Wednesday, January 14, 2015

Dispatch for January 15 , 2015 (Thursday) , 2 PIA Calabarzon PR, 3 Weather Watch , 3 Regional Watch , PNOY Speech , 17 Online News , 21 Photonews Jan. 14 , 2015

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


24-Hour Public Weather Forecast


Issued at 5:00 a.m., 15 January 2015
Valid beginning: 5:00 a.m. today until 5:00 a.m. tomorrow


24-hr Mean Sea Level Pressure
Predicted Mean Sea Level Pressure
Analysis for 8 a.m., 15 January 2015		24-hr Mean Sea Level StreamliSEs
Predicted Mean Sea Level Wind 
Analysis for 8 a.m., 15 January 2015
Satellite Image
Satellite Image 

Synopsis:

At 4:00 AM today, the Tropical Storm "AMANG" {MEKKHALA"} was estimated based on all available data at 950 km east of Guiuan, Easterm Samar (11.4ºN, 134.4ºE), with maximum sustained winds of 65 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 80 kph. It is forecast to move west northwest at 19 kph.  Northeast monsoon affecting Luzon.


Forecast:

Caraga and Eastern Visayas will experience cloudy skies with light to moderate rains with possible occurrence of thunderstorms. Cagayan Valley and Cordillera will have cloudy skies with light rains.  Metro Manila and the rest of Luzon will be partly cloudy to at times cloudy with isolated light rains.  The rest of Visayas and Mindanao will have partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rains with possible occurrence of thunderstorms.

Moderate to strong winds blowing from the northeast will prevail over luzon and visayas and from the northeast to north over mindanao with moderate to rough seas.


OVER METRO MANILA:
Maximum Temperature: 1:00 PM Yesterday --- 28.7°C
Minimum Temperature: 6:10 AM Yesterday --- 20.8°C
Maximum Relative Humidity: 6:00 AM Yesterday --- 97 %
Minimum Relative Humidity: 1:00 PM Yesterday --- 65 %

Low Tide Today: 9:36 AM ..... 0.19 Meter
High Tide Today: 5:51 PM ..... 0.75 Meter
Low Tide Tomorrow: 2:35 AM ..... 0.14 Meter

Sunrise Today: 6:25 AM
Sunset Today: 5:46 PM
Moonset Today: 12:58 PM
Moonrise Tomorrow: 1:56 AM

Illumination Tomorrow: 28 %
For more information and queries, please call at telephone numbers 927-1335 and 927-2877 or log on to www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph.


PAGASA weather forecaster Jorie Lois on DZBB:
-Sa ngayon yun na nakikitang natin bago dumikit sa may Eastern Visayas at Bicol Region area si Amang ay inaasahang magre-recurve ito.
-May possibility pa rin na dumaan sa Eastern Visayas at Bicol Region si Amang bago tuluyang mag-recurve so ganun pa rin ang scenarios so mga kababayan natin dapat palagi pa rin silang nakahanda.
-Doon sa dalawang scenarios, asahan pa rin ang mga pag-ulan sa mga araw kung saan naroon ang ating Santo Papa.
-Actually ang ating forecast magre-recurve ito, ang problema nga lang masyado pa ring malapit sa land mass ng Eastern Visayas at Bicol Region area.
-Sa ngayon 300km ang kanyang diametro pero inaasahan pa natin na bahagyang lalakas ito at lalaki ang diametro na magbibigay ng possibility ng pag-ulan.
-Kung masusunod ang forecast track, masyadong malapit si Amang sa Southern Luzon kasama ang Metro Manila so asahan din na pagbalik ni Pope Francis dito sa 18 ay may mga pag-ulan na mararanasang pag-ulan dito sa Metro Manila.
-Ang lapit na ito ay pwedeng magbago kung maagang magre-recurve o iikot si Amang papalayo sa ating bansa.


 
Weather Watch
4 hrs ·
PAGASA Sever Weather Bulletin #1 for Tropical Storm ‪#‎AmangPH‬ issued at 5:00AM, 15 January 2015:
THE TROPICAL STORM EAST OF VISAYAS HAS ENTERED THE PHILIPPINE AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (PAR) AND WAS NAMED “AMANG”.
• Estimated rainfall amount is from 7.5 – 20 mm per hour (heavy - intense) within the 300 km diameter of the Tropical Storm.
• Fisherfolks and those with small seacrafts are advised not to venture out over the seaboards of Northern and Central Luzon and the Eastern seaboard of Southern Luzon and of Visayas.
• The public and the disaster risk reduction and management council concerned are advised to take appropriate actions and watch for the next bulletin to be issued at 11AM today.
Location of eye/center: At 4:00 AM today, the center of Tropical Storm “AMANG” was estimated based on all available data at 950 km East of Guiuan, Eastern Samar (11.4°N, 134.4°E).
Strength: Maximum sustained winds of 65 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 80 kph
Forecast Movement: Forecast to move West Northwest at 19 kph.
Forecast Positions
• 24 hour (Tomorrow morning): 640 km East of Guiuan, Eastern Samar.
• 48 hour (Saturday morning): 380 km East of Legaspi.
• 72 hour (Sunday morning): 340 km East of Infanta, Quezon.
For more information and queries, please call at telephone numbers 927-1335 and 927-2877 or log on to www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph.
Pia Quezon



January 15  , 2014  (  Thursday )     as of 6:00-7:00 AM

PIA QUEZON   : Cloudy





Today's LRT schedule:
5 AM - 4 PM - All stations open
4 PM - 10 PM - Quirino station closed


PIA-NCR: MMDA ADVISORY- In view of the ‪#‎PapalVisitPH‬, the following roads will be closed on Jan.15 (Pope Francis' arrival) starting at 12:00 noon.: Villamor Air Base Gate 5; Andrews Ave.; Domestic Road; NAIA Road; Roxas Blvd: Quirino Ave.; Taft Ave.; Sales Bridge; Slex/Skyway-Magallanes; and Osmeña Highway.


PIA-NCR: Number coding is lifted on January 15, 16, and 19, 2015, in Metro Manila, including Makati & Las Piñas. ‪#‎PapalVisitPH‬









1.  Tagalog news: DTI nanawagan ukol sa business name registration

January 13, 2015
LUNGSOD NG LUCENA, Enero 13 (PIA) — Nagbigay ng ilang paalala ang Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) sa mga bagong negosyante ukol sa pagpaparehistro ng kanilang 'business name' o pangalan ng negosyo alinsunod sa itinatakda ng Republic Act 3883 o 'Business Name Law.'

Ayon sa DTI, maaring magpunta ang mga nais magparehistro sa alinmang tanggapan ng ahensiya dala ang anumang valid ID tulad ng driver’s license, SSS ID, Philhealth ID, Postal ID, Voter’s ID, Tax Identification Number (TIN) at pasaporte.

Samantala, nagbigay rin ng paalala ang ahensiya ukol sa mga bayarin sa pagpaparehistro ng pangalan ng kanilang negosyo.

Ayon sa ahensiya, P200 lamang ang registration fee kung ang negosyo ay nakapaloob sa barangay at P500 naman kung nakapaloob sa isang bayan o lungsod.

Mahigit P1000 naman ang registration fee kung maglalagay ng sangay sa alinmang parte ng rehiyon at P2000 naman kung ito ay mayroong sangay sa iba't-ibang panig ng bansa.

Dagdag pa ng ahensiya na kinakailangan din magpunta sa Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO) ng bayan o munisipalidad para sa mga kaukulang 'business permit at iba pang dokumento gayundin sa Bureau of Internal Revenue o BIR para sa tax identification number upang ganap na maging legal ang itatayong negosyo. (Charlie S. Dajao/DTI Calabarzon/Pablito C. Budoy, DTI-Quezon/FSC, PIA-4A)







Batangas Police conducts communication management training-workshop
January 13, 2015 

BATANGAS CITY, Jan. 13 (PIA) — Police personnel, field commanders and provincial officers of the National Support Units here were oriented in communication management and media appearances in a training-workshop initiated by the Police Provincial Public Information Office, Jan. 8 at the Camp Miguel Malvar.

The training-workshop aimed to prepare police personnel especially chiefs of police on how to render statements in times issues or controversies arise in their respective areas of responsibilities.

It also aimed to promote credibility in public pronouncements and help project a positive image on various media platforms.

Lectures focused mainly on effective communications management, policies/guidelines on giving statements, comments and opinions to the media.

Among the guest lecturers were Mr. Gem Eiroll D. Manalo, Faculty of Batangas State University, Rev. Father Leonido C. Dolor, Station Director/Manager of Radyo Totoo, Mr. Val A. Balita, OIC, News Desk, ABS-CBN Southern Tagalog, and Ms. Vicky A. Florendo of Batangas Press Club. (Hazel Luma-Ang, PNP-PIO/PIA Batangas/FSC, PIA-4A)




 

Palace fends off rumor on Manila ports’ closure during Pope Francis' visit
The Palace on Wednesday clarified that Manila’s ports will continue to operate during the visit of Pope Francis, contrary to some reports.

"Cabinet Secretary Jose Rene Almendras would like to clarify that the ports of Manila will not be closed for five days, as rumored," Communication Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said in a press statement issued on Wednesday.

"There had been meetings and discussions on coming up with an effective plan on how to handle port operations during the time of the visit of His Holiness Pope Francis."

Secretary Almendras heads the Cabinet Cluster on Port Congestion.

Secretary Coloma explained that although the ports would be unable to accept outbound cargoes during the holidays, they will continue to service ships that are unloading cargoes and help move out empty containers.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has confirmed that there is no such thing as a total truck ban during the five-day holiday, Coloma said, quoting Almendras.

The Palace official also said that trucks will be allowed in the regular truck routes during the allowed hours, except routes that will be affected by the activities during the Pope’s visit.

The routes that will be temporarily closed will be re-opened once the events’ venues have been cleared, he added.

"Secretary Almendras wishes to assure businessmen, importers and exporters that the five-day event will not significantly hamper our continuous efforts for the efficient operations of the ports of Manila," Coloma noted.

"He continues his appeal for all stakeholders to cooperate and implement the agreed plans and actions during the Pope’s visit."

Pope Francis, who is currently in Sri Lanka, is arriving in the country on Thursday, January 15 for a five-day visit to the Philippines. The pope will attend several events in Manila as well as in Leyte during his pastoral visit. PND (as)
Government disseminates information to ensure safe, orderly visit of Pope Francis
The government has released infographics, advising the people about flight schedules, road closures, as well as ways to ensure everyone’s safety during the five-day visit of Pope Francis, which starts Thursday.

