Wednesday, May 6, 2015

7 Dispatch for May 7, 2015 ( Thursday ), 1 PIA Calabarzon PRs , 3 Weather Watch , 10 OFW Watch , PNOY Speech, Interview with Sec.. Coloma, 20 Online News (May. ) ,33 PhotoRelease (May 7)



Daily Weather Forecast


 Issued at: 5:00 a.m. today, 07 May 2015
Valid Beginning: 5:00 a.m. today until 5:00 a.m. tomorrow Synopsis:

At 4:00 AM today, the center of Typhoon “Dodong” was estimated based on all available data at 1,040 Km east of Surigao City (10.2°N, 135.0°E) with maximum sustained winds of 130 Kph near the center and gustiness of up to 160 Kph. It is forecast to move west northwest at 13 Kph.


 pressure.gif Predicted Mean Sea Level Pressure Analysis 8 a.m. 07 May 2015  wind.gif Predicted Mean Sea Level Wind Analysis 8 a.m. 07 May 2015 satellite


Forecast:

The regions of CARAGA and Davao will experience cloudy skies with light to moderate rains and thunderstorms. Metro Manila and the rest of the country will be partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms.


Moderate to occasionally strong winds blowing from the east to northeast will prevail over the eastern section of Visayas and of Mindanao and the coastal waters along these areas will be moderate to occasionally rough. Elsewhere, winds will be light to moderate coming from the southeast and northeast with slight to moderate seas. 
PAGTAYA: Ang mga rehiyon ng Caraga at Davao ay makararanas ng maulap na kalangitan na may mahina hanggang sa katamtaman mga pag-ulan at pagkidlat-pagkulog. Ang Metro Manila at ang nalalabing bahagi ng bansa ay magiging bahagyang maulap hanggang sa maulap na may pulu-pulong mga pag-ulan o pagkidlat-pagkulog.

Katamtaman hanggang sa kung minsan ay malakas na hangin mula sa silangan hanggang hilagang-silangan ang iiral sa silangang bahagi ng Kabisayaan at ng Mindanao at ang mga baybaying-dagat sa mga lugar na ito ay magiging katamtaman hanggang sa kung minsan ay maalon. Sa ibang dako, ang hangin ay magiging mahina hanggang sa katamtaman mula sa timog-silangan at hilagang-silangan na may banayad hanggang sa katamtamang pag-alon ng karagatan.

OVER METRO MANILA:
Maximum Temperature: 1:00 PM yesterday ----- 34.2 ºC
Minimum Temperature: 06:00 AM yesterday ----- 26.0 ºC
Maximum Relative Humidity: 06:00 AM yesterday --------- 80 %
Minimum Relative Humidity: 11:00 AM yesterday --------- 50 %
High tide today: 11:27 AM ……… 1.08 meter
Low tide today: 07:36 PM ……… -0.15 meter
High tide tomorrow: 2:33 AM ……… 0.36 meter
Low tide tomorrow : 03:54 AM ……… 0.36 meter
Sunrise today: 05:31 AM
Sunset today: 06:14 PM
Moonset today: 07:55 AM
Moonrise today: 09:04 PM
Illumination today: 93 %

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

PAGASA weather forecaster Chris Perez live on DZBB:
- Bahagyang lumakas ang bagyong Dodong, taglay ang lakas ng hanging umaabot sa 140kph at pagbugsong aabot sa 170kph.
- As of 8:00AM, nasa 970 km silangan ng Surigao City ang bagyong Dodong.
- Inaasahang kikilos pahilaga ang bagyo sa direksyon ng Central Luzon.
- After 24 hours, nasa 575 km silangan ng Borongan City, Eastern Samar.
- Posible mag-landfall sa Linggo sa area ng Isabela, Cagayan.



GMA resident meteorologist Nathaniel Cruz on 24 Oras:
-Bukas na papasok ng PAR ang bagyong may international name na Noul.
-Sa pagtaya ng PAGASA, ang tropical storm ay nasa 1,210km sa may silangan ng Surigao del Norte.
-May taglay itong 100kph na lakas ng hangin at pagbugso na aabot sa 130kph.
-Kumikilos ito pa-kanluran hilagang kanluran sa bilis na 13kph.
-Pagpasok nito ng PAR, papangalan itong Dodong.
-Itinuturing na itong typhoon ng JMA.
-Inaasahan din na magiging isa itong supertyphoon habang papalapit ng Cagayan-Isabela area.
-Samantala, may isa pang sama ng panahon ang binabantayan sa may western Pacific Ocean.
-May tiyansang lumakas ito pero malayo pa ito sa bansa sa ngayon.
-Ridge of high pressure area naman ang nakaaapekto sa Luzon.
-Sa kabila naman ng init, uulanin ang Ilocos bukas.
-Sa Metro Manila, aabot ng 39°C ang init factor pero tataas ang tiyansa ng pag-ulan, lalo na pagdating ng hapon at gabi.
-Uulanin din Zamboanga, Northern Mindanao, ARMM, SOCCSKSARGEN bukas.


 May 7  , 2015 ( Thursday) as of 10:00 AM
 PIA4A / PIA QUEZON    :  Sunny  in Lucena City
 

 


 


GMA News TV: Dumating sa NBI ang anim na umano'y biktima ni Maria Kristina Sergio at pinanumpaan ang kanilang complaint affidavit. Giit naman ni Sergio na mali ang listahang hawak ng NBI kaugnay ng travel record nito. Wala rin aniya siyang record sa anumang korte o istasyon ng pulis sa Nueva Ecija at Bicol.

ABS-CBN: Lumabas sa pagpupulong ng DOJ Special Task Force kasama ang PNP at PDEA na pumasok muna bilang drug mule ang mga recruiter ni Mary Jane Veloso bago pumasok sa illegal recruitment. Ayon kay Sec. Leila de Lima, inaalam pa nila kung saan sindikato ng droga nagtatrabaho sina Cristina Sergio at ka live-in nito bago mapasok sa recruitment.


GMA: Under arrest na ng NBI ang recruiter ni Mary Jane Veloso na si Kristina Sergio at ang live-in partner nito na si Julius Lacanilao.

DZBB: Lumalabas sa records ng NBI na nagsilbi ring drug mules ang mag-live in partner na sina Kristina Sergio at Julius Lacanilao na nang-recruit umano kay Mary Jane Veloso na nasa death row sa Indonesia. Hindi pa naman matukoy sa ngayon kung anong grupo ng sindikato ang nasa likod ng dalawa. Samantala, nabatid ng awtoridad na isang OFW rin ang nakakulong ngayon sa Hong Kong na na-recruit din daw nina Sergio. Nakatakda namang makalaya ang OFW sa 2017.



GTV: Humingi ng dispensa sa publiko ang ina ni Mary Jane Veloso na si Gng. Celia Veloso. Muli ring giniit ni Gng. Veloso na napabayaan ng gobyerno ang kaso ni Mary Jane.

DZIQ: Hiniling ng NBI na pagsamasamahin na lang ang panibago at dating reklamo na inihain laban sa recruiter ni Mary Jane Veloso na si Maria Kristina Sergio at kinakasama nito. Iniiwasan daw nilang dumoble ang mga kaso sa nasabing recruiter. Kaugnay ito ng 10 pang mga nagsampa ng kaso na naloko rin diumano ni Sergio.

DZIQ: Hinihintay lamang ng attorney's general office ng Indonesia ang pagsasalita ni Mary Jane Veloso sa pagharap nito sa witness stand para madesisyunan kung ano ang gagawin sa kanya pero giit nila, hindi nila hahayaang umalis sa Indonesia si Veloso at tanging video conference o anumang katulad nito lamang ang kanilang papayagan




DZBB: Nagpapatuloy ang inquest proceeding ng NBI sa dalawang recruiter umano ni Mary Jane Veloso na nasa death row sa Indonesia. Kasama nina Kristina Sergio at Julius Lacanilao ang kanilang mga abogado.



DZIQ: Kasalukuyang pinupulong ni Sec. Leila de Lima ang binuo ng DOJ na special task force na tututok sa kaso ni Mary Jane Veloso. Dumalo ang mga matataas na opisyal ng PDEA at PNP sa pulong. Hindi pa masabi ni Sec. Leila de Lima kung ano ang magiging sentro ng usapan pero kamakailan lang napabalitang pag-uusapan ng special task force ang pagtugis sa alyas "Ike" na nagbigay umano ng maleta noon kay Veloso.



RAPPLER: Close to 5 years after she allegedly duped another Filipina into carrying illegal drugs and a week after voluntarily surrendering because she feared for her life, Maria Cristina Sergio has been put under arrest. She was arrested after she was positively identified by the complainants, the parents of Mary Jane," NBI chief Virgilio Mendez told Rappler in a phone interview on Wednesday, May 6. Inquest proceedings against Sergio and her partner, Julius Lacanilao, will continue Wednesday, with at least 10 more complainants expected to show up before the NBI. Most of the complainants, Mendez said, are from the province of Nueva Ecija, where Mary Jane, who was granted a reprieve from death row in Indonesia, was allegedly recruited by Sergio.

 











BATANGAS

1.  Tagalog news: Distribusyon ng mga senior citizens' purchase slip booklets, isasagawa sa barangay

  • May 07, 2015
LUNGSOD NG BATANGAS, Mayo 7 (PIA) — Hindi na kinakailangan pang pumunta ng mga senior citizens sa Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs upang kunin ang kanilang purchase slip booklet para sa 20 porsiyentong discount sa mga goods at services at libreng panonood ng sine, sapagkat ito ay makukuha na nila sa kanilang mga barangay.

Ayon kay Belen Ferriols, presidente ng Senior Citizens Federation, sila na mismo ang magdadala ng mga booklets na ito sa mga barangay upang hindi na mamasahe pa ang mga senior citizens at mas maging madali ang pagkuha ng kanilang purchase booklet.

Kailangan lang aniya na ihanda ang duplicate copy ng senior citizens ID card, dalawang 2x2 photos at kopya ng Philhealth MDR.

Kamakailan ay tinanggap ni Mayor Eduardo Dimacuha, dating Mayor Vilma Dimacuha at mahigit sa 100 empleydao ng pamahalaang lungsod na kabilang sa sektor ng katatandaan ang kanilang purchase booklet sa kick-off ng naturang distribution project. (Marie V. Lualhati/ PIA-BATANGAS/ PIA-4A)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/681430794144/tagalog-news-distribusyon-ng-mga-senior-citizens-purchase-slip-booklets-isasagawa-sa-barangay#sthash.qxBfhSks.dpuf
Chicago Mayor Emanuel welcomes President Aquino to the Windy City
(CHICAGO, Illinois) Shortly after arriving here on Wednesday (Thursday in Manila) for a one-day working visit, President Benigno S. Aquino III received Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel at the J.W. Marriott Chicago.

During the courtesy call, Mayor Emanuel, the former White House chief of staff who was re-elected mayor of Chicago last month, presented a copy of a resolution adopted by the members of the City Council of Chicago to President Aquino officially welcoming him to The Windy City.

“The City of Chicago is proud of its long history of friendship and cooperation with the Philippines. Filipinos are the fourth largest ethnic group in Chicago with more than 130,000 people living in the Chicago Metropolitan Area who claim Filipino or Filipino multiracial ancestry,” the resolution stated.

During a press briefing here, Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. described the meeting between President Aquino and Mayor Emanuel as “very cordial.”

Secretary Coloma said the Chicago Mayor expressed his admiration for President Aquino’s being “outspoken and clear-eyed on important issues” affecting the country.

He said Mayor Emanuel was also “very upbeat” about the significant contributions made by the Filipino community in Chicago.

Present at the meeting were Coloma, Cabinet Secretary Jose Rene Almendras, Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Cuisia, Jr., Presidential Management Staff head Julia Andrea Abad, Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Laura del Rosairo, and Consul General Generoso Calonge.

On Wednesday, President Aquino also held a meeting with members of the US Chamber of Commerce, the US-Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Business Council in Chicago, and the National Center for Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC).

The US Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business organization representing the interest of more than three million businesses in the US, while the US-ASEAN Business Council is the premier advocacy organization for US corporations operating within the ASEAN member states.

The National Center for APEC is the only US business association focused on facilitating private sector engagement in the APEC. PND (co)
 

President Aquino leaves for Chicago, Canada
President Benigno S. Aquino III on Wednesday left for a working visit to Chicago, the United States, and a state visit to Canada from May 6 to 9.In his pre-departure speech at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Pasay City, the President said this trip aims to promote a more open and stronger trade relations between the Philippines and the US and Canada.

"Kukunin natin ang pagkakataong ito, para lalong pagtibayin ang pagsisikap tungo sa nagkakaisang adhikain, gayundin ang pagkalap pa ng interes mula sa mga negosyante ng United States at Canada para lalong mapalago ang pamumuhunan sa ating bansa," he said.

During his one-day working visit to Chicago on May 6, the Chief Executive will meet with leaders of large companies grouped in the US Chamber of Commerce and the US-Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Business Council.

“Ang US nga po ang pangatlong major trading partner ng Pilipinas, at layon nating paigtingin pa ang pangangalakal na ito. Ngayong lumalago ang mga ekonomiya ng ating dalawang bansa, ihahayag natin ang kahandaang sulitin ang bawat pagkakataon kasama nila, at higit pang ipapakita na talagang more open for business na ang Pilipinas,” he said, adding that he will also meet with the Filipino community in Chicago to convey to them the fruits of four years of reform carried out by his administration.

The President further noted that at the invitation of Canada’s Governor General David Johnston and Prime Minister Stephen Harper, he will make his first state visit to the country on May 7 to 9.

During the visit, he will witness the signing of various memoranda of understanding and take the opportunity to thank Canada for its support to the Philippines, especially for sending military personnel and medical aid during the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda; for doubling its official development assistance to $111.95 million in grants in 2014; and for naming the Philippines as a “Country of Focus” for various forms of bilateral assistance from Canada.

“Kaagapay rin natin ang Canada sa pagsusulong ng kapayapaan sa Mindanao, bilang bansang kasapi ng Independent Commission on Policing at para sa ibang uri ng tulong nila kaugnay ng pagpapaunlad sa kalagayan ng mga kapatid natin sa Bangsamoro," he added.

The President is also scheduled to meet with Canadian businessmen and Filipinos living and working in Toronto and Vancouver.

The Chief Executive departed at 8:20 a.m. on board Philippine Airlines flight PR 001.

He was accompanied by Cabinet Secretary Jose Rene Almendras, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz, Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo, National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, Presidential Management Staff Secretary Julia Abad, Communication Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr., and Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Laura del Rosario. PND (ag)
Asian Carmakers Corporation turns over initial fleet of BMW cars to government for APEC
The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation 2015 National Organizing Council (APEC 2015 NOC) on Wednesday received from Asian Carmakers Corporation (ACC) a fleet of BMW vehicles to be used for this year’s APEC forum, which is being hosted by the country.

The ceremonial turnover was held at Malacañang's Kalayaan grounds and was attended by Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, Jr., Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, APEC 2015 NOC Director General Marciano Paynor Jr., and ACC President Maricar Parco.

