Sunday, March 15, 2015

3 Dispatch for March 25, 2015 (Wednesday), 10 PIA Calabarzon PR, 2 Weather Watch, 5 Regional Watch , 2 PNOY Speech, 20 Online News, 32 Photonews (Mar. 24)



24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST
Issued at: 5:00 AM 25 March 2015

SYNOPSIS: Northeast monsoon affecting Luzon.
FORECAST: Cagayan Valley, Cordillera and the provinces of Aurora and Quezon will experience cloudy skies with light rains. The regions of Ilocos and Bicol will have partly cloudy to at times cloudy skies with isolated light rains. Caraga and Northern Mindanao will experience cloudy skies with light rains and isolated thunderstorms. Metro Manila and the rest of the country will be partly cloudy to at times cloudy with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms.
Moderate to strong winds blowing from the northeast will prevail over Luzon and its coastal waters will be moderate to rough. Elsewhere, winds will be light to moderate coming from the northeast with slight to moderate seas.

PAGTAYA: Ang Cagayan Valley , Cordillera at ang mga lalawigan ng Aurora at Quezon ay makararanas ng maulap na kalangitan na may mahinang mga pag-ulan. ang mga rehiyon ng ilocos at kabikulan ay magkakaroon ng bahagyang maulap hanggang sa kung minsan ay maulap na papawirin na may pulu-pulong mga mahinang pag-ulan. Ang Caraga at Hilagang Mindanao ay magkararanas ng maulap na papawirin na may mahinang mga pag-ulan at pulu-pulong pagkidlat-pagkulog. Ang Metro Manila at ang nalalabing bahagi ng bansa ay magiging bahagyang maulap hanggang sa kung minsan ay maulap na may pulu-pulong mga pag-ulan o pagkidlat-pagkulog.


Katamtaman hanggang sa malakas na hangin mula sa hilagang-silangan ang iiral sa Luzon at ang mga baybaying dagat nito ay magiging katamtaman hanggang sa maalon. Sa ibang dako, ang hangin ay magiging mahina hanggang sa katamtaman mula sa hilagang-silangan na may banayad hanggang sa katamtamang pag-alon ng karagatan.
OVER METRO MANILA:
Maximum Temperature: 04:00 PM yesterday ----- 31.6 ºC
Minimum Temperature: 06:00 AM yesterday ----- 22.6 ºC
Maximum Relative Humidity: 06:00 AM yesterday --------- 89 %
Minimum Relative Humidity: 04:00 PM yesterday --------- 53 %
Low tide today: 06:05 AM ……… 0.33 meter
High tide today: 01:15 PM ……… 0.94 meter
Low tide today: 09:04 PM ……… -0.02 meter
High tide tomorrow: 03:45 AM ……… 0.33 meter
Sunrise today: 05:57 AM
Sunset today: 06:07 PM
Moonrise today: 09:54 AM
Moonset today: 10:58 PM
Illumination today: 24 %
For more information and queries, please call at telephone numbers 927-1335 and 927-2877 or log on to www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph.



Pia Quezon










GMA resident meteorologist Nathaniel Cruz:
-Huling linggo na ng Marso pero hindi pa rin opisyal na nagsisimula ang tag-araw sa bansa.
-Sa ngayon, malakas na hanging Amihan pa rin ang umiiral sa buong Luzon.
-Sa Metro Manila, mababa ang tsansa ng ulan mula umaga hanggang gabi.
-Sa Visayas, posible ang ulan sa eastern at central section.
-Sa Mindanao, may pag-ulan sa Caraga, Davao at ilang bahagi ng Zamboanga Peninsula.




March 25, 2015  ( Wednesday ) as of 11:00 -12:00 NN

       PIA 4A / PIA QUEZON  : Cloudy  in Lucena City






PIA-4A/QUEZON: The Quezon Public Employment Service Office (PESO) will conduct a local recruitment activity on March 27, 2015 at the Provincial Capitol, Lucena City. About 1,000 production operators are needed to fill up vacancies in factories located in Batangas, Laguna and Cavite.



18 hrs ·
PIA-4A/QUEZON: Local residents in the municipalities of San Francisco and Catanauan enjoy free clean potable water from the newly constructed water supply level 2 project in their respective municipality. The project was conceptualized during the time of three-termer Rep. Danilo Suarez and realized under the incumbent Rep. Aleta Suarez of the 3rd district of Quezon.


PIA-4A/RIZAL: A total of 894 graduates of various Technical Education and Skills Development Authority - Rizal's various programs for 2014-2015 gathered at the Cainta Auditorium this morning for the official awarding of certificates of completion. TESDA Secretary Joel Villanueva, along with Rizal Provincial Governor Rebecca Ynares, Cainta Mayor Kit Nieto and TESDA-Rizal Provincial Director Velma Salazar lead the awarding of certificate.


PIA-4A/QUEZON: In line with the celebration of Women's month, the provincial government of Quezon in partnership with the Kalipunan ng Liping Pilipina-Quezon is set to conduct free breast and cervical cancer screening on March 27, 2015 at the Bulwagang Kalilayan, Lucena City. This is part of the breast and cervical cancer prevention program of the provincial government for women in the province.



PIA-4A/LAGUNA: The Department of the Interior and Local Govrrnment IV-Calabarzon, in collaboration with the Local Government Academy spearhead the launching of the Regional Disaster Preparedness Manuals and Operation (LISTO). LISTO is a set of manuals aimed at assisting LGUs in the formulation of their disaster plans, providing and guiding them if they are ready and whether they meet the minimum levels of readiness in time of disaster.



 







 QUEZON           

1.  DOLE, Quezon LGUs, to implement SPES this summer 

  • March 24, 2015
LUCENA CITY, Quezon, March 24 (PIA) — The provincial office of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE ) in partnership with different  local government units in  is set to implement special program  for the employment of students (SPES) in the province of Quezon this coming summer,  April and May 2015.

Labor and Employment Officer Genecille Aguirre of DOLE-Quezon  said the program aims to assists poor but deserving high school/ college   students and out of school youths who are intending to pursue their education  in the tertiary, technical or vocational level by encouraging employment  during summer and even Christmas vacation.

SPES is mandated under Republic Act 9547 aimed to help poor but deserving students  to pursue their education . Under this act, the employer will pay 60 percent  of the students salary wage, in cash while the remaining 40 percent of the applicable minimum wage or hiring rate  shall be paid by the DOLE in a form of check.

Among the LGUs that  submitted their pledge of commitment of support  to DOLE  were Calauag, Guinayangan, Infanta, Lopez, Pagbilao, Panukulan, Pitogo, Plaridel, Atimonan, Alabat, Lucban and Gumaca, Quezon.

Applicants for SPES program must  submit  documents to public  employment service office  such as accomplished SPES application form, copy of  birth certificate, certificate by the  school registrar as to last enrollment, and the average passing grade or a copy of form 138,   copy of the latest income tax return of the applicant’s parents  or certification issued by the BIR that the parents are exempted from exempted from payment of tax. (RuelOrinday/ PIA-Quezon)
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/701427166706/dole-quezon-lgus-to-implement-spes-this-summer-#sthash.y3W03izP.dpuf

2.  Tagalog news: Color coding ng mga tricycle sa Lucena City, tutulong sa pagsugpo ng krimen

  • March 24, 2015
LUNGSOD NG LUCENA, Quezon, Marso 24 (PIA) — Nakatakdang magpatupad ng color coding sa mga tricyle ang lokal na pamahalaan sa layuning makakatulong ito sa pagsugpo ng krimen sa lungsod.

Sinabi ni  Mayor  Roderick “Dondon”  Alcala sa isang panayam na  dahilan sa programang ito mas magiging madali na para sa mga kapulisan ng lungsod na matukoy ang mga tricycle na maaring gamitin ng mga masasamang loob sa pagsasagawa ng krimen.

Dagdag pa ng alkalde, magkakaroon ng iba’t-ibang kulay ang mga pumapasadang tricycle sa lungsod upang malaman kung saan ang ruta ng mga ito.

Buong ipinagmalaki rin ni Mayor Dondon Alcala na nakahandang tumulong ang pamahalaang lungsod sa mga miyembro ng bawat TODA sa lungsod sa pagpapakulay ng kanilang tricycle.

Aniya hahatian nila ang mga may-ari ng nasabing sasakyan sa kanilang gagastusin sa pagpapakulay ng kanilang tricycle.

Kung matatandaan, karamihan ng mga ginagamit sa iba’t ibang uri ng krimen sa syudad ay ang tricycle lalo’t higit ang mga walang prankisa at walang plaka. At dahil dito nahihirapan ang mga awtoridad na matukoy kung sino ang mga masasamang loob na gumagawa nito.( RMO-PIA-Quezon/ may ulat mula kay R. Lim-PIO Lucena)
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/701427167411/tagalog-news-color-coding-ng-mga-tricycle-sa-lucena-city-tutulong-sa-pagsugpo-ng-krimen#sthash.XytGtPAS.dpuf

3.  Tagalog news: Lucena public school teachers, hinikayat na makiisa sa  kampanya  sa real property tax collection 

  • March 24, 2015
LUNGSOD NG LUCENA, Quezon, Marso 24 (PIA) — Hinikayat ni Mayor Roderick Alcala ang lahat ng mga public schools teachers ng Department of Education lungsod na ito upang makiisa sa kampanya sa koleksiyon ng real property tax.

Sa idinaos na pagpupulong ng mga guro sa Lucena West 1 Elementary School kamakailan, sinabi ng punong-lungsod na dahil sa naging magandang koleksiyon nito sa real property tax ay nagkaroon ng mahigit P8-milyong pagtaaas ang pondo ng lungsod.

Sinabi pa ng alkalde na kapag lalong tumaas ang koleksiyon ng lungsod ay siguradong tataas din ang School Board Fund na pakikinabangan ng lahat ng paaralan sa lungsod upang gamitin sa mga proyekto at programa ng mga ito.

Hinikayat din ng alkalde ang mga kaibigan at pamilya ng mga naturang guro na makiisa sa naturang kampanya sa buwis.

Ipinarating naman ng mga guro ng lungsod ang kanilang pagsang-ayon at pakikiisa sa mga programa ng pamahalaang panglungsod partikular sa kampanya nito sa koleksiyon ng buwis. (RMO-PIA-Quezon/ may ulat mula  sa PIO Lucena)  
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/701427168271/tagalog-news-lucena-public-school-teachers-hinikayat-na-makiisa-sa-kampanya-sa-real-property-tax-collection-#sthash.8ArY5qlm.dpuf


 



CAVITE

1. Gen. Trias farmers receive farm equipment from KOICA

  • March 25, 2015
TRECE MARTIRES CITY, Cavite, March 25 (PIA) — Officers and members of the Dairy Gentri Raisers Multi-Purpose Cooperative gratefully accepted new farm equipments turned over by the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).

In the turnover ceremony held at the General Trias Processing Plant in Barangay Santiago, General Trias Mayor Antonio “Ony” Ferrer thanked the KOICA led by Mr. Seo Dong Sung, Deputy Resident Representative of KOICA and the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) for the continued support to the local milk industry.

Mayor Ferrer added that the concerns and support shown by KOICA to Filipino farmers raised the level of friendship and partnership between the Philippines and Korea. The mayor also pledged his support to raise the dairy industry which according to him is the One-Town, One Product (OTOP) of this  first-class municipality.

General Trias Dairy Raisers Multi-Purpose Cooperative expanded their product lines from fresh milk flavored variants, white cheese, etc., with the addition of ice cream that comes in three flavors. GTDRMC aims to further increase the income of farmers and dairy raisers and improve the nutritional status of the community with the help of Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Shared Service Facility (SSF).

GTDRMP was formed and registered in August 10, 2005 focused mainly to promote dairying and dairy enterprise to improve the quality of lives of the Carabao raisers.  From 44 members, the Coop has increased its membership to 176 in 2012.

This multi-million project is in collaboration with the local government of General Trias, the KOICA and the Philippine Carabao Center of the Department of Agriculture. DTI’s SSF gave the cooperative a further boost with the acquisition of machines that eliminates spoilage of raw materials. (Ruel Francisco, PIA-Cavite/Gen. Trias PIO)
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/671426922918/gen-trias-farmers-receive-farm-equipment-from-koica#sthash.V4itD9MF.dpuf

2.   DSWD CALABARZON lauds General Trias LGU

  • March 25, 2015
TRECE MARTIRES CITY, Cavite, March 25 (PIA) — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office IV-A commended the local government of General Trias for being a “Model Municipal Local Government Unit Supporting Day Care Service.”


In a ceremony held at the DSWD regional office in Alabang, Muntinlupa City which coincided with the 64th anniversary of the said agency, Mayor Antonio “Ony” Ferrer proudly received the citation award from DSWD Regional Director Leticia T. Diokno.
 

Besides the quality of the services rendered by the workers, a big portion [points] of the award were due to the existence of permanent plantilla position for 56 out of 61 daycare workers of General Trias. 

It only shows how the local government supports the 33 daycare centers as well as the programs and projects of the DSWD.


In a separate ceremony held at the town plaza, Mayor Ferrer recognized Social Workers Aurea Hernandez and Elizabeth Villamar for DSWD grant of accreditation given to them to handle related court cases.


Others who were given recognition are the 57 daycare workers who received outstanding, very satisfactory, and satisfactory level accreditation from the DSWD. 

This year, the local government is scheduled to construct additional new daycare centers in major community in General Trias. (Ruel Francisco, PIA-Cavite/Gen. Trias PIO)
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/671426920891/dswd-calabarzon-lauds-general-trias-lgu#sthash.BnFdHrNT.dpuf

3.   Cavite local gov't underway to strictly implement Lemon Law among car dealers, distributors

  • March 23, 2015
TRECE MARTIRES CITY, Cavite, March 23 (PIA) — The provincial government is proposing an ordinance adapted from the implementing provisions of the Republic Act No. 10642 entitled “An Act Strengthening Consumer Protection in the Purchase of Brand New Motor Vehicles” otherwise known as the Lemon Law.

The proposed ordinance requires all the dealers and distributors of brand-new vehicles operating in the province to strictly observe the provisions of the RA 10642 through posting information posters of the said act within the premises of their establishment.

They said ordinance also required dealers and distributors to provide car buyers with the legible copy of the provisions of the act.


Sponsored by Provincial Board Member Teofilo B. Lara and co-sponsored by Provincial Board member Carlo R. Chua, the proposed ordinance aimed to protect the consumers from any factory defects within 12 months from the date of purchase of a brand new vehicle from the dealers.


The proposed ordinance is under the Lemon Law signed last year which states that buyers of brand new vehicles who experience defects within a year after purchase would be able to secure a refund or replacement of the unit if repairs prove hopeless.

