Dispatch for February 25, 2015 (Wednesday) , 2 Weather Watch , PNOY Speech , Interview with Sec. Coloma, 15 Online NEws , 30 Photo Releases (Feb. 24, 2015)

24-Hour Public Weather Forecast

Issued at 5:00 a.m., 25 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., 25 February 2015

Predicted Mean Sea Level Wind  Analysis for 8 a.m., 25 February 2015

Satellite Image

Synopsis:

Trough of Low Pressure Area (LPA) affecting Eastern Mindanao. Ridge of High Pressure Area (HPA) affecting Northern Luzon.
 

Forecast:

CARAGA region will have cloudy skies with light to moderate rains and isolated thunderstorms. Northern Luzon will experience partly cloudy skies. Metro Manila and the rest of the country will be partly cloudy to at times cloudy with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms.

Light to moderate winds blowing from the east to southeast will prevail over Northern Luzon and coming from the east to northeast over the rest of the country. The coastal waters throughout the archipelago will be slight to moderate.


PAGTAYA: Ang Caraga ay magkakaroon ng maulap na kalangitan na may mahina hanggang sa katamtamang mga pag-ulan at pulu-pulong pagkidlat-pagkulog. Ang Hilagang Luzon ay makararanas ng bahagyang maulap na papawirin. Ang Metro Manila at ang nalalabing bahagi ng bansa ay magiging bahagya hanggang sa kung minsan ay maulap na kalangitan na may pulu-pulong mga pag-ulan o pagkidlat-pagkulog.
Mahina hanggang sa katamtamang hangin mula sa silangan hanggang sa timog-silangan ang iiral sa Hilagang Luzon at mula naman sa silangan hanggang sa hilagang-silangan sa nalalabing bahagi ng bansa. Ang mga baybaying dagat sa buong kapuluan ay magiging banayad hanggang sa katamtaman.
OVER METRO MANILA:
Maximum Temperature: 01:50 PM yesterday ----- 31.9 ºC
Minimum Temperature: 06:00 AM yesterday ----- 19.5 ºC
Maximum Relative Humidity: 06:45 AM yesterday --------- 93 %
Minimum Relative Humidity: 01:50 PM yesterday --------- 49 %
Low tide today: 07:37 AM ------- 0.28 meter
High tide today: 02:51 PM ------- 0.83 meter
Low tide today: 10:45 PM ------- 0.14 meter
High tide tomorrow: 02:54 AM ------- 0.30 meter
Sunrise today: 6:16 AM
Sunset today: 6:03 PM
Moonrise today: 11:12 AM
Moonset tomorrow: 12:14 AM
Illumination today: 39 %
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

4 hrs ·

GMA: Trough ng LPA ang nakaaapekto sa silangang bahagi ng Mindanao, ayon sa PAGASA, habang ridge ng high pressure area naman ang nakaaapekto sa Hilagang Luzon. Maulap na may hanggang katamtamang ulan, thunderstorms ang mararanasan sa Caraga habang asahan naman ang bahagyang maulap na papawirin sa Hilagang Luzon. Minsang maulap na may kalat-kalat na pag-ulan, thunderstorms naman ang asahan sa Metro Manila at iba pang bahagi ng bansa.

 February 25, 2015 ( Wednesday) as of 6:00 A.M. - 7:00 A.M.

PIA4A / PIA QUEZON  :  Cloudy in Lucena City

 

24 FEBRUARY 2015.
	President Aquino meets with House Representatives to discuss Mamasapano incident, Bangsamoro Basic Law
	President Aquino honors youth organizations in 12th TAYO Awards
	President Aquino would be open to meet senators regarding Bangsamoro Basic Law, Palace official says
	Malacañang still trusts MILF as government partner in peace process
	Government has resources to prevent entry of infectious diseases, Palace says

President Aquino meets with House Representatives to discuss Mamasapano incident, Bangsamoro Basic Law   President Benigno S. Aquino III on Monday met with leaders of the House of Representatives in Malacañang Palace to discuss the Mamasapano incident and its implications on the peace process in Mindanao, particularly on the enactment of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL). Communications Secretary Hermino Coloma, Jr. said the President met with Speaker Feliciano Belmonte and other leaders of the House. Secretary Coloma said the President briefed them on the background of the operations to capture high-value terrorist suspects Zulkifli bin Hir, also known as Marwan, and Abdul Basit Usman, and discussed the instructions he had given then commander of the Philippine National Police - Special Action Force (PNP-SAF), Director Getulio Napeñas, who was accompanied by then suspended PNP chief, Director General Alan Purisima. The President had given Napeñas specific instructions on the need to coordinate the operation with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and for Purisima to inform PNP Officer-in-Charge, Deputy Director General Leonardo Espina, Coloma said, adding that the President however found out later that these instructions had not been followed. President Aquino also shared with the legislators the exchange of text messages he had with Purisima on January 25. The same exchange of text messages was released by the Senate. During the meeting, the President reiterated his statement during his televised message last February 6 regarding the instances that would have clearly called for the mission to be aborted, but which was not done, Coloma said. For their part, the House representatives gave their views on how the killing of the SAF troopers has given rise to a clamor among their constituents that justice be pursued, as part of rebuilding public confidence on the viability of the peace process. Some of the representatives also brought up the need for “leveling off” with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on the parameters of their partnership with the government in the peace process, including the containment of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF); as well as their active cooperation in bringing those responsible for the death of the SAF troopers to justice. In response, the President said the Department of Justice and the National Bureau of Investigation have begun gathering information and evidence so that appropriate charges could be filed in court. President Aquino also emphasized the importance of the timely approval of the measure, “so as to pave the way for the holding of a plebiscite and if the people will approve the same, to give the members of the Bangsamoro Transitional Authority sufficient time to demonstrate its capabilities," said Coloma. Present during the meeting were House Majority Leader Neptali Gonzales II; House Minority Leader Ronaldo Zamora; and chairman of the House ad hoc committee on the draft BBL Rufus Rodriguez. Also in attendance were former senior military and PNP officers who are now House members: Samuel Pagdilao, Romeo Acop, Leopoldo Bataoil, Gary Alejano, and Ashley Acedillo. Also present were the chairpersons of the House committees that conducted hearings last week: Jeffrey Ferrer of the committee on public order and safety, and Jim Hataman Salliman of the committee on peace, reconciliation and unity. During the meeting, the President was joined by Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, Jr., Cabinet Secretary Rene Almendras, Budget and Management Secretary Florencio Abad, Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Alfredo Benjamin Caguioa, National Security Adviser Cesar Garcia, Transportation Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya, Presidential Management Staff Secretary Julia Abad and Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma. PND (ag) TOP

President Aquino honors youth organizations in 12th TAYO Awards

President Benigno S. Aquino III led the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations (TAYO) Awards ceremony held in Malacañang Palace on Tuesday to recognize the contributions of youth organizations to nation building. In his speech, President Aquino said that as head of the country for the past four-and-a-half years, he has always known that he could not do much without the support of the people and other sectors. “Sa nakalipas na mahigit apat at kalahating taon ng ating pamamahala, pinatunayan nating kapag mas marami tayong kumikilos, mas mabilis nating nakakamit ang ating hangarin,” he said. “Dito ko nga naalala ang kaisipang ibinahagi sa akin: Kapag daw ang dunong ng mas nakakatanda at ang lakas ng kabataan ay nagsanib, talagang malayo ang ating mararating.” After congratulating the winners of the TAYO awards, the President outlined the administration's efforts to empower the youth to become more effective nation builders amid a strong economy. He cited the Conditional Cash Transfer for High School Expansion program, which supports children of poor families until they reach 18 years old. He reported that some 1.2 million students, aged 15 years old to 18 years old, are receiving assistance from the government so they could complete their high school education. The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is also actively helping the youth, he added. From July 2010 to December 2014, some 774,532 people graduated under TESDA’s Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP), the President said, noting that their employment rate from April to September last year was registered at 96 percent. "Ginagawa natin ang lahat ng ito upang iangat ang antas ng pamumuhay ng ating mga kababayan, lalo na ang mga naghihikahos sa buhay. Sinasagad natin ang pagkakataon upang bigyan sila ng kakayahang tulungan ang mga sariling umasenso," President Aquino said. According to the Chief Executive, the real challenge is for the country to sustain the gains and developments it has been enjoying. "Paigtingin pa natin ang pagkakapit-bisig, at patibayin ang pundasyon ng isinusulong nating Pilipinas; isang bansa kung saan ang bawat isa ay may kakayahang tuparin ang inaasam niyang kinabukasan," he said. The winners of this year’s TAYO Awards were the Phi Lambda Delta Sorority; Kanlungan Pilipinas Movement; Rescue Assistance Peacekeeping Intelligence Detail (RAPID); the Cauayan City National High School-Red Cross Youth and Junior Rescue Team; Katipunan ng mga Kabataang Santiagueňo; ACCESS-PYLP Alumni Association; Move This World-Pilipinas; Youth for Environment in School Organization; Indigenous Youth Servant Leaders Association of the Philippines; and the University of San Agustin Little Theater. Apart from recognition, the winning organizations receive a specially commissioned trophy sculpted by Toym de Leon Imao, and a grant of P50,000 to fund new projects or continue their long-term programs. The TAYO Awards was organized by the National Youth Commission, the TAYO Awards Foundation Inc., the EDSA People Power Commission, Coca-Cola Foundation, and Senator Bam Aquino. Since its establishment in 2002, the TAYO Awards Foundation has recognized and supported the outstanding contributions of youth organizations to national development. To date, more than a thousand youth organizations have joined the search and have become part of the foundation’s growing youth network. This year's awarding ceremony is part of the celebration of the 29th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution that will be commemorated on Wednesday, February 25. PND (as)

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President Aquino would be open to meet senators regarding Bangsamoro Basic Law, Palace official says

