Thursday, March 26, 2015

4 Dispatch for March 31, 2015 (Tuesday ),3 Weather Watch , 2 OFW Watch , 1 PNOY Speech , 18 Online News , 27 Photonews ( Mar. 27 )


24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST
Issued at: 5:00 AM 31 March 2015

SYNOPSIS: Ridge of high pressure area (HPA) extending over Northern Luzon.
FORECAST: Caraga, Northern Mindanao and Davao region will have cloudy skies with light to moderate rainshowers and thunderstorms. Cagayan Valley, Cordillera and Ilocos region will experience partly cloudy skies. Metro Manila and the rest of the country will be partly cloudy to cloudy with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms.
Light to moderate winds coming from the east to southeast will prevail over Northern Luzon and coming from the northeast over the rest of the country with slight to moderate seas.

PAGTAYA: Ang mga rehiyon ng Caraga, Hilagang Mindanao at Davao ay magkakaroon ng maulap na kalangitan na may mahina hanggang sa katamtamang mga pag-ulan at pagkidlat-pagkulog. Ang Cagayan Valley, Cordillera at rehiyon ng Ilocos ay makararanas ng bahagyang maulap na kalangitan. Ang Metro Manila at nalalabing bahagi ng bansa ay magiging bahagyang maulap hanggang sa maulap na may pulu-pulong mga pag-ulan o pagkidlat-pagkulog.
Mahina hanggang sa katamtamang hangin mula sa Silangan hanggang Timog-silangan ang iiral sa Hilagang Luzon at mula naman sa hilagang-silangan sa nalalabing bahagi ng bansa na may banayad hanggang sa katamtamang pag-alon ng karagatan.

OVER METRO MANILA:
Maximum Temperature: 01:00 PM yesterday ----- 34.0 ºC
Minimum Temperature: 06:00 AM yesterday ----- 22.0 ºC
Maximum Relative Humidity: 06:00 AM yesterday -------- 86 %
Minimum Relative Humidity: 1:00 PM yesterday --------- 40 %
High tide today: 10:51 PM ……… 0.41 meter
Low tide today: 11:33 AM ……… 0.41 meter
High tide today: 7:23 PM ........... 0.75 meter
Low tide tomorrow: 3:18 AM ....... 0.05 meter
Sunrise today: 05:53 AM
Sunset today: 06:08 PM
Moonrise today: 02:55 PM
Moonset tomorrow: 03:35 AM
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.

PAGASA weather Aldczar Aurelio on ANC:
Re: Typhoon Maysak
-Malakas ito dahil typhoon na ito. Kaya nitong patumbahin ang puno tulad ng niyog.
-By Saturday or Sunday, posibleng maapektuhan na nito ang northern Central Luzon.
-Nasa east siya ngayon ng Mindanao. Dahil sa HPA sa Luzon at Visayas, kikilos itong bagyo pa-northward.
-Walang chance na mag-dissipate ito dahil typhoon na siya, ang nakikita natin is baka humina.
-Bukas ng gabi, pagpasok niya sa PAR, makikita na natin ang clear view ng kanyang track.



GMA resident meteorologist Nathaniel Cruz:
Re: Weather Update
-Sa taya ng Japan Meteorological Agency, nasa mahigit 2,000 kilometro silangan ng Mindanao ang typhoon Maysak na tatawaging Chedeng sa oras na pumasok na ito sa PAR sa Miyerkules ng gabi o Huwebes ng umaga.
-Sa datos ng The Weather Company, posibleng tumbukin ng bagyo ang Central at Northern Luzon.
-Bukas ay asahan ang mahinang ulan sa ilang bahagi ng Bicol Region.
-Eastern section ng Visayas ang uulanin sa umaga habang sa Mindanao ay posible ang ulan sa ARMM at SOCCSKSARGEN sa hapon.
-Sa Metro Manila, mababa ang tsansa ng ulan hanggang Sabado.



March 31 , 2015 (Tuesday) as of 11:30 AM
                                          PIA4A / PIA QUEZON    :  Partly CLoudy 





PIA OFW Watch
14 hrs ·
DZBB: Sinertipikahan na ng POEA na compliant sa RA 10022 o sa Overseas Filipino Act ang mga bansang Nepal at Uzbekistan. Dahil dito, umabot na sa 192 ang mga bansang sertipikadong ligtas para sa mga OFW.
PIA OFW Watch
17 hrs ·
DZBB: Kinumpirma ng DFA na isang Pinoy ang namatay kasunod ng pag-atake sa Libya. Nanawagan naman si DFA Asec. Charles Jose sa mga Pilipinong nasa Libya pa rin na lumikas na at sumunod sa mandatory evacuation ng gobyerno.
President Aquino signs resolution raising daily allowance of uniformed personnel
President Benigno S. Aquino III signed last Friday a joint resolution with Congress, increasing the daily subsistence allowance of uniformed personnel from P90 to P150 per day, effective January 1, 2015, Malacañang has announced.

In a press briefing at the Palace on Monday, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said that the current allowance is “no longer adequate to meet the basic needs of Filipino military soldiers and uniformed personnel… in view of the increasing prices of commodities”.

The higher allowance is for all officers, enlisted personnel, candidate soldiers, probationary second lieutenants, cadets and civilian active auxiliaries of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, commissioned and non-commissioned personnel of the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, cadets of the Philippine National Police Academy, Philippine Coast Guard, including candidate coast guard men, and National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA).

“The amount necessary to implement the provisions of the resolution shall be charged against the savings of the DND (Department of National Defense), DOTC (Department of Transportation and Communications), DILG (Department of Interior and Local Government), and DENR-NAMRIA (Department of Environment and Natural Resources) for the current year and/or the Miscellaneous Personnel Benefits Fund,” Lacierda said.In the succeeding years, the amount shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act, he added. PND (ag)
MILF members will not be integrated into National Police, Armed Forces, says government peace panel chair
Chairperson of the government peace panel, Professor Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, on Monday clarified that members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) will not be integrated into the Philippine National Police or the Armed Forces of the Philippines, once the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) is passed.

“Again, we would like to clarify, wala pong integration ng MILF sa police force or sa Armed Forces of the Philippines, unlike in the peace agreement with the MNLF, that is not there; and the MILF will not become the police force for the Bangsamoro,” she said during a press briefing in Malacañang.

At the briefing, Professor Ferrer urged the people to “go back to the text” to correct wrong interpretations on the contents of the BBL.

“What we are stressing is go back to the text, go back to the original source, kasi ‘pag ang lumalabas ay ang mga parang general perceptions, then you miss out all of these very, very important provisions in the draft law that basically repeats what is written in the Constitution or upholds what are written in the Constitution and effectively delimits the powers of the Bangsamoro government,” she pointed out.

On the supposed creation of a Commission on Audit under the Bangsamoro government, she cited that according to Article 5, Section 2 of the BBL, the body that will be created in terms of performing some auditing functions in the Bangsamoro shall not in any way prejudice the powers, authority and duty of the national COA.

“What probably has created a lot of confusion is to call that body a Bangsamoro Commission on Audit. So if the idea is to allow for an internal audit system that is within the Bangsamoro government, perhaps, one of the revisions or cleaning up that could be done is to remove any reference to that particular name, which has created much of this confusion,” she explained.

Ferrer also denied that the Bangsamoro government will have its own Commission on Election, noting that the BBL’s Article 7, Section 9 refers to a Bangsamoro electoral office, which shall be part of the COMELEC.

“The only specialization that this COMELEC office in the Bangsamoro will have, is in relation to the fact that it will have a different kind of an electoral system,” she said.On the Commission on Human Rights, Ferrer said the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) already has such a commission.

“So what is provided for here is that the Commission on Human Rights in the Bangsamoro shall have a coordinative and complementary relationship with the national Commission on Human Rights in carrying out its mandate, which is exactly what we have now in the ARMM, and that has been facilitated by a memorandum of agreement between the national Commission on Human Rights and the newly created the two- or three-year-old ARMM Commission on Human Rights,” she said.
“Maybe what is a little bit controversial here is that in the proposed law, there is this provision that provides for prosecutorial powers for the Bangsamoro Commission on Human Rights, which the current National Commission on Human Rights does not have,” she added.

Amid the confusion, Ferrer said she hopes that Congress would be able to provide a better version of the BBL.

“We are not saying that the way the law is drafted now is the best language already that there is, and we look up to the wisdom of Congress to be able to come up with a much better language, precisely to be able to avoid these kinds of misinterpretation,” Ferrer said. PND (ag)
No ‘over financing’ in Muslim Mindanao, says government peace panel
The government peace panel on Monday clarified that the administration is not “over financing” the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) and the proposed Bangsamoro government.

In a press briefing in Malacañang, member of the Government Peace Panel, Senen Bacani, said to correct this misconception, there is a need to differentiate the existing budget for ARMM from the incremental funding that will be introduced once the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) is passed.

