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| President Aquino extols tourism-public works convergence program |
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(SAMAL ISLAND, Davao del Norte) President Benigno S. Aquino III lauded the ‘convergence program’ of the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), which generated a number of infrastructure projects spread across 15 regions.
President Aquino reported in a speech here Wednesday that this joint venture by DOT and DPWH has so far produced 463 tourism roads in 75 out of the country’s 81 provinces.
“Malaking ambag po ito sa paglago ng ating lokal at pambansang ekonomiya,” President Aquino said, noting the significance of having a vibrant tourism industry given its ‘multiplier effect’ to the economy.
The Island Garden City of Samal circumferential road here that the President Aquino inspected during this visit Wednesday, is among the many projects co-funded by DOT and DPWH.
Once this road becomes fully operational, President Aquino said, it would further ease traveling for tourists who are looking forward to do various water activities and nature tripping in the island’s famous tourist spots, leading to more economic opportunities for the people of Davao.
“Tiyak po, kapag napapakinabangan na nang buo ang kalsadang ito, higit pang makukumbinsi ang marami na talagang ‘it’s more fun in the Philippines,’ lalo na dito sa inyo sa Davao,” he said.
With the success of the program, President Aquino proposed an additional P24-billion to the budget of the DPWH to complete other tourism road projects in the pipeline by 2016.
The government has so far allocated a total of P60.48-billion pesos for the Tourism Road Infrastructure Program of DOT and DPWH from 2011 to 2015.
In Davao del Norte alone, over P9-billion was spent by the government for the improvement of its roads, bridges, farm-to-market roads, ports, irrigation, and flood control projects, President Aquino said.
These developments, especially in the accessibility of the country’s tourism gateways, helped encourage more domestic travelers from the DOT’s initial target of 37.5 million in 2011 to 51.7 million in 2015.
In terms of international tourist arrivals, the average annual rate also increased by 8.3 percent from 2010 to 2014, which is 6.7 percent higher compared to the figures from 2001 to 2009.
“Malinaw po na kongkretong patunay ang ating DOT-DPWH Convergence Program sa transpormasyong hatid ng Daang Matuwid, pati na ang mga sektor na alam nating kapaki-pakinabang sa taumbayan,” President Aquino said.
President Aquino was in Mindanao to check on the government's ongoing projects aimed at bolstering infrastructures to reinforce the country's tourism industry.
Prior to visiting Davao, he went to Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental to update its residents on the P5.1-billion Panguil Bay Bridge project that would connect Tangub City to the municipality of Tubod in Lanao del Norte.
While in Davao City, President Aquino also took the opportunity to meet local executives allied with the Liberal Party in a so-called “gathering of friends” event to promote the candidacy of its standard-bearer, outgoing Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II. PND (hdc) |
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| APEC Finance and Central Bank officials to finalize Cebu Action Plan for Friday's signing |
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(LAPU-LAPU CITY, Cebu) Finance and central bank officials of member economies of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) will hammer out on Thursday the final version of the Cebu Action Plan (CAP), putting emphasis on how to tackle future challenges and ensure continuing growth in the region.
The finance ministers and central bank officials are meeting for the APEC Finance and Central Bank Deputies’ Meeting (FCBDM) at Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Hotel here Thursday.
In his welcome message, National Treasurer Roberto Tan said that as they iron out the final version of the CAP, they would stick to their gains and reflect on the strategic and long-term issues.
First, he said, they must consider how to take advantage of opportunities to sustain and support robust regional economic growth and deepen their cooperation; and second, they must discuss how member economies could address the challenges that might undermine their gains.
Given the region's huge contribution to global growth, Tan said it is imperative for the APEC to further advance financial integration as a driver for intensified intra-regional trade and investment.
"We will discuss how we can forward financial integration in the region to make economic growth more inclusive," he said.
Citing an example, he said the geographical fragmentation of the supply chain presents vast opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to increase participation in regional and global trade.
At the same time, he stressed that reducing the cost of sending remittances and expanding financial literacy also promote financial integration.
Tan further underscored that the economic gains of the APEC's regional cooperation could be further enhanced through fiscal reforms and transparency.
"We will discuss how we can plug the holes in the proverbial leaky fiscal bucket and how we can manage fiscal resources more efficiently," Tan said.
"Fiscal reforms and transparency not only help ensure fiscal sustainability but also makes fiscal policy more effective, efficient, and responsive."
Recognizing the risks that APEC economies face because of the region's geographical location in the Pacific Ring of Fire, APEC member economies must work on measures to mitigate the impact of disasters and natural calamities.
It has been estimated that 70 percent of the natural disasters that occurred between 2003 and 2013 hit the Asia-Pacific region, he said.
"These disasters have a significant implication for public financial management as well. Given this alarming threat, it is critical that APEC member economies work together to create means and safeguards against shocks to fiscal resources from natural disasters and other unpredictable events," he noted.
Tan also pointed out that although growth has also come with unprecedented infrastructure development, there are still significant gaps.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) estimates that the region needs an annual financing of $800 billion for infrastructure development.
Members of the APEC must recognize the role of the private sector in unlocking finance for infrastructure development, through public-private partnerships (PPP).
"For this to materialize, bankable projects have to be identified in the pipeline and capital markets developed," he said, adding they have worked throughout the year to come up with the CAP, which will become a living and flexible document that addresses challenges within the region."
The Asia Pacific accounted for one-third of world output in the year 2000, and at present, it contributes 57 percent of global production.
The region’s role as an engine of growth comes from strong trade and investment linkages across member economies, with intra-regional trade estimated at 46.5 percent of world trade. PND (as) |
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| APEC policy brief calls for greater structural reform within member economies |
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(CEBU CITY, Cebu) Put more money in people’s pockets.
This, according to a new policy brief issued by the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Policy Support Unit (PSU), will no doubt help fuel new and under-tapped sources of growth.
But how will the government do this amid rising uncertainties in global markets? Additional emphasis on policies that support social protection, innovation, entrepreneurship, career training, and skills development is needed, said the brief, which was issued in conjunction with this week’s meetings of APEC Finance Ministers and Structural Reform Ministers held here. In other words -- greater structural reform within APEC member economies.
The report comes as trade growth -- the traditional engine of Asia-Pacific economies -- lagged behind gross domestic product (GDP) growth in the APEC region three years running. It is the first time this has occurred since APEC’s founding in 1989.
Director of the APEC PSU, Dr. Denis Hew, said a "new normal", characterized by slower trade growth, is prompting Asia-Pacific economies to capitalize on household consumption as an emerging driver of productivity.
"Putting more money in people’s pockets encourages spending and lifts economies, which is what structural reform can help to make possible," Hew explained.
“The adoption of policies that promote the efficient use of resources within economies and support business development, job creation, and increases in wages are a big priority moving forward,” he explained.
“It comes down to lowering complex behind-the-border barriers to business and social mobility on which next generation growth in the Asia-Pacific greatly depends.”
In addition, the brief said significant economic and employment inroads could be attainable through stepped-up fiscal rationalization, financial reform, trade liberalization and development of institutions to improve the management of human, material and financial resources. Policies that promote human capital investment and social protection are also described as priorities.
Emmanuel San Andres, an analyst with the APEC PSU and co-author of the brief, noted that structural reforms not only contribute to productivity but also help make growth more inclusive.
“There are particular gains to be made when it comes to opening up economic opportunities for women and vulnerable communities, increasing competitiveness, encouraging innovation and improving social protection,” said San Andres.
“The reform agenda within APEC is coming together, which is promising, though the region’s economies are really only at the end of the beginning of this long, hard slog,” he added.
“The launch of the Renewed APEC Agenda for Structural Reform 2016-2020 will position member economies to cohesively tackle the difficult task of policy implementation that lies ahead.”
Current efforts are focused on enhancing science and technology education, competitiveness in the services sector, micro, small and medium enterprise participation in international production and supply chains, and infrastructure and connectivity across APEC economies
These assessments set the tone for the development of further reform measures by APEC Ministers here this week and the subsequent push for adoption within the region.
Established in September 2007, the APEC PSU is a research and analysis arm of the APEC. Considered as an integral part of the APEC architecture, the unit is funded by voluntary contributions and overseen by a governance board.
The Policy Support Unit, which is attached to the APEC Secretariat, became operational in 2008, and operates under a set of governance arrangements. Its mandate has been extended until the end of 2020 following the agreement of the APEC Ministers at the 2012 APEC Ministerial Meeting. (acg) |
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| President Aquino urges citizens to help stop illegal logging |
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President Benigno S. Aquino III called on citizens to support the government’s effort to halt illegal logging, during his visit to Davao City on Wednesday.
Before students and teachers of the Teodora Palma Gil Elementary School in Poblacion district, the President assured that his administration is determined to confiscate logs and punish illegal loggers.
“Marami talagang pasaway,” President Aquino said when asked by one student on why illegal logging continues even if it is against the law.
“Pag may nakita kayo, i-report ninyo kaagad para matulungan natin ang ating kapulisan, at ang DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources) para masigurado nating tumigil na sila nang tumigil dahil huhulihin natin nang huhulihin,” he said.
The Aquino administration has come up with a policy that stops the selling of confiscated logs through public bidding, an effort aimed at putting an end to illegal logging, which previous governments tried but failed to accomplish.
“Gumawa na tayo ng patakaran, hindi na pwedeng i-bid, hindi na pwedeng ibenta,” said President Aquino.
“Dati kasi, may gimik diyan ang mga illegal logger. Puputulin, ‘pag nahuli, mag-bi-bidding para mapunta rin sa kanila. Tapos nagkakaayusan ng bidding para mura daw ang kuha ng estado.”
To the illegal loggers, the President warned, “Basta ang pinutol ninyo... na akala ninyo maipupuslit ninyo, mabibili ninyo, hindi na pwede ‘yon. ‘Pag pinutol ninyo, sisiguraduhin naming hindi kayo makikinabang, puro gastos lang ang napala ninyo at tuloy-tuloy na hinuhuli natin lahat ito”.
“'Yung sentrong istratehiya natin diyan, putulin mo nang iligal, pipilitin naming hindi mo mapakinabangan dahil hindi mo makukuha ‘yung kahoy—‘yon ang hinahabol natin,” he added.
President Aquino noted that the government has confiscated more than 400 truckloads of illegal logs, some of which have been donated to Davao, through the joint effort of the Technical Education and Skills Development and the DENR.
The Chief Executive said public schools benefit from the confiscated logs made into classroom chairs and tables.
"‘Pag may kahoy na nakumpiska ang gobyerno na illegally cut—siyempre, hindi mo na maitatanim ulit iyan, ano—gagawin na kaagad silya at saka mesa ng public school system natin,” he said.
President Aquino also recalled the flash floods in Mindanao in 2011, which resulted in deaths and destruction of properties.
“Nung 2011, nagkaroon ng mga bahang matindi at ‘yung dahilan… Isang malaking dahilan noon ang mga troso. Mayroon na tayong mas maraming ulan, pinakawalan pa ang mga troso noong kasagsagan ng ulan, ‘yung troso nag-ipitan dito sa mga imprastrukturang tulad ng tulay, sinira lahat ng mga tulay na ‘yon. So, sinira na ang kalikasan, sinira ang imprastruktura natin, patung-patong ang gastos na sana hindi na natin ginastos at napunta sa mas may kabuluhan, at iilan ang nakinabang at talagang nilalabanan natin ‘yan,” said the President. PND (jm) |
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| APEC speeding up financial integration to boost growth through trade and investment |
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(MACTAN, Cebu) Member economies of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) are working to accelerate financial integration to maintain strong trade and investment that are imperative in sustaining robust economic growth in the region.
The Philippines’ National Treasurer Roberto Tan said the region contributes 57 percent of global output, noting that its role as an engine of growth comes from the strong trade and investment linkages across member economies.
Tan said intra-regional trade is estimated at 46.5 percent of world trade.
“Given this, it is imperative for APEC to further advance financial integration as a driver for intensified intra-regional trade and investment,” he said during the opening of the APEC Finance and Central Bank Deputies’ Meeting here Thursday.
Tan said APEC finance officials are discussing initiatives that could forward financial integration in the region and make economic growth more inclusive, as they finalize the Cebu Action Plan (CAP), a roadmap for reforms for APEC member economies.
“For example, the geographical fragmentation of the supply chain prevents vast opportunities for SMEs (small and medium enterprises) to increase participation in the regional and global trade. Lowering the cost of sending remittances and expanding financial literacy also promote financial integration,” he stressed.
Tan bared that APEC senior finance officers worked for more than 12 hours on Wednesday to finalize the CAP, which they will discuss on Thursday for endorsement to APEC finance ministers.
Apart from financial integration, other pillars of the roadmap are financial resilience, fiscal reforms and transparency, and infrastructure development and financing.
Tan also noted the significant implication of natural disasters for public financial management.
It has been estimated that 70 percent of natural disasters that occurred from 2003 to 2013 hit the Asia-Pacific region.
“Given this alarming threat, it is critical that APEC economies work together to create means and safeguards against shocks to fiscal sources, hnatural disasters and other unpredictable events,” he added. PNA (ldv) |
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| APEC health ministers: World faces ‘triple burden’ of infectious diseases, mental health, ageing |
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(CEBU CITY, Cebu) The world faces the “triple burden” of infectious diseases, mental health, and ageing, health ministers of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) member economies said in a joint statement issued here.
Recognizing that good health and quality of life contribute to the APEC’s overall goal of advancing inclusive economic growth in the region, health ministers across the Asia Pacific are thus pushing for the adoption of their Healthy Asia Pacific 2020 Initiative.
