Thursday, July 9, 2015

6 Dispatch for July 10 , 2015 ( Friday), 4 Weather Watch , 7 OFW Watch, 19 Online News( July 9 ), 20 Photonews ( July 7 )

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

DAILY WEATHER FORECAST


 Issued at: 5:00 AM today, 10 July 2015 
Valid Beginning: 5:00 AM today until 5:00 AM tomorrowSynopsis: 

At 4:00 am today, the eye of typhoon "FALCON" was located based on all available data at 675 km northeast of Itbayat, Batanes (25.4N, 126.1E) outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) with maximum sustained winds of 160 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 195 kph. It is forecast to move Northwest at 22 kph. Southwest Monsoon affecting Luzon and Western Visayas. 


 pressure.gif  Predicted Mean Sea Level Pressure Analysis 8 AM 10 July 2015
 wind.gifPredicted Mean Sea Level Wind Analysis 8 AM 10 July 2015
satellite



Forecast: 

Monsoon rains which may trigger flashfloods and landslides will be experienced over Metro Manila, the regions of Ilocos, Cordillera, Central Luzon, CALABARZON AND MIMAROPA. Occasional rains are expected over Western and Central Visayas and the rest of Luzon. Partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated thunderstorms will prevail over the rest of the country. 


Moderate to strong winds blowing from the southwest will prevail over the entire archipelago with moderate to rough seas. 


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Dost_pagasa added 2 new photos.
2 hrs · 
24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST
ISSUED AT: 5:00 AM, 10 July 2015

SYNOPSIS: At 4:00 am today, the eye of Typhoon “‪#‎FalconPH‬” was located based on all available data at 675 km Northeast of Itbayat, Batanes (25.4°N, 126.1°E) outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) with maximum sustained winds of 160 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 195 kph. It is forecast to move northwest at 22 kph. Southwest monsoon affecting Luzon and Western Visayas.

FORECAST: Monsoon rains which may trigger flashfloods and landslides will be experienced over Metro Manila, the regions of Ilocos, Cordillera, Central Luzon, Calabarzon and Mimaropa. Occasional rains are expected over Western and Central Visayas and the rest of Luzon, . Partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated thunderstorms will prevail over the rest of the country.
Moderate to strong winds blowing from the southwest will prevail over the entire archipelago with moderate to rough seas.
OVER METRO MANILA:
Maximum Temperature: 2:00 PM Yesterday --- 27.0 ºC
Minimum Temperature: 8:00 AM Yesterday --- 24.0 ºC
Maximum Relative Humidity: 7:00 AM Yesterday --- 97 %
Minimum Relative Humidity: 9:00 AM Yesterday --- 92 %
High Tide Today: 5:16 AM ..……….... 0.91 Meter
Low Tide Today: 11:50 AM ..……….... 0.52 Meter
High Tide Today: 4:42 PM ..……….... 0.66 Meter
Low Tide Today: 10:35 PM ..……….... 0.41 Meter
Sunrise Today: 5:33 AM
Sunset Today: 6:30 PM
Moonset Today: 1:12 PM
Moonrise Tomorrow: 1:14 AM
Illumination Tomorrow: 30 %
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 Aldczar Aurelio on DZBB:
-Nasa labas na si bagyong Falcon, pero hinihila pa rin ang Habagat na makakaapekto sa Luzon at Visayas.
-Habagat pa rin ang magdadala ng pag-ulan at pagbaha sa Ilocos region, CAR, Calabarzon, Mimaropa.
-Sa weekend, Habagat pa rin ang makakaapekto sa ating bansa.
-Ang bagyong Nangka ay malayo pa sa ating bansa at hindi makakaapekto, bagama't patuloy nating binabantayan.
-Monday asahan pa rin ang Habagat at babantayan natin kung makakaapekto si Nangka.
-Stop na po ang hourly update sa lokasyon ng bagyong Falcon dahil nasa labas na ng PAR.




PAGASA Heavy Rainfall Warning No. 16 ‪#‎NCR_PRSD‬
Weather System: Southwest Monsoon enhanced by Typhoon FALCON
Issued at: 08:00 AM 10 July 2015
Yellow Warning Level: Metro Manila Bulacan, Zambales, Cavite, Batangas, Bataan
FLOODING in low lying areas.
•Meanwhile, light to moderate rains affecting Rizal, Laguna, Pampanga, Tarlac, Nueva Ecija, Quezon which may persist within 3 hours.
•These information are based on current radar trends, predicted tropical cyclone track and all available data.



July 10, 2015  ( Friday )     as of 8:00 AM
  PIA4A / PIA QUEZON  :  Cloudy with intermittent light rainshowers  in Lucena City  
 
 NORTHERN
 
SOUTHERN



EASTERN


WESTERN








DZBB: Tiniyak ng Palasyo na hindi nagpapabaya ang gobyerno sa pagtutok sa kaso ni Mary Jane Veloso na nakakulong ngayon sa Indonesia. Sa ngayon, bineberipika pa ng Palasyo ang ulat kung itutuloy ang bitay kay Veloso sa susunod na linggo.

DZMM: Naging emosyonal ang naging pagtatagpo nina Mary Jane Veloso at Rep. Manny Pacquiao at Sarangani Vice Gov. Jinkee Pacquiao. Ayon sa kongresista, napahanga siya sa katatagan ng loob ni Veloso. Nag-iwan naman ng pinansyal na tulong ang mambabatas para kay Veloso.

ABS-CBN: Inilabas na ng DOJ ang resolusyon sa kasong isinampa ni Mary Jane Veloso laban kina Christina Sergio, Julius Lacanilao at isang alias “Ike” na isa umanong banyaga. Ayon sa DOJ, dapat makasuhan sa korte sina Sergio at Lacanilao sa kasong illegal recruitment, estafa at human trafficking na kasama naman si alias “Ike”. Ayon kay Sec. Sonny Coloma, nanatili naman ang determinasyon ng gobyerno na bigyan ng proteksyon si Mary Jane at ipatanggol ang kanyang mga karapatan. Nakulong na sina Sergio at Lacanilao pero nababagalan pa rina ng pamilya Veloso sa aksyon ng gobyerno.

ABS-CBN: Isang mag-asawa na naman mula sa Zamboanga
ang naganganib na bitayin sa Malaysia dahilan sa sinasabing pagpupuslit ng iligal na droga. Ayon sa Dangerous Drugs Act ng Malaysia, hatol na kamayatan ang ipinapataw sa mga napapatunayan na may sala sa drug trafficking sa naturang bansa. Nanawagan ngayon ang pamilya ng mag-asawa kay PNoy na tulungan ang kanilang magulang. Ayon sa DFA, patuloy anman ang pakikipag-ugnayan ng pamahalaan sa Malaysian embassy.

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DZBB: 11 Pinoy na nakakulong sa Dubai, UAE ang kasama sa mga palalayain sa pagsisimula ng Ramadan, ayon sa ulat ng Konsulado ng Pilipinas doon. Wala namang inilabas na eksaktong petsa kung kailan isasagawa ang naturang pagpapalaya.

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ANC Breaking: DOJ found probable cause to file charges against alleged recruiters of Mary Jane Veloso, namely Kristina Sergio, Julius Lacanilao and their cohort only known as “Ike”.

Pia Quezon

KASAPI president Joe Valencia on DZMM:
Re: Economic crisis in Greece
-Kung uuwi sa Pilipinas, wala rin namang suswelduhin.
-Nadadala rin ang mga Pilipino, yung mayayamang Greek ayos naman.
-Dito sa referendum, karamihan sa mga mayayaman para sila sa 'Yes'.
-Iba yung dynamics din.
-Kami naman dito sa aming asosasyon, we encourage people to discuss.
-Ang ilang Pilipino nagbabalak na rin pumunta sa ibang bansa or mayroon na ring ibang nakakuha ng trabaho sa Canada.
-Merong trend ngayon na umalis na lang para maghanap ng mas magandang trabaho.











