| Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal to support Asia-Pacific economic integration, says U.S. envoy | |
| (BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan) Negotiations on the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade agreement could further support the regional economic integration of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) region. United States (US) Trade Representative Ambassador Michael Froman said the Philippines’ chairmanship of the APEC this year has focused on furthering integration across the region. “We’re dealing with digital trade, we’re dealing with localization barriers. These are all important initiatives that help further the integration of this region and we view our work in TPP as supportive of this overall effort as well,” he said during a press briefing Sunday, after the close of the two-day APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade (MRT) meeting held here. Froman said five years ago, APEC leaders indicated various ways of achieving regional integration, including TPP, as well as the ASEAN plus three, ASEAN plus six, and other initiatives. ”So we don’t view them as contradictory at all, we see TPP as one of the building blocks, along with several others, that contribute to a Free Trade Area of the Asia Pacific,” he said. Froman noted that TPP is intended to be an open platform, where countries that are “able and willing to meet its standards could join, with the consent of all the parties and consistent with each of our domestic processes.” The US is currently negotiating the TPP trade agreement with Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam. It aims to expand the initial group to include more countries throughout the Asia-Pacific region, including the Philippines. PNA (ldv) | |
| President Aquino says Secretary Manuel Roxas II is still his party’s top presidential bet | |
| President Benigno S. Aquino III said on Monday that Interior Secretary Manuel Roxas II is “at the top of the list” of his party’s presidential candidates but noted that consultations are still being made before he makes an announcement late July. “To my mind, as far as our coalition is concerned, he (Roxas) is at the top of the list. Now, we are still undergoing a lot of consultations and we will have a consensus. And there might be a little more delay when we announce, probably after the SONA (State of the Nation Address), who we will be endorsing but we just want this dialogue to be as thorough and encompassing as possible with all the sectors that are involved in the coalition,” he said during an interview with members of the Malacañang Press Corps following the Brigada Eskwela and Oplan Balik Eskwela 2015, held at the Marikina Elementary School in Marikina City. The President said he is surprised at reports that suggest that Secretary Roxas is not being considered as the Liberal Party’s standard-bearer. “I find it strange na, bakit ganoon? He has demonstrated quite a wide range of expertise in so many different assignments. He is a valuable member of the Cabinet. He has been a staunch leader of the party, even during the days that we were in the opposition. And kumbaga, he has demonstrated, even the ability to sacrifice. Previously, for instance, when he gave way to me,” he said. In September 2009, then senator Roxas, who was also president of the Liberal Party, withdrew his presidential candidacy to make way for Aquino to become the party’s standard-bearer, agreeing instead to run as the latter’s vice president. When asked if Vice President Jejomar Binay is still “the man to beat in the 2016 presidential elections,” the President said, “The impression has been that he has been at the forefront of the challenge as we look at all of the surveys. But at the same time, I think that question rests on his ability to be able to answer all of the allegations that he is being confronted with at this present time.” PND (ag) | |
| President Aquino ready to discuss Bangsamoro Draft Law with senators | |
| President Benigno S. Aquino III has expressed his readiness to discuss the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) with the senators. “Kung gusto nila akong kausapin tungkol dito sa BBL, hindi naman ako nanghihimasok, inimbita nila akong magbigay ng opinyon sa isang pagpupulong, bakit hindi natin gawin iyon? Handang-handa tayo doon,” President Aquino said during an interview with the Malacañang Press Corps following the Brigada Eskwela and Oplan Balik Eskwela 2015 event, held at the Marikina Elementary School in Marikina City on Monday. President Aquino said this meeting would depend on Senate President Franklin Drilon. “Hihintayin ko ang kumpas ng Senate President kung kailangan o hindi. Siyempre, may parte na gusto kong makipanayam sa kanila. Ayoko naman sabihin nila nakikialam ako sa kanila dahil independent body sila,” he further said. The Bangsamoro Basic Law, a top priority of the Aquino administration, was approved by the House of Representatives’ ad hoc committee last week. The bill, which will create a new political entity to replace the existing Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, was passed after the President met with the lawmakers. “Noong kinausap ko ang mga kongresista, sabi ko sa kanila: Pwede naman natin itong himay-himayin ng sobra sobra e. Sa Ingles, ang tawag nila nickel and dime me to death. Ngayon ang sabi ko rin sa kanila, iyong problema na hindi natutugunan o hindi binibigyan ng solusyon, hindi naman lumiliit, potensyal lumaki, at habang binabawasan natin nang binabawasan ang pagkakataon na itong bagong formula para magkaroon talaga nang ganap na katahimikan ay magkaroon ng pagkakataong mabuhay,” said President Aquino. When asked to comment on the Senate committee report submitted by Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago last week noting that the BBL would require Charter change, the President replied that “that is an opinion at this point in time”. He also stressed that the BBL “will withstand the test of constitutionality.” "Natandaan niyo may ad na lumabas itong mga ConCom (Constitutional Commission) members who crafted the Constitution. Maraming beses kapag nagtatalo ang mga abugado, basahin niyo ang libro tungkol sa debate ng ConCom. Dito, hindi na kailangan basahin ang libro dahil 'yung mga buhay pa na miyembro ng ConCom mismo na ang nagsasabi at ipinaliwanag ang constitutionality ng BBL,” the President explained. "Naintindihan natin maraming pagkakataon para makatawag ng pansin lalo na't ang napipintong eleksyon ay darating na sa susunod na taon. Pero isang mahinahon na diskusyunan at pakikipag-uganayan, pagsuri nila dito sa BBL, palagay ko makikita nilang it will withstand the test of constitutionality,” he said. PND (jm) | |
| President Aquino maintains the Philippines has freedom of aviation over West Philippine Sea | |
| President Benigno S. Aquino III has maintained that the country has freedom of aviation over the disputed areas in the West Philippine Sea, despite last Wednesday’s incident when the Chinese Navy repeatedly warned a US surveillance plane as it flew over the contested waters. “We will still fly the routes that we fly based on international law and the various conventions, agreements that have been entered into through various decades,” he said during an interview with members of the Malacañang Press Corps following the Brigada Eskwela and Oplan Balik Eskwela 2015 event, held at the Marikina Elementary School in Marikina City on Monday. The President however pointed out that China has not declared an Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) in the area. “Siguro, baka dapat hindi muna natin pag-isipan na tayo ang pag-iinitan ng isang bansa or another, dahil wala pa ring idini-declare namang ADIZ doon sa tinatahak 'nung ating mga carriers, iyong mga normal na lumilipad dito sa mga rutang ito,” he explained. President Aquino said that the country will nonetheless continue to exercise its rights over its exclusive economic zone. “We have maritime awareness, we know what is happening, and we have a calculated response to all of these incidents that are happening. Bottom line is, it has to be clear, we will defend our rights to the best of our abilities,” he said. According to reports, the Chinese Navy told the US aircraft to leave the area eight times as it flew over the artificial islands that China has been building in the disputed territory. China claims sovereignty over most of the contested area but the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have overlapping claims. PND (ag) | |
| President Aquino attends Brigada Eskwela and Oplan Balik Eskwela event in Marikina | |
| President Benigno S. Aquino III on Monday underscored the importance of unity and cooperation as he praised the efforts of those who joined the Brigada Eskwela and Oplan Balik Eskwela. The Brigada Eskwela and Oplan Balik Eskwela are annual activities of the Department of Education held two weeks before the official start of classes, during which teachers, parents and students take part in cleaning classrooms in public schools nationwide. “Nakakatuwa nga po, na isang taon bago matapos ang ating termino, ay nakikita natin sa okasyong tulad ng Brigada Eskwela at Oplan Balik Eswela ang patuloy na pagpapamalas ng bayanihan,” he said in his speech during the event held at the Marikina Elementary School in Marikina City. The President noted that under Brigada Eskwela, 46,624 public schools across the country become the center of community, where citizens meet to help clean and repair classrooms, while under Oplan Balik Eskwela, various government agencies and other stakeholders from the private sector make preparations to ensure the smooth opening of classes. He cited the Department of Public Works and Highways for building classrooms, the Department of Trade and Industry for stabilizing prices of school supplies, the Department of Interior and Local Government for coordinating with local government units and the police; and the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) for providing weather reports. "Ang nakakatuwa nga po, sa mga aktibidad na ito, talaga naman pong muli akong nabubuhayan at lalong ginaganahang magsumikap tungo sa makabuluhang pagbabago. Dito po, kitang-kita ko ang tunay na laman ng puso ng mga disenteng Pilipino: Handang magkaisa, handang magtrabaho para sa kanyang kapwa, lalung-lalo na nga po sa kabataan; handang makiambag tungo sa positibo, at hindi puro reklamo lamang habang wala namang naipepresenta o naidadagdag sa solusyon,” he said, extending his thanks to all the teachers, parents, students and other volunteers, as well as agencies and companies that joined the activities. The Chief Executive also stressed the importance of education. "Edukasyon ang pangunahing haligi ng ating agenda ng malawakang kaunlaran para sa ating bansa. Lalo pa po ngayong umaangat ang ekonomiya at lumalawak ang pagkakataon sa ating lipunan, tinututukan natin ang pagsasanay ng ating kabataan, upang magkaroon sila ng sapat na kaalaman upang punan ang mga bumubukas na trabaho,” he said. President Aquino said that this year, the Education Department, with the help of the private sector, is eyeing the construction of 31,728 classrooms, in addition to the 33,607 classrooms completed last year. "Ang tinitiyak ko sa inyo, hangga’t tayo po’y nagtutulungan at tumutuon sa positibo, hangga’t tayo’y sumasagwan sa iisang direksyon, at hangga’t tayo po’y matibay na nananalig sa Poong Maykapal, gaano man katayog ang ating mga pangarap, maaabot natin ito; makakapagpamana tayo sa mga susunod na salinlahi ng isang bansang tunay nating maipagmamalaki; Isang bansa kung saan nagbubunga ang ating mga pinagsisikapan; isang bansang makatarungan, at tumatamasa ng malawakang kaunlaran,” he said. During the occasion, the President was welcomed by Education Secretary Armin Luistro, Representative Romero Quimbo (Second District), Marikina City Mayor Del de Guzman, School Governance Operation Division Chief Dr. Elizalde Cena, Marikina Elementary School Principal Eugenia Martin, and TESDA Director General Joel Villanueva. PND (jm) | |