In his speech during the event, Executive Secretary Ochoa said the ceremony brings the government and the private sector together to showcase the economic development of the country, and that of the entire Asia-Pacific region, as well.

The Philippines’ hosting of the APEC, he said, supports the government's efforts in driving economic growth in the Philippines and that of the region by building sustainable and resilient economies, promoting investment in human capital, encouraging the participation of small and medium enterprises in global trade, and enhancing regional economic integration.

"May this ceremony serve as a reminder of our partnership, one which is strongly committed to becoming a driving force in 'Building Inclusive Economies, Building a Better World’," Ochoa said.

As the government partner for the APEC Economic Leaders' Meetings, BMW will provide more than 200 units of the BMW 7 Series Long-Wheelbase Sedan and BMW 5 Series Sedan and Gran Turismo to transport APEC leaders and other dignitaries.

The ACC, the official importer and distributor of BMW in the Philippines, will turn over 25 units of the luxury sedans this month. After the APEC Summit in November, the BMW vehicles will be sold to the public. A BMW 7 Series costs P5.5 million while a BMW 5 Series is worth P3.5 million.

For her part, Parco said the formal turnover of the BMW fleet reinforces the brand's commitment to foster economic growth, not only in the Philippines but also in the Asia-Pacific region.

BMW was named the official premium mobility partner of the APEC Economic Leaders' meetings through the signing of a memorandum of agreement between the government and the German carmaker in May 2014.

BMW will deploy its cars to the first high-level APEC assembly -- the Ministers Responsible for Trade meeting -- in Boracay, Aklan on May 23 to 24. PND (as)
Government preparations for APEC 2015 in full swing, says official
The Philippine government continues to hold council meetings and embassy briefings in preparation for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders' Meeting in November, the head of the APEC 2015 National Organizing Council (NOC), has said.

In an interview during the turnover of BMW cars to the government on Wednesday, APEC 2015 NOC Director General Marciano Paynor, Jr. said there are continuing meetings involving all national organizing council members, various government agencies and embassies.

Paynor said they already had embassy briefings two months ago and they will hold a briefing in July for those coming from different capitals, and another in October.

"Everything is on track and the plans are already laid out. We just have to confer with each of the different economies to ensure that all the leaders... all of their requirements will have been met," he said.

Paynor said they are expecting all 21 leaders of APEC member economies to attend the summit in Manila in November.

He noted that there had been very few times in the past when a leader was not able to attend and usually it is due to the holding of elections.

"In the case of one economy, they are having elections a few months before November, so we are not sure who will come because the current leader will no longer be the leader in November," he said, without identifying the APEC member economy.

"That is usually the case but for the most part, 90 percent of the leaders come," he said. "There is no reason for them not to come."

Asked if China will attend the summit, he said the Asian giant will, along with other big Asian economies, such as Japan and South Korea.

He explained that the APEC Summit is a multi-lateral meeting and not a bilateral one, and leaders only discuss economic matters and shy away from talks about politics. PND (as)
Hectic schedule awaits President Aquino in Canada
(CHICAGO, Illinois) A hectic schedule awaits President Benigno S. Aquino III as he embarks on a four-day state visit to Canada from May 7 to 9 aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and trade relations between the Philippines and Canada.

President Aquino, along with his official delegation, will proceed to Canada after his one-day working visit to Chicago, Illinois, on Wednesday (Thursday in Manila). The Chief Executive will visit Ottawa, Toronto and Vancouver.

The President’s first stop will be Ottawa where he is scheduled to pay a courtesy call on Canadian Governor General David Johnston. It will be followed by a ceremonial planting and a state dinner in honor of President Aquino at Rideau Hall.

On Friday, President Aquino will meet with Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper and will witness the signing of agreements that will further enhance bilateral realtions between the two countries.

After the signing ceremony and joint press conference, President Aquino will also take a brief tour of the Library of Parliament and a working lunch with Prime Minister Harper.

On the same day, the President will proceed to Toronto to meet with the executives of the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada. It will be followed by a reception hosted by the Prime Minister for President Aquino and the Filipino community.

On Saturday morning, President Aquino will depart for Vancouver and will hold separate business meetings with the executives of Aquilini Investment Group, and MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd.

The President will then meet with British Columbia Premier Christy Clark at Pan Pacific Hotel. President Aquino will cap his visit in Canada with a meeting with the members of the Filipino community at the Vancouver Convention Center.

President Aquino’s state visit to Canada is a “reciprocation” of the visit of Prime Minister Harper to the Philippines in 2012. The visit is the first state visit of a Philippine President since former President Fidel V. Ramos’s visit in 1997.

Canada is the 21st largest trading partner of the Philippines, its 6th top source market for tourism, and is home to almost 700,000 Filipinos. PND (co)
President Aquino begins visit to Chicago
(CHICAGO, Illinois) President Benigno S. Aquino III will kick off his one-day working visit here with a courtesy call on Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and a business meeting with potential investors.

President Aquino will arrive at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport on Wednesday afternoon (Thursday morning in Manila) and will be welcomed by Philippine officials led by Philippine Consul General in Chicago Generoso Calonge.

Shortly after his arrival, President Aquino will meet with Mayor Emanuel at the J.W. Marriott Chicago.

This will be followed by a business meeting with members of the US Chamber of Commerce and the US - Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Business Council.

After the business meeting, the President will meet with members of the Filipino community here to update them on the good developments in the Philippines.

During a recent interview with Radio Television Malacañang (RTVM), Consul General Calonge said the Filipinos here are eagerly awaiting the arrival of President Aquino, noting that this is the President’s first visit to the Windy City.

“They really like to see him because he has transformed the country towards economic progress and peace, and his administration has tried very hard to set us on the right track, especially on the economic and political as well, because of the peace process that he has worked so hard to attain,” Calonge said.

On Thursday, President Aquino will depart for Canada for a four-day state visit aimed at further enhancing bilateral ties and trade relations between the Philippines and Canada.

While in Canada, President Aquino will meet with potential investors and members of the Filipino community there, as well as call on Canadian Governor General David Johnston.

President Aquino will also hold talks with Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper and witness the signing of agreements that will boost ties between the two countries.

Canada is the 21st largest trading partner of the Philippines, the 6th top source market for tourism, and is home to almost 700,000 Filipinos. PND (co)
President Aquino arrives in Chicago for one-day working visit
(CHICAGO, Illinois) President Benigno S. Aquino III arrived here Wednesday for a one-day working visit to meet with several business groups and members of the Filipino community.

This is President Aquino’s first time to visit Chicago, the adopted hometown of United States President Barack Obama.

President Aquino, along with his lean official delegation, touched down at the O’Hare International Airport at 1:18 p.m. (Chicago time) on board chartered Philippine Airlines flight PR 001.

With the President were Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, Communication Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr., and Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Laura del Rosario.

Upon his arrival, the President was welcomed by officials of the Philippine Consulate in Chicago and a number of US officials, among them Chicago Lieutenant Governor Evelyn Sanguinetti.

From the airport, the President will go straight to his hotel to meet with Chicago City Mayor Rahm Emanuel. It is Emanuel’s first day at work following his re-election for a second term.

Emanuel has served as the 55th mayor of the City of Chicago since 2011. Prior to becoming mayor, he served as White House Chief of Staff to President Obama and served three times in the US House of Representatives, representing Chicago’s 5th District.

President Aquino will then proceed to a business meeting organized by the US Chamber of Commerce, the US ASEAN Business Council, and the National Center for APEC.

He will have a roundtable discussion with the business groups where they are expected to discuss the economic developments in the Philippines, as well as the programs and policies that have contributed to the country’s economic growth.

The President will cap his busy day in Chicago with a meet-and-greet with the Filipino community.

There are some 100,000 Filipinos residing and working in Chicago, the third largest city in the US.

The President will address the Filipino community and will have a quick photo opportunity with them.

President Aquino will then travel to Ottawa, Canada for the second leg of his trip. PND (jb)


07 MAY 2015
Multi-Sectoral Info Campaign on West Philippine Sea Held in Cagayan De Oro
Congressional Delegation Promotes PHL’s Growing Role in Global Maritime Affairs
11,154 HOTS is expected to increase: Employers to continue to process Jobs and Livelihood Fair applications, Baldoz says
Roxas: All police community precincts in MM to use e-blotter system by June
Deles assures pro-peace cartoonists: Dream of Bangsamoro peace will be completed
Homeless no more
Laguna SMEs attend awareness campaign on EU GSP+
May 2015 Civil Engineer Licensure Examination results released in three (3) working days
DENR to crackdown on erring Boracay establishments
Development of SMEs to take center stage in APEC research conference
PhilHealth to senior citizens: Beware of fixers
DOLE leads Workers in Informal Economy Labor Day celebration; provides cash vouchers for competency assessment and certification
In MIMAROPA, regional wage board grants P5 to P30 minimum wage increase; wage rates now higher than poverty income threshold
April inflation decelerates further to 2.2 percent
Future of broadband wireless access to be determined in global confab in PH
Roxas to visit Bottom-Up Budgeting project sites in Bataan
PNP to activate "Safe zones" in Metro Manila
DOST's water filtration technology bolsters Isabela ceramics
SDC-HDPRC mobilizes gov’t, private sector in poor localities to address constraints to inclusive growth
PHL business delegation explores trade, investment opportunities in Indonesia
Multi-Sectoral Info Campaign on West Philippine Sea Held in Cagayan De Oro
Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph
07 May 2015 – As part of the nationwide information, education and communication (IEC) campaign on the West Philippine Sea Issue, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), in partnership with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), held its second Multi-Sectoral Forum on March 06 in Cagayan de Oro City. The event drew in an audience from a broad spectrum, including national and local government representatives, barangay officials, uniformed military personnel, members of the Philippine National Police, the local press, academe, and university students.

DFA Spokesperson and Assistant Secretary Charles C. Jose delivered an hour-long briefing on the West Philippine Sea issue to an audience of 274. His presentation focused on the core issues, the overarching principles that guide Philippine response to the issues, and the steps being done by the Philippine Government to address them. While it underscored that the West Philippine Issue is a matter of national interest, the presentation’s key message noted that the current dispute in the West Philippine Sea is not the sum total of the Philippines’ relations with China.

Following the presentation, Assistant Secretary Jose engaged the audience in a brief but lively Q&A session. After the forum, he also met with representatives of the local media in Cagayan de Oro for a press conference.

In her closing remarks, Ms. Thelma B. Oliver, PIA’s Regional Director for Northern Mindanao, thanked Assistant Secretary Jose for gracing Cagayan de Oro and speaking about the West Philippine Issue, making it more present and real for the audience.

The event was organized in cooperation with the DFA Regional Consular Office in Cagayan de Oro, headed by Officer-in-Charge Atty. Abdurraheym S.Y. Macud, and Smart Communications.

The Multi-Sectoral Forum is an expanded version of the Special Kapihan ng Mamamayan on the West Philippine Sea. The first such event was held in Camp Lapulapu, Cebu City, in March. Similar events will be held across the country in 2015.
Congressional Delegation Promotes PHL’s Growing Role in Global Maritime Affairs
Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph
06 May 2015 - A delegation from the Philippines House of Representatives led by Transportation Committee Chairman Cesar Sarmiento representing Catanduanes, traveled to Washington, DC to highlight the Philippines’ important role in the global maritime industry from April 27 to 30.

Chairman Sarmiento was joined by Congressman Jesulito Manalo of ANGKLA (Maritime Partylist), Congressman Jonathan Dela Cruz of ABAKADA (Education Partylist), and Congresswoman Gwendolyn Garcia (Cebu 3rd district). The third district of Cebu hosts a growing shipping industry. The Philippines is currently the fourth largest shipbuilding country in the world.

The Philippines is also the world’s leading provider of maritime professionals representing thirty percent of global merchant vessel manpower. Mr. Gerardo Borromeo, CEO of Manila-based Philippine Transmarine Carriers and Board Director of the US-Philippines Society, noted that commercial shipping is often referred to as the “invisible industry” and underscored that the Philippines’ substantial and evolving role in maritime affairs can be boiled down to the statement, “We move the world.”

The US-Philippines Society organized the visit of the Members of the Philippines House of Representatives in cooperation with the Philippine Embassy in Washington, DC.

Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. expressed his gratitude to the delegation for their efforts in further strengthening Philippines-US relations.

“As maritime nations, the Philippines and the United States are working together to preserve maritime security. Both countries recognize the current challenges as well as the opportunities and we thank our congressional delegation for promoting further areas of cooperation especially in the area of maritime training and ship repair,” said Ambassador Cuisia.

On April 29, the delegation met with the Chairman of the Sub-Committee on Asia and the Pacific of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Matt Salmon (R-AZ) for a review of broad policy issues. Other meetings on Capitol Hill focused on maritime affairs and included Rep. Don Young (R-AK), Rep. Lois Frankel (D-FL), and Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV), all Transportation Committee members.

Members of the delegation participated in a public forum on April 29 at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), one of Washington’s premier think tanks.

In his opening remarks at the forum on the Philippines’ Role in Global Maritime Affairs, Society Co-Chair John D. Negroponte emphasized that the shipping industry is vital to sustained economic development and rising standards of living on both sides of the Pacific. Negroponte described a shared concern for preserving the vast richness of aquatic resources and for maintaining unimpeded access to the major nautical highways facilitating trade in and out of Asia.

Chamber of Shipping of America CEO Joe Cox provided an international private sector perspective, highlighting the potential for Filipino seamen to take on positions of greater technical responsibility in the shipping industry.

Borromeo and Congressman Manalo said the delegation’s visit succeeded in fostering dialogue between Philippine and American legislators on improving operating standards, enhancing cooperation on training and student exchanges, and exploring commercial opportunities in the Philippines for repair and maintenance of US naval and civilian vessels.

In meetings outside Congress, the delegation exchanged views with the U.S. Maritime Administrator Paul Jaenichen and Craig Bone of the American Bureau of Shipping. An off-site tour of training facilities run by the International Seaman’s Union in Southern Maryland provided an opportunity for a first-hand view of the latest in training and processing procedures for American seamen.

Negroponte said the US-Philippines Society, in partnership with the Philippine Embassy under the leadership of Ambassador Cuisia, was delighted to play a role in raising awareness of that role, in stimulating more discussion about global shipping in the 21st century, and exploring opportunities for both countries in one of the world’s most vital industries.
11,154 HOTS is expected to increase: Employers to continue to process Jobs and Livelihood Fair applications, Baldoz says
Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph
Jobseekers who went to any of the DOLE's 56 Labor Day Jobs and Livelihood Fairs across the country should not worry about not getting hired-on-the-spot (HOTS) by companies because the job fairs, despite being only a one-day event, will continue to process applications from job applicants.

This is the message of Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz yesterday as she explained that some employers may require qualified applicants to undergo their respective processes before they finally decide to hire.

“Selecting job applicants can be a tough challenge for employers. They may need more time to review job applications, to go over details of their credentials, and to interview candidates,” Baldoz said.

“Time invested in careful hiring procedures saves time and helps lessen incompatible job placements, which in the long run, will contribute to the goal of providing decent and productive work for all,” she explained.