Philippines’ lawyers wrap up first round of arguments at Arbitral Tribunal in The Hague
The first round of arguments regarding the Arbitral Tribunal's jurisdiction to hear the Philippines’ case against China concluded on Wednesday at The Hague, the Netherlands."For the continuation of the First Round of Arguments, the Philippines’ lawyers further explained to the Arbitral Tribunal how the case does not constitute specific exemptions under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which would preclude the tribunal from exercising jurisdiction over the case,” Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a news bulletin issued on Thursday.
The news bulletin said that “during the morning hearing, Professor Philippe Sands briefly addressed questions propounded by a member of the tribunal from yesterday’s (Wednesday’s) hearing. Advocates Lawrence H. Martin, Professor Bernard H. Oxman and Paul S. Reichler took turns presenting arguments involving various points on why the Philippines’ claims fall squarely within the jurisdiction of the tribunal."
"For the afternoon hearing, Professor Alan Boyle presented to the tribunal arguments regarding the strength of the Philippines’ environmental and fishing claims against China. Professor Philippe Sands closed the First Round of Arguments by summarizing the submissions of the Philippines presented in the course of the hearings,” the news bulletin further stated. PND (jm)
Flood control projects continue, says Palace official
The government continues to carry out infrastructure projects aimed at preventing massive flooding, both for the short and the long terms, a Palace official said Thursday."Patuloy na ipinatutupad ng Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) ang iba’t ibang flood control projects, kasama na rin diyan ang drainage improvement," Communication Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said during a press briefing, adding that the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority has been monitoring the cleaning of canals in Metro Manila.
Meanwhile, he said, the government’s long-term flood control projects include the building of large-scale infrastructure that will be completed by 2035.
Secretary Coloma however noted that the government's flood control efforts appear to be taking effect.
Despite the heavy rains, he said, floods have been subsiding quickly.
"Nakikita naman natin na humuhupa ito at wala namang nararanasang malubhang pagbaha sa maraming bahagi ng ating Kamaynilaan, bagamat tuloy-tuloy ang buhos ng ulan dahil nga sa monsoon rains," he said.
The Habagat southwest monsoon, enhanced by a weather disturbance, has caused heavy rains in the country, especially in Luzon. Some areas have reported flooding, forcing local governments to suspend classes and office work. PND (as)
Palace suspends work in government offices in National Capital Region
The Palace on Thursday afternoon suspended all work in government offices in the National Capital Region (NCR) due to inclement weather.

Malacañang issued Memorandum Circular No. 78, suspending all work in government offices starting 3 p.m., based on the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), as the Habagat southwest monsoon has been enhanced by Typhoon “Falcon”.

The work suspension however did not cover “agencies whose functions involve the delivery of basic and health services, preparedness/response to disasters and calamities, and/or performance of other vital public services.”

Meanwhile, classes in all levels, both public and private, in the NCR have already been cancelled.

On Monday, the NDRRMC also recommended the suspension of work in government offices and classes in all levels, both public and private, due to Typhoon “Egay”. PND (ag)
President Aquino declares July 17 a regular holiday in observance of Eid'l Fitr
President Benigno S. Aquino III has issued Proclamation No. 1070, declaring July 17 a regular holiday throughout the country in observance of Eid’l Fitr (Feast of Ramadan).

The proclamation, signed by the President last Monday (July 6), is pursuant to the provisions of Republic Act No. 9177.

"The proclamation aims to provide an opportunity for the entire Filipino people to join our Muslim brothers and sisters in peace and harmony to observe and celebrate Eid’l Fitr, which marks the first day of the end of the 30-day fasting period of Ramadan," Communication Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said in a statement.

By declaring July 17 a regular holiday, the religious and cultural significance of Eid'l Fitr could be brought to the fore of national consciousness, the proclamation read.

Eid'l Fitr is celebrated by the Muslim world for three days at the end of the month of fasting. PND (as)
Indonesian government to be updated on filing of charges against Veloso’s illegal recruiters
The Department of Justice (DOJ) will inform its counterpart in Indonesia of the filing of charges against the illegal recruiters of convicted drug trafficker, Mary Jane Veloso.The DOJ, in its 18-page resolution released on Thursday, found probable cause to charge Maria Cristina Sergio, her live-in partner Julius Lacanilao, and a certain “Ike” with qualified trafficking. Sergio and Lacanilo will also be charged with illegal recruitment and estafa. The case will be filed before the Talavera, Nueva Ecija Regional Trial Court on Friday (July 10).
"Kasama ito sa impormasyon na ipararating natin sa pamahalaan ng Indonesia para mabatid nila na mula nang sumuko, o nag-voluntarily turn in ang tinutukoy nating alleged illegal recruiter, ay nagkaroon na ng progreso doon sa case buildup, at ayon nga sa iniulat ngayon ay inihahanda na ang paghain ng paratang laban sa kanila. Kaya’t ito ay magiging bahagi ng ating pagbibigay ng update sa Indonesian government,” Communication Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said during a press briefing at the Palace on Thursday.
Convicted by the Indonesian court of drug trafficking, the 30-year-old Veloso was set for execution last April 29. She however obtained a last-minute reprieve after the Indonesian government was informed that her illegal recruiter had surfaced.
In her testimony, Veloso claimed Sergio promised to find her a job in Malaysia for a fee. She said that in Malaysia, she was told to proceed to Indonesia, where she was promised a job as domestic helper. She said she was unaware that the suitcase given to her as a gift contained illegal drugs.
Secretary Coloma said the government is determined to protect Veloso and defend her rights.
"Nananatili ang determinasyon ng ating pamahalaan na bigyan siya ng proteksyon at ipagtanggol ang kanyang mga karapatan. Batid din natin na inihahanda na ang paghahain ng usapin laban doon sa mga umano’y illegal recruiters na nagdala kay Mary Jane sa ibang bansa at nagsangkot sa kanya sa human trafficking at alleged illegal drug trafficking activities,” he said. PND (jm)
Philippines counsels explain further country's case at UN Arbitration Tribunal
The country's lawyers further explained to the UN Arbitral Tribunal how the Philippine case does not constitute specific exemptions under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which would preclude it from having jurisdiction over the case, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said on the continuation of the First Round of the Philippines’ Arguments at The Hague.The tribunal is in its second day of hearing on the First Round of the Philippines' Arguments in its case against China.
Valte said in a bulletin on Thursday that during the morning hearing, Professor Philippe Sands briefly addressed questions propounded by a member of the tribunal from yesterday’s hearing.
"Advocates Lawrence H. Martin, Professor Bernard H. Oxman and Paul S. Reichler took turns presenting arguments involving various points on why the Philippines’ claims fall squarely within the jurisdiction of the tribunal," Valte said.
For the afternoon hearing, Professor Alan Boyle presented to the tribunal arguments regarding the strength of the Philippines’ environmental and fishing claims against China.
Valte said that Professor Philippe Sands closed the First Round of Arguments by summarizing the submissions of the Philippines presented in the course of the hearings.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario said before the Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague that the South China Sea dispute "goes to the very heart" of the so-called Constitution for the Oceans--the UNCLOS.
Del Rosario said on Tuesday that it is not just the Philippines’ claims against China that rest in the tribunal's hands but in the spirit of UNCLOS itself.
In submitting its case, the Philippines is not asking the tribunal to rule on the territorial sovereignty aspect of its disputes with China, according to Del Rosario.
"We are here because we wish to clarify our maritime entitlements in the South China Sea, a question over which the Tribunal has jurisdiction," he told the tribunal.

"This is a matter that is most important not only to the Philippines, but also to all coastal States that border the South China Sea, and even to all the States Parties to UNCLOS."
China violates UNCLOS by asserting its "historic rights" established by its 9-dash line, Del Rosario explained.
The 9-dash line is China's demarcation to claim virtually the entire South China Sea. The Philippines does not recognize China's historic rights through the 9-dash line.
Del Rosario further told the tribunal that if China can defy the limits placed by the convention on its maritime entitlements in the South China Sea, and disregard the entitlements of the Philippines under the convention, then UNCLOS will have no value for small states parties as regards their bigger and more powerful neighbors. PND (as)

09 JULY 2015
Nueva Vizcaya mayor convicted for not returning heavy equipment
95% of Agency Budgets released in H1 2015
World-class Davao Sasa Port to boost export industry
BSP holds 12th Awards Ceremony and Appreciation lunch for stakeholders
Pantawid’s promise to reduce poverty
"Falcon" report: 2 roads in CAR closed as of 12 NN Thursday
DTI peps APEC Boracay Action Agenda at Slingshot MNL 2015
DTI: Fair Competition Act will level playing field for MSMEs
Bulacan women inspire Roxas to fight poverty
DILG lends helping hand to Zambaleños
DFA undertakes medical repatriation of injured Filipino from Beijing
Renewal of U.S. GSP Program: A big boost to Philippine exporters
DOST to feature digital, interactive exhibits on Disaster Mgm't in Nat'l Science and Tech Week
Processing Center for Ilocos farmers
PRDP to fund at least P53M worth of enterprises sub-projects
Study identifies most stable varieties
SSS meets with stakeholders in Aklan
PDIC to continue processing claims of Rural Bank of Sta. Magdalena (Sorsogon) depositors
PhilHealth Opens 9th LHIO in NCR
Nueva Vizcaya mayor convicted for not returning heavy equipment
Source: http://www.ombudsman.gov.ph
The Sandiganbayan convicted former Mayor Isaias Almuete of Dupax Del Norte, Nueva Vizcaya for Malversation in connection with the loss of the municipality’s road roller vibratory compactor worth P549,450.00.