| APEC trade ministers to endorse action agenda to globalize micro, small and medium firms | |
| (BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan) Trade ministers from the 21 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) members Sunday agreed to endorse to their leaders the adoption of an action agenda that will foster the participation of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the regional and global economy.APEC trade ministers considered the ‘Boracay Action Agenda’ an action-oriented initiative that supports the forum’s ongoing work to address the barriers face by MSMEs in international trade and facilitate their access to regional and global markets with a strengthened focus on micro and small enterprises. “We will complement APEC’s initiatives on promoting SMEs’ participation in GVCs (global value chains) with an agenda that will support micro and small enterprises as direct exporters,” they said in a statement issued here after the two-day APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade (MRT) Meeting. To advance APEC’s efforts on MSME internationalization, they agreed to recommend innovative actions on trade facilitation, e-commerce, financing and institutional support. APEC trade ministers support initiatives to facilitate access of these companies to free trade agreements (FTA) or regional trade agreement (RTA) by simplifying and streamlining rules of origin procedural and documentary requirements. They said actions to streamline customs-related rules and regulations and assist in the compliance of MSMEs; and measures to widen financing options and develop infrastructure to facilitate lending to them are also imperative. Trade ministers also underscored the important role of the information communications technology (ICT) and e-commerce in expanding internationalization opportunities for micro and small enterprises providing goods and services. “We welcome strengthened information sharing and stronger coordination across relevant APEC fora to enhance complementarity of projects and initiatives and promote efficient use of resources in implementing the Boracay Action Agenda,” they added. SMEs are considered engines of growth and employment in the APEC region. Over 97 percent of businesses in APEC are SMEs, providing jobs to more than half of the workers in the Asia-Pacific region. The Philippines has been strongly advocating for the interests of MSMEs in global and regional trade. In a press briefing, Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo noted that dismantling trade barriers is a continuing effort for APEC economies. “But I think the significant thing that was achieved in this MRT is that they put a little more focus in terms of assisting micro and small enterprises. We will continue the work in terms of pursuing more activities in strengthening the participation of MSMEs in global value chains,” said Domingo, also APEC 2015 MRT Chair. During the two-day MRT held here, the 21 APEC trade ministers also discussed matters that seek to enhance the regional economic integration agenda such as efforts in line with the achievement of the Bogor Goals and APEC’s work on the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific. PNA (ldv) | |
| APEC ministers agree on Free Trade Area study completion next year | |
| (BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan) Trade officials meeting for the APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade (MRT) agreed to complete the study on the Free Trade Area in the Asia Pacific (FTAAP) by the end of 2016, Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo, said in a press conference on Sunday. Domingo was asked by the media what was achieved during the one-and-a-half day MRT meeting with regards to the FTAAP. "As agreed last year in Beijing that we will complete the terms of reference this year, so that was endorsed. And we will complete the study by end of next year, so that was decided during the MRT," he said as a response. Asia-Pacific leaders who met in China last year agreed to move towards a new free trade zone strongly backed by Beijing. They agreed to launch a study into the FTAAP. Also during the press conference, Domingo read the APEC MRT statement, with the ministers reaffirming their commitment to promote trade and investment liberalization and strengthen economic cooperation to achieve inclusive growth in the Asia Pacific region. We are committed to building an open economy in the Asia Pacific region featuring innovative development, interconnected growth and shared interests," the ministers said in the statement. "We shared ideas and exchanged views on important trade and investment issues to build consensus on how we can work together effectively and efficiently for the betterment of the APEC region." They said that as the world economy still struggles to gain traction and as the world trade lags behind its potential, growth has remained uneven and below the pace necessary to generate the jobs that the APEC economies need. And as the leaders of a dynamic region, which accounts for 46 percent of the world trade, 57 percent of the global GDP and 39 percent of the global population, the ministers said they have an obligation to expand trade and spur economic activity. The goal is to attain a strong, sustainable, and inclusive growth for the entire Asia Pacific region, they said. PND (as) | |
| Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal to support Asia-Pacific economic integration, says U.S. envoy | |
| (BORACAY ISLAND, Aklan) Negotiations on the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade agreement could further support the regional economic integration of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) region. United States (US) Trade Representative Ambassador Michael Froman said the Philippines’ chairmanship of the APEC this year has focused on furthering integration across the region. “We’re dealing with digital trade, we’re dealing with localization barriers. These are all important initiatives that help further the integration of this region and we view our work in TPP as supportive of this overall effort as well,” he said during a press briefing Sunday, after the close of the two-day APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade (MRT) meeting held here. Froman said five years ago, APEC leaders indicated various ways of achieving regional integration, including TPP, as well as the ASEAN plus three, ASEAN plus six, and other initiatives. ”So we don’t view them as contradictory at all, we see TPP as one of the building blocks, along with several others, that contribute to a Free Trade Area of the Asia Pacific,” he said. Froman noted that TPP is intended to be an open platform, where countries that are “able and willing to meet its standards could join, with the consent of all the parties and consistent with each of our domestic processes.” The US is currently negotiating the TPP trade agreement with Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam. It aims to expand the initial group to include more countries throughout the Asia-Pacific region, including the Philippines. PNA (ldv) | |
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| PH, Japan ink grant for community development in Mindanao | |||||||||||
| Source: http://www.neda.gov.ph | |||||||||||
| MANILA – The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) led the Philippine government in signing the grant agreement for community development in conflict-affected areas in Mindanao. Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan and Noriaki Niwa, Chief Representative of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Philippine Office, signed the grant agreement in May 25, 2015 on behalf of the Philippine and Japanese Governments, respectively. As one of Japan’s major development partners, the Philippines will receive a grant amounting to JPY1.117 billion or almost PhP500 million to facilitate the rehabilitation and construction of farm-to-market roads in Mindanao, particularly in Bumbaran in Lanao del Sur, Datu Paglas in Maguindanao, and Alamada in North Cotabato. “Through linking target farm villages to major highways, the project is expected to enhance the welfare of farmers that rely largely in crop production as their main source of livelihood,” said Balisacan in his statement during the signing. The grant assistance was made possible through the Japan-Bangsamoro Initiatives for Reconstruction and Development. The community development project, to be implemented by the Department of Agriculture, was endorsed through diplomatic channels on September 17, 2014. “We look forward to the attainment of full benefits from this undertaking and eventually to the enjoyment of ‘dividends of peace’ in Mindanao through the implementation of various peace and development programs in the area,” the Cabinet official said. | |||||||||||
| Person with disability leads the development of his community | |||||||||||
| Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph | |||||||||||
| “Alam ko na ang kapansanan ko ay isang limitasyon para makapagsilbi lalo na kung pisikal na lakas ang kailangan. Subalit, hindi ito magiging limitasyon sa pagtupad ng aking mga pangarap (I know that my handicap will limit my ability to serve. However, it will not limit my capacity to dream and pursue my goals),” asserted Rey E. Jaboneta, 42, a volunteer of the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services National Community-Driven Development Program (Kalahi-CIDSS), one of the anti-poverty programs of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Kalahi-CIDSS uses the Community-Driven Development approach that puts power back in the hands of the people by giving them the voice and the vote to participate in the local development process and identify solutions that will address needs identified by communities themselves. Through CDD, citizens work hand-in-hand with government and non-government organizations to ensure that their needs are met and they become actively involved in local processes. Despite being a person with disability (PWD), Rey does not stop by simply doing his share of community work. He tries his best to excel as proven by his Kalahi-CIDSS’ 1st Bayani Ka recognition as Best PWD, which he recently received from DSWD. The 1st Bayani Ka Award aims to acknowledge outstanding community volunteers and initiatives, and build a pool of champions for positive change. DSWD Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman stressed that PWDs should also have equal access to training, and other opportunities. “Rey is a good role model that each one of us has the capacity to become movers of change given the right chance,” Sec. Soliman said during the awarding ceremony. Volunteering his services Born with polio, Rey has experienced discrimination from people around him. “Maraming nagdududa sa aking kakayahan at may mga nagpapasaring tungkol sa aking kapansanan (They would often question my ability and hurl insensitive comments about my disability),” he said. Instead of wallowing in self-pity, he re-focused the negative vibe as a challenge to motivate him in pursuing his goals of helping the community. Since 2012, he had been leading the Kalahi-CIDSS implementation in his village in Barangay New Panay in Maragusan in Compostela Valley as Barangay Sub-Project Management Committee Chairman. To date, 173 community projects had been implemented in Maragusan which consist of roads, electrification project, bridges, school buildings, water system, drainage system, pre/post-harvest facilities, light house, eco-tourism projects, and skills training/capability building activities. “His role is to take care of the overall management of Kalahi-CIDSS sub-project together with other elected committee members,” said Helenbergs