Sunday, December 7, 2014

Dispatch for Dec. 8, 2014 (Monday), 8 PIA Calabarzon PRs, PNOY Speech ,15 Online News , 24 Photo Release Dec. 5

http://pcoo.gov.ph/photo.htm






Dost_pagasa added 2 new photos — with Gody Fajarillo Falogme and 6 others.
2 hrs ·
24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST
Issued at: 5:00 AM 08 December 2014
Synopsis: At 4:00 AM today, the eye of typhoon “RUBY” was located based on all available data at 110 km northwest of Masbate City or 50 km northeast of Romblon, Romblon (12.8˚N, 122.7˚E), with maximum sustained winds of 120 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 150 kph. It is forecast to move west northwest at 10 kph.
Forecast:Metro Manila, Calabarzon and the provinces of Bulacan, Bataan, Mindoro, Camarines, Marinduque, Romblon, Aklan, Capiz and Biliran Island will experience stormy weather. The rest of Western Visayas, Central Luzon and Of Bicol Region and the Provinces of Northern Samar and Northern Palawan will have rains with gusty winds with moderate to rough seas. The rest of Luzon and Visayas will have cloudy skies with light to moderate rainshowers and thunderstorms. Mindanao will be partly cloudy to cloudy with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms.
Moderate to strong winds blowing from the northeast will prevail over the rest of Luzon and coming from the northeast to northwest over the rest of country with moderate to rough seas .
OVER METRO MANILA:
Maximum Temperature: 12:00 PM Yesterday --- 28.2°C
Minimum Temperature: 06:00 AM Yesterday --- 22.8°C
Maximum Relative Humidity: 06:00 AM Yesterday --- 74 %
Minimum Relative Humidity: 11:00 AM Yesterday --- 60 %
Low Tide Today: 06:22 AM ..... -0.25 Meter
High Tide Today: 10:45 PM ..... 1.11 Meters
Sunrise Today: 6:09 AM
Sunset Today: 5:26 PM
Moonrise Today: 7:22 AM
Moonset Today: 7:07 PM
Illumination Today: 98 %
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 forecaster Alvin Pura on DZMM:
-Ang bagyong Ruby ay huling namataan 70km northeast ng Romblon or 60km southeast ng Marinduque.
-Iyan po ay nasa 120kph pa rin ang lakas at pagbugso na 150kph.
-Sa ngayon ang nakikita natin ay didiretso niyan sa Mindoro, iyan na ang kanyang ikatlong landfall.
-Isa sa dahilan na nakikita natin kaya ito humihina at bumabagal kasi bumabangga ito sa Hanging Amihan.
-Pati ang estimate nating pag-ulan ay nabawasan din po.
-Ngayon medyo mahangin na po tayo (Metro Manila).
-Sa ngayon po nasa signal 2 po tayo.



Class and work suspensions for December 8 (Monday) #WalangPasok #RubyPH



(As of 7:00a.m., December 8, 2014) While Typhoon 'Ruby' is making rounds in Philippine islands, several areas have announced suspension of classes and even work, on Monday, December 8 for the safety of students and workers.

Malacañang suspends classes at all levels and work in government offices in Regions 4A, 4B, and the National Capital Region for Monday, Dec 8. Exempted from work suspension are agencies involved in basic and health services delivery and disaster response. Work suspension in private sector up to employers but Palace urges them to 'consider circumstances of employees.'

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION
Caloocan City
Las Piñas City
Makati City
Malabon City
Mandaluyong City
Manila City
Marikina City
Muntinlupa City
Navotas City
Parañaque City
Pasay City
Pasig City
Pateros
Quezon City
San Juan City
Taguig City
Valenzuela City

REGION 4A
Batangas
Cavite (with previous announcement of class suspension until Dec. 9)
Laguna
Quezon
Rizal

REGION 4B
Marinduque
Occidental Mindoro
Oriental Mindoro
Palawan
Romblon

Other announced suspension:
PROVINCES 
Bataan: All levels
Bohol: All levels
Bulacan: All levels
Camarines Norte: All levels
Camarines Sur: All levels, including government work except those in disaster response
Cebu: All levels

CITIES, MUNICIPALITIES 
Carcar City, Cebu: All levels
Cadiz City, Negros Occidental: Preschool to high school
Calapan City: All levels
Coron, Palawan: Preschool to high school
Culion, Palawan: Preschool to high school
Dumaguete City: Preschool
Busuanga, Palawan: Preschool to high school
Palawan, Palawan: Preschool to high school
San Fernando City, Pampanga: All levels
Sagay City, Negros Occidental: All levels
San Jose, Occidental Mindoro: All levels
Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro: All levels
Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu: All levels
Mandaue City, Cebu: All levels
Zarraga, Iloilo:  Preschool to high school

SCHOOLS/UNIVERSITIES 
Adamson University: Classes and work
Polytechnic University of the Philippines: All Metro Manila campuses
University of the Philippines Visayas-Tacloban College: Classes until Dec. 9
University of Antique-Hamtic Campus: Classes

OFFICES
Supreme Court: Work in all NCR, Regions 4A and 4B courts
Philippine Stock Exchange: No trading today


[This list is based on our TV, radio and online monitoring and we (the Philippine Information Agency) will update this list as soon as new announcements are made or reported. For areas and schools not on the list, it means there is no announcement yet. For updates, please refresh this note from time to time. Thank you!]

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December  8 , 2014 (Monday) as of 6:00-7:00 A.M.

PIA4A/QUEZON  :  Rainy and Windy











 CAVITE 


1. Carmona SWDO conducts free livelihood training

    December 05, 2014



TRECE MARTIRES CITY, Cavite, Dec. 5 (PIA) -- In line with the national government's plan to further enhance the delivery of various social and development services to people, the Carmona Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) recently organized a livelihood traning that aims to improve the quality of life of individuals and families especially the marginalized sectors in the community.



The training conducted in coordination with the Ultima Entrepinoy Forum featured community-based livelihood training on Meat Processing Course (SILOG Business) and Basic Meat Processing Course (Pepperoni, Hungarian Sausage, Luncheon meat, Corned Beef, Pork Barbeque, Embotido, Pear-shaped Ham & Lechon Manok).



In addition,  a one-day livelihood training on How Start their Own Business was also held at the Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs with the attandance of 80 women from  the different barangays.



After completion of the training, the participants were provided with free starter kits from SWDO and Ultima Entrepinoy Forum aside from the certificate of completion distributed earlier. (Carmona PIO/Ruel Francisco, PIA-Cavite)


- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/671416539546/carmona-swdo-conducts-free-livelihood-training#sthash.p8fZFghC.dpuf






 Laguna farmers complete training on pig farming
December 04, 2014
STA. CRUZ, Laguna, Dec. 4 (PIA) --A total of 248 farmers from the cities of San Pablo and Calamba  and  municipalities of Cavinti, Siniloan,  Pila and  Pangil recently graduated from the Farmers’ Field School on Sustainable Pig Farming (FFS-SPF) held  at the Laguna Cultural Center located in this municipality.

The  project which aims to provide farmers with technical and organizational skills and required knowledge and competency on pig farming was spearheaded by  the Department of Agriculture (DA) through the Provincial Veterinary’s Office (PVO) led by Dr. Mary Grace M. Bustamante. 

The activity is also in line with the 8-Point Program under Timely Agricultural Development and Food Security for Rise High Laguna: Serbisyong ama campaign of Governor Ramil L. Hernandez.

DA Usec. Jose C. Reaño was the guest of honor during the event. He was joined by Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) Region IVA officer-in-charge Center Director Ms. Marites P. Cosico; Dr. Ruth Miclat-Sonaco, ATI National Livestock Focal Person; and Laguna 1st District Board Member Carlo M. Almoro. (PIO-Laguna/PIA-Laguna)
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/641417415038/laguna-farmers-complete-training-on-pig-farming#sthash.qoVFOfWZ.dpuf







1.   Tagalog news: Lalawigan ng Batangas, nasa Red Alert dahil sa pagdating ng bagyong Ruby
December 06, 2014

LUNGSOD NG BATANGAS, Disyembre 6 (PIA) --Nakahanda na ang buong lalawigan ng Batangas matapos ideklara ni Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) IV-A Regional Director at Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (RDRRMC) IV-A Chairperson Vicente Tomazar  and Red Alert status. 

Sa isinagawang pulong ngayong araw sa pangunguna ng Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) kasama  ang mga miyembro at Local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (LDRRMO) ng iba’t-ibang bayan at siyudad, nagpahayag ng kahandaan ang bawat isa.

Sinabi ni Batangas Police Provincial Office provincial director PSSupt. Omega Jireh Fidel, na naka-full alert na ang buong kapulisan sa lalawigan kung kaya't kinakailangang magreport ang mga kapulisan sa kanilang tungkulin. Patuloy din ang pag-ikot ng mga patrol cars ng PNP sa mga barangay upang magbigay ng impormasyon ukol sa paghahanda sa papadating na bagyo. Nagtalaga din ng contingency support team para sa pangangailangan ng mga lugar na malapit sa lalawigan ng Batangas.

Ayon naman sa Coastguard,  buo din ang kanilang puwersa sa pagtugon sa pagdating ng bagyo. May 103 katao ang Coastguard na maaaring i-dispatch anumang oras. Nakahanda rin ang  kanilang patrol craft, apat na aluminum boats at 2 rubber boats kung kakailanganin.

Sa kasalukuyan, suspendido na ang mga biyahe sa Batangas Port matapos ideklara na nasa signal no. 1 na ang lalawigan.

Patuloy naman ang koordinasyon ng pamunuan ng Philppine Ports Authority (PPA) sa mga sasakyang pandaga na nakahimpil sa pantalan. Nananatiling kontrolado PPA ang mga sasakyang naglalayag at gumagalaw sa karagatang sakop ng Balayan Bay at Batangas Bay sa pamamagitan ng vessel traffic management system.

Sa panig ng Philippine Red Cross, nakaantabay na  ang mga kagamitanng  sa tatlong sangay nito sa lungsod ng Batangas, Lipa at Nasugbu gayundin ang mga taong maaaring tumulong sa search and rescue maging ang mga available na dugo .

Nagpahayag naman ang Department of Public Works and Highways na naka-standby ang kanilang mga tauhan kung sakaling kailangan ang kanilang ayuda sa mga maaapektuhang lugar. Ang Diokno Highway sa bahagi ng Lemery ay nililimitahan na din ang pagdaan ng mga trak na hindi tataas sa sampung tonelada.

Maging ang mga local DRRM ay nagpahayag  ng kahandaan ng kanilang mga tauhan at evacuation centers  sa kanilang nasasakupan.(MPDC-PIA Batangas)
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/681417851819/tagalog-news-lalawigan-ng-batangas-nasa-red-alert-dahil-sa-pagdating-ng-bagyong-ruby#sthash.NaOmlM9P.dpuf




2.   Over 4,000 join Ala Eh! Fun Run in Taal
December 06, 2014

TAAL, BATANGAS, December 6 (PIA) A total of 4,004 runners coursed through the historic streets of Taal, jogging and sprinting among the ancestral houses of this heritage town, for the kick off Fun Run activity marking the opening of this year’s Ala Eh! Festival last December 1, 2014.

In the 5K category, Richard Salaño barely edged Ruel Suazo and Reynan Vidal, with Salaño hitting the tape at 16.42 minutes while Suazo and Vidal clocked 16.46 and 16.58 minutes, respectively.  Roldan Verano, Nickson Cuyom and Joseph Parton finished in the top 3 in the 3K level.