"The President has asked us to do some infographics and to remind and inform the people," Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said during a press briefing in Malacañang on Wednesday.

"We’d like to ask you to share and disseminate (these infographics)," he told reporters.

The infographics contain the Pope’s itinerary during his entire stay here in the Philippines, from arrival to departure, Lacierda said.

There are information on the operations of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport during the papal visit, he said, noting that at certain times, arrivals and departures will not be allowed, depending on aircraft activity or aircraft turnaround.

There is also an advisory on the no-fly zone, he added.

On the operations of the Light Rail Transit, Lacierda said the Quirino LRT station will remain closed from January 15 to 19 but the entire LRT Line will be open.

Trains will bypass the Quirino station from January 15 to January 19, he said, noting that the station will be closed from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Thursday January 15; and from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday January 17.

On Friday January 16, and on Sunday January 18, the Quirino station will be closed the entire day from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
On Monday January 19, the day of the pope's departure, it will be closed from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m.

The Palace is also disseminating safety reminders to the public to ensure the security of the pope and those attending his events, especially the Holy Mass at Rizal Park.

"For the Luneta event, which is expected to draw millions of visitors, we’d like to emphasize three things: be calm, don’t push, and don’t run," Lacierda said.

At the same time, he called on those joining the events to practice good manners and right conduct by not littering and refraining from making pranks that might cause the crowd to panic.

He advised the people to bring identification cards, snacks, raincoats instead of umbrellas, and put these things in transparent plastic bags instead of backpacks.

He also cautioned the people against bringing fragile items, wearing expensive jewelry and bringing too much cash.
"There will be an opportunity for some to filch from other people’s pockets," he said.

He further advised the people not to bring alcohol and pets.

All the reminders and information could be found in the government website www.gov.ph, Lacierda said.

The government also came up with a video on crowd safety reminders, which was shown to the media on Wednesday.

Pope Francis is arriving on Thursday for a five-day visit to the Philippines, the second leg of his Asian tour, after Sri Lanka. PND (as)
President Aquino to surprise Pope Francis with special token
President Benigno S. Aquino III wants to surprise Pope Francis with customary gifts when they meet on Friday, a Palace official said.

"We will surprise the Pope with our customary gifts, but we don’t know what the gifts would be as yet," Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said during a press briefing on Wednesday.

Like other visiting foreign leaders, Pope Francis will be accorded the formalities and dignities of a head of state, Lacierda noted.

"And as such, he will be provided a gift, as we provide all the other heads of state. As we have also seen in Sri Lanka," he said, adding that because of his role as a head of state, Pope Francis will be given all the honors that befit a head of state.

The only difference, he said, is that the pope will also have a general audience with senior Cabinet officials and members of the diplomatic corps.

The pope, who is arriving on Thursday, will have an audience of 450 individuals at the Rizal Hall of Malacañang Palace.

Pope Francis is in Sri Lanka for the first leg of his week-long Asian tour. After Sri Lanka, he will proceed to the Philippines, a predominantly Catholic country, for a five-day visit.

He will attend several activities in Manila and Leyte while in the Philippines. PND (as)
Government carrying out new security arrangement for Pope Francis' visit
The government's National Organizing Committee, tasked to iron out preparations for the visit of Pope Francis, has done several improvements to ensure the safety of the pontiff during his visit.

Under the new security arrangement, authorities will allow more people to have a glimpse of the visiting head of the Roman Catholic Church when he arrives in Manila on Thursday, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said during Wednesday’s press briefing.

The committee has studied footages of the motorcade of Pope John II in 1995 when he arrived for World Youth Day at the Quirino Grandstand, Lacierda said.

The committee, he said, changed the layout of Roxas Boulevard as part of the new security set-up to prevent people from moving once the pope's convoy nears.

The crowd will now be allowed to take the entire northbound lane going to Luneta as well as the center island, he explained.

Authorities have also put up barricades and have deployed security personnel, he added.

"So, instead of people surging to see (the pope), the crowd will now be allowed to occupy the northbound lane."

Authorities have also formed grids to create buffer areas, and inside the grids are mini quadrants, he said.

"There will be buffer areas. In case magkaroon ng tulakan and stampede, meron kang area to move to," he noted.

In 1995, organizers had to airlift Pope John Paul II in and out of the grandstand because it was impossible for the Pope mobile to enter the area.

Lacierda said each grid will be manned by eight police personnel, 400 AFP reservists, eight to 10 Health Department personnel, eight to 10 Red Cross volunteers and two marshals.

Every morning, officials have been holding security briefings, Lacierda said, adding that Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, and Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa will meet on Thursday morning for another security briefing. PND (as)


President Benigno S. Aquino III's Message on the preparations for the visit of Pope Francis
12 January 2015
 
Mga Boss, malaking karangalan po ang pagbisita ng Santo Papa sa ating bansa; kaakibat nito, humaharap din po tayo sa isang malaking hamon. Tingnan na lang po ninyo noong 1995 nang idinaos ang World Youth Day sa ating bansa, na pinamunuan ni Pope John Paul II. Punong-puno ang Luneta at dikit-dikit ang mga tao. Dagdag ko lang po: ganito na kapuno noon nang 68 million ang populasyon natin; ngayong 100 milyon na tayo, gaano karami pa kaya ang darating sa misa ni Pope Francis sa Luneta?

Siyempre po, lahat ng tao, gustong makita nang personal ang Santo Papa. Nariyan ang libu-libong mag-aabang sa convoy ng Santo Papa, at ang milyon-milyon na lalahok sa Luneta. Ang pagsisiksikan at pagkagigil na makalapit sa Santo Papa, maaaring maging mitsa para magkagulo. Isipin na lang po ninyo: Kapag maraming tao ang kumilos ng kahit isang pulgada paharap, malaking espasyo ang masasakop. Kung wala nang lugar na gagalawan, malamang ay may maiipit sa mga barikada. Nagsimula lang po ang lahat ng iyan sa kagustuhang makalapit sa Santo Papa.

Paano pa kaya kung magkahabulan dahil sa may mandurukot? O kaya may isang walang magawa at biglang magpaputok ng labintador? Pihadong magtatakbuhan at magkakatulakan, at nariyan ang potensyal na marami ang masaktan.

Pansinin din po ninyo: disiplinado ang tao noong wala ang convoy; nang dumating po ang convoy, kanya-kanya na. Kung nagtagumpay ang mga nakaharang na makalapit sa Santo Papa, at tumigil ang convoy, ang dating moving target naging stationary target na. Isipin ninyo kung may nadaganan pa, o kaya naapakan dahil sa pag-uunahan. Di naman kailangang may mapahamak na sinuman.

Tingnan na rin po ninyo ang video na ito: inatake si Pope John Paul II sa loob mismo ng Vatican. Nariyan din ang insidente nang magmimisa si Pope Benedict XVI, nang sunggaban siya sa loob ng katedral; pati na rin ang paglundag ng mga tao patungo sa kanyang pope mobile.

Tandaan po natin: Pastoral visit ito, at layon ng Santo Papa na makahalubilo ang pinakamarami sa ating mga kababayan. Ang bawat pagtatagpo ay nagdadala ng panganib. Ang gusto natin: Bawasan ang mga panganib sa buhay ng Santo Papa, at balansehin ang seguridad ni Pope Francis at ang kanyang hangarin.

Walang duda na sa malaking pagtitipon tulad nito, posible ang gulo. Maski walang banta ng terorismo, at lalo na kung may planong magpasimula ng gulo, nagbabadya ang peligro na magdadala ng pinsala sa napakaraming lalahok.

Kaya naman, para maging makabuluhan ang pagdalaw ng Santo Papa, kailangan natin ng pagdadamayan at pagbabayanihan. Malinaw na napakalaki ng hamong dala ng pagbisita ni Pope Francis sa ating bansa; nakataya rito ang kaligtasan niya, ng nakaparaming dadalo sa kanyang mga gawain at mag-aabang sa kanya. Ang mismong karangalan ng ating bansa, malalagay sa alanganin. Ang tanong ko nga po: Gusto ba nating matala sa kasaysayan na nangyari sa Pilipinas ang isang trahedya na may kinalaman sa Santo Papa?

Obligasyon ng gobyerno ang inyong kaligtasan, at para magampanan ang tungkuling ito ay may obligasyon din kayo. Sa mga darating na araw, maglalabas ng mga paaalala hinggil sa patakarang panseguridad sina Secretary Mar Roxas at Undersecretary Manuel Bautista. Ang panawagan po namin: Makinig po tayo, at makiisa sa pagbabahagi ng impormasyon.

Pihado po: Malalaktawan natin ang napakalaking hamon na ito sa inyong pakikisama at pagbabayanihan.

Ipakita po natin ang pakikisama at pagtutulungan, nang matiyak nating magiging mataimtim at mapayapa ang pagbisita ni Pope Francis sa ating bansa.

Magandang gabi po, maraming salamat, at inaasahan ko ang pakikiisa ninyo.
 

14 JANUARY 2015
GSIS extends emergency loan to members, pensioners in 7 Ruby-hit Luzon provinces
Ombudsman denies MR of 5 ex-solon, et al. in PDAF scam
MMDA: Truck ban rules in effect during Papal Visit
BSP offers incentives for Banks to reach unbanked Municipalities
FDI Net Inflows surge by 103 percent in October; Reach US$5.3 billion in the first 10 months of 2014
Breaking labels: ‘I am not a rebel’
Two more rice traders slapped smuggling raps
Manila Bulletin and DOLE join hands on labor education
Roxas: Government's goal is to empower every Filipino
Kooperasyon ng mga pinoy sa Papal Visit patuloy na pakiusap - Roxas
25,000 cops deployed in Papal Visit venues
Vibrant Philippine culture highlighted in North Island, New Zealand
PHL Ambassador to Oman hosts Asian Ambassadors’ Group Meeting
New firetrucks raised CRK rating to Category 10
Fishery Law Enforcers ready to take on illegal activities
Z Package cares for the heart
ICC approves first LGU PPP Project
GSIS extends emergency loan to members, pensioners in 7 Ruby-hit Luzon provinces
Source: http://www.gsis.gov.ph
The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) is now granting emergency loan to active members and old-age pensioners in seven Luzon provinces that were hit hardest by typhoon Ruby last December.

