4-Hour Public Weather Forecast
Issued at 5:00 a.m., 10 February 2015
Valid beginning: 5:00 a.m. today until 5:00 a.m. tomorrow
 Predicted Mean Sea Level Pressure Analysis for 8 a.m., 10 February 2015 |
 Predicted Mean Sea Level Wind Analysis for 8 a.m., 10 February 2015 |
 |
Synopsis:
Forecast:
The
regions of Cagayan Valley, Ilocos, Bicol and the Provinces of Aurora
and Quezon will have cloudy skies with light rains. Metro Manila and the
the rest of Luzon will be partly cloudy to at times cloudy with
isolated light rains. The rest of the country will have partly cloudy to
cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms.
Moderate
to strong winds blowing from the northeast will prevail over Luzon and
its coastal waters will be moderate to rough. Elsewhere, winds will be
light to moderate coming from the northeast with slight to moderate
seas.
Maximum Temperature: 01:50 PM yesterday ----- 30.2 ºC
Minimum Temperature: 05:00 AM yesterday ----- 19.7 ºC
Maximum Relative Humidity: 05:00 AM yesterday --------- 96 %
Minimum Relative Humidity: 02:00 PM yesterday --------- 56 %
Tidal predictions along Manila Bay (courtesy of NAMRIA)
Low tide today: 07:44 AM ………..… 0.15 meter
High tide today: 02:19 PM …………... 0.60 meter
Low tide today: 08:22 PM ………..….. 0.27 meter
High tide tomorrow: 02:04 AM …………… 0.51 meter
Sunrise today: 6:22 AM
Sunset today: 5:58 PM
Moonrise today: 10:56 PM
Moonset tomorrow: 10:53 AM
Illumination today: 74 %
For more information and queries, please call at telephone numbers 927-1335 and 927-2877 or log on to www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph.
Weather Watch
18
hrs ·
GMA resident meteorologist Nathaniel Cruz:-Sa Northern Luzon na lang umiiral ang hanging Amihan kaya asahan na ang unti-unting pag-init ng panahon.
-Dahil walang inaasahang bugso ng Amihan ay posibleng uminit ngayong linggo, partikular na sa Metro Manila, lalo na sa Sabado o Araw ng mga Puso.
-Bukas ay asahan ang mahinang ulan sa eastern section ng Luzon.
-Sa Visayas, central at eastern section ang makararanas ng pag-ulan.
-Asahan ang ulan sa Northern Mindanao, Caraga, at Zamboanga Peninsula simula bukas.
February 10, 2015 ( Tuesday ) as
of 6:00-7:00 AM
PIA4A / PIA QUEZON : Partly Cloudy in Lucena City
QUEZON
DOLE to tag child labor-free barangays in Quezon
- February 09, 2015
Facebook
Google +
Tweet
Email
LUCENA CITY, Quezon, Feb. 9 (PIA) — The Department of Labor
and Employment here has distributed guidelines to the members of the provincial
child labor committee regarding the certification of child labor-free barangay.Provincial Labor Officer Edwin Hernandez said that the guidelines are pursuant to the Labor and Employment department’s administrative order no. 657, series 2014 which seeks to govern the procedure for the certification of child-labor-free barangay.
Said guidelines aim to obtain commitment and support from various stakeholders to make barangays free from any form of child labor.
The guidelines shall apply nationwide to barangays that would like to be certified as child labor-free and those barangays targeted by the DOLE regional offices to be transformed as child labor-free barangay.
As stated in the guidelines, a barangay which desires to be certified as child labor-free must meet the following requirements.
{C}· Profile of children in the barangay, including child laborers, regularly maintained and updated;
{C}· Commitment of parents of child laborers not to engaged their children in child labor; Commitment of school heads to monitor school attendance of identified child laborers;
{C}· Commitment of barangay officials to support campaign against child labor;
{C}· Barangay ordinances or resolutions against child labor enacted and implemented;
{C}· 100% attendance of identified child laborers needing health assistance have access to health and medical services;
{C}· 100% of identified child laborers have access to education services;
{C}· 100% of parents of identified child laborers have access to livelihood and employment services.
Other criteria, meanwhile, includes the following.
{C}· 100% of reported child labor incidents are immediately acted upon by barangay officials;
{C}· Functional barangay council for the protection of children;
{C}· Inclusion of child labor and/ or child labor protection agenda in the barangay Development plan with corresponding budget allocation;
{C}· Partnership with at least four government agencies and/or civil society organizations and participation of barangay officials in capacity building activities on child labor and/or other child protection laws.
The regional child labor committee, meanwhile, will do the screening and validation process to all candidate barangays.
All child labor-free barangays are entitled to receive incentives and benefits such as recognition and endorsement to DOLE programs and services.
A promotion tagging as DOLE’s partner against child labor will be also conferred to each certified barangay. — Ruel Orinday, PIA-Quezon/ FSC, PIA-4A
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/701423209896/dole-to-tag-child-labor-free-barangays-in-quezon#sthash.sj9EUTzS.dpuf
CAVITE
BLGF lauded Cavite treasurers office for revenue collection
- February 08, 2015
Facebook
Google +
Tweet
Email
TRECE MARTIRES CITY, Cavite, Feb. 9 (PIA) — The Department
of Finance, Bureau of Local Government Finance Regions IV-A & B commended
the Provincial Treasurers Office here for surpassing its revenue collection
target for 2014 and submitting its complete Electronic Statement of Receipts
and Expenditure (e-SRE) for CY 2010-2014.In a statement released by the Provincial Information and Community Affairs Department (PICAD), Provincial Treasurer Josephine Daza was lauded for her invaluable efforts in e-SRE compliance and in surpassing the CY 2014 Revenue Collection Target of the Local Government Unit (LGU) from real property tax, fees and charges and economic enterprises.
The Local Government and Finance bureau further commended Daza for her distinction in the aspects of administrative and fiscal management competence.
The said department hopes to inspire other treasury officials to take the challenge of striving for excellence in their endeavors as public servants.
Said distinction was conferred by Local Government and Finance Regional Director Eduardo L. Del Rosario last January 30, 2015 in Coron, Palawan. — Ruel Francisco, PIA-Cavite/PICAD
- See more at:
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/671423359191/blgf-lauded-cavite-treasurers-office-for-revenue-collection#sthash.yqF2mBtV.dpuf
LAGUNA
DOST IV-A conducts management training towards increasing quality of public service
- February 09, 2015
Facebook
Google +
Tweet
Email
LOS BAÑOS, Laguna, Feb. 9 (PIA) — The Department of Science
and Technology here in partnership with the Entrepinoy Volunteers Foundation,
Inc., (EVFI) recently conducted a training on supervisory effectiveness for its
employees aiming to increase the quality of public service.In his message, DOST IV-A Regional Director, Dr. Alexander R. Madrigal affirmed that Science and Technology department will further improve its public service through effective management and attainment of this year’s targets.
”Human resource is the primary capital and the lifeblood of an organization,” Madrigal added.
EVFI President Miguel R. Unson III, meanwhile, said that promoting productivity all throughout the country enables the people in the ASEAN integration on an equal footing.
Science and Technology department employees including personnel from the provincial centers were equipped on various lectures focused on root-causes of pitfalls in project implementation, project management, leadership and team competencies, and enhancing organizational perspective. —Sarah Hazel Maranan, DOST-4A/ FSC, PIA-4A
- See more at:
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2931423457285/dost-iv-a-conducts-management-training-towards-increasing-quality-of-public-service-#sthash.dMuTDUHA.dpuf
BATANGAS
Tagalog news: DTI, Canadian Executive Service Org magkatuwang sa pagpapaunlad ng negosyo
- February 05, 2015
Facebook
Google +
Tweet
Email
LUNGSOD NG BATANGAS, Peb. 5 (PIA) — Patuloy ang
Department of Trade Industry ng probinsiyang ito sa pagsasagawa ng mga
pagsasanay na may kinalaman sa pagpapaunlad ng negosyo para sa mga negosyante
at kooperatiba partikular sa mga benepisyaryo ng Shared Service
Facilities (SSF) Project.Kamakailan lamang ay nagsagawa ang ahensiya ng isang entrepreneurial seminar katuwang ang Canadian Executive Service Organization (CESO) kung saan tinalakay ni Gerry O'Connor, isang Canadian volunteer ang mga usapin ukol sa epektibong pagpapaunlad ng negosyo at mga organisasyon.