Themed “Trailblazing the Heritage,” the running event had its gun start at 5:35 AM at the Taal Municipal Plaza that infront of the historic Basilica de San Martin de Tours. 

Department of Education – Batangas Province fielded the most participants at 2,197, while PNP Batangas, Batangas Capitol and DepEd Lipa City accounted for 300, 375 and 222 runners, respectively and  walk-in Taaleños numbered 750.

The successful event was graced by local officials cum athletes, led by Vice Governor Mark Leviste, 4th District Board Member Caloy Bolilia, 3rd District Senior Board Member Fred Corona, 4th District Board Member Mabelle Virtucio, 2nd District Board Member Marvey Mariño, 4th District Board Member Kaye Briones,1st District Congresswoman Eileen Ermita-Buhain, Tuy Mayor Jay Cerrado, PNP Batangas chief PSSupt. Jireh Fidel, AETC chief Major Gen. Raul Dimatatac and Provincial Administrator Joel Montealto.

In partnership with the Heritage Town of Taal, the race was organized by a multi-sectoral committee, led by Provincial Planning Officer Benjie Bausas, co-chaired by BM Virtucio and with the active participation of Taal LGU’s Jojo Panganiban.  (Vince Altar, PIO-Capitol/PIA-Batangas) 
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/681417852602/over-4-000-join-ala-eh-fun-run-in-taal#sthash.9slJa3yO.dpuf




3.  P300k halaga ng substandard Christmas lights at disposable lighters, sinira ng DTI-Batangas
December 05, 2014

LUNGSOD NG LIPA, Batangas, Dis. 5 (PIA) --Pinangunahan kamakailan ng Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Batangas ang pagsira sa kahon-kahong Christmas lights at disposable lighters na nagkakahalaga ng P300k na nakumpiska noong nagdaang taon sa iba't-ibang pamilihan sa lungsod ng Tanauan.

Sinabi ni DTI Provincial Director Ruel Gonzales, na matagal na panahon nang ipinatutupad ng kanilang tanggapan ang mahigpit na pagsunod sa quality standards ng mga produkto kung kaya't ang mga produktong tulad nito ay hindi pumasa sa kanilang pamantayan.

"Pinangangalagaan lamang namin ang kaligtasan ng mga mamamayan kung kaya't dapat ay hindi tangkilikin ang mga produktong tulad nito sapagkat hindi ito dumaan sa tamang proseso. Ang mga produktong ito ay walang mga ICC mark at maliliit ang mga kable na maaaring maging sanhi ng sunog kapag napabayaang nakasaksak sa matagal na panahon," ayon pa kay Gonzales.

Idinagdag pa nito na maging ang mga disposable lighters na nakumpiska ay  hazardous din sa kalusugan at banta sa kaligtasan sapagkat karamihan sa mga ito kapag nahulog ay biglang pumuputok o sumasabog.

Sa taong ito, sinabi ni Gonzales na wala silang nakumpiskang mga substandard products sapagkat karamihan sa mga negosyante ay natuto na at nagdadalawang isip na sa pagbebenta ng mga walang kalidad na produkto.

Kasama ng DTI Batangas ang pamahalaang lungsod ng Lipa sa pagsira ng kumpiskadong substandard Christmas lights at mga disposable lighters na ginamitan ng pison upang tuluyan ng hindi mapakinabangan at maging banta sa kaligtasan ng mga mamamayan.

Marami naman sa mga nakasaksi sa isinagawang pagsira ang natuwa sapagkat anila mas mabuti na ito kesa mas malaking problema at kapahamakan pa ang makuha nila sa pagbili ng ganitong produkto.(MPDC, PIA Batangas)
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/681417155564/p300k-halaga-ng-substandard-christmas-lights-at-disposable-lighters-sinira-ng-dti-batangas#sthash.N9IpeAcN.dpuf




4.  Tagalog news: Kabakahan Festival, tampok sa 65th foundation anniversary ng Padre Garcia

    December 04, 2014


PADRE GARCIA, BATANGAS, Disyembre 4 (PIA) --Matagumpay ang pagdiriwang ng ika-65 taong pagkakatatag ng bayang ito alinsabay ng pagdiriwang ng Kabakahan Festival noong Disyembre



Dalawang araw na ipinagdiwang ng mga Garciano ang kanilang foundation anniversary tampok ang mga iba’t-ibang mga aktibidad.  Sinimulan ang pagdiriwang sa pamamagitan ng isang banal na misa sa Most Holy Rosary Parish Church at  sinundan kaagad ng pagbubukas ng agricultural trade fair na makikita ang mga natatanging produkto ng naturang bayan tulad ng halaman at iba’t-ibang uri ng pagkain



Binigyan din ang mga miyembro ng Department of Education (DepEd) ng pagkakataong makapaglibang sa pamamagitan ng laro ng lahi at singing contest.



Naging tampok din ang pabilisan ng pagkain ng halu-halo na isa sa ipinagmamalaki at dinarayong produkto sa bayan ng Padre Garcia.



Ilan pa sa mga aktibidad ang Belen making contest na gawa sa mga recyclable materials, Carrera De Paso at  Stars on 45 na nagpapakita ng husay ng mga Garciano.



Sa ikalawang araw ng pagdiriwang, pinangunahan nina  Mayor Abraham Gutierrez, Vice Mayor Noel Cantos at mga miyembro ng Sangguniang Bayan ang pag-aalay ng bulaklak sa mga estatwa nina Padre Vicente Garcia at  Graciano Recto na ilan sa ipinagmamalaking Garciano na may natatanging kontribusyon.



Naging highlight ng pagdiriwang ang 28 lechong baka na mula sa iba’t-ibang barangay at pribadong sektor na nakilahok sa parada gayundin ang mga kabataang sumali at nagpamalas ng angking galing sa pagsayaw sa isinagawang street dance competition.



Samantala, mula naman sa iba’t-ibang lugar sa bansa ang nakilahok sa Rodeo ala Garciano na taunang inaabangan ng mga mamamayan dahilan sa nakakamanghang pagpapakita ng mga kalahok ng tapang at lakas.



Nakibahagi din sa selebrasyon sina 4th District Congressman Mark Llandro Mendoza at  Leyte Congressman Ferdinand Martin Romualdez. (PIA Batangas)
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/681417666087/tagalog-news-kabakahan-festival-tampok-sa-65th-foundation-anniversary-ng-padre-garcia-#sthash.9IDFllB4.dpuf


5.   Tagalog news: Tanauan City, nanguna sa panlalawigang pagdiriwang ng World Aids Day 
December 03, 2014
LUNGSOD NG TANAUAN, Batangas, Disyembre 3 (PIA) – “Getting to ZERO,” ito ang pangkalahatang tema ng panlalawigang paggunita ng “World AIDS Day” na ginanap sa lungsod na ito noong  Disyembre 2, 2014.

Tinatayang mahigit sa 1,200 delagado mula sa iba’t ibang bayan at lungsod ng lalawigan ang nagtipon sa Tanauan City at nagkaisa para sa panawagang ZERO new infection, ZERO AIDS-related death at ZERO discrimination.

Pinasimulan ang pagdiriwang sa pamamagitan ng isang motorcade mula SM Lipa na nagtapos sa Jose P. Laurel Gymnasium 1 ng lungsod at kung saan ay nagkaroon ng isang maikling programa na pinalolooban ng lectures, testimonya, at open forum hinggil sa nasabing paksa.

Sa kanyang talumpati, hinimok ni Tanauan City Mayor Antonio C. Halili ang mga kabataan, lalo’t higit ang mga estudyante, na pagtuunan muna ng pansin ang kanilang pag-aaral bago sila pumasok sa anumang seksuwal na aktibidad, na isa sa mga pangunahing dahilan sa paglaganap ng AIDS. Gayunpaman, binigyan diin niya ang “responsableng” pakikipagrelasyon upang mabawasan pa ang posibilidad ng pagkalat ng sakit na ito.

Nanawagan din si Halili sa mga kinauukulan at awtoridad na pag-ibayuhin pa ang kampanya laban sa prostitusyon. Ayon pa sa kanya, bagama’t malaki na ang ibinaba ng kasong ito sa lungsod simula ng siya ay manungkulan, lubhang nakakabahala naman ang pabata ng pabata na mga naitatalang sangkot kaugnay ng panlipunang suliraning ito.

Naging tampok naman sa palatuntunan ang testimonya ng isang Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) positive at HIV/AIDS advocate na si Humprey Gorricetta. Binigyang linaw niya ang mga maling pananaw hinggil sa sakit na ito, lalo’t higit ang di makatarungang diskriminasyon sa mga biktima na katulad niya. Hinimok din niya ang pagpapasailalim sa ekspertong pagsusuri at pagsangguni sa mga kinauukulan ng sinumang nag-aakala na meron o nahawahan ng sakit upang ma-agapan ang paglala nito.

Nakiisa rin sa pagtitipon sina Batangas Provincial Health Officer Dr. Rosvilinda Ozaeta, HIV/AIDS Provincial Program Manager Ana Liza Abrenica, mga miyembro ng Sanggunian ng karatig bayan ng Malvar, at mga municipal at city health workers mula sa iba’t ibang bayan.

Malugod namang tinanggap ni Mayor Halili, mga miyembro ng Sangguniang Panlungsod, sa pangunguna ni Vice-Mayor Atty. Jhoanna Corona, at ni City Health Officer Dr. Adel Bautista, ang mga delegado sa taunang pagdiriwang. (Gerard Laresma-Tanauan CIO/PIA Batangas)
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/681417593402/tagalog-news-tanayan-city-nanguna-sa-panlalawigang-pagdiriwang-ng-world-aids-day-#sthash.uNvZJ7Zg.dpuf





6.  Tagalog news: BFP Region IV-A nagdaos ng seminar ukol sa kaligtasan
December 03, 2014
LUNGSOD NG BATANGAS, Disyembre 3 (PIA) --Naging host ang Batangas City sa 5-day seminar  on  Hazardous Materials, Incident First Response at Collapsed Structure Search and Rescue Training Course na itinaguyod ng Bureau of Fire Protection  (BFP) Region IV-A kamakailan sa Teachers Conference Center. 

May 68 kinatawan mula sa ibat-ibang lalawigan sa rehiyon, 22 mula sa lungsod ng  Batangas ang dumalo sa  limang araw na seminar.

Sinabi ni BFP Romel Tradio, na layunin ng nabanggit na pagsasanay  na mabigyan ng orientation at maitaas ang awareness level ng mga kasali sa ibat-ibang uri ng  kemikal at matalakay ang nilalaman ng  emergency response guide book bilang paghahanda ng mga BFP personnel na iddeploy sa gaganaping APEC Summit sa Tagaytay sa susunod na taon.

"Para sa mga Batangueno, mahalaga ang naturang pagsasanay sapagkat ang Batangas City ay  host ng napakaraming power plants na may flammable at  corrosive hazardous materials kung kayat matutugunan ng mga ito kung sakaling magkaroon ng leak, pagsabog o anumang untoward incidents," dagdag pa ni Tradio.

Sa nabanggit na training,  tinuruan ang mga dumalo kung papaano  ang tama at ligtas na pagresponde at mga  paraan sa pagtukoy  ng hazard at emergency decontamination procedure.  Nagkaroon din ng exercises kung saan may actual application ng kanilang mga natutunan.  