Once past and approve, any dealer/distributor found guilty of violating any provision of the said ordinance shall be meted with the following fines: Php2,000.00 for the first offense, Php3,000.00 for the second offense and Php5,000.00 for third offense. (Ruel Francisco, PIA-Cavite)
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/671426916191/cavite-local-gov-t-underway-to-strictly-implement-lemon-law-among-car-dealers-distributors#sthash.ORM7P4BD.dpuf

4 .  DILG leads launching of 10th “UBAS” in Rosario

  • March 23, 2015
ROSARIO, Cavite, March 23 (PIA) — The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region IV-A launched the 10th “Ugnayan ng Barangay at mga Simbahan (UBAS) in this municipality that pushing the local government for a higher level of public service anchored on transparency, good governance and grassroots participation.

The launching, held at the Casa Hacienda, Tejeros Convention in Rosario was attended by barangay leaders, members of the Catholic Church (Diocese of Imus) and JIL Church – Rosario, Atty. Mariness L. Ledesma, CPA, UBAS Executive Director, Director Josefina E. Castilla-Go, CESO III – Regional Director, DILG IV-A and other national and local executives.

UBAS, a partnership between the Religious Sectors, the Liga nga mga Barangay (LnB) ng Pilipinas, and the DILG was initially launched last September 12, 2014 at the Archbishop's Palace in Intramuros, Manila. 

It is is a tri-partite linkage between the government, the Church and barangay leaders where information, volunteerism, and participation flow freely among the stakeholders towards sustainable development.

The 10th UBAS launching also coincided with the 118th Anniversary of the Hukbong Katihan (Founding of the Philippine Army and Tejeros Convention which was attended by Senator Antonio Sonny F. Trillanes as guest of honor and speaker.

Following the launch in Rosario, DILG also launched UBAS in the municipality of General Emilio Aguinaldo. (Ruel Francisco, PIA-Cavite/DILG-Region IV-A)
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/671426915794/dilg-leads-launching-of-10th-ubas-in-rosario#sthash.YlFCzIXe.dpuf

5.  MMDA chair discloses national gov’t projects/plans in Cavite

  • March 23, 2015
TRECE MARTIRES CITY, Cavite, March 23 PIA) — Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Francis Tolentino revealed several projects and plans being undertaken by the national government in the province particularly in the preparation for the ASEAN economic integration that will produce a borderless economic community for the region.
 

Tolentino made the remarks during his visit to the provincial capitol where he delivered an inspirational message to his fellow Caviteños during its Monday flag-raising ceremony.


In his message, Chairman Tolentino is confident that one of the provinces poised to accept ASEAN integration even without plans laid down by the national government is the province of Cavite.


Being a member of the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), Tolentino laid the projects being approved by the department which will be beneficial for the province.

Among the projects he disclosed is the Daang Hari extension which is set to commence this year. The project is a construction of a new 4-kilometer 4-lane toll road, from the junction of Daang Reyna and DaangHari in Las Piñas/Bacoor, Cavite to SLEX through the Susana Heights Interchange in Muntinlupa, traversing the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) Reservation. 

The proposed link-road will use the Susana Heights Interchange as exit and entry from north and south of SLEX and will include the construction of a new bridge/widening of the existing bridge crossing SLEX as well as the expansion of the Susana Heights toll plaza.

Other projects include the LRT 1 extension and NAIA elevated expressway which will be inaugurated in October this year. (Ruel Francisco, PIA-Cavite/PICAD)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/671426916077/mmda-chair-discloses-national-gov-t-projects-plans-in-cavite#sthash.Jx5sALdX.dpuf

6.  Cavite tops business registrations transactions in CALABARZON

  • March 23, 2015
TRECE MARTIRES CITY, Cavite, March 23 (PIA) — Cavite posted the most number of business name registrations in the Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas & Rizal) region setting a 25 percent transactions among four other provinces according to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

Following Cavite is the province of Laguna with 21 percent, Batangas with 19 percent, Rizal with 12 percent and Quezon with at least eight percent.

With a total of 8, 728 or at least 18 percent of the total new transactions nationwide and 1, 932 or 16 percent of the total renewal transactions, Calabarzon region leads the record with most number of transactions, thus overtaking the National Capital Region.

National Capital region, meanwhile, has processed 5,453 new registration or 12 percent of the total transactions, and 771 renewals or 9 percent of the total renewal transactions.

Toledo added that this is the first time in the history of DTI’s online Business Name Registration System (BNRS) that the largest number of registration was recorded outside the NCR.

She also affirmed that the Trade and Industry department will roll out more initiatives integrating business registration-related processes across business registration agencies. (Charlie S. Dajao, DTI-Calabarzon / DTI-KMIS/Ruel Francisco, PIA-Cavite)
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/671426915952/cavite-tops-business-registrations-transactions-in-calabarzon#sthash.wQNHaRLb.dpuf


 






 APEC Philippines 2015



BATANGAS

1.  Tagalog news: Tatlong malalaking proyektong pang-imptrastakture, sisimulan sa bayan ng Padre Garcia

  • March 25, 2015
PADRE GARCIA, Batangas, Marso 25 (PIA) — Tatlong malalaking proyektong pang-imprastraktura ang nakatakdang simulan sa bayang ito upang mas lalo pang mapaunlad ang buhay ng mga Garciano.

Sa panayam kay Mayor Abraham Gutierrez, sinabi nito na una sa mga proyekto ay ang itatayong “Arko ng Kapatiran” sa pagitan ng kanilang bayan at kalapit na bayan ng San Antonio,Quezon.

Ang groundbreaking at pagbabasbas ay isinagawa noong Marso 16,2015 kung saan lumagda din sa sisterhood agreement ang pinuno ng dalawang bayan.

Maglalagay din ng police outpost sa bahaging ito upang patuloy na mapanatili ang katahimikan at kaayusan sa mga nasabing bayan.

Ang sisterhood agreement ang nakikita umanong paraan upang mapaunlad ang magkalapit na bayan. Pinag-usapan din na magsasagawa ng palitan ng kalakal na layong mapunan ang pangangailangan ng mga residente.

Ikalawa sa proyekto ang pagtatayo ng Overseas Filipino Workers farm project sa mahigit 4.6 ektaryang lupain na binili ng lokal na pamahalaan. Bawat Garcianong OFW ay maaring bumili ng 1,000 metro kwadrado na maaaring taniman ng organikong gulay at mga damo na maaaring ipakain sa mga alagang baka lalo na at kilala ang bayan bilang Trading Capital in the Philippines.

Ikatlong proyekto ay ang konstruksiyon ng bagong gusali ng Bureau of Fire Protection(BFP) na matatagpuan sa Brgy. San Miguel at katabi ng ginagawang bagong himpilan ng pulisya sa naturang bayan.

Ang proyektong ito ay pinondohan ng BFP national ng P2.5M at ang lupang pagtatayuan naman ay pag-aari ng munisipyo.

Ayon kay Gutierrez, malaki ang bahagi ng mamamayang Garciano sa mga proyektong tulad nito na isinusulong ng lokal na pamahalaan sapagkat walang ibang makikinabang dito kung hindi sila.

Dagdag pa nito na ang mga proyektong ito ay senyales ng patuloy na pag-unlad ng kanilang bayan. (Bhaby P. De Castro-PIA Batangas)
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/681427251372/tagalog-news-tatlong-malalaking-proyektong-pang-imptrastakture-sisimulan-sa-bayan-ng-padre-garcia#sthash.v7JOhAR6.dpuf



 APEC Philippines 2015
President Aquino opens 4th Euromoney Philippines Investment Forum
President Benigno S. Aquino III highlighted his administration's economic achievements during the 4th Annual Euromoney Philippines Investment Forum at The Peninsula Manila in Makati City on Tuesday.

In a speech delivered before business leaders and investors at the hotel’s Rigodon Ballroom, President Aquino said the country has had an impressive number of achievements that have contributed to its economic progress.

The President noted the country's "all-time high of $6.2 billion in foreign direct investments and a respectable 6.1 percent Gross Domestic Product growth" last year.

"2014 was a banner year for net Foreign Direct Investments, reaching an all-time high of $6.2 billion, 65.9 percent higher than what we received in 2013. We have likewise posted impressive growth: from 2010 to 2013, the Philippines averaged a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth of 6.3 percent. Compare this to the previous three-year period, under my predecessor, where growth was just at 4.3 percent. On top of this: even in spite of the lingering effects of Typhoon Haiyan and the uncertainty in the global economy, our country still posted a respectable 6.1 percent GDP growth figure last year," he explained.

President Aquino also cited a Bloomberg report saying the Philippines is forecasted to be the world's second fastest growing economy in 2015.

"The tremendous amount of confidence the global community has developed for the Philippines is incredibly gratifying, especially considering that, not too long ago, we were known as the ‘Sick Man of Asia.’ However, our administration remains hard at work so that we can maximize every opportunity available to us, and I think many of you will agree with me when I say: You ain't seen nothing yet," he said.

He also pointed out that infrastructure is one of the sectors that have benefitted from “our drive to become more competitive".

The budget of the Deparment of Public Works and Highways, he said, has more than tripled from P165 billion in 2010 to almost P570 billion in 2015.

"We can expect this to grow even more, as our goal is to have infrastructure spending comprise 5 percent of GDP by 2016," he said.

The President said that under the Public-Private Partnership program, nine projects have been awarded, 16 are in the process of being bidded out, and more than 30 other projects are under various stages of development.

President Aquino further said that the government has been pursuing options to address the projected power shortfall this summer due to the threat of the El Niño weather phenomenon and the rehabilitation of the Malampaya gas field.

"We are expediting the rehabilitation of the 300-megawatt (MW) Malaya Thermal Power Plant Unit 1 to help augment power supply in Luzon. We are also requesting the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines to optimize the dispatch of hydropower plants, which will generate additional energy supply during peak hours. Partnerships with the private sector have also proved useful: Under the Interruptible Load Program, as of January 2015, 252 participants have signed up to use their own generators and de-load a total of 688.67 megawatts during times when power supply is too tight," he said.

He indicated that 48 committed incoming power projects with 4,693.8 MW of power are expected to come between now and 2018.

Out of these 48 power plants, 21 will be from renewable energy, in line with our goal of diversifying our energy mix and building a power supply that is as clean and reasonably priced as possible, he added.

Emphasizing that the country's greatest resource is its people, President Aquino said his administration will continue to channel funds to programs that have the twin effects of creating a skilled, talented, and healthy workforce that can attract more investors, and of allowing the people to retake control of their destinies.

The President told business leaders and investors attending the forum to "take a closer look at the Philippines", inviting them "to bet on the Filipino people and discover for yourself how it's more fun and more profitable to do business in the Philippines".

"Together, I am convinced that we can work to accelerate this country's performance and propel it to even greater heights," he concluded.

Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima earlier introduced President Aquino as guest speaker while Euromoney Institutional Investor Asia Chief Executive Officer Tony Shale delivered the welcome remarks.

Some of the key topics to be discussed during the 4th Euromoney Philippines Investment Forum are the Philippines and the ASEAN Economic Community; infrastructure analysis; capital markets: financing growth; real estate investment trusts in the Philippines; solving the energy and power crisis; and digital economy. PND (jm)
President Aquino hosts special luncheon for Ateneo, La Salle volleyball teams
President Benigno S. Aquino III hosted a special luncheon for the volleyball teams of Ateneo de Manila University and De La Salle University, congratulating the players for their sportsmanship and for maintaining the spirit of unity despite their long-standing and intense rivalry.In his speech, President Aquino recalled that the initial suggestion was for the Ateneo Lady Eagles to be invited to the Palace but it was decided that the De La Salle Lady Spikers be included as well, along with the Ateneo Blue Spikers who recently grabbed the championship.
"Kaya naman, binabati ko po ang mga bumubuo sa tatlong koponang ito, mula sa inyong mga kasapi sa loob at labas ng court, mga manlalaro, coach at manager, gayundin ang mga institusyong inyong kinakatawan," he said.
The President lauded the players of both Ateneo and De La Salle, saying they reflect the enthusiasm and determination of today's youth, and are true role models of young Filipinos who are determined to succeed in whatever endeavor they pursue.
He said he hopes that the example they have shown would be emulated by the country's politicians, now that there are those who want to sow confusion.
"Naisip ko rin po na sana, ang mga pulitiko, pati na ang mga kasapi ng iba’t ibang sektor ng lipunan, ay ganito rin ang ipamalas na ugnayan," he said in his message to the athletes.
"Kapag tinanaw nila ang isang tunggalian o kompetisyon, matanong sana nila sa kanilang mga sarili: Healthy ba ang rivalry na ito? Kapag naman may kritisismo, matanong sana nila: Constructive ba ito?"
While the country is composed of numerous islands, the Philippines will remain one nation, the President said.
Like volleyball, he added, the country could succeed if there is unity, proper strategy and coordination.
"Iyan nga ang panawagan sa atin ngayon, lalo na sa inyong mga kabataang magmamana sa ipinupunla nating reporma: ang mag-One Big Fight laban sa katiwalian at kahirapan," he stressed.
"Basta’t nagkakaisa at buo ang pusong makipagkapwa, siguradong makakamit ang kolektibo nating hangarin bilang isang bansa."
The Ateneo Lady Eagles defeated the De La Salle Lady Spikers last March 14 to complete a season sweep and bag their second consecutive championship in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 77 women's volleyball tournament at the Mall of Asia Arena.
The Ateneo Blue Spikers also won their first ever UAAP men’s volleyball title by taking down National University last March 7 at the Mall of Asia Arena. PND (as)
Government to focus on good governance, fighting poverty in next 15 months
The administration of President Benigno S. Aquino III will focus on pushing good governance, creating jobs and fighting poverty in the next 15 months, a Palace official has said.

"In the next 15 months, the administration will intensify efforts at job creation while maintaining fiscal discipline in order to rein in inflation. Good governance is imperative in achieving inclusive growth," Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said in a statement on Tuesday.

"The government continues to implement measures to stabilize prices of commodities. Various programs have been put in place to bring about poverty reduction. This includes breaking intergenerational poverty through the conditional cash transfer program, skills development for enhanced employability, and improving the business climate in the country through good governance,” he added.

Secretary Coloma issued the statement following the March 1-7 Pulse Asia survey that found the administration's performance ratings “do not significantly differ” from the results of a similar survey conducted in November 2014.

The Aquino administration also got a positive 31 net approval rating in responding to the needs of those affected by calamities.

Coloma said the administration scored positive net approval ratings in eight other urgent national concerns: stopping the destruction and abuse of the environment; defending the country's territorial integrity against foreigners; fighting criminality; enforcing the law; increasing peace in the country; fighting graft and corruption in the government; creating more jobs; and controlling fast population growth. PND (as)

President Benigno S. Aquino III's Speech at the 4th Euromoney Philippines Investment Forum
Rigodon Ballroom, The Peninsula Manila, Makati City
24 March 2015
Every year, without fail, I receive an invitation to speak at this forum, and every year, without fail, I accept. The first Philippines Investment Forum took place about a year and a half into my presidency. Since then, this has become a valuable opportunity for me to share the progress our country has made. Here, we have been able to trace the success story that is the Philippine economy.