During trial, prosecutors presented witnesses and documents showing that when Almuete lost his re-election bid in May 2004, he failed to turn over the equipment despite demand from the local government. Investigation conducted by the National Bureau of Investigation of the Bayombong District Office disclosed that the heavy equipment was seen parked inside the Almuete compound.

In junking the defense of the accused that he was not the property custodian, the Sandiganbayan stated that “it is the head of the department or office of a municipality who is primarily accountable for any government property issued” and “that Almuete had control in the use and disposition” of the equipment.

The anti-graft court observed that “it is simply unfathomable how an equipment like the subject vibratory compactor could be lost in a small municipality without any trace.”

Almuete was sentenced to suffer imprisonment ranging from 12 years, five months and 11 days of reclusion temporal as minimum, to 18 years, eight months and one day of reclusion temporal as maximum. Almuete was also meted out the penalties of perpetual special disqualification and fine of P549,450.00.
95% of Agency Budgets released in H1 2015
Source: http://www.dbm.gov.ph
The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) announced that 94.6 percent of agency allotments have already been released as of June 30, 2015. In total, 86.6 percent of the original 2015 program was released in the first half of the year.
“Under the GAA-as-Release-Document regime, the DBM made the majority of funds available to agencies at the very start of the year. The remaining allotments are earmarked for later release, once agencies have complied with conditions or have requested the funds,” Budget Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad said.
These figures represent an increase in allotment releases compared to the first half of 2014, when 91.6 percent of agency allotments and 86 percent of the total program were made available for obligation. On the other hand, releases for automatic appropriations registered a slight decrease, from 95 percent in 2014 to 94.2 percent this year.
PARTICULARSProgramAllotment Releases% of Releases Over Program
First Half201420152014201520142015
    A. General Appropriations Act  

1,468,599,325
1,739,768,572  

1,191,242,013
1,441,425,081  

81.1%
82.9%
          Departments1,150,692,0331,333,849,8871,053,966,4071,261,669,87091.6%94.6%
          Special Purpose Funds317,907,292405,918,685137,275,606179,755,21143.2%44.3%
   B.  Automatic Appropriations 796,029,175866,231,428 756,182,568816,389,211 95.0%94.2%
Original Program 2,264,628,5002,606,000,000 1,947,424,5812,257,814,292 86.0%86.6%











“Given that our proposed budget for 2016 stands at P3.002 trillion, it is crucial that agencies—especially those with big-ticket projects and still-unreleased allotments—ensure the timely implementation of their programs this year. This way, we can further strengthen service delivery in 2016 instead of catching up on the previous year’s program,” Secretary Abad added.
On the back of Administrative Order No. 46, which directed agencies to adopt measures to clear procurement bottlenecks, improve reporting on project implementation, and complete documentary requirements for allotment release, the DBM set guidelines for the creation of a Full-time Delivery Unit in each agency. These units will act as problem-solvers in their respective agencies and will assist DBM in tracking agency expenditures.
Additionally, DBM released a National Budget Circular (NBC No. 2015-558) in June, strengthening the organizational structure of agency Procurement Units, and providing them with additional staffing to support their Bids and Award Committees (BACs).
World-class Davao Sasa Port to boost export industry
Source: http://www.dotc.gov.ph
Abaya Heads to Davao to Discuss the 1st PPP Project for Mindanao with Stakeholders

Based on a study conducted for the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), no less than a world-class Davao Sasa Port is needed to meet the rapid growth of the country’s export demands over the next few years.

“The modernization of the century-old Davao Sasa port will bring about more vibrant trade, which will spur economic and social development across Mindanao. Exporters will have more efficient operations and importers will have better logistics. Shipping lines will have quicker turnaround times. Consumers will enjoy a wider range of imported products,” DOTC Secretary Jun Abaya explained.

“With the Philippines being the 2nd-largest banana exporter in the world, and Davao being the top banana grower in the region, we need to pursue the long-term opportunities which will usher in inclusive growth in the south. Our project will generate jobs, boost the export industry, and drive consumer costs down,” he added.

Since bulk of the port’s traffic consists of banana exports, the development of Davao Sasa will benefit large-scale businesses as well as small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which in turn could generate more job opportunities.

In the IFC-DBP study, it was found that Davao Region’s container traffic is projected to increase by at least six percent (6%) annually over the next 25 years, which will amount to three million Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) by 2040.

The transport agency’s modernization project for Davao Sasa will be able to boost its capacity to 1.2 million TEUs already upon completion of the infrastructure component in 2020. This will complement both existing and future demand, alongside other major ports in the region, namely the Hijo port and the Davao International Container Terminal.

The DOTC’s Davao Sasa Port Modernization Project is the first Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) project for Mindanao. It is currently in the bidding process, with the submission of qualification documents scheduled on July 29.

The project involves the expansion and modernization of the existing port which includes the construction of a new quay and the installation of cranes, which will greatly boost efficiency, and thereby address port traffic congestion. For instance, the current manual setup of cargo unloading can take up to three days; but once new cranes are in place, unloading time will be drastically cut down to about 3 hours.

The project will be implemented in three (3) construction phases, for completion from 2017 to 2020.

