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| Palace acknowledges latest Global Peace Index report |
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Malacañang
acknowledged on Saturday the latest report issued by the Institute for
Economics and Peace (IEP), ranking the Philippines 141st out of 162
countries in its Global Peace Index (GPI) this year.
The
Philippines dropped seven places from its 134th position last year as
the Sydney-based global organization described the current state of
peace in the country as “low” with a score of 2.462.
Communications
Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. noted that the IEP, in its report,
attributed the slide in the Philippines’ ranking to “the South China Sea
remaining as a potential area of conflict and the internal conflicts
between the government and rebel groups occurring late in the
measurement period.”
Coloma explained that the “government has
always advocated a peaceful and rules-based approach in resolving the
issues concerning the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).”
He
said this is precisely the reason the Philippines chose to bring the
matter before the United Nations International Tribunal on the Law of
the Sea from the outset.“In fact, the
international community expressed solidarity in this approach chosen by
the Philippines. We are awaiting the findings of the permanent court of
arbitration on this matter,” Coloma said.
In
its assessment of the South China Sea conflict, the IEP said further
military skirmishes among the nations involved remains a probability,
but it is unlikely to escalate in a large-scale armed forces engagement.
With
respect to the ongoing conflict in Mindanao, meanwhile, Coloma said
achieving long-term peace, stability, and progress in that area remains a
“top priority” of the government as well.
He
said this is why the 16th Congress under the administration of
President Benigno S. Aquino III continues to work towards the passage of
the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).
“Although debates about the BBL
went beyond the last session of Congress, we see this as an opportunity
to harmonize the differing viewpoints,” Coloma said.
"Government
will also continue to intensify efforts in pursuing heightened citizen
awareness that is essential in engaging their active participation in
the peace process,” he added.
The
Philippines considerably paled in comparison with its Asia Pacific
neighbors in terms of relative peace in 2015, as the IEP placed it way
below in its regional rankings at 18th, only a notch above perennial
cellar-dweller North Korea.
Indonesia
made the most improvement among Southeast Asian countries this year,
rising 12 places to 46th in the global rankings owing to its reduced
impact of terrorism and low levels of violent crime, the IEP said.
The
GPI report is released annually by the IEP as an attempt to measure the
relative position of a nation’s and/or region’s peacefulness using a
variety of indicators through consultations with a number of highly
respected sources worldwide. PND (hdc)
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| Government focuses on efficient budget spending to spur growth |
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President
Aquino has instructed his Cabinet to ensure that all agencies
effectively and consistently execute their respective budgets based on
the 2015 General Appropriations Act to boost economic growth, a palace
official said on Saturday.“The DBM
(Department of Budget and Management) continues to monitor the
disbursements of all agencies to ensure that the agencies meet their
targets,” Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary
Herminio Coloma Jr said in a radio interview over dzRB Radyo ng Bayan.
Coloma
also noted the latest forecast by Moody’s, lowering its estimated GDP
(gross domestic product) growth for the Philippines from 6.5 percent to 6
percent.
According to Moody’s, this adjustment is due to “weak global trade alongside low government spending.”
Despite
Moody’s adjustment in its outlook, Coloma said the government will
stick to its plan of boosting spending through the approved 2015
national budget.
Coloma said that the government doesn’t have
much control over the weakening of trade although the country’s trade
performance is good. So the focus is on efficiently disbursing the
budget this year.
“‘Yung ikalawa ay pinag-iigting ang mga
pagsisikap na ma-execute ang budget,” Coloma said about government
spending. “Kung ano ang inilaan na pananalapi ay magastos sa tamang
paraan at sa mga kapaki-pakinabang na mga proyekto para ang benepisyo ng
pag-unlad ay maramdaman ng ating mga mamamayan.”
The central bank reported a surplus because the government has not spent much of its budget, according to Coloma. PND (as) |
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| Palace allays public fears on MERS-CoV infection |
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The
palace made an assurance on Saturday that it has enough measures in
place to address the threat being posed by MERS coronavirus especially
after a case was reported in Thailand, a neighboring Asian country.
“Sa
bahagi naman po ng ating pamahalaan, ganap ang ating kahandaan na
labanan ang banta ng MERS coronavirus,” Presidential Communications
Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr said in a radio interview
over dzRB Radyo ng Bayan.
Coloma said the government started
with intensive an information campaign in the Middle East, where
MERS-CoV originated, briefing Filipino health workers there on infection
control protocols to avoid contracting MERS-CoV.
“Dito naman po sa atin ay mahigpit na ipinatutupad ang mga quarantine procedure,” he said.
“Dapat po pagdating sa airport ay nagdedeklara hinggil dito para mapadali ang tinatawag na contact tracing.”
Health
authorities are also conducting thermal checks at the airports to
detect passengers from abroad who might carry the disease, he said.
“Wala
pong dapat ipangamba ang ating mga mamamayan dahil puspusan po ang
pag-iingat at pagsisikap ng Department of Health na labanan at pigilin
ang pagdating ng MERS coronavirus sa ating bansa,” Coloma said.The
Palace official said that although there are reports of infections in
Thailand and South Korea, the government has not issued travel
advisories for those countries.
The government is using World
Health Organization assessments, and still does not see a need to issue
travel advisories for those countries, Coloma said.
Prior to
reports of infection in Thailand, MERS-CoV has killed several people in
South Korea, especially among the elderly. PND (as) |
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| DPWH, MMDA working to address flooding, traffic congestion, says Palace official |
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The
Department of Public Works and Highways and the Metropolitan Manila
Development Authority are working together to address flooding and
traffic congestion in Metro Manila, a Palace official said.
In a
radio interview on Saturday, Presidential Communications Operations
Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr said the government is working to
build the necessary facilities to address those problems in the
metropolis.
One initiative of the DPWH, according to Coloma, is
the construction of a catchment area in España in Manila because it is a
flood-prone area in Metro Manila.
“Ibig sabihin, kapag may
catchment area, mayroong sasalo doon sa bugso ng tubig-baha para hindi
bahain kaagad ang ating mga main thoroughfare,” Coloma told dzRB Radyo
ng Bayan.
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority on the
other hand, continues to do extensive clean up operations of esteros and
drainage canals to prevent flooding.
To address traffic
congestion, Coloma said one of the most important things was the
National Economic Development Authority’s approval of the comprehensive
roadmap for Metro Manila.
The roadmap was proposed by the Japan
International Cooperation Agency to ease traffic congestion in the
National Capital Region (NCR).
Japan is helping the Philippines implement the comprehensive roadmap for Metro Manila and nearby areas. PND (as) |
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| President Aquino leads special Cabinet meeting to review first semester performance |
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President
Benigno S. Aquino III led a special Cabinet meeting in Malacañang on
Thursday to review the Cabinet’s performance for the first semester of
the year, aiming to accelerate the implementation of all priority
development and reform programs.
“Inatasan niya and mga kalihim
na pag-ibayuhin at pagbutihin ang paghahatid ng serbisyo publiko,”
Communication Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said.
According to
the Cabinet Secretary's Office, since Thursday's meeting was a special,
and not a regular, Cabinet meeting, not all Cabinet members were
required to attend.
Among those who presented their reports were
Education Secretary Armin Luistro, Public Works and Highways Secretary
Rogelio Singson, Health Secretary Janette Garin, Social Welfare
Secretary Corazon Soliman, Transportation Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya,
Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala, Environment and Natural Resources
Secretary Ramon Paje, Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel
Roxas II, Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural
Modernization Francis Pangilinan, and National Housing Authority General
Manager Chito Cruz, who was asked to present an update on the housing
reconstruction efforts in Eastern Visayas, which was devastated by
Typhoon Yolanda in November 2013, as well as other housing projects.
President
Aquino approved in October last year the P167.9-billion Comprehensive
Rehabilitation and Recovery Plan (CRRP), solidifying the government’s
commitment to rebuild areas in Eastern Visayas devastated by the super
typhoon.
The amount will be used to restore infrastructure,
settlements and basic community facilities, livelihood and the
resilience of vulnerable communities. PND (as) |
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| Malacañang welcomes increase in President Aquino's satisfaction rating |
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The
Palace on Friday welcomed the recent Social Weather Stations (SWS)
survey result showing a 10 percent increase in the satisfaction rating
of President Benigno S. Aquino III.
"President Aquino is
gratified that our Bosses, the Filipino people, recognize the efforts of
his administration to improve the delivery of public services and
continue implementing vital reforms, so that the fruits of good
governance may be sustained and made permanent," Communication Secretary
Herminio Coloma, Jr. said in a statement.
"We will intensify
efforts to accelerate the development of public infrastructure, broaden
social protection, and strengthen public institutions so that the
ultimate objective of achieving long-term inclusive growth may be
attained."
In a separate statement, Deputy Presidential
Spokesperson Abigail Valte noted that President Aquino’s approval
ratings remain historically high, compared to the same period of
previous administrations.
The recent SWS survey shows the public's confidence in the President's pro-poor and anti-corruption agenda, Valte said.
"Indeed,
inclusive growth remains at the front and center of the Aquino
administration. This commitment has translated into concrete benefits
for our citizens, including improvements in education and employment,"
she said.
Valte added with more than a year to go, the President
will continue to build on the country's recent successes and propel the
nation toward even greater heights.
In the SWS survey, conducted
from June 5 to 8 among 1,200 respondents nationwide, the President's
satisfaction rating jumped 10 percentage points to 57 percent this month
from 47 percent in March.
The survey also showed that the number
of dissatisfied Filipinos dropped to 27 percent from 36 percent in
March, while the number of those undecided went down to 15 percent from
17 percent in March, resulting in a net satisfaction rating of “good”
+30.
