Monday, March 16, 2015

6 Dispatch for March 24 , 2014 (Tuesday ) ,7 PIA Calabarzon PRs, 3 Weather Watch , 4 Reg’l. Watch , 2 OFW Watch , 1 PNOY Speech , 1 Interview Of Sec. Herminio Coloma, 19 Online News , 20 Photonews (Mar. 23)

http://pcoo.gov.ph/photo.htm







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

SYNOPSIS: Northeast monsoon affecting Luzon.

FORECAST: The regions of Cagayan Valley, Cordillera, Ilocos and Bicol will experience cloudy skies with light rains. Caraga, Davao and Northern Mindanao will have cloudy skies with rainshowers and 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 Northern 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.

Katamtaman hanggang sa malakas na hangin mula sa Hilagang-silangan ang iiral
sa Hilagang 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.

PAGTAYA: Ang mga rehiyon ng Cagayan Valley, Cordillera, Ilocos at Kabikulan ay makararanas ng maulap na kalangitan na may mahinang mga pag-ulan. Ang Caraga, Davao at Hilagang Mindanao ay magkakaroon ng maulap na papawirin na may kalat-kalat na mga pag-ulan at 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.

OVER METRO MANILA:
Maximum Temperature: 01:00 PM yesterday ----- 28.0 ºC
Minimum Temperature: 05:00 AM yesterday ----- 25.4 ºC
Maximum Relative Humidity: 05:00 AM yesterday --------- 82 %
Minimum Relative Humidity: 01:00 PM yesterday --------- 75 %
Low tide today: 06:04 AM ……… 0.30 meter
High tide today: 12:37 PM ……… 0.91 meter
Low tide today: 07:54 PM ……… -0.03 meter
High tide tomorrow: 02:13 AM ……… 0.45 meter
Sunrise today: 05:58 AM
Sunset today: 06:07 PM
Moonrise today: 09:02 AM
Moonset today: 10:02 PM
Illumination today: 15 %
For more information and queries, please call at telephone numbers 927-1335 and 927-2877 or log on to http://igovtemp.pagasa.dost.gov.ph/






PAGASA forecaster Buddy Javier on DZMM:
-Kasunod ng pagkalusaw ng sama ng panahon sa West Philippine Sea, muling umiral ang Amihan o Northeast Monsoon sa ilang bahagi ng bansa.
-Ito ang dahilan kung bakit naging bahagyang maulan nitong Lunes na posibleng magpatuloy pa ngayong araw.
-Posibleng magkakaroon ng mahinang pag-ulan, dito po sa mga rehiyon ng Cagayan Valley, Cordillera, Ilocos at Bicol region. Dito sa Metro Manila, partly cloudy lang, posible pa rin po ang isolated rains.
-Posibleng lumakas pa ang Amihan hanggang Miyerkules ng madaling araw at inaasahang magtataas ng gale warning o babala sa malalaking alon.
-Pero matapos nito, maaaring dahan-dahan na ring hihina ang Amihan.
-Nakaantabay pa rin po tayo sa pagtatapos ng Amihan season na siyang magiging hudyat ng pag-uumpisa ng tag-init, dahil kadalasang naidedeklara ang pagtatapos ng Amihan sa ikalawa hanggang ikatlong linggo ng Marso.



PAGASA weather forecaster Shelly Ignacio on DZMM:
-Northeast monsoon na ang nakakaapekto sa Luzon, sa Metro Manila, at sa mga rehiyon ng Cagayan Valley, Cordillera, Ilocos, CALABARZON, Central Luzon, at Bicol.
-Dahil dito inaasahan na magkakaroon ng makulimlim na kalangitan na may kasamang mga pag-ambon.
-Nawala na ang binabantayang LPA.
-Halos apektado ang buong Luzon maliban lang sa MIMAROPA.
-Ang natitirang bahagi ng bansa, gaya ng MIMAROPA, Visayas, at Mindanao ay magiging maganda ang panahon.
-Mayroon pa rin tayong amihan kaya hindi pa nating masasabing nag-umpisa na ang summer season.
-Sa ngayon ay walang nakataas na gale warning.
-Maaaring bukas ay mayroon ng gale warning kaya hindi na pwedeng pumalaot sa northern seaboard ng Luzon.




March 24 , 2014 (Tuesday) as of 6:00-7:00 AM

                               PIA4A QUEZON  :  CLoudy in Lucena City





PIA-4A/LAGUNA: The provincial government of Laguna recently received a plaque of commendation from the CALABARZON Regional Development Council for having been recognized by the Department of Tourism (DoT- IVA) as the Top Destination of Same-Day Visitors in Calabarzon.



PIA-4A/LAGUNA: A three-storey administrative building worth P2M will soon rise at the San Pablo City District Jail compound. The new building is expected to address the jail congestion problem confronting the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology and for its jail expansion project.



PIA-4A/LAGUNA: The Department of the Interior and Local Government recently awarded the Seal of Child-friendly Governance to the Municipality of Pakil in recognition of its effort to be child-friendly in all its endeavors.



PIA-4A/LAGUNA: About 217 recipients of the Special Training for Employment Program (STEP) recently graduated in a ceremony held at the Dalubhasaan ng Lunsod ng San Pablo Gym, San Pablo City. STEP is a training program to help indigent youths get free training on technical vocational courses from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).







DZBB: 14 OFWs ang nakauwi na sa bansa mula sa Yemen kung saan nakataaas pa rin ang crisis alert level 4 dahil sa patuloy na kaguluhan doon. Ayon kay DFA spokesman Charles Jose, pito sa mga OFW ang nakauwi dahil sa mandatory repatriation program ng pamahalaan at pito rin ang piniling sila na mismo ang gumastos para makauwi.


DZBB: Iniulat ng DFA na 165 OFWs sa Libya ang nakatakdang bumalik sa Pilipinas ngayong linggo. Sa ngayon, 4, 414 OFWs na ang nakauwi sa bansa. Nananatili pa rin ang alert level 4 sa sitwasyon sa Libya at ipinatutupad pa rin ang repatriation program at travel ban doon.





CAVITE

1.  President Aquino leads inauguration of Museo ni Aguinaldo


  • March 21, 2015
KAWIT, Cavite, March 21 (PIA) – President Benigno S. Aquino inaugurated last Friday, March 20 the modernized Museo ni Aguinaldo which according to National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) underwent several renovations aimed to suit the changing needs and expectations of visitors following a new concept pertaining to instilling the values of the legacy of former president Emilio F. Aguinaldo.

President Aquino, together with NHCP Chair Dr. Maria Serena I. Diokno, led the flag-raising and wreath-laying rites in honor of General Emilio Aguinaldo, the first President of the Philippine Republic, whose 146th birth anniversary takes place on March 22.

Prior to the formal inauguration of the museum, the President also passed by the new e-learning room showcasing 30 computer units with interactive history lessons.

Before entering the Museo, President Aquino received a replica of “vara de mando” (cane of command) from NHCP Chairperson Diokno. It symbolized the authority of Gen. Aguinaldo as “capitan municipal” or “gobernadorcillo” of Cavite El Viejo (old name of Kawit). The President laid the cane of command replica in a special casing.

A 5-minute AVP presentation (overview of the Museo) at the gallery 1 was shown. NHCP Chair Diokno and the curator Mr. Angelo Aguinaldo provided a walking briefing to the President.

The museum chronicles the life and times of Aguinaldo, especially during the revolution against Spain and war against the United States. The displays and narratives are new and contain interactive features.  The museum also has an e-learning facility where students can access the NHCP’s online history lessons.

The NHCP is the national government agency mandated to promote and preserve Philippine history and historical heritage through research and publication, conservation, marking of historic sites and structures, and administration of national shrines and museums. (Ruel Francisco, PIA-Cavite/NHCP)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/671426915901/president-aquino-leads-inauguration-of-museo-ni-aguinaldo#sthash.1meJlfbm.dpuf


 

LAGUNA

1.  Mount Banahaw still restricted, PAMB increases entrance fees

  • March 23, 2015
CALAMBA CITY, Laguna, March 23 (PIA) --Mount Banahaw is still one of the known lenten destinations but the environment department expects fewer pilgrims during the Holy Week.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region 4A CALABARZON Regional Executive Director Reynulfo Juan reiterated to the public that Mount Banahaw is still closed to trekkers and pilgrims and that religious activities will be allowed only in designated portions of the Protected Area.

Juan, concurrent chairman of the Protected Area Management Board of the Mounts Banahaw-San Cristobal Protected Landscape (MBSCPL-PAMB),  revealed that there were suggestions to totally close Mount Banahaw to any human activity for it to heal completely. The DENR Calabarzon chief said that human activity has caused the deterioration of the 'holy mountain' but closing it completely will be somewhat difficult since Mount Bnahaw traditionally hosted cultural and religious practices for ages.

"The PAMB," he explained, "recognized the religious character of the mount but passed a resolution to restrict human presence in most part and to allow access only in specifically designated areas."

He lamented the intrusion of a group of pilgrims  into a restricted area and who  triggered the burning of a sizeable portion on March 20, last year 2014. He said the group led by a sexagenarian were arrested, detained and charged in court.

While he warned that trekkers, visitors, including  pilgrims, will face legal sanctions for acts in violation of environmental laws and the PAMB resolution, he said, "I pray that the pilgrims, everybody, do their share to help heal the holy mountain."