"So, my advice to applicants is to be optimistic and be a little patient. The processing and hiring by the employers will continue after the job fair, and the DOLE will monitor that," she added.

Baldoz noted that since jobseekers have been required to register, they can be assured that their job applications will not be put to waste as these will be closely monitored by the Bureau of Local Employment (BLE), through its jobs matching facility, the Phil-Job.Net.

Citing the preliminary report of the Bureau of Local Employment, the labor and employment chief said this year’s nationwide Job Fairs marked a total of 71,922 registered applicants. Of the number, a total of 41,604 jobseekers vied for local vacancies; while 10,910 jobseekers opted overseas employment.

“The 11,154 applicants who got hired-on-the-spot represented over 20.8 percent of the total registered jobseekers who have qualified. This year, we added a total of 10,002 individuals in our local workforce, and 1,152 individuals for overseas,” said Baldoz.

Region 3 had topped the list of regions with the highest number of HOTS with 2,475; followed by RO 4A with 2,460; RO 12 with 1,434; Region 11 with 1,384; CAR with 570; Region 7 with 456; NCR with 413; Region 10 with 387; Region 1 with 334; Region 8 with 265; CARAGA with 264; Region 9 with 247; Region 6 with 205; Region 4B with 127; Region 5 with 116; and Region 2 with 17.

In terms of percentage of HOTS over qualified applicants, RO 12 gained the highest rank with an astounding 52 percent. This is followed by seven more regions that achieved the 20% target HOTS for the year, as follows: RO 11 with 36.7 percent; CARAGA with 34.3 percent; RO10 with 32.1 percent; CAR with 24.2 percent; RO9 with 24.1 percent; RO 3 with 23.5 percent; and RO1 with 21.0 percent.

Baldoz said the number of HOTS may still increase as there are DOLE regional offices, which have not completed their submission of reports because they extended their job fairs to another day in May.

Meanwhile, there are 53,751 jobseekers out of the registered applicants were assessed for further interview, 45,225 ‘near-hire’ job applicants; and 1,405 were referred to the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to avail of the free skills training and upgrading that they need to qualify for the job.

The DOLE was also able to assist 226 individuals, of which 93 are male, and 133 are female, to avail livelihood assistance through the department’s various programs and services.

“Jobseekers must not easily get discouraged if they were not be hired on 1 May. The BLE, through its enhanced Phil-Job.Net, will now be able to observe the status of each registered applicants. Employers may refer to the system for filling-up their existing job vacancies and, if necessary, we will make the referrals,” Baldoz explained.

The 2015 Labor Day celebration is anchored on the theme, “Disenteng Trabaho at Kabuhayan, Alay Natin sa Bayan,” which highlights employment facilitation through strengthened convergence with tripartite partners.

The DOLE led the festivities, getting support from its partners, namely; PESO Quezon City; Pag-Ibig; PhilHealth; PALSCON; Smart International; Sun Prepaid; Insular Life; Philippine Daily Inquirer; Manila Bulletin; Philippine Star; and Federation of Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Inc.
Roxas: All police community precincts in MM to use e-blotter system by June
Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph
Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Mar Roxas announced on Wednesday that starting June, all 159 police community precincts (PCPs) in Metro Manila will be using the electronic blotter (e-blotter) system to ensure factual recording of crime incidents.

During the weekly command conference in Camp Crame, Philippine National Police (PNP) officials said the last leg of training for the PCP personnel on the e-blotter system will be conducted next week.

All 38 police stations in the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) are now using the e-blotter system, which replaces the traditional manual blotter system.

Roxas said, “With this as a tool, we’re now more surgical, more specific.”

The DILG Chief has implemented Oplan Lambat-Sibat, a scientific-based approach in combating criminality in Metro Manila. Under this approach, Roxas has directed police officials to monitor status of criminality in all police stations in the NCRPO and use these data to devise crime interventions.

Since Oplan Lambat-Sibat began in June 2014 (919 average weekly incidents), crimes in Metro Manila has been reduced by more than 60 percent as of mid-April 2015 (347 incidents), prompting Roxas to order the PNP to cascade the program in other regions.

Roxas has also ordered an audit of the e-blotter system from the complainants’ and operational sides to further improve the system.
Deles assures pro-peace cartoonists: Dream of Bangsamoro peace will be completed
Source: http://www.opapp.gov.ph
Despite the tragedy that was Mamasapano, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Deles on Tuesday said the government and the Bangsamoro people are unwavering in their quest for peace in southern Mindanao and determined more than ever to complete that dream.

In a dinner hosted by the Swiss embassy for the visiting Cartoonists for Peace, Deles said the Filipino people have reached a crossroad where they have to make up their minds.

“Some people are saying we cannot make a leap of faith. But I think taking a leap of faith is a better way to go than returning to our dark and divided past,” she said referring to the ongoing peace process between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front which was shook up by the Mamasapano tragedy last January.

“I believe, the Filipino people, having passed through all these, will make the right choice here. We will complete this dream. We will make sure that our future generation will not suffer the fate of those of have experienced the horrors of war.”

Feted during the welcome dinner at the Bayleaf Restaurant in Intramuros were five visiting European members of the Cartooning for Peace Project in Manila who will attend a three-day convention on peace through cartooning with their local counterparts. They hope to bridge the communication gap between cultures, ethnicities and religions, which is the main objective of the Cartoonists for Peace worldwide.

The five European cartoonists in the project include Bob Katzenelson (Denmark), Plantu (France), Thomas Plassmann and Miriam Wurster (Germany) and Philippe Baumann (Switzerland)). Six Filipino cartoonists have also been invited. They are Steven Pabalinas (The Manila Times), Norman Isaac (Tempo), Rene Aranda (Philippine Star), Manix Abrera (Philippine Daily Inquirer), Rob Cham and Roni Santiago (Manila Bulletin).

The event aims to give opportunities for interactions between the international cartoonists and journalists, academe and the public in the Philippines, in line with the promotion of peace, press freedom and responsible journalism.

The event presents a cartoons exhibition and a series of conferences, master classes, interviews, and cartoons contest. It is being spearheaded by EUNIC Philippines, a network of national institutes for culture from EU including, Goethe Institute and Alliance Française de Manille, Philippine-Italian Association along with the Embassies of Denmark, France and Switzerland in the Philippines, and involves many partners in the Philippines.

Thought up by the French cartoonist Plantu, Cartooning for Peace is an initiative born on 16 October 2006 at the UN headquarters in New York. A two-day conference organized by Kofi Annan, the then Secretary General of the United Nations, brought together the 12 best-known political cartoonists in the world for "unlearning intolerance".

Today "Cartooning for peace" is a network of 104 cartoonists around the world who use the power and language of images to fight for peace and freedom of expression. The network aims to promote a better understanding and mutual respect between people of different cultures and beliefs using cartoons as a universal language.

One of the 10 murdered journalists in Paris last January 8, cartoonist Bernard Verlhac who went by the pen name of Tignous, was a member of Cartooning for Peace.

Tignous worked for Charlie Hebdo, the satirical French magazine that the murderers targeted.

In welcoming the visiting cartoonists, Deles said: “I’m very happy that you’ve come here and make us see the realities that must be changed. I hope I can join you. You see, I used to draw too in my past lifetimes before my work took over my life. But thank you, I wish you good peace.”
Homeless no more
Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph
Divine Landingin used to leave Alabang, Muntinlupa City every night to work as a singer in a bar in Pampanga. With her nightly schedule, she had no option but to entrust her four-year-old child to the care of the security guards manning a fast food chain.

Homeless, Divine and her child, considered the fast food chain as their temporary home until they became beneficiaries of the Modified Conditional Cash Transfer for Homeless Street Families (MCCT-HSF) implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

The MCCT-HSF is an expansion of the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) program which provides a complete package of assistance to street families, including responsive shelter programs, with access to social services, and economic opportunities for the improvement of their living conditions. It also extends house rental assistance of up to P4,000 per month for six months to one year.

Complicated past

Coming from a broken family in Cebu City, Divine was under the custody of her mother when she was a child.

But as she got older, her father brought her to Nueva Ecija but eventually left her under the care of his brother , Edgar, who lives in Muntinlupa City.

Divine finished her secondary education through the Alternative Learning System (ALS). After her graduation, she decided to work as a singer in Pampanga to help her uncle.

It was in Pampanga where Divine met Danilo, a seaman. Danilo and Divine then had a child, Daniela. Danilo was good provider. The years that they lived together as a family were the happiest times in their lives as Danilo provided well enough for their needs until his death in 2013 due to diabetes.

“Nakapundar kami ng walong-pintong apartment. Masaya ang pamumuhay namin noon kaso hindi kami nakapagpakasal ni Danilo kaya noong nawala siya, nawala rin sa amin ang lahat (We were able to invest in an eight-door apartment. Life was happy then, but since we were not married, I lost everything when he died),” Divine continued.

Living on the streets of Muntinlupa

With Danilo’s death, Divine’s life went downhill. Since she lost everything, Divine and her daughter were forced to live on the streets.

“Nung nawala si Danilo, nahihiya akong bumalik sa pamilya ko dahil baka pag-usapan lang kami. Napilitan kaming tumira sa kalsada ng anak ko at bumalik din ako sa dati kong trabaho (When Danilo died, I was too ashamed to go back to my family. We were then forced to live on the streets and I went back to my old work in a bar),” Divine shared with teary eyes.

“Tumira kami sa labas ng Jollibee outlet sa Alabang Junction pati sa Luna Street sa Maynila kasi sa security guard ko ihinahabilin si Daniela tuwing gabi sa pagpasok ko sa trabaho (We stayed outside a Jollibee outlet at Alabang Junction and sometimes along Luna Street in Manila. I entrusted my child under the care of the security guards every night as I went to work),” she added.

Finally, a home of their own

After a year of running away from the reach-out team of the DSWD, Divine eventually coordinated with the Department in February 2014, for their inclusion in the MCCT-HSF. She then underwent program orientation and Family Development Sessions (FDS).

FDS serves as a venue where topics on effective parenting, home management, active citizenship, and electoral education, among others, are discussed. Attendance to FDS is one of the conditions to continue receiving the cash grants under the MCCT-HSF.

It is during the FDS that Divine realized how irresponsible she was for leaving her daughter unattended on the street while she was at work. From that time on, she vowed never to leave Daniela alone, whatever happens.

Now, they are living in an Alternative Family Home (AFH) being rented by DSWD in Cupang, Muntinlupa City as part of the MCCT-HSF.

Aside from receiving cash grants for Daniela’s health and education, Divine was among the parent leaders who availed of the Cash-for-Work of DSWD wherein she was employed for 10 days with a salary of P347 per day to manage the urban gardening at DSWD’s Elsie Gaches Village, a center catering to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

“Aside from providing street dwellers a safe place to live, MCCT also helps them regain their dignity. We will also further assess them for livelihood assistance to enable them to have a steady source of income, thereby ensuring that they will not go back to the streets,” DSWD Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman said.

Starting Over

Divine is now a parent-volunteer at Elsie Gaches Village. As a volunteer, Divine receives a daily supply of food.

Instead of traveling at night to be a singer in Pampanga, Divine works as a ‘barker’ calling for jeepney passengers for two hours every night. This is enough to earn her a living while keeping close watch over Daniela.

On weekends, Divine accepts laundry from neighbors to augment her income. DSWD-National Capital Region will further assess her for other appropriate interventions to sustain their economic well-being.

As a result of their new life off the streets, Daniela was able to attend school and was even recognized for her academic excellence. Recently finishing grade two, Daniela was recognized as top three of her class.

“Bukod sa hindi ko na napapabayaan ang anak ko, marangal pa ang mga trabahong pinapasok ko ngayon. Salamat talaga sa DSWD at naialis kami ng anak ko sa dati naming buhay. Salamat at hindi kami pinabayaan ng Panginoon (Beside the fact that I am able to care for my child, I also find dignity in my work. Thank you to DSWD for taking me and my child off the streets. I also thank the Lord for always looking after us),” Divine ended.

To date, some 3,542 homeless street families nationwide are registered under the MCCT-HSF of which 1,759 come from the National Capital Region.
Laguna SMEs attend awareness campaign on EU GSP+
Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph
Around 100 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from Laguna, various local governments, and national line agencies attended on 17 April the information sessions on the European Union’s enhanced General Scheme of Preferences or the EU GSP+ at the Toyota Conference Center in Santa Rosa, Laguna.

The awareness campaign aims to understand, capitalize and benefit from the schemes offered by various free trade agreements to businesses.

Under the EU GSP+, about two-thirds of Philippine exportable product will be enjoying no tariffs imposed (0-% tariff) from the European Union (EU) starting this 2015.

“This would spell bright prospects for the Philippines and the Calabarzon Region as well, since under the scheme, our MSMEs will be able to export virtually everything, except prohibited products, with no tariffs to be imposed,” Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Calabarzon Regional Director Marilou Quinco-Toledo said.

Toledo added that the Philippines is the only country in Southeast Asia that is qualified with the EU GSP+ scheme.

According to Cris John Garcia, one of the resource speakers of the event, among the notable Philippine products that would benefit the schemes are coconut and marine products, processed fruit, prepared food, animal and vegetable fats and oils, textiles, garments, headwear, footwear, furniture, umbrellas, and chemicals.

The EU GSP+ information sessions are facilitated by the Export Marketing Bureau (EMB) under DTI Laguna’s Small and Medium Enterprises Roving Academy (SMERA) Program.
May 2015 Civil Engineer Licensure Examination results released in three (3) working days
Source: http://www.prc.gov.ph
The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announces that 1,361 out of 4,311 passed the Civil Engineer Licensure Examination given by the Board of Civil Engineering in the cities of Manila, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Legazpi, Lucena and Tacloban this May 2015.

The results were released in three (3) working days after the last day of examination.

The members of the Board of Civil Engineering are Engr. Praxedes P. Bernardo, Chairman; Engr. Pericles P. Dakay and Engr. Romeo A. Estañero, Members.

Registration for the issuance of Professional Identification Card (ID) and Certificate of Registration will be on May 13, 14 & 15, 2015. Those who will register are required to bring the following: duly accomplished Oath Form or Panunumpa ng Propesyonal, current Community Tax Certificate (cedula), 1 piece passport size picture (colored with white background and complete name tag), 2 sets of metered documentary stamps and 1 short brown envelope with name and profession and to pay 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 date and venue for the oathtaking ceremonies of the new successful examinees in the said examination WILL BE ANNOUNCED LATER.
DENR to crackdown on erring Boracay establishments
Source: http://www.denr.gov.ph
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is mounting a crackdown on resorts and other commercial establishments contributing to the poor quality of water in Boracay.

DENR Secretary Ramon J.P. Paje said the department began conducting an inventory of establishments on the island that have no environmental permits and violate environmental laws and regulations, particularly the country's Clean Water Act.

“We expect the inventory to finish in a couple of weeks and after that, violation notices will be sent out to give erring establishments the chance to address their violations," Paje said.

The environment chief said resorts and other businesses that do not have their own sewage treatment plants will be required to connect to the island's sewer lines.