Following his meeting with leaders of the House of Representatives on the Mamasapano incident and the proposed Bangasamoro Basic Law (BBL) on Monday, President Benigno S. Aquino III would be open to a similar meeting with members of the Senate, a Palace official has said. "Hindi naman maipapasa ang batas (BBL) ng iisang House of Congress lamang; dalawang Houses ito dapat. Mahalagang stakeholders din po ang ating mga senador at sa aspetong ito, sa pakiwari ko naman ay bukas ang Pangulo sa pakikipag-usap sa kanila kung ito ring paksang ito ang tatalakayin," Communication Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. told reporters during Tuesday’s press briefing in Malacañang. President Aquino met with House members, led by Speaker Feliciano Belmonte and other representatives, on Monday morning to brief them on the background of the operations to capture high-value terrorist suspects Zulkifli bin Hir, also known as Marwan, and Abdul Basit Usman. According to Coloma, who was present at the meeting, the President also emphasized the importance of the timely approval of the BBL “to pave the way for the holding of a plebiscite and if the people will approve the same, to give the members of the Bangsamoro Transitional Authority sufficient time to demonstrate their capabilities." Both the House of Representatives and the Senate have suspended deliberations on the proposed BBL, until the completion of the investigation on the Mamasapano incident. PND (ag)

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Malacañang still trusts MILF as government partner in peace process

The Palace said it remains hopeful that the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) would stick to its commitment to peace, despite the bloody Mamasapano clash and as time is running out in the passage of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL). Congress has to complete the deliberations on the BBL at the committee level before adjourning on March 20, and resume deliberations at the plenary level when sessions resume on May 4. In a press briefing in Malacañang on Tuesday, Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said President Benigno S. Aquino III and his administration still consider the MILF as a government partner in achieving peace. "Lahat po ng pahayag ng Pangulo at lahat ng kanyang pagsasalita hinggil dito ay nandoon sa aspeto na itinuturing ang MILF ng pamahalaan na partner o katuwang dito sa prosesong pangkapayapaan," he said. "At binanggit na rin ng Pangulo sa kanyang mga nakaraang talumpati na simula noong nagkasundo hinggil doon sa FAB (Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro) at CAB (Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro) ay napanatili ng MILF ang katahimikan." During those periods, there was no violent clash between government and MILF combatants, according to Coloma. The government will stick to that position, but in case there are groups that will sow instability, the country's security forces are ready to act to maintain order, he added. "Ang ating Sandatahang Lakas ay nahahandang harapin ang anumang banta na manggagaling sa anumang sektor dahil tungkulin ng pamahalaan na tiyakin ang kaligtasan at kapanatagan ng ating mga mamamayan," Coloma said. It can be recalled that after the Supreme Court declared the Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD) unconstitutional in 2008, the MILF attacked several communities in Mindanao. Coloma said it is up to legislators to follow the initial timetable for the approval of the proposed BBL, considering the narrowing window of opportunity for its passage. PND (as)

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Government has resources to prevent entry of infectious diseases, Palace says

Government measures are in place to fend off the entry of such contagious diseases as avian flu and the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in the country, the Palace said on Tuesday. "Nasa heightened alertness at preparedness ang ating Department of Health (DOH), simula pa noong halos isang taon na ang nakararaan, noong hinarap itong MERS Coronavirus," Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said during the daily press briefing in Malacañang. The government, he said, has been successful in preventing the entry of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in the country in the past and is capable of implementing similar preventive measures at present. "Kaya batay sa mga binanggit ko, meron namang sapat na track record ang ating pamahalaan hanggang sa kasalukuyan na gawin ang nararapat para mapanatiling malusog at ligtas ang ating mga mamamayan laban sa mga kinatatakutang sakit," he said, adding that the Health Department has enough budget and resources to do its job. A Filipino who came from China has died after showing symptoms of bird flu, the DOH reported on Monday. The department did not conduct an autopsy on the victim as he was cremated. A few weeks ago, a Filipino nurse from Saudi Arabia was hospitalized due to MERS-CoV infection. She has since recovered from her illness after treatment. PND (as)

