| OPAPP to provide Senate with MILF report on Mamasapano incident |
| Source: http://www.opapp.gov.ph |
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| Manila—The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) today gave its assurances to Senator Bongbong Marcos through a letter to immediately provide his request for a copy of the report of the Special Investigation Committee of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front on the Mamasapano incident. “We confirm that we received the letter of Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. to OPAPP yesterday, advising us of the joint hearing of the Committee on Local Government and Committee on Peace, Unification and Reconciliation on April 13 to discuss the GPH (Government of the Philippines)-MILF ceasefire mechanisms,” Director Polly Michelle Cunanan of the OPAPP Bangsamoro Communications Team said. Cunanan explained that the letter also conveyed the request of Marcos for a copy of the MILF report on the Mamasapano incident. "Our office has sent today a response from Secretary Deles addressed to Senator Marcos, acknowledging with appreciation the advise on the resumption of the Senate hearings on the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law. The Secretary also responded to the Senator's request with an assurance to send the copy of the report of the MILF Special Investigation Committee as soon as it receives the formal transmittal coursed thru the International Monitoring Team or IMT. " Earlier, Mohagher Iqbal, the chair of the MILF negotiating panel, said that they will be giving a copy of their investigation report on the Mamasapano incident to the government through the IMT, which monitors the ceasefire between the Government of the Philippines and the MILF. The IMT is composed of representatives from different countries, which includes Malaysia, Norway, Indonesia, Brunei and Japan. |
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| Statement by Secretary Teresita Quintos Deles on the Executive Summary of the Draft Report of the Senate Committees on Public Order, Peace, Unification and Reconciliation and Finance on the Mamasapano Incident |
| Source: http://www.opapp.gov.ph |
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I fully agree with the findings of the Senate Committee headed by Senator Grace Poe that investigated the Mamasapano incident that there can be no real justice without peace. The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) believes in the primacy of the government in ensuring peace and justice in any area in the country.
This has always been the policy that has guided the Bangsamoro peace process under the Aquino Administration. A justice that knows no religion, gender, color or ethnicity; only truth, fairness and the law that binds us all.
What we have always implemented is a comprehensive peace process that seeks a principled and peaceful resolution of the internal armed conflicts, with neither blame nor surrender, but with dignity for all concerned, as established since the time of President Fidel V. Ramos, under EO no. 125, series of 1993 and reaffirmed under EO no. 3, series of 2001.
Thus, we are gladdened by Senator Poe’s declaration that we cannot abandon the peace process. We believe that justice will be achieved in the death of the 44 SAF troopers and the others who lost their lives in Mamasapano, if we continue to pursue the path of peace in Mindanao. A process that will not only bring genuine autonomy for Muslim Mindanao but also establish a political entity that embraces respect for the rule of law and the eminence of the Constitution of the Philippines. We have the assurance of the MILF in this, in their years of negotiating with the government to achieve a political solution to the armed conflict that had cost hundreds of thousands of lives in Mindanao.
Justice for our SAF 44, and the others who lost their lives in Mamasapano, will be best served under a climate of peace. We should not let their deaths be in vain, and in this we trust that our partners in peace in Mindanao will do their part in ensuring that justice is attained with the dignity called for under a principled peace process that the Philippine government has been pursuing for 17 years. |
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| Fitch affirms investment grade of PH |
| Source: http://www.gov.ph |
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Credit watchdog Fitch Ratings has maintained the investment grade of the Philippines, citing consistently strong fundamentals that allowed the economy to outperform peers.
Fitch kept the long-term, foreign currency rating of the Philippines at BBB– as it expects the economy to continue posting one of the fastest growth rates this year and next year. The rating was assigned a “stable” outlook, which means it is likely to stay the same over the short term.
“Philippines’ 5-year [average] real GDP growth was estimated to be 6.3% at the end of 2014, which is far above the ‘BBB’ median of 3%,” Fitch said in its latest report on the Philippines released Tuesday.
Fitch expects the Philippine economy to grow by 6.3% this year and 6.2% next year, faster than growth projections for most emerging economies.
The Philippines had become one of the fastest growing economies from 2010 – 2014 despite a fragile global economy. Its economic performance over the period was attributed largely to the government’s reform agenda, which covered administrative and legislative measures to improve governance.
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Amando Tetangco, Jr. said the decision of Fitch to keep the country’s investment grade recognized the sustained strength of key fundamentals, including the country’s healthy external payments position, stable banking sector, and within-target inflation.
“The Philippine economy has reached a level of resiliency that is more comfortable than that of its peers as a result of accumulation of sufficient foreign-exchange buffer, sturdy financial system, and price stability. All of these are anchored on prudent monetary policy and effective supervision of banks and other financial institutions,” Tetangco said.
In its report, Fitch recognized the strength of the country’s external finances. Based on its estimate, the Philippines by the end of 2014 was a net external creditor at an amount equivalent to 15.4% of its GDP, outperforming the median net debtor position of 4.7% of GDP for other countries with about the same credit ratings.
“Sustained current account surpluses since 2003 have supported the buildup in FX reserves and turned the country into a net external creditor,” it said.
By the end of 2014, the country’s gross international reserves amounted to $79.5 billion. This was enough to cover the country’s import requirements of 10.2 months and was six times the country’s outstanding short-term debts maturing within the short term.
Fitch likewise recognized ample liquidity in the economy that has helped meet the country’s growing funding requirements and accelerate growth.
“Abundant domestic liquidity and generally buoyant economic conditions have supported a sustained period of robust credit growth,” Fitch said.
Meantime, Finance Secretary Cesar V. Purisima believes the country remains underrated by Fitch. As such, he said, the country’s credit story is expected to further improve as the good governance agenda continues.
The Philippines’ credit rating with Fitch is one notch below the rating assigned by the two other major international credit rating agencies—Moody’s Investors Service and Standard & Poor’s.
“Consistently robust growth and macroeconomic fundamentals built over the past 4 years affirm that the Philippine economic story is defined by sustainability, stability, and resiliency. Looking ahead, we expect credit ratings to further improve as the country continues to register even better fundamentals on the back of expanded fiscal space and continued governance reforms,” Purisima said.
One of the key indicators of creditworthiness, the debt burden of the Philippines had consistently dropped over the years. From 42.2 % of gross domestic product in 2010, the general government debt stood at 37.3% of GDP in 2014.
Fitch expects the figure to drop further to 34.4% in 2016. |
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| Online Jobs to Fuel Employment Growth in Mindanao |
| Source: http://icto.dost.gov.ph |
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QUEZON CITY — Amidst the negative perception surrounding Mindanao due to peace concerns, online jobs are seen by the government as a way to boost employment in its provinces.