"Good health allows citizens to reach their full productive potential, and the innovations that drive good health provide an astounding economic return," said Health Secretary Janette Garin, head of the 5th APEC High Level Meeting on Health and the Economy (HLM5).
In the statement issued following the HLM5 meeting, health ministers of the 21 APEC economies said disasters, as well as the emergence and re-emergence of infectious diseases, pose a threat to the health security of everyone in the region.
They commended the Philippines for its response to the 2013 super typhoon Yolanda (international name: Haiyan) and South Korea for effectively curbing the spread of the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) earlier this year.
They further noted that health emergency preparedness, surveillance, response, and recovery systems in such instances must be improved.
In the case of the Philippines’ Yolanda experience, the APEC health ministers encouraged “APEC economies to learn from this experience to enhance their response to disasters”.
To South Korea’s actions during the MERS-CoV outbreak, they recommended “that the protocols used be shared with other economies”.
The APEC health ministers also encouraged greater research collaboration with other countries most impacted by the MERS-CoV threat to better understand and control its spread.
“Recent global and regional experience has demonstrated the need for increased investment in health and improved capacities of health systems in this area,” they added.
Member economies of the APEC must establish core capacities for prevention, detection, and control of infectious diseases, as provided in the World Health Organization’s International Health Regulations (2005), the health ministers further said. (acg) |
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| More than 100 Asia-Pacific chief executive officers join discussions to thresh out Cebu Action Plan |
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(LAPU-LAPU CITY, Cebu) More than 100 financial industry players, including chief executive officers of multinational investment banks, on Thursday joined Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) finance ministers in the discussion to iron out the Cebu Action Plan (CAP), which is expected to be signed on Friday.
The Finance Sector Roundtable and Dialogue with APEC Finance Officials and Ministers aims to detail the contents of the Cebu Action Plan to the members of the private sector.
Delegates from the private sector are expected to share their views on pressing issues confronting the financial industry and regional economy, as well as give additional inputs on how the financial sector could help pursue the objectives of the CAP.
The Cebu Action Plan, a development roadmap drafted by the Philippines, will be formally launched on Friday, following a series of Philippine-hosted meetings and workshops with senior officials from finance ministries across the Asia Pacific.
Financial integration, fiscal reforms and transparency, financial resilience, and infrastructure development and financing, are among the CAP's four pillars.
"Private sector participation is a crucial determinant of success and sustainability in any endeavor," Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima said.
"As host of the 2015 APEC meetings, we are pleased to see the overwhelming participation and interest of financial sector executives in the discussions on the Cebu Action Plan. Asia Pacific's financial future is in great hands with them sharing this journey with us."
Executives from Citigroup, JP Morgan Chase, Standard Chartered Bank, Goldman Sachs, ING, Barclays Investment, Deutsche Bank AG, and HSBC joined the discussions.
Multinational insurance companies, credit-rating agencies, and development institutions are also part of the meeting.
The two-day event is being held simultaneously with the ongoing APEC Finance and Central Bank Deputies' meeting.
The APEC Finance Ministers' Meeting will be held on Friday (September 11).
The Cebu Action Plan, which enjoys broad support from various APEC member economies, is seen as the Philippines' legacy to the region as an output for its APEC hosting this year.
Peru, host of APEC 2016, has already expressed its commitment to help champion the Cebu Action Plan. PND (as) |
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| President enjoins youth to be prime movers in preserving environment |
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(DAVAO CITY) President Benigno S. Aquino III called on the youth to be prime movers in caring for the environment, when he met with pupils of the Teodoro Palma Gil Elementary School here Wednesday.
Asked by an elementary student on government efforts to improve the quality of air in the country, the President noted that the government has a Clean Air Act, which aims to curb air pollution.
Citing an example, he said the Clean Air Act requires motor vehicles to undergo smoke emission tests.
“Isa sa mga ginawa ni (Interior) Secretary Mar (Roxas) ‘nung siya ay nasa DOTC (Department of Transportation and Communications), mayroong mga smoke emission testing centers na sinasabi mga 600 hanggang 800 sasakyan ang na-te-testing nila,” he said, adding that the government has also shut down establishments caught giving away fake certifications.
The President further said while the government is addressing illegal logging, it has also spearheaded the planting of at least 1 billion trees.
“Next year, matatapos natin ang target nating magtanim ng one-and-a-half billion trees,” he said.
He also said that the Climate Change Commission is carrying out measures that would better prepare the country for natural disasters.
“At siyempre, nandito tayo para mag-apela sa inyong lahat na kayong nakababata sa amin, importante na kayo ang maging matatag as prime mover,” he said.
As the country faces a severe spell of El Niño, the President said the youth could directly help by conserving water and by saving electricity, for instance by unplugging appliances that are not in use.
“Pero ang pinaka-importante, ‘yung mas aral kayo, mas bago ang kaalaman ninyo kaysa sa aming mga nauna sa inyo at nakakausap ninyo ang mga magulang ninyo. Maibabahagi ninyo ang natutunan ninyo para ‘yung kanila ring kaalaman ay maging makabago... para lahat tayo magtulungan sa problemang pare-pareho nating haharapin,” he said.
Responding to another question on the K-to-12 Basic Education Program, the President explained that the program brings the Filipino youth at par with their counterparts around the world, in terms of knowledge.
“Ang mungkahi dito bigyan ang kabataan ng sapat na panahon para matuto nang buong-buo para kayanin na makipagsabayan sa kaalaman ng maski sino man sa buong mundo,” he said.
He also advised his audience never to stop learning.
“Pag hindi ka tumigil mag-aral, talagang ito ang susi para umangat nang umangat. Pero the minute na sabihin mo, ‘Alam ko na lahat nang dapat kong matutunan,’ ito ang umpisa ng paglubog dahil parating nagbabago ang kaalaman ng dumarami. So, ulitin ko, mabibigyan kayo ng pagkakataon na isagad ang inyong oportunidad para kayo umasenso. Ito ang habol natin doon sa K-to-12,” he said. PND (ag) |
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| Executive Secretary Ochoa presents budget of the Office of the President for Fiscal Year 2016 to Congress |
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Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. told the House of Representatives on Thursday that the Office of the President (OP) was increasing its spending plan for Fiscal Year 2016 by 10 percent due to higher funding requirements for personnel services and capital outlays.
Appearing before the House Committee on Appropriations, Ochoa presented the proposed P2.825 billion budget plan of the OP, up by P258 million from the 2015 allocation of P2.567 billion.
Specifically, the proposed funding for OP’s Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) is higher by 2 percent, or P46.6 million, to P1.957 billion, from the current year’s appropriation.
The provision for Capital Outlay (CO), meanwhile, has been raised to P96.9 million, by 76.9 million, for 2016 to fund continuing improvements being undertaken within the OP facilities.
The proposed budget for Personnel Services (PS) is higher by 21 percent, or P134.67 million, to P771.67 million, compared to the previous spending package, in order to meet the actual salaries and other compensation benefits of all OP personnel as of December 31, 2014, including retirement and life insurance premiums.
When broken down to reflect the output and activities of the office, 71 percent of the P2.825-billion budget would be earmarked for operations, while 29 percent for general administration and support services, according to Ochoa.
The OP provides executive, technical and management services, advisory services, legal services and Presidential Executive Staff services to the President of the country in the exercise of his functions as head of state, chief executive and commander-in-chief.
Under Executive Order No. 292, the OP consists of the OP-Proper and bodies under the chairmanship of the President, other executive offices, and government-owned and -controlled corporations under it.
The OP-Proper includes the Private Office, Executive Office, Common Staff Support System and the Presidential Assistant/Advisers System. PND (oes) |
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| Next year's APEC host backs Cebu Action Plan |
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(CEBU CITY, Cebu) As it gears to host next year's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), Peru has pledged its all-out support for the "ambitious proposal" that is the Cebu Action Plan, to be unveiled Friday.
The discussions here among finance leaders of APEC member economies, according to Peruvian Ministry of Finance and the Economy Director Fabier Roca,
will nourish Peru when it hosts the APEC in 2016.
"Peru is firmly committed to the Cebu Action Plan," Fabianis said during a press briefing held here Wednesday.
"When we host APEC, we will prepare the discussion for the implementation of the action plan, especially in the financial resilience and financial transparency micro economic issues," he added.
"A deep and impressive agenda" is how Fabianis described the CAP, even as APEC tries to draft an effective way for its implementation, at least in the short-term plan in the case of the Philippines and Vietnam.
"A very comprehensive action plan against not only a volatile market, but also to foster capital market development, to exchange information, to promote trade and investment through financial integration, and to make economies more resilient to economic shocks and disasters," he stressed.
There is also significant support from other APEC members for many policies and activities that are proposed to be included in the action plan.
The Cebu Action Plan, a development roadmap drafted by the Philippines with inputs from development partners and other member economies of the APEC, will be formally launched on Friday, following a series of Philippine-hosted meetings and workshops earlier in the year among senior officials from finance ministries across the Asia Pacific.
The CAP has four pillars: (1) financial integration, (2) fiscal reforms and transparency, (3) financial resilience, and (4) infrastructure development and financing.
"We have full commitments on that," he assured. "The Cebu Action Plan is an ambitious proposal which we believe the Asia-Pacific economies should be undertaking in order to build inclusive and resilient economies."
According to Fabianis, the pillars must be implemented, considering the unity of the economies."
"We understand that not all the APEC members are ready to implement in the short term but we must work with those economies to try to implement this instrument, to work and discuss around the instrument," he added. (acg) |
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| President Aquino graces APEC finance minister’s meeting in Cebu |
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(MACTAN, Cebu) President Benigno Aquino III graced the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Finance Ministers’ Meeting and Related Meetings attended by heads of finance ministries and top executives in Asia Pacific region at Shangri-La Hotel in Mactan, Cebu on Thursday, September 10.
In his speech, President Aquino underscored how the Cebu Action Plan (CAP) can help APEC member economies address challenges towards achieving more inclusive economic growth in the region.
“My positivity is reinforced by the Cebu Action Plan—named after one of the most progressive provinces in our nation—to which our economies are committing,” he said.
“I am told that it ticks all the right boxes: better financial integration among APEC members fosters an environment ripe for investment; greater transparency as regards government funds maximizes efficiencies—and more importantly—the benefits enjoyed by our peoples; and a renewed commitment to improve and finance infrastructure that will lay the necessary foundations for continued growth. Not to mention, the Cebu Action Plan will also help equip us to respond to some of the gravest threats to our economies in the form of natural disasters, particularly those caused by the new normal of climate change,” he added.
CAP is development roadmap introduced by the Philippines in January covering four pillars such as financial integration, fiscal transparency and policy reform, financial resiliency, and infrastructure development and financing.
It is expected to be approved by the APEC Finance Ministers on Friday.
In an interview with Budget Secretary Florencio Abad who was with the President during the event, he noted government’s efforts in promoting fiscal transparency.
“Today, the international budget partnership and some of the collaborating agencies released their 2015 report and the good news is they have ranked the Philippines number one in Southeast Asia insofar as open budget is concerned,” he said.
“We have increased our ranking from 48 points to 64, which is our highest since the open budget index was started in 2006 and we are next to South Korea in the whole of Asia and the 21st in the world. So, I think this is a recognition that the Philippines plays a leading role insofar as promoting greater transparency,” he added. PND (jb) |
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| GSIS offers calamity loan in three Pangasinan areas |
| Source: http://www.gsis.gov.ph |
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Active members and pensioners of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) in the municipalities of Bani and Agno and in Dagupan City in Pangasinan who were affected by typhoon Falcon and heavy monsoon rains may apply for emergency loan until September 18, 2015.
The GSIS allocated more than P180 million for the loan.
Active members who are either working or residing in the areas are eligible to apply if they are not on leave of absence without pay, have no arrears in paying premium contributions, have no loans in default, and have no pending administrative or criminal case.
The loan is payable in 36 monthly instalments and carries a 6 percent interest rate per annum.
The 2,403 active members in the covered areas who are first-time borrowers are eligible to apply for a P20,000 emergency loan, while those who have existing emergency loan balance, numbering 2,323, may apply for P40,000.
Members may apply for the loan through the GSIS Wireless Automated Processing System (GWAPS) kiosks located in GSIS offices, provincial capitols, city halls, selected municipal offices, large government agencies such as the Department of Education, and selected Robinsons Malls.
The 1,030 old-age pensioners are required to apply in person if they wish to avail of the P20,000 pension emergency loan (PEL). PEL is covered by a loan redemption insurance, which deems the loan fully paid in case of death of the borrower.
Active members who are also old-age pensioners may borrow only once.
Loan proceeds are electronically credited to the borrower’s GSIS eCard or unified multipurpose identification (UMID) card.
Interested applicants who have further inquiries may call the GSIS Contact Center at 847-4747. |
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| PCGG execs indicted over fraudulent compromise agreement |
| Source: http://www.ombudsman.gov.ph |
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For approving a compromise agreement that would leave the government receiving a mere pittance of the total aggregate land value, former Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG) commissioners Magtanggol Gunigundo, Reynaldo Guiao, Hermilo Rosal, Julieta Bertuben and Herminio Mendoza, together with Director Mauro Estrada, were ordered indicted by Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales for violation of Section 3(g) of Republic Act No. 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act).
Records disclose that in July 1987, a petition for forfeiture of ill-gotten wealth was filed against former Muntinlupa mayor Maximino Argana. During trial, Argana’s heirs offered a compromise settlement wherein the government would get 361.92 hectares, representing 75% of the total 481.78 hectares, while the heirs would retain the remaining 199.86 hectares or 25% of the land in dispute located in Famy and Pangil in Laguna.
In July 1998, the Sandiganbayan approved the compromise agreement.
