who responded to the survey indicating they were able to find employment since graduating from the program, and 87 percent saying they are either somewhat or very confident about their future job prospects. Around 44 percent indicated receiving a no more than 15 percent pay increase and 26 percent of the participants said they had been promoted since finishing the training program. Because of the training, 59 percent of the participants said in the survey that they had opportunity to lead projects outside of their current work. *Sustainability. Overall, the participating TVET institutions benefited from an increased perception of credibility among students. The institutions have articulated clear plans and strategies to sustain the benefits obtained from the training program. They also said they are getting adequate support from TESDA. Villanueva said that trainers are among the most important resources in the tech-voc education system. "Tech-voc students get only one chance at an education, and we have to do it right. A good trainer can make learning happen," Villanueva said. At present, there are 9,137 TVET trainers all over the country. “TESDA continues to build the capability of our trainers. As we are preparing for the ASEAN 2015, we have to ensure that their skills are at par with their counterparts in the region,” Villanueva added. |
| TESDA to conduct workers assessment in Hong Kong, Dubai |
| Source: http://www.tesda.gov.ph |
| Filipino household service workers (HSWs) and other skilled workers in Hong Kong and Dubai can now have a chance of obtaining a National Certificate (NC) to raise their status and open opportunities for better careers. Preparations are now being undertaken by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) for the conduct of an on-site skills assessment in these two countries among Filipino HSWs with the aim of certifying them and helping them pursue other career options. The National Certificate (NC) is issued to a candidate who has hurdled the assessment procedure. Having a validity of five years, the NC is a valuable credential in applying for jobs, TESDA Director General Joel Villanueva said. "Competency assessment and certification services will be provided to those who wish to confirm whether they possess the competencies required in their preferred jobs," he said. "We want to provide opportunities to open pathways for different, if not better-paying and more satisfying careers," Villanueva added. The on-site assessment is part of the offering of TESDA and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in countries with huge population of Filipino household service workers such as Hong Kong, Dubai and Singapore. From August 16 to September 9, TESDA and DOLE have conducted a profiling of sample Filipino workers in Hong Kong, consisting of 296 individuals in the household service work. Profiling of workers is also ongoing in Dubai in preparation for the assessment. TESDA will select from its pool of accredited assessors those who would be sent to the foreign countries to conduct the assessment. TESDA will also tap the services of accredited tech-voc institutions and assessment centers that have established branches overseas. Villanueva said that competency assessment would be offered initially in food and beverage servicing, housekeeping, hairdressing and beauty care. Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz said that Filipino household service workers should be provided with skills that will allow them to move from the typical household jobs to working in positions in institutions, e.g. hotels and restaurants that require similar or related skills. Training conducted by the Philippine Overseas Labor Offices, she said, should meet TESDA standards. The government will continue to provide the necessary intervention such as skills training, scholarships, job facilitation, entrepreneurship opportunities and other training and employment services to assist the Filipino workers, Villanueva said. Under the on-site assessment program, any Filipino household service worker, including those who are not technical-vocational graduates, may accomplish the profiling form through the website of TESDA (www.tesda.gov.ph). TESDA will announce in its website those who have successfully passed the competency assessment. Other qualifications where on-site assessment can be done are the following: Housekeeping, Cookery, Food and Beverage Services, Computer System Servicing, Bread and Pastry Production, Beauty Care Services and other ICT qualifications. |
| ‘Probe on Purisima is ongoing’ –Ombudsman |
| Source: http://www.ombudsman.gov.ph |
