4 Dispatch for May 20 , 2015 ( Wednesday ), 3 Weather Watch , 1 Regional Watch, 1 OFW Watch , 18 Online News (May 19) , 51 PhotoRelease (May 19)

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

Issued at: 5:00 AM today, 20 May 2015
Valid Beginning: 5:00 AM today until 5:00 AM tomorrow Synopsis:

Ridge of High Pressure Area (HPA) affecting Luzon.

Predicted Mean Sea Level Pressure Analysis 8 AM 20 May 2015

Predicted Mean Sea Level Wind Analysis 8 AM 20 May 2015

Forecast:

Partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated thunderstorms will be experienced over the whole country mostly in the afternoon or evening.


Light to moderate winds blowing from the southeast to south will prevail throughout the archipelago and its coastal waters will be slight to moderate. 

Weather Watch

15 hrs ·

ABS-CBN: Sa sobrang init ng panahon kanina ay posible ka nang makapagprito ng itlog. Pumalo na kasi sa 42°C ang heat index na naranasan sa Isabela kaninang 3:00 ng hapon. Naitala naman sa Tuguegarao ang 41°C na heat index habang sa Metro Manila ay 39°C. Kaparehong heat index ang posibleng maramdaman sa mga susunod na araw. Sa kabila ng mainit na panahon, posible pa rin na magkaroon ng isolated thunderstorms at rainshowers sa hapon at gabi.

Pia Quezon

Like · Comment · Share

Weather Watch

16 hrs ·

GMA resident meteorologist Nathaniel Cruz:
-Bahagyang maulap pero mababa ang tsansa ng ulan bukas sa Metro Manila.
-Sa buong Visayas, posible ang maghapong ulan.
-Posibleng umulan sa eastern section ng Mindanao umaga pa lamang at sa hapon ay buong Mindanao na ang makararanas ng thunderstorm at mga pag-ulan.

May 20  , 2015 ( Wednesday) as of 9:00 AM

     PIA4A / PIA QUEZON    :  Sunny  in Lucena City

PIA Regional Watch

21 hrs ·

PIA-4A/BATANGAS: Nagsimula na ang Brigada Eskwela sa iba't ibang paaralan sa lalawigan ng Batangas kung saan layon nitong maihanda at maisaayos ang mga silid aralan para sa pagbubukas ng klase ngayong Hunyo 2015.

PIA OFW Watch

15 hrs ·

GMA: Hinatulang guilty ang Pinoy nurse sa UK na si Victorino Chua sa kaso ng pagpatay sa kanyang mga pasyente. Sa kanyang pag-amin sa korte, mayroon daw demonyong nag-udyok sa kanya na patayin ang mga pasyente. Kalaunan ay nakitaan ng problema sa pag-iisip si Chua.

CAVITE

1.  2ID Jungle Fighters participate in Brigada Eskwela

• May 19, 2015

ANTIPOLO CITY, Rizal, May 19 (PIA) -- Troops of the 2nd Infantry (Jungle Fighter) Division participated in the Brigada Eskwela conducted by three public schools within Barangay Sampaloc, Tanay, Rizal.

The activity held last May 18 is part of the 2ID’s community-based peace and development efforts aligned with the IPSP-Bayanihan and Army Transformation Roadmap (ATR) imperatives.

Likewise, it also aims to support the advocacy of the Department of Education to organize volunteers to help in repairing, repainting and cleaning of school campuses/premises before the start of classes.

“The Jungle Fighters are always eager to participate and help the community through this kind of activities as it showcase our sincerity in promoting and sustaining peace and development within our Area of Responsibility (AOR),” said Lt Col Eric C Guevarra, Battalion Commander, 2nd CMOBn, 2ID, PA.

The 2ID troops helped clean three public schools within Barangay Sampaloc namely Jose Fabella Memorial School, Sampaloc National High School, and Camp Mateo Capinpin Elementary School.

The Brigada Eskwela which was also participated in by teachers, parents, students and other local officials is a nationwide program of the Department of Education. (PA- 2IDPAO/ PIA-Rizal/PIA-4A)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2261432005748/2id-jungle-fighters-participate-in-brigada-eskwela#sthash.v8Qae5cl.dpuf

19 MAY 2015.
	Palace hopes lawmakers would ‘vote for peace’ as lower house determines fate of Bangsamoro draft law
Apec News Releases
	Fair taxation in tourism taken up in APEC meeting in Boracay
	Boracay is now country’s cruise ship destination
	Malay officials see APEC tourism discussion as important to Boracay's redevelopment

Palace hopes lawmakers would ‘vote for peace’ as lower house determines fate of Bangsamoro draft law

Malacañang on Monday reiterated its hope for the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) to make it to the next level, as members of the House of Representatives’ ad hoc committee began to vote on the proposed legislation. In a statement sent to reporters, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said they are hoping that committee members would ‘vote for peace’ to help Mindanao achieve its much-needed progress and development. “Today, the House of Representatives’ ad hoc committee is expected to begin voting on the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law. We reiterate our hope that the committee members will vote for peace, through which we can bring progress and development to Mindanao and better the lives of our countrymen,” Secretary Lacierda said. In an interview with Radyo ng Bayan on Sunday, Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said it is the administration’s aim to have a sound BBL passed by Congress that will champion the goals of the peace process. “Nananalig kami na sa kanilang pagpapasya, isasaalang-alang ng ating mga mambabatas ang pambansang interes at ang kapakanan ng mga mamamayan sa buong Mindanao,” Secretary Coloma said. The BBL is an offshoot of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, the final peace agreement between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) signed on March 27 last year. It intends to establish a Bangsamoro political entity in the south with an enhanced basic structure of government, replacing the existing Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, which President Benigno S. Aquino III once described as a "failed experiment." PND (hdc)

TOP

Fair taxation in tourism taken up in APEC meeting in Boracay

(BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan) A discussion on tourism and taxation aimed at developing policies for a fair taxation system in the Asia-Pacific region's tourism industry opened here Tuesday. "I believe that properly constituted taxes are certainly a necessity and a legitimate fiscal tool for every economy. And a greater level playing field for private enterprises in the tourism sector should naturally contribute to it," Javier Guillermo Molina, lead shepherd of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation’s (APEC) tourism working group, said in his welcome remarks at the Paradise Garden Resort here. Molina said the tourism activity in the region has been growing at a higher rate than the economy in general and it is one of the most dynamic economic sectors. However, he said, this should not translate into an increase in taxes. "The sector has proven to be resilient and contributed to the recovery of our economies. Thus, fiscal policymakers should bear in mind not only the short-term revenue but the medium and long-term, of its power to create economic growth and development," Molina stressed. While designing new taxes, policymakers should not impose arbitrary taxes and levies, as this is counterproductive to the economy, sustainable tourism development, and tourist arrivals, he noted. These unfair taxes could affect the sector's contribution to the gross domestic product, employment, and the development of micro, small and medium enterprises, he added. Molina said policymakers should approach this case cautiously to ensure that it maximizes the growth of domestic and international travel and tourism in the region without creating hurdles in these activities. He also suggested that economies start developing what the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) refers to as "intelligent taxation policies", as opposed to uniform taxation. This policy is aimed at ensuring the efficiency of the fiscal system by adopting it to the changing environment and the volatile requirement, he said, adding that this would be possible by keeping taxes simple, fair, and aimed at creating stimulus for growth. "Taxes that do not end up killing the goose that lays the golden egg. Taxes that are correct," he said. There has been a tremendous growth in travel and tourism in the region in the past several years, Molina said, noting that last year saw the growth of travel and tourism in the Americas by 7 percent, and in Asia Pacific by 5 percent. The development in regional tourism is growing well above average and this creates more jobs and more business for the people in the APEC region, he said. PND (as)

TOP

Boracay is now country’s cruise ship destination

(BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan) Boracay Island is now the Philippines’ new cruise ship destination, apart from being one of the best beaches in the world. “We received nine cruise ship visits last year. Of the figure, four were maiden voyages from the world’s most luxurious cruise liners,” Aklan Governor Joeben Miraflores boasted during the international conference on enhancing tourism competitiveness in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) region held here Tuesday. This year, 12 cruise ship visits, mostly by Royal Caribbean, have been scheduled, Miraflores added.“Right now, the national government has allocated a budget to develop a port in Caticlan in the mainland of Aklan to receive these cruise ships in the future,” he said. In the same event, the local executive chief underscored Aklan’s huge contribution to the economy, owing to Boracay’s vibrant tourism industry. ”Translated into tourism receipts, visitor arrivals in 2014, as per the Department of Tourism Region 6 estimates, were able to generate P41 billion for the country’s economy,” Miraflores said. Boracay Island is hosting the APEC Senior Officials’ Meeting and Related Meetings and the Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting from May 10 to 24. PNA (ldv)