To promote online jobs in Mindanao, the Department of Science and Technology-Information and Communications Technology Office (DOST-ICT Office), in partnership with online job platforms Freelancer.com and Online Jobs University, has initiated a workshop on Rural Impact Sourcing (RIS) in Kapatagan, Lanao del Norte.
“Most of our well-known companies in the Information Technology Business Process Management (IT-BPM) industry are hesitant to locate in Mindanao.” said ICT Office Deputy Executive Director Mon Ibrahim. “The government, however, realizes the potential of impact sourcing or online jobs to provide alternative means of employment in these areas.” he added.
Conducted last February, the workshop, which featured ways on how Filipinos can earn competitive income even in the comfort of their homes through online jobs, was attended by at least 200 students and young professionals.
With the support of the local government of Kapatagan, the workshop has been re-echoed
to more than six schools in Lanao del Norte.
“Mindanao is so blessed with resources. And most importantly, we also have a great pool of talent.” Kapatagan Councilor Paul Lagura said. “We will be helping the ICT office conduct re-echo workshops to other local governments about digital employment as an innovative opportunity of for socio-economic growth.”
The number of online job workers in various cities in Mindanao has been increasing over the years. In fact, Davao City, Cagayan de Oro City, and Iligan City are included in Freelancer.com’s Top 20 Philippine cities with the most number of freelancers.
Freelancer.com Regional Director for South East Asia Evan Tan says that as the world’s largest freelancing and outsourcing marketplace, “Freelancer believes that everyone deserves an equal opportunity to work, wherever and whoever they may be.” Serving as an economic platform for people in rural communities like Kapatagan in Lanao del Norte, he said Freelancer through their partnership with DOST-ICT Office is committed to uplifting the lives of Filipinos.
Scholarship and training programs were also awarded by Online Jobs University during the impact sourcing workshop. A Filipino founded web-based online training site, Online Jobs University serves as a capability development platform for those who want to build a career as an online professional.
“By encouraging our kababayans to consider doing online work for clients locally and abroad, we hope they will not leave their hometowns and families just to look for jobs that will fit their skills and competencies. Having an online career opens big doors of opportunities and possibilities for them and their hometowns.” said Online Jobs University founder Genesis Reonico.
According to the National Statistics Coordination Board, as of 2014 10 of the 16 poorest provinces of the country are in Mindanao. It has an estimate of 10 million labor force with an unemployment rate of 4.5 percent. In spite of this, Mindanao produces at least 700,000 college graduates a year, which specializes in various fields such as computer science, information technology and engineering.
The recently concluded Rural Impact Sourcing workshop is part of the digitalPH initiative of the ICT Office, which aims to generate at least 1.6 million direct IT-BPM jobs for Filipinos by 2016 with at least 40 percent of this coming from the countryside.
For more information about this government initiative, visit www.icto.dost.gov.ph or like
us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/digitalPH2015.
About DOST-ICT Office – The Information and Communications Technology Office of the Department of Science and Technology is the Philippine Government’s lead agency on ICT related matters. Its primary thrusts are in the ICT Industry Development, eGovernment, ICT policy development, Internet for all and Cybersecurity. |
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| Better prepare for Betty - Roxas tells local execs |
| Source: http://dilg.gov.ph |
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Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas called the attention of local chief executives in the Northeastern part of Luzon to prepare for typhoon "Betty."
As of last night, the typhoon with international name "Bavi" was already inside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), more than a thousand kilometers east of Casiguran, Aurora.
It has a strength of 65-80 kph, moving at 20 kph, and bringing light to moderate rains.
With its current direction, it is bound to make landfall near Isabela province, according to the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
"Ayon sa datos na nakalap ng PAGASA, ito ay hindi nakikitang lalakas pa," Roxas said in an SMS for local executives in affected areas.
Nonetheless, Roxas urged them to take the necessary precautions and ensure the safety of their constituents above all else.
"Gayunpaman, inaabisuhan ang lahat na maghanda at patuloy na antabayanan ang susunod na ulat panahon," he said. |
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| Roxas wants firefighters protected from angry fire victims |
| Source: http://dilg.gov.ph |
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Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas ordered the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) and the Bureau of Fire Protection-National Capital Region (BFP-NCR) to immediately launch a joint investigation after receiving reports that fire fighters were being attacked by residents as they perform their duties.
"These are individuals who put their own lives on the line in the name of duty. And they should be supported enough para mabigyan sila ng security at ng highest chance of success sa lahat ng misyon nila," Roxas said.
This was after Roxas received word from the Association of Philippine Volunteer Fire Brigades, Inc., that instructed all volunteer fire brigades to pull out from a fire that broke out on Tuesday evening in Brgy. Tonsuya, Malabon City.
According to reports, four firefighters were injured while they were extinguishing the fire. Two of them were Eden Santos, who received a blow to the head from a fire hose, and Michael Tubalinal, who was smacked across the forehead. Residents also reportedly threw rocks at the fire volunteers, breaking a firetruck's windshield.
BFP-NCR Director Senior Superintendent Sergio Soriano said that the fire started due to a home's faulty electrical wiring, causing the deaths of two senior citizens, affecting more than 500 families, and destroying more than 250 homes and properties worth around three million pesos.
The fire was effectively put out at 3:55 this morning.
There have also been similar reports in the past wherein firefighters are attacked by residents due to high tensions that arise in fire situations.
"Indeed, we cannot afford to sacrifice the personal safety and security of our volunteers," Roxas remarked.
In the meantime, Roxas reminded the public to be more calm and responsible on such occasions, while highlighting that fires should be prevented all together. |
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| DENR mangrove-beach forest plan gets P400-M seed fund; Abad: Preperation and prevention key in build back better |
| Source: http://www.dbm.gov.ph |
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The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has released an initial P400 million to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for their Mangrove and Beach Forest Development Project (MBFDP) under the National Greening Program.
The amount, representing 40 percent of the total P1.0-billion funding requirement of the project as recommended by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRMMC), will be charged against the Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Program (RRP) under the FY 2014 General Appropriations Act (GAA).
Under this project, the National Government—with the participation of concerned stakeholders from both local government units (LGUs) and the private sector/non-governmental organizations (NGOs)—will develop mangroves and beach forests in areas affected by Typhoon Yolanda and other disasters that hit several regions in the country.
Budget Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad said, “All of our rehabilitation efforts will need to be grounded on ensuring the safety of communities against natural disasters in the future. That’s why comprehensive preparation and prevention are key elements in our policy of Build Back Better, which includes the replanting of mangrove and beach forests on our coastlines.”