In October 1998, the PCGG and the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) under a new set of officials, filed a Motion to Rescind Compromise Agreement and to Set Aside Judgment by Compromise on the ground of fraud and insidious misrepresentation. In 2000, the Sandiganbayan Third Division promulgated a resolution granting the Motion To Rescind.
Upon investigation by the Field Investigation Office, it was revealed that fraud and misrepresentation tainted the transaction wherein the parties deliberately omitted to disclose the property values when in fact, the parcel of property ceded to the government was valued at only P3.62M (based on the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program valuation of P10,000 per hectare) while the market value of the property retained by the Argana heirs located in the urban area was valued at P2.4B based on the market valuation of P2,000 per square meter.
Ombudsman Morales highlighted the Sandiganbayan’s observation that the agreement “is patently unfair” as it is “a virtual sell-out.”
“Due to the pronounced inequity in the distribution of properties between the government and the heirs under the agreement, the government stood to suffer substantial loss, hence, the contract was grossly and manifestly disadvantageous to the government,” stated the Resolution.
Section 3(g) of R.A. No. 3019 prohibits the act of entering, on behalf of the government, into any contract or transaction manifestly and grossly disadvantageous to the same, whether or not the public officer profited or will profit thereby.
The charges against Cecilio Estoesta and Zenaida Hernandez-Perez of the OSG were dismissed for lack of probable cause. |
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| CSC issues public advisory for September 12 fun run |
| Source: http://web.csc.gov.ph |
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More than 21,000 runners will compete in the R.A.C.E. to Serve V Fun Run to be held Saturday, September 12, at the Quirino Grandstand, Manila, the Civil Service Commission (CSC) announced.
Assembly time is at 5:00 a.m. The CSC said runners should be at the starting line at least 15 minutes before gun start, scheduled at 5:30 a.m. for the 10K category; 5:45 a.m. for the 5K category; and 6:00 a.m. for the 3K category.
From Quirino Grandstand, runners will make their way through the southbound lane of Roxas Boulevard, with those participating in the 10K category reaching as far as Le Pavillion past Libertad Avenue, then back to the starting line through the northbound lane of Roxas Boulevard, the CSC said.
The stretch of Roxas Boulevard northbound and southbound lanes from Katigbak to P. Ocampo, and from Vito Cruz to EDSA, will be closed at 4:00 a.m. Motorists are advised to expect heavy traffic and observe the re-routing guidelines:
All vehicles coming from the northern part of Manila/Pier Zone intending to utilize the southbound lane of Roxas Boulevard shall turn left to P. Burgos, right to Ma. Orosa, right to T.M. Kalaw, left to M.H del Pilar, left to Quirino, right to Mabini straight to F.B. Harrison or use Taft Avenue to point of destination.
All vehicles coming from the southern part of Manila intending to utilize the northbound lane of Roxas Boulevard shall turn right to P. Ocampo to point of destination.
All vehicles traveling the westbound lane of Pres. Quirino intending to utilize the southbound lane of Roxas Boulevard shall turn left to Adriatico, right to P. Ocampo, left to F.B. Harrison to point of destination.
All vehicles coming from Jones, MacArthur, and Quezon bridges intending to utilize the southbound lane of Roxas Boulevard shall go straight to Taft Avenue to point of destination.
Special guests during the event include Commissioner-at-Large for the National Youth Commission (NYC) Jose Sixto “Dingdong” Dantes III and dancer Regine Tolentino. Appearing in the fun run for the third time is Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) President and General Manager Robert G. Vergara.
Water stations, ambulance and medical aide teams, portalets, and a baggage depository will be available. The CSC encourages participants to bring their own sports bottles for re-filling at the water stations to help reduce impact on the environment, and to bring small bags or to not bring bags during the run to minimize baggage deposits.
They are also advised to leave their vehicles only at designated parking areas as towed vehicles will be at the owner’s expense.
Organized by the CSC-National Capital Region, the R.A.C.E. to Serve Fun Run is part of the annual celebration of the Philippine Civil Service Anniversary (PCSA), which seeks to commemorate the birth of the Philippine civil service system, and the establishment of the then Civil Service Board now known as the CSC, in 1900. The PCSA is also a time to celebrate the contributions and hard work of state workers nationwide.
Proceeds from the event will go to the Pondong Pamanang Lingkod Bayani, a program that recognizes civil servants who were killed in the line of duty. Immediate family members of qualified deceased employees receive scholarships and financial assistance through the said program.
CSC’s sponsors for the R.A.C.E. to Serve V Fun Run are Government Service Insurance System and Maynilad, while its partners include the Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine National Police, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, Local Government Units of Pasay and Manila, National Parks Development Committee, and Department of Public Works and Highways-National Capital Region. |
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| Philippines No. 1 in budget transparency in ASEAN |
| Source: http://www.dbm.gov.ph |
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The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) today celebrated the results of the 2015 Open Budget Survey (OBS), which gave the Philippines the highest score for budget transparency in Southeast Asia, and which likewise ranked the country 2nd in Asia and 23rd in the world for transparent and open budget management.
According to the 2015 OBI, the Philippines’ score went up to 64, surpassing the National Government’s own target of 60 and bringing the Philippines within the group of countries with “significant” or “substantial” transparency, which includes South Korea.
“We’re elated that the IBP has recognized the tremendous improvement in budget transparency and participation under the Aquino administration. Reforming the budget has been a formidable task to date, and the last two years have been especially challenging for the DBM. Yet the Open Budget Survey results are a resounding affirmation of our reform efforts,” Budget and Management Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad said.
The results this year also show a significant improvement in the Philippines’ score, which was 48 out of 100 in 2012. The average score among countries surveyed for the 2015 OBI is at 45, making budget transparency levels in the Philippines above-average on a global scale.
Spearheaded by the International Budget Partnership (IBP), the OBS is a biennial survey that measures the state of budget transparency, participation, and oversight in countries around the world.
“The independent nature of the survey and the thoroughness of its methodology make the OBS a highly credible standard for budget transparency. Sometimes, the DBM receives criticism for its openness initiatives under the Administration, including Bottom-Up Budgeting. We believe the IBP’s positive assessment of the Philippines will balance out that criticism. After all, transparent, accountable, and participatory budgeting should not be opposed or condemned. It should be celebrated and encouraged,” Abad said.
The OBS gauges budget transparency on the basis of public availability and comprehensiveness of the eight Essential Budget Documents: the Pre-Budget Statement, the Executive’s Budget Proposal, the Enacted Budget, the Citizen’s Budget, the In-Year Reports, the Mid-Year Review, the Year-End Report, and the Audit Report. According to the 2015 OBI report, all of these reports were fully published by the Philippines.
The survey also measures the country’s budget oversight by the legislature and the supreme audit institution (SAI), as well as the extent of public participation in the country’s budget process. |
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| Consumer confidence rises for Q3 2015 in anticipation of more jobs and higher income |
| Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph |
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Consumers’ outlook improved for Q3 2015 as the overall confidence index (CI) rose to -11.6 percent from -16.2 percent for Q2 2015. The higher (but still negative) CI for Q3 2015 means that the number of households with an optimistic view increased but was less than those who think otherwise. The CI is computed as the percentage of households that answered in the affirmative less the percentage of households that answered in the negative with respect to their views on a given indicator. A positive CI indicates a favorable view, except for the inflation rate, the peso-borrowing rate, unemployment and change in prices, where a positive CI indicates the opposite. The overall consumer CI measures the average direction of change in three indicators - overall condition of the economy, household finances, and household income.
Respondents cited the following reasons for their increased optimism: (a) availability of more jobs; (b) increasing family income due to salary increases and better harvest, high production of goods, and stronger business activity; and (c) lesser debt payments. Respondents also cited that assistance from government such as the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), less corruption and good governance also helped boost consumer confidence for the current quarter.
For the next quarter (Q4 2015), consumer confidence turned robust as the CI moved into positive territory at 5.8 percent from -0.4 percent a quarter ago. This indicates that the number of households with positive outlook increased and exceeded those with negative views. Expectations of additional family income, increasing employment opportunities, and brisker businesses at the back of more investment opportunities triggered by the stronger confidence gained from the country’s higher credit rating, lesser debt payments and more overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the family fueled the strong consumer sentiment for the next quarter. Consumers’ confidence was sustained for the next 12 months as the CI was broadly steady at 15.8 percent compared to the previous quarter’s survey results.
Consumers’ views on the three component indicators of confidence–economic condition of the country, family financial situation and family income–improved for Q3 2015. Notably, consumer outlook on the country’s economic condition posted the highest increase quarter-on-quarter while consumer perception on family income registered a record high CI at -1.4 percent. For the next quarter (Q4 2015), consumers anticipated that their family finances and income as well as the country’s economic condition would be more favorable compared to their expectations in the previous quarter’s survey. The next quarter CI on family financial situation reached a record high of 8.4 percent since Q1 2007. For the year ahead, consumers’ optimism was generally sustained as the positive sentiment on family financial situation and the economic condition of the country was broadly stable while consumers’ outlook on their family income declined slightly (but remained positive) compared to the previous quarter’s survey results.
By income group, the low-income group consistently reported higher confidence for the current and the next quarters as well as for the year ahead across the three component indicators. The outlook of the middle-income group improved for the current quarter and the next quarter but weakened for the year ahead. Meanwhile, the sentiment of the high-income group declined for the current quarter and the year ahead but increased for the next quarter. These show that the improvement in consumer outlook was driven primarily by the increase in confidence of the low-income group even as the high-income group remained to be the most optimistic.
Spending Outlook
Survey results showed that more households expected their expenditures on basic goods and services would go up in Q4 2015 compared to the last quarter’s survey, with the CI at 37.3 percent (from 32.9 percent in the previous quarter). The spending outlook index was higher across commodity groups, except for water, medical care, and education, recreation and culture. The biggest increases were observed for food, non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages, and communication.
The percentage of households that considered the current quarter as a favorable time to buy big-ticket items declined to 27.4 percent, lower compared to 30.3 percent a quarter ago. The less sanguine outlook on buying conditions was observed across the three big-ticket items as respondents prioritized spending on food, education, medication, and other basic needs over expenditures on these big-ticket items. Respondents likewise cited lack of parking space, high registration fees and maintenance costs, traffic, and floods as some of the problems in buying motor vehicles. With the lower outlook on buying conditions, buying intentions for the year ahead for consumer durables and real estate remained steady but declined for motor vehicles compared to the previous quarter’s survey results.
Saving Behavior
For Q3 2015, the percentage of households with savings declined to 28.9 percent from 33.9 percent in the previous quarter, driven largely by the decrease in AONCR savers. Across income groups, the proportion of households with savings decreased, with the high-income group posting the biggest drop quarter-on-quarter, consistent with their less optimistic outlook on family finances and income during the current quarter. According to respondents, they save money for the following reasons: (a) emergencies, (b) education, (c) health and hospitalization, (d) retirement, and (e) business capital and investment. More than two-thirds (70.1 percent) of household savers had bank deposit accounts while 42.8 percent kept their savings at home and 31.6 percent put their money in cooperatives, paluwagan, other credit/loan associations, GSIS, and as investments (e.g., stocks and insurance).
Similar to the number of households with savings, the percentage of respondents who reported that they could set aside money for savings during the current quarter declined to 36.2 percent (from 42.4 percent for Q2 2015). Likewise, the proportion of those that could set aside 10 percent or more of their monthly gross family income was lower at 30.3 percent (from 36.5 percent for Q2 2015). The lower savings outlook could be due to respondents’ increased expenditures on education and health as well as the anticipated higher spending for other basic goods and services for the current and next quarters.
Expectations on Selected Economic Indicators
Consistent with the higher spending outlook on basic goods and services for Q3 2015, consumers anticipated higher inflation for the year ahead. They expected the inflation rate to settle at 4.2 percent compared to 3.7 percent in Q2 2015. This indicates that inflationary expectations could be stronger over the next 12 months as the number of respondents with views of higher inflation increased compared to that a quarter ago. More respondents were of the view that the peso would depreciate against the US dollar in the next 12 months compared to those who said otherwise, although the number that indicated so declined compared to the previous quarter’s survey. Likewise, more respondents expected interest rate and unemployment to rise compared to those who said otherwise, although the number that said so declined compared to the previous quarter. These indicate that consumer sentiments on the depreciation of the peso, increase in interest rates and higher unemployment rate for the year ahead has moderated compared to the previous quarter’s survey results.
Expenditures of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)
Of the 563 households included in the survey that received OFW remittances for Q3 2015, 96.6 percent used the remittances that they received to purchase food and other household needs. The percentage of OFW households who allocated part of their remittances for education (71 percent), medical expenses (63.1 percent), purchase of house (11.5 percent), investment (6.2 percent), and purchase of motor vehicles (7.6 percent) remained steady. More OFW households, however, utilized their remittances for debt payments at 45.3 percent (from 43.1 percent last quarter). Meanwhile, those that allocated their remittances for savings (38.2 percent) and the purchase of consumer durables (23.1 percent) decreased.
About the survey
The Q3 2015 CES was conducted during the period 1 - 15 July 2015. The CES samples were drawn from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Master Sample List of Households, which is considered a representative sample of households nationwide. The CES sample households were generated using a stratified multi-stage probability sampling scheme. It has a sample size of 5,894 households, of which 2,866 (48.6 percent) were from NCR and 3,028 (51.4 percent) from AONCR. Of the sample size, 5,754 households responded to the survey, equivalent to a response rate of 97.6 percent (from 97.1 percent in the last quarter’s survey). The respondents consist of 2,818 households (or 98.3 percent response rate) in NCR and 2,936 households (or 97 percent response rate) in AONCR. Nearly half of the respondents (48.5 percent) were from the low-income group, 37 percent from the middle-income group, and 14.5 percent from the high-income group.