TOP

Malay officials see APEC tourism discussion as important to Boracay's redevelopment

(BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan) Local officials of Malay, Aklan regard the ongoing Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) discussion on tourism and taxation as a means to help them balance Boracay Island’s redevelopment and increase tourist arrivals. In her welcome address delivered during a conference on tourism and taxation here Tuesday, Mabel Bacani from the Office of the Mayor of Malay, said the present APEC conference is very significant to such tourist destinations as Boracay Island. The discussion, being held at the Paradise Garden Resort, is entitled "Conference on Enhancing Tourism Competitiveness in the APEC Region Through Alignment of Tourism and Taxation Policies". Although Boracay Island is just 1,064 hectares, the municipal government of Malay annually targets P392 million just to sustain its operations, which is mostly tourism-oriented, said Bacani, who also heads the secretariat of the Boracay Redevelopment Task Force. "From the internal revenue allotment (IRA), we get a 20 percent share, but there are a lot of infrastructure needed at this point when Boracay is redeveloping," she said. Redevelopment, she said, means welcoming an increase in tourist arrivals in the coming years, keeping in mind the need to sustain Boracay's development. Sustaining also means preserving the island by moving and relocating non-tourism activities from Boracay Island to the mainland, she added. "This is to ensure that our sustainable development in the years to come will enable us, not only to develop, but in fact develop as well, new designations not only in Boracay but also in the rest of the province of Aklan," she said. Bacani further said that although Boracay Island is only 1,064 hectares, it has been able to capture 26 percent of the country’s tourism market. She estimated Boracay's annual tourist arrivals at 1.5 million, noting that the Department of Tourism aims to bring in 2.8 million tourists in 2018. Bacani also pointed out that while they look at taxation as a friendly tool to cover the demand for 10,000 rooms, they are also very cautious in developing their product and destination, as well as in sustaining them in the years to come. Tuesday's conference is aimed at providing a platform for open discussions of aligning tourism and taxation policies toward sustainable and inclusive growth of tourism in the APEC economies. PND (as)