Among the priority sites of the project are: areas affected by Typhoon Yolanda; areas affected by siege and unrest (Zamboanga); areas damaged by earthquakes (Cebu and Bohol); and other areas damaged by Typhoon Pablo (Region 11 and 13). The estimated land area of 27,400 hectares covered by the project can be broken down to 22,000 hectares of mangrove forests and 5,400 hectares of beach forests.
The project will include the following activities: site preparation, nursery development, mangrove and beach forest planting, and maintenance and protection. The P400-million fund will cover the initial requirements to undertake critical activities:
PROGRAM/PROJECT/ACTIVITY
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INITIAL RELEASE
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| Site validation and assessment | P12,330,000 |
| Baseline/benchmark data collection on validated sites (research component) | P20,550,000 |
| Site preparation (removal of debris, garbage, etc.) | P54,800,000 |
| Nursery establishment and operation by concerned barangay/community to produce the required number of planting materials | P8,550,000 |
| Wildings and propagules collection/ production | P240,070,400 |
| Plantation establishment | P27,400,000 |
| Community capacity building | P174,000 |
| Project monitoring and supervision | P36,125,600 |
| TOTAL | P400,000,000 |
For subsequent releases of the fund, the DENR has to submit requirements—including identified sites for target planting activities and actual seedling/planting activities (with geo-tagged photos)—to the DBM.
Abad said, “Our country’s natural resources not only shower us with abundant riches but also provide us with a natural defense against typhoons and storms. That’s why proper management of resources is part of the Administration’s strategy in climate change mitigation to safeguard our countrymen against future calamities.”
Under the FY 2015 GAA, the National Government allotted a budget of P21.7 billion to implement their Build Back Better strategy that integrates a preventive approach with efforts that focus on climate change adaptation and mitigation (CCAM) and Disaster Risk Reduction Management actions and interventions.
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| P8.0-B housing fund to support on-going Yolanda rehab; Abad: 2014 supplemental budget instrumental in rehab plan |
| Source: http://www.dbm.gov.ph |
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The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has released P8.0 billion to the National Housing Authority (NHA), as part of the National Government’s continuing rehabilitation and recovery of areas affected by Typhoon Yolanda last November 2013.
The amount is part of the P19.0 billion recommended by the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC) as funding requirement for resettlement projects in Yolanda-affected areas. The P8.0-billion fund will be charged against the 2014 Supplemental Appropriations for the construction of permanent housing for victims of Typhoon Yolanda.
Budget Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad said, “The 2014 Supplemental Budget fortunately enabled us to fast-track the implementation of the Yolanda rehabilitation plan instead of having to wait for the next fiscal year. What’s more, with the help of Congress, we had the budgetary space to address high-priority needs that couldn’t wait for the turnover to the next national budget.”
The NHA’s Yolanda Permanent Housing Program was created to address the housing needs of 205,128 families in Regions IV-B, V, VI, VII, VIII, and CARAGA as recommended by the Office of the Presidential Assistant for Rehabilitation and Recovery (OPARR). Prior to this release, the DBM had released P11 billion last October 2014 charged against the NDRRM Fund under the FY 2014 General Appropriations Act (GAA).
The following is the breakdown of the provinces to be provided with housing assistance:
PARTICULARS
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AMOUNT
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| Region VI | P4,063,988,000 |
| Aklan | P89,335,000 |
| Antique | P629,735,000 |
| Capiz | P768,570,000 |
| Iloilo | P1,224,614,000 |
| Negros Occidental | P1,351,734,000 |
| | |
| Region VIII | P3,935,990,000 |
| Biliran | P477,720,000 |
| Eastern Samar | P359,974,000 |
| Samar | P971,256,000 |
| Leyte | P1,342,654,000 |
| Ormoc City | P122,725,000 |
| Tacloban City | P661,661,000 |
| | |
| TOTAL | P7,999,978,000 |
Abad said, “Creating the budgetary support for the NHA’s permanent housing program for Typhoon Yolanda victims is just part of the National Government’s thrust to ‘Build Back Better’. By incorporating prevention and preparedness in our rehabilitation efforts, we’ll be able to safeguard settlements throughout the country against future tragedies.”
Though the DBM has released the Special Allotment Release Order (SARO), the Notice of Cash Allocation (NCA) will only be released upon the submission of the NHA’s report of its utilization of available cash as per National Budget Circular No. 556.
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| PHL Company-Led Water Summit Kicks Off in Yangon |
| Source: http://dfa.gov.ph |
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18 March 2015 – The Yangon Water Summit, organized by the Manila Water Company Inc., in partnership with Mitsubishi Corporation and the Yangon City Development Committee (YCDC), kicked off at the Shangri-La Sule Hotel on March 13.
The summit discussed Yangon’s urban water situation and the modalities of Public-Private Partnership (PPP) available for the water sector. The summit also looked into the urban water reforms in the Philippines, particularly Metro Manila.
Former President Fidel V. Ramos, in his keynote address, said the water reforms instituted under his administration, particularly the privatization of the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS), resulted in improved access to potable water for 24 hours to about 90% of the 15 million population of Metro Manila and the reduction of non-revenue water from 63% in 1997 to 11% at present.
On 17 March 2014, Manila Water Company Inc. signed with Yangon City Development Committee (YCDC) and Mitsubishi Corporation a Memorandum of Understanding for the Pilot Non-Revenue Water Reduction Project in Yangon City which aims to improve the Yangon City government’s provision of clean and potable water to initially two of the 33 townships in four districts in the city. |
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| PHL Mission to the UN Briefs International Fellows from US Army War College on PHL Interests in the UN |
| Source: http://dfa.gov.ph |
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18 March 2015 – As part of its public diplomacy efforts, the Philippine Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York received a select group of military officers from the U.S. Army War College International Fellows Class of 2015, led by Colonel Rene Glen O. Paje from the Philippines, and briefed them on issues of interest to the Philippines, including peacekeeping, disarmament, climate change, the post-2015 development agenda, and the West Philippine Sea.
The Philippine Mission’s Second Secretary Shirley L. Flores spearheaded the briefing together with the Mission’s experts. Philippine Military Attaché in New York, Colonel Jaime Fernando R. Hidalgo, and Colonel Roberto Ancan of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, were also present in the briefing. |
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| DOTC, LTO to bare list of delinquent dealers |
| Source: http://dotc.gov.ph |
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Unclaimed License Plates Show Customers Being Shortchanged
“The public deserves to know if their car dealerships are shortchanging them. We will release lists of delinquent dealers in the coming weeks to show which ones aren’t fulfilling their promises to their customers,” Department of Transportation and Communications Secretary Jun Abaya disclosed today.
Abaya and Land Transportation Office (LTO) chief Assistant Secretary Alfonso Tan, Jr. have decided to bare the names of delinquent dealerships upon receiving reports that the latter deliberately misinform their customers as to the status of their license plate applications.