The result is a significant improvement from the “moderate” +11 rating the President received last March. PND (as) |
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| President Aquino appoints lawyer Florin Hilbay as Solicitor General |
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President
Benigno S. Aquino III appointed on June 16 lawyer Florin Hilbay as
Solicitor General of the Office of the Solicitor General under the
Department of Justice.
Hilbay has been serving as acting
Solicitor General, since he replaced Francis Jardeleza, who was
designated Associate Justice of the Supreme Court last year.
A
professor at the University of the Philippines (UP), Hilbay was senior
state solicitor when he defended the Reproductive Health Law before the
Supreme Court in 2013.
Among the cases he had handled are those
on the Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP), the Priority Development
Assistance Fund (PDAF), the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, and
the Bangsamoro.
Hilbay has also served as director of the
Institute of Government and Law Reform of the UP Law Center, and as vice
chairman of Bantay Katarungan.
He received his degree in
Economics from the University of Santo Tomas in 1995 and his law degree
from UP in 1999. He topped the 1999 Bar Exams.
Hilbay obtained his Master of Laws degree from the Yale Law School in 2005. PND (as) |
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| Statement of GPH Peace Panel Chair Miriam Coronel-Ferrer on the filing of an SC petition to nullify the CAB |
| Source: http://www.opapp.gov.ph |
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We have been made aware of the filing of a case to nullify the CAB, but we reserve comment on its merits until we get a copy.
Nevertheless,
we reiterate our conviction that bringing to life social justice and
meaningful autonomy as mandated in the 1987 Philippine Constitution is
at the heart of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.
We
are saddened that some groups and individuals continue to mount road
blocks to our forward march to peace and development in Mindanao, a
right that belongs to all Filipinos.
The MILF had shown
its trust in our political system by implementing the ceremonial
decommissioning of a number of its heavy weaponry and combatants in
ceremonies last Tuesday. They are staying on the peace track despite the
delay in the legislation of the Bangsamoro Basic Law.
We
will not lose this historic momentum to silence the guns in the
Bangsamoro through democratic reform that would strengthen our
commitment to a shared destiny as one peaceful and progressive country. |
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| On China's statement regarding construction in the reclaimed features |
| Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph |
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The
Philippines reiterates its serious concern on China's massive
reclamation activities and planned construction of facilities in those
features.
China's reclamation and construction
activities grossly violate the 2002 ASEAN-China Declaration on the
Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) and may serve to
escalate the disputes and undermine efforts to promote peace, security,
and stability. These activities cause irreparable damage to the marine
environment and marine biodiversity of the region.
The
Philippines calls on China anew to heed calls from the region and the
international community to exercise self-restraint in the conduct of
activities pursuant to Paragraph 5 of the DOC. |
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| KALAYAAN Episode 2, "Pamanang Karagatan," airs on June 22, tackles historical angle of WPS issue |
| Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph |
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20
June 2015 – After the successful launch of the first episode of the
documentary, “KALAYAAN,” which tackles the economic angle, the
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Presidential Communications
Operations Office (PCOO) will be launching the next installment in the
series, Episode 02: Pamanang Karagatan. The second episode will tackle
the historical angle of the West Philippine Sea and South China Sea
issue. Among the featured speakers in the episode is Associate Justice
Antonio T. Carpio of the Supreme Court.
Episode 02 will
be launched online on June 22, at 4:00 p.m. in the official Facebook
accounts of the President (www.facebook.com/presidentnoy) and the DFA
(www.facebook.com/dfaphl), as well as in the Facebook pages of Lourd de
Veyra , Rodolfo Sabayton, Jr. and RA Rivera, Jr.
Following the social media launch, Episode 02 will be aired on People’s Television Network (PTV-4) at 5:30 p.m.
Replays of Episode 02 will be aired on PTV-4 every 5:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. on June 23-26.
“KALAYAAN”
is a three-part documentary series on the WPS produced by the DFA, in
partnership with PCOO. Each episode focuses on a different angle of the
issue: economic, historical and legal. The documentary is part of the
nationwide Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaign of
the DFA to increase the level of public awareness and understanding of
the issues relating to the West Philippine Sea. The documentary is
directed by RA Rivera, Jr. and hosted by Lourd de Veyra, together with
Jun Sabayton.
The third episode is slated to be released in early July. |
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| Capiz Leaders: Successful Gov |
| Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph |
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Two
influential leaders from the province of Capiz believe that the
Philippines has undergone radical transformation under Daang Matuwid as
seen and felt in government projects implemented in the local government
units (LGUs).
Capiz Gov. Victor Tanco and Mrs.
Libertad Bautista Apruebo, Chairman of Capiz Multi-Purpose Cooperative
(CMPC), expressed their sentiments during the distribution of 2nd phase
Recovery Assistance on Yolanda (RAY II) Fund in Roxas City, Capiz last
Saturday, June 13.
"I can vouch for it, I can guarantee
na ‘yung tuwid na daan ay tuloy-tuloy na," Gov. Tanco said, assuring
his fellow Capisnons of transformation brought by transparency,
accountability, and integrity in the government.
Mrs.
Apruebo cited significant improvements in Capiz due to the continuous
support their LGU has received from the national government after the
devastation of Super Typhoon Yolanda in 2013.
"Bumabaha
talaga ng proyekto. Si Sec. Mar Roxas, lahat naman ay ginagawa niya
para sa mga kababayan natin," Mrs. Apruebo said in an interview. She
also lauded the Roxas's honesty and integrity, which she says are shown
and felt in government projects like RAY.
Through RAY,
government-owned facilities damaged by Yolanda have been rehabilitated,
allowing LGUs to provide services and return their operations back to
normal.
RAY II focused on the repair of barangay
facilities such as multi-purpose halls, public markets, barangay halls,
day care centers, and evacuation centers.
"Kung wala
itong mga barangay facilities na ito, nahihirapan na maihatid yung mga
serbisyo mula sa pamahalaang nasyunal. Kaya isang malaking bahagi ito,
‘yung Rehabilitation for Yolanda affected areas Part 2, na ang tinutukan
naman ay ‘yung mga barangay facilities," Roxas said.
After
the Independence Day celebration in Iloilo, Roxas handed checks worth
P120.3M to the municipal mayors and barangay captains of Capiz. This
will aid and facilitate the reconstruction of 638 infrastructures in the
whole province.
In the aftermath of Yolanda, President
Aquino tasked Roxas to lead all post-Yolanda efforts in the country.
Roxas, in turn, responded with the "whole of government approach."
Using
this approach, all government agencies worked together in a deliberate,
systemic, and sustained flow to deliver goods and services to the
victims of the typhoon.
The national government has allotted P1.5B in 2015 for the repair of damaged local government facilities.
Panay Island alone will receive P238.6M this year, and the budget was divided based on the needs of the 54 LGUs in the island.
"Hindi
pa ito perfect pero malayo na ang narrating natin. Marami na ang nagawa
natin at kung magpatuloy tayo dito sa Daang Matuwid ay mas malayo pa at
mas madami pa ang magagawa natin," Roxas said. |
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| Roxas to join Laguna folk in frontline public services fair on Rizal's Birth Anniversary |
| Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph |
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As
the province of Laguna celebrates the 154th birth anniversary of one of
its great sons, Jose Rizal, Secretary of the Interior and Local
Government Mar Roxas will visit the province today (June 19) to join
civil society organizations (CSOs) and national government agencies in a
fair showcasing frontline public services.
With the
theme "Ipadama ang Reporma," the Koalisyon ng mga Mamamayan Para sa
Reporma (KOMPRe) organized the fair to assist people in availing
different services from the government.
Agencies such
as the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA),
Social Security System (SSS), Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office
(PCSO), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), Department
of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Education (DepEd),
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of
Justice (DOJ), Department of Health (DOH), and DILG will set up booths
provide assistance and information about such services.
During
the event, Roxas is expected to discuss reforms being undertaken under
President Aquino’s Daang Matuwid, such as the Bottom-up Budgeting (BuB)
program.
Under the BuB, the citizens themselves identify priority poverty reduction projects to be funded by the national government.
"Kayo
mismo, bawat komunidad ang pumipili kung anong prayoridad ninyo at kung
saan gagastusin ang pera na ito. Hindi po si politiko, hindi po kahit
sino. Walang iba kung hindi kayo, ang ating mga Boss,” Roxas previously
explained.
The event will be held at the Southville
Elementary School in Cabuyao, Laguna, where Roxas will also hold a
dialogue with representatives of different CSOs under KOMPRe. |
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| DTI volunteers to join Brigada Eskwela |
| Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph |
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In
the spirit of volunteerism, some staff of the Department of Trade and
Industry (DTI) in Batanes and Isabela participated in the Brigada
Eskwela activities in three schools in the region.
Schools
visited were Ilagan East Central School and Ilagan South Central School
in Isabela on 22 May 2015 and at Basco National Science High School
(BNSHS) in Batanes on 18 May 2015.
In Isabela, DTI
staff Ms. Corazon Mamuri and Ms. Sofia Almonte joined other local and
national government employees, parents, teachers, pupils and other civic
groups in the school clean-up activities held at Ilagan East Central
School and Ilagan South Central School on May 28, 2015.
In
Batanes, Brigada Eskwela was started with a short parade around the
municipality of Basco followed by a program held at the BNSHS Covered
Court.
Batanes Mayor Demetrius Paul C. Narag served as
the guest speaker during the program and underscored in his speech the
importance and impact of unity in doing things. He lauds all
participating agencies and volunteers for their contributing efforts in
the Brigada Eskwela.
In addition, he also discussed the
newly approved Ordinance No. 2015-147 or “Transient Registration
Ordinance of Basco” requiring transients in Basco to be registered at
the Municipal Government to protect children from any possible harmful
influences like illegal drugs and serious crimes.