Bukod sa nasabing pagsasanay ay nakatakda ring magsagwa ng libreng konsultasyon ang CESO sa mga piling kooperatiba ng naturang probinsiya.
Kabilang sa mga kooperatibang makakatanggap ng nasabing konsultasyon ang ang Mayuro Multi-Purpose Cooperative, United Sta. Rita Cooperative at Sibbap Multi-Purpose Cooperative.
Nakapaloob dito ang pagbibigay ng kaalaman ukol sa epektibong pagpaplano, pagpapaunlad ng negosyo, pagpapatakbo ng produksiyon, pananalapi, pagbuo ng komunidad at pamumuno.
Ang konsultasyon ay pangungunahan ng mga volunteers ng CESO na may matataas na kasanayan at karanasan sa larangan ng pagnenegosyo. — Charlie S. Dajao, DTI Calabarzon / Maria Carmen Garcia, DTI Batangas / PIA-4A
- See more at:
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2931423116947/tagalog-news-dti-canadian-executive-service-org-magkatuwang-sa-pagpapaunlad-ng-negosyo#sthash.1C9vyyhQ.dpuf
RIZAL
DTI, City of Antipolo collaborate to produce competent construction industry professionals
- February 10, 2015
Facebook
Google +
Tweet
Email
ANTIPOLO CITY, Rizal, Feb. 10 (PIA) --The Department of
Trade and Industry (DTI) and the City Government of Antipolo,
through the Antipolo Institute of Technology (AiTECH), forged a
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop a competent, well-trained, and
globally competitive labor force through partnership to strengthen the linkage
between the academe and the construction industry.Signing the MOU at the ceremony held at the Antipolo City Hall last January 28 were Mayor Casimiro Ynares, III; DTI –Undersecretary Prudencio M. Reyes Jr.; and Dr. Erlinda Pefiancio, President of AiTech.
Ynares said that AiTECH – whose vision is to be the preferred provider of tomorrow’s construction industry leaders by 2020 - aims to contribute to nation-building by developing new breed of professionals who are able to blend knowledge, skills, and attitudes in construction management engineering.
AiTECH’s 4-year higher education program on construction management engineering and technology will focus on four main disciplines: construction industry; construction supply; technical/consultancy, and contract administration; and sales and marketing; and its scholars will be comprised of the top ten graduates of public and private high school in the City of Antipolo .
DTI’s primary role in the project is to be AiTECH’s industry partner, who, through the Construction Manpower Development Foundation (CMDF), shall provide technical assistance and guidance in the design, development, and implementation of the AiTECH program on construction management engineering and technology.
DTI Undersecretary Prudencio Reyes Jr. said he looks forward to the partnership with AiTECH to produce competent professionals.
Reyes hopes that later on, other local governments would replicate or benchmark with the joint venture to continually strengthen the construction and manpower development in the country.
He added that the construction industry is the prime mover of economic development and has been a major source of foreign exchange in the country particularly from 2011 to 2013. (Charlie S. Dajao, DTI Calabarzon/DTI KMIS/PIA4A)
- See more at:
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/631423522504/dti-city-of-antipolo-collaborate-to-produce-competent-construction-industry-professionals#sthash.UDqMMBz1.dpuf
|
 |
||||||||||
| President Benigno S. Aquino III's Statement at the joint press conference during the State Visit of Indonesian President Joko Widodo | ||||||||||
| Reception Hall, Malacañan Palace | ||||||||||
| 09 February 2015 | ||||||||||
|
Your Excellency : Indonesia has long been a good friend, a strong partner, and a reliable ally to the Philippines. This is something seen most evidently in our response to natural calamities. After the earthquake and tsunami that struck Indonesia in 2010, for instance, our country stood in solidarity with their nation, and provided support that we could. Likewise, Indonesia has always been ready to assist the Philippines during times of disaster. They were quick to provide financial and logistical support in the wake of Typhoon Haiyan. To our Indonesian friends: On behalf of the Filipino people, I express our nation’s gratitude for your help, and I assure you that our nation will always be prepared to repay your kindness. More than 65 years since the formal establishment of our bilateral ties, I believe we can continue to look to the future with optimism, and that our relations will be further strengthened during President Widodo’s administration. President Widodo and I had a fruitful discussion that covered the considerable expanse of cooperative activities between our countries. On top of this, we also spoke about possible areas that could be boosted through our increased cooperation, towards our peoples’ mutual benefit. One of the highlights of today’s discussion was our countries’ meeting of the minds as regards the protection of migrants and migrant workers. Indonesia and the Philippines both have a significant number of nationals overseas, and it is in our mutual interest to work closely with one another to protect our migrants wherever they may be in the world. We thus welcome the Joint Declaration on the Protection of Migrants and Migrants Workers issued by our Secretary of Foreign Affairs and his Indonesian counterpart. The declaration aims to strengthen cooperation between the Philippines and Indonesia in promoting and protecting the rights of migrants and migrant workers, and in outlining the measures we will take to assist each other’s nationals through our diplomatic missions overseas. Another notable topic we discussed was that of maritime affairs. Indonesia and the Philippines are two of the world’s largest archipelagic states, and are among the top five countries with the longest coastlines. We are both parties to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and of the Coral Triangle Initiative. Therefore, closer cooperation and coordination between our two countries in maritime affairs is vital. Both sides agreed to coordinate more closely on a number of maritime issues. Having found success in delimiting our exclusive economic zones, we are more encouraged to further improve our approach to maritime boundary delimitation, border cooperation, and cooperation in combating illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing or IUUF under the scope of the Philippines-Indonesia Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation or JCBC. President Widodo and I also exchanged views on economic cooperation, including how to expand trade and investment between our countries. The opportunities are certainly there, especially given that Indonesia and the Philippines are two of the fastest growing economies in the region. Discussions likewise touched on defense cooperation, people-to-people exchanges and possible roll-on/roll-off arrangements between Philippine and Indonesian Ports, as well as Indonesia’s continuing role in our Peace Process. The Philippines and Indonesia hold similar positions on a variety of regional and international issues. As further proof of the meaningful and tangible cooperation between the Philippines and Indonesia, three agreements were likewise signed today. These are: The Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Combating Illicit Trafficking and Abuse of Narcotics, Psychotropic Substances and their Precursors; The Memorandum of Understanding in the Field of Technical Vocational Education and Training; The Memorandum of Understanding between the National Defense College of the Philippines and Indonesia’s Lembaga Ketahanan Nasional (LEMHANAS) on Cooperation in Education, Research and Training. These agreements pave the way for enhanced bilateral collaboration in these fields, as the Philippines continues to engage Indonesia towards having our people reap the maximum benefits from our partnership. Indeed, my meeting with President Widodo filled me with optimism. I believe that, under his presidency, Philippines-Indonesia relations will be propelled to even greater heights. In his few months in office, President Widodo has demonstrated his strong commitment to inclusive growth, an idea that has always served as my administration’s north star. I am thus incredibly eager to work closely with His Excellency, given the vision we share for our respective peoples. I am hopeful that, during his stay, President Widodo can feel the inherent hospitality and warmth of our people, which characterizes our nation’s sentiment towards one of our most solid partners in the ASEAN region. Rest assured, the Philippines will continue working to deepen our bilateral relationship even further, and build further on the enduring friendship between our countries and our peoples. We thank you. |
||||||||||
|
 |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Bukidnon officials face graft raps |
| Source: http://www.ombudsman.gov.ph |
|
The Office of the Ombudsman ordered the filing of criminal
charge against local government officials of Manolo Fortich,
Bukidnon for the unauthorized increase in the salary grade of