“The problem is that the delinquent dealers tell their customers that the LTO does not have new plates, when in fact, they’re the ones who aren’t fulfilling their services. They let months pass despite knowing fully well that the plates are ready – and they even mislead their customers about it,” Abaya explained.
“License plates for first-time motor vehicle registrants are available-on-demand. Yet many of these plates remain unclaimed from LTO offices,” Tan remarked.
The DOTC and the LTO will release the lists of delinquent dealerships in the coming weeks, to better inform the public as to which dealerships actually deliver the services they offer to their customers, and which ones are shortchanging them.
“For owners of new motor vehicles whose dealers tell them that the LTO is not ready with new plates: come to our offices so you can claim them yourselves. Your license plates are ready at your place of registration,” Tan said.
Vehicle dealerships are regulated by the LTO, which can suspend and even revoke accreditation when warranted.
The new plates are part of the LTO’s License Plate Standardization Program, which will phase out the nine (9) existing designs currently in use, over the next two (2) years. They sport a sleek black-on-white design which improves visibility and can be seen from different angles. The new plates contain various security features such as tamper-resistant locks, reflective sheeting material, and a “third-plate” sticker.
These third-plate stickers replace the windshield stickers currently issued as proof of annual registration. Similarly, registration stickers attached to license plates will no longer be issued for new license plates. |
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| U/KBs Sustain Adequate Capital Levels Against Risks |
| Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph |
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The capital adequacy ratios (CARs) of universal and commercial banks (U/KBs) stood at 16.32 percent on solo basis and 16.99 percent on consolidated basis at end-September 2014.
The CAR figures were both higher than the 15.94 percent on solo basis and 16.66 percent on consolidated basis recorded in end-June last year.
The industry’s capital base continues to be driven by Common Equity Tier 1 (CET 1), which is the highest quality among instruments eligible as bank capital. The CET 1 of U/KBs represented 13.73 percent and 14.49 percent of risk weighted assets (RWA) on solo and consolidated bases, respectively.
Meanwhile, the banks’ Tier 1 ratios stood at 13.94 percent on solo basis and 14.66 percent on consolidated basis. Tier 1 ratios are composed of common equity and qualified capital instruments.
The third quarter 2014 increase in the CAR of U/KBs was due to the capital raising activities of domestic banks, additional capital infusion of foreign banks to their local branches and earnings generated. This enabled the banks to increase their total qualifying capital by 5.67 percent quarter-on-quarter to Php 932.23 billion from Php 882.17 billion in end-June last year.
The U/KBs RWA also rose by 3.23 percent due to increase in lending to the corporate sector.
The banks’ CAR figures indicate that U/KBs maintain sufficient buffer against unexpected losses that may arise during times of stress. Under the broader banking reform agenda, the BSP continues to monitor the capital position of banks vis-à-vis their risk taking activities. A strong capital position promotes financial stability which is a key policy objective of the BSP. |
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| Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries become academic achievers |
| Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph |
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Cagayan de Oro City – Beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) are now proving to be worthy of the government’s human capital investment.
Eleven of the 56 student-grantees of the Expanded Students Grants in-Aid Program for Poverty Alleviation (ESGP-PA) enrolled at the Mindanao State University (MSU)-Naawan in Misamis Oriental were among the university’s academic achievers for the first semester of school year 2014-2015.
During the ceremony, the university administrators conferred the award to the achievers in the ESGP-PA Family Day on February 27.
ESGP-PA is a college scholarship program of DSWD, Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) for Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries.
Under the program, a student-grantee is entitled to a maximum grant of P60,000 per school year or P30,000 per semester for tuition and other school fees, textbooks or other learning materials, and stipend.
Spark of hope
Seventeen-year-old John Paul Ambaic, a native of Barangay Mahayahay, Manticao, Misamis Oriental, is among the awardees. He is a freshman student taking up Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education, Major in Mathematics.
“I am thankful to the national government, especially to DSWD, for giving me the chance to achieve my dreams,” he said.
Holding back his tears while talking, John Paul related that when he graduated from high school, he had doubts that he would be able to attend college because his parents could not afford to pay for the tuition fees.
Now that he is a beneficiary of the ESGP-PA, John Paul said he is assured of his future.
“Makatabang na gyud ko sa akong mga manghod ug ginikanan kung makahuman ko (I can help my younger siblings and parents if I finish my studies).”
John Paul is the eldest in a brood of three. For him, being the eldest made him realize that he has a responsibility to finish his studies and to help send his younger siblings to school.
John Paul’s mother, Lucel, is hopeful that with her son finishing college, their family would eventually move out of poverty.
With the high expectations coming from his parents, John Paul is not only determined to finish his studies, but is also firm on maintaining his excellent academic standing.
“Dahil sa Pantawid Pamilya, makakamit ko na ang aking mga pangarap at makakatulong sa aking pamilya. Tunay na kaya ko ang pagbabago sa tulong ng pamahalaan (Because of Pantawid Pamilya, I can reach my dreams and be able to help my family. It’s true that I can change for the better with the government’s help),” John Paul enthused.
No more promissory notes
Another ESGP-PA beneficiary, Mae Ann Ternate, 17, can heave a sigh of relief knowing that she will no longer be making promissory notes to the school registrar and cashier for delayed payment of tuition fees after being included in the program for the second semester.
Mae Ann, a resident of Barangay Gimaylan, Libertad, Misamis Oriental, said that despite her excellent performance in school, she was not assured of finishing college because her parents could not afford to pay for her educational expenses.
Now that she is a beneficiary of ESGP-PA, Mae Ann assured her parents and the MSU-Naawan Board of Regents that she would finish her studies with flying colors.
“Eto na ang simula ng pagbabago sa aming buhay upang makamit ko ang aking mga pangarap at makaahon sa kahirapan, sa tulong ng Pantawid Pamilya. (This is the start of positive change in our lives which will enable me to fulfill my dreams and rise up from poverty, with the help of Pantawid Pamilya.),” Mae Ann exulted.
Pantawid Pamilya is the government’s flagship program that invests in human capital. It ensures that children are in school and are kept healthy so that they can have a fighting chance to be part of inclusive growth.
As of January 25, 2015, there are 31,350 student-grantees nationwide under ESGP-PA. In Northern Mindanao alone, there are 2,037 student-grantees enrolled in eight CHED-accredited state colleges and universities. |
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| Baldoz announces new wage hike for Metro minimum wage earners |
| Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph |
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Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz, Chairperson of the National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC) yesterday announced a new pay raise for over half-a-million minimum wage earners—587,000—in NCR, the 19th such increase in minimum wages since R.A. 6727, or The Wage Rationalization Act, became a law on 9 June 1989, and the fifth such minimum wage pay hike under the administration of President Benigno S. Aquino III.