Abaya will head to Davao City tomorrow, July 10, to meet with various stakeholders and explain to the public how the project will impact on social and economic growth for the country, and especially for Mindanao.
BSP holds 12th Awards Ceremony and Appreciation lunch for stakeholders
Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph
As part of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) celebration of its 22nd anniversary, the BSP will hold the 2015 Awards Ceremony and Appreciation Lunch for Stakeholders on 14 July 2015 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the BSP Assembly Hall, BSP Complex, Manila. This marks the 12th year that the BSP is hosting the annual recognition ceremony. Various institutions that have continuously supported the BSP’s statistical initiatives, information requirements, and advocacy programs will be recognized during the event. It will also highlight the accomplishments made through strengthened partnerships by the BSP with its stakeholders over the years.
The theme for this year’s Stakeholders’ Awards Ceremony is “12 Years and Beyond: Celebrating Stronger Partnerships and Successful Collaborations,” which aptly describes how the BSP has continuously worked together with its stakeholders to create an enabling environment for the economy to traverse a solid and sustainable growth path. The Chairman of the Monetary Board and Governor of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Amando M. Tetangco, Jr., and this year’s Chairman of the Board of Judges, Monetary Board Member Juan D. De Zuñiga, Jr., will lead the recognition ceremony for this year’s awardees and stakeholders.
Awards will be given to eighty-eight (88) outstanding institutional partners nationwide. Meanwhile, thirty-three awards (33) shall be given to stakeholders during the awards ceremony at the BSP head office, as follows:
Information Support
Business Expectations Survey (BES)
Outstanding Respondent among Large Firms
Outstanding Respondent among Small and Medium Firms
Outstanding Respondent for the Construction Sector
Outstanding Respondent for the Industry Sector
Outstanding Respondent for the Services Sector
Outstanding Respondent for the Trade Sector
Cross Border Transactions Survey (CBTS)
Outstanding Respondent for Inter-Company Accounts
Outstanding Respondent for Transactions Coursed through Bank Accounts Abroad
Foreign Direct Investment Survey (FDIS)
Outstanding Respondent
Coordinated Portfolio Investment Survey (CPIS)
Outstanding Respondent
Survey of Information Technology-Business Process (IT-BPO) Outsourcing Services
Outstanding Respondent
Coordinated Direct Investment Survey (CDIS)
Outstanding Respondent
Sources of Information
Outstanding Partner for Balance of Payments Projections
Outstanding Partner for Monetary Policy
BSP’s Survey of Inflation Forecasts
Outstanding Respondent
BSP’s Senior Loan Officers’ Survey
Outstanding Respondent
Professorial Chair Manager 
Outstanding Professorial Chair Manager
Advocacy Support
Overseas Filipino Remittances
Commercial Bank that Generated the Largest Overseas Filipino Remittances
Conference on Gearing up for External Competitiveness
Outstanding Partner
Financial Learning Campaign
Outstanding Partner
Credit Surety Fund (CSF)
Outstanding CSF
Outstanding CSF Lending Bank
Outstanding CSF Program Partner
Outstanding CSF Local Government Unit Partner
Financial Inclusion
Outstanding Financial Inclusion Partner
Outstanding Financial Inclusion Champion
BSP PhilPaSS
Outstanding PhilPaSS REMIT Participant
Outstanding PhilPaSS Participant Servicing Customer ePayments – Commercial Bank
Outstanding PhilPaSS Participant Servicing Customer ePayments – Thrift Bank                     
Pagtugon Award
Universal and Commercial Banks
Thrift Banks
Kapit-Bisig Award
Outstanding Partner
Special Category
Outstanding Partner for Child Finance Education
The remaining awards shall be awarded to partner institutions in areas outside NCR (AONCR) from July to September 2015.  These include the following awards:
Information Support
Business Expectations Survey (BES)
Outstanding Respondent among Large and Medium Firms (for Regions I, II, III,
IV, V, VI, VII, VIII, IX, X, XI and XII)
Outstanding Respondent among Small Firms (for Regions I, II, III, IV, V, VI, VII,
VIII, IX, X, XI and XII)
Source of Information
Outstanding Partner for Source of Information for the Report on Regional
Economic Developments of the Philippines (for Regions CAR, I, II, III, IV-A,
IV-B, V, VI, VII, VIII, IX, X, XI, XII, CARAGA and ARMM)
Advocacy Support
Currency Programs of the BSP
Outstanding Partners (for Batac, Dagupan, Tuguegarao, San Fernando, Lucena,
Legazpi, Bacolod, Iloilo, Tacloban, Cagayan de Oro and Cotabato Branches) 
Pantawid’s promise to reduce poverty
Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph
Does Pantawid deliver the intended results? The evidence says yes,’ writes the country director of the Asian Development Bank

It’s time to set the record straight on the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino conditional cash transfer program – one of the biggest of its kind in the world, and an increasingly effective weapon in the fight against poverty in the Philippines.
Recent media reports have created false impressions of Pantawid “leakages,” despite evidence that it is achieving its goals – improving health, education and job opportunities for poor households. The Philippines has pioneered the development of conditional cash transfers (CCT) in Asia, largely through Pantawid, and should be proud of its achievements.
Unfortunately, old data – dating back six years – has been used to incorrectly calculate that 19 billion pesos of current program funds did not go to intended beneficiaries. ADB has responded to these assertions so I won’t go over that ground again. Suffice to say that this figure overlooks work and improvements in beneficiary targeting of Pantawid, which is acknowledged as among the best in the world.
So, what is the real story behind Pantawid?
Launched in 2008 at 380,000 poor households, Pantawid had reached more than 4.4 million poor households by the end of 2014, making it the world’s third largest CCT program in terms of people reached, after Brazil (8.8 million) and Mexico (6.5 million).
Much more than a cash handout, this program seeks to break the intergenerational cycle of poverty by encouraging parents to invest in the improvement of their children’s health, nutrition, and education. The program provides regular cash grants to poor households, which are identified by the National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction or Listahanan.
In return, the households must meet obligations on regular school attendance and health clinic check-ups, as well as participation in family development sessions in which households learn a range of important skills such as how to manage their finances. By early 2015, DSWD reported compliance of beneficiaries with conditions to be high: 93% for health, 98% for education, 96% for family development services.
After obligations are verified, households receive their grants every two months through Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) cash cards or through other conduits authorized by LBP.
Pantawid delivers
Does Pantawid deliver the intended results? The evidence says “yes.” The Listahanan targeting system has steadily improved. The latest rigorous impact evaluation in 2014 shows Pantawid is on track to make children of poor families healthier and keep them in school for longer.
Cash grants have helped to bring about near-universal enrolment of elementary age children (6–11 years old). Pantawid mothers are more likely to seek pre-and-post-natal care and deliver babies in health facilities. Child labor among participating households has decreased by an average of 7 days per month.
In 2014, Pantawid benefits were extended to high schools students aged 15-18. This is an important measure, as the Philippines has a major gap in high school completion rates between children of the poorest income quintile and the richest. By 17 years of age, 9 out of 10 of the richest children have completed high school, compared with just 3 in 10 of the poorest. Early results show the enrolment rate for children aged 12–15 was 6 percentage points higher among Pantawid households than non-Pantawid ones.
These evaluations are independently scrutinized. The evidence also shows that the grants do not encourage dependency; there is no evidence of a work disincentive among adults in Pantawid families. Self-rated poverty is lower by 7 percentage points. Also, Pantawid parents express more optimism about their children’s future.
Pantawid is helping to close the gaps in access to social services, helping young people maximize their potential, which in turn will help the country prosper. And, Listahanan is being used by 14 other national programs and more than 1,000 local government units throughout the country.
No one is saying there aren’t challenges in Pantawid’s implementation. A margin of error in targeting the poorest households is inevitable in any large CCT program. There are cases where households that should have been included are excluded from the program, and there are also cases where households that should have been excluded are included. This is a survey and targeting system issue rather than one of funds misappropriation.
DSWD, ADB and other partners are working continuously to improve its targeting and delivery systems, and accountability. Better means testing has reduced targeting errors together with public validation by communities themselves that the poor household lists are accurate. Importantly the grievance redress system enables feedback on the program, and better tracking of complaints and their resolution, including issues of beneficiary identification.
Multiple and widespread payment and verification systems are in place, with local government units encouraged to support payment of beneficiaries in remote areas. Biometric systems using fingerprints for identification are being piloted for payments, and fiduciary management strengthened as the program expands. The targeting efficiency of the Philippines CCT makes it one of the top-ranked among comparable programs in other countries.
We look forward to the day when there will be no need for programs like Pantawid in the Philippines. Until then, the fight against poverty will continue – with the strong support of ADB. – Rappler.com
Richard Bolt is the Country Director of ADB’s Philippines Country Office
Reprinted from: http://www.rappler.com/thought-leaders/98739-pantawid-promise-reducing-poverty
"Falcon" report: 2 roads in CAR closed as of 12 NN Thursday
Source: http://www.dpwh.gov.ph
Heavy rain brought by Southwest Monsoon enhanced by Typhoon Falcon has further caused landslides, rockslides and mudflow along national roads, making two (2) roads in Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) impassable.

According to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Bureau of Maintenance, as of 12 noon, July 9, 2015, Wednesday, the following roads are closed to traffic:

BENGUET

1.Gurel-Bokod-Kabayan-Buguias-Abatan Road

a)K0340+451-K0340+550 Section, Sitio Bongis, Brgy. Gusaran;

b)K0341+320, Bongis Section; and

c)K0335+500-K0335+600, Gusaran Section.

KALINGA

1.Kalinga-Abra Road, K0526+020, Balbalasang, Balbalan

Equipment and manpower were already deployed for the installation of proper warning signs and clearing operations on affected road sections.
DTI peps APEC Boracay Action Agenda at Slingshot MNL 2015
Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph
To boost the entry and foothold of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in regional and global markets, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) enlivened the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Boracay Action Agenda at the conference dubbed as Slingshot MNL.

“Through endeavours like our first edition of Slingshot MNL we equip MSMEs, such as startups, for them to successfully expand and benefit in the global value chain. In doing this, we do not only allow them to fully take advantage of market prospects but also drive economic growth,” DTI Secretary Gregory L. Domingo said.