For inquiries, please contact the Department of Economic Statistics
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| Rizal High School student tops BSP-DepEd's 2nd Essay Writing Contest |
| Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph |
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A Grade 10 student from Rizal High School in Pasig City won the 2nd Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) – Department of Education (DepEd) “On The Spot” Essay Writing Contest on Financial Education.
BSP Governor Amando M. Tetangco, Jr., Monetary Board members Juan de Zuñiga, Jr. and Alfredo C. Antonio, Deputy Governor Nestor A. Espenilla, Jr. and Assistant Governor Johnny Noe E. Ravalo awarded a gold medal and Php 25,000 in cash to Kryzelle Faye S. De Ocampo at the BSP Assembly Hall on 7 September.
De Ocampo bested 15 other finalists in discussing “Edukasyong Pinansyal para sa Kabataan Tungo sa Bansang may Maunlad na Kinabukasan,” the theme of the contest’s final round held at the BSP Assembly Hall on 26 August.
Jainee Lynne S. Flores of the City of Mandaluyong Science High School and Beverly C. Escobido of Carlos L. Albert High School in Quezon City were adjudged as second and third placers, respectively.
Flores received a silver medal and Php 20,000, while Escobido brought home a bronze medal and Php 15,000. The 13 other finalists, coaches, schools as well as the winning Department of Education (DepEd) Divisions were also given due recognition during the ceremony.
The Elimination Round was conducted on 10-31 July within the School Divisions of National Capital Region (NCR) and the 16 winners from each School Divisions competed in the Final Round of the contest.
A total of 187 schools from the 16 DepEd Divisions of Manila, Caloocan, Las Piñas, Makati, Malabon, Mandaluyong, Marikina, Muntinlupa, Navotas, Pasay, Pasig, Paranaque, Quezon City, San Juan, Valenzuela, and Taguig-Pateros participated in the said contest.
The contest, which was spearheaded by the BSP’s Financial Consumer Protection Department, carried the general theme, “Financial Education for the Youth.” Said contest was participated by Grade 10 students from the NCR.
The Essay Writing contest is another financial education advocacy milestone of the BSP in line with its thrusts to promote inclusive and proactive economic and financial education among its stakeholders. A citizenry that is well-informed in economics and finance is a more effective partner of the BSP in maintaining the effectiveness of monetary policy as well as in ensuring a stronger and safer banking and payments system. |
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| Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries harvest the fruits of their labor |
| Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph |
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Gigaguit, Surigao del Norte – Hard work does pay off.
This was demonstrated by the 220 beneficiaries of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program who are members of the Gigaquit Self-Employment Association (SEA-K) Incorporated as they harvested 2,000 kilograms of milkfish from their Bangus Production project.
The project is funded by the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
Through SLP, DSWD provides skills training and seed capital to Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries to enable them to have a source of income to complement their cash grants from the program.
Pantawid Pamilya is a human development program that invests in the health and education of poor families, primarily those with children aged 0-18. It provides cash grants to beneficiaries who comply with the conditions of sending their children to school, bringing them to health centers for checkups, and attending the monthly Family Development Sessions (FDS).
From January 2011 to July 2015, a total of 681,030 Pantawid Pamilya partner-beneficiaries nationwide have been provided with skills training and capital assistance.
SLP regional coordinator Roy R. Serdeńa said that the bangus production project is just one of the several livelihood ventures of the federation.
“They also operate other livelihood projects such as poultry raising, hog raising, and operating a grocery store,” he added.
Serdeńa also disclosed that with the harvest, the federation is expecting to generate a gross income amounting to P200,000 or more.
“During their first harvest in March, they were able to harvest around 1,200 kilograms of milkfish which doubled in this latest harvest,” he said.
Alfreda E. Verano, 46, and an active member of the federation, shared her joy of their fruitful harvest.
“Kalipayi gajud namu nga hamok amo harvest kuman, nakita na gajud namu ang amo paghago ug sakripisyo sa pila ka buyan (We are happy that we have a bountiful harvest this time. We get to see the outcome of our hard work and sacrifices for several months),” Alfreda said.
The group sold its produce at a lower price to other SEA-K associations from the nearby municipalities of Santiago, Jabonga, Bacuag, and to other Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries. With this, the beneficiaries also earned extra income.
The DSWD also linked the federation to several hotels and restaurants in Butuan City as costumers.
“Pinaagi sa among makita aning bangus, madungagan na pud ang among pondo sa federation (With our income in selling these sacks of milkfish, our federation fund will increase),” Alfreda added.
With the livelihood project, other townsfolk were able to earn extra income as they were hired to help in the operations and maintenance.
Some out-of-school youth were also hired for the two-day harvest.
The success of the federation’s livelihood enterprise proves that with a little help from the government, program beneficiaries are capable of bringing positive changes in their lives.
DSWD Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman said that the group’s success also indicates that government resources, indeed, went to programs that redound to the benefit of the people. |
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| DOJ-BuCor launch biometrics-based prison records system |
| Source: http://www.doj.gov.ph |
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No more overstaying prisoners in state penitentiaries due to lost records or inaccurate computation of inmate service of sentence.
This is the objective of the first-ever electronic Inmate Management Information System (IMIS) in the country which will be launched today in ceremonies to be led by Justice Secretary Leila De Lima at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) Reservation, Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), Muntinlupa City.
The main features of the IMIS, which is a first in the country's Corrections Cluster, consist of the live capturing of inmates' biometric information, automated computation of the period of confinement including the Good Conduct Time Allowance (GCTA) and the monitoring of inmates' movements and activities.
The biometric feature of the system provides for the positive identification and detection of inmates despite a change in name or other false identity assumed. It also allows for the flagging of the expiration dates of the inmate's sentence to avoid overstaying, provides for the calendar of hearings, records visitors of inmates for strict monitoring and security purposes and other criminal information.
"The IMIS will be a game changer in the DOJ's efforts to improve the custody, safekeeping and rehabilitation of prisoners," Secretary De Lima said. "Accurate information readily available to custodians and corrections officers can very well help in applying the proper interventions for security and rehabilitation purposes. The system is also designed to monitor inmate movements within corrections facilities."
The IMIS is the Corrections Component of the justice sector-wide National Justice Information System (NJIS) which is a major program of the Aquino Administration. It will be integrated into the Single Carpeta System which will interconnect and integrate all Corrections Cluster agencies of the NJIS namely the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), Board of Pardons and Parole (BPP), and the Parole and Probation Administration (PPA).
The DOJ, as lead implementing agency of the NJIS has already awarded the Single Carpeta System project which is expected to be completed in March 2016. |
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| Baldoz creates DOLE committee to address labor and employment opportunities, challenges in ASEAN integration |
| Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph |
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Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz, by virtue of Administrative Order No. 380 S. 2015, has created the DOLE Coordinating Committee for ASEAN Matters (DCCAM) that will harmonize the Department’s participation in activities and commitments in preparation for the 2015 ASEAN Integration.
“I have ordered the creation of DCCAM to ensure that the Department efficiently and effectively responds to the labor and employment opportunities and challenges arising from the regional integration in the ASEAN,” Baldoz said.
The DOLE Coordinating Committee for ASEAN Matters is chaired by OIC Undersecretary Nicon Fameronag and co-chaired by Assistant Secretary Katherine B. Brimon.
The committee members, composed of heads of various DOLE offices, bureaus, and attached agencies, are Executive Director Teresita Cucueco of the Occupational Safety and Health Center (OSHC); Executive Director Stella Z. Banawis of the Employees’ Compensation Commission (ECC); OIC-Executive Director Mary Grace Riguer of the Institute for Labor Studies (ILS); Administrator Hans Leo J. Cacdac of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA); Administrator Rebecca J. Calzado of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA); Deputy Director-General Irene Isaac of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA); Commissioner Angeline Chua-Chiaco of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC); Executive Director Criselda Sy of the National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC); Director Benjo Santos Benavidez of the Bureau of Labor Relations (BLR); Director Ahmma Charisma Lobrin-Satumba of the Bureau of Workers with Special Concerns (BWSC); Director Catherine Legados-Parado of the Bureau of Working Conditions (BWC); Director Chona Mantilla of the National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO); Director Dominique Rubia-Tutay of the Bureau of Local Employment (BLE); Director Saul de Vries of the International Labor Affairs Bureau (ILAB); and Director Romeo Montefalco of the Legal Service (LS).
The DCCAM shall primarily act as a clearinghouse for DOLE inputs, positions, and interventions to Philippine participation in ASEAN bodies.
The committee shall propose policies, programs, and projects seeking to implement commitments under the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), ASEAN Political-Security Community (APSC), and ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) including commitments under the ASEAN Labor Ministers Work Programme where the Philippines has been designated as coordinator.
Further, the committee shall implement these policies, programs, and projects consistent with specific agency mandates; monitor the progress; and submit semi-annual reports to the Secretary.
The DCCAM shall also recommend to the Secretary the DOLE representatives to ASEAN meetings, conferences, and similar activities, and develop reporting protocols to be observed by said participants.
Capacity building of concerned offices shall also be facilitated by the committee.
To ensure proper coordination, the DOLE chief said the committee was organized into working groups in accordance with the ASEAN Communities, which are the AEC, the APSC, and the ASCC.
“The roles and responsibilities of the committee members are clear-cut to better prepare our country, specifically the labor front, in the onset of free movement of goods, services, investment, skilled labour, and freer flow of capital, which are the key features of the ASEAN integration,” said Baldoz.
Under the AEC Working Group are PRC, TESDA, POEA, and NWPC, with BLE serving as the focal agency and as secretariat support.
Under the APSC Working Group, on the other hand, are POEA, LS, and OWWA, headed by ILAB. The APSC aims to ensure that countries in the region live at peace with one another and with the world in a just, democratic and harmonious environment.
Lastly, under the ASCC Working Group are BWSC, NCMB, BWC, OSHC, POEA, ECC, NRCO, and TESDA, led by BLR as the focal agency. The ASCC seeks to forge a common identity and build a caring and sharing society which is inclusive and where the well-being, livelihood, and welfare of the peoples are enhanced.
The Institute for Labor Studies (ILS) will be providing research support to the three working groups.
The over-all secretarial support to the DCCAM shall be provided by ILAB – Asia and Pacific Labor Affairs Division (APLAD).
Expressing optimism, Baldoz said: “What lies ahead of us as possibilities due to regional integration can be daunting while at the same time exciting. We need to address the challenges through a holistic approach that not only seeks to guarantee the establishment, growth and sustainability of a highly competitive economy in the region, but more importantly ensures that in the process, the opportunities for decent and productive employment are availed of by our workers and the risks that these workers will be vulnerable to are effectively managed.” |
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| Baldoz warns OFWs against loan scam |
| Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph |
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Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz yesterday cautioned overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families not to be duped by a scam circulating in the Internet using the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) name and logo to make the scam appear legitimate.
“OWWA is not offering such loan. Be wary about this scam that asks OFWs to pay a certain amount in exchange of an availment of loan from the OWWA,” said Baldoz who earlier was alerted to the scam by OWWA administrator Rebecca Calzado.
“Our Philippine Overseas Labor Offices (POLO) in Hongkong and Macau have reported receiving inquiries from OFWs regarding such ‘OWWA loan’ and they have been promptly warned,” Baldoz added.
The Secretary said an announcement-warning has already been posted at the OWWA’s official Facebook account and at www.owwa.gov.ph, its official website.
Labor Attaché Nenita Garcia of POLO-Hongkong SAR reported that her office has been receiving calls from OFWs inquiring about the availment of OWWA loans that require an applicant to deposit 1,000 Hongkong Dollars for the release of the loan.
Similar calls and queries have also been reported by Labor Attaché Vivian Tornea of POLO-Macau. OWWA chief Calzado said her office had also detected a Facebook account named, “OWWA Loan.”
“We have reported the fake account to Facebook management,” she said, as she reminded OFWS and the public to be vigilant of scams used by swindlers to deceive people.
“I urge you not to give any information, especially if financial in nature, to unidentified persons. Transact only with OWWA offices to prevent being victimized by scams,” said Calzado.
OWWA highly encourages everyone to report suspicious information or transactions through the agency’s 24/7 Operation Center, with the following contact details:
Hotline:
(+632) 551-1560 or (+632)551-6641
Text:
(0917) TxtOWWA or 0917-898-6992
Fax Number:
(+632) 891-7601 to 24 or (+632) 804-0638
Email:
owwa_opcenter247@yahoo.com |
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| Roxas to attend Pinagdadapun Festival |
| Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph |
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Outgoing Secretary of Interior and Local Government Mar Roxas is set to join the Pinagdadapun Festival, which commemorates the 44th Araw ng Quirino Province and the 125th birth anniversary of Former President Elpidio Quirino, on Thursday (September 10) at the Capitol Sports and Tourism Complex in Cabarroguis.
Roxas will be the guest of honor and speaker of the said event, which bears the theme “I Love Quirino: Remembering President Elpidio Quirino.”
He is expected to speak before an estimated crowd of 10,000, which includes provincial and national government officials, as well as leaders from several municipalities and organizations. The DILG chief will also be joined by Governor Junie Cua and Quirino Representative Dakila Carlo “Dax” Cua.
The highlight of the Pinagdadapun Festival is the participation of Quirinians in sports competitions, livelihood activities, and a streetdancing showdown. These activities are meant to hone unity and camaraderie between the six municipalities of the province.