Juan has made several visits to the mountain to monitor protection efforts and  supervise the rehabilitation and refurbishing of the  Protected Area Superintendent headquarters in Barangay Kinabuhayan. 

He had the chance to view the protected area up close from the air during the helicopter surveillance of the fire damaged-area last year and said that he was amazed with the beauty of the mountain and was glad with the remarkable recovery, except for that portion damaged by the pilgrim's fire.

Forester Ramil Gutierrez, Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer of Pagbilao, also observed an improved vegetation of the then visitor-disturbed areas. "Floral species were also observed recovering.  The Rafflesia banahaw has bloomed again in Mount Banahaw," he said.

Since the PAMB allowed entry into identified areas in Barangay Kinabuhayan and Sta. Lucia, Protected Area Superintendent Salud Pangan, reported to Juan that Bantay Banahaw teams of volunteers have been mobilized to help the PAMB protect the park during the Holy Week. The volunteers will come from the Association of Volunteer Fire Chiefs, Philippine National Police, 1st IB Philippine Army, Philippine National Red Cross, Quezon Provincial Healt Office and the Municipal and Rural Health Offices of Dolores, Tayabas, Sariaya and Lucban; PDRRMC Emergency Response Team, SEAL Tech Rescue Team, Tayabas and Sariaya Mountaineers,  and San Pablo (Laguna) Mountaineers, Tau Gamma Phi Triskelions and Tanggol Kalikasan. 

PASu Pangan said the volunteers' main role will be to maintain order, protect the park from vandalism and destruction;  to ensure safety of the park visitors, prevent entry into the restricted areas, and ensure that the visitors and pilgrims will be allowed only in the designated camping areas.

          She revealed that she expects fewer visitors since the PAMB has resolved to increase entrance fees. She said  a registration team will collect a day fee of  P50.00 per individual who would be staying for up to 12 hours, P100.00 per applicant  for an overnight stay or up to 24 hours.  Those who would pitch up tents will have to pay  P100.00 per tent for a day stay and P150 for an overnight stay.

"This PAMB ruling will be strictly imposed. Those not willing to pay will not be allowed entry," she stressed.

She also warned mountaineers and trek or climb organizers to refrain from advertising Mount Banahaw as an open climb destination. She said, "They will be restricted only to the allowed areas in portions of Kinabuhayan and Sta. Lucia, with the pilgrims."
    
The MBSCPL-PAMB Kautusan Blg. 001-2014 issued on April 2, 2014, extended the closure for another three years,  taking off from an earlier resolution issued in 2012, Kapasyahan Blg. 002-2012. Declared off limits in Mount Banahaw starts in the upper part of Kinabuhayan towards the approach to Kristalino Falls to Dungaw up to Tatlong Tangke on the Dolores-side; and in Puesto Pagbuga in Brgy. Bugon and Bagong Ilaya in Brgy. Concepcion, Pinagbakuran and Concepcion Banahaw on the Sariaya-side. (Audie De La Cruz, DENR 4A-PAO/PIA-4A)
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/631427088533/mount-banahaw-still-restricted-pamb-increases-entrance-fees#sthash.5aZcgyit.dpuf

2.   Ligtas SUMVAC 2015: PRO4A calls for support

  • March 23, 2015
CALAMBA CITY, Laguna, March 23 (PIA) --The Police Regional Office ( Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas & Rizal)  is appealing for support in making summer vacation safe and peaceful.

In a press statement, PRO4 Calabarzon urged the accredited non-government organizations, radio groups and community-based volunteers to support and actively participate in the "Ligtas SUMVAC 2015" serving as force multipliers in providing traffic management and road safety.

It is expected that the movement of people generated by major events and the activities including the Lenten season creates traffic jams/congestions along major roads, commercial centers and places of convergence.

The regional police unit also called on the community-based volunteers and the public to support the program by reporting any untoward incident that might happen as criminals especially burglars, pickpockets/thieves, and robbers usually take advantage of the influx of people to ply their criminal activities.  (PR04A/ PIA-4A)
- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2931427083581/ligtas-sumvac-2015-pro4a-calls-for-support#sthash.ZNf5R72s.dpuf


 




BATANGAS

1.  Tagalog news: DPWH, inilahad ang mga plano at proyekto sa 2016


  • March 23, 2015
UNGSOD NG BATANGAS, Marso 23 (PIA) — Nagsagawa ng forum kamakailan ang Department of Public Works and Highways ng lungsod kasama ang mga stakeholders nito upang ilahad ang mga nakatakdang plano at proyekto ng ahensiya para sa taong 2016.

Ilan sa mga proyektong ito ang rehabilitasyon ng mga arterial at secondary roads,  pagsasaayos ng mga drainage at road widening partikular sa Batangas Port Diversion Road.

Layon nitong mabigyan ng ligtas, tuloy tuloy at komportableng paglalakbay ang publiko, maibsan ang trapiko, makapagbigay ng trabaho  at mapalakas ang turismo sa probinsya. 

Mahigit P6.9 bilyon naman ang proposed budget para sa mga proyektong ito.  

Kabilang naman sa mga proyekto ng ahensiya kaugnay ng flood control and management ang konstruksiyon at improvement  ng  revetment wall sa Calumpang River gayundin sa Pallocan Riverwall at Takad Riverwall  sa  Batangas-Tabangao Road. 

Ang mga ito ay isusumite sa DPWH Central Office upang maaprubahan ni DPWH Secretary Rogelio Singson. Ang nasabing ahensiya ang magtatakda ng pondo para sa mga naturang proyekto na magmumula sa General Appropriations Act.

Ayon kay Batangas I District Engineer Juliana Vergara, ang konsultasyon ay alinsunod sa National Budget Circular ng Department of Budget Management (DBM) na naglalayong  mabigyan ng partisipasyon ang mga stakeholders  sa pagpaplano ng kanilang mga isasagawang proyekto.

Kabilang sa mga dumalo sa nasabing pagtitipon ang ibat ibang civil society groups tulad ng Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE) sa Batangas, Environmentalist Group na PUSOD Inc, Bantay Lansangan,  Batangas Press Club at Regional Development Council. (Ronda Endaya Contreras, PIO-Batangas City/PIA-Batangas/ PIA-4a)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/681427076208/tagalog-news-dpwh-inilahad-ang-mga-plano-at-proyekto-sa-2016#sthash.VPfAP8sG.dpuf

2.  Tagalog news: Lingguhang "service day" ng BOI, inilunsad


  • March 23, 2015
TANAUAN CITY, Batangas, Marso 23 (PIA) — Patuloy ang pagpapalawak ng serbisyo ng Bureau of Immigration (BOI) ng lungsod na ito makaraang simulan ng ahensiya ang kanilang lingguhang "Service Day" para sa mga residente nito.

Tuwing araw ng Huwebes, magtatalaga ang ahensiya ng mga tauhan sa naturang lungsod upang ilapit ang kanilang serbisyo sa mga mamamayan lalo’t higit sa mga dayuhang turista at mga manggagawa sa lungsod at mga kalapit na lugar.

Kabilang dito ang pagtanggap ng mga aplikasyon para sa renewal ng immigrant o non-immigrant visa, aplikasyon para sa dual citizenship, at iba pang transaksiyon.

Ayon kay Roseo Isabelo Manguiat, Field Office Chief ng BI-Batangas, napili nila ang lungsod dahil sa dami ng mga nagtutungo sa kanilang opisina sa lungsod ng Batangas kung saan karamihan ay mga expatriates ng mga kumpanya sa loob ng First Philippine Industrial Park (FPIP) na nasasakupan ng lungsod. (PIA Batangas/ PIA-4A)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/681427083241/tagalog-news-lingguhang-service-day-ng-boi-inilunsad#sthash.27CmO5Tx.dpuf

3.  Tagalog news: Kasunduan para sa P400M bagong ultra-modern Tanauan city hall, nilagdaan


  • March 23, 2015
LUNGSOD NG TANAUAN, Batangas, Marso 23 (PIA) – Pormal ng nilagdaan ng pamahalaang lungsod at ng Asset Builders Corporation ang kontrata para sa konstruksiyon ng bagong ultra-modern city hall nito na nagkakahalaga ng mahigit P400-milyon.

Ang nasabing gusali na may kabuuang sukat na 12, 650 metro kwadrado ay nakatakdang itayo sa tatlong ektaryang lupain ng Laurel Hill sa Barangay Natatas. 

Base sa disenyo, ang gusali ay may tatlong palapag kung saan bawat isa ay energy efficient . Nakapaloob din sa diseny ang mga features para sa mga persons with disability o PWD.

Kasama rin sa naturang proyekyo ang isang malawak “people’s park” at sapat na parking space, na siyang pangunahing suliranin sa kasalakuyang city hall.

Ang nasabing proyekto ay isa sa mga itinuturing na 'big ticket projects' ng pamahalaang lungsod ngayong taon kung saan ang pondo ay hihiramin sa Land Bank of the Philippines.

Inaasahan na magsisimula na ang konstruksiyon ng bagong gusali ngayong Abril. (Tanauan CIO/PIA-Batangas/ PIA-4A)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/681427083512/tagalog-news-kasunduan-para-sa-p400m-bagong-ultra-modern-tanauan-city-hall-nilagdaan#sthash.hEh66G7G.dpuf



4.  Solar Philippines to Build Largest Solar Farm in Luzon


  • March 23, 2015
CALATAGAN, Batangas — Solar Philippines, the country's No. 1 solar provider and Southeast Asia's largest developer of rooftop power plants has broken ground last Monday for its new venture of solar farm in the 75-hectare land of this province.