Domingo noted that these businesses can further contribute to the economic growth of the Philippines and Asia-Pacific region. SMEs account for 97% of all enterprises in APEC economies, and over 50% of workforce. These enterprises contribute between 20- to 50% of gross national product (GDP) in these economies. Currently, SMEs account for about 35% of direct exports in the region.

“With the appropriate intervention, MSMEs can develop their full potential to innovate, expand and strengthen their position in regional and global markets, and take part in pursuing inclusive growth,” Domingo said.

Domingo noted that APEC encourages and empowers SMEs to engage in trade by building management capability, entrepreneurship, and innovation; improving SME’s access to financing; and creating a healthy business environment for these enterprises to succeed by improving market access and pushing forward the process of internationalization.

With this approach, APEC has piloted a number of initiatives such as setting up of an innovation center for SMEs, providing access to mentorship through the start-up accelerator initiative, and helping startups secure funding through the participation in international summits.

“In opening doors to APEC economies, cooperating with international organizations and forums, as well as providing a platform to exchange ideas, knowledge, and plans that provide importance on MSMEs, we can work on ensuring that progress is inclusive,” Domingo said.

Industry Promotion Group (IPG) Undersecretary Ponciano C. Manalo Jr. said that in achieving this goal, DTI envisions MSMEs, like startups, prospering from the various business opportunities in APEC economies.

“We believe that organizing Slingshot MNL is one of the ways wherein we can help achieve inclusive growth in the Philippines,” Manalo added.

Slingshot MNL intends to make stakeholders of the country’s startup ecosystem understand how the startup business model can drive economies in the Asia-Pacific region, as well as establish ties with forward-looking investors. It intends to gather 1000 stakeholders.

Aside from the plenary sessions, Slingshot MNL 2015 features workshops, a pitching competition, and an exhibition of around 116 local startup companies.

The conference also aims to present the most promising startups in the Pacific Rim and top accelerators and incubators from the startup scene in America and Asia. Speakers during the main conference include top global figures like Nicholas Shea, founder of Start Up Chile; Hugh Mason, chief executive officer (CEO) and co-founder of JFDI; Michael Brown, regional general manager of UBER; Maria Ressa, founder and CEO of Rappler; En Lee, Asia Pacific head of LGT Venture Philanthrophy; John Fitzpatrick, venture capital and startup ecosystem business development manager of APAC Amazon Web Service; and Richard Dasher, director of US-Asia Technology Management Center Stanford University.
DTI: Fair Competition Act will level playing field for MSMEs
Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) welcomed the ratification of the Fair Competition Act saying that it will impact and cut across major industries and sectors of the Philippine economy and level the playing field for all businesses, and provide consumers a wider range of products and services.

“The Fair Competition Act is one of the several economic reforms and policies needed to unleash our true economic potential and essential in sustaining the country’s robust economic growth. This piece of legislation will bring us closer to enhancing the readiness and competitiveness of the various sectors of the economy to seize opportunities of ASEAN economic integration. By reinforcing efforts to safeguard competitive conditions, our local businesses, particularly micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), will continue to flourish in both local and global markets,” DTI-Industry Development Group (IDG) Undersecretary Adrian S. Cristobal Jr said.

The Fair Competition Act, following the approval of its respective versions in both Houses of Congress, is now ready for the signature of President Benigno Aquino III. Among its key provisions is the creation of an independent Philippine Competition Commission tasked to regulate and rule on cases involving practices such as anti-competitive acts, cartelization, and bid riggings. It is considered a landmark measure, first filed in the 8th Congress, and ratified two decades later by the 16th Congress.

According to Cristobal, the adoption and enforcement of a competition law will ensure that the country’s economic successes in terms of deregulation, privatization, and the removal of counterproductive trade barriers will be reinforced.

“It is necessary for us to implement policies to curb unfair and uncompetitive practices that hamper fair competition in the Philippines. We want to improve and sustain the status of trade and commercial activities in the country–promoting Filipino entrepreneurial spirit, encourage meaningful investments and facilitate technology transfer,” explained Cristobal.

“We are laying the foundation to ensure that the Philippines will be at par with other countries, especially those who are members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). We also want Filipinos to fully reap the benefits of our efforts to realize the country’s full potential in the global market,” he concluded.
Bulacan women inspire Roxas to fight poverty
Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph
This was the reaction of Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Mar Roxas after he heard the testimonials of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries during the Parent Leader Meeting on Tuesday, July 7, at the Baliuag Convention Center.

Three women named Nenita Reyes, Christina Mangahas, and Angelina Eran�o were chosen to represent the 512 Bulakenyas whose lives were changed because of 4Ps.

"Dati, nasa loob lang ako ng bahay at nag-aalaga ng anak. Pinapanuod ko lang silang lumaki. Pero dahil sa Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, nagkaroon ako ng kasanayan, kaalaman, at nakapagpursigi ako sa sarili ko na makapagtapos ng pag-aaral sa ALS [Alternative Learning System]," says Nenita, a housewife from San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, who talked about the significant changes that 4Ps brought to her family.

Nenita added that 4Ps beneficiaries also had the initiative to create and participate in community programs that will benefit their municipality.

"Kami mismo ang gumagawa ng mga proyekto na makakatulong sa aming kapwa,” she said. “Nagiging modelo kami sa aming mga kapamilya dahil kami ay mga parent leaders.”

Meanwhile, Christina, another 4Ps beneficiary from Sta. Maria, Bulacan, said she felt empowered by actively participates in community programs initiated by the government like the Clean and Green drive and Brigada Eskwela.

"Nagkakaroon ako ng kumpyansa sa aking sarili," she said.

Angelina, on the other hand, described how the 4Ps has changed her plans to lift their family from poverty and how it enabled her to send her children to school.

"Marami kaming karanasan na di mababayaran," said Angelina, who hails from Plaridel, Bulacan. "Walang ina na hindi nangarap na makapagtapos ang kanyang anak ng pag-aaral. Sana po magtuloy-tuloy ang programang Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program. Buhay po ang ibinibigay ng programang ito."

Nenita, Christina, and Angelina’s stories inspired Roxas and Secretary for Social Welfare and Development Corazon 'Dinky' Soliman to keep pursuing the good programs under Daang Matuwid.

"Feel na feel ko ang bawat isa sa ating mga Parent Leaders. Tulad sila ng aking kapatid na isang ina, isang biyuda," Roxas said.

Roxas added that by paying back the benefits of the 4Ps program to their community, the parent leaders are following the principal of country above self, which is employed by Daang Matuwid.

"Nagtagumpay sa kalooban niya ang pagmamahal niya sa kanyang mga anak kaya naitawid lahat ng pagdududa, pagaalinlangan. ‘Yan ang naramdaman ko sa bawat isa sa kanila—pagmamahal ninyo sa inyong mga anak, pagmamahal ninyo sa inyong komunidad, at pagmamahal ninyo sa inyong bayan," he said.
DILG lends helping hand to Zambaleños
Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) distributed checks worth almost P3 million to the local government of Sta. Cruz in Zambales in connection with the rehabilitation projects under the DILG’s bottom-up budgeting (BuB) program.

DILG Regional Director Florida Dijan handed the first check worth P1.131 million for the rehabilitation of the sea wall along the public market in Sta. Cruz.

Dijan also gave a check worth P1.920 million for the construction of the drainage system along N. Ela street and N. Mose street also in Sta. Cruz.

Both checks were received by Sta. Cruz Mayor Consolacion Marty in a simple turn-over ceremony on Wednesday (July 8) at the Masinloc Baywalk in Barangay South Poblacion, Masinloc.

Zambales Gov. Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. and second district Rep. Cheryl Veloso-Montalla thanked DILG for helping the province of Zambales in terms of projects that will help Zambalenos live a better life.

During the same event, the department also gathered several civil society organizations, barangay leaders, fisherfolk families, and other local residents in Zambales for a consultative meeting in order for the government to know the needs and address the problems of Zambalenos.

The meeting was attended by representatives from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, the Department of Labor and Employment, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, the Department of Trade and Industry, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development.
DFA undertakes medical repatriation of injured Filipino from Beijing
Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph
09 July 2015 - The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced the successful medical repatriation of Mr. Eddie C. Moralda, a Filipino who suffered a cardiac arrest while on a business trip to Beijing, People’s Republic of China. The repatriation was coordinated with the Philippine Embassy in Beijing.

