Daily Weather Forecast

Issued at: 5:00 AM today, 21 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 21 May 2015

Predicted Mean Sea Level Wind Analysis 8 AM 21 May 2015

Forecast:

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

PAGTAYA: Bahagyang maulap hanggang sa maulap na kalangitan na may pulu-pulong mga pagkidlat-pagkulog ang mararanasan sa buong bansa lalo na sa dakong hapon o gabi.
Mahina hanggang sa katamtamang hangin mula sa timog-silangan hanggang sa timog ang iiral sa buong kapuluan at ang mga baybaying-dagat nito ay magiging banayad hanggang sa katamtaman ang pag-alon.

OVER METRO MANILA:

Maximum Temperature: 1:50 PM Yesterday --- 35.5°C
Minimum Temperature: 6:00 AM Yesterday --- 26.4°C
Maximum Relative Humidity: 6:00 AM Yesterday --- 84 %
Minimum Relative Humidity: 1:50 PM Yesterday --- 42 %
High Tide Today: 11:35 AM ..... 1.20 Meter
Low Tide Today: 7:54 PM ..... -0.14 Meter
Sunrise Today: 5:27 AM
Sunset Today: 6:18 PM
Moonset Today: 9:13 PM
Moonrise Tomorrow: 9:00 AM
Illumination Tomorrow: 14 %

For more information and queries, please call at telephone numbers 927-1335 and 927-2877 or log on to www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph.

Weather Watch

21 mins ·

NDRRMC-1: 21MAY15-02
Tsunami Information No.01 issued on 21 May 2015, 7:05 AM:
-A strong distant earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 6.9 occurred in Santa Cruz Islands on May 21, 2015 at 06:49AM (Philippine Standard Time) located at 10.8degS, 164.2degE with a depth of 10km. No destructive Pacific-wide threat exists based on the historical and tsunami data. However, earthquakes of this size sometimes generate local tsunamis that can be destructive along coast located within a hundred kilometers of the epicenter.

Weather Watch

3 hrs ·

PAGASA Hydrologist Ronalyn Macalalad on DZMM:
Re: Water supply
-Sa amin pong record, patuloy na bumababa ang level ng tubig sa mga dam especially sa Angat Dam.
-Ang record natin kahapon ng 6:00AM ay nasa 181.48m po siya, bumaba po siya ng 0.27m simula noong nakaraang araw.
-Patuloy siyang bumababa dahil wala pong ulan.
-Ang ibang dam po, kagaya ng Ambuclao ay bumaba ng 0.15m, ang Binga ay bumababa rin, Pantabangan ay steady lang ang level, sa Magat Dam, wala pong pagbabago.

Weather Watch

15 hrs ·

GMA resident meteorologist Nathaniel Cruz:
-Base sa datos ng The Weather Company, posible pa ring umulan sa Puerto Princesa, Palawan hanggang Bicol Region bukas ng umaga. Sa hapon, Northern at Central Luzon ang uulanin.
-Sa Metro Manila, may tsansa ng pag-ulan pagdating ng hapon pero nasa 39 degrees Celsius pa rin ang init factor o damang init.
-May katamtamang ulan sa western at central section ng Visayas.
-Sa Mindanao, posible ang ulan sa northern section sa umaga.

Weather Watch

15 hrs ·

ABS-CBN: Sa Isabela, 42.7 degrees Celsius ang maximum heat index ngayon araw. Nasa 40.1 degrees Celsius naman ang naramdamang init sa Tuguegarao, habang sa Metro Manila ay nasa 39 degrees Celsius. Ito ay dahil pa rin sa patuloy na pag-iral ng ridge of high pressure area sa Luzon. Bukas at sa Biyernes mas mainit pa sa Metro Manila na posibleng umabot ng 40.2 degrees Celsius. Sa Tuguegarao nasa 41.1 degrees Celsius. Sa Eastern section at ilang bahagi ng Central Mindanao, asahan ang pag-ulan sa hapon gayundin sa Eastern Visayas at Central Luzon. Hindi lalakas at hindi rin tatagal.

May 21 , 2015 ( Thursday) as of 9:00 AM

PIA4A / PIA QUEZON : Fair Weather in Lucena City

PIA OFW Watch

15 hrs ·

GMA: Iginiit ng recruiter na si Kristina Sergio sa kanyang counter affidavit na inonsente at nabiktima lang daw ng sindikato si Mary Jane Veloso. Paniwala ni Sergio, hindi raw talaga alam ni Veloso na droga ang laman ng bitbit niyang bag. Ikinatuwa naman ng mga kaanak ni Veloso ang laman ng counter affidavit ni sergio. Gayunman, mariin ding itinanggi ni Sergio na ni-recruit niya si Veloso.

PIA OFW Watch

15 hrs ·

ABS-CBN: Sinentensyahan ng habambuhay na pagkakulong ang Pinay nurse para sa kasong murder at iba pang krimen. 25 life sentence na may minimum na 35 years bago makuwalipika sa parole ang ginawad ng korte. Tinanggi lahat ng Pinay ang mga paratang sa kanya pero wala itong reaksyon nang ibaba ang sentensya. Kabilang sa kaso sa Pinay nurse ang reklamong binago nito ang medical records at nag-inject ng nakamamatay na lebel ng insulin noong 2011-2012. Pumasok din ang nurse gamit ang pekeng diploma kaya hinihiling ngayon ang public inquiry sa pagpasok ng foreign nurses sa UK.

PIA OFW Watch

17 hrs ·

ANC: In her affidavit, alleged illegal recruiter Maria Kristina Sergio denied being a member of an international drug syndicate. However, she stressed that Mary Jane Veloso was innocent and had no idea about the contraband she was carrying to Indonesia. Also in her affidavit, Sergio insisted that it was Veloso who transacted with the 2 foreign guys. She warned Veloso not to trust the foreigners but the latter was convinced as this was a way to help her family. Sergio's live-in partner also submitted his own affidavit. Meanwhile, Veloso's legal counsel, Atty. Edre Olalia said Sergio's statement of Veloso's innocence is a welcome development. Their camp hoped this would lift the death sentence for Veloso.

LAGUNA

1. 12 Calabarzon MSMEs to participate in International Food Exhibition

May 20, 2015

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna, May 20 (PIA) — At least 12 enterprises from the Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal & Quezon) Region will participate as exhibitors at the International Food Exhibition (IFEX) Philippines, a four-day exhibition food trade show slated on May 21 to 24 at the SMXConvention Center in Pasay City.

Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (DTI-CITEM), IFEX brings together the leading export-oriented food and ingredient companies of Asia, the Pacific and the Americas that will feature a wide array of food products, innovations, and services, for buyers from all parts of the globe.

According to Calabarzon Regional Director Marilou Quinco-Toledo, IFEX is a grand launching platform for the region’s small and medium food enterprises to be exposed to the domestic and foreign buyers.

A special setting - the One Town, One Product Pavilion - holds the products of Ang Tindahan ng Itlog ni Kuya Atbp, Innovatech Food Manufacturing Corporation, New AM Miki Factory, Panaderia Pantoja Inc., Quiang’s Food Corporation, andPasciolco Agri-Ventures.

Also, the RIPPLES Pavilion will house Arcem Food Products, Chocovron Global Corporation, Delfas Food Products, Merlo Agricultural Corporation and Pasciolco Agri-Ventures, enterprises listed under DTI’s Regional Interactive Platform for Philippine Exporters program.

Some of the country’s leading food brands that will be seen at IFEX include Foodsphere, Inc., Ideal Macaroni & Spaghetti Factory, Inc., KLT Fruits, Inc., Leslie Corporation, Mama Sita's, Max’s Bakeshop Inc., Mekeni Food Corporation, Monde M.Y. San/Monde Nissin Corporations, Nutri-Asia, Inc., Pampanga's Best Inc., Philfoodex, R Lapid’s Chicharon & BBQ, RFM Corporation, Tropicana Food Products, Inc., Victorias Foods Corporation, Virginia Food, Inc., and Zesto Corporation.

Foreign government exhibitors include The Embassy of Brunei Darussalam, Embassy of Canada, Embassy of the Republicof Singapore, Japan External Trade Organization in Manila, Meat and Livestock Australia, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Still, another special arrangement at the International Hall will showcase APEC top brands and a kitchen set-up where acclaimed chefs will captivate visitors through cooking presentations.

IFEX Philippines established itself as a preferred and most important international food and ingredients sourcing event in the country. Last year, the food show logged more than 13,000 trade buyers and visitors from key regions to the booths of more than 600 local and international exhibitors. (Charlie S. Dajao, DTI Calabarzon)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2931432167815/12-calabarzon-msmes-to-participate-in-international-food-exhibition#sthash.g7MhwJWY.dpuf

BATANGAS

1. Tagalog news: P2M waterworks sanitation project sa lungsod ng Batangas, pinasinayaan

May 21, 2015

LUNGSOD NG BATANGAS, Mayo 21 (PIA) -- Pormal nang pinasinayaan ang mahigit P2M na waterworks sanitation system sa Sitio Maharlika ng Brgy. Tingga Itaas sa lungsod na ito bilang tugon sa kakulangan ng patubig ng naturang barangay.