“We will issue orders of cessation of operation if they don't comply with our requirements," he warned.

The planned crackdown was triggered by the recent emergence of excessive green and slimy algae marring Boracay's shoreline.

Although the water samples indicate that the island remains safe for swimming, Paje said the boom in algae growth still points to water pollution in the area caused by poor waste management with sewage being dumped into the waters.

The appearance of green algae in Boracay has become a natural occurence during summer months when there is high influx of tourists on the world-famous island.

In a study by conservation group Global Coral Reef Alliance, the presence of green algae along Boracay's shoreline during the calm season is a strong indicator of very high nutrient pollution that they are typically found right around sewage outfalls.

According to the study, the algae die back in the rough season because waves dilute nutrients to lower levels and wash away the algae and the suspended sediments reduce the light levels. The algae become visible again in the next calm season, it added.

The study claimed that seasonal blooms are due to the uncontrolled explosion of population growth in the interior of the island, whose sewage is not connected to the sewage system.

Paje, meanwhile, reiterated his appeal to the local government of Malay, Aklan, to withhold issuing business permits to establishments that do not have a discharge permit or connection to the sewerage system.

The DENR's Environmental Management Bureau in Western Visayas reported in February that coliform bacteria levels in a drainage outlet that empties into the sea in Sitio Bulabog in Boracay exceed safe standards and reach 47,460 most probable number (mpn) per 100 milimeter (ml).

The safe level is 1,000 mpn/100ml for waters for swimming and other human contact activities.

Apart from posing serious health and sanitary problems, coliform bacteria could also adversely affect aquatic resources, including marine life and coral reefs which, aside from the powdery white sand beaches, form part of the island’s main attractions.
Development of SMEs to take center stage in APEC research conference
Source: http://www.pids.gov.ph
Enhancing the ability of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to take advantage of trade opportunities and be able to participate in the regional and global markets is one of the highlights of this year`s conference of the APEC Study Centers Consortium (ASCC).

Slated for May 12-13, the ASCC Conference serves as an avenue for researchers and scholars to discuss and exchange ideas on the APEC themes and to identify areas for regional collaboration among APEC Study Centers. The conference is organized by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) and the Philippine APEC Study Center Network (PASCN) in cooperation with the Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) and the Asian Development Bank Institute (ADBI). It is part of the Second Senior Officials Meeting (SOM2) and Related Meetings of APEC which will be held in Boracay, Aklan.

SMEs account for more than 97 percent of all enterprises in the APEC region and employ more than half of the workforce in the region. However, the sectors share of gross domestic product ranges from only 20 percent to 50 percent in most APEC economies. SMEs contribute only 35 percent or less of the direct exports. Enhancing the management capabilities of SMEs, strengthening their access to financing, and creating an environment that allow easy access to overseas markets will result in increased exports and more jobs from SMEs.

One of the papers to be presented at the ASCC conference, authored by ADBI Dean Naoyuki Yoshino, looks at ways to improve SMEs` access to financing. SMEs face difficulty in borrowing money from banks because of the absence of credit rating data. Yoshino suggests that an efficient credit rating scheme that rates SMEs based on their financial health will reduce banks` aversion to SMEs and encourage them to lend money to small businesses.

Meanwhile, a paper by Eunsook Seo of Sangmyung University, Korea, looks at how financial cooperation through the ASEAN Economic Community and the ASEAN+3 can expand SMEs` access to finance in the region. However, Seo cautions that a more open financial market could worsen problems of information asymmetries, with agency cost likely to be magnified on an international scale due to national disparities in terms of firms` credit worthiness and credit rating system, among other things. To overcome these issues, Seo recommends looking at the European Unions experience in crafting policies for financing SMEs.

PIDS Senior Research Fellow Marife Ballesteros will discuss how to better prepare SMEs for natural disasters through business continuity planning. Ballesteros` paper underscores that micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are highly vulnerable, and have weak adaptability and limited access to a broader set of coping strategies. Thus, it recommends that disaster risk reduction and management be embedded into the business sector. It also examines the role of APEC in promoting MSMEs` resilience.

The paper of ADMU Economics Professor Alvin Ang completes the lineup of presentations on SMEs. Ang highlights the advantages of having a local economic development and competitiveness indicators system for SME locators. According to Ang, establishing a competitiveness index ranking for cities and municipalities provides a critical decision information on locating a business and, at the same time, addresses the issues of productivity, efficiency, facilities, and interconnectivity.

For more information about the ASCC Conference, visit www.ascc2015.org.
PhilHealth to senior citizens: Beware of fixers
Source: http://www.philhealth.gov.ph
The state-run health insurer urged all senior citizens to be vigilant of fixers who may be charging fees in exchange for their help in facilitating their enrolment with the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth).

“In the first place, there really is no need to rush for enrolment since they can readily avail of PhilHealth benefits once they need it with or without a PhilHealth ID. They just need to present their senior citizen card and w have already coordinated with our accredited health care providers about this matter,” said Alexander A. Padilla, PhilHealth President and CEO.

Since the effectivity of the law on November 25, 2014, senior citizens are flocking to the Local Health Insurance Offices to enrol in the program which unfortunately creates an opportunity for fixers to capitalize on the vulnerability of some senior citizens.

“Do not deal with fixers. Enrollment in the program is free, wala po kayong dapat bayaran. Huwag ninyong hayaan na maging biktima kayo ng mga fixers,” stressed Padilla.

PhilHealth issued Circular 33, series of 2014 encouraging senior citizens to enrol with PhilHealth in coordination with their respective Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) or through any office designated by the Local Government, in localities where they reside. It also taps the Department of Social Welfare and Development, senior citizen organizations duly registered with appropriate national agency, any non-government organization or any non-profit private organizations to ensure coverage of senior citizens.

“We are encouraging bulk enrolment of senior citizens through OSCAs or any other recognized senior citizens groups. This will be more convenient for them,” emphasized Padilla. “Also, those who already have PhilHealth coverage under the Indigent or Sponsored Program need not register,” he added.
DOLE leads Workers in Informal Economy Labor Day celebration; provides cash vouchers for competency assessment and certification
Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph
Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz yesterday announced that the DOLE will lead in the holding of the Labor Day celebration for Workers in Informal Economy (WIE) today, 6 May 2015, at the Occupational Safety and Health Center in Quezon City.

“The celebration of Labor Day for Workers in Informal Economy is in line with Proclamation 1215 which declares May 1 to 7 of each year as ‘Linggo ng Paggawa’”, said Baldoz.

“This year’s Labor Day celebration for WIEs gives due recognition to their contributions to the country’s economic and social development,” Baldoz added.

“With a theme of Aming Kasanayan, Tungo sa Disenteng Kabuhayan, the DOLE and its agencies and partners aim to strengthen the competitiveness and employability of workers in the informal economy,” she continued.

For this year’s celebration, Baldoz said the DOLE and its partners—National Anti-Poverty Commission-Workers in Informal Sector (NAPC-WIS), Bureau of Workers with Special Concerns (BWSC), Occupational Safety and Health Center (OSHC), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), DOLE National Capital Region, and Employees Compensation Commission (ECC)—have lined up meaningful activities, programs, and services that will directly benefit specific informal workers.

One of these are the members of the Association of Construction and Informal Workers (ACIW), a duly accredited technical and vocational skills testing center of the TESDA, who will be provided each a P500 cash voucher for Competency Assessment and Certification.

Recipients of the voucher have one month to consume their cash voucher.

Aside from the awarding of cash vouchers, the DOLE, through the TESDA, will also provide WIEs with skills demonstration on food processing, fashion accessories-making, paper recycling, flower arrangement, and perfume making as livelihood options for participating workers.

A competency assessment and certification for scaffolding will also be conducted.

To enhance workers’ knowledge on their selected skills, an orientation on Training for Work Scholarship Program will also be provided. On the part of the DOLE-NCR, it will conduct an orientation on the DOLE Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program.

This year’s DOLE Committee on Labor Day celebration for Workers in Informal Economy is chaired by Assistant Secretary Ma. Gloria A. Tango. She is assisted by Director Ahmma Charisma Lobrin-Satumba of the BWSC as vice chairperson; and by ECC Executive Director Stella Banawis as member.

Baldoz commended the DOLE’s agencies and bureaus, and their partners, for the successful conduct of this year’s Labor Day celebration for WIEs.

“I urge and invite all workers from the informal economy to attend this event. We made this for your, for your benefit and welfare,” said Baldoz.
In MIMAROPA, regional wage board grants P5 to P30 minimum wage increase; wage rates now higher than poverty income threshold
Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph
Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz yesterday lauded the National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC) and the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards (RTWPBs) for their diligent efforts to adjust the minimum wages in the country to a level above the poverty threshold, as she announced that the Regional Tripartite Wage and Productivity Board in Region 4-B had adjusted the minimum wage rates in the region by between P5.00 to P30.00, deliverable in four tranches effective 1 May 2015. “The RTWPB in the MIMAROPA region, headed by DOLE Regional Director Teodoro Delson, has approved Wage Order No. IV-B-7, which raises the minimum wages in the region to a level higher than the poverty income threshold,” said Baldoz. “I commend the NWPC and the RTWPBs for their determination to adjust the minimum wages in the country so that these will be at par, if not over, the poverty threshold, by the end of 2015. Most of the wage rates nationwide are now compliant with Tier 1 of the Two-Tier Wage System, a major reform of the DOLE,” she added. In a report to the Secretary, Director Delson said the first tranche of the increase under the order is the integration into the basic pay of the existing P5.00 Cost of Living Allowance (COLA), which is provided under the previous Wage Order No. IV-B-06. This shall take effect on 1 May 2015. He said the wage board deemed it wise to increase the minimum wage so that it reaches a decent level above the poverty threshold, but still be reasonable and equitable. The second tranche of the wage adjustment will be on 1 November 2015; the third tranche will be on 1 May 2016; and the fourth tranche will be on 1 November, also of the same year. Wage Order No. IV-B-7 eliminates the minimum wage rates in the region which are below the poverty threshold. Before the issuance of the newest wage order, three wage rates in the MIMAROPA area were still below the region’s poverty threshold of P212 per day. These are the wage rate of P210 per day for Calapan City and Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, and El Nido and Coron in Palawan; P207 per day for the 1st class municipalities of MIMAROPA and P205 per day for the rest of the region. Upon the wage order’s effectivity on 1 May, the minimum wage rate in Puerto Princesa City, classified as a highly-urbanized city, shall range from P220 to P280 per day. In Calapan City and Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro and El Nido and Coron in Palawan, this shall range from P215 to P275 per day. Minimum wage earners in first class municipalities in the region shall enjoy minimum wage rates of between P212 to P265 per day, while minimum wage earners in the rest of the region shall have a minimum wage rate of P210 to P260 per day. On 1 November 2015, when the second tranche of the wage adjustment takes effect, the minimum wage rate in Puerto Princesa City shall range from P225 to P285 per day. In Calapan City and Puerto Galera and in El Nido and Coron, the daily wage rate shall range from P220 to P280 per day. Minimum wage earners in first class municipalities in the region shall receive wage rates of P217 to P270 per day, while the rest of the region shall have a minimum wage rate of P217 to P265 per day. For the third tranche on 1 May 2016, minimum wage earners in Puerto Princesa City shall enjoy minimum wage pay of P230 to P285 per day; Calapan City and Puerto Galera and in El Nido and Coron shall enjoy minimum wage rates ranging from P225 to P285 per day; those in in first class municipalities and those in the rest of the region shall enjoy minimum wage rates of P225 to P275 per day. Finally, when the fourth tranche takes effect on 1 November 2016, the minimum wage rate in the region shall be a uniform range of between P235 to P285 per day. For private sector minimum wage earners in the mining sector, regardless of location, their rates will rise from P280 per day effective 1 May 2015 to P285 per day on 1 November 2015. Aside from Region 4-B, there are still five regions which have wage rates below the poverty threshold. These are Regions 1, 3, 5, and 13. The wage increase prescribed in Wage Order No. IV-B-07 applies to all private sector minimum wage workers in the region, regardless of their position, designation or status of employment, and irrespective of the method by which their wages are paid. However, the order does not cover household or domestic helpers, persons in the personal service of another, including family drivers and workers of duly registered Barangay Micro-Business Enterprises with Certificate of Authority, pursuant to R.A. 9178. Also under the new wage order, the prescribed minimum wage rates for covered workers of construction, security, janitorial, and similar services shall be borne by the principals or clients and contracts shall be deemed amended accordingly. The wage order also does not allow exemption, and encourages private businesses to adopt productivity improvement schemes to sustain rising levels of wages and to enhance competitiveness. “Such productivity improvement schemes include service quality for the supply chain in the tourism industry, ISTIV Productivity Awareness Program, 5S of Good Housekeeping, time and motion studies,” said Delson. “They are also encouraged to implement green productivity and gain-sharing programs and other related productivity incentive schemes. On these, the RTWPB will provide them necessary studies and technical assistance for free,” he emphasized. Delson said the wage order arose from a petition of the Association of Minimum Wage Earners and Advocates for a wage hike of P185 per day which it filed on 21 January 2015. The wage board, he said, conducted public hearings and consultations on the said petition in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro; Calapan City; Odiongan, Romblon; Puerto Princesa City; and Boac, Marinduque on 9, 11, 20, and 24 March 2015 and on 15 April 2015.
April inflation decelerates further to 2.2 percent
Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph
Headline inflation slowed down to 2.2 percent year-on-year in April from 2.4 percent in March, and was within the BSP’s range forecast of 1.9-2.8 percent for the month. This brought the year-to-date average inflation rate to 2.3 percent, within the Government’s inflation range target of 3.0 percent ± 1.0 percentage point for 2015. Similarly, core inflation—which excludes certain volatile food and energy items to better capture underlying price pressures—eased to 2.5 percent in April from 2.7 percent in the previous month. On a month-on-month seasonally-adjusted basis, inflation was steady at 0.1 percent in April.

The continued deceleration of headline inflation in April was driven largely by the slower increases in food prices. In particular, food inflation edged lower as most food commodities, particularly rice, corn, meat, milk, oils, and fruits posted lower price increases due to ample domestic supply. Likewise, non-food inflation eased slightly as a result of the continued decline in electricity rates and domestic petroleum prices in year-on-year terms as well the slower price increases in clothing and footwear items, health-related products and services, and restaurants and miscellaneous goods and services.