“Tungkol sa financing, kailangan i-klaro dito kung ano ang existing at saka ano ang incremental. Pag-usapan muna natin ang incremental funding because of the Bangsamoro Basic Law. Nakasaad diyan merong special development fund. First year, P7 billion and then for the next five years P2 billion each, that is a total of P17 billion. Tapos ang incremental fund na Bangsamoro Transition Authority, P1 billion. Iyan lang talaga ang karagdagang gastos [sa] pagpasa ng Bangsamoro Basic Law because the other expenses, nandiyan na ‘yan,” Bacani explained.

The ARMM meanwhile has an existing budget of P24.3 billion, which will get an additional P900 million for pensions, for a total of P25.2 billion, he said, noting that in 2016, a “block grant” of P26.8 billion will replace the annual subsidy to ARMM.

“When you say ‘block grant’, it gives you the impression na bago but it is just a new term. It is to replace the annual subsidy to the ARMM, which exists in the General Appropriations Act. Makikita sa General Appropriations Act for 2015, P24.3 billion, magdagdag ka ng P900 million because of the pension fund, that’s P25.2 billion. Papalitan ‘yan ng block grant in 2016 ng P26.8 billion,” he said.

Under the BBL, he said, the block grant is four percent of 60 percent of the net internal revenue collections.

“Ang base year niyan 2013. 2013, the estimated net BIR internal revenue collection is about P1.1 trillion—2.4 percent of that is P26.8 billion. Kapalit lang ‘yan ‘nung 24.3 plus 900, so 25.2,” said Bacani. “This is not additional. Projected na ito.”

“The current ARMM budget today will be translated into a block grant. It does not mean an increase. Ito talagang karagdagan: Special Development Fund, P7 billion and then P2 billion a year for five years starting in 2017. A one-time transition fund of P1 billion in 2016,” Bacani said, denying what critics refer to as a P75 billion additional funding for the Bangsamoro.

He noted that the incremental funding will be “subject to proper accountability and normal checks and balances and safeguards”.

Budget Secretary Florencio Abad, for his part, explained the three components of the ARMM budget: the salary of government employees (42 percent), maintenance and operating expenses (12 percent), and capital outlay (46 percent).

“Tatlong pinupuntahan at hindi kalakihan ‘yan. With or without the BBL ay ibibigay ‘yan. Now, it is called the ARMM government but in the future, if the bill passes, then it becomes the Bangsamoro government. Just to stress those two points,” said Abad. PND (ag)
President Aquino urges Filipinos to think of general interest before themselves
President Benigno S. Aquino III, in his Lenten message on Monday, has urged Filipinos to think of the country’s general interest before themselves.

Citing a Bible verse from John 3:16, which reads “For God so loved the world that He gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life,” the President said this serves as his guide in governance.

“Ito nga po ang nagsisilbi nating gabay sa pagtataguyod ng bansang nakatuon hindi lang sa kapakanan ng mga Pilipino ngayon kundi maging ng mga susunod pang henerasyon. Tinatawag tayong gawin ang lahat ng ating makakaya, upang maipamana ang isang lipunan na inuuna ang interes ng nakakarami bago ang sarili,” he said.

Like the peace and compassion to the needy that Pope Francis preached during his recent visit to Manila, he said his administration will continue to uplift the lives of Filipinos.

“Makakaasa po kayo: Sa tuwid na daan, maigting nating sinusulong ang pagtatakwil sa anumang anyo ng katiwalian upang ihatid ang agarang benepisyo sa ating mga kababayan,” President Aquino added. PND (ag)






30 MARCH 2015
IFEX PHL 10th edition brings together top food producers from APEC economies and the world
PHL-Nepal business group launched in Kathmandu
One-way traffic at Kennon Road during Holy Week
Roxas lauds NCRPO for 50% crime rate drop
Roxas to Local Execs: Maintain peace and order amid postponement of SK polls
Advancing a new Strategic Partnership: PHL Successfully hosts 27th ASEAN-Australia Forum
Two young Filipina Artists featured in Rome Art exhibit
Public urged to reject misinformation on BBL
On DOLE Central Office’s ARTA implementation: Clients satisfied with quality of services and facilities, but Baldoz asks for more improvements
Kalibo Airport opens new sing in time for the summer rush
Paje rallies support for Earth Hour, Global fight VS. Climage Change
ODA loan disbursement triples in Q4 2014
Immigration foils trafficking attempt at NAIA
Over a basketball game, Villanueva tells youth to 'Shoot for your dreams'
PDIC urges depositors to file deposit insurance claims in closed banks before expiry date, insured
DA-PRDP pushes for environmentally and socially sound projects
PhilHealth to Balik-Manggagawa: Pay your premiums first before securing OECs
PH moderates ASEAN Integration Summit 2015 infra session
IFEX PHL 10th edition brings together top food producers from APEC economies and the world
Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph
Organized by the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry-Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (DTI-CITEM), IFEX Philippines 2015 will hold three focal components that will highlight the food innovations of the Philippines, the APEC economies, and the rest of the world. Top executives, leading importers, and the best catering companies are expected to flock to the International Hall, which will feature country pavilions presenting the food products of Australia, Brunei, Canada, Indonesia, Korea, Malaysia, Russia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, USA, and Vietnam among others. A special display showcase dedicated to the APEC Top Brands will also be featured at the International Hall, as well as an inviting kitchen setting where APEC’s celebrated chefs will charm visitors with their exciting cooking demonstrations.

Trade visitors and buyers should not miss the Food Philippines Hall, which includes industry pavilions of the Philippines along with Grocer’s Exchange Mart (G-MART)–a business setting designed to provide top grocers from the APEC region a special access to hand-picked Philippine food exporters equipped for private labelling. Located also in the Food Philippines Hall is a highly curated presentation entitledSoulFood, which features select Philippine specialty and artisanal food products that evoke heritage, provenance, authenticity, quality, and uniqueness in inspiring and modern tablescapes.

The Marketplace, where IFEX Philippines visitors can purchase and sample on-the-spot a fresh and hip assortment of food products, features a lively and convenient shopping experience with its vibrant setting.

Found in the Marketplace is a dynamic display of food products developed in Taguig, Quezon City, Pasig, and Dagupan through the Partner City Program of CITEM in cooperation with local government units, as well as a unique section dedicated to Filipino merchandise and commodities developed under the program One Town One Product (OTOP), a priority endeavor of the Philippine DTI-Bureau of Domestic Trade (BDT).

Exhibiting first-rate farm and fish products, the Agri-Aqua and Natural Products Pavilion in the Agriculture and Commodities Hall is organized in partnership with the Philippine Department of Agriculture (DA).

In 2013, IFEX Philippines reasserted its place as a favored and most important international food and ingredients sourcing event in the country. The remarkable outcome of the 9th IFEX Philippines is shown in more than 13,000 trade buyers and visitors from key regions to the booths of over 600 local and international exhibitors.

“With innovation and creativity as the driving force, IFEX Philippines 2015 aspires to affirm once again the importance of the Philippines as the region’s preferred gathering point for food business and networking,” said CITEM Executive Director Rosvi C. Gaetos.

Visit IFEX Philippines 2015, Asia’s ethnic food and ingredients show, on 21-24 May 2015, at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia (MOA) Complex, Pasay City, Philippines.

For more information about IFEX Philippines 2015, please visit www.ifexphilippines.com.
PHL-Nepal business group launched in Kathmandu
Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph
In a report from the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) in New Delhi, India, the Nepal Philippines Chamber of Commerce and Industries (NPCCI) was recently launched at the Philippine Honorary Consulate General Offices in Kathmandu, Nepal.

“Our commercial post in New Delhi has been steadfast in helping forge closer the relations between Philippines and Nepal, particularly on cooperation in business,” Department of Trade and Industry-Industry Promotion Group (DTI-IPG) Undersecretary Ponciano C. Manalo Jr. said.

Manalo noted that the DTI's aim is to strengthen the Philippines’ commercial relations with Nepal and the other South Asian countries given that the region has potential as a market for Philippine products and services.

The PTIC in New Delhi supports the country's trade and investment interests in India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.

Together with Philippine Consul General ad Honorem Suraj Vaidya, PTIC-New Delhi Commercial Counselor John Paul B. Iňigo congratulated NPCCI officers and members for their resolve to strengthen bilateral business ties between the Philippines and Nepal.

“A brainchild of Vaidya, the organization aims to promote bilateral cooperation through investment, trade, and technology transfer between Nepal and the Philippines,” Iňigo said.

The NPCCI is currently composed of President Roseline Budhathoki, Senior Vice President Mesdames Blessie G. Dhakal, Junior Vice President Salvacion P. Shakya, Secretary Luzviminda P. Thapa, Treasurer Floramae Paudel, and Executive Members Marivic A. Gurung and Emma L. Pariyar.