Parents,
teachers, and volunteers collaboratively worked together to clean the
school surroundings and made some minor repairs in classrooms to make it
more conducive for learning.
The Brigada Eskwela is a nationwide activity initiated by the Department of Education which started in 2003. |
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| Batanes Sangguniang Panlalawigan mulls incentives for Ivatan producers |
| Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph |
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The
Sangguniang Panlalawigan ng Batanes enacted Resolution No.39 or the
Resolution for the Creation of a Technical Working Group (TWG) tasked to
draft tasked to draft incentives and assistance code for the Indigenous
Ivatan Producers on 13 April 2015. The Department of Trade and Industry
(DTI) is a member of the TWG.
DTI Batanes Provincial
Caretaker Marietta Salviejo said that the resolution authored by Board
Member Efren C. Lizardo was enacted to resolve the Province’s inability
to cater to the needs of tourists with regards to unavailability of
souvenir products, one of the issues raised during the Tourism Value
Chain Seminar Workshop, conducted by DTI in 2013.
The
creation of TWG will accelerate the tourism and the economic growth of
the province. It will be achieved through the formulation of a research
study that will focus on the preservation, promotion, support, and
development of Ivatan products.
Members of the TWG
include the Chairman of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan for Committee on
Trade and Industry, Chairman of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan for
Committee on Education, Provincial Government of Batanes Tourism
Officer, Batanes representatives of Department of Education (DepEd),
National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) and Technical Education
and Skills Development (TESDA).
The Resolution No.39
also includes the allocation of P100,000 to provide for the incentives
and assistance to Ivatan producers funded by the provincial government
of Batanes. |
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| Statement to the 68th World Health Assembly |
| Source: http://www.doh.gov.ph |
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Mr.
President, fellow Ministers, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen. Health
systems all over the world face various internal and external shocks.
Resilience holds the promise of health systems not only emerging from
these shocks unscathed, but also stronger and more capable of responding
to future challenges.
Recently, the Philippines had to
contend with natural shocks brought about by our geography and natural
features. In 2013, Super Typhoon Haiyan, one of the strongest tropical
cyclones in recorded history, pushed to the brink our health system,
already reeling from internal conflict and a strong earthquake earlier
that year.
With the help of the international
community, the Philippines has moved forward not only in disaster
response, but more crucially, building back better for a more resilient
health system. It is my privilege to share with this Assembly the steps
we have undertaken towards this end.
The 2013-2015
Philippine National Progress Report on the Implementation of the Hyogo
Framework for Action shows that, among many others, the appropriate
health policies, technical, and institutional capacities and mechanisms
for disaster risk management, with a perspective towards disaster risk
reduction, are in place.
Our emergency response is comprehensive covering a broad range of programs, including mental health and psychosocial support.
The
Philippine’s significant improvement in responding to Typhoon Hagupit
in 2014 revealed our ability to learn from, and build on, the
experiences and lessons of Typhoon Haiyan. Truly, actual experience is
the best mentor.
The Philippines, as a country
particularly vulnerable to natural and man-made hazards, welcomes the
prioritization of health system resilience in the Sendai Framework for
Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030.
The Philippine
experience during Typhoon Haiyan highlighted the capacity of global
climate change to wipe out health sector gains and inflict catastrophic
losses of life, limb, and properties. Is impact on economies is beyond
words. Noting that the Philippines is the current Chair of the Climate
Vulnerable Forum, I therefore call on this Assembly to collectively
support measures within and even outside the health sector that will
address the effects of global climate change.
Yet
shocks go beyond natural hazards, disasters, and health emergencies.
Political upheavals, armed conflict, and economic downturns are shocks
that can devastate an ill-prepared health system.
Ultimately,
strengthening the six building blocks of the health system is the
long-term viable approach to ensure health system resilience. Like the
proverbial phoenix rising from the ashes, a health system with strong
fundamentals will be able to withstand any shock that comes its way.
Underpinning
the High Five Strategy of the Philippines for breakthrough gains in
maternal care, infant care, under-five care, control of HIV-AIDS, and
establishing service delivery networks are improvements in health
financing, health facilities, and health services. It should be all of
these and not one or a few of these.
Our health
facilities enhancement program has a needs-based approach, ensuring that
primary care benefits, TB control and maternal care are being provided
in every village. More health workers are being deployed. The
development of a cadre of capable, competent and compassionate health
workforce is an initiative we are seriously pursuing. Lastly, health
leadership and governance has become more inclusive and consultative.
If
we fear, we rattle, we disintegrate – paving way for barriers towards
achieving resilience. If we unite, we remain focused on sharing
information, thinking of how we can help each other, thinking of how
collective resilience can be achieved and sustained.
Resilience
is not just about health ministries. It transcends across ministries,
penetrating not just government but also the private sector. Resilience
is anchored on ownership and accountability, where every Government
thinks of how it can be more prepared each day; and the private sector
thinking of how it can contribute to resilience and ownership of a
resilient system transcending across individual families. Where each one
helps each other, each one inspires and motivates each other, each one
being a symbol of strength and like a thick bunch of sticks, we cannot
be easily broken because that spirit of ownership allows linkages,
connectivity, and a responsibility to make Universal Health Care
possible and sustainable. And sustainability is anchored on a health
service delivery network, coated with resilience.
While
disasters are inevitable, our collective presence here today symbolizes
extreme strength. We do not only talk about individual countries
addressing individual disasters. We talk about how you and me and all of
us play a vital role, how we have evolved into one big family,
resilient and shock-proof.
Thank you. |
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| Official Entries to MMFF 2015 to be Announced Tomorrow |
| Source: http://www.mmda.gov.ph |
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Metropolitan
Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Francis Tolentino,
concurrent head of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Executive
Committee, will announce the eight official entries to this year’s
mainstream festival tomorrow (June 20), at the Seda Hotel in Bonifacio
Global City, Taguig.
According to Tolentino, a total of
21 entries, with a wide mix of genres, ranging from action, comedy,
drama, romantic comedy, fantasy adventure, horror, and historical, were
submitted to the MMFF for screening by the Selection Committee.
These
include “I Will Take You Forever”, “Hermano Puli”, “Agila at ang
Lawin”, “Special Action Force”, “Mabalasik”, “Kabisera”, “Conman”,
“Beauty and the Bestie”, “MR and MRS Split”, “Zombie Sis”, “Lakambini”,
“My Teacher, My Hero the Musical”, “Romcom-in Mo Ako”, “Haunted
Mansion”, “No Boyfriend Since Birth”, “Death and Senses”, “Walang
Forever”, “Nilalang”, “Katakot-Takot-Takot”, “Kuwatog, Jr.”, and
“Tatlong Gabi, Tatlong Araw”.
Entries are bannered by
both young and veteran movie stars which include Nora Aunor, Kris
Aquino, Ai-Ai Delas Alas, Jennylyn Mercado, Carla Abellana, Lovi Poe,
Iza Calzado, Isabel Oli, Merryll Soriano, Bea Binene, Kaylle,, Toni
Gonzaga, and Nikki Gil, among others.
Topping the list
for male lead stars is John Lloyd Cruz, with Vic Sotto, Jericho Rosales,
Tom Rodriguez, Coco, Martin, Vice Ganda, JM De Guzman, Aljur Abrenica,
Rocco Nacino, Ricky Davao, Jeorge Estregan, John Prats, Kristoffer
Martin, Herbert Bautista, and Rayver Cruz.
Producers were required to provide complete scripts along with the filmography of their movies.
Among
these submitted scripts, eight will be chosen as official entries by a
Selection Committee which will be transformed into full length movies by
the respective producers.
“There is so much potential
in the scripts submitted. I am grateful to the film producers who wanted
to participate in this year’s MMFF,” Tolentino said.
The
MMFF is an annual event held every Christmas organized primarily to
promote and enhance the preservation of the Philippine Cinema. Proceeds
from this go to a number of beneficiaries in the film industry. |
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| Philippine Statistics Authority and
the Partnership in Statistics for Development in the 21st Century
Launch the Formulation of the Country Report on Support to Statistics
(CRESS) - Philippines |
| Source: http://www.nscb.gov.ph |
|
The
Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) in collaboration with the
Partnership in Statistics for Development in the 21st Century (PARIS21)
launched the formulation of the Country Report on Support to Statistics
(CRESS) on 8 June 2015 at the AIM Conference Center in Makati City. The
launching forum was attended by 98 participants from 48 government
agencies, development partner organizations, local government units,
academe, and the private sector.
The CRESS is a PARIS21
initiative which is aimed at encouraging national statistical offices
(NSOs) and national statistical systems (NSSs) to document all data
relating to the funding of the entire NSS whether derived from national
resources or from external support. Along with the Partner report on
Support to Statistics (PRESS), another initiative of PARIS21, which
accounts for the financing provided by development partners to the
NSOs/NSSs, CRESS aims to improve financing of the NSS and increase
investments in statistics by facilitating donor coordination on funding
statistics.
PSA National Statistician, Dr. Lisa Grace
S. Bersales, welcomed the launching forum participants and highlighted
the CRESS’ crucial role in statistical development in the country. In
particular, she noted that the CRESS formulation is very timely as the
PSS like other NSSs need greater support from the government and the
development partners to undertake activities to generate global
indicators for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The
CRESS-Philippines shall provide an empirical evidence for financing
statistical activities in the Philippines not only to monitor the SDGs
but also to support the information needs of the decisionmakers and
program implementers. The implementation of CRESS will likewise help
improve the PSS statistical budget review process.