| “The Office is already probing the matter,” Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales revealed today in reaction to a Senate committee report urging the Ombudsman to investigate the reported donations given to Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Alan Purisima. Ombudsman Morales welcomed the finalization of the report of the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs, adding that “the investigators shall study it as soon as the report is received.” The Office of the Ombudsman initiated the case build-up and lifestyle check on Purisima after an anonymous complaint charging him of ill-gotten wealth was filed on June 25, 2014 and in response to a June 20, 2014 news report of the Philippine Daily Inquirer on the donation for the construction of the “White House” (PNP Chief’s official residence). The Office of the Deputy Ombudsman for the Military and Other Law Enforcement Offices (OMB-MOLEO) is gathering evidence and looking into other possible leads not mentioned in the newspaper article and anonymous complaint. Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC) subsequently filed a related complaint and supplemental complaint against Purisima in late September 2014 and early October 2014. Meanwhile, Purisima and other PNP officials are facing preliminary investigation and administrative adjudication on the cases arising from the allegedly anomalous courier service contract with WERFAST Documentary Agency. The complaints allege that Purisima and other PNP officials siphoned funds from the mandatory delivery fees paid by gun owners in securing their gun licenses, through the PNP-WERFAST Memorandum of Agreement on courier delivery of firearms license cards. (see OMB press statement of October 9, 2014) |
 |
Last Updated: 03 NOVEMBER 2014
|  |
| Alternative photo archive with high resolutions | |
| Please click on thumbnails to magnify | |
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III tours and inspects the facilities of Monsignor Aloysius Shwartz Memorial Center of the Sisters of Mary Girls Town during the visit in Barangay Biga 2, Silang, Cavite on Monday (November 03). The Sisters of Mary School is a non-stock, non-profit, non-paying, live-in secondary institution for the marginalized poor of our country. It is maintained and supported mainly by donations, gifts and bequests coming noble, selfless and well meaning persons and entities, local and foreign. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III observes the conduct of classes at the Technical Drafting, Mechatronics, Computer Hardware, Contact Services and Fashion Design Rooms of the Post Secondary Workshop Building; the Dress Making Workshop Building; and the Culinary Arts Building during the visit to the Sisters of Mary Girls Town in Barangay Biga 2, Silang, Cavite on Monday (November 03). The Sisters of Mary School is a non-stock, non-profit, non-paying, live-in secondary institution for the marginalized poor of our country. It is maintained and supported mainly by donations, gifts and bequests coming noble, selfless and well meaning persons and entities, local and foreign. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the inauguration of Coca-Cola FEMSA Philippines Canlubang Plant Expansion at the Silangan Industrial Estate in Canlubang, Calamba City, Laguna on Monday (November 03). Also in the photo are Coca-Cola FEMSA Chief Executive Officer John Santa Maria, Chief Operating Officer Juan Ramon Felix, Manufacturing Director Guillermo Jose Amador, Canlubang Plant Manager Jorge Martine, Laguna Governor Ramil Hernandez, Laguna 2nd District Representative Joaquin Chipeco, Jr., and Calamba City Mayor Justin Marc Chipeco. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III presses a button to launch the expansion lines during the inauguration of Coca-Cola FEMSA Philippines Canlubang Plant Expansion at the Silangan Industrial Estate in Canlubang, Calamba City, Laguna on Monday (November 03). (Photo by Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III tours and inspects the production facilities of Coca-Cola FEMSA Philippines Canlubang Plant Expansion during the inauguration ceremony at the Silangan Industrial Estate in Canlubang, Calamba City, Laguna on Monday (November 03). (Photo by Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III tours and inspects the Coca-Cola FEMSA Philippines Canlubang Plant Expansion during the inauguration ceremony at the Silangan Industrial Estate in Canlubang, Calamba City, Laguna on Monday (November 03). With the president are Coca-Cola FEMSA Chief Executive Officer John Santa Maria, Chief Operating Officer Juan Ramon Felix, Manufacturing Director Guillermo Jose Amador, Canlubang Plant Manager Jorge Martinez, and Laguna Governor Ramil Hernandez. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III tours and inspects the Coca-Cola FEMSA Philippines Canlubang Plant Expansion during the inauguration ceremony at the Silangan Industrial Estate in Canlubang, Calamba City, Laguna on Monday (November 03). With the President are Coca Cola officials and some members of the local government of Laguna. (Photo by Gil Nartea /Malacanang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the inauguration of Coca-Cola FEMSA Philippines Canlubang Plant Expansion at the Silangan Industrial Estate in Canlubang, Calamba City, Laguna on Monday (November 03). The PHP2.5 billion expansion of the Canlubang Plant is part of the committed investment of US$1 billion made by the Coca-Cola system. The Coca-Cola FEMSA Philippines operates 22 plants and 47 sales offices across the country and employs around 8,000 people. