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2 hrs ·
24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST
Issued at: 5:00 AM 17 December 2014
Synopsis: Northeast monsoon affecting Northern Luzon. Tail-end of a cold front affecting Central and Southern Luzon. Trough of Low Pressure Area (LPA) affecting Mindanao.
Issued at: 5:00 AM 17 December 2014
Synopsis: Northeast monsoon affecting Northern Luzon. Tail-end of a cold front affecting Central and Southern Luzon. Trough of Low Pressure Area (LPA) affecting Mindanao.
Forecast: Metro Manila, Bicol region, Eastern Visayas, Mindanao and the
provinces of Rizal, Aurora and Quezon will experience cloudy skies with
light to moderate rainshowers and thunderstorms. The regions of Cagayan
Valley, Cordillera, Ilocos and the rest of Central Luzon will have
cloudy skies with light rains. The rest of the country will be partly
cloudy to cloudy with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms.
Moderate to strong winds blowing from the Northeast 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 northeast with slight to moderate seas.
OVER METRO MANILA:
Maximum Temperature: 11:00 AM Yesterday --- 30.3°C
Minimum Temperature: 5:00 AM Yesterday --- 24.0°C
Maximum Relative Humidity: 5:00 AM Yesterday --- 98 %
Minimum Relative Humidity: 11:00 PM Yesterday --- 69 %
Low Tide Today: 5:23 AM ..... 0.36 Meter
High Tide Today: 11:09 AM ..... 0.18 Meter
Low Tide Today: 6:58 PM ..... 0.72 Meter
High Tide Tomorrow: 2:44 AM ..... 0.16 Meter
Sunrise Today: 6:14 AM
Sunset Today: 5:30 PM
Moonset Today: 1:37 PM
Moonrise Tomorrow: 2:23 AM
Illumination Today: 19 %
For more information and queries, please call at telephone numbers 927-1335 and 927-2877 or log on to www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph.
Moderate to strong winds blowing from the Northeast 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 northeast with slight to moderate seas.
OVER METRO MANILA:
Maximum Temperature: 11:00 AM Yesterday --- 30.3°C
Minimum Temperature: 5:00 AM Yesterday --- 24.0°C
Maximum Relative Humidity: 5:00 AM Yesterday --- 98 %
Minimum Relative Humidity: 11:00 PM Yesterday --- 69 %
Low Tide Today: 5:23 AM ..... 0.36 Meter
High Tide Today: 11:09 AM ..... 0.18 Meter
Low Tide Today: 6:58 PM ..... 0.72 Meter
High Tide Tomorrow: 2:44 AM ..... 0.16 Meter
Sunrise Today: 6:14 AM
Sunset Today: 5:30 PM
Moonset Today: 1:37 PM
Moonrise Tomorrow: 2:23 AM
Illumination Today: 19 %
For more information and queries, please call at telephone numbers 927-1335 and 927-2877 or log on to www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph.
GTV:
Patuloy na magpapaulan sa bansa ang tatlong umiiral na weather systems
ngayon. Sa Mindanao ay ang LPA na huling namataan ng PAGASA sa layong
150km sa silangan ng Zamboanga City. Ang tail-end ng cold front naman
ang makakaapekto sa Hilaga at Gitnang Luzon habang Hanging Amihan naman
sa dulong Hilagang Luzon. Inaasahan ang pag-ulan sa buong Mindanao
bukas, lalo na sa Zamboanga peninsula, ARMM, at SOCCSKSARGEN.
Makararanas din ng ulan ang ilang bahagi ng Visayas. Sa Metro Manila,
madaling araw hanggang gabi bukas ay may posibilidad ng ulan.
Decemebr 17 , 2014 as of 6:00-7:00 A.M.
PIA4A / PIA QUEZON : Cloudy with light rainshowers
PIA-4A/QUEZON:
DOLE-Quezon provincial office formally turned-over recently a
livelihood check worth P1,293,776.00 to Calauag LGU. The fund is
intended for livelihood projects of 735 parents of child laborers in
Calauag.
PIA-4A/QUEZON:
Pormal nang binuksan noong nakaraang linggo ng panlalawigang tanggapan
ng DOLE at lokal na pamahalaan ng Calauag ang bagong tanggapan ng public
employment service office sa nasabing bayan upang matulungang magkaroon
ng hanapbuhay ang mga taong walang trabaho sa Calauag, Quezon.
DZBB:
Kinumpirma ng DFA na walang Pilipinong nadamay sa madugong
hostage-taking sa Sydney, Australia. Tumagal ng 16 na oras ang nasabing
hostage-taking at nasa 3 ang patay kabilang ang hostage-taker.
Tagalog news: I-PLAN PRDP ng DA isinusulong Quezon
December
16, 2014
LUNGSOD
NG LUCENA, Quezon, Dis. 16 (PIA) --Sa pamamagitan ng Tanggapan ng Panlalawigang
Agrikultura at Department of Agriculture (DA) Field Office IV-A, matagumpay na
naisagawa kamakailan ng pamahalaang panlalawigan ang kakulang plano tungkol sa
I-PLAN Philippine Rural Development Program (PRDP).
Sinabi ni
Provincial Agriculturist Roberto Gajo, na ang programang ito ay nagsimula
bilang Mindanao Rural Development Program at dahil sa maganda at positibong
resulta nito ay napagpasyahan ng DA na ipatupad ito sa buong bansa.
Mayroong
apat na component ang PRDP, ito ay ang I-PLAN o Investment in Agriculture and
Fishery Modernization Plan, I-BUILD o Intensified Building Up Infrastructure
and Logistics Development, I-REAP o Investment in Rural Enterprises for
Agriculture and Fisheries Productivity at I-SUPPORT o Implementation Support.
Sa
naturang focused group discussion, sinabi ni Gajo na bagamat ang lalawigan ang
pangunahing producer ng niyog sa buong Pilipinas ay hindi pa din sapat na
tanging niyugan lamang ang pinagtutuunan ng pansin.
Dagdag pa
nito, mayroon din namang ilan na mga produktong agrikultura ang maaaring
linangin at pagkakitaan hindi lamang ng probinsya kung hindi ng mga mamamayan
ng Quezon.
Hinikayat
din nito na magtulungan ang mga municipal agriculture officers, magsasaka,
trader at miller na mapalago pa ang industriya ng cacao at kape sa lalawigan
dahil sa nakikita nila na malaki ang potensyal nito sa merkado.
Ito aniya
ay isang magandaang paraan upang maipakita sa buong mundo na may ibubuga ang
Pilipinas sa pagbibigay ng magandang cacao. (Reygan Mantilla-Quezon PIO /
OPA-Info. & Training Unit/FSC, PIA-4A)
- See
more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2931418706830/tagalog-news-i-plan-prdp-ng-da-isinusulong-quezon#sthash.NxnFX0gt.dpuf
PARA conducts amateur radio licensure seminar
December
15, 2014
SAN PABLO
CITY, Laguna, Dec. 15 — At least 74 amateur radio operators from this city and
adjacent towns of the province of Laguna participated in the Amateur Radio
Licensure Seminar spearheaded by the Philippine Amateur Radio Association
(PARA) recently.
Among
those who participated were city information officers, 14.500 MHz VHF radio
hobbyist and members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reservist.
Members
of the Sneaky Com from Alaminos and radio operators from Rizal and Nagcarlan
also participated in the said event.
The PARA
discussed proper radio operations which forms part of the examination to obtain
Class D – DY, and the Class C – DW license from the National Telecommunications
Commission.
Various
topics on radio rules and basic radio electronics were also discussed during
the seminar.