The
message of the Socioeconomic Planning Secretary and PSA Board
Chairperson, Dr. Arsenio M. Balisacan, was delivered by Director Nerissa
T. Esguerra of the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA). In
his message, Secretary Balisacan highlighted the invaluable
participation of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), the
legislature, the budget officers, human resource managers, and
international and local development partners in national statistical
development and in guaranteeing uninterrupted services to the users of
statistics. He likewise expressed his interest in joining the PSA in its
efforts to mainstream financing for statistics generation and
dissemination by setting the appropriate legal bases and necessary
collaborations.
The concept of CRESS, its rationale and
objectives was introduced by PARIS21 Regional Coordinator, Ms.
Millicent Gay B. Tejada. The CRESS project in the Philippines aims to
improve efficiency of the PSS through better coordination and better
information sharing on investments in statistics.
As
the PARIS21 Consultant for CRESS-Philippines, Dr. Romulo A. Virola,
explained to the attendees the CRESS methodology, expected project
outputs and the questionnaires forms for the government agencies/units
and development partners. An open forum was held thereafter to solicit
comments and feedback from the forum participants. PSA Interim Assistant
National Statistician Regina S. Reyes delivered a summary of the open
forum proceedings and concluded the event with her closing remarks by
particularly underscoring the significance of CRESS initiative in the
updating of the Philippine Statistical Development Program (PSDP)
2011-2017 that is currently being prepared by PSA.
The
PSA will be distributing the questionnaire forms to various government
agencies with designated statistical activities and statistical units,
member agencies of the PSA Board, public and private research and
training institutions, local government units, academe, media and
development partners from June 8 to 15, 2015. E-copy of the
questionnaires for the government agencies and development partners can
be downloaded at: http://nap.psa.gov.ph/
pressreleases/2015/CRESS-Philippines Blank Questionnaires_FINAL.xls. The
questionnaire for the private sector organizations involved in
statistics-related activities will be distributed soon to prospective
respondents.
The PSA requests respondents to forward
their CRESS questionnaire submissions to PSA thru email at
F.Talento@psa.gov.ph and P.Rivera@psa.gov.ph on or before 29 June 2015. A
forum with CRESS respondents to discuss the issues/concerns in
accomplishing the questionnaires will also be conducted by the PSA on 22
June 2015 (for respondents from the government) and 23 June 2015 (for
development partners) at 1:30 PM, PSA-Makati Operations Room, 5th Floor,
Midland Buendia Bldg., 403 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City. After
collecting the submissions of the respondents, the PSA and the PARIS21
Consultant will be undertaking validation and consultation meetings with
agencies/institutions to provide further information needed in the
preparation of the CRESS-Philippines.
Further inquiries
on the CRESS-Philippines may be coursed through the PSA Staff at
telephone numbered 895-2436 and 462-6600 local 822/824, telefax numbered
896-1730 and 462-6600 local 827, or email addresses
F.Talento@psa.gov.ph and P.Rivera@psa.gov.ph. |
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| PhilHealth joins Philippine Heart Center's Heartlings |
| Source: http://www.philhealth.gov.ph |
|
THE
Philippine Health Insurance Corporation recently joined Heartlings, the
first boot camp for children with heart disease organized by the
Philippine Heart Center (PHC).
More than 60 children,
aged six (6) months to 12 years old and have undergone open heart
surgery or interventional procedures and their families from different
parts of the country attended the one-day activity.
According
to Dr. Jhuliet Balderas, pediatric cardiologist and one of the founders
of Heartlings, they organized the event not just to celebrate the
milestones in the children’s life but to show them that they can still
live a normal life after the surgery. They also want the event to serve
as a foundation for fellowship and support group to the families. “We
would like to enlighten the parents and their children that after the
operation they can live a normal life, and can do what a normal child
does. They can go to school, be active in sports and be part of the
community. It is like telling them not to be afraid to dream,” said
Balderas. “For us doctors, it is like a completion of duty. We can feel
the significance of what we are doing,” she added.
Children
enjoyed the yoga, games, art and music activities while the parents
attended the lecture program. On the other hand, PhilHealth staff
members answered queries and distributed information materials to the
parent participants.
"Lumuwas kami galing Nabua,
Camarines Sur para dumalo dahil malaking tulong ito sa amin at kay
Rodenvert. Pasasalamat din ito sa mga doktor at nars sa Heart Center at
sa PhilHealth na sumuporta sa amin noong naoperahan ang anak ko," said
Catherine Lacson, whose husband is a PhilHealth member under the
Indigent Program. “Malaki ang pasasalamat namin sa Z Package ng
PhilHealth dahil wala talaga kaming binayaran, as in zero talaga,” she
tearfully exclaimed. Her son, Rodenvert was diagnosed of Ventricular
Septal Defect (VSD) and was operated on in January 2015 at the PHC. He
qualified for the PhilHealth Z Package for VSD and was entitled to the
No Balance Billing Policy.
The PhilHealth Z Packages
cover the following heart surgeries for children: VSD worth P250,000.00
and Tetralogy of Fallot worth P320,000.00 and can be availed of at the
PHC and Southern Philippines Medical Center.
All
eligible members and their dependents are qualified to avail themselves
of these packages provided that they pass the selections criteria set by
PhilHealth.
Eligible Sponsored and Indigent members,
Kasambahay and IGroup Gold members and their dependents may also avail
themselves of the No Balance Billing policy when availing of the
Z-Benefits for VSD and TOF in PhilHealth’s contracted hospitals. On the
other hand, a fixed co-pay which shall not exceed the package rate shall
be applied to formal, informal, overseas Filipino workers and lifetime
members, should they need to avail themselves of the package. |
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| Ramadhan Message of GPH Peace Panel Chair Miriam Coronel-Ferrer |
| Source: http://www.opapp.gov.ph |
|
Message
of the Government of the Philippines Negotiating Panel in talks with
the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Chief Peace Negotiator
Professor Miriam Coronel-Ferrer on the Observance of Ramadhan
June 2015
I
extend my most heartfelt salaam to the Bangsamoro, the Muslim
Filipinos, and the rest of Muslims around the world, as you begin your
observance of the Holy Month of Ramadhan.
The
individual sacrifices you set out to do, such as the holy fasting and
abstinence during the next month, are not only to show reverence and
devotion to the Almighty. They are also opportunities for enlightenment –
to cleanse one’s self of earthly impurities, to consider the suffering
of others, and to struggle to live a life worthy of God’s mercy and
grace.
It is perhaps divine intervention that the
ceremonial decommissioning took place so close to the Holy Month of
Ramadhan. On 16 June 2015, Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF)
combatants and weapons held their first phase of ceremonial
decommissioning in accordance with the Comprehensive Agreement on the
Bangsamoro (CAB).
Ramadhan showcases the willingness of
Muslims around the world to be humbled by sacrifices. I pray that other
Filipinos give value to sacrifice and selflessness as represented by
Ramadhan. May we, as a people, finally abstain from fear and prejudice
so that we may truly understand one another. May we, as a nation, regain
our trust on each other and celebrate our diversity.
Ramadan al Mubarak to the Muslim Ummah. |
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| Antique execs thank Nat'l Gov't for P26-M Yolanda Rehab Funds |
| Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph |
|
Local
chief executives (LCEs) of Antique province expressed their deepest
gratitude to the national government through Secretary of the Interior
and Local Government Mar Roxas, who personally facilitated the release
of P26 million worth of checks for projects to be funded under the
second batch of the Recovery Assistance on Yolanda (RAY II) of the
Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).
In
her welcome remarks, Antique Governor Rhodora Cadiao recalled that Roxas
was the highest government official who went to Antique immediately
after super typhoon Yolanda struck the province in November 2013.
"Salamat
sa mga tulong na ibinigay ninyo sa mga Yolanda-affected areas," Cadiao
told Roxas during his visit to the province last Saturday (June 13).
Culasi
Mayor Joel Lomugdang believes that RAY funds are a big help in the
speedy rehabilitation of Yolanda-damaged facilities, including the
Culasi municipal building, which was quickly repaired using the first
batch of RAY funds.
"Malaki ang advantage. Lahat ng
kailangan ng bayan na naapektuhan ng bagyong Yolanda, kapag mabigyan ka,
mare-repair agad. Otherwise, aabutin ng dalawa, tatlong taon siguro,"
the mayor said.
As such, Lomugdang thanked Roxas, whom
he called “Action Man ng Tuwid na Daan” for his immediate response after
the onslaught of Yolanda.
“After one week, naaksiyunan,” Lomugdang said.
Patnungon
Mayor Johnny Flores Bacongallo and San Remigio Mayor Glenn Cabigunda
also said that the first batch of RAY funds helped in the repair of
farm-to-market roads in their respective municipalities, which were
damaged during the super typhoon.
Bacongallo said, “Malaking tulong ‘yan [RAY fund] sa amin.”
Cabigunda added that aside from farm-to-market roads, other infrastructures were also heavily damaged in their town.
“Nag-collapse
ang civic center namin pero naka-avail kami ng RAY I, P3 million, so
naipatayo na namin. Na-inaugurate na," said Cabigunda.
He
also said that most of their activities are already being held in the
civic center and that the people of San Remigio felt happy when it was
immediately repaired.
“Malaking bagay talaga,” the mayor added.
RAY I funds were used to repair and rehabilitate municipal facilities damaged by super typhoon Yolanda in November 2013.
Under
RAY I, the province of Antique received a total of about P25 million.
Of the amount, P7.8 million went to the municipality of Barbaza; P2.7
million to Bugasong; P835,000 to Culasi; P1.85 million to Laua-an;
P600,000 to Libertad; about P300,000 to Pandan; P3 million to San
Remigio; P6.5 million to Sebaste; more than P1.1 million to Tibiao; and
P140,000 to Valderrama.
All ten Yolanda-affected
municipalities have completed 18 projects under RAY I, including seven
municipal halls, six public markets and five civic centers.
Meanwhile, RAY-II funds are intended for the repair and rehabilitation of barangay facilities.