Mr. Moralda was in comatose condition after his cardiac arrest and was nursed back to better health by the personnel of the Philippine Embassy in Beijing. He was subsequently discharged from the hospital after he regained consciousness and flown home to Manila last June 26.

The DFA dispatched a medical team headed by Department Physician Natividad M. Vizcarra to accompany Mr. Moralda on the commercial flight which brought him home. Officials from the Department of Health and the Department of Social Welfare and Development received Mr. Moralda upon his arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and escorted him to a medical facility to continue with his recovery.
Renewal of U.S. GSP Program: A big boost to Philippine exporters
Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph
09 July 2015 - United States President Barack Obama signed last week the Trade Preferences Extension Act of 2015 (H.R. 1295), which will reauthorize the U.S. Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) Program until 31 December 2017, at the same time renewing the African Growth and Opportunity Act and tariff preference programs for Haiti until 30 September 2025.

The GSP program, which is considered the U.S. largest and oldest trade preference facility, was established 41 years ago to promote economic development by eliminating duties on about 5,000 types of products when imported from 122 designated beneficiary developing and least developed countries and territories, including the Philippines. The program however, excludes textile, apparel, and footwear.

In a briefing before the Alliance of GSP Countries held on June 30, Mr. Bill Jackson, Deputy Assistant U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), announced, “The law will restore the GSP program effective July 29. It will also expand its coverage to include some 20 to 30 specific types of travel goods and will provide for retroactive refund of all duties paid by US importers from the time the Program lapsed on 31 July 2013.”

Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. welcomed the announcement.

“The renewal of the GSP Program gives more Filipino exporters access to the U.S. market, which in turn, would create jobs at home, increase competitiveness of Philippine companies and improve the country’s overall trade position,” Ambassador Cuisia said.

What this means to the Philippines

The GSP program is a tool that helps an eligible country to expand its exports to the U.S. It directly benefits micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and is a major employment generator for many export–oriented agribusinesses and community based industries in the various regions of the Philippines.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Senior Trade Representative and Philippine Embassy Commercial Counselor Maria Roseni M. Alvero explained, “The reinstatement of the program means that the Philippines could recoup its lost export share directly caused by program’s expiry in 2013. More importantly, it is also an essential incentive for investors, both foreign and local, as it boosts the competitiveness of products produced in the Philippines in the US market.”

“For instance, with the inclusion of travel goods in the program with such brands as Coach and Michael Kors which are made in the Philippines, we will be able to compete more aggressively with China which currently dominates the US market for the products, ” Alvero cited as an example.

As recommendation, former USTR Official and Consultant of the Alliance for GSP Countries Marideth Sandler stated, “Exporters are encouraged to touch base with their U.S. importers so that past and present relationships are maintained, especially under this new encouraging environment for exports.”

For her part, Commercial Counselor Alvero strongly suggested, “It is important that DTI and relevant agencies thereof and industry associations should boost training and seminars on GSP and GSP availment, especially in the regions and where the program can have the most impact which is to the MSME sector of the country.”
DOST to feature digital, interactive exhibits on Disaster Mgm't in Nat'l Science and Tech Week
Source: http://dost.gov.ph
It is the time of year once again when rains pour down and floods dash through the streets, creating a frenzy of commuters, all waiting to get a ride home and sip a cup of hot soup or coffee.

It is also the time of year when the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) celebrates the National Science and Technology Week (NSTW), a week-long showcase of the country’s biggest and latest strides in science and technology (S&T) via interactive exhibits, product displays, science fora, launchings, business discussions, and other activities.

Among those on exhibit will be the various technologies being tapped for improving the country’s weather monitoring and forecasting as well as disaster risk management, as presented by DOST’s Science and Technology Information Institute, PAGASA, PHIVOLCS, Advanced Science and Technology Institute, Philippine Nuclear Research Institute, Project NOAH, and DREAM-LiDAR project.

One of the main attractions is a digital representation of the recently launched West Valley Fault System Atlas (WVFSA) by PHIVOLCS, a book containing 33 city maps showing where the fault system traverses. Using this digital representation, geologists from PHIVOLCS will assist exhibit visitors in identifying homes situated within the West Valley Fault System.

Another highlight is the portable PAGASA planetarium which students and kids will surely enjoy.

Other attractions are life-sized and scale models of various weather monitoring equipment such as the automated weather system, automated rain gauges, and the DREAM LiDAR mapping, as well as interactive scale models of volcanic eruptions and earthquakes.

PAGASA will also show real-time Doppler radar monitoring to allow exhibit visitors to experience real-life weather monitoring from the weather bureau.

Meanwhile, exhibit visitors will get a clearer understanding of storm surges, typhoons, global warming, and others, as PAGASA experts walk them through these meteorological hazards.

Digital interactive hazard maps will also be available for people to identify possible meteorological and geological hazards present in a specific location.

All these and more at the 2015 NSTW on July 24-28 at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia, Pasay City. Admission is free. For more information, go to www.nstw.dost.gov.ph (S&T Media Service)
Processing Center for Ilocos farmers
Source: http://www.dar.gov.ph
The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) has recently signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the local government unit (LGU) of Sto. Domingo, Ilocos Sur and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for the improvement of the processing center for Canton Noodles out of Squash in Sto. Domingo, Ilocos Sur.

One hundred sixty six (166) members of the Metro Nambaran Agrarian Reform Cooperative will benefit from the project under Village Level Processing Center Enhancement Project.

The DTI, represented by Ms. Grace Lapastora, will provide the necessary technical and extension services such as conduct of skills, management and entrepreneurial training programs and product development; shared service facilities such as cutting machine/slicer, vacuum sealer, and will assist in the preparation of necessary documents for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) permit/registration and all possible assistance and to monitor, evaluate and help ensure success of the project.news national 1 july 8 2015

LGU Sto. Domingo, represented by Mayor Amado Tadena, will provide technical support and guidance to the cooperative and assist in the promotion of the project being its “one town, one product” of the municipality.

The cooperative will provide 20% of the total fund release of DAR in the form of labor as an equity.

The DAR, represented by Ms. Christianne C. Suguitan, will provide rural enterprise support in the amount of Three Hundred Fifty Thousand Pesos (Php350,000.00), of which Two Hundred Ninety Thousand Pesos (Php290,000.00) is for the improvement of the processing center and Sixty Thousand Pesos (Php60,000.00) for product testing analysis and other laboratory tests and for securing the FDA license to operate.

Through the concerted efforts of the parties involved, the processing center is believed to prosper to the fullest and play a very vital role in boosting the stock of the cooperative and of the municipality of Sto. Domingo.

Developing a cooperative’s capacity to manage its own enterprise has always been the focus of all concerned agencies of the government and be able to help its members battle poverty and make them self sufficient and enjoy a lighter, fulfilled life for the family. (Ms. Rizalyn Ambida)
PRDP to fund at least P53M worth of enterprises sub-projects
Source: http://www.da.gov.ph
The Department of Agriculture’s Philippine Rural Development Project (DA-PRDP) has initially allotted over P53.34 million (M) worth of enterprise support sub-projects this year to help small farmers and producers in the rural communities.

The funds sourced from the Enterprise Development (I-REAP) Component include P34.82 M for the Cassava Production and Marketing Project in South Cotabato, P9.73 M for the Calamansi Trading and Consolidation Project in Oriental Mindoro, P5.80 M for the Coco Geonets Manufacturing Project in Albay, and P2.98 Small Livelihood Projects (SLPs) in Yolanda and 2013-earthquake stricken areas in Visayas.

The four SLPs, which include fish coral rehabilitation and fish trading, blue swimming crab production and marketing, cattle fattening, and goat production, will be implemented in Negros Occidental.

“These SLPs are implemented in areas that were damaged by Typhoon Yolanda and the 2013 earthquake,” explained PRDP Deputy Director Arnel De Mesa during the I-REAP Component Coordination Meeting on June 30, 2015 in Calapan, Oriental Mindoro.

He added that these sub-projects were initially exempted from the Provincial Commodity Investment Plan (PCIP) and Value Chain Analysis (VCA) requirements of the PRDP prior to project approval.

The VCA is the basis in identifying public and private investment opportunities, while a PCIP is a three-year strategic plan specifying the interventions needed to support and production and marketing of commodities in the area.