the municipality shop foreman. In a 9-page Resolution, Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales found probable cause to charge former Mayor Rogelio Quiño, Municipal Budget Officer Cecilia Quiño-Rejas and Municipal Shop Foreman Antonio Quiño, Jr. for violation of Section 3(e) of Republic Act No. 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act). The Resolution narrated that from 2009 to 2012, respondents Mayor Quiño and Municipal Budget Officer Quiño-Rejas upgraded Antonio’s salary grade from SG11 to SG15 then to SG18 which violated Sangguniang Bayan Ordinance Nos. 2000-151 and 2001-57 as well as Republic Act No. 6758 (Compensation and Position Classification Act of 1989). They also approved and authorized the increase of Antonio’s daily wage rate from P765.13 to P1,157.90 to the damage and prejudice of the government. Section 6 of R.A. No. 6758 states that “all positions in the government shall be allocated to their position titles and salary grades in accordance with the Index of Occupational Service, Position Titles and Salary Grades of the Compensation and Position Classification System which shall be prepared by the DBM.” Ombudsman Morales stated that “absent any proof of compliance with DBM circulars, the salary grade increases were clearly made without basis and violated the rules on compensation and position classification set under R.A. No. 6758.” |
|
|
| Education sector to get a bigger boost from 2015 National Budget |
| Source: http://www.dbm.gov.ph |
|
As part of the Administration’s vow for greater inclusive
development by investing in the Filipino people, the Department
of Education (DepEd) received P367.1-billion from the
P2.606-trillion 2015 National Budget to become the top gainer
among government agencies. The budget increase of 18.6 percent– as compared to P309.5 billion in 2014—will support the National Government’s thrust for improving people’s access to quality education, including the successful implementation of the K to 12 Program. Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad said, “We have been successful in addressing the backlog of classrooms based on our previous targets. We have been rebuilding schools affected by the previous disasters under the Administration’s ‘Build Back Better’ thrust. Now we’re intensifying our drive to give the people more access to educational opportunities and setting up an environment that’s conducive to learning.” Of the DepEd’s total budget, P53.9 billion has been allotted for Basic Education Facilities to cover the construction of 31,728 classrooms as well as the repair of 9,500 more. The amount will also cover the construction of 13,586 water and sanitation facilities, 455 technical-vocational laboratories, and the procurement of 1.3 million seats. For the coming year, DepEd will also hire more teachers with an allocation of P10.0 billion to create 39,066 new teaching and 1,500 non-teaching positions. On the other hand, the agency will allocate P3.5 billion to purchase and distribute 70.5 million textbooks and instructional materials to schools nationwide. This is more than double last year’s allocation of P1.7 billion. Lastly, improving the country’s state universities and colleges (SUCs) is an important part of the Administration’s program to modernize the public higher education system. As such, the SUCs will get a total of P44.4 billion or 16.8 percent higher than their 2014 budget of P38.0 billion. Abad said, “Budgetary support for basic education is just one way to fulfill President Aquino’s promise that no one will be left behind. But we also have to ensure that government’s educational programs would be tailor-fit to address the unique needs of each student.” Among its many programs, the National Government will continue implementing the Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education (GASTPE) with a budget of P8.3 billion. This program will grant private school scholarships to deserving graduates of public schools even while it decongests the said public schools in the process. The DepEd Computerization program will likewise be integral to the on-going modernization of the education system, garnering P8.5 billion to help procure 24,028 ICT Packages. The program will provide public secondary schools with multi-media laboratories to interconnect DepEd secondary schools as well as give public elementary schools computer laboratories equipped with basic multi-media equipment. This is on top of the computerization program being provided by DTI to DepEd high schools. Other DepEd programs received the following budgets: The Abot-Alam Program, which will benefit 1 million out-of-school youths – P1.97 billion The Alternative Delivery Mode Project or e-IMPACT, which will offer children in difficult or different circumstances alternative education options – P575.9 million The Basic Education Madrasah Program, which will benefit Filipino Muslim students – P708.7 million The Redesigned Technical-Vocational High School Program, a vocational educational program that will be part of high school curriculum – P236.4 million With regard to technical-vocational programs that can help students achieve gainful employment after they graduate, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) received P2.0 billion for the Training-for-Work Scholarship Program to assist 210,526 enrollees. Lastly, a total of P7.9 billion will be allotted to different educational aid funds for scholarships, grants, and financial assistance for students who want to earn a college degree. These include: Study Grant for Poverty Alleviation, which will be under the SUCs’ budgets and will aid 40,453 Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries – P2.5 billion Students Financial Assistance Program, which is under the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and which will benefit 54,208 students – P763 million |
|
|
| Agency collaboration to prime faster 2015 spending; Abad: Strategic planning, coordination key to meeting targets |
| Source: http://www.dbm.gov.ph |
|
To achieve the country’s 2015 GDP growth targets and address
last year’s issues on spending, the Department of Budget and
Management (DBM) is aiming to accelerate public spending while
enhancing governance reform initiatives through proper
coordination and planning. In a speech during a JP Morgan conference, Budget Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad said, “Budget management isn’t an exercise dependent entirely on the DBM. We look to the rest of the bureaucracy—the other branches of government, departments and agencies, and local governments, for example—to make the most of the funds allotted to them, and to ensure that these same funds are spent within budget rules and guidelines.” He added, “It’s one thing to release the funds; it’s another thing altogether to ensure that these funds are spent as they should be.” The Budget Chief said the reforms they had initiated in government in the past four years had revealed broad operational issues—ranging from weaknesses in project planning and procurement to insufficient capacity and compliance—within various departments and agencies. Spending also took a hit after government agencies were hesitant to implement projects due to the Supreme Court rulings on the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) and the Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP). Abad said, “To address the matter of planning and project preparation, we’ve tasked departments and agencies to disaggregate their project listings from 2014 and 2015. We expect them to facilitate the documentary requirements for fund releases before the end of this month. These requirements include proper network plans, geo-tagged photos, and implementation guidelines.” Meanwhile, the passage of the P22.5-billion Supplemental Fund last year helped answer issues surrounding the high court rulings on the PDAF and the DAP. The DBM is also closely coordinating with local government units (LGUs) and agencies to ensure they follow the definitions of savings, budget augmentation, and realignments given in the 2015 General Appropriations Act (GAA). Abad said, “Local governments will need to employ measures to ramp up their spending, all while remaining faithful to budget rules. Together with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the DBM will initiate financial management workshops for LGUs with government projects. The goal is to capacitate our local government units for effective project planning and efficient implementation.” He added, “The plan is also to equip regional offices of various departments with the means to provide technical assistance. This specifically refers to the preparation of fund liquidation requirements and other activities designed to improve project planning.” The DBM will likewise tap the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) and the Government Procurement Policy Board (GPPB) to proactively assist departments and agencies in expanding their capacities for planning and procurement. Abad said, “In particular, it might be best for departments to assign full-time support staff to their respective Bids and Awards Committees (BAC). At the moment, the secretariat for each BAC is manned by department staff who are already preoccupied with their regular tasks. A dedicated pool of people for each Bids and Awards committee will go a long way in expediting the procurement process for implementing agencies.” The GPPB will also work with major procuring agencies to hash out issues or recurring problems in the procurement process, so that these departments can come up with an improvement strategy. Abad said: “These are among several courses of action that we intend to pursue beginning this year. Already, these measures are going to be amply supported by existing reforms now in place in the national budget process.” He added, “Our mission in the DBM is to manage public spending in such a way that each peso spent by government will ultimately benefit every Filipino. The National Budget should always be an instrument of progress for the country. How we allocate resources now will certainly create an impact on our growing role as an investment destination in the region and, ultimately, in the fulfillment of our bid for inclusive growth.” |