Tulang, Kalahi-CIDSS Area Coordinator in Maragusan. Rey shared, “Nakulbaan ko pero nalipay sa responsibilidad nga gisalig sa akong mga kauban sa barangay sa akoa (I was anxious but happy at the same time with the responsibility entrusted to me by the community).” He also expressed his gratitude to community facilitators of Kalahi-CIDSS who were always supportive of his endeavors. Boosting the morale Barangay New Panay is almost a five-hour ride from Davao City where the delivery of basic social services is hindered due to lack of cooperation from the community. “The people used to feel demoralized and insignificant since most of them were not able to finish school and were more focused on how to earn and provide for their family. Community work and volunteerism were not their priority,” shared Lyre Divine Balili, Kalahi-CIDSS community facilitator. For someone who had been the subject of ridicule due to his physical handicap, Rey used his disability to boost the morale of the community. Unmindful of his condition, he set an example by joining barangay assemblies and capacity building sessions. The residents were then encouraged and inspired by his dedication. They started to become active in their community’s development by helping choose, design, and implement projects that address their most pressing needs through Kalahi-CIDSS. Rey believed that if he could do it, the people around him will realize that they could do so much more. After awhile, the villagers started working together, gradually building various successful community projects. Numerous projects With Rey at the helm, Barangay New Panay was able to complete numerous projects like the construction of a drainage canal and a community E-library. A training on embroidery and interior design was also held in the village which benefited 1,389 residents. “Through Kalahi-CIDSS, Barangay New Panay now has the opportunity to generate more income and establish a school facility for the children in the community,” said Maragusan Mayor Cesar Colina. “Nagpapasalamat ako sa DSWD sa pagbibigay ng oportunidad sa aming mga may kapansanan. Ipinaramdam nila sa mga katulad ko na puwede rin kaming makapag ambag sa aming komunidad (I am thankful that DSWD gives equal opportunities to people with disabilities like me. They opened opportunities for us and they made us feel that after all, we can contribute to the development of our community),” Rey concluded. | |||||||||||
| BSP revises its balance of payments projections for 2015 | |||||||||||
| Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph | |||||||||||
| The BSP releases its reassessment for the 2015 balance of payments (BOP). This incorporates the BOP outturn in 2014 and latest available data to-date. The reassessment exercise also reflects recent and prospective economic developments, both domestic and global, that could have a bearing on the outlook for the country’s external payments position. The 2015 BOP position is expected to be in a surplus of US$2.0 billion, a reversal from the shortfall recorded in 2014 of US$2.9 billion. This is due primarily to a sustained strong current account surplus following the downward revision in international oil prices. As a result, year-end gross international reserves (GIR) are expected to be around $81.6 billion, an improvement from the $79.5 billion posted in 2014. At this level, the GIR remains ample, covering 10 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments of services and income. The current account, which has been in surplus since 2003, is projected to post a surplus of $14.2 billion, equivalent to 4.4 percent of GDP. The current account is expected to be supported by strong overseas Filipino remittances and robust receipts from business process outsourcing (BPO) and tourism. A narrowing merchandise trade deficit is also expected to prop up the current account. Goods exports are projected to rise by 5.0 percent, supported by the improvement in the outlook for electronics. Meanwhile, goods imports are expected to expand by 1.0 percent, bolstered by a robust outlook in domestic activity, even as the downward adjustment in the oil price assumption resulted in lower import bill. The balance of the financial account is expected to post a lower outflow of $8.4 billion from $10.1 billion recorded in 2014. While the global financial environment is expected to remain volatile, the continued bullish business confidence is expected to support higher foreign direct investments and modest inflows in portfolio investment, a reversal from an outflow of $1.3 billion in 2014 to a modest inflow of $0.2 billion in 2015 Overall, the external position of the Philippines is seen to improve in 2015. This should support the continued strong investor confidence in the economy. Moreover, the country’s external position remains a key source of resilience and policy flexibility that would enable the economy to ride out the volatilities of global economic and financial developments. | |||||||||||
| DOJ conducts Corruption Risk Assessment Workshop | |||||||||||
| Source: http://www.doj.gov.ph/ | |||||||||||
| In line with the DOJ’s Integrity Management Program (IMP), a priority program of the Aquino Administration towards good governance through integrity, transparency and accountability, the Department conducted a 2-day Corruption Risk Assessment Workshop on 21-22 May 2015 at the Manila Pavilion Hotel, Manila. The two-day workshop, a follow through to the Integrity Assessment Workshop held on February 2015, discussed Integrity Management Program Logic, Indicators, Means of Verification, Assumptions/Risks, among others. “As an agency promoting and administering the criminal justice system, integrity should begin with us, the duty-bearers, by setting an example for others to follow” Justice Secretary Leila De Lima said. “We expect a full implementation of activities and projects under the IMP to promote integrity and address the long-term problem of corruption within this institution,” the Secretary underscored. In pursuit of its good governance initiative, and in a bid to be among the top government agencies to showcase outstanding integrity by example, the DOJ has developed several measures such as the adoption of a Department Integrity Management Policy, institution of an Integrity Management Committee chaired by the Secretary and establishment an Internal Audit Service (IAS) to ensure that internal controls in systems, processes and procedures in the Department are in place. Earlier, the DOJ identified and rated the corruption prone areas in the Department which affect the institution’s performance by assessing Critical Systems and Processes and creating a Corruption Risk Register and Assessment Report. The workshop in partnership with the Office of the President-Office of the Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs (OP-ODESLA) and the Office of the Ombudsman (OMB) was attended and actively participated in by representatives from the various Services/Offices of the Department including the National Prosecution Service (NPS). | |||||||||||
| Roxas to South Cotabato Police: Intensify fight vs Organized Crime | |||||||||||
| Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph | |||||||||||
| Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Mar Roxas on Friday called on officials of the local government and the Philippine National Police (PNP) in South Cotabato to intensify the campaign against crime gangs to ensure the safety and security of the people in the province. Roxas issued the call as he distributed the brand new patrol jeeps for towns in South Cotabato province during a simple ceremony held at the Protech Center in Koronadal City on Friday (May 22) afternoon. "To our local government and police officials, let us intensify our campaign and crush these criminal gangs," Roxas said in the local tongue. Seven out of ten towns in the province immediately received the patrol jeeps, including Banga, Norala, T’boli, Tampakan, Tantangan, Lake Sebu, and Sto. Nino. The municipalities of Surallah, Tupi, and Polomolok will receive their patrol jeeps next week. "Lahat ng bayan magkakaroon ng patrol jeeps. Ito ay ipapamahagi ng walang pinipili kahit sino ka man o kahit anong kulay ng chaleco na suot mo," Roxas said, as he handed to local chief executives the keys of the new patrol jeeps. Increased mobility, faster response time Police Chief Superintendent Lester Camba of the Police Regional Office 12 (PRO12) said that the distribution of the patrol jeeps in the SOCCSKSARGEN (South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and General Santos City) region is timely and will boost the local police's crime-fighting capabilities. "Malaki ang maitutulong nito lalo na sa area ng South Cotabato dahil malalaki ang bayan dito. It will increase our mobility and improve our response time," he explained. "Sa amin sa Polomolok, isa lang ang ginagamit namin dahil ‘yung isang patrol car ay beyond repair na. Malaking tulong itong patrol jeep na ito dahil madadagdagan kami ng isa na pwedeng magamit. Merong 23 barangays ang Polomolok, at pati T'boli, dahil malayo, kami ang rumeresponde," Police Superintendent Amante Q. Suriaga, the Polomolok Police chief said. Peace and order, progress Local officials in South Cotabato are grateful for being given the patrol jeeps. Lake Sebu Mayor Antonio Fungan said it will help the police reach upland barangays, boosting peace and effort in areas seldom covered by patrolling policemen. "Iyong malalayong lugar, mararating na nang mabilis ng ating mga pulis, lalo na sa mga matataas na barangay," he said. Polomolok Mayor Honey Lumayag-Matti said that the patrol jeep will boost her town's projection of being an investment haven due to a relatively good peace and order situation, which has to be maintained given the increasing town population. "We are planning to donate [to the local police] two patrol cars this year as well so itong patrol jeep plus iyong dalawa na bibilihin namin will show potential investor that business is safe. More business means more jobs for the people," she said. ‘Not just statistics, crime is personal’ For Roxas, crime is not just statistics but more of a personal matter especially for the victims. "Maaaring para sa iba, statistics lang ang krimen. Pero sa biktima, personal ito. Pinaghirapan nila at pinag-ipunan nila ang pera. Buhay at kabuhayan nila ang apektado sa bawat krimen na nagaganap. Hindi natin dapat payagan na mangyari ito,” Roxas said during an interview. He also stressed that the government is now on track in fighting crime, crediting the ongoing PNP modernization program and the recent launch of Oplan Lambat-Sibat, a deliberate, programmatic and sustained approach in addressing criminality, which led to a record 60-percent decrease in crime incidence in Metro Manila over the past year. “Sa ilalim ng Daang Matuwid na polisiya ng administrasyon, lahat ay magkakaroon ng isang patrol jeep. Sino ka man, nasaan ka man, hindi ka pababayaan, walang maiiwan, at hindi ko kayo kalilimutan,” Roxas said. | |||||||||||
| Kentex and illegal sub-contractor could be liable by P7.8-M, initially, but more--Baldoz | |||||||||||
| Source: http://www.pdic.gov.ph | |||||||||||