Oriental Mindoro Governor Alfonso Umali Jr. who also graced the activity noted that the DA played a vital role in the recent developments in the province.

Oriental Mindoro is the recipient of sub-projects, aimed at reviving the calamansi industry in the province—including a farm to market road, which is currently on-going implementation.

While the enterprise sub-project has not yet commenced, the DA has already provided initial assistance to calamansi farmers in the province through market matching of their produce with buyers in Manila.

DA Agribusiness and Marketing Assistant Secretary and I-REAP Component Head Leandro Gazmin has enjoined I-REAP personnel to provide additional assistance to LGU partners to help them come up with refined business plans and hasten review process of documents.

Under the I-REAP Component, the PRDP will provide the 80% counterpart of the total project cost, while the LGU will share 20%.

The proponent group (PG) will pitch in an additional equity amounting to 20% of the total project cost.

PGs are farmers’ groups, associations, or cooperatives that are ready to partner with PRDP for the production, processing or marketing of priority commodities of a particular province engaged in the Project.

At present, at least P1.47 M worth of sub-projects including LGU and PG equities has been in the pipeline for PRDP.

PRDP is a six-year national project that aims to establish a modern, inclusive, value-chain oriented, and climate resilient agriculture and fisheries sector. It is implemented through the partnership of the DA, World Bank and LGUs.
Study identifies most stable varieties
Source: http://www.da.gov.ph
To identify appropriate varieties with wider or location-specific adaptation, the project titled Accelerating the development and adoption of next-generation (Next Gen) rice varieties for major ecosystem in the Philippines conducted the initial participatory varietal selection (PVS) in selected sites across 16 regions of the country.

PVS entries were composed of new varieties developed under the DA’s Rice Self-sufficiency Program implemented in 2009 to 2013 and serving as start-up materials in the new Food Staples Sufficiency Program under Next Gen.

Next Gen aims to use recent advances in plant breeding and improved computational power to make the country’s rice breeding program more efficient.

PVS is part of Next Gen’s component 2 that aims to accelerate the adoption of high-yielding rice varieties through a new multi-environment testing strategy and production of high quality seeds.

“Through PVS, yield trials in farmers’ fields will help them see how improved varieties perform in their area,” said Thelma F. Padolina, senior fellow at PhilRice.

In the recent assessment and planning workshop held in Subic, Zambales on 7-11 June 2015, Next Gen identified the preferred varieties by the farmers after 131 seed kits were deployed across 16 regions in 2014 wet season.

Out of the 86 trials established, 63 sites have valid data and were then analyzed by Next Gen researchers.

According to Dr. Mary Jean Du of the International Rice Research institute (IRRI), after analyzing data from regional clusters 1, 2 and 3 (composed of Luzon and Visayas regions), the most stable varieties across sites are the following: NSIC Rc302, inbred variety for irrigated lowland; RAELINE 3 for rainfed and drought; PSB Rc68 for submergence; and NSIC Rc330 for saline.

In regional cluster 4 (Mindanao), Du reported that the most stable varieties across sites are the following: NSIC Rc300 (performed best in Lanao Del Norte and Zamboanga Sibugay), NSIC Rc222 and NSIC Rc298 (performed best in Bukidnon and Misamis Oriental) for irrigated lowland; NSIC Rc192 and NSIC Rc348 for rainfed; NSIC Rc226 for saline; and PR40146 for submergence.

Varieties RAELINE 3 and PR40146, however, have not been released commercially.

Preference analysis and sensory evaluation of PVS test entries and field day activities were done as observed during monitoring visits of the Next Gen team to different PVS sites in 16 regions.

The Next Gen project is an initiative under the Food Staples Sufficiency Program of DA being implemented jointly with PhilRice and IRRI in partnership with UP Los Baños, DA RFOs, Bureau of Plant Industry, state colleges and universities, LGUs and rice farmers.
SSS meets with stakeholders in Aklan
Source: https://www.sss.gov.ph
Top Social Security System (SSS) officials led by SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Emilio S. de Quiros Jr. recently met with 125 employers and members during a Stakeholders? Forum in Kalibo, Aklan.

During the forum, De Quiros discussed the latest news about SSS operations in Western Visayas. The Stakeholders? Forum held at the Marzon Hotel in Kalibo, Aklan on June 29 is part of the three-day regional visit of SSS officials in the region. The forum is held regularly to get feedback from members and employers.

The photo (right) shows De Quiros addressing the concerns raised by members and employers. Other than De Quiros, the SSS panel was composed of SSS Kalibo Branch Head Elisa M. Llavan, SSS Assistant Vice President for Western Visayas Division Raul A. Casiano, SSS Senior Vice President for Visayas and Mindanao Operations Eddie A. Jara, and SSS Senior Vice President for Administration May Catherine Ciriaco.
PDIC to continue processing claims of Rural Bank of Sta. Magdalena (Sorsogon) depositors
Source: http://www.pdic.gov.ph
The Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) announced that it will continue to receive and process deposit insurance claims from depositors of the closed Rural Bank of Sta. Magdalena (Sorsogon), Inc. at the PDIC Claims Counter, 4th Floor, SSS Bldg., 6782 Ayala Avenue corner V.A. Rufino Street, Makati City until May 15, 2017. Claims may also be filed through mail.

Rural Bank of Sta. Magdalena, which was ordered closed on May 14, 2015, has P19.2 million in total estimated insured deposits involving 886 accounts. A total of 11.0 million in insured deposits covering 88 accounts was paid during the onsite claim settlement operations (CSO). Another P3.3 million was settled thru postal money orders sent via registered mail to 629 accounts of depositors with balances of P50,000 and below where filing of claims was waived by PDIC.

As of May 27, 2015, PDIC has yet to receive deposit insurance claims for P4.6 million covering 115 accounts. In accordance with the provisions of the PDIC Charter, the last day for filing deposit insurance claims in the said bank is on May 15, 2017. After said date, PDIC shall no longer accept any deposit insurance claim.

When filing deposit insurance claims, depositors are advised to personally present their duly accomplished Claim Form, original evidence of deposit, and two (2) valid photo-bearing IDs with signature. The same set of documents must be enclosed when claims are filed through mail.

Depositors who are below 18 years old should submit either a photocopy of their Birth Certificate issued by the National Statistics Office (NSO) or a duly certified copy issued by the Local Civil Registrar as an additional requirement, with the Claim Form signed by the parent. Claimants who are not the signatories in the bank records are required to submit an original copy of a notarized Special Power of Attorney. In the case of a minor depositor, the Special Power of Attorney must be executed by the parent.

The procedures and requirements for filing deposit insurance claims are posted in the PDIC website, www.pdic.gov.ph. The Claim Form and format of the Special Power of Attorney may also be downloaded from the PDIC website.

For more information, depositors may contact the Public Assistance Department at telephone numbers (02) 841-4630 to 31, or e-mail at pad@pdic.gov.ph. Depositors outside Metro Manila may call the PDIC Toll Free Hotline at 1-800-1-888-PDIC (7342).
PhilHealth Opens 9th LHIO in NCR
Source: http://www.philhealth.gov.ph
THE Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) recently opened its Local Health Insurance Office (LHIO) in Valenzuela City.
Located at the 6th floor of Puregold along Paso de Blas Road corner East Service Road North, LHIO Valenzuela was put up in partnership with Puregold as part of joint efforts to make transactions accessible and more convenient for mall goers who are likewise PhilHealth members. Puregold Management provided free office space to the said LHIO for ten consecutive years.

The new LHIO is expected to cater to the needs of PhilHealth members in the CAMANAVA area, including nearby Malolos in Bulacan.

Alexander A. Padilla, PhilHealth President and Chief Executive Officer said that the opening of the new LHIO is a fulfilment of a promise to bring PhilHealth’s services closer to its members. “Ito ang pagtupad na dalhin ang PhilHealth sa ibaba upang makapagbigay ng serbisyo sa mga mamamayan at makapagdulot ng mga benepisyo para sa pinakamaliliit na mamamayan. Handa na ang PhilHealth na magserbisyo dito sa Valenzuela. Habang pinalalawak namin ang mga benepisyo, patuloy din naming pararamihin ang aming mga tanggapan upang maabot ang ating mga miyembro.”

