24-Hour Public Weather Forecast
Issued at 5:00 a.m., 25 June 2014
Valid beginning: 5:00 a.m. today until 5:00 a.m. tomorrow
 Predicted Mean Sea Level Wind Analysis for 8 a.m., 25 June 2014 |
 Predicted Mean Sea Level Wind Analysis for 8 a.m., 25 June 2014 |
 Satellite Image |
Synopsis:
At 4:00 am today, a Low Pressure Area (LPA)
was estimated based on all available data at 700 km East of Northern
Mindanao (9.8ºN, 132.5ºE) embedded along the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) affecting Mindanao.
Forecast:
Moderate to strong winds coming from the southwest will prevail over Luzon and its coastal waters will be moderate to rough. Light to moderate winds blowing from the southwest will prevail over Visayas and from the southwest to west over Mindanao with slight to moderate seas
GMA:
Isang low pressure area (LPA) ang binabantayan ng PAGASA sa loob ng
Philippine Area of Responsibility. Huling namataan ang LPA sa layong
700km silangan ng Hilagang Mindanao at nakapaloob din ito sa
intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ), na nakakaapekto sa Mindanao.
Patuloy nitong palalakasin ang Habagat o southwest monsoon, bukod pa sa
patuloy na pag-iral ng ITCZ. Kaya asahan pa rin ang mahina hanggang
katamtamang pag-ulan, partikular sa Visayas at Mindanao. Silangang
bahagi naman ng Luzon ang makakaasa ng pag-ulan. Maalinsangan pa rin
naman anya ang panahon sa Metro Manila.
GMA resident meteorologist Nathaniel Cruz on 24 Oras:
-Asahan ang ulan bukas sa Davao at SOCCSKSARGEN Region.
-Sa Visayas, eastern section ang posibleng makaranas ng ulan.
-May mahihinang ulan pa rin na mararanasan sa northern at western sections ng Luzon.
-Mataas ang posibilidad ng mahinang ulan sa Metro Manila sa hapon at gabi.
-Asahan ang ulan bukas sa Davao at SOCCSKSARGEN Region.
-Sa Visayas, eastern section ang posibleng makaranas ng ulan.
-May mahihinang ulan pa rin na mararanasan sa northern at western sections ng Luzon.
-Mataas ang posibilidad ng mahinang ulan sa Metro Manila sa hapon at gabi.
June 25 , 2014 ( Wednesday ) as of 6:00-7:00 AM
CAVITE : Sunny
LAGUNA : Sunny
BATANGAS : Sunny
RIZAL : Sunny
QUEZON
: Sunny
PIA-4A/QUEZON:
Inilunsad sa bayan ng Catanauan kamakailan ang pang-siyam na 'adopt-a
reef project' ng pamahalaang panlalawigan sa pamamagitan ng tanggapan ng
panlalawigang agrikultor. Sinabi ni panlalawigang agrikultor Roberto
Gajo na ang proyekto ay magsisilbing daan upang patuloy na dumami ang
mga uri ng isda sa mga pambayang katubigan.
PIA-4A/BATANGAS:
Humigit kumulang 200 ang nakilahok sa isinagawang ikalawang Asean
economic community integration forum ng pamahalaang lungsod ng Batangas
na layong maipabatid sa mga magsasaka ang nakaambang pagbabago sa
merkado at pakikipagkalakan pagdating ng 2015.
PIA-4A/BATANGAS:
Pasado na sa Sangguniang Panglunsod ang ordinansang nagreregulate ng
pagpasok ng imported na karne sa mga pamilihan ng pamahalaang lunsod ng
Batangas na layong salain ang mga produktong karne mula ibang bansa at
mapalakas ang industriya ng lokal na paghahayupan.
ABS-CBN:
Patay ang isang Pinoy engineer sa Kuwait matapos pagsasaksakin ng kapwa
Pinoy dahil sa selos. Binabantayan ng Philippine Embassy ang kaso
lalo't mga Pinoy ang sangkot sa insidente.