The radio
licensure seminar aimed to provide the amateur radio users to legally operate
amateur bands and frequencies in the airwaves and radio waves from the HF-High
Frequency up to the UHF-Ultra High Frequency.
It is
also in line with the government program to utilize radio users and hobbyist in
the country to help in the assistance and actions in cases of disaster and
calamities. (FSC, PIA-4A with reports from Tribune Post)
- See
more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2931418692430/para-conducts-amateur-radio-licensure-seminar#sthash.EVTUniPL.dpuf
Amid typhoon threat, DTI holds Diskwento Caravan
December
16, 2014
TANAY,
Rizal, Dec. 16 — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) here in cooperation
with the local government pursued to hold the Diskwento Caravan recently amidst
threats of Typhoon Ruby.
Although
27 exhibitors came out of the 43 expected retailers, total sales amounted to
Php 276,812 in which ‘Noche Buena’ products were recorded as best-selling
items.
Joanna
Caldito of DTI Rizal’s consumer protection division said the caravan was such a
success adding that one of the exhibitors’ even suggested to hold the event
twice a week.
Meanwhile,
consumers clamored that future caravan be held in longer durations so that more
consumers can opt for lower-priced basic and prime commodities.
The
Diskwento Caravan is a regular undertaking of the DTI aimed at augmenting
non-wage benefits of wage earners and employees and cushioning the effect of
the rising prices of basic and prime commodities on the consumers’ purchasing
power.(Charlie S. Dajao, DTI Calabaron/FSC, PIA-4A )
- See
more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2931418703248/amid-typhoon-threat-dti-holds-diskwento-caravan#sthash.nNt3IoeK.dpuf
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INTERVIEW OF COMMUNICATIONS SECRETARY HERMINIO COLOMA,
JR.
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| DZRB / Balita at Panayam by Alan Allanigue |
16 December 2014
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| ALAN: Secretary Coloma, Sir. Magandang umaga po. SEC. COLOMA: Magandang umaga, Alan. ALAN: Yes Sir. Una po, kanina isa sa mga mainit na balita natin ay ito hong pagde-declare na ng pamahalaan ng ceasefire o tigil-putukan na tatagal po ng isang buwan, ngayong Disyembre 18 po magsisimula, Secretary Coloma, Sir? SEC. COLOMA: Ang tigil-putukan ay isinasagawa tuwing kapanahunan ng kapaskuhan bilang pagbibigay-pagkakataon sa ating mga kawal at sa mga komyunidad na rin na apektado ng mga sinasagawang military operations. Pagkakataon na magkaroon ng katahimikan at pagkakataon sa pagninilay hinggil sa tunay na kahulugan ng kapaskuhan. Kaya’t sana lang ay maging tahimik nga itong panahong ito at maobserbahan iyong tigil-putukan, Alan. ALAN: Opo at ito po ay tatagal ng one month, from December 18 hanggang January 19, Secretary Coloma. So, mapapasama po rito, mas mapapabilis iyong rehabilitation nung mga maapektuhan ng bagyo and even the preparations para doon ho sa pagbisita ni Pope Francis dito sa Pilipinas, Sec. Sonny, Sir? SEC. COLOMA: Iyon nga ang inaasahan natin, Alan. ALAN: Okay. Sa ibang usapin po, Secretary Coloma. Ano na hong latest para sa ating budget para sa 2015, we understand na both Houses ay aprubado na. Ano po ang latest, Sir, Sec? SEC. COLOMA: Ayon sa proseso pagkatapos ng ratipikasyon ng ating budget sa magkabilang bahagi ng Kongreso ay handa na ito para sa paglagda ng Pangulo. At katulad nung nakaraang mga taon para sa 2011, 2012, 2013 at 2014 budget, sa panlimang pagkakataon na ito sa ilalim ng kasalukuyang administrasyon. Iyong paglagda ng Pangulo bilang senyales ng ganap na approval ng National Budget ay isasagawa at gaganapin bago matapos ang taon. Para sa ganoon, sa unang araw ng 2015 ay magiging epektibo na ang Pambansang Budget bilang otoridad sa lahat ng gastusin ng ating pamahalaan. Iyan po ang inaasahan nating magaganap, iyong paglalagda ng Pambansang Budget sa madaling panahon mula sa kasalukuyan at iyong pagiging epektibo nito sa ika-isa ng Enero 2015. ALAN: Ayun. So, maaring anumang araw mula ngayon ay officially maipaparating na sa Malacañang for the President’s signature, Sec. Sonny? SEC. COLOMA: Itatakda ito. I-a-anunsyo naman ito para masaksihan ng ibang mga lider at kagawad ng Kongreso. ALAN: Opo. Secretary Coloma, Sir, sa ibang usapin. Although ito ay may kaugnayan din sa mga pagpupulong ng Kamara at Senado. Tungkol naman po dito sa panukalang pagkalooban ng Pangulo ng special powers para higit na maisa-ayos, kumbaga, ito hong nakikita na power shortage by the first quarter or by summer of next year. Ano po ang latest sa aspetong ito, Secretary Coloma, Sir? SEC. COLOMA: Ang pagkabatid po natin ay nabuo na nung House Committee on Energy iyong joint resolution. Ang hinihintay na lang po iyong katumbas na version ng Senado para nga po ito maging ganap na joint resolution. Mahaba-haba na rin po ang naging talakayan hinggil diyan at talaga namang napapanahon na mabuo ang resolusyong ito dahil kailangan po ng pamahalaan iyong otoridad na iyan na manggagaling sa Kongreso para tugunan iyong maaring maging kakulangan sa supply ng kuryente sa pagpasok ng tag-init sa 2015. Ang binabantayan pong maigi diyan iyong posibilidad na magkaroon ng forced outages, iyong mga pag-shutdown ng mga electric power plants - generating plants - na magpapabawas sa available na supply ng kuryente at kung gaano iyong magiging epekto ng El Niño phenomenon. Iyon po ang ating inaantabayan. Kaya nga po sinertify as urgent ni Pangulong Aquino iyong pagpapasa nitong joint resolution na ito. ALAN: Opo, okay. Well, Secretary Coloma, muli Sir, salamat po ng marami for the updates from the Palace, Sir? SEC. COLOMA: Magdagdag lang tayo, Alan, ‘no. ALAN: Yes please, opo. Yes Sir. SEC. COLOMA: Huwag natin pong i-overlook iyong pinaka-banner headline po ngayon ng mga pahayagan. ALAN: Opo. SEC. COLOMA: Iyon pong paglilinis sa National Bilibid Prison. ALAN: Sa Muntinlupa. SAEC. COLOMA: Na pinamugaran ng mga patuloy na ilegal na gawain ng mga sentensyado at mga convicted na mga indibidwal sa drug trafficking. Ito po ay tumambad sa ating kamalayan bunsod nung isinagawang raid na matatawag natin kahapon ng Department of Justice at NBI operatives na pinamunuan mismo ni Secretary Leila De Lima. Marami po ang nagulat dito at talaga naman pong hindi dapat na umiiral ito ng maraming taon bago naisiwalat at natambad sa ating kamalayan. Kaya puspusan po iyong ginagawang pagsisiyasat diyan para matigil na ang hindi tamang mga gawain at maging drug-free iyong ating National Penitentiary. ALAN: Opo at kasunod po nito, Secretary Coloma, Sir, na nalantad nga po sa pamamagitan ng raid na ito itong ganitong mga tiwaling aktibidad. May mga nagtatanong po, Sir. Ano po ang kasunod na hakbang, halimbawa, para doon naman sa mamumuno sa ating National Penitentiary. Meron ho bang posibleng kaharapin na mga sanctions ang mga ito dahil nakalusot iyong mga ganoong illegal na aktibidad sa loob mismo ng National Penitentiary, Secretary Coloma, Sir? SEC. COLOMA: Tiyak po na iyan ang patutunguhan ng naganap kahapon. Iyong pagpapanagot sa mga opisyal na maaring naging kasangkot at kakuntyaba nung mga inmates na patuloy na nagsagawa ng illegal na aktibidad. Papanagutin po sila at tiyak pong magaganap iyan. ALAN: Opo, okay. Secretary Coloma, Sir. Muli, salamat po ng 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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| Bukidnon local officials 6, COA auditor indicted for bidding mess |
| Source: http://www.ombudsman.gov.ph |
| Local officials of San Fernando, Bukidnon and a state auditor
from the Commission on Audit (COA) face indictment for the
irregular procurement of heavy equipment worth P14 million. Facing charges for Falsification of Public Documents are Municipal Mayor Laurencia Edma, Municipal Treasurer Agapito Baldo, Municipal Accountant Felipa Catanus, Municipal Budget Officer Nestor Lopez, Private Secretary Menchie Landicho, COA State Auditor (SA) Carlito Matias, and Bernardita Basay, proprietor of the Mindanao Philippine Sunday Journal. Aside from Falsification, Edma, Baldo, Catanus and Lopez face a separate charge of violation of Section 3(e) of Republic Act No. 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act). The Resolution stated that in 2004 the local government unit (LGU) of San Fernando, Bukidnon entered into a term loan agreement with the Development Bank of the Philippines for the acquisition of a brand new soil compactor and tractor. Instead of public bidding, direct contracting was resorted to with Monark Equipment Corporation acting as supplier. Upon audit, SA Matias attested that the LGU conducted public bidding, found that the procurement was done pursuant to existing laws, rules and regulations, and certified that the price offered by Monark was reasonable. Unknown to Matias, the COA thru the Office of the Provincial Auditor issued an Audit Observation Memorandum stating that no competitive bidding was conducted, procurement violations were noted such as failure to publish the invitation to bid, auditor’s non-certification of availability of funds, payment made to the supplier was not recorded in the Book of Accounts, failure to forward the contract to COA for review within the reglementary period, and payment in full even before actual delivery of the equipment. In approving the Resolution, Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales ruled that the “absence of public bidding and the immediate resort to negotiated purchase deprived the government of the opportunity to secure the best and most economical deal.” The Resolution further stated that “as an official of the COA, it is quite unsettling that respondent Matias would completely overlook the municipality’s non-compliance with the prevailing law on procurement,” as his act “of defending the alleged unfamiliarity of the local officials of San Fernando on the provisions of RA No. 9184 (Government Procurement Reform Act) and his obvious disregard of the said law in the conduct of his special audit, only reinforces his participation on the scheme of projecting a non-existent public bidding.” Basay was included in the indictment as she falsely attested that the invitation to bid was published in the Mindanao Philippines Sunday Journal. |