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III meets the crowd in the cemetery after visiting the tombs of his parents Ninoy and Cory at the Manila Memorial Park in Sucat, Paranaque Sunday (November 2), on All Souls' Day. (Photo by Gil Nartea/Malacanang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III and some members of the Aquino family visit the tombs of their parents Ninoy and Cory at the Manila Memorial Park in Sucat, Paranaque Sunday (November 2), on All Souls' Day. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacanang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III inspects the security arrangements and facilities at the bus loading area of the Del Monte Land and Transport Bus Company, Inc. Bus Terminal at the Nirvana-LRT Buendia Terminal in Taft Avenue corner Buendia, Pasay City on Friday (October 31) to ensure the safety of passengers following the DOTC’s Undas 2014 “Oplan Ligtas Biyahe” for the observance of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III interacts with passengers during the inspection on security arrangements and facilities at the Bus Loading Area of the JAC Liner Buendia Terminal in Donada st. corner Buendia, Pasay City on Friday (October 31) to ensure the safety of passengers following the DOTC’s Undas 2014 “Oplan Ligtas Biyahe” for the observance of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day. (Photo by Ryan LIm / Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III interacts with the passengers during the inspection on security arrangements and facilities at the Bus Loading Area of the Del Monte Land and Transport Bus Company, Inc. (DLTB) Bus Terminal at the Nirvana-LRT Buendia Terminal in Taft Avenue corner Buendia, Pasay City on Friday (October 31) to ensure the safety of passengers following the DOTC’s Undas 2014 “Oplan Ligtas Biyahe” for the observance of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III inspects the operations, security set-up and facilities at the Departure Area of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 in Pasay City on Friday (October 31, 2014) to ensure the safety of passengers following the DOTC’s Undas 2014 “Oplan Ligtas Biyahe” for the observance of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Gil Nartea/ Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III inspects the operations, security set-up and facilities at the Departure Area of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 in Pasay City on Friday (October 31, 2014) to ensure the safety of passengers following of DOTC’s Undas 2014 “Oplan Ligtas Biyahe” for the observance of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day. Also in photo are Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II and Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Abaya. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III inspects the security arrangements and facilities of Coron and Puerto Princesa City, Palawan-bound St. Augustine Hippo Vessel during the inspection at the North Port Passenger Terminal Complex, Manila North Harbour Port, Inc. in Tondo, Manila City on Friday (October 31) to ensure the safety of passengers following the DOTC’s Undas 2014 “Oplan Ligtas Biyahe” for the observance of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III inspects security arrangements and facilities at the North Port Passenger Terminal Complex, Manila North Harbour Port, Inc. in Tondo, Manila City on Friday (October 31, 2014) to ensure the safety of passengers following the DOTC’s Undas 2014 “Oplan Ligtas Biyahe” for the observance of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III greets passengers in the departure section during the inspection of security arrangements and facilities at the North Port Passenger Terminal Complex, Manila North Harbour Port, Inc. in Tondo, Manila City on Friday (October 31) to ensure the safety of passengers following the DOTC’s Undas 2014 “Oplan Ligtas Biyahe” for the observance of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III meets with Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) leaders in Malacanang Thursday (October 30) to get an update on the Bangsamoro Development Plan, an initiative of the MILF, through the Bangsamoro Development Agency, with support of the Government of the Philippines and development partners, to define a vision and strategy for the recovery and development of the Bangsamoro. The Bangsamoro Development Plan is anchored in, and guided by, the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro and its Annexes and the need to sustain the momentum of the peace process by providing strategic directions for the delivery and upgrade of basic services in Bangsamoro communities during and beyond the transition period. ( Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacanang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III presides over the meeting on Updates on Ebola Virus at the President’s Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (October 29). Also in photo is PCOO Secretary Sonny Coloma. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
Please email us at pcoo.edp@gmail.com if you need a copy of last week's photo releases of PNOY
 | |||
No comments:
Post a Comment