The
following LGUs in Antique received RAY 2 funds last Saturday: Barbaza,
more than P11M; Bugasong, more than P3M; Laua-an, more than P1M;
Libertad, more than P300,000; Pandan, almost P540,000; San Remigio, more
than P1.7M; Sebaste, almost P2.5M;. Tibiao, almost P4M; Valderrama,
more than P1M; and Culasi, more than P800,000.
Roxas said that RAY is proof that the national government remains by the side of local government units (LGUs).
“Mararamdaman sa kongkretong paraan ang kalinga, ang suporta ng nasyunal na pamahalaan [sa mga LGUs],” he said.
He
also stressed the importance of the national and local governments
working together under the "whole of government" approach of President
Aquino.
“Magtulungan tayo para sa magandang bukas," Roxas urged the people. |
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| Roxas to meet with Negros Island Region Technical Working Group |
| Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph |
|
Secretary
of the Interior and Local Government Mar Roxas and the Technical
Working Group (TWG) of the Negros Island Region (NIR) will meet to
finalize institutional arrangements for the newly created region on
Friday, June 19, in Quezon City.
In the meeting, Roxas
will preside over the drafting of the Implementing Rules and Regulations
(IRR) of Executive Order 183, creating a separate region for Negros
Occidental and Negros Oriental.
President Aquino has
previously signed the E.O. 183 on May 29 to pursue a faster and more
efficient delivery of basic government services to Negrenses, as well as
to strengthen social and cultural unity between the two provinces.
As
DILG Secretary, Roxas will ensure the development of the region by
plotting the Roadmap of the NIR, starting from its Institutional
Transition this 2015-2016, which includes identifying the locations of
regional offices and regional councils, as well as creating a funding
strategy.
Roxas is confident that the NIR will spur the
economic development of the island as long as all sectors of the
community are united and focused on improving the quality of life and
livelihood of the residents.
Negrenses strongly believe
that development projects like farm-to-market roads, bridges, and other
infrastructures will become a priority in the new region, and they will
reap more benefits from such initiatives.
The first
meeting of the National TWG of the One Negros Island will be attended by
Representatives from the Office of the President, Department of Budget
and Management (DBM), National Economic Development Authority (NEDA),
Office of the Civil Defense (OCD), and representatives from the local
government units of Negros Oriental and Negros Occidental. |
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| AKG nets Nigerians kidnapping syndicate |
| Source: http://pnp.gov.ph |
|
Through
the intensive operations against kidnapping syndicate, operatives of
PNP Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG) and Bulacan Provincial Police Office
successfully seized members of Nigerians Kidnapping Syndicate that
victimizes fellow Nigerian citizens yesterday (June 16) in Plaridel,
Bulacan.
Arrested Nigerian suspects were identified as IFEANYI AUGUSTINE CHINWUEBA, MARTIN OKOFOR and AUSTIN CHUKWUEBA AGU.
The
suspects were responsible in the kidnapping of two (2) Nigerian
citizens identified as Osuoha Ikenna Amaefule and Onyedeke Ferdinand
Munachiso last June 9, 2015. Both victims arrived in the country on the
same day they were kidnapped to seek college education in San Fernando,
La Union.
Reports from the AKG revealed that on June
11, 2015, the Embassy of the Philippines in United Kingdom received a
complaint from Mr. Aloysiius Esonau Osuji, a British National who works
as Lawyer/Solicitor based in London that his nephews were kidnapped upon
their arrival in the country via Turkish Airlines. Immediately, AKG
tracker teams were alerted and dispatched to locate the possible
whereabouts of the victims.
The kidnappers demanded 6
Million Nigerian dollar (Php 1,358,000) in exchange for the safe release
of the kidnap victims. Fortunately, after seven (7) days the victims
were able to escape from their kidnappers and reported the incident to
the Pulilan Police Station in Bulacan. The victims then accompanied the
AKG and Bulacan PNP to the safehouse of the suspects in Plaridel,
Bulacan that resulted in the arrest of the suspects.
AKG
Director, PSSUPT Roberto B. Fajardo said “The investigators are now
conducting in-depth investigation in coordination with the INTERPOL,
Bureau of Immigration (BI) and Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to
further study the background of the arrested suspects. AKG is also
investigating other foreigners who kidnapped their own nationals who
arrived in the Philippines but refuse to report or file complaints.”
A
case of Kidnap for Ransom under Art. 267 of the Revised Penal Code
against the arrested suspects were being readied for filing at the
Department of Justice. (PNP-PIO) |
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| Allcard bags P 336-M LTO driver's license card supply project |
| Source: http://www.dotc.gov.ph |
|
5 Million Driver’s License Cards to Be Delivered Over 12 Month-Period
Manila,
Philippines – The current shortage of driver’s license cards at the
Land Transportation Office (LTO) is set to be addressed, as the
Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) has awarded the
project for the supply of 5,000,000 pieces of driver’s license cards to
Allcard Plastics Philippines, Inc.
Allcard Plastics
bagged the project after submitting the lowest bid of P 336.868 Million.
Under the contract, Allcard Plastics will deliver the license cards in
equal monthly tranches over a one-year period counted from the issuance
of the Notice to Proceed (NTP).
“We are pleased to
report that license cards will soon be available at all LTO offices. We
will strive to ensure that the implementation of this project will run
smoothly in order to reinstate these basic services provided by the
LTO,” said DOTC Secretary Jun Abaya.
Allcard’s bid is
25.3% lower than the original approved budget of the contract – which
was set at P 450-Million – thereby generating government savings of
around P 113 Million. The cost of the card is roughly around P 67.37 per
piece, well below the cap of P 90.09 per piece.
Procurement
of the LTO License Cards supply project opened last May 22, wherein
three (3) bidders qualified: Allcard, current driver’s license card
supplier Amalgamated Motors Philippines, Inc. (AMPI), and the joint
venture of DVK Philippines Enterprises and Cardz Middle East Trading
LLC.
The financial bids of AMPI and the DVK-Cardz JV were P 373.880 Million and P 428.8 Million, respectively.
The
LTO may now coordinate with Allcard Plastics for the efficient
deployment of the license cards to the various LTO offices nationwide. |
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| DAR exec, 2 others guilty of non-remittance of GSIS, Pag-ibig premiums |
| Source: http://www.ombudsman.gov.ph |
|
The
Sandiganbayan convicted a former regional secretary of the Department
of Agrarian Reform (DAR)–Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao (ARMM)
who concurrently served as then ARMM Vice-Governor, for failure to remit
the employer’s share to the Government Service and Insurance System
(GSIS) and Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-ibig) amounting to
P2,418,577.33 and P149,100.00, respectively, from January 1997 to June
1998.
In a 35-page Joint Decision, the anti-graft court
found Datu Guimid Matalam, along with DAR-ARMM Cashier Ansarry Lawi and
Accountant Naimah Unte, guilty beyond reasonable doubt of violation of
Section 52 (g) of Republic Act (R.A.) No. 8291 (Government Service
Insurance System Act), and sentenced each to suffer the penalty of one
year to three years imprisonment, P20,000.00 fine, absolute perpetual
disqualification from holding public office, and from practicing any
profession or calling licensed by the Government. In addition, Matalam
was found guilty of violation of Section 1, Rule XII of the implementing
rules and regulations of Republic Act No. 7742 (Pag-ibig Universal
Coverage Law), was imposed a fine amounting to P190,506.00 and was
directed to pay a penalty of three percent per month of the amounts
payable computed from the date the contributions fell due and until full
payment.
The anti-graft court ruled that under R.A.
No. 8291, Matalam, Lawi and Unte are accountable officers such that
their refusal or delay in the payment, turnover, remittance or delivery
of GSIS premiums within 30 days from the time that the same shall have
been due and demandable constitutes a violation of the law.
The
prosecution established that Matalam was already notified of the
non-remittance of premiums, as witnesses and documentary evidence proved
that as early as April 23, 1998, the GSIS Cotabato Branch sent a letter
addressed to Matalam informing him that the loan privileges of its
members were temporarily suspended in view of the unremitted government
share of premiums from January 1997 to December 1997. In addition, six
Statements of Account of GSIS Compulsory Contributions Due and Payable
as of June 30, 1998 amounting to P2,418,577.33 were also sent to
Matalam. Officials and records from the Department of Budget and
Management and Landbank of the Philippines likewise confirmed that a
total amount of P12,113,242.00 was credited to the account of DAR-ARMM
from September 1997 to January 1998 under its FUND 101 where remittances
of the government shares for GSIS and Pag-ibig Fund are deposited.
The
court ruled that the restrictive definition of the word “employer”
under the Pag-ibig Fund law holds that the head of office or agency has
the obligation to remit the contributions. The prosecution proved that
from January 1997 to June 1998, Matalam, as regional secretary, failed
to remit the total amount of P149,100.00 which became due and demandable
as of July 1998, inclusive of penalties and charges.
The
court added that there was “no justifiable reason for such failure to
remit having been presented and considering too that money for that
purpose was already received and available.” |
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| Strong Current Account Boosts BOP Surplus in Q1 2015 |
| Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph |
|
The
country’s balance of payments position yielded a surplus of US$877
million in Q1 2015, a reversal of the US$4.5 billion deficit registered
in Q1 2014. This favorable development stemmed from the robust inflows
in the current account, combined with the marked decline in net outflows
(or net lending by residents to the rest of the world) in the financial
account. The current account continued to perform strongly as all
sub-accounts registered improvements. Meanwhile, in the financial
account, net outflows in the other investment and portfolio investment
accounts were significantly lower. The improving global economic
conditions supported the favorable outturn in the country’s BOP. In
particular, the economic momentum in the United States remained firm and
Japan showed some modest expansion. Some growth was also seen in the
euro area owing largely to firming domestic demand and gradual
strengthening of external trade. Meanwhile, the global inflation
environment remained benign, reflecting the broadly subdued outlook for
the international price of oil. On the domestic front, manageable
inflation, higher-than-expected output growth in Q4 2014, and reports of
strong corporate earnings boosted investor optimism.