The inaugural was a kick-off event during the visit of Iňigo to Kathmandu. He also gave a presentation on doing business with the Philippines that was attended by Nepalese businessmen.

Iňigo noted that during the event, the businessmen agreed to visit the Philippines. They are interested to buy Philippine products and display their own products in the country’s fairs like the Manila FAME, International Food Exposition (IFEX) Philippines, PhilConstruct, and Worldbex.
One-way traffic at Kennon Road during Holy Week
Source: http://www.dpwh.gov.ph
In order to shorten travel time of the expected influx of tourists going up to Baguio City during the Holy Week, DPWH Secretary Rogelio L. Singson has instructed DPWH-Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) Director Edilberto P. Carabbacan to implement an experimental one-way traffic scheme going up Kennon Road during the Holy Week.

The one-way traffic scheme would start from the Camp 1 Toll Gate at Tuba, Benguet, up to the Camp 7 Police Station (View Deck), Baguio City, and will be implemented from midnight of March 31, 2015 to midnight of April 3, 2015. All other National Roads shall remain two-way.

In consideration, residents along the stretch of the road would be allotted window times in the morning and in the afternoon from 11 a.m. to 12 noon and 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on said dates to go down Kennon Road. As such, special passes shall be issued to vehicles of certified Kennon residents only for the purpose.

To ensure safety at all times, billboards informing motorists of the one-way scheme with the specified window times were installed at strategic locations from Saytan, Rosario, to Baguio City. Flagmen will be assigned every 500 meters from Camp 1 to Camp 7 to caution motorists of the two-way traffic during the window times. Flyers will also be distributed to motorists entering Camp 1 during the window times to warn them of the two-way traffic. However, the times indicated on the flyers is from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., the additional one hour being provided to give sufficient time for the last vehicle entering the Camp 7 Police Station to exit the Toll Gate at Camp 1.

Relative to this, the Regional Office and the concerned District Engineering Offices (DEOs) particularly Baguio City DEO and Benguet First DEO were directed to activate their composite teams for the “Lakbay Alalay” Motorist Assistance. These comprise of personnel and mechanics to respond to emergencies/accidents and to assist the travelling public in their travel.

This one-way traffic scheme was conceptualized by Secretary Singson to shorten travel time from the lowlands to the Cordilleras to attract more tourists during special occasions/events and thus boost the economy of the Region.

All contractors were enjoined to keep the road sections under contract with their firms passable 24/7, provide traffic management teams/flagmen and install sufficient and appropriate warning signs.

These activities are also in line with the thrust of DPWH to keep all roads open and safe at all times to the riding public.
Roxas lauds NCRPO for 50% crime rate drop
Source: http://pnp.gov.ph
The Secretary of the Interior and Local Government (SILG), Mar Roxas lauded the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) under the leadership of Police Director Carmelo Valmoria for its relentless efforts and intensified Anti-Criminality Campaign dubbed as OPLAN “LAMBAT SIBAT” that resulted to notable decrease of crime rate in Metro Manila since last year.

Oplan Lambat-Sibat is a fusion of different anti-crime operations such as checkpoints, mobile and foot patrols. The project calls for the deployment of additional police personnel in crime-prone areas in each police district in the National Capital Region for a specific period of time. It was first implemented from Aug. 18, 2014.

With its implementation, the average crime rate of 1,000 per week in May 2014 has decreased to 500 as of March 1 this year. PNP Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management recorded the drop in the past weeks due to the implementation of a public awareness campaign and an increase in police presence.

The PNP’s Oplan Lambat-Sibat is the brainchild of Sec. Roxas, aimed at combating crimes through “deliberate, programmatic and systematic” approach. Because of the program’s success in Metro Manila, Roxas ordered that it be cascaded in the regions. Oplan Lambat- Sibat was launched on the first week of March in Region III and on the first week of April in Region IV-A.(PNP-PIO)
Roxas to Local Execs: Maintain peace and order amid postponement of SK polls
Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph
Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas urged local chief executives (LCEs) all over the country to ensure public order and safety in their localities following the postponement of the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Elections.

This was after Roxas told governors and mayors that President Benigno Aquino III has just signed the SK election's postponement from April this year to October 2016 into law.

He also emphasized that such information should be relayed especially to the youth, who are the constituents of SK.

"Humihiling po kami sa DILG ng tulong ninyo para maipaabot itong info sa ating mga kababayan, lalo na ang kabataan," Roxas said in text message to all LCEs.

In the same message, Roxas appealed to mayors and governors to prevent any possible conflict or tensions from arising due to the SK election's postponement.

There has been wide public clamor either for the SK's abolition and reform, but a reformed SK law with new provisions is set to be passed in the national legislature soon.

The DILG for its part has been active in helping train and build the capacity of members of the Task Force on Youth Development (TFYD), which temporarily took the place of the SK when elections were first postponed in 2013.
Advancing a new Strategic Partnership: PHL Successfully hosts 27th ASEAN-Australia Forum
Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph
30 March 2015 —The Philippine hosting of the 27th ASEAN-Australia Forum held from March 25 to 26 at Dusit Thani Manila witnessed the first senior official-level meeting between ASEAN and Australia as Strategic Partners.

This followed the adoption of the “Joint ASEAN-Australia Leaders’ Statement on the 40th Anniversary of ASEAN-Australia Dialogue Relations Towards a Strategic Partnership for Mutual Benefit” in November 2014, during the ASEAN-Australia Commemorative Summit which saw the elevation of ASEAN-Australia dialogue relations to the strategic level.

The Forum was co-chaired by Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Undersecretary for Policy Evan P. Garcia and Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) Deputy Secretary Greg Moriarty. They led an assembly of senior official leaders (SOM Leaders) and delegates from 10 ASEAN Member States (AMS), the ASEAN Secretariat and Australia.

Regional security challenges

ASEAN and Australia shared views on key international and regional developments, emphasizing that regional security challenges remain a core concern even as ASEAN heads towards integration by December 2015.

“An interesting question for us to ponder is how developments in Australia, our region and the world would impact on our new Strategic Partnership, especially today, in the context of ongoing tensions and potential dangers that confront our regional security environment,” said Undersecretary Garcia in his opening statement.

“The most important of such regional problems center on the various disputes in the South China Sea (SCS),” seconded DFA Assistant Secretary Luis T. Cruz, who is also Director-General of the ASEAN-Philippines National Secretariat. He elaborated that “reclamation activities, by threatening to irreversibly alter the regional status quo and to upset the regional balance, may undermine the effectivity and relevance of the 2002 ASEAN-China Declaration of Conduct in the South China Sea (DOC) and any eventual Code of Conduct in the SCS (COC).”

Deputy Secretary Moriarty, meanwhile, shared ASEAN’s interest in the regional order and “a rules-based approach” towards SCS, and called on parties to practice “self-restraint” in the conduct of activities over the disputed area. He also reiterated Australia’s support for dispute resolution mechanisms in accordance with international law, including through arbitration under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Strengthening politico-security cooperation

In order to move forward the new ASEAN-Australia Strategic Partnership, Deputy Secretary Moriarty proposed to strengthen politico-security cooperation, recognizing the “overall strategic purpose of ASEAN centrality and cohesiveness in encouraging regional norms and rules.”

Specific areas for enhanced cooperation may include maritime issues, human rights, post-conflict peace-building, countering violence and extremism, terrorism, transnational crime, trafficking in persons, money laundering and practical defense cooperation linkages.

Pursuing economic and socio-cultural linkages

Even as politico-security cooperation gains prominence, economic and socio-cultural linkages remain vital to the ASEAN-Australia Strategic Partnership.

Australia hopes to build on regional economic integration through the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (AANZFTA), the anticipated Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement and its development cooperation programs.

Renewed attention is also being given to disaster management and people-to-people exchanges. Australia is granting generous scholarships to citizens of AMS to enable them to study in its universities. It is also expanding the New Colombo Plan, in which Australian youth are encouraged to study in developing countries, including in ASEAN, in order to expand their horizons.

Likewise, Deputy Secretary Moriarty announced that Australia “will launch a new ASEAN-Australia Council to support activities that enhance awareness links and understanding within our people and our institutions.”

Last Philippine hosting as country coordinator

As a fitting sign-off for the last Philippine hosting of an ASEAN-Australia meeting, the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra String Quartet performed a short program of Filipino music for the SOM Leaders and their delegations. They also gave a much applauded rendition of the popular Australian song, “Waltzing Matilda.”

“Your guidance and collegiality have been outstanding,” Deputy Secretary Moriarty declared as he placed on record Australia’s deep appreciation for the Philippines, as Australia's country coordinator and partner for many of ASEAN-related endeavors over the past three years.