TOP

19 MAY 2015 Key reforms to fuel spending efficiency in 2015; DBM: Structural fixes, A.O. 46 crucial to faster disbursements DOLE’s focus is on labor standards and OSH, Baldoz says, as she instructs NCR regional office to fast-track probe DWPH I.S.O. certified Pantawid Pamilya vocational grads to work overseas DOJ clarifies stand on "Boat People" from Bangladesh and Myanmar PSA Media Advisory Roxas: Public service is sweet, honorable DepEd launches the first Tboli Senior High School DILG sets up one-stop center to assist fire victims' kin APEC advocates Agricultural Innovation and Modernization during Public-Private dialogue on services Services can lead to inclusive growth, aay experts at APEC Public-Private Dialogue on Services in Boracay Double tracking of PNR's Sucat-Alabang stretch up for bidding PH leads preparations on APEC talks for Structural Reform for Inclusive Growth and Services SSS to setup Help Desk in Valenzuela SSS hosts DevComNet Help save coral reefs, DENR urges Filipinos Agrarian Cooperatives get P7.7-M credit assistance PDIC to pay depositors of the closed Community Rural Bank of Magsaysay (Davao Del Sur), Inc. on May 21 Key reforms to fuel spending efficiency in 2015; DBM: Structural fixes, A.O. 46 crucial to faster disbursements Source: http://www.dbm.gov.ph The Department of Budget and Management today reaffirmed the government’s positive outlook for public spending this year, citing the implementation of broad structural reforms and greater inter-agency cooperation as jump-starters for swifter disbursements in 2015. The DBM’s statement came in the wake of a GlobalSource Partners report, which expressed concerns over the government’s spending performance in the first three months of 2015, and noted the creation of Administrative Order (A.O.) No. 46—which was signed by President Benigno S. Aquino III last March—as a sign of slow spending from January to March this year. The Washington, DC-based think-tank also observed the lack of government data on government disbursements in the first quarter. However, the Bureau of Treasury (BTr) explained that the absence of monthly reports was a result of the government’s transition to a unified account systems and a new reporting format. “President Aquino’s order for more efficient spending was a direct result of last year’s spending shortfall, and not of slow spending in the first three months of 2015. The year 2014 was a most instructive one for us. We have since designed strategic fixes for the bureaucracy’s structural weaknesses, which were getting in the way of efficient spending. “The creation of A.O. No. 46 is meant to be a sustainable solution for better spending and cooperation among government agencies. It’s a solution that should work this year and beyond, and not just on a piecemeal basis,” DBM Secretary Florencio “Butch”Abad clarified. The Budget chief was likewise supportive and understanding of the changes made by BTr to its reporting practices, adding that the initial delay is temporary and meant to enhance data releases in the long-term. “BTr’s transition to a more open and transparent reporting system will help us gather data faster and more accurately. As a result, we expect to gain quicker access to key fiscal management information, which will in turn help us in developing responsive budget policies and measures,” Abad said. The DBM publishes reports on the status of allotment releases and of utilization of Notices of Cash Allocation (NCA) every month. Meanwhile, BTr issues the Cash Operations Report (COR), which comprises figures on cash receipts, disbursements, and the resulting surplus or deficit. A.O. No. 46 came about after consultations undertaken by the DBM with various agencies revealed that almost half of the 2014 spending deficit was due to capacity weaknesses within agencies and Government-Owned-and-Controlled Corporation (GOCCs). The measures under A.O. No. 46 also cover the establishment of better procurement practices, more effective monitoring and evaluation, and the involvement of dedicated officials and staff in ensuring faster disbursements in their respective agencies. “Aside from A.O. No. 46, the budget reforms that we’ve been pursuing will cure the structural problems and spending bottlenecks that have hampered agency spending all these years. We thus look forward to stronger government spending this year, in line with the Administration’s drive for greater economic expansion and inclusive growth,” Abad said. |TOP| DOLE’s focus is on labor standards and OSH, Baldoz says, as she instructs NCR regional office to fast-track probe Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz yesterday said the Department of Labor and Employment is focusing its own probe into the labor standards and occupational safety and health aspects of the fire accident at the Kentex Manufacturing Corporation last 13 May 2015 so as not to duplicate parallel investigations by relevant government agencies. “We are focused only on these two aspects, in the light of the many investigations on the accident looking into the enforcement, observance, and monitoring of compliance with, among other laws and regulations, the Fire Code of the Philippines; National Building and Structural Code; Philippine Electrical Code; Philippine Society of Mechanical Engineers’ Code; and the Local Government Code,” Secretary Baldoz said. “Focus on OSH and general labor standards.” This was the instruction I issued to Regional Director Alex Avila of the DOLE National Capital Region in the conduct of a mandatory conference to gather the facts surrounding the fire accident,” Baldoz said. She stated that the first of the two mandatory conferences had been concluded yesterday and that Avila had reported its results. On general labor standards, the labor and employment chief said the DOLE had gathered and established the following: (1) CJC Manpower Services, a subcontractor of Kentex Manufacturing Corporation, is not registered with the DOLE as a legitimate subcontractor under D.O. 18-A. “This corroborates the result of the joint assessment by the DOLE Regional Office No. 3 of CJC Manpower Services last Friday, 15 May,” she said. (2) The subcontractor was not paying the correct wages and benefits of its workers; and was not remitting the social security benefits of its workers to the Social Security System, PhilHealth, and Pag-Ibig. “Regional Director Ana Dione of our Regional Office in Central Luzon reported that based on the joint assessment, CJC has been underpaying its workers, including not paying the cost of living allowance under Wage Order No. NCR-18 and Wage Order No. NCR-19. Its workers deployed at Kentex Manufacturing Corporation were being paid only P202.50 per day, because it claimed that Kentex has been paying them separately P230 per day. However, no payroll can support the said claim,” said Baldoz, citing the report. She said other CJC violations include the non-payment of 13th month pay for 2014; non-payment of holiday pay and special holiday premium; illegal deduction for cash bond; non-membership of workers and irregular or almost non-remittance of premiums to SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-Ibig Fund, despite deductions on pay for these social security contributions. Baldoz further said the DOLE has found out that CJC’s last remittance to the SSS was on 8 April 2015 for January 2015 premiums covering only 19 workers, none of whom were employed at Kentex Manufacturing Corporation. “Its last Pag-Ibig remittance was on 6 May 2015 for February 2015 contributions covering a mere 13 workers, only four of whom were deployed at Kentex. On the other hand, it last remitted PhilHealth premiums on 25 March 2015 for February 2015 premiums unbelievably covering six workers, only three of whom were deployed at the rubber slipper factory,” Secretary Baldoz said. On occupational safety and health standards, Avila reported to Baldoz this will be the focus of the second mandatory conference, since no representative from Kentex Manufacturing Corporation was around to answer questions during the first mandatory conference. “Kentex Manufacturing Corporation did not attend the conference, despite receiving the official notice, as records of the DOLE NCR would show. So the second conference is on Wednesday. If the company fails to attend, then, it will be construed that it has waived its right to be heard,” said Baldoz. Also during the first conference, Baldoz said the DOLE has established that CJC Manpower Services has four other principals to where it has deployed 23 more workers for various positions. “Director Avila has ordered these principals to be jointly assessed,” she explained. The four principals that CJC Manpower Services admitted it is engaged with, and the number of workers it has deployed are Tempco Valenzuela Glass Corporation, one production worker; Toyo Machine, two production operators; ADLC Rubber Corporation, 20 production “helpers”; and Ultra Plus, eight “helpers”. “CJC representatives, namely, Gilbert Mallari, liason manager, and George Dimayuga, adviser-consultant of CJC owner John Cyren Villafuerte, who is only a 19-year old student, and a nephew of Dimayuga, admitted it has no written agreements with these four principals and has no employment contracts with its 23 workers, in the same manner that it has no written contract with Kentex and employment contracts with its workers deployed to the rubber slipper manufacturer,” Baldoz revealed. “In fact, it didn’t hire the 99 workers it admitted to have deployed to Kentex between April 2014 and the date of occurrence of the fire accident. Kentex just ‘assigned’ this to the sub-contractor. In short, CJC is a dummy of Kentex,” Baldoz said. The labor and employment chief said the DOLE-NCR can already evaluate the results of the mandatory conferences, including the documents and statements it obtained, and the interviews it had conducted, and thereafter issue a Compliance Order to both the subcontractor and Kentex. “The compliance order, an exercise of lawful authority, should already detail all the money accountabilities of Kentex and its subcontractor,” said Baldoz. Over the weekend, Baldoz said the direct employer (Kentex) faces possible liabilities and remedies and compensation, such as administrative liability, specifically, solidary liability with the contractor or subcontractor (CJC) for any violation of any provision of the Labor Code; criminal liability, specifically, reckless imprudence resulting to multiple injury and multiple homicide; violation of the Fire Code; violation of the National Building Code; arson (if it is established that the factory owner/s started the fire); and criminal liability, under Art. 288 of the Labor Code for possible violation of labor standards, occupational safety and health standards, and social legislations. “The company could also face civil liability, specifically, actual damages (medical expenses, etc.); moral damages; and exemplary damages,” she said. |TOP| DWPH I.S.O. certified Source: http://www.dpwh.gov.ph |TOP| Pantawid Pamilya vocational grads to work overseas Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph Some 880 beneficiaries of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program from Misamis Oriental have qualified to work abroad after graduating from vocational courses at the Skills Mastery Institute (SMI), a private institution based in the province. Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman said that the Department continues to partner with private institutions like SMI to help in the implementation of the Department’s Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) through provision of free skills training. Of the 880 beneficiaries, 444 have already passed employers’ requirements and are now waiting for their schedule to leave and work abroad. The rest are also completing their requirements for overseas employment. The 880 Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries have completed vocational courses on household services, housekeeping, massage therapy, beauty care, cookery, food processing, food and beverage services, plumbing, shielded metal arc welding, and carpentry. Pantawid Pamilya is a human development program that invests in the health and education of poor families, primarily those with children aged 0-18. It provides cash grants to partner-beneficiaries who comply with the conditions of sending their children to school, bringing them to health centers for checkups, and attending the monthly Family Development Sessions (FDS). To complement the cash grants given to poor families, DSWD also provides them with sustainable livelihood support through SLP to improve their socio-economic status. This is done by enhancing their employability and productive capacity through community-based trainings. |TOP| DOJ clarifies stand on "Boat People" from Bangladesh and Myanmar Source: http://www.doj.gov.ph Irregular migration of "boat people" from Myanmar and Bangladesh is not new. Its escalation is brought about by the disruption of human trafficking chain running from Bangladesh and Myanmar to Thailand and Malaysia. These "boat people", reportedly as many as 6,000 drifting at sea, is a humanitarian crisis that calls for humanitarian measures to meet the challenges of countries to whom they may ask for help. They may be victims of persecution. In their desperation to leave the territory where their life or freedom has been threatened, or their human rights have been seriously violated, they even become willing victims of human smuggling. It is not uncommon for human traffickers to procure false passports or send their victims off without any travel documents. Like any other country, aliens who enter the Philippines without a passport or on false passport are undocumented which is a violation of our immigration law that will ordinarily subject them to exclusion proceeding. However, asylum seekers cannot always be expected to obtain travel documents particularly where the agent of persecution is the State. Hence, their situation deserves to be treated and examined in a different context. The Philippines is a signatory to the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and the 1954 Convention Relating to the Status of Stateless Persons. A process is in place to accord the protection of the Philippine Government to genuine asylum seekers. The Philippines had its share of hosting asylum seekers in the past even before it became a signatory to the 1951 Convention that was adopted on July 22, 1981. As early as the Second World War, it provided asylum to 1,500 Jews refugees who had been denied asylum in other countries. The Philippines is willing to share to other Southeast Asian countries its experience in the management of asylum seekers. As to those who traffick asylum seekers, they shall be dealt with in accordance with the law against human trafficking. |TOP| PSA Media Advisory Source: http://www.nscb.gov.ph EVENT: PSA Press Conference on the 2015 First Quarter Performance of the Philippine Economy SPEAKERS: Hon. Arsenio M. Balisacan, NEDA Director General Hon. Lisa Grace S. Bersales, PSA National Statistician DATE: 28 May 2015 (Thursday) at 10:00 a.m. VENUE: PSA Operations Room, 5th Floor Midland Buendia, Bldg., 403 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) announces the holding of a Press Conference on the 2015 First Quarter Performance of the Philippine Economy on May 28, 2015 (Thursday) at 10:00 a.m. at the PSA Operations Room, 5th Floor Midland Buendia, Bldg., 403 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City. National Economic and Development Authority Director General Arsenio M. Balisacan and PSA National Statistician Lisa Grace S. Bersales will be the resource persons for the event. The press conference will be streamed live on the Internet through the USTREAM channelhttp://www.ustream.tv/channel/philippine-statistics-authority. Highlights of the press conference will be tweeted live all throughout the duration of the press conference through the Twitter account @PSAgovph. The hashtag to be used is #PHGDP. JOSIE B. PEREZ (Deputy National Statistician) Officer-in-Charge |TOP| Roxas: Public service is sweet, honorable Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph For Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Mar Roxas, public service is a sweet and honorable thing and that it is a big honor for him to be part of Eastern Leyte's recovery from the devastation caused by super typhoon Yolanda. "Isang karangalan para sa akin ang makatulong sa pagbangon ng Eastern Samar. Napakatamis na maging bahagi ng pagbangon na ito. Hindi ko kayo iniwan noon, hindi ko kayo iiwan ngayon," Roxas told a jampacked crowd at the newly renovated civic center in Gen. MacArthur, Eastern Samar on Saturday, May 16. "Salamat sa pagkakataon na ibinigay ninyo sa akin para maging bahagi ng inyong pagbangon," he added. Roxas visited the province to inspect some of the completed projects under the first phase of the Recovery Assistance on Yolanda (RAY-I) and distributed checks for the massive rehabilitation of barangay facilities in the province under the second phase (RAY-II). The national government has allocated a total of P253.6 million for Eastern Samar under RAY-II. Roxas personally handed the checks to local government and barangay officials during a simple ceremony after the inauguration of the newly reconstructed civic center. The distribution of the checks also marks the beginning of the massive repair and reconstruction of a total of 257 barangay facilities in the province as part of the ongoing rehabilitation in areas affected by Yolanda. According to Roxas, the rehabilitation was designed in such a way that the buildings are more resistant to natural calamities, and that the funds will generate jobs and spur economic activities. “Ang mga pako, G.I. sheets, at materyales na gagamitin ay bibilihin sa Eastern Samar at ang gagawa at magtatrabaho ay mga taga Eastern Samar para makinabang ang tao at ang ekonomiya ng probinsya,” he said. The projects under RAY 2 involve the repair or reconstruction of barangay halls, health care centers, and civic centers in 206 barangays in 12 towns. Roxas expects that the projects under RAY 2 will be completed within the year. Accompanied by local officials led by Eastern Samar Governor Conrado Nicart Jr., Cong. Ben Evardone, local chief executives, and barangay officials of RAY 2 beneficiaries, Roxas led the ribbon-cutting and inspection of the Gen. MacArthur Public Market and Gen. MacArthur Municipal Hall. RAY is DILG's part of the Aquino administration’s post-Yolanda “Build Back Better” rehabilitation effort for affected barangays. The town of Gen. MacArthur alone received checks worth P7,287,594 for the repair and reconstruction of 13 barangay facilities in 11 affected barangays. According to Roxas, a total of P100.21 million RAY-I funds have been released for Eastern Samar alone. The funds were for the repair of 10 municipal halls, 10 public markets, and 7 civic centers, most of which have already been completed as of April 30, 2015. On Friday, May 16, Roxas distributed checks worth over P449.15 million for the rehabilitation of barangay facilities in 26 towns in nearby Leyte Province. For RAY 2 in the entire Eastern Visayas Region, the National Government has allotted a total of P948 million. The first batch of local government units from Leyte, Samar and Biliran, and Eastern Samar received their RAY 2 funds last March 2015 amounting to P498.68 million. |TOP| DepEd launches the first Tboli Senior High School Source: http://www.deped.gov.ph Lake Sebu, South Cotabato—After extensive consultations and planning with the indigenous peoples’ community, local government, and education partners, the Department of Education (DepEd) established the first Tboli Senior High School. Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC said, “This is the first of its kind. We endeavored to make sure that the curriculum as well as its [senior high school] offerings are in line with Indigenous Peoples culture and language. Ang eskwelahan dapat ang link between culture and development.” He said, “Ito po ang kauna-unahang Senior High School na sinikap ng DepEd—kasama ang Ateneo de Davao—na kunsultahin at pakinggan ang mga hinaing at mga pangarap ng ating mga katutubo.” He emphasized the need of the education system to be inclusive and centered on the needs and context of the learners, saying, “We are a nation in search of who we are. Until we are able to return to the roots of our indigenous peoples, we will never be able to find our soul.” “If we are serious about being learner-centered, we should also be serious about being culturally sensitive,” Luistro added. Luistro also dedicated the launching of the Tboli Senior High School to the late Gawad Manlilikha ng Bayan awardee Lang Dulay, saying that “we need to understand and to nurture of our culture so that the works of Lang Dulay will not be lost with her and that we can pass on her dreams and arts to the next generation.” Tboli Senior High School (TSHS), which will be initially lodged at Lake Sebu National High School with approximately 45 students for its early implementation of Grade 11 in SY 2015-2016, will be offering technical-vocational track, focusing on Sustainable Community Resources Management with two options: Agriculture and Ecotourism. Active engagement of the indigenous community Datu Benito Blonto, chair of the Municipal Tribal Council of Lake Sebu, said that proper consultations and coordination with the parents and students in the Tboli community, Lake Sebu NHS, and other education stakeholders have been crucial in creating the program. Through consultations with Tboli elders, teachers, parents, students, and other education stakeholders, TSHS came up with its aspirations for its students that seek to uphold, preserve, and promote the Tboli cultural identity through an inclusive, participative, environmentally-friendly, and quality culture-based education. Blonto said the program will be beneficial to the students, adding, “Pagkatapos nila sa K to 12, makakapasok sila sa employment dahil may skills and qualifications na sila. Sa pamamagitan ng programang ito, ide-develop natin ang skills ng mga estudyante base sa kultura. Sasanayin sila sa ecotourism at paggamit ng resources na mayroon sa lugar.” The program intends to create graduates who are capable of developing and managing their own resources, creating sustainable livelihood and opportunities for the Tboli community, where the school is situated. Through the program, graduates will be equipped with entrepreneurial and management skills to prepare them for small-scale business ventures or communal cooperative management. The development of the TSHS is an initiative being undertaken by DepEd in partnership with Ateneo de Davao University, particularly in the areas of curriculum development, teacher training and mentoring, and research. |TOP| DILG sets up one-stop center to assist fire victims' kin Source: http://pnp.gov.ph Taking the “whole of government approach” in addressing the needs of families of victims of the deadly fire that killed 72 workers in Valenzuela City, the Department of the Interior and Local Government has mobilized its bureaus and attached agencies to provide the leg work to establish a one-stop-assistance-center that will facilitate inter-agency government assistance to victims’ relatives. DILG Secretary Mar Roxas announced that the assistance center will be manned by representatives from the local government unit of Valenzuela City, congressional offices, non-government organizations, Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Social Security System (SSS), Pag-Ibig Fund, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Education *DepEd), Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Offices (PCSO), Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Inter-Agency Anti-Arson Task Force of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP). Roxas said the one-stop-assistance-center will be operational within the week. For the part of the PNP, a representative from the Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) “Kentex” will be available to entertain inquiries regarding the ongoing investigation, including progress of the tedious process of identification of the remains recovered at the razed factory. This developed as the PNP Crime Laboratory has already made initial identification of some personal belongings and personal effects recovered at the scene of the deadly fire in Valenzuela City last May 13 that killed 72 persons. This was disclosed by Senior Superintendent Edgar Danao, Commander of Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) “Kentex” as he presided the fourth case conference held on Monday morning among representatives from the Bureau of Fire Protection, Valenzuela City Government, Crime Lboratory and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, and other PNP units involved in the investigation. Danao said to hasten the identification process, the PNP Crime Laboratory