|
|
| Housewife withdraws from vices, becomes ‘businessmom’ |
| Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph |
| Dolores Lawas, 36, of Don Victoriano, a hinterland municipality in Misamis Occidental in Northern Mindanao, used to spend her time drinking alcohol with her friends while enjoying ‘tong-its’, a locally known card game. Jobless, Dolores said that her life seemed a routine. She just stayed home and took care of her three children. She completely depended on her husband who is a casual government employee. She had no interest to look for a job to augment their family’s income. “Basta kumakain kami ng mga anak ko ng tatlong beses sa isang araw, ayos na sa akin (As long as we eat three times a day, that is OK with me),” she shared. This complacent attitude of Dolores went on for some time until the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program was implemented in their town. Her family became a beneficiary which paved the way for the change in Dolores’ attitude, and eventually in their economic status. Pantawid Pamilya provides monthly cash grants of P500 for health and P300 per child in elementary or P500 per child in high school with a maximum of three qualified children per household for their educational and nutritional needs. In exchange, they have to comply with program conditions of sending their children to school, bringing them to health centers for checkups, and attending Family Development Sessions (FDS). The FDS is a gathering of parent-beneficiaries where they discuss topics on effective parenting, husband and wife relationships, child development, laws affecting the Filipino family, gender and development, and home management. Dolores recounted that her regular attendance to the monthly FDS became instrumental to the positive changes in her as a person. With lessons learned about responsible parenting, children’s nutrition, and other worthwhile topics, Dolores soon found the motivation to slowly turn away from her vices and focus on improving the well-being of her family. Eventually, she also became a beneficiary of the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) of the DSWD, which further strengthened her desire to better their plight. Through the livelihood skills and P10,000 capital assistance provided by SLP, Dolores was able to put up a small eatery in their community. Barely a year in operation, Dolores was able to expand her eatery into a refreshment shop. She is now earning P3,500 a week from the P2,000 when it first opened. “Dati rati pinapalipas ko ang oras ko sa bisyo. Pero dahil sa oportunidad na binigay ng Pantawid Pamilya at SLP, nalaman ko na hindi dapat sayangin ang oras sa walang kabuluhan at dapat patuloy na mangarap para sa ikabubuti ng pamilya ( Before, I used to pass the time by engaging in vices. But through Pantawid Pamilya and SLP, I realized that I should never waste my time on useless activities. I should not also stop dreaming for my family),” Dolores said. To date, there are 740 families in Don Victoriano who are also enjoying the benefits of Pantawid Pamlya and SLP. |
|
|
| BPCCI partners with PTTC; informs public on trade opportunities in Bangladesh |
| Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph |
|
The Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC) conducted an Info
Session on Trade Opportunities in Bangladesh on 20 January 2015
at the PTTC Seminar Room C to give the participants awareness on
trade opportunities in Bangladesh and its market. The Info Session was a joint undertaking between PTTC and Bangladesh-Philippines Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BPCCI) through the initiative of DTI-Foreign Trade Service Corps (FTSC) Commercial Counselor in India, Mr. John Paul B. Iñigo. BPCCI was established in the year 2013 to promote and develop trade, commerce, and industry between Bangladesh and the Philippines. It consists of companies, corporate bodies as well as individuals engaged in trade, industry, and agriculture. Representatives from different micro, medium, and large companies which are into exporting of food, packaging film, and plastic products attended the said session. In his introduction about Bangladesh, BPCCI President Engr. Rashed Maksud Khan said that Bangladesh is the second largest supplier of ready-made garments to the United States (US). They are also exporting pharmaceutical to US. Their ceramic industry has established a good name while their industries in leather products like shoes and bags have developed substantially. Likewise, they entered into solar technology for irrigation purposes and solar home systems. A young generation make up almost fifty percent of Bangladesh’s total population. They are well-educated and well trained in information technology and software. PTTC Executive Director Nestor P. Palabyab hopes that this will not be the last partnership between BPCCI and PTTC. “If the Bangladesh delegates were able to come here in our country, the Philippine delegates should also go to Bangladesh to introduce the trade opportunities in our country,” Palayabyab said. |
|
|
| DTI greening proponents converged to draft climate-start strategies for micro, small, and medium enterprises |
| Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph |
|
More than 70 of the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI)
regional and provincial directors and other key persons
converged in Cebu City in a two-day planning meeting held 02-03
February to draft and integrate greening and
environment-friendly strategies that consequently increase
competitiveness and that enable micro, small, and medium
enterprises (MSMEs) to be climate change-resilient. The planning activity is under the Promotion of Green Economic Development Project (ProGed), a development cooperation project jointly implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and the DTI. Regional Director Marilou-Quinco-Toledo said that DTI is gearing to incorporate greening philosophies to be adopted by the MSMEs in their schemes. According to her, ProGeD, which was piloted in Bohol and Cebu, has expanded to 14 other provinces including Laguna and Cavite, Calabarzon’s pilot areas for greening projects on MSMEs. “Last year, some selected MSMS of Cavite and Laguna, which were identified according to their capacity to contaminate the environment and the quantity of water and energy use, were recipients of technical assistance provided by Ecowise, a South Korean environmental consulting group,” Toledo said. Greening means reducing the ecological impact of value chains, that is, reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions; reducing water usage and water pollution; improved recycling and solid waste management; reducing air pollution; sustainable management of other natural resources used in the production of goods or services. The Philippines is the third most vulnerable country to climate change in the world. Environmental stress such as pollution in water, air, soil, and deforestation, erodes the very basis of economic development, thus the need to adopt measures to be resilient against climate change. |
|
|
| End-January 2015 GIR level rises to US$80.18 billion |
| Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph |
|
Preliminary data showed that the country’s gross international
reserves (GIR) rose to US$80.18 billion as of end-January 2015,
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Amando M. Tetangco,
Jr. announced today.1 This level was higher by US$0.64 billion
than the end-December 2014 GIR of US$79.54 billion. The GIR
level remains ample as it can cover 10.3 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 5.7 times based on residual
maturity.2 The increase in reserves was due mainly to the National Government’s (NG) net foreign currency deposits, revaluation adjustments on the BSP’s gold holdings and foreign currency-denominated reserves, and income from its investments abroad. These were partially offset by payments made by the NG for its maturing foreign exchange obligations. Net international reserves (NIR), which refer to the difference between the BSP’s GIR and total short-term liabilities, also increased to US$80.18 billion as of end-January 2015, compared to the end-December 2014 NIR of US$79.54 billion. ----------------- 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. |
|
|
| Customs seizes P140 million worth of agri products in Mindanao Port |
| Source: http://www.dof.gov.ph |
|
Tagaloan, Misamis Oriental—The Bureau of Customs (BOC) through
its Intelligence Group (IG) seized around P140 million worth of