Plano ni Tradio na magbuo ng response team ang lungsod na siyang tutugon sa mga ganitong insidente at sa mga natural technologic events na bunga ng lindol. Sisimulan niya ito sa pamamagitan ng pagsasagawa ng inventory of equipment at pag-oorganize ng mga kompanya at mga stakeholders upang mai-apply ang mechanics ng inter-operability.

Nagsilbing main instructor sa naturang pagsasanay si Col. Tradio kasama ang Chief ng Poison Control Center ng Batangas Medical Center na si Dr Reyes, Special Rescuer  mula sa BFP Region IVA at si FO1 Kennedy Dimaano para sa Height and Confined  Space at paggamit ng breathing apparatus. 

Magugunita na noong Hunyo, sumailalim ang lahat ng tauhan ng Batangas City PNP sa isang Hydro carbon fire fighting training na itinaguyod ng  Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corp. Binigyang diin ni Tradio na tanging ang BFP Batangas City lamang sa buong bansa ang may ganitong uri ng pagsasanay. 

Ang distribution ng certificate of completion sa mga participant ay isinagawa noong December 1 pagkatapos ng flag ceremony sa Plaza Mabini.

Sa okasyong ito din pinagkalooban ng token of appreciation ng BFP Region IVA si Mayor Eduardo B. Dimacuha sa suportang ipinagkaloob ng pamahalaang lungsod sa mga programa ng BFP. 

Samantala, binigyang diin din ni Col Tradio na magkaroon ng ibayong pag-iingat ang publiko  ngayong panahon ng Kapaskuhan. Iwasan aniya ang paggamit ng mga sub standard na Christmas lights at huwag hayaan na bukas ang mga ilaw na ito ng magdamag sapagkat ito aniya ang pangunahing sanhi ng sunog. (Ronna Endaya Contreras, PIO-Batangas City/PIA-Batangas)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/681417597915/tagalog-news-bfp-region-iv-a-nagdaos-ng-seminar-ukol-sa-kaligtasan#sthash.CgOsdoJN.dpuf






 


Typhoon Ruby has 'zero casualties,' Says Palace
As Typhoon Ruby made landfall Sunday morning it has yet to claim any life, a Palace official said.

In a radio interview with dzRB Radyo ng Bayan, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said local government unit's (LGU) preparedness has paid off.

"Mukhang mas handa naman po ang mga LGU natin ngayon… So far, mukhang mas better prepared, ang information natin from the ground is mas better prepared po ‘yung ating mga LGU," said Valte.

"(It is) better to err on the side of prudence and on the side of caution. Mahirap na po ‘yung malagasan po tayo ng ating mga kasamahan dahil lang po hindi natin sineryoso ang mga warnings," she added.

According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, as of 6 am of Sunday, a total of 146,875 families have been evacuated in Regions IV-A, IV-B, V, VI, VII, VIII, and CARAGA, said Valte.

Valte noted that Frontline Team in Borongan, Samar is safe, and that President Benigno Aquino gave specific orders on the quickness and swiftness of damage assessment.

"The national government continues to be on alert and is constantly monitoring both the ground situation and supply coordination efforts. As we go through this storm in the following days, let us remain calm and vigilant, and bolster our government’s efforts to disseminate accurate information," said Valte. PND (ag)

 


President Aquino receiving regular updates from Eastern Visayas
President Benigno S. Aquino III continues to receive regular updates from Eastern Visayas as Typhoon Ruby approaches and expected to make landfall early Sunday morning.

"Regular naman ang ating briefing sa Pangulo at sinusubaybayan niya nga ang paghahanda rito. Nais niyang siguraduhin na nailikas na ang mga dapat na mailikas," Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas said in a radio interview Saturday.

Roxas, who is currently in eastern Samar, told dzRB Radyo ng Bayan that the President's last directivThea s to continue evacuating people as well as to preposition goods and medicines intended for communities that will be affected by the typhoon.

At the same time, he said they want to carry out the instructions of the President during the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council meeting last Thursday in Camp Aguinaldo.

Local officials still have six hours to evacuate or encourage people to move to safer grounds before the typhoon hits Eastern Visayas, Roxas said.

The interior and local government secretary, who is currently overseeing government response there, also made an assurance that there is enough supply of food, fuel and medicines in the area.

Asked about government plans to secure establishments in the region to maintain order and prevent looting, Roxas said that they issued a directive to police and fire personnel to secure their families in safe areas so they could do their jobs whenever the typhoons arrives.

Police and fire personnel worry about the safety of their families so Roxas said they instructed them to secure their families first in order for them to focus on their jobs.

Massive looting ensued in the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda last year, with crowds breaking into homes, commercial establishments and food warehouses.

President Aquino said Thursday he did not want a repeat of such a situation and instructed the police to deploy personnel early on to maintain peace and order.

Authorities in the Visayas are on the look out for Typhoon Ruby's landfall, Roxas said, adding that the typhoon is expected to hit the region around 2 a.m. Sunday. PND (as)

Public could start donating to communities to be affected by Typhoon Ruby, official says
The public could start donating food, medicines and cloths to people to be affected by Typhoon Ruby in Eastern Visayas, Interior and Local government Secretary Mar Roxas said on Saturday.

"Sa ating mga kababayan na gustong tumulong, ang DSWD ay may central packing warehouse ... nandiyan ito sa Manila," he told dzRB Radyo Ng Bayan on Saturday.

"Alam naman natin kung ano ‘yung mga pangangailangan: noodles, de lata, kandila, baterya, blanket, banig, of course, bigas—although ang NFA ay punung-puno ng bigas ngayon, ... iyan ang mga pangangailangan."

Typhoon affected communities will appreciate tarpaulin, dry clothes, jackets, plastic or other useful materials from the public, he said.

Roxas is in Eastern Samar to oversee government preparations ahead of Typhoon Ruby's landfall on Sunday morning.

The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), according to Roxas, made a projection that Typhoon Ruby will bring intensive rains so people must be evacuated to safe areas.

Roxas also said that his office will coordinate with Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Social Welfare Secretary Dinky Soliman and PAGASA. Soliman is in DSWD's Cebu headquarters to immediately respond to whatever need on the ground, he said.

Typhoon Ruby, with a sustained wind of 240 kph, is expected to make landfall in Eastern Visayas around 2 a.m. Sunday. PND (as)




Health department reports prepositioning of medicine, medical supplies in Eastern Visayas
The Department of Health said it has prepositioned P242 million worth of medicine and medical supplies in Eastern Visayas, where super typhoon ‘Ruby’ is expected to make landfall on Saturday afternoon.

During a National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) meeting presided over by President Benigno S. Aquino III on Thursday afternoon, Acting Health Secretary Janette Garin said they have also readied P48 million in additional funds from the central office, as well as body bags that regional offices could distribute to local government units if there is a need.

Garin further said they are on Code Blue alert, which means 50 percent of their personnel are reporting to hospitals and regional offices.

On Saturday, she said, the Health Department will be on Code Red alert, requiring 100 percent of their personnel and hospital workers to report to their respective offices to respond to emergencies.

Standby teams have been formed and logistics have been prepared, she added.

Health offices and hospitals have been given cash advances and there will be close coordination between the central and regional offices, she said.

A satellite phone from the V. Luna General Hospital will be sent to Eastern Visayas on Friday, she said, adding that the Health Department has rented motorcycles and bicycles to be used as means of transport in areas that would be rendered impassable by the storm. PND (as)

President Aquino directs agencies to address panic buying, ensure sufficient food supply
President Benigno S. Aquino III has instructed government agencies to deal with reports of panic buying and hoarding in areas expected to be hit by Typhoon ‘Ruby’ this weekend.

During a National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) meeting he led on Thursday afternoon, President Aquino ordered the deployment of “rolling stores” to ensure sufficient supply of basic commodities.

The Chief Executive also directed food agencies to ensure the availability of rice and ordered the police to secure warehouses where food and other relief goods are stored.

During the meeting, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) reported to the President that it has sent 3,000 food packs to Borongan, Samar, after receiving an advisory that Eastern Samar could be affected.

The department said it will also send about 2,000 food packs to Marabut town in Samar, for families that need to be evacuated from low-lying areas.

It said it is assessing the situation in other low-lying areas and that food items are being repacked in Eastern Visayas.

The DSWD said it has more than 30,000 readily available family food packs.

In Tacloban City, the department said it has begun transferring families from Barangay 88, the immediate vicinity of the Tacloban airport, to permanent shelters built for victims of Typhoon Yolanda.

As of Thursday, the department has settled some 35 families. PND (as)

President Aquino says he is responsible for how government works in preparing for Typhoon ‘Ruby’
In the midst of preparations being made to brace for the impact of super typhoon ‘Ruby’, President Benigno S. Aquino III said Friday he is ultimately responsible for how the government works and he want to impress on everyone that it is not just a matter of doing something but rather doing the right thing.

Responding to comments on how he led Thursday’s National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) meeting, President Aquino quipped that his Cabinet secretaries have to endure “a thesis-like defense presentation” whenever he asks them questions.

“But at the end of the day, I really want to be able to say to myself when I look in the mirror, that we have done everything that was humanly possible to address whatever was issued to us,” he said during the 28th Annual Bulong Pulungan Christmas Party and Forum held at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila in Pasay City.

“And I impress on all the members of this government, and not just in the Executive, that we do bear a responsibility to everybody and we should not have a period where we are regretting that we could have done something and we didn’t choose to do so. So, perhaps that is my way of making sure that everybody is doing the utmost in their respective roles,” he said.

President Aquino on Thursday afternoon presided over a meeting in Camp Aquinaldo to coordinate government efforts to mitigate the impact of Typhoon ‘Ruby,' which is expected to hit Eastern Visayas on Saturday afternoon.

During the Bulong Pulungan, President Aquino also expressed his satisfaction with the presentation made by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) during the NDRRMC meeting.

“We had to learn about the science of all of this. We had to be clarified as to the precise meaning of all of the phrases and words and the jargon that was being thrown about in the hope of being able to direct the necessary actions in a more precise manner. So I was very happy with the DOST presentation,” he said.

He said he was also satisfied with the respective presentations of the Department of Public Works and Highways, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, and the Department of Energy. PND (ag)

President Aquino to request prayers for disaster-free Philippines when he meets Pope Francis
President Benigno S. Aquino III said he would ask Pope Francis to pray for a disaster-free Philippines when he meets the head of the Catholic Church next month.

The Chief Executive conveyed this on Friday during this year’s ‘Bulong Pulungan’ forum organized by a group of lifestyle columnists. The event was held at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Hotel in Pasay City.

Upon his arrival in Manila, Pope Francis is expected to pay a courtesy call on President Aquino in Malacañang Palace, where they will have an opportunity to discuss matters of mutual interest.

As host, President Aquino said that out of respect, he would let his guest steer the discussion, especially since he and Pope Francis will only have a maximum of one hour to talk.

“Of course, he’s the Holy Father. We’ll have something like a maximum of one hour and I’m sure there are so many people who would love to have an opportunity to be blessed by him in that one hour. So, I guess I really will leave the discussion topics to him, out of respect,” he said.

Pressed, however, to reveal what is it that he would ask the pope to pray for him or for the country during the once-in-a-lifetime occasion, President Aquino responded with hopes that the Philippines could be spared from destructive typhoons that occur almost every year, especially at a time when people are already welcoming the joyous Christmas season.

“We are visited by so many typhoons, and they come here at very unseasonal moments, and they are very strong. We also have the earthquakes and the volcanoes, and parang ... we don't have the ability to stop the cycle of destruction and reconstruction. The goal really is to... when we reconstruct, it’s better,” he explained.