| Following the issuance yesterday by the DOLE Regional Office No. 3 of a cease-and-desist order after finding the sub-contractor of Kentex Manufacturing Corporation, CJC Manpower Services to be engaged in “labor-only” subcontracting, Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz said Regional Director Ana P. Dione could already issue early next week a compliance order to pay P7.8 million in underpaid wages to the 99 workers it has deployed to the rubber slipper manufacturer. “A compliance order will be issued against Kentex and CJC Manpower Services directing them to pay the amount due the workers under the Labor Code, as amended, and other labor laws. Kentex will shoulder the liabilities as the direct employer, CJC Manpower Services, being a “labor-only” contractor,” Baldoz said. The amount of P7.8 million is only an initial computation, and does not include yet other monetary benefits due to the workers, such overtime pay, night shift differential, 13th month pay, holiday pay, vacation and leave pay, refund of cash bond, and other emoluments, including social security benefits. “It also does not include the amount due the workers of Kentex itself, which will be the subject of another compliance order to be issued by DOLE National Capital Region Director Alex Avila,” Baldoz explained. “And since the establishment is unionized and has a valid collective bargaining agreement (CBA) until 2017, union members are entitled death benefits equivalent to 15 days of salary times the number of years in the service, as well as other benefits stipulated in the CBA,” she added. She also said the officers and owners of Kentex and CJC Services may be held criminally liable for violation of R.A. 6727, as amended by R.A. 8188 for failure to pay any of the prescribed increases or adjustments in the wage rates, given the noted underpayments. “The penalty for such could be a fine of not less than P25,000 nor more than P100,000, or imprisonment of not less than two years nor more than four years, or both such fine and imprisonment at the discretion of the court,” she said. She further said Kentex and CJC Manpower Services may also be held criminally liable for violation of Article 116 of the Labor Code, as amended, which declares unlawful the withholding of any amount from the wages of a worker or induce him/her any part of his/her wages by force, stealth, intimidation, threat, or by any other means whatsoever without his/her consent, for which the penalty is a fine ranging from P1,000 to P10,000, or imprisonment of not less than three months nor more than three years, or both can be imposed under Article 288 of the Labor Code, as amended. On occupational safety and health standards violations, the labor and employment chief said these are not criminal offenses under the Labor Code, as amended, but emphasized that fraud committed by Kentex in the course of the joint assessment can be penalized under Art. 288 of the Code, as amended, this being unlawful. | |||||||||||
| BIMP-EAGA senior officials visit Palawan to strengthen road, air, and sea linkages | |||||||||||
| Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph | |||||||||||
| Senior officials and cluster heads from Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) member countries will visit the Philippines for the post Senior Officials Meeting (SOM) which will be held in Puerto Princesa, Palawan on 25 to 26 May 2015. This will serve as a follow-up activity on the 11th BIMP-EAGA Summit held at Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia last 28 April to review the progress and implementation bottlenecks on priority programs and projects identified during the 2015 Summit. Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary Prudencio M. Reyes Jr., also the Philippine senior Official, will be attending the Post SOM as a part of his role in promoting the Philippines’ ties with other Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in pursuit of achieving BIMP EAGA deliverables. “As the Philippine Senior Official, I have high hopes that this convention will encourage interaction and exchange of ideas among the participants to cover all areas of concerns and obtain substantive results at the end of the meeting," Reyes said. Senior officials and cluster heads will tackle 2nd Generation Priority Infrastructure Projects (PIPs) which include road projects, seaports, and airports expansion for a stronger connectivity within BIMP-EAGA. Reviving air links between Philippines and its EAGA counterparts is currently one of the priorities of MinDA to maximize the travel tax exemption approved by the Philippine government for travelers from Mindanao and Palawan heading to any of the BIMP-EAGA destinations. Currently, the Philippines has been enhancing its transport connectivity systems in BIMP-EAGA through strengthening the following transport facilities: Davao-GenSan-Bitung Shipping Service, Brooke’s Point Palawan-Kudat RORO service, and Davao-Manado air Linkage. "We are hopeful that agreements will be reached on the long standing issue of BIMP-Facilitation Center so that we can fast-track the implementation of these priority infrastructure projects," Reyes concluded. | |||||||||||
| PHL proposes initiatives to mainstream MSMEs in Green Supply Chains | |||||||||||
| Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph | |||||||||||
| As APEC 2015 host economy, the Philippines steered discussions towards initiatives focused on the greening of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) during the “Dialogue on APEC Cooperation Network on Green Supply Chain” held recently in Boracay. During this dialogue, APEC member economies discussed best practices in managing green supply chains and the development of a work plan to create an APEC Cooperation Network on Green Supply Chain. It was followed by a public-private dialogue among representatives from the trade and environment sector, private sector, and research institutions. “Over the recent years, Philippine development programs converge on mainstreaming MSMEs into domestic and regional trade. APEC 2015 is a valuable venue where the Philippines can highlight the value of MSMEs in the pursuit of inclusive growth and move forward our advocacy for initiatives to further enable MSMEs,” Department of Trade and Industry-Industry Development Group (DTI-IDG) Undersecretary Adrian S. Cristobal Jr. explained. “This dialogue served as an opportunity for us to talk about the Industry Roadmap Project of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) - Board of Investments (BOI) which takes into account the pursuit of green growth in terms of green processes and the manufacturing of green products. Providing the platform for this is the ongoing development of the ‘Greening the Industry Roadmap Project’,” DTI Assistant Secretary Rafaelita M. Aldaba said. Aldaba added that this project aims to identify policies that would enable industries to improve their competitiveness and increase their chances of participating in supply chains through cleaner production processes; the efficient use of materials, water, and power; reducing the impact on the environment; and, compliance with global health and environment standards. These interventions will be integrated into the roadmaps of the automotive manufacturing and auto parts sector; pulp and paper; plastic; mass housing; and, the copper and furniture sectors. Aside from greening the industry roadmaps, the DTI's initiatives focus as well on supporting local communities in the rural areas. MSMEs in Misamis Oriental recently underwent training for capacity building in the production of engineered bamboo products and information sessions on the bamboo industry value chain. MSMEs are estimated to account for 97 percent of all registered businesses in the country, employ about 60% of the workforce, and contribute to about a third of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). “MSMEs are vulnerable to price fluctuations and climate change. Considering their limited resources, we need to assist them to improve their chances of sustainability and further increase their productivity and competitiveness,” Cristobal stated. Cristobal added that "putting the interests of MSMEs is on top of our economic priorities and one way of doing this is greening the country’s MSMEs to improve efficiency in the use of our natural resources. Developing them into dynamic and global ones ensures their continuing contribution to the growth of our economy.” The common goal for APEC 2015 is the widening and deepening of MSME participation in trade. Initiatives include more actions that will further advance their internationalization as well as utilizing a set of indicators to track the progress of their direct and indirect contributions to trade. | |||||||||||
| Philippines among First Asia Environmental Enforcement Awardee | |||||||||||
| Source: http://pnp.gov.ph | |||||||||||
| The Philippine National Police through its Maritime Group (MG) is among the eight (8) organizations with five (5) enforcement officers in the Asia who won the first Asia Environmental Enforcement Award in Bangkok, Thailand on May 20, 2015. Under the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP), PNP-MG was awarded for its achievements in conducting more than 1,500 operations against violation of fisheries and wildlife laws leading to the seizure of endangered aquatic species, 3,000 arrests and collection of fines more than US $300,000 worth. Likewise, two (2) of five (5) police officers were from the PNP that won individual awards namely, PSSupt Jonathan V. Ablang, MG Deputy Director for Operations, for promoting the establishment of Marine Protected Areas, recruitment and training of 679 local communities as Marine Protected Area Guards, and for setting up the SMS public hotline that led to the arrest of thousands of suspects for illegal fishing and environmental pollution violations; and PSupt Osmundo D. Salibo, Chief of MG Special Boat Unit, for leading his unit in the confiscation of numerous endangered wildlife species from illegal elements including 900 sea turtles and more than 9,000 marine turtle eggs. The said SMS public hotline is the "700DALOY Project" (Dedicated Alert Lines for Ocean Biodiversity) with SMS number 700-32569 where the public can pass on critical information related to marine environmental protection including all forms of criminality to PNP-MG. The AEEA is a joint initiative of UNEP and Freeland, funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to encourage countries, organizations and individuals in the region to combat environmental crime and to acknowledge excellence in enforcement. "Freeland is proud to be part of the new AEEA awards," said Steven Galster, Freeland's Executive Director. "But most of all, we are proud of the award winners, who have gone above and beyond their call of duty and achieved magnificent results in the fight against environmental crime." Other countries recognized by UNEP are Cambodia, China, India, Thailand, Tonga and Vietnam for their efforts in confiscating about US$69 million worth of illegal contraband, logs and wood charcoal, and seizure of nearly 300,000 tons of hazardous waste, wildlife products and timber. Investigation on these crimes have resulted in US$40 million worth of fines and more than US$100 milion in frozen assets. PNP Officer-In-Charge PDDG Leonardo A. Espina congratulates the Maritime Group for a job well done as they did not only brought home honors for themselves and the PNP but for the country as well. "These accolades are the Maritime Group's tribute to Mother Nature in line with the realization of one of the PNP Core Values 'Makakalikasan' and the attainment of our function relative to environmental protection and preservation." PCSupt Noel Lazarus C. Vargas, MG Acting Director, said. "This also manifests that the PNP Maritime Group has far intensified its performance standard as envisioned on our PATROL PLAN 2020 PGS Roadmap using international benchmark" Vargas added. | |||||||||||
| DOST's starbooks wows Eastern Visayas librarians | |||||||||||
| Source: http://www.dost.gov.ph | |||||||||||