There has been so much good news these past few years, and yet, this good news has often been relegated to the back pages of our broadsheets. I must admit: our campaign to change the mindset that negativism sells is still a work in progress. While it is true that we have had our share of setbacks and challenges; we also have an impressive number of achievements under our belt. This is why I have made it a point to spread the good news, and why I am always thankful for those who stay balanced and constructive: pointing out areas in which we can improve, while also acknowledging our progress.

Mr. Shale gave a few examples of our success in his remarks earlier. Perhaps I can also provide a little more data: 2014 was indeed a banner year for net FDIs, reaching an all-time high of $6.2 billion, 65.9 percent higher than what we received in 2013. We have likewise posted impressive growth: from 2010 to 2013, the Philippines averaged a GDP growth of 6.3 percent. Compare this to the previous three-year period, under my predecessor, where growth was just at 4.3 percent. On top of this: even in spite of the lingering effects of Typhoon Haiyan and the uncertainty in the global economy, our country still posted a respectable 6.1-percent GDP growth figure last year.

The Philippines was likewise upgraded to investment grade by all three major credit ratings agencies in 2013, and has continued to receive upgrades since. We are indeed making history. All these, and many other factors, have led to even greater optimism for our country’s prospects. Just to give you one example: Bloomberg recently reported, I’m told, that the Philippines is forecasted to be the world’s second fastest growing economy in 2015.

The tremendous amount of confidence the global community has developed for the Philippines is incredibly gratifying, especially considering that, not too long ago, we were known as the “Sick Man of Asia.” However, our administration remains hard at work so that we can maximize every opportunity available to us, and I think many of you will agree with me when I say: You ain’t seen nothing yet.

Infrastructure is one of the sectors that has greatly benefited from our drive to become more competitive. Through the efforts of our Department of Public Works and Highways, corruption has been vastly minimized, if not eradicated, and projects are now regularly completed ahead of time and under budget, including those started by past administrations. The good news is that the DPWH’s budget has more than tripled: from P165 billion in 2010, to almost P570 billion in 2015. We can expect this to grow even more, as our goal is to have infrastructure spending comprise five percent of GDP by 2016.

We are also pursuing another path towards accelerating infrastructure development in the Philippines, namely, the public-private partnerships program [PPP]. Thanks to the good work of those in the Public Private Partnership Center, we have proved to be exceedingly efficient in executing PPP projects. If you will allow me to make a quick comparison: The past three administrations combined were only able to complete six solicited PPP projects. On the other hand, under our administration, nine projects have been awarded; 16 are in the process of being bid out; and more than 30 other projects are under various stages of development.

Another sector we have focused on is that of power, which, for the longest time, has been rather complicated, to say the least. Rest assured: we share your concern. Right now, the Philippines has a total dependable capacity of 15,665 MW, which is—or should be—sufficient to meet our highest projected demand level of 10,222 MW for 2015. But we cannot be content with this, especially with the potential power supply gap in Luzon this summer, due to the threat of El Niño and rehabilitation of the Malampaya gas field.

Government has been pursuing an entire menu of options to address this projected shortfall. We are expediting the rehabilitation of the 300 MW Malaya Thermal Power Plant Unit 1 to help augment power supply in Luzon. We are also requesting the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines to optimize the dispatch of hydropower plants, which will generate additional energy supply during peak hours. Partnerships with the private sector have also proved useful: Under the Interruptible Load Program, as of January 2015, 252 participants have signed up to use their own generators and de-load a total of 688.67 megawatts during times when power supply is too tight.

The good news is that a total of 48 committed incoming power projects with 4,693.6 megawatts of power are expected to come online between now and 2018. Out of these 48 power plants, 21 will be from renewable energy, in line with our goal of diversifying our energy mix and building a power supply that is as clean and reasonably priced as possible. As you can see, we are determined to continue treading green pathways to development, and to maintain our status as one of the driving forces for clean energy in the region. As I have said before, our vulnerabilities to climate risk should not keep us from exerting maximum efforts in pursuing non-conventional sources of energy. We are hopeful that the rest of the world will see the value in such a strategy.

These kinds of efforts are even more crucial, in light of the realization of the ASEAN Economic Community [AEC], expected to take place further this year. ASEAN is a formidable economic force. At a time where many countries in the world are experiencing economic uncertainty, it has remained one of the world’s fastest growing regions. On top of this, one must consider its size: If ASEAN were just one country, it would be a 2.4-trillion dollar economy. This is precisely why, as ASEAN integration takes full effect, the Philippines is taking every possible measure to take on a more dynamic economic role in the region.

Our compliance rate in the AEC scorecard in terms of our commitments to AEC 2015 is now at around 86 percent. I have already signed crucial laws that will help us meet our financial integration commitments, including an Act Strengthening the Insurance Industry and the Act Allowing the Full Entry of Foreign Banks in the Philippines. Moving forward, we will continue expanding the range of financial tools available in our country, so we can maximize the advantages of integration.

Widening the range of financial options in the country also helps another key sector: that of micro, small, and medium enterprises [MSMEs]. An empowered MSME sector is one of the main foundations of a healthy economy: It enables us to establish economic dynamos in even the most remote parts of the nation; it creates opportunities, giving our countrymen yet another path through which they can take hold of their destinies. Ultimately, it can become one of the strongest and most direct tools towards inclusive growth, and thus, we want MSMEs to take on a leading role in our country’s growth story.

This is why we have been working overtime to provide MSMEs the wherewithal to compete and succeed in an increasingly global market. For instance, our SME Roving Academy has conducted more than 1,871 training sessions focused on skills training, product pricing and costing, business planning, entrepreneurship development, and financial management, among many others. To date, these have helped more than 85,000 potential and established entrepreneurs.

Last year, I also signed the Go Negosyo Act along with its implementing rules and regulations. Through these, we have started putting up what we call “Negosyo Centers,” or business centers, that will offer MSMEs a full range of services, including business registration processing, training sessions and seminars, and the establishment of market linkages. By the end of this year, we intend on putting up 100 of these establishments across the archipelago.

Rest assured, our administration will do everything in its power to build on our economic momentum by continuing to invest in the Filipino people. In the past four years and eight months, we have gained the fiscal space necessary to double the budget of our Department of Education, more than triple the budget of our Department of Health, and increase the budget of our Department of Social Welfare and Development by more than seven times, all without raising taxes, apart from the sin tax. We have begun to see the results of our investments in our people. In fact, this year, we will witness the fruits of our decision to expand the DSWD’s conditional cash transfer program to include families with high-school aged children. According to the Philippine Institute for Development Studies, high school graduates earn 40 percent more than a person who only graduates from grade school. Under the expanded CCT program, the first batch of children in assisted families will be graduating from high school this month, which will help lay the foundations for a better future for them.

As I have stated time and again, our greatest resource is our people, and we will continue to channel funds to programs that have the twin effects of creating a skilled, talented, and healthy work force that can attract more investors, and more importantly, of allowing our people to retake control of their destinies.

Today, as all of us in this hall look to the future, there is indeed much reason for optimism. By nearly all available measures—be it GDP, global competitiveness rankings, or credit ratings—the Philippines is poised for even more success. There is, however, one aspect of our country that has yet to be sufficiently measured, and that is the limitless potential of our people, who have been the lifeblood of our success.

These past few years, our people have proven themselves to the world. But having been exposed to the skill, talent, loyalty, and resilience of so many of our countrymen, I know that we have only scratched the surface. I am thankful that all of you are here today, whether it is those who have already invested in this country, or those who have just taken the first step. To those who are here to take a closer look at the Philippines, I invite you: Bet on the Filipino people, and discover for yourself how it’s more fun and more profitable to do business in the Philippines. If, on the other hand, you decline this invitation, perhaps I may pose a question, how confident are you that you will never say: we missed such a good opportunity? Together, I am convinced that we can work to accelerate this country’s performance, and propel it to even greater heights.

Thank you for your kind attention. Good day.
 
President Benigno S. Aquino III's Speech during the Special Luncheon with the Ateneo De Manila University (ADMU) Men's and Women's Volleyball Teams and De La Salle University (DLSU) Women's Volleyball Team
Heroes Hall, Malacañan Palace
24 March 2015
Magandang tanghali muli sa inyong lahat.

At least, natuloy ho itong ating luncheon, and I’d like to thank both Father Jett and Brother Armin for organizing this, and I really felt this was a very timely event. So, this is the formal portion of the speech… You know, I could see in your faces there are a lot of questions in your mind. I think first and foremost are two questions: One, when will we eat [laughter], and, is there enough for everybody? [Laughter]

Susan, I’m glad you’re here. I hope you took note that these are athletes who normally have healthy appetites. [Laughter]

Alam po n’yo, talagang deka-dekada na ang inabot ng rivalry ng Ateneo at La Salle. Naaalala ko nga po: Noong panahon namin, which was about five years ago or so, [tawanan] grabe ang girian. Siguro po, kung literal na nakakapatay ang masamang tingin, marami nang nakaltas na henerasyon ng mga Atenista at Lasalista.

Hanggang ngayon, mainit pa rin ang tunggalian ng dalawang eskuwelahang ito. Mapa-basketball, volleyball, o iba pang paligsahan, laging pinipilahan at pinag-aagawan ang mga ticket—siguro para kay Fr. Jett, sunod sa mga nag-a-appeal sa pagpasok sa Ateneo [tawanan] ay ‘yong pagkuha ng tiket ang pangalawang problema niyang pinakamabigat—[Tawanan] mapanood lang po ang laban. Wala itong pinipiling edad; anumang taon ka nag-graduate, lahat, all-out sa pag-cheer sa kani-kaniyang alma mater. Paano ba naman kasi, sa tuwing naghaharap, parang laging buhay ang nakataya. Championship man o no bearing ang laban, parehas lang; talagang itataya ng bawat isa ang lahat, huwag lang madaig ng kalaban.

Ngayon, kung mapapansin ninyo ang ating Gabinete, mayroong pong nag-aral sa Katipunan, mayroon pong nag-aral sa Taft at sa Greenhills, at mayroon naman pong hindi sigurado kung saan nila gusto pumunta [tawanan] tulad po ni Kim Henares na galing sa La Salle at sa Ateneo, at saka ni Jun Abaya—nagpunta ng Taft, tapos Ateneo Law School by way of Annapolis, ‘yung eskuwelaham po hindi ‘yung street ha. [Tawanan] Gayumpaman, pamilya na ang turing namin sa isa’t isa. Sa lahat ng pagkakataon po, mayroon kaming pagkakaisa, maliban na lang, at ito lang ho—singular time na hindi ho united ang Cabinet, ‘pag naglalaban ang Ateneo at La Salle. [Tawanan]

Tulad ho noong isang beses, kasama ko sa isang silid dito po sa Malacañang si Brother Armin at Secretary Babes Singson, na parehong galing La Salle. UAAP Season po noong nakaraang taon, at finals na yata ng Men’s Basketball Tournament o round of four. Ang tanong ni Secretary Babes kay Brother Armin, ”How did our team do?” Ang sagot po ni Brother Armin, “Ateneo lost to NU.” [Tawanan] Di ko naman po alam kung pinaparinig sa akin ‘yun. Ang sabi ko, “Di ba ‘yung tanong, ‘How did our team do?’ Pero Ateneo at NU ang pinag-uusapan n’yo?” Kako, “Ganyan ba ang turo sa inyo sa La Salle, huwag sagutin nang diretso ang tanong? Christian brother ka pa man din.” [Tawanan] Tapos, nagtawanan po kaming lahat.

Isang beses naman, mayroong State Visit dito sa Malacañang. At sa tuwing kami’y magtu-trooping down the line, ang tinutugtog po ng PSG Band ay “Blue Eagle, The King!” Ang nakangiting sabi ni Sec. Babes, “Bakit sa okasyong ganito, lagi na lang ‘Fly High’ ang naririnig ko?” Ang sagot ko naman po, “Kasi kapag ‘When The Saints Go Marching In’ ang pinatugtog natin, baka ho imbes na mag-martsa, magsayawan ang lahat ng ating panauhin.” [Tawanan]

Natapat din na noong nakaraang taon at ngayong taon, kasabay ng finals match ng Ateneo at La Salle women’s volleyball team, ay nasa Baguio ako para sa PMA graduation. Gustuhin ko mang manood, hindi ko na nagawa, dahil nagkataon ding may isyu tayong dapat tutukan at pag-aralan. Pero sa totoo lang, hindi ko na kinailangang tumutok sa TV; sa hiyawan pa lang ng mga kasamahan nating nakakapanood nito, nalalaman ko na kung gaano katindi ang laban, at kung sino ang nananalo.

Ang ikinatutuwa ko po ay noong magbasa ako ng diyaryo sa sumunod na araw nitong huling labanan. Ang nadatnan kong larawan: May nakasuot ng berde at may mga nakasuot ng bughaw, nagyakapan. Tapos na ang laban, naroon kayong mga manlalaro’t taos-pusong binabati ang isa’t isa. Sa kabila ng mahigpit na kompetisyon at matinding pressure na manalo, pinairal ninyo ay ang spirit of unity and sportsmanship. Di ba’t napakaganda nun?

Ngayon, may nagmungkahi nga po sa ating paunlakan ang courtesy call ng Women’s Volleyball Team ng Ateneo de Manila University, tulad noong nakaraang taon. Ang naisip ko: Baka naman puwede rin nating maimbita ang 1st runner-up ng tournament. Kung nagpakitang-gilas ang Lady Eagles, malamang, na-motivate silang maghanda nang husto dahil hindi basta-basta ang kompetisyon. Di po ba, kapag mayroon kang katapat na mahusay, talagang mahihimok ka ring itodo at ibigay ang lahat? Iyan po ang dahilan ng pagtanggap din natin ngayon at pagkilala sa Women’s Volleyball Team ng De La Salle University, ang DLSU Lady Spikers. Gayundin, umabot sa atin ang nakamit na kampeonato ng Men’s Volleyball Team ng Ateneo de Manila University, ang Ateneo Blue Spikers. Sabi ko, mainam siguro kung isabay at pag-isahin na lang natin ang pagbisita ninyong lahat dito.

Kaya naman, binabati ko po ang mga bumubuo sa tatlong koponang ito, mula sa inyong mga kasapi sa loob at labas ng court, mga manlalaro, coach at manager, gayundin ang mga institusyong inyong kinakatawan. Tunay nga: Sinasalamin ninyong mga atletang mag-aaral ang sigla, sigasig, at determinasyon ng henerasyon ngayon. Huwaran kayo ng pambihirang husay at kakayahan ng kabataang Pilipinong magtagumpay, anuman ang larangang kanilang mapili o mapusuan.