Secretary Baldoz made the announcement after DOLE-NCR Regional Director Alex Avila reported to the labor and employment chief that the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board-National Capital Region (RTWPB-NCR) has approved a resolution granting a P15 increase in the daily basic minimum wage and continuing a P15 Cost of Living Allowance in effect since January 2014.
“The new minimum wage in the National Capital Region has been raised to P481 for workers in the non-agriculture sector and P444 for workers in the agricultural sector. The minimum wage hike is expected to be affirmed by the NWPC this week, and the RTWPB will publish it, after which it will take effect 15 days after its publication,” Avila said in his report.
Avila is the chairperson of the RTWPB-NCR.
In issuing a new minimum wage in the NCR, Director Avila said the RTWPB—composed of representatives of labor and management, and the government, specifically the Department of Trade and Industry, National Economic Development Authority, and the DOLE—took into thorough consideration several factors, including the erosion in the minimum wage, inflation rate, possible impact of the minimum wage adjustment on prices of goods and services, as well as on employment; movements in the consumer price index, the current economic condition in the region, employers’ ability to pay, and the results of its continuing studies, sectoral consultations, and public hearings.
“The decision of the RTWPB-NCR to adjust the minimum wage was consistent with the government’s policy of granting regular, moderate, and predictable minimum wage adjustments, taking into consideration the needs of workers and their families, as well as the need to maintain stability in the business environment within the framework of the two-tiered wage system reform which Secretary Baldoz has initiated in 2012 and which we accelerate to implement,” said Avila.
He said the P15 increase in the minimum wage will directly benefit 587,000 minimum wage earners who also would continue to be exempted from paying income tax on their wage and on their hazard pay, holiday pay, night shift differential, and overtime pay.
“The take-home pay of our minimum wage earners will increase to P492.57 per day, or by 3.2 percent because of the wage hike, compared to the current P477.03 per day. They will also enjoy a higher 13th month pay and increased social security coverage,” Avila said.
“On the part of the employers, their effective labor cost per employee working six day a week will also increase by 3.2 percent, or P565.54 per day, compared to the current P547.87 per day,” he added.
He expressed confidence that like in the past year, employers will be able to bear the cost of the increase without hampering their viability for growth and expansion and, therefore, their ability to sustain employment creation.
“In January 2014, when the second tranche of the minimum wage increase consisting of the integration into the basic minimum wage of the P15 of a P30 COLA granted by the RTWPB-NCR in October 2013 took effect, employment was at 88 percent, unemployment was at 11.2 percent, and underemployment was at 12.1 percent. Today, employment in the NCR is at 90.7 percent; unemployment is at 9.3 percent; and underemployment is at only 8.3 percent. So, we see that this significant improvements in these economic indicators will not be affected by the new minimum wage order, but instead continue until the end of the year and beyond, barring any glitches in the horizon,” Avila explained.
He further said that with the increase, the RTWPB was able to maintain the near-to-the ideal ratio of the minimum wage to average wage, which is 40 to 70 percent, at 75 percent, down from 80 percent when the current administration came to office in 2010.
“The applicable minimum wage-to-average wage ratio for the country is not too close, to allow for bipartite approaches and flexibility in plant-level negotiations for further benefits,” he said.
In this latest minimum wage pay hike, Avila noted another bright note: the removal from the list of establishments that may apply for exemption from the wage order, in accordance with rules and regulations and following compliance with documentation and other requirements, of establishments whose total assets—including those arising from loans, but exclusive of the land on which the establishments’ offices, plants, and equipment are located—are not more than P3 million.
“They are no longer included in the list of establishments that may apply for one year exemption. Only distressed establishments, retail/service establishments regularly employing not more than 10 workers; and establishments adversely affected by natural calamities may apply for exemption and as determined by the RTWPB-NCR,” Avila said.
Baldoz instructed Avila to mobilize the DOLE-NCR’s corps of labor laws compliance officers and the Labor Communications Office to disseminate information on the new wage order, raise public awareness and understanding, and educate workers and employers to encourage voluntary compliance.
It can be recalled that prior to the new minimum wage order, the RTWPB-NCR had received two petitions for an across-the-board daily wage increases. The first petition was filed by the Association of Minimum Wage Earners & Advocates (PTGWO-AMWEA) TUCP–ITUC last 28 November 2014 seeking for a P146.80 across-the-board daily wage increase, while the second petition was by the TUCP, filed on 6 March 2015 seeking for a P136.00 across- the-board daily wage increase.
Aside from its continuing studies and researches, the RTWPB-NCR conducted three public consultations last 29 January with the labor sector; on 10 February with the management sector; and on 17 February with the government sector. It also conducted a public hearing on 6 March to ensure hearing broad views and perspectives and to elicit participation of the social partners and key stakeholders.
“Unfortunately, the RTWPB is not mandated to set across-the-board wage increases. Our mandate is to set minimum wages,” the Board said when it took note of the petitions and when it suggested that the petitioners conform to the standards/criteria prescribed by law in their subsequent petitions. |
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| At rare ‘Power 101’ briefing, Baldoz and officials see power situation more ‘brightly |
| Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph |
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The highly-technical energy sector needs to communicate with ordinary consumers, like us at the Department of Labor and Employment, in the language of the layman so the ramifications of the reported electricity shortage will be understood, said Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz the other day after she and some 40 DOLE officials attended a “Power 101 Briefing” from NAGKAISA, a broad labor coalition.
“Napakalaking kapakinabangan ito dahil yung napaka-highly technical na industriya ay na-laymanize ng NAGKAISA para sa aming kaunawaan at sa kaunawaan ng ordinary consumers,” she said as she commended the presentors for ‘shedding a bright’ light on many issues in the power sector.
Wilson Fortaleza, Vicente Unay, Jr., and Louie Corral conducted the briefing, each with a presentation on the power sector, industry issues and workforce, National Electrification Administration (NEA) policies affecting labor rights, and the power crisis.
Baldoz requested the briefing because she said this is essential in applying appropriate measures to address the issues raised by labor in relation to the energy sector.
The briefing was an opportunity for DOLE officials to gain an in-depth understanding of the whole industry, including the systems, factors and processes involved, as well as the associated problems and concerns that are reportedly faced by the workers with the looming power shortage.
Undersecretary Rebecca Chato, labor relations and internal affairs cluster head said the briefing sought to provide DOLE officials with a deeper understanding of the root causes and impact of power issues so they can be guided in the implementation of appropriate interventions.
One of the recommendations that surfaced during the briefing was the conduct of a dialogue involving the DOLE, NEA, trade union representatives, and electric cooperatives.