A total of 113,435 active members working in 2,655 offices or residing in the calamity-declared areas of Albay, Batangas, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Marinduque, Masbate, and Romblon may avail of the enhanced emergency loan. The 28,028 old-age pensioners affected in said areas may likewise apply for the pensioner emergency loan.

To qualify for the enhanced emergency loan, members should not be on leave of absence without pay, have no arrears in paying mandatory monthly premium contributions, and have no loans in default.

Members with existing emergency loans may borrow up to P40,000. The payment of 12 monthly amortizations is no longer a requirement for the renewal of the loan.

First-time member-borrowers and old-age pensioners are entitled to P20,000 in loanable amount.

Emergency loan for both members and pensioners, which carries a 6 percent interest per annum, is payable in 36 monthly installments. It is covered by a loan redemption insurance, which means that in case of member’s or pensioner’s demise, the loan balance would be deemed paid.

Qualified members and pensioners may apply through the GSIS Wireless Automated Processing System (GWAPS) kiosks located in GSIS offices, provincial capitols, city halls, selected municipal offices, large government agencies such as the Department of Education, and selected Robinsons Malls.

The deadline for application is January 19, 2015.

The loan proceeds are electronically credited to the borrower’s GSIS eCard or unified multipurpose identification (UMID) card.

GSIS members and pensioners may call the GSIS Contact Center at 847-4747 for other details.
Ombudsman denies MR of 5 ex-solon, et al. in PDAF scam
Source: http://www.ombudsman.gov.ph
The Office of the Ombudsman affirmed the finding of probable cause against former Representatives Rizalina Seachon-Lañete (Masbate), Rodolfo Plaza (Agusan Del Sur), Samuel Dangwa (Benguet), Constantino Jaraula (Cagayan de Oro) and Edgar Valdez (APEC) in connection with the cases on the misuse of the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) totaling P339 million.

Likewise facing criminal indictments are Janet Lim Napoles, Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Undersecretary Mario Relampagos, and DBM officials Rosario Nuñez, Lalaine Paule and Marilou Bare.

Also impleaded as co-accused are officers/representatives of the Implementing Agencies (IAs): Technology Resource Center (TRC) Director General Antonio Ortiz, Deputy Director General Dennis Cunanan and others; National Agri-Business Corporation (NABCOR) President Alan Javellana and others; National Livelihood Development Corporation (NLDC) President Gondelina Amata and others; and a number of officers/representatives of the non-government organizations (NGOs), namely: the Countrywide Agri and Rural Economic and Development Foundation (CARED), Masaganang Ani para sa Magsasaka Foundation Inc. (MAMFI), Philippine Social Development Foundation Inc, (PSDFI) and the Social Development Program for Farmer Foundation, Inc. (SDPFFI).

In five separate Orders approved on December 29, 2014, Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales denied the Motions for Reconsideration filed by respondents, considering that their pleadings are pro-forma or verbatim repetitions of the issues and claims raised in their counter-affidavits which were previously duly considered and already passed upon by the Office of the Ombudsman in its October 2014 Joint Resolutions.

Representative Lanete, Jose Sumalpong, Napoles and De Asis as well as Representative Valdez, Napoles and De Asis face separate plunder charges. The Orders also affirmed the finding against them and their respective sets of respondents for multiple counts of violation of Section 3(e) of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. Representatives Plaza, Dangwa and Jaraula and their respective sets of respondents face charges of Malversation, Direct Bribery, and violation of Section 3(e) of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

The criminal complaints against NGO incorporators Aileen Palama, Noel Macha, Renato Ornopia, Lorna Ramirez, Gabby Saquing, Margarita Guadines, Aljerome Benito, Jesus Castillo, Theresita Samson and Annie Tan were dismissed in view of newly-discovered evidence consisting of the Sworn Statement submitted by the Field Investigation Office stating that these individuals had no knowledge that their names and signatures were used in incorporating the so-called JLN NGOs. The Office also dropped the charges of Section 4(b) of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act against Napoles.
MMDA: Truck ban rules in effect during Papal Visit
Source: http://www.mmda.gov.ph
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) today clarified that there is no absolute truck ban during the entire papal visit and that existing truck ban rules in the metropolis would still be in effect during the five-day event from January 15 to 19.

Emerson Carlos, MMDA Assistant General Manager for Operations, issued the clarification to dispel confusion among truckers that there is a five-day total truck ban in the National Capital Region because of the papal visit.

“Trucks can still ply their routes in Metro Manila during the truck ban window hours. But since majority of the truck routes, particularly those coming from and going to the Manila ports, will be closed for the activities lined-up during Pope Francis’ visit, there is no other recourse for truck operators but to cease their operations temporarily,” Carlos said.

Carlos reiterated that the existing truck ban rules in EDSA, C-5, Commonwealth, Katipunan, and other roads shall remain in force.

MMDA had been able to convince truck operators to voluntarily stop their operations during the papal visit as heavy traffic is anticipated with the scheduled road closures.

“We only like to ensure the efficient mobility of the Pope and his delegates in our major thoroughfares, especially in Manila where the major events will take place,” Carlos said.
BSP offers incentives for Banks to reach unbanked Municipalities
Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph
The Monetary Board recently approved a measure that aims to bring financial services to unbanked areas of the country. The regulation includes a waiver of processing fees for the establishment of branches in unbanked areas, and an expansion of the allowable activities for micro-banking offices (MBOs). MBOs are scaled-down offices that enable banks to establish presence at relatively lower cost.

There are more than 10,000 banking offices nationwide yet 36.5% of the 1,634 cities and municipalities are unbanked. Banking presence tends to be skewed to higher-income and more populated areas considering the cost of setting up banking offices and operating such offices. The countryside is therefore challenged by limited financial services.

To address this challenge, the new regulation waives the processing fees for banking offices that will be established in unbanked municipalities to lower the cost of the bank in setting up offices in such areas. To facilitate the flow of information, the BSP will post on its website the list of unbanked municipalities to be updated quarterly.

Together with the revised rule on branch processing fees, the new regulation widens the scope of allowable activities and services that MBOs can provide. In addition to the disbursement and release of proceeds of all types of microfinance loans, MBOs can now provide and service other types of loans to microfinance clients such as educational loan, health loan and emergency loan, among others. Interested banks may also apply for BSP approval to increase the limit for the monthly average daily balance of micro-deposit accounts from the amount maximum of PhP 40,000.00, subject to certain requirements. The expanded services will still primarily cater to the needs of the microfinance clients and the prudential requirements and operational controls will be retained.

The amendments recognize the growing importance of MBOs in the delivery of financial services especially in underserved areas. To date, there are 508 operating MBOs serving 325 municipalities, of which 62 municipalities are served by MBOs alone. Increasingly, areas that were unbanked have gained banking presence due to MBOs. These simple offices may engage in limited transactional banking activities such as the provision of micro-loans and micro-deposits, among others.

These policy enhancements support the enabling regulatory framework for financial inclusion in the Philippines. The BSP efforts have received international recognition as shown from the consistent high ranking of the Philippines in the annual study conducted by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). For six consecutive years (2009 – 2014), the Philippines has been cited as one of the top countries in the world with the most conducive environment for microfinance and financial inclusion. In 2014, for instance, the country was ranked third in the world and first in Asia. Despite these significant gains, the BSP acknowledges that much work needs to be done to truly see Filipinos enjoy greater access to financial services. Moving forward, the BSP remains committed to continuously ensuring a supportive policy and regulatory environment for financial inclusion.
FDI Net Inflows surge by 103 percent in October; Reach US$5.3 billion in the first 10 months of 2014
Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph
Net inflows of foreign direct investments totaled US$444 million in October 2014, increasing by 102.7 percent from its year-ago level of US$219 million as all FDI components registered increases.1,2 The marked increase in FDI net inflows during the month was largely attributable to the surge in net equity capital placements to US$213 million from US$73 million in the previous year. This developed as equity capital placements rose by 80.9 percent to US$217 million from US$120 million, while equity capital withdrawals declined by 91.5 percent to US$4 million from US$47 million. Equity capital investments during the period—which came mostly from the United States, Germany, Singapore, the United Kingdom and Japan—were channeled mainly to the financial and insurance; manufacturing; real estate; wholesale and retail trade; and administrative and support service sectors. In addition, net placements of foreign direct investors in debt instruments issued by local affiliates expanded by 74 percent to US$168 million from US$96 million. Reinvestment of earnings during the period increased by 28.1 percent to US$63 million.

As a result of these developments, cumulative FDI net inflows for the period January to October 2014 amounted to US$5.3 billion, higher by 64.1 percent than the US$3.2 billion level posted a year ago. The increase in FDI net inflows during the period was buoyed by favorable investor outlook on the Philippine economy on the back of sound macroeconomic fundamentals. Specifically, net placements in debt instruments expanded by 55.4 percent to US$3.3 billion from US$2.1 billion, accounting for about 61 percent of total FDI net inflows during the 10-month period. This came about as parent companies abroad continued to lend to their local subsidiaries/affiliates to fund existing operations and/or the expansion of their businesses in the country. Moreover, net inflows of equity capital grew by 88.9 percent to US$1.4 billion from US$716 million. The bulk of equity capital investments for the first ten months of 2014—coming largely from the United States, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore and Taiwan—was channeled to the financial and insurance; manufacturing; real estate; wholesale and retail trade; and transportation and storage sectors. Meanwhile, reinvestment of earnings increased by 65.4 percent to US$713 million from US$431 million in the comparable period a year ago.

------------

1 The BSP adopted the Balance of Payments, 6th edition (BPM6) compilation framework effective 22 March 2013 with the release of the full-year 2012 and revised 2011 BOP statistics. On 21 March 2014, the BSP released the BPM6-based series from 2005-2013. The major change in FDI compilation is the adoption of the asset and liability principle, where claims of non-resident direct investment enterprises from resident direct investors are now presented as reverse investment under net incurrence of liabilities/non-residents’ investments in the Philippines (previously presented in the Balance of Payments Manual, 5th edition (BPM5) as negative entry under assets/residents’ investments abroad). Conversely, claims of resident direct investment enterprises from foreign direct investors are now presented as reverse investment under net acquisition of financial assets/residents’ investments abroad (previously presented as negative entry under liabilities/non-residents’ investments in the Philippines).