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President Aquino weighs in on price hikes | ||
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Reforms ongoing in police, military to ensure public safety, says Aquino | ||
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President Aquino pays respect to victims of wartime Japan | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III's Arrival Statement
after his visit to Japan
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NAIA Terminal 2, Pasay City
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25 June 2014
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Magandang umaga po sa inyong lahat, maupo ho tayo. Secretary Albert del Rosario; Secretary Leila de Lima; Secretary Dinky Soliman; Secretary Jun Abaya; Secretary Ike Ona; Secretary Sonny Coloma; Sec. Pat Licuanan; Chairman Francis Tolentino; Secretary Manny Mamba; Secretary Ronald Llamas; LLDA Chair Nerik Acosta; the Delegation that accompany me today: Secretary Cesar Purisima; Secretary Voltaire Gazmin; Secretary Julia Abad; Edwin Lacierda; the Acting Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Gregorio Catapang; His Excellency who sent us off this morning and he's back here this morning, thank you, Ambassador Urabe; Major Service Commanders: Lt. Gen. Hernando Iriberri; Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Delgado; Vice Admiral Jesse Millan; Police Director General Alan Purisima; honoured guests; fellow workers in government; mga minamahal ko pong kababayan: muli, magandang umaga po. Nagbabalik po tayo matapos ang ating maikli ngunit talagang makabuluhang pagbisita sa Japan. Tumungo po tayo roon na umaasang makakapag-uwi ng magagandang balita para sa ating mga kababayan. Hindi nga po tayo nabigo sa ating biyahe. Nakipagpulong po tayo sa kagalang-galang na Prime Minister Shinzo Abe at ibinalita niya sa atin ang maraming positibong resulta ng repormang kanyang itinutulak sa bansang Japan. Ipinagbigay-alam nga po ng Punong Ministro ang pag-alis ng Japan mula sa tinatawag na “deflationary trap” o ang pagbagal ng paglaki ng ekonomiya ng isang bansa. Ibig pong sabihin: kung tuloy-tuloy na muling sisigla ang pambansang ekonomiya ng Japan, lalo nilang mapapalakas ang iba’t ibang sektor at industriyang may direktang pakinabang para sa atin pong sariling mamamayan. Unang-una riyan ang muling pagsusuri sa mga patakaran at pamantayan para sa pagtanggap ng mga dayuhang manggagawa, partikular na ang ating mga domestic workers, nurses, caregivers para sa ilang stratehikong lugar sa kanila pong bansa. Nangyayari ito sa panahong humaharap sa iba’t ibanghamon ang populasyon ng Japan. Kaakibat nito, binanggit niya ang plano ng Japan na isulong pa ang pagpapalakas sa gender empowerment; kinilala niya ang ating mga natatanging ambag sa larangang ito at ang mga oportunidad na maaari pang buksan para sa ating pong mga kababaihan. Nariyan din po ang pagpapatupad ng Japan ng mga pagsasanay na teknikal at vocational para lalong linangin ang kakayahan ng ating mga manggagawa sa pamamagitan ng mga apprenticeship program. Dagdag pa: nariyan ang lalong pagpapalakas sa turismo sa pagitan ng ating dalawang bansa. Nagpasalamat nga tayo sa Punong Ministro para sa mga hakbang ng kanyang pamahalaan hinggil sa visa relaxation para sa mga kababayan nating nais bumisita sa bansang Hapon. Ang resulta po nito: mas malakas na ugnayang bumubukal sa pagkakaunawaan at hangaring buksan ang mas maraming pinto ng oportunidad para sa kapwa Pilipino at Hapon, sa pamamagitan ng sektor ng turismo. Naniniwala po tayo na ang matibay na imprastruktura ay sandigan ng mas malakas na ekonomiya. Kaya naman, nagpaabot din tayo ng pasasalamat sa Punong Ministro para sa pag-aaral na isinagawa ng JICA upang paunlarin ang sistemang transportasyon sa Kalakhang Maynila at mga karatig-bayan. Dagdag pa rito, nangako ang Japan na gumawa ng mas detalyadongpag-aaral para tukuyin kung posible ang isang subway system para sa kalakhang Maynila. Sa patuloy nga na pag-arangkada ng ating ekonomiya, hindi nga po maikakailang lalong lumalakas ang kumpiyansa ng mga mamumuhunan sa atin. Binanggit nga po ni Prime Minister Abe ang interes ng mga kumpanyang Hapon tulad ngmga nasa automotive industry na magsimula ng manufacturing o magparami ng manufacturing operations sa atin pong bansa. Naging positibo naman ang pagtanaw ng Punong Ministro sa balitang nalalapit nang isabatas ang isang panungkalang maghahatid ng oportunidad para sa mas malaking partisipasyon ng mga banyagang kumpanyasa ating banking industry. Ang konteksto po nito: mas sanay makipag-ugnayan ang mga kumpanyang Hapon sa mga bangko na galing sa kanilang bansa. Sa batas na ito, lalo pang magiging mas mabilis at epektibo ang pagpasok ng puhunan mula po sa kanila patungo sa ating bansa. Ang lahat nga po ng balitang ito, nangyayari kung kailan nanumbalik ang tiwala sa atin pong mga institusyon, at abot-tanaw na ang kapayapaan sa Mindanao. Sa parehong pakikipagdayalago natin sa Punong Ministro sa Tokyo at pagpunta naman sa Hiroshima para sa kumperensya ng JICA para lalong patatagin ang kapayapaan para sa Bangsamoro, ibinahagi natin kung paanong patuloy tayong nagsisikap. Muli, nagpasalamat tayo sa kanilang mga ambag hindi lang sa pakikiisa na isulong ang usaping pangkapayapaan, kundi maging ang pagpapatupad ng mga proyektong layong itaguyod ang kapayapaan at kolektibong pag-unlad ng Mindanao. Kaugnay nga nito, inimbitahan natin si Prime Minister Abe na dumalo sa Philippine Development Forum na gaganapin ngayong Setyembre sa Davao, kung saan pag-uusapan ang mga hakbang para lalong pasiglahin ang komersyo, industriya, at turismo sa Bangsamoro. Tinalakay din sa aming pagpupulong ang iba’t ibang aspeto ng ating stratehikong pakikipag-ugnayan sa kanila, at kung paanong lalo pa natin itong mapapaigting sa harap ng mga hamong sumusukat sa paninindigan ng ating dalawang bansa.Nagpahiwatig