Baldoz also said it is high time that a National Tripartite Council in the Electric Cooperative Sector be organised as a platform of discussion on power issues and challenges.
“To address labor’s concerns, we need to already have a dialogue with the NEA concerning the reported issues emanating from NEA’s jurisdiction and determination of employer-employee relations, such as encroachment of trade union and collective bargaining rights, violation of workers’ security of tenure and duty to bargain collectively, limitation of the CBA Across-the-Board Wage Increases, and redundancy of mandatory grievance procedure.
The briefing is in line with the standing commitment and continuous engagement of the government to address the labor concerns brought before the President during the Pre-Labor Day Dialogue on 29 April 2014. |
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| 173 gov’t offices hailed as frontrunners vs. red tape – CSC |
| Source: http://web.csc.gov.ph |
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A total of 173 government offices have been given the Citizen’s Satisfaction Center Seal of Excellence for their efforts to combat red tape and render the highest quality of frontline services to the public since 2011, the Civil Service Commission (CSC) announced.
This came after the CSC awarded the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) Main Office as the latest government office to receive such recognition. The awarding was held May 16 at the CSC Central Office in Quezon City, with GSIS President and General Manager Robert G. Vergara accepting the award from CSC Commissioner Robert S. Martinez.
GSIS Main Office was conferred a wall-mountable glass seal bearing the “Seal of Excellence” logo to symbolize the achievement of excellence, as well as a cash reward amounting to PHP100,000.00 to be used specifically for further improvement in their frontline services.
Commissioner Martinez welcomed this development, as he said that having 173 Seal of Excellence awardees means more and more government offices are cleaning up their acts to ensure that clients are always satisfied with their services. “Sana nga, sa pamamagitan ng paggawad ng Seal of Excellence, unti-unti nating maibalik ang tiwala ng mamamayan sa uri ng ating pamamahalang naka-angkla sa integridad, kahusayan, dedikasyon, at pananagutan,” he added.
Pursuant to Republic Act No. 9485 or the Anti-Red Tape Act (ARTA), the CSC conducts the Report Card Survey (RCS), a client feedback survey used to rate agency performance and client satisfaction in terms of frontline service delivery and to monitor agencies’ compliance with the requirements of ARTA.
The CSC checks if the service office has a Citizen’s Charter that contains detailed commitments on transaction steps, cost, and time. It also checks if anti-fixing measures are implemented, if frontline staff wear identification cards, if there are no hidden transaction costs, if there is a manned Public Assistance and Complaints Desk, and if the service office observes the No Noon Break policy.
Also considered is overall client satisfaction based on the effectiveness of frontline service providers, service quality, physical setup of the office, availability of basic facilities, and client feedback.
Service offices which obtain a score of 90-100 are rated Excellent. Those with scores of 90-100 but have a failing mark in one area are rated Outstanding. Scores of 80-89.99 are rated Good; 70-79.99 are Acceptable; and 69.99 and below are Failed. Offices that fail in any of the two core areas, regardless of the final numerical rating, also incur a Failed rating.
Service offices that received an overall rating of Excellent in the RCS undergo a second-phase validation process, and those that pass this validation are conferred the Seal of Excellence award.
The award aims to promote service delivery excellence in the bureaucracy; to acknowledge the hard work of civil servants in providing responsive, efficient and customer-centric services; and to drive competitiveness among government agencies. |
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| GSIS awarded seal of excellence for frontline service |
| Source: http://www.gsis.gov.ph |
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The Head Office of State pension fund Government Service Insurance System today received the Citizen’s Satisfaction Center Seal of Excellence award from the Civil Service Commission (CSC) for exemplary frontline service.
The GSIS Head Office is the eighth to receive the recognition along with branch offices Bayombong, Bulacan, Dipolog, Laoag, Surigao,Tagum and Tuguegarao.
These offices obtained an Excellent rating (90% and above) in the Anti-Red Tape Act-Report Card Survey (ARTA-RCS) in 2014 and had no unresolved complaint in the Contact Center ng Bayan of CSC.
ARTA-RCS is a mechanism used by the Commission to obtain clients’ feedback and assess agencies’ performance on frontline service delivery.
During the awarding ceremony at CSC’s main office in Quezon City, GSIS President and General Manager Robert G. Vergara accepted the wall-mountable glass seal bearing the “Seal of Excellence” logo to symbolize the achievement of excellence, as well as a cash reward amounting to Php100,000.00.
“This recognition will inspire us to further raise the bar of service excellence and to do more for our members as caring and responsible stewards of their savings,” Vergara said.
In 2014, GSIS garnered an overall average rating of 92% — a dramatic turnaround from a failed rating of 73.82% in 2012 under the ARTA survey.
The pension fund also topped the 2014 ARTA survey covering more than 1,000 agencies.
GSIS earned the highest percentage of offices nationwide that have been rated Excellent in the survey. Thirty eight branch offices out of 57 surveyed, or 67% earned an Excellent score with not one office receiving a failing mark.
“This award is truly a recognition of the hard work and dedication of the men and women of GSIS to deliver on the promise of responsive service to our more than 1.8 million members and pensioners”, Vergara said. |
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| ‘Pablo’ survivors in ComVal get permanent homes |
| Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph |
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Some 3,086 families in Compostela Valley left homeless by Typhoon Pablo recently received their permanent shelters from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the provincial government through the Modified Shelter Assistance Program (MSAP).
Under the MSAP, the construction of the shelter units was funded by DSWD, while the provincial government took charge of the site development, land preparation, and engineering requirements.
DSWD Undersecretary Angelita Y. Gregorio-Medel, representing Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman, led the turnover ceremony with Compostela Valley Governor Arturo T. Uy, Vice Governor Manuel Zamora, and First District Representative Ma. Carmen Zamora.
The turnover ceremony was one of the highlights of the 17th Founding Anniversary of the provincial government and the 8th Bulawan Festival.
Happy with their new homes
A farmer and father of 11, Nicanor Y. Magnaong Jr of Purok 1, Barangay Pasian, Monkayo is overjoyed with his new home.
“Nalipay mi nga nakadawat og balay. Hayahay na among pamati. Salamat sa Ginoo ug sa nagdumala. Dili na mi matuloan. Sa una naghigda lang mi sa trapal. Ang among gipuy-an tent (We are happy to receive the shelter. We feel better. Thank God and thanks to the implementers. We won’t be soaked anymore when it rains. We used to sleep on tarpaulins as our previous shelter was a tent),” Nicanor said.
Walter G. Beniga, 49, also of Barangay Pasian shared, “Pasalamat mi kay dili na barong-barong among balay. Lipay pud ang mga bata ug mga silingan kay duna nay kapuy-an (We are thankful because our house is not a makeshift anymore. My children are also delighted as well as my neighbors).”