2 BSP statistics on FDI covers actual investment inflows, which could be in the form of equity capital, reinvestment of earnings, and borrowings between affiliates. In contrast to investment data from other government sources, the BSP’s FDI data include investments where ownership by the foreign enterprise is at least 10 percent. Meanwhile, FDI data of Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) do not make use of the 10 percent threshold and include borrowings from foreign sources that are non-affiliates of the domestic company. Furthermore, the BSP’s FDI data are presented in net terms
(i.e., equity capital placements less withdrawals), while the IPAs’ FDI do not account for equity withdrawals.
Breaking labels: ‘I am not a rebel’
Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph
Nestor Arpia lived most of his life proving his identity as a simple farmer in the mountainous barangay of Tagbacan Ilaya in Catanauan, Quezon. For years, he tried to escape the impression of being a rebel hiding at the heart of the mountain. “Masukal sa aming lugar at madalas daanan ng mga rebelde. Hindi naman kami makapagsalita dahil sinabihan kami na tatagpasin ang aming leeg kapag kami ay nagsumbong. Hanggang sa mapagkamalan kami ng mga awtoridad na kasapi ng grupo (Rebels often pass through our barangay but we cannot report them to authorities because they threatened to hurt us if we do. Until authorities suspected us being members of the group),” shared Nestor, 54. Back in 2009, Nestor recalled how hard it was to be trapped between the disputes of the two groups. Their area was allegedly suspected as the hideout of the rebels. He received warnings to leave their house to be free from trouble, but Nestor decided to stay and protect the land he inherited from his parents. “Dito ako binuhay ng mga magulang ko at eto na rin ang bumubuhay sa aking pamilya ngayon. Wala akong sapat na dahilan para umalis dito dahil wala naman kaming kasalanan (This is where my parents raised me and where I am raising my own family now. We are not doing anything wrong so there is no reason for us to leave),” Nestor exclaimed as he told the hurtful past. Despite persistently trying to prove his innocence and non-affaliation with any of the groups, an encounter still pursued in their area which damaged their house and crops. Worse, it took the lives of three of his children. Nestor admitted that the incident tested his family’s desire to continue on in life. For them, trying to put their lives together will be like having to through the eye of a needle. However, instead of living in fear, Nestor sought refuge in the community by involving himself in barangay projects and activities. He then realized how they, as a community, can collectively change the fate of their barangay. Benefits Nestor and the other villagers of Brgy. Tagbacan Ilaya knew that the remoteness of their barangay is one main reason why rebels flock their area. Aside from security issues, the difficult path to reach the nearest highway affects their livelihood especially for farmers delivering harvests to the market. Farmers need to reroute and take the roads of other barangays to reach the highway since carabaos and horses are having a hard time to go through the narrow trails of Brgy. Tagbacan Ilaya. This gives them a three to five-kilometer walk, which takes them almost half a day to reach the highway. “Ramdam din ng mga hayop ang pagod. Madalas ay baliko na ang kanilang lakad at nababangga ang mga pananim sa daan. Nagagalit tuloy ang mga may-ari ng pananim sa amin (Often, the animals get tired and veer away from the path. They accidentally destroy nearby crops which make the owners mad),” shared Nestor. Aiming to resolve these problems, Brgy. Tagbacan Ilaya proposed for a farm to market road sub-project when DSWD’s Kapitbisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS) PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn (PAMANA) started in the community in 2012. Kalahi-CIDSS PAMANA aims to empower conflict-affected barangays in planning, budgeting, and implementing need-responsive projects that would hasten delivery of basic social services and normalize their living condition. As the chairperson for the sub-project, Nestor religiously attended trainings and meetings to be familiar with the process of project implementation. He always shares the things he learned with his co-volunteers and guides them as they do the project proposal, procurement of materials, project construction, and maintenance plan for the road. “Sa dami ng gawain, nagagalit na ang misis ko dahil hindi na ako masyadong nakakatulong sa pagsasaka. Hiningi ko na lamang ang kanyang suporta at ipinaliwanag ang magiging ginhawa sa buhay namin kapag nagkaroon na ng kalsada (Before, my wife scolds me because I can no longer help in the farm due to my volunteer work. I simply asked for her support and explained to her the benefits we would get once the road is constructed),” Nestor shared. After five months of dedicated work for the project, Nestor finally saw the worth of their efforts and sacrifices. He always has a nice view from his window as the road is constructed near their house. “Grade six lang ang natapos ko pero lubos kong ipinagmamalaking nakatulong ako sa paggawa ng ganitong klaseng proyekto (I am proud that I have contributed something for the project, even if I am only a grade 6 graduate),” Nestor said with a big smile. Victory Through the collective efforts of the Tagbacan Ilaya community, they were able to utilize the P511,800 grant to construct a shortcut road towards the highway. The 920 linear meters road now eases the travel of 47 households residing in the barangay. With the shortcut road, the economic activities in Brgy. Tagbacan Ilaya prospered. Traders with tricycles and jeepneys can now directly go to the barangay for pick-up of agricultural products. The lengthy transport time to the highway was cut short to only 30 minutes which improved the quality and value of the delivered goods. The community also found new source of livelihood with charcoal making as buyers these now visit the barangay. Also, the residents have lessened their trips to the market in the town proper since food vendors now go to the area. Nestor said that these changes helped them to save more. They also observed the decline of encounters in the area. They have not noticed any rebels passing through the barangay anymore since authorities can easily drop by and conduct regular operations. Nestor shared that the Kalahi-CIDSS PAMANA process made them realize of the government’s interventions in bringing peace to their area and putting their lives back to normal. They have recognized the importance of participation and support to these programs to further improve their lives. Giving their full trust and support again to the program, Brgy. Tagbacan Ilaya has collectively implemented and completed another community project through Kalahi-CIDSS PAMANA in 2013. Their old classroom without walls and stable roofs was replaced with a one-classroom high school building worth P391,000 Nestor helped in cutting the project cost by lending his welding machine for free. “Ngayon ay ligtas na ang mga bata tuwing umuulan dahil may pader na ang bago nilang classroom (Now that the newly built classroom has walls, the students are safe every time it rains),” he said. Seeing all the improvements in the barangay, Nestor is glad that the community’s efforts finally marked an end to the conflict and fears. For a person who once lived in darkness and being falsely marked as a rebel, it is a sweet taste of victory to finally live a peaceful life at home with his family. “Ngayon, masaya ‘kong natatanaw dito sa bahay ang isa sa aming mga proyektong lubos na nakatulong sa aming pamilya. Magaan na ang buhay sa piling ng kalsada. Ipinagmamalaki ko ang pagbabagong ito sa aming komunidad sa tulong ng ating gobyerno na nagtiwala sa kakayahan namin (It makes me happy to see one of our projects just outside our home. Our lives are now better because of the road. I am proud of this positive change in our community through the help of the government which believed in our capability to transform our lives),” Nestor contently said.
Two more rice traders slapped smuggling raps
Source: http://www.dof.gov.ph
Two Cagayan De Oro-based rice traders face smuggling-related charges for the illegal importation of over 1.3-Million kilograms (1,378 Metric Tons) of glutinous (malagkit) rice worth an estimated P82.68-Million.

Elmer Cañeta and Michael Abella, owners and proprietors of EC Peninsula Commercial and New Dawn Enterprises, respectively, were charged with multiple counts of violating Section 3601 of the Tariff and Customs Code of the Philippines (TCCP) for the unlawful importation; and Section 29 of Presidential Decree (PD) Number 4, as amended by PD No 1485 for failure to obtain import permits. Both firms were not issued Certificates of Eligibility to import rice by the National Food Authority (NFA) nor obtained the required import permits from the NFA for its rice importations.

The illegal rice shipments of New Dawn Enterprises and EC Peninsula Commercial arrived in November 2014 at the Port of Cagayan De Oro. In its import documents, New Dawn and EC Peninsula misdeclared the rice imports as gypsum boards, plaster board, kitchenware and tiles.

“There was clear intent to hide the rice shipments precisely because these traders know that they are importing rice without the required permits. We are working closely with the NFA to set policies and procedures that are easy and simple to understand to improve the compliance of rice traders,” said Customs Commissioner John P. Sevilla.

The NFA regulates rice imports through Minimum Access Volumes to ensure viability of the local rice industry.

FACTS OF THE CASES:

CONSIGNEE EC PENINSULA COMMERCIAL
DATE OF COMMISSION November 2014
VIOLATIONS 1.     Section 3601 in relation to Section 101 of the TCCP in relation to National Food Authority (“NFA”) Memorandum Circular No. AO-2014-01-001 dated 28 January 2014
2.     Section 29 of Presidential Decree No. 4, as amended.
GOODS 35 20-foot container vans of GLUTINOUS RICE totaling 910,000 kilograms
MARKET VALUE P54,600,000.00
PORT OF ORIGIN Vietnam
RESPONDENT ELMER DELA PENA CANETA, owner/proprietor of EC PENINSULA COMMERCIAL, with address at Hillside Village, Lapasan, Cagayan De Oro City
CONSIGNEE NEW DAWN ENTERPRISES
DATE OF COMMISSION November 2014
VIOLATIONS 1.     Section 3601 in relation to Section 101 of the TCCP in relation to National Food Authority (“NFA”) Memorandum Circular No. AO-2014-01-001 dated 28 January 2014; and
2.     Section 29 of Presidential Decree No. 4, as amended.
GOODS 18 20-foot container vans of GLUTINOUS RICE totaling 468,000 kilograms
MARKET VALUE P28,080,000.00
PORT OF ORIGIN Vietnam
RESPONDENT MICHAEL ANGUAY ABELLA, owner/proprietor of NEW DAWN ENTERPRISES, with address at Purok 10, Baloy Highway, Tablon, Cagayan De Oro City
Manila Bulletin and DOLE join hands on labor education
Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph
No less than one of the country’s leading daily newspapers, the Manila Bulletin, is partnering with the DOLE in pushing for Filipinos’ broader access to labor and employment education services, or LEES, and Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz has profusely thanked the Manila Bulletin management for its support in the implementation of this DOLE major program.
“I am very proud of the Manila Bulletin’s support to the DOLE effort to effectively reach millions of workers and jobseekers with our LEES. With its high national readership and strong public influence, the Manila Bulletin is in a position to contribute greatly to making LEES accessible to a wide number of audiences,” said Baldoz after Bureau of Labor Relations Director Benjo Benavidez reported that the Manila Bulletin had agreed to partner with the DOLE on the LEES.
The DOLE and the Manila Bulletin will formalize the partnership with the signing of a memorandum of agreement on 23 January at the Labor Governance Learning Center, DOLE Building, Intramuros, Manila, according to Benavidez.
“The convergence of the DOLE and the Manila Bulletin on this important program will further invigorate the mandate of our Bureau of Labor Relations to educate and provide knowledge on the rights and responsibilities of workers and employers, work ethics, values, skills and other relevant information,” said Secretary Baldoz.
Under the agreement, the DOLE, through the Bureau of Labor Relations, will regularly provide the Manila Bulletin’s mbclasssifiedjobs.com website with the latest labor market information and help promote the website in its upcoming events and campaigns. It will also post in any of its family of agencies’ websites the MBClassifiedJOBS.com official logo and link.
The Manila Bulletin, on its part, will promote the LEES and other DOLE programs and services through its three online platforms—the Manila Bulletin online; mb.com.ph, and MBClassified.com.
Director Benavidez reported that the DOLE and the Manila Bulletin will launch the joint project through a press launch, also on 23 January.
Baldoz underscored the innovativeness of the partnership, which also harmonizes with the DOLE’s aim to build a more pro-active, coherent, technology-based, accessible, and comprehensive approach in labor and management education with integrated modules and other instructional and information materials.
DOLE’s partnership with the Manila Bulletin, through the Bureau of Labor Relations, reinforces the Labor and Employment Education Services’ information and advocacy campaign through animated videos which are available in the cyberspace, and the Online Union Registration System (OURS) which uses the Internet-based registration of public sector unions, federations and workers’ associations.
These innovations add up to other pillars of labor reforms, which are tripartism and social dialogue.
“With the joint undertaking, DOLE further widens its mass communications platform in targeting its broad base of clients and stakeholders. More than ever, we are extensively reaching out to the labor force through various channels. This is one way of upholding access to information, which is an essential component of good governance and accountability,” Baldoz finally said.
Roxas: Government's goal is to empower every Filipino
Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph
Interior and Local Government Sec. Mar Roxas assured the country’s basic sectors that the whole government is working together to ease the plight of all Filipinos.