The Philippines is due to conclude its country coordinatorship during the ASEAN Post-Ministerial Conference (PMC) Session with Australia, which is tentatively scheduled on 05 August 2015.
Two young Filipina Artists featured in Rome Art exhibit
Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph
30 March 2015 - In celebration of the International Women’s Day and promotion of Philippine arts and culture, the Philippine Embassy in Rome supported the third edition of “La Mente Artistica - Giovani Donne Artiste a Confronto” (The Artistic Mind— Young Women Artists in Comparison) held from March 09 to 14 at Teatro Dei Dioscuri al Quirinale in Rome by featuring Ms. Kim T. Viray, a young Filipina jewelry artisan and entrepreneur based in Rome.

Kim’s entry is a collection of her personally handmade jewelries displaying her original and intricate designs. For Kim, her designs take inspiration from her strong oriental background, combined with the relaxed romance that is Italy. Because of her passion in jewelry-making, she ventured to be an entrepreneur and establish her personal line of jewelries called “KimiTe Jewels.”

Kim grew up in the Philippines and then moved to Rome in 2006. According to her, from the time she arrived in Rome, the passionate setting of the eternal city continues to inspire her as she meticulously designs and creates her jewelries and other accessories. Her first training was in interior design under Architect Edgar Lee and later on acquired her jewelry making techniques from Ms. Silvia Cerroni and Ms. Marinia Valli, two famous Italian designers. Prior to this exhibit, she took part in the Jewelry International Trade in Dubai in December 2014.

Another young Filipina artist, who had the privilege to participate in this year’s exhibit, is Ms. Jacqueline De Vega. Jacke’s entry to the exhibit entitled “Forza Belleza” (the beauty of strength), was a photo taken during the Medieval Festival 2014 in the town of Volterra in Tuscany. The photo depicts a young woman’s craftsmanship using leather, utilizing precise knowledge and skill in her craft, hence, the title “Forza Belleza.”

Jacke is an aspiring young photographer based in Rome. Prior to coming to Italy in 2008, she worked as a call center agent in the Philippines. Notwithstanding her humble livelihood as a house helper and babysitter, Jacke finds time to develop her talent in photography. She also writes news and articles for some newspapers and magazines that cater to the Filipino community in Italy and in other parts of Europe.

The exhibit was organized by L’Associazione Culturale Artistica Mente, a non-profit, non-political association which aims to promote culture through the arts.
Public urged to reject misinformation on BBL
Source: http://www.opapp.gov.ph
MANILA – Deliberate attempts to misinform the public and demonize the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law continue, according to a member of the legal team of the government peace negotiating panel.

Atty. Mohammad Al-amin Julkipli said among the misinformation are continued assertions by anti-BBL groups that four provisions of the BBL – on the creation of agencies of constitutional bodies, the funding for Bangsamoro, the justice system in the region and the regional PNP command in Bangsamoro – need to be revised or removed because they allegedly run counter to provisions of the Constitution.

"We don't know where these misinformation are coming from and what the agenda of these critics are considering that we have previously engaged them and explained these specific provisions," he added. "We call on the Filipino people to be very cautious in dealing with these types of reports."

P 35-billion Bangsamoro fund

"For one, we have already repeatedly debunked the issue that the Bangsa‎moro will get an initial P 75-billion funding in its first year," Julkipli said

“P35 billion lang ang kabuuang pondo para sa unang taon ng Bangsamoro at ang halagang ito ay hindi nalalayo sa kasalukuyang alokasyon para sa Autonomous Region in Muslim MindanaO (ARMM). [The total funding to be directly allocated to the Bangsamoro regional government for its initial year of operation will only amount to P35 billion, and this amount does not significantly depart from the current allocation for the ARMM.]”

He pointed out that the P35-billion fund is broken down into the following: P 1-billion for the transition from the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Regional Government to the Bangsamoro Government; P 7-billion Special Development Fund for the first year (and P 2-billion per year for the next five years) to allow the poverty-stricken and conflict-affected region to catch-up in terms of development through infrastructure build-up and intensified delivery of social services; and P 27-billion estimated block grant in 2016 which will be used for economic development, payment for salaries of teachers and health workers and all other educational and health services.

These are the only moneys that will be allocated to the region under the BBL and, hence, the only amounts that should justly be counted as allocations therefor.

Atty. Julkipli asseverated that it is not proper to add to the regional funds the values for the Internal Revenue Allocations (IRA) of the LGUs that may be included in the Bangsamoro as well as the funds that are included in various national agency budgets dedicated for the ARMM for the plain reason that these moneys are not allocated to the autonomous region per se but are moneys allotted to the different LGUs and the national agencies, respectively. Take these values out of the equation and we will certainly not reach P70 billion.

According the the Department of Budget and Management, the ARMM LGUs received P 18 billion in 2015.

Shari'ah Law

"In terms of the implementation of the Shari'ah Law in the Bangsamoro, it will apply to Muslims only,” Julkipli said. "The Shari’ah courts would not cover non-Muslims as regular courts would still exist in Bangsamoro."

He also insisted that the Supreme Court has the ultimate power of reviewing all decisions by the Shari’ah courts in the Bangsamoro as practiced now.

There will be no separate justice system in the Bangsamoro. In the BBL, the special courts that are to be institutionalized or strengthened therein shall all be part of the singular Judiciary that remains to be under the administration and control of the Supreme Court. That is true for the Shari'ah Courts in the Bangsamoro as well as the tribal/customary courts.

Supplementing the work of Constitutional bodies

Julkipli also clarified on the issue of alleged creation of new and distinct agencies duplicating the work of Constitutional bodies such as the Commission on Audit (COA), Commisison on Elections (COMELEC), and Commission on Civil Service (CSC).

“The proposed Bangsamoro agencies will not supplant nor will they, in any way, derogate from or take away the constitutional powers and duties of the Constitutional Commissions and other constitutionally-mandated offices,” he said.

“In fact, the draft law is emphatic in articulating that the existence and functioning of these Bangsamoro agencies shall be without prejudice to the powers and duties of the Constitutional Commissions. “

The goal in including their creation in the BBL is simply to "strengthen checks and balances in the Bangsamoro and supplement the work of the Constitutional bodies, hence the proposed establishment of auditing, civil service, election and human rights units."

"Ang pinagmulan po ng proposal na yan ay ang kagustuhan na paigtingin ang checks and balances at hindi ang mapalitan ang COA, COMELEC at iba pa," Julkipli said.

No automatic integration to AFP or PNP

Julkipli also denied that members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front members would be automatically integrated into the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police.

“The truth is very far from that since this is not provided in the BBL as the desire of the government and the MILF in the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro is to submit all MILF armed combatants and their families to the normalization and decommissioning processes so they could return to their normal lives, and not to a life of arms anymore,” Julkipli said.

However, there is no prohibition for MILF members to apply with the AFP or the PNP, but they will have to go through the same rigorous processes that all AFP and PNP members go through.

The legal panel member also allayed fears that the creation of the Bangsamoro wi‎ll lead to secession. "There's no truth to that. Ang Bangsamoro ang magbibigay katuparan sa nakasaad sa Philippine Constitution na totoong otonomiya para sa Muslim Mindanao(The Bangsamoro will implement the provision in the Philippine Constitution for true autonomy in Muslim Mindanao).
- See more at: http://www.opapp.gov.ph/milf/news/public-urged-reject-misinformation-bbl#sthash.V23dbKS9.dpuf
On DOLE Central Office’s ARTA implementation: Clients satisfied with quality of services and facilities, but Baldoz asks for more improvements
Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph
On DOLE Central Office’s ARTA implementation:
Clients satisfied with quality of services and facilities, but Baldoz asks for more improvements

Clients in the second semester of 2014 expressed general satisfaction on the quality of DOLE’s services delivered, and their satisfaction was also high for physical facilities, but Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz insisted to all DOLE officials and frontline employees on more improvements.

“We have to live daily by our continuing quest for excellence. Excellence is doing ordinary things the extra-ordinary way,” she said after she received the report of DOLE Undersecertary Rebecca Chato on the second-half of 2014’s implementation of R.A. 9485, or the Anti-Red Tape Act (ARTA) of 2007. Chato’s report included results of the Citizen’s Feedback required by the ARTA.

In her report, Undersecretary Chato said client satisfacton, as a component of good governance, has always been the primary focus of the DOLE in the delivery of frontline programs and services.

“We measure such to alow the Department to understand and determine where to take actions to improve servide delivery,” she said.

In the DOLE Central Office, it is the Financial and Management Service that is taked to continuosly monitor and analyze the results of the Citizen’s Feedback, which are forms that reflect comments, responses, and sentiments of the public transacting official business with the DOLE.

For the second half of 2014, the FMS identified the following areas or “drivers” of satisfaction that the transacting public rated in the Citizen’s Feedback forms: problem/inquiry was solved/answered; problem/inquiry was promptly attended to; problem/inquiry was courteously attended to; and complete information about inquiry was provided.