Governor Uy assured the beneficiaries that the permanent shelters are of good quality. He assured that all ‘Pablo’ survivors who lost their homes will be provided with permanent homes.
Usec. Medel cited the unity and cooperation of the people in bringing Compostela Valley back to the road of progress and development.
“ComVal is shining now because you have collaborated and cooperated in its development,” Usec. Medel said.
She added that the real treasure of the province is the people’s pakikipagkapwa (relating with people), paglilingkod (service), at pagmamahal sa isa’t isa (and love for one another).
“Saludo ako sa nagawa at naabot ninyo (I salute every one of you for what you have achieved).”
Rehab program
The MSAP in ComVal is part of the P2.6 billion shelter assistance program for the hardest-hit towns of Boston, Baganga, Cateel, Caraga, Tarragona and Manay in Davao Oriental; Montevista, Compostela, Monkayo, New Bataan, Laak, Nabunturan, Pantukan, Mabini, Maco, Mawab, and Maragusan in Compostela Valley; and New Corella and Tagum City in Davao Del Norte.
To date, 4,714 permanent shelters had been completed in ComVal, 14,619 in Davao Oriental, and 33 in Davao Del Norte.
Apart from DSWD, the National Housing Authority (NHA) and private companies are also building permanent homes for ‘Pablo’ survivors in the worst-hit areas. |
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| Sec. Soliman meets with WFP exec to boost partnership |
| Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph |
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QUEZON CITY, March 17 -- Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman met with World Food Programme (WFP) Executive Director Ertharin Cousin over the weekend to explore ways to further enhance the partnership of the Philippines and the WFP in disaster preparedness and support for communities in Central Mindanao. WFP Philippines Country Director Praveen Agrawal was also in the meeting.
The meeting was held in connection with the ongoing 3rd United Nations World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (3WCDRR) at the Sendai Conference Center, Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. Sec. Soliman is the head of the Philippine Delegation to the conference and she also co-chairs the Working Session on Preparedness for Effective Response with Executive Director Cousin.
During the meeting, Sec. Soliman acknowledged the support of WFP to DSWD programs in conflict-affected areas in Mindanao and its immediate and ready assistance during Typhoons ‘Yolanda’ and ‘Hagupit.’
In the aftermath of these major Philippine disasters, WFP provided food and logistics support to some 2.9 million individuals. In the early phase of emergency, WFP distributed High Energy Biscuits (HEB) that helped sustain the nutritional needs of 95,000 children in typhoon-hit areas. On top of the HEBs, WFP also distributed some 20,000 metric tons of other food items.
WFP also provided emergency cash assistance of Php 1,300 or US$30 per family per month to some 101,038 beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program in Regions VI and VIII. From November 2013 to October 2014, WFP has provided Php 262,438,800 or approximately US$6 million worth of cash assistance to Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries.
For WFP’s support to conflict-affected areas in Central Mindanao, Sec. Soliman cited school feedings where WFP provided hot, nutritious meals to some 100,000 children in 350 public schools; nutrition support through the provision of micronutrient-fortified, ready-to-use food to bridge essential nutrient gaps among the most vulnerable children and women; livelihood support through Food and Cash-for-Assets Programme and Food/Cash-for Work where the most vulnerable populations are given food or cash in exchange for work on vital new infrastructure, or for time spent on learning new skills that will increase the food security of households or communities; and capacity building to enhance the capabilities of communities and government agencies on disaster preparedness and response.
Sec. Soliman said that WFP’s continuing support will boost national and local efforts to effectively and efficiently respond to the impact of disasters especially since the Philippines is affected by 20 typhoons a year and is exposed to earthquakes, floods, volcanic eruptions, and drought, among others.
The Secretary thanked WFP for recognizing the strong leadership of the Philippine government in disaster risk reduction and preparedness. |
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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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19 March 2015
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ALAN: Secretary Coloma, sir, magandang umaga po.
SEC. COLOMA: Magandang umaga, Alan.
ALAN: Yes, sir. So, meron pong bagong inilabas na resulta ng kanilang pag-aaral itong Fitch tungkol dito sa ekonomiya natin, ekonomiya po ng Pilipinas, Secretary Coloma, sir. Mga updates nga po tungkol dito, please?
SEC. COLOMA: Ganoon nga, Alan. Batid natin merong mga rating companies ng daigdig – iyong Fitch, iyong Moody’s at saka Standard and Poor’s – sila ay gumagawa ng assessment ng katatagan ng ekonomiya ng mga bansa, at ito ay ginagamit na batayan ng mga negosyante at mamumuhunan sa pagpili kung saan sila maglalagak ng kanilang kapital o kung sila ay mag-i-expand ba ng kanilang mga umiiral na negosyo. Kaya mahalaga itong rating ng Fitch at ng ibang mga rating agencies dahil, kumbaga, ito ang report card ng ating bansa at ito iyong mukha natin sa buong mundo sa larangan ng katatagan ng ating ekonomiya.
ALAN: Opo. Bale ang rating na ibinigay po sa Pilipinas ay … papaano po iyon? Ang description po na ginamit nila ay stable.
SEC. COLOMA: Batid natin, Alan, na natamo natin iyong matagal nang gusto nating matamo, iyong investment grade, dahil ito nga ang standard o pamantayan sa pandaigdigang ekonomiya para ituring na ang isang bansa ay kaaya-ayang destinasyon ng pamumuhunan.
Doon sa latest ratings ng Fitch ay inulit nila na istable ang ating ekonomiya; na-maintain natin iyong ating rating. Kaya lang, meron silang mga obserbasyon. Sabi nga nila ‘no, “Looking ahead, we expect credit ratings to further improve as the country continues to register even better fundamentals.” Paglilinaw lang: Ang nagsabi niyan hindi iyong Fitch kung hindi si Secretary Purisima dahil inaalisa niya rin iyong rating ng Fitch. Ang sabi rin kasi ng Fitch, dapat ay ibayong pagsisikap ng ating bansa na pataasin iyong ating governance standard. Ang salitang governance standard, patungkol iyan sa level of integrity o iyong taliwas doon, level of corruption naman sa gobyerno at sa private sector. At batid natin, iyan iyong pinagsisikapan nating mapahusay dahil nga doon sa patakaran ng Matuwid na Daan.
Kaya iyong iba pa ring aspeto nito, Alan, iyong tinatawang na ease of doing business. Kung ikaw ay nagnenegosyo, gaano ba kadali o gaano ba kahirap, dahil ito ay isa ring pamantayan ng kalidad ng pamamahala sa bansa. At iyon ding tinatawag na political stability.
