24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST
Issued at: 5:00 AM, 12 March 2015
Issued at: 5:00 AM, 12 March 2015
SYNOPSIS: Northeast monsoon affecting Luzon.
FORECAST: Cagayan valley, Cordillera Administrative Region, CALABARZON, Bicol region and the provinces of Aurora and Samar will experience cloudy skies with light rains. Metro Manila and the rest of the country will have partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms.
Moderate to strong winds coming from the northeast will prevail over Luzon and the eastern section of Visayas and the coastal waters along these areas will be moderate to rough. Elsewhere, winds will be light to moderate coming from the northeast with slight to moderate seas.
OVER METRO MANILA:
Maximum Temperature: 11:00 PM yesterday ----- 26.9 ºC
Minimum Temperature: 05:00 AM yesterday ----- 20.1 ºC
Minimum Temperature: 05:00 AM yesterday ----- 20.1 ºC
Maximum Relative Humidity: 05:00 AM yesterday ----- 76 %
Minimum Relative Humidity: 01:50 PM yesterday ----- 64 %
Minimum Relative Humidity: 01:50 PM yesterday ----- 64 %
Low Tide Today: 06:39 AM --------- 0.25 meter
High Tide Today: 01:48 PM --------- 0.80 meters
Low Tide Today: 09:36 PM --------- 0.08 meter
High Tide Tomorrow: 03:38 AM --------- 0.31 meter
High Tide Today: 01:48 PM --------- 0.80 meters
Low Tide Today: 09:36 PM --------- 0.08 meter
High Tide Tomorrow: 03:38 AM --------- 0.31 meter
Sunrise Today: 06:06 AM
Sunset Today: 06:06 PM
Sunset Today: 06:06 PM
Moonset Today: 10:21 AM
Moonrise Today: 11:25 PM
Illumination today: 80 %
Moonrise Today: 11:25 PM
Illumination today: 80 %
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
March 12, 2014 (Thursday) as of 6:00-7:00 AM PIA4A / PIA QUEZON : Cloudy in Lucena City
LAGUNA
Cavite local governments undergo
orientation on competitiveness survey
- March
12, 2015
CALAMBA CITY, Laguna, March 11 (PIA)
--Representatives of Cavite ’s 11 municipalities (Alfonso, Carmona, General
Mariano Alvarez, General Trias, Indang, Kawit, Maragondon, Naic, Noveleta,
Silang, and Tanza) and 6 cities (Bacoor, Cavite City ,
Dasmariñas, Imus, Tagaytay and Trece Martires) attended an
orientation on the Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CMCI)
survey held on March 6 in Tagaytay City .
The participants, mostly planning and business
permit & licensing officers were briefed on how to accomplish the
survey.
The CMCI is an annual ranking of Philippine
cities and municipalities where they are ranked according based on data
collected and submitted by the Regional Competitiveness Committees (RCC) to the
National Competitiveness Council (NCC).
DTI Regional Director and Chairperson of the
RCC in Calabarzon said the CMCI Survey is an important tool for a local
government to improve its competitiveness.
The survey, which sums up the scores on 28
indicators under economic dynamism, governance efficiency, and infrastructure,
will determine the ranking of local governments; the higher the score of a city
or municipality, the more competitive it is.
Rosalinda Bautista, Regional Director of the Philippine
Statistics Authority in Region IV-A, emphasized the importance of
accomplishing the survey very accurately since accuracy will have great bearing
on the results which will indicate the true and factual competitiveness levels
of local governments.
Last year, seven (7) Calabarzon cities and
municipalities landed in various categories in the list of ‘ Top Cities and
Municipalities Competitive Index’ (CMCI) by the National Competitive Council
(NCC).
Toledo said that the ultimate goal of the
NCC is for the Philippines - having been adjudged last year as the most improved country in global competitiveness -
to be among the top one-third in the global competitiveness ranking. (Charlie
S. Dajao/DTI Calabarzon)
- See more at:
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/631426126492/cavite-local-governments-undergo-orientation-on-competitiveness-survey#sthash.GrvCCC6Z.dpuf
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 | Malaysian Defense Minister calls on President Aquino | ||
| Government determined to reduce poverty through various programs | ||
| Malaysian Defense Minister calls on President Aquino | |
| Malaysian Defense Minister Dato Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein made a courtesy call on President Benigno S. Aquino III in Malacañang Palace on Wednesday. Minister Hishammuddin was accompanied by Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines Dato' Mohd Zamri bin Mohd Kassim, Deputy Secretary General for Policy Suriani binti Ahmad, Director General for Intelligence Lt. Gen. Datuk Abdul Hadi bin Hj Hussin, and Malaysian Army Field Commander Lt. Gen. Dato' Sri Zulkiple bin Hj Kassim. Present on the Philippines’ side were Department of National Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, National Security Council Secretary Cesar Garcia, Jr., Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Lacanlale Linglingay, and Department of National Defense Undersecretary Pio Lorenzo Batino. Minister Hishammuddin arrived on Tuesday on board Malaysian Airlines 802. He was welcomed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport by Ambassador Mohd Zamri and Defense Attaché to the Philippines Col. Hamzah Ali. After his courtesy call on President Aquino, the Malaysian defense minister is scheduled to fly to Cotabato to meet with the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) peace panels, as well as the Malaysian contingent of the International Monitoring Team. The Malaysian defense minister and his delegation, which also included Special Officer to the Minister Faris Hussein Dato' Seri Hishammudin, Military Advisor Col. Arman Rumaizi bin Hj Ahmad, Policy and Strategic Planning Division Director Sahipulhijaiman bin Sulaiman, Private Secretary to the Minister Idamoerni Zakaria, Special Officer Nur Diyanah binti Abdul Rahiman, Special Officer to the Minister Yaqin bin Mohamad Khan, Political Secretary Onn Hafiz bin Datuk Ghazi, Personal Security Officer to the Minister SM Azhari bin Md Supian and Minister of Defense staff Cpl. Abdul Nazir bin Assan, will return to Malaysia at 5 p.m. on Wednesday. PND (jm) | |
| Government determined to reduce poverty through various programs | |
| The Palace on Wednesday reiterated the government’s determination to reduce poverty through various programs.Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said the government “continues and will continue to fight poverty and evidence of that is our poverty alleviation intervention programs.” “Every economist knows that the fight against poverty is a sustained fight that requires sustained intervention and it takes decades,” Secretary Lacierda said, commenting on the latest IBON Foundation survey showing that a majority of Filipinos see themselves as poor. The IBON survey, conducted from January 19 to 30 among 1,501 respondents across various sectors in 16 regions, also revealed that many Filipinos had difficulty in meeting their basic expenses in the past three months. According to the survey posted on the IBON website, 7 out of 10 Filipinos rated themselves as poor. Asked what they can say about their situation today, 65 percent of the respondents said they consider their families as poor, while 30 percent said otherwise. Majority of the respondents also believe that their livelihood has not improved compared to a year ago, with 59 percent saying their livelihood remains the same and 21 percent answering that their livelihood became worse. Asked how their family met household expenses in the past three months, 59 percent said they had difficulty in paying for electricity while only 29 percent said they did not have any difficulty. Of the 1,501 respondents, 53.6 percent said they had difficulty in buying enough food. As for buying medicines or paying for medical treatment, 50.8 percent said they had difficulty. Many Filipinos also said they had difficulty paying for their children’s schooling (38.6 percent), for transportation (41 percent), and for water (38.9 percent). The IBON Foundation, an independent development institution established in 1978, provides research, education, publications, information work, and advocacy support on socioeconomic issues. The government’s primary program in assisting the poor is the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, also known as the Conditional Cash Transfer program under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). With a budget of P62.3 billion, the program provides conditional cash grants to extremely poor households to help reduce poverty for 4.3 million families. The DSWD implements other programs to address social protection. One is the KALAHI-CIDSS National Community-Driven Development Project, which seeks to empower communities in accessing services and participating in local planning, budgeting and implementation. This program aims to support 6,735 community projects that cater to 1.5 million poor households. Another is the Sustainable Livelihood Program, which covers families who graduate from the CCT program. This program aims to support 265,175 family beneficiaries with micro-enterprise developments and 113,647 households under the employment facilitation through capacity development. Social pensions for indigent senior citizens allocate a monthly social pension of P500 to 939,609 indigent senior citizens, aged 65 years and above. The Supplemental Feeding Program, which is part of the government’s Early Childhood Care and Development program, is a food supplementation program that will give hot meals to children during snack/mealtime five days a week for 120 days. The government has also implemented the National Household Targeting System, an information management system that identifies who and where the poor are, besides ranking and classifying them. Updated every four years, it has already identified 5.2 million poor households entitled to social protection as of 2011. PND (jm) | |
| Secretary De Lima: Arroyo's fate is a judicial matter |
| Source: http://www.ombudsman.gov.ph |
| Since the Philippine government has yet to officially receive notice of the case purportedly filed by lawyer Amal Alamuddin-Clooney with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHCHR) in behalf of her client former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, any specific comment on the merits of the case would be highly speculative. If, indeed, such a case has been filed, the government would like to know the basis for such legal action, as well as the specific public officials against whom it was filed. If it was filed against the Philippine government, it must specify the officials who are accused of violating Arroyo's human rights and the specific acts which gave rise to such alleged violation. As far as the Executive branch is concerned, Rep. Arroyo is being detained at the Veterans Memorial Hospital in Quezon City by virtue of a judicial process issued by the First Division of the Sandiganbayan last November 2013. The Sandiganbayan has denied Arroyo's motion for bail in the PCSO plunder case filed against her by the Ombudsman, on the ground that Rep. Arroyo has failed to prove that the evidence against her is not strong. Whether or not the evidence against Rep. Arroyo in the PCSO plunder case is sufficient for the denial of her motion for bail is not for the Executive branch to determine. The Executive is not involved in either the prosecution or judicial determination of Arroyo's plunder case. The prosecutor in said case is the Ombudsman, an independent, constitutional office. On the other hand, the Sandiganbayan, as part of the Judiciary, is under the Supreme Court. We are presuming that Ms. Alamuddin is knowledgeable of the workings of the Philippine criminal justice system because it is patterned after the American system, which must be familiar to her. She must also therefore know