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24 FEBRUARY 2015 PCIC exec guilty of estafa thru falsification P14-B infra increase, lending and subsidies improve November disbursements; Abad: Spending on right track from December to 2015 Imports mark 2.4 percent full-year growth despite slowdown in December 2014, US$2.1 billion trade deficit, narrowest trade gap since 2001 'I have been and always will tell the truth' - Roxas tells Senate The solution to violence is not to stop the path of peace, says Scotland's former first minister Philippines, Slovak Republic strengthen ties PHL participates in 38th Governing Council Meeting of International Fund for Agricultural Development Hacienda Luisita farmer beneficiaries go vegetable farming, learn marketing know-how Cambodia execs in PH for tech-voc study tour PDIC raises P349-M from asset sales Tolentino penalizes erring personnel Numbers speak Ombudsman indicts Valencia City exec for falsification DOF, DBM update standards on LGU reporting of receipts and expenditures BI issues new guidelines on RA 7919 visa restamping PCIC exec guilty of estafa thru falsification Source: http://www.ombudsman.gov.ph The Office of the Ombudsman secured the conviction of a former member of the Board of Directors of the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) for tampering receipts submitted in his fraudulent claims for reimbursement of expenses in 2001. In a 45-page Decision penned by Sandiganbayan Associate Justice Alex Quiroz, the anti-graft court found Jaime Domdom guilty of eight counts of Estafa through Falsification of Public Documents and sentenced him to imprisonment of four (4) years, two (2) months and one (1) day to six (6) years of prision correccional maximum to six (6) years and one (1) day to eight (8) years of prision mayor minimum. Domdom was also ordered to pay a fine of P5,000.00 for each count of the crime committed. Ombudsman prosecutors presented witnesses from the Commission on Audit (COA) who testified that in the post-audit of disbursement vouchers, it was noticed that the vouchers issued to Domdom showed unusually large amounts. Verification made by COA auditors with the establishments revealed the following results: Official Receipt (O.R.) of Establishments Actual Amt. in the OR Amt. submitted by Domdom O.R. No. 1 P 409.00 P3,409.00 O.R. No. 2    534.00   4,534.00 O.R. No. 3 1,016.40   4,016.40 O.R. No. 4    350.00   3,500.00 O.R. No. 5    150.00   1,500.00 O.R. No. 6    952.00   9,952.00 O.R. No. 7    645.00   1,645.00 O.R. No. 8    600.25   6,000.25 Subsequently, COA issued Notices of Disallowance to Domdom in 2001 and 2002. In finding the accused guilty, the Decision stated that the “prosecution successfully established that Domdom who was entitled to a P15,000.00 monthly reimbursement for miscellaneous and extraordinary expenses as member of the Board of Directors of PCIC, submitted receipts as supporting documents which, however, bear alterations of the amounts thereon.” |TOP| P14-B infra increase, lending and subsidies improve November disbursements; Abad: Spending on right track from December to 2015 Source: http://www.dbm.gov.ph The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) reported the total National Government disbursements from January to November in 2014 rose 5.1 percent compared to the same period in 2013, from P1.677 trillion to P1.762 trillion. This performance is consistent with the improvements in disbursements seen at the end of October, with spending up by 6.4 percent compared to the same ten-month period in 2013. Spending performance for these two months was driven largely by subsidies to Government-Owned or –Controlled Corporations (GOCCs), transfers to Local Government Units (LGUs), and increases in maintenance and capital spending compared to the previous year. Notably, capital outlay for infrastructure saw a 6.3 percent or P14 billion improvement for the 11-month period compared to 2013 levels, from P223.3 billion in 2013 to P237.3 billion last year. This reflected the Administration’s continued commitment to building and rehabilitating roads and bridges, as well as completing other infrastructure projects. In terms of year-on-year performance, however, disbursements during the month of November were 7.7 percent lower than those made during the same month in 2013. This drop in spending contrasts with the performance in October of 2014, when NCA utilization by agencies contributed to a 6.4 percent surge in spending compared to the same month in 2013. Budget Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad said, “While the November report showed lower disbursements compared to the previous month’s performance, this can be attributed largely to better management of government’s lending, our debt, and subsidies to GOCCs. This reflects the National Government’s progress in keeping down costs that don’t involve crucial projects and programs.” While some of the drop in performance was attributed to the slower utilization of Notices of Cash Allocation (NCAs) by agencies—driven by contractions in spending by the Department of Agriculture (DA), the Department of National Defense (DND), and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)—a large part of this decrease was derived from spending less on non-NCA items including net lending, tax subsidies, and interest payments. Non-NCA disbursements in November of 2014 amounted to P10.3 billion, 27.5 percent lower than in the previous year. Disbursements by Expense Class, 2013 vs. 2014in billion pesos, unless otherwise indicated Particulars As of November Increase/Decrease 2013 2014 Amount % Current Oper. Exp. 1,371.4 1,442.5 71.1 5.2   PS     538.0      541.5 3 .5      0.7   MOOE     254.2      274.4         20.1      7.9   Subsidy 39.1        66.3 27.2 69.7   Allotment to LGUs     221.7 250.5         28.8      13.0   IP     296.7      292.3          (4.4)        (1.5)   TEF       21.8        17.6 (4.2) (19.3) Capital Outlays 289.9 306.6 16.7 5.8   Infra & Other CO 223.3      237.3 14.0 6.3   Equity 0.7 1.5 0 .8 124.3   Cap. Transfers to LGUs       65.9        67.8 1 .9        2.9   CARP-LO           0            0             0 Net Lending 16.0 13.2 (2.8) (17.6) TOTAL 1,677.3 1,762.3 84.9 5.1 November net lending topped at P3.8 billion in 2014, which was comprised of a loan to the National Development Company (NDC). This is compared to the P12.0 billion in advances made to the Home Guaranty Corporation (HGC) in 2013. Abad said, “Though agencies were slower to use their NCAs in November, we’re confident that spending in December 2014 would have ended on a strong note. What’s more, we feel government expenditure is on the right track for 2015. We can attribute this to the release of employee Year-End Bonuses, the passage of the 2014 Supplemental Budget, and the recent Supreme Court ruling on the Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP).” In terms of allotments made by DBM to agencies, the report said 95 percent of the P2.265-trillion 2014 National Budget had already been released by the end of November—higher by 12.6 percent than in November of 2013. Abad said, “Thanks to the General Appropriations Act as-Release Document (GAARD) regime, the DBM ensured the 2014 National Budget was made available to the agencies in a timely manner. This quick release, together with the increase in disbursements as of November’s end, helped us get some momentum to push government spending for projects and programs.” |TOP| Imports mark 2.4 percent full-year growth despite slowdown in December 2014, US$2.1 billion trade deficit, narrowest trade gap since 2001 Source: http://www.neda.gov.ph MANILA – Merchandise imports grew by 2.4 percent for full-year 2014 despite the 10.6 percent drop in December 2014 due to significant decreases in the value of imported mineral fuels and lubricants, capital goods, and consumer goods, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA). The Philippine Statistics Authority reported that total payments for merchandise imports amounted to US$4.9 billion in December 2014, down by 10.6 percent from US$5.4 billion in December 2013. However, for the full-year 2014, the value of merchandise imports grew by 2.4 percent from US$62.4 billion in 2013 to US$63.9 billion. “The full-year growth of the country’s merchandise imports relative to our strongly performing merchandise exports reduced trade-in-goods deficit in 2014 to US$2.1 billion from US$5.7 billion in 2013. This by far is the narrowest trade gap recorded since 2001,” said Economic Planning Secretary and NEDA Director-General Arsenio M. Balisacan. The Cabinet official noted that the tepid growth of imports for December 2014 was generally pulled down by the plunging oil prices, a trend which was more conspicuous during the last three months of 2014. “Over the immediate term, the combination of strong world crude oil supply growth and weak global demand is expected to reduce imports via lower oil prices and possibly weaker demand for the country’s exports, thus tempering imports,” he said. Balisacan added that port congestion appears to remain a significant risk for both exports and imports growth. He said that the lingering effects may have been felt by the sector towards the end of the year as both value and volume of major commodity imports (as well as exports) declined or slowed down notwitstanding the holiday season. “A more lasting solution to the port congestion and other transportation/logistics issues need to be in place, specifically in Metro Manila where approximately 25 percent of all imports passes through. Transportation constraints could further lead to unnecessary escalation of commodity prices,” he said. The higher value of imported raw materials and intermediate goods partially tempered the overall decline in imports during the month. Total payments for inward shipments of raw materials and intermediate goods reached US$2.4 billion in December 2014, higher by 12.7 percent as opposed to US$2.1 billion in December 2013. “What could sustain imports are domestic consumption and investment. Given these, the manufacturing sector will likely continue its growth momentum, thus, keeping imports of raw materials and intermediate goods brisk. Also, stable prices, availability of jobs and more vigorous business activity are seen to further increase consumption spending that could support a healthier demand for imports of consumer products,” Balisacan concluded. Meanwhile, the People’s Republic of China remained as the main supplier of imported goods accounting for 13.7 percent share to the total value of inward shipments in December 2014 followed by United States of America (9.8%), Germany (8.4%), Singapore (8.3%), Japan (7.9%), Taiwan (7.1%), South Korea (6.9%), Saudi Arabia (5.7%), Malaysia (5.5%), and Thailand (4.7%). |TOP| 'I have been and always will tell the truth' - Roxas tells Senate Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph In response to questions raised regarding the Mamasapano incident, Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas maintained that he has always been truthful and honest in his account of what happened on January 25. "I did not at anytime commit what you are implying in your statement Madam Senator," Roxas told Sen. Nancy Binay. On the fifth public hearing of the Senate presided by Sen. Grace Poe, senators reviewed the exchanges between the resource persons and the President. "Masasabi lang namin sa pangulo kung ano lang ang nalalaman namin," Roxas told senators. |TOP| The solution to violence is not to stop the path of peace, says Scotland's former first minister Source: http://www.opapp.gov.ph MANILA – Scotland's former first minister The Right Honorable Lord Jack McConnell of Glenscorrodale, who recently visited the Philippines, said that putting a stop to the peace process is not the solution to violence, even and especially in the aftermath of the tragedy in Mamasapano, Maguindanao, which claimed nearly 70 lives from all sides, including civilians. “The solution to violence is not to stop the path of peace,” McConnell, who served as Scotland’s youngest First Minister from 2001 to 2007 and has had experience with the Northern Irish peace process and Scottish devolution, stressed. McConnell, in separate engagements with media and civil society members, noted that the country should investigate and exact accountability for the tragedy while also pursuing the peace process. The Scottish parliamentarian said that while he understands the public sentiment in the wake of the tragedy, members of Congress should not only think about the present, but also “10 to 15 years from now.” “It is in these moments that leaders need to look at the long-term,” the United Kingdom Prime Minister's Special Representative for Peace Building said. McConnell also noted that the tragedy is an opportunity for the country to make sure such violence need not happen again. “It’s a tragic time for the Philippines, but it’s also a time for hope,” he said. The Ireland experience McConnell recounted the story of a "horrific bombing in a small market town called Omagh" in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland. The bombing, perpetrated by a group calling themselves