Lalo namang pinapatunayan ng pagtitipong ito: Sa likod ng matinding kompetisyon at kantiyawan, ay mga tunay na magkakatuwang at magkakaibigan. Batid ito, lalo na ninyong mga atletang dating magkakaeskuwela, na ngayon ay magkatunggali sa iba’t ibang liga. Alam din ito ng ilan sa inyong players, na sabi ng mga writer kong more or less kaedad ninyo, ay may kasintahan o napupusuan nang mula sa kabilang eskuwela. [Tawanan]

Sa panahon ngayon kung saan may mga nagtutulak ng kaguluhan at pagkawatak-watak sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng mundo, at maging dito sa atin, maraming puwedeng matutunan sa ipinapakita ninyong mabuting halimbawa. Kahit pa nasa sentro kayo ngayon ng age-old rivalry na ito ng Ateneo at La Salle, hindi kayo tuluyang nagpapadala sa girian at asaran. Sa inyong edad, ipinapakita ninyo, maging sa mga nakakatanda sa inyo, ang kapangyarihan ng pagpapakumbaba at pakikipagkapwa.

Naisip ko rin po: Sana, ang mga pulitiko, pati na ang mga kasapi ng iba’t ibang sektor ng lipunan, ay ganito rin ang ipamalas na ugnayan. Kapag tinanaw nila ang isang tunggalian o kompetisyon, matanong sana nila sa kanilang mga sarili: Healthy ba ang rivalry na ito? Kapag naman may kritisismo, matanong sana nila: Constructive ba ito?

Iyan nga po ang diwang gusto nating itanim sa isip at puso ng ating mga kababayan. Nahahati man tayo sa iba’t ibang isla, mayroon man tayong mga pagkakaiba, sa huli, iisang koponan lang tayong mga Pilipino. Walang spike na di kayang saluhin, kung nakatutok sa nagkakaisang layunin. Walang atakeng hindi kayang itawid, kung may estratehiya, may pasahan, at may koordinasyon ang bawat isa. Sa pagbubuklod at pagkakasundo, sa pakikiambag para sa tunay na pagbabago, panalo ang bawat Pilipino.

Iyan nga panawagan sa atin ngayon, lalo na sa inyong mga kabataang magmamana sa ipinupunla nating reporma: ang mag-One Big Fight laban sa katiwalian at kahirapan. Ika nga ng ni Coach Tai ng Ateneo Lady Eagles: Heartstrong. Basta’t nagkakaisa at buo ang pusong makipagkapwa, siguradong makakamit ang kolektibo nating hangarin bilang isang bansa.

Bago po ako magtapos, muli akong nagpapasalamat sa inyong lahat na dumalo ngayon. Kung saka-sakaling may mag-request ulit na makipag-selfie sa atin, papayag ako pero may kondisyon na po itong taong ito. Last year ho kasi may lumapit sa akin, puwede bang maki-selfie. Sabi ko, “Puwede.” Ang nagtanong ho sa akin isa eh. Ang nasa litrato ho yata bente singko kami. [Tawanan] Pero magaling ho ‘yung kumuha, wala hong na-crop ang mukha. Bago ho ako pumayag, kung saka-sakaling may gusto pa hong magpa-selfe sa inyo sa akin, mauna sanang makipag-selfie sa inyo ang dalawa nating kasamahang ginawang posible ang pagtitipong ito: sina Fr. Jett Villarin at Bro. Armin Luistro, at kung nadiyan rin ho si Bro. Benny, sana Kung paano ho ang pagtrato n’yo sa kanila, ganun ho sana ang pagtrato n’yo sa akin.

Magandang tanghali muli sa inyong lahat. At congratulations to all. We would not have achieved our achievements without the good interaction with others.

Thank you. Good day.

 

24 MARCH 2015
Nueva Vizcaya residents want Salintubig Project expanded
Philippines Hosts 27th ASEAN-Australia Forum
Philippines Joins Moscow International Travel and Tourism Exhibition 2015
P188-M fund to cover on-going housing program for ISFs' Abad: Gov't spending to improve Filipinos' quality of life
PH needs more R&D investments for evidence-based disaster risk reduction policies, strategies – NEDA
PH experience on ‘Yolanda’ vital in crafting the int’l disaster framework
Responsive Crop Insurance System: Shielding Agri Sector from Risks
Php 5.6-M Farm Equipment For Northern Isabela Farmers
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P199-M fund to bolster fire safety in ARMM; Abad: 33 fire trucks to complement new ARMM fire stations
Q4 2014 BOP position yields US$574 million surplus; Full-year 2014 registers US$2.9 billion deficit
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20th WorldBex held at PTTC
Joint Statement by International Trade Ministers of Philippines and Canada
Board of Inquiry awarded for invaluable service
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Nueva Vizcaya residents want Salintubig Project expanded
Source: http://maps.napc.gov.ph
As a mother of four children, I know how difficult it is to maintain a household where potable water is not readily available,” said Mrs Elvira Gapuz, a resident of Barangay Villaflores in Sta. Fe, Nueva Vizcaya.

Gapuz and other residents of two municipalities of Nueva Vizcaya are beneficiaries of the Salintubig Project.

A barangay treasurer, and a long-time resident of Sta. Fe, Nueva Vizcaya, Gapuz wishes the project will be extended and expanded so that more residents, not only in her province, but in other areas in the country will have potable water available in their homes.

“The way to the stream is dark because we have no electricity; we wait for daybreak to draw water from the stream,” explained Gapuz, adding that their restroom and batalan (kitchen) now have regular supply of fresh water for household use.

Her husband teaches in a nearby public school. He is no longer late for his class, unlike before when he needed to go to the stream to fetch water every day for his family.

The municipality’s engineer, Dionicio Mijares Jr. said that 356 households directly benefited from the project, along with two public elementary schools, a public market, their public park, the municipal hall itself, and three barangay halls.

“About P300 were reduced from the monthly household expenditure of each family,” Mijares added.

Several business establishments in the municipality reportedly benefitted also from the continuous supply of clean and safe potable water.

Meanwhile, five barangays of Dupax del Sur, Nueva Vizcaya—Dopaj, Domang, Bagumbayan, Balzain, and Sta Maria—l were also covered by the Salintubig Project.

“The project’s most immediate result was the lesser time spent by women and children in getting water from wells, and at a lesser cost,” according to Manuel Ignacio, Municipal Engineer in the local government of Dupax.

Ignacio said the Salintubig Project improved the access of 1,050 households to potable water.

Access to potable water may be the most obvious and immediate result of the project, but there were other benefits that reached beyond the intended result.

According to Ignacio, their water was previously sourced from shallow wells, about nine meters deep, which is prone to contamination.

The prevalence of water-borne diseases, like diarrhea, dropped to zero percent because of available safe water supply to all consumers, 24 hours every day. The most common cause of diarrhea is infection of the intestines known as gastroenteritis. This is often acquired from contaminated food or water, or directly from another person who is infected.

Salintubig or Sagana at Ligtas na Tubig sa Lahat Program promotes shared responsibility in providing water systems to waterless areas by awarding national government grants to local government units, which in turn will give funding counterpart.

Salintubig is part of the 2013 government program, under the Bottom-Up Budgeting process of the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC), the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Department of Health (DOH) and the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA).

It contributes to the attainment of one of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) of providing potable water to every barangay, which is also stated in the Philippine Water Supply Sector Roadmap and the Philippine Sustainable Sanitation Roadmap.

While Salintubig addressed the household needs for water, the province of Nueva Vizcaya also recently resolved its almost desperate need for water for agriculture.

The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) temporarily assumed the responsibility of ensuring the flow of water from the controversial Colocol Communal Irrigation System (CCIS) that will benefit hundreds of farmers of the Bayombong-Solano-Villaverde Federation of Irrigators Association (BSVFIA).

The CCIS operation started on February 15 to enable farmers to sufficiently irrigate their farmlands before the cropping season.

The agreement was reached during a dialogue between NIA officials and irrigators associations of the Colocol Irrigators’ Federation, Inc. (CIFI), Colocol Irrigators Multipurpose Coop, Inc. (CIMPCI), and the Municipal Alliance of Solano Irrigators Association (MASIA) at the NIA compound in the province, in an effort to address the year-old conflict of farmers over the control of irrigation water.

The insufficient flow of water has affected farmers’ plan to attain the five-croppings-in-two-years program of the Department of Agriculture (DA) for more than a year.

“We will wait for the cleaning of the downstream canals, especially Barangay San Nicolas in Bayombong town and Barangay Bascaran in Solano town,” said Roland Apaga, NIA assistant irrigation officer.

About 6,000 farmers will benefit from this recent development.
Philippines Hosts 27th ASEAN-Australia Forum
Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph
24 March 2015 - The ASEAN-Philippines National Secretariat of the Department of Foreign Affairs will host the 27th ASEAN-Australia Forum from March 25 to 26 at Dusit Thani Manila.

An annual meeting between ASEAN and Australia, the Forum will review the progress of ASEAN-Australia cooperation, and discuss shared regional and international interests.

Participating senior official leaders and delegates from 10 ASEAN Member States, the ASEAN Secretariat and Australia will review political-security, economic and socio-cultural cooperation, consistent with the Plan of Action (POA) to Implement the ASEAN-Australia Comprehensive Partnership 2015-2019, which was adopted in August 2014.

The Forum will likewise discuss the future direction of ASEAN-Australia dialogue relations, specifically on the ASEAN-Australia strategic partnership.

The Joint ASEAN-Australia Leaders’ Statement on the 40th Anniversary of ASEAN-Australia Dialogue Relations Towards a Strategic Partnership for Mutual Benefit was adopted during the 40th Anniversary of ASEAN-Australia Dialogue Relations in November 2014.

The Philippines, which also hosted the Official Launch of the 40th Anniversary of ASEAN-Australia Relations on 20 February 2014 in Manila, has served as the country coordinator for ASEAN-Australia dialogue relations since 2012, and is due to turn over its coordinatorship in the middle of 2015.
Philippines Joins Moscow International Travel and Tourism Exhibition 2015
Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph
24 March 2015 – The Philippines participated for the third time in the Moscow International Travel and Tourism (MITT) exhibition from March 18 to 21 at ExpoCentre Fairgrounds, Moscow, as part of the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) ongoing marketing promotion campaign in Russia. The Philippine delegation, led by Director Verna Covar-Buensuceso, Officer-in-Charge of the DOT Market Development Group, was composed of 12 domestic travel and tour operators as well as hotels and resorts representatives.

The MITT is an annual tourism exhibition in Moscow and one of the top five travel exhibitions in the world. One hundred ninety-eight (198) countries from different regions participated in this year’s event.
P188-M fund to cover on-going housing program for ISFs' Abad: Gov't spending to improve Filipinos' quality of life
Source: http://www.dbm.gov.ph
The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has approved the release of P188 million to the Social Housing Finance Corporation (SHFC) to create housing for informal settler families (ISFs) living in danger areas in Metro Manila, chargeable against the FY 2014 General Appropriations Act (GAA).
Budget Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad said, “We’re continually developing safe communities for informal settlers via government housing programs because they serve a dual purpose. First of all, we ensure the fruits of our economic development will be felt by our less fortunate countrymen by giving them a chance to own their homes. Second, we also protect the poor, the vulnerable, and the marginalized from future disasters caused by climate change.”
One of the projects that will receive funding under the SHFC is the Responsableng Samahang Pampamayanan(RSP) Village Phase I Homeowners Association, Inc. (HOAI). Under this project, the National Government shall acquire land for the housing of 1,504 ISFs living along Dahlia Creek, Darlo River, San Juan River, Tullahan River, Diliman Creek, and the Payatas Dumpsite.
Particulars
Amount
Land acquisition P124,590,895
Administrative cost P3,008,000
Total P127,598,895
On the other hand, two projects—Bistekville II HOAI Block 6 and Block 16—shall be financed by SHFC through loan refinancing. The Quezon City local government, which owns the land, will develop and build the houses that will benefit 132 ISFs living along Tullahan River and San Juan River.
Particulars
Amount (PHP)
 
Bistekville II HOAI Block 6 Bistekville II HOAI Block 16 Total
Loan Refinancing P31,450,200 P28,715,400 P60,165,600
Administrative Cost P138,000 P126,000 P264,000
Total P31,588,200 P28,841,400 P60,429,600
The three abovementioned projects have a total cost of P188,028,495 with the following breakdown:
Housing Projects Component Amount (PHP)
RSP Village Phase I HOAI Phase 1 P127,595,895
Bistekville Block 6 HOAI Refinancing P31,588,200
Bistekville II Block 16 HOAI Refinancing P28,841,400
Total P188,028,495
The projects shall adopt the Community Mortgage Program (CMP) approach, wherein an organized community starts and manages the housing project even as they secure funding support from the SHFC.
Abad said, “These projects are part of the National Government’s pledge on the Daang Matuwid and our commitment to leave no one behind in our journey towards economic growth. By spending on the right priorities, we not only sustain equal opportunities for all Filipinos but also improve their quality of life. This is what inclusive development ultimately means.”
For 2014, the SHFC received a total subsidy of P3.67 billion—which includes the recent release—for the implementation of the housing program. Of the said amount, DBM has already allotted P3.62 billion to the SHFC. For 2015, the SHFC housing program will receive P3.74 billion.
PH needs more R&D investments for evidence-based disaster risk reduction policies, strategies – NEDA
Source: http://www.neda.gov.ph
SENDAI, JAPAN – With the increasing frequency of natural hazards and disaster-related economic losses globally, more public investments on disaster risk reduction (DRR), particularly on research and development (R&D) are necessary to support more effective and evidence-based DRR policies and strategies, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).

Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan emphasized the importance of this intervention during the Ministerial Roundtable on Public Investment Strategies for DRR at the 3rd United Nations (UN) World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction held on March 17, 2015 at Sendai, Japan.

“The economic and social benefits of investment in data and research on DRR in developing countries are arguably high, but too often, governments, including their multilateral partners, underinvest or provide too little support to the generation of data for evidence-based DRR policy vis-a-vis public spending in post-disaster events such as relief, recovery, and reconstruction,” said Balisacan, who is also NEDA Director-General.

“In the case of the Philippines, public investments in R&D, or in science and technology, compete with the same pool of fiscal resources needed to address our critical development outcomes in health, education, social protection, and basic infrastructure,” he said.

He added that to create fiscal space for other critically needed investments in climate-change resiliency and in the social sector, particularly poverty reduction, the Philippine government has been mobilizing the private sector to construct, manage, or maintain infrastructure projects through public-private partnership arrangements.

“For this reason, we have turned to our development partners, such as the World Bank and the Japan International Cooperation Agency, to help build our local capacity for DRR, particularly the financing of DRR initiatives,” said Balisacan.

The Cabinet official also noted that a case can be made for stronger support to good data and ex-ante analyses of policy and investment options to DRR.