that in such a system, the Executive is not the branch of government that issues commitment or detention orders of those accused of committing a crime. Under international human rights standards, a commitment or detention order issued against an accused in accordance with a State's independent judicial processes is recognized as a valid cause for restraining one's liberty. There is no question that under no circumstances is Rep. Arroyo's detention for the non-bailable crime of plunder violative of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights or the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. If Ms. Alamuddin is charging the government of arbitrarily depriving Rep. Arroyo of her liberty, she must direct her petition to the judiciary, since the Aquino administration is not responsible for the fact that the judiciary does not subscribe to her claim that her continued detention is a result of political persecution. The judiciary remains independent of the Executive, and it continues to decide cases not on the basis of politics, from which it is insulated, but on the legal merits of each case. In any case, Ms. Alamuddin should know that her client must first exhaust domestic remedies before she can file a complaint before the UNHCHR or the Human Rights Council, in accordance with the criteria for the acceptance of communications filed with the Working Group on Communications. This includes defending herself before the duly-constituted courts of the Philippines and, in the event of conviction, appealing the judgment to the Supreme Court. In the end, we believe that the denial of Rep. Arroyo's motion for bail was decided on the merits, and that she will eventually be convicted or acquitted on the merits. In the meantime, she is not without recourse to pursue whatever relief she feels she is entitled to, whether to move for medical treatment abroad before the Sandiganbayan, or to continue questioning before the Supreme Court the denial of her motion for bail. Such simple questions of fact or law on Rep. Arroyo's predicament are neither made grander nor more dramatic merely because they are raised by a celebrity lawyer before an international forum, The, flamboyant gesture only reflects the paucity of her cries of political persecution. |
| Ombudsman indicts DBM Usec, 6 others for substandard rubber boats |
| Source: http://www.ombudsman.gov.ph |
| Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales approved the filing of criminal charges against officials of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) for the unlawful purchase of substandard inflatable rubber boats from JOAVI Philippines Corporation (JOAVI) in 2010. Ombudsman Morales found probable cause to indict the members of the Inter-agency Bids and Awards Committee (IABAC) of the DBM-Procurement Service (DBM-PS), namely: Undersecretary Evelyn Guererro, Director IV Lourdes Santiago, Procurement Management Officer V Julieta Lozano, Procurement Management Officer III Mervin Ian Tanquintic, Administrative Assistant III Alvin John Perater and ad hoc member Lt. Malone Agudelo, together with Anthony Hernandez of JOAVI for violation of Section 3(e) of Republic Act No. 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act). Several procurement violations in the acquisition of the rubber boats were uncovered such as JOAVI’s non-compliance with the DBM-PS technical specifications as the rubber boats were not equipped with intercommunication or inflation valves, over-pressure valves and roll-up floor; tailor-fitting the technical specifications to conform with the model exclusively distributed by JOAVI; and the submission of falsified technical evaluation report and post-qualification report. The Resolution stated that “the participation of each of the respondents in perpetrating the scheme to defraud the government is so essential as a link to a chain that the desistance of any of them would prevent the chain from being completed.” Section 3(e) of R.A. No. 3019 punishes a public officer who, in the discharge of his official functions, acts with manifest partiality, evident bad faith, or gross inexcusable negligence causing undue injury to any party, including the government, or giving any private party unwarranted benefits, advantage, or preference. |
| Manufacturing slows down in January 2015; NEDA cites transport, power issues as constraints to manufacturing growth |
| Source: http://www.neda.gov.ph/ |
| MANILA – The manufacturing sector grew at a slow pace in January 2015 following the decline of demand after the holiday season, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA). Registering its slowest growth since April 2014, the Volume of Production Index (VoPI) grew by 3.3 percent year-on-year in January 2015 from 4.4 percent in the same month in 2014. Also, the steepest decline since May 2013 was recorded by the Value of Production Index (VaPI) that decreased by 1.8 percent in January 2015 from 3.3 percent in the same month last year. The figures are based on the Philippine Statistics Authority’s Monthly Integrated Survey of Selected Industries (MISSI). “The overall production indices of the manufacturing sector is dragged down by lower food production due to post-holiday tempering of consumer demand and due to firms keeping their production at manageable levels during the start of the year,” said Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan. “The sudden drop in food manufactures dragged the positive output of the majority of the manufacturing subsectors including printing, leather products, basic metals, beverages, and textiles which were listed as the highest performers in January 2015,” Balisacan added. Among intermediate goods, printing posted the highest, three-digit growth (206.4% in terms of both volume and value) with the increase in the demand for school materials owing to the implementation of the K-12 program, Likewise, non-metallic products registered the rise in private construction. Among capital goods, basic metals posted the highest growth (50.8% in terms of volume, 45.7% in terms of value) with increased production of non-ferrous materials and the newly inaugurated steel mill in Davao City. Transport equipment likewise posted its highest growth rate (29.3% in terms of volume) since December 2013 as output from car assemblers, parts makers, aircraft parts makers and shipbuilders increased significantly. Year-on-year growth of the Value of Net Sales Index (VaNSI) posted positive for January 2015, despite the lower prices reported this month relative to the previous year. On the other hand, the average capacity utilization in the manufacturing sector decreased to 83.2 percent in January due to typical downturn in production at the beginning of the year, but is expected to rise with private construction activities this year. Among surveyed manufacturing firms, 23.1 percent of the establishments operated at full capacity (90%-100%). About 59.7 percent operated at 70 percent -89 percent capacity, while 17.2 percent of establishments operated below 70 percent capacity. Despite the low output growth, Balisacan said that indicators point to higher growth of the sector in 2015. The manufacturing sector, however, needs to enhance its absorptive capacity, and constraints faced by the sector must be addressed for the sector to be able to meet growing demand, the Cabinet official said. He underscored the need to fast-track infrastructure development to address logistical bottlenecks. “Constraints remain on airport, cargo, road network and mass transport. Despite the positive effects of implemented decongestion efforts on ports, more needs to be done to accommodate stronger demand,” said Balisacan, who is also NEDA Director-General. He added that power also needs to be managed well to meet higher demand from the manufacturing sector, particularly those involved in manufacturing of textiles, plastics, non-metallic mineral products and some electronic products. “Short-run measures are now being carefully weighed in the legislative branch. The completion of committed power projects will ease concern in the medium term. Long-run energy security measures should, as well, be in place, such as encouraging more investments in a mix of energy sources, among others,” said Balisacan. |
| Baldoz calls for convergence, greater employers’ support to JobStart to expedite youth employment |
| Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph |
| Labo and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz yesterday called on business leaders to help in addressing youth unemployment by participating in JobStart Philippines Program. “JobStart aims to equip young people with relevant technical and life skills ahead of their entry in the labor market,” Baldoz had said during the 1st Session of the 2015 DOLE Kapihan and Balitaan, at the Midas Hotel, Pasay City. “We have heard JobStart youth beneficiaries talk about how the program has improved their self-confidence and readiness for their desired jobs, but this program is also about employers getting the right people,” she added. “Once you prepare young people for the requirements of the local labor market, you are also addressing employment mismatch.” According to Director Dominique Tutay of the DOLE’s Bureau of Local Employment, the advantage for participating employers is that they will enjoy a reduced cost of internship, as they will pay the interns only 75 percent of the minimum wage. "Employers who will participate in the program will receive P9,000 training fee per intern as administrative support. They will also have the opportunity to demonstrate corporate social responsibility in the communities where they operate," Tutay said. The second wave of youth registration aims to enlist 900 youths in the program who will undergo career guidance and employment coaching (CGEC), 300 of whom will proceed to life skills training, technical training, and internship. For registrations and enhanced career guidance, the target numbers are: 150 applicants each for General Trias, Cavite, and City of San Fernando, Pampanga; and 300 applicants each for Taguig City and Quezon City. As for the life skills training and internship component of the program, the target numbers are: 50 applicants each for General Trias, Cavite, and City of San Fernando, Pampanga; and 100 applicants each for Taguig City and Quezon City. The JobStart Program is part of the Technical Assistance Program on Employment Facilitation for Inclusive Growth (EFIG), a synergy between the DOLE, Asian Development Bank (ADB), and the Government of Canada that seeks to pave the way for necessary reforms needed to make the country’s labor market more pragmatic, responsive, and attuned to the demands of the global economy. JobStart’s objective is to raise the job placement, to at least 80 percent from the current 60-65 percent rate, of young jobseekers, ages 18-24, who are either currently not working, or has less than a year of work experience; not enrolled in an educational or training program, or at least completed a high school education or more. Toward this end, Baldoz shared the Philippines needs not just the support of international agency-partners, but also of local government units, especially the Public Employment Service Offices, or PESOs, to make the program an effective delivery mechanism of the government’s array of employment services. “Convergence is what we need to solidify our efforts to contribute greatly to the realization of the Aquino III administration's agenda of strengthening local employment services, of solving the jobs-skills mismatch, and of pushing back unemployment. Sustained commitment of our partners, both international and local, is needed so that more students and jobseekers will be educated towards making wise and excellent career decisions,” Baldoz finally said. |
| Philippines Calls for an ASEAN Common Stand on Regional and Global Issues |
| Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph |
| 11 March 2015 – Philippine Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Evan P. Garcia urged his ASEAN colleagues yesterday to foster common perspectives on regional and international issues as a measure of ASEAN solidarity and Centrality. Undersecretary Garcia emphasized that where needed, ASEAN can be a more active player in the international arena when it faces common concerns. The Undersecretary participated in a series of ASEAN meetings in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from March 09 to 11 in preparation for the 26th ASEAN Summit to be held next month also in Malaysia. In these meetings, he noted that recent developments in the South China Sea highlight the need for urgent action to reduce the rising tensions in the area. He said that what is actually happening in the South China Sea does not match the diplomacy that is being undertaken to manage regional tensions, which are increasing the level of mistrust and heightening the dangers of unintended conflict in the region. Undersecretary Garcia stressed that ASEAN Centrality necessitates finding the political will to address issues of common concern and improving ASEAN’s institutional capacity to do so. Discussions on centrality should be coordinated across ASEAN’s three Communities with the end view of taking a stand as a regional organization when needed. The ASEAN Secretariat, he concluded, must further develop its capacity to provide policy scanning and recommendations on regional and international issues. At the Foreign Ministers’ Retreat early this year, Malaysia said that ASEAN would intensify efforts to conclude a code of conduct in the South China Sea under its chairmanship amid growing concerns from some members about land reclamation activities in the contested areas. The Philippines cautioned that ASEAN’s failure to address such critical issue in its backyard undermines ASEAN Centrality and unity. |
| Philippines to Participate in 3rd UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction in Sendai, Japan |
| Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph |
| In response to high-level invitations from the Government of Japan and the United Nations Secretary General, the Government of the Philippines is sending an official delegation to the 3rd UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction and its Third Preparatory Committee Meeting (Prepcom3) to be held in Sendai, Japan from March 13 to 18. Aside from honoring these invitations, the Philippines, as a country highly vulnerable to disasters, is making sure that its voice is heard in a once-in-a-decade UN conference that shapes the global framework for reducing risks. Among the important issues at the Conference is the successor framework to the UN Hyogo Framework of Action (HFA) negotiated 10 years ago. The delegation will take active part in the negotiations on the successor Framework, which has building back better in recovery and rehabilitation and measurable indicators as new features to ensure means of implementation in the international effort to reduce disaster risks. The delegation will also co-chair a high-level dialogue on women in disaster risk reduction, and attend important ministerial roundtables, working sessions, dialogues and public forum events. Several members of the Philippine delegation have roles as panelists and speakers -- a recognition of the country's leadership and prominence in the field of disaster risk reduction and management. As reflected in the organization of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), the delegation includes a significant number of partners from civil society who are members of the NDRRMC. If there is one important thing that the Philippines can demonstrate at 3WCDRR, it is this trust, openness and demonstrated inclusivity through government-civil society partnership, among others, that characterize the desired whole-of-society approach to effectively build resilience against disasters. Members of the media who are covering 3WCDRR are welcome to approach the delegation for interviews at a pre-arranged time. For media queries and interview arrangements, please e-mail 3rdwcdrr.gph@gmail.com. |
| UACS to get stronger use in 2016 national budget; Abad: Agency commitment needed to fully implement UACS |
| Source: http://www.dbm.gov.ph |
| The National Government is getting ready to run a more in-depth implementation of the Unified Account Code Structure (UACS) in the upcoming preparation of the 2016 National Budget, with the system upgraded to include a location code that will identify projects down to the provincial level. The UACS is the government’s coding framework where each government project, activity, and program (PAP) is assigned a unique 54-digit number code. The code is further divided into five distinct subcategories that describe every aspect of the PAP: from the type of project being implemented to its location, up to varying degrees of specificity. This will allow implementing and overseeing agencies to track a project through the course of their implementation. Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad said, “More than just a coding system for projects, the UACS will enable us to track government financial data. It does this by serving as our framework for identifying, aggregating, and reporting financial transactions in the budget process, as well as accounting and auditing.” Abad added, “On our end, it will assists in monitoring transactions from appropriation, budget, and expenditures. These will eventually help us manage the government budget more efficiently. Likewise, other agencies will be able to derive and analyze data from each project, converting it to timely and useful information that will be helpful when making decisions.” The UACS is seen as the foundation of the Aquino Administration’s Public Financial Management (PFM) Reforms through the following: Serving as the backbone for recording, accounting, analyzing, and reporting of government finances; Enabling oversight agencies to take responsibility in improving the way financial information is utilized; Improving and harmonizing the existing coding structure between budget, accounting, and cash flow; and, Enhancing the Internal Control Structure to provide more complete and effective information. The UACS has slowly come to full realization since its creation in 2010, with the appropriate training of agency/department personnel in its use in 2012 to the application of the UACS codes in the 2014 General Appropriations Act (GAA). In the 2015 GAA, the Sector Outcome codes—via the international standard of COFOG (Classifications of Functions of Government) coding—was added to the UACS code structure to help identify what government is spending on. A help desk and website that can provide guidance in the use of the codes was also set up, while a UACS Repository System was instituted to ensure the codes’ proper use and administration. With the recent Budget Call sent out by the DBM, the UACS will play a more prominent role in the 2016 National Budget with the DBM requiring stricter enforcement of the application of the enhanced codes. It will also require the use of existing UACS Location Code—both regional and provincial—to improve reporting of geographical financial information. Abad said: “The 2015 National Budget currently uses UACS codes on a regional level. With the 2016 National Budget set to utilize location codes centering on the provinces, this will eventually go all the way down to the level of cities and barangays by 2017.” However, he added: “The potential of the UACS hasn’t been maximized yet, as it’s dependent on the commitment of agencies to properly implement the codes. Likewise, the UACS can help us categorize the data, but the quality of the information we derive from it relies on agencies guaranteeing the integrity of the data.” He concluded: “That’s why the UACS is more than just a system to track financial management data in the government. By creating a systemic environment of transparency and accountability around the budgetary process, the UACS will ensure our reforms will be sustained past the term of this Administration.” |
| DOF Pushes for TIMTA to Inform Economic Policy Decisions in the Age of Data |
| Source: http://www.dof.gov.ph |
| Purisima: Every Filipino has a right to know how much our tax money is worth The Department of Finance is pushing for the swift passage of the Tax Incentives Management and Transparency Act (HB 2492) bill, urging members of Congress to bring Philippine fiscal policy to the 21st century by leveraging data on tax incentives to inform a better policy development process and tax incentives system. While tax incentives have long been used by governments worldwide as a fiscal policy lever to spur economic growth and investment, the Philippines stands as one of the few countries where tax expenditures arising from these tools are still kept in the dark. “The Department of Finance fully supports the proposed bill by Congresswoman Leni Robredo. The aggregate amount of tax incentives granted by the government is largely unknown. Without updating our policy tools and monitoring systems, we cannot gauge their effectiveness, nor can we properly calibrate government decisions to optimize our economic growth potentials. The current situation simply will not do,” Finance Undersecretary Jeremias Paul, Jr. of the Domestic Finance Group said, noting how the Philippines needs to update its tax incentives system if it is to remain competitive in an integrated ASEAN. The passage of TIMTA is consistent with the reform trajectory of the Aquino administration as it bolsters transparency and accountability in how resources of the government are foregone for the private sector in the interest of economic development. Finance Secretary Cesar V. Purisima said, “This lack of information is troubling. The government has a very limited capacity to know if it is granting the right amount of incentives to the right places to achieve its economic goals. We are currently living in an age where data and information are premium commodities for effective decision-making, and yet our current system forces us to blindly grant tax incentives to investors without understanding its full economic impact. “I urge our colleagues in Congress to pass this bill swiftly; every day we wait is another day lost in our race for competitiveness. It is already 2015: high time that we become smart enough using data to inform our policy decisions.” A better monitoring system grants the government information for analysis, which will translate into a more efficient tax incentives system. In line with the government’s priorities on fiscal prudence and transparency, tax expenditures of the government will be reported annually in the national budget to facilitate analysis of the cost and economic impact of incentives granted. The proposed TIMTA bill will create a Tax Expenditure Account (TEA) in the national budget from which tax incentives are accounted for by all Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) and other concerned government agencies, who will in turn submit to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) their respective annual projected amount of tax expenditures for the succeeding 3 years. Undersecretary Paul emphasized that there is simply no truth to fears of burdening investors, saying, “These are reasonable amounts of information that investors have already been submitting to the IPAs in order to qualify for registration in the first place. This includes the amount of investments and projections of incentives, which is after all, the basis of the incentives granted.” Contrary to some investors’ group’s claims, TIMTA is consistent with international best practices, as OECD member countries like the United States, as well as a number of developing countries such as India, Thailand, Brazil, and Argentina annually report measures of tax expenditures in their budget to enhance transparency and inform policy debates. Further, the Department of Finance (DOF) currently has no role in the country’s fiscal incentives system, an alarming fact as most if not all Ministries of Finance (MoF) have primary roles in the design and monitoring of tax incentives, consistent with the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development’s (OECD) recommendations. Under the proposed bill, tax expenditures, deemed automatically appropriated, will be monitored by the DOF, the agency that will be in charge of the annual Tax Expenditure Report. Finance Secretary Purisima added, “There is no reason why we cannot show the public the amount of incentives availed if we assume that we are granting them based on investors’ performance. The Filipino people have a right to know how and how well their money is being used towards encouraging investment in the country. Every Filipino has a right to know how much our tax money is worth.” |