Governor Amando M. Tetangco, Jr. said that the inflation reading for April continues to support the BSP’s assessment of a manageable inflation environment over the policy horizon. Going forward, the BSP will continue to closely monitor developments in both the global and domestic fronts to ensure price stability conducive to balanced and sustainable economic growth.
Future of broadband wireless access to be determined in global confab in PH
Source: http://icto.dost.gov.ph
Experts on latest ICT innovations will come together for the Dynamic Spectrum Alliance (DSA) Global Summit, to be held at the Manila Peninsula from May 6 to 8. Foreign delegates will take part in various conferences as they talk about the latest developments in dynamic spectrum access technology, as well as exploring different regulation strategies, initiatives, and business strategies that will aid in enabling governments, businesses, and communities to harness this resource, reduce the costs of wireless bandwidth, and provide reliable and affordable broadband access in both urban and rural settings.
The Philippines is one of the countries among the other Southeast Asian nations that has a significant number of its population that are struggling when it comes to connectivity. The DSA Global Summit will gather industry experts to discuss, debate, and demonstrate the impact of Dynamic Spectrum in various aspects within the context of a social and business economy.
Dynamic spectrum access and management is essential for cognitive radio devices, which can scan and utilize available radio frequencies for data communication, allowing for efficient use of radio electromagnetic spectrum that is reliable whenever and wherever needed.
One of the dynamic spectrum technologies implemented in the country is TV White Space, which communicates with a database to locate available frequencies in an area. TVWS has been utilized in areas affected by the Bohol Earthquake and Typhoon Yolanda, and will be used to provide last mile connectivity in remote areas for the Free Wi-Fi Internet in Public Spaces project of the DOST-Information and Communication Technology Office.
Keen on hosting the event, Undersecretary Louis Napoleon C. Casambre of the DOST – ICT Office is positive that the summit will provide significant inputs on the development of the TVWS program.
“Broadband access particularly in the rural areas of the country can contribute significantly to socio-economic development and is a key component for inclusive growth that we aspire for.” Usec. Casambre said.
The importance of ICT technologies in development has been brought to light with its capabilities in improving various sectors of the society, such as production, transportation, education, e-healthcare and even disaster management. According to Prof H. Nwana, executive director of DSA, development of ICTs in Asia has been encouraging.
“In the Philippines, Free Wi-Fi, use of TVWS spectrum and ICT have been embraced in national plans for its socio-economic growth, making it the perfect location to host our Global Summit,” said Prof. Nwana.
This event is produced and sponsored by the Dynamic Spectrum Alliance, and is co-sponsored by The Department of Science and Technology – Information and Communications Technology Office (DOST-ICTO) and the National Telecommunications Commission.  For questions, please contact admin@dynamicspectrumalliance.org.
 DOST-ICT Office – The Information and Communications Technology Office of the Department of Science and Technology is the Philippine Government’s lead agency on ICT related matters. Its primary thrusts are in the ICT Industry Development, eGovernment, ICT policy development, Internet for all and Cybersecurity.
About the Dynamic Spectrum Alliance – The Dynamic Spectrum Alliance is a global organization advocating for laws and regulations that will lead to more efficient and effective spectrum utilization. The DSA’s membership spans multinationals, small- and medium-sized enterprises, and academic, research, and other organizations from around the world, all working to create innovative solutions that will increase the amount of available spectrum to the benefit of consumers and businesses alike. Visithttp://www.dynamicspectrumalliance.org/.
Roxas to visit Bottom-Up Budgeting project sites in Bataan
Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph
Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Mar Roxas is expected to visit Bataan on Thursday to inspect the government’s development projects in the province.

As vice chairman for preparedness of the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC), Roxas will visit communities affected by El Nino.

The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) implements several water projects under the Sagana at Ligtas na Tubig para sa Lahat (SALINTUBIG) program, which aims to prevent problems brought about by water-borne diseases by providing sufficient and potable water supply in remote communities.

DILG also guides citizens in various community-based anti-poverty projects funded through the Bottom-up Budgeting (BUB) program of the Aquino administration.

The Philippines is committed to reducing the number of people with no access to water and sanitation by half by 2015 as part of the United Nation’s Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), which was signed by over 180 heads of state in 2000.

Bataan is an agricultural province and contributes to the food basket of Central Luzon and even Metro Manila.
PNP to activate "Safe zones" in Metro Manila
Source: http://pnp.gov.ph
The Philippine National Police (PNP), upon instructions of Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas, will activate some 300 Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) systems in crime prone areas of Metro Manila.

As identified by the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), target crime-prone areas installed with CCTVs include Monumento, Makati, Mandaluyong, Pasig, Baclaran-Pasay, Taguig, Ermita, EDSA-West Ave., Quirino Highway, Commonwealth Ave., East Ave., Sampaloc and Tondo, Manila. These locations are part of the 13 Police Stations with identified crime-prone areas.

According to Secretary Roxas, the target areas are identified through an "Ink Blot" system, wherein there will be a certain point of priority area and in due course said strategy will spread to other places of public convergence.

Another part of this continuous Project called “Metro Hawk Eye” is located in the University Belt and Pasay-Taft where busy streets and roads are identified.

Selected personnel of the PNP Directorate for Information and Communications Technology Management (DICTM) have placed an initial of 16 strategically located CCTVs in the corners of Pasay-Taft as part of the Metro Hawk Eye Special Project.

“This will serve as a warning to individuals and groups who have criminal intent because they are being watched behind these CCTVs” PDDG Espina said giving an impression of safety and security to pedestrians who walk in these streets at any time.

Through Metro Hawk Eye the public can foresee a fair and just investigation into any crimes happened and recorded in the CCTV. Any identification caught by these cameras during crime incidents is a good starting point for the investigator to have the investigation’s progress to give favor to the would-be victims.

Espina also highlighted the installation of CCTV cameras around the University Belt in UST, FEU and Bustillos area where high number of criminal incidents happen especially these days where enrolment is on-going to different universities in preparation of the opening of classes in June.

This Project is the continuation of CCTV Project (Phase 1) which started on January 2015 in all 5 District Offices and 38 Police Stations in NCRPO. This installation enables the PNP to deter unacceptable behavior, ensure security and safety of individuals transacting within PNP premises and curb unscrupulous activities among personnel, as well as to closely monitor and record all walk-in complainants in PNP premises.

The Metro Hawk Eye Project was initiated by Secretary Roxas in response to the various crime incidents to different areas in NCR with priority on the identified crime prone areas to maximize the effectiveness of the OPLAN “Lambat/Sibat” anti-crime initiative.(PNP-PIO)
DOST's water filtration technology bolsters Isabela ceramics
Source: http://www.dost.gov.ph
INNOVATION SYSTEM SUPPORT. (A) Roll kneader, (B) Jiggering machine, (C) Clay mixer, (D) Shutter Ceramic kiln (2 cubic meters), and (E) Ceramic slabs (Photos by Gerardo Palad, S&T Media Service, DOST-STII)

STA. MARIA, Isabela -- A ceramic water filter facility outfitted with high-performing equipment from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)’s program for small businesses, dubbed SETUP or Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program, was blessed recently during the Cagayan Valley leg of DOST’s “Science Nation: Agham na Ramdam” nationwide roadshow.

SETUP offers assistance to micro, small and medium enterprises via funding, technology upgrade, and manpower training, to improve their production and product quality, and be at par with other small businesses in the regional and national levels.

In 2013, the facility, which has been operating since 1977 (initially as a ceramic facility), acquired important machines via SETUP. Under the program, the DOST regional office’s testing laboratory may also be used by pottery enterprises and others for water and soil analysis.

SETUP provided assistance through the initiative of then newly elected Mayor Gilbert Masigan and the Sta. Maria Potters Association. This initiative was part of the campaign to secure clean drinking water for communities with less access to water.

Ceramic production goes high-tech

The ceramics used in the facility was found to have antimicrobial property, so it was upgraded to become a water filter facility. Likewise, the facility’s processes used to be done by hand, and these are now mechanized through the SETUP assistance.
The candle-type filter pot produced at the facility has two parts: a ceramic pot where untreated water passes, and a container that stores treated water.

“Our water filters are made from clay or ceramics, but we used advanced technology to produce them,” said DOST Secretary Mario G. Montejo during the blessing rites officiated by Rev. Carlos Villanueva.

During production, clay is mixed with water and other combustible materials. Water impurities like suspended particles are sifted because these cannot pass through the clay pores. Meanwhile, water that flows through the spaces in between the slightly-porous clay reacts with trapped silver ions. Silver ions deactivate and kill the pathogens in the water, including coliform bacteria and protozoa.

Better days for industry

The abundant red clay in the area has long served as raw material for ceramic and pottery production. From a neighborhood of around 30 households that made ceramics without electricity, there are now four barangays and around five families working for the pottery, am imdustry which has been in existence ever since the pre-war era.

The Sta. Maria Potters Association is among this bevy of potter makers in Isabela. Prior to SETUP, association members faced negative net income due to low market demand for the clay pot products for ornamental purposes.

With the SETUP-assisted ceramic water filter facility however, things are expected to start looking up for them. Not only will the potters have a higher quality product that can fetch higher revenues; they will also be able to save on costs. Air drying, as opposed to oven drying, saves up on fuel and other costs, and reduces industrial pollution as well.

“At dumating na ang pagkakataon na itong ating ceramic ay mabibigyan ng isang booster, isang tulong na siya sigurong magpapalago sa kanya in the future (And now the time has come for our ceramic pottery to be given a booster which may allow the industry to grow and thrive in the coming years),” said Sta. Maria Vice Mayor Geoffrey T. Formoso.

For inquiries about SETUP and setting up a ceramic water filter facility, please contact or visit your nearest DOST regional office.
SDC-HDPRC mobilizes gov’t, private sector in poor localities to address constraints to inclusive growth
Source: http://www.neda.gov.ph
MANILA— In a bid to accelerate poverty reduction and promote growth in areas where the poor are found, the NEDA Social Development Committee – Human Development and Poverty Reduction Cluster (SDC-HDPRC) embarked on a concerted effort among the government, private sector, and the poor to ensure that the factors limiting the poor’s participation in economic growth are addressed at the provincial level.

“The challenge that remains is that there are still many Filipinos who are poor. Simply waiting on growth to trickle down to the poor would amount to social injustice. Hence, we need to be more precise in our interventions, even our interventions to promote economic growth to ensure that it will be inclusive,” said Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan, during his opening speech at the Salubungan held on April 30, 2015 in Cebu City.

“This time, we will do it differently. We, the government, will ensure that the attainment of this goal is through the substantial engagement and strong partnership with the private sector and the poor themselves,” he added.

The Salubungan is a series of activities under the government’s Accelerated and Sustainable Anti-Poverty Program (ASAPP) that is being conducted in nine more pilot provinces, namely Pangasinan, Quezon, Camarines Sur, Negros Occidental, Cebu, Leyte, Zamboanga del Sur, Davao del Sur, and Sulu.

The ASAPP aims to significantly and sustainably reduce poverty incidence among the population to 18-20 percent in 2016 by creating income opportunities for and enhancing the employability of the poor. It is being piloted in selected cities and municipalities in 10 provinces classified as Category 1 in the Updated Philippine Development Plan 2011-2016. It is in these provinces where the number of poor families is highest.

Salubungan is a public-private partnership model of the ASAPP that aims to tap the skills and resources of the poor in enabling private enterprises to expand their production capacities and markets. It gathers together regional government agencies, local government units, the private sector, and representatives from select poor cities and municipalities to discuss factors that inhibit local private enterprises from increasing their linkages with the poor.

Then, solutions involving government policies and programs to link the poor with these enterprises are identified. These may include skill enhancement to increase the poor’s employability in businesses with growth potentials. They may also include trade facilitation and market linkages such that the poor get to supply the raw materials, inputs and services needed by bigger businesses.

“We will try to address gaps with government intervention and support from the private sector to create massive employment so that those currently considered below the poverty threshold can be included in the growth process,” said NEDA Deputy Director-General Margarita R. Songco, in a separate Salubungan held on April 21, 2015 in Iloilo City.

“We don’t need grand projects. What we need are doable targets for the private sector, and enabling environment and commitment from the government to encourage businesses to hire the vulnerable and source inputs from them,” she added.

The other ASAPP model involves employing the poor in government programs and projects, such as in public works, shelter and facilities improvement, as well as education, health and nutrition, and ecological management programs.

“In planning and implementing the ASAPP, we should always remember that if the poor are able to participate and not only benefit from the growth process, then the growth is inclusive,” said Assistant Director-General Rosemarie G. Edillon.

In the Iloilo workshop, the private sector, represented by medium scale and social enterprises in hotel, resort, restaurant, food processing, construction, and agri-business industries, identified the skills they require for their operations and expressed their willingness to hire individuals from the target communities.

The pilot municipalities also have potential to supply raw materials such as bamboo, poultry and livestock, seafood, spices, and vegetables.

The NEDA is the convener of the ASAPP Action Team of Iloilo and Cebu, composed by the members of the Human Development and Poverty Reduction Cluster and selected members of the Economic Development Cluster. A series of consultations and follow-up activities will follow to ensure the sustainability of the ASAPP.
PHL business delegation explores trade, investment opportunities in Indonesia
Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph
05 May 2015 - A Philippine business delegation went to Jakarta, Indonesia from April 13 to 16 as part of an Outbound Business Matching (OMB) Mission organized by the Export Marketing Bureau of the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry in coordination with the Philippine Embassy in Indonesia through its Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC Jakarta).

The Mission aims to realize opportunities offered under the ASEAN Economic Community’s (AEC) concept of a single market and production base.

At a Business Forum/Business Matching Activity held at the Gran Melia Hotel on April 15, Philippine Ambassador to Indonesia Maria Lumen B. Isleta invited Indonesian businessmen to discover new and unique products from the Philippines as well as explore new partnerships and ventures with Philippine companies. She noted that several Philippine food companies already have well-established operations in Indonesia such as San Miguel Corporation, Universal Robina Corporation and Liwayway Manufacturing Corporation and that several other Philippine companies are interested in investing and setting up operations in Indonesia.

Ambassador Isleta also invited the Indonesian business sector to visit the International Food Exhibition or IFEX in the Philippines, which is the premier international sourcing hub for the finest ethnic Asian food, tropical fruits, vegetables, fresh seafood, Halal-certified products, natural, organic, as well as ingredients and raw materials. This year’s IFEX will be held from May 21 to 24 at the SMX Convention Center in Manila, and will have a special showcase of the 21 APEC Economies.

The participants were then briefed on AEC opportunities for both exporters and importers. The presentations were followed by networking sessions that allowed Indonesian businessmen to confer with the Philippine businessmen representing various food and cosmetics industries. Philippine International Trading Corporation (PITC) which is a full service state-owned international trading company also joined the Mission.

The Philippine business sector representatives expressed optimism that the mission and the networking session as well as the store visits that they had undertaken will result in possible sale of more Philippine products in the Indonesian market.

While in Indonesia, the Philippine business mission also visited Indonesia’s largest food and hotel show, the Food and Hotel Indonesia (FHI) in Jakarta on April 16. The delegation then proceeded to Manado for more business meetings with local businessmen.
 