| Personal remittances hit US$2.5 billion in October 2014; January-October level reaches US$22 billion |
| Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph |
| Personal remittances from overseas Filipinos (OFs) in October
2014 amounted to US$2.5 billion, increasing by 6.9 percent from
the level sent in October last year. On a year-to-date basis
(January-October), therefore, remittances grew by 6.7 percent to
US$22 billion, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Amando M.
Tetangco, Jr. announced today.1 Personal remittances continued
to draw strength from the sustained rise in transfers from
land-based workers with work contracts of one year or more (5.6
percent) as well as sea-based and land-based workers with work
contracts of less than one year (8.1 percent). Similarly, cash remittances from OFs coursed through banks in October 2014 increased by 7 percent year-on-year to US$2.2 billion. This brought the cumulative cash remittances for the period January–October 2014 to US$19.9 billion, higher by 6.2 percent compared to US$18.7 billion last year. Cash remittances from land-based and sea-based workers reached US$15.2 billion and US$4.7 billion, respectively. The bulk of cash remittances came from the United States, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Japan, Hong Kong, and Canada.2 The steady demand for skilled and professional Filipino manpower supported the growth in remittance inflows. Preliminary data from the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) indicated that for the period January-October 2014, job orders reached 768,741, of which 39.8 percent were processed job orders intended for service, production, and professional, technical and related workers in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Taiwan, and Qatar. In addition, the continued efforts of bank and non-bank remittance service providers to expand their international and domestic market coverage, and introduce innovations in financial products and services in the remittance market contributed to the sustained inflow of remittances. |
| Total approved foreign investments down by 44.4 percent in Q3 2014 |
| Source: http://www.nscb.gov.ph |
| Total foreign investments (FI) approved in the third quarter of
2014 by the seven investment promotion agencies (IPAs), namely:
Board of Investments (BOI), Clark Development Corporation (CDC),
Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), and Subic Bay
Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) as well as the Authority of the
Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB), BOI-Autonomous Region of Muslim
Mindanao (BOI-ARMM), and Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA)
amounted to PhP 18.3 billion, 44.4 percent lower than the PhP
32.9 billion recorded in the same period last year. Meanwhile,
total approved FI for the first nine months of 2014 reached PhP
91.8 billion, declining by 35.4 percent from the amount recorded
last year at PhP 142.1 billion. The top three prospective investing countries during the quarter include the Netherlands, Japan, and the United States of America (USA). Netherlands topped the list, pledging PhP 4.4 billion or 24.3 percent share, followed by Japan and USA, committing PhP 3.7 billion and PhP 2.8 billion, or 20.1 percent and 15.3 percent of the total approved FI, respectively. Manufacturing industry contributed the largest amount of committed foreign investments in the third quarter of 2014, with investment pledges recorded at PhP 8.8 billion or 48.0 percent of the total FI. Administrative and support service activities came in second, contributing 20.8 percent or PhP 3.8 billion worth of investment commitments, followed by real estate activities, which accounted for 13.3 percent or PhP 2.4 billion. Approved investments of foreign and Filipino nationals reached PhP 159.6 billion during the period, declining by 15.7 percent from last year’s PhP 189.3 billion. Filipino nationals continued to dominate the investments approved during the quarter, sharing 88.5 percent or PhP 141.3 billion worth of pledges. Bulk of the investments are intended to finance activities in manufacturing, contributing PhP 67.6 billion and with a share of 42.4 percent, followed by real estate activities at PhP 31.4 billion or 19.7 percent share, and construction at PhP 24.8 billion or 15.5 percent share. Total projects of foreign and Filipino investors approved by the seven IPAs in the third quarter of 2014 are expected to generate 54,606 jobs, an increase of 38.9 percent from last year’s projected employment of 39,314 jobs in the same period. Out of these anticipated jobs, 74.3 percent would come from projects with foreign interest. |
| Ombudsman junks cases vs top Customs officials |
| Source: http://www.dof.gov.ph |
| The Office of the Ombudsman dismissed the cases filed by
suspected illegal rice importer Bold Bidder Marketing and
General Merchandise against top officials of the Bureau of
Customs, led by Commissioner John P. Sevilla, which stem for the
Bureau’s refusal to release the firm’s rice shipments. In a joint resolution, the Ombudsman dismissed Bold Bidder’s complaint against Sevilla; Deputy Commissioners Maria Edita Tan, Agaton Uvero, Ariel Nepumoceno and Jessie Dellosa, as well as Ernesto Benitez, Jr, Acting District Collector, BOC-Port of Batangas, because the ‘refusal to heed a court order must be addressed by the Court, not by [the Office of the Ombudsman].’ Last February, Bold Bidder, represented by Ivy Souza, filed cases against Customs officials for violation of Republic Act (RA) 3019, or The Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, for their refusal to release complainant’s rice importation despite the issuance of the December 10, 2013 Writ of Preliminary Injunction by the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Lemery, Batangas. Souza also filed administrative cases for violating RA 6713, or The Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees for the officials’ refusal to clear Bold Bidder’s rice shipments. Bold Bidder is one of the five biggest rice companies that imported rice without the required NFA permits. Bold Bidder imported a total of 12.8 million kilograms (or over 12,800 metric tons) of rice without NFA permits with total dutiable value of P186.5 million and with market value estimated at about P512 million. These shipments were seized by the BOC and placed under Alert Orders because the firm failed to secure import permits, a violation of NFA Memorandum Circular No. AO-2K13-03-003. Sevilla welcomed the development as it affirms the stand of the BOC that it is simply performing its functions. “Our laws are very clear: the importation of rice must be supported by the required NFA permits and we have strictly and consistently upheld this policy. Bold Bidder and other rice traders who imported rice without the required NFA permits have danced around our legal system to try to get their smuggled rice out of the ports. Filing cases against us cannot and will not stop us from doing our job,” he said. The Bureau has already filed smuggling-related cases against Bold Bidder representative Ivy Souza and the firm’s customs brokers Denise Kathryn Rosaroso, John Kevin Cisneros, Francis Rudolph Forneste and Elbert Lusterio for the illegal entry of over 12.8-Million kilograms (over 12,800 Metric Tons) of rice through Manila and Cebu. Last September, the Batangas Regional Trial Court dismissed Bold Bidder’s petition for declaratory relief against the NFA and BOC, for lack of jurisdiction. In a 20-page Resolution, Batangas RTC Branch 5 Judge Eleuterio Larisma Bathan held that the trial court cannot assume jurisdiction over Souza’s petition because she had already violated NFA Memorandum Circular No. AO-2K13-03-003, which requires an importer to have an NFA import permit prior to the importation of rice. Presidential Decree Number 4 mandates that only the NFA can import rice and private entities who wish to do the same must secure a permit from the agency. NFA Memorandum Circular Number AO-2K13-03-003 furthers that duly-licensed importers must apply to import rice to the NFA, which in turn would determine eligibility and set the allowed volume. |
| DWPH shares spirit of giving nationwide |
| Source: http://www.dpwh.gov.ph |