| Nepalese delegation in PH for Listahanan implementation |
| Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph |
| The Government of Nepal sent a delegation to the Philippines to learn from the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) experience in implementing the National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction (NHTS-PR), also known as the Listahanan. The study visit started on Monday, March 9, and will last until March 13. Listahanan is an information management system that identifies who and where the poor are. It makes a comprehensive database of poor families available to national government agencies and other social protection stakeholders to serve as basis in identifying beneficiaries of social protection programs and services. In 2009, the Listahanan conducted the first nationwide assessment that resulted to the identification of 5.2 million poor households out of the 10.9 million households assessed. These poor households have since become beneficiaries of national social protection programs and services such as the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, Philhealth Indigent Program, and Social Pension, among others. The Listahanan is currently preparing for the 2nd round of nationwide assessment with 15.3 million target households. A field visit has also been scheduled for the Nepalese delegates to observe the screening and hiring of applicants for the Listahanan field staff positions. Nepal’s targeting system is being managed by the Poor Household Identification and Identity Card Management and Distribution Coordination Board Secretariat under the Ministry of Cooperatives and Poverty Alleviation. They have assessed nearly 1.3 million households in 25 out of 75 target districts in Nepal and are set to undertake the second phase of their implementation that will cover the remaining 50 districts in 2015-2016. “It will be good for us to share our knowledge and expertise [so] that we can enhance our skills and knowledge to forward this challenging task,” said Chintan Poudel, Executive Vice Chairperson of Nepal’s Poor Household Identification Board. |
| Philippine participation to the 3rd UN World Disaster Risk Reduction |
| Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph/ |
| “In response to high-level invitations from the Government of Japan and the United Nations Secretary General, the Government of the Philippines is sending an official delegation to the 3rd UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction and its Third Preparatory Committee Meeting (Prepcom3) to be held in Sendai, Japan on 13-18 March 2015. Aside from honoring these invitations, the Philippines, as a country highly vulnerable to disasters, is making sure that its voice is heard in a once-in-a-decade UN conference that shapes the global framework for reducing risks. Among the important issues at the Conference is the successor framework to the UN Hyogo Framework of Action (HFA) negotiated 10 years ago. The delegation will take active part in the negotiations on the successor Framework, which has building back better in recovery and rehabilitation and measurable indicators as new features to ensure means of implementation in the international effort to reduce disaster risks. The delegation will also be co-chairing a high level dialogue on women in disaster risk reduction, and attend important ministerial roundtables, working sessions, dialogues and public forum events. Several members of the Philippine delegation have roles as panelists and speakers — a recognition of the country’s leadership and prominence in the field of disaster risk reduction and management. As reflected in the organization of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), the delegation includes a significant number of partners from civil society who are members of the NDRRMC. If there is one important thing that the Philippines can demonstrate at 3WCDRR, it is this trust, openness and demonstrated inclusivity through government-civil society partnership, among others, that characterize the desired whole-of-society approach to effectively build resilience against disasters. Members of the media who are covering 3WCDRR are welcome to approach the delegation for interviews at a pre-arranged time. For media queries and interview arrangements, please e-mail 3rdwcdrr.gph@gmail.com. |
| DA pushes for competitive and safe farm produce |
| Source: http://www.da.gov.ph |
| The government is set on transforming the Philippine agriculture into a sufficient source of healthy food as the Department of Agriculture continues to push for organic agriculture as part of the regular program of the food agency. “As we gear towards a food sufficient nation, that is competitive to other ASEAN nations, we shall not lose focus on making sure that we provide safe, healthy and chemical-free farm produce,” Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala said. The Agri chief added, that out of the total P52 billion DA budget for 2015, organic agri gets P636,366 million for research and development initiatives. During the Organic Agriculture Program Review and Planning Workshop in Bicol Region, Fr. Ian Trillanes of the National Organic Agriculture Board (NOAB) explained that with DA mainstreaming organic agriculture, it will not be treated as a special project anymore but a regular initiative with an assured funding. Trillanes emphasized that organic farmers should aim and work for certification of their farm and products. He also underscored that farmers should not only proposed projects that are eligible but viable. DA Regional Technical Director Elena B. de los Santos in her message reminded everyone to always be guided by the four principles of Organic Agriculture as laid down by the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM). These are: 1) the principles health - healthy soil plants, animals and human = healthy planet; 2) principles of ecology- emulating and sustaining natural systems; 3) principle of fairness- equity respect and justice for all living things 4) principle of care - concern for the generations to come. Bicol Regional focal person for organic agriculture and currently chief of the DA Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division , Adelina A. Losa discussed the NOAP Major Components which are institutional development and strengthening; research and development; production and technology support; extension and capability building. She explained that Bicol region has a great potential for organic agriculture with its total agricultural area 891,955 hectares, five percent (5%) of which is targeted to be utilized for organic agriculture is equivalent to 44,597.75 hectares. She thus emphasized the vital role of the LGUs as the front liners in the implementation of the organic agriculture. She enjoined the LGU representatives to start organizing the Municipal Technical committees and urge the Sangguniang Bayan to approve a resolution so that the budget for the organic agriculture program could be released to the LGU. As part of the activity, a representative from the Bureau of Soils and Water Management, Eduardo Alberto and a representative from the Agricultural Training Institute presented their accomplishment and workplans for the OA. Likewise, selected organic agriculture focal persons of provinces/municipalities which are already implementing the OA program were requested to report their accomplishments and work plan. Over 60 participants composed of organic agriculture focal persons from the province, city and municipalities, municipal agriculturists, extension workers, representatives from the academe and farmers groups and organic agriculture advocates attended the workshop. |
| DPWH to implement P2-B worth of projects in CDO this year |
| Source: http://www.dpwh.gov.ph |
| The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is set to implement P2.3 billion worth of projects in Cagayan de Oro City under the 2015 General Appropriations Act (GAA). Secretary of Public Works and Highways Rogelio L. Singson said the amount will be used to fund a total of 66 infrastructure projects in the City, to be implemented by the DPWH Regional Office, and two (2) District Engineering Offices (DEOs) based in Cagayan de Oro City. The 2015 budget allocation includes 24 road concreting/rehabilitation projects; 14 building projects; eight (8) flood control and drainage projects; six (6) road widening projects; four (4) improvement of off-carriageway projects; four (4) bridge projects; two (2) coastal road projects; one (1) diversion road project; and one (1) bypass road project. “Learning from Typhoon Sendong in 2011, our priority in Cagayan de Oro City is the construction and maintenance of flood mitigation structures and drainage systems,” said Singson. DPWH has allotted P772 million for flood control projects in the city, which covers: two (2) Cagayan de Oro City River Basin Flood Control Projects worth 400 million; three (3) Iponan Flood Control Projects worth P300 million; two (2) upgrading projects of Bigaan Creek worth P70 million; and construction of drainage system at Tejero St., in Barangay Patag costing P2 million. Secretary Singson said the projects would mitigate if not prevent flooding in Cagayan de Oro City, protecting the people from overflow of rivers and creeks, especially during onslaught of typhoons. Aside from flood control projects, other major projects allocated for Cagayan de Oro City include the P300-million completion of Cagayan de Oro Convention Center; P118 million widening of Butuan City-Cagayan de Oro City-Iligan City Road and the P68 million construction of Sapang Bridge along Butuan Cagayan de Oro-Iligan Road, Kauswagan Section. |
| ISO: Gender equality for a better world |
| Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph |
| What changes when there is more gender equality? That is the question that we are invited to reflect upon during this year’s International Women’s Day, 08 March. Picture it, says United Nations (UN) Women, empowering women means empowering humanity. According to a report by Action Aid, economic inequality for women costs a staggering USD 9T per year in the developing world. If women and men had more equality at work, it would increase gross domestic product (GDP) in various countries by between 5% and 34%, says the International Monetary Fund. “Countries with higher levels of gender equality have higher economic growth. Companies with more women on their boards have higher returns to shareholders. Parliaments with more women consider a broader range of issues and adopt more legislation on health, education, anti-discrimination and child support,” UN women Executive Director Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka explained. So why are we not there yet? Cultural, economic, and societal barriers to progress are still in place in many parts of the world. In the technical world of standards, women are getting increasingly involved, and many of them are leaders of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) technical committees where standards are developed, covering everything from IT to finance. Yet there is still a long way to go, as a disproportionate majority of participating experts are men. Which is why this year, we invited some of the CEOs who are leading their country’s national standard body and ISO member, to speak up and inspire the next generation of women leaders. In the video, these outstanding women tell us why they love their jobs, as an invitation to all, but especially women, to join the standards community. “The world of standards is an exciting place to be in today. We are creating solutions to many of the world’s toughest challenges like climate change, sustainability and economic growth. Gender equality is not about putting women on high positions to ‘meet numbers’, but to benefit from the best talent that humanity has to offer, whatever their gender,” ISO Secretary-General Rob Steele said. One of the women CEOs of a national standards body that we invited to speak up and inspire in a video to celebrate the International Women’s Day is the Director-in-Charge (DIC) of the DTI’s Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS), Atty. Ann Claire C. Cabochan. Sharing her insights as a woman executive of the Philippines’ National Standards body, DTI-BPS, Atty. Ann Claire C. Cabochan cited why she loves her job. “I am able to inspire and empower my workplace through values. Most of all, I help capacitate our small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to integrate into global value chains," she said. She also cited what changes as a woman leader: “The need to multi-task is multiplied a hundredfold because the expectations are higher. Yet, the knowledge that one is able to contribute positively is priceless." The Philippines is a member to the ISO through the Department of Trade and Industry’s Bureau of Philippine Standards as the country’s National Standards Body. For more information on the BPS functions and services, visit www.bps.dti.gov.ph. |
| Tech-voc on the upswing in Cebu |
| Source: http://www.tesda.gov.ph |
| In a city regarded as the country's alternate metropolis with a continuously booming economy, Cebu's youth could be sitting in a sweet spot. Industries are growing and tourism is up, which could translate to job and entrepreneurial opportunities, according to Director General Joel Villanueva of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). There's a missing element, though, for the youth to have a crack at employment — skills. A series of activities in Cebu City and the nearby Mandaue City that included skills demonstration, fun run and link-up with the private sector showed that TESDA was going full blast in making technical vocational (tech-voc) education accessible and available to the future workforce, Villanueva said. "For 2015, Cebu gets a funding of P75.78 million for the education of 7,375 scholars. This represents 51 percent of the total budget of P149.12 million for the entire region targeting close to 15,000 scholars," Villanueva said. The scholarships are lodged in four programs of TESDA — Training for Work Scholarship Program, Private Education Student Financial Assistance, the Bottom-up Budgeting, ?and Special Training for Employment Program, ?he said. "Education underpins all economic development. It's the tool of the most ambitious governments in these technological times," Villanueva added. The TESDA chief noted the feat achieved by two Cebuanos — Ingrid Ponce and Myrna Pitaluna — after they graduated from their respective courses. For lack of money, Ponce could not go to college and thus, enrolled in a tech-voc course that few women engage in - shielded metal arc welding and gas metal arc welding. Finding her niche in this trade, Ponce landed in a job in Japan, which changed the life of her family. Pitaluna of Toledo City also finished shielded metal arc welding and added heavy equipment operation to her skills. She took additional training to be a certified assessor and trainer. She was awarded as Idol ng TESDA in 2013. The March 5 event in Cebu was carried out through the Training Trabaho Program, which intensified its tech-voc education campaign to bring in more people to avail of the programs of TESDA. The event kicked off with a series of media guesting by Villanueva, who explained the various programs of TESDA and how the public can access them. This was followed by the showcase of the skills of the trainees in cookery, food and beverage servicing, household services and barista. Villanueva, a holder of National Certificate, also joined the skills showdown with his skills in coffee making. The TESDA chief shared the boodle fight lunch with the trainees. TESDA also signed a Memorandum of Agreement with Metro Wear Inc. for the training of its workers and with ABS-CBN to help promote tech-voc through various media activities. On March 7 at the Cebu Business Park, Villanueva joined the fun run organized by the Cebu Association of Private Technical-Vocational Institution aimed to raise funds for the transportation and food allowance of scholars. Villanueva said that TESDA would continue being active in organizing tech-voc-related events in the city with the help of the local government unit and the private sector. The Skills Demonstration activity was organized with the assistance of the University of Cebu led by the its president, lawyer Augusto Go, its chancellor, Candice Gotianuy, and administrators of technical vocational institutions (TVIs) and TESDA technology institutes (TTIs) who took part in the demo. The Fun Run was organized by the TVIs and TTIs and various national government agencies — Department of Health, Department of Labor and Employment, Bureau of Customs, Philippine National Police-Regional Training Center VII, Naval Forces and Provincial Environment and Natural Resources office. |
| DENR classifies 23 water bodies to protect their quality and specific uses |
| Source: http://www.denr.gov.ph |
| The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has classified 23 more important water bodies across the country, including three possible sources of drinking water in Romblon province, for purposes of protecting their quality and specific uses. DENR Secretary Ramon J.P. Paje said this new batch brings to 974 the total number of water classifications completed so far by the department since the enactment of Republic Act (RA) No. 9275 or the Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004. “The purpose of water classification is to set goals for water quality and promote management of water bodies, especially those identified as possible drinking water sources,” the environment chief, noting that the classifications are embodied in DENR Memorandum Circular 2015-01 that he issued. He added: “In order for these water resources to supply us with abundant clean water for the foreseeable future, they need to be protected and managed with care.” As a requirement in RA 9275, the DENR has instituted a classification system that establishes water quality classes and the associated quality standards, and identifies the administrative processes and requirements related to the classification of water. The classification standards establish designated uses, related characteristic of those uses, and criteria necessary to protect the uses, and establish specific conditions for certain activities such as the discharge of wastewater. Paje said the management of water resources “strikes at the core of sustainability of our natural resources, which is why, perhaps, it is the most widely recognized symbol for sustainability.” “Classifying water bodies is a must, so that the next generations will equally enjoy their full potential,” he added. Fresh surface waters – which include lakes, rivers and reservoirs – are classified as “AA,” “A,” “B,” “C,” and “D,” while coastal and marine waters are classified as “SA,” “SB,” “SC,” and “SD.” Under the latest DENR circular, the waters of Binayaan, Cabitangahan and Talaba Rivers in Romblon were classified as “Class A,” or Public Water Supply Class II suitable as sources of water supply, requiring complete treatment like coagulation, sedimentation, filtration and disinfection, in order to meet the country’s National Standards for Drinking Water (NSDW). Categorized as “Class B,” or those safe for primary contact recreation or tourism purposes like bathing, swimming and skin diving, are the upstream portion to Binahan Bridge of Locohin River in Pagbilao, Quezon; from Station 3 to upstream portion of Matina River in Davao del Sur; and the upstream to midstream portions of Pangi River in Maitum, Saranggani. Fourteen water bodies were classified as “Class C,” namely: the Pasa and Rugao Rivers in Ilagan; the Sapang Alat and Sto. Cristo Rivers in Bulacan; Tambak River and the stretch of Locohin River from its mouth to Binahan Bridge in Pagbilao , Quezon; Malbasag and Natubgan Rivers in Ormoc, Leyte; from Station 3 to the mouth of Matina River in Davao del Sur. Tagum and Libuganon Rivers in Davao del Norte; the upstream to downstream portions of Altayan River in Tampakan, South Cotabato; downstream portion of Pangi River; the upstream to downstream portions of Toplan River traversing Tampakan town and Koronadal City in South Cotabato; and the Carrascal river in Carrascal, Surigao del Sur. Class C water bodies are those that are “safe for propagation of fish, recreation and post-treatment manufacturing processes” while “Class D” may be sourced for agriculture and irrigation, or for limited use as industrial water supply.” The DENR also identified water bodies in the Visayas under “Class SA” or those suitable for commercial propagation and harvesting of shellfishes, and cover national marine reserves and coral reef parks. The coastal waters of San Jose in Antique were categorized into three with Barangay 3, Dalipe and Madraca as “Class SA” or those suitable for commercial propagation and harvesting of shellfishes, and cover national marine reserves and coral reef parks. Its coastal areas covering Barangays 4, San Pedro, Mojon, Magcalon San Fernando, Malaiba , Maybato Norte, Maybato Sur and San Angel were identified as “Class SB” or those suitable for tourism and “Recreational Water Class I” activities where the body is in contact with the water like bathing, swimming and skin diving. Eight beach resorts off the coastal water of Sipalay in Negros Oriental were categorized as “Class SB.” Four beach resorts and the Bantay Dagat Headquarters in the Hinobaan coastal waters in Negros Oriental were also graded as Class SB with a “Class SC” rating for its “Salvation Wharf.” Class SC refers to waters covering marshy or mangrove areas declared as fish and wildlife sanctuaries, including water that can be used for “non-contact” activities identified as “Recreational Water Class II” like boating and bird watching. The Toleda-Balamban Coastal Waters in Cebu were broken into Class SA (beyond 3 kilometers from the shoreline in Toledo City), Class SB (shoreline spanning across up to 3 kms.) and barangays Buanoy and Arpili in Balamban. |
| PNP invites bids for 743 sub machine guy |
| Source: http://pnp.gov.ph |