“It withstands the glowing intensity of the effects of global climate change better, and our people are spared the ravages of the increasing challenges. So, ‘di ba, parang… I’m sure some are asking: Why are we being visited with all of these always at this point when it is supposed to be the most joyous and most celebratory period of the year?” he added.

The Philippines has been battered by such tropical cyclones as Typhoons ‘Sendong,' ‘Pablo,' and ‘Yolanda,' which all came in between the months of November and December over the past three years. It is currently bracing for Typhoon ‘Ruby.'

Included in Pope Francis’ official itinerary during his five-day (January 15 to 19) visit here is a trip to the towns of Tacloban and Palo in Leyte, two of the areas that suffered the most number of casualties in the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda in 2013. PND (hdc)

President Aquino says ‘renewed optimism’ among Filipinos makes him happy
President Benigno S. Aquino III has said the happiest moment of his presidency is when he sees the renewed optimism and the change in attitude among Filipinos, brought about by a stronger economy.

“At the end of the day, when you see the renewed optimism and the attitude that is different in our people, where it seems nothing is impossible. That, I think, brings out the ‘great’ as a nation, from the time we stepped into office when there was massive cynicism, where the primary goal was how to leave the Philippines, to now, with the young coming back home,” the President said when asked about his happiest moment in his life as president, during the 28th Annual Bulong Pulungan Christmas Party held at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila in Pasay City.

He cited that the improvement in the economy has, according to the National Economic and Development Authority, lifted about 2.5 million people out of poverty, with an estimated 1.6 million getting new jobs. Many Filipinos, he said, found new jobs in the manufacturing sector after attending programs conducted by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.
He also noted that young Filipinos living abroad have expressed their intention to return to the country due to the transformation of the Philippines.
“I was just talking about the young coming back home. That, again, makes us all happy and makes all of this worthwhile,” said the President. PND (ag)

‘Family time’ is President Aquino’s Christmas wish this year
President Benigno S. Aquino III wants to spend some quality time with his family, saying this is his Christmas wish for himself and for the 10 million Filipino workers scattered all over the world.The President revealed this on Friday during the annual Bulong Pulungan forum attended by some of the country’s lifestyle journalists at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza in Pasay City.
“Christmas to the Filipino is family time. We have 10 million Filipinos supposedly out of the country, and you’d want some contact between the 10 million and their families here, and quality time at that,” he said.
President Aquino underscored that ‘quality time’ does not have to center around material wealth, but on being able to relish every second that one gets to spend with his or her family.
The President also wished that every Filipino family have a peaceful Christmas celebration this year, unlike last year when so many families were forced to deal with the pain of losing loved ones and properties because of Typhoon ‘Yolanda.'
“The wish really is that we have that peaceful moment where we are not confronted with very severe challenges like last year, and that we are focused on really just pausing and enjoying something that is so intrinsically part of the Filipino culture, which is having that family time. So, if we are able to assist in maximizing that opportunity, then I think that is the central wish,” he said.
President Aquino loosened up a bit from discussing the serious affairs of the state during the forum, and tried to satisfy some of the lifestyle writers’ curiosity with respect to his musical tastes and his dream car.
A known music lover, the President said music became important to him when he took over the presidency. He mentioned specific genres he would occasionally listen to, depending on his mood.
“For instance, the Great American Songbook, the jazz standards at night to calm down, or sometimes religious songs when you really need to calm down,” he said, eliciting laughter from the audience.
He added that he would also listen to some rock and dance music when he needs to be filled with energy, and classical music when he needs “something really different” to take his mind off things. He however is not a fan of rap and love songs.
With regards to his dream car, President Aquino, who is also a car enthusiast, said he is not into classic cars and would rather wait for 2015 models before answering that question. PND (hdc)

President Aquino confers Presidential Awards to outstanding overseas Filipinos, organizations
President Benigno S. Aquino III on Friday honored 33 outstanding overseas Filipinos and foreign-based organizations during the conferment of the 2014 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas held in Malacañang Palace.

In his speech, President Aquino expressed his gratitude to the awardees, noting that although they are based overseas, they have contributed to nation building.

"While the awards you receive today are symbols of your success, I am hopeful that you also treat them as invitations: to continue your pursuit of excellence, and the way you bring pride and honor to our country," he said.

"Let us continue doing our very best to fulfill our individual roles in nation building. We have changed the way the world sees us, and we must build on this; we must ride our current momentum and show the world that the excellence of the Filipino knows no bounds."

The Chief Executive said that in the past four years of his administration, the support of the Filipino people has allowed his government to turn the country’s fortunes around for the better.

With the help of the people, he said, the government has been able to carry out reforms, overhaul the budgeting process, and spend public money on beneficial projects.

The government has also successfully channeled the state’s resources to invest in projects geared towards health, education, and poverty alleviation, thus empowering the people, he added.

Institutionalized in 1991 through Executive Order 498, the Presidential Awards is a biennial search for overseas-based individuals and organizations that have dedicated their work to improving the lives of Filipinos abroad.

The awards also recognize those who have selflessly supported the relief, rehabilitation and development programs in the Philippines and those who have excelled in their fields or professions.

The awardees underwent a screening process that was done by three different communities with representatives from the government, civil society, media, academe, religious and business sectors. They emerged from a total of 157 nominations from 29 countries.

The Presidential Awards consist of the Kaanib ng Bayan Award, Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino Award, Banaag Award, and Pamana ng Pilipino Award.

The Kaanib ng Bayan Award went to the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (Israel), Wako Asato (Japan), Humana Aid Society, and Dominiek Segaert (Belgium).

The lone recipient of the Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino Award was Serenata (Saudi Arabia).

The Banaag Award meanwhile was conferred to the Daegu Filipino Community Council (South Korea), Danilo M. Favor (United Kingdom), Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers Central Region Chapter Saudi Arabia, Rosa Angelica Libron (South Korea), Augusto Mercado (USA), Migrante Heritage Commission (USA), Victoria V. Navarro (USA), and Anika A. Sasaki (Japan).

The Pamana ng Pilipino Award was granted to Marianito Asperilla (USA), Michael Cinco (UAE), Kristoffer L. Collo (USA), Cristeta Comerford (USA), Sheila S. Coronel (USA), William D. Dar (India), Roderick M. Dela Cruz (USA), Filomenita M. Hoegsholm (Denmark), Jonathan D. Irabagon (USA), Jasmine B. Lee (South Korea), Cecile B. Licad (USA), Sheila Lirio-Marcelo (USA), Robert Lopez (USA), Katherine Luzuriaga (USA), Baldomero M. Olivera (USA), Alfredo R. Roces (Australia), Lea Salonga (USA), Lolita Valderrama-Savaje (USA), Paolo Antonio S. Silva (USA), and Ofelia Gelvezon-Tequi (France). PND (as)

 
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P242-milyong halaga ng gamot at kailangang pangkalusugan, inihanda na ng DOH para sa mga pook na babagtasin ni 'Ruby'
Umaabot sa kabuuang P242 milyon ang halaga ng gamot at kailangang pangkalusugan ang inihanda na ng Kagawaran ng Kalusugan para sa Silangang Kabisayaan na siyang inaasahang babagtasin ng napakalakas na bagyong Ruby Sabado ng hapon.

Sa pulong ng National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) na pinamunuan ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III Huwebes, sinabi ng nanunuparang Kalihim Janette Garin ng Kalusugan na bukod dito ay naghanda pa rin sila ng P48 milyong karagdagang pondo buhat sa punong tanggapan, gayundin ng mga body bags na maaaring ipamahagi ng mga pampurok na tanggapan nila sa mga lokal na pamahalaan kung kakailanganin ito.

Idinugtong pa ni Garin na nasa Blue Code alert na sila, na ang ibig sabihin ay kalahati o 50 porsiyento ng mga tauhan nila ang magrereport sa mga ospital at pampurok na tanggapan.

Sa Sabado, sabi ni Garin, ang Kagawaran ng Kalusugan ay magiging Code Red alert na kaya lahat ng kanilang mga tauhan (100 porsiyento), kasama pati ang nasa mga pagamutan ay magsisipasok sa kani-kanilang mga opisina upang makatugon sa mga pangkagipitang pangangailangan.

Ang mga standby teams ay itinatag at pinaglaanan na ng pondo, sabi pa ni Garin.

Ang mga tanggapang pangkalusugan at mga ospital ay binigyan na rin ng cash advances at puspusang makikipagtulungan sa punong tanggapan at mga pampurok na tanggapang pangkalusugan, sang-ayon pa kay Garin.

Idinagdag pa ni Garin na isang satellite phone buhat sa V. Luna General Hospital ang ipadadala sa Silangang Kabisayaan sa Biyernes (Disyembre 5), bukod pa sa mga motorsiklo at bisikleta na inarkila ng Kagawaran ng Kalusugan para magamit sa pagtungo sa mga pook na maaaring hindi madaanan ng karaniwang sasakyan dahil sa bagyo. PND (as/zaf)



 


President Benigno S. Aquino III's Speech at the 2014 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas
Malacañan Palace
05 Dec.2014


When I was looking at the progam and I saw that Lea was going to sing, I said, “We are indeed very fortunate.” Who would not want to hear Lea sing? And you’ve come a long way in your 21 years, Lea, talaga—of life. [Laughter]

Of course, we have our own artist-in-residence here in the Palace. We have a very efficient Secretary of Justice. Who also performs the entertainment functions [laughter] from time to time, but not at this time because she is preparing a lot of memos to guide certain quarters with regard tackling Ruby–so not today. [Laughter] I’m sure we’ll be able to prevail upon her in some future time. [Laughter]

As President, I am confronted each day with a seemingly endless stream of issues and concerns, each of which claims to be the most urgent, and demands my immediate attention. Part of my job is prioritizing which urgent concern to address first. For instance, this week, we have been preparing for Typhoon Ruby, which entered our country’s area of responsibility yesterday. This involves coordinating all agencies to make sure that they are working in the most efficient manner possible, so that damages we can greatly reduce the risk to our population and minimize the sufferings of those that will be affected. This, we have done on top of all the issues that likewise need appropriate solutions.

Events like this awarding ceremony, then, are very welcome, as they provide me a respite, no matter how brief, from the heavy and never-ending demands of the job. Each awardee in this hall today has an inspiring success story that infuses a little more positivity into our lives. We have those who have championed better lives for Filipino migrants abroad, and those who have become channels through which the world can witness the excellence of the Filipino.

It is thanks to individuals like you that Filipinos abroad are able to cope with the many challenges of being far away from home. This is something I know, slightly, from experience. Some of you might know that, during the Martial Law years, my family lived in exile in Boston. Back then, it was the warmth and solidarity of our countrymen that kept the fire of hope alive within all of us, as we continued the battle against the dictatorship. Indeed: it is men and women like you who help to forge a sense of community on distant shores, and who display to the world the innate talents and drive of our people.

I have no doubt that those of you who have flown in from abroad have seen that, while many things have changed in our country, some things will always stay the same, namely: the warmth our country is known for, both literally and figuratively. Some of you may have already caught up with relatives over some home-cooked adobo. But perhaps if you take a closer look around, you will notice that the Filipino people have made even grander preparations for your return, and for the eventual return of the rest of our countrymen abroad: a country that is revitalized and filled with optimism.

Over the past four years and five months, the support of the Filipino people has allowed us to turn our country’s fortunes around for the better. In May of 2010, they voted for the idea that was the heart and soul of my campaign for the Presidency, encapsulate in the slogan: “Kung walang corrupt, walang mahirap,” or in English, “Where there is no corruption, there will be no poverty.”