“Twinning arrangements on DRR science and practices between developed and developing countries, or between or among developing countries, should be advanced. We call on the multilateral development institutions and regional development organizations to deepen their engagement in helping catalyze the effort by serving as bridge or facilitator for such arrangements,” he said.

Balisacan also participated in the Working Session on Economic Aspects of DRR and Ministerial Roundtable Discussion for Reconstructing after Disasters: Build Back Better.

Other NEDA officials with Balisacan are Deputy Directors-General Margarita R. Songco and Emmanuel F. Esguerra and Assistant Director-General Kenneth V. Tanate.

The Philippine delegation to the UN World Conference on DRR, led by Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Corazon “Dinky” J. Soliman, was also part of the negotiations for the newly-ratified Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030.
PH experience on ‘Yolanda’ vital in crafting the int’l disaster framework
Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph
With its experience in dealing with Typhoon ‘Yolanda,’ the Philippines significantly contributed to the crafting of the Sendai Declaration, the outcome document of the 3rd United Nations World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction held from March 13 to 18 in Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan.

The Philippines sent a 70-member delegation headed by Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman.

“They appreciated our participation in the conference since we are one of the few countries that is already risk-conscious and using risk as part of our preparation and our resilience rebuilding effort. All the delegates served as resource persons during the ministerial discussions, [sharing] how we managed and dealt with the disaster,” Sec. Soliman said.

The Sendai Declaration, also known as the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, outlines the determination of participating Heads of States, ministers, and delegates to strengthen disaster risk reduction and reduce the loss of lives and assets worldwide.

It lays down the framework that will guide the international community to minimize the impact of disasters and make the world safer for the present and future generations.

Sec. Soliman explained that the priorities of action under the framework are: understanding disaster risk; strengthening disaster risk governance to manage disaster risk; investing in disaster risk reduction for resilience; enhancing disaster preparedness for effective response; and to “Build Back Better” in recovery, rehabilitation and reconstruction.

Sec. Soliman added that these priority actions will achieve seven global targets which are:
• substantially reduce global disaster mortality;
• substantially reduce the number of affected people globally;
• reduce direct disaster economic loss in relation to global gross domestic product;
• substantially reduce disaster damage to critical infrastructure and disruption of basic services, among them health and educational facilities, including through developing their resilience;
• substantially increase the number of countries with national and local disaster risk reduction strategies;
• substantially enhance international cooperation to developing countries through adequate and sustainable support to complement their national actions for implementation;
• and substantially increase the availability of an access to multi-hazard early warning systems and disaster risk information and assessment to the people.

PH experience

During the conference, the delegates shared their experiences in responding to ‘Yolanda.’

Sec. Soliman cited Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Sec. Rogelio Singson who talked about the construction of infrastructures to ensure resilience.

Likewise, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) head Sec. Arsenio Balisacan talked about the economic laws and how these will help in the rehabilitation of typhoon-hit areas.

Delegates from the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAG-ASA) showed how the Philippines is now able to forecast better using the technologies of the Noah Project.

“We also shared that we have implemented, starting with Typhoon Ruby, the pre-disaster risk assessment strategy where a team determines the geographic specifics and time bound of disasters,” Sec. Soliman said.

She added that this team would look at where the typhoon path would be, how many will be affected based on the National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction or Listahanan, what infrastructures are at risk, and what kinds of equipment are needed in disaster response.

Success

Sec. Soliman said that the delegation had achieved two important things in Sendai.

“We have shown the world that we have learned our lessons, and second there are many partnerships that we have been able to forge specifically with those invested in supporting renewable energies and resilience by way of a risk-informed analysis and risk-informed decision,” Sec. Soliman said.

“At the conference, we committed to abide by the framework. Back home, work should start now. We have to start coordinating and collaborating toward the goals of the Sendai Declaration,” Sec. Soliman ended.
Responsive Crop Insurance System: Shielding Agri Sector from Risks
Source: http://www.da.gov.ph
Factoring in land area and population—now at more than a hundred million—the Philippines would be the most vulnerable country to the effects of climate change. And as primarily an agricultural economy, the agricultural sector, specifically smallholder farmers and fisherfolk, are at the forefront of facing risks caused by disasters and calamities, particularly strong typhoons.

The effects of Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) alone in 2013 prove the agriculture sector’s vulnerability. The government then has doubled its efforts to institute policies and programs to reduce and manage disaster risk, recognizing that Haiyan would not be the last super typhoon to bring such catastrophe to the country. The Department of Agriculture (DA) in particular has mainstreamed climate change adaptation in all its projects and programs, making these disaster-resistant or resilient. Furthermore, the DA has enhanced its existing programs to make these more responsive to the call of increased efforts on disaster risk reduction and management.

One of the programs that the DA has extensively enhanced is the crop insurance system through the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC), a government-owned and controlled corporation under the DA that has a mandate of providing insurance protection to agricultural producers against losses of crops and non-crop agricultural assets due to natural calamities, pests and diseases, and other risk factors.

“The DA has intensified the implementation of its crop insurance system, making it a necessary component of its banner commodity programs for rice, corn, high value crops, livestock and fisheries—chiefly because we are responsively working within the context of climate change,” DA Secretary Proceso Alcala said.

Alcala stressed that in these times of unpredictable weather patterns and extreme weather events, insurance for crops and even livestock is indispensable to protect farmers and fisherfolk from the risks of disasters. He added that having insurance coverage will effectively help farmers and fisherfolk recover faster from post-disaster losses.

Crop Insurance as Social Protection Scheme for Agri Sector

Most farmers especially in remote areas do not have access insurance services—many are actually not even aware about insurance systems. For the past four years, the PCIC has invested and maximized resources in reaching for more farmers and fisherfolk.

In 2014 the PCIC provided insurance protection to 924,343 farmers and fisherfolk, 24.31% more than the 743,589 covered in 2013. Seventy percent of those provided with insurance protection were granted with full free insurance coverage under other government programs such as the insurance protection for the subsistence farmers and fisherfolk listed in the Department of Budget and Management’s (DBM) Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture (RSBSA); the free agricultural insurance for Typhoon Yolanda-affected areas; the free agricultural insurance for selected agrarian reform beneficiaries; and the DA-Land Bank of the Philippines Sikat-Saka Program.

Insured rice, corn and high-value crop farms likewise expanded in size to 778,375 hectares or 53.82% higher than in 2013 while insured heads of livestock also increased to 500,568 or 637.12% higher than in 2013.

In 2014, the PCIC paid out a total of about 734.977 million in insurance claims to 99,335 farmers and fisherfolk—that is 48.40% higher than in 2013.

These significant increases in insurance coverage for farmers and fisherfolk show the resolve of the government to invest in the sector’s social protection, an essential pillar for a resilient population, and also vital element to realizing inclusive growth.

Responsive insurance products

The PCIC has not stopped at increasing the number of farmers and fisherfolk covered by insurance. To be more responsive to its clients, it periodically reviews its array of insurance products. In 2014, the PCIC developed insurance covers with discounted premium rates for swine and poultry growers, aiming at covering impact of climate change-related extreme weather events, in addition to usual risks.

Likewise, the PCIC also issued special covers for cooperatives and organizations of subsistence farmers and fisherfolk under the group-term insurance scheme. The enhancements are similar to those provided for by other insurance companies, but there are some enhancements that are better than what is offered by the private sector, such as the uniform premium rates regardless of the age of the insured person and increase in age eligibility from 65 to 80 years old.

Crop and life-accident insurance bundles

The PCIC has also constantly explored new ways to deliver more product lines suitable to the needs of farmers and fisherfolk. It now offers life and accident insurance aside from crop and livestock insurance.

While life and accident insurance are offered by many private insurance companies, the PCIC has decided to offer these products in bundle with crop insurance in response to the expressed need of farmers and fishers for affordable insurance premiums that are accessible even in far-flung areas.

According to Jovy Bernabe, the PCIC President, the corporation’s charter allows it to expand to other insurance lines such as life and accident insurance, as well as to float bonds in order to generate internal funds. Also, the corporation may extend coverage to other areas of agriculture to address the insurance needs of the target sector.

Communications, transparency and accountability

Part of PCIC’s efforts in enhancing its services is improving its communications with its stakeholders. For instance, farmers and fisherfolk undergo comprehensive orientation by the PCIC and its insurance partners, mainly the LGUs, before they get insurance coverage. Regional education, information and communication activities are also done by the regional offices.

For adjustments of claims, the PCIC sends well-trained teams of adjusters, composed of representatives of PCIC and its insurance partners. Last year was challenging for the adjusters because of the increased volume of transactions brought about by various calamities. The PCIC has nonetheless instituted control measures, such as standard regional activities before, during and after major calamities.

Recognizing the increasing number of disasters and calamities that farmers and fisherfolk face, the PCIC is constantly building its capacity to cope up with the consequent increase in demand for insurance protection. Also, the PCIC strives to accommodate the increasing number of target farmers and fisherfolk under the subsidized programs.

Farmers who are not satisfied with the payments and settlements can file letters for reconsideration. These are reviewed by the regional offices, or even the head office, and considered based on the results of readjustment and verification procedures.

To minimize leakages in the program, the PCIC has issued detailed guidelines to regional offices, including qualifications of beneficiaries. Local government units and the regional field offices of the DA are assisting the PCIC in the identification of the beneficiaries. For the beneficiaries under the GAA for 2015, the farmers and fisherfolk should be listed in the DBM’s RSBSA.

Farmers encouraged insuring at higher amount of cover

Most of the time, farmers opt not to increase the amount of cover or even obtain cover that is less the production cost in order to avoid additional premium cost. This explains why PCIC can only provide cover that is worth less than the average production cost to most borrower-insured farmers. However, they actually have the option to increase the amount of cover up to additional 20% of cost of production inputs, as portion of the expected yield.

The premium cost under the regular rice and corn insurance programs is partially subsidized to about 55% and the balance is shared by the farmer and the PCIC-accredited lending institution as underwriter.

The underwriter and the borrowing farmer agree on terms and conditions, including amount of loan and amount of cover before the issuance of insurance policy.

“The PCIC would always encourage farmers to insure their farms at a higher amount of cover, but this decision ultimately rests with the farmers and the lending institution,” Bernabe said.

Secretary Alcala said that the DA and the PCIC will explore new ways to encourage farmers and fisherfolk to insure at higher amount of cover, particularly those living in identified hazard zones. The Secretary added that LGUs may also appropriate funds for subsidizing the most vulnerable farmers and fisherfolk in their areas, but this should be based on criteria-based targeting system.

The PCIC president said that results of their operations over the last three years show tremendous growth based on their performance indicators.

“But of course we are not contented. We are constantly enhancing our products and internal processes to ensure our responsiveness especially now that we face more risks with changing climate,” Bernabe said.

Alcala added that PCIC’s responsiveness has significantly helped farmers and fisherfolk cope up with the challenges of climate change-related disasters that have struck the Philippines. And as the country should expect other disasters to come, better insurance schemes for farmers and fisherfolk are needed to prepare and protect the sector—and the whole nation that largely depends on agriculture.
Php 5.6-M Farm Equipment For Northern Isabela Farmers
Source: http://www.dar.gov.ph
The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) recently turned over a Php 5.6-M farm equipment to Lapogan Multi-Purpose Cooperative (MPC) and San Francisco Kababaihan Auto Savings Group in Northern Isabela to mechanize farming.

Regional Director Atty. Marjorie P. Ayson said the delivery of two four-wheeled 90-horsepower tractors to the Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organizations (ARBOS) under the Agrarian Reform Community Connectivity and Economic Support Services (ARCCESS) Project is part of the DAR’s continuing effort to provide comprehensive support services to the farmer-beneficiaries.

Director for Administrative Service Rene E. Colocar led the ribbon cutting and the ceremonial turn-over of tractors to the two farmers’ organization. Regional Director Ayson, Isabela Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II (PARPO II) Alfredo B. Lorenzo, Jr. and Dir. III for Support to Operations Jess Beth G. Quidasol witnessed the turnover rites.

Dir. Colocar encouraged the farmers to manage well the facilities, having been chosen as the ARBO-recipients out of thousands of ARBOs in the country.2

“Each and everyone should work hand in hand to achieve the goals and eventually be catalysts of change in your community," he added.

PARPO II Lorenzo said the project aims to increase farm productivity, improve income and sustain the livelihood of ARBs through their organizations.

Dir. III Quidasol said the DAR Regional Office 02 has contracted the equity distributor “Equity Machineries Inc.” to conduct a hands-on training on tractor operation and maintenance.

The said training would provide ARBO members the technical know-how in operating the tractors and in safe handling. (Maricon M. Israel)
DILG Exec assures farmers picketing DILG: Roxas doesn’t own a square inch of "Araneta Land" in Bulacan
Source: http://dilg.gov.ph
Undersecretary Peter Irving Corvera of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has assured farmers from a disputed property in Bulacan that Interior Secretary Mar Roxas does not own a square inch of so-called "Araneta land" in Tungkong Mangga, San Jose del Monte City.

The DILG official said the property in question is apparently owned by the family of Gregorio “Greggy” Araneta III and Araneta Properties and not by Secretary Roxas’ mother or any member of the Roxas family.

“I suggest that the KMP and the leaders of the farmers in the Araneta Estate in Bulacan talk with Mr. Greggy Araneta III since they are the ones who have a stake in the property and not Secretary Roxas,” Corvera told the farmers.

The farmers have accused Greggy Araneta and his relatives of landgrabbing, arguing that around 300 hectares of the controversial property will be used by the planned P63-billion Mass Rail Transit-7 (MRT-7) project as an intermodal depot that would displace them.

“From the time Mr. Roxas was the secretary of the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC), he purposely did not tackle the issue of MRT-7 since there was a big chance that he would be accused of pushing a project for the benefit of his relatives,” Corvera explained.

The MRT-7 project would also include residential buildings and other structures for mixed use development, KMP insisted.

Hundreds of families had been cultivating the land for decades, KMP stressed, and it was strange why the Aranetas would transform the area for purposes that are beyond the coverage of the agrarian reform law.

KMP chairperson and former Anakpawis Rep. Rafael Mariano said the takeover of the property would be a travesty of the same law.

MRT-7 is a a public-private partnership (PPP) project between the Aquino government and the Universal LRT Corp. (ULC), which is controlled by San Miguel Corp. (SMC), whose chairman is President Aquino’s uncle, Eduardo “Danding” Cojuangco Jr.

“This land dispute should be addressed by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and not by the DILG since questions about land use or the coverage of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) and its extensions are exclusively within the jurisdiction of the DAR secretary,” Corvera clarified.

Real estate giants like SM Land and Ayala Land have reportedly expressed interest in the real estate and commercial component of MRT-7 as well.

“Officially, the concern of Secretary Roxas on the issue of the Araneta Properties is the maintenance of peace and order. The DILG is duty-bound to provide law enforcers to ensure that there will be no violence until the matter is resolved peacefully and to the mutual benefit of the contending parties,” Corvera stressed.