Ayon kay Juancho Fedelin, presidente ng Tingga Itaas Waterworks, ang waterworks system ay three hores power at may kapasidad na 10,000 galon. Ito aniya ay karagdagang tangke na hiningi nila sa pamahalaang lokal upang mas matustusan nila ang pangangailangan ng mga residente.

Dagdag pa nito na ngayong dalawa na ang kanilang source at dalawa na rin ang kanilang tangke ay kakayanin na nitong suportahan ang mahigit 98 pamilya ngnaturang barangay.

Sinabi naman ni Vilma Fernandez, board member ng naturang patubig, tamang tama ang proyektong ito ng pamahalaang lungsod sapagkat lubhang mahina talaga ang daloy ng tubig sa naturang barangay kung kaya't kinakailangan talagang magdagdag pa ng tangke para masuplayan ang lahat ng residente nakatira ditto.

Kasabay ng pagpapasinaya ay ang blessing ng bagong gusali ng Tingga Itaas waterworks na nagkakahalaga ng P100,000 kung saan ang pondo ay kinuha mula sa kinita ng patubig.

Samantala, dumalo din sa nasabing okasyon sina Mayor Eduardo B. Dimacuha, Board Member Marvey Marino, Engr. Sony Godoy ng City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) at staff mga residente at ibang kawani ng waterworks. (Liza Delos reyes/PIO Batangas City/PIA Batangas/ PIA-4A)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/681432104692/tagalog-news-p2m-waterworks-sanitation-project-sa-lungsod-ng-batangas-pinasinayaan#sthash.vZcbBObA.dpuf

2. Tagalog news: Kahandaan ng PNP, siniguro ng bagong talagang direktor ng PNP PRO-IVA

May 21, 2015

LUNGSOD NG BATANGAS, Mayo 21 (PIA) -- Bumisita kamakailan sa Batangas City Police Station ang bagong talagang direktor ng Police Regional Office - IVA na si PCSupt. Richard Albano upang makita ang kaalaman at kahandaan ng kapulisan sa naturang lungsod.

Siniyasat ng bagong direktor ang bawat miyembro kung sumusunod ang mga ito sa mga alituntunin na ipinapatupad ng naturang ahensya. Binigyan din niya ng pansin ang kaayusan at kalinisan ng istasyon ng pulis.

Layunin ng nasabing pagbisita na malaman kung tama ang mga kaalaman ng bawat miyembro ng kapulisan sa mga paksang pang-administratibo at pang-operasyon.

Kabilang din sa mga tiningnan ni Albano ang mga records at equipment ng istasyon tulad ng baril, sasakyan, communication equipment, at accountability ng bawat personel hinggil dito.

Inalam din ni nito ang kakayahan ng kapulisan sa iba’t ibang paraan tulad ng inspection in rank na siniyasat ang tamang postura ng pulis; at ang paghawak ng crisis incident management scenario tulad ng bank robbery hold-up, hostage taking and negotiation, sniper and close quarter battle, first aid techniques, scene of the crime investigation, civil disturbance management, checkpoint operation at arrest, search and handcuffing techniques.

Umaasa naman si Chief of Police Manuel Castillo na sa pamamagitan ng pagbisitang ito ay mas mapapahusay pa ang serbisyo ng kapulisan sa pagtugon sa kanilang sinumpaang tungkulin kabilang ang pagpapanatili ng kapayapaan sa lungsod.

Nauna rito ay nagsagawa rin si Albano ng katulad na inspeksyon sa Batangas Provincial Police Office na pinamumunuan naman ni Provincial Director Omega Jireh Fidel. (Liza Perez Delos Reyes, PIO/ PIA-BATANGAS/ PIA-4A)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/681432108374/tagalog-news-kahandaan-ng-pnp-siniguro-ng-bagong-talagang-direktor-ng-pnp-pro-iva-#sthash.5k7cg5qu.dpuf

3. Tagalog news: Comelec, muling nanawagan sa publiko na magparehistro para makaboto

May 20, 2015

LUNGSOD NG BATANGAS, Mayo 20 (PIA) -- Muling nanawagan sa publiko si Comelec (Commission on Election) Provincial Supervisor Atty. Gloria Petallo na magparehistro para makaboto sa darating na halalan sa Mayo 2016.

Ayon sa tala ng naturang tanggapan, mataas pa rin ang bilang ng mga botante na hindi nakakapagpa-biometrics sa buong lalawigan.

Mahigit 121,574 ang hindi pa sumasailalim sa biometrics kung saan lumalabas na ang lungsod ng Batangas ang may pinakamaraming botante na hindi pa nakakapag-update na umaabot sa 46,581.

Sinundan ito ng lungsod ng Lipa na may 10,777; Lemery na may 6,689, Tanauan City na may 5,726; Bauan na may 4,932 ; Balayan na may 4,632; Sto. Tomas na may 3,964 at; San Juan na may 3,250.

Hinihimok ngayon ni Petallo ang mga botante na mag-update na habang maaga pa upang hindi abutin ng siksikan kapag dumating na ang huling araw ng pagpaparehistro.

Aniya, lahat ng paraan ay ginagawa ng kanilang tanggapan upang masiguro ang 100 porsiyento na rehistrasyon ng mga Batangueno para dito.

“Mas mainam na magparehistro ng maaga dahil kaunti pa lamang ang nagpaparehistro o nagpapabago ng kanilang biometrics, mas madali rin ito dahil walang masyadong pila at hassle sa pagrehistro," dagdag pa ni Petallo.

Target ng Comelec na matapos ang rehistrasyon bago ang itinalagang huling araw ng rehistrasyon sa Oktubre 31,2015. (Bhaby P. De Castro-PIA Batangas/PIA-4A)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/681432100472/tagalog-news-comelec-muling-nanawagan-sa-publiko-na-magparehistro-para-makaboto#sthash.LEmtnBAb.dpuf

19 MAY 2015.

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

President Aquino approves infrastructure projects worth P63.5 billion

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

President Aquino approves infrastructure projects worth P63.5 billion

President Benigno S. Aquino III has given the green light for vital public infrastructure projects worth P63.5 billion, which would further spur economic development in key growth areas, Malacañang announced on Tuesday.

The President approved seven projects when he presided over the 17th meeting of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board at the Palace on Tuesday, Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said.

Approved during the six-hour meeting was the Road Improvement and Institutional Development (RIID) Project, under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). The P6.9-billion project involves the upgrading of 339 kilometers of 10 national roads in the provinces of Benguet, La Union, Leyte, Iloilo, Negros Oriental, Agusan del Norte, Bukidnon, and Cotabato.

Also approved was the project restructuring of the World Bank-funded National Roads Improvement and Management Program Phase 2, which requires P28.9 billion. The DPWH has proposed the restructuring and reallocation of US$60 million of the US$232 million World Bank loan to assist Local Government Units (LGUs) in expediting the rehabilitation of areas devastated by Typhoon Yolanda.

The President also gave the green light to the P2.6-billion Agno River Irrigation System Extension Project under the National Irrigation Administration; and the P13.4-billion second phase of the Balog-Balog Multipurpose Project, under the Office of the Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization (OPAFSAM) and NIA. The latter involves the construction of a 105.5-meter high dam with a crest length of 1.473 kilometers and a storage capacity of about 420 million cubic meters, as well as irrigation canals and other structures.

He also approved the P10.1-billion LRT2 West Extension Project under the Department of Transportation and Communications. This involves the design and construction of the extension for the existing LRT Line 2, measuring approximately 3.02 kilometers from the Recto station extending westward to the Pier 4 area. It includes the turnback track with three proposed additional stations – the Tutuban Station, Divisoria Station, and Pier 4 Station.

The Chief Executive also approved the P1.4-billion second phase of the Bureau of Fire Protection Capability Building Program, under the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), which involves the acquisition of 76 fire trucks to be deployed in selected priority cities nationwide.