The backing of the Filipino people has allowed us to pursue major reform after major reform. It has allowed us to overhaul our budgeting process, so that we only spend our people’s money on projects that will benefit our people. It has helped us foster a fair and level macroeconomic environment, winning the confidence of investors and thus leading to more expansive opportunities for our people. It has allowed us to channel the state’s resources to invest in projects geared towards health, education, and poverty alleviation, thus empowering our countrymen to make the most of our current economic resurgence. Our people’s continued support has likewise made it possible for us to pursue all those who have erred against the people, regardless of their power or influence.

Perhaps you have seen, in the countries you reside in, the dramatic change in how the Philippines is perceived. As economies all over the world are still steadying themselves after the uncertainty of recent years, the global community has made no secret of their renewed belief in our country. Credit ratings agencies around the world have granted us a total of 20 positive credit ratings actions during our term, with the most significant ones coming last year, when Moody’s, Standard & Poor’s, and Fitch unanimously granted us investment grade status. We have gone from being considered an economic basket case to being referred to by some as “Asia’s New Tiger.” We have made continued and significant progress along many global measures of competitiveness, including the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Index and the World Economic Forum’s Global Competitiveness Report. In fact, just yesterday, Transparency International released its 2014 Corruption Perceptions Index, where the Philippines improved once more, marking a 49-place improvement for our country since 2010.

You will also be interested in the strides we have made in the aviation industry. Last year, through the hard work of our Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines and our local carriers, the International Civil Aviation Organization lifted the significant safety concerns it had previously issued our country. This was followed by the European Union lifting the ban on Philippine Airlines. This 2014, the EU did the same for Cebu Pacific. Needless to say, this means that we can expect direct flights to multiple locations in Europe to increase in the near future.

In 2014, the United States Federal Aviation Administration likewise upgraded the Philippines back to Category 1 status. Thus, we can also expect an expansion of routes going to and from the United States. The implications are wide: Filipinos such as yourselves will now find it easier to come back home; tourists and businessmen alike will also find it more convenient to visit our country and see what we have to offer. This was made possible through the leadership of CAAP Director General William Hotchkiss, the cooperation of our airlines, and the continued backing of our people.

Indeed, times have changed. As you continue your work in your offices, your community centers, your studios, your clinics, and laboratories towards the pride and upliftment of our people, you have a government and a Filipino people that is working shoulder-to-shoulder with all of you. Together, we have given rise to a global community where Filipinos can truly hold their heads high.

While the awards you receive today are symbols of your success, I am hopeful that you also treat them as invitations: to continue your pursuit of excellence, and the way you bring pride and honor to our country. Let us continue doing our very best to fulfill our individual roles in nation building. We have changed the way the world sees us, and we must build on this; we must ride our current momentum and show the world that the excellence of the Filipino knows no bounds.

Thank you, good day, and an early Merry Christmas to all.












President Benigno S. Aquino III's Speech at the 28th annual Bulong Pulungan Christmas Party
Sofitel Philippine Plaza, Pasay City
05 Dec.2014
Magandang umaga po sa inyong lahat

As President, I look forward to every Bulong-Pulungan. [Applause] It has always been a pleasure to be with you, as it brings back many memories, most particularly of the time Tita Deedee and our good friends in this room helped mom communicate the message of hope to our people. To me, you have always been a consistent, engaging group of respected friends and partners who never ask inane questions. [Laughter] Rather, I would have to admit: your queries are often presented in a thought-provoking manner, and thus every question from you is a welcome opportunity to reflect and find deeper insight.

It is unfortunate, however, that our gathering once more comes at a time of concern. All of us here were looking forward to having a quiet Christmas this year, to taking a breather and finding the time to recharge for 2015. However, as you are all well aware, Typhoon Ruby confronts us as a nation. The recent days in anticipation of this typhoon have been filled with varying opinions and reports from our friends in the industry, and being with you brings to my mind the vastness of media’s capacity to shape discourse, agenda, and the priorities of both government and society.

Thus, allow me to share this example with you: On Tuesday, Secretary Mario Montejo of our DOST informed me that Ruby’s estimated strength would be somewhere in the neighborhood of about 140 kilometers per hour, bringing with it heavy rains if it makes landfall, expectedly on Sunday. Let us remember that now that Yolanda’s maximum winds based on some reports were pegged at about 300 kph. On Wednesday, one of our major dailies headlined Ruby as “Yolanda-like.” We all know that the paper had to be printed on Tuesday, and thus the information that the report was based must have come from Tuesday’s information. I was concerned with such a statement, and I had to ask Secretary Montejo to confirm this information; and up until yesterday at the NDRRMC briefing, there was no indication or official analysis predicting that Ruby would be Yolanda-like in strength. At best, if Ruby struck, its strength would be more comparable to Pablo.

One has to ask: What was the basis of such speculation, and don’t we all agree that in reporting, we must always get the facts right, the angle right, and the news right, if we are to truly inform our people?

Now, even as we ponder this point, let us bear in mind that it is the Christmas season, and it is incumbent upon all of us to demonstrate goodwill and good cheer. Yesterday’s NDRRMC briefing reminded everyone, from those of us in government, to our partners in the private sector, and even our friends in media, that we must do our utmost, leave nothing to chance, improve where we can, and match what we have done so well in the past. Today, it is my hope that from your pens will come the responsible, sober writing that will help foster the confidence we need as we weather this challenge again as a people.

In the spirit of the season, allow me to express my gratitude to you for being exemplars of your profession. Interacting with you always highlights the fact that you are women and men who enjoy respected status in our media; you are journalists who have paid their dues to propel the standards of your profession. You are widely quoted as influencers in our society, and you are free to say what you think with a sure audience ready to listen. As you have earned the respect of our people, you have no other motivation than to do what is right, to voice your informed and honest opinions, to stimulate relevant and productive discussions, and to set a standard in news-making that caters not to the mob but to the truth. May you continue to serve as exemplars who adhere to the most fundamental principles of journalism, principles which have served to enlighten our nation for generations, principles that inspire our people to action, principles that remind us that we can achieve so much more when we rest our faith in each other and, of course, in the Lord Almighty.

I look forward to your thought-provoking questions, and might I preempt you though regarding one question that is always asked here, the one about my love life, [laughter] to which the answer remains the same. [Laughter]

Thank you, and I wish everyone a meaningful Christmas.
 

06 DEC 2014
DPWH alerts building contractors ahead of typhoon Ruby
November Inflation Decelerates Further to 3.7 Percent
DSWD beefs up disaster response preps for ‘Ruby’
DepEd affirms "No militarization in schools"
PhilMech, KOICA back increased Ylang-Ylang oil production
‘Activate Quick Reaction Teams; be ready with cash-for-work’ Baldoz instructs as she alerts DOLE regions for super typhoon Ruby
DPWH in need of young breed of engineers
DPWH completes 5 tourism road projects in Region 6
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas partners with Science City of Munoz and the Province of Nueva Vizcaya
End-November 2014 GIR level reaches US$79 billion
DOJ announces appointment of Prosecutors in the National Prosecution Service
Customs Collector downed by inconsistencies with estranged wife’s SALN
Department of Finance pushes for subsidies for persons with Disabilities
Roxas, tutungo sa Eastern Samar upang tumulong sa mga paghahanda sa bagyo
DOE leads the monitoring of power conditions during Typhoon Ruby

DPWH alerts building contractors ahead of typhoon Ruby
Source: http://www.dpwh.gov.ph
In preparation for the onslaught of Typhoon Ruby, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Rogelio L. Singson is urging all building contractors handling projects within typhoon’s path to observe safety measures.

Singson urges contractors to comply with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Department Order No. 13, Series of 1998 or the “Guidelines Governing Occupational Safety and Health in the Construction Industry” to ensure the protection and welfare of workers and the general public around the immediate vicinity of any construction worksite.

“All building contractors are hereby directed to properly secure overhead cranes on top of buildings under construction and to provide safety signages on areas where there are potential risks of falling debris,” said Secretary Singson.

Likewise, Singson ordered building officials to strictly monitor the compliance of contractors on the above directive and the DOLE Department Order No. 13.

November Inflation Decelerates Further to 3.7 Percent
Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph
Headline inflation slowed down to 3.7 percent year-on-year in November from 4.3 percent in October. The November inflation reading was within the BSP’s forecast range of 3.5-4.3 percent for the month. The resulting year-to-date average inflation rate of 4.3 percent was also within the Government’s inflation target range of 4.0 percent ± 1.0 percentage point for 2014. Likewise, core inflation—which excludes certain food and energy items to better capture underlying price pressures—eased to 2.7 percent in November from 3.2 percent in the previous month. On a month-on-month seasonally-adjusted basis, the change in the consumer price index declined by 0.1 percent in November from 0.2 percent in October.

The continued deceleration of headline inflation in November was driven largely by the lower prices of electricity and domestic petroleum products along with the slower increases in food prices. Non-food inflation edged lower due mainly to lower pump prices of diesel and gasoline (reflecting declines in international oil prices), price reductions in kerosene and LPG as well as the downward adjustment in electricity rates as a result of lower generation charges. Similarly, food inflation slowed down on adequate domestic supply of key food items, particularly rice, corn, meat, oils, vegetables, and sugar.

Governor Amando M. Tetangco, Jr. said that the latest inflation reading is in line with the BSP’s assessment of a manageable inflation environment over the policy horizon. Looking ahead, the BSP will remain vigilant in monitoring developments on both the global and domestic fronts and stand ready to undertake appropriate measures, as needed, to safeguard its price stability objectives.

DSWD beefs up disaster response preps for ‘Ruby’
Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph
Two days before the forecasted landfall of Typhoon Ruby, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has intensified its disaster response preparations as it continues to preposition relief goods at the Local Government Units (LGU) and facilitates evacuation of families fin critical areas. Based on the latest weather bulletin, ‘Ruby’ is projected to make its first landfall in Eastern Samar on Saturday and will affect Southern Luzon, MIMAROPA, Bicol Region, Western, Central, and Eastern Visayas. Presently, there are 120 evacuation centers in Eastern Visayas and CARAGA, currently serving 6,293 families or 30,494 individuals. Prepositioned goods A total of 216,756 family food packs worth P71.4 million are available and prepositioned in DSWD-Field Offices along the typhoon’s path. Likewise, non-food items amounting to P104 million are also ready for distribution to LGUs to be hit by ‘Ruby’. Standby funds amounting to P8.5 million has been earmarked for the purchase of emergency relief supplies, when needed. To ensure the adequate supply of goods and their speedy distribution to affected families, DSWD has adopted the system of providing LGUs with warehouses bulk goods which they can already repack. DSWD, in turn, will strengthen its monitoring system to ensure that the relief goods prepositioned at the LGU level will go to rightful beneficiaries. DSWD-Field Office VIII has currently employed this system, distributing the goods for repacking of the LGUs. To date, prepositioned goods were delivered to the provinces of Eastern Samar, Leyte, Northern Samar, and Samar areas with a total of 10,250 sacks of 50-kg rice and 15,000 boxes of canned goods. Pre-emptive evacuation DSWD-Field Offices along ‘Ruby’s’ path are now coordinating with LGUs for the pre-emptive evacuation of residents of coastal and low-lying areas. In Region VI, pre-emptive evacuation was ordered in the municipality of Concepcion, Iloilo for all residents in Baliguian Island. Likewise, residents in the coastal barangay in Tubajon, Dinagat province are waiting to be evacuated. The LGUs of Tacloban City, Catbalongan, and Pinabacadao in Samar also conducted pre-emptive evacuation. DSWD is also coordinating with LGUs for the list of all evacuation centers available at the barangay, municipal, city, and provincial level to facilitate the speedy movement of families in safer areas. Repacking As part of its intensified preparations, the Department has also beefed up its repacking of goods. DSWD is also currently coordinating with some schools in Metro Manila to serve as repacking hubs, similar to what was done at the height of Typhoon Yolanda disaster operations. Disaster teams All Quick Response Teams in DSWD-Field Offices along the typhoon’s path are on alert to assess and monitor the extent of the disaster and to help LGUs identify other appropriate services for survivors. As part of the Department’s strengthened disaster response, personnel from other DSWD-Field Offices are being mobilized for deployment to assist in disaster operations. DSWD is also in close coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) , Philippine National Police (PNP), and other volunteers for logistic support in the eventuality of rescue and immediate disaster response.