nga po ng suporta ang Punong Ministro sa ating posisyon para sa mapayapang resolusyon sa mga usaping may-kinalaman sa teritoryo, alinsunod sa international law at di paggamit ng pwersa. Ipinabatid din niya ang hangaring suriin ang posibilidad ng mas maigting na ugnayan sa seguridad at pagsulong ng stabilidad sa ating mga karagatan. Ang hangad po natin: humupa ang mga tensyon samakatwiran at komprehensibong pamamaraan sa tatlong antas—immediate, intermediate, at final approaches. Ito po ang nilatag ng ating bansa. Sa immediate na antas, isinusulong natin ang moratorium sa mga gawaing direktang nagdudulot ng tensyon. Sa intermediate naman, muli nating inilatag ang panawagan para sa buong pagpapatupad ng ASEAN-China Declaration of Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea o DOC, at ang agarang pagbubuo ng isang binding Code of Conduct o isang binding COC. Sa final approach naman, naniniwala tayong bibigyang-linaw ng arbitration ang maritime entitlements ng lahat ng partido, na siya naman magiging matibay na basehan para maresolbahan ang maritime disputes para sa kapakanan ng lahat. Ang paninindigan PO natin: Magagawa natin ito sa patuloy na pagbubuklod at pagdadamayan, at sa pagpiling sabay-sabay na tahakin ang landas ng pag-uunawaan, respeto, at katarungan. Maikli man ang ating naging pagbisita, bawat minutong inilagi natin sa Japan—mula sa pagpapaigting ng ating ugnayan at paglatag ng panawagan para sa higit pang kapayapaan at stabilidad sa Mindanao o maging sa labas ng ating bansa—ang lahat ng ito, nakatutok sa pagpapabuti sa kapakanan ng ating mga Boss. Tunay po: talagang napakasarap na makipagpulong sa ating mga strategic partners; kitang-kita nga po natin ang positibong bunga ng ating pakikipag-ugnayan sa kanila. Sa ating pagbalik, kipkip natin ang mas maalab na paninindigang isulong ang interes at kapakanan ng mamamayang Pilipino sa kalakhang lipunan, sa ating rehiyon, at maging sa mas malaking komunidad ng mga bansa. Muli po, magandang araw po sa lahat, at maraming salamat po. |
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| Ten Cities Commended for E-Readiness |
| Source: http://www.icto.dost.gov.ph |
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Ten Cities from all over the Philippines were recognized for their
E-Readiness at the recently concluded 2014 E-Readiness Leadership
Awards which recognize City Mayors who are pioneering the adoption
and strategic use of Information and Communications Technology (ICT)
to enhance their delivery of government services, improve
revenue/tax collection efforts and promote transparency in
government operations. The criteria for the awards were taken from
the results of the recently concluded E-Readiness Assessment Survey. A special plaque of recognition was given by the ICT Office of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST - ICT Office) during the awards ceremonies that took place on 18 June 2014 at the Hotel Intercontinental Manila. Approximately 400 participants from various cities and municipalities attended the forum and witnessed the awarding ceremony. The E-Readiness Survey is a joint collaborative project of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Department of Science and Information Technology (DOST) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), with support from the US-AID INVEST Project. The Information and Communications Technology Office ICTO-DOST carried out the E-Readiness assessment of the 143 cities which participated in the 2014 BPLS Compliance and E-Readiness Survey. According to Bettina Quimson of the DOST-ICT Office, “E-Readiness means that these LGU’s are ready for E-Government. True E-Government will not only foster an efficient, transparent and effective government that our citizens need, it will also give the Philippines a competitive edge in the global market place, creating an investment environment that can help drive local and foreign investment in the country.” The framework to evaluate the e-readiness of local government units are based on several indicators. Among the major indicators used to assess the LGU’s E-Readiness are: (1) ICT Capability, (2) Technology Environment and (3) Web Presence Maturity. Other sub-indicators include the following: presence of an ICT Development Plan, internet connectivity, presence of an ICT/MIS unit. In general, E-Readiness means the level of preparedness of the LGU to implement ICT projects and to participate in major ICT project initiatives such as E-Government, Smarter Cities and other projects that aim to exploit the opportunities and potentials offered by the effective and strategic use of ICT. Among the other cities recognized (in according to ranking) were: San Fernando City, Pampanga, Makati City, Valenzuela, Mandaluyong, Cebu City, Balanga City, Bataan, Angeles City, Batangas City and Taguig. About DOST-ICTO – The Information and Communications Technology Office of the Department of Science and Technology is the Philippine Government’s lead agency on ICT related matters. Its primary thrusts are in the ICT Industry Development, eGovernment, ICT policy development, Internet for all and Cybersecurity. |
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| Speech of Sec. Teresita Quintos Deles at the 6th Consolidation for Peace for Mindanao in Hiroshima, Japan |
| Source: http://www.opapp.gov.ph |