The 50 MW ground-munted system will comprise over 150, 000 solar panels. It is expected to generate enough energy to power the majority of the entire province, and in three decades can offset over a million tons of carbon dioxide, equivalent to planting over 5 million trees.

Solar Philippines President Leandro Leviste marked the event as a turning point for renewable energy in Batangas, which is home to both the nation’s largest number of fossil fuel plants and various eco-tourism destinations.

“This is the first of many solar farms that we shall launch this year, and are in discussions with landowners across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao,” said Leviste. 

“Taking the same approach as for our rooftop projects, we’ve integrated development, financing, and construction all-in-one, allowing us to move faster in meeting the Department of Energy’s solar targets for 2015,” he said.

The Solar Philippines is behind the solar rooftop project in SM North Edsa, making it the world's biggest solar-powered mall.

“This is the year to convert unproductive lands into solar farms. What we have done to the rooftops of malls and factories, we shall do for solar farms, and we welcome all willing partners to join us in finally turning this vision into a reality,” Leviste said.

The company plans to complete no less than 200 MW in 2015, and has secured over a dozen Renewable Energy Service Contracts to develop projects near major cities across the country.  (Solar Philippines/ PIA-4A)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2931427074477/solar-philippines-to-build-largest-solar-farm-in-luzon#sthash.JVeoZ7MN.dpuf









 

Palace extends condolences to family of former Singaporean leader Lee Kuan Yew
Malacañang has extended its condolences to the family of former Singaporean prime minister, Lee Kuan Yew, who died early Monday at the age of 91.

"As the Singaporean people mourn the passing of Lee Kuan Yew, the Filipino people join them in honoring a statesman who can justifiably be called the Founding Father of the Republic of Singapore," Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a statement issued on Monday.

"The President, in joining the Filipino people in expressing the solidarity of the Philippines with Singapore at this time of mourning, extends his personal condolences to Prime Minister Lee Hsien-Loong," she added.

"Prime Minister Lee has always extended every official and personal courtesy to the President in his visits to Singapore and their official interactions in the ASEAN community."

Valte said that as prime minister and senior minister, Lee demonstrated an unswerving devotion to his country, turning it into a state that would be an exemplar of efficient, modern, and honest governance.

The development of Singapore has earned it the respect of nations and peoples, including the tens of thousands of Filipinos who work and visit the country, she said.

Because of Lee's initiatives to transform the small city-state into a modern and prosperous nation, Valte said Singaporeans can look back in the past with deep pride and a sense of accomplishment.

Lee, Singapore's founding father, died at the Singapore General Hospital, where he had been admitted for severe pneumonia since February 5. Lee would have turned 92 this September.

He left behind his sons, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, 63, and Lee Hsien Yang, 57; daughter Dr. Lee Wei Ling, 60; daughters-in-law Ho Ching, 61, and Lee Suet-Fern, 56; seven grandchildren and two siblings. His wife, Madam Kwa Geok Choo, died in 2010 at the age of 89.

Lee is widely regarded as the man most instrumental in shaping Singapore. He and his People’s Action Party colleagues pushed for self-government in the 1950s, worked to merge with Malaysia in the early 1960s, and strived to secure the country’s survival after independence on August 9,1965.

He led a pioneer generation of Singaporeans to overcome a series of daunting challenges that confronted his country from rehousing squatters in affordable public housing, rebuilding the economy after the sudden pull-out of British forces and the oil shocks of the 1970s, and a major economic recession in the mid-1980s.

Lee served as Singapore's prime minister for 31 years, from 1959 to 1990. At the age of 67, he chose to hand over the premiership to Goh Chok Tong, and took on the role of senior minister, serving as guide and mentor in the Cabinet.

When Prime Minister Lee took charge in 2004, the elder Lee became Minister Mentor, spending time thinking about the long-term challenges facing Singapore. PND (as)
President Aquino attends P13.1-billion Southern Luzon Expressway extension project briefing
President Benigno S. Aquino III on Monday attended the briefing of the P13.1-billion Southern Luzon Expressway-Toll Road 4 (SLEX-TR4) extension project in Tiaong, Quezon Province.

The President was welcomed by Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson, Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala, Congressman Vicente Alcala of Quezon Province’s Second District, Tiaong Mayor Ramon Preza, Toll Regulatory Board Executive Director Edmund Reyes, San Miguel Corporation (SMC) Chief Operating Officer and South Luzon Tollway Corporation (SLTC) Chairman Ramon Ang, and Citra Metro Manila Tollways Corporation President and Chief Executive Officer Shadik Wahono.

“Layunin nga po ng proyektong ito na pabilisin ang transportasyon at magbunsod ng kaunlaran hindi lamang sa Kamaynilaan kundi maging sa mga karatig nitong bayan,” President Aquino said in his speech.

The SLEX-TR4 is a 58-kilometer project that would link Sto. Tomas, Batangas all the way to Lucena, Quezon.

The four-lane project, which is mandated under Presidential Decree Nos. 1112 and 1894, is expected to cut the travel time between the two provinces to just one hour from the usual four hours.

“Patunay po ang pagtitipong ito sa kompiyansa ng pribadong sektor na magsulong ng inisyatiba tungo sa malawakang pag-unlad. Sa pangunguna ng South Luzon Tollway Corporation, at sa pangangasiwa ng Department of Transportation and Communications – Toll Regulatory Board, isusulong natin ang proyektong SLEX-TR4 na malaki ang pakinabang ng ating mga kababayan, “ the President added.

Local government officials have welcomed and expressed support for the project that is expected to boost trade, commerce and tourism in Regions 4 and 5.

The SLEX-TR4 is the latest project in SMC’s infrastructure portfolio, which already includes the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway, the elevated Skyway system and the Skyway Stage 3 project, the NAIA Expressway project, the existing SLEX, and the recently upgraded and expanded Southern Tagalog Arterial Road or STAR Tollway.

The SLEX-TR4 project is divided into five sections: Sto. Tomas, Batangas to Makban, Laguna (10.58 km); Makban to San Pablo, Laguna (12.2 km); San Pablo, Laguna to Tiaong, Quezon (8.1 km); Tiaong to Candelaria, Quezon (14.4 km); and Candelaria to Lucena City (12.31 km).

The SLTC said it is eyeing mid-2017 for the completion of the first section from Sto. Tomas to Makban, and 2019 for the completion of the entire project. PND (jm)
Philippine Coconut Authority to create multi-sectoral advisory council to tackle coco levy assets
The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) will set up a multi-sectoral advisory council that will make recommendations on the implementation of President Benigno S. Aquino III's two executive orders regarding the planned privatization of coco levy assets, the Palace said on Monday.

Communication Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said he got a statement from Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization Francis Pangilinan, who said that the PCA will respond to the farmers' concerns.

It has been reported that several coconut farmer organizations are questioning President Aquino's recent executive orders, saying that the orders do not conform to what had been discussed during previous consultations and that they have questions on the planned privatization of coco levy assets.

“On the issue of consultations, the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) is now drafting a resolution on the creation of a multi-sectoral stakeholders consultative and advisory council, which shall provide inputs and recommendations in the implementation of the executive orders. This shall be approved by the PCA board in its April meeting," Coloma said, quoting Secretary Pangilinan.

Last week, President Aquino issued Executive Orders 179 and 180 concerning the inventory and privatization of coco levy assets. The President's executive orders also set guidelines for the reconveyance and use of coco levy assets. PND (as)
Public could push for divorce in Congress if there is huge support for it, says Palace
The Cabinet has not tackled divorce in its discussions but the people could push legislation on the issue if there is a clamor for it, a Palace official has said.

"Ang mga mamamayan ay may kapangyarihang ipaabot sa kanilang mga kinatawan sa Kongreso ang kanilang mga saloobin hinggil sa usapin ng divorce. Hindi pa tinatalakay sa Gabinete ang isyung ito," Communication Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said on Monday.Secretary Coloma was responding to a question regarding the results of a recent survey by the Social Weather Stations (SWS), which revealed that three out of five Filipinos, or 60 percent, want divorce to be legalized for “irreconcilably separated” couples.
The survey showed that 60 percent of 1,800 respondents agree that “married couples who have already separated and cannot reconcile anymore should be allowed to divorce so that they can get legally married again”, while 29 percent disagreed and 11 percent were undecided on the issue.
The survey was conducted from November 27 to December 1 last year.
Some 16 percent of the respondents have live-in partners, 63 percent are married, and 21 percent are single.
The SWS survey also showed that more men and women favor the proposition, with 62 percent of male respondents (from 52 percent in March 2011) and 57 percent of female respondents (from 49 percent in March 2011) agreeing with it.

The number of those who agree with the legalization of divorce also rose in all areas, with 67 percent of adult respondents from Metro Manila, 62 percent from Luzon, 55 percent from Visayas, and 55 percent from Mindanao all throwing their support for divorce. PND (as)
Indonesian leader’s statement on China’s claims to South China Sea consistent with Philippines’ position
The Palace on Monday said Indonesian President Joko Widodo’s statement that “one of China’s main claims to the majority of the South China Sea has no legal basis in international law” is consistent with the Philippines’ position on the issue.