As DILG Chief, Roxas believes that festivals such as Pinagdadapun enhances the public’s participation in local good governance and in molding progressive and cohesive communities. |
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| Message of the Balay Rehabilitation Center for the celebration of the 12th National Peace Consciousness Month |
| Source: http://www.opapp.gov.ph |
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The Balay Rehabilitation Center is one with the Filipino people in the observance of the 12th National Peace Consciousness Month.
The word balay, in many dialects across the country, means a shelter or a home. We would like to take this opportunity to call on everyone to continue reflecting on our individual roles in our nation’s quest for a genuine and lasting peace. Know and understand that, together, we can make the Philippines a shelter against discrimination, injustice, poverty, and armed conflict. Working together, we can make our country a home for all Filipinos regardless of gender, ethnic origin, and religion.
This year’s observance is made more meaningful with the impending passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law in Congress – a bill that seeks to provide social justice and genuine autonomy to a people who have been long oppressed and marginalized. This month, more than ever, let us pause and consider how we can make the country a balay for our Bangsamoro brothers and sisters.
Again, a meaningful National Peace Consciousness Month! |
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| Morales double slay suspect arrested in Cagayan |
| Source: http://pnp.gov.ph |
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In a report to PSSUPT FLORENDO SALAPARE SALIGAO, Laguna Provincial Director, by PSUPT ROMEO BALIDOY DESIDERIO,At about 6:15 A.M. of September 7, 2015SitoKanluran, Brgy. Bayog, Los Baños, Laguna
Initial investigation, reveals that victims, one male and female while on board one TOYOTA AVANZA with plate number ULQ 484 were shot by facially known suspect/s riding in Motorcycle. Further suspects thrown a grenade which resulted to the burning of said vehicle and victims. Fire truck from BFP responded at the crime scene and immediately extinguished fire at said vehicle.
Immediately Los Banos MPS sought the assistance of RCLO4A-SOCO. Crime scene was processed SOCO team led by PSI JIMEL OLIQUINO. The cadavers of victims were brought at Susan Vazques Funeral Homes, BrgyMaahas, Los Banos, Laguna for autopsy examination.
Victims were identified as spouses Liezel Morales y Galit, 36 years old, and Merlito Morales y Briza, with residence at no. 1736 Purok 4, Brgy Concepcion, San Pablo City.
Recovered from the crime scene were four (4) empty shells of caliber .45; two (2) empty shells of caliber 9mm; two (2) firing pin of hand grenade, charred postal id and passport of Liezel Morales y Galit, charred OR from LTO under the name of Merlito B. Morales, Charred driver license, charred paper money (1000, 500 and 100 bills) with estimated amount of more or less 100,000 pesos, and jewelries of both victims.
Further, stencil of Toyota Avanza with plate number ULQ 484 reveals that plate number ULQ 484 did not match with said Toyota Avanza driven by victims and no records found. Likewise, information provided by HPG Laguna reveals that said vehicle is registered to Victorio N Pascual Jr under the Toyota Finance Service 32Flr, GT Tower International, Ayala Ave corner HV Dela Costa St., Makati City and relative of the victims.
One of the suspects was positively identified by witness thru the cartographic sketch and rouge gallery of Los Banos MPS and Facebook account as one Donald Dela Rosa y Tabangcura. Hot pursuit operation is conducted by Los Banos MPS for the immediate arrest of suspects.
At about 11:45 AM September 9, 2015 at BrgyGabun, Lasam, Cagayan, Los Banos MPS tracker team together with Lasam MPS, Cagayan arrested the suspect identified as one Donald Dela Rosa y Tabangcura @ Don-don, 30 yrs old, single native of Lasam, Cagayan. Suspect is now in custody of Los Banos MPS. Appropriate charges are now being prepared for filing in court. |
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| NAPOLCOM honors community partners, test consultant, loyalty and model employees on its 49th Anniversary |
| Source: http://www.napolcom.gov.ph |
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The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) will celebrate its 49th Founding Anniversary on September 8, 2015 in its main office in Quezon City which will be highlighted by the conferment of awards and commendations to community partners, test consultant, loyalty and model employees.
NAPOLCOM Vice-Chairman and Executive Officer Eduardo U. Escueta said that the anniversary program will start with the celebration of the holy mass at 9:00 a.m. to be followed by the awarding ceremonies at 10:00 in the morning.
Dr. Jesus P. Estanislao, Chairman, Institute for Solidarity in Asia and Chairman, NAPOLCOM Advisory Council for Transformation, will be the Guest of Honor and Speaker.
He will be joined by Vice-Chairman Escueta and Commissioners Luisito Palmera, Alejandro Urro and Constancia De Guzman in the presentation of awards to the community partners, NAPOLCOM test consultant and best performing employees.
The Commission will award certificates of recognition to Parole and Probation Administration Director Edita K. Buemio and Retired JCSupt. Doris Remedios-Dorigo for their invaluable contribution as members of the Technical Committee on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice and in grateful acknowledgment of their continued cooperation and support to the successful implementation of the government’s crime prevention policies and criminal justice program.
Ms. Ellen C. Gran of the Crusade Against Violence will also be recognized for her unyielding dedication and significant contribution to the crime prevention programs of the government as member of the Technical Working Committee of the National Crime Prevention Week.
Also to be awarded is P/Sr. Supt. William S. Macavinta, Chief of the Crime Analysis Center, Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management and member of the NAPOLCOM Test Development Committee and Police Executive Service Eligibility-Test Development Committee, for sharing his expertise in the development of test items for the PNP Entrance and Promotional examinations and PESE examination.
Vice-Chairman Escueta said that the Commission will likewise give commendation to NAPOLCOM Model Employees for serving the Commission with the highest degree of professional rectitude.
“The Commission recognizes their hard work, perseverance and outstanding performance of their functions and responsibilities, thereby earning the respect and admiration of their co-workers,” Escueta said.
Certificates of recognition will also be given to 27 employees for having served the NAPOLCOM with utmost dedication and loyalty for the past 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40 and 45 years.
“We take pride in giving awards and commendations to the deserving rank-and-file employees and supervisors of the Commission in recognition of their commendable performance as public servants,” Escueta said.
The anniversary celebration will also be highlighted by the audio-video presentation on Community and Service-Oriented Policing (CSOP) and the launching of CSOP poster-making, logo-making and slogan-making contests. |
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| DOTC, German firms tackle fast-tracking of MRT-3 prototype |
| Source: http://www.dotc.gov.ph |
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Project Team Aims to Move Up Delivery of Traction Systems, Gearboxes, Brake Systems
In their bid to expedite the testing of the Metro Rail Transit 3 (MRT-3) prototype, the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) and MRT-3 project team will head to Dalian next week to meet with the German suppliers of traction systems, gearboxes, and brake systems.
“As we announced last June, static testing will be conducted from September to October. Meanwhile, dynamic testing was scheduled from November to December, when these parts will be delivered from Germany,” said DOTC Secretary Jun Abaya.
“To fast-track the whole process, we met with officials from the German Embassy, Voith, and Knorr-Bremse a few weeks back regarding delivery schedules. Next week, our team will discuss the details with these suppliers, so we can explore ways to provide more trains to the public earlier than scheduled,” he explained.
Voith will manufacture the traction systems and gearboxes for the 48 brand new coaches of the MRT-3 line, while Knorr-Bremse is in charge of the brake systems. Both firms are established suppliers in the global rail industry.
3-Year Maintenance Contract Award Targeted in Q4
The DOTC is targeting to award the P 4.25-Billion contract for a 3-year total maintenance provider (TMP) within the 4th quarter this year, to enable the latter to take over from the seven (7) multi-discipline contractors currently maintaining the rail line, by January 2016.
This long-term maintenance provider will not only undertake the regular maintenance requirements of the system over the next three years, it will also conduct the general overhaul of existing MRT-3 coaches, as well as the replacement of the signaling system.
The general overhaul is needed in order to improve the condition of the 16-year old coaches, and the signaling system replacement will ensure safer operations throughout the line.
The emergency mode of negotiated procurement for the TMP was approved by the Government Procurement Policy Board (GPPB), the Department of Justice (DOJ), and the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) due to the urgent need to address core problems of obsolescence and complete wear-and-tear.
Other Improvement Works
Similar to these efforts, government has also stepped in to perform improvement works on the privately-owned MRT-3 system. The DOTC has already procured over 7,000 linear meters’ worth of new rails, which will be used to replace worn-out tracks starting in Q4 this year. Meanwhile, the rehabilitation of escalators and elevators, as well as the refurbishment of toilet facilities, are presently ongoing. |
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| Series of benefit hikes highlighted in 58th anniversary exhibit |
| Source: https://www.sss.gov.ph/ |
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The series of benefit enhancements done by the Social Security System (SSS) in the past five years highlight the ongoing exhibit at the ground floor lobby of SSS Main Office along East Avenue in Diliman, Quezon City. Among the benefit hikes include the 10 percent ATB pension increase for all EC disability and death pensioners in August 2013; higher P20,000 EC funeral benefit that was twice the previous P10,000 burial grant, with both EC increases taking effect on September 2013; five percent across-the-board (ATB) increase for 1.9 million pensioners in June 2014; higher P20,000 EC funeral benefit that was twice the previous P10,000 burial grant; and higher SS funeral benefits from a fixed amount of P20,000 to a maximum of P40,000 under a variable benefit scheme based on the member?s number of contributions and average monthly salary credit starting August 2015.
Photo shows SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Emilio de Quiros, Jr. (2nd from right) opening the SSS? 58th Anniversary Photo Exhibit last September 1 with (from left) Commissioners Bienvenido R. Laguesma, Eva B. Arcos and Diana B. Pardo-Aguilar during the ribbon-cutting ceremonies. The photo exhibit, which will run until end of the month, showcases the efforts made by the SSS over the past five years to improve its service delivery and long-term viability, expand the social security coverage to more types of members, and to provide more meaningful benefits for millions of Filipino workers and beneficiaries. |
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| Lower revenues from agro-based, mineral products weigh down PH exports in July 2015 |
| Source: http://www.neda.gov.ph |
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MANILA – Philippine merchandise exports declined by 1.8 percent in July 2015 mainly due to lower sales in total agro-based and mineral products, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).
The Philippine Statistics Authority reported today that total revenue from Philippine exports settled at US$5.3 billion, which is US$0.1 billion lower than the total receipts recorded in the same period last year.
“The lower value of outward shipments can be traced to reduced exports of total agro-based products and mineral products, but was moderated by sustained strong performances recorded from manufactured goods, most notably electronics and petroleum,” said Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan.
The value of total agro-based products fell for the sixth consecutive month in July 2015, declining by 24.5 percent to US$322.2 million from US$426.7 million in July 2014.
This is traced to lower exports recorded from all commodity segments, particularly fruits and vegetables, such as banana, coconut products, sugar products; and other agro-based products.
“Although agro-based exports account for only 5 percent of the Philippines’ total exports, its implication to the domestic economy is significant as the agricultural sector hosts a sizeable portion of the country’s work force. Measures to mitigate the impact of El Niño remain important in the near-term, which should include crop and/or work substitution programs,” the Cabinet official said.
Similarly, exports of mineral products contracted by 47.5 percent to US$228.7 million in July 2015 from US$435.9 million in July 2014 due to lower earnings from chromium ore and other mineral products.
These reductions in export values significantly outweighed the higher earnings from copper concentrates (27.4%), iron ore agglomerates (41.4%) and gold (2.5%).
Meanwhile, the lower growth in exports was moderated by higher overseas sales to the People’s Republic of China which grew by 24.1 percent.
Moreover, despite depressed oil prices, Philippine exports of petroleum products reached US$78.6 million in July 2015, up by 140.7 percent from the same period last year as exports to Malaysia (270.3%), South Korea (100.0%), and India (100.0%) significantly increased.
“Easing commodity prices worldwide could dampen export revenue prospects in the near term, and the outlook for semiconductor exports remains on the downside. Exports of semiconductors are expected to slow down in the fourth quarter of the year owing to weak orders from the EU, China and Japan,” said Balisacan, who is also NEDA Director-General.
“Thus, policies geared towards increasing domestic demand are essential to counter external weaknesses and to ensure that the country’s growth trajectory remains on track,” he added. |
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| DFA supports mobile blood donation activity of PHL Red Cross |
| Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph |
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09 September 2015 – In response to the call of the Philippine Red Cross to support its yearly Mobile Blood Donation activity, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) conducted a Mobile Blood Donation and Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Membership Drive on September 08, held at the 2nd floor Lobby of the DFA building.
The Blood Donation Drive was actively participated in by DFA personnel. During the event, the Red Cross was able to collect 23 bags of blood from the Department employees.
The DFA has been hosting the PRC for the last four years in its blood donation drive. A number of DFA personnel have benefited from PRC for their blood requirements during medical emergencies. |
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| “Filipiniana/Pinoy Collective” Launches Philippine Art Trek 2015 in Singapore |
| Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph |
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10 September 2015 - The 9th edition of the Philippine Art Trek in Singapore was officially launched on September 07, with the symbolic opening of the group exhibition, “Filipiniana/Pinoy Collective,” at the Philippine residence in Singapore.
The group exhibition showcased the works of Filipino artists Prof. Ed Defensor, Pierre Patricio, Harry Mark Gonzales, Melvin Guerhim and Larry Calderon.
“Filipiniana/Pinoy Collective” is the first of five solo and group exhibitions that comprise this year’s Art Trek.
On the evening of September 09, Asserting/Transforming by Rene Robles will open at Momentous Arts. Following this is the opening of “Diamond in the Distance” by Rodel Tapaya at the Arndt Gallery in Gillman Barracks on September 12 at 4:00 pm. The third exhibition, “Opulent Surfaces” by Randy Solon, will open on September 23, 6:00 pm at Utterly Art.