| “Ang ganda pala! (It is so nice!)” a librarian exclaimed as the contents of STARBOOKS splashed onscreen, and participants on a hands-on demonstration browsed over the rich contents. STARBOOKS, or Science and Technology Academic and Research-Based Openly Operated Kiosk Station, is the country’s first digital science and technology (S&T) library. It can be accessed offline, making it ideal for students and researchers in areas still unreached by the Internet and have no access to the latest S&T materials. Browsing its contents is quite easy. Everything is categorized into S&T areas. Should users want more precise search of materials, the search bar is always helpful. Indeed, STARBOOKS made searching for S&T information much faster and easier compared with the card catalogs in traditional libraries. It is even better than Google because the contents are specific and localized and, best of all searched offline. Developed by the Department of Science and Technology’s Science and Technology Information Institute (DOST-STII), STARBOOKS contains full text journal and research materials, news and feature articles, videos, and publications on S&T and livelihood. It also has Encyclopaedia Britannica in its collection, its contents categorized into elementary, high school, and college levels. “It’s like bringing the whole DOST-STII library collection in every STARBOOKS unit,” said DOST-STII Officer-In-Charge Raymund E. Liboro. Aside from availing of rich S&T information, STARBOOKS users also open themselves to livelihood opportunities through how-to videos produced by DOST’s Technology Resource Center. Meanwhile, participants in the hands-on demo were some 30 Eastern Visayas-based librarians and IT staff who were trained on how to use the STARBOOKS both as regular user and monitoring person . Trainors Robelyn Cruz and Lloyd Mandapat of the DOST-STII STARBOOKS team likewise trained DOST’s regional staff on configuring STARBOOKS contents pre-installed in disks. DOST-STII turned over 53 of these disks to DOST-VIII Regional Director Edgar Esperancilla for deployment in schools that are still getting their computers ready to become digital libraries. Region-based DOST staff led by Florentino Quiñones, DOST-VIII science research specialist and STARBOOKS coordinator, will configure the STARBOOKS contents in respective sites. STARBOOKS will be massively deployed in the regions affected by typhoon Yolanda (International code: Haiyan) to help schools and public libraries recover from their losses and build back even better libraries. “I hope STARBOOKS will reach more areas in Region 8,” said Dir. Esperancilla. The region is among the first to avail of STARBOOKS since the project was launched in 2011. With the wider coverage of STARBOOKS in the regions, more students, teachers, and researchers can finally have free access to thousands of DOST-STII’s S&T materials, and enrich their research and investigatory projects. And to schoolchildren and researchers in the Yolanda corridor, they are on their way to nicely building back better library experience. | |||||||||||
| Double tracking of PNR's Sucat-Alabang stretch up for bidding | |||||||||||
| Source: http://www.dotc.gov.ph | |||||||||||
| P144-Million Project Targeted for Completion in Q3 2016 Manila, Philippines – The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) has published today an Invitation to Bid for a rail track improvement project for the Philippine National Railways (PNR) worth P 144,377,624.62, as part of its effort to revive and improve Southeast Asia’s oldest railway system. The project will add a second track to run parallel to the single track currently connecting the Sucat and Alabang stations, by adding 3.97 kilometers of rails which will allow simultaneous two-way traffic to run in that section. Presently, PNR’s rails are double-tracked from Tutuban to Sucat only. Prospective bidders may purchase the bid documents beginning today. A pre-bid conference which will be open to all interested parties is scheduled on May 26, while the submission and opening of bids is set on June 9. The award and start of construction of the project are targeted by the 3rd quarter of 2015, and the winning bidder will have two hundred (200) calendar days to complete the construction of the double rail tracks. The state-owned PNR is temporarily not operating for safety reasons, as the status of its rail tracks are being investigated by management following the April 29 derailment incident near its Magallanes station. The investigation is expected to yield a precise inventory of missing or needed parts such as rail joints, angle bars, and rail clips – which will then be procured and installed in order to allow the PNR to resume its operations as soon as possible. Prior to the incident, the railway system had been servicing the Tutuban-Calamba route daily. The PNR is also expecting the arrival of two second-hand donated trains from Japan in the coming weeks. Aside from replacing missing parts and constructing double-track rails, the PNR has other rehabilitation projects for near-term implementation such as roofing extension to shield passengers from heat and rain, installation of turnstiles in major stations, and rail and comfort room rehabilitation. These immediate improvements are targeted for completion by the end of 2015 or early next year. Meanwhile, the DOTC is scheduled to begin the procurement process for its long-term solution to revitalize the PNR later this month. This project, called the North-South Railway Project, aims to revive PNR’s services from Malolos to Tutuban as its North Line and Tutuban to Legazpi City as its South Line by the end of 2020. | |||||||||||
| Philippines supports establishment of ASEAN Culture House in South Korea | |||||||||||
| Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph | |||||||||||
| 22 May 2015 - Philippine Ambassador to ASEAN Elizabeth P. Buensuceso reiterated the support of the Philippines to the establishment of an ASEAN culture house in South Korea in time for the proposed of ASEAN-South Korea Cultural Exchange Year in 2017. Ambassador Buensuceso conveyed this during her meeting with South Korea’s new Ambassador to ASEAN Suh Jeong In, who called on her at the Philippine Mission to ASEAN in Jakarta on May 18. “We can launch it in 2017 during the Philippine chairmanship of ASEAN, which is also the 50th anniversary of ASEAN,” Ambassador Buensuceso told Ambassador Suh Jeong In. “This is a very important initiative of South Korea, which is one of the most active Dialogue Partners of ASEAN in all areas.” Ambassador Suh Jeong In thanked Ambassador Buensuceso for the Philippine support, saying that the establishment of the ASEAN culture house was his “baby,” a project he proposed when he was Director-General handling ASEAN affairs at South Korea’s Foreign Ministry. He said that the ASEAN culture house will play an important role in promoting tourism, culture and people-to-people exchanges between ASEAN and South Korea. He added that funding for the ASEAN culture house has been secured and construction of the culture house in Busan is expected to begin soon. At the ASEAN-South Korea Commemorative Summit on the 25th Anniversary of the ASEAN-South Korea Dialogue Relations in Busan in December 2014, the Leaders of ASEAN and South Korea welcomed “the designation of 2017 as the year of ASEAN-South Korea Cultural Exchange, and appreciated South Korea’s contribution in establishing an “ASEAN culture house” in South Korea to enhance understanding of ASEAN and Southeast Asian culture in South Korea.” Ambassador Buensuceso and Ambassador Suh Jeong In also agreed to closely coordinate and exchange views on political and security issues, including developments in the Korean Peninsula and the South China Sea. ASEAN and South Korea remain important trading partners. In 2013, two-way trade between ASEAN and South Korea continued to grow and amounted to US$135 billion dollars compared with US$131 billion dollars the previous year. South Korea has maintained its position as the fifth largest trading partner of ASEAN, while ASEAN has become the second largest trade partner of South Korea. The two-way trade volume is expected to increase to US$150 billion dollars by 2015 as committed by the ASEAN-South Korea Leaders at the 14th ASEAN-South Korea Summit in November 2011. The foreign direct investment flow from South Korea to ASEAN has increased tremendously by 105.88% from US$1.9 billion dollars in 2012 to US$3.5 billion dollars in 2013. | |||||||||||
| PHL Ambassador conducts Lecture at Diplomatic Institute, Oman Ministry of Foreign Affairs | |||||||||||
| Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph | |||||||||||
| 22 May 2015 - Philippine Ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman Narciso T. Castañeda was the speaker for the 36th Diplomatic Session held today at the Diplomatic Institute of the Oman Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). The diplomatic session was attended by more than 40 participants from the Oman Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other agencies. Ambassador Castañeda’s lecture highlighted important information on the Philippines, milestones of Philippines-Oman relations, and the promotion of the Philippines’ economic development. | |||||||||||
| SSS Flexi-fund incentives up by 75% in 2014 | |||||||||||
| Source: https://www.sss.gov.ph | |||||||||||
| A total of 37,612 qualified Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) with active accounts under the Social Security System’s (SSS) Flexi-fund Program received 75 percent higher additional income on their savings, driven by increased investment earnings. Total annual incentive benefit (AIB) disbursements for 2014 amounted to P12.68 million, a P5.44-million jump from the P7.24 million released in 2013, SSS Senior Vice President for International Operations Division Judy Frances See said. AIBs are additional income on savings of OFW members under the SSS Flexi-fund Program, a voluntary provident fund and pension-plan scheme exclusively offered to OFWs that was launched in 2001. Active Flexi-fund members with no final benefit or full withdrawal claims filed for the year are qualified for AIB. They may receive AIB each year on top of the guaranteed earnings, depending on the actual year-end investment performance of the Fund. In 2014, member’s Flexi-fund savings earned at an average guaranteed interest rate of 1.3 percent. Guaranteed earnings are based on the average rates of SSS’ short-term peso placements or 91-day Treasury bills, whichever is higher. “The rates are re-priced quarterly to keep the program in step with prevailing market rates,” See said. See said, with the AIB disbursement, total earnings credited to individual Flexi-fund accounts swelled to P18.02-million, thus resulting in a higher average rate of return of four percent for qualified members. The official explained that the amount of total AIB is determined by deducting the total guaranteed earnings already credited to the accounts of Flexi-fund members from the actual investment income of the Fund at the end of the applicable year. The maximum AIB that was credited to a member’s account last year amounted to P95,819.83. As of December 2014, total Flexi-fund equity of members grew to P448.3 million, up by 14.4 percent from the same period in 2013, with membership increasing to 44,626 OFWs as of year-end. “We hope that more OFW members will choose to save under this program. SSS Flexi-Fund is safe and secure, which means they will get their savings as well as the interest earned in full to supplement their retirement fund or whatever benefits they will get from the regular SSS program in the future.” See said. SSS Flexi-fund savings are built from payments of at least P200 remitted on top of the SSS contributions of an OFW member, who is paying the maximum amount of P1,760 per month. A one-time enrollment is required to be able to join the program. “OFW members may visit the SSS office nearest them to enroll. They can also inquire more about the Flexi-fund with our OFW Contact Center through the service hotlines (02) 364-7796 and (02) 374-7798 or by e-mail at ofw.relations@sss.gov.ph,” See said. | |||||||||||
| Farmers’/Fisher’s Month calls for collective efforts for healthy soils | |||||||||||
| Source: http://www.da.gov.ph | |||||||||||