Speaking before the national sectoral assembly organized by the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC), Roxas recognized that not all Filipinos were born rich.

He said this is the reason why President Aquino has enforced “affirmative action” to assist the marginalized sectors “dahil dehado (because they are less fortunate).”

The assembly was attended by more than 1,000 leaders from the 14 basic sectors, namely: youth and students, women, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, farmers, workers in the informal sector, fisher folk, children, urban poor, indigenous peoples, cooperatives, formal labor and migrant workers, non-government organizations, and victims of disasters and calamities.

Roxas discouraged members of the basic sectors from having a “victim or kawawa mentality”, saying “kung may kakulangan, andiyan ang pamahalaan para tulungan tayo (if there are gaps, the government is there to help us).”

He said all members of the cabinet, following President Aquino’s “whole of government approach” are attending to their needs.

The DILG instead encouraged them to use the assistance being offered by government to achieve their dreams, empowerment being one of the underlying principles of President Aquino’s Tuwid na Daan.

He said, “dahil hawak natin ang ating kinabukasan. Yan ang ibig sabihin ng pagiging kasama sa Daang Matuwid (because our future lies in our own hands. That is what is meant by being part of the Daang Matuwid).
Kooperasyon ng mga pinoy sa Papal Visit patuloy na pakiusap - Roxas
Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph
Muling umapela si Interior at Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas sa mamamayan na sundin ang paalalang ipinalalabas ng ibat-ibang ahensiya ng pamahalaan may kinalaman sa Papal visit.

Sinabi ni Roxas na ang bawat isang Pilipino ay maituturing na host ng bansa sa pagdating ni Pope Francis.

“Ang pagkakaroon ng maayos na disiplina, sa mga araw na nandito ang Pope ang isa sa magandang bagay na magagawa ng mga Pinoy kapalit ng pagbisita ng Papa sa Pilipinas,” pahayag ni Roxas.

Ayon sa kalihim, mas mabuting sundin ng mga mananampalataya na dadalo sa mga aktibidad ng Pope ang lahat ng protocol na ipatutupad, para mas maging organisado at madali ang sistema sa lahat ng dadalo.

Ang Philippine National Police (PNP) at Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) ang dalawa sa pangunahing magpapatupad ng seguridad sa Papal visit katuwang ang ibang security agency ng gobyerno.

Muli din humingi ng pang-unawa si Roxas sa mga motorista at mananakay na kasama sa mga lugar na pupuntahan at bibisitahin ni Pope Francis dahil ngayon pa lamang ay apektado na ang mga ito ng pagbabagong ginagawa may kinalaman sa Papal visit.

Kabilang sa mga apektado ang mga regular na mananakay ng LRT-1, operasyon ng NAIA at pagsasara ng ilang pangunahing kalsada.

Idinagdag pa nito na noong huling bumisita ang Pope noong 1995 ay mahigit sa 68 milyon lang ang populasyon ng bansa, samantalang ngayon humigit kumulang sa 101 milyon na ang tao sa Pilipinas.

Nilinaw din ng kalihim na hindi layunin ng pamahalaan na namamahala sa security at safety preparation ng Papal visit na hindi binabawalan ang mga Katoliko na dumalo sa anumang aktibidad subalit dapat ay maging handa din ang mga ito sa ipinatutupad na security at safety protocol ng PNP at AFP.
25,000 cops deployed in Papal Visit venues
Source: http://pnp.gov.ph
Police personnel and resources committed for security and public safety operations are now being mobilized and deployed in the different areas of engagement ahead of the 5-day State Visit and Apostolic Journey of His Holiness Pope Francis in Metro Manila and Eastern Visayas this week.

PNP Officer -in-Charge, Deputy Director General Leonardo A Espina has placed the entire 150,000-strong PNP on Full Alert condition since Monday to ensure maximum availability of all personnel to perform police duty in the historic gathering of some 6-million faithful expected to welcome His Holiness in several venues in Manila.

“We are putting our best foot forward in this historic national event. We have started preparations since last year. We have rehearsed and fine-tuned all our systems and procedures for this event, such that we have established full back-up system that will address any unforeseen situation that may arise,” Espina said.

“We are not leaving anything to chance in our preparations for the visit of Pope Francis, and we have drawn contingencies for every foreseeable scenario,” the PNP Officer-in-Charge added.

A total of 25,000 PNP personnel will provide operational support to the Presidential Security Group (PSG) that is tasked to provide close-in security and safety services to the Pope and his entourage.

The PNP contingent will also conduct security coverage operations in the different venues of engagement of the Pope while other PNP Units will provide public safety assistance necessary for order maintenance and police services for crowd control, vehicular and pedestrian traffic direction, route, parking, and venue security.

Even as he begged the indulgence of the public who will be “inconvenienced” by the PNP security plan, Espina shared the opinion of President Benigno S Aquino III that the “people are the key for this to be organized and peaceful.”

“We appeal to the public for their understanding and cooperation in security measures that are being implemented by the police.”

“While the government is in close coordination with Church leaders and the private sector to ensure the success of the Papal Visit, the people's cooperation would be most crucial. (PNP-PIO)
Vibrant Philippine culture highlighted in North Island, New Zealand
Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph
14 January 2015 – Philippine Ambassador to New Zealand Virginia H. Benavidez, Cultural Officer Ma. Victoria Reyes and Administrative Staff Hilario Reyes joined the oath-taking ceremony and Christmas gathering of the newly formed North Island Filipino Farmers Association (NIFFA) on December 18, 2014 at the South Waikato Sports and Events Centre in Tokoroa.

The NIFFA officers and members headed by their President, Mr. Harvey Cabug, organized a celebratory gathering highlighting their formal induction into their respective positions and showcasing Filipino music, dances and traditions.

Among the guests were South Waikato District Mayor Neil Sinclair; Mr. Chris Lewis, Provincial President, Federated Farmers Waikato; Mr. Craig Littin, Chairperson, Federated Farmers Waikato Sharemilkers; Mr. Robert Mindoro, President, South Waikato Filipino Community; Mr. Jhun Valencia, President, Waikato Filipino Association, Hamilton; several Filipinos in the dairy sector and their families; and employers of the Filipino dairy farmers and guests from the New Zealand and other communities. Different and delightful Filipino dances, music, gift giving to children and a bountiful table of Filipino cuisine enlivened the Christmas celebration.

NIFFA Adviser Pastor Roger Alcantara led the opening prayer followed by the welcome remarks of NIFFA President Harvey Cabug. He acknowledged the presence of all of the guests and thanked NIFFA officers, members and families for their support and cooperation.

Ambassador Benavidez congratulated the NIFFA officers and administered the oath of office to the President, Mr. Harvey Cabug; Vice-President, Mr. Ireneo Molina; Secretary, Mr. George Ticar; Treasurer, Mr. Cris Marinas; Auditor, Mr. Julius Caoing; Advisers, Mr. Patt Obillo, Pastor Roger Alcantara and Mr. Jhun Valencia; Area Coordinators, Mr. Marcelino Cabigat, Mr. James Gandeza, Mr. Manuling Simeon, Mr. Jojo Cinas Mr. Randy Francisco and Mr. Jun Suyat; and Sports Coordinator, Mr. Nilo Lubit.

She commended them for their collaborative efforts to harness the skills and talents of Filipinos in the dairy and farming sectors and promote their interests, welfare and well-being. In these times of celebration, appreciation and recognition, “Christmas has been and will always be especially meaningful for us Filipinos. It is the time of the year when sharing and giving, not only of gifts and material things, but more importantly, of one’s heart and self become even more significant. Christmas resonates with the universal and uplifting message of hope, peace, love, joy and salvation as we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” Ambassador Benavidez stated.

She cited the vital contributions of the increasing number of Filipinos to the multicultural fabric, ethnic diversity and strong sense of community of New Zealand. Mayor Sinclair cited in particular the contributions of the Filipinos in the dairy sector in his district and Mr. Lewis likewise listed “5 Cs” of importance to Filipino dairy farmers, namely, cows, calves, cow shed, cheers for the boss and community. Greetings were made by Mr. Mindoro and Mr. Valencia on behalf of their respective organizations.

All the guests enjoyed the sumptuous buffet dinner and the joy filled evening which captured and cherished the Filipinos’ heart-warming traditions.