agricultural products at the Mindanao Container Terminal. The goods entered Mindanao through several shipments from China and Vietnam consigned to EC Peninsula and New Dawn Enterprises. Both consignees have been charged previous smuggling raps by the Bureau before the Department of Justice for the alleged illegal importation of glutinous rice (malagkit) worth around P80-million just last month. According to Customs Deputy Commissioner for Intelligence Jessie Dellosa, 78 container vans which were declared as various kitchenware, houseware, tiles and mix condiments were inspected and found out to be containing various agricultural products like rice, sugar, garlic, carrots, and potatoes. The container vans were inventoried and examined by an interagency team of the BOC and Department of Agriculture (DA) headed by Dellosa together with the BOC’s Enforcement and Security Service (ESS) and Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) Cagayan de Oro.Also present to witness the examination were representatives of the DA, the Bureau of Plant Industries, and the Sugar and Regulatory Administration. “We put the containers on alert status because of the general declarations of kitchenware, houseware, tiles and mix condiments. Already those were red flags for us as they are often used. Though outright misdeclaration is one of the most common forms of concealment, apprehending goods smuggled this way still tests our mettle in intelligence, profiling, risk management, and interagency teamwork,” explained Dellosa. For his part, Commissioner John P. Sevilla said that he ordered his men to intensify their efforts towards curbing smuggling in Mindanao ports. “We have stepped up our intelligence operations down south to combat unscrupulous importers who always look for points of entry. Our aim is to stop them at every port,” Sevilla said. |
|
|
| Outstanding Public Sector Debt improves to 61.9% of GDP as of end-June 2014 |
| Source: http://www.dof.gov.ph |
|
P7.5 trillion debt reflects decrease of P113.4 billion from
end-March 2014 figure Outstanding Public Sector Debt was recorded at P7.5 trillion as of June 2014, improving to 61.9% of GDP from 70.2% a year ago. Furthermore, public sector debt fell by 1.5% equivalent to P113.4 billion from the end-March 2014 level of P7.6 trillion as domestic and external debt decreased by 1.0% and 2.8% to P5.3 trillion and P2.2 trillion, respectively. As of end-June 2014, 71.1% of total outstanding public sector debt is owed to domestic creditors while 28.9% is sourced from external creditors. As a portion of the public sector, General Government (GG) debt which encompasses the National Government (NG), the Central Bank Board of Liquidators (CB-BOL), Social Security Institutions (SSIs) and Local Government Units (LGUs) less intra-sector debt holdings, increased by 0.2% from the end-March 2014 level. This can be attributed to the P22.5 billion incrementto NG debt which was tempered by an increase in intra-sector debt holdings. However, the ratio of GG debt-to-GDP decreased to 37.3% from 38.1% as of the previous quarter as the economy grew 2% quarter-on-quarter. Non-financial public sector debt was similarly up, rising 2.1% on a quarter-on-quarter basis to P6.0 trillion despite the decrease in liabilities of the 14 Monitored Government Corporations (MNFGCs) as intra-government debt within the sector declined by almost 70%. Finally, the P43.9 billion decline in public financial corporation debt coupled with an increase in intra-sector holdings, resulted in lower consolidated public sector debt despite a rise in the other sectors. National Treasurer Roberto B. Tan, who recently re-assumed his post after a stint at the World Bank, welcomed the news saying: “We fully intend to stay the course on the path set early on in this administration. The downward trajectory of debt attests to our commitment for a more fiscally sustainable future.” Year-on-Year General Government Debt-to-GDP lower at 37.3% as of end-Sept 2014 The end-September 2014 General Government (GG) Debt stood at P4.6 trillion or 37.3% of GDP, 2.4 percentage points (ppt) lower from 39.7% a year ago. GG debt includes outstanding debt of the National Government (NG), the Central Bank Board of Liquidators (CB-BOL), Social Security Institutions (SSIs) and Local Government Units, less intra-sector holdings of government securities including those held by the Bond Sinking Fund/Securities Stabilization Fund. General Government debt primarily went down as Social Security Institutions purchased more government debt in their portfolio of investments. In addition, high nominal GDP growth of 9.3% contributed in reducing the debt ratio. Contributing to total GG debt, end-September 2014 net National Government (NG) debt increased by P141.6 billion, 2.9% higher from a year ago. The increase was driven by higher Domestic debt, which comprises 62.3% of the consolidated total NG obligations. Year-on-year, domestic NG debt grew by 3.7% while external debt went up by 1.6%. In contrast, Local Government debt declined by 3.1%, marking a P2.2 billion decline in liabilities from the same period last year. Meanwhile, Social Security Institutions such as GSIS and SSS did not contribute to the stock of debt but increased their holdings of Government Securities by 4.8%, adding P22.5 billion to the level from a year ago. |
|
|
| JobStart beneficiaries testify: ‘JobStart gives what it takes to be employable’ |
| Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph |
|
Jennifer F. Fortaleza, 21, used to be very shy. Last year, after
she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in fisheries from the
Romblon State University, she moved to Manila to find for her
first job which—because she was unexperienced, and therefore,
unprepared—eluded her. One day, she saw an announcement about JobStart Philippines at a bulletin board of the hall of Brgy. Pinagsama, Taguig City, where she lives. She registered with the program right away. Jennifer’s job readiness was assessed. She received enhanced career guidance. She was selected as a JobStart beneficiary, together with several others, to undergo full-cycle employment facilitation—life skills training, job matching, interview and selection by employers, training plan preparation, signing of internship contract, technical training, and finally, internship. "JobStart was transformative. Under the program, I learned how to relate with others, how to look presentable, how to write a 'powerful' resume. All of these have helped me improve my confidence," Fortaleza said. Jennifer’s new skills earned her an internship slot at the TKC Steel Corporation, an investment holding company engaged in the manufacture, distribution, marketing, and sale of steel products primarily in the Philippines and China. She is now in her second month of technical training at TKC. “Even if I do not get hired by this company, I feel confident I can land a job because I have training and job experience to put in my resume,” said the fishery graduate who, after learning about available jobs in the local labor market through JobStart, expressed preference to work in an office. Edmond Tadeo, 20, from Brgy. San Pedro, San Fernando, Pampanga, like Jennifer, qualified for a slot in JobStart. A high school graduate, Edmond has five months of job experience, having worked as pump attendant in a gasoline station and as structural welder in a construction company. Then, he didn’t think about his future career. "In the past, I worked for the sake of just having a job. I didn’t value what I was doing,” he said. His training with JobStart changed all that, most importantly, his attitude. He is now more career-oriented and goal-driven, which he credits to the life skills lessons he learned from JobStart. “From JobStart, not only did I learn how to deal with other people. More importantly, I learned to respect my job because the program taught me to set a long-term career goal," Tadeo narrated. He is now in his second month of internship as a decorative painter at Carats Manufacturing, a San Fernando, Pampanga-based exporter of hand-made novelty items. It was also at the company where he underwent a three-month technical training. “Being just a high school graduate, I did not know that I could dream high. I am now determined to establish myself in the long run in this creative manufacturing industry,” he proudly said, adding that he had diversified his skills while working at Carats, doing not just decorative painting, but other jobs, such as carpentry. Jennifer and Edmond are two of the 3,407 youths pre-selected; of the 1,520 placed for life-skills training; and of the 462 referred for internship under the first wave of implementation of JobStart Philippines, the pioneering program that introduces full-cycle employment facilitation services, a comprehensive and systematic approach in assisting young jobseekers from planning their career paths all the way through acquiring the best-fit jobs through career guidance, life skills and technical training, and internship. “This model borrows good practices in employment facilitation services from Chile, Kenya, and the United States, and is the first in the Asian region,” said Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz. “As a pioneering program, JobStart Philippines intends to help young people jumpstart their careers by creating opportunities to improve their technical skills and develop the life skills necessary for success in today’s competitive workplace,” she added. Funded by the Government of Canada through the Asian Development Bank, JobStart is designed for young people between 18-24 years old; at least high school graduates; no job experience or have no more than one year of experience; and currently not in employment, not enrolled in school or in any training, and actively seeking work. Under the program, qualified beneficiaries are provided with knowledge on conducting job searches; access to career guidance and employment coaching; access to relevant Labor Market Information (LMI) and Public Employment Services Office (PESO) infrastructure; and referral to potential