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KEYNOTE ADDRESS Delivered at the 6th CONSOLIDATION FOR PEACE FOR MINDANAO (COP6) - Post Agreement Implementation: Building ‘Capacities for Peace’ of the Bangsamoro Stakeholders By Secretary Teresita Quintos Deles, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, Government of the Philippines 23 June 2014 – Hiroshima, Japan Salutations. A peaceful morning to us all. Assalamu Aleikum. Ohayo gozaimasu. First of all, I would like to congratulate and thank the organizers of this conference – namely, the Research and Education for Peace of the Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) – for the perseverance and vision that have made possible the holding of the 6th Consolidation for Peace Program (or COP6). Starting in 2006, the two partner organizations have managed to organize this gathering of multi-stakeholders almost every year-and-a-half to look into and accompany the peace processes in Aceh, Mindanao, and Southern Thailand, with three of the six conferences, including this current one, focused solely on Mindanao. To have kept faith with the Mindanao peace process for the last eight years has certainly required patience and fidelity – maybe the better word is tenacity? – and I must surmise also a good dose of hope and imagination, as these past years have seen some of the darkest hours of a peace process that, truth to tell, hardly stayed on track, moving from good to bad sometimes in an instant, yet somehow recovering ground in ways no one could have foretold. That we are able to come together on the 8th year for the 6th such gathering certainly speaks to us and to the world of the power of tenacity and hope in making peace. And I thank USM and JICA for not letting go and not giving up, together with the rest of us here and the many others who have been part of this process and the many more who are joining us and expanding our ranks everyday. There are many veterans of the COP process who are with us this morning – may I ask those who have attended every COP from no. 1 to today’s no. 6 to stand up and be acknowledged? Let us give them a big round of applause for being among the faithful pilgrims for peace. On the other hand, there are some who are attending the COP for the first time. And the rest of us are COP veterans in varying degrees. The COP has truly grown to embrace a wide community – a large extended family – and this year is a very special reunion indeed. On my part, this is only my second COP and, it turns out, also my second time to deliver one of the Keynote Addresses. I joined the COP family only in 2012, for COP5. When COP1 was held, I had just left government and the peace process was beginning to move into shaky ground, with unsteady leadership in OPAPP and the survival of the Arroyo presidency increasingly under threat. In 2008, the striking down of the MOA-AD by the Supreme Court ushered in a period of darkest despair and terror. Fortunately, enough people of good will persevered to produce a ‘Declaration of Continuity for Peace Negotiations’ with which the past administration passed a battered peace torch to the Aquino government. COP5 was held in January, 2012, in Penang, like all the earlier conferences. The Aquino presidency was midway into its second year and the resumption of formal peace negotiations was nearing the completion of its first year. And, oh, what a year 2011 was for the peace process! Formal talks had restarted in Kuala Lumpur in February, which renewed process, perhaps not so unexpectedly, encountered difficult re-birthing pains which caused the President to embark on a short trip that, however, gained gold mileage for the peace process and firmly lodged Japan in the annals of Philippine peace history, by hosting that first meeting between the President and Chairman Murad which startled the world and reenergized the struggling and straggling peace negotiations. But it would still be far from easy. In September, with talks held during Ramadan, the MILF rejected the GPH 3-for-1 proposal, which rejection the GPH promptly rejected. Hardly had the parties recovered from the setback, with the decision to go back to a clean slate at the peace table, when the Al Barka crisis broke out in October. This tragic misencounter could have brought us back to vicious violence, except that President Aquino firmly said “no” to “all-out war” and instead sounded the true leader’s call for “all-out justice” which, once we heard it, we knew it was what the country needed to hear and to accomplish. And, thus, the peace process crossed safely over to 2012. Why do I recount the narrative of the peace process in 2011? Because it helps us to realize better and appreciate more what the peace community has been able to achieve between COP5 and COP6. When I reviewed the keynote address I delivered at COP5 in January, 2012, I could not but remark on what a difference two years have made. In January, 2012, peace talks were ongoing, the ceasefire was holding well, the peace architecture was in place and robust. Nevertheless, there was still so much uncertainty; across the negotiating table, crossed wires and mixed signals still needed untangling. While trust between the two parties had been planted, its roots had not yet grown deep into our souls. Rereading my speech in 2012, I find that I was still very much engaged in trying to convince people, including some in government, about the seriousness of the Aqino administration in pursuing a genuine end of armed conflict. I still felt the need to sell the idea that, despite its many challenges, peace was possible and within our reach. And so it is a very good thing, indeed, to be where we are today in our peace process. It has taken the adoption of “Decision Points on Principles,” in April, 2012; which served as the foundation of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro signed in October, 2012; thereafter fleshed out in four annexes and one addendum completed over a fifteen month period up to January, 2014; now all bound in the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, together with earlier agreements signed by the two parties. The past two years saw many more heart-stopping moments, with special days and seasons bringing us gifts of hard-earned consensus: particularly, the Annex on Power-Sharing during the Ramadan of 2013, the Wealth-Sharing Annex during Advent later that year, and the Annex on Normalization