the “Real IRA,” a splinter group of the Provisional Irish Republican Army, occurred just four months after the signing of the Good Friday Agreement in Belfast in 1998 as part of the Northern Ireland peace process. "It was a really emotional time," he said. "There were calls for government to stop the implementation of the agreement," which also entailed the passage of a law that sought to give recognition to historic identities and address the desire for equality in Northern Ireland. According to McConnell, there was discrimination and an aspect of fear in the aftermath of the bombing, which killed 29 people and injured 220 others. At the same time, there were calls for confidence building over time among the parties. Fortunately, there were people who said that "to suspend the path to peace would be the worst response... to the violence," McConnell said. ‘We continue to work and hope’ For her part, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos Deles said that “we take heart in the fact that Congress say this is only a suspension and not a full stop of deliberations” on the Bangsamoro Basic Law. Deles recounted a recent trip to Maguindanao, and noted that the ceasefire that held for more than three years, since 2012, has given local communities in Mindanao hope for a better life. “Going down there, you see that peace has begun to take root,” she added. “On our part, we continue to work, and continue to hope,” she added. As for rumors that the proposed BBL will be diluted or watered down, Deles said that she trusts in the wisdom of Congress to pass a law that will address the Filipino peoples call for peace and justice and operationalize the intent of the Philippine Constitution for the development of the people in the Bangsamoro. “We want to ensure that it will be a meaningful law that will finally bring the peace that our people have been longing for,” Deles said. |TOP| Philippines, Slovak Republic strengthen ties Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph 24 February 2015 – Slovak Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Miroslav Lajčák met with Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario on Monday, February 23, to discuss ways to boost bilateral ties in the first high-level visit by a Slovak delegation to the Philippines since 2001. Deputy Prime Minister Lajčák’s visit took place as the Philippines and the Slovak Republic held their inaugural Political Consultations on February 23. Secretary Del Rosario led the Philippine delegation, while Deputy Prime Minister Lajčák led the Slovak side in a robust exchange of views on bilateral, regional and global concerns. The discussion focused on further strengthening ties in key areas of cooperation such as agriculture, trade and investments, education and culture, defense and energy. Elevating bilateral trade from its current modest level was given special emphasis by the Ministers. The meeting also touched on the Philippines’ priorities for the ASEAN Integration and its chairmanship of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in 2015. Earlier, in the Deputy Prime Minister’s courtesy call on Secretary Del Rosario, the two Ministers agreed on the importance of a peaceful resolution to the disputes in the West Philippine Sea under the framework of international law. A Joint Plan of Action between the Philippines and the Slovak Republic was also signed during the meeting. Under this framework, the Philippines and the Slovak Republic will commit to enhance trade and investment cooperation, renewable energy, defense, address concerns on consular matters and law enforcement, increase cultural and educational cooperation, strengthen people to people ties, and emphasize cooperation in various multilateral fora such as the United Nations (UN) and the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM). Prior to the meeting, the Minister and his delegation visited the Avion Power Plant in Batangas on Sunday, February 22, and offered a wreath at the Rizal Monument on Monday, February 23. The Slovak energy and engineering firm Istroenergo Group supplied the gas turbines for the plant, which will be operational in the latter half of 2015. It is expected to boost the power-generating capacity of the Luzon grid. Deputy Prime Minister Lajčák and the Slovak delegation also called on Vice President Jejomar Binay and Defense Undersecretary Fernando I. Manalo during his visit. |TOP| PHL participates in 38th Governing Council Meeting of International Fund for Agricultural Development Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph 24 February 2015 – Philippine Agrarian Reform Secretary Virgilio de los Reyes and Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization (PAFSAM) Secretary Francis N. Pangilinan co-led the country’s delegation to the 38th Session of the International Fund for Agricultural Development Governing Council (IFAD-GC) convened from February 16 to 17 at the IFAD Headquarters in Rome. The strong presence of the Philippines to the meeting demonstrated the country’s commitment to this year’s focus on rural transformation as a key to sustainable development. In its country statement, the Philippines supported the call to increase investments in agriculture/rural development. Agrarian Reform Secretary de los Reyes pointed out the vital role of smallholder farming and family farming to reduce hunger, protect key natural resources and biodiversity and help farmers adapt to climate change, and provide decent incomes and working conditions for rural workers. He informed on the country’s holistic approach to enable smallholder farmers with investments not only in better rural infrastructures but also in programs to make land productive and strengthen bargaining position vis-à-vis investors, buyers and policy-makers. The Philippines was also recognized at the launch of the International Day of Family Remittances. With the country’s huge Filipino diaspora around the globe, the country is one of the world’s top remittance-receiving countries in the world, which reportedly reached US$ 24.4 billion dollars as of November 2014. At the launch, Secretary Pangilinan spoke on the invaluable contribution of overseas Filipinos and their remittances to the country in national development, particularly in the rural areas. He underscored the country policy to engage overseas Filipinos in nation-building as partners for progress, a principle given concrete expression in the current Philippine Development Plan. Secretary Pangilinan stated the Philippine country statement at the Launching of the International Year of Family Remittances. Aside from the Philippines, high-level government officials from among the other 175 IFAD member countries were in attendance. Keynote speakers included Italy’s Economy and Finance Minister Pier Carlo Padoan, Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama and Tonga’s King Tupou VI. Discussions in the two-day event also included topics on indigenous peoples and sustainable food systems, overcoming challenges to rural transformation through the post-2015 sustainable development goals, innovations in financial inclusion, and empowering women to transform rural areas. At the sidelines of the 38th IFAD-GC, Secretaries de los Reyes and Pangilinan had a meeting with IFAD President Kanayo F. Nwanze and Asia Pacific Director Hoonae Kim and discussed the partnership between the Philippines and IFAD in support of rural development in the country. The Philippines is a founding member of IFAD, a specialized agency of the United Nations, established as an international financial institution in 1978. |TOP| Hacienda Luisita farmer beneficiaries go vegetable farming, learn marketing know-how Source: http://www.dar.gov.ph The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), in collaboration with the Catholic Relief Services (CRS), offered agrarian reform beneficiaries in Hacienda Luisita another farming alternative— vegetable production—and marketing know-how to become competent and skilled entrepreneurs. DAR Undersecretary for Support Services Rosalina Bistoyong said the department sees the need for these farmers-turned-landowners to learn additional skills and knowledge to prepare them for greater challenges ahead—sustaining farm productivity and improving their business acumen. Under its agro-enterprise project, the DAR tapped 27 agrarian reform beneficiaries belonging to Barangays Bantog, Lourdes, Pando and Motrico, to become lead growers and trainees in vegetable production and entrepreneurship. “This is just the initial phase. Eventually, the project will cover the rest of the 10 barangays of Hacienda Luisita,” Bistoyong said. Prior to the farmers’ training, the DAR conducted soil testing in all 10 barangays of Hacienda Luisita and found out that the crops best suited to the type of soil there are red chillies, string beans, squash and sweet potatoes (camote). “To find out what’s really hot in the market, we also conducted market studies and went to Balintawak, Divisoria and in Urdaneta market in Pangasinan. We learned that there’s a big demand now on red chillies,” said Bistoyong The agro-enterprise experts from CRS shared with the agrarian reform beneficiaries the technical know-how of producing chilli peppers and other vegetables. The lead growers also underwent a 4-month intensive training on market study, product packaging, cash flows, and the basics on business marketing and bookkeeping. At the recent harvest festival in Barangay Bantog, Tarlac City, the 27 lead growers proudly exhibited and sold their fresh red chilli peppers to residents and tourists. Farmer Celina Palo of Barangay Lourdes used 500 square meters of her 6-hectare land and planted red chillies. “Before planting chillies, this plot of land was idle and full of garbage. After 2 months of growing chillies, I’m earning P10,000 a month from it.” “Hands-on training in planting the crop up to learning the ropes in business managing was a very big help. We didn’t just study in the classroom, we also conducted market studies, spoke to traders and business people. Now I know how it is to negotiate and conduct business,” said Palo who now does her own marketing. Farmer Roberto Dizon of Barangay Motrico attests to the benefits of growing chillies. “The capital is cheaper and after two months, the chillies are ready for harvest and selling. The most I love about chillies is that it takes about 8-10 months before the plant dies. While it’s alive, you continue harvesting chillies every 4-5 days. That means I earn money 5-6 times in a month!” Dizon said that in one harvest, his 500 sq. m. plot yielded 25 kilos of chillies. “At P160 per kilo of chillies, I earn P4,000. So, if I were harvesting 6 times in a month, It would earn me P24,000. Because of this very good turnout, I’m now planning on expanding this business by planting more chillies and adding string beans and bitter gourd (ampalaya) to my farm,” Dizon added. When asked how the farmers would be able to sell their harvested crops to the market, Bistoyong said the DAR linked the farmers to buyers and traders in Divisoria, Balintawak and Urdaneta Market in Pangasinan. “At present, the 27 lead growers sell their chillies to traders in these markets. But some of them, like farmer Celina Palo, now have other buyers that she has negotiated on her own. The trainings have given her the confidence to conduct business like a pro,” Bistoyong said. (Pniky Roque with Photos from Manny Trinos) |TOP| Cambodia execs in PH for tech-voc study tour Source: http://www.tesda.gov.ph Facing a unique challenge in building the skills capacity of its future workers, Cambodia has turned to the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) for an enriching exposure on technical vocational education and training (TVET). From February 16 to 18, a total of 20 high level officials of Cambodia's Ministry of Labor and Technical-vocational Training and National Training Board came to the Philippines to get hands-on experience of the Philippines' TVET system. "The international study tour was part of a program of the guest country to allow their senior officials and trainers to take a peek at our TVET policies, programs and practices in the Philippines," said TESDA Director General Joel Villanueva. "We hope TESDA has given them valuable lessons in skills development that they can bring and adapt," he said. Late last year, Cambodia received assistance from the Asian Development Bank to work for a project entitled Strengthening Technical Vocational and Training, which includes strengthening the institutional capacity of its TVET officials and trainers to plan and manage TVET in their country. The TVET system remains in its infancy in Cambodia and needs reforms and resources to address gaps in access, quality and institutional capacity to make a sustained contribution to its national economy through quality education and training. In its letter to TESDA, the business consultancy group Kath Marnane and Associates said the Philippines was chosen "as a good practice example due to its well-structured, organized and systemized TVET system, practices and policy.” "Cambodia is very much interested in learning, through Philippine