“This is consistent with the Philippine position that the so-called nine-dash line theory underpinning China’s claims contradicts the principles of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), for which reason we have filed a petition in the UN arbitral tribunal,” Communication Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said.

Secretary Coloma was commenting on President Widodo’s statement, which was made during an interview with a Japanese newspaper as the Indonesian leader embarks on a visit to Japan and China.

“Moreover, the Philippines, Indonesia and the other ASEAN member countries have recognized the need to flesh out a code of conduct for all countries with maritime entitlement claims so that these may be resolved diplomatically and peacefully,” Coloma added.

On March 30, 2014, the Philippines filed a memorial at the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) against China.

Also laying claim to parts of the South China Sea are Vietnam, Brunei, Malaysia, and Taiwan. PND (ag)
Palace welcomes American think tank’s positive ratings on ‘Labor Freedom’
The Palace on Monday welcomed the positive ratings the country received from a United States-based think tank regarding “Labor Freedom”.

“We note the results of the 2015 Economic Freedom Index indicating an improvement in the country’s ‘Labor Freedom’ score, which jumped by 8.5 points to 58.2 points—the highest in the last 10 years—as measured by the Heritage Foundation,” Communication Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said.

Secretary Coloma said that Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz attributed this improved performance to the partnership of labor, business and government in enhancing the labor market.

In its website, the Heritage Foundation noted that “in general, the greater degree of labor freedom, the lower the rate of employment in an economy”.

“This is borne out by the 2015 Labor Force Survey, which showed that the employment, underemployment, and unemployment situation in the country has improved,” Coloma added.

According to the Index’s website, the Heritage Foundation is considered as Washington’s number one think tank. The Index of Economic Freedom is an annual guide published by The Wall Street Journal and the foundation.

The website defined economic freedom as the fundamental right of every human to control his or her own labor and property, and labor freedom as a quantitative measure that looks into various aspects of the legal and regulatory framework of a country’s labor market.

Coloma further assured that the administration of President Benigno S. Aquino III will continue to improve the labor conditions in the country.

“The government will continue to pursue reforms that promote economic freedom and productivity as a strategy for achieving inclusive growth,” he said. PND (ag)
 
 

23 MARCH 2015
Leadership forum to gather 1,800 HR professionals
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
Volunteerism alive among Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries in Payatas
20th WorldBex held at PTTC
Joint Statement by International Trade Ministers of Philippines and Canada
Board of Inquiry awarded for invaluable service
165 more Filipinos from Libya set to be repatriated
Statement on the passing of Singapore’s Founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew
DOST tour to make Cagayanons "Feel" science and technology
72,000 students benefit from SSS and Nat’l Gov’t Educ Loan Assistance
SSS to issue certifications for Taiwan-bound OFWs
DAR boosts Nueva Vizcaya’s agriculture through P46.9-M irrigation facilities
Jeane Napoles in the country; Iqbal, Ebrahim have no travel record - BI
PDIC to auction P64.3-M worth of ROPA
P10M tech-voc scholarship for Davao del Norte's youth
POC to be modernized, not privatized
Informal settlers evacuated from high risk areas; Safety 'Top Priority' – Roxas
COA appointed External Auditor of the International Labour Organization
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.
Statement on the passing of Singapore’s Founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew
Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph
The Philippines joins the Singaporean people in mourning the passing of their first Prime Minister and Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew. Mr. Lee was a visionary statesman who built Singapore into an economic powerhouse and modern society that has been a positive force not only in the region but also in the world. His fortitude, political will and wisdom will continue to be an inspiration in the years to come.
DOST tour to make Cagayanons "Feel" science and technology
Source: http://www.dost.gov.ph
The Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) “Science Nation: Agham na Ramdam” makes its next stop in Cagayan Valley Region starting March 24, 2015 as the nationwide roadshow aiming to make science “felt” by the average Filipino moves to its second leg in Tuguegarao City.

A premier showcase of DOST’s science and technology (S&T) programs and success stories, “Science Nation: Agham na Ramdam” is set to tour the country’s 17 regions in 2015 to allow Filipinos of varying social and economic brackets to see and experience how science affects their daily lives.

Scheduled from March 24-26, 2015, the event will feature activities reflecting DOST’s bid to integrate science in efforts toward progress and inclusive growth in various venues in the city.

Foremost of these is the SETUP Summit. SETUP, or Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program, is a DOST centerpiece program which extends assistance to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs ) in the country via funding, technology upgrade, and manpower training. SETUP Summit will feature product exhibits from SETUP beneficiaries in the region. It will run the full three-day course of “Agham na Ramdam” during which media visits to two SETUP beneficiaries in Isabela will also take place.

Another highlight is a project visit to Tuguegarao City’s Food Innovation Center (FIC) on March 24. The FIC serves as the regional base for breakthroughs in food technology. DOST establishes FICs around the country to help MSMEs become more competitive both in the local and global markets via food testing, packaging and labeling design, training and consultancy, and other services.

In another major event, DOST will honor the city of Cauayan in Isabela for being the first local government unit in Region II in adopting the Philippine Standard Time or PhST, through DOST’s campaign called “Juan Time.” The city also is the first LGU in the entire country to provide all of its 65 barangays with precision timepieces synchronized to PhST.

DOST-II will also name its science ambassadors during the opening ceremony at the Red Eagle Gymnasium, Cagayan State University Carig Campus on March 24. The science ambassadors will support the Department in its advocacy and other programs.

Other activities in the event include S&T fora for MSME owners and staff, career guidance and leadership training for the youth, inauguration of a ceramics water filter project in Santa Maria, Isabela, groundbreaking ceremony for the Cauayan City Science Museum in San Luis, Isabela, and launching of the Smarter City initiative in Cauayan City, the first urban local government to adopt the Smarter City concept in Region 2.

Smarter City is part of the Smarter Philippines masterplan which aims to jumpstart the economy of secondary cities’ through DOST-sponsored technologies, and cause spillover progress to neighboring communities.

Other activities are a zumba session, science film showings and a concert titled “Science and Music: Aghamtahan” on March 24 featuring Marcelito Pomoy, among others. #ScienceNationR02 (S&T Media Service)
72,000 students benefit from SSS and Nat’l Gov’t Educ Loan Assistance
Source: https://www.sss.gov.ph
A total of 72,451 college or vocational-tech students are currently benefiting from the Educational Assistance Loan Program (EALP), a joint program of the Social Security System (SSS) and the National Government (NG).

The EALP was launched on April 30, 2012 with a total fund allocation of P7 Billion, P3.5 Billion of which came from the national government and the other P3.5 Billion from the SSS. Under the program, the NG portion of the fund is interest free while the SSS portion charges a six percent interest or a blended rate of three percent for the borrower-member.

Joint Circular No. 2012-1 signed by the Department of Budget and Management, Department of Finance, Government Service Insurance System, and SSS in September 2012 institutionalized the grant of affordable educational loans to qualified GSIS and SSS members.

“Now on its fourth year of implementation, we are happy to be part of this joint program of SSS and the national government since we are able to continue lending a hand to our members by defraying their children’s education expenses through EALP”, said Officer-In-Charge for Asset and Lending Management May Catherine Ciriaco. Majority or 97 percent of EALP beneficiaries are enrolled in degree courses.

Ciriaco clarified that SSS did not stop granting EALP. “We have allocated the loan fund to those who have applied in 2012 so that their dependents - who are expected to be in school for four years in the case of a bachelor’s degree, or two years for vocational or technical courses - have a better chance to finish their studies,” she added.

Interested SSS members could still apply for EALP but they will be included in the waiting list. “As soon as one of the beneficiaries back out of EALP, we notify those in the waiting list so they could apply”, Ciriaco said.

As of December 2014, SSS has already disbursed over P1.1 billion nationwide from its coffers out of the P7 billion allotted for the educational loans.

Under EALP, members can borrow up to P20,000 per semester or trimester for college degrees while maximum loanable amount for vocational-tech course is P10,000 per semester or trimester.

The repayment process of EALP will commence a year after the beneficiary's graduation day or release date of the last loan. Borrowers for college degree programs are given five years to repay the loan, while for vocational-tech courses, the repayment timeline is three years.
SSS to issue certifications for Taiwan-bound OFWs
Source: https://www.sss.gov.ph
Starting March 16, 2015, the Social Security System (SSS) will receive request for certifications of UMID card applications of members applying for working visa in Taiwan. The certifications will be issued pending the release of the Unified Multipurpose Identification (UMID) cards for Filipino job seekers to comply with the requirements for a Taiwanese working visa.

SSS Manager for ID Card Production Jose Antonio Salazar said the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Manila has agreed to accept SSS certifications in consideration of the status of SSS UMID card production.

The SSS is currently experiencing delay in UMID card production as card printing is temporarily suspended due to the ongoing acquisition of UMID card printing services.

“To address the urgency of their applications for an ID, we will issue the certification after two working days from receipt of request, (exclusive of the day the request was made)” Salazar said.

He clarified that only Taiwan-bound members who applied from December 10, 2014 or those with earlier application that had passed fingerprint investigation due to similar fingerprints with another member will be issued the certifications.

“As additional consideration, we also allow the authorized representative or liaison officer of their recruitment agency to request the certifications on their behalf so they can spend the time they have to proceed with other several errands,” Salazar said.