and Addendum on Bangsamoro Waters on President Cory’s birthday in January, this year. Thus, today and in the next two days, the Consolidation for Peace Program can and will focus on ‘Post-Agreement Implementation, specifically, on Building ‘Capacities for Peace.’” This is consolidation for peace on a whole new plane, with different challenges and unprecedented opportunities. And it is truly appropriate that we embark on this next stage of the COP process here in Hiroshima, which is one place where we must shout at the top of our voices to condemn war. Here we pause to reflect among ourselves and gain strength, seeking to honor the unspeakable pain that has been wrought here by war and which continues to claim victims to this day. Here we affirm that, while war brings pain and destruction, it may also lead to new seasons of joy and rebirth. We see it here in Hiroshima and, gathering here, we reassert our claim on hope and new beginnings. Today, we start our gathering in a season of joy and rebirth because peace is at hand in the Bangsamoro. In July, when Congress reopens, the President will submit the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law for priority enactment. In turn, our legislators, through the leadership of the House of Representatives and the Senate, have committed to pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law before the year ends, bringing about much needed political and socio-economic reforms under a new regional government. This will be followed by a plebiscite early next year in the areas under the scope of the law, ensuing a brief transition period until regional elections are held in May, 2016. As we move to achieve these political milestones, the parties have also begun to put in place a comprehensive and sustainable normalization process that will, through a multi-track approach, ensure that the weapons and the forces of the MILF are put beyond use and communities are transformed from conflict and despair to hope, productivity, and a chance to rebuild and renew. We dare to say it is a democratic process striving to burst into full bloom. From that rare and historic meeting between our President and Chairman Murad in Narita almost three years ago, we are now at the cusp of an enduring peace. The Aquino administration, with the help, support and encouragement of our CSOs, local governments, other stakeholders and the international community, shall continue to strengthen the politics of reconciliation and the ramparts of a permanent peace. Through the Bangsamoro, we shall strive to build an economy of equal opportunity, where each will enjoy the benefits of good governance, social equity, and, most of all, the rule of law in a society of cultural and religious diversity. No one shall be left behind. We have come to envision the Bangsamoro, with its favoured location sharing our common borders with our neighbors in the south, as the anchor and sanctuary of common prosperity and collective security – in the Philippines, in Asia, and across the globe. The partnership between the MILF and the government continues to blossom into a feast of possibilities that continues to excite our neighbors in Asia and beyond. The global community is furthermore in awe and admiration of the strong flank of Filipino women at the forefront of the Bangsamoro peace process. Let us strive to identify and address potential problems and loopholes involving the socio-economic enablement of the newly minted region, the formal establishment of its governance structure, and the most crucial process of normalization. Through this forum, let us identify and strengthen our preparations in developing the means to build the required capacities that will, in turn, create legitimate and viable, all-inclusive, and lasting peace for Mindanao and the entire country. Our work is never-ending but that is what great journeys are all about. In the end, let me, on behalf of the Philippine government, thank each and everyone of you here, and the institutions and communities you represent, for accompanying us on this unique and historic quest for a just and lasting peace. As we have struggled to overcome every obstacle in the past, let us carry on and never falter, no matter what problems and challenges lie ahead. In January, 2012, I ended my speech with these words: I know that, in our hearts, peace has won. I said then: I do believe, and I continue to believe that, on the peace table are miracles waiting to happen. Today I say again: Whatever difficulties lie ahead, and we can be sure there will be many, let us not give up. Today I again say: I believe – I persist in believing – that miracles await to happen in the post-agreement implementation phase to usher in the Bangsamoro’s sustained peace and development’ Maraming salamat and good day. Arigato gozaimasu. |
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| Baldoz announces resumption of OFW deployment to Thailand |
| Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph |
| Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz yesterday announced that the Governing Board of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration, of which she is the Chairman, has approved and issued a resolution allowing the resumption of the processing and deployment of overseas Filipino workers (OFW), both vacationing and new hires, to Thailand. The POEA Governing Board, under R.A. 10022, is authorized to impose a ban on the deployment of Filipino migrant workers, after consultation with the Department of Foreign Affairs, in pursuit of national interest or when public welfare so requires. "With the Department of Foreign Affairs' lowering the crisis alert level in Thailand from Alert Level 2 (Restriction Phase) to Alert Level 1 (Precautionary Phase) due to the observation of the Philippine Embassy in Bangkok that the situation in the said country has “returned mostly