examples, ways in which to build a strong and proactive TVET that contributes positives to building a human resource capital which in turn will improve the economic conditions of the country," it added. The Cambodian visitors personally met with TESDA officials in a visit to the TESDA office in Taguig City. They were introduced to the Philippine Qualification Framework, Quality Assurance and TESD Management. The delegates also visited TVET training Institutions, including the Monark Foundation Institute, Lyceum University of the Philippines, TESDA Women's Center, University of Makati, Toyota Motors Philippines Technology School and Meralco Foundation Inc. |TOP| PDIC raises P349-M from asset sales Source: http://www.pdic.gov.ph The Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) generated P349 million in the sale of corporate and closed banks' real properties in 2014. Properties sold totaled 304, of which 283 were assets of closed banks which were sold for a total of P236 million, while 21 properties were corporate assets which generated P113 million. Properties sold through public bidding amounted to P142 million while P205 million were sold via negotiated sale as allowed under PDIC's disposal policy. The properties sold are from various locations in Metro Manila and the provinces of Albay, Baguio, Batangas, Bulacan, Cagayan, Cavite, Ilocos Norte, Laguna, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Pangasinan, Quezon, Rizal, Samar, Tarlac, Aklan, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Cebu, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Sorsogon, South Cotabato and Lanao del Norte. PDIC also generated P25 million from sale of transportation and furniture, fixtures and equipment (FFE) of closed banks. Proceeds from disposal of closed banks' assets are held in trust for closed banks. As Liquidator of closed banks, the PDIC is mandated to dispose and resolve the assets of closed banks and convert these to cash to settle claims of creditors as well as depositors with uninsured deposits, subject to the rules on concurrence and preference of credits. Meanwhile, proceeds from the disposal of corporate assets are added to the Deposit Insurance Fund (DIF), the funding source for payment of deposit insurance claims. The PDIC is mandated to prudently manage and continuously build up the DIF to ensure that it is able to respond to insurance calls in case of bank closures. The PDIC regularly conducts public biddings nationwide which are announced through its website, www.pdic.gov.ph, as well as in national newspapers. Assets not sold during public biddings are disposed through negotiated sale and other modes of asset disposal. The Corporation's website has a Property Finder where interested buyers may browse properties for sale. Prospective buyers may also call the Asset Management and Disposal Group at (02) 841-4650 for inquiries on assets for sale. Meanwhile, the PDIC is set to sell on an "as-is, where-is" basis various assets of closed banks with an aggregate minimum disposal value of P253.9 million in separate public auctions to be held in Davao and Makati City. The first public auction will be held on February 26, 2015 at Unit 80, 8th Floor, Landco-PDCP Condominium Building, Pryce Business Park, J.P. Laurel Davao City, Davao Del Sur. To be auctioned are 115 properties consisting of condominium units, parking slots and other real properties. The auction will be conducted from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Properties for auction are located in Davao del Sur, Davao del Norte, Cagayan de Oro City, Compostella Valley, General Santos City, and Camiguin. The public auction on March 5, 2015 will be held at the PDIC Training Room, 9th Floor, SSS Building 6782 Ayala Ave. corner V. A. Rufino St., Makati City. Up for auction are transportation equipment and three generator sets. The auction will be held from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. For more information, interested buyers may visit the PDIC website, www.pdic.gov.ph. The expeditious disposal of non-financial assets is among the strategic directions outlined in the PDIC's medium-term Roadmap to protect the depositing public and promote financial stability. |TOP| Tolentino penalizes erring personnel Source: http://www.mmda.gov.ph Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Francis Tolentino dismissed from the service three personnel and suspended 23 others from the agency’s Traffic Discipline Office (TDO) for various irregularities. The three traffic constables were terminated from the service for extortion, grave misconduct, and gross neglect of duty. “Let this serve as a serious warning to all our erring personnel. We will continue to eliminate the rotten eggs from our agency,” Tolentino said. 23 others were meted suspension ranging from 15 to 90 days for a number of infractions committed such as extortion activities, questionable issuance of traffic violation receipts, misconduct, grave abuse of authority, insubordination, violation of office rules, and failure to attend monthly formation. 50 more were issued stern warnings / reprimands for the same violations. Among these, three were formally charged. According to Tolentino, these erring personnel were given due process and formal investigations were conducted by the agency’s Administrative and Legal departments in relation to the cases they are involved in. “I am encouraging the public to continue their vigilance and report to us any illegal activities involving our employees, and at the same time appreciate and commend honest and hardworking employees, which comprise the majority” Tolentino said. |TOP| Numbers speak Source: http://www.philhealth.gov.ph As we celebrate 20 successful and engaging years of providing Filipino families with the most affordable social health insurance, let us take a look at important numbers and figures that make PhilHealth meaningful to every Juan. Here is your PhilHealth today, in real numbers: 82M : total number of beneficiaries (members and qualified dependents combined) as of September 2014, covering 82% of the entire Philippine population. PhP81B : total premium contributions collected as of Dec. 2014; PhP78B : total amount in benefits we paid to our members as of end- December 2014; PhP35.3B : the National Government’s subsidy for the enrolment of 14.7 families in the NHIP; PhP117B : worth of PhilHealth’s reserve funds as of Nov. 2014 26M+ : number of employed members, both in government and private sectors 14.7M : number of families in the Listahanan of the DSWD who are covered under the Indigent Program in 2014, with their annual premiums fully subsidized by the National Government through the Department of Health. 2.16M : number of senior citizens that we should cover this year under RA 10645 which mandates the automatic membership of senior citizens 33,327 : number of accredited health care professionals as of end- December 2014 9,123 : total number of our accredited collecting agents and tie-ups worldwide 6,407 : personnel complement of PhiHealth nationwide as of January 2015 4,600+ : number of medical and surgical cases now being paid for using case-based payment. 577 : total number of Customer Assistance, Relations and Empowerment Staff or PhilHealth CARES deployed to various hospitals nationwide to assist and guide members as they avail of their benefits at point-of-care. 122 : combined number of Regional Offices, Branches and Local Health Insurance Offices nationwide 30 : average number of days as turnaround time for processing case-based claims 11 : total number of Z Benefit Packages that are now available; includes Coronary Artery Bypass Graft, Tetralogy of Fallot, Ventricular Septal Defect, Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia, Breast Cancer, Prostate Cancer, Cervical Cancer, End-Stage Renal Disease Requiring Kidney Transplantation, Z MORPH, Selected Orthopaedic Implants, and Peritoneal Dialysis 11 : Seals of Excellence, ARTA and other recognitions received from the Civil Service Commission and other prestigious award-giving bodies 4 : Number of recent laws enacted that impact significantly on the NHIP, namely, NHI Act of 2013, Kasambahay Law, RA 10645 |TOP| Ombudsman indicts Valencia City exec for falsification Source: http://www.ombudsman.gov.ph For submitting a false liquidation report, the City Planning and Development Coordinator of Valencia City, Bukidnon is facing criminal charges for Falsification under Article 171 of the Revised Penal Code. Acting upon a complaint filed by agents of the National Bureau of Investigation - Cagayan de Oro City, the Office of the Ombudsman found that Junaida Prantilla used falsified receipts in her liquidation report for the expenses incurred by the city government during its 2009 Annual Budget Hearing held on 24-26 November 2008 at the Crown Regency Davao. Records of the case show that Prantilla submitted two liquidation reports both dated 16 January 2009, the first bearing expenses totaling P396,000.00 while the other contained an amount of P151,288.00 only. The Resolution states that, “the second liquidation report was only submitted as an afterthought in order to obviate the untruthful statements made in the first liquidation report and to evade criminal and administrative liability.” Meanwhile, the other criminal charges for Malversation and violation of Section 3(e) of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act against Prantilla were dismissed for insufficiency of evidence. The charges against co-respondents Ruth Piano, Leonora Guibone and Alfredo Guzman were all dismissed for insufficiency of evidence. |TOP| DOF, DBM update standards on LGU reporting of receipts and expenditures Source: http://www.dof.gov.ph Secretary of Finance Cesar V. Purisima and Secretary of Budget and Management Florencio B. Abad have issued Joint Circular (JC) No. 2015-1 setting the guidelines in the adoption of modified Statement of Receipts and Expenditures (SRE) format to be used in local government budgeting. “LGU financial reports must be consistent, comparable, and reliable across oversight agencies. We are working closely with DBM to achieve greater transparency and accountability in the local finance sector. This is to improve planning, budgeting, and promote administrative efficiency in local finance,” Secretary Purisima noted. The SRE, which is installed in the local treasury offices in all provinces, cities and municipalities and maintained by the DOF’s Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF), is the official financial monitoring and reporting system of the DOF for local governments. “By streamlining the reporting format, we’ve successfully developed an updated classification system to facilitate the uniform treatment of accounts. The fact that we’ve harmonized LGU financial reports also helps local treasurers, budget officers, and accountants work with greater efficiency and accuracy.” Since 2008, the DBM had been using the SRE to determine the LGU Budget of Expenditures and Sources of Financing, which details the LGU expenditure program covering the actual obligations for the past year, the actual and estimated expenditures for the current year, and the proposed budget program for the coming year. Under the new circular, the SRE report to be submitted by LGUs to the DBM will cover a three-year period which will be accomplished by the local treasurers for the actual year, and the accountants and budget officers for the current and proposed budget years. The joint circular also delineates the roles and responsibilities of the DBM and the DOF-BLGF, including their respective central and regional offices, and the LGU officials in the preparation of the SRE reports. In 2013, the DOF started analyzing and publishing the fiscal performance of the LGUs through the LGU Tax Watch and the Iskor ng ‘yong Bayan website based on official reports submitted by local treasurers. |TOP| BI issues new guidelines on RA 7919 visa restamping Source: http://www.immigration.gov.ph Manila, Philippines--- The Bureau of Immigration (BI) issued its new rules on re-stamping of visas for permanent residents under Republic Act No. 7919 (RA7919), otherwise known as The Alien Social Integration Act of 1995. Under Immigration Administrative Circular No. SBM-2015-001, all RA7919 holders must have the new security visa stamp implemented in their passports as a requirement for renewal of their Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR) I-Card. RA7919 granted permanent residency to illegal aliens upon compliance with certain conditions provided in the law. “The new guidelines intend to update the BI’s database on holders of the visa”, said BI spokesperson Elaine Tan. Visa holders must submit the following documents to process the re-stamping application: 1. Duly accomplished RA7919 Re-stamping form; 2. Photocopy of passport pages showing: a. Bio-data page; b. Latest admission as 7919 visa holder; c. Old RA 7919 visa imprint; d. New/amended name of the applicant, if any; and 3. Photocopy of ACR I-Card (front and back). “The new rules will take effect around the second week of March, or 15 days after publication in two newspapers of general circulation”, said Tan. |TOP|