will also attempt to identify some of the recovered human remains thru forensic odontology by comparing the victims’ remains with available dental records. Meanwhile, The Valenzuela City Government has also offered the services of Skull Photo Super Imposition to be utilized for the speedy identifications of the victims. At present, Danao said, DNA specimens have been collected from living family members of the victims for possible matching with DNA extracted from the bodies. All recovered human remains are temporarily kept in individual coffins inside niches at the public cemetery and properly labeled for organized recording. Danao has taken to task the CIDG to take the sworn statements of the first responders to assist probers in establishing the events before, during and after the incident. SITG “Kentex” has also secured a copy of the After Fire Operation Report dated May 15, 2015 submitted by the Fire District Marshal. SITG “Kentex” will convene again for another case conference on Tuesday, May 19, 2015. (PNP-PIO) |TOP| APEC advocates Agricultural Innovation and Modernization during Public-Private dialogue on services Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph 19 May 2015 - Representatives from both the public and private sectors of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) economies participated in an inclusive discourse on services during the Public-Private Dialogue on Services held at the sidelines of the APEC Senior Officials Meeting and Related Meetings on May 17 in Boracay, Aklan, Philippines. Invited speakers discussed the key role of services in enabling trade in agriculture, as one of the three sectors of focus for the PPD. In particular, how services can contribute to ensuring modern and efficient agricultural production processes, as well as the smooth movement of agriculture from producers to consumers, i.e. taking agricultural products from the farm to the fork (market) in the most efficient way. According to Dr. Ian Ferguson, Departmental Science Advisor from the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries, services enable value creation and upgrading as it fosters innovation and regulation, even in agriculture. Adding value in the supply chain is made possible through increase draw product value; production efficiency and sustainability; and minimized food loss/waste. Dr Ferguson, however, cautioned how innovation is commonly in conflict with regulation, as the latter fails to keep up with the introduction of modern agricultural techniques. Agricultural services are inherently science-based, hence, receives very little attention. It is, thus, emphasized that science and technology be transported from developed to developing countries. The session also highlighted the vital role of a modern and efficient supply chain for businesses that seek access to regional and global markets. Indeed, enhanced trade in services is critical to building the capability and coherence required to achieve regional economic integration and enable all economies and business to participate. |TOP| Services can lead to inclusive growth, aay experts at APEC Public-Private Dialogue on Services in Boracay Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph 18 May 2015 – The role of services in inclusive growth became the overarching theme of the APEC Public-Private Dialogue (PPD) on Services held yesterday, at the margins of the Second Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM2). APEC 2015 SOM Chair, Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Laura Q. Del Rosario, in her opening address compared the discussion on Services as “another galaxy that people do not understand and are afraid of.” However, she mentioned that Services was worth discussing as it was “important and useful”, thus inviting participants, composed of APEC Senior Officials and representatives from the 21 APEC member-economies, various government agencies, and the private sector, to engage in the discussion on Services both at the PPD, and beyond. “The Services sector is the primary source of global growth. It is what drives the economy, both in developed and developing economies”, remarked keynote speaker, Dr. Sherry Stephenson, Senior Fellow for the International Centre for Trade and Development, emphasizing the need to focus on Services as it plays a critical role in Global Value Chains (GVC) development and cooperation and to further push economic growth trajectory to Inclusive Growth. Services account for 60% of GDP in APEC and 60% of overall APEC employment. This sector accounts for more growth in the region than any other sector. In line with the APEC 2015 theme of “Building Inclusive Growth, Building a Better World”, Dr. Stephenson gave a clear picture of the ways services have contributed to inclusive growth by increasing productivity and economic growth leading to poverty reduction, increasing employment opportunities especially for women, enhancing connectivity, and improving Small and Medium Enterprises’ participation in Global Value Chains. Through services, SMEs and women do not have the same challenges as they would have in the manufacturing or good sector. Services require less capital and less hard infrastructure, and if a business is conducted via the Internet, it becomes essentially cost-free. Dr. Stephenson illustrated this with successful mobile banking programs in Indonesia and Papua New Guinea as examples of how access to financial services have connected the communities and small businesses to their suppliers, customers, business partners and banks through the mobile phone throughout the Indonesian and Papua New Guinea islands, and across the world. Dr. Stephenson’s message of trade and investment in services as a pathway to inclusive growth was carried forward in the subsequent PPD sessions on manufacturing, agriculture and environment-related services. Case studies and discussions of the three sectors’ respective opportunities and barriers to inclusive growth were shared by experts and industry players. The PPD on Services is organized by the Philippines as APEC 2015 Chair, in partnership with the APEC Business Advisory Council currently chaired by Ms. Doris Magsaysay Ho, and the Pacific Economic Cooperation Council. The PPD in Boracay preludes the First Regional Conference of Services Coalitions and Services Industries at the sidelines of the Third Senior Officials Meeting to be held this September in Cebu. |TOP| Double tracking of PNR's Sucat-Alabang stretch up for bidding Source: http://www.dotc.gov.ph P144-Million Project Targeted for Completion in Q3 2016 Manila, Philippines – The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) has published today an Invitation to Bid for a rail track improvement project for the Philippine National Railways (PNR) worth P 144,377,624.62, as part of its effort to revive and improve Southeast Asia’s oldest railway system. The project will add a second track to run parallel to the single track currently connecting the Sucat and Alabang stations, by adding 3.97 kilometers of rails which will allow simultaneous two-way traffic to run in that section. Presently, PNR’s rails are double-tracked from Tutuban to Sucat only. Prospective bidders may purchase the bid documents beginning today. A pre-bid conference which will be open to all interested parties is scheduled on May 26, while the submission and opening of bids is set on June 9. The award and start of construction of the project are targeted by the 3rd quarter of 2015, and the winning bidder will have two hundred (200) calendar days to complete the construction of the double rail tracks. The state-owned PNR is temporarily not operating for safety reasons, as the status of its rail tracks are being investigated by management following the April 29 derailment incident near its Magallanes station. The investigation is expected to yield a precise inventory of missing or needed parts such as rail joints, angle bars, and rail clips – which will then be procured and installed in order to allow the PNR to resume its operations as soon as possible. Prior to the incident, the railway system had been servicing the Tutuban-Calamba route daily. The PNR is also expecting the arrival of two second-hand donated trains from Japan in the coming weeks. Aside from replacing missing parts and constructing double-track rails, the PNR has other rehabilitation projects for near-term implementation such as roofing extension to shield passengers from heat and rain, installation of turnstiles in major stations, and rail and comfort room rehabilitation. These immediate improvements are targeted for completion by the end of 2015 or early next year. Meanwhile, the DOTC is scheduled to begin the procurement process for its long-term solution to revitalize the PNR later this month. This project, called the North-South Railway Project, aims to revive PNR’s services from Malolos to Tutuban as its North Line and Tutuban to Legazpi City as its South Line by the end of 2020. |TOP| PH leads preparations on APEC talks for Structural Reform for Inclusive Growth and Services Source: http://www.neda.gov.ph BORACAY, AKLAN—The Philippines is the lead economy to prepare analytical framework papers on structural reform for inclusive growth and the role of structural reform on services to help shape discussions in the forthcoming Structural Reform Ministerial Meeting (SRMM) to be held in Cebu City in September. Five themes were agreed upon by the Economic Committee during the meeting held on May 16, 2015 at the Shangri-la Hotel in Boracay. These are 1.) Structural Reform for Inclusive Growth; 2.) Structural Reform and Innovation; 3.) Structural Reform and Services; 4.) Tools for Structural Reform; and 5.) New Directions for Structural Reform in APEC. “The theme on inclusive growth is very much aligned with our national priority as it is the country’s overarching goal based on the Updated Philippine Development Plan 2011-2016. Services on the other hand is one of the country’s key initiatives as we advance the APEC Services Cooperation Framework (ASCF) during this hosting year,” said Assistant Director-General Rosemarie G. Edillon, who sat as the Philippine senior official for the Economic Committee. In a separate APEC Economic Committee seminar, NEDA highlighted the need for governments and the private sector to do things differently to make growth inclusive as a way to escape the so-called “middle income trap.” The term is used to refer to a situation where an economy is no longer considered in the low-income category but is taking too long to graduate to high-income status. The Philippines is joined by Peru and Japan in preparing the paper on Structural Reform (SR) for Inclusive Growth, and by Australia and Peru for Structural Reform and Services. “For the inclusiveness theme, we are presented with the challenge of developing policy frameworks for assessing the impacts of structural reform on inclusive growth and vice versa. Definitely, we need to define inclusive growth and develop statistical tools that will enable us to do the assessments and analysis,” said Edillon. Meanwhile, the Economic Committee pointed out that trade in services is faced by unique barriers that are in many cases regulatory in nature. If a regulation is too restrictive and prescriptive, then it will hinder innovation. “These barriers may be addressed through structural reforms that allow people, goods, and resources to flow more easily within and across countries. The ministers could explore how such structural reforms can promote competition, especially within the services industry,” said Edillon. “Structural reform is really about having policies that facilitate the efficient allocation of resources. In terms of our theme, inclusiveness, one can think of how structural reform can address the constraints to enable a lot more to participate in the growth process, both domestically and globally. For example, the services sector can benefit from less restrictions and improved regulatory regimes, especially that it holds a lot of potential for creating employment,” said Deputy Director-General Emmanuel F. Esguerra, who is the head of the Philippine delegation for the APEC Second Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM2). The Philippines also joined the United States and Australia in drafting the paper on the New Directions for Structural Reform in APEC, following the request of the private sector during the Economic Committee-Private Sector Roundtable Discussion on Structural Reform held on May 17, 2015. “The