to normal”, the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) Governing Board (GB) has issued a resolution lifting the ban earlier it imposed on the processing and deployment of all overseas Filipino workers (OFW), both vacationing and new hires, to Thailand," Baldoz announced in a DOLE news conference at the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration on F.B. Harrison Street in Pasay City. The resolution, Governing Board Resolution No. 11, Series of 2014, was signed by Secretary Baldoz; POEA Administrator and Governing Board Vice Chairman Hans Leo J. Cacdac; and members Felix M. Oca, Estrelita S. Hizon, Alexander E. Asuncion, and Milagros Isabel A. Cristobal. It can be recalled that last 23 January, the DFA raised the crisis alert level on Thailand to Crisis Alert Level 2, specifically in Bangkok, Nonthaburi Province, Lad Lun Kaew District (Pathumthani Province) and Bang Phli District (Samutprakan Province) in view of the declaration of a 60-day state of emergency due to the escalating civil unrest and insecurity in the said areas. Subsequently, the POEA Governing Board issued a temporary suspension on the processing and deployment of newly-hired OFWs bound for the said areas. On 21 March, the DFA lowered the crisis alert level in the said areas of Thailand to Alert Level 1, which prompted the POEA Governing Board to issue GBR No. 05, Series of 2014 allowing the resumption of the processing and deployment of OFWs, both vacationing and new hires, to Thailand. The deployment ban was once again issued on 21 May after the DFA raised anew the crisis alert level to Crisis Alert Level 2 after the Martial Law declaration of Thailand’s army. “The DOLE continuously works closely with the DFA in monitoring the situation in Thailand, and in all OFW-countries of destination which are having conflicts to ensure the welfare and protection of our OFWs. We are not taking any chances when OFW safety and welfare are at stake,” Baldoz said. |
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| Baldoz introduces new DOLE officials |
| Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph |
| Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz yesterday announced the appointment by President Benigno S. Aquino III of five new officials of the Department of Labor and Employment. At a news conference at the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration on F.B. Harrison in Pasay City, Baldoz introduced to the public the new DOLE officials, saying they are all "seasoned and experienced" and with unsullied integrity in government service. "They are all team players and will help us move forward in achieving our department goals of enhanced employability of workers and competitiveness of enterprises; sustained cooperation between labor and employers; strengthened social protection for vulnerable workers; and leadership, management, innovation, and research statistics that would contribute to inclusive growth through decent work," said Baldoz. Last Friday, Baldoz administered the oath of office to the five officials at the DOLE in Intramuros, Manila. First to be sworn in was Reydeluz D. Conferido, former labor attache to Taipei, who was appointed Undersecretary for Employment Facilitation and Manpower Development. A career executive service official, Conferido, who comes from Cabiao, Nueva Ecija, joined the DOLE in 1983 as supervising labor development specialist for labor relations at the Institute of Labor and Manpower Studies (ILMAS), and rose to become acting assistant secretary for employment promotion and manpower development in 2008, occupying various positions in the DOLE as he moved up the ladder. In 2009, he was the DOLE spokesperson when he was appointed labor attache to Taipei. He has been in the DOLE for 33 years. Assistant Secretary Rebecca J. Calzado, who is the new Administrator of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration vice Carmelita Dimzon who has retired, started her DOLE career of 38 years as a contractual consultant at the defunct Overseas Employment Development Board, forerunner of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration, in 1976. A career executive service official and a holder of an M.A. degree in economics from the University of the Philippines, she rose to become assistant secretary in 2007 before which she held the position of deputy executive director of the National Wages and Productivity Commission and chief overseas employment officer at the POEA. Mary Grace L. Riguer is the new Deputy Executive Director of the Institute for Labor Studies. She graduated cum laude in organizational communication from the University of the Philippines where she also attended for a master's degree in community development. She also studied law at the Arellano University. In 2004, she joined the ILS as labor and employment officer, rising to become chief of the employment research division in an acting capacity before finally becoming OIC deputy executive director in 2013. Jeanette T. Damo is the new deputy executive director of the National Wages and Productivity Commission. She earned her master's degree in development economics from the University of the Philippines as a dean's lister. A career executive service officer, she joined the Institute for Labor Studies in 1989 as a research assistant, rising to become chief labor and employment officer in 2008 before she transferred to the NWPC as a director, a position she occupied until her appointment as deputy executive director. From Tubigon, Bohol, newly-appointed Regional Director Sisinio B. Cano completed his BS in Agriculture at the Xavier University in Cagayan de Oro City and earned his master's degree in Agro-Industrial Technology Management from the Mindanao Polytechnic State College. A Civil Service Commission's Ten Outstanding Public Servants Awardee (2005), Cano was a long-time science