Taiwan-bound members with pending UMID card applications can file their request at any SSS branch until May 15, 2015. SSS certifications will be released at the SSS branch located in the Philippine Overseas and Employment Agency.

“We are also reminding our members that the lack of SSS ID does not affect their entitlement to loans and benefits,” Salazar said.

SSS regulations allow members to present any two valid government-issued ID cards to support their applications for SSS loans and benefits.
DAR boosts Nueva Vizcaya’s agriculture through P46.9-M irrigation facilities
Source: http://www.dar.gov.ph
Two hundred eighty two (282) hectares of rain-fed farms are expected to become more productive as the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) recently turned over two communal irrigation systems worth P46.9 million to the local government of Nueva Vizcaya.

DAR Undersecretary for Foreign Assisted and Special Projects Herman Ongkiko said the irrigation project would benefit 320 farmers in the municipalities of Dupax del Sur and Dupax del Norte.

Ongkiko said the irrigation projects would address the problems encountered by farmers in areas that are susceptible to drought and the El Nino phenomenon.

“These irrigation projects will ensure the smooth flow of water supply during the dry season, especially now that farmers are experiencing a mild El Nino phenomenon,” said Ongkiko.

Ongkiko added that the communal irrigation system is a convergence of efforts of DAR, the local government of Nueva Vizcaya and the partnership of Congressman Carlos Padilla and Governor Ruth Padilla. “A productive partnership like this will bring a positive impact to the food security program of the government and will help boost the economic development of communities.”

In Dupax del Norte, the Tacbao-Apayan CIS has a total project cost of P24,084,050.00, paving smooth water flow to 199 hectares of farmlands of 276 members of the Tacbao-Apayan Irrigators’ Association (IA).

In Dupax del Sur, meanwhile, the Arwat CIS has a total project cost of P22,875,589.00, which will give sufficient water supply to 83 hectares of farmlands. It will benefit 44 members of the Arwat IA.

The communal irrigation projects were implemented under the Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support Project (ARISP) and jointly funded by the DAR and the Japan International Cooperating Agency (JICA).
Jeane Napoles in the country; Iqbal, Ebrahim have no travel record - BI
Source: http://www.immigration.gov.ph
Manila, Philippines---The Bureau of Immigration (BI) disclosed the travel records of the daughter of alleged pork barrel scam mastermind Janet Lim Napoles, and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) leaders Al-Haj Murad Ebrahim and Mohagher Iqbal.

“Jeane Catherine Napoles (Jeane) is in the Philippines based on the travel records. She was allowed entry because there was no legal basis to prevent her entry into country”, said BI spokesperson Elaine Tan.

Jeane was a subject of public scrutiny when videos depicting her lavish lifestyle circulated over the internet. She is now facing tax evasion charges pending before various courts in the Philippines.

On 20 March 2015, Secretary of Justice Leila De Lima issued an immigration lookout bulletin against Jeane Napoles based on the tax evasion cases.

“The lookout bulletin only serves as a directive to immigration officers to coordinate with the concerned agencies (Department of Justice, National Bureau of Investigation, National Prosecution Service) to verify the status of the case against a subject/passenger. The decision on whether to allow or deny travel of the passenger shall be based on the recommendation of the appropriate agency”, explained Tan.

Meanwhile, the BI also disclosed that persons under the names Al-Haj Murad Ebrahim and Mohagher Iqbal of the MILF have no travel records in its database. According to Tan, the negative result in the travel records may either imply that the two leaders have not traveled outside the country or may have been using different names in their passports.

“Based on our database, there is no record of travel under the names Al-Haj Murad Ebrahim and Mohagher Iqbal”, said Tan.
PDIC to auction P64.3-M worth of ROPA
Source: http://www.pdic.gov.ph
The Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) will conduct a public auction on March 24, 2015 to sell on an "as-is, where-is" basis 130 real and other properties acquired (ROPA) by closed banks with total minimum disposal value of P64.3 million.

The auction will be held at the 9th Floor, PDIC Training Room, SSS Building, 6782 Ayala Avenue corner V.A. Rufino St., Makati City from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Properties to be auctioned are seven bank premises and 123 agricultural and residential lots, of which 33 are with improvements. These are located in the provinces of Albay, Batangas, Cavite, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Cebu, Eastern Samar, Leyte, Marinduque, Negros Oriental, Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Palawan, Quezon and Rizal.

Bidders are advised to be at the venue at least one hour prior to the opening of bids to register, submit requirements and to present proper identification document (ID) with photo. Documentary requirements such as Auction Forms, Conditions of Auction, and standard format of the Special Power of Attorney and Secretary's Certificate may be downloaded free of charge from the PDIC website, www.pdic.gov.ph.

A participation fee in the amount of P25,000.00 either in cash and/or Manager's check is required of all bidders. The fee shall be returned to non-winning bidders at the end of the auction. In the case of the winning bidder, the participation fee will form part of the 10% required downpayment and purchase price. The balance of the bid must be paid in full within seven working days from receipt of the Notice of Award.

For more information, interested buyers may contact Atty. Josette Sonia H. Marcilla and Ms. Cecilia C. Canuza (Asset Management and Disposal Department I) at telephone numbers 841-4754 or 841-4750.

The conduct of public auctions is one of various initiatives together with public biddings and negotiated sale to expeditiously dispose of non-financial assets. Proceeds from the sale of closed banks' assets are maintained in funds-held-in-trust used to enhance the recovery of uninsured depositors and creditors of closed banks. The expeditious disposal of non-financial assets is among the strategic directions outlined in the PDIC's Roadmap to protect the depositing public and promote financial stability.
P10M tech-voc scholarship for Davao del Norte's youth
Source: http://www.tesda.gov.ph
Students in Davao del Norte province who are graduating from high school this March, but who are wary about pursuing their education because of lack of money can turn to the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

In a recent visit to the province, TESDA Director General Joel Villanueva announced a P10-million worth of scholarship for those eyeing to take technical vocational courses.

The scholarship grant, which Villanueva turned over to local executives, was part of the P132 million allotted for the entire Davao region to open up more than 14,000 scholarship slots for schools and community-based programs of TESDA.

"Students, who are hard up on finances, are not without choices to continue their education. There is the tech-voc option," he said.

"From cooking and baking, to electrical repair, and information technology-related courses, TESDA has a lot to offer the youth. All they need to do is focus on what interests them and develop their skills through the classroom and hands-on training," Villanueva added.

During his visit to Panabo City, Villanueva also took part in a friendly basketball game dubbed "Shoot for Your Dream," which pitted Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) players and TESDA graduates.

Villanueva has organized the same basketball match in other provinces that he has visited as part of the TESDA activity and to gather support for tech-voc programs.

Playing alongside Villanueva were PBA greats Jerry Codinera, Kenneth Duremdes, Marlou Aquino, Bal David, Zaldy Realubit, Rodney Santos and Bobby Jose.

Noting that Davao region can make it big as a tourism hub, Villanueva stressed the need for more skilled workers in hotel and restaurant management while also saying that there is a huge market demand for construction industry-based skills such as welding and electrical installation maintenance.

Training the spotlight on out-of-school youth, Villanueva urged the young people to visit TESDA offices or its website to get to know more about the agency's programs.

"Our government is doing all it can to reach out to the youth, hone them and make them productive members of society, which in turn, will bring brighter prospects for their lives and that of their families," he said.

TESDA officials and local executives joined Villanueva during his Davao trip, led by Davao del Norte Governor Rodolfo del Rosario and Panabo City Mayor James Gamao.
POC to be modernized, not privatized
Source: http://ppp.gov.ph
Filipinos to access affordable, world-class orthopedic care

With the Modernization of the Philippine Orthopedic Center (MPOC) through public-private partnership (PPP), government will retain ownership of the new public hospital facility and poor patients will have access to world-class trauma and orthopedic care.

The Philippine Orthopedic Center (POC) is one of the best orthopedic hospitals in the country yet it suffers from poor medical facilities and lack of modern equipment. These conditions have somehow limited the scope of medical services offered in the hospital and affected the quality of care patients get.

The MPOC is set to address all of these challenges through the provision of excellent orthopedic and rehabilitation care through better services, improved hospital conditions, state-of the-art equipment and facilities, and more efficient operations. The new hospital is expected to serve more patients and cover a broader range of ailments considering reduced length of stay and improved medical facilities.

At present, patients at the old POC stay an average of 16-24 days in the hospital. But with the improved POC, patients can expect a shorter stay of 8-12 days.

Even the poorest of the poor patients will get quality medical care and services in the modernized POC. They will not be turned away but shall be treated through the PhilHealth’s Universal Health Care Program.

In December 2013, the PPP project was awarded to Megawide-World Citi after undergoing a transparent and rigorous public procurement process. The consortium successfully met the requirements needed to design, construct, finance, operate, and maintain the 700-bed Specialty Hospital.

Megawide-World Citi will infuse not only the requisite funds to transform POC into a state-of-the-art center of excellence, but also manage the day to day operations and its funding.

Construction of new building and facilities and provision of equipment will be at no cost to the government. The government will just provide the land for MPOC’s new site. The Department of Health (DOH) would continue to oversee management of the modernized POC. Thus, government is not giving up control and ownership to the private sector.