private sector lobbied that the group working on New Directions have a developing country with them, especially one that has much experience in the agriculture and fisheries sector. Thus, we are happy to join the group and give our inputs in the development of the paper,” said Edillon. Meanwhile, China, Chinese Taipei, Russia, and New Zealand will work on the theme on innovation, while the United States, Hong Kong, Mexico, and Chinese Taipei will collaborate on the theme Tools for Structural Reform. Rory Mcleod, chair of the Economic Committee, explained that the approved themes are for the ministers to discuss during the SRMM and the papers will inform their responses. “With Secretary Balisacan to chair the SRMM in September and keeping in mind the country’s domestic priorities, the Philippines is very well-placed to lead and be heavily involved in the discussions on an APEC post-2015 Structural Reform agenda,” said Esguerra. |TOP| SSS to setup Help Desk in Valenzuela Source: https://www.sss.gov.ph The Social Security System (SSS) will setup a Help Desk in the City Government of Valenzuela on May 20, 2015 to assist the families of the victims of fire that ravaged a factory in the city last Wednesday. Located at the Audio Visual Room of the Valenzuela City Hall, the SSS Help Desk will be open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Beneficiaries are advised to bring pertinent documents such as payslips, employment contracts and valid IDs to file their SSS claims. For employees who were injured from the accident, they should present their medical certificates. The Local Government Unit is now in the process of collecting the names of all the victims – dead or injured and verifying them with the SSS membership database. "We have to get the actual list of the victims so that we can verify and match it with our record. So far, based on our initial verification of data, the employer is compliant with the payment of SSS contributions. But I understand it has engaged the services of some manpower agencies who might be non-compliant with SSS. We are now investigating this," said Vice President Marissu G. Bugante of the SSS Public Affairs and Special Events Division. Survivors of deceased SSS members could claim for funeral benefits of P20,000 and death benefits either in lump sum payment or monthly pension. They could also claim for funeral benefits under the Employees' Compensation Program. |TOP| SSS hosts DevComNet Source: https://www.sss.gov.ph The Social Security System (SSS) hosted the Development Communication Coordinating Network (DevComNet) last April 29, 2015 at the Ramon Magsaysay Hall, SSS Main Office Diliman, Quezon City. The event, which was attended by government Public Relations Officers, aims to enhance their communication and crisis management skills as well as to further strengthen the network of various government agencies to provide better services to Filipinos. Photo shows Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Sonny Coloma (standing, left) answering questions from the participants during the open forum with Media Affairs Department Assistant Vice President Ma. Luisa Sebastian (standing, right) facilitating the forum. |TOP| Help save coral reefs, DENR urges Filipinos Source: http://www.denr.gov.ph xThe Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is urging Filipinos to take action to help save what remains of the country’s coral reefs. It said concerted effort is necessary to ensure the survival of the so-called “rainforests of the sea,” which is threatened by human activities and climate change. “We must act now to save our remaining coral reefs, before it’s too late,” the DENR said in a statement. The call was made as the nation celebrates May as Month of the Ocean, with the theme “Stand Up, Save Our Reefs.” According to the DENR, major causes of coral reef destruction include destructive fishing, overfishing, sedimentation, ill-planned coastal development, and rapid population growth. Coral reefs are some of the most diverse ecosystems in the world, housing tens of thousands of marine species. Reefs buffer shorelines from waves and storms that cause flooding and erosion, support commercial and subsistence fisheries, and are home to a thriving recreation and tourism industry. In celebration of the Ocean Month, the DENR’s Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB) has lined up a number of activities aimed at raising awareness on the importance of coral reefs and the negative effects of reef destruction have on food security and marine biodiversity. The highlight of the celebration is the retrieval of three Autonomous Reef Monitoring Structures (ARMS) deployed last year in the waters of Carabao Island in Cavite, Mactan Island in Cebu, and Snake Island in Palawan. Donated by the United States government through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the ARMS units are designed to monitor the overall health conditions of coral reefs and can yield data on impacts of climate change within a marine ecosystem. More than 800 ARMS units have been deployed by NOAA throughout the Pacific, Indian and Atlantic oceans. Prior to retrieval of ARMS, a kick off program will be conducted on Monday (May 18) at the BMB Training Center in Quezon City where US scientists from Smithsonian Institute and Coral Reef Ecosystem Division of NOAA are set to discuss the goals of the project and the partnership initiatives. BMB Director Mundita Lim and Deputy Mission Director Reed Aeschliman of the USAID Philippines are also expected to grace the kick-off event. Simultaneous retrieval of the ARMS units will take place on May 27. After that, the units will be dismantled for “taxonomic identification” of the marine species collected from its plates. The results will be presented at BMB-organized science fairs in various elementary and high schools located in host communities in a bid to educate people on marine life and encourage them to help in conserving marine ecosystems. The BMB said the ARMS units will be redeployed for further studies. It is also planning to increase the number of units in specific sites to provide additional data for research purposes. Other Ocean Month activities include a paper clay art contest dubbed Yaman Sining, Yaman Dagat; a three-day workshop in Subic, Zambales, to review the Integrated Coastal Management Implementation Plan in Bataan and Cavite; and a tour of Balabac, Palawan, where a marine area is being proposed to be declared as a marine protected area. Presidential Proclamation No. 57, issued in 1999, declared May as the Month of the Ocean. The proclamation mandates the DENR and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources of the Department of Agriculture to spearhead the celebration with emphasis on the need to conserve and protect the country’s coastal and marine resources. The Philippine coral reef system is said to be second largest in Southeast Asia, next to Indonesia. It covers around 240 million hectares of water and is home to some 468 species of scleractinian corals, over 50 soft corals, 1,755 reef-associated fishes, 648 mollusks, and 27 marine mammals. |TOP| Agrarian Cooperatives get P7.7-M credit assistance Source: http://www.dar.gov.ph Agrarian reform beneficiaries in Camarines Norte lauded the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) for approving the P7.7 million credit lines for five agrarian reform beneficiaries organizations (ARBOs). DAR Regional Director Luis Bueno Jr. said that the credit assistance is a tripartite program of the the DAR, Department of Agriculture (DA) and LBP under the Agricultural Production Credit Program (APCP). “The program is designed primarily to provide loans to farmer-beneficiaries and their households through cooperatives or ARBOs and other farmers’ organizations to support their individual or communal crop production, agri-enterprise and other livelihood projects,” Bueno said. The five recipient ARBOs and their business production are: the pineapple production for Caayunan Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Brgy. Iberica Cassava Pineapple & Processing Association and MAGCAISA ARC Organization, the Enhanced rice production for Sta. Elena Farmers MPC and the Daet Talisay River Irrigation System Div-C Irrigators Association. According to Bueno, the credit program would also provide trainings, coaching and mentoring for the ARBOs to enhance their access to credit and improve their capability in sustaining crop production. “The provision of credit assistance to ARBs such the APCP, is a component of ARRCESS (Agrarian Reform Community Connectivity and Economic Support Services) that seeks to reduce poverty in agrarian reform areas,” said Bueno. (Nilla P. Lagatuz) Photo 1: Provivncial Agrarian Reform Program Officer Roseller Olayres addressing the recipients of APCP Camarines Norte during the orientation on APCP. Photo 2: ARB Alexander Almadrones of ARC Magcaisa in San Vicente Camarines Norte showing his pineapple plantation funded through APCP. |TOP| PDIC to pay depositors of the closed Community Rural Bank of Magsaysay (Davao Del Sur), Inc. on May 21 Source: http://www.pdic.gov.ph The Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) will service the deposit insurance claims of depositors of the closed Community Rural Bank (Davao Del Sur), Inc. on May 21, 2015, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., at the bank's premises located in Poblacion, Magsaysay, Davao Del Sur. Depositors with valid deposit balances of P50,000 and below, with complete mailing address found in the bank records or updated through the Mailing Address Update Form, and without any outstanding obligation with the bank do not need to file claims. Depositors with account balances of more than P50,000, and those with outstanding obligations with the closed Community Rural Bank of Magsaysay or with incomplete mailing address, or those who maintain the account under the name of business entities, regardless of type of account and account balance, are required to file their deposit insurance claims. The announcement on the claims settlement operations of Community Rural Bank of Magsaysay is posted at its office and in the PDIC website, www.pdic.gov.ph. When filing claims for deposit insurance, depositors are advised to personally present the original copy of evidence of deposit such as Savings Passbook and Certificate of Time Deposit, and two (2) valid photo-bearing IDs with signature of the depositor. Depositors who were not able to come personally may file their claims through mail and enclose the same set of documentary requirements. Depositors who are below 18 years old should be represented by a parent who should submit a photocopy of the child's Birth Certificate issued by the National Statistics Office (NSO) or a duly certified copy issued by the Local Civil Registrar as an additional requirement. The parent will sign the Claim Form and the other requirements. Claimants who are not the signatories in the bank records are required to submit an original copy of a notarized Special Power of Attorney (SPA). In the case of a minor depositor, the SPA must be executed by the parent. The procedures and requirements for filing of deposit insurance claims are posted in the PDIC website, www.pdic.gov.ph. . The Claim Form and format of the Special Power of Attorney may also be downloaded from the PDIC website. Depositors who are not able to file their claims during the claims settlement operations period may submit their claims either through mail to PDIC or personally at the PDIC Office, 4th Floor, SSS Bldg., 6782 Ayala Avenue corner V.A. Rufino Street, Makati City starting on June 1, 2015. In accordance with the provisions of the PDIC Charter, the last day for filing deposit insurance claims in the closed Community Rural Bank of Magsaysay is on May 8, 2017. After this date, PDIC as Deposit Insurer, shall no longer accept any deposit insurance claims. The PDIC said that all valid claims will be paid. For deposits to be considered valid, it must be recorded in the bank's records and must have evidence of inflow of funds, based on the results of PDIC examination. PDIC, as Receiver, has the authority to adjust the interest rate on unpaid interests on deposits of a bank if such rate is deemed unreasonable. For more information, depositors may contact the Public Assistance Department at telephone numbers (02) 841-4630 to 31, or e-mail at pad@pdic.gov.ph. Depositors outside Metro Manila may call the PDIC Toll Free Hotline at 1-800-1-888-PDIC (7342). |TOP|