| This month, the Department of Agriculture celebrates the contribution of the agri-fishery laborers to the growth of Philippine agriculture and present economic status of the country. Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala will lead today the Farmers’ and Fisherfolk’s Month festivities aimed at giving recognition and credit to the farmers and fishers who remain the backbone of rural development. “Marapat lamang po na kilalanin natin ang ating mga bossing sa palayan at pangisdaan, at lahat ng katulong natin sa pagpapalago ng sektor ng agrikultura,” Alcala said. “These heroes continue to be sturdy and consistent partners of the Philippine government in attaining food self-sufficiency and sustainability for all,” he added. May, was declared as Farmers and Fisherfolks Month via Proclamation No. 33 signed by the first Aquino president, Corazon C. Aquino. The Malacañang Declaration was signed in 1989 as part of the older Aquino’s legacy to give highest priority and regard to the men and women who toil tirelessly to bring food not just on their own table but more importantly for the consumption of the entire nation. This year, the celebration coincides with the campaign launch of the International year of Soils – an undertaking led by the Food and Agriculture Organization. According to the international organization, healthy soils are the foundation for food, fuel, fiber and even medicine. “The multiple roles of soils often go unnoticed,” said FAO Director General Jose Graziano da Silva. He adds, “healthy soils are essential to our ecosystems, playing a key role in the carbon cycle, storing and filtering water, and improving resilience to floods and droughts.” IYS 2015 aims to raise awareness among civil society, policy makers and the general public on the importance of soil for human life specifically in food security, climate change adaptation and mitigation, essential ecosystem services, poverty alleviation and sustainable development. Locally, the DA’s Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) is the lead agency in charge of creating massive awareness on the importance of soil in abundant and progressive farming. As such, BSWM has launched the Save our Soils campaign to encourage all stakeholders to take an active role in soil conservation and management. Before the culmination of the year-long celebration on December 5, FAO and partner –countries would have developed a set of policies and action plans for the sustainable management and protection of soil resources. “As we pay tribute to our farmers and fishers, let us be conscious of the dirt under our feet. Let us come together and save the very foundation of any successful agriculture endeavor in crop production,” Alcala said. The agri chief added that the soil is a non-renewable resource and “it’s all up to us to take care of it.” “As we take care of our farmers and fishers, we pledge to take care of our soils for the future of agriculture and rural development,” he said. Farmers’ and Fisherfolk’s Month is being celebrated across the nation thru the regional filed office of DA. | |||||||||||
| DA steps up effort to unify trading center operations | |||||||||||
| Source: http://www.da.gov.ph | |||||||||||
| The Department of Agriculture has intensified its consultation activities with Agri-Pinoy Trading Center (APTC) stakeholders to come up with a unified set of standards that will govern the operations of APTCs in the country. During the 2nd APTC National Summit held at the Highlander Hotel and Resort, Solano, Nueva Vizcaya on May 20, 2015, eleven APTCs presented their respective accomplishment reports and shared best practices that could be emulated by other APTCs. In a statement, DA Secretary Proceso Alcala said that the summit, which was held few months after the first summit held in January this year, aims to fast-track the identification and integration of innovative policies that will ensure organized operations of APTCs working as a network of marketing and empowerment hubs for farmers. “Some may ask why we have to conduct two summits within a year. We give credit to zealous local government units and other partners who want frequent gatherings to identify ways for our trading centers to further advance,” Alcala said. “From the first APTC summit, action plans were crafted. It is now time for us to revisit and assess,” Alcala added. The Secretary also stressed that APTCs certainly need this kind of attention, especially if stakeholders want these to work as an efficient network. He emphasized the role of APTCs in complementing the DA’s programs on the promotion of new technologies for increased productivity. During the summit, the APTC managers and other stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to further develop trading centers, particularly through the identification of expansion areas; intensification of production in surrounding communities; identification of production, marketing and infrastructure support needed by farming communities; strengthening of linkages with other APTCs and marketing hubs to facilitate sharing of supplies and services; and provision of continuous training for farmers. The Camarines Norte APTC also shared its Commission on Audit-approved accounting system, which may be adopted by other APTCs. DA Assistant Secretary Leandro Gazmin said that APTCs may agree on a common APTC-specific accounting policy, considering the transition from government-led management to private management. “We adopt good practices such as accounting systems where and when these are applicable,” Gazmin said. Secretary Alcala also emphasized the role of strengthening of farmer organizations and their relationship with government agencies and local government units and other agricultural stakeholders for harmonious APTC operations. After the summit, the Secretary led the inauguration of two agricultural trading centers in Nueva Vizcaya—the Regional Organic Trading Center (ROTC) in Bagabag town and the upgraded Nueva Vizcaya Agricultural Terminal-APTC in Bambang town on May 21, 2015. The ROTC is the first organic trading center in the country. Other APTCs to scheduled to be launched this year are the Dalaguete APTC on May 28; the Benguet APTC on June 24; and the Siargao APTC, Nueva Ecija APTC and Bohol APTC for Livestock (AA slaughterhouse and "Oksyon" market) in July. There are nine APTC projects that are in the pipeline, including APTCs for marine products in Sta. Ana, Cagayan and Tabaco City, Albay. The DA envisions APTCs to be the farmers’ trading center of choice, patronized by vendors and traders as a reliable venue for procuring quality produce at the best value, serving as a hub for timely and quality supply of farm inputs at reasonable prices, as well as capability building to increase farmer productivity and entrepreneurial management skills, among other services. | |||||||||||
| March 2015 results of Licensure Examination for Teachers released in thirty-eight (38) working days | |||||||||||
| Source: http://www.prc.gov.ph | |||||||||||
| The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and the Board for Professional Teachers (BPT) announces that 12,103 elementary teachers out of 44,144 examinees (27.42%) and 17,904 secondary teachers out of 56,596 examinees (31.63%) successfully passed the Licensure Examination for Teachers (L.E.T.) given last March 29, 2015 in Singapore and 17 testing centers all over the Philippines. It is further announced that of the 12,103 elementary teacher passers, 5,607 are first timers and 6,496 are repeaters. For the secondary teachers, 11,770 passers are first timers and 6,134 are repeaters. The Board for Professional Teachers is composed of Dr. Rosita L. Navarro, Chairman; Dr. Paz I. Lucido, Vice Chairman; Dr. Paraluman R. Giron and Dr. Nora M. Uy, Members. The results of examination with respect to eleven (11) examinees were withheld pending final determination of their liabilities under the rules and regulations governing licensure examination. Registration for the issuance of Professional Identification Card (ID) and Certificate of Registration will start on June 1, 2015. The requirements for the issuance of Certificate of Registration and Professional Identification Card (ID) are the following: 1) duly accomplished Oath Form or Panunumpa ng Propesyonal; 2) latest Community Tax Certificate (Cedula); 3) 1 piece passport size picture (colored with white background and complete nametag); 4) metered documentary stamp for the Oath Form; and 5) the Initial Registration Fee of P600 and Annual Registration Fee of P450 for 2015-2018. Successful examinees should PERSONALLY register and sign in the Roster of Registered Professionals. The dates and venues for the oathtaking ceremonies of the new successful examinees in the said examination WILL BE ANNOUNCED LATER. | |||||||||||
| BI deports ward quarantined for 16 years | |||||||||||
| Source: http://www.immigration.gov.ph | |||||||||||
| Manila, Philippines---Bureau of Immigration (BI) agents on Tuesday deported Junichi Inoue, a Japanese national, who has been quarantined at the BI Warden Facility since 1999. According to BI Commissioner Siegfred Mison, implementation of the deportation order issued in 1999 is considered to be a little victory for the Bureau in view of the many challenges involved in the process. Inoue was apprehended and quarantined at the BIWF based on Section 37(a)(7) of the Philippine Immigration Act, or for violation of the conditions of his stay. He was reported to be a fugitive of Japan for the crime of robbery, and his passport has been cancelled by his home country at the time of his arrest. He has requested for voluntary deportation, which was granted on May 13, 1999. However, the BI was prevented from implementing the deportation order against Inoue because of criminal cases in several courts—violation of Batas Pambansa Blg. 22 (BP22) cases pending before the municipal trial courts of Cainta, Rizal; Binan, Laguna; San Pedro, Laguna; and Cabanatuan City. BI rules provide that a foreign national subject of a final deportation order may not be physically deported if he has pending obligations with the Philippine government, especially if the obligation arises from a criminal liability. “We have endeavored and exerted our best efforts to seek court clearances and expedited resolution of the cases filed before four different courts, which have dragged on for more than 16 years”, said Mison. “We are glad to have finally deported him to his native country in Japan considering that the Bureau is not in the business of detaining but of deporting”, added Mison. | |||||||||||
| TESDA lends expertise to Bangladesh tech-voc execs | |||||||||||
| Source: http://www.tesda.gov.ph | |||||||||||
| The Philippines was the site once again of a leadership training program of college principals from Bangladesh looking for ways to advance the delivery of technical vocational education in their country. A total of 75 college principals from Bangladesh technical schools took part in the Skills Development Program (SDP) that focused on institutionalizing TVET (technical vocational education and training) systems and process in institutions; promoting, advancing and strengthening industry linkages; and, providing professional development to TVET experts. The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the government agency mandated to manage and promote TVET in the country, played host to the training, funded by the Asian Development Bank. "As the ASEAN Economic Community comes into being this year, we are hearing the drumbeat for more career and technical education programs," TESDA Director General Joel Villanueva said. "TESDA is full of good ideas that pan out in practice, and it is opening its doors for practitioners of tech-voc to see and experience," he added. The training was conducted in three batches in May at the TESDA Women's Training Center in Taguig City. It featured a combination of lecture-discussions, visit to training institutions and industries and action planning. The participants were given a sneak peak on competency-based training system, TVET Program registration and how to develop training regulations. Villanueva said the country also showcased TESDA's linkages with the private sector thorough discussions on the building partnerships with industry and industry-academe partnership in TVET. This was highlighted by the visit to the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the National College of Science and Technology. A lecture-discussion also focused on the training and professional development of tech-voc personnel and on the accreditation and certification of TVET training institutions. "The Philippines and Bangladesh share the overarching goals of beating poverty by arming its people with employable skills, so they would find decent work and income. Quality tech-voc is the path we are taking," Villanueva said. In 2014, top education officials of Bangladesh also spent one week in the country for training on TESDA's standards development, competency-based training and assessment and accreditation system. | |||||||||||