After the 25 years cooperation period, the modernized POC will be returned to the government.
Informal settlers evacuated from high risk areas; Safety 'Top Priority' – Roxas
Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph
Yesterday morning, police officers helped 135 fire victim families in Barangay 201, Pasay City transport their belongings and evacuate to safer homes.
The families were evacuated from Cutcut Creek, which was declared a dangerous waterway under the OPLAN LIKAS program of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).
"Their safety is our top priority," Secretary Mar Roxas said.
Fifteen police officers from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) and ten personnel from the local government of Pasay City responded to the aid of informal settlers relocating to their new homes provided by the National Housing Authority (NHA) in Barangay Cabuco, Trece Martires, Cavite.
The families will also receive P18,000 from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to help adjust in their new community.
According to the local government of Pasay City, the police officers arrived on time and were a big help in the immediate execution of the relocation operation.
COA appointed External Auditor of the International Labour Organization
Source: http://www.coa.gov.ph
Geneva, Switzerland- The International Labour Organization (ILO), a specialized agency of the United Nations, appointed the Philippine Commission on Audit (COA) as its External Auditor for a period of four years beginning on April 1, 2016.
The ILO’s Governing Body made the appointment following the unanimous recommendation of the Selection Panel during the ILO’s on-going 323rd Session being held in Geneva, Switzerland from March 12-27, 2015. The Philippines was selected over other shortlisted candidates, France and the United Kingdom.
 The Selection Panel, a tripartite body composed of Ghana, China, the United States of America and Greece representing Governments, South Africa and Japan representing the Employers group, and Belgium and Denmark representing the Workers group, considered the high level of professionalism and technical qualities as well as non-technical aspects such as diversity in audit base and approach to client relations.
“This appointment is an affirmation not only of COA’s audit expertise but also its integrity and independence. We assure the ILO of our promise to deliver quality external audit to the highest professional standards and to work together with the ILO in its pursuit of its mandate,” said COA Commissioner and Officer-in-Charge Heidi L. Mendoza.
Consul Arnel Talisayon, representing the Philippine Permanent Mission to the United Nations and other International Organizations in Geneva, for his part, appreciated “the objective, holistic, and systematic procedure of evaluating the proposal of each of the candidates which reflects on the high level integrity and professionalism of the ILO.”
Accompanying Commissioner Mendoza during her oral presentation on March 14, 2015 for the ILO bid were COA Directors Lito Q. Martin, Michael Racelis, Danilo Cabug and Visitacion Mendoza, Auditor Heherson Visaya, Ms. Jennifer Andrea Imperial of the Office of Commissioner Mendoza, Labor Attaché Ma. Celeste M. Valderrama, and Finance Officer Tomas A. Valerio of the Mission. Her Excellency Cecilia B. Rebong and Deputy Permanent Representative Noralyn Baja also supported the COA in its bid.
For further information, please click the following link:
http://www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/public/---ed_norm/---relconf/documents/meetingdocument/wcms_354254.pdf

President Benigno S. Aquino III's Speech during the briefing on the South Luzon Expressway-Toll Road 4 (SLEX-TR4) Project and other major road Projects in Southern Tagalog
Barangay Lalig, Tiaong, Quezon
23 March 2015
Magandang umaga pong muli.

Marahil ho narinig n’yo na ang kumalat na iba’t ibang bersiyon ng tsismis noong hatinggabi ng Biyernes, patawid ng Sabado. Ang sabi po: nag-collapse daw ako sa Malacanãng, na may malubha raw akong karamdaman, habang ang iba naman ay nagsasabing nasa ICU na ako. Nang makita nila ako ng Sabado ng gabi na wala namang problema sa kalusugan, may panibagong tsismis na namang lumabas: Kami raw ang nagpakalat ng kathang-isip na ito, para lang makakuha ng simpatya sa publiko. Sa mga naniwala nga po dito, may paalala po sa atin ang nakakatanda: Wala tayong napapala sa tsismis.

Talaga naman pong para sa mga pursigido nating kritiko: Tila sala sa init, sala sa lamig ang aming sitwasyon. Pagtitiwalaan po ba natin ang mga katunggali natin sa tuwid na daan, gayong umaabot na sa sukdulan at walang pakundangan ang pagnanais nilang magdulot ng agam-agam at kaguluhan pati sa pag-iisip ng publiko? Sila po ang gumagawa ng tsismis na wala namang katuturan o basehan, upang isulong ang sariling agenda. Sila rin po ang mga nagnanais na makuha ang kapangyarihan at makinabang muli sa baluktot na kalakaran. Kung maniniwala tayo sa ipinapakalat nilang tsismis, talagang lalabas po na wala tayong ginagawa, at mababalewala lang ang lahat ng ating nagawa simula nang tayo ay manungkulan. Pero sinasabi ko po sa inyo ngayon ang totoo, gaya ng lagi kong sinasabi kapag kaharap ko ang ating Boss, iyan po ay obligasyon, at lagi ring pinatutunayan sa gawa. At ito nga po ang totoo.

Totoo po na sa mahigit apat at kalahating taon ng ating pamamahala, malayo na ang ating narating. Totoo po na pinananagot natin ang mga tiwali, nanumbalik ang tiwala ng publiko sa gobyerno, pati na rin ng mga mamumuhunan at mula sa ibang bansa, sa kakayahan nating, siyempre, umasenso. Totoo po na umangat na ang ating ekonomiya, na nagbigay sa atin ng ibayong kakayahan upang maghatid ng agarang serbisyo sa atin pong mga kababayan. Totoo na nabura na natin ang ipinama na sa ating backlog sa silid-aralan, upuan, at textbooks. Totoo po na mahigit apat na milyon na ang kabahayang benepisyaryo ng ating Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program. Nito nga pong Pebrero, umabot na sa 96,101 kabahayan ang benepisyaryo nito sa lalawigan ng Quezon. Totoo rin po na ang coverage rate naman po sa PhilHealth sa inyong probinsiya: nasa 84.5 percent na. Ibig sabihin, halos 1.8 milyon nating kababayan sa Quezon ang saklaw na ng mas pinalawak nating benepisyo ng PhilHealth. Ilan lamang ang mga ito sa mga totoong nagawa natin sa ilalim ng ating panunungkulan.

At ngayon nga po, isa na naman pong totoong proyektong tunay na magdadala ng ginhawa sa marami nating mga kababayan, hindi lamang sa mga taga-Quezon, ang sinisimulan natin. Ito nga po ang South Luzon Expressway Toll Road 4 or SLEX TR 4 Project. Bakit ko po sinabing magbubunsod ito ng ginhawa? Alam n’yo naman po, bago po ako maging Pangulo, madalas na rin po tayong nakakabisita sa Quezon, sa imbitasyon na rin po ng ating mga kasamahan, gaya ng namayapang Gobernador Raffy Nantes, at ni Secretary Procy Alcala. Alam po n’yo sila’y hindi lang kasangga, kaibigan pa. Natataon po na madalas Biyernes ang imbitasyon na tumungo tayo sa Quezon. At para nga po matantiya namin ang haba ng biyahe, sinabi po sa akin na ang Quezon ay halos kasinlayo lamang ng Tarlac City. Ang Quezon nga po ay nasa 98 km, habang ang Tarlac naman po ay aabot sa 107 km mula sa monumento ni Rizal. Ang sabi rin po sa akin, kung ang Tarlac ay binibiyahe mo nang isa’t kalahating oras, ang Quezon naman ay kayang lakbayin ng mga dalawa’t kalahating oras. Pero hindi naman po ito ang nangyayari, dahil sa tuwing pumupunta po ako ng Quezon, ay talagang inaabot po kami ng lima hanggang anim na oras sa biyahe.

Isipin po ninyo: Sa tuwing naiimbitahan po ako na magtungo rito, madalas ay tapos na pong maghapunan ang mga nag-imbita. [Tawanan] Nang minsan nga po akong dumalo, birthday party ni Raffy Nantes, sabi niya, “Pare, magsabaw ka na.” Pagkaubos na pagkaubos ng sabaw, “Halika ka na. Umikot na tayo. Hinihintay ka na ng mga kababayan ko kanina pa.” Nang si Secretary Procy Alacala naman po ang nag-imbita. At siyempre sabi ko, “‘Yang mga taga-Quezon, hospitable ‘yan. Pagkarating ko po’y nagtalumpati agad,. Naglibot, nag-picture taking at sabi niya, “Pare, salamat sa ‘yo.” At tulad ng dati, kumain na po kami sa Jollibee sa Batangas. [Tawanan] Inabot na po kami ng 11 ng gabi sa daan, at nakiusap pa kaming huwag muna kaming pagsarahan ng Jollibee. Ang masaklap nga po dito, dahil nakiusap ka nang magsasara sila, ang inabot sa amin, malamig na sandwich. Kaya dumating ang punto, tinanong ko dun sa dalawa, “Iyan bang Queen Margaret na hotel na ‘yan ay may kainan? At nang tayo’y naging pangulo po, doon ko nasubukan nang unang beses na makakain habang inimbita dito sa Quezon.

Kaya nga po nang umabot sa atin ang balitang sa wakas, sisimulan na ang extension ng SLEX, talagang nagpapasalamat tayo. Alam n’yo po kasi, ipinangako ito panahon pa ni Ginoong Marcos. Ako po’y kakaalis lang ng grade school. At kung titignan n’yo ang batas na ginawa noong panahon ni Marcos, itinayo ang NLEX ng gobyerno. Gobyerno po ang gumastos, siya po ang nagpagawa. Ipinasa ang pangangasiwa nito sa tinatawag na CDCP. Kapalit nito, pahahabain ng CDCP ang kalsada hanggang Carmen Rosales sa Pangasinan at hanggang Lucena sa Quezon. Alam naman po natin hanggang ngayon, wala pa sa Quezon.