Last Updated: 19 MAY 2015
Alternative photo archive with high resolutions
Please click on thumbnails to magnify

			President Benigno S. Aquino III leads his official family in prayer before presiding over the National Economic and Development Authority Board Meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (May 19). Also in photo are Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization Francis Pangilinan, Socio-Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan and Budget and Management Secretary Florencio Abad.  Also in photo are Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr.; Secretary to the Cabinet Jose Rene Almendras; Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez, Jr.; Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima; Presidential Management Staff Head Julia Abad; Socio-Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan and Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson.(Photo by Lauro Montellano Jr./ Malacañang)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III leads his official family in prayer before presiding over the National Economic and Development Authority Board Meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (May 19). Also in photo are Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization Francis Pangilinan, Socio-Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan and Budget and Management Secretary Florencio Abad. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III leads his official family in prayer before presiding over the National Economic and Development Authority Board Meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (May 19). Also in photo are Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr.; Secretary to the Cabinet Jose Rene Almendras; Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez, Jr.; Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima; Presidential Management Staff Head Julia Abad; Socio-Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan and Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III extends his condolences to Atty. Nida Lucenario with children Atty. Marien,Domingo III, and Dominique, family of the late Philippine Ambassador to Pakistan Domingo Lucenario, Jr. at the Heritage Park in Taguig City on Thursday (May 14). Amb. Lucenario was one of the few career Filipino diplomats who had the rare distinction of having been awarded by the President of the Philippines with three major Presidential Awards, namely: the Order of Sikatuna Award with the rank of Datu (Gold level), the Order of Lakandula Award with the rank of Grand Officer (Maringal na Pinuno), and the Gawad Mabini Award with the rank of Grand Officer (Dakilang Kamanong). (Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III offers prayers before the remains of the late Philippine Ambassador to Pakistan Domingo Lucenario, Jr. at the Heritage Park in Taguig City on Thursday (May 14). Amb. Lucenario was one of the few career Filipino diplomats who had the rare distinction of having been awarded by the President of the Philippines with three major Presidential Awards, namely: the Order of Sikatuna Award with the rank of Datu (Gold level), the Order of Lakandula Award with the rank of Grand Officer (Maringal na Pinuno), and the Gawad Mabini Award with the rank of Grand Officer (Dakilang Kamanong). (Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III is conferred with a Doctor of Humanities degree (honoris causa) by Tarlac State University  president Dr. Myrna Mallari and Commission on Higher Education chairperson Patricia Licuanan during the conferment ceremony held at the Reception Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (May 14). (Photo by Lauro Montellano Jr./ by Rolando Mailo /  Malacañan Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the conferment ceremony at the Reception Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (May 14, 2015). President Aquino received his Doctor of Humanities degree (honoris causa) from Tarlac State University president Dr. Myrna Mallari. (Photo by  Gil Nartea /   Lauro Montellano Jr./  Rolando Mailo/ Malacañan Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III, assisted by Tarlac State University president Dr. Myrna Mallari and Commission on Higher Education chairperson Patricia Licuanan, dons an academic gown, hood, cap and medal during the conferment of the Degree of Doctor of Humanities (honoris causa) from the Tarlac State University at the Reception Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (May 14, 2015). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Lauro Montellano Jr./  Malacañan Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III attends the conferment of the Degree of Doctor of Humanities (honoris causa) from the Tarlac State University at the Reception Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (May 14). (Photo by Gil Nartera/ Malacañan Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with CEMEX chief executive officer Fernando Gonzalez during the Courtesy Call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (May 14). Also in photo are United Mexican States Ambassador to the Philippines His Excellency Julio Camarena Villaseñor, CEMEX Asia president Joaquin Estrada, CEMEX Strategic Philippines, Inc. president and chief executive officer Pedro Palomino and Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo. (Photo by Rolando Mailo / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with CEMEX chief executive officer Fernando Gonzalez during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (May 14). Also in photo are United Mexican States Ambassador to the Philippines Julio Camarena Villaseñor and CEMEX Asia president Joaquin Estrada. (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with CEMEX chief executive officer Fernando Gonzalez during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (May 14). Also in photo are United Mexican States Ambassador to the Philippines Julio Camarena Villaseñor, CEMEX Asia president Joaquin Estrada, CEMEX Strategic Philippines, Inc. president and chief executive officer Pedro Palomino, Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo, Energy Secretary Carlos Jericho Petilla and TESDA Deputy Director General for Policies and Planning Irene Isaac. (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III greets CEMEX chief executive officer Fernando Gonzalez during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (May 14). Also in photo are United Mexican States Ambassador to the Philippines Julio Camarena Villaseñor, CEMEX Asia president Joaquin Estrada and CEMEX Strategic Philippines, Inc. president and chief executive officer Pedro Palomino. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III exchanges pleasantries with Sarangani Lone District Representative Emmanuel "Manny" Pacquiao during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañang Palace on Wednesday (May 13). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III receives a souvenir black jacket from Sarangani Lone District Representative Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (May 13). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III receives Sarangani Lone District Representative Emmanuel "Manny" Pacquiao during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañang Palace on Wednesday (May 13). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			Executive Secretary Pacquito Ochoa exchanges pleasantries with Sarangani Lone District Representative Emmanuel "Manny" Pacquiao during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (May 13). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino receives from Development Bank of the Philippines chairman Jose Nuñez, Jr. the dividend check amounting to P3.135-billion to be remitted to the National Treasury during the   GOCC Dividends Day at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (May 13). (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the 2015 Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations Dividends Day at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (May 13). (Photo by Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the 2015 Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations Dividends Day at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (May 13). (Photo by Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)
			President Benigno S. Aquino receives from Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation chairman & chief executive officer Cristino Naguiat, Jr. the dividend check amounting to P10.137-billion to be remitted to the National Treasury during the  GOCC Dividends Day at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (May 13). (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino receives from Land Bank of the Philippines executive vice president Andres Sarmiento the dividend check amounting to P6.254-billion to be remitted to the National Treasury during the   GOCC Dividends Day at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (May 13). (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino receives from Bases Conversion Development Authority president & chief executive officer Arnel Paciano Casanova the dividend check amounting to P3.201-billion to be remitted to the National Treasury during  GOCC Dividends Day at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (May 13). (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino receives from Food Terminal, Inc. president Rene Fuentes the dividend check amounting to P2.305-billion to be remitted to the National Treasury during the  GOCC Dividends Day at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (May 13). (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr./ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino receives from Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation president Cristina Orbeta the dividend check amounting to P2.1-billion to be remitted to the National Treasury during the GOCC Dividends Day at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (May 13). (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino receives from Philippine Ports Authority general manager Atty. Juan Sta. Ana the dividend check amounting to P1.817-billion to be remitted to the National Treasury during the GOCC Dividends Day at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (May 13). (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III receives from Philippine National Oil Company president and chief executive officer Antonio Cailao the dividend check amounting to P1.525-billion to be remitted to the National Treasury during the 2015 Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations (GOCC) Dividends Day at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (May 13). (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino receives from Manila International Airport Authority senior assistant general manager Vicente Guerzon the dividend check amounting to P1.339-billion to be remitted to the National Treasury during the 2015 Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations Dividends Day at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (May 13). (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III receives from Philippine Reclamation Authority chairman Roberto Muldong the dividend check amounting to P1.2-billion to be remitted to the National Treasury during the Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations Dividends Day at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (May 13). be (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the 2015 Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations Dividends Day at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (May 13). (Photo by Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his arrival statement at the NAIA (Terminal 2) in Pasay City on Monday (May 11) from his successful working visit to the US and state visit to Canada. (Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			President Benigno S. Aquino III is welcomed by his official family led by DND Secretary Voltaire Gazmin upon arrival at the NAIA (Terminal 2) in Pasay City on Monday (May 11) from his successful working visit to the US and state visit to Canada. (Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			(VANCOUVER, Canada) members of the Filipino community wave miniature Philippine flags during the President Aquino's meeting with them at the West English Bay Ballroom of the Vancouver Convention Center, as part of his state visit to Canada. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			(VANCOUVER, Canada) President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with Premier Christy Clark of British Columbia during the meeting with the Filipino community at the West English Bay Ballroom of the Vancouver Convention Center, as part of his state visit to Canada. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			(VANCOUVER, Canada) President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the meeting with the Filipino community at the West English Bay Ballroom of the Vancouver Convention Center, as part of his state visit to Canada. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			(VANCOUVER, Canada) President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the meeting with the Filipino community at the West English Bay Ballroom of the Vancouver Convention Center, as part of his statfob isit to Canada. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			(VANCOUVER, Canada) President Benigno S. Aquino III greets Philippine and Canadian officials upon arrival at the Vancouver International Airport during his state visit to Canada. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			(VANCOUVER, Canada) President Benigno S. Aquino III disembarks the plane upon arrival at the Vancouver International Airport during his state visit to Canada. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			(TORONTO, Canada) President Benigno S. Aquino III exchanges pleasantries with Justin Trudeau, leader of the Liberal Party of Canada during the courtesy call at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel during his state visit to Canada. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			(TORONTO, Canada) President Benigno S. Aquino III receives Justin Trudeau, Leader of the Liberal Party of Canada during the courtesy call at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel during his state visit to Canada. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			(TORONTO, Canada) President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with the Premier of Ontario Kathleen Wynne (Liberal Party) during the courtesy call at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel, as part of his state visit to Canada. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			(VANCOUVER, Canada) President Benigno S. Aquino III signs the Distinguished Visitors Book during the meeting at the Pacific Rim of the Pan Pacific Hotel, as part of his state visit to Canada. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			(TORONTO, Canada) President Benigno Aquino III meets with top business leaders of Toronto in a forum organized by the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada on Friday (May 8).(Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			(TORONTO, Canada) President Benigno S. Aquino III greets the Premier of Ontario Kathleen Wynne during the courtesy call at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel during his state visit to Canada. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			(TORONTO, Canada) President Benigno S. Aquino III receives Justin Trudeau, leader of the Liberal Party of Canada during the courtesy call at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel during his State Visit to Canada. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			(TORONTO, Canada) President Benigno S. Aquino III meets with members of the Philippine media delegation covering his State Visit to Canada while on board flight PR 001 of Philippine Airlines from Ottawa bound to Toronto Friday (May 8). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			(TORONTO, Canada) President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with Prime Minister Stephen Harper of Canada during the reception at the Roy Thomson Hall as part of the President's State Visit to Canada. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			(TORONTO, Canada) President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the reception hosted by Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper in honor of President Aquino and the Filipino community at the Roy Thomson Hall as part of the President's State Visit to Canada. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			(TORONTO, Canada) President Benigno S. Aquino III and Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper, acknowledge the cheers of the crowd during the reception in Honor of President Aquino and the Filipino Community at the Roy Thomson Hall as part of the President's State Visit to Canada. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			(TORONTO, Canada) President Benigno S. Aquino III is welcomed by the officers and staff of the Philippine Consulate General in Toronto upon arrival at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel during his State Visit to Canada. (Photo by Ryan Lim/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
			(OTTAWA, Canada) President Benigno S. Aquino III shakes hand with the Prime Minister of Canada Stephen Harper following the Joint Press Conference at the Parliament Hill during the President's State Visit to Canada. (Photo by 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