He also green-lighted the P231-million Local Government Units Investment Program Supplement III, which will finance LGU investments in local roads and bridges; sanitation; drainage and flood control; water supply; public market; bus terminal; the rehabilitation, modernization, and construction of public facilities; hospitals; schools; telecommunications; information technology; ports; the construction and establishment of power generation projects; environment and tourism-related projects; and heavy equipment.
The program also includes revenue improvement and enhancement programs for LGUs. PND (ag)

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

20 MAY 2015

Former Deputy Ombudsman guilty of misconduct

How a widow came to be a construction safety advocate

BITC inks new agreements to bolster industrial peace

OWWA EDSP scholar passed the 1st Psychometrician board exam RWO VII

POEA issues warning on recruitment of Filipino nurses and caregivers for Japan, and factory workers for South Korea

Highlights of the APEC TEL51

Travel Advisory: Bridge closure in Batnagas, Camarines Sur and Pangasinan

Webinars for E-Commerce Roadmap

Roxas brings ray of hope to Yolanda survivors in Eastern Samar

CIDG's "One-time-big-time" anti-criminality campaign, launched

DOST-developed food processors on showcase at ASEAN Food Fair

Information and Communications Technology for inclusive growth in agriculture highlighted at APEC 2015 Symposium on Internet Economy

PHL government, US Millennium Challenge Corporation reaffirm strong partnership

NEDA Board approves projects on transportation, irrigation, fire safety & local development

DAR turns over P6.6-M road project to Ilocano farmers

Bt corn a concrete illustration of advantages of modern biotechnology-DA-Biotech Program

MMDA launches mobile app that allows carpooling among facebook friends as anti-pollution and traffic congestion solution

Former Deputy Ombudsman guilty of misconduct

Source: http://www.ombudsman.gov.ph

The Internal Affairs Board (IAB) of the Office of the Ombudsman found former Deputy Ombudsman (DO) for Mindanao Humphrey Monteroso guilty of Grave Misconduct, Simple Neglect of Duty, and Conduct Prejudicial to the Best Interest of the Service, in two separate Decisions approved by Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales.

Investigation disclosed that in September 2011, Monteroso hired Emmanuel Arquellano as a member of his co-terminus staff occupying the position of Administrative Aide II with Salary Grade 2. In an affidavit executed before the IAB, Arquellano attested that while employed at the Office of the Deputy Ombudsman for Mindanao (OMB-Mindanao), he was asked to perform domestic chores for the Monteroso family, such as feeding the animals (e.g., sea eagle, crows, ducks, lambs, sea hawks, box turtles, iguanas and lizard) and accompanying Monteroso to the market on weekends.

The Decision held that Monteroso unfairly took advantage of Arquellano when he made him perform household chores for his family during his tenure as a civil servant without proper compensation. “Not only were DO Monteroso’s actions willful and intentional, these were clearly illegal, wrongful and improper, especially considering that OMB Mindanao was paying for Arquellano’s salary.

In holding Monteroso liable for Grave Misconduct, the Decision also found that on two separate occasions, Monteroso instructed Arquellano to open bank accounts in his (Arquellano) name and turn over the passbook and ATM to Monteroso. Arquellano testified that several transactions were undertaken using these bank accounts and he withdrew significant sums totaling P1,250,000.00 and remitted the money to Monteroso. Increasingly bothered by the arrangement, Arquellano resigned in March 2012. During the investigation, documents such as statement of account, bank certifications and consent to examine bank account with waiver were submitted to the IAB.

The IAB considered Monteroso’s denial that he used Arquellano as a dummy to facilitate bank transactions “as inherently weak because it is self-serving and unsubstantiated by clear and convincing evidence.”

The Decision explained that the bank transactions coursed through Arquellano’s name are suspicious transactions covered by the Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA). The Office thus directed that the Anti-Money Laundering Council be furnished with copies of the case records in order to conduct an inquiry into the suspicious financial transactions to determine Monteroso’s criminal or civil liability under the AMLA.

Grave Misconduct is punishable by dismissal from the service. Considering, however, that Monteroso’s term expired in December 2013, the penalty of dismissal from the service was converted into a fine equivalent to six months’ salary. He was also meted out the accessory penalties of cancellation of civil service eligibility, forfeiture of retirement benefits, and perpetual disqualification from holding public office.

In a separate Decision, Monteroso was also found administratively liable for Simple Neglect of Duty and Conduct Prejudicial to the Best Interest of the Service, in connection with his deliberate failure to act on a criminal case pending before his office for four years. He was also faulted for deliberately failing to reply to complainant’s letters requesting for follow-up and to act on several indorsements and directives to act on the case.

The Decision stated that Monteroso’s “continued non-compliance with the directive appears to spring from his lackadaisical attitude towards said case and of this Office’s role in the speedy and efficient administration of justice” resulting to “tarnishing the image of his office and for which he should be held accountable.”

Simple Neglect of Duty is punishable by suspension of one month and one day to six months while Conduct Prejudicial to the Best Interest of the Service carries a penalty of suspension of six months and one day to one year. With Monteroso’s separation from the service, the penalty was converted into a fine equivalent to six months’ salary.

|TOP|

How a widow came to be a construction safety advocate

Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph

Construction safety has found an unlikely advocate in the form of Necita Mesa of Barangay Iyagan in Baao, Camarines Sur.

A widow, Necita volunteered to serve as one of the paid laborers in developing a pathway leading to and from her village. As one of the workers, she learned to shovel and bag the sand, arrange the bags, and provide assistance to the other people working on their access path, which they implemented through the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS), one of the poverty alleviation programs of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

Kalahi-CIDSS seeks to alleviate poverty, improve local governance, and empower citizens using the community-driven development (CDD) approach, a strategy that involves people in local development processes so they have the voice and vote to identify and implement small-scale projects that would address their most pressing needs.

It was through her experience that Necita learned the importance of wearing personnel protective equipment (PPE) in the construction site. She dutifully wore socks, pants, long sleeves, and other protective gear while working on their sub-project, knowing firsthand what risks workers face in a construction area.

“Natutusok ang bitis ko ning gapo kaya mas gusto ko magsulog bota (I preferred to wear boots because rocks pierce the sole of my feet without these),” she said.

Kalahi-CIDSS provided a P2.47 million community grant for Barangay Baao for the construction of the pathway. Of this amount, P1.39 million came from the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), an independent U.S. foreign aid agency created in 2004 to help achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) by helping countries promote economic growth.

The MCC provided a $120 million grant to Kalahi-CIDSS to support its CDD implementation. The DSWD program works with the Millennium Challenge Account-Philippines to manage the funds.

The MCC and Kalahi-CIDSS are particular about ensuring the safety of Kalahi-CIDSS volunteers working on their sub-projects. The program allocates budget for minimum PPE such as hard hats, hand gloves, rubber boots, and safety belts.

“The program strictly ensures that there are no accidents, diseases, and other harmful effects on the health of the workers during the construction period so that they can continue to work as scheduled and get paid for their services,” said DSWD Regional Office V Director Arnel Garcia.

When asked why she, who had no prior experience in construction work chose to become one of the laborers for their project, Necita had a simple answer: “Kaipuhan ko magsikap para sa mga aki ko (I need to sacrifice for my children).”

She said that she was offered the construction job by her fellow villager, who was one of the members of the Barangay Sub-Project Management Committee (BSPMC), which heads the Kalahi-CIDSS’ volunteers’ group. She took on the job because she just lost her husband, who was the main provider for their family.

Because of her hard work and that of her fellow villagers, their community now has improved access to get to and from her village because of the 1.71 km pathway. Her efforts allowed her to earn P252 per day, the same amount earned by the male laborers. Her income allowed her to purchase school supplies for her children, just in time for the school opening.

It is not just her children who will be able to learn through her efforts. Necita was not only able to learn of the importance of construction safety; she was also able to realize that she has the capacity to work and help provide for her family.

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BITC inks new agreements to bolster industrial peace

Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph

The Banking Industry Tripartite Council (BITC) has adopted four new resolutions that further enhance labor-management in the Philippine banking industry.

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Amando M. Tetangco, Jr. and Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz led the signing of said resolutions at the BSP Complex in Manila on May 19.

Signing for the workers’ sector were the leaders of the National Union of Bank Employees, Federation of Free Workers and Associated Labor Unions. Bank management, on the other hand, was represented by the heads of the Bankers Association of the Philippines, the Chamber of Thrift Banks and the Rural Bankers Association of the Philippines.

The Council, co-chaired by the BSP and DOLE, gathers representatives from labor unions, bank management and the government as the forum for nurturing harmonious labor-management relations and tripartite cooperation in the banking industry.

Last December 2011, the BITC signed its landmark resolution where a formal process for mediation and conciliation was agreed upon as well as the handling of the outsourcing of banking functions. The new resolutions build upon the December 2011 agreement by strengthening the BITC organization and by establishing the committee that would handle conciliation and mediation of labor disputes.

In his remarks, BSP Governor Tetangco thanked the institutions and individuals who have invested their time and effort “to make the BITC model work.”

The Governor also highlighted recent developments such as the ASEAN banking integration and the passage of both R.A. 10574 and R.A. 10641 as some of the key evolving issues. Noting that these will create new jobs, he urged the BITC to consider capacity building and financial literacy as key initiatives moving forward.