“If it turns out that the farmers have a legitimate right to the land according to DAR, then the farmers must be installed in the area. If not, then there should be a corresponding settlement with them, or perhaps a transfer to agricultural areas they can transform into productive zones,” he maintained.

“I assure the Bulacan farmers that Secretary Roxas has no proprietary interest in the disputed area of Tungkong Mangga,” Corvera concluded.
Roxas pays tribute to a Great Asian Leader
Source: http://dilg.gov.ph
Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas paid his last respects and tribute to Singapore’s founding leader Lee Kuan Yew, who died earlier this morning at the age of 91.

“So sorry to see Lee Kuan Yew go - a one of a kind, once in a generation leader,” Roxas said in a post on his Facebook and Twitter accounts.

Roxas also fondly recalled the time when he received the “honour” of being chosen by the Singaporean government to be a Lee Kuan Yew fellow.

“I had a chance to speak with him at length,” he added.

Roxas, who has been a public servant for more than two decades, described the Singaporean leader as “incorruptible, [a] dedicated visionary.”

“[His] 'tough love’ approach brought his people and country from an orphaned rock (with no land, no water, no natural resources) to first-world status in one generation’s time,” Roxas explained.

He also emphasised Lee Kuan Yew’s selflessness and dedication to service for the nation.

“Truly, bayan bago ang sarili. Idol kita!” his post read.
Baldoz credits social partners for improved PH rank in 'labor freedom'
Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph
Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz yesterday credited its tripartite social partners for the country's latest achievement, its 8.5 points improvement in 'labor freedom', one of the 10 economic freedoms yearly measured in countries around the world by the Heritage Foundation and The Wall Street Journal, and overall, its inclusion among the 10 top countries with improved performances in the list of the world's freest economies.

In a press release commenting on the results of the 2015 Index of Economic Freedom released the other day, the labor and employment chief said this is the highest jump of the Philippines in this economic freedom indicator in the last 10 years.

The Economic Freedom Index measures 10 freedoms grouped into four categories as follows: rule of law (property rights and freedom from corruption); government size (fiscal freedom and government spending); regulatory efficiency (business freedom, labor freedom, and monetary freedom); and open markets (trade freedom, investment freedom, and financial freedom.

In the 2015 Economic Freedom Index, the Philippines' score in labor freedom is 58.2, an increase of 8.5 over last year's Labor Freedom Index, placing the country 107th in the world rankings.

According to the Heritage Foundation, the labor freedom component is a quantitative measure that considers various aspects of the legal and regulatory framework of a country's labor market, including regulations concerning minimum wages, laws inhibiting lay-offs, severance requirements, measurable regulatory restraints on hiring and hours worked.

There are six quantitative sub-factors weighted equally and counted as one-sixth of the labor freedom component. These are the following: (1) ratio of minimum wage to the average value added per worker; (2) hindrance to hiring additional workers; (3) rigidity of hours; (4) difficulty of firing redundant workers; (5) legally-mandated notice period; and (6) mandatory severance pay.

"The labor freedom score of the country in this latest index reflects the country's performance in improving labor market regulation efficiency and affirms the positive trends in other similar economic performance measures, such as the Global Competitiveness Report of the World Economic Forum where the Philippines continues to register improvements in labor market efficiency, one of 12 competitiveness pillars measured by the Report," said Secretary Baldoz.

In the Global Competitiveness Report 2014-2015, the Philippines exhibited tremendous progress in improving its global competitiveness in the labor market efficiency pillar, climbing nine (9) rungs from its 100th spot in the 2013-2014 GCI to 91st in the current 2014-2015 rankings. This brings to 20 rungs the Philippines had leapt in the labor market efficiency pillar since 2010, when it held 111th spot in the GCI rankings.

Baldoz cited the numerous initiatives of the Philippines, through the DOLE, in its effort to strengthen its 'labor freedom', including the adoption of tripartite-endorsed reforms, such as the two-tier wage system, productivity incentives, promoting legitimate, responsible, and ethical sub-contracting (D.O. 18-A), regulatory impact assessment on the apprenticeship and PESO legislative proposals, the institutionalization of the new Labor Laws Compliance System, active employment facilitation programs, the enactment of the tripartite-supported law on the lifting of the prohibition of nightwork for women, and Labor Code reforms.

"All these initiatives contribute to our efforts that have brought significant improvements in the labor market and which are now being recognized," Baldoz explained.

The Philippines' economic freedom score in the 2015 Economic Freedom Index is 62.2, placing the country's economy the 76th freest in the world, thus turning the country from its previous years' ranking as "mostly unfree" to become "moderately free" in the last two years of the administration of President Benigno S. Aquino III.

The score is 2.1 percent higher than in the last Index, making the Philippines one of 10 who registered best score improvements in the 2015 Index.

In the Asia-Pacific, the Philippines is the 13th freest among 42 countries, and its overall score is above the world (60.4) and regional averages (58.8).

The Economic Freedom Index is an annual guide published by the Wall Street Journal and the Heritage Foundation that documents the positive relationship between economic freedom - the fundamental right of every human being to control his or her own labor and property - and a variety of positive social and economic goals.
Callers interested in DOLE overseas positions, DOLE Call Center record shows
Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph
The Call Center of the Department of Labor and Employment in February registered a distinctively high number of callers who are interested in the 162 vacant overseas plantilla positions posted at the DOLE website, Director Nicon F. Fameronag of the DOLE Labor Communications Office said yesterday. Citing the “In February 2015, the DOLE Call Center reported an upsurge - 46 percent - in the number of callers who asked questions on possible employment in the DOLE, specifically on the DOLE overseas plantilla positions,” Director Fameronag said in a report to Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz. It can be recalled that Baldoz announced that the DOLE is beefing up its overseas operations, with an aim to re-structure and transform Philippine Overseas Labor Offices into “centers of care and excellence” as President Benigno Aquino III instructed in his 22-point labor and employment agenda. Relative to this, Baldoz said the Department of Budget and Management has approved a DOLE proposal for 162 new plantilla item positions specifically for overseas posting. The 162 overseas plantilla positions consist of 35 supervising labor and employment officers, 19 senior labor employment officers, 48 labor and employment officers III, 23 labor and employment officers I, and 37 administrative assistants III. The DOLE’s Human Resource Development Service had said that in addition to the minimum qualification requirements, interested applicants must at least be in the government service for three years, two years of which must have been served in DOLE, and with a very satisfactory rating for the last rating period. More importantly, he/she must be fit to travel and to work under stressful conditions. Medical examinations can be acquired from any licensed diagnostic centers and/or government hospitals, and must be certified by a government physician. “The 27 callers who expressed interest in applying for the positions were informed by the DOLE Call Center that once they meet the basic requirements, they also have to pass the examinations that will be administered by the HRDS,” Fameronag explained. As of 28 February, the DOLE Call Center had received a total of 4,955 calls and 5,723 queries. The queries centered on social protection and welfare (4,185); labor relations (1,046); employment (259); and miscellaneous (233). The DOLE Call Center is open from 6:00 A.M. to 6:30 P.M. on Mondays to Saturdays, including holidays.
Leadership forum to gather 1,800 HR professionals
Source: http://web.csc.gov.ph
For the third year, human resource (HR) professionals from the public and private sectors will gather to exchange information and best practices on developing and managing the country’s workforce.

The Public Sector HR Symposium and concurrent Philippine Society for Training and Development (PSTD) National Convention, with the theme “Transformations through Leadership Development”, aims to highlight the significant role of leaders in inspiring transformation among individuals which, collectively, results in transformation in organizations and communities.

With an expected attendance of 1,800 HR professionals, the event will be held from May 27 to 29, 2015 at Waterfront Hotel, Lahug, Cebu City. It is jointly organized by the Civil Service Commission (CSC), the Government of Australia through the Philippines Australia Human Resource and Organisational Development Facility, and the PSTD.

CSC Commissioner Robert S. Martinez said that the symposium will be a good venue to re-examine how leadership is practiced and valued in the country, especially in the government where the decisions and actions of leaders have far-reaching impact on government functioning, and ultimately, on the lives of the public.

“We view this HR Symposium as an opportunity for HR minds from the public and private sectors to not only learn but also discuss ways to improve the character, competence, and continuing development of our leaders, with the hope of eventually promoting a global brand of Filipino leadership,” added Commissioner Martinez.

In the last two years, the HR Symposium has featured international HR experts and influential personalities as speakers including Atty. Alexander Lacson, author of the bestselling book “12 Little Things Every Filipino Can Do to Help Our Country”; Paul Devoy, head of United Kingdom-based Investors in People; and Ann Rolfe, founder of Mentoring Works, a consultancy group in Australia.

Interested participants may register online at www.csc.gov.ph/hr on or before May 8, 2015. They may also coordinate with the Civil Service Institute at 931-4182, 931-7971 or 931-7935 loc. 301 to 305 for more information.
P199-M fund to bolster fire safety in ARMM; Abad: 33 fire trucks to complement new ARMM fire stations
Source: http://www.dbm.gov.ph
As part of the National Government’s commitment to ensure security and the rule of law in areas of the country that need essential government services, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has approved the release of P199 million to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in the Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) for the procurement of 33 fire trucks.

This release coincides with the designation of the month of March as Fire Prevention Month, and is part of the P22.47-billion Supplemental Budget passed last December 2014. Aside from being part of the ARMM Transition Investment Support Plan (TISP), the amount of P199 million also supplements the BFP’s P8-billion budget in the FY 2015 General Appropriations Act (GAA).

Budget Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad said, “These fire trucks are the final element needed to complement the recently-constructed fire stations in the ARMM municipalities. That’s why we need to guarantee budgetary support for agencies like the BFP whose main task is to ensure public order and safety. With the help of these agencies, we’ll be able to establish an environment of social stability in areas that need it so that inclusive development can thrive and grow.”

Each of the 33 recently-constructed ARMM fire stations will receive one water tank pumper truck, which has a capacity of 3,800 liters. These fire stations are located throughout the five ARMM provinces—Lanao Del Sur, Maguindanao, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-tawi—and their construction was completed in 2013.

The following municipalities will get one fire truck each:

1. Lanao Del Sur – Pagiapo, Madalum, Lumba Bayabao, Masiu, Balindong, Marantao, Poona Bayabao, Saguiaran, Ditaan Ramain, Bayang, Balabagan, and Bacolod-Kalawi

2. Maguindanao – Sultan sa Barongis, Datu Abdullah Sangki, Datu Montawal, Datu Unsay, Gen. SK Pendatun, Mamasapano, Paglat, South Upi, and Talayan

3. Basilan – Lantawan, Sumisip, and Tuburan

4. Sulu – Indanan, Luuk, Panamao, Parang, Patikul, and Talipao

5. Tawi-tawi – Languyan, Langlima, and South Ubian

Abad added, “It’s important to reiterate that we were able to fund priority projects like these fire trucks with the help of the 2014 Supplementary Budget, which was finalized late last year. What’s more, this release will help promote public order and safety even as it provides important services in areas made vulnerable by violence.”