With an initial six-member team, LHIO Valenzuela offers public service and hassle-free transactions such as initial membership enrolment, updating and issuance of Member Data Records (MDR) and PhilHealth cards. According to the LHIO Head Lucile Arcenas, acceptance of reports from employers and claim documents from healthcare providers will soon be added to their services.
Speaking on behalf of Valenzuela City Mayor Rex Gatchalian, CSW Head Dorothy Evangelista said that the Gatchalian supports whatever program PhilHealth has.

Anastacia Bartolome, a 76-year old senior citizen was very thankful for the opening of PhilHealth’s new office. “Malaking tulong na malapit na ang PhilHealth, hindi ko na kailangang magbiyahe para kumuha na aking Member Data Record.” She was one of the senior citizens enrolled under RA 10645 or the Mandatory PhilHealth Coverage for Senior Citizens.

On its soft launch in May this year, LHIO Valenzuela catered to more than 70 members. It now caters to an average of 300 members daily.

LHIO Valenzuela is the ninth LHIO in the National Capital Region and the 4th in PhilHealth’s North area. It is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. from Mondays to Fridays.


Last Updated: 07 JULY 2015
Alternative photo archive with high resolutions
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Cabinet Secretary Jose Rene D. Almendras meets with Hiroshi Watanabe, Governor and CEO of the Japan Bank for International Cooperation in a courtesy call held at the receiving area of the President's Hall of Malacanan Palace on Tuesday (July 7). (Photo by Lauro Montellano Jr. / Malacanang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III presides over the Cabinet Budget Presentation meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace Monday (July 6). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III joins his official family in prayer before presiding over the Cabinet Budget Presentation Meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace Monday (July 6). (Photo by Lauro Montellano, Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III acknowledges the men and women in uniform participating in the pass-in review during the 68th Founding Anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at the Haribon Hangar of the Air Force City in Clark Air Base, Pampanga on Wednesday (July 01). This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Matatag na Bagwis, Dangal ng Bayan, Lakas ng Sambayanan”. The PAF was founded on July 1, 1947- two years after the end of World War II. It traces its lineage to the Philippine Army Air Corps established in 1941. (Photo by Robert Viñas/ Rey Baniquet - Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III is received by Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin; Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Gregorio Pio Catapang, Jr.; and PAF Commanding General Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Delgado upon arrival for the 68th Founding Anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at the Haribon Hangar of the Air Force City in Clark Air Base, Pampanga on Wednesday (July 01). This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Matatag na Bagwis, Dangal ng Bayan, Lakas ng Sambayanan”. The PAF was founded on July 1, 1947- two years after the end of World War II. It traces its lineage to the Philippine Army Air Corps established in 1941. (Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
The Aerobatic Demonstration and Opener Pass of the PAF during the 68th founding anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at the Haribon Hangar of the Air Force City in Clark Air Base, Pampanga on Wednesday (July 01). This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Matatag na Bagwis, Dangal ng Bayan, Lakas ng Sambayanan”. The PAF was founded on July 1, 1947- two years after the end of World War II. It traces its lineage to the Philippine Army Air Corps, which was established in 1941. (Photo by Rolando Mailo / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the 68th founding anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at the Haribon Hangar of the Air Force City in Clark Air Base, Pampanga on Wednesday (July 01). This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Matatag na Bagwis, Dangal ng Bayan, Lakas ng Sambayanan”. The PAF was founded on July 1, 1947, two years after the end of World War II. It traces its lineage to the Philippine Army Air Corps, which was established in 1941. Also in is photo Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin. (Photo by Rolando Mailo / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the 68th Founding Anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at the Haribon Hangar of the Air Force City in Clark Air Base, Pampanga on Wednesday (July 01). This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Matatag na Bagwis, Dangal ng Bayan, Lakas ng Sambayanan”. The PAF was founded on July 1, 1947- two years after the end of World War II. It traces its lineage to the Philippine Army Air Corps, which was established in 1941. Also in photo are Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Chief of Staff General Gregorio Pio Catapang, Jr.;
and PAF Commanding General Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Delgado. (Photo by Rolando Mailo / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III leads the singing of the Philippine National Anthem during the 68th founding anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at the Haribon Hangar of the Air Force City in Clark Air Base, Pampanga on Wednesday (July 01). This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Matatag na Bagwis, Dangal ng Bayan, Lakas ng Sambayanan”. The PAF was founded on July 1, 1947- two years after the end of World War II. It traces its lineage to the Philippine Army Air Corps, which was established in 1941. Also in photo Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Gregorio Pio Catapang, Jr., PAF Commanding General Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Delgado. (Photo by Rolando Mailo / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III, accompanied by PAF Commanding General Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Delgado, reviews the troops during the 68th founding anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at the Haribon Hangar of the Air Force City in Clark Air Base, Pampanga on Wednesday (July 01). This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Matatag na Bagwis, Dangal ng Bayan, Lakas ng Sambayanan”. The PAF was founded on July 1, 1947- two years after the end of World War II. It traces its lineage to the Philippine Army Air Corps established in 1941. (Photo by Rolando Mailo/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III checks the scale model of FA 50 aircraft frpom South Korea as part of the exhibition during the celebration of the 68th founding anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at the Haribon Hangar of Air Force City in Clark Air Base, Pampanga on Wednesday (July 01). This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Matatag na Bagwis, Dangal ng Bayan, Lakas ng Sambayanan”. The PAF was founded on July 1, 1947- two years after the end of World War II. It traces its lineage to the Philippine Army Air Corps established in 1941. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III checks the newly acquired choppers as part of exhibition during celebration of the 68th founding anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at the Haribon Hangar of the Air Force City in Clark Air Base, Pampanga on Wednesday (July 01). This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Matatag na Bagwis, Dangal ng Bayan, Lakas ng Sambayanan”. The PAF was founded on July 1, 1947- two years after the end of World War II. It traces its lineage to the Philippine Army Air Corps established in 1941. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III receives a coffeetable book presented by PAF Commanding General Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Delgado during the 68th founding anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at the Haribon Hangar of the Air Force City in Clark Air Base, Pampanga on Wednesday (July 01). This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Matatag na Bagwis, Dangal ng Bayan, Lakas ng Sambayanan”. The PAF was founded on July 1, 1947- two years after the end of World War II. It traces its lineage to the Philippine Army Air Corps established in 1941. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the 68th founding anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at the Haribon Hangar of the Air Force City in Clark Air Base, Pampanga on Wednesday (July 01). This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Matatag na Bagwis, Dangal ng Bayan, Lakas ng Sambayanan”. The PAF was founded on July 1, 1947- two years after the end of World War II. It traces its lineage to the Philippine Army Air Corps, which was established in 1941. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III, assisted by PAF Commanding General Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Delgado, presents the command plaque and streamer during the awarding ceremony for the 68th founding anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at the Haribon Hangar of the Air Force City in Clark Air Base, Pampanga on Wednesday (July 01). This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Matatag na Bagwis, Dangal ng Bayan, Lakas ng Sambayanan”. The PAF was founded on July 1, 1947- two years after the end of World War II. It traces its lineage to the Philippine Army Air Corps, which was established in 1941. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 68th founding anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at the Haribon Hangar of the Air Force City in Clark Air Base, Pampanga on Wednesday (July 01). This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Matatag na Bagwis, Dangal ng Bayan, Lakas ng Sambayanan”. The PAF was founded on July 1, 1947- two years after the end of World War II. It traces its lineage to the Philippine Army Air Corps, which was established in 1941. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III talks with Ana Theresia Hontiveros Baraquel after administering the oath as Philhealth Director in a ceremony at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (June 30). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III congratulates Ana Theresia Hontiveros Baraquel after administering the oath as Philhealth Director in a ceremony at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (June 30). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Robert Viñas/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III congratulates Commission on Elections (Comelec) Commissioner Rowena Amelia Guanzon after administering the oath in a ceremony at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (June 30). (Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III congratulates Commission on Elections (Comelec) Commissioner Sheriff Abas after administering the oath in a ceremony at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (June 30). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
President Benigno S. Aquino III congratulates Health Secretary Janette Garin after administering the oath in a ceremony at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday (June 30). (Photo by Gil Nartea / Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau)
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One Luzon E-NewsMagazine 10 July 2015 Vol. 5 No. 134
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