| The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) shares the Christmas spirit to families living in Barangay 651 Zone 68 Port Area, Manila through a “Pamaskong Handog” gift-giving activity held at the DPWH Central Office. Officials and employees under the Support Services Group headed by Undersecretary Jaime A. Pacanan and Assistant Secretary Ardeliza Medenilla collectively shared for the pack goods and small amount given to some 100 families as DPWH Secretary Rogelio L. Singson enjoined Department officials and employees to conduct Community Extension Program for more meaningful 2014 Christmas celebration. |
| No more import fees on balikbayan boxes |
| Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph |
| Good news for Filipinos who receive balikbayan boxes from
abroad: the Bureau of Customs (BOC) will no longer collect the
import processing fee of P250 for packages arriving in the
country’s ports. BOC has waived the import processing fee for packages sent by sea freight through Customs Administrative Order (CAO) No. 08-2014 which took effect last 15 November. “No amount shall be collected as import processing fee on any importation filed through informal entry,” Commissioner John P. Sevilla said in the recent order. “The BOC shall cease to collect the import processing fee,” he added. In the same order, he reduced the “amount of Documentary Stamp Tax for Informal Entry” from P265 to P15. He said that an amount of P15 shall be collected from each importation filed through the informal entry. Around 5.5M balikbayan boxes are shipped to the country every year and the bulk enters the ports from September until yearend. More than half of those packages enter the Manila International Container Port (MICP), while the rest arrive at the Port of Manila, Cebu, Davao and Subic. The BOC has launched an online tracking system that will enable the recipients to check the status of their packages from abroad. With the tracker, Sevilla said, “The public will not be given the run-around by people responsible for delivering their balikbayan boxes.” Sevilla issued the CAO, approved by Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, in pursuant to Section 608 and Sections 3301 and 3304 of the Tariff and Customs Code of the Philippines (TCCP), in relation to Section 36 of the Administrative Code of 1987. |
| PHL's GSP+ application moves forward |
| Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph |
| The Philippines’ application to qualify for the European Union’s
General System of Preferences Plus (GSP plus) is one step closer
to final approval by the EU Parliament with the recent favorable
endorsement of the Parliament’s Committee on International Trade
(INTA). There was an attempt to block the grant of GSP Plus
status to the Philippines at the Committee level, but was voted
down. INTA’s action paves the way for the European Parliament to
decide on the Philippines’ application in Plenary on 18 December
2014. The decision of the Committee came on the heels of a final push from a high level Philippine delegation to present the country’s case to the INTA and the GSP Monitoring Group in a joint committee hearing at the EU Parliament in Strasbourgh, France. The delegation was led by Department of Trade and Industry-Industry Development Group (DTI-IDG) Undersecretary Adrian Cristobal Jr. and composed of Department of Agriculture (DA) Undersecretary Segfredo Serrano, Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE_ Undersecretary Rebecca Chato, and other officials from the Philippine Missions in Brussels and Geneva. The Meeting in Strasbourg was chaired by Member of European Parliament (MEP) Christofer Fjellner from Sweden, the Principal Rapporteur of the GSP Monitoring Group in the European Parliament. During the meeting, Cristobal presented the importance of GSP+ to the Philippines, citing the country’s impressive economic gains, good governance and anti-corruption reforms. “We have the momentum for sustained economic growth that can substantially reduce poverty in the country. A critical element for sustained growth is boosting trade with the rest of the world, and the GSP+ can create over 200,000 new jobs in the agriculture and manufacturing sectors in its early years of implementation. Most of these jobs will be in rural areas outside the major cities where they are needed the most,” Cristobal said. Serrano stressed the importance of the Fisheries sector, which could benefit immensely from GSP Plus, to the Philippine economy while Chato assured the Committee that the Philippines abides by its commitments in the various conventions of the International Labor Organization (ILO). The Philippines is currently a beneficiary of the EU GSP where 2,442 products from the Philippines are exported at zero duty while 3,767 are subject to reduced tariffs. With the inclusion of the Philippines in the EU GSP+ scheme, the Philippines will get to enjoy zero duty for all 6,274 covered products, translating to increase in the country’s exports to the EU, resulting to more employment opportunities. Recalling the devastation wrought by typhoon Haiyan in the Eastern and Western Visayas and thanking the EU for their generous assistance, Undersecretary Cristobal concluded that “the EU GSP+ privilege is really a game changer for us, where hundreds of thousands of jobs in the countryside and in disaster stricken areas will be created in the short and medium term. It complements our growth strategy as well as our rehabilitation efforts in areas hard hit by typhoon Haiyan last year.” Early this year, the European Commission (EC) formally accepted the GSP+ application of the Philippines. The Commission reviewed the Philippine application, and favorably endorsed it to the two legislative bodies of the EU, namely, the Council of Ministers of the European Union (The Council) and the European Parliament (EP). Within two months, the Council issued a formal notice of “No Objection” to the proposal. The European Parliament however, requested for an additional two months to review the recommendation of the Commission. With the extension, the European Parliament must decide on the proposal not later than 18 December this year. To date, 13 countries have been granted GSP+ privileges by the European Union. If approved by the European Parliament, the Philippines would be the 14th beneficiary country of the EU GSP+ and the only GSP+ beneficiary in ASEAN, Cristobal concluded. EU is the Philippines’ 4th largest trading partner in 2013, with total bilateral trade registered at USD 12.8B. It ranks fourth as an export market for the Philippine products, accounting for 11.56% of total Philippine exports. |
| For doing their utmost in extending assistance to workers, especially the vulnerable, Baldoz praises winners at 4th SEnA Awards |
| Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph |
| For doing their best in extending assistance to workers,
especially the lowliest and most vulnerable, Labor and
Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz yesterday
honored select employees of the DOLE and its attached agencies
by conferring them certificates for winning awards at the 4th
SEnA Awards, held as part of the DOLE’s 81st Foundation
Anniversary. Baldoz, together with Undersecretaries Rebecca Chato, Ciriaco Lagunzad, and Reydeluz Conferido, and other senior DOLE officials, conferred the awards during the first day of the DOLE’s Year-end Planning Activity at the Ichikawa Hall of the Occupational Safety and Health Center in Quezon City. The Awards are bestowed based on performance of the DOLE's Single Entry Approach Desk Officers (SEADOs) who handle requests (RFAs) for assistance under the Single Entry Approach (SEnA) Program, and recognize the contribution of the SEnA to industrial peace and harmony. The 2014 Best SEADOs are as follows: Group 1 (Regions NCR, 3, 4-A, 6, and 7): (1) Aurita L. Laxamana, Supervising Labor and Employment Officer, Pampanga Provincial Field Office; (2) Joselito V. Diego, Senior Labor and Employment Officer, Bataan Provincial Field Office; and (3) Nora T. Aguilar, Supervising Labor and Employment Officer, Laguna Provincial Office, with the winner going to Joselito V. Diego. Group 2 (Regions 1, 5, 10, 11, 12): (1) Mary Antonette T. Avila, Senior LEO, Ilocos Sur Field Office; (2) Melba R. Cayetuna, Senior LEO, Western Misamis Oriental Provincial Field Office; and (3) Dolores P. Suarez, Senior LEO, Rosales, Pangasinan Field Office. Ms. Avila won in this category. Group 3 (Regions CAR, 4-B, 8, 9, and Caraga): (1) Gerald Vincent R. Tamayo, Labor and Employment Officer III, Baguio-Benguet Field Office; (2) Teresa D. Sabug, Senior LEO, Isabela Field Office; and (3) Mark Anthony Tungpalan, Administrative Aide IV, Baguio-Benguet Field Office. Mr. Tungpalan won in this category. Attached Agencies (NCMB, NLRC, OWWA): Rosario T. Andres, Atty. III, of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration; Macbeth G. Cahiles, Administrative Officer IV at the National Labor Relations Commission; and Edgar G. Aquino, Director II of the National Conciliation and Mediation Board, won in this category. Baldoz also conferred Special SEnA Awards to the following: (1) Nympha S. Aguda, Administrative Officer IV of the National Labor Relations Commission, for successfully facilitating settlement of 258 requests for assistance at the shortest average duration of four days from