The 2015 Art Trek will conclude with “Becoming,” a group exhibition by artist-students from selected art schools in the Philippines at Di Legno Gallery on September 26 at 4:00 pm.
In his welcome remarks, Philippine Ambassador to Singapore Antonio A. Morales expressed his appreciation to the members of the audience, which include representatives from the diplomatic corps, business sector, Filipino community and art patrons, the artists and the participating galleries, for their sustained support that make the annual Art Trek a success.
Ambassador Morales reiterated that the Philippine Embassy intends to sustain the Art Trek as a unique platform which provides Filipino artists with an opportunity to continue contributing to the vibrant art scene in Singapore and the region. |
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| Php17.8-M Farm-to- Market roads for Nueva Viscaya farmers |
| Source: http://www.dar.gov.ph |
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The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) has recently turned over two farm-to-market roads (FMRs) worth P17.8-M to increase farm productivity and improve trade and commerce of farmers’ harvests in Dupax del Sur, Nueva Vizcaya.
Regional Director Atty. Marjorie P. Ayson said the improvement of Mangayang road with a length of 695.31 meters is expected to improve the mobility of people and ease the transport of farm products of the Palabotan Agrarian Reform Community.
WEB R2 NATL 02 Dalihan Road 3She said the Mangayang road cost about P3.75 million and is connected to another DAR-initiated Dalihan road project measuring 1,268.62 meters length and worth P14 million.
Ayson said the FMRs support the agri-business, livelihood and domestic activities of over 1,847 residents of Brgys. Canabay, Carolotan, Palabotan & Mangayang.
DAR implemented the projects under the Agrarian Reform Infrastructure Support Program (ARISP) Phase III, with the Japan International Corporation Agency (JICA) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Dupax Del Sur Mayor Basconcillio Jr. thanked DAR for its contribution to farmers’ lives in their municipality. |
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| DA to upgrade Isabela cooperative dairy facility |
| Source: http://www.da.gov.ph |
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The Department of Agriculture (DA), through the enterprise development component (I-REAP) of its World Bank-assisted Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP), will soon upgrade a cooperative-owned dairy processing facility in Mallig town in Isabela.
The P32-million I-REAP sub-project Isabela Dairy Enterprise, will upscale the production, processing and marketing of milk and milk-based products such as raw milk, pasteurized milk, flavored milk, yogurt and milk-o-gel. The initiative is expected to benefit more than 2,400 households in Mallig and nearby towns.
As with other I-REAP sub-projects, the funding comes from the PRDP’s World Bank loan proceeds, and shared allotments from the DA, the local government units and the proponent group. For the Isabela Dairy Enterprise, the proponent group is the Maligaya Development Cooperative.
The facility will be located in the proponent group’s property in Barangay Maligaya and will be supported by its affiliate cooperatives, namely, the Quezon Dairy Farmers Cooperative, Roxas, Isabela Tobacco Farmers Credit Cooperative, Cagayan Valley Maunlad Cattle and Dairy Cooperative, and Dairy Multi-Purpose Cooperative.
During a stakeholders’ consultation of the Luzon A Cluster leg of the First World Bank Implementation Support Mission to the PRDP, Edwin Respicio of the Cagayan Valley Maunlad Cattle and Dairy Cooperative said that the project will bring an assured market for dairy farmers in Mallig and in surrounding municipalities. He added that this will likewise increase incomes for women and empower them.
“Women will have tasks to be involved in. They will [mostly] do the processing and marketing [activities],” he said.
He added that even small farmers can participate in the project activities including milk gathering and selling fodder.
According to the proponent group, the enterprise will provide dairy raisers with a daily cash inflow of about P184 per cattle head for raw milk production. This will also popularize milk consumption among children, addressing malnutrition issues.
The processed products will be marketed through cooperatives, government agencies, local government units, individual dealers and cooperative members. Accessible along the highway, the proposed dairy processing plant with cold storage will also have a store that will cater to walk-in costumers.
With vast tracks of land suitable for growing dairy animals, Isabela has identified dairy its top priority commodity under its Provincial Commodity Investment Plan (PCIP). The PCIP is a tool used by the PRDP in rationalizing the interventions for commodities, ensuring that these interventions are situated within the overall development, and agricultural and agribusiness development tracks of a province. The crafting of the PCIP is value chain analysis-based, considering suitability, market potential, impact on the poor, and number of growers and producers.
The dairy enterprise sub-project will be complemented by a farm-to-market road (FMR) sub-project under the PRDP’s rural infrastructure development component (I-BUILD). The FMR will cover Mallig’s five dairy-producing barangays.
The 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, the World Bank and local government units. A team from the World Bank is currently in the country to visit several sub-projects to assess the progress of, and address issues and concerns on the implementation of the PRDP. (Jan P. Dacumos, DA-PRDP) |
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| 46 illegal workers arrested at Baclaran mall |
| Source: http://www.immigration.gov.ph |
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Manila, Philippines---Bureau of Immigration (BI) operatives apprehended 46 foreign nationals at the Baclaran Bagong Milenyo Plaza Mall at around noontime on Tuesday, September 9, 2015.
The BI team, combined with operatives from the Philippine National Police Regional Public Safety Battalion, invited the Chinese, Bangladeshi, and Pakistani nationals to the BI main office for verification and inquest proceedings.
“The foreign nationals were caught in the premises in the act of working as vendors in retail stores,” said BI spokesperson Elaine Tan. Most of the foreign nationals failed to present any immigration document.
Tan said that the operation was a result of weeks of surveillance and intelligence work.
The apprehended subjects will undergo the requisite verification process to determine whether they should accordingly be charged for immigration violation or released from custody. Upon issuance of the charge, the foreign nationals shall undergo deportation proceedings to allow them to defend their case.
“Pending deportation, the subjects shall be quarantined in our Warden’s Facility in Bicutan, unless they are provisionally released on bail on meritorious grounds,” added Tan. |
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| Armed with skills, over 1,000 Bohol graduates head for jobs |
| Source: http://ppp.gov.ph |
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More than a thousand technical vocational students in Bohol province can soon get a head start on their careers after graduating from their respective courses under the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
The 1,033 graduates under the TESDA Training Trabaho Program were recognized in a ceremony last September 8 in Tagbilaran City led by TESDA Director General Joel Villanueva. Their training was funded under the agency's Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP), Special Training for Employment Program (STEP), Private Education Student Financial Assistance (PESFA) program and Bottom Up Budgeting (BuB).
The finishers of the STEP also received toolkits to help them jumpstart their career, particularly by setting up their own small entrepreneurial activity.
"It gives students the advantage of having the skills and a certificate when they plunge into the world of work," Villanueva said.
"Technical vocational training allows aspiring individuals to quickly enter the workforce with hands-on training and a work -focused curriculum," he added.
For this year, TESDA has allotted 3,838 scholarship slots for the province for an amount of P30.36 million. Of the total slots, the current enrollment registered at 1,685.
The scholarship slots are distributed as follows: TWSP with 2,324, PESFA with 558, STEP with 99 and BuB with 857.
"There are stellar stories of success that paint a bright picture for the new batches of tech-voc graduates," Villanueva said.
The TESDA chief said the agency will continue working with schools and local government units to make the scholarship programs available to a wider population.
In Bohol, among the in-demand courses and qualifications with the most number of graduates are Shielded Metal Arc Welding NC II; Food and Beverage Services NC II; Bartending NC II; Housekeeping NC II; Cookery NC II; Electrical Installation and Maintenance NC II; Computer Hardware Servicing NC II; Finishing Course for Call Center Agents NC II; Bread and Pastry Production NC II; and Security Services NC II. |
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| PDIC advises borrowers of Xavier-Punla Rural Bank to pay their obligations |
| Source: http://www.pdic.gov.ph |
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The Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC), the Receiver of the closed Xavier-Punla Rural Bank, Inc., reminded borrowers of the bank to continue to pay their loans and transact only with authorized PDIC representatives. Xavier-Punla Rural Bank was placed under the receivership of the PDIC by virtue of Monetary Board Resolution No. 1306 dated August 20, 2015.
In a statement, PDIC advised borrowers of Xavier-Punla Rural Bank to pay their loans and other obligations directly at any Philippine National Bank (PNB) Branch under account name, PDIC FAO BURL XAVIER-PUNLA RURAL BANK. PDIC emphasized that it has not engaged any person, agent or agency to collect the loan payments for and in behalf of the bank.
To ensure proper recording of their payments, PDIC further advised borrowers to keep copies of the PNB Deposit/Payment Slips. The PDIC emphasized that for payments to be valid, it must be supported by a machine-validated PNB Deposit/Payment Slip. Official receipts will be issued by PDIC upon validation of payments and will be sent through mail to the borrowers. For proper accounting of their payments, borrowers who do not receive their official receipts are advised to send a photocopy of their deposit slips by mail to the Deputy Receiver for loans Ms. Ma. Nenita N. Gayla at the PDIC Office, 5th Floor, SSS Bldg., Ayala Avenue corner V.A. Rufino St., Makati City or send via e-mail to Ms. Veronica O. Rolle at vorolle@pdic.gov.ph and to Ms. Thelma A. Peña at tbarias@pdic.gov.ph.
Borrowers of the bank may also communicate with the PDIC-Loans Management Department III at (02) 841-4963 or 841-4663. Queries may also be sent through email at pad@pdic.gov.ph.
Xavier-Punla Rural Bank is a single-unit rural bank located in Poblacion, Pangantucan, Bukidnon. |
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| PhilHealth showcases innovations in services and benefits |
| Source: http://www.philhealth.gov.ph |
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THE Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) today formally introduces three product developments and innovations at point-of-service that will make benefit availment easier and making premium remittance more convenient for its partner-employers.
Dubbed as “PhilHealth Forward” which unfolds at the Marco Polo Hotel, Pasig City, showcases the latest evolvement and innovations on at least three (3) product developments – Middle East Respiratory Syndrome - Corona Virus, Ebola and Dialysis (both hemodialysis and peritoneal), one (1) innovation at point-of-service to make benefits availment easier, and one (1) important enhancement in PhilHealth’s existing systems to make premium remittance more convenient, especially for its partner-employers.
PhilHealth Forward is an institutional activity where new products and services are being introduced to the public.
The state-run health insurer assured its 89 million beneficiaries that although the threat of emerging diseases like Ebola and MERS-CoV are already controlled in other countries, PhilHealth is ready with a benefit package should the said diseases emerge in the country.
The medical assistance for Ebola is P110,000 for the first seven (7) days, and an additional P16,000 per day for the next seven (7) days. On the other hand, the package for MERS-CoV is P100,000 for health workers and P50,000 for non-health workers.
PhilHealth also made some significant adjustments in compensating for hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis through the case rate mechanism. The available number of days was extended from 45 to 90 per year through a benefit-sharing arrangement between and among principal members and dependents, and the per session rate was rationalized to P2,600.
Another development is the deployment of the Health Care Institution (HCI) Portal, wherein checking of member’s eligibility to avail of PhilHealth benefit is on real time in the hospital. PhilHealth members may no longer submit the requisite documents because once the Portal says ‘’yes,’’ entitlement to benefits is a go. Since it is mandatory for the HCIs to install the portal since last year, compliance is already 90 percent nationwide.
PhilHealth is also introducing system enhancements for its partner-employers. The Electronic Premium Reporting System (EPRS) is now called Electronic Premium Remittance System. With the new EPRS, employers especially those with hundreds or thousands of employees nationwide can now remit their premium contributions online.
“PhilHealth continuously upgrades its capabilities to be in with the times, for the benefit of our members. It is a reiteration of our commitment to give our stakeholders what they deserve, be it in terms of benefit packages, or technical innovations that will dramatically reduce the number of steps it will take to be able to access benefits, or to fulfil one’s responsibility to keep premium payments updated,” said Alexander A. Padilla, PhilHealth President and Chief Executive Officer. |
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| October 26 deadline for submission of entries to MMFF’s New Wave Film Festival |
| Source: http://www.mmda.gov.ph |
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Filmmakers have until October 26 this year to submit their entries to the Animation and Full Feature categories of this year’s New Wave section of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF).
A prelude to the annual mainstream MMFF, the New Wave section, introduced in 2010 by Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Francis Tolentino who also sits as chairman of the MMFF, will provide independent filmmakers and film students a platform to exhibit their crafts.
“These independent movies represent the ideals and aspirations of the youth. They are the future of Philippine cinema,” Tolentino said.
The Full Feature category is open to all independent production outfits with movies done in 2014 onwards. Entries should not have been featured in other local and international festivals and must have a total running time of 75 minutes.
Best Picture for the Full Feature category will receive a cash prize of P300,000 while the Special Jury Prize will be awarded with P200,000 cash prize. P50,000 each will go to Best Actress, Best Actor, and Best Director winners. For the first time, a Best Supporting Actress and Actor will likewise be selected and will receive P25,000 each.
Meanwhile, entries for the Animation category must have a maximum total running time of 12 minutes and completed from 201 onwards. The Best Picture in the Animation section will get a P100,000 cash prize and P50,000 for the Special Jury Prize winner.
Entries to all categories may be submitted personally or through mail to the MMFF Secretariat at the MMFF Cinema Building, EDSA corner Orense Streets, Guadalupe Nuevo, Makati City. For inquiries, interested parties may email the secretariat at mmff.newwave@gmail.com.
Finalists for the New Wave section will be shown from December 17 to 24 at Glorietta 4 and SM cinemas.