| The Philippine National Police is buying 743 units of sub machine gun worth of Php133,740,000 million being the Approved Budget for the Contract (ABC) to payments. The PNP now invites bids for the aforementioned project. Bidding is open to all interested bidders, whether local or foreign, subject to the conditions for eligibility provided in the IRR of RA 9184. Bid opening will be on April 17, 2015, 9:00AM at the PNP Main Conference Room, Camp Crame. Under the IRR, the delivery of goods is required within 150 calendar days divided into two tranches upon issuance of the permit, 400 on the 1st tranche required within 90 calendar days and 2nd tranche 343 within the remaining period covered. Prior to the deadline of Submission and Opening of Bids, the National Headquarters- Bids and Awards Committee (NHQBAC) shall accept applications from Monday to Wednesday, 8:00AM-5:00PM for registration of manufacturers, suppliers, distributors and contractors participating in PNP procurement of goods, infrastructure projects and consulting services. A complete set of bidding documents may be acquired by interested bidders from March 4 to April 17 upon payment of a non-refundable fee in the amount of fifty thousand pesos (Php50, 000.00). It may also be downloaded from the website of the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System (PhilGEPS) and PNP website at www.pnp.gov.ph, provided that bidders shall pay the fee for the bidding documents not later than the submission of their bids. “The pre-bid conference would be held at the PNP main conference room on March 17, 9:00AM at PNP Main Conference Room,” Police Director Juanito Vaño Jr., Chairman of the PNP Bids and Awards Committee said. Interested bidders may obtain further information from the PNP and inspect the bidding documents at the NHQBAC Secretariat, 2nd Floor, NHQ-PNP Main Building or call 723-0401 local 3009. (PNP-PIO) |
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President Benigno S. Aquino III's Speech at the Presidential Security Group (PSG) 29th Founding Anniversary
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PSG Grandstand, Malacañang Park, Manila
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10 March 2015
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| Magandang hapon po sa inyong lahat at happy anniversary sa inyong lahat. Twenty nine years na ho pala, palagay ko ‘pag tiningnan n’yo si Secretary Gazmin, ‘di natin malalaman na siya ang ating founding group commander. [Palakpakan] ‘Wag natin hamunan ng road run, baka maiwanan kayo. Si Ate Pinky lang ata nagpapakita ng kaunting pagdagdag ng edad, mga one year. [Tawanan] Alam naman po ninyo, hindi biro ang responsibilidad na nakaatang sa balikat ng sinumang Pangulo. Tulad ng madalas kong sabihin: para kang pinanonood ng 200 channel ng telebisyon, sabay-sabay. Kailangan kong tunghayan at bantayan ang lahat ng nangyayari sa bawat panig ng ating bansa. Sagutin ko ang 100 milyon nating mga Boss, kasama na ang humigit-kumulang na sampung milyon na nasa labas ng Pilipinas. Anumang tensiyon, kaguluhan, o trahedya sa ibayong dagat at sa loob ng ating teritoryo, kailangan kong tutukan. Kailangan alam ko ang nagaganap at magaganap pa, dahil sa bawat sandali ay kapakanan ng ating mga Boss ang nakataya. Sa akin nga po binabagsak ang problema, malaki man ito o maliit. Siyempre, sinasabayan din ito ng pinakamatitinding batikos, lalo na ang mga kathang-isip mula sa mga kulang sa pansin. Alam n’yo po nang tinanggap ko ang atas na maging pinuno ng bansa, malinaw ang nilatag nating agenda: ituwid ang tiwali, panagutin ang mga nagkasala sa sambayanan, at palitan ang dinatnang status quo ng panlalamang sa bayan. May kasabihan nga po: Do not disturb the rice bowl, o ‘wag makialam sa pinagkukunan ng kabuhayan ng iba. Ang masakit po: ang pinagkukunan nila ay ang kaban ng bayan, at napapahamak ang lahat, iilan lang ang nakikinabang. Di po ako magbubulag-bulagan, at pilit nating itatama ang sistemang dinatnan. Samakatuwid, marami akong magagambalang mga rice bowl. Aaminin ko po: May tapang ako, dahil ginagawa ko ang tama, at kung may kulang ako ay bahala na po ang Diyos doon, lalo na sa seguridad natin. Kung pupunta nga akong Darapanan sa Maguindanao, o sa anumang lugar, may katatagan ang kalooban kong may kasama akong propesyonal at maaasahang Presidential Security Group. Sa aking bawat aktibidad, nariyan kayo, handang magsakripisyo, handang makiramay sa trabaho abutin man ng pagod, gutom, o puyat; at talagang nakikiambag sa pagsusulong ng malawakang transpormasyon ng lipunan. Diyan po sa gutom, may naalala akong kamakailan lang nangyari. Hinarap po nating mga pamilya ng mga namatay na miyembro ng SAF. Inabot po ng madaling-araw ‘yung unang pagtitipon noong Biyernes na ‘yon. At ang kaisa-isang naipakain sa ating mga kasamahan ay maliit na hamburger noong tanghalian, eh madaling-araw na po ito. Para makabawi sa pagod, nagyaya po akong kumain. At noong dumating nga ho ang ating mga kasamahan noong gabing ‘yon, tinanong ng ating Chief of Protocol, “Ano ba ang gusto ninyong kainin?” At ang sagot nila, “Light lang, ma’am.” Madaling-araw na kasi. So ang in-order po nila ay tortang talong, tortang giniling, at iba pang klaseng torta, fried vegetable lumpia, laing, at bikol express. Iyong pinuntahan po namin, bakahan at manukan. Noong napansin nilang gutom na gutom sila, um-order na rin po sila ng baka at saka manok. Ang problema ho, out of stock na noong nadesisyunan nilang kumain. Kaya ko lang ho kinukuwento ito sa inyo, magdamag nga ho halos tayo doon sa Bicutan noong araw na ‘yon, walang laman ang ating mga bituka. Tapos dumating nga ng bawi na lang nung kinabukasan na, eh hindi pa na-order nang maayos. Pero wala ho tayong narinig na konti man lang [na] hinanakit. Bagkus, ang nakita natin mga ngiti, at nagtakahan sila bakit puro torta ang in-order nila. [Tawanan] Ang layo na nga po ng narating ng Presidential Security Group sa loob ng halos tatlong dekada. Noong nag-umpisa ang PSG, noong panahon ng nanay ko po, pagdating dito, wala na pong itinira sa atin: ultimong mga jalousy, doorknob, pati nga po mismong punong nakatayo, binunot dahil sila daw ang nagtanim kaya dadalhin na nila pag-alis nila—lahat ng matatangay ay kinuha nila. Ang mga armas, nilimas din ng mga nauna sa atin dito sa Malacañan Park. Ang mismong security ng ating ina noong kasagsagan po ng kampanya, may dala-dalang clutch bag. Ang laman ay boteng binalutan ng tuwalya para magmukhang may bukol at may laman. Anim na buwan daw ngang presidente po ang ating ina, may ilan pa rin sa kanyang close in, dala-dala pa rin clutch bag at parehong bote ang laman dahil wala nga hong armas na dinatnan dito. Bawas na bawas din ang bilang ng inyong hanay nang itatag ang PSG sa pamumuno ng noo’y si Col. Gazmin. Bagong salta pa ang tropa. Di nga po kayo kinakatakutan o iginagalang ng mga nagtangkang magkudeta. Sa di-bababang siyam na coup noong panahon ng aking ina, sinubok ang PSG, at kayo ay nagpakitang-gilas. Nakita ang inyong tibay at nagapi ang kalaban. Sa huli, PSG ang natirang matibay, gumuho ang kalaban. [Palakpakan] Kita naman ang husay ni Kalihim Gazmin noong siya ang inyong “Group”: Ang PSG, talagang ginagawa niyang “lean and mean.” Kayo nga po ang nagsilbing kaagapay at kalasag ng pangulo, ng ating bansa, at pati na ng aming pamilya. Nang ma-ambush nga ako sa harap ng St. Jude, nagbuwis ng buhay ang mga kasama kong PSG para mailigtas po tayo. Ngayon ngang ako na ang namumuno sa ating bansa, lalong lumalalim ang paghanga at kompiyansa ko sa Presidential Security Group, mula sa bumubuo ng inyong liderato, maging sa inyong mga non-commissioned officers, hanggang sa mga karaniwan ninyong kasapi at kawani. Sa pagpunta ko sa Zamboanga City noong 2013, sa pagmamando natin doon, at sa pagtungo sa mga lugar ng bakbakan, maski bago ang inyong commander noon, dahil maayos ang naging pamamalakad ng dati nating group commander na si Chito Dizon, nasiguro talaga ang seguridad ko at ng mga kasamahan natin. Sa pamumuno nga po ni Commander Raul Ubando, nagpakitang-gilas ang PSG at ang iba pang units sa ilalim ng kanyang operational control sa Zamboanga. Baka puwede ko ho idagdag: Dumating ang panahon dadalaw tayo doon sa Sports Stadium para makidamay sa lahat ng mga evacuees. Ang sabi po niya sa akin, trabaho po ng ating Group Commander, “Sir, marami nang tao diyan bago natin na-panel. Hindi na natin kaya i-panel. ‘Yung mga tao ho diyan, halo-halo na. Hindi natin sigurado kung sino ang nandiyan. At saka nandiyan ho sa mortar range ‘yang sports center na ‘yan.” Sabi ko, “Kailangan kong puntahan itong mga taong ito. Gawin mo ang magagawa mo. Buo ang kompiyansa ko sa inyo. Bahala na ang Diyos sa atin sa hindi natin kaya.” At talaga naman pong naging matiwasay at pinakita nga ho ng ating group commander, na noong panahong iyon ay dadalawang linggo pa lang yata sa puwesto ng PSG, ay handa anumang oras at anuman ang kakailanganin. Dahil sa inyo, talagang nagawa ko ang aking tungkulin nang hindi ko iniisip ang aking kaligtasan. Maski nga ho sa pagdating ng Santo Papa nitong Enero, sa kabila ng kagustuhan niyang makalapit sa napakaraming tao, nanatili siyang ligtas at naging matagumpay ang kanyang pagbisita. Malamang ang sinasabi ninyo ngayon: Di-hamak na mas madali akong bantayan kaysa sa Santo Papa. At nakita naman ng taumbayan ang husay ng PSG nga po noong naparito si Pope Francis. Ngayon, may makakapagsabi bang di kaya ng PSG ang anumang tungkulin? Siyempre, hindi tayo kampante sa lahat ng ating tagumpay. Patuloy nating patataasin ang antas ng inyong kagalingan. Dahil napakalaki ng ginagampanan n’yong tungkulin, tinitiyak ko sa inyong nakaalalay kami sa lahat ng inyong gawain. Pati ang kapakanan ninyo at maski ng mahal ninyo sa buhay, sisiguruhin nating nasa maayos na kalagayan. Sa atin nga po, may tinatawag na Central Leadership or a very strong Central Leadership, at ako ang nasa tuktok. Sagutin ko ang direksiyon, pagpapatakbo, tagumpay, at maski pagkabigo ng anumang tunguhin. Ang laki ng itinutulong ninyo sa pagpapagaan sa aking dalahin, dahil ginagampanan ninyo nang buong husay, katapatan, at propesyonalismo ang inyong trabaho. Idagdag ko na rin lang po: Noong PG Commander ang ngayo’y Gov. Ebdane, may panahong talagang nakakahuli siya ng natutulog sa puwesto. Ngayon, masasabi ko na sa loob ng higit apat na taon natin dito, ni minsan, wala akong nahuling natutulog sa pansitan o sa puwesto. Totoo po: Dahil sa PSG, may “peace of mind” ako. [Palakpakan] Ididiin ko na rin po: Bilang mga tagapagtanggol ng bayan, bilang mga kasapi ng ating nagkakaisang AFP at PNP, tunay na mga propesyonal ang mga kasapi ng PSG. Sa araw-araw na pakikipag-ugnayan ko sa inyo, nakikita ko ang matibay na samahan ng AFP at PNP na bumubuo sa aking security detail at ng iba pang unit sa inyong grupo. Ngayon ngang may naglalayong buwagin ang matibay na samahan ng ating AFP at PNP, iisa lang ang tugon ko sa mga nagtatanim ng intriga at negatibismo: Tingnan ninyo ang PSG. Tingnan ninyo ang dedikasyon ng mga sundalo at pulis na nag-aambagan upang makamit natin ang ating inaasam-asam bilang isang bansa. Tingnan ninyo ang mga kasama kong nagmamalasakit sa bayan. Nasa huling yugto na tayo ng ating administrasyon, kompiyansa ako na dahil kasama ko ang PSG, mas marami pa tayong magagawa tungo sa katuparan ng ating nagkakaisang adhikain: Isang Pilipinas na huwaran ng kaunlaran, isang bansang mapayapa, at nagsisilbing bukal ng pagkakataon para sa ating mamamayan. Nang una akong humarap sa inyong buong hanay noong ika-25 anibersaryo ninyo, ang sabi ko, “While you stand tall, the country is stable and progressive.” Sinasabi ko sa inyo ngayon: Kayo ang nagpapatunay na matatag, buo, at di-mapapantayan ang paninindigan ng ating unipormadong hanay. Kayo ang tumitindig bilang solidong kalasag ng Pangulo at ng sambayanan. At sa bawat araw, kayo at ang milyon-milyon nating mga Boss ang nagpapatunay na hindi ako kailanman nag-iisa sa pagtahak sa tuwid na daan. Sa inyong anibersaryo, tanggapin ninyo ang wagas na pasasalamat ng sambayanan para sa lahat ng inyong sakripisyo’t pagsisikap. Totoo po: Talagang ipinagmamalaki kong maging pinuno at commander-in-chief ninyo. Maraming salamat. Maligayang anibersaryo po sa lahat. | |||||||||
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INTERVIEW OF COMMUNICATIONS SECRETARY HERMINIO COLOMA, JR.