DepEd affirms "No militarization in schools"
Source: http://www.deped.gov.ph
PASIG CITY -- “Walang eskwelahan, pribado man o pampubliko, na nagpapahintulot sa pagpasok ng kahit sinumang armadong indibidwal o grupo,” Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC emphasized during a dialogue Tuesday with some Lumad representatives and members of the Save Our Schools Network on the alleged military presence in some schools in Mindanao.

Luistro clarified the content of DepEd Memorandum 221 entitled “Guidelines on the Protection of Children During Armed Conflict,” issued last 2013. He reiterated that armed persons are not allowed to enter school grounds following the guidelines stipulated in the said memo.

“Nakalagay po diyan sa DepEd Memo na iyan ang sistema ng imbestigasyon. Kasama po diyan na hindi lang hanggang division lamang. Kasama po sa prosesong iyan ang monitoring, investigation, and action. Ang laman po ng DM 221 ay ang proseso na sinusundan natin.,” Luistro explained.

“Madali lang magrevoke ng memo. Ang problema, pag ni-revoke ko yang memo, wala tayong masusundan na proseso para sa hinaing na inyong inilahad. Baka po pwede ninyong ireview ulit yung memo kasi pag ni-revoke ko po yan, lalu akong walang panghahawakan.”

He stressed that DepEd is one with the protesters in their concern for the safety of all persons in schools. “Napagkasunduan namin na DepEd ang mangunguna at magiging tulay para maipakita ang kanilang mga dokumento at mailahad ang kanilang mga sinalaysay na karanasan. Dahil napapaloob rin sa EO138 ang mga nasabing hinanaing, amin itong idudulog sa Inter-agency committee sa pangunguna ng Council on the Welfare of Children.”

Executive Order 138 establishes the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) as the chair of the Inter-agency Committee on Children in Armed Conflict, with DepEd as one of its member agencies.

"We maintain that schools are zones of peace so there should be no armed personnel inside school grounds as it puts our students at risk,” Secretary Luistro underscored during the dialogue. He also emphasized that military operations and engagements are not allowed inside school premises, except for civil-military activities like Brigada Eskwela and Medical Missions. “Pati nga po pulis, hindi basta puwedeng pumasok sa eskwelahan. May programa dapat yan, walang baril,” he added.

“The concerns (on military presence in schools) brought to our attention are alarming but we still need to follow a process, a proper investigation on the allegations we heard in the dialogue,” explained Luistro. He also requested members of the affected schools to submit documentary evidence like photographs, videos, or narratives of the harassment done by armed personnel on the schools for a more “swift and comprehensive investigation.”

At present no documents have been submitted to DepEd by the Save Our Schools Network.

“It's our mandate to ensure the safety and well-being of learners, teachers, and staff in our schools therefore we remind all armed persons, be they members of the military, police, or civilians, to uphold our guidelines in the interest of keeping our schools safe and peaceful,” said Luistro.

PhilMech, KOICA back increased Ylang-Ylang oil production
Source: http://www.da.gov.ph
A project by the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech) and the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) will make Tarlac the top producer of export-grade Ylang-Ylang oil in the Philippines.

PhilMech Executive Director Rex L. Bingabing said that the agency and KOICA, through its Deputy Resident Representative Heesoo Hong, signed an agreement last week that will facilitate the deployment of 10 Ylang-Ylang oil extractor machines in various barangays in Tarlac, which will make cooperators in the selected barangays produce export grade oil from Ylang-Ylang.

The Ylang-Ylang oil extractor machine was designed by Korean experts in collaboration with the Korean Inventions Promotion Association (KIPA), which is under the Korean Intellectual Property Office, a government agency in South Korea.

“The machine can process 10 kilograms of Ylang-Ylang flowers in six to eight hours to produce 10 milliliters of oil. The aim is for the cooperators to produce export grade Ylang-Ylang oil which commands a high price in the export market,” Bingabing said.

Export grade Ylang-Ylang oil costs P45,000 per liter. The Korean Inventors Promotion Association collaborated with PhilMech to develop the Ylang-Ylang oil extracting machine. KOICA will be providing P20 million for the project.

The Ylang-Ylang being grown and propagated in Anao, Tarlac is considered to offer the best scent among Ylang-Ylang trees in the Philippines, and has an export potential as a cologne or a raw material for perfumes.

Ylang-Ylang’s origins is in Southeast Asia and can be propagated through seeds. The Ylang-Ylang tree can grow up to 80 feet and steam distillation is the most popular method in extracting oil from its flowers.

PhilMech tested its first Ylang-Ylang oil extractor machine in Anao, Tarlac since last year.

Prior to the development of the prototype oil extractor machine by PhilMech, the people of Anao had to sell their harvested flowers to processors or undertake a cottage-level extraction of the oils which is not usually efficient.

Bingabing said that PhilMech’s Ylang-Ylang oil extractor machine is also a product of Agrinnovation, where existing technologies are modified or even improved to suit Philippine conditions.

The Agrinnovation approach of PhilMech for its research and development activities on farm machines has resulted to the development of prototype models in six to 12 months compared to usual three to five years.(PhilMech Communication Team)

‘Activate Quick Reaction Teams; be ready with cash-for-work’ Baldoz instructs as she alerts DOLE regions for super typhoon Ruby
Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph
Dubai, UAE—Saying the DOLE has learned many lessons from various natural calamities, including Typhoon Yolanda last year, Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz yesterday directed all DOLE regional directors in Central Visayas and Southern Luzon to be ready and brace themselves for Typhoon Ruby which the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said is expected to make landfall on Saturday.

“Let’s prepare for this typhoon. All your regional personnel should be on alert and ready to provide assistance to our workers. We all should take precautions,” Baldoz instructed as she prepares to head home after a grueling official visit of Philippine Overseas Labor Offices in the Middle East.

Baldoz ordered DOLE Regional Directors Anna Dione (Region 3); Alex Avila (NCR); Zenaida Angara-Campita (Region 4-A); Teodoro Delson (Region 4-B); Nathaniel Lacambra (Region 5); Ponciano Ligutom (Region 6); Exequiel Sarcauga (Region 7); Eliseo Cayanong (Region 8); Raymundo Agravante (Region 10); and Johnson Canete (Region 13, Caraga), to activate their respective Quick Response Teams that will assist workers and families after the typhoon.

“Compose your QRTs so that they will be ready to assess and evaluate the extent of damage of the typhoon to firms and establishments once it has passed, and be ready to provide DOLE’s package of assistance to workers displaced by the calamity,” Baldoz said.

The QRT is a team within the DOLE activated to assist workers displaced by closures and retrenchments of companies due to various reasons, including natural calamities.

The QRT’s main responsibility is to deliver a package of assistance which consists of the following: (1) profiling of displaced workers; (2) employment guidance and counseling; (3) facilitation of payment of separation pay; (4) employment matching and referral for wage employment (using available facilities, such as the PhilJobnet and jobs fair; (5) information on and certification for SSS loan availment; (6) referral to other DOLE programs; and (7) referral of qualified displaced workers to other government and non-government organizations for technical and financial assistance for livelihood or self-employment.

Baldoz said workers who will be displaced from the closures of firms and establishments in the regions that will be affected by the typhoon will qualify for the package of assistance.

She also said several programs under the DOLE Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program, or DILEEP, can be made available to worker-victims, including the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD), where workers in the affected areas are engaged in community and rural rehabilitation work, specifically in de-clogging, clearing, and cleaning of communities, schools, and evacuation centers; and the Nego-Kart or Negosyo sa Kariton and Kabuhayan Starter Kits, the DOLE’s livelihood enhancement program consisting of a package of services that will enable the target beneficiaries to quickly start livelihood undertaking and become self-employed to recover lost incomes.

Baldoz had already directed the DOLE’s Financial Management Service to set aside DOLE funds for emergency employment and to be ready to disburse these accordingly.

The Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) in Hawaii had upgraded Typhoon “Ruby” (international name: Hagupit) into a super typhoon, which it said is heading toward the Philippines with maximum sustained winds of 287 kilometers per hour and gusts of 351 kph. The PAGASA had said Typhoon Ruby is likely to hit Central Visayas like Typhoon Yolanda did last year.

A number of provinces has been projected to be affected by Typhoon Ruby, including Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Samar, Biliran, Leyte, Southern Leyte, all in Region 8; Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Albay, Sorsogon, Ticao Island, and Masbate; (Region 5); Northern Cebu (including Bantayan Island and Camotes Island), Negros Oriental, and Bohol (Region 7); Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Norte, Dinagat, and Siargao (Region 13); and Camiguin Island.

PAGASA had also included the provinces of Aklan, Antique, Iloilo, Guimaras, Capiz, and Negros Occidental (Region 6); Marinduque, Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Palawan, and Romblon (Region 4-B); Rizal, Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Quezon (Region 4-A); Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales, and Aurora (Region 3) to be possibly affected by Typhoon Ruby.

Metro Manila has also been projected to be affected.

DPWH in need of young breed of engineers
Source: http://www.dpwh.gov.ph
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is in need of 40 young civil engineers to become part of the second batch of its Cadet Engineering Program.

Cadet Engineering Program, an innovative program introduced at DPWH by Secretary Rogelio L. Singson in 2013 is part of the Department’s investment in human resources development to set new entry standards for civil engineers in the bureaucracy.

Interested graduates of Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering course aged 21 to 25 years old with above average general weighted scholastic performance and board rating in the Civil Engineering licensure examination given by the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC) have until December 30, 2014 to apply in the program. At stake are 40 permanent Engineering positions selected among the best applicants who will also hurdle the selection criteria and intensive training process.

Applicants may send their resume with photo, transcript of records, and PRC board results to hr@fpacademy.net or inquire for details at telephone numbers 696-3015 local 713 or 316.

Singson said that the Cadet Engineering Program will ensure a continuing stream of young engineers who have the right foundation in terms of knowledge, skills, and values to run the Department in the future.

Under this program, the first batch of 40 young civil engineers were trained for 26 weeks and passed the 1st Cadetship Program in partnership with First Pacific Leadership Academy.

To prepare them to become competent members of the DPWH, Cadet Engineers within the six (6) months of intensive training and internship were familiarized with the workings of the agency by immersing in the operations, develop functional and behavioral competencies through diverse learning methodologies, and instill a strong sense of personal integrity and desire to contribute to nation building through public service.

During the presentation of the 1st Batch of graduates at Malacañang Palace on March 25, 2014, President Benigno S. Aquino III is so elated that Secretary Singson was able to recruit brightest young civil engineers from all over the country.