In concluding his remarks, Governor Tetangco said that “We, at the BSP, truly value the opportunity of collaborating through the BITC. I believe that we have made considerable progress and the platform for dialogue that is the BITC is another continuing milestone that we should always nurture.”

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OWWA EDSP scholar passed the 1st Psychometrician board exam RWO VII

Source: http://www.owwa.gov.ph

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration Region 7’s long list of achievers and successful board passers continue to soar with the addition of Reeman Clyde N. Mañacap who successfully passed the first Psychometrician Board Examination conducted by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) last October 28-29, 2014. He was among the 1,290 passers out of the 3,283 examinees in the result that was announced on November 4, 2014.

Reeman, an OWWA Region 7 EDSP scholar, graduated Cum Laude with the degree in Bachelor of Science in Psychology at the University of San Carlos, Cebu City last year.

Following his success, Reeman admitted that he had received numerous job offers from various prestigious Manila-based companies. However, he opted to forego of the said opportunities and accept the job offer of his Alma Mater to be the Guidance Counselor of Naga National High School, Naga City, Cebu.

Reeman, whose father is a steel fixer in Saudi Arabia, said that he had learned a lot during his internship in college and that he would want to apply his knowledge when he starts working this opening of the school year. He also underscored that he understands very well the challenges of being away from the family, thus, he is more determined to get a job here in the country than leaving for abroad.

The 21-year old EDSP graduate encourages the new scholars to value the assistance that the OWWA has given them and that they must work hard to maintain their scholarship.

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Highlights of the APEC TEL51

Source: http://icto.dost.gov.ph

As the world becomes smaller due to technological innovation, the question of harnessing it becomes an issue worth tackling. Given that some countries need to catch up to the technological advancements of other regions, the pressure to be technologically updated can prove to be a herculean task. That is where the APECTEL comes in.

Last week, delegates from across the world gathered for the APECTEL51, a week-long conference held in Boracay, Philippines. Member economies tackled various aspects concerning the regulation and developments of information & communications technology (ICT) of member economies and to come up with policies and projects that aim to improve interoperability of technology and connectivity within the APEC regions. This was all part of the APEC Summit 2015 thrust of “Building Inclusive Economies, Building a Better World”.

Helping Hands from Across the World

Members presented the current situation of their ICT efforts in front of the APEC Chair and heads of delegates. Afterwards, the APEC Chair issued the member economies to convene and discuss three different aspects of ICT through specialized steering groups that will report on their meetings before the end of the event. Three groups were created – the Liberalization Steering Group (LSG), Development Steering Group (DSG), and Security and Prosperity Steering Group (SPSG). These groups were tasked to discuss how to create ICT policies and regulations that ensure equal market conditions, the development of innovative and progressive technology and infrastructure, and to promote safe Internet environment for end-users in the APEC regions.

Steering Towards Inclusive Growth

The three steering groups proved to be invaluable during the APECTEL, as each group discussed different aspects of ICT, and what projects the member economies can adopt to their ICT development.

The Liberalization Steering Group (LSG) held a Regulatory Roundtable whichsaw presentations from various economies. Indonesia, for instance, had a presentation regarding Over-the-Top (OTT) applications and services and their impact to licensed network operators and the market. Some regulatory responses on how to handle the fast-growing OTT involve the leveling of the playing field to maintain healthy competition among service providers, and to create a balanced broadband ecosystem and strengthen the ICT sector.The LSG concluded that,

“OTT is an inevitable part of globalization; government should embrace OTT’s players and operators to discover solution of the region. Afterward, government should seek new approach on how they regulate and share equal treatment between operator and industry to create an appropriate policy in supporting healthy competition.”

Developing ICT Innovation

Delegates from the Development Steering Group (DSG) talked at length about the different ICT projects geared towards harnessing ICT to deliver services efficiently. Such projects include the presentation of the deployment of IPV6 by the delegates from Vietnam, and an update regarding the end-user readiness of APEC economies in utilizing IPV6 technology by the APNIC, progress reports about the Extension of the Network of APEC e-Government Research Center for Japan, and the project involving using ICT Applications for people with Special Needs by Japan and Singapore.

The DSG also held workshops, where member economies discussed projects that concern the Internet of Things (IoT) – how the Internet can be incorporated in everyday life. The conclusion of their workshop revealed that, “IoT is creating a revolutionary and global information economy that can benefit governments, businesses and individuals, which will also impact and influence all sectors, promoting the upgrade of the traditional industries.”

They also stated that there are a lot of challenges facing the IoT development in APEC regions, ranging from limited infrastructure, industrial barriers, among others. To address this, regional cooperation should be paramount to help build sustainable and cohesive policy frameworks that mandate cross-border collaboration for all policy, economic, and social initiatives.

Securing the ICT Environment

The Security and Prosperity Steering Group (SPSG) meetings saw the Philippines present a voluntary report defining cybersecurity and how a cybersecurity framework is essential in today’s digital and internet economy. Thailand alsogave an update regarding Security Awareness Raising Activities, from capacity building activities that the ThaiCERT which included local certification, technical security, mobile forensics, and security management training.

Among the SPSG Workshops, the ICT Office was on hand in handling the ICT for Disaster Risk Reduction and Management sessions. During the first session, delegates shared their insights pertaining to using ICT for disaster management; Project NOAH and Project DINA (Disaster Information for Nationwide Awareness) were cited as prime examples of using ICT for Disaster Mitigation and Preparedness.

The second session revolved around Disaster Response and Recovery. Project DINA and Batingaw were cited as instrumental when it comes to public exposition and access of disaster risk reduction and management information materials and disaster preparedness knowledge on what to do before and after the hazards such as earthquake, tsunami, tropical cyclone, landslide, flood volcanic eruption and fire.

Another DRRM tool that the IOC of the DOST-ICTOwas established to consolidate databases related to health and weather and analysis of weather reports. It provides information to other government agencies in sharing the impact analysis and hourly updates during extreme weather disturbances as well as periodic updating of the database concerning location of evacuation centers, health centers, and other institutions involved in disaster response and recovery.

After the SPSG workshops on Disaster Risk Reduction and Management, it was concluded that there is a need to rationalize all plans and examine the mandates of agencies responsible for disaster riskreduction and management to ensure that programs converge and synchronize with the overall agenda for national development.

Seeing through Different Eyes

Once the steering groups have finished their respective workshops and sit-downs, they were all able to present reports of their meetings to the delegates. Findings on their reports were the result of a concentrated effort of member economies to provide timely insights which will aid in forming a feasible work and action plan for the upcoming APECTEL projects.

Such is the relevance of APECTEL –knowledge sharing between industry experts of member economies and having a fresh pair of eyes help determine what can be done to fix ICT-related issues. Given that ICT issues vary between APEC regions, seeing how they tackle and work around such hindrances on their end and adopting that mindset in addressing one’s own ICT problems have the potential to yield favorable results. Not only that, but working together builds rapport between member economies, which coincidentally ties in with thrust of the APEC Summit.

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Travel Advisory: Bridge closure in Batnagas, Camarines Sur and Pangasinan

Source: http://www.dpwh.gov.ph

Three (3) bridges in Batangas, Camarines Sur and Pangasinan are closed to vehicular traffic due to on-going construction activities.

The Lapu-Lapu Bridge along San Jose-Ibaan Provincial Road in Brgy. Lapu-Lapu, Ibaan, Batangas was closed to vehicular from May 4, 2015 to November 16, 2015 to give way to on-going construction/replacement works.

Appropriate warnings including directional signs for detour roads are installed to guide motorists and commuters.

In Pili, Camarines Sur, San Jose Bridge was closed to vehicular traffic from May 14 to May 30, 2015.

Alternate routes for all types of vehicles are the San Fernando–Minalabac-Bula-Pili Road and Palestina-Minalabac-Pili Road while the Milaor-Minalabac-Pili Road and Milaor-Minalabac Road are open for light vehicles.

The Padilla Bridge in Lingayen, Pangasinan will be closed to vehicular traffic for a period of six (6) months starting May 20, 2015 due to replacement works for the bridge deck slab.

The Lingayen via Domalandan Bridge-Labrador, Pangasinan-Barangay Soconi, Bugallon, Pangasinan Road was identified as detour route during the construction period.

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Webinars for E-Commerce Roadmap

Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)- E-Commerce Office is pleased to invite concerned stakeholders to a series of webinars to gather inputs for the crafting of the E-Commerce Roadmap 2015-2020.

The first webinar is scheduled on Friday, 22 May 2015, 10:00am -11:00 am. Registration for the webinar can be done through this link: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/8066115524495279362.

For more information, email the DTI E-Commerce Office at eco@dti.gov.ph. You may also call (+632) 976.57.03 or fax at (+632) 896.78.89.