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DZRB / Balita at Panayam by Alan Allanique
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12 March 2015
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| ALAN: Secretary Coloma, sir, magandang umaga po. SEC. COLOMA: Magandang umaga, Alan. ALAN: Yes, sir. Hihingi lang po kami, Sec. Sonny, ng mga update dito ho sa tinatawag na mga Foreign Direct Investments dito sa atin sa Pilipinas po. SEC. COLOMA: Magandang balita ang umabot sa atin, Alan. Dahil sa pinakahuling pagtala, ang paglaki ng Foreign Direct Investment sa atin ay record high. Ito ay umabot sa $6.201 billion. At ito ay mas mataas ng animnapu’t-anim na porsyento doon sa dating $3.737 billion. Pahiwatig ito na lalo pang lumalawak at lumalalim iyong pagtitiwala ng mga foreign investors sa ating bansa. Ang translation nito ay mas maraming negosyo, mas maraming trabaho na malilikha para sa ating mga mamamayan at patuloy na kaunlaran ng ating ekonomiya. Pero ito rin ay nagsi-signal sa kahalagahan ng pag-catch up natin sa mahalagang larangan ng imprastruktura. Kailangan pa ring magtatag ng mas marami pang mahusay na pasilidad, katulad ng mga airports, sea ports, highways, bridges. Dahil iyong tinatawag na “connectivity,” iyon ang mahalaga sa isang bansa tulad natin na meroong mahigit sa pitong libong isla at ito rin ay napakahalaga sa maayos na daloy ng mga kalakal. Nakita na natin, Alan, iyong halimbawa na nagkaroon ng malubhang problema na port congestion. Malaki ang epeketo nito sa ekonomiya at hindi ito magandang palatandaan sa ating paghimok sa mas marami pang pamumuhunan sa ating bansa. Kaya tinutukoy ng sabay-sabay ang mga problemang iyan. At habang nakakapagtala tayo ng mataas na Foreign Direct Investments at umuunlad ang ating ekonomiya, sabay ding tinutukoy ng pamahalaan iyong kahalagahan na makasabay iyong karamihan sa ating populasyon dito. Kaya nga ang prinsipyong sinusunod din sa pagpapalago ng ekonomiya ay iyong “inclusive growth”. At hindi po natin nakakalimutan iyong pagpapa-angat sa kabuhayan ng ating mga mamamayan. ALAN: Opo. Secretary Coloma, sir, ito pong $6.201 billion. Anong sektor po, anung larangan po ang malaking bahagi nito. Ito po ba ay sa manufacturing o iba pang mga sectors, Sec. Sonny, sir? SEC. COLOMA: Umaayon ito sa mga prayoridad na itinakda natin doon sa ating Investment Priorities Plan. Ang mga prayoridad na sektor diyan ay iyong agrikultura, imprastruktura, turismo at manufacturing across industries, Alan. ALAN: Ayon. So itong mga sector na ito kumbaga bulk ng investment eh, dito pumasok. Nabanggit ninyo iyong among others, tourism. So, talagang mahalaga iyong binabangit ninyo iyong mga infrastructure na dapat ay in place na. Sir, isa ho doon sa mga binabanggit ninyong pinag-aaralan ay ang mga alternative para sa overcrowded na na airport natin dito sa Maynila. At noon pong nagsikip din ang Port of Manila ay pinilit din na ma-spread out iyong mga cargo hanggang diyan sa port naman po ng Batangas at diyan sa area ng Subic. Doon sa aspeto po ng airport muna, sir. Ano pong mga latest na mga inaaral na mga alternative o kaya ay karagdagan para sa airport natin sa Maynila, Sec. Sonny, sir? SEC. COLOMA: Iyong sa Manila airport. Ang nabatid natin hinggil diyan ay may mga ibang alternatibo na pinag-aaralan. Pero sa kasalukuyan ang pinakamatingkad ay iyong pagpapahusay ng pasilidad ng Terminal 1. Dahil nga hindi maganda ang naging reputasyon ng ating airport. Kung mapupunta po sa Terminal 1 ang ating mga kababayan ngayon ay mapapansin nila iyong malaking pagkakaiba. Iyong malaking improvement na naisagawa na dito. At mapapansin din naman natin na dumadami na rin iyong mga airline flights na sine-serbiyo mula sa Clark International Airport, na isa ring malaking pasilidad na hindi naman kalayuan sa Metro Manila. Marami na ring international airlines ang nagmumula at lumalapag sa Clark International Airport. At sa iba’t-ibang mga pangunahing lungsod ng ating bansa ay on-going iyong pagpapahusay at iyong pag-i-expand ng mga pasilidad ng mga airport. Dahil nga meron na tayong patakaran na “pocket open skies” na puwede nang damihan iyong mga flights na pumupunta at nanggagaling sa iba’t-ibang lungsod ng bansa maliban sa Manila International Airport. Kaya iyan ang mga mahalagang developments hinggil sa pagpapalago ng ating turismo, Alan. ALAN: Okay, Secretary Coloma, sir. Dito po sa trend na talagang patuloy na pagtaas ng mga Foreign Direct Investments. Ano po iyong mga sitwasyon o mga factors na kumbaga nakita nitong mga foreign investors na ito kaya napili nila dito sa Pilipinas mismo na maglagak ng kanilang mga puhunan o investments, sir? SEC. COLOMA: Isa sa mahalagang elemento diyan, Alan, ay iyong mabuting pamamahala. Nagkaroon tayo ng patakaran na pinapahusay at pinapadali iyong pag-proseso ng mga transaction ng mga negosyo. Iyong tinatawag na “ease of doing business.” Dahil kinakailangang makita ng mga namumuhunan na maayos iyong pamamahala dito sa ating bansa at madaling makipag-transaksyon sa gobyerno. Iyan iyong madalas banggitin ni Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima na “good governance leads to good economic results”. Kapag maayos iyong pamamahala ay maayos din iyong daloy ng ekonomiya. ALAN: Okay. Well, Secretary Coloma, sir. Muli salamat po ng marami for the updates from the Palace, sir. SEC. COLOMA: Maraming salamat at magandang umaga, Alan. |
| SOURCE: News Information Bureau - Data Processing Center |
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Last Updated: 11 MARCH 2015
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| Alternative photo archive with high resolutions | |
| Please click on thumbnails to magnify | |
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with Malaysian Defence Minister Dato Seri Hishammuddin Bin Tun Hussein during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (March 11, 2015). Also in photo are Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines Dato Mohd Zamri Bin Mohd Kassim, Malaysian Ministry of Defence deputy secretary Suriani Binti Ahmad, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, National Security Council Director-General and National Security Adviser Cesar Garcia, Jr. and Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Linglingay Lacanlale. (Photo by Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with Malaysian Defence Minister Dato Seri Hishammuddin Bin Tun Hussein during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (March 11). (Photo by Gil Nartea Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III and Malaysian Defence Minister Dato Seri Hishammuddin Bin Tun Hussein pose for a souvenir photo beside the portrait of former President Corazon Aquino during the courtesy call at the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (March 11). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes Malaysian Defence Minister Dato Seri Hishammuddin Bin Tun Hussein during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (March 11). (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III presents the Civilian Employee of the Year Award to Susan Tolentino during the 29th Founding Anniversary of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) at the PSG Grandstand, Malacañang Park in Manila City on Tuesday (March 10, 2015). This year's celebration has for its theme: “Kalasag ng Pangulo: Kaagapay Tungo sa Pag-Unlad at Malawakang Pagbabago.” The PSG is the lead agency tasked in providing security to the President of the Philippines and the First Family, as well as visiting Heads of States and diplomats. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III presents the Plaque of Appreciation to PCSUPT Pablo Francisco Balagtas during the 29th Founding Anniversary of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) at the PSG Grandstand, Malacañang Park in Manila City on Tuesday (March 10, 2015). This year's celebration has for its theme: “Kalasag ng Pangulo: Kaagapay Tungo sa Pag-Unlad at Malawakang Pagbabago.” The PSG is the lead agency tasked in providing security to the President of the Philippines and the First Family, as well as visiting Heads of States and diplomats. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III presents the Operational Controlled Unit Enlisted of the Year Award to CPO Aurelio Hernandez during the 29th Founding Anniversary of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) at the PSG Grandstand, Malacañang Park in Manila City on Tuesday (March 10). This year's celebration has for its theme: “Kalasag ng Pangulo: Kaagapay Tungo sa Pag-Unlad at Malawakang Pagbabago.” The PSG is the lead agency tasked in providing security to the President of the Philippines and the First Family, as well as visiting Heads of States and diplomats. (Photo by / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III presents the Organic Unit Enlisted Personnel of the Year Award to SSg. Celso Arellano during the 29th Founding Anniversary of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) at the PSG Grandstand, Malacañang Park in Manila City on Tuesday (March 10). This year's celebration has for its theme: “Kalasag ng Pangulo: Kaagapay Tungo sa Pag-Unlad at Malawakang Pagbabago.” The PSG is the lead agency tasked in providing security to the President of the Philippines and the First Family, as well as visiting Heads of States and diplomats. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III presents the Operational Controlled Unit Officer of the Year Award to Maj. Lourdes Imperial during the 29th Founding Anniversary of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) at the PSG Grandstand, Malacañang Park in Manila City on Tuesday (March 10, 2015). This year's celebration has for its theme: “Kalasag ng Pangulo: Kaagapay Tungo sa Pag-Unlad at Malawakang Pagbabago.” The PSG is the lead agency tasked in providing security to the President of the Philippines and the First Family, as well as visiting Heads of States and diplomats. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III presents the Organic Unit Officer of the Year Award to LCDR Aniceto Medalla during the 29th Founding Anniversary of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) at the PSG Grandstand, Malacañang Park in Manila City on Tuesday (March 10). This year's celebration has for its theme: “Kalasag ng Pangulo: Kaagapay Tungo sa Pag-Unlad at Malawakang Pagbabago.” The PSG is the lead agency tasked in providing security to the President of the Philippines and the First Family, as well as visiting Heads of States and diplomats. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 29th Founding Anniversary of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) at the PSG Grandstand, Malacañang Park in Manila City on Tuesday (March 10). This year's celebration has for its theme: “Kalasag ng Pangulo: Kaagapay Tungo sa Pag-Unlad at Malawakang Pagbabago.” The PSG is the lead agency tasked in providing security to the President of the Philippines and the First Family, as well as visiting Heads of States and diplomats. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III receives a Memento from PSG Commander Commodore Raul Ubando during the 29th Founding Anniversary of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) at the PSG Grandstand, Malacañang Park in Manila City on Tuesday (March 10). This year's celebration has for its theme: “Kalasag ng Pangulo: Kaagapay Tungo sa Pag-Unlad at Malawakang Pagbabago.” The PSG is the lead agency tasked in providing security to the President of the Philippines and the First Family, as well as visiting Heads of States and diplomats. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech at the 29th Founding Anniversary of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) at the PSG Grandstand, Malacañang Park in Manila City on Tuesday (March 10). This year's celebration has for its theme: “Kalasag ng Pangulo: Kaagapay Tungo sa Pag-Unlad at Malawakang Pagbabago.” The PSG is the lead agency tasked in providing security to the President of the Philippines and the First Family, as well as visiting Heads of States and diplomats. Also in photo is PCOO Sec. Sonny Coloma.(Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III troops the line during the 29th Founding Anniversary of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) at the PSG Grandstand, Malacañang Park in Manila City on Tuesday (March 10). This year's celebration has for its theme: “Kalasag ng Pangulo: Kaagapay Tungo sa Pag-Unlad at Malawakang Pagbabago.” The PSG is the lead agency tasked in providing security to the President of the Philippines and the First Family, as well as visiting Heads of States and diplomats. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | Presidential Security Group (PSG) celebrates its 29th Founding Anniversary at the PSG Grandstand, Malacañang Park in Manila City on Tuesday (March 10). This year's celebration has for its theme: “Kalasag ng Pangulo: Kaagapay Tungo sa Pag-Unlad at Malawakang Pagbabago.” The PSG is the lead agency tasked in providing security to the President of the Philippines and the First Family, as well as visiting Heads of States and diplomats. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech at the 29th Founding Anniversary of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) at the PSG Grandstand, Malacañang Park in Manila City on Tuesday (March 10). This year's celebration has for its theme: “Kalasag ng Pangulo: Kaagapay Tungo sa Pag-Unlad at Malawakang Pagbabago.” The PSG is the lead agency tasked in providing security to the President of the Philippines and the First Family, as well as visiting Heads of States and diplomats. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 29th Founding Anniversary of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) at the PSG Grandstand, Malacañang Park in Manila City on Tuesday (March 10). This year's celebration has for its theme: “Kalasag ng Pangulo: Kaagapay Tungo sa Pag-Unlad at Malawakang Pagbabago.” The PSG is the lead agency tasked in providing security to the President of the Philippines and the First Family, as well as visiting Heads of States and diplomats. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III leads the singing of the Philippine National Anthem during the 29th Founding Anniversary of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) at the PSG Grandstand, Malacañang Park in Manila City on Tuesday (March 10). This year's celebration has for its theme: “Kalasag ng Pangulo: Kaagapay Tungo sa Pag-Unlad at Malawakang Pagbabago.” The PSG is the lead agency tasked in providing security to the President of the Philippines and the First Family, as well as visiting Heads of States and diplomats. Also in photo are PSG Commander Commodore Raul Ubando and Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 29th Founding Anniversary of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) at the PSG Grandstand, Malacañang Park in Manila City on Tuesday (March 10). This year's celebration has for its theme: “Kalasag ng Pangulo: Kaagapay Tungo sa Pag-Unlad at Malawakang Pagbabago.” The PSG is the lead agency tasked in providing security to the President of the Philippines and the First Family, as well as visiting Heads of States and diplomats. Also in photo are PSG Commander Commodore Raul Ubando and Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III troops the line during the 29th Founding Anniversary of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) at the PSG Grandstand, Malacañang Park in Manila City on Tuesday (March 10). This year's celebration has for its theme: “Kalasag ng Pangulo: Kaagapay Tungo sa Pag-Unlad at Malawakang Pagbabago.” The PSG is the lead agency tasked in providing security to the President of the Philippines and the First Family, as well as visiting Heads of States and diplomats. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | Jesus Is Lord Church spiritual director and Philippines for Jesus Movement national chairman Bro. Eddie Villanueva leads the congregation for a pray over to President Benigno S. Aquino III during the Malacañang Prayer Gathering at the Malacañan Palace Grounds on Monday (March 09). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III answers questions from the guests for the Presidential Hour during the Malacañang Prayer Gathering at the Malacañan Palace Grounds on Monday (March 09). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his message during the Malacañang Prayer Gathering at the Malacañan Palace Grounds on Monday (March 09). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III attends the Malacañang Prayer Gathering at the Malacañan Palace Grounds on Monday (March 09). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | Delegates attending the APEC Finance and Central Bank Deputies Meeting in Taal Vista Hotel in Tagaytay City, Cavite gather for a group photo at the hotel's open terrace overlooking Taal Volcano on Thursday (March 5). | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the Assumption of Command Ceremony of Philippine National Police-Special Action Force at Camp Bagong Diwa in Bicutan, Taguig City on Wednesday (March 04). Also in photo are PNP-SAF OIC P/CSupt. Noli Taliño, Deputy General Marcelo Garbo Jr, chief of the PNP directorial staff, PNP Deputy Chief for Operation and OIC Chief PDDG Leonardo Espina and Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the Assumption of Command Ceremony of Philippine National Police-Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) at Camp Bagong Diwa in Bicutan, Taguig City on Wednesday (March 04). Also in photo is Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III is introduced to PNP-SAF OIC P/CSupt. Noli Taliño (second from left) by the newly newly installed PNP-SAF Director Chief Superintendent Moro Virgilio Lazo (left), as Deputy General Marcelo Garbo Jr, chief of the PNP directorial staff, OIC Chief PDDG Leonardo Espina and DILG Sec. Mar Roxas look on during the Assumption of Command Ceremony of Philippine National Police-Special Action Force at Camp Bagong Diwa in Bicutan, Taguig City on Wednesday (March 04). Lazo is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Maharlika” Class of 1984. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III congratulates the newly installed PNP-SAF Director Chief Superintendent Moro Virgilio Lazo as PNP-SAF OIC P/CSupt. Noli Taliño (left) and PNP Deputy Chief for Operation, OIC Chief PDDG Leonardo Espina and DILG Sec. Mar Roxas look on during the Assumption of Command Ceremony of Philippine National Police-Special Action Force at Camp Bagong Diwa in Bicutan, Taguig City on Wednesday (March 04). Lazo is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Maharlika” Class of 1984. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | Group Photo Caption: Delegates from APEC member-economies, and multilateral and international institutions gather in Tagaytay City, Philippines for the 2015 Asia-Pacific Forum on Financial Inclusion. The Forum, which runs from 3-4 March 2015, seeks to discuss initiatives that may push forward the agenda of making financial products and services accessible to a wider range of people across the Asia-Pacific Region. | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III bids farewell to The Prince and Grand Master of the Sovereign Order of Malta Fra’ Matthew Festing during the Departure Honors at the Malacañan Palace Main Lobby on Tuesday (March 03). (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr./ Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III and The Prince and Grand Master of the Sovereign Order of Malta Fra’ Matthew Festing troop the line during the Departure Honors at the Malacañan Palace Main Lobby on Tuesday (March 03). (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III bids farewell to The Prince and Grand Master of the Sovereign Order of Malta Fra’ Matthew Festing during the Departure Honors at the Malacañan Palace Main Lobby on Tuesday (March 03). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III and The Prince and Grand Master of the Sovereign Order of Malta Fra’ Matthew Festing troop the line during the Departure Honors at the Malacañan Palace Main Lobby on Tuesday (March 03). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III confers the Order of Sikatuna with the rank of Raja (Grand Collar) on The Prince and Grand Master of the Sovereign Order of Malta Fra’ Matthew Festing at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace during the Official Visit to the Philippines on Tuesday (March 03). (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III receives from The Prince and Grand Master of the Sovereign Hospitaller Order of St. John of Jerusalem of Rhodes and the Sovereign Order of Malta Fra’ Matthew Festing the symbolic key of 700 newly constructed houses in Basey, Samar and Bantayan Island, Cebu donated by the Sovereign Order of Malta during the ceremonial turn-over at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace for the Official Visit to the Philippines on Tuesday (March 03). (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III shakes hands with The Prince and Grand Master of the Sovereign Hospitaller Order of St. John of Jerusalem of Rhodes and of the Sovereign Order of Malta, Fra’ Matthew Festing during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace for the Official Visit to the Philippines on Tuesday (March 03). (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III witnesses The Prince and Grand Master of the Sovereign Hospitaller Order of St. John of Jerusalem of Rhodes and of the Sovereign Order of Malta, Fra’ Matthew Festing sign the Palace Guest Book at the Reception Hall of the Malacañan Palace during the Official Visit to the Philippines on Tuesday (March 03). (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III and The Prince and Grand Master of the Sovereign Hospitaller Order of St. John of Jerusalem of Rhodes and of the Sovereign Order of Malta, Fra’ Matthew Festing lead the ceremonial toasts during the Official Luncheon at the President’s Hall of the Malacañan Palace for the Official Visit to the Philippines on Tuesday (March 03). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III listens as The Prince and Grand Master of the Sovereign Order of Malta, Fra’ Matthew Festing delivers his message during the Official Luncheon at the President’s Hall of the Malacañan Palace for the Official Visit to the Philippines on Tuesday (March 03). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
Philippine Information Agency Region 1 and 3 others shared a link.
- Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!
Here's the link to the March 12 2015 Edition of One Luzon E-Newsmagazine
http://issuu.com/one_luzon/docs/vol.5_no.049
Maraming Salamat Po!
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