The new breed of engineers to the organization is now given technical assignments to include project quality assurance and monitoring.

DPWH completes 5 tourism road projects in Region 6
Source: http://www.ombudsman.gov.ph
The convergence program of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Department of Tourism (DOT) has accomplished a total of five (5) road and bridge projects in Western Visayas leading to tourism destinations in the provinces of Iloilo and Negros Occidental.

In his report to DPWH Secretary Rogelio L. Singson, DPWH Region 6 Director Edilberto D. Tayao said the completed projects with total cost of P121.82 million include the rehabilitation and reconstruction of two roads and two bridges in Iloilo City namely: the 4-lane, 376.50-lineal meter J. M. Basa-Gen. Hughes-Fort San Pedro Road costing P27.12 million; 2-lane, 480-lineal meter Rizal Street in Lapaz District costing P12.7 million; 20-lineal meter San Lorenzo Bridge costing P14 million and 25.0-lineal meter Rizal Bridge costing P18 million.

Also completed is the rehabilitation of 2,401.0-lineal meter access road leading to “The Ruins” in Talisay City in Negros Occidental with the amount of P50 million. The Ruins is a pre-war ruins of mansion considered as the Taj Mahal of Negros being designed by owner as a monument to his enduring love to his wife. It is now being visited by both foreign and local tourists.

According to Tayao, aside from these recently completed projects, DPWH is also accelerating the implementation of eleven (11) more tourism road projects throughout Western Visayas Region.

Among the ongoing projects are: the 4,613-lineal meter access road in Tibao, Antique which leads to White Water Kayaking, Tibiao Ecopark and Tibiao Fish Spa, P110 million; 2,836-lineal meter access road leading to Mambukal Resort in Murcia, Negros Occidental, P60 million; 3,075-lineal meter Bacolod City Boundary Road from La Salle Ecopark to Mt. Mandalagan, P100 million; and 7,785-lineal meter Bacolod City Boundary Road from Lacson Street to La Salle Ecopark, P140 million.

There are also road improvement projects in Leganes-Sta. Barbara Road leading to heritage sites in Iloilo City at P60.0 million; San Miguel-Sta. Barbara Road leading to Sta. Barbara Golf Course, Iloilo, P78.055 million; Iloilo-Capiz Road (Old Route) from Iloilo City-Pavia Boundary to Aganan Bridge in Pavia, Iloilo, P58.945 million; Tangalan-Ibajay Road in Aklan, P98.0 million; and Silay-Lantawan-Patag Access Road to Bacolod Silay Airport Road, with P200.0 million allocation.

Moreover, Negros Occidental First District Engineering Office is undertaking rehabilitation and reconstruction for the P50-million Bacolod-Murcia-Don Salvador Benedicto-San Carlos City Road to Mambukal Resort and Alindahaw Falls respectively and the P40-million rehabilitation of Access Road leading to Gawahon Resort in Victorias City.

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas partners with Science City of Munoz and the Province of Nueva Vizcaya
Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) will be launching the Credit Surety Fund Program in the Science City of Muñoz and the Province of Nueva Vizcaya on 08 and 09 December 2014, respectively. The signing of the Memorandum of Agreement formally creating the Science City of Muñoz Credit Surety Fund (Muñoz CSF) will be held at the Philippine Carabao Center, Science City of Muñoz, and will be led by BSP Monetary Board Member Juan D. de Zuniga, Jr. The Nueva Vizcaya Credit Surety Fund (Nueva Vizcaya CSF) on the other hand will be launched at the Ammungan Hall inside Capitol Compound in Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya, which will be led by BSP Monetary Operations Sub-Sector Managing Director Augusto C. Lopez-Dee. The abovesaid CSFs will be the 36th and 37th CSFs launched nationwide since 2008.

Muñoz and Nueva Vizcaya CSFs are expected to stimulate more economic activities in their respective localities and will usher in countless job opportunities to increase household income and generate business activities.

Initiated by BSP in August 2008, the Credit Surety Fund Program is a credit enhancement scheme created by the pooling of cash contributions from participating cooperatives, local government units and partner institutions. This fund will serve as security for loans extended by banks to micro, small and medium enterprises participating in the CSF Program. The CSF ensures payment of the indebtedness through the issuance of a surety cover that allows cooperatives and businessmen short in capital to obtain loans from banks even in the absence of hard collaterals. The program seeks to attain the P1.5 billion target of total approved loans by the end of this year.

Four cooperatives in Muñoz city with contributions aggregating P1.0 million decided to join the Muñoz CSF, while the city government headed by Mayor Nestor L. Alvarez pledged to contribute P1.0 million to the Fund. On the other hand, Gov. Ruth R. Padilla of the provincial government pledged P2.0 million while an aggregate of P4.3 million was raised by the 10 cooperatives that signified their intention to join the Nueva Vizcaya CSF.

Just recently, the neighboring city of San Jose joined the growing CSF movement across the country by putting up its own CSF.

Now on its 6th year, the CSF Program has been institutionalized in 26 provinces and 9 cities nationwide.

End-November 2014 GIR level reaches US$79 billion
Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph/
Preliminary data showed that the country’s gross international reserves (GIR) stood at US$79.0 billion as of end-November 2014, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Amando M. Tetangco, Jr. announced today.1 This level was lower by US$0.4 billion than the end-October 2014 GIR of US$79.4 billion. Nonetheless, the GIR level remains ample as it can cover 10.7 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments of services and income. It is also equivalent to 8.3 times the country’s short-term external debt based on original maturity and 6.0 times based on residual maturity.2

The decrease in reserves was due mainly to the net foreign exchange operations of the BSP, payments for maturing foreign exchange obligations of the National Government (NG), and revaluation adjustments in the BSP’s gold holdings and foreign currency-denominated reserves. These outflows were partially offset by the net foreign currency deposits by the Treasurer of the Philippines (TOP) and income from the BSP’s investments abroad.

Net international reserves (NIR), which refer to the difference between the BSP’s GIR and total short-term liabilities, also decreased to US$79.0 billion as of end-November 2014, compared to the end-October 2014 NIR of US$79.4 billion.

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1 The final data on GIR are released to the public every 19th day of the month in the Statistics section of the BSP’s website under the Special Data Dissemination Standards (SDDS). If the 19th day of the month falls on a weekend or is a non-working holiday, the release date shall be the working day nearest to the 19th.
2 Short-term debt based on residual maturity refers to outstanding external debt with original maturity of one year or less, plus principal payments on medium- and long-term loans of the public and private sectors falling due within the next 12 months.

DOJ announces appointment of Prosecutors in the National Prosecution Service
Source: http://www.doj.gov.ph
The Department of Justice welcomes the promotional and original appointment of one hundred twenty-two (122) prosecutors by President Benigno S. Aquino III. Earlier this week, the appointment papers of the said prosecutors were received by Department of Justice, to be transmitted to each of the appointees. It should be underscored that the President appointed prosecutors in almost all offices of the National Prosecution Service (i.e., National Capital Region, Regions I to XIII and Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao).

“We in the Department, especially the National Prosecution Service, have been eagerly anticipating these appointments to posts in the various prosecution offices all over the country, especially the original appointments of new prosecutors. Their assumption into office will hopefully allow us to redistribute the admittedly heavy workload of our current prosecutorial force and, thus, expedite the resolution of cases before the NPS. The promotional appointments, on the other hand, have created new vacancies in addition to existing ones, which we will endeavor to fill with new prosecutors who are not only competent, but also have strong work ethic and reputation for integrity, and who will be able to discharge their functions impartially and outside the influence of partisan politics,” said Secretary of Justice Leila M. De Lima.

As a final note, the Department of Justice eagerly awaits the release of the other appointments that are still with the Office of the President. Undoubtedly, the immediate release of the same shall enable the DOJ achieve its zero backlog policy of its cases and ultimately improve the administration of the criminal justice system in our country.

Customs Collector downed by inconsistencies with estranged wife’s SALN
Source: http://www.dof.gov.ph
A Bureau of Customs Collector has been ordered dismissed by the Ombudsman following failure to declare and explain wealth in a case his wife has emerged unscathed from. Maximo Dela Peña Reyes, Collector IV at the Bureau of Customs, was charged together with his estranged wife when both were found to have not filed their SALNs for the years 2001 and 2009 and were suspected for not having truthfully disclosed their true net worth for the period 2000 and 2010.

Summarizing analysis of financial statements, The Ombudsman found that the spouses, separated since 2002, have a total unexplained wealth in the amount of P89.19 million, excluding the documented liabilities worth P4.27 million and P8.40 million earned in salaries as public officials from their total net worth of P101.86 million. Spouses also admit to owning interests in 17 businesses, 25 properties, and 15 vehicles.

Reyes even unsuccessfully painted his wife, Cristeta Cuevas-Reyes, former Mayor of Malvar, Batangas, as “arrogant, domineering, and possessive” in a failed bid to explain inconsistencies in his Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) and massive wealth disproportionate to his income as a public official. The Ombudsman found Reyes’ “battered or henpecked husband defense” to hold very little water and found him guilty of committing gross neglect of duty. Previously, he was placed under preventive suspension in 28 May 2013.

While former Mayor Cuevas-Reyes was able to reasonably explain her wealth in citing income generated from various legitimate businesses involving poultry and drug store chains, Collector Reyes was not able to bring forth a solid defense of his unexplained wealth and improper SALN filings. Citing “generous parents” and his troubled marital relationship as the reason for his misdeclarations, Collector Reyes failed to declare and explain 6 properties and cash on hand worth up to P21.05 million.

The Ombudsman, in its decision approved last 5 November 2014, stated that a “deteroriating marital relationship could not in any way have prevented proper and accurate documentation of properties in [Reyes’] SALN.” In contrast, his wife Cuevas-Reyes was afforded the presumption of good faith after the former mayor cited separation for the failure to secure documents needed for full and accurate declaration. Whereas former Mayor Cuevas-Reyes had proof of legitimate income supporting her wealth, Collector Reyes had none of value to show for in court.

Collector Reyes, aside from failing to file SALNs in 2001 and 2009, did not sign wife’s SALN in the years 2000, 2002-5, 2007, and also did not verify nor accurately declare properties in his filings for 2006, 2008, and 2010.

Found guilty of gross neglect of duty due to repeated acts of negligence, Collector Maximo Dela Peña Reyes was also meted the penalties of cancellation of eligibility, forfeiture of retirement benefits, and perpetual disqualification for re-employment in the government service.

The Department of Finance (DOF) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC) welcome this resolution as an unmistakable step forward in the fight against corruption. The DOF and its attached agencies will continue to hold employees in its ranks to the highest standards of integrity and accountability.

Department of Finance pushes for subsidies for persons with Disabilities
Source: http://www.dof.gov.ph
The Department of Finance advised for more feasible and responsible measures in light of the passage of House Bill 1039, exempting persons with disabilities (PWDs) from paying the value-added tax (VAT) on certain goods and services.

DOF Undersecretary Jeremias N. Paul, Jr. of the Domestic Finance Group said, “Granting targeted subsidies through the expenditure approach is more transparent, efficient, and effective in empowering PWDs. We re-affirm our commitment to PWDs by advising against a VAT exemption measure that would be hard to implement and prone to abuse. We will work with Congress to pass sensible and balanced proposals that better serve PWD interests.”

The government’s commitment towards the PWD sector has always been clear and resolute: PWDs can draw from different benefit programs of government agencies. Further, the DOF is working in earnest to boost revenues to increase funding for these programs. Thus the DOF commends the initiative of the bill author, but believes the measure is not the best way to serve PWDs.