Idiin ko lang po: Ang proyektong ito, ipinangako ni Marcos, at inaprubahan pa noong administrasyon ni Fidel Ramos, at ngayon po, sa panahon ng ating panunungkulan ay, sa wakas, masisimulan na. [Palakpakan]

Patunay po ang pagtitipong ito sa kompiyansa ng pribadong sektor na magsulong ng inisyatiba tungo sa malawakang pag-unlad. Sa pangunguna ng South Luzon Tollway Corporation, at sa pangangasiwa ng Department of Transportation and Communications – Toll Regulatory Board, isusulong natin ang proyektong SLEX TR 4 na malaki ang pakinabang ng ating mga kababayan. Idamay na rin po ninyo ako. Kapag nga po natapos ang proyektong ito sa 2019, hindi man po tayo ang Pangulo, ay siguradong babalik at babalik tayo sa Quezon. At siguro naman po, may dadatnan na tayong pagkain mula kay Sec. Alcala sa panahong iyon. [Palakpakan at tawanan]

Layunin nga po ng proyektong ito na pabilisin ang transportasyon at magbunsod ng kaunlaran hindi lamang sa Kamaynilaan kundi maging sa mga karatig nitong bayan. Nagkakahalaga po ang proyektong ito ng P13.08 billion. Mahigit 57.5 kilometro po na may apat na lane ang gagawin dito, na babagtas mula Sto. Tomas, Batangas, hanggang Lucena, Quezon. Siyempre po, ‘pag merong nang ganyang kalsada, iyong papunta namang Bicol ay lalong dadali na maigawa na rin. [Palakpakan] Oras na makumpleto ito, ang biyahe mula Sto. Tomas hanggang Lucena na sabi sa atin ay inaabot nang apat na oras, magiging isang oras na lang. Ngayon pa lang, kompiyansa na tayo sa tagumpay ng inisyatibang ito, lalo pa’t ang San Miguel Corporation at Citra Metro Manila Tollways Corporation ang magsusulong nito. Talaga pong wala tayong masasabi kay Mr. Ramon Ang na talaga namang nakikiambag sa pag-angat ng ating bansa. [Palakpakan]

Bahagi lamang itong SLEX TR 4 ng isinusulong nating High Standard Highway Network o ang pagkakaroon ng maayos at tuloy-tuloy na road transport network. Ngunit bago pa po gawin ito, marami na rin po tayong proyektong sinimulan at nakumpleto dito sa Timog Katagalugan. Dito nga po sa inyong lalawigan ng Quezon, ongoing ang rehabilitasyon ng Manila South Road. Nahahati po ang kalsadang ito sa Tiaong-Lucena Diversion Road – Pagbilao-Sta. Elena, at ‘yung Camarines Norte Section at Pagsanjan-Tayabas – Lucena Section.

Nakumpleto na rin natin ang pagpapaunlad ng mga daungan sa San Andres, Mauban, Unisan, Gumaca, at Perez. Kasalukuyan namang nakikinabang na ang mahigit 3,500 magsasaka sa ipinapagawa nating farm-to-market roads sa San Andres at Pagbilao. Bukod pa rito, pinaunlad din natin ang mga sistema ng irigasyon sa iba’t ibang munisipalidad ng Quezon upang mapataas ang ani at produksiyon, na nagbubunsod ng karagdagang kita para sa ating mga magsasaka. Sa panahon nga po ng ating administrasyon, talagang umunlad din ang industriya ng niyog dito sa Quezon. Ipinakilala po natin ang intercropping. Sa sistemang ito, sinusuportahan ng inyong gobyerno ang pagpapalakas ng niyugan. Kapalit nito siyempre ang obligasyong magpunla ng iba’t ibang binhi sa pagitan ng mga hilera ng niyog. Mas madalas ang ani at depende nga po sa itatanim, lalaki nang napakalaki ang kita ng bawat magsasakang umaasa sa pagniniyog. Ngayon din po, talagang usap-usapan at pinagkakakitaan na ang iba’t ibang produkto ng niyog. Dinatnan na natin ‘yung virgin coconut oil, pero meron na rin po tayong coco water, coco nets, coco coir, at coco peat. Bukod pa rito, magagamit na rin po natin ang Coco Levy fund sa pagpapaunlad ng ating mga niyugan. [Palakpakan] Salamat po sa Korte Suprema sa kanilang partial judgment na in-enter na po.

Sa lahat nga po ng ito, itinataguyod natin ang karapatan ng mga taga-Quezon na iangat ang inyong kabuhayan. At wala naman po sigurong nasa matinong pag-iisip na makakapagsabing pinabayaan natin ang Quezon.

Malinaw po: Sa mabuting pamamahala, walang patid ang pag-arangkada ng ating imprastruktura. Sa katunayan, ang budget ng sektor na ito noong 2010, kung kailan hindi pa tayo ang namamahala: P165 billion. Umangat na po ito nang higit sa tatlong beses ngayong taon, kung saan ang budget na inilaan natin dito: P562.3 billion. Sa 2016 naman po, target pa nating itaas ito sa P787.19. Tumataas po ‘yan na hindi ho tayo nagtataas ng buwis.

Kasama nga po natin ngayon ang isa sa mga repormistang nanguna upang maging posible ang transpormasyong ito, walang iba kundi si Secretary Babes Singson. [Palakpakan] Sa pamumuno po niya, talaga naman pong nabago ang imahe ng DPWH: mula sa ahensiyang dating ginagatasan ng mga corrupt at mapanlamang, ngayon ay kilala na sa pagtupad ng tapat, de-kalidad, at kung hindi man mas maaga, ay laging on time na proyekto. Tinatapos na natin ang dating sistema kung saan tuwing nagpapagawa ng kalsada, bara-bara ang plano at kickback ang inuuna. Ngayon, bawat proyekto, komprehensibong pinag-aralan, may sapat na pondo, at kapaki-pakinabang sa sambayanan.

Tunay nga pong malayo na ang ating narating sa sama-samang pagbagtas sa tuwid na daan. Ang transpormasyong tinatamasa natin sa imprastruktura, nangyayari rin sa iba’t ibang sektor ng ating lipunan. Ngunit alam naman natin, may ilan pa ring nagnanais na ibalik ang bansa sa dinatnan nating sira-sirang sistema. Sinasamantala nila ang bawat oportunidad upang muli tayong magkanya-kanya. Tinitiyak ko naman po sa ating mga Boss: gaano man kalakas ang ingay na ginagawa ng mga naghahasik ng negatibismo, mananatili akong tapat sa mandatong ipinagkaloob ninyo sa akin. Sa nalalabing 465 araw ng aking termino, patuloy tayong maglalatag ng mas maraming pagkakataon sa bansa. Hangad po nating gawing permanente ang reporma. At kayo pong aming Boss, kayo pong mga nagbibigay-buhay sa ating demokrasya, ang sisigurong sinuman ang papalit sa akin, ay lalong patitibayin ang ating mga institusyon upang hindi na ito gawing kasangkapan muli ng mga tiwali.

Ang hamon po sa atin: sa lahat ng pagkakataon, panatilihin natin ang malasakit, ang pagiging mahinahon, at unahin ang kapakanan ng kapwa’t bansa, bago ang sarili. Sa maigting nating pagkakaisa, tiyak naman pong may magandang patutunguhan ang ating pagsisikap. Bawat tagumpay na ating nakakamit ay pundasyon lamang ng lalo pa nating pag-usad. Basta’t lagi tayong nagkakaisa sa panig ng tama at makatwiran, ang ating magandang nasimulan ngayon ay magtutuloy-tuloy hanggang sa marating natin ang mas masaganang lipunan.

Sa pagtatapos po, sa susunod na taon, may eleksiyon na naman po tayo. At ako po’y napag-isip, lalo na nung iyong kinalat nilang tsismis, ang tindi po talaga nitong mga kalaban natin. Bakit hanggang diyan, umabot na sila? At siguro, matanong ko rin sa sarili ko. At alam naman po nilang hindi na ako tatakbo next year. Bakit ba pinupunterya nilang parati akong banatan, banatan, at banatan? Simple lang po ang sagot diyan. Kung ako po’y maganda ang nagawa at kinikilala siguro ng ating mga kritiko, natural, ‘pag tayo’y nag-endorso, may halaga. So ang trabaho po nila ngayon, lahat ng napagtulungan natin ay gawing balewala. Para sa ganung paraan, ‘pag nangako silang mas mabuti ang gagawin nila, tila mas madali. Pero dito po sa Quezon, sa Batangas, sa Laguna, sa Kabicolan, at marami pang ibang lugar, ang Pilipino po ay hindi nauuto ng mga taong hindi totoong magsalita.

Magandang umaga po. Maraming salamat sa inyong lahat.
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INTERVIEW OF COMMUNICATIONS SECRETARY HERMINIO COLOMA, JR.
DZRB / Balita at Panayam by Alan Allanique
24 March 2015
ALAN: We understand na ang Pangulong Aquino ay mayroon pong, kumbaga, forum na dadaluhan at siya po ay magbibigay ng mahalagang mensahe dito po sa Euro Money Forum. Sec. Sonny, bigyan mo nga po kami, sir, ng ilang mga impormasyon at mga updates tungkol dito sa forum na ito, please.