In these quality of services area, and overwhelming majority, or 80 percent, of the clients said their problem/inquiry was solved; 76 percent said their problem/inquiry was promptly attended to; 72 percent said their problem/inquiry was courteously attended to; and 76 percent said they obtained complete information about their inquiry when they transacted business with the Central Office.

On the quality of facilities, the identified areas or “drivers” of satisfaction that the transacting public rated were the following: signage, receiving area, cleanliness and orderliness, and restroom.

An overwhelming majority, or 80 percent, expressed satisfaction on DOLE signages; 80 percent also expressed satisfaction on the receiving areas and on the cleanliness and orderliness of the facilities. However, only 76 percent were satisfied with the restrooms, with one client commenting on the lack of a restroom at the Public Assistance and Complaints Unit.

One client also made the following observation: “I an an OFW and underpaid. Government assistance is made through institutions, and the amounts extended are small that this could not even meet my needs. This is maybe due to our level of economic development. I suggest we elect a new Office of the Secretary for OFWs.”

Secretary Baldoz said that since the law took effect, the DOLE in the Central Office have embarked on ARTA initiatives and continues to monitor them, including the installation of an electronic billboard displaying the DOLE Citizen’s Charter during office hours; regualr updating of the Charter on the names and position titles of persons responsible, their addresses, and their contact details; availability of the Charter and the feedback forms in physical copies and on the DOLE website; installation and maintenance of dropboxes; regular gathering and recording of accomplished forms; manning of the PACU with frontline personnel who observes the no-lunch-break policy; and maintenance of anti-fixer signage, DOLE vision-mission-performance pledge and copies of the Charter in designated areas.
Kalibo Airport opens new sing in time for the summer rush
Source: http://www.dotc.gov.ph
Night Flights Now Available at Laguindingan Airport;

Construction of New Bohol Airport Starts This Summer

Kalibo Airport’s new 4,000-sq. m. wing opened its arrival section last week and will open its departures area tomorrow, in time for the summer rush to Boracay.

Continuing its push to modernize the country’s transportation systems, the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) announces ongoing progress in three (3) airports in the Visayas and Mindanao – all of which cater to local and foreign tourists alike – right on time for the summer rush.

“We’re happy to open Kalibo International Airport’s (KIA) new wing right as we enter the summer season. As always, we expect a high volume of visitors to Boracay in the next couple of months, so the new section will help meet this peak period demand,” remarked DOTC Secretary Jun Abaya.

The arrival area of the new wing opened last Thursday, March 26, while the departure area will start operating tomorrow, March 31. Ten (10) new check-in counters have been added to the latter section.

The nearly-4,000 square meter expansion, which comes at a price tag of P 44.3-Million, enables the airport to accommodate an additional 800 passengers at any given time.

All domestic flights will be transferred to the new wing of the terminal, while international flights will remain in the original portion of the PTB.

Night Flights at Laguindingan Airport Set

Abaya also announced the start of regular night flight operations at the gateway airport to Northern Mindanao.

“Another piece of good news is that regular evening flights to and from Laguindingan Airport started last night, March 29. This boosts accessibility for the residents of Cagayan de Oro and neighboring areas, as well as for visitors to the region,” the transport chief said.

After being fully-equipped for night landing last October, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) gave airlines the option to schedule their night flights at the airport. Evening flights formally opened last March 12th, when Cebu Pacific Air operated round-trips from Cagayan de Oro to Cebu and Davao. It will now offer regular night trips to and from Manila.

An Enhanced O&M contract – which will require the eventual concessionaire to construct a terminal expansion as well as operate and maintain the airport – is currently being bid out by the DOTC along with the Davao, Bacolod, Iloilo, and New Bohol Airports.

Construction of New Bohol Airport Begins This Summer

The New Bohol airport – the first greenfield airport project of the Aquino Administration – is another project of the DOTC, which recently awarded the P 3.36-Billion construction contract to the Japanese joint venture of Chiyoda Corporation and Mitsubishi Corporation.

“Another world-class airport will soon rise on the island of Panglao, to cater to the steadily-increasing number of tourists in Bohol. It will be developed as an ‘eco-airport’ or one that features environmentally-sustainable technologies, in line with the province’s eco-tourism branding,” Abaya explained.

Construction is set to begin before the end of summer, and is scheduled to be completed in 2017. It is designed to accommodate one million passengers annually.

“In a country filled with tourist hotspots on islands separated by seas, it is vital to develop and modernize our airports not only to better service our passengers, but to also enable economic growth for our people,” Abaya remarked.

Last year, Terminal 3 of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) was finally opened for full airline operations, and the DOTC project to rehabilitate NAIA Terminal 1 and to give it a new look also began.

A more than 8,000-square meter expansion of Clark International Airport passenger terminal building was opened in May, and the contracts to bring the Mactan-Cebu and Puerto Princesa Airports to world-class levels were also awarded by the DOTC in 2014.
Paje rallies support for Earth Hour, Global fight VS. Climage Change
Source: http://www.denr.gov.ph
Environment Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje is urging Filipinos to once again demonstrate their eagerness to fight climate change by participating in this year's Earth Hour, taking place on March 28 at 8:30 pm.

Earth Hour is a worldwide annual event where participants shut off all lights and unused appliances and electronics in the attempt to show their support of international efforts to address climate change and its impacts.

"The significance of Earth Hour is rooted in the larger context of climate change. When we douse our lights and conserve energy produced from carbon fuels, we help mitigate climate change," Paje pointed out.

He added: "By adopting habits and lifestyles that lessen the burning of fossil fuels, we adapt to climate change. This is the essence of Earth Hour, the global switch-off, when we embrace the dark for at least an hour, so our future may become sustainably brighter."

Since joining the world's largest climate movement in 2009, Paje said the Philippines not only consistently has the biggest Earth Hour participation, but also one of the countries in the world that go beyond the hour and take bold action against the global phenomenon.

Paje said no wonder Filipinos are the most active Earth Hour participants since the Philippines has been dubbed as one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change, with impacts ranging from extreme weather events and periodic inundation to droughts and food scarcity.

The environment chief said the country has been at the forefront of climate issues and its efforts to tame climate change impacts have been recognized by no less than the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the leading global environmental authority.

"We have been going far beyond Earth Hour for several years now, with our initiatives in climate change mitigation and adaptation," Paje said, referring to the Aquino administration's vigorous implementation of the twin policy on total logging ban on natural forests and the National Greening Program, which seeks to create 1.5 million hectares of new forests from 2011 to 2016.

He also cited the programs on geohazards assessment and mapping and on clean air spearheaded by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

"Our achievements in these programs and on other fronts have been recognized. Just last month, UNEP Executive Director Achim Steiner lauded our country’s leadership within the Climate Change Convention," Paje said.

Paje acknowledged the valuable contributions of DENR partners, including the UNEP, which is funding seven major environmental projects being implemented by the department.

However, Paje said more needs to be done to win the fight against climate change and that requires sustained collective efforts of nations and the entire human race.
ODA loan disbursement triples in Q4 2014
Source: http://www.neda.gov.ph
MANILA—The financial performance of projects and programs funded through Official Development Assistance (ODA) improved as the disbursement level in the fourth quarter of 2014 tripled from the same period of last year, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).

“Comparing the financial performance in the fourth quarter of 2014 from the same period in 2013, all absorptive capacity indicators registered favorable performance. This includes the disbursement level, disbursement rate, availment rate, and the disbursement ratio,” said NEDA Monitoring and Evaluation Staff (MES) Director Roderick M. Planta.

The disbursement level, which is the actual expenditure or draw-down of ODA-funded projects and programs, increased to US$1.62 billion in the last quarter of 2014 from US$546.36 million during the same period in 2013. The said improvement was caused by higher actual loan drawdown (or disbursements) from 13 program loans amounting to US$1.1 billion from US$182.60 million in the fourth quarter of 2013, according to a report of the NEDA-MES.

The disbursement rate, or the actual disbursement level as a percentage of target disbursement for the year, had an 18-percentage-point increase to 68.3 percent in 2014 from 50.3 percent in 2013. Though this was below the acceptable 70-percent threshold, for a satisfactory financial performance for a given year, the disbursement rate was a significant improvement compared to 2013 figure.

The availment rate, or the percentage of loan amount’s actual utilization against loan schedule, likewise improved and still exceeded the threshold at 77.0 percent in the fourth quarter of 2014 from 73.0 percent of the previous year.

Furthermore, the disbursement ratio, which is the actual drawdown as against the available net loan amount, improved by 12.3 percentage points, from 9.3 percent during the last quarter of 2013 to 21.6 percent in fourth quarter same period. The increase was due to the entry of about US$2.04 billion worth of new program loans, but almost half of which was disbursed within the year.