President Benigno S. Aquino III's Speech at the TAYO Awarding Ceremonies of Ten Accomplished Youth Organization Year 12

Heroes Hall, Malacañan Palace

24 February 2015

Ganda ho ng umpisa nitong araw na ito. Can I thank the St. Paul’s High School Choir Pasig? Your voices were really very clear. It was really a pleasant way to start the day. Parang kanina lang ho tinitingnan ko, lalo na itong mga awardees, pati iyong finalists, ang babata n’yo. Ang tanong yata doon, ang tatanda na ba namin?  Huwag kayo masyadong tatawa, Perci at saka Earl. Kasama na rin kayo sa seniors ngayon. Parang kahapon lamang kayo ang youth. Sabi ni Maria, papunta na kayo sa “ga-youth.” . Anyway, mga kasamahan: Halos tatlong dekada na nga ang lumipas mula nang magwakas ang diktadurya, ngunit marahil, sariwa pa sa ating kababayan ang alaala ng Batas Militar. Gaya ng marami, saksi ako sa pagmamalupit ng makapangyarihang diktador, at sa idinulot niyang pagdurusa sa ating mga kababayan. Nang ideklara ang Batas Militar, talagang bumaligtad po ang aming mundo. Dahil sa pagiging kritikal niya kay Ginoong Marcos, ipiniit ang aking ama; kinulong siya nang pitong taon at pitong buwan, at napilitan kaming mangibang-bayan. Nang magpasya namang umuwi ang aking ama upang manawagan ng pagbabago sa pamahalaan, ay walang habas pa siyang pinaslang. Sa sinapit na ito ng aking ama at ng aming pamilya, ang tanong na bumabalot noon sa isip ko: Ano pa kayang kinabukasan ang maaari naming asahan? Sa mga panahong iyon, hindi ko maiwasang isiping hahantong ang lahat sa madugong himagsikan. Subalit sa gabay ng Panginoon at malasakit sa kapwa, nagawa ng sambayanang Pilipinong gawin ang imposible. Buong mundo ang humanga nang milyon-milyon nating kababayan ang nagtipon upang pangunahan ang mapayapang rebolusyon sa EDSA. Nakuha nilang malampasan ang takot at kaba upang magpunta sa EDSA. Nagtungo sila roon nang walang dalang armas; ang tangi nilang sandata ay ang panalangin at hangaring manumbalik ang demokrasya. Di nila inalintana ang panganib sa kanilang buhay; isinantabi nila ang agam-agam na baka mabaril sila o makanyon. Ang iniisip na lamang nila: Kung mananatili ang mapaniil na diktadurya, anong klaseng bukas kaya ang naghihintay sa aming mga mahal sa buhay? Matapos nga ang apat na araw ng sama-samang panawagan ng pagbabago, matagumpay na napatalsik ang diktador, at muli namang nabawi ang ating demokrasya. Interes ng mas nakakarami, kalayaan mula sa baluktot na kalakaran, magandang kinabukasan para sa susunod na henerasyon: ang mga ito ang isinaalang-alang ng mga nakipaglaban sa EDSA noong taong 1986. At bilang pinuno ng ating bansa, ang ganitong diwa ng EDSA ang ating isinasabuhay sa pagharap sa mga hamon ng ating panahon. Sa aking panunungkulan, marami tayong pagsubok na pinagdaanan at pinagdadaanan. Isang halimbawa nito ang tensiyong namagitan sa North at South Korea noong 2010 kung saan maaaring maipit sa hidwaan ang 50,000 nating mga kababayan. Nariyan din ang sigalot na dulot ng Arab Spring noong 2011. Bukod sa kaguluhan sa ibang bansa, nariyan din ang pagsisikap nating mapigilan ang paglaganap ng mga sakit tulad ng Ebola at MERS-Coronavirus sa bansa. Kung matatandaan rin ninyo, patong-patong na pagsubok ang ating hinarap noong 2013: lindol sa Cebu at Bohol, krisis sa Zamboanga, at ang paghagupit ng bagyong Yolanda. Kamakailan lang, humarap muli ang sambayanan sa panibagong pagsubok bunsod ng insidente sa Mamasapano. Bilang Pangulo, ginagawa ko ang lahat, upang harapin at tugunan ang mga suliranin ng bansa. Madalas, binabalewala na lang natin ang pagod at puyat. Hindi ako puwedeng magpadala sa bugso ng aking emosyon dahil baka mapalala ko pa ang problema. Sa bawat pagkakataon, kailangan kong maging mahinahon, at laging balikan kung para saan natin ginagawa ang lahat ng ating pagsisikap. Ito nga ang tangi nating hangad: Ang hindi na maulit pa ang kamalian ng nakaraan, at maipamana sa susunod na salinlahi ang di-hamak na mas maunlad at magandang Pilipinas kaysa ating dinatnan. Simula pa lang, batid kong hindi ko kakayanin ang lahat nang mag-isa. Sa nakalipas na mahigit apat at kalahating taon ng ating pamamahala, pinatunayan nating kapag mas marami tayong kumikilos, mas mabilis nating nakakamit ang ating hangarin. Dito ko nga naalala ang kaisipang ibinahagi sa akin: Kapag daw ang dunong ng mas nakakatanda at ang lakas ng kabataan ay nagsanib, talagang malayo ang ating mararating. Sa ganitong konteksto pumapasok ang halaga ng pagtitipon natin ngayon, sa pagbibigay parangal sa Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations ng bansa. Sa pangunguna ng National Youth Commission, TAYO Awards Foundation, EDSA People Power Commission, Coca-Cola Foundation, gayundin sa pakikipagtulungan ng aking kuya, si Bam Aquino [tawanan], kinikilala ang ambag ng kabataan sa pagtugon sa suliranin ng lipunan. Kasama ang sambayanan, nagpapasalamat ako sa dedikasyon at pagsisikap ninyong ipagpatuloy ang inyong makabuluhang mga adbokasiya. Binabati po natin ang mga nagwaging organisasyon sa araw na ito: Sa Phi Lambda Delta Sorority sa programang niyong Milk Matters upang itaguyod ang breastfeeding para sa mabuting kalusugan ng mga sanggol [palakpakan]; sa Kanlungan Pilipinas Movement, na pinapaunlad ang kaalaman ng mga naninirahan sa liblib na lugar gamit ang teknolohiyang pinatatakbo ng solar power system [palakpakan]; sa Rescue Assistance Peacekeeping Intelligence Detail, RAPID, at Cauayan City National High School – Red Cross Youth and Junior Rescue Team, na sinasanay ang ating kabataan kung paanong makatulong sa pagtugon sa panahon ng sakuna at sa oras ng pangangailangan; sa Katipunan ng mga Kabataang Santiagueno sa paggamit ng mga agricultural waste upang gawing uling at maging katuwang sa kabuhayan ng komunidad; sa ACCESS-PYLP Alumni Association, na nagkakaloob ng kasanayan sa kabuhayan ng ating youth combatants sa Basilan, Sulu, at Zamboanga; sa Move This World-Pilipinas, sa pagsisikap ninyong tugunan ang isyu ng bullying sa mga paaralan; sa Youth for Environment in School Organization, sa pangunguna ninyo sa Mangrove Reforestation Program sa inyong pamayanan; sa Indigenous Youth Servant Leaders Association of the Philippines para sa pagtataguyod ng kapakanan ng ating indigenous people sa lalawigan ng Isabela at gayundin sa University of San Agustin Little Theater para sa serye ng produksiyon sa teatro at sa inyong pagkamalikhain upang bigyang lakas at inspirasyon ang mga nasalanta ng bagyong Yolanda. Siyempre, nagpapasalamat din tayo sa iba pa nating finalists. Pinangunahan din ninyo ang programang naghahatid ng agarang benepisyo sa napakaraming Pilipino. Mula sa pagkakaloob ng kabuhayan at dekalidad na edukasyon para sa mga katutubo at kapos-palad nating kababayan, paglinang sa kaalaman sa modernong kagamitan, pagsusulong ng musikang Pilipino, pagpapabuti ng supply ng kuryente, at pag-aruga sa kalusugan, hanggang sa pangangalaga sa kalikasan; nakikibahagi kayo sa solusyon imbes na dumagdag sa problema. Gayundin, nagsisilbi kayong huwaran sa mga kapwa ninyo kabataan, upang maengganyo silang makilahok sa pagtataguyod ng kapakanan ng kapwa’t bansa. Saludo din ako sa marami pang mga organisasyong nakilahok at patuloy na nakikilahok sa TAYO Awards. Makakaasa naman kayo: Sa gumagandang estado ng ating ekonomiya, pinapalawak natin ang mga pagkakataon para sa kabataan lalo pa’t kayo ang mga susunod nating propesyonal at lingkod-bayan. Isang halimbawa nito ang Conditional Cash Transfer for High School Expansion program. Sa pamamagitan ng programang ito, sinusuportahan na ng estado ang benepisyaryo ng Pantawid Pamilya hanggang umabot siya sa 18 taong gulang. Sa kasalukuyan, 1.2 milyong estudyante mula 15 hanggang 18 taong gulang ang tinutulungan nating makatapos na ng high school. Ano nga ba’ng maidudulot nitong benepisyo? Batay sa pag-aaral po ng Philippine Institute for Development Studies, 40 percent ang dagdag na sinasahod ng high school graduate, kumpara sa umabot lang ng grade school. Ibig sabihin, dahil sa mas pinalawak na benepisyo ng Pantawid Pamilya, mas lalawak din ang pagkakataon para sa nakakaraming kabataan. Tuloy-tuloy naman ang pag-arangkada sa bilang ang scholars nating napapagkalooban ng kabuhayan ng TESDA. Tingnan natin ang kanilang Training for Work Scholarship Program: Mula Hulyo 2010 hanggang Disyembre 2014, nasa 774,532 na ang graduates ng TWSP. Kasama na sa good news na ating natatanggap ang resulta ng training ng TESDA at Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines. Ang employment rate ng graduates dito mula Abril hanggang Setyembre 2014: halos 96 percent. Konting tulak na lang ay maaabot na ang 100 percent na full employment. [Palakpakan] Ginagawa natin ang lahat ng ito upang iangat ang antas ng pamumuhay ng ating mga kababayan, lalo na ang mga naghihikahos sa buhay. Sinasagad natin ang pagkakataon upang bigyan sila ng kakayahang tulungan ang mga sariling umasenso. Nasa iisang bubong lang tayo; ang problema ng isa ay problema po ng lahat. Tandaan ninyo: Kayong kabataan—gusto ko sanang sabihin “tayong kabataan” [tawanan]—ang magmamana sa anumang bunga ng ating pagsisikap. Mas mahaba pa ang itatagal ninyo sa mundo kumpara sa aming medyo nakakatanda. Kung negatibismo at pag-una sa sarili ang mangingibabaw ngayon, mas matagal kayong magtitiis sa pagdurusang dulot nito. Kung gagawin natin ang tama, mas matagal naman ninyong matatamasa ang positibo nitong bunga. Sa tuwid na daan, hindi natin hahayaang danasin ninyo ang parehong problemang hinarap namin at hinaharap natin sa kasalukuyan. Patuloy ang pagsisikap nating madagdagan ang mga batang may hawak na lapis at papel, at mabawasan ang mga may tangan ng basahan sa kalsada para magpunas ng windshield ng mga sasakyan. Hindi tayo titigil sa pagbibigay ng wastong kasanayan sa kabataan, upang hindi kayo mauwi sa pagbebenta ng sampaguita at paglilimos. Magbubukas tayo ng marami pang oportunidad upang imbes na malulong sa bisyo ay tunay kayong maging pag-asa ng bayan. Tunay ngang malayo na ang ating narating dahil pinili nating gawin ang nararapat, at unahin ang interes ng mas nakakarami. Sa kabila nito, alam nating marami pa tayong pagsubok na haharapin. Ngunit ngayon pa ba tayo susuko kung kailan ang mga dating inaambisyon lang, naisasakatuparan na natin? Ngayon pa ba tayo aatras kung kailan mas marami na tayong nakikilahok tungo sa malawakang kaunlaran? Ang hamon ng ating panahon: Ituloy ang pagbabagong atin nang tinatamasa. Paigtingin pa natin ang pagkakapit-bisig, at patibayin ang pundasyon ng isinusulong nating Pilipinas; isang bansa kung saan ang bawat isa ay may kakayahang tuparin ang inaasam niyang kinabukasan. Magandang araw po sa inyong lahat. Maraming salamat po.

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INTERVIEW OF COMMUNICATIONS SECRETARY HERMINIO COLOMA, JR.