As
a result, the country’s gross international reserves (GIR) increased by
US$1 billion to reach US$80.5 billion as of end-March 2015 from US$79.5
billion as of end-December 2014. At this level, reserves could
sufficiently cover 10.6 months’ worth of imports of goods and payments
of services and income. It was also equivalent to 6.1 times the
country’s short-term external debt based on original maturity and 4.6
times based on residual maturity.
First Quarter 2015 Developments
Current Account.
The current account registered a surplus of US$3.3 billion (equivalent
to 4.8 percent of GDP) in Q1 2015, more than twice the US$1.5 billion
surplus (2.3 percent of GDP) posted in the comparable quarter last year.
The notable improvement in the current account surplus was attributed
to higher net receipts in the services, primary and secondary income
accounts coupled with the narrowing of the trade-in-goods deficit.
The
trade-in-goods deficit narrowed to US$4.7 billion in Q1 2015 from
US$5.4 billion in Q1 2014 due mainly to the combined effects of the
decline in imports of goods by 3 percent, stemming largely from the drop
in the value of petroleum crude imports due to the fall in the
international price of crude oil, and the expansion in exports of goods
by 2.5 percent. Exports of goods totaled US$10.4 billion in Q1 2015
from US$10.2 billion in Q1 2014, driven by the continued demand from
major trading partners such as the U.S., Hong Kong, and Malaysia. The
uptrend was attributed mainly to exports of manufactures which grew by
3.3 percent to reach US$8.4 billion. Imports of goods amounted to
US$15.1 billion in Q1 2015, lower by 3 percent than the US$15.6 billion
posted in Q1 2014, due mainly to the contraction in imports of mineral
fuels and lubricants and capital goods.
Net
receipts from trade-in-services rose to US$2.5 billion in Q1 2015,
compared to the US$1.8 billion net receipts in Q1 2014. The 38.8 percent
growth was due largely to net receipts in technical, trade-related and
other business services (US$3.2 billion), and computer services (US$928
million). Export revenues in business process outsourcing services
totaled US$4.3 billion in Q1 2015. Higher net receipts were likewise
registered in personal, cultural, and recreational services. Meanwhile,
the decreases in net payments of financial, and maintenance and repair
services also contributed to the growth in net receipts in
trade-in-services.
The
primary income account recorded net receipts of US$308 million in Q1
2015, more than fourfold the US$66 million net receipts in the
comparable period last year. This was due largely to lower net payments
of investment income (by 7.4 percent) on account of reduced net payments
of dividends and reinvested earnings on foreign direct investments,
along with the 6.4 percent increase in compensation inflows from
resident overseas Filipino (OF) workers which amounted to US$1.9
billion.
Net
receipts in the secondary income account reached US$5.2 billion in Q1
2015, 2.8 percent higher than the US$5 billion net receipts in Q1 2014.
Growth was attributed mainly to the 3.9 percent improvement in personal
transfers totaling US$4.8 billion. The bulk of these personal transfers
came from non-resident OF workers' remittances (about 98 percent), which
increased by 4.2 percent to US$4.7 billion.
Capital Account.
Net receipts in the capital account declined to US$22 million in Q1
2015 from US$26 million in the same quarter last year. Outflows arising
from residents’ net acquisition of non-produced non-financial assets
from non-residents were higher during the quarter.
Financial Account.
The financial account posted net outflows (or net lending by residents
to the rest of the world) of US$606 million in Q1 2015, lower by 85.2
percent than the US$4.1 billion net outflows in Q1 2014. This was driven
by the notable decline in net outflows of portfolio investments (by
91.9 percent) and other investments (by 99.6 percent). These lower net
outflows, however, were offset by the reversal of the direct investment
account to net outflows from net inflows during the quarter.
Direct
investments registered net outflows of US$395 million in Q1 2015, a
reversal of the US$487 million net inflows posted in the same quarter
last year. Residents’ net acquisition of financial assets amounting to
US$1.2 billion were greater than their net incurrence of liabilities
(foreign direct investments in the Philippines or FDI) of US$851
million. In particular, residents’ net placements of equity capital
abroad increased by 83.1 percent to reach US$348 million while their
placements in debt instruments issued by non-residents (or intercompany
borrowings) declined by 13.5 percent (at US$873 million).
Net
outflows in the portfolio investments account amounted to US$227
million in Q1 2015, markedly lower than the US$2.8 billion net outflows
in the same quarter last year. This developed as net incurrence of
liabilities or foreign portfolio investments totaled US$1.3 billion, a
reversal of the US$1.6 billion net repayment of liabilities in the same
quarter in 2014. In particular, net placements by non-residents in debt
securities were posted during the quarter at US$234 million in contrast
to the net withdrawals of US$1.9 billion a year ago.
The
other investment account registered net outflows of US$7 million in Q1
2015, a marked decline from the US$1.8 billion net outflows recorded in
the same quarter last year. The outflows were due mainly to the net
repayment of liabilities by residents, particularly loans availed of by
domestic deposit-taking corporations from non-residents (US$3.0
billion). Meanwhile, the main sources of inflows during the quarter were
the net withdrawal of foreign currency and deposits by residents
(US$1.4 billion) and net repayment by non-residents of loans availed
from domestic deposit-taking corporations (US$1.0 billion).
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| New York Forum Highlights The Protection of Marine Environment in The South China Sea |
| Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph |
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18
June 2015 - A Community Breakfast Forum entitled UNCLOS and the
Protection of the Marine Environment: The Situation in the South China
Sea featuring guest speakers Dr. Edgardo Gomez of the Marine Science
Institute at the University of the Philippines and noted marine
environmental law practitioner Ms. Youna Lyons, was hosted by the
Philippine Consulate General for the Filipino community in New York at
the Kalayaan Annex Hall of the New York Philippine Center.
Consul
General Mario L. De Leon, Jr. set the tone for the event when he said
that recent developments on the West Philippine Sea (WPS) are
circulating internationally thanks in large part to the Department of
Foreign Affairs, led by Secretary Alberto F. del Rosario.
“Secretary
Del Rosario has made the WPS issue a cornerstone of Philippine
diplomatic and political engagement with various states. I believe that
the Foreign Affairs Secretary has been handling this issue with courage,
aplomb and dignity, raising the profile of the country as standing for
rule of law and respect. Right is might,” he added.
Consul
General De Leon remarked on the importance of making the community
aware and educated on the maritime dispute between the Philippines and
China in the West Philippine Sea, which is not only a political or
economic issue, but also an environmental one.
Dr.
Edgardo Gomez delivered a presentation which shows how China’s massive
reclamation activities compromise the biodiversity and economic
productivity in the South China Sea. He also showed a satellite imagery
analysis of how the biodiversity in the entire West Philippine Sea
region had been affected over the years because of development projects
by China in the area, and how the marine environment could be further
depleted if continued unchecked and unabated.
Ms. Youna
Lyons discussed the legal issues of the environmental impact of large
reclamation activities in the South China Sea. She also cited the United
Nations Convention Law on the Seas (UNCLOS) and pointed out how it
conveyed an obligation on the part of the international community for
due diligence to protect sensitive marine environments worldwide. She
also discussed aspects of the Convention against the International Trade
of Endangered Species (CITES) relevant to the issue.
During
the question-and-answer session moderated by Consul Felipe Carino,
attendees posed queries about UNCLOS, as well as how it ties in with the
Philippine position on the maritime dispute with China in the West
Philippine Sea. Assistant Secretary for Legal Affairs Eduardo Jose De
Vega and Assistant Secretary for Maritime and Ocean Affairs Benito
Valeriano joined the Q&A panel as well. Both were in New York to
attend the UNCLOS meetings at the United Nations headquarters. |
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| Cabinet Secretaries to Lead High-Level PHL Trade and Investment Mission to US |
| Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph |
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Philippine
Finance Secretary Cesar V. Purisima and Trade Secretary Gregory L.
Domingo will lead a High-Level Trade and Investment Mission to the
United States from June 24 to 29. The Mission, which is being organized
by the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C., together with the Center
for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) and the US-Philippines
Society, will begin with a Conference at CSIS on Wednesday, June 24, before heading to New York from June 25 to 26 and San Francisco on June 29.
At
the Washington Conference, the Mission aims to provide US officials,
policy-makers, think tanks, academics and the business community with
updates on recent positive developments in the Philippine economy, as
well as to outline the opportunities for American firms to support and
take part in Philippine infrastructure projects.
The New York Economic Briefing and Investments Conference will be held at 9 a.m. on June 26 at
the Goldman Sachs Auditorium, 200 West St., NY, while the San Francisco
event will take place at the Philippine Consulate General, 447 Sutter
St., San Francisco.
The Mission is an important follow-up to the Philippines-United States Memorandum of Cooperation on an Infrastructure Collaboration Platform, which was signed during the 8th Global Infrastructure Leadership Forum (GILF) held in New York in February.
Secretaries
Purisima and Domingo will be joined by Public Works and Highways
Secretary Rogelio L. Singson, Transportation and Communications
Undersecretary Rene Limcaoco, Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center
Executive Director Cosette Canilao, Bases Conversion and Development
Authority (BCDA) President Arnel Paciano Casanova, and senior officials
from other government agencies.
A
Private Sector delegation of senior executives will also be led by Mr.
Guillermo Luz, Private Sector Co-Chair of the Philippine National
Competitiveness Council.