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Roxas brings ray of hope to Yolanda survivors in Eastern Samar

Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph

Hopes for the speedy recovery of Yolanda survivors in Eastern Samar were bolstered as Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Mar Roxas announced the P253.6-million allocation for the second phase of the Recovery Assistance on Yolanda (RAY-II).

During the inauguration of the civic center in the town of Gen. MacArthur, on May 16 (Saturday), Roxas handed the Authority to Debit Account (ADA) certificates to local government and barangay officials, who will facilitate the repair and reconstruction of 257 facilities in 206 barangays and 12 towns of the province.

Projects covered by RAY-II involve the repair or reconstruction of barangay halls, day care centers, and civic centers in a way that the buildings become more resistant to natural calamities.

"Build back better, ibig sabihin ‘yung mga technical specifications—mas matitibay ang mga poste at joints upang sakaling bumalik ang ga-Yolandang bagyo ay hindi siya basta-basta mawawasak," Roxas said in an interview.

He is also confident that RAY-II will spur the economy of the local government unit (LGU) beneficiaries.

"’Yung pera, iikot sa inyong komunidad. Dinisenyo natin ito sa paraan na kayo mismo ang makakatulong sa sarili ninyo. Doon ninyo gagastusin ang pera, at ang mga kababayan ninyo ang makikinabang sa halagang ito," he explained.

Roxas also visited other completed RAY projects in the municipality of Gen. MacArthur such as the public market and the municipal hall.

DILG's RAY-II is one of the national government’s post-Yolanda efforts to normalize the operations and services of affected LGUs under the "whole of government" approach.

"Sumasaludo ako sa inyo, kinikilala ko ang inyong katapangan sapagkat di kayo tumiklop, hindi kayo sumurender [surrender], at ngayon nakikita ko na bumabangon na kayo patungo sa kaunlaran," Roxas said.

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CIDG's "One-time-big-time" anti-criminality campaign, launched

Source: http://pnp.gov.ph

The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) launched its “ONE-TIME-BIG-TIME” (OTBT) nationwide operations against syndicated criminal gangs, wanted criminals and loose firearms (FAs) from May 11-18, 2015.

CIDG Director, PDIR BENJAMIN B MAGALONG said that these “OTBT” operations were part of the Philippine National Police’s “Operations Plan (OPLAN) LAMBAT SIBAT” which is in accordance to Secretary of Interior and Local Government Mar Roxas’ anti-criminality campaign that took place since mid of 2014.

During these operations, the Team CIDG were able to execute forty-eight (48) search warrants (SW), nabbed sixty-three (63) personalities, and recovered ninety-one (91) firearms, 1195 explosives and ammunitions worth Php1,489,946.00 (street value) of illegal drugs and other seized items.

In Region 1 CIDG, several operations were conducted against members of criminal groups including the conduct of separate operations against Alwin Acosta and Servillano Aquino in Barangay Tabtabagan, Banna and Barangay Albano, Dingras, Ilocos Norte, respectively. Both Acosta and Aquino were members of the “ABROGENA Group” engaged in illegal drug trade and gun-for-hire activities in the Provinces of Ilocos Norte. Seized from their residences were assorted FAs and ammunition, hand grenade, drugs and drug paraphernalia.

In Pangasinan, two (2) operations were made by the detectives of 1RCIDG against two (2) known criminal groups involved in illegal drug activities. One operation was during the implementation of SW against Antonio Santos and Carlito Santos in Barangay Sapang, Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan which resulted to the seizure of FAs and ammunition.

According to PSSUPT FRANCISCO ESGUERRA, Regional Chief of 1RCIDG, the arrested, Carlito Santos is the leader of the “SANTOS Criminal Gang”, a group engaged not only in illegal drug activities but in gun-for-hire and robbery activities in 2nd, 3rd and 4th districts of Pangasinan as well.

Another operation was in Barangay Telbang, Bayombong that resulted in the arrest of Bernardo De Vera y Payomo who is affiliated with the “DE VERA Group” involved in illegal drug activities operating in the 3rd district of Pangasinan. Confiscated from him was one (1) unit of cal. 9mm, magazine & ammunition.

The Team CIDG in Region 3 headed by PSSUPT ISMAEL FERNANDEZ were able to conduct operations in Nueva Ecija, Bataan and Olongapo resulted in the apprehension of Prudencio Francisco Sr, Sonny Dela Cruz, Leo Enriquez and Angelito Guanzon. Confiscated during these operations were six (6) FAs in different calibres, ammunition, explosives, FAs accessories, four (4) sachets of suspected shabu and drug paraphernalia.

The 4A-Regional CIDG served five (5) search warrants in various provinces in the Region. These operations caused the arrest of six (6) personalities and seizure of various FAs, ammunition and explosive, and Php2,500.00 worth (street value) of illegal drugs.

One of the arrested personalities is Victor Arevalo, a newly identified member of the “SALVADOR MENDOZA Group” who is believe to be engaged in illegal drugs and gun-for-hire activities in Batangas.

Another arrested person, Gilbert Mayo, is a member of the “TASWENG Robbery/Hold-up Group”. In the operation conducted by 4B-Regional CIDG, the detectives implemented a SW in Sablayan, Mindoro Occidental against Eldie Pines and Randy Benedicto resulting to their apprehension and confiscation of one (1) CZ 9mm pistol, magazines and ammo. Both Pines and Benedicto are members of a criminal group involved in gun-for-hire, gun running and robbery/hold-up activities in the province.

Team CIDG in Region 5 conducted eight (8) operations and arrested seven (7) personalities, seizure of nine (9) FAs, an explosive, ammunition, and a total of Php300,000.00 worth (street value) of illegal drugs.

One arrested personality was Joel Ortega, an active member of a newly identified criminal gang known as the “ALLAN SOL Criminal Gang” who is engaged in illegal drugs activities in Labo, Camarines Norte. Manuel Refil Jr, arrested in Mandaon, Masbate is a member of the “REFIL Gang” involved in gun-running. Another arrested person in the name of Franco Oliquino in Pio Duran, Albay, is the leader of the “OLIQUINO/CASTOR Robbery Group”.

During the buy-bust operation in Villa Caceres Hotel, Magsaysay Avenue, Naga City, the 5RCIDG detectives were able apprehend Romeo Reconday who is allegedly included in the Pili, Camarines Sur Drug Watch List and also a member of the “BULAO Drug Syndicate” operating in Naga City, Pili, and San Fernando.

5RCIDG’s recent operation was launched last May 17, 2015 in Purok Maligaya, Barangay Guinbanwahan Balud, Masbate against Edgardo Alajar (arrested), who is said to be a member of “ALAJAR Gang”, a newly identified gang involved in gun-running activities.

In the Visayas Region, on May 17, 2015, Reynaldo Villaruel was arrested during the buy-bust operation by CIDG Region 6 operatives in Barangay Ginhalaran, Silay. Seized from the Villaruel were two (2) calibre 45 pistol with magazine and three (3) Php500.00 bill marked money.

In Cebu City, the Team CIDG Region 7 detectives led by PSSUPT RITCHIE POSADAS, RC of 7RCIDG conducted seven (7) operations and arrested five (5) persons. The team recovered twenty-four (24) high and low-powered FAs, explosive, ammunition, drug paraphernalia and a total of forty-seven (47) sachets of suspected shabu with a street value of Php635,000.00.

Arrested during these said operations were Edgar Padillo, Ernesto Mamalias, Samuel Villanueva, Dexter Pasaje, and Razilyn Rosalinda Tecson.

The three (3) SWs were served by the 8RCIDG detectives led by PSupt Bowenn Masauding, in various cities in Leyte that caused for the apprehension of six (6) persons namely, Joel Go, Rodrigo Aure, Arnel Baldivino, Elmer Garciano, Danilo Aynaga, and Joel Melado. The detectives seized twenty-four (24) assorted FAs, live ammunitions, drug paraphernalia, eight (8) sachets of suspected shabu, gambling paraphernalia, and Php4,615.00 worth of bet money.

Western Mindanao, a CIDG Region 9 Team together with Dinas MPS and PAIDSOTF have implemented a SW against the members of “AMMBOL Group”, Nasroden Belonio Mayo and Seddik Solaiman Bugat at Barangay Binoatan, Dinas, Zamboanga Del Sur. Both were arrested and confiscated in their custody were six (6) sachets of shabu, drug paraphernalia, & ammunition.

Northern Mindanao, CIDG Region 9 Team conducted eight (8) operations and was able to arrest nine (9) personalities, recovery of twelve (12) FAs, three (3) explosives, 220 ammunitions, one (1) sachet of shabu with a street value of Php1,000.00.

One notable operation of the CIDG Northern Mindanao was the apprehension of Mohamad Ali, Raul Ganihay alias “Commander Round”, Brgy Kagawad Bryan Arcay and Kiram Ali on May 18, 2015 in Barangay Dagumbaan, Talakag, Bukidnon. Ganihay or “Commander Round” is the leader of the “TUN-ANANS Crime Gang” involved in cattle rustling, robbery in band and gun-for-hire activities.