October 2013 to September 2014. (2) Nora T. Aguilar, Supervising LEO of DOLE Region 4-A, Laguna Provincial Office, for successfully facilitating settlement of a single RFA with the largest monetary benefit of P85.9 million from October 2013 to September 2014. (3) Odin T. Abdula, Overseas Workers Welfare Officer IV of the OWWA, for his exemplary efforts in bringing conciliation-mediation services through the SEnA to the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao from October 2013 to September 2014. (4) Giselle G. Salazar, LEO I, of the NCMB, for her diligent and zealous efforts in the consolidation of all SEnA reports of DOLE regional offices and attached agencies as the SEnA National Secretariat Focal Person. (5) DOLE Caraga, as Highest Settlement Rate Awardee, with an average of 90 percent Settlement Rate from October 2010 to September 2014. (6) DOLE Region 3 received a special award for Remarkable Reduction in Compulsory Handling of Small Money Claims from October 2011 to September 2014. (7) DOLE NCR, as Highest Monetary Benefits Facilitated Awardee, for facilitating settlement of RFAs that resulted to benefits of P1.1 billion from October 2010 to September 2014. The DOLE NCR also received a special award for the most number of RFAs facilitated—18,439 RFAs from October 2010 to September 2014—among DOLE regional offices. (8) NLRC, as Highest Number of Workers Benefited Awardee, for facilitating settlement of RFAs that benefited 20,958 workers, from October 2011 to September 2014, thereby preventing them from filing actual labor cases. The NLRC also received a special award for the most number of RFAs facilitated—61,357 RFAs from October 2011 to September 2014—among DOLE attached agencies. The SEnA is a reform program endorsed by the National Tripartite Industrial Peace Council. It represents an evolution in alternative dispute settlement system that offers speedy, impartial, non-litigious, free, accessible, and non-adversarial labor dispute resolution services. A reform measure introduced by Secretary Baldoz when she assumed office in 2010, the SEnA “de-judicializes” the labor dispute settlement system by instituting a 30-day mandatory conciliation-mediation of all labor-related complaints before they mature into formal labor cases. So revolutionary was the SEnA in delivering labor justice that the Congress saw it fit to institutionalize it when it approved its passage into law in 2013, with President Benigno S. Aquino III signing the measure into R.A. No. 10396 on 14 March 2013. “Since 2010 when the program started, all DOLE agencies have been strictly following a 30-day mandatory conciliation-mediation process towards forging agreement, or win-win solution, that fosters fair, speedy, and inexpensive labor justice. The sharp increase in the number of requests for assistance (RFAs) filed in the different offices and agencies of the Department, and a substantial drop in the number of cases entering the compulsory arbitration processes in the NLRC and DOLE Regional Offices is proof positive that the SEnA really truly works,” said Baldoz in congratulating the awardees. She said all officials and employees of the DOLE's family of agencies involved in settling labor disputes must regard the plight of the country’s micro and small business enterprises as they struggle to survive the world of business competition to survive. Explaining that the core of the Single Entry Approach (SEnA) is plain and simple labor justice, Baldoz said: “We should have in have in mind and in our hearts the plight of workers and the small employers. Ito ang puso ng labor justice--those who have in life, should have more in law.” |
| Canada reforms caregiver program; promises faster action on applications for permanent residence |
| Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph |
| Canada reforms caregiver program; promises faster action on applications for permanent residence Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz yesterday said the Philippine Overseas Labor Office in Toronto has reported that the government of Canada had implemented reforms in its caregiver program, a feature of its immigration system as a component of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. “Labor Attache Leonida Romulo had reported that Minister Chris Alexander of the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) had announced sweeping reforms in Canada’s Live-in Caregiver Program (LCP). Filipinos who wish to work in Canada as caregivers must study the reforms to ensure they make correct decisions about their plans,” said Baldoz. The LCP, now the Caregiver Program, enables Canadian employers to recruit foreign nationals to live and work in their homes to provide childcare or home support for senior citizens or Canadians with disabilities when there are no Canadians or permanent residents to fill available positions. After two years of work, caregivers have the option to apply for permanent residence. The CIC said on its website that the removal of the live-in requirement will result to greater opportunities for Canadians in caregiver occupations and an increase in wages for foreign caregivers after employers clearly demonstrate that there are no Canadians available for the job. It also said the Government of Canada plans to admit 30,000 caregivers (including their spouses and dependants) in 2015 by fast-tracking applications from those who have completed their work experience but are facing long waits for their permanent residence to be finalized. Under the reforms, caregivers are no longer required to live in the home of their employer, which can place them in vulnerable conditions, including unpaid overtime work, poor working conditions, or worse, until they are able to achieve the status of permanent residents. The reforms provide for two career pathways for caregivers: (1) the Caring for Children Pathway and (2) Caring for People with High Medical Needs Pathway. For the first pathway, applicant caregivers must have a two-year work experience in Canada as a home child care provider; “initial intermediate” Canadian language benchmark 5 provided in a designated third-party language test; and a Canadian post-secondary education of at least one year, or an equivalent foreign education credential. The limit or cap to the number of applicants to be accepted under this pathway is 2,750 per year. The second pathway, Caring for People with High Medical Needs Pathway, is for caregivers who provide support to those with high medical needs. The requirements are as follows: (1) two-year full-time work experience in Canada providing in-home care or care in a health facility to the elderly or persons with disabilities or chronic diseases; (2) licensed to practice in Canada; and (3) “intermediate” Canadian language benchmark 7 provided in a designated third-party language test, if applying as a registered nurse or registered psychiatric nurse. The limit or cap to the number of applicants to be accepted under this pathway is 2,750 per year. On this matter, Secretary Baldoz advised those who would like to work in Canada as caregivers to visit the CIC website for more detailed information, and urged them to only deal with legitimate and licensed Philippine recruitment agencies to avoid getting duped or victimized by illegal recruitment agencies and individuals with criminal intent. “Still, the safe and legal pathway to work overseas is through the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration,” she said. |
| Extended holiday truce with communist rebels gives way to a hopeful year ahead |
| Source: http://www.opapp.gov.ph |
| MANILA – Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos Deles welcomed the joint suspension of military and police operations (SOMO-SOPO) announced by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) noting “more reasons for an extended Christmas ceasefire” this year with the Communist Party of the Philippines/National Peoples' Army/National Democratic Front (CPP/NPA/NDF). “The SOMO-SOPO covering the period 19 December (from midnight of 18th) 2014 to 19 January 2015 is in line with government’s Christmas tradition, as we have always wished to provide for our people's peaceful and joyful celebration of this holy season and a hope-filled welcome to a new year.” Citing more reasons, the peace adviser also underscored that the “cessation of hostilities will allow unhampered rehabilitation of calamity-affected communities, many of which are also conflict-affected, and sustain the goodwill generated from the positive results of the collective disaster preparedness undertaken by government and communities.” The unilateral ceasefire also puts in mind the much-anticipated Papal Visit in the Philippines early next year. “With the silencing of guns, our preparations for and celebration of Pope Francis' visit may be carried out with undistracted reflection and prayers and deep hope for abundant blessings to be showered on our people,” said Deles. The AFP and PNP, on the other hand, assured that the security forces will continue to perform their functions in ensuring the safety and welfare of the people for the duration of the SOMO-SOPO, covering the country's Christmas and New Year's celebration. “After the difficult trials of the past Christmas seasons, we pray for a peaceful, happy and hopeful season for everyone—a chance for all families and communities to come together in celebration and steadfast hope,” wished Deles. |