The MMFF, an annual event espoused by MMDA, is organized primarily to help promote and enhance the preservation, growth and development of the local film industry. |
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| President Benigno S. Aquino III's Speech at the APEC Finance Ministers' Meeting and Related Meetings |
| Rosal Ballroom, Shangri-La Mactan Resort and SPA, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu |
| 10 Sept 2015 |
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A little more than five years and two months ago, I took my oath as President of the Philippines. From the very beginning, we knew that tremendous challenges awaited us. We quickly realized, however, that we had severely underestimated how much the patronage and corruption of the past had undermined our institutions. Every day, it seemed, we uncovered issues that had festered during my predecessor’s term. At that point, many of us could not help but long for the weekend, if only for a temporary respite from the problems bequeathed to us.
In the face of these challenges, we steeled ourselves, strengthened by the principle the Filipino people voted for in 2010, which is: “Where there is no corruption, there will be no poverty.” We relentlessly pursued all those who had committed wrongdoing, regardless of their wealth or influence; we revamped our budgeting system and exercised fiscal prudence, making sure that taxpayer money is spent prudently, conscientiously, and judiciously on projects and programs that truly benefit our people; we cut red tape and made it easier for investors to bet on the Filipino people; above all, we have massively increased our focus on social services, knowing full well that the only real growth is inclusive growth. In particular, you may have heard of our conditional cash transfer program, which provides cash grants to poor families, with the primary conditions being that children are sent to school and are vaccinated, and pregnant mothers undergo regular health check-ups. In the past five years, we have expanded the scope of this program from less than 800,000 households to 4.4 million households, covering about 20 million of our population.
Our resolve began to reap results much faster than expected. One look at the figures tells a complete story: From 2010 to 2014, we posted a GDP growth rate of 6.2%, which marks the fastest period of economic growth for our country in four decades; and we believe the macroeconomic fundamentals are in place for us to continue, if not improve on, this performance. During our administration alone, the Philippines received 22 positive credit rating actions. The most prominent among these occurred in 2013, when the world’s most prominent credit ratings agencies unanimously declared the Philippines’ investment grade. On top of this, the Philippines’ credit default swaps have remained one of the lowest in the region.
The past five years have also seen us climb multiple global measures of competitiveness: We have gone from 85th to 52nd in the World Economic Forum’s Global Competitiveness Index, from 144th to 95th in the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Report, amongst many other indices. Naturally, the global community has taken notice that in empirical terms—and in terms of self-confidence—the Philippines is stable, able, and resilient.
This, ladies and gentlemen, is the Philippine Story. I have chosen to share it with you to illustrate that, regardless of the seeming magnitude of the challenge, progress can be achieved sooner rather than later—especially if we work with solidarity, coherence, and integrity. Of course, achieving this on a regional level will entail a greater amount of work, cooperation, and time; but my optimism is shaped by my experience of how a group with a unified sense of purpose can accelerate our shared journey towards prosperity.
My positivity is reinforced by the Cebu Action Plan—named after one of the most progressive provinces in our nation—to which our economies are committing. I am told that it ticks all the right boxes: better financial integration among APEC members fosters an environment ripe for investment; greater transparency as regards government funds maximizes efficiencies—and more importantly—the benefits enjoyed by our peoples; and a renewed commitment to improve and finance infrastructure that will lay the necessary foundations for continued growth. Not to mention, the Cebu Action Plan will also help equip us to respond to some of the gravest threats to our economies in the form of natural disasters, particularly those caused by the new normal of climate change.
Two months from now, I will be welcoming the leaders of APEC economies to discuss clearer pathways for us to build more inclusive economies, towards building a better world. The success of that meeting, however, is rooted in gatherings such as this, where the more technical aspects are forged into policies that public servants can carry out for the benefit of our countrymen. I am hopeful that your time here in Cebu will go beyond finalizing previously discussed agreements, and will involve speaking of new ideas that can further grow our economies. On another note, I hope that, apart from my welcome, you will be able to feel the warm welcome of the Cebuano people, who are renowned for their musicality and hospitality. After all, you are in the Philippines’ Queen City of the South, and I hope you can take time off your busy schedules to enjoy its pristine beaches, its vibrant metropolis, and most importantly its people, who are living proof that it is indeed more fun in the Philippines.
Thank you. Good day. |
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| President Benigno S. Aquino III's Speech at the 23rd Pacific Economic Cooperation Council General Meeting (PECC XXIII) |
| Hotel Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila, CCP Complex, Roxas Blvd., Pasay City |
| 11 Sept 2015 |
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The Pacific Economic Cooperation Council (PECC) is an excellent example of a belief I always have held: The challenges of a country, or even of the world, are not for a mere few to solve. Each one of us must do his part. Standing here today, in front of an audience composed of representatives from business, the academe, governance, and other sectors, I see that belief realized. Since 1980, the PECC has contributed so much, not only in crafting policy, but also in shaping a more stable and more prosperous Asia Pacific. Indeed: By working together, we will find it much easier to solve our collective challenges. Foremost among these is how to achieve balanced, sustained, and inclusive growth.
Allow me to share with you today the Philippine experience in the pursuit of inclusive growth, which has been the driving force of our administration’s reform strategy. Many people tend to think of the economy as the only “growth engine”—the idea being to focus on economic growth, and hopefully that its benefits trickle down to the people. My administration views it differently. The Filipino people are front and center in our governance agenda. Over the years, they have proven to be our country’s greatest resource—from the time they rose up against a dictator to reclaim democracy, to the time they voted for meaningful change in 2010, and even to the present day, as they fuel our resurgent economy. They are our Bosses, and we see them as our most vital partners in growing the economy. This, we believe, is the quickest path to inclusive growth.
At the same time, this is also the most logical way to ensure continued progress. After all, any growth in the economy that is not inclusive will likely not be sustainable. Should government fail to realize this, and consequently fail to build the capacities of their people, then they would only help to widen the social and economic divide between their citizens. Many would be relegated to the most unskilled portions of the economy and invaded by a sense of hopelessness. Barely able to make ends meet, how can they become engines of growth that power an economy?
The good news is: The reverse is also true. Inclusive growth fosters stability, which is a necessary factor for continued growth. As we capacitate our people, so too do we empower them to take advantage of opportunities that arise. These citizens in turn gain the ability to make greater contributions to both government and society-at-large, helping foster an even more inclusive economy. This, ladies and gentlemen, sparks a virtuous cycle of opportunity and empowerment, and this has been the goal of our administration from the very beginning.
That is why we have made, and continue to make, massive investments into our countrymen. One of the foremost mechanisms to do so is the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) Program. Under the CCT, the primary focus of families must be the education and health of their children, in order to receive the cash assistance. The CCT has also been expanded to cover families with children up to eighteen years of age. The difference is stark: In 2010, only around 786,000 households were part of the CCT program; this year, CCT households number around 4.4 million. Given an average of about five members per household, this roughly translates to 22 million Filipinos who our government is assisting. This particular investment has begun to bear fruit. Earlier this year, we celebrated the high school graduation of children belonging to the first batch of beneficiaries of the expanded CCT Program: 333,673 Filipino boys and girls who are now more equipped to realize a brighter future for themselves and for their families.
By itself, the CCT already displays the importance our administration gives to education. We also realize, however, the inclusivity can only be achieved by providing our people quality education—through which they can gain the capacity to enter careers that truly utilize their innate skills and creativity, as opposed to unskilled labor. This enables them to take on jobs that have a distinct growth path, as opposed to ones that condemn them to day-to-day subsistence such as those considered menial labor.
The extension of our 10-year basic education cycle through K to 12 reform gives Filipino youths a solid foundation, after which they can choose to pursue technical-vocational courses, or higher education, or direct employment. Whatever they choose, government has likewise implemented measures that ensure students reap the maximum benefit from their chosen course. Programs offered by state universities and colleges are monitored carefully, with substandard programs closed or phased out. We likewise exert efforts to guide students towards fields in high demand in the labor market. The same principle can be seen in the programs of our Technical Education and Skills Development Authority or TESDA. TESDA has had much success in partnering with the private sector to implement training programs. As an example of the results, let us take a look at a partnership forged with the semiconductors and electronics industry: a 91.26% employment rate has been attained for graduates of TESDA.
As we have invested in the Filipino people these past few years, so too have we been hard at work to ensure that these investments pay off—that the Philippines becomes a true regime of opportunities. From holding the corrupt accountable, to plugging leaks and holes in the system, to exercising fiscal prudence—systematic reform has been implemented to level the playing field and create an attractive climate for business. Transparency and accountability are no longer just ideals; they are realities in the Philippines.
The sea change that has swept our country has gained the administration the confidence of the world. We have climbed competitiveness indices at a tremendous pace; we have achieved investment grade—and continued to receive upgrades—from the three major credit ratings agencies. The Information Technology-Business Process Management (IT-BPM) sector now employs over a million individuals and earns nearly $19 billion in revenues. Philippine manufacturing has rebounded completely: growing by 8% from 2010 to 2014, which is significantly higher than its 3% growth from 2001 to 2009. In 2014, foreign direct investments were at an all-time high at $6.20 billion. Nowhere is this optimism more evident than in our own countrymen. Under the previous administration, from the first quarter of 2003 to the second quarter of 2010, domestic investments totaled only P1.24 trillion. On the other hand, under our watch: From the third quarter of 2010 to just the last quarter of 2014, investments by Filipino nationals stand at P2.09 trillion.
It goes without saying: Everyone, across the entire spectrum of society, is fully and completely engaged in growth—and we want to accelerate this momentum. Government is exerting the maximum effort to further engender an atmosphere conducive to business, down to our communities. In the same way that government has invested into the capacities of Filipinos through social services and education, among others, so too are we making investments to ensure that micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) reach their full potential. Our SME Roving Academy has helped more than 85,000 potential and established Filipino entrepreneurs by training them in business planning, financial management, and product pricing and costing, amongst other endeavors. In a few months’ time, by the end of 2015, 100 Go Negosyo, or business centers will be put up around the country. These will offer MSMEs services such as business registration processing, training sessions and seminars, and the establishment of market linkages. With greater regional integration on the horizon and the vast potential of e-commerce, these interventions will help our MSME sector to thrive.
In the past five years, government has likewise worked to enhance the state of Philippine infrastructure. In 2010, the infrastructure budget was equivalent to 1.8% of our Gross Domestic Product. Today, it stands at 4% of the [GDP]—and we are determined to increase it to 5% of GDP by 2016. Might I emphasize that, through the years, our national infrastructure component has been receiving a higher percentage, of a much higher GDP. A task force of different agencies is hard at work to alleviate traffic along Metro Manila’s thoroughfares. Critical transport infrastructure like seaports, airports, bus terminals, and light rail transport, continue to be upgraded, while big-ticket projects for transportation systems are in the pipeline. This will not only ensure that the Philippines becomes more competitive, but that the benefits of trade, investment, and growth are able to reach even the most far-flung communities of the Philippines.
In anticipation of greater regional integration, and in order to ensure that our long-term growth prospects remain good, we have opened up key sectors. In 2014, I signed into law the Act Allowing the Full Entry of Foreign Banks in the Philippines. Just a few months ago, I likewise signed into law the amendments to our Cabotage Law, which will improve the transport of cargo for import and export, and the Philippine Competition Act, which will penalize all forms of unfair trade and prevent monopolies.
What our government has done over the last few years has been to stimulate a virtuous cycle of empowerment, where the growth of business, industry, and the wider economy is spurred by the participation of the dynamic, innovative, and hardworking Filipino people. At every step of the way, our government is there to provide support. At every step of the way—whether we are studying the plans for a new bridge, or evaluating fiscal policy—we have always asked ourselves, “How does this redound to the benefit of our countrymen?”
This strategy and the success it has wrought in my country is proof positive of the simple fact that economic progress is inseparable from the progress of the people. Good governance works. Reform works. Even more encouraging is the fact that transformation has not just taken place in our institutions and our economy; it has taken place in the mindset of Filipinos. We see today a people who have felt the effects of good governance—and who will refuse to accept anything less. My countrymen will continue to demand integrity, accountability, and sustainable, inclusive growth even after I have stepped down from office. They will demand the continuity of the successes we have reaped.
Indeed: The task of building a stronger, more inclusive nation—or even, a stronger, more inclusive world—no longer falls only on the shoulders of those in power, or of men and women like yourselves. For our part, we Filipinos have taken on the responsibility. We will share in the work and its rewards. Today’s gathering, which dovetails perfectly with our administration’s agenda, is an excellent step in this direction, fostering even closer cooperation among all of us. I am confident that, by the end of the General Meeting, you will have helped to generate not only new ideas and policies, but also true and meaningful change.
I thank you. Good day. |
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INTERVIEW OF COMMUNICATIONS SECRETARY HERMINIO COLOMA, JR.
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Radyo Singko / Punto Asintado by Erwin Tulfo & Martin Andanar
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10 Sept 2015
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ERWIN TULFO: Secretary Coloma, sir, good morning.
SEC. COLOMA: Magandang umaga sa inyo, Erwin at Martin. At magandang umaga sa lahat ng ating tagasubaybay.
ERWIN TULFO: Sir, kahapon ay humingi po ng paumanhin ang Palasyo doon sa naabala doon sa ika nga ng Philippine Daily Inquirer “carmageddon” na nangyari po noong isang araw, noong Tuesday night. And bagama’t hindi po ninyo naman kasalanan iyon, humingi kayo ng pang-unawa pa rin. Bakit, Mr. Secretary, sir?
SEC. COLOMA: Marami talagang naapektuhan diyan, Erwin at Martin, at hindi rin naman biru-biro iyong dinanas ng ating mga kababayan. At kung inyong papahintulutan, ako mismo, naranasan ko dahil—
ERWIN TULFO: Natrapik din kayo, sir.