• 
  
• 
  

News Feed

News Feed

PIA News Desk

19 mins ·

‪#‎PhPPP‬ NEWS: Government seeks consultant for ITS-Southwest PPP project READ MORE http://t.co/UkVzDIZOWl http://t.co/BzLG9Myq23 | via @PPP_Ph

PIA News (@PIANewsDesk) posted a photo on Twitter

Get the whole picture - and other photos from PIA News

pic.twitter.com

PIA News Desk

47 mins ·

Key reforms to fuel spending efficiency in 2015 - DBM - See more at: http://t.co/2DuYNQdJXF http://t.co/hzOVV0nYzO

PIA News (@PIANewsDesk) posted a photo on Twitter

Get the whole picture - and other photos from PIA News

pic.twitter.com

 

 

PIA News Desk

31 mins ·

‪#‎ICT‬ for inclusive growth in agricultute highlighted at ‪#‎APEC2015‬ Symposium on internet economy - See more at: http://t.co/pJJYIW0K7M

PIA | ICT for inclusive growth in agricultute  highlighted at APEC 2015 Symposium on internet...

BORACAY, May 20 -- The Philippines as Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 2015 host economy, in partnership with the Pacific Economic...

news.pia.gov.ph

 

 

PIA News Desk

3 hrs ·

‪#‎RocktheVote‬! Isang milyong boto! Kumilos para sa pagbabago! http://t.co/xW6WVvkilW http://t.co/d2nUoQYSLA

PIA News (@PIANewsDesk) posted a photo on Twitter

Get the whole picture - and other photos from PIA News

pic.twitter.com

 

 

PIA News Desk

2 hrs ·

‪#‎NEDA‬ Board approves projects on transpo, irrigation, fire safety and local development - See more at: http://t.co/1EHZ2ISISL

PIA | NEDA Board approves projects on transpo, irrigation, fire safety and local development

MANILA, May 20  –The  National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board approved projects on transportation, irrigation, fire safety, and local...

news.pia.gov.ph

 

 

PIA News Desk

15 hrs ·

Open trade, investment regime in services to boost growth, jobs in ‪#‎APEC‬ economies - ABAC chair - See more at: http://t.co/KSz49fOII4

PIA | Open trade, investment regime in services to boost growth, jobs in APEC economies - ABAC...

BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan -- Asia-Pacific business leaders are calling on the 21 member economies of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) to adopt an...

news.pia.gov.ph

 

 

PIA News Desk

12 hrs ·

‪#‎Palace‬ hopes lawmakers would ‘vote for peace’ as lower house determines fate of Bangsamoro draft law - See more at: http://t.co/VsNxkYO7Je

PIA | Palace hopes lawmakers would ‘vote for peace’ as lower house determines fate of Bangsamoro...

MANILA, May 19 --Malacañang on Monday reiterated its hope for the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) to make it to the next level, as members of the House of...

news.pia.gov.ph

 

 

PIA News Desk

18 hrs ·

HELP SAVE CORAL REEFS, ‪#‎DENR‬ URGES FILIPINOS http://t.co/2lw6tNzt7p

Help save coral reefs, DENR urges Filipinos

DENR - Department of Environment and Natural Resources

denr.gov.ph

Pia Quezon

Like · Comment · Share

PIA News Desk

18 hrs ·

‪#‎DOLE‬ warns employers against engaging fly-by-night subcontractors - See more at: http://t.co/KbHmVPYiNg

PIA | DOLE warns employers against engaging fly-by-night subcontractors

MANILA, May 19 -- The Department of  Labor and Employment  warned employers anew against engaging fly-by-night, or non-DOLE registered subcontractors,...

news.pia.gov.ph

 

 

PIA News Desk

19 hrs ·

Russian Film Screenings at the ‪#‎NCCA‬: http://t.co/VMm6dKgbLT

National Commission for Culture and the Arts

The Second World War is known in Russia and the countries of the former Soviet Union as the Great Patriotic War which the Soviet Union fought against the Nazi Germany and its allies in 1941-1945....

ncca.gov.ph