Three (3) operations were conducted by the Eastern Mindanao CIDG detectives which led to the arrest of three (3) persons and the seizure of FAs with different calibres, ammunition and suspected shabu weighing to more or less 124 grams with a Php1,116,000.00 street value.

A noteworthy operations of the group were the buy-bust operation in Davao City against Satra Adih and Bryan Grant that resulted to the confiscation of 120 grams of shabu worth (street value) Php1,080,000.00 and 4 grams of shabu with a street value of Php36,000.00, respectively.

The Southern Mindanao CIDG was able to served two (2) SWs in South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat that resulted to the recovery two (2) FAs, three (3) explosives, ammunition, drug paraphernalia, and 25 grams (approximately) of suspected shabu.

On May 12, 2015, the Team CIDG of Region 13 apprehended a certain Jose Roquito Jugao IV during the buy-bust operation in Imadejas, Butuan City.

Confiscated in Jugao’s possession were 5.97 grams (MOL) of shabu with street value of Php70,446.00, drug paraphernalia, Php7,340.00 amount of money, and Php1,000.00 bill marked money.

The North Central Luzon CIDG has served three (3) SWs in Benguet, Isabela, and Abra that resulted in the arrest of two (2) personalities identified as Jovita Castillo and Alfredo Bulos Flores. The team also seized four (4) FAs, magazines, an explosive, and one (1) sachet of suspected shabu.

Maguindanao, the CIDG Central Mindanao detective with RID-PROARMM and Upi MPS implemented a SW against Jimmy Mobantan, Arnold Mobantan and Maorijoy Mobantan (all at large) in Nuro Upi, Maguindanao and confiscated during the operation were one (1) calibre 30 carbine M2 rifle, two (2) calibre 45 pistol, eleven (11) magazines,& live ammunition .

These numbers of anti-criminality operations is an indication of Team CIDG’s heightened campaign to get hold of and prevent these lawless criminals in further damaging our communities, our families, and our lives. PDIR MAGALONG stressed out that he, alongside his dedicated men, will continue their efforts in seeking the truth, serving and protecting the country against those criminal elements.

Magalong added that all arrested suspects will be facing criminal charges for violation of RA 10591(Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act ) and RA 9165 (Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002).

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DOST-developed food processors on showcase at ASEAN Food Fair

Source: http://www.dost.gov.ph

Department of Science and Technology (DOST) - developed food process equipment will be brought forward in the upcoming SIAL ASEAN 2015, pitting it out with the world’s “who’s who” in the global food industry.

SIAL, or Salon International de I’Agroalimentair, is the biggest and largest food exposition in the world and set to run June 17-19, 2015 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila. It provides the industry players a global platform in a business-to-business environment.

During the exposition, DOST will put up a Food Innovation Center booth that will showcase the DOST- developed equipment called the spray dryer and vacuum fryer. Deployed in FICs in the regions, these equipment are designed for the local food processing industry through DOST’s High Impact Technology Solutions project. The FIC booth will offer free food taste of products processed using the equipment at the venue.

Running for three days, the SIAL ASEAN 2015 will gather exhibitors from around the world to meet local and regional buyers. The fair is eyed to strengthen the Philippines’ global dimension and role as a focal point and gateway contributing to the innovation of the food and beverage industry.

With the food giants from all over the world gathered in this one big event indeed provides an opportunity and a gateway for showcasing local and regional products and services.

The public is invited to check out DOST’s offerings at the SIAL ASEAN 2015. The event will also give a preview of other offerings to be highlighted in the upcoming National Science and Technology Week 2015 at the SMX Convention Hall July 24-28. (By Violy B. Conoza, S&T Medias Service, DOST-ITDI)

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Information and Communications Technology for inclusive growth in agriculture highlighted at APEC 2015 Symposium on Internet Economy

Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph

19 May 2015 - The Philippines as Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 2015 host economy, in partnership with the Pacific Economic Cooperation Council (PECC) held a Symposium on the Internet Economy on May 18 at the margins of the APEC Second Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM 2) at the Crown Regency Resort, Boracay, Aklan, Philippines.

In her presentation, Ms. Bettina Quimson, Deputy Executive Director of the e-Society Office of the Department of Science and Technology – Information and Communications Office (DOST-ICTO) of the Philippines, focused on the benefits of improving internet connectivity nationwide. This would enable government services to be delivered directly to the people and contribute to better disaster mitigation and response management. In a social context, this could lead to the strengthening of family values through better communication.

Ms. Quimson discussed the different programs and steps the Philippine Government has taken to use ICT-enabled applications in the delivery of services in areas such as education and employment among others. The Philippines is pushing for free wifi access in the rural areas to address the knowledge and digital divide, and to open new markets beyond the local communities.

She further implied that this thrust is also brought about by the tendency of telecommunications companies to shy-away from rural areas because of the improbability of profit and return of investment.

According to Ms. Quimson, only 8% of Filipinos from rural areas who enter school at the elementary level go on to finish their studies and acquire university degrees. Because of the state of agriculture in the countryside and its labor-intensive nature, parents would rather have their children work in the fields with them, causing the children to be unable to attend some school days. Eventually, they may opt out of school altogether.

To address this fundamental concern, ICT-enabled applications will be central elements under different programs to improve the delivery of education to students, alternative learning systems, upgrading the skills of teachers, and online distance learning. They will also be the main platform for skills development and specialized training leading to industry specific careers and high-income jobs, and to allow SMEs to improve their operations and use the internet as a tool for expansion.

Promotion of entrepreneurship in agriculture will also be aided by ICT-enabled applications through a database of relevant and useful information ranging from soil profiles and crop information, to pest information and harvest forecasting.

This is part of the overall strategy being undertaken to promote inclusive growth and through the Internet Economy.

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PHL government, US Millennium Challenge Corporation reaffirm strong partnership

Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph

19 May 2015 - In a meeting at the Headquarters of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) in Washington D.C. on May 14, MCC Chief Executive Officer Dana Hyde and Philippine Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman reaffirmed the strong partnership between the Philippine Government and MCC.

Secretary Soliman noted that the partnership contributes to and strengthens the country’s democratization process. She cited MCC's support for the Philippine Government’s community driven-development (CDD) approach in order to empower ordinary citizens to actively and directly participate in local governance. She lauded MCC’s support for the KALAHI-CIDDS (Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services) - one of the three core social protection programs of DSWD in alleviating poverty.

Ms. Hyde, in turn, affirmed that MCC is “proud of the partnership” and acknowledged the hard work that the DSWD is doing to sustain the MCC projects through the Millennium Challenge Account-Philippine Compact. She also expressed interest to visit the Philippines before the end of the year.

Signed on 23 September 2010 in New York City and entered into force on 25 May 2011, the US$434 million First Philippine Compact is intended to allow poor communities to develop small-scale projects and manage assets in a sustainable way, facilitate increased commerce by reducing transportation costs, and increase the efficiency and sustainability of revenue collection through the redesign and computerization of business processes. The Compact symbolizes the strong bilateral ties between with the Philippines and the United States.

The current five-year compact is due to end soon and the Philippines is now working with MCC in preparing for a second compact. The MCC approved the selection of the Philippines as a country eligible for a second compact last December 2014.

Secretary Soliman also had several meetings with other MCC officials to discuss the implementation of the KALAHI-CIDSS. Her meetings with MCC officials came at the end of her four-day visit to Washington, DC from May 11 to 14, which included activities/meetings with World Bank officials led by President Jim Yong Kim and her participation in the Global Partnership for Social Accountability (GPSA) Forum in which she received the GPSA Award for Leadership in Social Accountability.

|TOP|

NEDA Board approves projects on transportation, irrigation, fire safety & local development

Source: http://www.neda.gov.ph

MANILA – In its meeting on May 19, 2015, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board chaired by President Benigno S. Aquino III, approved projects on transportation, irrigation, fire safety, and local development and restructuring of two infrastructure-related projects.

“These projects are part of our strategy to make the Philippines’ agriculture, industry, and services sectors more competitive. The approved projects on irrigation and roads in provinces will help facilitate local growth and development among the projects’ covered regions or areas in the country,” said Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan.

The NEDA Board approved the LRT Line 2 West Extension Project under the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC). The project involves the design and construction for the extension of the existing LRT Line 2, which will run from Recto Station extending westward to Pier 4 area including the turn-back track. This will have a total length of approximately 3.02 kilometers and with three proposed additional stations that includes: 1. Tutuban Station (located next to the Cluster Mall); 2. Divisoria Station (located west of the Recto Avenue and Asuncion Street intersection; and 3. Pier 4 Station (located 50 meters north of Zaragoza Street).