Tapos iyong isa pang indicator ay iyong kinikita ng mga mamamayan. Ang napansin ng Fitch, iyong ating average income ng mga Pilipino, $2,836 tuwing taon na mataas na kung ihahambing ito doon sa nakaraang taon. Pero iyong average kasi ng mga ibang bansa na investment grade din ay $10,654. Kaya lang, kailangan nating isaalang-alang, iyon ay mga matagal ng advance or first world or second world countries kaya’t matagal na silang nauna sa atin doon. Kaya lang kapag ang pinaghahambing lahat ng bansa na merong investment grade, hinahambing din kung magkano ba ang kita o annual income ng mga mamamayan. Kaya mahalaga din iyon.
ALAN: Opo. We understand na meron ding forecast itong Fitch na patuloy na lalago ang ekonomiya, mag-a-accelerate daw nang hanggang 6.3% within this year, Sec. Sonny, sir?
SEC. COLOMA: Tama iyon, Alan. Iyong datihang tinatawag na “Sick Man of Asia” na bansang Pilipinas ay talagang kinikilala na ngayon bilang isa sa pinakamabilis na paglago ng ekonomiya. At tinataya ng Fitch na ang ating ekonomiya ay lalago nang hindi bababa sa 6.3% GDP growth sa 2015 at – halos pareho ‘no, medyo bumaba lang – 6.2% in 2016. Iyong mga kahalintulad na bansa na merong ganoon ding investment grade rating ay 3% lamang ang kanilang annual growth.
Kaya ang sabi nga ni Secretary Purisima, dapat ang pokus ay doon sa mga strong points; hindi doon sa kahinaan ng ating ekonomiya. At ang atin ngang strong points ay iyong sustainability, stability and resiliency. Ibig sabihin, iyong sustainability, dahil matibay iyong mga fundamental na aspeto ng ating ekonomiya, maaari nating mamintini iyong mataas na antas ng pag-unlad.
Iyon namang stability, iyong matatag ang fundamentals natin. Halimbawa, doon sa inflation ay naa-attain natin iyong target na hindi ito lalampas sa 5% per annum. Dahil kapag mataas ang inflation, nababalewala iyong increase purchasing power ng mga mamamayan.
At iyong resiliency naman, kahit tamaan tayo ng kalamidad ay naibabangon naman natin muli ang ating ekonomiya.
ALAN: Sec., ano ho ang malaking factor, ika nga, na nag-contribute nang husto dito sa pagtatamo ng bansa ng ganito hong patuloy na paglago o pagiging stable ng ating ekonomiya? May nagsasabi, sir, na itong Business Process Outsourcing ay patuloy na nanatiling malakas and will continue to strengthen in the future, itong mga five to ten years from now. Ganoon pa rin ho ba ang projection natin sa sektor na iyan, Sec, sir?
SEC. COLOMA: Ang outlook para sa sektor na iyan ay nananatiling masigla. At tayo ay isa pa rin sa pinaka-preferred na venue ng Business Process Outsourcing dahil nga kinikilala na mataas ang antas ng kaalaman at karunungan ng mga Pilipino. Nasa atin iyong skill set na hinahanap ng mga pangunahing kumpanya sa iba’t ibang industriya. Mataas ang reputasyon ng mga Filipino workers, hindi lamang dito pero sa buong mundo. Kaya ito ang isa pa rin sa mga positive factors na nag-eengganyo sa mga mamumuhunan na dagdagan ang kanilang investment.
Katulad nga nang ipinahayag ng Pangulo ‘no kung tutunghayan natin iyong isa lang halimbawa, iyong Mitsubishi automotive company, simula noong 1964 hanggang noong isang taon o humigit-kumulang apatnapung taon, ang na-produce lang nilang kotse sa Pilipinas [ay] 50,000. Pero ang balak nila ay i-expand iyong kanilang planta na para makapag-produce nang hindi bababa sa isandaang libong kotse dito sa ating bansa taun-taon. Kaya napakalaking pagbabago ito sa kanilang pagturing sa Pilipinas bilang isang very desirable manufacturing hub at investment venue para sa kanilang operasyon. At hindi lang sila ang iisang kumpanya na nagpapahayag ng ganitong malakas na pagtitiwala sa ating bansa.
ALAN: Okay. Well, Secretary Coloma, sir, muli nais po naming magpasalamat sa inyo for the updates from the Palace, sir.
SEC. COLOMA: Idagdag ko lang, Alan. Kaya natin ipinapaliwanag ito sa ating mga mamamamayan, iyon pong katatagan ng ating pambansang ekonomiya, diyan po nanggagaling iyong mas marami pang oportunidad na magkaroon ng kapaki-pakinabang na hanapbuhay at iyong pag-asenso ng kabuhayan natin. At iyong isa pang mahalagang layunin, iyong sinasabi nating inclusive growth, na iyong karamihan sa ating mga mamamayan ay maiaangat natin mula doon sa pagiging maralita; maiaangat natin ang kanilang kabuhayan sa pamamagitan ng makabuluhang hanapbuhay.
ALAN: At nabanggit n’yo nga ho iyong trabaho o hanapbuhay. Incidentally ay nag-anunsyo na ho ang Metro Manila Wage board ng dagdag na P15 sa mga minimum wage earners natin dito sa Metro Manila, Sec. Sonny, sir?
SEC. COLOMA: Tama iyon, Alan. At ang nais lang nating ipunto rito sa harap ng mga bumabatikos dahil daw masyadong mababa, eh talaga namang pinag-aaralan ito ng Regional Wage board. Hindi rin kasi makatuwiran na sobrang taas iyong magiging level nito kung hindi naman justified.
At iyon naman pong minimum wage ay baseline lamang. Kapag tumaas na iyong level ng manggagawa at kapag tumaas na iyong kapasidad ng kumpanya na pabutihin iyong kanilang compensation structure, hindi naman kailangang manatili sa minimum wage dahil iyong mga mahuhusay sa trabaho, kadalasan sila ay napo-promote at nabibigyan din ng salary increase. Kapag maganda ang kanilang ipinakita, iyong productivity ng kanilang kumpanya ay tumataas at puwede namang mamahagi nang mas malaking mga benepisyo at pasuweldo ang mga kumpanya.
Iyan ang kailangan nating maunawaan, hindi lang naman iyong minimum wage ang end all and be all sa kumpensasyon sa pagtatrabaho.
ALAN: Opo. Well, Sec. Sonny, sir, muli thank you so much po for the updates from the Palace, sir.
SEC. COLOMA: Okay, sige, salamat. Magandang umaga, Alan. |
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| SOURCE: News Information Bureau - Data Processing Center |
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