The measure will expose government revenues to massive risks due to abuses and leakages. The long-standing international argument against VAT exemption is clear: proposals like this will result in tax administration problems and even compliance issues for the business sector. For the tax administrators, clarifying and ensuring only PWDs avail of the exemption, and not unscrupulous individuals seeking to abuse the system, will be highly difficult.

On the part of the establishments, the proposal will require separate accounting records for the purchases of goods and services by PWDs, in addition to that of senior citizens. The proposed VAT exemption therefore leads to an additional tax compliance burden for businesses.

Further, PWDs account for about 1.5% of the total population. This means the proposed exemption would result in an estimated revenue loss of P1.12 billion, according to official estimates. However, this figure can increase since the proposed exemption poses aforementioned administrative challenges in monitoring whether the purchases are for the exclusive use of and enjoyment of PWDs.

As the Philippines is the second least efficient in terms of VAT efficiency among the ASEAN 5, the country can ill afford to pass a VAT exemption measure that cannot be guaranteed to be availed solely by PWD citizens.

The DOF firmly believes that fiscal responsibility goes hand in hand with social responsibility. As we work to maintain the firm fiscal footing we have worked so hard to achieve, we must also take care to serve interests of citizens in the PWD sector by providing them effective, efficient, transparent relief through targeted subsidies.

The DOF is fully convinced that the only way to empower the PWD sector is to provide such relief while preserving our fiscal health—if only to generate more revenues to fund systematic programs and solutions to serve these sectors best.

Roxas, tutungo sa Eastern Samar upang tumulong sa mga paghahanda sa bagyo
Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph
Sa kabila ng masamang panahong inaasahan sa susunod na 48 oras, tutungo si Interior at Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas sa Borongan, Eastern Samar ngayong araw upang tumulong sa mga paghahanda ng mga LGU sa pagtama ni super typhoon Ruby sa lupa.

Sa paggabay ni Pangulong Aquino at bilang vice chairman ng National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), inaasahang puntahan at suportahan ni Sec. Roxas ang mga mayor ng Eastern Samar na kanyang tinaguriang mga "first responder" o unang tutugon sa panahon ng sakuna.

Ayon sa briefing ng NDRRMC noong Huwebes, ang Eastern Samar ang isa sa mga lalawigang tatamaan ng bagyong Ruby o kilala sa ibang bansa bilang "Hagupit."

Ani Roxas, humigit 50 sa 80 lalawigan ang maaapektuhan at may 995 nang bayan at 85 na lungsod sa mga lugar na ito.

Naiulat ding magkakaroon ng malakas na pag-ulan sa Hilagang Leyte at Silangang Samar, at mga daluyong o "storm surge" na aabot sa 3-4 na metro (sintaas ng isang bahay na may isang palapag.) Dahil dito, pinadalhan na ng instruksyon ang mga mayor sa pamamagitan ng tawag, text at memo ukol sa mga dapat nilang gawing mga paghahanda.

Iniulat din ni Roxas na makikipag-ugnayan ang DILG sa Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Office of Civil Defense (OCD) at sa Sandatahang Lakas ng Pilipinas (AFP) upang i-evacuate ang mga tao sa mga high risk area na dadaanan ng bagyo.

Alerto na rin maging ang Philippine National Police (PNP) sa mga lugar na ito, na tinanggalan na ng leave o liban para sa mga darating na araw upang masiguro ang sitwasyong pangkapayapaan at pangkaayusan.

DOE leads the monitoring of power conditions during Typhoon Ruby
Source: https://www.doe.gov.ph
(Taguig City) With the commitment of securing the power supply and connections during natural disasters, the Department of Energy (DOE), alongside its attached agencies, continuously coordinates and monitors the conditions of the energy facilities that might be affected on the onslaught of typhoon Ruby set to have its first landfall on Saturday in the Visayas.

DOE Sec. Carlos Jericho L. Petilla during the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) meeting yesterday said that the electric cooperatives (ECs) under extreme circumstances are responsible to take all necessary and precautionary measures to prevent further damage or accidents from happening within their franchise area.

“Power shutdowns during typhoons will not come from us, if it is already endangering the people's lives, then the cooperatives may have to turn off their lines.” said Sec. Petilla.

Additionally he noted that oil companies are already monitoring the situation and commit to ensure sufficient supply within 24 hours after the onslaught of the typhoon. Likewise, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) as well as the Distributions Utilities (DUs) are on alert and will commence rapid assessment of the power assets as soon as the typhoon passes. The National Electrification Administration (NEA) is ready to mobilize Task Force Kapatid to assist in restoration efforts as needed. As of today, the NGCP reports that transmission lines in the Visayas are in normal conditions.

The DOE will continue to monitor and update the public on the power situation as Typhoon Ruby nears the country.



Last Updated: 05 DECEMBER 2014
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President Benigno S. Aquino III listens as Filipina international singer Lea Salonga renders a song as an intermission number during the presentation of awards of the 2014 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas at the Rizal Ceremonial Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (December 05). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III presents the Pamana ng Pilipino Award to Lea Salonga, international singer, voice talent and Broadway theater actress, during the 2014 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas awarding ceremony at the Rizal Ceremonial Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (December 05). Salonga is cited for exemplifying the musical talent and ingenuity of Filipino. Assisting the President are Sec. Imelda Nicolas of the Commission of Filipinos Overseas and Sec. Patricia Licuanan of the Commission on Higher education. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the 2014 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas awarding ceremony at the Rizal Ceremonial Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (December 05). Also in photo are Sec. Imelda Nicolas of the Commission of Filipinos Overseas and Sec. Patricia Licuanan of the Commission on Higher education. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III shares the stage with the awardees of the 2014 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas at the Rizal Ceremonial Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (December 05). Institutionalized in 1991 through Executive Order No. 498, the Presidential Awards is a is a biennial search for overseas-based individuals and organizations that dedicated their work in the service and improvement of lives of Filipinos worldwide, selflessly supported relief, rehabilitation and development programs in the home country, or who have excelled in their field of profession. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
Secretary to the Cabinet Jose Rene Almendras exchanges pleasantries with Sultanate of Oman Ministry of Foreign Affairs Secretary-General Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Albusaidi during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (December 05). Also in photo are Sultanate of Oman Ambassador to the Philippines Munther Mahfoodh Al-Mantheri, Sultanate of Oman Ministry of Foreign Affairs ASEAN Department Head Ambassador Aflah Suleiman Al-Tal, Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Abaya, and Special Envoy to the Gulf Cooperation Council Dr. Amable Aguiluz V (Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
Secretary to the Cabinet Jose Rene Almendras welcomes Sultanate of Oman Ministry of Foreign Affairs Secretary-General Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Albusaidi during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (December 05). Also in photo are Sultanate of Oman Ambassador to the Philippines Munther Mahfoodh Al-Mantheri, Sultanate of Oman Ministry of Foreign Affairs ASEAN Department Head Ambassador Aflah Suleiman Al-Tal, Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Abaya, and Special Envoy to the Gulf Cooperation Council Dr. Amable Aguiluz V. (Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
Sultanate of Oman Ministry of Foreign Affairs Secretary-General Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Albusaidi with Special Envoy to the Gulf Cooperation Council Dr. Amable Aguiluz V arrives at the Palace during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (December 05). (Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III receives a gift from the Bulong Pulungan core members during 28th annual Bulong Pulungan Christmas Party at the Luzon Ballroom of the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila in CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City on Friday (December 05). The Bulong Pulungan media forum started 28 years ago on the onset of People Power by the country’s leading lifestyle journalists. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 28th annual Bulong Pulungan Christmas Party at the Luzon Ballroom of the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila in CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City on Friday (December 05). The Bulong Pulungan media forum started 28 years ago on the onset of People Power by the country’s leading lifestyle journalists. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the 28th annual Bulong Pulungan Christmas Party at the Luzon Ballroom of the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila in CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City on Friday (December 05). The Bulong Pulungan media forum started 28 years ago on the onset of People Power by the country’s leading lifestyle journalists. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III receives the Exemplar in Government Service Award from Bulong Pulungan Media Forum co-founder and moderator Deedee Siytangco, co-founders Julie Yap-Daza, Rina Jimenez-David and Joanne Ramirez during the 28th annual Bulong Pulungan Christmas Party at the Luzon Ballroom of the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila in CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City on Friday (December 05). Eight other public servants were awarded during the event. The Bulong Pulungan media forum started 28 years ago on the onset of People Power by the country’s leading lifestyle journalists. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III listens to the updates on the government’s pre-disaster readiness preparation for Typhoon Ruby at the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) meeting at the NDRRMC headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Thursday (December 04). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III presides over the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) meeting on the government’s pre-disaster readiness preparation for Typhoon Ruby at the NDRRMC headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Thursday (December 04). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 2nd State Conference on the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) Implementation and Review at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (December 02). Also in photo are Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales, Supreme Court Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, Senate President Franklin Drilon, Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Jr., Executive Secretary and Presidential UNCAC Inter-Agency Committee chairperson Paquito Ochoa, Jr. and Justice Secretary Leila de Lima. (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 2nd State Conference on the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) Implementation and Review at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (December 02). Also in photo are Supreme Court Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, Senate President Franklin Drilon, Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Jr. and Executive Secretary and Presidential UNCAC Inter-Agency Committee chairperson Paquito Ochoa, Jr. (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 2nd State Conference on the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) Implementation and Review at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (December 02). Also in photo are Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales, Supreme Court Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, Senate President Franklin Drilon and Speaker Feliciano Belmonte. (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 2nd State Conference on the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) Implementation and Review at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (December 02). Also in photo are Senate President Franklin Drilon and Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Jr. (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 2nd State Conference on the United Nations Convention against Corruption Implementation and Review at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (December 02). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III receives a copy of the 2nd State Conference Resolution presented by Executive Secretary and Presidential UNCAC Inter-Agency Committee chairperson Paquito Ochoa, Jr. and Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales during the 2nd State Conference on the United Nations Convention against Corruption Implementation and Review at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (December 02). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 2nd State Conference on the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) Implementation and Review at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (December 02). Also in photo are Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales, Supreme Court Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, Senate President Franklin Drilon, Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Jr., Executive Secretary and Presidential UNCAC Inter-Agency Committee chairperson Paquito Ochoa, Jr. and Justice Secretary Leila de Lima. (Photo by Benhur arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III recieves a facsimile of the APEC Logo during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 2015 kick-off ceremony at The Eye Ballroom of the Green Sun Hotel in Pasong Tamo Extension, Makati City on Monday night (December 01). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Robert Viñas / Rodolfo Manabat / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the official launch of the APEC Logo during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 2015 kick-off ceremony at The Eye Ballroom of the Green Sun Hotel in Pasong Tamo Extension, Makati City on Monday night (December 01). (Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 2015 kick-off Ceremony at The Eye Ballroom of the Green Sun Hotel in Pasong Tamo Extension, Makati City on Monday night (December 01). Also in photo are Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, Jr., and Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 2015 kick-off ceremony at The Eye Ballroom of the Green Sun Hotel in Pasong Tamo Extension, Makati City on Monday night (December 01). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
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Noynoy Aquino (P-Noy) added a new photo.
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Memorandum Order No. 165 Suspension of all classes at all levels of public and private schools in Quezon Province on December 8, 2014 (Monday) issued by Gov David Jayjay SuareZ to ensure the safety of our constituents especially students and teachers.
— with Gideon Belen and 26 others.


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