The total estimated cost of the project is PhP10.12 billion, which will be locally-financed. This project is targeted to be implemented within 3.5 years.

Under the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), the Agno River Irrigation System Extension Project, was approved. The project aims to improve the operating efficiency of the Ambayaoan-Dipalo River System (ADRIS) through modernization-based upgrading package and to increase crop yield and cropping intensity. It includes the civil works in the Agno River Irrigation System and ADRIS, institutional development of farmer beneficiaries, and linking agriculture offices and non-government organizations to synchronize the implementation of agricultural development programs and services.

The project is estimated at PhP2.63 billion through local financing with an indicative implementation schedule from 2015-2017.

Also a project of the NIA, the Balog-Balog Multipurpose Dam Project (BBMP) Phase II was approved. This involves the construction of new irrigation service for about 21,935 hectares and stabilization of water supply to the currently irrigated areas of 12,475 hectares developed under BBMP Phase 1 in the covered municipalities in the province of Tarlac. Thus, this include the construction of a multipurpose high dam that will provide irrigation and flood management. The approved estimated cost of the project is PhP13.37 billion.

Next, the Capability Building Program of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Phase II was approved to augment the number of fire trucks of the BFP and reduce the present requirement gap. The project entails the acquisition of 76 units of fire trucks to be deployed in selected cities nationwide. The estimated total project cost is PhP1.43 billion, partly financed through Official Development Assistance (ODA).

Another is the approval of the Local Government Unit Investment Programme Supplement III of the Land Bank of the Philippines. The program aims to facilitate the access of local government units in Mindanao to viable financing for local development. The investments that can be financed include local roads, bridges, sanitation, drainage and flood control, water supply, public market and bus terminal, rehabilitation/modernization/construction of public facilities, among others.

The total cost of the project is estimated at PhP231.1 million, which is the third replenishment following the initial EUR15.0 million in 2005 with a supplemental loan amounting to EUR4.7 million in December 2008 and another EUR7.0 million in May 2010. This will be financed partly through ODA from the Government of Germany and with an implementation schedule from 2015-2017.

Also, the NEDA Board approved the restructuring and changes for two projects.

First is the change in scope, increase in cost, and loan extension of the Road Improvement and Institutional Development Project (RIIDP) of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). These changes include the deletion of six sub-components under the Institutional Capacity Development and inclusion of the reconstruction/replacement of typhoon-damaged Macasoy Bridge along Dipolog-Oroquieta Road in Zamboanga del Norte. Also, the cost was increased to PhP6.93 billion from the previously approved cost of PhP6.24 billion due to change in scope and currency adjustment. A 24-month loan extension was granted, from June 30, 2016 to June 30, 2018.

Next, a proposed project restructuring was also approved for the World Bank-funded National Roads Improvement and Management Program, Phase II of the DPWH. The NEDA Board approved DPWH’s proposal to restructure/reallocate US$60 million of US$232 million loan of the World Bank to assist local government units (LGUs) in expediting the rehabilitation efforts in Typhoon Yolanda-devastated areas in the Visayas. Also, the two-year extension of the World Bank loan was granted, which was moved to December 2016 from December 2014.

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DAR turns over P6.6-M road project to Ilocano farmers

Source: http://www.dar.gov.ph

The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) recently turned over 1.95-kilometer farm-to-market road (FMR) project in barangays Barong, Elizabeth and San Marcelino of the municipality of Dingras, Ilocos Norte to improve the economic lives of agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARB) in the said communities.

Regional Director Homer P. Tobias said the road project worth P6.6 million would make travelling to and from the town proper and delivery of goods to various trading centers easier and timely.

Tobias said the road used to be hardly passable especially during the rainy season when farmers turned helpless while watching their harvests rot because they could not deliver them to various markets.may 20 2015 2

“With this road they will not just deliver them on time but they have easy access to get back and forth from various trading centers and markets to spend more time in their farms,” he added.

Tobias said the road project would not only benefit 601 ARBs in the said barangays but also the adjacent barangays in the agrarian reform community.

“The infrastructure project is implemented under the Grassroot Participatory Budgeting(GBP), an initial gains which contributed to the upliftment of the economic condition of the ARBs,” Tobias said.

The GPB, previously called Bottoms-Up Planning and Budgeting (BUB), was adopted as a strategy to identify various programs and projects that would help address the development needs of poorest cities and municipalities in the country.

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Bt corn a concrete illustration of advantages of modern biotechnology-DA-Biotech Program

Source: http://www.da.gov.ph

The Department of Agriculture said Bt corn, which has been commercialized in the Philippines and many other countries for more than a decade, is a concrete illustration of the advantages of modern biotechnology.

DA Biotechnology Program Director Antonio Alfonso said, the power of modern biotechnology, particularly genetic engineering, resides on the technique’s ability to bypass sexual compatibility barriers and the precision of controlling which genes to transfer and how they should be expressed.

“While traditional biotechnology has utilized Bt as a biopesticide in a sprayable form, modern biotechnology has produced Bt corn, which has in-built resistance to corn borer,” Alfonso said.

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a common soil bacterium that produces a crystalline protein that is toxic to a certain class of insect pests, but does not harm other insects and other animals.

The development of Bt corn varieties took 10 years from the time the donor gene was discovered.

“Genetic engineering has a distinct advantage over [AAA1] sexual hybridization wherein all the genes from both parents are mixed resulting in an almost infinite combinations of approximately 30,000 genes. This highlights the importance of having big populations of plants and the breeder’s skills in selecting individual plants with the optimal combination of useful genes,” Alfonso said. Genetic engineering involves the transfer of only one or a few important genes into already superior cultivar.

Many countries such as Argentina, Brazil, India, Canada, China, Bangladesh, to name a few, have been cultivating modern biotechnology crops.

Biotech crops already in the market include soybean, cotton, corn, canola, sugar beet, alfalfa, papaya, sweet pepper, tomato, and poplar.

Most recently, modern biotechnology methods are being explored to develop drought-tolerant varieties of sugarcane and corn in Indonesia and for Africa, respectively. These tools of biotechnology are being employed to develop superior varieties of crops – in terms of ability to ward off destructive insects and diseases, eating quality, nutritional content and ability to survive under adverse conditions.

They open opportunities beyond what can be achieved through conventional breeding in the hope of producing sufficient and affordable food to more than seven billion people in the world, estimated to reach nine billion by 2050,” Alfonso stressed.

For more information, please feel free to contact:

Antonio A. Alfonso, Ph.D.

Director, Dept. of Agriculture Biotechnology Program

Chief Science Research Specialist Plant Breeding and Biotechnology Division

PhilRice, Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija, PHL

Land: +63(44)4560277 loc. 257; Cell: (+63)9088624881

|TOP|

MMDA launches mobile app that allows carpooling among facebook friends as anti-pollution and traffic congestion solution

Source: http://www.mmda.gov.ph

MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino will make public today (May 18) a free way to get around with friends while solving road congestion problems in Metro Manila.

Dubbed as “Friend Trip,” Tolentino, together with his mobile technical team, unveiled a mobile application (app) that allows carpooling among Facebook friends or those living within the same area and going to a certain destination.

The MMDA chief said Friend Trip is another addition to the MMDA’s many innovative solutions to minimize traffic congestion and pollution problems because the volume of cars and other private vehicles going around town will surely be reduced if motorists and commuters will avail of this carpooling mobile app.

“We believe Friend Trip will resonate deeply to millions of Facebook users who form part of majority of the riding public,” Tolentino said, while adding that it is also the only carpooling app that does not involve any monetary transactions.

Mobile users can avail of this app by signing up via Faacebook and entering their phone numbers. The app finds who among their friends are already using the app. From here, they can choose between being a driver or a rider.

It only recognizes one’s Facebook friends so that he never has to ride with strangers.

Friend Trip likewise gives an option to users to have the MMDA record all their trips.

Tolentino also said the app will soon be made available to Android and Apple users.

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INTERVIEW OF COMMUNICATIONS SECRETARY HERMINIO COLOMA, JR.

DZRB / Balita at Panayam by Alan Allanique

21 May 2015

ALAN ALLANIGUE: Your reaction, sir: Naaprubahan na po nitong Ad Hoc Committee na pinangungunahan ni Congressman Rufus Rodriguez iyon pong panukalang batas tungkol dito sa Bangsamoro, pagbuo ng Bangsamoro, kahapon, Secretary Coloma?

SEC. COLOMA: Kinagagalak po natin ang pagpasa ng Ad Hoc Committee sa panukalang batas hinggil sa Bangsamoro. Ito’y mahalagang hakbang tungo sa pagbubuo ng isang Bangsamoro Basic Law na maaaring ihain sa mga mamamayan na apektado nito sa isang plebesito, at ito ay tutungo doon sa pagbubuo ng isang bagong pamahalaan para sa kanilang autonomous region.