employers. “In JobStart, young people develop holistic employability through multi-faceted training, such as life skills training, an eight-day immersion that develops attitudes towards work and workplace environment; job hunting skills and networking; personal and interpersonal skills; and health and financial management,” explained Baldoz. “They also receive technical training of up to three months; up to six months of on-the-job training with an employer; a training stipend during the technical training; and an allowance of at least 75 percent of the minimum wage while with the employer while on-the-job-training (OJT),” she added. Ma. Krizelle F. Manalac, 21, received these holistic, full-cycle employment facilitation services as a JobStart qualifier. Only 21, Ma. Krizelle, from Brgy Bagumbuhay, Quezon City, had started, but failed, to complete her college education due to financial constraints. “With so many fresh graduates competing in the job market every year, I really thought I did not have what it takes to become employable,” she said. “JobStart, through its career guidance training, helped change my mindset. Through its life skills training, it changed my view of myself. Now, I have what it takes to become employable,” added Ma. Krizelle, who has recently completed her technical training as office staff at Internlink Manpower Services. She will soon commence her six-month internship—a bundle of experiences that will make her job-ready. Baldoz said many more young people will be benefited by JobStart this year. “We see that 14 PESOs will be able participate in JobStart in 2015. In addition to the four pilot PESOs—Gen Trias, Cavite; Quezon City, Taguig City, and San Fernando City, Pampanga—10 more PESOs, five from the NCR and five from outside the NCR, will be joining. Our target number of youth going through JobStart and job placements is 300 each in the four pilot areas and 200 each in the 10 PESOs in Bohol, Cebu, Davao, Tagum, and Palawan, for a total of 3,200 beneficiaries,” she said. |
|
|
| In Oman, POLO announces 3-month contract visa opportunity for Filipino medical workers |
| Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph |
| The Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in the Sultanate of Oman yesterday reported the hiring of medical workers in private clinics and hospitals under the contract visa of three months for the purpose of taking the pro-metric examination and interview being conducted by the Ministry of Health of Oman. Labor Attaché Nasser Mustafa of POLO Oman, in his report to DOLE Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz, announced the minimum qualifications of medical workers and the prevailing benefits in the private clinics and hospitals under the contract visa of 3 months for the purpose of taking the pro-metric examination and interview. Mustafa said applicants must be registered Medical Workers, with at least 2 years work experience, and below 45 years of age. The benefits include free accommodation, free transportation, and return ticket to the medical worker’s hometown. Dr. Sami N. Khasawneh, Group Medical Director of Euro-Arabian Specialist Dental Center, in his letter to the Philippine Labor Attaché office in Oman, said that as required by the Sultanate of Oman’s Ministry of Health (MOH) and Immigration and Labor Office, all health-related professionals are required to pass the MOH examination before being issued with a working resident permit. Thereafter, they will be issued with Contract Visa which is valid for two months and will enable them to take the written and oral examination. In case they fail, their visa can be extended for a month. Labor Attaché Mustafa recommends to have an employment contract for three months to be able to have allowance/salaries. Baldoz commended Labor Attaché Mustafa for his report, but warned Filipino medical workers interested in the opportunity not to be duped by illegal recruiters, advising them to only deal with legitimate and POEA-licensed agencies. |
|
|
| Roxas visits Cebuano SAF troopers' families |
| Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph |
|
Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas flew to the
island of Cebu last Saturday to visit the families of PO1 Romeo
Cempron and PO1 Windel Candano, two of 44 members of the
Philippine National Police – Special Action Force (PNP – SAF)
who died in the Mamasapano incident. In his visit, Roxas urged Michelle, Candano's wife to devote her time to her seven-year old son and to the new life they will live together as mother and son. Michelle, who is currently working at the Philippine Postal Corporation in Cebu mentioned to Roxas that she wants to experience the life of a SAF trooper to better understand her husband's sacrifice. Dr. Christine Cempron, who has also lost her husband in the unfortunate Jan. 25 incident, shared memories of her husband with Roxas. Roxas also told families of the fallen heroes that they should take some time to grieve, noting that President Aquino,the DILG, PNP, the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) and other agencies of the government are extending all the financial, educational, livelihood, medical, housing and other forms of assistance possible to them. He also promised the grieving families of all troopers who were killed and injured that truth and justice will eventually to come to them after having previously ordered the formation of a Board of Inquiry to know the facts about the police operation. "Once again, I extend my deepest condolences to everyone, who right now are hurting and grieving because of the Mamasapano, Maguindanao tragedy. Let me repeat my assurance that justice will be served and the deaths of the 44 fallen commandos will not be in vain," Roxas said. The remains of Cempron and Candano have been laid to their final resting places on Sunday. |
|
|
| PHL Consul General, Hawaii Lt. Governor, FCCH President Lead 25th Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii Trade Mission to PHL |
| Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph |
|
09 February 2015 – Hawaii Lieutenant Governor Shan Tsutsui,
Mayor of Kauai Bernard P. Carvalho, Philippine Consul General
Gina A. Jamoralin and Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii
(FCCH) President Paul G. Alimbuyao travelled to the Philippines
to lead the 25th Trade Mission of the Filipino Chamber of
Commerce of Hawaii (FCCH) from February 07 to 17. The delegation is comprised of almost 40 individuals from Hawaii’s business, banking and government sectors and leaders from major Filipino communities in the Aloha State. “I would like to thank the Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii for fostering a vibrant economic activity between Honolulu and the Philippines and for its contributions in building our local economy and strengthening the ties that already exists between the Philippines and Hawaii. This visit also coincides with the Philippine Department of Tourism’s ‘Visit the Philippines 2015’ campaign and the Philippine Chairmanship of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) this year. There is no more opportune time to sustain economic activities than this year 2015,” Consul General Jamoralin said in a statement. This 25th Trade Mission will revolve around the theme, “Strengthening business links with the Philippines” in recognition of the need to expand commercial ties between the Philippines and Hawaii. The Trade Mission will take the delegation to Manila, Camarines Norte, Cebu and Palawan to explore business opportunities and establish people-to-people links in enhancing the partnership between the Philippines and the Aloha State. Available data from USA Trade Online of the Foreign Trade Division of the US Census Bureau show that total two-way trade between the Philippines and Hawaii for 2013 is nearly US$33million , with fish and marine products; food and kindred products; and miscellaneous manufactured commodities as the top three Philippine exports to Hawaii. The top three Hawaii exports to the Philippines are chemicals; waste and scrap; and fish and other marine products. This year’s delegation will pay courtesy calls on Philippine government officials, including Vice President Jejomar Binay, Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada, Cebu City Governor Hilario Davide III, Palawan Governor Abraham Khalil Mitra, Daet, Camarines Norte Mayor Tito Sarion, Labo, Camarines Norte Mayor Joseph Ascutia, Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes, Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama, and Palawan Mayor Lucilo Bayron. Since 1954, the Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii has been the voice of Filipino businesses in Hawaii. The organization has broadened opportunities for Filipino entrepreneurs and member businesses, strengthened business links between the Philippines and Hawaii, assisted in the professional growth of its members and supported the well-being of the community. |
|
|
| PHL Ambassador to Mexico opens Lecture Series on Cultural Route of Manila Galleon |
| Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph |
|
09 February 2015 – Philippine Ambassador to Mexico Catalino R.
Dilem, Jr., opened the lecture series entitled “Reclaiming our
Shared Heritage – The Cultural Route of the Manila Galleon Art
and Culture Mexico-Philippines” held on February 04 at the Museo
Regional Cuauhnahuac (Palacio de Cortes) in Cuarnevaca, State of
Morelos. He was accompanied by Cultural Officer Rosabelle Q.