Other projects from the 2014 Supplemental Budget to receive funding this year are the construction of fishports, lighthouses, and seawalls by the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority, the implementation of the North Triangle Relocation Plan, and the Operational Transformation Plan of the Philippine National Police.
Q4 2014 BOP position yields US$574 million surplus; Full-year 2014 registers US$2.9 billion deficit
Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph
The country’s balance of payments position registered a surplus of US$574 million in Q4 2014. This was 54.5 percent lower than the US$1.3 billion surplus recorded in Q4 2013 despite the gains in the current account, which were almost negated by the substantial net outflows in the financial account or net lending by residents to the rest of the world, consisting of residents’ acquisition of financial assets abroad and repayment of external liabilities. The large outflows in the financial account were due largely to the notable growth in net placements of residents in other investments and direct investments abroad. As global growth prospects remain solid, particularly in the US, China and India, residents have explored investment opportunities abroad. Meanwhile, the narrowing of the trade-in-goods deficit contributed mainly to the higher current account surplus.
The BOP position for full-year 2014 recorded a deficit of US$2.9 billion, a reversal of the US$5.1 billion surplus recorded in 2013. The deficit resulted from the marked increase in net outflows in the financial account despite the continued improvement in the current account surplus. The net outflows in the financial account stemmed from the increased net outflows in other investments and the reversal of portfolio and direct investments from net inflows to net outflows. The current account continued to perform favorably on the back of the lower trade-in-goods deficit and higher net receipts in the primary and secondary income accounts.
As a result, The country’s gross international reserves (GIR) reached US$79.5 billion as of end-December 2014, a decline of 4.4 percent (or US$3.6 billion) compared to the end-December 2013 GIR level of US$83.2 billion. At this level, reserves could sufficiently cover 10.4 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments of services and income. It was also equivalent to 4.9 times the country’s short-term external debt based on original maturity and 4 times based on residual maturity.1 
Fourth Quarter 2014 Developments
Current Account. The current account yielded a surplus of US$4.7 billion (equivalent to 5.9 percent of GDP) in Q4 2014, 43.1 percent higher compared to US$3.3 billion (4.4 percent of GDP) recorded in same quarter a year ago. The expansion in the current account surplus was attributed to the narrowing of the trade-in-goods deficit combined with the increases recorded in net receipts from the primary and secondary income accounts.
The trade-in-goods deficit narrowed to US$3.7 billion in Q4 2014 from US$4.8 billion in Q4 2013. This was largely on account of the 6.2 percent decline in goods imports, which was primarily due to the drop in petroleum crude imports brought about by the fall in the international price of crude oil.
The trade-in-services balance recorded lower net receipts of US$1.6 billion in Q4 2014, compared to the US$1.8 billion net receipts in Q4 2013. The 7.3 percent decline resulted largely from increased net payments for travel services (US$1.3 billion) and transport services (US$476 million). Increased net payments were also recorded in insurance and pension, charges for the use of intellectual property, and government goods and services.
The primary income account posted net receipts of US$516 million in Q4 2014, an increase of 70.5 percent from the US$303 million net receipts in the comparable period last year. Growth was driven by the decline in net payments of investment income (by 10.7 percent) on account of lower dividends paid to foreign direct investors, and the sustained increase in compensation inflows from resident overseas Filipino (OF) workers which amounted to US$1.9 billion.
Net receipts in the secondary income account reached US$6.3 billion in Q4 2014 compared to US$6.1 billion in Q4 2013. The 3.2 percent expansion was accounted for mainly by the 5.4 percent increase in personal transfers totaling US$5.8 billion. The bulk of these personal transfers came from non-resident OF workers' remittances (about 98 percent) which increased by 5.6 percent to US$5.7 billion.
Capital Account. Net receipts in the capital account dropped to US$28 million in Q4 2014 from US$32 million in Q4 2013. This developed mainly on account of lower net receipts of other capital transfers to the general government.
Financial Account.  The financial account continued to register net outflows (or net lending by residents to the rest of the world) of US$4.5 billion in Q4 2014, more than twice the US$2 billion net outflows in the comparable quarter a year ago. This was due mainly to the substantial increase in net outflows in other investments which reached US$2.3 billion. Portfolio and direct investments also registered net outflows amounting to US$1.2 billion and US$977 million, respectively, during the quarter. 
The direct investments account yielded higher net outflows of US$977 million in Q4 2014, more than double the net outflows of US$471 million in Q4 2013. Residents’ net acquisition of financial assets of US$2.4 billion exceeded their net incurrence of liabilities (foreign direct investments in the Philippines or FDI) of US$1.4 billion. This developed as equity capital placement abroad by resident non-banks surged to US$1.7 billion from US$226 million. Meanwhile, non-residents’ net equity capital investments in Q4 2014 rose to US$896 million from US$21 million.
The portfolio investments account posted net outflows of US$1.2 billion in Q4 2014, 7.5 percent higher than the net outflows in Q4 2013. This development was reflective of the prevailing volatility in financial markets amid lingering uncertainty over the global growth prospects. Residents’ net acquisition of financial assets amounted to US$930 million, a reversal of the US$81 net disposal of financial assets in Q4 last year on account of net placements by domestic deposit-taking corporations (US$777 million) and the central bank (US$171 million) in debt securities issued by non-residents.
The other investment account recorded net outflows amounting to US$2.3 billion in Q4 2014, more than five times the US$426 million registered in the comparable quarter last year. Net outflows stemmed mainly from higher net acquisition of financial assets which reached US$4 billion from US$1.2 billion in Q4 2013, due largely to higher residents’ deposit placements (US$2.7 billion) and net lending (US$1.4 billion) abroad.
January-December 2014 Developments
Current Account. The current account yielded a higher surplus of US$12.6 billion in 2014 from US$11.4 billion in 2013. This was mainly due to the narrowing of the trade-in-goods deficit and to gains in the primary and secondary income accounts.
The trade-in-goods deficit narrowed by 10.3 percent to US$15.9 billion from US$17.7 billion as the expansion in goods exports of 7.3 percent exceeded the 2.3 percent growth in goods imports. Exports of goods totaled US$47.8 billion as all major commodity groups posted increases except petroleum and sugar products. Growth in total exports was boosted largely by higher shipments of manufactured products, which rose by 6.7 percent to reach US$38.3 billion. Goods imports amounted to US$63.6 billion, attributed to increments in purchases of consumer goods (14.4 percent) and raw materials and intermediate goods (by 3.9 percent).
Net receipts in trade-in-services dropped by 30.5 percent to US$4.9 billion in 2014 from US$7 billion in 2013. The decline resulted largely from increased net payments for travel and transport services by 63.9 percent and 8 percent, respectively, combined with decreased net receipts from technical, trade-related and other business services (by 2.1 percent).
Net receipts in the primary income account reached US$1.1 billion in 2014, higher by 11.9 percent than the US$957 million last year. This was attributable to the 7.4 percent expansion in receipts from compensation of resident OF workers to US$7.4 billion.
Net receipts in the secondary income account went up by 7 percent to US$22.6 billion, buoyed by non-resident workers' remittances which aggregated US$20.4 billion in 2014.
Capital Account.  The capital account recorded net receipts of US$101 million in 2014, 24.1 percent lower than the US$134 million posted in the previous year, due to the decline in other capital transfers to the NG.
Financial Account.  The financial account registered net outflows amounting to US$10.1 billion in 2014, more than fourfold the USS$2.2 billion net outflows registered a year ago. This was on account of the substantial increase in the net outflows in other investments and the reversal to net outflows in portfolio and direct investments.
The direct investment account reversed to net outflows of US$789 million from net inflows of US$90 million a year ago. This developed on account of the 91.7 percent rise in residents’ net acquisition of financial assets to US$7 billion from US$3.6 billion due to resident corporations’ net placements in both equity capital (US$2.9 billion) and debt instruments (US$4 billion) abroad.
Portfolio investment account recorded net outflows of US$2.5 billion during the period, a reversal of last year’s net inflows of US$1 billion. This was due to residents’ net acquisition of financial assets of US$2.5 billion, from a net disposal of assets amounting to US$638 million combined with non-residents’ net withdrawal of investments amounting to US$3 million, a reversal from the net placements of US$363 million in 2013.
The net outflows in the other investment account doubled to US$6.9 billion from US$3.4 billion in 2013 on account of increased net placements in currency and deposits abroad by resident banks and non-bank corporations, amounting to US$2.7 billion and US$1.4 billion, respectively), and to higher resident banks’ net lending of US$2.7 billion. Meanwhile, residents’ net repayment of liabilities amounting to US$66 million was attributed to non-residents’ net withdrawal of deposit placements in resident banks (US$334 million) and residents’ net repayment of trade credits and advances (US$302 million).
Revised 2013 BOP data
Revised 2013 BOP data with accompanying technical notes will be released in the BSP website. The revisions mainly reflected data updates from various data sources and post audit adjustments.
----------------
1 Outstanding short-term debt were revised to reflect the new reporting framework in line with international standards under the latest External Debt Statistics Guide and International Monetary Fund’s Balance of Payments and International Investment Position Manual, 6th Edition.
Volunteerism alive among Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries in Payatas
Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph
Around 150 parent leaders from Payatas participated in a dialogue with Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to talk about how their lives were changed by the volunteerism taught by the program.

These parent leaders are partner-beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program who were elected to lead a number of household beneficiaries in a purok or barangay. They serve as organizers of partner-beneficiaries in the community whenever there are program-related meetings and assemblies such as the Family Development Sessions (FDS). FDS are monthly sessions where all partner-beneficiaries attend to learn about topics such as husband and wife relationship, home and financial management, and disaster risk management.

The parent leaders willingly take the extra mile to help implement the program without expecting anything in return.

Richard Casta, the only male parent leader in the assembly, recounted how becoming a parent leader changed his perception of community involvement. “Dati, wala akong pakialam sa barangay o kahit sa gobyerno. Hindi ko pinapahalagahan ang mga pagkakataon na makakatulong ako (Before, I did not care about our barangay or the government. I did not give importance to opportunities wherein I could be of help),” the 44-year-old parent leader said.

He also recalled how the values formation of FDS turned him from being an alcoholic into a respected vice president of their community.

“Pangarap ko dati ang makatapos kahit ng high school ang mga anak ko. Ngayon, kasama na sila palagi sa top sa klase kaya kampante ako na mapapatapos ko sila (It was my dream for my children to finish high school. Now, they consistently belong to the top of the class so I am confident that I will be able to make them finish their studies),” he added.

Instilled values

Cherry Cayugid, another parent leader, shared how being of service to her fellow beneficiaries taught her and her children the importance of extending a helping hand to others. Since being a parent leader took much of her time as a mother, her children once told her that they will never take Social Work as a course when they graduate high school.

The change happened one day when her child who was graduating high school asked her to look for a college where there was a course on Social Work.

“Nang tumagal na kami sa programa, minsan sila pa ang umaasikaso kapag may kasamahan akong benepisyaryo na nagpupunta sa bahay kapag wala ako. ’Yun po ang pagbabagong naibigay ng programa, hindi lang sa akin kun’di sa mga anak ko na rin (After some time with the program, my children would sometimes handle concerns of my fellow beneficiaries when I am not around. That is the change brought by the program, not only to me but to my children as well),” the proud mother said.

Selfless

Majority of the parent leaders proudly shared how they willingly contribute to their community in Payatas.

From a simple sharing of knowledge on segregating that they learned from FDS, to encouraging their fellow beneficiaries to use their cash grants wisely – the selfless contributions of parent leaders to their community are worth emulating, said DSWD Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman.

“Kayong aming mga parent leaders ang isa sa mga dahilan kung bakit patuloy ang pagbabago sa buhay ng mga kapwa ninyo benepisyaryo. Ang inyong pagsasakripisyo ay tunay na kahanga-hanga dahil hindi lamang kayo at ang inyong pamilya ang nababago kung hindi ay maging ang inyong komunidad (You, our parent leaders, are among the reasons why the changes on the lives of your fellow beneficiaries continue to happen. Your sacrifice is truly admirable because it brings change not only to you and your family but to your community as well),” Secretary Soliman said.

Pantawid Pamilya is a human development program that invests in the health and education of poor households primarily those with children aged 0-18. It provides cash grants to partner-beneficiaries who comply with the set conditionalities in health and education, including monthly attendance to FDS.

A total of 149,936 parent leaders are helping implement the program nationwide. As of February 25, Pantawid Pamilya has been serving 4,444,365 households in all regions.
20th WorldBex held at PTTC
Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph
For the 20th time, the Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC) has served as one of the venues of the Philippine World Building and Construction Exposition (Worldbex) on 11-15 March 2015. Worldbex is recognized as Asia’s most attended construction exposition, which is an ideal spot for business transactions and introduction of innovations. For 2015, the event’s theme is “Building Visions in the Realm of ASEAN Integration."

Organized by the Worldbex Services International, Inc. (WSI), the trade show boasts the gathering of 150,000 visitors yearly. It formed partnerships with 25 countries consisting of participating exhibitors from Austria, Australia, Belgium, Brunei, China, Finland, Hongkong, and Germany.

Worldbex has put together over 500 exhibiting companies and more than a thousand booths in a Wi-Fi ready exhibit area of 30,000sqm ranging from building materials equipment services, construction design, and development.

The PTTC Main Lobby was used as the “Obra Maestra” Exhibit area that showcased the top colleges and universities in an inter-school interior design competition.

The PTTC Halls A, B, and C housed the “Architects’ Gallery,” the “Developers’ Gallery," and the “Grand Embassy” which featured the display booths of foreign embassies.

The launchings of the industry innovations took place at PTTC Stage Area which included: Pick- A-Chair Lami-Name It ; Revolutionary Solid Surface Material-Solflex Superior; Real Living Activity; Macro Air-An Energy Efficient Way of cooling Large Spaces; System & Flowguard Hot & Cold; Devant Rush & shuffle; OMNI LED your Lifetime Investment & Business Partner; No Mess House Warming Party; SCG, COTTO, Mariwasa Presentation; PKL “Touching Life” by Ambertech; Shelter Dialogues-Architecture as Structure, Idea and Art; Davies Icolor Mobile App Demo; ABC Innovative Building Materials Product Demonstration; and Real Living Activity.

As PTTC’s loyal client for two decades, Worldbex is assured that PTTC shall continue to strongly support its mission of shaping the global exposition industry by providing an ideal venue with reliable and proactive professional customer service.
Joint Statement by International Trade Ministers of Philippines and Canada
Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph
Canada’s Minister of International Trade Ed Fast and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Gregory L. Domingo issued last 20 March 2015 the following joint statement:

“We, the ministers responsible for international trade for the Philippines and Canada, met on 20 March 2015, in Manila to discuss the potential for enhanced bilateral trade and investment relations between our two countries. Minister Fast’s mission follows the visit by Prime Minister Harper to the Philippines in November 2012, and the meeting between the two leaders on the margins of APEC in November 2014."

“We also discussed ways to build on our current commercial relationship, which is already supported by existing agreements, such as a double taxation agreement, an investment promotion and protection agreement, and a recently expanded air transportation agreement."

“We are committed to exploring ways to deepen and modernize our trade, investments and collaboration partnerships in areas of common interest, such as agri-food, transport, energy, infrastructure, education, defence and security. We also made a commitment to resolve a number of market access issues in a timely fashion."

“In order to increase business opportunities in each other’s market, we committed to leading trade missions—starting with Minister Fast’s return mission to the Philippines in May with a Canadian business delegation and a potential visit to Canada by Secretary Domingo accompanied by a number of Philippine company representatives. The Philippines participated in an ASEAN trade mission to Canada, in June 2014."

“The Philippines, as chair of APEC for 2015, shares Canada’s commitment to fostering the participation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the global economy. Further, the Philippines designation as a priority emerging market under the Global Markets Action Plan (GMAP) of Canada is a positive step towards progressive bilateral relationship”.
Board of Inquiry awarded for invaluable service
Source: http://pnp.gov.ph
The Philippine National Police (PNP) awarded the members of the Board of Inquiry (BOI) who investigated the facts and circumstances surrounding the encounters in Brgy. Tukanalipao, Mamasapano, Maguindanao last January 25, 2015.
Awarded with Medalya ng Pambihirang Paglilingkod (PNP Special Service Medal) for exceptionally meritorious and invaluable service in the field of police operations are:
  • PDIR BENJAMIN B. MAGALONG, as Chairman of BOI;
  • PDIR CATALINO RODRIGUEZ, as Vice-Chairman of BOI; and
  • PCSUPT JOHN SOSITO, as Member of BOI.
While members of BOI awarded with Medalya ng Kasanayan (PNP Efficiency Medal) for exceptionally meritorious and invaluable service rendered that supported the BOI in its fact finding investigation and circumstances surrounding the encounters in Mamasapano, Maguindanao are:
  • PSSUPT ROBERT G. PO, as Chairman of Operational Audit Team;
  • PSSUPT RONALD M. DELA ROSA, as Member of Operational Audit Team;
  • PSSUPT CESAR HAWTHORNE R. BINAG, as Member of Operational Audit Team;
  • PSSUPT BENIGNO B. DURANA, as Member of Operational Audit Team;
  • PSSUPT RUDY G. LACADIN, as Head of BOI Report;
  • PSUPT DANILO P. MACERIN, as Head Secretariat of BOI;
  • PSUPT ARTHUR V. BISNAR, as Security Officer of BOI;
  • PSUPT ANGELES B. GEÑORGA JR., as Secretariat of BOI;
  • PSUPT MARLON A. TAYABA, as Secretariat of BOI;
  • PSUPT NIÑO DAVID RABAYA, OIC Investigation Division of CIDG;
  • PCI DAVID JOY B. DUARTE, as Secretariat of Operational Audit Team;
  • PINSP HELEN DELA CRUZ, as Secretariat of Operational Audit Team; and
  • ATTY. VIRGILIO T. PABLICO, Acting Chief, Legal Division of CIDG. (PNP-PIO)
165 more Filipinos from Libya set to be repatriated
Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph
23 March 2015 – The Philippine Embassy in Tripoli reported that one hundred sixty-five (165) Filipinos are scheduled to be repatriated to the Philippines within the week. The first batch composed of thirty-nine (39) Filipinos arrives today at 3:10 p.m. on board flight QR926 in NAIA Terminal 1. Five (5) more repatriates will also arrive on March 24 at 12:10 p.m. via flight PR311 in Terminal 2. These arrivals will bring the total number of Filipino repatriates from Libya to 4,414 since May 2014.

The Embassy team led by Charge d'Affaires Adel Cruz facilitated the repatriation of the OFWs and personally accompanied them out of Libya and into Tunisia where they would take their flight to Manila.

Embassy representatives in Tripoli and Tunisia provided for the repatriates’ accommodations and basic necessities and extended consular and airport assistance before they left for Manila on March 22.