SEC. COLOMA: Ang Euro Money Investment Forum ay isang venue na kung saan ang mga pangunahing kompanya at investor groups mula sa kontinente ng Europa ay lumalahok. Ito ay ginagawa sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng mundo para itampok iyong mga bansa at iyong mga industriya na kung saan mainam maglagay ng puhunan, at para na rin magsilbing pagsubaybay doon sa prospects ng pagnenegosyo at kalakal sa isang rehiyon, halimbawa, dito sa Asya ‘no, sa Asia Pacific Region.

Kaya’t mahalaga na naimbita at pakikinggan nila si Pangulong Aquino dahil batid natin na sa rehiyon ng Asya ang Pilipinas ay siya ngayong ikalawang pinakamabilis ang pag-unlad sa lahat ng ekonomiya in terms of GDP growth. At napapansin po ang nailatag ng pamahalaan na mga programa para akitin ang mga mamumuhunan at para gawing kaaya-aya ang ating bansa bilang destinasyon ng mga bago at dagdag na puhunan.

Iyan po ang kahulugan ng pupuntahan at pagsasalitaan ni Pangulong Aquino sa umagang ito.

ALAN: And, of course, malaking karangalan po na dito po gaganapin sa ating bansa, Sec. Sonny, ito hong international forum na ito ngayong araw na ito, Sec?

SEC. COLOMA: Ganoon nga, Alan. At maidagdag ko na rin na noong nakaraang Setyembre nang dumalaw si Pangulong Aquino sa iba’t ibang bansa sa Europa, tulad ng España, Belgium, France at Germany, talagang kapansin-pansin iyong napakataas na antas ng interes ng mga leading business and investment groups doon. At tinitingnan nila ang Pilipinas bilang major manufacturing hub, halimbawa, at major investment destination. At ang kanilang tinutukoy ay iyong paglalatag ng mabuting pamamahala o good governance na siyang nagbibigay daan sa mahusay na resultang pang-ekonomiya.

ALAN: Opo. Secretary, sa ibang usapin naman po. Kahapon po ay pinangunahan ng … o dumalo ang Pangulo diyan sa isang briefing diyan po sa Southern Luzon Expressway Extension Project. At ang mga projections po ay ito’y magpapabilis ng pagbibiyahe ng mga mamamayan, ng mga pasahero, ganoon din ang mga goods natin patungo diyan sa southern Luzon at hanggang doon sa southern Philippines, Secretary Coloma, sir.

SEC. COLOMA: Ganoon nga, Alan. At ito ay katuwang nung naisagawa na na patungong hilaga. Kung magbabalik-tanaw tayo, iyon pong patungong hilaga o northbound na highway natin ay malayo na po ang narating. Ito ay nasa Urdaneta, Pangasinan na patungo na doon sa Rosario, La Union – patapos na rin po iyan. At napakalaking progreso po nito ‘no dahil sa pinakamahabang panahon ito ay hanggang Pampanga lamang – iyong sa Dau – pagkatapos nagkaroon tayo ng SCTEX dito sa Tarlac, pagkatapos naman itong TPLEX – iyong Tarlac, Pangasinan at La Union Expressway.

Doon naman po sa papuntang timog o doon sa southbound na national highway natin, pinupursige po iyan para maidagdag o maidugtong doon sa kasalukuyang ginagamit natin. Kung maaalala natin, Alan, nagtatapos dati iyong SLEX sa Calamba, Laguna, at dahil doon sa STAR Tollway ay naiurong ito patungo doon sa ibang mga bayan ng Batangas. At ngayon naman ay itutuloy na rin iyong SLEX hanggang Tiaong, Quezon, at ito ay makakapagpabilis ng daloy ng mga tao at mga produkto. Bukod pa riyan, iyong ipapa-bidding na na Cavite-Laguna Expressway at iyong pinaka-ambisyosong proyektong imprastruktura, iyong Laguna Lakeshore Expressway – isang 47-kilometer highway na nasa ibabaw po ng Laguna de Bay. Ito ay magmumula sa Taguig at aabot hanggang Los Baños, Laguna. At magkakaroon din po ng dike o waterway para ayusin iyong daloy ng tubig sa Laguna de Bay na madalas na pinanggagalingan ng malubhang pagbabaha doon sa mga bumabaybay ng Laguna de Bay – iyong Taguig, Muntinlupa at iba pang mga bayan.

Kaya itong mga mahahalagang imprastrukturang proyekto ay inilalatag dahil susi po ito sa mas maunlad na ekonomiya at para sa kapakinabangan ng lahat ng Pilipino.

ALAN: Yes, sir. Sa isa pa pong usapin, Sec. Sonny, meron hong nilabas na ratings itong Heritage Foundation, isa itong think tank sa US, na nagsasabi na ang Pilipinas ay may positibong ratings pagdating po dito sa tinatawag nila na labor freedom. Ano po ang significance nito, Sec. Sonny, sa atin bilang isang bansa?
SEC. COLOMA: Kasi nga po ang isa sa pinaka-kayamanan natin ay mismong ang mga manggagawang Pilipino - ang atin pong mga mamamayan. At kapag mataas ang pagturing sa Filipino worker o Filipino human resources na pinapahiwatig nitong magandang rating sa labor freedom ay nakakapagpaganda po ng imahe ng ating bansa at contributory factor din iyan sa pag-akit ng mga namumuhunan, at sa pagpapalaganap pa ng mga kasalukyang negosyo sa ating bansa. At suma total nito, Alan, madadagdagan ang mga pagkakataon ng mga employment opportunities para sa ating mga mamamayan; maiaangat iyong antas ng mga trabaho dito tungo doon sa tinatawag na highly-skilled at highly-remunerative, dahil iyan ang pinapansin ng mga namumuhunan, mga nagtatatag ng negosyo - iyong kalidad ng labor resources natin, at iyong kalidad din ng labor climate – iyong umiiral na pagsasamahan ng management at ng mga empleyado. Mahalaga pong mga aspeto iyan nang pagiging kaaya-aya ng isang bansa para sa economic development.

ALAN: Opo. Tutal napapag-usapan ho natin iyong mga trabaho, Sec, ano ho. Several years back ay nagiging usapin ho iyong mismatch sa pagitan ng mga available na trabaho at iyong mga nag-a-apply ng trabaho na wala namang kaukulang kakayahan na tutugma doon sa mga available na trabaho. Sa ngayon po kumusta na ang status na ito, yung noon ay sinasabing mismatch between labor at iyong mga skills na dapat sanang taglay ng mga nag-a-apply ng trabaho, sir?

SEC. COLOMA: Iyan po ay tinutukoy ng ating Education Cluster, kasama din po diyan iyong DepEd, iyong CHEd at iyong DOLE at TESDA.

Sa isang banda tinutukoy ng mga paaralan iyong pagtitiyak na ang kanilang mga curriculum ay sumasabay o nauuna doon sa pangangailangan ng industriya at kalakal at ng labor market - na mayroong mga karampatang kaalaman ang ating mga kabataan na magsisipagtapos sa paaralan.

Sa kabilang aspeto naman, nandiyan iyong skills training, dahil iyong natutunan sa paaralan maaaring hindi sapat iyon; at ito ay naka-akma - ang salita nga dito ay “tailor-fit to industry needs” - tinutukoy iyong mga partikular na kailangan ng mga iba’t ibang industriya para maging sapat iyong kaalaman at karunungan ng mga empleyado na papasok sa mga kumpaniyang ito. Isang example iyong sa business process outsourcing, o iyong sa kilala na natin by the general category na call center. Ito’y isa sa mga fastest growing industries natin, Alan. At bagama’t marami tayong na-e-empleyo dito, napakaliit na bahagi lamang ng lahat na nag-a-apply diyan ang nagka-qualify. At one point, several years ago, less than five percent nung lahat ng mga nag-a-apply ang nagka-qualify. Kaya ang ginawa diyan ay nagbuo ng programa ang pamahalaan - primarily through TESDA - para dagdagan iyong kaalaman ng mga tinatawag na “near hires” – iyong halos nag-qualify na. Kasi napatunayan na kung dadagdagan na lang nang konti iyong kanilang pagsasanay ay puwede na silang mag-qualify. At ito ay sinuportahan at tinustusan ng ating pamahalaan para nga makapasok na kaagad sila na mayroong kaukulang skill set at mag-qualify sa ating mga good job openings ‘no, na mataas ang suweldo at stable ang kanilang employment.

So iyan ang ginagawa ng pamahalaan para ma-attain iyong closer match between skill sets and job requirements.

ALAN: Okay. Well, Secretary Coloma, sir, muli, nais po naming magpasalamat sa inyo for giving us the updates mula po diyan sa Palasyo. Thank you, sir.

SEC. COLOMA: Maraming salamat at magandang umaga, Alan.
SOURCE: News Information Bureau - Data Processing Center
Last Updated: 23 MARCH 2015
Alternative photo archive with high resolutions
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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)
Please email us at pcoo.edp@gmail.com if you need a copy of last week's photo releases of PNOY
Philippine Information Agency Region 1 and 3 others shared a link.


One Luzon E-NewsMagazine 24 March 2015 Vol. 5 No. 057     issuu.com








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