research specialist and senior agriculturist with the Philippine Coconut Authority before he joined the DOLE in 1997 as board secretary of the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board in Caraga, a position he held until 2005 when he was named DOLE assistant regional director in concurrent capacity. In 2009, he became full-fledged assistant regional director until 2012 when Secretary Baldoz moved him as OIC Regional Director of DOLE Regional Office No. 9. He is a career executive service officer and has been with the DOLE for 17 of his 36 years in public service. In her introduction of the new DOLE officials, Baldoz said she expects all of them to continue their commitment and dedication to public service by hewing closely to the DOLE's thrust of good governance, transparency, and accountability as enunciated by President Aquino III in his leadership principle of matuwid na daan. |
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| BOC slaps smuggling raps vs importers |
| Source: http://customs.gov.ph |
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The Bureau of Customs (BOC) files smuggling-related charges against
key officials of two import firms and their licensed customs brokers
for the illegal importation of steel coils and counterfeit footwear
worth over P120-Million. The agency filed complaints of violation of the Tariff and Customs Code of the Philippines (TCCP), Republic Act (RA) 4109 (Bureau of Product Standards Law), and Article 172 of the Revised Penal Code of the Philippines against Jose Alingasa, Jr., owner and proprietor of Titan Movers Enterprises, a firm based in Binondo, Manila, and customs broker Mon Carlo Inciong. The case stemmed from the importation of three (3) 20-foot container vans of what the firm declared as “steel coils” imported from Australia last February 2014. The shipment was placed under an Alert Order based on derogatory information. Further examination revealed that two of the containers had “Bluescope Steel with Galvalume markings” while the other container had “Bluescope Steel with Zincalume markings.” Bluescope Steel is a publicly-listed steel producer based in Australia while Galvalume is a specialized type of galvanized steel made using flat-rolled steel sheets coated with aluminum-zinc alloy by a continuous hot-dip process. A registered trademark of BIEC International, Inc, a worldwide licensor of the technology and know-how associated with 55% Aluminum-Zinc alloy coated sheet steel, Galvalume is used for roofing and sidings; as well as in automotives and appliances that require steel with high corrosion resistance and high heat reflectivity. On the other hand, Zincalume is an alloy-coated sheet steel consisting of aluminum and zinc processed with high technology. With high accuracy and support by high technology, it has up to four times the corrosion resistance of galvanized steel. With the combination of steel, zinc and aluminum, it is used for architectural applications such as roofing panels, wall panels and metal tiles. Zincalume is a registered trademark of PT. Indohomes. “Titan obviously misdeclared, misdescribed and misclassified its importation of specialized steel products to avoid paying the correct duties and taxes. Futhermore, Titan did not obtain the required Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) certificate for its importation. Even if the firm imported specific types of steel products, it does not exclude them from complying with the law to get your product tested and certified first,” said Customs Commissioner John P. Sevilla. Titan was one of 70 firms suspended by the BOC last March for failure to comply with rules and procedures on filing import documents. Furthermore, Titan is not a registered Philippine Standard (PS) License holder for any products covered by mandatory certification. The BOC also filed a complaint against Ma. Rosalia Quiambao, owner, proprietor and General Manager of Fort-Jhorel International Trading, based in Binondo, Manila, and the firm’s customs broker Henry Villa, for violating the TCCP, Republic Act 8293 (Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines) and the Revised Penal Code. The charges stem from the firm’s importation of three (3) 40-foot container vans with footwear bearing faked brands such as Nike, Havaianas, Abercrombie, Hush Puppies, Sandugo, Nathaniel, Sanuk, Disney and Happy Feet. The shipment was declared as packages containing eye glasses, paper box, stationery pads, Happy Feet rubber shoes, men’s and ladies’ leather shoes and slippers. |
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| DFA Officials, UN Under-Secretary-General Discuss Sustainable Energy |
| Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph |
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24 June 2014 - Dr. Kandeh K. Yumkella, the Special Representative of
the United Nations (UN) Secretary-General on Sustainable Energy for
All (SE4All) and Executive Officer to the SE4All Initiative, met on
June 16 with Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Undersecretary
Linglingay Lacanlale, along with representatives from the DFA-Office
of the Undersecretary for International Economic Relations (OUIER)
and Office of the United Nations and Other International
Organizations (UNIO), to discuss the work program of the SE4All
Initiative. Dr. Kandeh Yumkella visited the country on official travel to attend the 9th Asia Energy Forum in Manila, but seized the opportunity to discuss with the Philippine government SE4All Initiative’s activities in promoting energy access, renewable energy, and energy efficiency. Dr. Yumkella emphasized that energy is not merely a utility and supply, but a “golden thread” that interweaves human development topics such as health, public security, food security, employment creation, and growth. In the case of the Philippines, energy has multiple enabling dimensions that prove vital to the country’s development goals and priorities. Through proper utilization of energy, the Philippines can address longstanding issues, such as high electricity cost, poverty, maternal and infant mortality and unemployment. |