| PDIC to pay depositors of the closed Rural Bank of Sta. Magdalena (Sorsogon), Inc. on May 27 | |||||||||||
| Source: http://www.pdic.gov.ph | |||||||||||
| The Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) will service the deposit insurance claims of depositors of the closed Rural Bank of Sta. Magdalena (Sorsogon), Inc. (RBSMI) on May 27, 2015, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., at the bank's premises located at Barangay 3, Poblacion, Sta. Magdalena, Sorsogon. Depositors with valid deposit balances of P50,000 and below, with complete mailing address found in the bank records or updated through the Mailing Address Update Form, and without any outstanding obligation with the bank do not need to file claims. Depositors with account balances of more than P50,000, and those with outstanding obligations with the closed RBSMI or with incomplete mailing address, or those who maintain the account under the name of business entities, regardless of type of account and account balance, are required to file their deposit insurance claims. The announcement on the claims settlement operations of RBSMI is posted at its office and in the PDIC website, www.pdic.gov.ph. When filing claims for deposit insurance, depositors are advised to personally present the original copy of evidence of deposit such as Savings Passbook and Certificate of Time Deposit, and two (2) valid photo-bearing IDs with signature of the depositor. Depositors who were not able to come personally may file their claims through mail and enclose the same set of documentary requirements. Depositors who are below 18 years old should be represented by a parent who should submit a photocopy of the child's Birth Certificate issued by the National Statistics Office (NSO) or a duly certified copy issued by the Local Civil Registrar as an additional requirement. The parent should sign the Claim Form and the other requirements. Claimants who are not the signatories in the bank records are required to submit an original copy of a notarized Special Power of Attorney (SPA). In the case of a minor depositor, the SPA must be executed by the parent. The procedures and requirements for filing of deposit insurance claims are posted in the PDIC website, www.pdic.gov.ph. The Claim Form and format of the SPA may also be downloaded from the PDIC website. PDIC will not accept claims which are incomplete or lacking in requirements. Depositors who are not able to file their claims during the claims settlement operations period may submit their claims either through mail to PDIC or personally at the PDIC Office, 4th Floor, SSS Bldg., 6782 Ayala Avenue corner V.A. Rufino Street, Makati City starting on June 8, 2015. In accordance with the provisions of the PDIC Charter, the last day for filing deposit insurance claims in the closed RBSMI is on May 15, 2017. After this date, PDIC as Deposit Insurer, shall no longer accept any deposit insurance claims The PDIC said that all valid claims will be paid. For deposits to be considered valid, it must be recorded in the bank's records and must have evidence of inflow of funds, based on the results of PDIC examination. PDIC, as Receiver, has the authority to adjust the interest rate on unpaid interests on deposits of a bank if such rate is deemed unreasonable. For more information, depositors may contact the Public Assistance Department at telephone numbers (02) 841-4630 to 31, or e-mail at pad@pdic.gov.ph. Depositors outside Metro Manila may call the PDIC Toll Free Hotline at 1-800-1-888-PDIC (7342). | |||||||||||
| CES Wellness Camp in Batanes wowed government, non-government execs | |||||||||||
| Source: Career Executive Service Board | |||||||||||
| BASCO, BATANES – The Career Executive Service Board (CESB) conducted anew the CES Executive Leadership, Wellness and Work-Life Balance Camp with thirty-eight (38) CES officers and eligibles from government and non-government agencies nationwide in attendance on 19-22 May 2015. With the success of last month’s camp in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, the CESB implemented the same approach in its 13th session for the campers to experience optimal wellness, namely, various plenary learning sessions, therapeutic workshops, physical exercises, rest and relaxation tour and fellowship night. Highly regarded experts were once again invited to discuss particular topics aligned to this year’s theme: “Detox, De-stress, Discover & Deliver.” They are CESB Executive Director Maria Anthonette C. Velasco-Allones, CESO I, on “A Hero’s Journey”; National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI) Molecular and Nutritional Oncologist Dr. Romulo Jacinto S. de Villa on “Leaders’ Guide to Eating Well”; Department of Health (DOH) Director Enrique A. Tayag, CESO III, on “Managing Executive Stress”; and Information and Communication Technology Consultant Mr. Alexander M. Arevalo on “Complete(d) Staff Work”. As before, the camp provided hands-on therapeutic workshops on visual arts and meditative flower arrangement spearheaded by multi-awarded visual, performance and installation artist, Mr. Salvador “Buddy” Ching and Zen Blooms Chief Executive Officer and Founder, Ms. Carissa A. Singson-Mabasa, respectively. For this session, Mr. Ching equipped the campers with basic knowledge and tools on landscape painting and “mandala” making using oil pastels and felt papers. Meanwhile, Zen Blooms, inspired by the Japanese art of flower arrangement called “Ikebana,” provided a simple yet elegant style of flower arranging characterized by asymmetry, minimal use of materials and harmonious beauty. CESB’s resident zumba dance instructress, Ms. Eleonor “Teacher Ellen” Sanchez and yoga instructor, Mr. Luisito “Lokesh” Palermo were at the forefront in conducting morning zumba dance and chair yoga sessions simultaneously. Dubbed as the “Philippines’ Last Frontier,” the campers experienced the breathtaking landscape of Sabtang Island, Batanes, where they enjoyed a 30-minute “Faluwa” (boat) ride from Ivana to Sabtang, the beautiful traditional stone houses of the Ivatans, the scenic Chamantad-Tinyan viewpoint, the rustic Chavayan village, and the famous rock formation and coconut crabs along Morong Beach, Malakdang. The campers further made use of their free time to travel around the main land of Batanes, the North and South Batan Island. The camp culminated with a fellowship night where the participants not only showcased their singing prowess and dancing skills onstage but also shared their inspiring leadership experiences with one other. To put in a nutshell the overall benefits gained from the four-day wellness camp, Schools Division Superintendent, Ms. Gloria R. Torres of the Department of Education – San Carlos, Pangasinan shared, “I learned how to maintain wellness and balance in work-life despite the stressors all around. I also got to experience the beauty of Batanes which is a most welcome Bonus.” An anonymous camper commented that the wellness camp is “a very good and pleasant break from work with very realistic and helpful advices for executives/leaders which we can bring back to work.” Lastly, Office of the President Undersecretary Reynaldo P. Cruz realized that, “greater awareness of the need for a healthy lifestyle is a tool for greater productivity.” | |||||||||||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III's Media Interview after his Speech at the Brigada Eskwela and Oplan Balik Eskwela 2015Marikina Elementary School, Shoe Ave., Brgy. Sta. Elena, Marikina City 25 May 2015
Christian Esguerra (The Philippine Daily Inquirer): Sir, good morning. Sir, two questions on a similar topic. Number one, do you subscribe to the idea that Vice President JejomarBinay, despite all the allegations of corruption against him, is still the man to beat in 2016 presidential elections? And number two, are you open to the possibility of Secretary Mar Roxas again sliding to being a vice presidential candidate for the second consecutive elections?
PRESIDENT AQUINO: Well, iyongs a first question, man to beat? Iyong the impression has been that he has been at the forefront of the challenge as we look at all of the surveys. But at the same time, iyong I think that question rest on his ability to be able to answer all of the allegations that he is being confronted with at this present time.
Kay Secretary (Mar) Roxas, can I just state, iyong... I was surprised to read in certain publications that parang---it's as if he is not being considered to be the standard bearer of our coalition. I find it strange na bakit ganoon? He has demonstrated quite a wide range of expertise in so many different assignments. He is a valuable member of the Cabinet. He has been a staunch leader of the party even during the days that we are in the opposition. And kumbaga, he has demonstrated, 'di ba, even the ability to sacrifice. Previously, for instance, when he gave way to me.
So all of these traits should point out that he is---iyong to my mind, as far as our coalition is concerned, he is at the top of the list. Now, we are still undergoing a lot of consultations and we will have a consensus. And hopefully---[there] might be a little more delay when we announce, probably after the SONA (State of the Nation Address), iyong who we will be endorsing but we just want this dialogue to be as thorough and encompassing as possible with all the sectors that are involved in the coalition.
Mr. Esguerra: One follow up, sir. But personally what's your preference? Is it Grace Poe-Mar or Mar-Grace Poe?
PRESIDENT AQUINO: Baka I can tell you July after the SONA.
AndreoCalonzo (GMA News Online): Sir, magandang umaga po. Sir, how will the Philippines assert our freedom of aviation over the disputed territories in the light of the recent incident involving US and China po doon sa area na 'yon?
PRESIDENT AQUINO: Well, we will still fly the routes that we fly based on international law and the various conventions, agreements that have been entered into through various decades. Siguro baka dapat hindi muna natin pag-isipan na tayo 'yung pag-iinitan ngi sangbansa or another dahil wala pa ring idini-declare namang ADIZ (Air Defense Identification Zone) doon sa tinatahak 'nung ating mga carriers, iyong mga normal nal umilipad dito sa mga rutang ito.
So baka naman pinangungunahan natin 'yung problemang wala pa diyan. At siguro idagdag ko pa rin na klarong-klaro 'yung disparity ng force or available military force between our two countries---China and ourselves. And ganoon ba ano... Para bang will they not take that into consideration, especially if they want to maintain a positive image with the rest of the world?
Kapag masyadong kinakaya 'yung napakaliit na bansa compared to them, paano makakatulong sa imahe nila 'yon na kailangan nilangparang may goodwill na mangyari sa buong bansa na kanilang kasama sa pangangalakal at susi para sa pag-asenso.
Mr. Calonzo: But, sir, 'yung China is---the Chinese coast guard is already warning our aircrafts flying there that this is Chinese military territory. Isn't this a de facto ADIZ already?