ALAN ALLANIGUE: Opo. So, bale ang susunod pong mangyayari dito, Secretary Coloma, after sa committee level, ito ho’y dadalhin na sa talakayan sa plenaryo mismo ng Kamara?

SEC. COLOMA: Ayon po sa natunghayan nating balita, tatalakayin pa muli ito sa dalawang komite ng Kamara, iyong Committee on Ways and Means at iyong Appropriations Committee. Iyan po kasi ang sinusunod na patakaran sa lahat ng mga batas na mayroong gugugulin na pondo ng bayan. Kinakailangan ay malinaw kung saan ang panggagalingan ng mga pondo, kaya mahalaga din po iyong pagtatalakay doon sa dalawang nabanggit na komite.

ALAN ALLANIGUE: Okay, so Committee on Ways and Means at saka iyong isa po ay Appropriations Committee. And pagkatapos hong dumaan doon, saka pa lamang matatalakay mismo sa plenaryo.
SEC. COLOMA: Ganoon nga ang pagkaunawa natin sa kanilang proseso, Alan.

ALAN ALLANIGUE: Opo. Binanggit po ninyo rin earlier na kung ito ho ay matapos, tuluyang maibatas, ang next step ay sasailalim…mag-i-schedule ng isang plebesito doon sa mga areas po na kumbaga ay posibleng maging bahagi nitong Bangsamoro, Secretary Coloma, sir?

SEC. COLOMA: Ang plebesito ay doon sa mga – sa aking pagkaunawa ‘no – doon sa mga naninirahan doon sa tinatawag “core region”, iyon talagang sakop na ngayon ng Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao na siya ring core region ng Bangsamoro Autonomous Region. Mayroong isang probisyon din doon, iyong tinatawag na “opt-in” provision. Kung mayroong mga contiguous area na LGU, halimbawa ay lunsod o lalawigan na katabi nung nandoon sa core region, maaari silang magdaos din ng kanilang referendum o plebesito sa ikalima at ikasampung taon mula sa pagpasa ng batas kung mayroong 10% ng kanilang mga qualified voters na maghahain ng petisyon. Iyon po ang naunawaan ko doon sa nalathala hinggil sa mga amyenda na ipinasa ng Ad Hoc Committee.

ALAN ALLANIGUE: And isang puntos po tungkol dito sa panukalang ito is, we understand na, maha-highlight din dito ang mahalagang papel na gagampanan ng ating mga IPs o indigenous people diyan ho. Mga ilang tribo ho iyan na nitong nagdaan, and we understand, ang pakiramdam nila ay sila ay nani-neglect ng … pagdating sa basic services. Subali’t ngayon, kumbaga, maha-highlight din ang kanilang role na gagampanan at ganoon din ang tulong ng pamahalaan para sa kanila diyan po sa mga areas na masasakop ng Bangsamoro, Secretary, sir?

SEC. COLOMA: Tama iyong nabanggit mo, Alan.

ALAN ALLANIGUE: Okay, opo. So maliban po dito, sir, nabanggit din po ninyo noon na ang transition period ay pangangasiwaan ng isang grupo na kumbaga ay magmumula rin sa iba’t ibang sektor para matiyak na magiging smooth ang transition from the present ARMM patungo na dito sa Bangsamoro, Secretary Coloma, sir?

SEC. COLOMA: Iyon ang pagkaunawa natin mula doon sa pagkakaroon ng Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, bagama’t hindi ito tuwirang tinalakay doon sa mga deliberasyon hinggil sa Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, doon sa basic law na kapapasa lamang sa komite, Alan.

ALAN: Okay. Well, Secretary Coloma, maraming salamat pong muli sa mga updates mula sa Palasyo, sir.

SEC. COLOMA: Maraming salamat at magandang umaga, Alan.

SOURCE: News Information Bureau - Data Processing Center

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Last Updated: 20 MAY 2015
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			Members of the APEC Technical Working Group held a conference on enhancing tourism competitiveness in the APEC region through alignment of tourism and taxation policies. The meeting led by Javier Guillermo Molina was held at Paradise Garden Resort on May 19.

			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

PIA News Desk

51 mins ·

‪#‎POEA‬ issues warning on recruitment of Filipino nurses and caregivers for Japan, and factory workers... See more at: http://t.co/ehNspUzq7T

PIA | POEA issues warning on recruitment of Filipino nurses and caregivers for Japan, and...

MANILA, May 21 -- The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration cautioned Filipino applicants from accepting job offers from private persons and...

news.pia.gov.ph

PIA News Desk

Yesterday at 9:45am ·

INFOGRAPHIC: Under Procurement ‪#‎PhPPPprojects‬ in the Philippines http://t.co/1lSLz3txcV | via @PPP_Ph

PIA News (@PIANewsDesk) posted a photo on Twitter

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PIA News Desk

13 hrs ·

Partial list of schools that offer Senior High School now available for download: http://t.co/O159DSLwLx ‪#‎GoKto12‬ http://t.co/wNN5x63TAq

PIA News (@PIANewsDesk) posted a photo on Twitter

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PIA News Desk

4 hrs ·

‪#‎PhPPP‬ NEWS: Two groups vie for P55.51-B Cavite-Laguna ‪#‎Expressway‬ READ MORE http://t.co/hM5Stntuq9 http://t.co/P7zED3VRhF | via @PPP_Ph

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PIA News Desk

2 hrs ·

‪#‎DENR‬ highlights role of biodiversity in sustainable development - See more at: http://t.co/kBagg0Z8Ah

PIA | DENR highlights role of biodiversity in sustainable development

QUEZON CITY, May 21 -- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) underscores the critical role that biodiversity play in achieving...

news.pia.gov.ph

PIA News Desk

14 hrs ·

‪#‎BrigadaEskwela‬ continues. You may go to the school near you to help. http://t.co/AhMTf4NJoP | via @DepEd_PH

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PIA News Desk

13 hrs ·

Here are some ‪#‎Water‬ Conservation Tips: http://t.co/KR37bN1qaV”

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PIA News Desk

22 hrs ·

How safe is my house during ‪#‎earthquake‬? Know abt it http://202.90.128.67/…/jica_phivolcs_how_safe_is_your_house…

PIA News Desk

18 hrs ·

Official statement of ARMM Gov. Hataman re Ad Hoc Committee vote on BBL https://t.co/fM1kmNTa3X

BPI-ARMM on Twitter

“Official statement of ARMM Gov. Hataman following Ad Hoc Committee vote on BBL: http://t.co/laCCmWHDww”

twitter.com

PIA News Desk

14 hrs ·

‪#‎ValleyFaultSystem‬ | Check out the evacuation camps nearest to you. Read more: http://t.co/dAQIQcPpBI http://t.co/3DRn4jusL0 |via @PanahonTV

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Noynoy Aquino (P-Noy)

1 hr ·

[Adm-02] President Aquino welcomes World Trade Organization (WTO) Director-General, Roberto Azevedo during the Courtesy Call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace.

PIA News Desk

2 hrs ·

“Connectivity, through the Internet economy, will help bring SMEs to market, improve education and health services delivery, link small farmers to large markets, and change the way we design, create, and consume products and services, among others. No business sector or segment of society will be untouched by the power and potential of connectivity,’ said Ambassador Laura Del Rosario, APEC SOM Chair 2015.

http://apec2015.ph/…/opportunities-from-the-internet-econo…/

Opportunities from the Internet Economy for Inclusive Growth

Opportunities from the Internet Economy for Inclusive Growth Posted on May 20, 2015 at 12:43 pm.Published by content manager The Internet economy is...

apec2015.ph

PIA News Desk

Yesterday at 1:45pm ·

Know more about Project ‪#‎NOAH‬ and ‪#‎OpenStreetMap‬ Mapping Initiative that can help in disaster mitigation. Pls. visit https://maning.github.io/noah_osm_mapping/

Project NOAH and OSM Philippines Mapping Initiative

maning.github.io|By Project NOAH and OpenStreetMap Philippines

PIAQuezon

Wednesday, May 20, 2015

5 Dispatch for May 21 , 2015 ( Thursday ), 3 Weather Watch , 1 Regional Watch, 1 OFW Watch , 17 Online News (May 20) , 52 PhotoRelease (May 20)

Daily Weather Forecast

Weather Watch

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Weather Watch

May 21 , 2015 ( Thursday) as of 9:00 AM

PIA4A / PIA QUEZON : Fair Weather in Lucena City

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PIA OFW Watch

PIA OFW Watch

1. Tagalog news: P2M waterworks sanitation project sa lungsod ng Batangas, pinasinayaan

3. Tagalog news: Comelec, muling nanawagan sa publiko na magparehistro para makaboto

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Noynoy Aquino (P-Noy)

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