Toledo. The lecture series is about the shared cultural heritage of Mexico and the Philippines brought about by the Manila Galleon trade. It was organized and coordinated by Dr. Juan Antonio Siller Camacho, a professor and member of the Instituto Nacional de Antropologia e Historia (INAH). The lecture series is made significant by the fact that this year is the 450th anniversary of the return voyage of the Galleon from Manila to Acapulco. In his message, Ambassador Dilem said that an entire year is dedicated to this event. He also emphasized the importance of the Manila Galleon in relation to the strong historical and cultural ties between the Philippines and Mexico. Dr. Siller introduced and presented the theme of the lecture series as well as the shared cultural heritage between the Philippines and Mexico. He cited the significance of the Galleon Trade during the 16th and 17th centuries and its influence in the relations between the two countries. The first of the lecture series was conducted by Mr. Adalberto Rio Szalay, a professor and professional photographer at Cuernavaca. He spoke on the topic “Las Costas del Pacifico en Norte America y Mexico” (The Pacific Coasts in North America and Mexico). In his presentation, Mr. Rios underscored the key role that Mexico and the Philippines played, not only due to their strategic positions but also to their cultural importance that allowed them to be main actors in the Americas and Asia during the Galleon trade. He enumerated the various influences of the Philippines in Mexican culture such as the tuba making in Colima, the palapa (a thatched roof made of dried palm leaves) in Michoacan, the Manila paper, the Manila mango, the guayabera cloth in Yucatan, the process of lacquer painting, the rice varieties and techniques in growing rice. The lecture series will run from February to December 2015. |
|
|
| SSS inaugurates SSS Dasmariñas branch |
| Source: https://www.sss.gov.ph |
|
About 703,209 members in Cavite will have easier access to
services of the Social Security System (SSS) when it opened SSS
Dasmariñas Branch last December 12, 2014. The new branch,
located at the Central Mall along Aguinaldo Highway, will serve
the areas of Dasmariñas and Dasmariñas Bagong Bayan. Present during the inauguration were (photo above, left to right) SSS Senior Vice President for Luzon Operations Group Ms. Josie G. Magana; SSS Assistant Vice President for Luzon South Division Ms. Virginia Cruz; Dasmariñas City Congressman Elpidio F. Barzaga, Jr.; SSS President & CEO Emilio S. De Quiros, Jr.; Officiating Priest Rev. Fr. Danilo Paraiso, Jr. (partly hidden) and mall owner Mr. Enrico U. Dee. |
|
|
| DENR cuts red tape for ECC exemption permits with online processing |
| Source: http://www.denr.gov.ph |
|
Development projects that are exempt from securing Environmental
Compliance Certificates (ECCs) may now apply for and obtain a
Certificate of Non-Coverage (CNC) via online beginning February
2. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), through its Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), has issued a memorandum circular providing for electronic transaction of CNC application and processing. DENR Secretary Ramon J.P. Paje said the memorandum seeks to streamline and speed up the CNC application process for projects that fall under “Category D” of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) system. Category D refers to projects that are unlikely to cause adverse environmental impacts. These involve not more than one hectare land development, with no toxic or hazardous materials, substances and products, including those in the revised Priority Chemical List and Chemical Control Order under Republic Act No. 6969 or the Toxic Substances, Hazardous and Nuclear Wastes Control Act. “This new system has been designed to speed up and simplify the processes associated with projects that do not require ECCs. It allows for the secure online and paperless transaction 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” Paje said. An ECC is issued to certify that the project under consideration will not bring about an unacceptable environmental impact and that the proponent has complied with the requirements of the EIS system. Paje said an online application process enables easier communication between the parties and faster transactions. “It would not only make life easier for CNC applicants, but would also save considerable amount of resources both by the applicant and the DENR.” The standard practice was for the project proponent or his representative to secure the forms from the nearest EMB office, fill the forms, and submit it back to the office for evaluation. The concerned EMB office evaluates the submission and informs the project proponent within five working days of the results of the evaluation. Upon receipt of the confirmation, the project proponent pays the applicable fees and collects the CNC. “The process is time consuming especially for applicants who are located far from the EMB regional offices,” Paje said, adding that this is made difficult as well since there are only 13 regional offices serving more than 70 provinces. The environment chief noted that the project proponent has to go to the regional office three times – first to get the forms, then to submit the forms, and finally to collect the CNC. “In fact, the travel time and cost of travel alone could be several times more expensive than the CNC fees,” he pointed out. With the improved system, Paje said the application form is posted on the Internet and the proponent only needs to fill it out and submit it electronically. The proponent also submits scanned or faxed copies to the concerned EMB office. Once the proponent meets all the requirements, he is asked to submit to the EMB office a certified true copy of all the supporting documents, present to an EMB officer the original documents, pay the processing fees through bank and finally collect the CNC. The applicant may obtain and print a copy of the CNC online. If the submission is insufficient to support the application, the applicant will be informed of the deficiency through electronic mail, rather taking a trip to the EMB regional office. |
|
|
| PDIC files criminal charges vs ex-bank Directors, officers for refusal to turn over bank records |
| Source: http://www.pdic.gov.ph |
|
The Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) filed
criminal charges against five former Directors and four officers
and employees of Banco Carmona (A Rural Bank), for refusing to
turn over bank records to PDIC in violation of Republic Act
3591, as amended, otherwise known as the PDIC Charter. The bank
was ordered closed by the Monetary Board and placed under
receivership by the PDIC on August 1, 2014. The bank is located
at J.M. Loyola Street, Carmona, Cavite. In a complaint filed before the Office of the City Prosecutor of Makati City on January 27, 2015, the PDIC charged Directors Perseveranda Isla, Rosalinda Gatdula, Ma. Cristina Creencia, Rosalie Lourdes Gaco and Roel Nupal, as well as bank officers and employees Irene Zarraga (Officer-in-Charge/Manager), Jessica Basillas (Acting Cashier/Teller), Rowena C. Rodis (Head Accountant) and Aiza R. Javier (Branch Teller) of the closed Banco Carmona (A Rural Bank), Inc. for violation of PDIC Regulatory Issuance No. 2006-2, which requires that documents and records of the bank must be kept intact within its premises. When PDIC took over the bank, important bank documents and records were found to be missing. PDIC demanded the immediate turnover of the missing documents and records but respondents refused to comply and provided unsatisfactory explanations. The missing documents and records were necessary to enable PDIC to pay deposit insurance claims, and for PDIC to determine the financial condition of the bank. Due to the absence of complete bank records and documents, the payment of deposit insurance claims of depositors of the closed Banco Carmona was considerably delayed, causing inconvenience to the closed bank's depositors who could have immediately accessed their deposits. The criminal charges highlighted that bank directors, officers, employees and/or agents are expected to exercise extraordinary due diligence in safeguarding the interests of their depositors. The filing of charges against the nine (9) respondents is in support of PDIC's efforts to bring to justice parties that engage in acts that will put depositors and the Deposit Insurance Fund (DIF) and depositors at risk. PDIC vigorously pursues legal action against erring bank owners, officers and personnel for the benefit of depositors/creditors and to protect the DIF, PDIC's funding source for payment of insured deposits. |
|
|
| Tatak TESDA video-making contest deadline extended to February |
| Source: http://www.tesda.gov.ph |
|
More technical vocational (tech-voc) graduates will have a
chance of sharing their success stories — and possibly winning
prizes — through a short video that they can send to the
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). TESDA announced that the deadline for sending entries for the Tatak TESDA Video Making Contest Year 2 has been extended to February 28 this year. The contest, which is on its second run, previously drawn hundreds of participants who documented their TESDA experience and showed how tech-voc has transformed their lives. At stake for the winners are cash prizes and scholarship vouchers. "Every day in classrooms and communities throughout the country, tech-voc graduates and schools are making an impact in the lives of others through their expertise," TESDA Director General Joel Villanueva said. "Capture this in video and make it an inspiration to others. Spur action and change by telling others what tech-voc has done for you and your communities," Villanueva added. The contest is open to schools offering tech-voc courses and their graduates. The graduate should be a finisher of any course from 2010 onwards, a holder of a National Certificate or Certificate of Competency, and working either in the country or abroad. For the school category, the tech-voc institution should have program(s) registered with TESDA, of good standing, and holder of Certificate of TVET Program Registration. The entry sender for either the individual or school category must produce a two to three-minute video, taken at the workplace, and then uploaded in Facebook or Youtube. The link should be submitted along with the official entry through the email to the TESDA Provincial Office and copy furnished the Office of the Director General through tataktesda@gmail.com. The videos may be in the form of dramatization, storytelling, music video and other creative format. The videos should answer the question: How did TESDA transform your life? The closing statement of the video should be: Ako si ______, sa TESDA, sumaya ang buhay ko. Buhay n'yo, sasaya rin sa TESDA." The official entry form may be downloaded from the TESDA website (www.tesda.gov.ph). The contest will have three levels: provincial/district, regional and national. The top two entries (one for each category) for each province/district as determined by the respective provincial/district screening committees will be considered for the regional level of the competition. In the same manner, the top two entries (one for each Category) for each region as determined by the respective regional screening committees will be considered for the national competition. Submission of entries for the provincial/district level has been extended until February 28, 2015. There will be winners for provincial, regional and national best in story, best in video, people's choice award and Tatak TESDA grand winner. |