PRESIDENT AQUINO: Well, number one, iyong Chinese military territory, I don't think---I haven't come across those exact phrasing. Merong sinasabing indisputable sovereignty that they have been saying for the longest time, that's why we have the two tracks: arbitration and ASEAN. And again, going back, we will still exercise our rights over our exclusive economic zone. At the same time, dapatnamansiguro responsible, we have maritime awareness, we know what's happening, and we have a calculated response to all of these incidents that are happening.
Bottom line is, it has to be clear, we will defend our rights to the best of our abilities.
Mr. Calonzo: Sir, any coordination with the US on this matter pokasisila...?
PRESIDENT AQUINO: Iyong, well, part of it, as you know, meron na tayong tulungan doon sa maritime domain awareness. Ngayon, as you also know, hesitant akong mag-reveal ng lahat ng details e. Siguro maski sa basketball hindi pinapakita ng magkabilang coach 'yungkanilang playbook.
Mr. Calonzo: Sir, last nalangpo. Some senators are again calling for the convening of the National Security Council after these developments in the South China Sea, are you keen on convening the council now or is the security cluster enough, sir?
PRESIDENT AQUINO: Iyong the security cluster, I believe, is adequate together with the legal cluster and iyong mga minumungkahi nilaginawa na po namin 'yan e. We did invite iyong... Yes, we convened the National Security Council, if I remember correctly, President (Joseph) Estrada and President (Fidel) Ramos were present when we were discussing this issue. Iyong sa arbitration, I am very clear in my memory that then Senate President (Juan Ponce) Enrile and Speaker of the House (Feliciano) Belmonte were also present during a discussion, parang a modified national security council. Now, we also invited the judiciary for their inputs.
Tapos sabi nila they declined because it might come before their salas for review. So we respect that pero this has not... Iyong all of these decisions, although I am supposed to be the main architect for foreign policy, we have tried to get as many voices from the different branches of government to have different perspectives and come up with the best solution to this problem.
Anjo Alimario (CNN Philippines): Hi, sir, good morning po. Sir, how will you convince the senators to vote for BBL (Bangsamoro Basic Law) considering that as early as now, there are a lot of questions about the BBL's constitutionality, like sir the Senate committee report of Senator Miriam (Defensor Santiago) citing that BBL would require charter change, sir?
PRESIDENT AQUINO: Well, that's an opinion at this point in time. Iyong merong mga... Natandaan niyo may ad na lumabas itong mgaConCom (Constitutional Commission) members who crafted the Constitution. So, maraming beses kapag nagtatalo 'yung mga abugadobasahin niyo 'yung libro tungkol doon sa debate ng ConCom. Dito hindi na kailangan basahin 'yung libro dahil 'yung mgabuhay pang miyembrong ConCom mismo na ang nagsasabi at ipinaliwanag 'yung constitutionality ng BBL.
Naintindihan natin maraming pagkakataon para makatawag ng pansin lalo na't napipintong eleksyon ay darating nasasusunod na taon. Pero isang mahinahon na diskusyunan at pakikipag-uganayan, pagsuri nila dito sa BBL e palagay ko makikita nilang it will withstand the test of constitutionality.
Pero at the end of the day, noong kinausap ko 'yung mga kongresista, sabi ko sakanila: Puwede naman natin itong himay-himayin ngsobra sobra e. Sa Ingles ang tawag nila nickel and dime me to death. Ngayon ang sabi ko rin sa kanila, iyong problema nahindi natutugunan o hindi binibigyan ng solusyon, hindi naman lumiliit e, potensyal lumaki; at habang binibawasannatin nang binabawasan ang pagkakataon na itong bagong formula para magkaroon talaga nang ganap na katahimikan ay magkaroon ngpagkakataong mabuhay. Hindi ba kunyari, siguro ang example niyan e kapag meron kang fish pond, may inilagay kang fingerlings taposbinalikan mo after one week sasabihin mo ngayon, 'o teka hindi naman lumaki masyado ito.'
Iyong bagong mode of governance diyan, huwag naman nating paabutinng Enero kung kailan sila mag-uumpisa dahil pagdating ngMarso, election ban na, wala na silang magagawa. Tapo ssasabihin ng taumbayan, 'e wala palang silbi ito.'
So, itinutulak natin, daanan nila, amyendahan nila kung
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Last Updated: 25 MAY 2015
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| Alternative photo archive with high resolutions | |
| Please click on thumbnails to magnify | |
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the Brigada Eskwela and Oplan Balik Eskwela 2015 at the Marikina Elementary School in Shoe Avenue, Santa Elena, Marikina City on Monday (May 25). Also in photo are Education Secretary Armin Luistro, Marikina City Mayor Del De Guzman, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Director-General Emmanuel Joel Villanueva and MES OIC Principal Eugenia Martin. (Photo by Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III inspects the completed brigada eskwela classroom upon arrival for the Brigada Eskwela and Oplan Balik Eskwela (OBE) 2015 at the Marikina Elementary School (MES) in Shoe Avenue, Santa Elena, Marikina City on Monday (May 25). Also in photo are Marikina City 2nd District Representative Romero Quimbo, Marikina City 1st District Representative Marcelino Teodoro, Education Secretary Armin Luistro, Marikina City Mayor Del De Guzman, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Director-General Emmanuel Joel Villanueva and MES OIC Principal Eugenia Martin. (Photo by Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III receives a warm reception upon arrival for the Brigada Eskwela and Oplan Balik Eskwela 2015 at the Marikina Elementary School in Shoe Avenue, Santa Elena, Marikina City on Monday (May 25). (Photo by Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III receives a warm reception upon arrival for the Brigada Eskwela and Oplan Balik Eskwela 2015 at the Marikina Elementary School in Shoe Avenue, Santa Elena, Marikina City on Monday (May 25). Also in photo are Education Secretary Armin Luistro and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Director-General Emmanuel Joel Villanueva. (Photo by Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the Brigada Eskwela and Oplan Balik Eskwela 2015 at the Marikina Elementary School in Shoe Avenue, Santa Elena, Marikina City on Monday (May 25). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the Brigada Eskwela and Oplan Balik Eskwela 2015 at the Marikina Elementary School in Shoe Avenue, Santa Elena, Marikina City on Monday (May 25). Also in photo are Marikina City 2nd District Representative Romero Quimbo, Marikina City 1st District Representative Marcelino Teodoro, Education Secretary Armin Luistro, Marikina City Mayor Del De Guzman, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Director-General Emmanuel Joel Villanueva and MES OIC Principal Eugenia Martin. (Photo by Ben Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III receives a warm reception upon arrival for the Brigada Eskwela and Oplan Balik Eskwela 2015 at the Marikina Elementary School in Shoe Avenue, Santa Elena, Marikina City on Monday (May 25). Also in photo is Education Secretary Armin Luistro. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III inspects the completed classroom upon arrival for the Brigada Eskwela and Oplan Balik Eskwela 2015 at the Marikina Elementary School in Shoe Avenue, Santa Elena, Marikina City on Monday (May 25). Also in photo are Education Secretary Armin Luistro, Marikina City Mayor Del De Guzman, Marikina City 2nd District Representative Romero Quimbo and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Director-General Emmanuel Joel Villanueva. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the Brigada Eskwela and Oplan Balik Eskwela 2015 at the Marikina Elementary School in Shoe Avenue, Santa Elena, Marikina City on Monday (May 25). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III inspects the completed classroom upon arrival for the Brigada Eskwela and Oplan Balik Eskwela 2015 at the Marikina Elementary School in Shoe Avenue, Santa Elena, Marikina City on Monday (May 25). Also in photo are Education Secretary Armin Luistro, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Director-General Emmanuel Joel Villanueva and Marikina City 2nd District Representative Romero Quimbo. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III inspects the completed classroom upon arrival for the Brigada Eskwela and Oplan Balik Eskwela 2015 at the Marikina Elementary School in Shoe Avenue, Santa Elena, Marikina City on Monday (May 25). Also in photo are Education Secretary Armin Luistro, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Director-General Emmanuel Joel Villanueva and Marikina City Mayor Del de Guzman. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III does a high five with a student during the Brigada Eskwela and Oplan Balik Eskwela 2015 at the Marikina Elementary School in Shoe Avenue, Santa Elena, Marikina City on Monday (May 25). Also in photo is Education Secretary Armin Luistro. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | Kingdom of Thailand Ambassador to the Philippines Thanatip Upatising reviews the honor guards during the arrival honors accorded him at the Malacañang Palace Grounds for the presentation of credentials on Thursday (May 21). (Photo by Lauro Motellano / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | His Excellency Thanatip Upatising, Ambassador of Thailand to the Philippines, honor the colors during the arrival honors accorded him at the Malacañang Palace Grounds for the presentation of credentials on Thursday (May 21, 2015). (Photo by Lauro Motellano / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes Kingdom of Thailand Ambassador to the Philippines Thanatip Upatising during the presentation of credentials at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (May 21,). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III accepts the credentials of Kingdom of Thailand Ambassador to the PhilipPresident Thanatip Upatising during the presentation of credentials at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (May 21). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | His Excellency Dr. Abdullah bin Nasser Al-Bussairy, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Philippines, honor the colors during the arrival honors accorded him at the Malacañang Palace Grounds for the presentation of credentials on Thursday (May 21). (Photo by Lauro Montellano / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | His Excellency Dr. Abdullah bin Nasser Al-Bussairy, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Philippines, troops the line during the foyer honors accorded him at the Malacañan Palace Main Lobby upon arrival for the presentation of credentials on Thursday (May 21). (Photo by Lauro Motellano / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | President Benigno S. Aquino III accepts the credentials of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Ambassador to the Philippines Dr. Abdullah bin Nasser Al-Bussairy during the presentation of credentials at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (May 21). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
 | Phoxay Khaykhamphithoune, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Lao People’s Democratic Republic to the Philippines, honor the colors during the arrival honors accorded him at the Malacañang Palace Grounds for the presentation of credentials on Thursday (May 21). (Photo by Lauro Motellano / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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