President Benigno S. Aquino III’s Speech during the Meeting with the Filipino Community in Chicago, U.S.A.
Chicago, U.S.A
06 May 2015
Buhay na buhay ho kayo ngayon ah. Tamang-tama. [Palakpakan] Kita naman n’yo, pareho ho namin, buhay na buhay rin. Kasi ho, sabi sa akin, tinitingnan ko itong mga miyembro ng gabinete. Sabi ko, “Parang bakit ang sisingkit ng mata n’yo ngayon?” [Tawanan] Sabi ko sa kanila, “Di ba nakatulog naman kayo noong Martes? Umalis tayo ng Miyerkules, Miyerkules pa lang ngayon. Dapat kumpleto tulog n’yo.” [Tawanan]

I-share ko na lang sa inyo ang naalala ko, dalawang nasabi sa akin. Pag-usapan natin ang mga kababayan natin na umaalis ng bansa. Merong isa sa mga kababayan natin, pupunta ng Amerika. Sabi niya, “Pare, hindi ako marunong masyado mag-Ingles. Tulungan mo naman ako.” Sabi niya, “Ano ang kailangan mong tulong?” “Tulungan mo naman ako kung paano kumain diyan. Hindi ko alam kung paano umorder, saan oorder, ganyan.” “Ah, madali ‘yan. Maghahanap ka ng lugar, kadalasan ang pangalan ‘diner’. Spelling D-I-N-E-R.” “Ano’ng gagawin ko diyan?” “Pagpasok mo diyan, oorder ka. Doon ka sa counter para mabilis.” “Ano’ng oorderin ko?” “Aba’y pinakamadali: coffee and donuts please.” “Eh ano naman ‘yon?” “Eh di kape saka donut.” “Aba, okay. Masarap ‘yan.” “Tapos kung may problema ka, magkita tayo doon,” sabi ng kaibigan niya.

Eh tumakbo po ‘yung isang buwan bago nakasunod ‘yung kaibigan niyang matagal sa Amerika. Nagkita na naman sila. Sabi niya, “Pare, buti na lang dumating ka.” Sabi niya, “Bakit naman?” “Kasi almusal, tanghalian, hapunan, coffee and donut ako. [Tawanan] Purgang-purga na ako. Turuan mo naman ako ng iba, kung pupuwede lang.” Sabi nung tao, “Pare, iyan lang naman pala. Madali ‘yan. Bukas pagbalik mo doon sa diner, sabihin mo naman ‘ham and eggs please’.” “Ano naman ‘yan?” “Hamon at itlog.” Eh ‘yung tao naman noong gabi pa lang, pinapanaginipan na niya ‘yung hamon at itlog. Kung kayo nga isang buwan kumakain ng coffee and donuts, medyo ibang klase talaga ang hamon at itlog.

Ang aga ho niya gumising para makaalmusal ng iba naman. Punta siya doon sa diner na paborito niya. Upo na naman siya sa counter. Nakita na naman niya ‘yung parati niyang inoorder. “Ham and eggs please.” Sagot sa kanya, “Fine, how would you like your eggs?” [Tawanan] Sagot niya ngayon, “Pardon?” [Tawanan] “You know, boiled, scrambled, fried, sunny side up, over easy.” Lahat na ho, pati benedict nasabi na. Sabi ng tao, “Okay, coffee and donuts please.” [Tawanan at palakpakan]

Mayroon pa hong isa. Ang Pilipino talaga, matapang. ‘Pag hindi kaya, pipilitin alamin. Noong araw po na may base pang Amerikano sa ating bansa, may mga dumadalaw sa Tarlac. May nagpagupit ho sa amin sa Tarlac. Noong nagpagupit, ‘yung barbero natapos na–di ba ‘yung barbero siyempre aahitin pa ‘yung patilya na ‘yan. Noong natapos, hinahasa ulit ‘yung labaha. Sabi niya, paano ko ba sasabihin dito ‘tapos na’? Ah, alam ko na. Sabi ng tao, “Hey, Joe. This is your the end.” Eh, labaha ho hinahasa, ganyan. [Tawanan] Takbo ‘yung ating kaibigang Amerikano. [Tawanan] Naninigurado lang ho ako kung gising sila. Huwag kayong mag-aalala, maiksi lang ‘tong talumpati natin. Labintatlong pahina ho ‘yung ginawa nila. [Tawanan] First time ko ho dito, saka baka last time. [Tawanan] Siyempre, one year one month na lang naman natitira sa atin, more or less.

Sabi ho ni Consul, si Rizal ho dumalaw dito. Sabi ko, napag-isip lang ako: Mayo rin daw dumalaw. Aba, pareho tayo, Mayo. Si Jose Rizal, natapos sa Luneta. [Tawanan] Sa angkan ho namin, ‘yung lolo ko sa tuhod Katipunero. Nakulong po siya sa Fort Santiago. Lolo ko naman po, nakulong rin, di ba naiwan ni Quezon doon, kinulong sa Fort Santiago rin naman pala. Ang tatay ko naman ho ‘yung pangatlo, bawat henerasyon mayroon kaming nakukulong ano. [Tawanan] Tatay ko, Fort Bonifacio. Eh, pitong taon pitong buwan ho inabot naman ho sa kanya. Eh ako lang ‘yung pulitiko sa henerasyon namin, baka ako naman susunod sa kanila. [Tawanan] At kung ako naman makukulong, pakiusap ko kung puwede sa The Fort na lang. [Tawanan] Alam n’yo nakumpara tayo kay Jose Rizal… Tatay ko naman napalaya maski papaano. It’s nice, perhaps there really is some fortuitous circumstance that brought me here in May. Dito naman tayo sa pormal na parte. Huwag kayong mag-alala, bibilisan ko ito para kunwari, anim na pahina lang ito.

Unang beses ko nga po itong makabisita ng Chicago. Kaya nang matunugan ko pong tuloy na ang working visit natin dito, talagang na-excite po ako. Sabi ko, tsansa ko nang matupad ang isa sa medyo mababa kong pangarap: Ang matikman ang inyong deep dish pizza. [Palakpakan] Noong nasa Boston ho kasi kami, ini-introduce ‘yung deep dish pizza ‘83, eksakto bago kami umalis. So nakita ko po ‘yung advertisement, di ko na ho nakita yung pizza e. Buti naman puwede pa ako kumain ng pizza, nakaabot na ako ng Chicago, home of the deep dish. At nasubukan ko na ho kanina. Masarap po pala talaga. Siyempre po, pangalawa lang ‘yang pagtitikim sa talagang pinananabikan natin; number one po sa listahan natin ang makumusta kayo, ang mga Boss nating nandito, mga kababayan nating Pilipino. At kita kong buhay na buhay kayo, kaya talagang sulit na sulit ang pagbisita ko sa inyo. [Palakpakan] Tinagurian nga pong “Windy City” itong Chicago, pero talagang sa init po ng inyong pagtanggap, pakiramdam ko, di yata ako nakaalis ng Maynila. Kaya mula po sa ating buong delegasyon: Maraming-maraming-maraming salamat po sa inyong lahat.

Naalala ko po, last year–last year lang, tinanggap ko sa Malacañang ang courtesy call ng Philippine Medical Association of Chicago. Personal ko po silang pinasalamatan sa taon-taon nilang pagbabalik sa Pilipinas para magsagawa ng medical missions at magbigay-kalinga sa mga nangangailangan nating kababayan. Sa kanilang pagbisita sa mga komunidad na nasalanta ng bagyong Yolanda, talagang marami ang naaruga at napabilis ang pagbabalik sa normal na pamumuhay.

Naalala ko rin po: Noong panahon ng Martial Law at noong na-exile ang pamilya namin sa Boston, nagpamalas din ng malasakit ang mga propesyonal nating kababayan sa ibang lugar o iba’t ibang lugar, tulad po dito sa Chicago. Kahit pa nasa ibayong dagat, nananatili kayong nakatutok sa pagsusulong ng kapakanan ng ating Inang Bayan. Kaya muli, sa inyong narito ngayon, sa humigit-kumulang 90,000 Pilipinong namamalagi rito sa Chicago, at sa bawat isang nagmamalasakit sa bansa mula noon hanggang ngayon: Taos-puso po akong nagpapasalamat, sa ngalan ng sambayanan, sa inyo pong lahat. [Palakpakan] Siyempre, hindi ko rin po makakalimutan: Noong nakaraang Presidential elections, nanalo po ako–siguro naman kaya ako nasa harap ninyo, ano? At sa totoo lang po no, overwhelming sa absentee votes. ‘Yung overwhelming, hindi ho dalawa boto ko, isa ‘yung sa kalaban. Di ho. Malaking-malaki ang lamang natin doon. At doon po until today, talagang bahagi po kayo sa pagbabagong ito. Muli, maraming salamat po sa inyong lahat. [Palakpakan]

Noon nga pong 2010, pinili ng sambayanang Pilipinong bagtasin ang Daang Matuwid. Sabi ng ating mga Boss: Itigil na ang korupsiyon at bali-balikong sistema ng pamamahala; simulan na nating itaguyod ang gobyernong tunay na magsisilbi sa bansa, at magbibigay-lakas sa mga kababayan nating makaalpas sa kahirapan. Ngayon, ang tanong po: Ano na ba ang nararating natin sa paghakbang sa Daang Matuwid?

Gusto ko po sanang bigyan kayo ng idea sa pinagmulan natin, kung nasaan na tayo ngayon, at kung ano pa ang puwede nating magawa. Salamat nga po at may pagkakataon akong diretsong maibalita sa inyo ang tinatamasa natin ngayong pagbabago; lalo po sa panahong ito kung saan tila hindi pa rin bumebenta, at hindi pa rin trending ang pagbabahagi ng magagandang balita. Kaya ang request ko nga po sa inyo, ito po sanang aking mga babanggitin, kumbaga po sa Facebook ay huwag lang po sana ninyong i-like. Sana, i-share na rin po ninyo. [Palakpakan]

Pero totoo po ‘yun. ‘Pag nakakausap natin ang ibang miyembro ng media. Sabi ko, “Bakit ba puro negative news ang nilalabas ninyo?” Sagot sa akin, “Trabaho namin ‘yon.” “‘Yung positive news, hindi ba kasali sa news?” Sabi niya, “Hindi. Kailangang ‘yung gawin iyon. Normal ‘yan.” At ‘pag may kulang pa kayo… Naalala ninyo ‘yung kasabihang “‘Pag pulitiko, sampu ang hiniling sa iyo, siyam ang pinagbigyan mo, ‘yung siyam na pinagbigyan mo ang makakalimutan, ‘yung pansampu lang ang maaalala.” Ito kako, ‘yung sampung hiniling ninyo, ‘yung labing-isa, labindalawa, labintatlong hihilingin pa n’yo ‘yun ang nirereklamo n’yo. Kaya sabi nga ho, paki-share na lang ho.

Unahin na po natin ang usapin ng korupsiyon. Alam naman nating matagal nang sagabal sa pag-unlad ng Pilipinas po ito. First step po natin nang maupo sa puwesto: Nagtalaga tayo ng tuwid at maaasahang mga pinuno. Kasabay nito, nilinis at patuloy nating nililinis ang burukrasya at ang kalakhang lipunan. Sa suma-total po, 637 na kaso na ang naisampa natin sa ilalim ng iba’t ibang mga programan na may mga pangalang sumusunod: Revenue Integrity Protection Service o RIPS ng Department of Finance, na nagbabantay sa mga nangongolekta ng ating buwis, ‘yung tiwali, kinakasuhan; sa programang Run After the Smugglers o RATS na program ng Bureau of Customs; at sa Run After Tax Evaders (RATE) ng Bureau of Internal Revenue. Nabalitaan na rin po siguro ninyo: Ang mga kilalang pulitikong dating itinuturing na “untouchables” sa pamahalaan, ngayon, nasa kani-kanila pong mga piitan, at kung hindi man po ay naka-hospital arrest. [Tawanan at palakpakan] Mga ahensiyang dati’y notorious sa katiwalian, modelo na ngayon ng good governance. Isang halimbawa lang po ang Department of Public Works and Highways, na dahil sa mabuting pamamahala, ayon sa huling tala noong Marso ng taong kasalukuyan, ay umabot na ang savings sa P39 billion. Gayundin, tumaas ang ranggo natin sa Transparency International Corruption Perception Index; mula ika-130 na bansa noong 2010, nasa pang-85 na po tayong least corrupt. [Palakpakan]

Ang atin nga pong batayang prinsipyo: Good governance equals good economics, equals good quality inclusive growth. Kaya po sa usaping pang-ekonomiya, kalimutan na natin ang bansag na Sick Man of Asia; ang turing sa atin ng ibang bansa ngayon, Darling of Asia. Tuloy-tuloy po ang positibong pagkilala sa atin ng buong mundo: Investment grade status na po tayo sa kasalukuyan; 33 spots ang iniangat natin sa Global Competitiveness Report ng World Economic Forum; 49 spots ang increase sa Ease of Doing Business Report ng World Bank; at ayon naman sa Bloomberg, inaasahang magiging world’s 2nd fastest growing economy ang Pilipinas ngayong taon. [Palakpakan]

Talagang pong makasaysayan po itong mga nakakamit natin: Mula 2010 hanggang 2014, nagtala tayo ng average GDP growth na 6.3 percent. Ito po ang pinakamabilis na paglago ng ating ekonomiya sa loob ng nakaraang 40 taon. [Palakpakan] Target naman natin: 7 to 8 percent GDP growth ngayong 2015. Sabi po ng ating economic managers, kapag naabot natin ito, ang resultang 6 year average ang magiging pinakamabilis na paglago ng ating ekonomiya mula pa 1955, o sa loob ng nakalipas na 60 taon. [Palakpakan] May kaunti akong dagdag na paniwalang mangyayari po ‘yan. Dahil 1955 po, kinasal yata ang magulang ko, so doon lang ako ipinunla. Pero hindi ako 1955 ha, may dalawa hong kapatid nauna sa akin. [Tawanan]

Pagdating po sa foreign direct investments: Nang maupo tayo sa puwesto noong 2010, nasa $1.07 billion lamang po ito; nitong 2014, pumalo na po ito sa $6.2 billion, which is 479.28 percent increase. [Palakpakan]

Proud po ‘yung mga writer ko. Sabi nila ipaalala ko lang ho ito sa inyo. Hindi po ito panaginip. Hindi po ito wishful thinking. Tunay na mga datos po ang naririnig ninyo. Sa kabila nito, hindi pa ho tayo makokontento. Alam nating simula pa lang ito at marami pa tayong magagawang pagbabago.

Tingnan po ninyo: Kapag maunlad ang ekonomiya, tataas ang kompiyansa ng investors na tumaya sa bansa. Dadami ang mga bagong negosyo; dadami rin ang malilikhang trabaho. Resulta: Higit na oportunidad sa pag-asenso para sa mas maraming Pilipino. At kakabit nito, siyempre, lalago rin ang buwis na makokolekta ng inyong gobyerno. Ibig sabihin, madadagdagan din ang maitatayo nating mga imprastruktura, at iigting ang serbisyong panlipunan. Ito naman pong mga serbisyong panlipunan na ito, magbubunga ng mas edukado, mas malusog, at mas ligtas na Pilipino; maitututok na ng mga kababayan natin ang enerhiya nila sa pag-abot ng kanilang potensiyal, kaysa sa pag-iintindi sa mga pangunahin nilang pangangailangan. Dadami ang alam nila at huhusay sila sa kanilang trabaho, na siya namang lalong magpapaarangkada sa ating ekonomiya. “Virtuous cycle” po ang tawag dito, na isa sa mga susi para sa pangmatagalan at permanenteng pagbabago sa atin pong bansa.