The
Conferences are being organized in cooperation with the Philippine
Consulates General in New York and San Francisco, as well as Citibank,
Deutsche Bank, Development Bank of the Philippines, Goldman Sachs, HSBC,
JP Morgan, Land Bank of the Philippines, Morgan Stanley, Standard
Chartered, and UBS.
Further details may be found at:
Washington, D.C.:
New York:
San Francisco:
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INTERVIEW OF COMMUNICATIONS SECRETARY HERMINIO COLOMA,
JR.
|
DZRB / Balita at Panayam by Alan Allanique
|
18 June 2015
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ALLANIGUE: Secretary Coloma, magandang umaga po.
SEC. COLOMA:
Magandang umaga sa iyo, Alan, at sa lahat ng ating mga taga-subaybay.
ALLANIGUE: Yes, sir. Noong Tuesday po naganap ang isang makasaysayang
chapter nanaman, ika nga, sa prosesong pangkapayapaan, lalo’t higit sa
Mindanao, iyon pong decommissioning ng MILF forces at pagsusuko nila ng
kanilang … o pagtu-turn over nila ng kanilang mga armas. Sa sektor naman po
ng mga lawmakers natin, Secretary Coloma, sir, ano po ang pinakahuling
development naman kaugnay ng pagtalakay nila dito sa batas tungkol sa
Bangsamoro, Secretary Coloma, sir?
SEC. COLOMA: Ang batid natin ay
iyong sa Kamara de Representantes, bago sila nag-adjourn noong nakaraang
linggo, ay mayroong mga nakalinyang mambabatas na nais magtanong at lumahok
doon sa plenaryo para humanap ng linaw sa kanilang mga katanungan. Ito ay
isang mahalagang bahagi ng plenary debates. Pagkatapos niyan ay tatalakayin
muli nila iyong mga panukalang amyenda, at pagkatapos ay pagbubotohan na sa
plenaryo dahil ito ay nakapasa na sa Ad Hoc Committee. Kung maaalala natin
‘no noong bago pa sila mag-adjourn.
Sa Senado naman ay naglahad na ng
ulat si Senador Marcos, na taga-pangulo ng isa sa mga komite na mayroong
partisipasyon sa Bangsamoro Basic Law. Mayroon na ring paglalahad iyong
Committee on Constitutional Amendments na pinangungunahan naman ni Senador
Santiago. Sa pagkaalam natin, Alan, ang susunod din diyan ay iyong talakayan
na rin nila sa plenaryo. At ayon na rin kay Senate President Drilon,
hinihintay din niya iyong ipinahayag na substitute bill na nais ipanukala ni
Senador Marcos. So, iyan ang estado ng Bangsamoro Basic Law.
At sa atin
namang panig ay patuloy pa rin iyong panawagan sa ating mga mambabatas na
isaalang-alang iyong pagkakaroon ng pangmatagalang pangkapayapaan na
magiging susi sa istabilidad at kaunlaran ng Mindanao, at ito ang
pangunahing layunin pagpasa ng isang Bangsamoro Basic Law.
ALLANIGUE:
At maalala ko po, Secretary Coloma, sir, doon po sa naganap na
decommissioning naman ng MILF forces last Tuesday, kabilang sa mga
highlights doon ay iyong mga benepisyo na ipinagkaloob sa dating mga MILF
fighters, ika nga. Among others ay covered na sila ng PhilHealth ngayon so
malaking bagay pagdating sa aspetong pangkalusugan nila at ng kanilang
pamilya. Ganun din, we understand, na may cash assistance din para dito sa
mga MILF fighters na maaaring magamit naman nila sa pagbabagong buhay at
kung maaaring gustong magnegosyo para matulungan ang pag-unlad ng
kani-kanilang mga pamilya doon po sa ilang bahagi ng Mindanao, Secretary
Coloma, sir?
SEC. COLOMA: Ganoon nga, Alan. Pinapakita ng mga
kaganapan noong nakaraang Martes iyong major outline na maaaring maganap sa
area ng Bangsamoro kapag natuloy na iyong pagtatatag ng Bangsamoro Political
Entity. Ito ay mga symbolic gestures pa lamang. Kung maaalala natin noong
2013 ay nilunsad din iyong Sajahatra Bangsamoro para ipakita din kung ano
iyong mga halimbawa ng mga programa sa lahat ng larangan: kabilang na diyan
iyong agrikultura, edukasyon, skills training ng TESDA, public health,
science and technology, hustisya. Malawakan kasi ang sakop nitong reporma na
ipapatupad. Kaya malaking bagay iyong pagkakaroon ng decommissioning dahil
ito iyong senyales na nag-uumpisa na iyong tinatawag na normalization
process, na isa rin sa mahahalagang bahagi ng Comprehensive Agreement ng
Bangsamoro.
ALLANIGUE: Opo, opo. At we understand, Secretary Coloma,
ngayong araw na ito, kumbaga, nagsisimula rin itong holy month of Ramadan ng
ating mga kapatid na Muslim, Secretary Coloma, sir?
SEC. COLOMA:
Nakikiisa tayo sa ating mga kapatid na Muslim sa kanilang pagsisimula ng
Ramadan. Ito ay isang banal na yugto ng taon na kung saan ay nagsasakripisyo
sila bilang pag-alay ng pananampalataya. Hindi sila kumakain sa malaking
bahagi ng isang araw. At nakikiisa nga tayo ‘no sa kanilang obserbasyon ng
Ramadan.
ALLANIGUE: Opo. Secretary Coloma, sir, muli, salamat po for
the updates from the Palace, sir.
SEC. COLOMA: Maraming salamat at
magandang umaga, Alan. |
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| SOURCE: News Information Bureau - Data
Processing Center |
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|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III leads his official family in prayer before
presiding over the Cabinet Meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of
the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (June 18). Also in photo is PCOO Sec.
Sonny Coloma. (Photo by Exequiel Supera / Malacañang Photo Bureau /
PCOO) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III presides over the Cabinet Meeting at the
Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (June
18). Also in photo are Secretary to the Cabinet Jose Rene Almendras,
Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, Jr., Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima
and Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez, Jr. (Photo by Lauro Montellano,
Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III leads his official family in prayer before
presiding over the Cabinet Meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of
the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (June 18). Also in photo are Secretary
to the Cabinet Jose Rene Almendras, Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa,
Jr., Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima and Tourism Secretary Ramon
Jimenez, Jr. (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III leads his official family in prayer before
presiding over the Cabinet Meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of
the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (June 18). (Photo by Lauro Montellano,
Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III presides over the Cabinet Meeting at the
Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (June
18). Also in photo are Technical Education and Skills Development
Authority (TESDA) director general Joel Villanueva, Agrarian Reform
Secretary Virgilio delos Reyes, Secretary to the Cabinet Jose Rene
Almendras, Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, Jr. and Finance Secretary
Cesar Purisima. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III presides over the Cabinet Meeting at the
Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (June
18). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III observes the processing of the weapons and
combatants during the ceremonial turnover of crew-served weapons and
high powered firearms and the decommissioning of combatants of the
Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front
(BIAF-MILF) at the Old Maguindanao Provincial Capitol in Simuay, Sultan
Kudarat, Maguindanao on Tuesday (June 16). The government and the MILF
agreed to undertake the ceremonial turnover of the 75 weapons of the
BIAF-MILF as provided in the Phase 1 of the normalization program for
the Bangsamoro. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | Some
of the decommissioned combatants of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces
of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front present during the turnover of
weapons at the Old Maguindanao Provincial Capitol in Simuay, Sultan
Kudarat, Maguindanao on Tuesday (June 16). The government and the MILF
agreed to undertake the ceremonial turnover of the 75 weapons of the
BIAF-MILF as provided in the Phase 1 of the normalization program for
the Bangsamoro. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the ceremonial
turnover of crew-served weapons and high powered firearms and the
decommissioning of combatants of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces of
the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (BIAF-MILF) at the Old Maguindanao
Provincial Capitol in Simuay, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao on Tuesday
(June 16). The government and the MILF agreed to undertake the
ceremonial turnover of the 75 weapons of the BIAF-MILF as provided in
the Phase 1 of the normalization program for the Bangsamoro. (Photo by
Gil Nartea/ Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III graces the ceremonial turnover of crew-served
weapons and high powered firearms and the decommissioning of combatants
of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation
Front (BIAF-MILF) at the Old Maguindanao Provincial Capitol in Simuay,
Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao on Tuesday (June 16). The government and the
MILF agreed to undertake the ceremonial turnover of the 75 weapons of
the BIAF-MILF as provided in the Phase 1 of the normalization program
for the Bangsamoro. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III observes the processing of the weapons and
combatants during the ceremonial turnover of crew-served weapons and
high powered firearms and the decommissioning of combatants of the
Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front
(BIAF-MILF) at the Old Maguindanao Provincial Capitol in Simuay, Sultan
Kudarat, Maguindanao on Tuesday (June 16). The government and the MILF
agreed to undertake the ceremonial turnover of the 75 weapons of the
BIAF-MILF as provided in the Phase 1 of the Normalization Program for
the Bangsamoro. Also in Photo are MILF Central Committee chairman Al Haj
Murad Ebrahim and Independent Decommissioning Body chairman Ambassador
Haydar Berk (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III observes the processing of the weapons and
combatants during the ceremonial turnover of crew-served weapons and
high powered firearms and the decommissioning of combatants of the
Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front
(BIAF-MILF) at the Old Maguindanao Provincial Capitol in Simuay, Sultan
Kudarat, Maguindanao on Tuesday (June 16). The government and the MILF
agreed to undertake the ceremonial turnover of the 75 weapons of the
BIAF-MILF as provided in the Phase 1 of the Normalization Program for
the Bangsamoro. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III observes the processing of the weapons and
combatants during the ceremonial turnover of crew served weapons and
high powered firearms and the decommissioning of combatants of the
Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front
(BIAF-MILF) at the Old Maguindanao Provincial Capitol in Simuay, Sultan
Kudarat, Maguindanao on Tuesday (June 16). The government and the MILF
agreed to undertake the ceremonial turnover of the 75 weapons of the
BIAF-MILF as provided in the Phase 1 of the Normalization Program for
the Bangsamoro. Also in photo are MILF Central Committee chairman Al Haj
Murad Ebrahim. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the ceremonial
turnover of crew-served weapons and high powered firearms and the
decommissioning of combatants of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces of
the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (BIAF-MILF) at the Old Maguindanao
Provincial Capitol in Simuay, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao on Tuesday
(June 16). The government and the MILF agreed to undertake the
ceremonial turnover of the 75 weapons of the BIAF-MILF as provided in
the Phase 1 of the Normalization Program for the Bangsamoro. (Photo by
Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III with MILF Central Committee chairman Al Haj Murad
Ebrahim graces the ceremonial turnover of crew-served weapons and high
powered firearms and the decommissioning of combatants of the Bangsamoro
Islamic Armed Forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (BIAF-MILF)
at the Old Maguindanao Provincial Capitol in Simuay, Sultan Kudarat,
Maguindanao on Tuesday (June 16). The government and the MILF agreed to
undertake the ceremonial turnover of the 75 weapons of the BIAF-MILF as
provided in the Phase 1 of the Normalization Program for the
Bangsamoro. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III observes the processing of the weapons and
combatants during the ceremonial turnover of crew-served weapons and
high powered firearms and the decommissioning of combatants of the
Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front
(BIAF-MILF) at the Old Maguindanao Provincial Capitol in Simuay, Sultan
Kudarat, Maguindanao on Tuesday (June 16). The government and the MILF
agreed to undertake the ceremonial turnover of the 75 weapons of the
BIAF-MILF as provided in the Phase 1 of the Normalization Program for
the Bangsamoro. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | Chinese
Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua listens as President Benigno
S. Aquino III delivers his message during the commemoration of the
117th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence at the
Santa Barbara Plaza in Iloilo on Friday (June 12). This year’s theme is
“Kalayaan 2015: Tagumpay sa Pagbabagong Nasimulan, Abot-Kamay na ng
Bayan.” (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III, accompanied by acting Foreign Affairs Secretary
Laura del Rosario, greets Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao
Jianhua during the reception line for the Vin d’ Honneur in
commemoration of the 117th anniversary of the proclamation of the
Philippine Independence at the ground lobby of Casa Real de Iloilo in
General Luna Street, Iloilo City on Friday (June 12). (Photo by Gil
Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III offers the traditional toast to the guests during
the Vin d’ Honneur in commemoration of the 117th anniversary of the
proclamation of Philippine Independence at the ballroom of the Casa Real
de Iloilo in General Luna Street, Iloilo City on Friday (June 12).
(Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | |
President
Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his message during the Vin d’ Honneur in
Commemoration of the 117th anniversary of the proclamation of the
Philippine Independence at the ballroom of the Casa Real de Iloilo in
General Luna Street, Iloilo City on Friday (June 12). Also in photo are
acting Foreign Affairs Secretary Laura del Rosario and Dean of the
Diplomatic Corps Archbishop Guiseppe Pinto.
(Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the commemoration of
the 117th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence at
the Santa Barbara Plaza in Iloilo City on Friday (June 12). This year’s
theme is “Kalayaan 2015: Tagumpay sa Pagbabagong Nasimulan, Abot-Kamay
na ng Bayan.” (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III offers the traditional toast during the Vin d’
Honneur in commemoration of the 117th anniversary of the proclamation of
Philippine Independence at the ballroom of the Casa Real de Iloilo in
General Luna St?, Iloilo City. Also in photo are the Dean of Diplomatic
Corps Archbishop Guiseppe Pinto and acting Foreign Affairs Secretary
Laura del Rosario. (Photo by Marcelino Pascua/ Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the commemoration of
the 117th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence at
the Santa Barbara Plaza in Iloilo City on Friday (June 12). This year’s
theme is “Kalayaan 2015: Tagumpay sa Pagbabagong Nasimulan, Abot-Kamay
na ng Bayan.” (Photo by Marcelino Pascua / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III leads the 117th anniversary of the proclamation
of the Philippine Independence during the wreath laying ceremony at the
General Martin Delgado Monument of the Santa Barbara Plaza in Iloilo
City on Friday (June 12). This year’s theme is “Kalayaan 2015: Tagumpay
sa Pagbabagong Nasimulan, Abot-Kamay na ng Bayan.” Also in photo are AFP
Chief of Staff General Gregorio Pio Catapang, Jr.; and National
Historical Commission of the Philippines chairperson Maria Serena
Diokno. (Photo by Marcelino Pascua/ Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III leads the 117th anniversary of the proclamation
of Philippine Independence during the flag raising ceremony at the Santa
Barbara Plaza in Iloilo City on Friday (June 12). This year’s theme is
“Kalayaan 2015: Tagumpay sa Pagbabagong Nasimulan, Abot-Kamay na ng
Bayan.” Also in photo are Senate President Franklin Drilon; House
Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Jr.; Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin; and
Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II. (Photo by
Marcelino Pascua / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III, accompanied by Armed Forces of the Philippines
(AFP) Chief of Staff General Gregorio Pio Catapang, Jr., troops the line
during the commemoration of the 117th anniversary of the proclamation
of Philippine Independence at the Santa Barbara Plaza in Iloilo City on
Friday (June 12). This year’s theme is “Kalayaan 2015: Tagumpay sa
Pagbabagong Nasimulan, Abot-Kamay na ng Bayan.” (Photo by Marcelino
Pascua/ Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the commemoration of
the 117th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence at
the Santa Barbara Plaza in Iloilo City on Friday (June 12). This year’s
theme is “Kalayaan 2015: Tagumpay sa Pagbabagong Nasimulan, Abot-Kamay
na ng Bayan.” (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III leads the 117th anniversary of the proclamation
of the Philippine Independence during the wreath laying ceremony at the
General Martin Delgado Monument of the Santa Barbara Plaza in Iloilo
City on Friday (June 12). This year’s theme “Kalayaan 2015: Tagumpay sa
Pagbabagong Nasimulan, Abot-Kamay na ng Bayan.” Also in photo is AFP
Chief of Staff General Gregorio Pio Catapang, Jr. (Photo by Ryan Lim /
Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III leads the 117th anniversary of the proclamation
of the Philippine Independence during the wreath laying ceremony at the
General Martin Delgado Monument of the Santa Barbara Plaza in Iloilo
City on Friday (June 12). This year’s theme is “Kalayaan 2015: Tagumpay
sa Pagbabagong Nasimulan, Abot-Kamay na ng Bayan.” Also in photo are AFP
Chief of Staff General Gregorio Pio Catapang, Jr.; and National
Historical Commission of the Philippines chairperson Maria Serena
Diokno. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III leads the singing of the Philippine National
Anthem during the flag raising ceremony for the 117th anniversary of the
proclamation of Philippine Independence at the Santa Barbara plaza in
Iloilo City on Friday (June 12). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo
Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III leads the 117th anniversary of the proclamation
of Philippine Independence during the flag raising ceremony at the Santa
Barbara Plaza in Iloilo City on Friday (June 12). This year’s theme is
“Kalayaan 2015: Tagumpay sa Pagbabagong Nasimulan, Abot-Kamay na ng
Bayan.” Also in photo are Senate President Franklin Drilon; House
Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Jr.; Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin; and
Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II. (Photo by Ryan
Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III receives a warm reception upon arrival at Santa
Barbara Plaza in Iloilo City on Friday (June 12) for the commemoration
of the 117th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence.
This year’s theme is “Kalayaan 2015: Tagumpay sa Pagbabagong Nasimulan,
Abot-Kamay na ng Bayan.” (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III receives a warm reception upon arrival at Santa
Barbara Plaza in Iloilo City on Friday (June 12) for the commemoration
of the 117th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence.
This year’s theme is “Kalayaan 2015: Tagumpay sa Pagbabagong Nasimulan,
Abot-Kamay na ng Bayan.” (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
| | | |
|  | | President
Benigno S. Aquino III receives a warm reception upon arrival at Santa
Barbara Plaza in Iloilo City on Friday (June 12, 2015) for the
commemoration of the 117th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine
Independence. This year’s theme is “Kalayaan 2015: Tagumpay sa
Pagbabagong Nasimulan, Abot-Kamay na ng Bayan.” Also in photo are
Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and AFP Chief of Staff General
Gregorio Pio Catapang, Jr. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) |
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|  | | Capitalizing
on the power of information to reach the people and educate them on how
the government spends is a trait that Bataan has been demonstrating.
This was the statement of Richard Parry, head of Global Relations of the
Centre for Tax Policy and Administration of the Organisation for
Economic Co-operation and Development, as he met with members of the
media during a press conference today in the International Media Center
in Bagac town. (Jose Mari M. Garcia/PIA 3, Bataan) |
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|  | | Richard
Parry, head of Global Relations of the Centre for Tax Policy and
Administration of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and
Development, lauds the province of Bataan and says it is a regional
leader in the extensive use of information for promoting fiscal
transparency. He met with members of the media during a press conference
today in the International Media Center in Bagac town. (Jose Mari M.
Garcia/PIA 3, Bataan) |
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Happy Monday! Here's our latest One Visayas e-Newsletter. Please click on link and read on. #pia6
The official e-Newsletter of PIA Visayas
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Predicted Mean Sea Level Pressure
Analysis 8 AM
22 June 2015 
Predicted Mean Sea Level Wind Analysis 8 AM
22 June 2015 
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