“In this season of commitment, the Philippine Embassy renews our determination to do our best in serving our beloved country and people in New Zealand and strengthening the close friendship and mutually beneficial partnership between Filipinos and New Zealanders. Our jobs are our mission. Uppermost in our hearts and minds are the words and example of President Benigno S. Aquino III who directed that all frontline services of the Government must be marked by honesty, integrity and hard work and of Secretary of Foreign Affairs Albert F. del Rosario who stated that the men and women of the Department, in any time zone, must always serve with a smile, go the extra mile and reach beyond our grasp. May the ‘Christ’ in Christmas continue to rule in our hearts and reign in our lives and may our hearts and homes be filled with many blessings and overflowing gratitude,” stated Ambassador Benavidez.
PHL Ambassador to Oman hosts Asian Ambassadors’ Group Meeting
Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph
14 January 2015 – Philippine Ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman Narciso T. Castañeda, hosted the Asian Ambassadors’ Group (AAG) Meeting held on January 12 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Muscat.

The Asian Ambassador’s Group (AAG) Meeting is a regular monthly gathering of the 16 Asian Heads of Mission in Muscat.

Mr. Lee Chee Khian, Chief Executive Officer of the Special Economic Zone Authority of Duqm (SEZAD) was the guest speaker for the meeting. He discussed recent developments, new investments, and related news about the economic zone meant to give an update to the ambassadors who were given a special tour of Duqm in April 2014 by the Oman Ministry of Foreign Affairs. His presentation also provided valuable information to newly-arrived ambassadors in Oman.

Mr. Lee was the designated representative of SEZAD Chairman Yahya bin Said Al-Jabri to the event.
New firetrucks raised CRK rating to Category 10
Source: http://www.dotc.gov.ph
The Clark International Airport (CRK) is now rated Category 10 after the acquisition of P115 million two units Rosenbauer Firetrucks capable of handling emergency disasters at the 2,267 hectare Clark Civil Aviation Complex.

At the same time, Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) President and CEO Atty. Emigdio Tanhuatco III led on January 12, 2015, the blessings of the firetrucks and a newly installed P92 million two finger Passenger Boarding Bridge at Clark International Airport.

The acquisition of two units of 6x6 3000 gallons Major Tender (MT) with a High Reach Extendable Turret (HRET) and a 6x6 2250 gallons Major Tender (MT) firetrucks have raised Clark International Airport to Category 10 from its previous Category 9 status. The two vehicles costs some P115 million. The Category 10 is the highest rating set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) which means Clark Airport can handle emergency disasters involving wider aircrafts such as the Boeing-777, and the Airbus A-380.

Tanjuatco explained during the blessings of the two firetrucks at CIAC said that “this are state of the art vehicles which are the first in the country today.”

“This vehicles would be used for emergency disasters at Clark Airport and we are now capable of handling such disasters involving wider aircrafts which are currently being used by air carriers.”

Tanjautco also led the blessing of the newly installed Two finger Passenger Boarding Bridge aimed at providing more convenience to passengers at the Passenger Terminal of the airport. The new Passenger Boarding Bridge cost about P92 million.

At the same time, Tanjuatco and other SM Clark City Officials led the opening of the SM Travelers Lounge located at the Bayanihan Terminal near SM City Clark.

Tanjuatco said “the opening of the new Travelers Lounge will make more convenience to passengers taking their flights at Clark Airport and to provide a seamless transportation service in the area.

“I would like to thank the management of SM City Clark for their support to Clark Airport and rest assured that CIAC will continue to provide support to SM Clark and especially to the passengers.” He added.

The SM Travelers Lounge is open daily from 4am to 11pm which is being serviced by the Philtranco Bus Lines. Passengers departing from Clark Airport can now use the SM Travelers Lounge and take their respective transportation via Philtranco Bus that will take them to SM Pampanga, SM North EDSA, SM Mega Mall and SM Mall of Asia vise-versa.

Tanjuatco cited that there are eight low-cost carrier and legacy airlines currently flying out of Clark. Among them are Asiana Airlines with daily flights to Incheon in South Korea with connecting flights in the United States. Dragonair with flights to Hong Kong, Cebu Pacific Air with flights to Hong Kong, Singapore, Macau and domestic flights to Cebu. Tiger Air Philippines with flights to Singapore and Hong Kong. Jin Air with flights to Incheon and Air Asia Berhad with flights to Kuala Lumpur, Seair-International with flights to Caticlan. Qatar Airways with daily flights to Doha in Qatar.
Fishery Law Enforcers ready to take on illegal activities
Source: http://www.da.gov.ph
Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala conferred today, January 13, 2015, the first batch of graduates who finished the 90-day training on National Capability Building Program for Fisheries Law Enforcers (NCBPFLE) initiated by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).

During the graduation ceremony held at the National Brackishwater Fisheries Technology Center in Pagbilao, Quezon, Alcala urged the 62 new Fisheries Law Enforcers (FLE) to be champions of change and be part of the implementation of policies that safeguard marine life and other aquatic resources in the country.

The Agri chief stressed that an effective law enforcer will contribute greatly to the progress of the local fishing industry and the people whose livelihood depend on it.

“This initiative is part of the government’s move to strengthen the country’s fight against illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, and I am very happy that we now have BFAR-trained enforcers that will help the government in campaigning (for) and ensuring that our fishery laws are followed,” he said.

“You will be a great help to our mission of protecting the seas and other fishery sources, and will complement the hard work of the local government unit who have been fighting illegal fishing activities,” Alcala said.

Training participants are enlisted BFAR personnel from across the country who are currently on a “Job Order” status. They are between 21-35 years of age, graduates of four-year college degrees and hold civil service eligibility.

Undersecretary for Fisheries Atty. Asis Perez noted that training graduates will be given priority in the appointment for the positions under fishery regulations officers in their respective regional offices.

Perez said that the first NCBPFLE, which ran from October 6, 2014 to January 13, 2015, provided the participants with sufficient knowledge and skills that will allow them to ensure proper management and protection of the country’s fisheries and aquatic resources.

The course module included training on BFAR operations and protocols, fishery laws and aquatic protection, shipboard operation and practicum, advance tactical training, water search and rescue, field training exercises and physical development program.

Aside from strengthening the law enforcement capacity of BFAR personnel, the agency has also procured 27 units of 40-footer Monitoring, Control and Surveillance vessels, 70 units of 30-footer multi-mission vessels and two units of 50-meter vessels equipped with necessary special operation tools and devices including fire arms, GPS, night vision goggles, scuba gears, and rigid-hulled inflatable rubber boats.

The second batch of training started on January 8, 2015 with a total of 52 participants.
Z Package cares for the heart
Source: http://www.philhealth.gov.ph/news/2015/zpackage_cares.html
According to Enrico de Castro of Tugbok, Davao City, the cost of undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting in the country is P2,000,000.00 and this is the very reason why he endured his chest pain for six long years.
The mere thought of the cost of hospitalization hinders the 54-year-old PhilHealth informal economy member from seeking further medical treatment.
"Malaki na ang nagagastos ko dahil umiinom ako ng gamot araw-araw. Pabalik-balik pa ako sa doktor pero hindi maalis ang sakit ng dibdib ko,” he narrated.
Due to the recurring chest pain, he was required by his doctor to undergo a coronary angiogram, a procedure that uses X-ray imaging to see one’s heart blood vessels and help diagnose heart conditions.
“Tatlong bara (sa puso) ang nakita ng doctor, kailangan ko na talagang maopera,” said de Castro. He was diagnosed of having Severe Coronary Artery Disease.
After his angiogram procedure last February, he suffered a heart attack. Fortunately it was also on that same month when PhilHealth introduced its Expanded Z Packages for heart surgeries, particularly for Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG), Surgery for Total Correction of Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF), and patch repair of Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) for patients who are eligible PhilHealth members or dependents.
In one of his check-ups, his doctor informed him about the PhilHealth Z Package for CABG and advised him that he just needs to pass the selections criteria to avail himself of the package.
He complied with all the requirements and before Marchend, merely a month of waiting, he was informed that he was the first PhilHealth member to avail of the Z Package for CABG in Mindanao.
“Buti na lang dumating ang Z Package. Noong nalaman ko ang good news, umuwi ako na tuwang-tuwa. Hindi ko alam kung paano ko pasasalamatan ang PhilHealth,” he happily exclaimed.
He was very satisfied not only of the PhilHealth benefits he was able to avail himself of but also about his stay in the hospital. “Wala akong problema sa aking benepisyo at sa ospital. Maganda ang facilities at pakikitungo sa akin sa Southern Philippines Medical Center,” he added.
“Maraming salamat sa PhilHealth dahil mayroon silang Z Package. Kung wala ito, nagtitiis pa ako sa sakit ko hanggang ngayon o kung hindi naman, patay na ako,” he said.
For his wonderful experience with the Z Package for CABG, de Castro interestingly paraphrased part of PhilHealth’s vision of “Bawat miyembro, protektado” to “Bawat puso ng miyembro, protektado”.
The PhilHealth Z Package rate for CABG surgery is P550,000.00 and may be availed of at the Philippine Heart Center (NCR), Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center and Southern Philippines Medical Center.
All eligible members and their dependents are qualified to avail of the package provided that they passed the selections criteria set by PhilHealth.
Eligible Sponsored and Indigent members, Kasambahay and IGroup Gold members and their dependents may also avail themselves of the No Balance Billing policy when availing of the Z-Benefits for CABG in designated government hospitals. On the other hand, a fixed co-pay which shall not exceed the package rate shall be applied to formal, informal, overseas Filipino workers and lifetime members, should they need to avail themselves of the package.
ICC approves first LGU PPP Project
Source: http://ppp.gov.ph
The Tanauan City Public Market Redevelopment Project becomes the first LGU PPP project approved by the Investment Coordination Committee – Cabinet Committee (ICC-CC) under the current PPP Program.
Initiated by the City Government through capacity building support by the PPP Center, the project will involve a commercial mall building as well as separate wet and dry public market facilities. It is intended to provide a more viable and consumer-friendly public center for commerce especially since the existing market has served as a major fruit and vegetable trading center in the region. With an estimated project cost of PhP400 Million, the project will be a twenty-five (25) year concession including one (1) year construction period.
The redeveloped public market will generate employment for the local communities in the city and nearby municipalities as well as improve storage and market facilities for local business. It is also expected to reduce traffic in this part of Batangas by significantly improving the turnaround time for transporting goods and wares to and from the public market.
The Tanauan City government plans to commence PPP bidding of the project within the month and expects to award the same to the best private partner in March 2015.
“This is the first LGU-PPP project approved by the ICC and we look forward to more local PPP initiatives facilitated by the Center’s PPP capacity building strategy for local governments”, says PPP Center Executive Director Cosette V. Canilao.
The current pipeline of projects of the PPP Program has several LGU initiated projects. In 2013, the PPP Center also launched an LGU PPP strategy following its capacity building program that included the development and dissemination of an LGU PPP Manual.
Under the BOT Law and its IRR, LGUs can implement PPPs for local infrastructure and development projects. Based on cost, some locally initiated projects can be approved at the local development council levels and need not go up to the ICC. In the previous administrations, several LGUs awarded contracts to private partners for local development projects using the BOT and its variants.
 