Kaya nga po, para masigurong masusulit ng mga kababayan natin ang bumubukas na oportunidad, tuloy ang pagbuhos natin ng pondo sa ating human development agenda. Ang budget para sa mga serbisyong panlipunan, lahat nagsitaasan. Mula 2010, halos dumoble na ang budget ng Department of Education; ang DOH or Department of Health, higit sa triple ang inaangat; ang DSWD, 606 percent ang itinaas. Nagawa natin ito nang hindi tayo nagdadagdag ng buwis, maliban sa tinatawag na Sin Tax o ‘yung buwis na ipinapatong sa tobacco at alkohol na isinabatas upang ilayo sa bisyo at sakit ang ating mga kababayan.

Pangunahin po sa ating mga inisyatiba ang Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program. Noong nakaraang administrasyon, nasa 800,000 kabahayan ang naitalang benepisyaryo nito. Ngayon po, nasa 4.43 milyong kabahayan na ang nakikinabang dito. Alam po kasi ninyo, panahon pa ng aking ina, noong 1988, nang magkaroon ng free high school education program sa bansa. Naging libre nga po ang secondary education, ‘yun nga lang ay naging klaro rin ang suliranin ng out-of-school youth sa ating bansa. Paano ka naman makakapasok sa eskuwela kung walang pamasahe, kung kailangang tulungan ang magulang sa hanapbuhay, o kung sakitin at mahina ang katawan? Ito pong Pantawid Pamilya na programa ang nakita nating tugon dito, kung saan bibigyan ng tulong-pinansiyal ang mga benepisyaryo. At ang kondisyon po, siguruhing pumapasok ang mga bata sa eskuwela. Win-win situation po, di po ba?

Sa sektor naman ng kalusugan, layunin po natin ay universal healthcare, kaya’t pinalalawig pa natin ang coverage ng PhilHealth program. Makikita po sa datos ang diperensiya: Noong 2010, ang saklaw ng programa, 47.07 million individuals. Nitong 2014, naitaas na natin ito sa 86.22 million individuals. Halos doble po.

Sa edukasyon naman po: Kapag sinabing “mana,” hindi automatic pala ho na maganda ang ipinamamana. Halimbawa: ang ipinamana po sa ating kakulangan sa classrooms ng nakaraang administrasyon: 66,800. Noong 2013, napunan na po natin ang lahat ng kakulangan ng atin pong mga classrooms. Ganito rin po ang nangyari sa minana nating backlog na 61.7 million textbooks at 2.5 million school seats, na naisara natin ang backlog noong taong 2012. Siyempre po, pati mga pangangailangan sa ating napipintong K to 12 Basic Education Program, dinagdagan po natin ng dalawang taon ang ating basic education program. Inumpisahan po na rin para sa taong 2014 at 2015, nakapaglaan po tayo ng budget na P45.62 billion para makapagtayo ng 29,800 classrooms, at P560 milyon naman para sa 800,000 na mga upuan para sa mga eskuwelahan na ito.

Good news din po ang hatid ng ating Technical Education and Skills Development Authority o TESDA. Mula nang manungkulan tayo, nakapagtala na sila ng mahigit 7.4 million graduates sa iba’t ibang kurso nila, sa ilalim ng kanilang technical and vocational education and training program. Kailan lang po, nakausap ko si Secretary Joel Villanueva. Kuwento niya sa ‘kin: Mayroon daw silang isang trainee at parang siya raw ay tinutuya ng kanyang mga kaibigan noong sinasabi niyang gusto niyang maging mekaniko. At sa tulong ng TESDA ay naging mekaniko nga ho. Pinagtatawanan nga raw po siya ng mga tumutuya sa kanya. Ngayon pong tapos na siya, siya po ay nagtrabaho sa Australia. At ano po ang kanyang kinikita? Ganito na lang po: Doble sa suweldo ng Pangulo ng Republika ng Pilipinas ang suweldo niya. [Tawanan] Nabigyan po tayo ng idea sa puwede kong alternatibong karera pagbaba sa puwesto sa 2016. [Tawanan]

Ang atin nga pong pagtutok sa ekonomiya, katambal ng pagpapaigting ng ating human development agenda, tunay nang nanganganak ng mga positibong bunga. Pagdating po sa job generation: Naitala po natin noong Oktubre 2014 ang pinakamababang unemployment rate sa loob ng sampung taon. Linawin ko lang din po ito: Itong employment rate natin, totoong-totoo; wala pong hokus-pokus sa numero. Hindi po iyong nagtrabaho ka lang nang isang linggo bilang tagawalis sa kalsada, may trabaho ka na. Hindi ho ganung trabahong pinag-uusapan natin dito, dapat permanente at pangmatagalan. Tunay na trabaho po ito at hindi lang basta mapaganda ang datos para magpapogi sa publiko.

Nakausap ko nga po si Secretary Baldoz–nandito po sa taas–ng ating Department of Labor and Employment. Ayon sa kanilang pinakahuling JobsFit Report, pumapalo sa average na 150,000 ang nationwide vacancy postings sa bansa kada buwan. Sabi rin ng ulat na ito, para sa taong 2013 hanggang 2020, talagang marami tayong in-demand at hard-to-fill occupations. Kabilang po rito ang accountant o accounting staff, pati na rin computer programmers. At totoo nga po: Nang pumunta ako sa Bicol State University, nakausap ko ang kanilang Presidente at nagkuwentuhan kami tungkol sa Accounting. Noong bata ho kasi [ako], maraming parang Bachelor of Science, Major in Accounting, Bachelor of Commerce. Parang ang dami noong ganung degree.

Sabi ng presidente ng Bicol State University, sila raw po ang nagtuturo ng accountancy program, o may accountancy program sila. Nagpo-produce sila ng maraming accountants at maganda po ‘yung kanilang programa. Pero ang kanilang mismong Accounting Department, hindi nila mapuno. Ang dahilan: Third year pa lang ng estudyante nila ay kinukuha na raw po o nire-recruit na ng mga tanyag na accounting at auditing firms. Alam naman po natin ‘yang Accounting, four-year course, may one year pa para sa review bago ng board exams. Third year nire-recruit na. Kaya pati eskuwelang nagtuturo, hindi makapuno ng kanilang accountants. Ganito rin po ang istorya nang makausap ko Secretary Joel Villanueva ng TESDA. Posisyon daw po sa electricians, plumbers, refrigeration at air-conditioning technicians, heavy equipment trainers and operators, hirap din silang mapunan.

Napaisip nga po ako–at kung minsan naisip ko, talagang ganun na ako katanda? [Tawanan]

Kung nauwi ho kayo noong araw, di ba noon, kadalasan nating nakikitang nakapaskil sa mga gusali, “No Vacancy”? Ngayon naman po, ang nagkalat na pong sign, “For Immediate Hiring.” ‘Yung iba nga pong mga kompanya, kanya-kanyang gimik para maengganyo ang mga taong sa kanila mag-apply. Example po nito, mayroong call center. Sabi po ng kanilang billboard, magpa-interview ka sa kanila at tapos ng interview mo, sagot na nila ‘yung almusal mo. [Tawanan] Sa McDonalds pa ho yata. Sabi naman ng isang kompanya, pagtapos ka ng interview at na-hire ka nila–di ba kapag may bagong trabaho, nagbo-blowout tayo–sagot na rin nila ‘yung celebration ng iyong pamilya, iyung celebratory dinner. Mag-apply ka sa kanila at matanggap.

Ang punto ko lang po: Kayo ho ba, naisip ba ninyong aabot tayo sa puntong ito kung saan ang pinoproblema natin ay kung paano mate-train ang mga kababayan nating makapasok sa trabaho, kaysa ‘yung graduate nang graduate at walang makuhang trabaho? [Palakpakan]

Para masolusyunan po ito, nakikipag-ugnayan na ang DOLE–matagal nang nakikipagugnayan ang DOLE at TESDA–sa mga industriya para gawing mas accessible ang in-demand at hard-to-fill occupations. Nariyan po ang kanilang nationwide job fairs, ang pinaigting na Philjobnet na naglilista ng job vacancies sa kanilang website, at ang Jobstart Philippines program, na layong pabilisin ang paghahanap ng trabaho ng ating mga aplikante sa pamamagitan ng career guidance services, life skills at technical training, at internship program. Dahil po sa mga inisyatibang tulad nito, napupunuan na natin ang mga bakanteng trabaho sa merkado.

Pati po sa usaping pang-imprastruktura, talagang ang Pilipinas, nagbabago na. ‘Yung mga proyektong pagkatagal-tagal nang nabinbin; iyong mga planong talagang napako lang sa pangako, isa-isa na nating ipinapatayo at isinasakongkreto. Naalala ko po tuloy: Kailan lang po, pumunta tayo sa lalawigan ng Isabela; mayroon daw pong inauguration ng isang tulay, ang tawag po dito ay Lullutan Bridge. [Tawanan] Kako, bakit kaya ganun ang pangalan? Ang tawag kaya, ang buong pangalan kaya nito ay Lulutang at Lulubog Bridge? [Tawanan] Natuklasan po natin: Noong araw pala, mayroong talagang tulay doon na spillway bridge. So, talagang ‘pag malakas ‘yung tubig, lulubog; ‘pag mababaw ‘yung tubig, nakalutang. Problema po, talagang designed siya na kung aapaw ‘yung tubig, kaya niyang tanggapin ang pag-apaw. Kaya nung naging masama ang panahon noong taong 1995, maraming mga troso na pinutol ng illegal logger at debris ang rumagasa dito sa ilog na ito, giniba itong Lullutan Bridge na ito. At tuluyan na po siya lulutang-lulubog. Ang masakit po: 1995 nangyari iyon. Di po ba, kung natapos na ‘yung pag-aaral sa lugar, puwede pong nagawa ito sa mas mabilis na panahon? Tayo na nga po ang nagpatayo nito ngayong taon natapos at iyan po ay natapos sa loob ng apat na taon, dapat sana tatlo, meron lang pong komplikasyon doon sa lupa kung saan nanggagaling ang foundation.

Ngayon, idagdag ko lang po: Bawat proyekto natin, bahagi ng isang komprehensibong plano; hindi po bara-bara para masabi lang na tayo’y may nagawa. Hindi tayo bubuo ng kalsada tapos bubulong na lang sa hangin na “Sana may dumaan dito. [Tawanan] Sana tumulay ito sa kabilang bayan. Sana maraming mamuhunan sa lugar na ito.” Hindi po tayo umaasa sa “sana”; kapag may itinayo tayo, ang mga pangangailangang kakabit nito, sinisikap nating maging kumpleto na: may mamumuhunang negosyante, may uusbong na industriya, may malilikhang mga trabaho. Lahat kasama na sa plano.

Alam po n’yo, noong nandoon nga ho ‘yung ating mga masipag na local government officials sa Isabela at ‘yung kanilang kongresista, in-inaugurate na ‘yung tulay; P700 million pong gastos doon. Sabi sa amin, meron pa kaming pangalawang tulay na kailangan. At noong nasabi naman po ni Secretary Singson ng DPWH, nasa budget na ‘yan at alam ng Senado, next year siguradong kasama na ‘yan. “Kung ganoon po, meron pa kaming pangatlong tulay na kulang.” [Tawanan] Sabi ko, okay. Di ba, parang nakakuka ka ng isa, thank you; nakakuha ka ng dalawa, you are very lucky; nakakuha ka ng pangatlo, ikaw na lang yata ang anak ng Diyos. [Tawanan] Pero isipin po ninyo, malamang magagawa rin natin ang pangatlong iyan dahil nga ho hindi binubulsa ‘yung pondong dapat na mapunta sa mga proyektong ito. [Palakpakan]

Ito pong mga nabanggit ko sa inyo, preview na lang po sa pagbabagong talagang natatamasa na natin. May kasabihan nga po–actually kanta–dito nanggaling po sa Amerika: You ain’t seen nothing yet. [Tawanan] Si Noel na lang ho ang kakanta dahil ako po ay medyo namamalat nang kaunti. Anim na taon po ang ating termino; hindi po natin sinabing mareresolba natin lahat ng problema ng Pilipinas sa naibigay sa ating panahon. Pero tingnan naman po ninyo, ngayon pa lang talagang napipitas na natin ang mga positibong bunga ng mga naipunla nating reporma sa bansa. Ang susunod na mga administrasyon sa atin, pihadong aanihin din ang pinagsumikapan natin. Ito po ay kung hindi tayo maliligaw ng landas, at kung tulad noong 2010 ay susuriin muli ninyo ang susunod nating mga pinuno.

Ngayong palapit na nang palapit ang 2016, talagang lalo pong umiingay ang mga kumokontra sa atin. May nakausap nga po ako, ang sabi sa akin: Meron talagang mga kampong ang trabaho lang ay bumatikos sa iyo at hanapan ng mali ang bawat kilos mo. At kung walang mahanap, gumawa na lang. Kung bumuhos ang malakas na bagyo, kasalanan mo. [Tawanan] Kung mag-traffic sa EDSA, kasalanan mo. [Tawanan] Kahit raw po ‘yung pagkatalo ni Manny Pacquiao, may kinalaman ako diyan. [Tawanan] Di ko naman puwedeng sabihin, “Bakit, puwede ba naming pagtulungan ni Pacquiao si Floyd Mayweather?”

Sa totoo lang ho, marami ang nagtataka, bakit daw hindi ako napipikon. Sabi ko, kung talagang trabaho na nila–‘yun bang pinagkakakitaan nila iyang pag-aalipusta sa akin–siguro ho dagdag na sila sa employment statistics natin. [Tawanan] Puwede na ring pagtiyagaan ang mga ‘yan. [Palakpakan]

Sa kabila po nito, naniniwala po ako: Hindi malilinlang ang Pilipino maski ilang araw pa silang magsinungaling, minu-minutong magsinungaling. Hindi natin isusuko ang lahat ng tinatamasa nating pagbabago, at hahayaang mabalik tayo sa dati. Tulad nga po ng anumang pananim, kailangan nating diligan ang pagbabagong ito; kailangan itong bantayan at alagaan, para masigurong tuloy-tuloy ang pagyabong. Hindi puwedeng makontento na lang tayo sa naabot natin ngayon; hindi puwedeng pabayaan na lang natin at panoorin ang mga pangyayari. Gaya ng lagi, nasa kamay ng Pilipino ang kapalaran ng Pilipinas.

Tiwala po ako: Tulad noong 1986 sa EDSA, noong taong 2010, at pagdating ng 2016, nariyan pa rin kayo upang siguruhing maipapagpatuloy ang mga nasimulan natin. Ang ating hangad: Huwag nang bumalik pa sa bulok na sistema; bagkus, magtuloy-tuloy ang mabuting transpormasyon ng bansa. At wala pong ibang paraan para matupad ito kundi sa pagtutulungan ng lahat ng Pilipino, saan mang bahagi ng mundo.