Meanwhile, the overall net commitment for ODA-assisted projects and programs registered an increase of US$3.18 billion in fourth quarter of 2014. This was from US$8.11 billion in last quarter of 2013 to US$11.29 billion.

The said net commitment consists of 13 program loans amounting to US$4.09 billion and 62 project loans amounting to US$7.21 billion. The Infrastructure Sector had the largest share (40.2%).

The World Bank was the biggest source of loans, with a 39.5-percent share amounting to US$4.46 billion. The Japan International Cooperation Agency came second with US$3.41 billion (30.2%), followed by the Asian Development Bank with US$2.23 billion (19.8%). The total assistance from the said three sources of loans amounting to US$10.10 billion constitutes 89.0 percent of the total 2014 portfolio.
Immigration foils trafficking attempt at NAIA
Source: http://www.immigration.gov.ph
Manila, Philippines—Immigration Officers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 4 foiled an attempt to traffic 16 victims to Malaysia last March 4.

The 16 passengers, whose names have been withheld for their safety, presented themselves as a group of friends going on tour to Malaysia. They attempted to depart for Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia via Air Asia Flight Z2940.

However, upon interview, Immigration Officers Gliziel Joy Diaz and Jeathone Largo noticed inconsistencies in their statements and thus referred them to Travel Control and Enforcement Unit (TCEU) Officer Joyce Arianne Laurel for further inspection.

Verification with airline personnel revealed that the 16 passengers only booked their tickets the day before, and did not have a return ticket. They could neither present accommodation arrangements in their country of destination, nor elaborate on their travel itinerary.

This prompted TCEU Officer Laurel to inquire more on the nature of their travel. During the interview, the passengers eventually admitted that they did not know each other, and they paid P20,000 each to a certain ‘Ms. Weng’ and ‘Ms. Riza’ whose full names are unknown to them. Ms. Weng and Ms. Riza introduced themselves as legitimate manpower agents and offered them assistance in seeking work abroad.

One of the victims, a 29-year-old former security guard, claims that he was promised work in Malaysia. He became suspicious of the recruiters because he knew the process of acquiring legitimate work documents, as his brother was also an OFW. When he asked for a copy of his POEA clearance and his Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar Certificate, Ms. Riza assured him that said documents will be provided before departure. He only learned on that same day that he will depart as a tourist, and not as an OFW as promised.

Two of the female victims were former repatriated OFWs from war-torn Libya. They admitted that they are planning to transit Malaysia to go back to Libya amidst calls for repatriation as a result of the deteriorating security situation in that country. They stated that they paid Ms. Weng and Ms. Riza P20,000 to assist their departure.

The rest of the victims admitted to have paid the same amount to Ms. Weng and Ms. Riza, claiming that they were convinced by the two that work was waiting for them abroad.

They were immediately endorsed to the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking for further investigation and for filing of appropriate charges against their recruiters.

BI Commissioner Siegfred Mison reminded aspiring OFWs not to be “satisfied with flowery words from illegal recruiters. They must be vigilant at all times, and exert all efforts in ensuring that the agencies they deal with are legitimate manpower agencies.” Mison also mentioned that OFWs may coordinate with the POEA to verify if the manpower agency they are dealing with is legitimate.

“They will most likely be victims of human trafficking as soon as they set foot abroad, where they will have no one to turn to. We implement the law to protect the interest of our kababayans and their families,” Mison said.
Over a basketball game, Villanueva tells youth to 'Shoot for your dreams'
Source: http://www.tesda.gov.ph
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Director General Joel Villanueva once again put his well-reputed basketball skills on the line in an effort to woo the youth to get into technical vocational education (tech-voc).

Villanueva joined some Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) legends and tech-voc students in a friendly exhibition game dubbed Shoot for your Dream in General Santos City.

His visit to General Santos City also saw the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement with the Mindanao TVET (MinTVET) Association for the grant of P30 million worth of scholarship to deserving scholars starting this summer.

MINTVET is an association of tech-voc institutions in Mindanao.

Villanueva teamed up with former PBA players Jerry Codinera, Marlou Aquino, Rodney Santos, Bobby Jose, Bal David, Alvin Patrimonio, and Kenneth Duremdes to compose Team Trabaho, which were pitted against the Team Specialistas in Region XII composed of tech-voc students.

During the match held at the Lagao Gymnasium, Villanueva demonstrated his hoop skills in the hardcourt and shot three-pointers for three times.

"Like in a basketball game, one can't stand still and wait in the midst of opportunities to get to the goal and win," Villanueva said.

"These opportunities for learning and honing of skills are being made available by the government through the TESDA programs," he added.

Before the crowd of about 4,000, including local officials led by City Mayor Ronnel Rivera, the TESDA chief prodded the youth to "strive and work for the betterment of their lives, as TESDA assists them through its scholarship and competency assessment and certification programs."

Villanueva has made the Shoot for your Dream basketball match a regular feature in his visits to the provinces to encourage the youth to get into tech-voc.

He also met with various media organizations and held a press conference to promote TESDA's programs.
PDIC urges depositors to file deposit insurance claims in closed banks before expiry date, insured
Source: http://www.pdic.gov.ph
The Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) urged depositors of the closed Silangan Savings and Loan Bank, Rural Bank of Reina Mercedes (Isabela), and Rural Bank of Montevista (Davao del Norte) to file their deposit insurance claims before the expiry period. The PDIC Charter (Republic Act 3591, As Amended) provides that depositors have until two years from bank closure to file their deposit insurance claims with the PDIC either through mail or personally during business hours at the PDIC Claims Counter, 4th Floor, SSS Bldg., 6782 Ayala Avenue corner V.A. Rufino Street, Makati City. The PDIC reiterated that all valid claims will be paid.

In accordance with the provisions of the PDIC Charter, the last day for filing deposit insurance claims in the closed Silangan Savings and Loan Bank is on January 11, 2016; February 10, 2016 for Rural Bank of Reina Mercedes; and March 7, 2016 for Rural Bank of Montevista. PDIC made the call after it concluded the onsite claims settlement operations for the three closed banks more than six months ago.

The PDIC shall no longer accept any deposit insurance claims filed after the said dates. Depositors may, however, still file their claims against the closed banks through PDIC as liquidator. Payment of claims will depend on the sufficiency of the assets of the closed banks and shall be subject to the approval of the Liquidation Court.

Silangan Savings and Loan Bank, Rural Bank of Reina Mercedes and Rural Bank of Montevista were ordered closed by the Monetary Board (MB) and placed under PDIC receivership during the first quarter of 2014.

The PDIC reported that as of January 31, 2015, it had paid P67.8 million for Silangan Savings and Loan Bank, P59.3 million for Rural Bank of Reina Mercedes, and P176.9 million for Rural Bank of Montevista, or an aggregate of P304.0 million in deposit insurance claims to depositors of the three closed banks involving a total of 14,641 accounts. Estimated deposit insurance claims collectively amounting to P20.3 million for 9,294 accounts have not been filed by depositors of Silangan Savings and Loan Bank (47 accounts), Rural Bank of Reina Mercedes (170 accounts), and Rural Bank of Montevista (9,077 accounts).

Depositors of said closed banks are advised to present the general requirements for filing deposit insurance claims, such as their accomplished Claim Forms, original evidence of deposit and two (2) valid photo-bearing IDs with signature of the depositor, to the PDIC representatives. Depositors may also file their claims through mail and enclose the same set of required documents. The PDIC will not accept claims which are incomplete or lacking in requirements.

The PDIC also reminded depositors who have been notified of deficiencies in the documents submitted to support their deposit insurance claims to comply with the requirements to facilitate release of their claims.

In addition to the general requirements, depositors who are below 18 years old should submit either a photocopy of their Birth Certificate issued by the National Statistics Office (NSO) or a duly certified copy issued by the Local Civil Registrar. Claimants who are not the signatories in the bank records are required to submit an original copy of a notarized Special Power of Attorney of the depositor or parent of a minor depositor.

The procedures and requirements for the filing of deposit insurance claims are posted in the PDIC website, www.pdic.gov.ph.. The Claim Form and format of the Special Power of Attorney may also be downloaded from the PDIC website.

For more information, depositors may contact the Public Assistance Department at telephone numbers (02) 841-4630 to 31, or e-mail at pad@pdic.gov.ph.. Depositors outside Metro Manila may call the PDIC toll free at 1-800-1-888-PDIC or 1-800-1-888-7342.
DA-PRDP pushes for environmentally and socially sound projects
Source: http://www.da.gov.ph
PhilHealth to Balik-Manggagawa: Pay your premiums first before securing OECs
Source: http://www.philhealth.gov.ph
Starting April 1, vacationing and re-hired overseas Filipino workers will have to pay their premium contributions to the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) separately from their payments to the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) for their Overseas Employment Certificates (OECs).