INTERVIEW OF COMMUNICATIONS SECRETARY HERMINIO COLOMA, JR.
AKSYON TV5 / Punto Asintado by Erwin Tulfo and Martin Andanar
14 January 2015
ERWIN: Magandang umaga po, Mr. Secretary, Sir.

SEC. COLOMA: Magandang umaga, Erwin, at iyo at sa lahat ng tagapakinig.

ERWIN: Kasama po natin si Martin, Sir. Live po tayo.

SEC. COLOMA: Good morning, Martin.

ERWIN: Sir, unang katanungan, mukhang nakita naman natin na handang handa na po talaga ang lahat - ang seguridad, PNP, AFP, MMDA, pati nga po ang Pangulo mismo, aba’y siya na raw mismo ang nangangasiwa dito sa mga preparations na ito, Mr. Secretary. Bakit po, bakit hindi na lang inatas ng Pangulo ito kay Sec. Mar Roxas o sa iba pang mga opisyales, bakit siya mismo ang nangasiwa nito, Mr. Secretary?

SEC. COLOMA: Napakahalaga po kasi ng personalidad na ating tatanggapin magmula bukas at walang iba kundi ang puno ng ating Simbahang Katolika at Head of State din po ng Vatican, ang kanyang kabanalan na Mahal na Santo Papa Pope Francis. At nakataya po dito ang karangalan at integridad ng ating buong bansa sa pagtitiyak na magiging maayos at makabuluhan ang kanyang pagdalaw. Kaya wala pong detalye na pinapabayaang malampasan, at wala pong preparasyon na hindi isinasagawa. Ang lahat ay pinagsisikapang gawin sa pinakamahusay na paraan para po matamo natin ang inaasam natin na matagumpay na pagdalaw ng Santo Papa.

ERWIN: May oras po ba ang Santo Papa at ang Pangulo na makapag-usap pagdating niya ho rito, na pag-usapan ang mga issues? I am sure, Sir, kasi itong Santo Papa na ito ay aktibo hindi lamang po sa spirituality ng tao kundi maging ang mga social issues, mga economic, at saka mga political issues. Ito ho ba ay expected ng Pangulo na pag-uusapan din nila, Sir, particular dito sa ating bayan?

SEC. COLOMA: Noong makalawa, Erwin, nung nagpahayag ang Pangulo sa pambansang telebisyon, may Q&A, tinanong din sa kanya iyan ng isang mamamahayag at ang sinabi niya—kung ang pagbabatayan ay iyong situwasyon noong makalawa, eh, sa totoo lang wala pa namang nakalatag na talking points para sa kanya. Hindi pa naman ito nakukumpirma kung ano talaga eksatong talakayan na magaganap. Ang masasabi lang natin ay ito: Pangkaraniwan na kapag dumadalaw ang isang Head of State, at katulad nga nang katauhan ng Santo Papa, ay nagkakaroon ng one-on-one na talakayan ang Pangulo doon sa dumadalaw na Head of State. Kaya kung magaganap ito, sinabi naman ng Pangulo na handa naman siyang ihayag ang kanyang saloobin, na sa inaakala din niya ay pagpapahayag at saloobin ng mga mamamayan at mananampalatayang Pilipino.

ERWIN: Pero, in fairness, Sir, aba’y mukhang binigyan po nang credit ng Santo Papa ho yata iyong effort ng administrasyon, ng pamahalaan, para makamit itong kapayapaan sa Mindanao. Nabanggit po niya sa kanyang speech ho yata noong isang araw at nabanggit niya about the Philippines lalong lalo na itong Moro Islamic Liberation Front, itong Bangsamoro Agreement, Mr. Secretary?

SEC. COLOMA: Erwin, binanggit iyan ni Papal Nuncio, Archbishop Giuseppe Pinto, siya po ang Ambassador ng Vatican sa Pilipinas. At marahil pahiwatig din na po iyan sa saloobin ng Santo Papa. Pansinin din natin na pagpapalabas ng isang Papal Encyclical hinggil sa Climate Change na natataon din sa pagdalaw ng Santo Papa sa Pilipinas, at marapat lamang na ito ay itataon sa ganyang kaganapan dahil iyong paghataw sa ating bansa nung Super Typhoon Yolanda ay isang manipestasyon ng hamon ng Climate Change at maaaring kukunin ng Santo Papa ang pagkakataon na ihayag iyong kanyang mga paniwala at mga prinsipyo ng Simbahan tungkol sa epekto ng—hamon ng Climate Change sa mga mamamayan at sa mga mananampalataya.

ERWIN: Another point, Mr. Secretary, aba’y sa darating po na weekend mukhang nasa Leyte ho siya at saka dito sa Metro Manila, may paparating po na Bagyo. Sec, ano ho ang plano?
Aba’y tutuloy ho kaya iyong kanyang bisita doon sa Leyte? May bagyo ho roon at saka inaasahan din na uulanin tayo dito, aabutin tayo ng bagyo naman dito sa Metro Manila din. Sa araw na iyon mukhang may papasok pong bagyo, Secretary? Iyon ho ba ay tuloy pa rin iyong plano na iyon na pagbisita niya sa Palo, iyong ika nga ay misa diyan sa Luneta, bagama’t tayo ay may mga malakas na ulan, Mr. Secretary?

SEC. COLOMA: Unang una, Erwin at Martin, nandiyan iyong ganap na pagtutok ng ating pamahalaan sa pamamagitan ng PAGASA sa pagpasok sa Philippine Area of Responsibility ng tropical depression na tatawagin daw na “Amang.” Pangalawa, kailangang maglatag ng mga kinauukulang paghahanda tulad nang ginagawa natin may bisita man o wala. Dahil may epekto iyan sa kaligtasan din ng ating mga mamamayan. Pangatlo, kung patungkol sa magiging epekto sa mga kaganapan ng Papal visit, natunghayan natin iyong pahayag ng Pangulo ng Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines, si Archbishop Socrates Villegas. Ayon po sa kanya ang pinakamataas na prayoridad sa pagdalaw ng Santo Papa ay iyong pagpunta sa Tacloban at iyong pakikiniig niya sa mga pamilyang apektado ng Yolanda. Kaya isasaalang-alang din ito sa paglatag ng mga prayoridad at sa paghahanay nang possible alternative—alternative schedule o contingency para sa pagdating ng Santo Papa. Sabihin na lang natin na nagkakaroon nang masinsin na pakikipag-ugnayan ang pamahalaan. Siyempre po ay isasaalang-alang pangunahin dito ay iyong mismong saloobin ng Santo Papa, at gagawin po ang nararapat para matamo po iyong layunin ng Santo Papa sa kanyang pagdalaw.

ERWIN: Sabi po rin dito, Sir, na iyong administrasyon daw po, particular na ng Pangulo, ay hindi itatago sa Santo Papa ang status nang kahirapan ng ating bayan, Secretary Sonny, Sir?

SEC. COLOMA: Sa simula’t-sapul, Erwin at Martin, iyan naman po ang patakaran ng pamahalaan iyong pagiging bukas, transparent, at may pananagutan ng ating pamahalaan. Maski po sa ating mga mamamayan, maski po sa Pilipino, ay wala pong pagtatakip, walang pagkukubli, walang pag-iwas sa katotohanan at sa aktuwal na situwasyon, lalong lalo na po dito sa pagdating ng Santo Papa, wala pong ganyang agenda ang adminsitrasyon. Lahat naman po ay bukas, transparent, hayag, at wala po tayong iniiwasang pananagutan.

ERWIN: Sec. Sonny, good morning si Martin po ito. Ano po ang expect natin sa meeting ng Presidente at ng Santo Papa, Sir?

SEC. COLOMA: Katulad nang naumpisahan ko ng ihayag kanina doon sa kahalintulad na tanong ni Erwin. Ayon sa Pangulo noong makalawa ay wala pang napagkasunduang definite agenda, dahil usually iyon ay pre-arranged through diplomatic channels para maging makabuluhan iyong pag-uusap. Ganumpaman ayon sa kanya handa naman siyang iparating sa Santo Papa iyong kanyang saloobin at iyong sa pakiwari niya ay iyong saloobin nang nakakaraming Pilipino sa Kanyang Kabanalan para sa mainam na pagkakaunawaan. Yaman din lamang at ang ating bansa ay isa sa pinakamalaking Catholic nation sa buong mundo.

ERWIN: Ang isa pa ho Sir, mukhang napansin din ho namin, dito sa media, parang all hands na po yata, aba’y lahat ho ng tao ho, halos lahat ng miyembro ng gabinete ay kumikilos ngayon at tumutulong bilang paghahanda po sa pagdating ng Santo Papa. Ito po ba ay order ng Pangulo o kusa lang ito o ano ho ba? May mandato ba rito ang Malakanyang sa mga tauhan po nito na kumilos?

SEC. COLOMA: Eh, sabihin na lang po natin leadership by example. Ang Pangulo mismo ang nangunguna sa aksiyon at sa pamamagitan rin ng kautusan na talagang napakahalaga nitong pagiging makabuluhan at matagumpay na pagdalaw ng Santo Papa kaya pinagtutulungan naman po ng lahat. Lunes pa po sa Papal Visit Organizing Committee nag-joint po iyong mga committees niyan, halimbawa, sa transportation mayroong in-charge na leader ng Simbahan at iyon namang si Secretary Abaya, doon po sa area natin, Communication and Information, kami po ni Bishop Mylo Vergara ang magkatuwang. Kaya sa lahat ng aspeto ay mayroong joint and unified action. Pinagtutulungan po talaga na maging maayos at matagumpay ang pagbisita ng Santo Papa.

ERWIN: With that Secretary Sonny Coloma, naku eh good luck po, good luck po sa Pangulo, sa pamahalaan, dito po sa mga preparations na isinasagawa ngayon sa pagdating po ng Santo Papa bukas. Maraming maraming salamat po, Secretary. Magandang umaga, mabuhay po kayo, Sir.