DZMM / Alvin Elchico and Doris Bigornia

24 February 2015

ALVIN: Secretary Coloma. Magandang gabi po sa inyo, Secretary. SEC. COLOMA: Magandang gabi sa inyo Alvin at Doris. DORIS: Good evening, sir. ALVIN: Long time no hear, long time no see. Ano po ba iyong activity natin for tomorrow na dadaluhan po ng President at kahit hindi po iyong walang attendance si PNoy pakisabi na rin po kapag alam ninyo. SEC. COLOMA: Ang focus po ng selebrasyon ng ika-29 na anibersaryo ng EDSA People Power Revolution bukas ay sa People Power Monument na kung saan ay magkakaroon ng wreath-laying ceremony, mag-aalay ng bulaklak ang Pangulo sa ala-ala ng mga namatay para sa bayan. ALVIN: Opo. Anong oras po iyan, Secretary? SEC. COLOMA: Bandang alas-onse y media ng umaga, Alvin. ALVIN: Pero bago iyan meron pang activity o iyan lang iyong sinasabi mo dahil iyan lang iyong dadaluhan ng Presidente? SEC. COLOMA: Iyan ang tampok na activity na kung saan ay may tuwirang partisipasyon ang Pangulo. At pagdating niya doon sa EDSA People Power Monument ay masasaksihan din niya iyong reenactment nung ginagawa nung mga selebrasyon, pero ang pokus ngayong taon ay “Unity Walk” ng men and women of the AFP and the PNP. Dahil nung mga nakaraang taon ay tinatampok din naman iyong mga kasundaluhan at kapulisan natin. Pero ngayon ang kanilang ipapahiwatig ay iyong pagkakaisa ng Sandatahang Lakas at ng Pambansang Kapulisan. ALVIN: So iyon ang una, ano. Iyong wreath-laying mga bandang alas-onse, tapos po noon? SEC. COLOMA: Iyon ay susundan ng pagdaraos ng isang misa sa Edsa Shrine at ito ay pangungunahan ng kanyang Kabunyian Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle. At bago matapos ang misa ay magtatalumpati ang Pangulo. Ilalahad niya iyong kanyang EDSA Day Message. ALVIN: Which actually is going to be, I suppose, more meaningful with the circumstances around him. Kasi hindi ba ngayon siguro medyo ano iyon, partner, madamdamin. DORIS: Hindi. Let us remember na bukas din ang first month nung Mamasapano. SEC. COLOMA: Siyempre po iyong ipapahayag ng Pangulo ay kinakailangang maging makabuluhan sa konteskto ng mga kaganapan sa ating bansa at lipunan. ALVIN: So after noon, doon din po mag-i-speech po ano. Ang speech nuon tantiya ninyo mga bandang anong oras din, mga tanghali na? SEC. COLOMA: Ang estimated time para sa misa ay isang oras, within that one hour na iyong talumpati ng Pangulo. ALVIN: Ah. So ang talumpati is ipapasok doon after siguro na ng communion, ano Secretary? SEC. COLOMA: Ganoon na nga Alvin at Doris. Bago magbigay ng final blessings. ALVIN: Opo. So after po nung misa may activity pa po ba o iyon na iyon? SEC. COLOMA: Iyon na lang po ang nakatakdang activities on the celebration of EDSA People Power 29th Anniversary sa araw po ng bukas. Iyon lang po ang mga nakatakdang aktibidad. ALVIN: So iyon lang po ang activity ng Presidente bukas o may iba pang siyang activity unrelated sa People Power Anniversary Celebration? SEC. COLOMA: Hindi ko pa po natutunghayan iyong buong schedule. Ang focus lang po ng ating attention sa kasalukuyan ay iyong mismong EDSA People Power Celebration. ALVIN: So, yaman din lamang na nandiyan ka na Secretary. Hihingi na rin kami ng reaksyon sa iyo ano po. Kasi ni-wrap up na kanina ni Senator Grace Poe ang kanyang imbestigasyon and it would appear pati po ang mga congressmen na nakausap ng Pangulo ay para nga po pala siyang ano - na “misinformed”. As a matter of fact parang si Congressman Rufus Rodriguez may ginamit pang salitang “betrayed” eh. Saan ko ba narinig na newscast iyon. So papaano po iyon? DORIS: Pero ang findings is...? ALVIN: Mali-mali pong impormasyon ang nakarating sa kanya. DORIS: Misinformed. ALVIN: Hindi ba, Secretary? SEC. COLOMA: Sa kanya pong pakikipagpulong sa mga lider at miyembro ng Kamara kahapon ay nagbigay ng salaysay ang Pangulo hinggil sa operasyon na inilunsad ng PNP-SAF laban sa mga high-value terror suspects, sila Marwan at Usman. Binigyan niya ng background simula pa nung nagsagawa ng mga kahalintulad na operasyon sa ilalim ng kasalukuyang administrasyon, Dahil noon ngang mga nakaraang pagdinig ay naibunyag na rin niya iyong mga nakaraang operations, katulad nung “Wolverine” at ito ngang pinakahuli ay iyong “Exodus.” At pagkatapos ay sinagot niya iyong mga tanong nila hinggil mismo doon sa naganap noong Enero 24 at 25 sa Mamasapano. ALVIN: So? SEC. COLOMA: Iyan po,’no. Kasi sinabi po ng mga Kongresista na mahalaga doon sa kasalukuyang talakayan ng prosesong pangkapayapaan iyong kung ano ba talaga ang naganap. Dahil iyong ating kausap, iyong ating kapartner dito sa prosesong pangkapayapaan ay iyong MILF at meron po silang sangkot doon sa naganap. Kaya iyon po ang niliwanag doon sa talakayan kahapon. ALVIN: I was wondering, Secretary, ano. Doon tayo sa linya na—sa kuwento, batay sa kuwento ng Pangulo. So, kung totoo na misinformed siya ng kanyang, kumbaga, point person sa katauhan nga po ni suspended PNP Chief Purisima, ganundin iyong SAF Commander. Ano po ang ginawa niya after he found out na, “ano ba naman kayo, ba’t ganito iyong mga impormasyon ninyo, tingnan ninyo iyong nangyari, nagkapalpak-palpak ngayon.” DORIS: Hindi pa sa “iba-iba,” kung hindi, ano ba ang tema doon. ALVIN: Hindi accurate. DORIS: Hindi accurate. SEC. COLOMA: Ilagay lang natin sa konteksto, Alvin at Doris. Iyong pagtuklas ng kalidad ng impormasyon na kanyang natanggap hindi naman iyan matingkad nung mismong araw na iyon. Iyon ang unawain natin. Kasi ngayon kapag tinutunghayan natin iyan, we have the clearest of all vision with this hindsight. ALVIN: Ibig sabihin in hindsight talagang na-appreciate natin. Pero on that date, sir, iba ang appreciation. SEC. COLOMA: In hindsight siya. Pero, noon pong nagaganap iyan wala naman po iyong ganyang matingkad na pagturing sa mga natuklasan. ALVIN: Ibig ko pong sabihin, Secretary. After all, after all has been said and done, ika-nga. Natapos na ang lahat nagkalinawan na tayo. Hindi man lang pinatawag si Purisima: “Purisima halika nga rito, ikaw pala ang...mali-mali pala ang impormasyon, sabi mo may reinforcement na tapos wala naman pala.” Wala bang ganoon? DORIS: Kasi lahat tayo ang katanungan, bakit? So, kung ang Presidente mism0, ngayon nalaman na natin ang lahat. Matingkad na nga ang mga sitwasyon at impormasyon, iba-iba iyong naibigay sa kanya, hindi accurate. ALVIN: Siguro sumabog ang Presidente ano? Mali-mali kayo, ako ang tinata... DORIS: ...Ngayon ako ang pinagre-resign ng lahat? ALVIN: Tinamaan din siya, Sec. eh. SEC. COLOMA: Kaya nga Alvin at Doris, ang kasunod na yugto nitong kasalukuyang tinatalakay nating kaganapan ay iyong maari nating maituring na accountability and rebuilding process. At ito naman ay kailangang maganap sa isang paraan na magiging makabuluhan at tutukuyin hindi lamang mga indibidwal, kung hindi mismong iyong institusyon, katulad ng institusyon ng SAF at iyong institusyon din ng Philippine National Police. Kaya iyon po ang susunod na yugto dito kapag nabuo na iyong mga ulat ng Senado at ng Board of Inquiry at napiho na po iyong mga kailangang managot doon sa mga pangyayari. ALVIN: Has the President talked to Purisima after he found out na mukhang inaccurate ang mga information na pinagtete-text sa kanya ni Purisima? SEC. COLOMA: Ang batid ko lang po ay iyong mga naipahayag na rin mismo ng Pangulo. At ang naalala ko pong sinabi niya doon sa pagpupulong kahapon ay noong natuklasan niya na hindi nga tama iyong binigay sa kanyang—hindi unahin natin iyong hindi pagsunod doon sa aspeto ng koordinasyon at hindi rin pagsunod doon sa kautusan na kinakailangang sabihan si PNP OIC Deputy Director General Leonardo Espina. Narinig ko sa Pangulo na naitanong na niya ito kay General Purisima at hindi siya nasiyahan sa sagot o sa paliwanag. Iyon po ang malinaw na natatandaan ko. Iyong hinggil sa ibang aspeto ay wala pong ganyang kalinaw na talakayan na sinasaksihan ko at nalalaman ko as we speak now. ALVIN: Isa na lang po from my end. Si Ate Doris baka may tanong ka. DORIS: Hindi isa lang ang tanong ko. ALVIN: Ako muna. Papano natin mapapanagot si Purisma. Kung he was asking in an unofficial capacity. Kasi sinasabi niya, “hindi suspended ako eh, kaya wala akong kinalaman diyan. I merely advising, tsu,tsu,tsu.” Eh, papaano mo pang mapapanagot kung siya pala ang may kasalanan pala noon eh...? DORIS: Eh kung ang pamewang mo din, “all the more nga na dapat kang maparusahan”. At meron bang gagawen ang Pangulo dito? ALVIN: In his capacity as what? Saan mo nga siya kakasuhan? SEC. COLOMA: Sasagot na po ba ako? DORIS: Sige po. ALVIN: Pasensiya ka na Secretary, alam mo naman kami. Go ahead, minsan sali ka dito sa amin ha, on cam ha. SEC. COLOMA: Iyon kasing determinasyon hinggil sa accountability makatuwiran lamang na manggaling iyan doon sa findings doon sa pagsisiyasat. Dahil kailangang nakabatay iyan sa factual and concrete basis. At kapag nailatag na iyong factual o concrete basis ay mailalatag din kung ano iyong specific na accountability. Hindi po siguro makatuwiran na sa pag-uusap lang natin ngayon ay magtatalakayan tayo tungkol diyan dahil wala naman po sa ating harapan iyong kumpletong salaysay at iyong specific determination of accountability. Ang batid lang po natin ngayon ay samu’t-saring impormasyon na nakukuha natin sa pagsaksi natin sa iba’t-ibang pagtatanong at iba’t-ibang pagsasagot sa mga katanungan. ALVIN: Opo. Pero wala po kasi siyang posisyon noon eh. Eh di lulusot na siya, sasabihin niya, “wala akong official ano eh.” SEC. COLOMA: Di mas mainam na hintayin na lang natin iyong magiging kapasyahan ng mga Senador at ng Board of Inquiry. Iyon naman talaga ang pakay ng kanilang pagsisiyasat. DORIS: Sorry, Sec. Pero makulit ako. Just in case po. Hindi ninyo po ba niyo uutusan na ang mga legal eagles ninyo diyan sa Malacañang, silipin na papaano kaya ito kung talagang may accountability siya on his suspension, so unofficial iyong kanyang mga advise-advise na ganyan. Puwede na po ba nating ipasilip iyan, sir? SEC. COLOMA: Kaya nga. Kailangan masunod natin iyong maayos na daloy ng proseso. Iyong mga dapat gampanang responsibilidad ay gagampan ng Pangulo dahil siya po ang hinalal natin bilang Chief Executive, tagapagpatupad ng mga batas. Iyon po ang ibig sabihin ng Chief Executive. ALVIN: Sige, Sec. Go ahead na sa meeting mo. Pasensiya ka na sa dalawang makulit ha. Minsan daan ka po rito. SEC. COLOMA: Okay lang iyon. ALVIN: Thank you. Maraming salamat po. See you soon. SEC. COLOMA: Maraming salamat sa pagkakataong ibinigay ninyo.