|
|
| MMDA supports pro environment initiatives |
| Source: http://www.mmda.gov.ph |
|
Here’s good news to biking enthusiasts. The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will open to the public tomorrow, Feb. 9, another of its bike-lending project along Roxas Blvd., from Raja Sulayman to Burgos ave. in Manila. MMDA Chairman Tolentino will spearhead the launch of the bike-sharing project to encourage into cycling as many people of all ages as possible to enjoy this form of exercise for free. “As we all know, regular cycling has many physical and mental health benefits. It is also fun, cheap and good for the environment,” he said. Under the Roxas Blvd. bike lane project, cyclists can go to bike shelters where they can borrow and store bicycles, and go cycling from Raja Sulayman to Burgos Ave. service road northbound. Tolentino said tomorrow’s launching of this bike-sharing project will set to motion the “Bayanihan sa Daan” road-sharing project whereby people will walk alongside bikers and car drivers from Quirino Grandstand in Luneta to Mall of Asia in Pasay City to underscore the importance of road courtesy. |
|
|
 |
|
Last Updated:
09 FEBRUARY 2015
|
|
| Alternative photo archive with high resolutions | |
| Please click on thumbnails to magnify | |
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III and His Excellency Joko Widodo, President of the Republic of Indonesia, lead the ceremonial toasts during the State Dinner at the President’s Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (February 09). This is President Widodo’s first State Visit to the Philippines. (Photo by Ryan Lim/ Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III listens as His Excellency Joko Widodo, President of the Republic of Indonesia, delivers his message during the State Dinner at the President’s Hall of the Malacañan Palace for the State Visit to the Philippines on Monday (February 09, 2015). This is President Widodo’s first State Visit to the Philippines. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his message during the State Dinner at the President’s Hall of the Malacañan Palace for the State Visit to the Philippines of His Excellency Joko Widodo, President of the Republic of Indonesia, on Monday (February 09). This is President Widodo’s first State Visit to the Philippines. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Lauro Montellano jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III and His Excellency Joko Widodo, President of the Republic of Indonesia, share a light moment following their joint press statement at the Reception Hall of the Malacañan Palace during the State Visit to the Philippines on Monday (February 09). This is President Widodo’s first State Visit to the Philippines. (Photo by Robert Viñas/ Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III witnesses His Excellency Joko Widodo, President of the Republic of Indonesia, sign the Palace Guest Book at the Reception Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (February 09). This is President Widodo’s first State Visit to the Philippines. The two countries enjoy excellent bilateral relations and cooperate extensively in numerous areas. Also in photo are Mrs. Hj. Iriana Joko Widodo and Presidential sister Maria Elena “Ballsy” Aquino-Cruz. (Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III and His Excellency Joko Widodo, President of the Republic of Indonesia, witness the signing of agreements at the Reception Hall of the Malacañan Palace during the State Visit to the Philippines on Monday (February 09). This is President Widodo’s first State Visit to the Philippines. The Philippines and Indonesia enjoy excellent bilateral relations and cooperate extensively in numerous areas. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III exchanges views with His Excellency Joko Widodo, President of the Republic of Indonesia, during the expanded bilateral meeting at the Aguinaldo Room of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (February 09). This is President Widodo’s first State Visit to the Philippines. The Philippines and Indonesia enjoy excellent bilateral relations and cooperate extensively in numerous areas. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes His Excellency Joko Widodo, President of the Republic of Indonesia, to Malacañan Palace for the State Visit to the Philippines on Monday (February 09). This is President Widodo’s first State Visit to the Philippines. The Philippines and Indonesia enjoy excellent bilateral relations and cooperate extensively in numerous areas. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Robert Viñas/ Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes His Excellency Joko Widodo, President of the Republic of Indonesia, upon arrival at the Malacañan Palace Grounds for the Welcome Ceremony during the State Visit to the Philippines on Monday (February 09). This is President Widodo’s first State Visit to the Philippines. With President Widodo is wife Mrs. Hj. Iriana Joko Widodo being introduce to Presidential sisiter Maria Elena "Balsy" Aquino-Cruz. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III and His Excellency Joko Widodo, President of the Republic of Indonesia, greet Indonesian officials during the welcome ceremony at the Malacañan Palace Grounds on Monday (February 09). This is President Widodo’s first State Visit to the Philippines. The Philippines and Indonesia enjoy excellent bilateral relations and cooperate extensively in numerous areas. (Photo by Lauro Montellano Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III and His Excellency Joko Widodo, President of the Republic of Indonesia, enjoy the cultural presentation during the welcome ceremony at the Malacañan Palace Grounds on Monday (February 09). This is President Widodo’s first State Visit to the Philippines. The Philippines and Indonesia enjoy excellent bilateral relations and cooperate extensively in numerous areas. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Lauro Montellano Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III shakes hand with His Excellency Joko Widodo, President of the Republic of Indonesia, during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (February 09). This is President Widodo’s first State Visit to the Philippines. The Philippines and Indonesia enjoy excellent bilateral relations and cooperate extensively in numerous areas. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III introduces to His Excellency Joko Widodo, President of the Republic of Indonesia, members of his official family during the welcome ceremony at the Malacañan Palace Grounds on Monday (February 09). This is President Widodo’s first State Visit to the Philippines. The two countries enjoy excellent bilateral relations and cooperate extensively in numerous areas. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III and His Excellency Joko Widodo, President of the Republic of Indonesia, review the honor guards during the welcome ceremony at the Malacañan Palace Grounds on Monday (February 09). This is President Widodo’s first State Visit to the Philippines. The Philippines and Indonesia enjoy excellent bilateral relations and cooperate extensively in numerous areas. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III and His Excellency Joko Widodo, President of the Republic of Indonesia, honor the colors during the welcome ceremony at the Malacañan Palace Grounds on Monday (February 09). This is President Widodo’s first State Visit to the Philippines. The Philippines and Indonesia enjoy excellent bilateral relations and cooperate extensively in numerous areas. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes His Excellency Joko Widodo, President of the Republic of Indonesia, upon arrival at the Malacañan Palace Grounds on Monday (February 09). This is President Widodo’s first State Visit to the Philippines. The Philippines and Indonesia enjoy excellent bilateral relations and cooperate extensively in numerous areas. (Photo by: Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes His Excellency Joko Widodo, President of the Republic of Indonesia, at the Malacañan Palace Grounds on Monday (February 9). This is President Widodo’s first State Visit to the Philippines. The Philippines and Indonesia enjoy excellent bilateral relations and cooperate extensively in numerous areas. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 |
President Benigno Aquino III announces that suspected Jemaah Islamiyah terrorist Zulkipli bin Hir, alias Marwan has been confirmed dead during the SAF operation in Brgy. Tukanalipao, Mamasapano, Maguindanao, and accepted the resignation of suspended PNP Chief Police Director General Allan Purisima during his message on Friday (Frebruary 6) held at the President hall in Malacanang. (Photo By Ryan Lim / Robert Viñas / Malacanang Photo Bureau) | ||
 |
The APEC Senior Officials are gathered for a family photo at the start of the 2-day formal Senior Officials’ Meeting at the Fontana International Convention Center in Clark on Friday (February 6). APEC Senior Officials will lay down the groundwork for policy direction of APEC in 2015, that would reflect both the outcomes of APEC 2014 in China, and build on the APEC Philippines 2015 theme of “Building Inclusive Economies, Building a Better World.” PIA | ||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III receives the Memorare Manila 1945 Foundation, Inc. represented by founders Roderick McMicking Hall and sister Consuelo McMicking Hall and Foundation President Ambassador Juan Jose Rocha during the courtesy call at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (February 05). Also in photo is former Ambassador Miguel Perez-Rubio. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III huddles with the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) delegation, led by JCCI chairman Akio Mimura, for a group photo souvenir during the courtesy call at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (February 05). JCCI is a network of comprehensive local economic organizations made up of the representatives of some 1.26 million member businesses from large and medium-sized corporations down to small firms and sole proprietors in Japan. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 |
President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) delegation, led by JCCI chairman Akio Mimura, during the courtesy call at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (February 05). JCCI is a network of comprehensive local economic organizations made up of the representatives of some 1.26 million member businesses from large and medium-sized corporations down to small firms and sole proprietors in Japan. (Photo by Ryan Lim/ Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
A daily E-NewsMagazine about North and Central Luzon
issuu.com
View
or download the presentation of the Board of Inquiry during the
February 9, 2015 Senate hearing on the Mamasapano incident here: http://www.gov.ph/…/presentation-board-of-inquiry-senate-h…/
Hadhad Partylist shared a link.
DepEd
will conduct the Get Your Gulay On: Grand Gulay Cook-off Challenge-
Round 2 (CALABARZON Edition) on Tuesday, February 10, 2015, 10:00 a.m.
at the...
gov.ph
No comments:
Post a Comment