Kaya kasabay ng pagkayod ninyo sa kani-kaniyang trabaho o negosyo, narito naman ang pamahalaan ninyo, tinutupad ang ipinagkaloob ninyong mandato: ang maglingkod nang husto at totoo sa tunay na mga Boss, walang iba kundi ang sambayanang Pilipino. Ito po ang mismong dahilan ng pagbisita natin dito sa Amerika, at sa mga susunod na araw, o kinabukasan, sa Canada. Ito ang katwiran ng patuloy nating pagtataguyod ng mabuting pamamahala sa gobyerno at paghahatid ng nararapat na serbisyong panlipunan sa bawat Pilipino. Ito ang diwa ng pagsusulong natin sa kapayapaan, kaayusan, kaunlaran sa Mindanao at sa buong bansa. Bawat sandali po ng paglilingkod, sinusulit natin ang pagkakataong makapaghatid ng higit na oportunidad sa Pilipino, nang sa gayon ay mapanghawakan niya ang kanyang sariling kapalaran.

Kaya mga Boss, patuloy lang nating ihakbang pasulong ang Daang Matuwid; patuloy nating pagandahin ang bansang pinakamamahal natin. Patuloy nating abutin ang Filipino dream: Isang Pilipinas na sagana, hindi lang sa sigla, sa sigasig, at sa kabutihang-loob, kundi maging sa pagkakataong paunlarin ang sarili, ang bansa, at makiambag sa pag-angat ng buong mundo.

Magandang gabi po sa inyong lahat. Maraming salamat po.
Last Updated: 07 MAY 2015
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(Chicago, USA) President Benigno S. Aquino III shares the stage with the participants in the meeting with the Filipino community for a group photo souvenir at the Grand Ballroom of the J.W. Marriott Hotel Wednesday (May 6). The President is on a working visit here before proceeding to Canada. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
(Chicago, USA) President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the meeting with the Filipino community at the Grand Ballroom of the J.W. Marriott Hotel for his working visit here Wednesday before proceeding to Canada. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Ryan Lim /  Malacañang Photo Bureau)
(Chicago, USA) President Benigno S. Aquino III receives a warm reception upon arrival for the meeting with the Filipino community at the Grand Ballroom of the J.W. Marriott Hotel. The President is on a working visit here Wednesday (May 6) before proceeding to Canada . (Photo by Gil Nartea / Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
(Chicago, USA) President Benigno S. Aquino III meets with officials of the US Chamber of Commerce and the US ASEAN Business Council at the TransUnion Headquarters in Chicago, as part of his working visit to the USA. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
(Chicago, USA) President Benigno S. Aquino III huddles with the officials of the US Chamber of Commerce and the US ASEAN Business Council for a snap shot during the business meeting at the TransUnion Headquarters in Chicago for his working visit in the USA. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III receives signed jerseys of NBA teams from M. Jim Peck, CEO and President of Transunion after his meeting with business organizations. The President is on a working visit to Chicago, USA on Wednesday (May 6). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III meets with officials of the US Chamber of Commerce, the US ASEAN Business Council and the National Center for APEC at the Transunion Headquarters in Chicago, USA  Wednesday, May 6. The meeting is part of President Aquino and his delegation's working visit to Chicago. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacanang Photo Bureau )
Chicago, Illinois Mayor Rahm  Emanuel presents a City Council Resolution   officially welcoming President Benigno S. Aquino III during the former’s courtesy call at JW Marriot Hotel. The President is on his working visit to Chicago, USA on Wednesday afternoon (May 6). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with Chicago, Illinois Mayor Rahm  Emanuel  during the latter’s courtesy call at the JW Marriot Hotel. The President is on a working visit to Chicago, USA Wednesday afternoon (May 6). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes Chicago, Illinois Mayor Rahm  Emanuel  during the latter’s courtesy call held at JW Marriot Hotel. The President is on  a working visit to Chicago, USA Wednesday afternoon (May 6). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
(Chicago, USA) President Benigno S. Aquino III greets  Consul General Generoso D.G. Calonge, Philippine Consulate General  upon arrival at the O’Hare International Airport for his working visit to Chicago, USA Wednesday afternoon (May 6). (Photo by: Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
(Chicago, USA) President Benigno S. Aquino III greets Philippine and US officials upon arrival at the O’Hare International Airport for his working visit to Chicago, United States of America on Wednesday afternoon (May 6). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
(Chicago, USA) President Benigno S. Aquino III  arrives at the O’Hare International Airport for his working visit to Chicago, United States of America on Wednesday afternoon (May 6). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, Jr. graces the symbolic BMW-APEC Turnover Ceremony at the Kalayaan Hall Grounds of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (May 06). The APEC 2015 National Organizing Committee (APEC-NOC) accepts a sponsored fleet of BMW vehicles from the Asian Carmakers Corporation. This year, the Philippines will host the APEC 2015 Summit. Also in photo are Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert Del Rosario and ACC President Maricar Parco. (Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
APEC 2015 National Organizing Committee (APEC-NOC), led by Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, Jr. receives a BMW key from ACC president Maricar Parco during the symbolic BMW-APEC Turnover Ceremony at the Kalayaan Hall Grounds of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (May 06). The APEC-NOC accepts the sponsored fleet of BMW vehicles from the Asian Carmakers Corporation. This year, the Philippines will host the APEC 2015 Summit. Also in photo are DFA Sec. Albert Del Rosario and BMW Senior Regional Manager for Asia Pacific Thierry Weidenbach.  (Photo by Robert Viñas/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, Jr. delivers his message during the symbolic BMW-APEC turnover ceremony at the Kalayaan Hall Grounds of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (May 06,). The APEC 2015 National Organizing Committee (APEC-NOC) accepts a sponsored fleet of BMW vehicles from the Asian Carmakers Corporation (ACC). This year, the Philippines will host the APEC 2015 Summit. Also in photo are Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, ACC president Marcar Parco,and BMW Senior Regional Manager for Asia Pacific Thierry Weidenbach. (Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III, accompanied by Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Gregorio Pio Catapang, Jr., review the honor guards during the send-off ceremony at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 2 in Pasay City Wednesday (May 06) for his working visit to the United States of America and State Visit to Canada. (Photo by Lando Mailo / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his departure statement during the send-off ceremony at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 2 in Pasay City on Wednesday (May 06) for his working visit to the United States of America and State Visit to Canada. (Photo by Lando Mailo / Lauro Montellano Jr, / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III is interviewed by the media thru the van window following the  inauguration of CEMEX Philippines at the APO Cement Plant in Barangay Tina-an, City of Naga, Cebu on Friday (May 01). The expansion project had for its theme: “Building a Better Future.” (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the inauguration of CEMEX Philippines at the Cement Mills-3 area of the APO Cement Plant in Barangay Tina-an, City of Naga, Cebu on Friday (May 01). The expansion project had for its theme: “Building a Better Future.” (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III unveils the new Mill Facility Marker during the inauguration of CEMEX Philippines at the Cement Mills-3 area of the APO Cement Plant in Barangay Tina-an, City of Naga, Cebu on Friday (May 01). The expansion project had for its theme: “Building a Better Future.” Also in photo are CEMEX Philippines president Pedro Jose Palomino, DTI Secretary Gregory Domingo, Cebu Gov. Hilario Davide III and Interior Secretary Manuel Roxas III. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III tours and inspects the new facilities of the University of Cebu Medical Center in Ouano Avenue, Barangay Subangdaku, Mandaue City, Cebu on Friday (May 01). The new hospital facility offers a lot of firsts not only in Cebu but also in VisMin and the Southeast Asia. It has the first 3D Mammography with Tomosynthesis, the first fully integrated 3D Endoalpha Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) Operating Room and the most Endoalphas than any other hospital in the country. (Photo by Gil Nartea/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III with TESDA Director General Joel Villanueva tours the participating booths during the JobStart Philippines Forum on the Filipino Youth in the Labor Market at the J. Centre Mall in A.S. Fortuna Street, Mandaue City, Cebu on Friday (May 01). The forum had for its theme: “Investing in Filipino Youth Employability and Competitiveness: A Public-Private Partnership.” (Photo by Benjie Basug/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the JobStart Philippines Forum on the Filipino Youth in the Labor Market at the J. Centre Mall in A.S. Fortuna Street, Mandaue City, Cebu on Friday (May 01). The forum  had for its theme: “Investing in Filipino Youth Employability and Competitiveness: A Public-Private Partnership.” The Labor department partnered with the Canadian International Development Agency, the Asian Development Bank and the local government for this new project dubbed as “JobStart Philippines”.  (Photo by Gil Nartea/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III with Tesda Secretary Joel Villanueva tours the participating booths during the JobStart Philippines Forum on the Filipino Youth in the Labor Market at the J. Centre Mall in Mandaue City, Cebu on Friday (May 01). The forum carried the theme: “Investing in Filipino Youth Employability and Competitiveness: A Public-Private Partnership,” and involved the Department of Labor and Employment with the Canadian International Development Agency, the Asian Development Bank and the local government units as partners in this new project dubbed as “JobStart Philippines.” Also in photo is TESDA Director General Joel Villanueva. (Photo by Benjie Basug/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the JobStart Philippines Forum on the Filipino Youth in the Labor Market at the J. Centre Mall in Mandaue City, Cebu on Friday (May 01). The forum carried the theme: “Investing in Filipino Youth Employability and Competitiveness: A Public-Private Partnership,” and involved the Department of Labor and Employment with the Canadian International Development Agency, the Asian Development Bank and the local government units as partners in this new project dubbed as “JobStart Philippines.” Also in photo is TESDA Director General Joel Villanueva. (Photo by Benjie Basug / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III, assisted by Agriculture secretary Proceso Alcala, tours the rice milling center during the inauguration of the province – the P63.4-million Negros First Rice Processing Center in Bago City in Bacolod City Thursday (April 30). With the president are Interior Secretary Mar Roxas, TESDA Director General Joel Villanueva, Communication Secretary Sonny Coloma and Trade Secretary Greg Domingo (Photo by Gil Nartea/Malacanang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III, assisted by Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala, tours the milling machine of Negros First Rice Processing during the inauguration of one of the mega projects of the province – the P63.4-million Negros First Rice Processing Center in Bago City in Bacolod City Thursday (April 30). (Photo by Gil Nartea/Malacanang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III tries the milling machine in the Negros First Rice Processing Center in Bago City, Negros Occidental Thursday (April 30). (Photo by Gil Nartea/Malacanang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III leads the unveiling of the marker of the Negros First Rice Processing Center during the inauguration held in Bago City , Negros Occidental. Assisting the President are Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II, TESDA Director General Joel Villanueva and Gon. Alfredo Maranon Jr. (Photo by Gil Nartea/Malacanang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III answer questions from the members of the Media after the tour and inspection of the facilities of the Negros First Cyber Center (NFCC) during the following the inauguration cyber center in Lacson corner Hernaes Sts., Bacolod City, Negros Occidental on Thursday (April 30). In line with its Negros First Provincial Development Agenda the provincial government of Negros Occidental has established the cyber center to generate jobs for its people, taking advantage of the potentials offered by the IT-BPO industry. (Photo by Rey Baniquet/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the Inauguration of the Negros First Cyber Center in Lacson corner Hernaes Sts., Bacolod City, Negros Occidental on Thursday (April 30). In line with its NEGROS FIRST Provincial Development Agenda the provincial government of Negros Occidental has established the cyber center to generate jobs for its people, taking advantage of the potentials offered by the IT-BPO industry. (Photo by Rey Baniquet/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the inauguration of the Negros First Cyber Center (NFCC) at the NFCC Building in Lacson corner Hernaes Sts., Bacolod City, Negros Occidental on Thursday (April 30). In line with its Negros First Provincial Development Agenda the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental has established the cyber center to generate jobs for its people, taking advantage of the potentials offered by the IT-BPO industry. Also in photo are TESDA Director General Joel Villanueva, Interior Secretary Manuel Roxas II, Negros Occidental Governor Alfredo Marañon, Jr.,Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo (Photo by Rey Baniquet/ Malacañang Photo Bureau
Please email us at pcoo.edp@gmail.com if you need a copy of last week's photo releases of PNOY


PNoy meets with US Chamber of Commerce, the US ASEAN Business Council & the National Center for APEC. http://t.co/SyNqPMhXKT | @noynoyaquino



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P1.2-B mobilized for Typhoon '‪#‎Ruby‬' rehab
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PIA | P1.2-B  mobilized for Typhoon 'Ruby' rehab 
MANILA,  May 7 --  The  Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has released P1.2 billion to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to aid various communities that were hit by Typhoon ‘Ruby’ last year.
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Asian Carmakers Corporation turns over initial fleet of BMW cars to government for ‪#‎APEC‬ - See more at: http://t.co/XoyziJtZkH



PIA | Asian Carmakers Corporation turns over initial fleet of BMW cars to government for APEC
Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, Jr. graces the symbolic BMW-APEC Turnover Ceremony at the Kalayaan Hall Grounds of the Malacañan Palace on...
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"This renewed support for the Bangsamoro Basic Law is inspiring." - Senate Pres. Franklin Drilon http://t.co/T2TsBqPf0x



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Business Meeting Organized by the US Chamber of Commerce and the US Business Council 5/6/2015: https://t.co/YZxlwiD1ZB | via @RTVMalacanang

‪#‎DA‬ intensifies ‪#‎drought‬ mitigation efforts
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PIA | DA intensifies drought mitigation efforts
QUEZON CITY, May 7 --  The Department of Agriculture has intensified its interventions to mitigate the effects of the El Niño phenomenon in the country, basing on the assessment of the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and...
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P-Noy receives signed NBA jerseys from Mr. James M. Peck, CEO and President of TransUnion LLC. http://t.co/S0pYZB236e | via @noynoyaquino



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Internet ‪#‎Voter‬ Registration system rolled-out for Filipinos in ‪#‎Europe‬ and Israel - See more at: http://t.co/MzeTIy2AHx



PIA | Internet Voter Registration system rolled-out for Filipinos in Europe and Israel  
MANILA, May 6  --  The Department of Foreign Affairs - Overseas Voting Secretariat (DFA-OVS) announced that effective  05 May 2015, the Commission...
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.@DepEd_PH to create over 39,000 teacher items in 2015. ‪#‎GoKto12‬ http://t.co/fn9VaXZ5XX



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Anu-ano ang mga Senior High School track na maaari mong pagpilian? ‪#‎GoKto12‬ http://t.co/qucC3f4GZF http://t.co/QRehu9AHf3 | via @DepEd_PH



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Got an ‪#‎SSS‬ Query? Then call the 24/5 SSS Call Center. http://t.co/H2ctmWRs39



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Hindi kumpleto ang kabataan mo kung hindi ka nakapitas ng ‪#‎Aratiles‬. ‪#‎SummerFruits‬ http://t.co/tOkg7QpNWh



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Deadline for ‪#‎Partylist‬ registration set on May 8
http://t.co/Glt5roWp4L ‪#‎COMELEC‬



PIA | Deadline for Partylist registration set on May 8
MANILA, May 6 -- Partylist organizations, coalitions and new political parties have until May 8, 2015 to file their registration and manifestation of intent to participate in next year’s elections, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) announced today.
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Assessment of the new white taxi scheme
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