SEC. COLOMA: Maraming salamat at magandang umaga din sa inyong lahat.
SOURCE: News Information Bureau - Data Processing Center
Last Updated: 14 JANUARY 2015
Alternative photo archive with high resolutions
Please click on thumbnails to magnify
President Benigno S. Aquino III inspects the security preparations at Villamor Air Base, the Apostolic Nunciature and the Light Rail Transit (LRT) 1 Quirino Station during the dry run on Tuesday night (January 13) of the Papal convoy for the pastoral visit of Pope Francis to the Philippines. With the President is Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
Members of the Philippine Military Academy and Presidential Security Group stand at attention during the rehearsals for the arrival honors for Pope Francis in Malacanang Wednesday (January 14). (Rey S. Baniquet / NIB)
Members of the Philippine Military Academy stand at attention during the rehearsals for the arrival honors for Pope Francis in Malacanang Wednesday (January 14). (Rey S. Baniquet / NIB)
Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio B. Coloma, Jr. (extreme left) answers a query from the press during a media briefing on Monday (Jan. 12, 2015) on the Apostolic Visit of Pope Francis to the Philippines. Also in photo are Bishop Mylo C. Vergara, Bishop Ruperto Santos and Msgr. Pedro Quitorio. The Pope is arriving in Manila on Thursday (Jan. 15, 2015). (PNA photo by Johnny D. Guevarra)
President Benigno S. Aquino III asked for the cooperation of the people on television Monday (January 12) to ensure a safe and successful pastoral visit of Pope Francis. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III, accompanied by the Papal Nuncio to the Philippines and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps His Excellency Archbishop Guiseppe Pinto and Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, leads the traditional toast for the New Year’s Vin d’ Honneur at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (January 12). The annual reception which marks the 28th Vin d’ Honneur since the 1986 EDSA Revolution was attended by government officials, members of the Diplomatic Corps, officials of international organizations and businessmen. (Photo by Rolando Mailo / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)
President Benigno S. Aquino III, accompanied by the Papal Nuncio to the Philippines and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps His Excellency Archbishop Guiseppe Pinto, leads the traditional toast during the New Year’s Vin d’ Honneur at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (January 12). The annual reception which marks the 28th Vin d’ Honneur since the 1986 EDSA Revolution was attended by government officials, members of the Diplomatic Corps, officials of international organizations and businessmen. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Marcelino Pascua / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)
President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his message at the New Year’s Vin d’ Honneur held at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (January 12). The annual reception which marks the 28th Vin d’ Honneur since the 1986 EDSA Revolution was attended by government officials, members of the Diplomatic Corps, officials of international organizations and businessmen. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes Papal Nuncio to the Philippines and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps His Excellency Archbishop Guiseppe Pinto at the reception line for the New Year’s Vin d’ Honneur at the Reception Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (January 12). The annual reception which marks the 28th Vin d’ Honneur since the 1986 EDSA Revolution was attended by government officials, members of the Diplomatic Corps, officials of international organizations and businessmen. Also in photo is Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III greets Vice President Jejomar Binay at the reception line of the New Year’s Vin d’ Honneur at the Reception Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (January 12). The annual reception which marks the 28th Vin d’ Honneur since the 1986 EDSA Revolution was attended by government officials, members of the Diplomatic Corps, officials of international organizations and businessmen. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III arrives for the reception line during the New Year’s Vin d’ Honneur at the Reception Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (January 12). The annual reception which marks the 28th Vin d’ Honneur since the 1986 EDSA Revolution was attended by government officials, members of the Diplomatic Corps, officials of international organizations and businessmen. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III greets the crowd upon his arrival for the ceremonial nauguration of new buildings of the recently upgraded Romblon Provincial Hospital at the Romblon Public Theater on Friday (January 09). The upgraded RPH serves 17 municipalities with a total population of around 350,000. (Photo by Gil Nartea/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III with Romblon Lone District Representative Eleandro Jesus Madrona views the works of the sculptors of the province and other products of Romblon being showcased Friday (January 09) after gracing the ceremonial inauguration of new buildings of the Romblon Provincial Hospital. (Photo by Rodolfo Manabat/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III escorted by Romblon Governor Eduardo Firmalo views the works of sculptors of th province and other products of Romblon being showcased in the Romblon Marble Fair at the Romblon Shopping Center Friday (January 09) after gracing the ceremonial inauguration of new buildings of Romblon Provincial Hospital. (Photo by Rodolfo Manabat/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III with Romblon Governor Eduardo Firmalo as he shows the map upon arrival for the ceremonial inauguration of new buildings of the Romblon Provincial Hospital at the Romblon Public Theater on Friday (January 09). The hospital serves 17 municipalities with a total population of around 350,000. (Photo by Rodolfo Manabat/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III gives baller band's to the crowd upon his arrival for the ceremonial inauguration of new buildings of the Romblon Provincial Hospital at the Romblon Public Theater on Friday (January 09). The hospital serves 17 municipalities with a total population of around 350,000. (Photo by Rodolfo/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III greets the crowd upon his arrival for the ceremonial inauguration of new buildings of the Romblon Provincial Hospital at the Romblon Public Theater on Friday (January 09). The hospital serves 17 municipalities with a total population of around 350,000. (Photo by Rodolfo/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the ceremonial inauguration of new buildings of the Romblon Provincial Hospital at the Romblon Public Theater on Friday (January 09). The hospital serves 17 municipalities with a total population of around 350,000. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III views the works of sculptors of the province and other products of Romblon being showcase in the Romblon Marble Fair at the Romblon Shopping Center Friday (January 09) after gracing the ceremonial inauguration of new buildings of the Romblon Provincial Hospital . (Photo by Ryan Lim/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III gives baller band's to the crowd upon his arrival for the Ceremonial Inauguration of new buildings of the Romblon Provincial Hospital at the Romblon Public Theater in Poblacion, Romblon on Friday (January 09). The Hospital serves 17 municipalities with a total population of around 350,000. (Photo by Ryan Lim/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)

Please email us at pcoo.edp@gmail.com if you need a copy of last week's photo releases of PNOY

Note : Click the Photo below for the Link ...Thanks ....
Pia Albay shared Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines's photo.
58 mins ·
Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines
‪#‎PopeInPH‬ • January 15, 16, and 19, 2015 are special non-working days in the National Capital Region, in light of the visit of Pope Francis. If you are at work on those dates, refer to these pay rules: http://www.gov.ph/whats-the-difference-between-a-regular-h…/



Pia Batangas shared Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines's post.
17 hrs ·
#PopeInPH • Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Mar Roxas discussed the logistics and other security concerns for the papal visit this January 15-19, 2015: http://www.gov.ph/2015/01/14/presentation-press-briefing-of-the-interior-secretary-on-the-papal-visit/
Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines added 4 new photos.
‪#‎PopeInPH‬ • Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Mar Roxas discussed the logistics and other security concerns for the papal visit this January 15-19, 2015: http://www.gov.ph/…/presentation-press-briefing-of-the-int…/

Bagong Bahay Lucena Quezon and 2 others shared Noynoy Aquino (P-Noy)'s photo.
Noynoy Aquino (P-Noy)
[Adm-02] State and Apostolic Journey of His Holiness Pope Francis to the Philippines, 15-19 January 2015. ‪#‎PopeFrancisPH‬ ‪#‎PapalVisitPH‬

RTVM added a new photo to the album: Papal Channel Schedule.
1 hr ·
Pia Quezon


Pia Batangas shared a link. 17 hrs ·
Statement of President Aquino on the state visit of Pope Francis
President Benigno S. Aquino III addresses the nation on the preparations for the arrival of Pope Francis.
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines added 10 new photos to the album: Road closures during the papal visit.
‪#‎PopeInPH‬ • Please be advised that the following roads will be closed temporarily, to ensure both Pope Francis' and the public's safety during his state and pastoral visit. For more information on the papal visit, please visit: http://www.gov.ph/state-visits-ph/popeph/
 
 
 
PIA News Desk15 hrs ·
VIDEO • Mga paalalang pangkaligtasan mula sa GovPH, para sa pagbisita ng Papa: http://t.co/hoHOOY6cKF ‪#‎PopeInPH‬ | via @govph ‪#‎PapalVisitPH‬
Mga Paalalang Pangkaligtasan
Mga paalalang pangkaligtasan para sa mga tao sa tuwing lalahok sa malakihang mga pagdiriwang, tulad ng Misa ng Santo Papa sa Luneta sa Enero 18, 2014.
youtu.be
Pia Quezon
 
 
Note : Click the Photo for the Link ...Thanks ....
 

 
Posted by at

1 comment:

  1. osmanMarch 16, 2022 at 12:18 PM

    Kumusta kayong lahat,
    Ang pangalan ko ay Mr, Rugare Sim. Nakatira ako sa Holland at masaya akong tao ngayon? at sinabi ko sa sarili ko na ang sinumang nagpapahiram na nagligtas sa akin at sa aking pamilya mula sa aming mahirap na sitwasyon, ire-refer ko ang sinumang tao na naghahanap ng pautang sa kanya, binigyan niya ako ng kaligayahan at ang aking pamilya, ako ay nangangailangan ng pautang ng € 300,000.00 para masimulan ang buhay ko dahil ako ay nag-iisang Ama na may 2 anak nakilala ko itong tapat at natatakot sa Allah na lalaking nagpapautang na tumutulong sa akin sa pautang na €300,000.00, siya ay isang taong may takot sa Allah, kung kailangan mo ng pautang at babayaran mo ang utang mangyaring makipag-ugnayan sa kanya sabihin sa kanya na (Mr, Rugare Sim) i-refer ka sa kanya. Makipag-ugnayan kay Mr, Mohamed Careen sa pamamagitan ng email: (arabloanfirmserves@gmail.com)


    FORM NG IMPORMASYON SA PAG-AAPLIKASI NG LOAN
    Pangalan......
    Gitnang pangalan.....
    2) Kasarian:.........
    3) Halaga ng Pautang na Kailangan:.........
    4) Tagal ng Loan:.........
    5) Bansa:.........
    6) Address ng Bahay:.........
    7) Numero ng Mobile:.........
    8) Email address..........
    9) Buwanang Kita:.....................
    10) Trabaho:..........................
    11) Aling site ang ginawa mo dito tungkol sa amin.....................
    Salamat at Best Regards.
    Mag-email sa arabloanfirmserves@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)