SEC. COLOMA: Oo, meron akong—umalis ako sa Greenhills ng 8:30, hoping to be able to catch up with a speaking engagement sa Makati. Pumayag naman iyong nag-imbita sa akin, hintayin daw ako kahit na late. Pero hindi na talaga ako nakaabot doon dahil doon sa … kahit saan eh. Kahit iyong mga parallel at alternate route sa EDSA ay napaka-heavy ng volume. Dahil nga din doon sa flashflood ay mayroong mga nai-stall na sasakyan, mayroong gridlock sa ibang mga intersection. Ang suma total, nakauwi ako doon sa neighborhood namin ni Martin ay mga 12:30 na ng madaling araw. Kaya ramdam na ramdam ko rin po iyong naramdaman ng ating mga kababayan, at—
ERWIN TULFO: Pare-pareho tayo, Sec. Aba’y naramdaman ko rin ho iyan. Ako’y papunta ho ng Pasay sana, galing lang po ako dito sa Reliance, nag EDSA po ako. Naku, Diyos ko po, Panginoon ko, aba’y dalawang oras po akong nai-stuck diyan. Iyong paakyat po doon sa Magallanes Flyover, south bound, dahil iyong mga bus [ay] nandito na lahat sa kaliwa parang akala mo papuntang Pasig, iyon pala naghihintay na makaakyat dito sa tulay. Mabuti na lamang po, sir, may tatlong magigiting na mga reserve non-commissioned officer -- ito po ay sila Sgt. Trosio(?), Sgt. Corpuz at saka iyon isa po ay—tatlo ho sila na mga reserve officers. Tinanong ko, “Bakit kayo nagtatrapik?” Sabi nung isa, “Sir, kailangan ho talaga. Hindi naman gagalaw dito.” Bumaba itong mga ito sa kanila pong sasakyan at nag-trapik kasama po iyong kanilang Master Sergeant Fontillas(?), nag-trapik ho sila noong isang gabi. Kaya ako po ay Nagpapasalamat ho sa kanila.
But anyway, Sec., may isang grupo po kahapon na nagpo-propose -- dahil talagang parang wala na pong solusyon itong trapik -- sinasabi nila na kailangan sigurong magdeklara na, sang-ayon sila na magdeklara ang Palasyo ng state of emergency para maibsan itong trapik – dito lang naman po sa trapik. Ano hong tingin ninyo, Sec?
SEC. COLOMA: Well, nagpapasalamat kami sa lahat ng mga grupo na may kagandahang loob na nagmumungkahi ng iba’t- ibang solusyon na kung tutuusin mayroon namang merito ang karamahin sa mga pinapanukala. At mahalaga rin kasi iyong pinagtutulung-tulungan natin ito. Lahat nang mayroong panukala ay dapat mapakinggan dahil importante iyong pagkaisahan natin kung ano iyong puwedeng maging epektibong solusyon. Hindi talaga kakayanin ng gobyerno lamang. Ang importante, sabi ni Pangulo, maunawaan ng mga mamamayan, matanggap nila na iyon ay tugon sa isang konkretong problema. At kapag tinanggap nila iyon, malaking bagay na iyon sa pagiging epektibo nung solusyon. Kaysa iyong mag-aakala tayo na, halimbawa, Solution A ang pinakamainam tapos hindi naman pala ito katanggap-tanggap, ipinilit natin, hindi nakisama, hindi nag-cooperate ang mga mamamayan, eh failure ang siguradong patutunguhan noon.
Kaya importante itong nag-uusap-usap, nagkukonsultahan. At the end of the day, at some point, hindi naman natin patatagalin pa, kailangan ay kumilos na tayo at humanap ng mga epektibong solusyon.
ERWIN TULFO: Alam ko, sir, the President is on top of the situation hinggil dito sa problema, although ito’y confined lamang sa Metro Manila, pero siyempre parang nagiging national problem na rin ho ito kapag hindi naayos. Sa mga discussions po ba, sa mga pulong, may nag-raise na po ba sa inyo na why don’t we try this state of emergency para maibsan ang trapik, sa Metro Manila lang naman po?
SEC. COLOMA: Hindi naman nabi-bring up iyan, honestly, Erwin. Kasi lang, ang problema sa atin, iyon ngang … para bang nirireserba din naman natin iyan para doon sa kalamidad o iyong sa talagang naka-specify sa batas. Dahil hindi rin natin maaalis, marami din sa ating mga mamamayan, merong hindi magandang memorya iyang konseptong iyan – nalalapit tayo sa September 21. Hindi lahat ay pumapalakpak sa idea na ganiyan.
Pero I think, iyong sinasabi mo lang ay kinakailangan iyong strong will-power, ‘di ba, ng pamahalaan na makapagpatupad ng mga epektibong hakbang. At sa ngayon, hindi naman tayo tumitigil doon sa deployment lamang ng HPG o sa rerouting lamang ng mga southbound buses sa C-5. Mayroon pa pong mga ibang mga solusyon pero sinasala muna at dinadaan muna nga to the filter of stakeholder acceptance para po mas maging epektibo.
MARTIN ANDANAR: Okay. Secretary Sonny Coloma, sir, good morning po. Si Martin po ito, sir.
SEC. COLOMA: Good morning, Martin.
MARTIN ANDANAR: Sir, ganito po, sir, madali po kasing, you know—‘pag tinitingnan natin iyong isyu ng traffic, sisihin natin iyong volume ng sasakyan. Pero let’s not forget na iyong dahilan ng traffic two days ago was because of the sudden rain, ‘no.
SEC. COLOMA: Oo, tama iyon – heavy rains at flashflood.
MARTIN ANDANAR: Therefore, sir, the first thing that comes to mind – sa akin po, ‘pag flashfloods – ay iyong drainage system.
SEC. COLOMA: Tama, tama rin, Martin.
MARTIN ANDANAR: Yes, sir. So ano po ba iyong improvement nung drainage system sa Metro Manila mula noong pumasok si PNoy?
SEC. COLOMA: Maganda’t brining (bring) up mo iyan dahil two weeks ago, doon sa Rizal Technological University, pinaliwanag ni Secretary Babe Singson, from 2012 mayroon na tayong ipinapatupad ngayon na long-term Metro Manila and neighboring regions. Kasi up to Batangas … up to Laguna yata ito in the south, up to Bulacan in the north. Mayroon tayong pinapatupad na Comprehensive Flood-Control Project.
Para maunawaan natin iyan, iyong tubig kasi, iyong tubig ulan ay nanggagaling sa itaas, ‘di ba, sa bundok. Halimbawa, doon sa atin, iyong mga nanggagaling na tubig ulan from Sierra Madre, bago dumating iyan sa Marikina, meron munang Montalban. Doon pa lang mayroon nang ginagawa o sisimulang gawin na ‘catchment area’ ng ulan para hindi na umabot pa doon sa ibaba, dahil iyan iyong ating hindi magandang karanasan noong Ondoy, talagang puno kaagad iyong kapasidad.
Pangalawa, doon naman sa mga urban … halimbawa, España nga, mayroong kinu-construct ngayon na malaking catchment basin doon sa area ng Blumentritt para iyong biglang buhos ng ulan ay maipon at hindi umapaw sa kalsada kaagad in terms of flashflood. Sabi nga ni Secretary Singson, marami doon sa existing drainage ay kinakailagan ding linisin dahil mayroon tayong mga kababayan na nagku-contribute doon sa pagbara noon – alam na natin kung paano iyon. Iyong carelessness na pagtatapon ng mga basura ay nakakatulong din iyan doon sa pagbara ng kanal, estero at iba pang dinadaluyan ng tubig. Kaya’t sabay-sabay namang tinutukoy iyan. Kaya lang ay pinakita ng karanasan natin, isang oras lamang ng malakas na ulan ay hindi talaga kaya ng capacity, plus sabi pa nga ni Secretary Singson nagkataon ding high tide noong Tuesday evening.
ERWIN TULFO: Sir, mayroon ho bang nailatag na na plano ang HPG, ang MMDA at iyong iba’t ibang ahensiya under dito sa mina-manage ngayon ni Secretary Almendras na kung ano ang gagawin? Because wala pa ngang—bagama’t ‘ber’ months na tayo, pero alam natin na kapag nagbigayan na po ng bonus, nag-sale na ang mga department stores, ang mga malls, diyan na ho lalo titindi ang trapik. May mga nakalatag na po ba na ibinigay po kay Secretary Almendras, ipinakita na sa Pangulo, kung ano na po ika nga ay actions na gagawin kapag Christmas rush na, sir?
SEC. COLOMA: Isa iyan sa mga na-bring up, Erwin. Halimbawa, iyong sa EDSA isa sa pinakamalaking shopping ano diyan iyong mga SM malls, at mapapansin iyong pagbabago. Sa halip na sa service road naglu-loading and unloading, mismong SM mall ay ginawa ng loading bay iyong looban nila. At iyan iyong ipapanukala din sa ibang mga mall owners -- katulad ng Robinson’s at iyong iba pa -- para maging konsepto na ito dahil limited talaga iyong road space natin, hindi tayo makakapag-afford na ma-aggravate pa niyang mga events na iyan. Siguro kasama na rin diyan iyong close coordination kapag nagkaroon sila ng mga big events katulad ng mga binanggit mo.
ERWIN TULFO: Panghuli na lamang, Secretary Sonny. Marami hong naka-monitor, Secretary Sonny Coloma. Sir, palagay ninyo ay may pag-asa pa itong traffic? Bago bumaba ang Pangulo medyo makikita natin na mababawasan ang traffic diyan sa EDSA? Ano ho ang tingin ninyo? Base doon sa mga pag-aaral ninyo, ibinibigay sa inyo na report ng HPG, MMDA at iba’t ibang mga sangay po.
SEC. COLOMA: Meron namang pag-asa. At kinakailangan na tumigil na pagtulungan itong problemang ito dahil kahit naman mga incremental o maliliit na improvement puwedeng maging makabuluhan. Halimbawa, kung iyong travel time natin na isang oras along major segments of EDFSA mabawasan natin iyan ng ten minutes man lang, ‘di ba malaking bagay na rin iyon dahil sa dami ng mga maaapektuhan.
Isa pa, doon sa ating pagpunta doon sa Japan noong Hunyo, sa state visit, inulit ng ating mga kaibigan mula sa JICA na siyang gumawa ng ating road map for decongesting Metro Manila, na-experience din iyan ng mga major metropolis katulad ng Tokyo, pati rin iyong Seoul, Korea. Pero nakahanap naman sila ng solusyon. Huwag lang daw mag-give up at kinakailangan ay maging bukas, tinawag nila iyon “creative improvisation”. Mayroon daw mga ganoong klaseng hakbang na puwede namang magawa, hindi naman masyadong big time iyong mga solusyon na iyon, pero kung pagtutulungan—sila mismo, in their most challenging period, nakahanap sila ng solusyon. Kaya’t iyon din ang ating pinagpapatuloy na hanapin, Martin at Erwin.
ERWIN TULFO: Sir, I’m sorry, I lied to you, sir. Pero mayroon po akong pahabol baka puwede ninyong ibulong po sa Pangulo. Ito pong Cagayan Economic Zone Authority, itong CEZA, sir, it was created para nga po dito sa pagpapatakbo ng Cagayan Freeport Zone. Ang problema, sir, mukhang masyadong nakatuon na itong CEZA sa pagbibigay po ng mga online gaming licenses sa mga foreign investors po natin, nationals. Ang problema, parang hindi naman po napapakinabangan nang husto ng bansa dahil iyong mga license na ibinibigay po sa mga online gaming operators, iyong kanilang hina-hire po ay pawang mga foreigners din naman. So wala po, hindi nakakatulong sa ika nga ay labor force natin.
Ikalawa, wala rin po yata silang access para matignan iyong mga libro ng mga online gaming companies na ito kaya hindi malaman talaga kung magkano ang kinikita nila kaya ganoon-ganoon na lang ang pagbabayad ng tax. Siguro, sir, maganda ay masilip na rin po ito kung may pagkakataon pa ang Pangulo, ang kaniyang mga bataan diyan o grupo na masilip itong operations po ng CEZA sa ilalim ngayon ng pamamahala po nitong si Administrator Jose Marie Ponce, sir, baka puwedeng masilip lang?
SEC. COLOMA: Well, salamat sa pagtawag ng aming pansin, Erwin. Mayroon po kasi tayong mga batas at regulasyon na pinapairal hinggil diyan. At sabi nga ng Pangulo, lahat ng pagpapatupad ng batas, lahat ng pagsunod sa mga regulasyon, overall po siya iyong tagapagpatupad niyan kaya wala siyang palalagpasin kapag ang isyu ay iyong paglabag sa batas. At tiyak na susuriin po at sisiyasatin iyong binanggit mong iyan.
ERWIN TULFO: Alam mo, sir, kasi po may mga reports na hong natatanggap, reklamo, na the CEZA has been besieged by corruption and inefficiency. Alam ko na ayaw ng Pangulo na iyong kaniyang mga ahensiya sa ilalim ng kaniyang pamumuno ay mapasok po sa korapsyon, ika nga, at pagiging inutil. Kaya nga po we’re bringing it to your attention baka masilip lang po ng Pangulo kapag may time pa po ang Mahal na Pangulo.
SEC. COLOMA: Salamat sa inputs, Erwin, at ipararating ito sa atensyon ng mga kinauukulang awtoridad.
ERWIN TULFO: Maraming salamat po, Secretary Sonny Coloma. Magandang umaga. Mabuhay po kayo, Sec.
SEC. COLOMA: Maraming salamat at magandang umaga sa inyo. |
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| SOURCE: News Information Bureau - Data Processing Center |
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