| Philippines commended by experts at Roundtable on ASEAN-EU Relations in Brussels |
| Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph |
| 16 December 2014 - Philippine economic performance was hailed as
“the most encouraging news in Southeast Asia to date” by
academic and business sector representatives at an expert
roundtable discussion on “Prospects for ASEAN-European Union
relations” held in Brussels on December 11. Commenting on the
current situation in ASEAN as a region, as well as in the
individual Member States, experts agreed that the Philippines is
“a very attractive economy” and is also “in an enviable
position” in terms of political stability and good governance. In his statement, Philippine Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission and Consul General Robespierre Bolivar noted the Philippines’ performance in achieving targets related to the ASEAN Economic Community. He highlighted Philippine initiatives championed by President Aquino at the recently concluded 25th ASEAN Summit, including stronger foundations for regional integration, inclusive growth, and the rule of law. Organized by the EU-Asia Center, one of the leading Brussels-based think tanks dealing with Asian issues, the roundtable was convened to discuss possible directions the ASEAN-EU relationship could take in light of the change in the EU leadership and the impending completion of the ASEAN Economic Community by the end of 2015. |
| DAR Sec says Rosario, Batangas investigation is still on-going |
| Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph |
| DAR Secretary Virgilio de los Reyes said today that his
Department’s investigation of a tract of land in Rosario,
Batangas is still ongoing. He clarified that DAR’s records only
show names of beneficiaries of lands distributed through CARP
and names of applicants of approved clearances to transfer
ownership in Rosario, Batangas, and does not have sufficient
information yet to make any conclusion as to who owns the
Rosario farmland.dar web news national pix 2 dec. 16 2014 “The documents in our possession right now do not conclusively show that he (Vice President Binay) owns the land; in fact we cannot conclude yet who owns it,” de los Reyes said. Secretary de los Reyes made the clarification following statements on media by Joselito Salgado, the Vice President’s spokesperson, that he had effectively said that Vice President Binay did not own the property in question. He stressed that what the DAR is investigating are whether or not activities conducted on the Rosario property violated any agrarian reform law and who are the perpetrators, if any – who the actual owner of the property is only incidental to the issues being looked into by the agrarian reform agency. |
| DA allots P20M for Balatan fishport |
| Source: http://www.da.gov.ph |
| To ensure better competitive and fair fish trading, in the Bicol
Region, the Department of Agriculture allotted a total of P20M
in funds for the construction of the Balatan Fishport project in
Camarines Sur. In his speech, delivered by DA 5 Regional Technical Director for Operations and Extension, Dr. Elena B. Delos Santos, Secretary Proceso Alcala underscored the important role of the fisheries sector in the development of the country. With three-quarters of the country’s geography comprised of water, fishing remains as an important source of livelihood for many Filipinos. The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in Bicol headed by Director Dennis Del Socorro conducted the site validation of the project and submitted their recommendation to Secretary Alcala who immediately approved the project and downloaded the P20M to the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority, who will take charge of the technical aspect of the project. Director Del Socorro said that the PFDA will start constructing the fishport in February 2015. Moreover, he urged the fisherfolk in the area to register under the FishR program of the BFAR and added that fishing boats also need to be registered under the National Program on Municipal Fishing Vessels and Gears Registration or BoatR Program. BFAR 5 will be giving each province a patrol boat for intensified fishery law enforcement activities,” he announced. Mayor Ernesto A. Bagasbas of Balatan thanked the DA RFO 5, and the Camarines Sur provincial government for the various projects granted to his town including the P4.3 (first tranche of fund transfer) for the construction of an irrigation facility in Brgy. Tapayas; the establishment of artificial reef; and the promotion of organic farming. Mayor Bagasbas shared his vision of turning Balatan into a tourist spot or “Little Baguio” boasting of the 16 kilometer concrete long and winding roads passing along verdant mountain ranges from Nabua to Balatan proper. |
| Two PhilMech cassava technologies show promise |
| Source: http://www.da.gov.ph |
| The Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and
Mechanization (PhilMech) sees promise in two major equipment
that will help cassava farmers lessen the drudgery of their farm
operations and improve the quality of their products. “So far, the development and testing by PhilMech of the Cassava Digger attachment and the Commercial Cassava Belt Dryer are showing very promising results, and we believe these two technologies can revolutionize the domestic cassava industry,” said PhilMech Executive Director Rex L. Bingabing. PhilMech is testing on-field the Cassava Digger, which is attached to a four-wheel tractor. Under the current practice of hand harvesting, it takes 30 laborers to harvest cassava from one hectare of land, which can be costly because this usually costs P7,500 per day. Based on interviews conducted by PhilMech from cassava farmers, 65 percent to 70 percent of cassava production is spent for harvesting. In contrast, the Cassava Digger can harvest cassava from 1.8 to 3.0 hectares per day. It only takes one laborer to operate the Cassava Digger attached to a four-wheel tractor, while the number of laborers gathering the uprooted cassava can number between two to three. “Farmer cooperatives will have a choice to make their operations more efficient once the Cassava Digger is commercialized. The cost benefit of using a four-wheel tractor with a Cassava Digger is enormous, because cassava can be harvested in a shorter period at a lesser cost,” Bingabing said. Meanwhile, the Commercial Cassava Belt Dryer will solve the drying problem usually encountered by cassava farmers, especially during the rainy season. According to a research conducted by Michael A. Gragasin Ph. D., Romualdo C. Martinez Ph.D. and Engineer Lynet R. Cruzat of PhilMech, the traditional drying method for granulated cassava, which is done under the sun over a concrete or tarpaulin flooring, results to only 38 percent product recovery. Tests done with the Commercial Belt Dryer that PhilMech developed resulted to a product recovery of at least 46 percent. During the rainy season, the product recovery from drying cassava goes down to 30 percent. Also, the Commercial Cassava Belt Dryer resulted to granulated cassava attaining a moisture content of 14 percent, which is what major companies require. The Commercial Cassava Belt Dryer uses biomass for its furnace to produce heat, and has an input capacity of 1,158 kilograms per hour. It usually takes three to four days to dry granulated cassava under the sun. “The full-scale PhilMech Commercial Cassava Belt Dryer with biomass furnace showed great potential for drying granulated cassava to address the requirements of the cassava industry in the Philippines,” the PhilMech researchers said. Bingabing said that because of climate change issues like drought, many farmers in the northern part of the Luzon are starting to shift to cassava farming. Also, there is a market for dried granulated cassava which are large food processing firms. In Isabela province for example, 3,000 hectares of corn plantations were converted to cassava farms, and another 1,000 hectares of idle lands were developed for cassava planting by the Villa Luna Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MPC). The cooperative currently has a supply agreement with San Miguel Corp. for 20 million kilograms of dried granulated cassava for this year alone. The Villa Luna MPC is currently testing the Commercial Cassava Belt Dryer of PhilMech and found it to be viable. (DA-PhilMech Communication Team) |
| PRC Iloilo observes the birth anniversary of Graciano Lopez-Jaena |
| Source: http://www.prc.gov.ph |
| Manila, December 16, 2014 – The Professional Regulation
Commission (PRC) announces that the PRC-Iloilo office shall be
closed on December 18, 2014 (Thursday) in observance of the
Birth Anniversary of Graciano Lopez-Jaena. The Holiday declaration is stipulated in Republic Act No. 6155, enacted on November 9, 1970, entitled “An Act Declaring December 18 of each year an Official Public Holiday in the City and Province of Iloilo to commemorate the Birth Anniversary of Graciano Lopez-Jaena”. PRC Iloilo Regional Office will resume services on December 19, 2014 (Friday). |
| BI tightens security for Papal visit |
| Source: http://www.immigration.gov.ph |