The Embassy team is currently finalizing the flight details of the other batches of Filipino repatriates.

More Filipinos are expected to sign up for mandatory repatriation after Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario made the renewed call to remaining Filipinos in Libya to return home during his visit to Tunisia from March 13 to 14.

Meanwhile, some 4,000 Filipinos still remain in Libya despite repeated calls from the Embassy to join the repatriation operations. The DFA and the Embassy in Tripoli urge our remaining kababayans in Libya to avail themselves of the mandatory repatriation offer as soon as possible, before it becomes more difficult to repatriate them due to the continued deterioration of the security in the country.

The DFA also appeals to the next-of-kin of the remaining Filipinos in Libya to encourage them to return home to the Philippines.
Last Updated: 24 MARCH 2015
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President Benigno S. Aquino III shares the stage with the University Athletic Association of the Philippines women's volleyball back-to-back champion Ateneo de Manila University Lady Eagles, led by two-time UAAP women's volleyball Most Valuable Player Alyssa Valdez, and UAAP Season 77 women’s volleyball 1st Runner Up De La Salle University Lady Spikers for a group photo souvenir during the special luncheon with both teams at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (March 24). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his message during the special luncheon with the volleyball teams of Ateneo de Manila University the De La Salle University at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (March 24). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III receives a De La Salle University jacket signed by the Lady Spikers during the special luncheon with the volleyball teams of both Ateneo de Manila University the De La Salled University at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (March 24). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III poses with the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 77 women’s volleyball 1st Runner Up De La Salle University Lady Spikers for a group photo souvenir during the special luncheon with the volleyball teams of Ateneo de Manila University and De La Salle University at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (March 24). Also in photo are Education Secretary Armin Luistro and Bureau of Internal Revenue Commissioner Kim Jacinto-Henares. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III shares the stage with the University Athletic Association of the Philippines women's volleyball back-to-back champion Ateneo de Manila University Lady Eagles, led by two-time UAAP women's volleyball Most Valuable Player (MVP) Alyssa Valdez, UAAP Season 77 men’s volleyball champion Ateneo Blue Spikers, and UAAP Season 77 women’s volleyball 1st Runner Up De La Salle Lady Spikers for a group photo souvenir during the special luncheon with members of both school teams at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (March 24). Also in photo are AdMU president Jose Ramon Villarin and Education Secretary Armin Luistro. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III shares the stage with the University Athletic Association of the Philippines women's volleyball back-to-back champion Ateneo de Manila University Lady Eagles, led by two-time UAAP women's volleyball Most Valuable Player Alyssa Valdez, and UAAP Season 77 women’s volleyball 1st Runner Up De La Salle University Lady Spikers for a group photo souvenir during the special luncheon with both teams at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (March 24). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III huddles with the De La Salle University Lady Spikers for a selfie shot during the special luncheon with both volleyball teams of the Ateneo de Manila University and the De La Salle University at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (March 24, 2015). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III huddles with two-time University Athletic Association of the Philippines women's volleyball most valuable player Alyssa Valdez; AdMU president Jose Ramon Villarin and Education Secretary Armin Luistro for a selfie during the special luncheon with the volleyball teams of Ateneo de Manila University and De La Salle University at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (March 24). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III receives a De La Salle University (DLSU) jacket signed by the Lady Spikers during the special luncheon with the volleyball teams of Ateneo de Manila University and De La Salle University at the Heroes Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (March 24). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III addresses the 4th Euromoney Philippine Investment Forum at the Rigodon Ballroom of The Peninsula Manila in Makati City on Tuesday (March 24). The Forum was host to a by-invitation-only audience of over 500 business leaders, investors and policy makers. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 4th Euromoney Philippine Investment Forum at the Rigodon Ballroom of The Peninsula Manila in Makati City on Tuesday (March 24). The Forum was host to a by-invitation-only audience of over 500 business leaders, investors and policy makers. Also in photo is Euromoney Institutional Investor Asia chief executive officer Tony Shale. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 4th Euromoney Philippine Investment Forum at the Rigodon Ballroom of The Peninsula Manila in Makati City on Tuesday (March 24). The Forum was host to a by-invitation-only audience of over 500 business leaders, investors and policy makers. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with South Luzon Tollway chairman and San Miguel Corporation president and chief operating officer Ramon Ang and Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala during the briefing on the South Luzon Expressway-Toll Road 4 (SLEX-TR4) Project and other major road projects in Southern Tagalog at Barangay Lalig, Tiaong, Quezon on Monday (March 23). The SLEX-TR4 project is a Php13.1Billion planned expressway extension from Sto. Tomas, Batangas to Lucena, Quezon mandated under Presidential Decrees 1112 and 1894. It involves the construction of 58-kilometers, 4-lane toll road. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with South Luzon Tollway chairman and San Miguel Corporation president and chief operating officer Ramon Ang during the Briefing on the South Luzon Expressway-Toll Road 4 (SLEX-TR4) Project and other major road projects in Southern Tagalog held at Barangay Lalig, Tiaong, Quezon on Monday (March 23). The SLEX-TR4 project is a Php13.1Billion planned expressway extension from Sto. Tomas, Batangas to Lucena, Quezon mandated under Presidential Decrees 1112 and 1894, that involves the construction of 58-kilometers, 4-lane toll road. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with South Luzon Tollway chairman and San Miguel Corporation president and chief operating officer Ramon Ang during the briefing on the South Luzon Expressway-Toll Road 4 (SLEX-TR4) Project and other major road projects in Southern Tagalog held at Barangay Lalig, Tiaong, Quezon on Monday (March 23). The SLEX-TR4 project is a Php13.1Billion planned expressway extension from Sto. Tomas, Batangas to Lucena, Quezon mandated under Presidential Decrees 1112 and 1894, that involves the construction of 58-kilometers, 4-lane toll road. Also in photo is Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the briefing on the South Luzon Expressway-Toll Road 4 (SLEX-TR4) Project and other major road Projects in Southern Tagalog at Barangay Lalig, Tiaong, Quezon on Monday (March 23). The SLEX-TR4 project is a Php13.1 Billion planned expressway extension from Sto. Tomas, Batangas to Lucena, Quezon mandated under Presidential Decrees 1112 and 1894, that involves the construction of 58-kilometers, 4-lane toll road. Also in photo are South Luzon Tollway chairman and San Miguel Corporation president and chief operating officer Ramon Ang; and Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the briefing on the South Luzon Expressway-Toll Road 4 (SLEX-TR4) Project and other major road Projects in Southern Tagalog at Barangay Lalig, Tiaong, Quezon on Monday (March 23). The SLEX-TR4 project is a Php13.1 Billion planned expressway extension from Sto. Tomas, Batangas to Lucena, Quezon mandated under Presidential Decrees 1112 and 1894, that involves the construction of 58-kilometers, 4-lane toll road. Also in photo are Toll Regulatory Board executive director Atty. Edmund Reyes; Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson; Quezon 2nd District Representative Vicente Alcala; South Luzon Tollway chairman and San Miguel Corporation president and chief operating officer Ramon Ang; Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala; Tiaong, Quezon Mayor Ramon Preza; DOTC Secretary Joseph Abaya; and Citra Metro Manila Tollways Corporation president and chief executive officer Shadik Wahono. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III receives a replica of the “vara de mando” (cane of command, which is the symbol of authority of General Emilio Aguinaldo as “capitan municipal” or “gobernadorcillo” of Cavite El Viejo (old name of Kawit) from National Historical Commission of the Philippines chairperson Dr. Maria Serena Diokno during the inauguration of the Museo ni Emilio Aguinaldo at the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite on Friday (March 20). The museum chronicles the life and times of Aguinaldo, especially during the revolution against Spain and war against the United States. (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III inspects the facilities of the new e-learning room showcasing 30 computer units with interactive history lessons during the inauguration of the Museo ni Emilio Aguinaldo at the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite on Friday (March 20). The museum chronicles the life and times of Aguinaldo, especially during the revolution against Spain and war against the United States. Also in photo is National Historical Commission of the Philippines chairperson Dr. Maria Serena Diokno. (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III leads the raising of the Philippine Flag during the inauguration of the Museo ni Emilio Aguinaldo at the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite on Friday (March 20). The museum chronicles the life and times of Aguinaldo, especially during the revolution against Spain and war against the United States. Also in photo are National Historical Commission of the Philippines chairperson Dr. Maria Serena Diokno, Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Abaya, Cavite 1st District Representative Francis Gerald Abaya and Kawit, Cavite Mayor Reynaldo Aguinaldo. (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III tours the facilities of the Museo ni Emilio Aguinaldo during the inauguration ceremony at the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite on Friday (March 20). The museum chronicles the life and times of Aguinaldo, especially during the revolution against Spain and war against the United States.  Also in photo is National Historical Commission of the Philippines chairperson Dr. Maria Serena Diokno. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III leads the raising of the Philippine Flag during the inauguration of the Museo ni Emilio Aguinaldo at the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite on Friday (March 20). The museum chronicles the life and times of Aguinaldo, especially during the revolution against Spain and war against the United States. Also in photo are National Historical Commission of the Philippines chairperson Dr. Maria Serena Diokno and Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Abaya. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III leads the raising of the Philippine Flag during the inauguration of the Museo ni Emilio Aguinaldo at the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite on Friday (March 20). The museum chronicles the life and times of Aguinaldo, especially during the revolution against Spain and war against the United States. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III tours and the facilities of the Museo ni Emilio Aguinaldo during the inauguration ceremony at the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite on Friday (March 20). The museum chronicles the life and times of Aguinaldo, especially during the revolution against Spain and war against the United States. Also in photo are National Historical Commission of the Philippines chairperson Dr. Maria Serena Diokno and Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Abaya. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III tours the facilities of the Museo ni Emilio Aguinaldo during the inauguration ceremony at the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite on Friday (March 20). The museum chronicles the life and times of Aguinaldo, especially during the revolution against Spain and war against the United States. Also in photo is Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Abaya. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III lays the replica of “vara de mando” (cane of command, which is the symbol of authority of General Emilio Aguinaldo as “capitan municipal” or “gobernadorcillo” of Cavite El Viejo (old name of Kawit) in a special casing to signal the formal inauguration of the Museo ni Emilio Aguinaldo at the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite on Friday (March 20). The museum chronicles the life and times of Aguinaldo, especially during the revolution against Spain and war against the United States. Also in photo are National Historical Commission of the Philippines chairperson Dr. Maria Serena Diokno and Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Abaya. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III offers a wreath during the inauguration of the Museo ni Emilio Aguinaldo at the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite on Friday (March 20). The museum chronicles the life and times of Aguinaldo, especially during the revolution against Spain and war against the United States. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III leads the singing of the Philippine National Anthem during the inauguration of the Museo ni Emilio Aguinaldo at the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite on Friday (March 20). The museum chronicles the life and times of Aguinaldo, especially during the revolution against Spain and war against the United States. Also in photo are National Historical Commission of the Philippines chairperson Dr. Maria Serena Diokno, Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Abaya, Cavite 1st District Representative Francis Gerald Abaya, Kawit, Cavite Mayor Reynaldo Aguinaldo and NHCP executive director Ludovico Badoy. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III leads the raising of the Philippine Flag during the inauguration of the Museo ni Emilio Aguinaldo at the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite on Friday (March 20). The museum chronicles the life and times of Aguinaldo, especially during the revolution against Spain and war against the United States. Also in photo are National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) chairperson Dr. Maria Serena Diokno, Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Abaya, Cavite 1st District Representative Francis Gerald Abaya, Kawit, Cavite Mayor Reynaldo Aguinaldo and NHCP executive director Ludovico Badoy. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III is received by National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) chairperson Dr. Maria Serena Diokno upon arrival for the inauguration of the Museo ni Emilio Aguinaldo at the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite on Friday (March 20). The museum chronicles the life and times of Aguinaldo, especially during the revolution against Spain and war against the United States. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with Nestle officials, headed by Nandu Nandkishore, Nestle S.A., Switzerland executive vice president and zone director of Asia, Oceania, Africa, and Middle East, during the courtesy call at the President’s Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (March 19). Also in photo are outgoing Nestle Philippines, Inc. (NPI) chairman and chief executive officer John Martin Miller and incoming NPI chairman and chief executive officer Suresh Narayanan; Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima and Trade and Industry Undersecretary Ponciano Manalo, Jr. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with Nestle officials, headed by Nandu Nandkishore, Nestle S.A., Switzerland executive vice president and zone director of Asia, Oceania, Africa, and Middle East, during the courtesy call at the President’s Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (March 19). Also in photo are outgoing Nestle Philippines, Inc. (NPI) chairman and chief executive officer John Martin Miller and incoming NPI chairman and chief executive officer Suresh Narayanan. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
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PIA News Desk
2 hrs ·
President Aquino's speech this morning at the ‪#‎TESDA‬-Coke STAR Women’s Month Celebration 2015: http://t.co/kZaZVTuLcQ | via @govph
Speech of President Aquino at the TESDA-Coke STAR Women’s Month Celebration 2015 | Official...
Sino ang magtutuloy ng ating sinimulan? Iisa lang po ang tugon ko rito: Kayo, ang mga women entrepreneur, at ang milyon-milyon nating kababayan ang...
gov.ph


PIA News Desk
2 hrs ·
Narito po ang isang paalala kung iiwanan ang bahay para sa nalalapit na ‪#‎bakasyon‬. http://t.co/T6koKdTJBX | via @pnppio
PIA News (@PIANewsDesk) posted a photo on Twitter
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Noynoy Aquino (P-Noy)
27 mins · Edited ·
[Adm-02] President Aquino 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 Women’s Month Celebration 2015.



PIA News Desk
2 hrs ·
ICYMI: Government to focus on ‪#‎goodgovernance‬, fighting poverty in next 15 months - http://t.co/aeQvnqCGNW
PIA | Government to focus on good governance, fighting poverty in next 15 months
MANILA, March  25 -- The administration of President Benigno S. Aquino III will focus on pushing good governance, creating jobs and fighting poverty in the...
news.pia.gov.ph


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PIA News (@PIANewsDesk) posted a photo on Twitter
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PIA News Desk
17 hrs ·
‪#‎PNP‬ INTENSIFIES SECURITY MEASURES FOR ‪#‎SUMMER‬ VACATION 2015
read more: http://t.co/iynGDCz6bR http://t.co/zjcjIAajZe | via @pnppio
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PIA News Desk
5 hrs ·
Use COMELEC’s ‪#‎irehistro‬ Online Application Form Accomplishment & Submission. ‪#‎VoterReg2015‬ http://t.co/Rrkq2IClBO
PIA News (@PIANewsDesk) posted a photo on Twitter
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PIA News Desk
21 hrs ·
Mga Dapat Alamin Tungkol sa ‪#‎BrgyAssembly‬ http://t.co/iKQ8xYtnnZ | via @DILGSouthSupra
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