SOURCE: News Information Bureau - Data Processing Center

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Last Updated: 24 FEBRUARY 2015
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			President Benigno S. Aquino III shares the stage with the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations Year 12 (TAYO 12) awardees for a snap shot during the awarding ceremonies at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (February 24). Since 2002, TAYO Awards recognizes and supports the outstanding contributions of youth organizations to the country. Also in photo are TAYO Awards Foundation president Aika Robredo, National Youth Commission chairman Gio Tingson, Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization Francis Pangilinan, TAYO Awards founding president Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV, National Youth Commission commissioner and TAYO Awards Foundation chairman Jose Sixto “Dingdong” Dantes III and Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines vice chairman Juan Ramon Felix. (Photo by Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations Year 12 (TAYO 12) Awarding Ceremonies at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (February 24). Since 2002, TAYO Awards recognizes and supports the outstanding contributions of youth organizations to the country. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations Year 12 (TAYO 12) awarding ceremonies at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (February 24). Since 2002, TAYO Awards recognizes and supports the outstanding contributions of youth organizations to the country. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III to present the TAYO award during the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations Year 12 (TAYO 12) Awarding Ceremonies at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (February 24). Since 2002, TAYO Awards recognizes and supports the outstanding contributions of youth organizations to the country. Also in photo are TAYO Awards founding president and Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV, Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization Francis Pangilinan and Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines vice chairman Juan Ramon Felix. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III witnesses as Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines vice chairman Juan Ramon Felix and president Cecile Alcantara present the Coke Barkada award to Red Cross Youth and Junior Rescue Team during the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations Year 12 (TAYO 12) Awarding Ceremonies at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (February 24). Since 2002, TAYO Awards recognizes and supports the outstanding contributions of youth organizations to the country. Also in photo is Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization Francis Pangilinan. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III, assisted by San Miguel Corporations assistant vice president for corporate affairs Atty. Cynthia de Castro and government affairs manager Steve Piczon, presents the San Miguel Corporation special award to Kwaderno Love Can, Inc. during the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations Year 12 (TAYO 12) awarding ceremonies at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (February 24). Since 2002, TAYO Awards recognizes and supports the outstanding contributions of youth organizations to the country. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III, assisted by PLDT and Smart public affairs head Mon Isberto, presents the SMART Youth Innovation award to Kanlungan Pilipinas Movement, Inc. during the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations Year 12 (TAYO 12) awarding ceremonies at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (February 24). Since 2002, TAYO Awards recognizes and supports the outstanding contributions of youth organizations to the country. Also in photo is Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization Francis Pangilinan. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III, assisted by Lenovo country general manager Michael Ngan, presents the Lenovo Most Innovative Project award to Order of Asclepius during the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations Year 12 (TAYO 12) Awarding Ceremonies at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (February 24, 2015). Since 2002, TAYO Awards recognizes and supports the outstanding contributions of youth organizations to the country. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III shares the stage with the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations Year 12 (TAYO 12) awardees for a souvenir photograph during the awarding ceremonies held at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (February 24). Since 2002, TAYO Awards recognizes and supports the outstanding contributions of youth organizations to the country. Also in photo are TAYO Awards Foundation president Aika Robredo, National Youth Commission chairman Gio Tingson, Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization Francis Pangilinan, TAYO Awards founding president and Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV, National Youth Commission commissioner and TAYO Awards Foundation chairman Jose Sixto “Dingdong” Dantes III and Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines vice chairman Juan Ramon Felix. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations Year 12 (TAYO 12) awarding ceremonies at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (February 24). Since 2002, TAYO Awards recognizes and supports the outstanding contributions of youth organizations to the country. Also in photo are TAYO Awards Foundation president Aika Robredo, National Youth Commission chairman Gio Tingson, Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization Francis Pangilinan, TAYO Awards founding president and Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV, National Youth Commission commissioner and TAYO Awards Foundation chairman Jose Sixto “Dingdong” Dantes III and Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines vice chairman Juan Ramon Felix. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III receives officials of Unilever headed by Paul Polman, Global Chairman and CEO of Unilever; Rohit Jawa, Chairman of Unilever Philippines; Ramon Gil Macapagal, Vice Preisdent for Corporate Affairs; and Carl Cruz, Vice President for Customer Development during a courtesy call Friday, Febryary 20, 2015 in Malacanang. Unilever is a manufacturer and distributor of home goods, food and beverage items, dairy and personal care products. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III receives officials of Unilever headed by Paul Polman, Global Chairman and CEO of Unilever; Rohit Jawa, Chairman of Unilever Philippines; Ramon Gil Macapagal, Vice Preisdent for Corporate Affairs; and Carl Cruz, Vice President for Customer Development during a courtesy call on Friday (February 20) in Malacanang. Unilever is a manufacturer and distributor of home goods, food and beverage items, dairy and personal care products. With the President are Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala and Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Rolando Milo / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III receives officials of Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corpotation headed by Takeshi Kunibe, President and CEO; Shosuke Mori, General Manager; and Yukio Asahina, SMBC Manila Representative in Malacanang Friday, February 20. The Japanese banking corporation and its group of companies has offered a broad range of financial services centered on banking. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Benhur Arcayan / Rolando Milo / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III on Wednesday met with the families of the 44 members of the PNP-Special Action Force killed in an encounter in the town of Mamasapano, Maguindanao, on January 25. Also in the photo is Secretary Manuel Roxas of the Department of Interior and Local Government. The meeting between was held at the Philippine National Police Multi-Purpose Center in Camp Crame, Quezon City. (Photo by Robert Vinas / Benjie Basug / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III presides over the National Economic and Development Authority Board Meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (February 16). (Photo by Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III presides over the National Economic and Development Authority Board Meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (February 16). Also in photo are Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr., Science and Technology Secretary Mario Montejo, Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez, Jr., Secretary to the Cabinet Jose Rene Almendras, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima and Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon Paje. (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III leads his official family in prayer before presiding over the National Economic and Development Authority Board Meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (February 16). Also in photo are Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr., Science and Technology Secretary Mario Montejo, Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez, Jr., Secretary to the Cabinet Jose Rene Almendras, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon Paje, Energy Secretary Jericho Petilla, Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson and Socio-Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan. (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III leads his official family in prayer before presiding over the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board Meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (February 16). Also in photo are Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr., Science and Technology Secretary Mario Montejo, Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez, Jr., Secretary to the Cabinet Jose Rene Almendras, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon Jesus Paje and Energy Secretary Carlos Jericho Petilla. (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III leads his official family in prayer before presiding over the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board Meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (February 16). Also in photo are Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez, Jr., Secretary to the Cabinet Jose Rene Almendras, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon Jesus Paje, Energy Secretary Carlos Jericho Petilla, Presidential Management Staff Head Julia Andrea Abad, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority chairman Francis Tolentino and Mindanao Development Authority chairperson Luwalhati Antonino. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III leads his official family in prayer before presiding over the National Economic and Development Authority Board Meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (February 16). Also in photo are Secretary to the Cabinet Jose Rene Almendras, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon Paje, Energy Secretary Jericho Petilla, Presidential Management Staff Head Julia Abad, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority chairman Francis Tolentino, Mindanao Development Authority chairperson Luwalhati Antonino, Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Abaya, Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo, Socio-Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan and Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III leads his official family in prayer before presiding over the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board Meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (February 16). Also in photo are Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr., Science and Technology Secretary Mario Montejo, Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez, Jr., Secretary to the Cabinet Jose Rene Almendras, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon Jesus Paje, Energy Secretary Jericho Petilla, Presidential Management Staff Head Julia Abad and Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Abaya. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			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)
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