This development is in line with the decision of the POEA to implement a single collection policy starting on the same date. The POEA will only be collecting fees for OEC and no longer for PhilHealth and Pag-IBIG Fund.

The collection counters of PhilHealth and other government agencies, however, will be retained at POEA in Mandaluyong City and in the one-stop shops of POEA nationwide.

“We call on our OFW-members to pay their PhilHealth premium contributions first before going to the POEA for their OECs. This will secure their social health insurance coverage, as well as that of their legal dependents, for their peace of mind,” said PhilHealth President and CEO Alexander A. Padilla.

Padilla added that “OFW-members may still pay their premium contributions at the designated PhilHealth counters at the Balik-Manggagawa Center at the POEA in Mandaluyong City, as well as through any of the 27 accredited collecting partners that we have earlier authorized for local collection from OFW-members. They may also pay at our Local Health Insurance Offices nationwide.”

Overseas Filipinos pay P2,400.00 annually for their premium contribution to PhilHealth. The amount includes coverage for all qualified legal dependents of a migrant worker such as legal spouse who is not a PhilHealth member; legitimate and illegitimate children below 21 years old, unmarried and unemployed; and parents who are below 60 years old but are suffering from permanent disability which renders them totally dependent on the member for support.

Parents who are 60 years old and above and are not yet PhilHealth members may enrol under the Senior Citizen category.

PhilHealth pays for overseas hospitalization of migrant workers, as well as for the confinement of their legal dependents in the Philippines, through a reimbursement mechanism. Migrant workers have 180 calendar days from the date of discharge to file their claim documents through any of PhilHealth’s 17 Regional Offices in the Philippines. All refunds are paid for in Philippine peso equivalent.
PH moderates ASEAN Integration Summit 2015 infra session
Source: http://ppp.gov.ph
Key government and private sector leaders in the Southeast Asian Region convened at the first Asian Legal Business (ALB) ASEAN Integration Summit 2015 in Singapore last March 26.

According to ALB website, the summit aims “to forge partnerships and devise solutions on the legal, regulatory, and business challenges of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC)”.

One of the important sessions in the summit was moderated by the Public-Private Partnership Center Deputy Executive Director Eleazar E. Ricote. The session discussed the importance of physical connectivity as pre-requisite for shared economic growth and the infrastructure development requirements towards an increased intra-regional trade and regional demand.

It also tackled the role of regional infrastructure cooperation in growth and integration and the various projects for improved and integrated roads, railways, airways, ports and energy and telecommunication networks for the ASEAN.

The summit provided a venue to discuss the different challenges and opportunities for this year’s ASEAN Integration. One of topic highlights to accelerate the necessary private investment in the region through overcoming challenges on public-private partnership (PPP).

Last December 2014, the Philippines hosted the first ASEAN PPP Forum in Manila. It was a significant event that allowed ASEAN member states to share PPP experience, discuss proposed PPP guidelines, and explore strategies to attract the private sector to invest in infrastructure in the region. Infrastructure development is seen as a vital component to a stronger ASEAN integration. And public-private partnership is considered to be one of the solutions to the infrastructure gap in the region.

Also, part of the objectives of the ASEAN integration is the freer flow of goods, services, investment, and skilled labor. Thus, ALB gathered public and private sectors to exchange views and opinions on the various transformations required in all aspects of doing business across ASEAN member states.
 
 
President Benigno S. Aquino III’s Lenten Message
Rizal Ceremonial Hall, Malacañang
30 March 2015
Tuwing Semana Santa, hinihimok tayong pagnilayan ang walang-hanggang pagmamahal ng Panginoon, ang pagmamahal na dumaig sa pang-aalipusta, nagwaksi ng tukso, at di-inalintana ang pagdurusa, upang isalba sa kasalanan ang sanlibutan.

Isipin po ninyo: Sa kabila ng lubos na kapangyarihang iligtas ang sarili sa kapahamakan,pinili ni Hesukristong magpakumbaba bilang tao, at ialay ang sariling buhay. Pinasan niya ang matinding kalbaryo upang maging bukal ng kaligtasan, at ilapit tayo sa Kaharian ng Diyos-Ama. Ayon nga po sa Aklat ni San Juan, Kapitulo 3, Bersikulo 16: “Gayon na lamang ang pag-ibig ng Diyos sa sanlibutan, kaya ibinigay niya ang Kanyang bugtong na Anak, upang ang sinumang sumasampalataya sa Kanya ay hindi mapahamak, kundi magkaroon ng buhay na walang hanggan.”

Ito nga po ang nagsisilbi nating gabay sa pagtataguyod ng bansang nakatuon hindi lang sa kapakanan ng mga Pilipino ngayon kundi maging ng mga susunod pang henerasyon. Tinatawag tayong gawin ang lahat ng ating makakaya, upang maipamana ang isang lipunan na inuuna ang interes ng nakakarami bago ang sarili.

Gaya ng iniwang aral sa atin ni Santo Papa Francisco nang bumisita siya sa ating bansa, nakikita ang bakas ng presensya ng Panginoon sa pag-aalay ng habag at malasakit sa kapwa, lalo na sa mas nangangailangan. Makakaasa po kayo: Sa tuwid na daan, maigting nating sinusulong ang pagtatakwil sa anumang anyo ng katiwalian upang ihatid ang agarang benepisyo sa ating mga kababayan.

Ang hamon nga sa atin bilang mga tagasunod ni Hesukristo: Tumotoo tayo hindi lang sa salita, kung hindi sa gawa. Sa patuloy nating ambagan at pagkakaisa, sa gabay at pagmamahal ng Panginoon, tiyak na pagpapalain tayo ng kinabukasang tunay na makabuluhan sa bawat isa.

Isang mapayapa at makabuluhang Mahal na Araw po sa ating lahat.
 