| Manila, Philippines—The Bureau of Immigration has stepped up its
preparations in anticipation of the Papal visit on January
15-19, 2015. BI Commissioner Siegfred B. Mison announced that a special task force was created to ensure security and public order during the papal visit. The task force, dubbed as Task Unit Immigration (TU) shall implement the smooth operations of immigration services and intelligence operations during this period. According to the BI Chief, the TU is specifically created to ensure that the Pope and the members of his entourage receive proper immigration service, technical and intelligence support, in furtherance of the mandate of The Papal Visit 2015 National Organizing Committee (PV-NOC). “We have started our general preparation phase as early as October. Our preparations include planning the event, service training for TU personnel, and survey inspection areas of engagement,” Mison said. Mison likewise warned that foreign terrorists and human traffickers that might take advantage of the event are not welcome in the country and will be immediately removed. “We must remain vigilant since we are expecting an influx of foreign visitors in the Philippines in January due to the papal visit” Mison said. “The BI is in close coordination with other law enforcement agencies in intelligence building and has heightened its alert on foreign nationals with emphasis on potential threats to the scheduled arrival of the Pope." Mison has also ensured that there are enough immigration personnel deployed in Manila and Tacloban for the event. He also mentioned that immigration agents will be on full force for the papal visit. Pope Francis is scheduled to arrive on January 15, 2015 and is expected to be traveling with members of his entourage and staff. The Pope’s itinerary will include a visit to Tacloban City, a courtesy visit to President Benigno Aquino III, and a mass at Rizal Park. Pope Francis is expected stay in the country for four days and will depart for Rome on January 19. |
| Force for construction, Villanueva says of ties with ACEL |
| Source: http://www.tesda.gov.ph |
| Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)
Director General Joel Villanueva trained the spotlight anew at
partnerships with the private sector, such as the construction
sector, for workforce development, calling it a "force for
construction." As the demand for skilled workers in some industry sectors increases, Villanueva said that technical-vocational institutions should be able to keep up with its pace and offer a pool of quality and competitive graduates. Thus, he said, cooperation between the agency and the private sector such as the Association of Carriers and Equipment Lessors (ACEL) Inc. is vital. "The cooperation between TESDA and ACEL is a force for construction," he said in a message during the recent induction of ACEL officers. Forging partnership ensures that the advancement of the construction industry is put to the fore, especially as the construction of buildings, condominiums and other infrastructure continues to pick up. "There's no sign that the activities are slowing down. Together, we acted on this opportunity promptly by arming workers with the skills needed by the construction industry," he said. TESDA and ACEL recently signed a memorandum of agreement for the provision of a scholarship fund for the training of existing workers in the industry and for the pre-employment training and re-tooling of incoming workers in the construction-related sector. Villanueva thanked ACEL for committing to employ at least 70 percent of the graduates under this deal and to maintain a Training Development Fund for future training. "I hope that our cooperation will address the pervasive migration of Filipino operators and laborers to other countries seeking greener pastures," Villanueva said. The TESDA chief also acknowledged ACEL for being generous in helping the agency keep pace with modern equipment and technology in the construction industry. "This initiative will help us in the harmonization of skills standards in the ASEAN. This can also boost efforts to set a productivity rate in the construction industry," he added. Upping the ante on construction jobs, Villanueva said the Memorandum of Understanding that TESDA signed in Paris with the Assistance Formation Conseils aux Enterprises Group (AFCE) will give more prestige to jobs in the construction industry. "I’m sure that it will also result in more and better training opportunities for our youth, especially those aiming to enter the construction industry, and the creation of decent jobs that would stimulate our local economy," he said. Villanueva said the new officers are now faced with the challenge of working hard to advance the construction industry. "It requires your commitment to expand the choices of our people, especially the youth by making jobs in this industry attractive. In so doing, you can help us erase the stigma attached to tech-voc. I’m sure that the initiatives that you have in mind now, especially in response to the ASEAN Economic Community 2015, will be your legacy when your term ends," he said. The incoming ACEL Board of Directors are Jovic P. Basilio, President; Onofre T. Banson, Jr., 1st Vice President; J. Eladio L. Angeles, 2nd Vice President; Jonathan R. Perez, Corporate Secretary; Ernesto G. Lim, Treasurer; Justo F. Manalo, Jr., Corporate Auditor; Eduardo P. Trinidad, P. R.O.; and Jose Amado Angeles, Ramonito E. Sicat, Abigail S. Mancilla, Jaime Philip AL. Campos as Directors; and, Lito G. Garcia, Ex- Officio. |
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Last Updated:
16 DECEMBER 2014
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President Benigno S. Aquino III attends the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the dedication of the Shrine of Mary, Queen of Peace, Our Lady of EDSA at the main chapel of the EDSA Shrine in Ortigas Avenue, Mandaluyong City on Monday (December 15). The shrine was consecrated by Jaime Cardinal Sin on December 15, 1989. (Photo by Gil Nartea/ Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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The patrons and donors of the EDSA Shrine pose for a photo opportunity Archbishop Socrates Villegasand Presidential Sister Ballsy Aquino Cruz during the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the dedication of the Shrine of Mary, Queen of Peace, Our Lady of EDSA at the main chapel of the EDSA Shrine in Ortigas Avenue, Mandaluyong City on Monday (December 15). The shrine was consecrated by Jaime Cardinal Sin on December 15, 1989. (Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III attends the celebration of the 25th Anniversary of the dedication of the Shrine of Mary, Queen of Peace, Our Lady of EDSA at the main chapel of the EDSA Shrine in Ortigas Avenue, Mandaluyong City on Monday (December 15). The shrine was consecrated by Jaime Cardinal Sin on December 15, 1989. (Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the joint graduation ceremony of the Officers Candidate Courses at the AFP Theater of the Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Monday (December 15). Also in photo is Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the joint graduation ceremony of the Officers Candidate Courses at the AFP Theater of the Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Monday (December 15). Also in photo are Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Gregorio Pio Catapang, Jr. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the joint graduation ceremony of the Officers Candidate Courses at the AFP Theater of the Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Monday (December 15). Also in photo are Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Gregorio Pio Catapang, Jr. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the joint graduation ceremony of the Officers Candidate Courses at the AFP Theater of the Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Monday (December 15). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Benhur Arcayan / Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III, assisted by Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, presents the Presidential Saber Award and diploma to Probationary 2nd Lieutenant (P/2Lt.) Kenneth Aquino, PAF during the joint graduation ceremony of the Officers Candidate Courses at the AFP Theater of the Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Monday (December 15, 2014). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III, assisted by Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, presents the Presidential Saber Award and diploma to Probationary Ensign (P/ENs) Cathleen Joy Cruz, PN during the joint graduation ceremony of the Officers Candidate Courses at the AFP Theater of the Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Monday (December 15). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III presents the Presidential Saber Award and diploma to Probationary 2nd Lieutenant (P/2Lt.) Rodel Bacquial, PN during the joint graduation ceremony of the Officers Candidate Courses at the AFP Theater of the Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Monday (December 15). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his arrival statement at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 2 in Pasay City on Friday night (December 12). The President returned from his successful participation in the 25th anniversary of the ASEAN-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit in Busan. (Photo by Robert Viñas/ Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III greets his official family during the arrival ceremony at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 2 in Pasay City on Friday night (December 12). The President returned from his successful participation in the 25th anniversary of the ASEAN-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit in Busan. (Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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(BUSAN, South Korea) President Benigno S. Aquino III inspects an FA-50 fighter jet at the Gimhae Airbase here on Friday (December 12) before leaving for Manila. Also in photo are Korea Aerospace Industries president and CEO Sung Yong-ha and other Korean Air Force officials, along with Secretary Rene Almendras and Philippine Ambassador to Korea Raul Hernandez. (Photo by Ryan Lim/ Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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(BUSAN, South Korea) President Benigno S. Aquino III and Korean President Park Geun-Hye offer a toast during the Leaders Luncheon at the Luncheon Hall of the Nurimaru APEC House for the 25th ASEAN-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit on Friday (December 12). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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(BUSAN, South Korea) President Benigno S. Aquino III shares a light moment with Republic of Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Brunei Darussalam Prime Minister His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah during the Leaders Luncheon at the outdoor deck of the Nurimaru APEC House for the 25th ASEAN-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit on Friday (December 12). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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(BUSAN, South Korea) President Benigno S. Aquino III huddles with Republic of the Union of Myanmar President U Thein Sein, Kingdom of Thailand Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, Republic of Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Brunei Darussalam Prime Minister Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah during the Leaders Luncheon at the outdoor deck of the Nurimaru APEC House for the 25th ASEAN-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit on Friday (December 12). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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(BUSAN, South Korea) President Benigno S. Aquino III exchanges pleasantries with Republic of Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong during the Leaders Luncheon at the outdoor deck of the Nurimaru APEC House for the 25th ASEAN-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit on Friday (December 12). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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(BUSAN, South Korea) President Benigno S. Aquino III, along with Republic of Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, Republic of Indonesia President Joko Widodo, Socialist Republic of Vietnam Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung, Brunei Darussalam Prime Minister Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Korean President Park Geun-Hye and Kingdom of Thailand Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, tour the Special Exhibition on Public Governance at the Busan Exhibition and Convention Center on Friday (December 12), at the sidelines of the 25th ASEAN-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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(BUSAN, South Korea) President Benigno S. Aquino III, along with Republic of Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, Republic of Indonesia President Joko Widodo, Socialist Republic of Vietnam Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung, Brunei Darussalam Prime Minister Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah and Korean President Park Geun-Hye, tour the Special Exhibition on Public Governance at the Exhibition Center 1 of the Busan Exhibition and Convention Center on Friday (December 12) at the sidelines of the 25th ASEAN-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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(BUSAN, South Korea) President Benigno S. Aquino III arrives for the Tour of Special Exhibition on Public Governance at the Exhibition Center 1 of the Busan Exhibition and Convention Center on Friday (December 12), at the sidelines of the 25th ASEAN-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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(BUSAN, South Korea) President Benigno S. Aquino III participates in the 25th ASEAN-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit at Busan Exhibition and Convention Center on Friday (December 12). With the theme: “Building Trust, Bringing Happiness,” the summit aims to strengthen Korea's relationship with ASEAN through trust, which should result in happiness for the citizens of ASEAN and the ROK. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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(BUSAN, South Korea) President Benigno S. Aquino joins other leaders of ASEAN Member States (AMS) for the Leaders Group Photo during the 25th ASEAN-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit 2014 at the Convention Hall of the Busan Exhibition and Convention Center on Friday (December 12). Also in photo are Republic of the Union of Myanmar President U Thein Sein, Korean President Park Geun-Hye and Republic of Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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(BUSAN, South Korea) President Benigno S. Aquino III prepares for the Leaders Group Photo during the 25th ASEAN-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit 2014 at the Convention Hall of the Busan Exhibition and Convention Center on Friday (December 12). Also in photo are Republic of Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, Kingdom of Thailand Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and Socialist Republic of Vietnam Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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(BUSAN, South Korea) President Benigno S. Aquino III prepares for the Leaders Group Photo during the 25th ASEAN-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit 2014 at the Convention Hall of the Busan Exhibition and Convention Center on Friday (December 12). Also in photo are Republic of the Union of Myanmar President U Thein Sein, Korean President Park Geun-Hye, Republic of Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Kingdom of Thailand Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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(BUSAN, South Korea) President Benigno S. Aquino III and Korean President Park Geun-Hye arrive for the Leaders Group Photo during the 25th ASEAN-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit 2014 at the Convention Hall of the Busan Exhibition and Convention Center on Friday (December 12). With the theme: “Building Trust, Bringing Happiness,” reflecting ROK’s commitment to strengthen its relationship with ASEAN member states, the summit covers a review of the ASEAN-ROK cooperation and its future direction, and the cooperation on non-traditional security issues with emphasis on climate change and disaster risk management. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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(BUSAN, South Korea) President Benigno S. Aquino III greets Korean President Park Geun-Hye upon arrival for the 25th ASEAN-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit 2014 at the Lobby of the Busan Exhibition and Convention Center on Friday (December 12). With the theme: “Building Trust, Bringing Happiness,” reflecting ROK’s commitment to strengthen its relationship with ASEAN member states, the summit covers a review of the ASEAN-ROK cooperation and its future direction, and the cooperation on non-traditional security issues with emphasis on climate change and disaster risk management. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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(BUSAN, South Korea) President Benigno S. Aquino III exchanges views with Prime Minister Najib Razak of Malaysia during a bilateral meeting at the Westin Chosun Busan Hotel on Thursday (December 11) at the sidelines of the 25th ASEAN-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit 2014. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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(BUSAN, South Korea) President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes Prime Minister of Malaysia Najib Razak during the bilateral meeting at the Westin Chosun Busan Hotel on Thursday (December 11) at the sidelines of the 25th ASEAN-Republic of Korea Commemorative Summit 2014. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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