Last Updated: 27 MARCH 2015
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President Benigno S. Aquino III signs the Book of Condolences for the late former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore at the Multi-Purpose Hall of the Embassy of the Republic of Singapore in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City on Friday (March 27). (Photo by Presidential Photographers Division, Malacanang)
President Benigno S. Aquino III calls on “independent convenors” to   lead a National Peace Summit in reviewing and objectively discuss the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) during a national address at the  Kalayaan Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (March 27). The citizen leaders include Manila Archbishop Luis Cardinal Tagle, former Chief Justice Hilario Davide, Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, Howard Dee and Bai Rohaniza Sumndad-Usman. President Aquino’s televised speech marks the one year anniversary of the historic signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro. (Photo by Lauro Montellano Jr. / Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the opening ceremony of the 30th Biennial Convention of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) at the SMX Convention Center, SM Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City on Friday (March 27). This year’s theme is “Gearing Up for ASEAN Integration and Sustainable Growth.” (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III shares the stage with the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) officers, led by FFCCCII chairman emeritus Dr. Lucio Tan and outgoing president Dr. Alfonso Siy, for a snap shot during the opening ceremony of the 30th Biennial Convention of the federation at the SMX Convention Center, SM Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City on Friday (March 27, 2015). This year’s theme is “Gearing Up for ASEAN Integration and Sustainable Growth.” Also in photo is People’s Republic of China Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the opening ceremony of the 30th Biennial Convention of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) at the SMX Convention Center, SM Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City on Friday (March 27). This year’s theme is “Gearing Up for ASEAN Integration and Sustainable Growth.” (Photo by Gil Nartea / Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III witnesses as Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) chairman emeritus Dr. Lucio Tan presents the Plaque of Recognition to outgoing FFCCCII president Dr. Alfonso Siy at the opening ceremony of the 30th Biennial Convention of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. at the SMX Convention Center, SM Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City on Friday (March 27). This year’s theme is “Gearing Up for ASEAN Integration and Sustainable Growth.” (Photo by Gil Nartea / Benhur Arcayan / Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III is greets People’s Republic of China Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua upon arrival for the opening ceremony of the 30th Biennial Convention of the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) at the SMX Convention Center, SM Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City on Friday (March 27). This year’s theme is “Gearing Up for ASEAN Integration and Sustainable Growth.” (Photo by Gil Nartea / Benhur Arcayan / Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III confers the Order of Sikatuna with the rank of Datu, Katangiang Ginto (Grand Cross, Gold Distinction) on outgoing Republic of Korea Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Hyuk during the farewell call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (March 26). The Order of Sikatuna is the national order of diplomatic merit of the Republic of the Philippines. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III confers the Order of Sikatuna with the rank of Datu, Katangiang Ginto (Grand Cross, Gold Distinction) on outgoing Republic of Korea Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Hyuk during the farewell call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (March 26). The Order of Sikatuna is the national order of diplomatic merit of the Republic of the Philippines. With the Korean Ambassador are Consul General and Deputy Chief of Mission, Lee Jaw Wan; Political Minister Counselor Kwon Won-jikofone; and Economic Minister Counselor Yang Dong Han. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 36th Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Commencement Exercises of the Lakandula Class of 2015 at the PNPA Grandstand, Camp General Mariano Castañeda in Silang, Cavite on Thursday (March 26). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno Simeon Aquino III presents the Presidential Kampilan Award to Police Cadet Dennis Mondroid Yuson, Jr. for topping the Lakandula Class of 2015 during the 36th Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Commencement Exercises at the PNPA Grandstand, Camp General Mariano Castañeda in Silang, Cavite on Thursday (March 26). Also in photo is PNPA director P/CSupt. Armando Ramolete. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III salutes as he acknowledges Police Cadet Dennis Mondroid Yuson, Jr. for topping the Lakandula Class of 2015 during the 36th Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Commencement Exercises at the PNPA Grandstand, Camp General Mariano Castañeda in Silang, Cavite on Thursday (March 26). Also in photo is PNPA director P/CSupt. Armando Ramolete. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III, accompanied by PNPA director P/CSupt. Armando Ramolete, troops the line during the 36th Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Commencement Exercises of the Lakandula Class of 2015 at the PNPA Grandstand, Camp General Mariano Castañeda in Silang, Cavite on Thursday (March 26). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III troops the line during the 36th Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Commencement Exercises of the Lakandula Class of 2015 at the PNPA Grandstand, Camp General Mariano Castañeda in Silang, Cavite on Thursday (March 26). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III honors the colors during the 36th Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Commencement Exercises of the Lakandula Class of 2015 at the PNPA Grandstand, Camp General Mariano Castañeda in Silang, Cavite on Thursday (March 26). Also in photo are Vice President Jejomar Binay; Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II; and PNPA director P/CSupt. Armando Ramolete. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III expresses his views during the dialogue with the lower class cadets at the Administration Building of the Camp General Mariano Castañeda in Silang, Cavite after the 36th Philippine National Police Academy Commencement Exercises on Thursday (March 26). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno Simeon Aquino III delivers his speech  during the 36th Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Commencement Exercises of the Lakandula Class of 2015 at the PNPA Grandstand, Camp General Mariano Castañeda in Silang, Cavite on Thursday (March 26). Also in photo are Philippine Public Safety College president P/DDG Ricardo de Leon (Ret.); Vice President Jejomar Binay; Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II; and PNPA director P/CSupt. Armando Ramolete. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno Simeon Aquino III delivers his speech during the 36th Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Commencement Exercises of the Lakandula Class of 2015 at the PNPA Grandstand, Camp General Mariano Castañeda in Silang, Cavite on Thursday (March 26). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno Simeon Aquino III presents the Presidential Kampilan Award to Police Cadet Dennis Mondroid Yuson, Jr. for topping the Lakandula Class of 2015 during the 36th Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Commencement Exercises at the PNPA Grandstand, Camp General Mariano Castañeda in Silang, Cavite on Thursday (March 26). Also in photo is PNPA director P/CSupt. Armando Ramolete. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno Simeon Aquino III presents the Presidential Kampilan Award to Police Cadet Dennis Mondroid Yuson, Jr. for topping the Lakandula Class of 2015 during the 36th Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Commencement Exercises at the PNPA Grandstand, Camp General Mariano Castañeda in Silang, Cavite on Thursday (March 26). Also in photo are PNPA director P/CSupt. Armando Ramolete and Philippine Public Safety College (PPSC) president P/DDG Ricardo de Leon (Ret.). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III salutes as he acknowledges Police Cadet Dennis Mondroid Yuson, Jr. for topping the Lakandula Class of 2015 during the 36th Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Commencement Exercises at the PNPA Grandstand, Camp General Mariano Castañeda in Silang, Cavite on Thursday (March 26). Also in photo are PNPA director P/CSupt. Armando Ramolete and Philippine Public Safety College (PPSC) president P/DDG Ricardo de Leon (Ret.). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III shares the stage with Coca-Cola Phils. Sustainability and Community Relations manager Gilda Custodio-Maquilan; president and general manager Diego Eduardo Granizo, TESDA Director General Emmanuel Joel Villanueva and STAR TESDA – Coke beneficiary Lolita Mendoza for a snap shot during the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) – Coke Store Training and Access to Resources (STAR) program for Women’s Month 2015 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Wednesday (March 25). With the theme: “Juana, Ang Desisyon Mo ay Mahalaga para sa Kinabukasan ng Bawat Isa, Ikaw na ang Star!” the event is part of the global initiative of The Coca-Cola Company to economically empower five million women within its value chain by year 2020. Coca-Cola Philippines together with TESDA has been implementing the STAR program on a nationwide scale since 2012. (Photo by Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)
President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) – Coke Store Training and Access to Resources (STAR) program for Women’s Month 2015 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Wednesday (March 25). With the theme: “Juana, Ang Desisyon Mo ay Mahalaga para sa Kinabukasan ng Bawat Isa, Ikaw na ang Star!” the event is part of the global initiative of The Coca-Cola Company to economically empower five million women within its value chain by year 2020. Coca-Cola Philippines together with TESDA has been implementing STAR Program on a nationwide scale since 2012. Also in photo are STAR TESDA – Coke beneficiary Lolita Mendoza, TESDA Director General Emmanuel Joel Villanueva and Coca-Cola Phils. president and general manager Diego Eduardo Granizo. (Photo by Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)
President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) – Coke Store Training and Access to Resources (STAR) program for Women’s Month 2015 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Wednesday (March 25). With the  theme: “Juana, Ang Desisyon Mo ay Mahalaga para sa Kinabukasan ng Bawat Isa, Ikaw na ang Star!” the event is part of the global initiative of The Coca-Cola Company to economically empower five million women within its value chain by year 2020. Coca-Cola Philippines together with TESDA has been implementing the STAR Program on a nationwide scale since 2012. (Photo by Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)
President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) – Coke Store Training and Access to Resources (STAR) program for Women’s Month 2015 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Wednesday (March 25). With the theme: “Juana, Ang Desisyon Mo ay Mahalaga para sa Kinabukasan ng Bawat Isa, Ikaw na ang Star!” the event is part of the global initiative of The Coca-Cola Company to economically empower five million women within its value chain by year 2020. Coca-Cola Philippines together with TESDA has been implementing the STAR program on a nationwide scale since 2012. Also in photo are STAR TESDA – Coke beneficiary Lolita Mendoza and TESDA Director General Emmanuel Joel Villanueva. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III listens to the welcome remarks and overview by TESDA Director General Emmanuel Joel Villanueva during the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) – Coke Store Training and Access to Resources (STAR) program for Women’s Month 2015 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Wednesday (March 25). With the theme: “Juana, Ang Desisyon Mo ay Mahalaga para sa Kinabukasan ng Bawat Isa, Ikaw na ang Star!” the event is part of the global initiative of The Coca-Cola Company to economically empower five million women within its value chain by year 2020, Coca-Cola Philippines together with TESDA has been implementing STAR Program on a nationwide scale since 2012. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with TESDA Director General Emmanuel Joel Villanueva during the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) – Coke Store Training and Access to Resources (STAR) program for Women’s Month 2015 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Wednesday (March 25). With the theme: “Juana, Ang Desisyon Mo ay Mahalaga para sa Kinabukasan ng Bawat Isa, Ikaw na ang Star!” the event is part of the global initiative of The Coca-Cola Company to economically empower five million women within its value chain by year 2020. Coca-Cola Philippines together with TESDA has been implementing the STAR program on a nationwide scale since 2012. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
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‪#‎PNP‬ INTENSIFIES SECURITY MEASURES FOR SUMVAC 2015
read more: http://t.co/iynGDCz6bR http://t.co/zjcjIAajZe | via @pnppio



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Kung mahusay kang gumawa ng kwento o tula, ikaw ang hinahanap ng Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino! http://t.co/rHEGa7wsSP http://t.co/XkdJiI7aMw


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Planning a trip to ‪#‎ASEAN‬ countries? Create a short video & win prizes from ASEAN-Korea Centre!http://t.co/Jodhw7GMjo http://t.co/dimE0VIZFi


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One Luzon E-NewsMagazine 31 March 2015 Vol. 5 No. 062
A daily E-NewsMagazine about North and Central Luzon
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PIA News Desk          1 hr · 

‪#‎LRT‬ 1 & 2 Lenten Operations schedule: http://t.co/zR2OxF4iGk | via @lrta
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Philippines is hosting ‪#‎APEC‬ this year! Check out our website to learn more: http://t.co/euyuovzjsn ‪#‎APEC2015‬ http://t.co/6eiTvjbT5i
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Narito ang ilang safety tips upang mapanatili ang seguridad ng inyong ATM cards at ATM transactions. http://t.co/z4T9APNLg1 | via @pnppio
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Remember to check these things before using your vehicle. ‪#‎BLOWBAGETS‬ http://t.co/zr37rJ6LYl | via @pnppio
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