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| DFA Raises Crisis Alert Level 2 for Iraqi Kurdistan Region |
| Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph |
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23 June 2014 – In view of the growing security threats in and around
Kurdistan, the Department of Foreign Affairs has raised crisis alert
level 1 for the Iraqi Kurdistan Region to Alert Level 2 (Restriction
Phase). Filipinos in Kurdistan are instructed to restrict non-essential movements, avoid public places, and take extra precaution. The DFA continues to closely monitor the political and security developments in Iraq. |
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| PHL Ambassador Joins Annual General Meeting of All-Party Parliamentary Group on the Philippines in London |
| Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph |
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24 June 2014 – Philippine Ambassador to the Court of St. James
Enrique Manalo attended last June 18 the annual general meeting of
the re-organized All-Party Parliamentary Group on the Philippines
(APPG-Philippines), upon the invitation of newly-elected Chairman,
David Amess MP. The meeting was held at the Houses of Parliament. All-Party Groups (APGs) are informal cross-party groups that have no official status within the British Parliament, but are run by and for Members of the Houses of Commons and Lords. The meeting was meant to re-organize the APPG-Philippines and elect a new set of officers to be able to register the group in Parliament. After the meeting, Ambassador also hosted a reception to the new members of APPG-Philippines. |
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| IYFF-Ph Launches This June |
| Source: http://www.dar.gov.ph |
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The Departments of Agriculture (DA) and Agrarian Reform (DAR) will
formally launch the International Year of Family Farming (IYFF) in
the Philippines on June 26 at the Bureau of Soils and Water
Management Auditorium in Visayas Avenue, Quezon City. With the theme “Ang Family Farming ay Buhay,” the IYFF-Philippines seeks to highlight the importance of farming families in food security and to become a tool to stimulate active policies for development of farming families, indigenous farming families, cooperatives and fishing families. Agrarian Secretary Virgilio De los Reyes said that the IYFF’s goals are so apt for the DAR because the agency’s agrarian reform beneficiaries are composed of farming families. “The IYFF is important to [us at] DAR because aside from our mandate of distributing lands to farmers, we are also tasked to provide agrarian justice to oppressed farmer-beneficiaries. We want to be able to help our farmers achieve justice and the IYFF will help pave the way for policies and laws that are pro-farmers,” said De los Reyes. The DAR and DA invited civil society groups in campaigning for the goals of the IYFF. The groups currently involved are the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), Pambansang Kilusan ng mga Samahang Magsasaka (PAKISAMA), Philippine and Asian Partnership for the Development of Human Resource in Rural Areas (PhilDHRRA and AsiaDHRRA), Asian NGO Coalition for Agrarian Reform and Rural Development (ANGOC) and Asian Farmers Association for Sustainable Rural Development (AFA). According to De los Reyes, the DAR and DA have met several times with these groups to discuss IYFF activities for 2014. “These civil society groups will greatly help us in drumbeating the issues concerning farming families and small-scale food producers,” added De los Reyes. The IYFF-2014 was formally declared at the 66th session of the United Nation (UN) General Assembly in 2011 and was launched internationally last November 2013. The IYFF aims to raise the profile of smallholder farming families by focusing world attention on its significant role in alleviating hunger and poverty, providing food security, improving livelihoods, protecting the environment, and achieving sustainable development in rural areas. De los Reyes said that prior to the UN declaration it was the Philippine government that proposed to the UN to declare 2014 as the IYFF during the 37th session of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 2011. |
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| DAR installs 165 farmers in 105 hectares of land in Negros Occidental |
| Source: http://www.dar.gov.ph |
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Sagay City, Negros Occidental – The Department of Agrarian Reform
(DAR) recently installed 165 farmers in 105-hectare agricultural
land formerly owned by Mirasol Development Corporation in Hda.
Lourdes, Brgy. Andres Bonifacio, Sagay City. pic2June23 Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer Milagros C. Flores said the farmers will initially occupy 29 hectares vacated by the former owner-corporation pending the processing of the certificate of land ownership awards (CLOAs) which are due for registration at the Register of Deeds. The 105-hectare property was offered by the landowner-corporation for Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) coverage through the voluntary offer to sell (VOS) scheme and is now covered by a Memorandum of Valuation by the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP). Flores noted that the 165 farmers are members of two organizations of agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARB), the Mirasol Development Corporation Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Association (MDCARBA) with 137 ARB-members, and the Andres Bonifacio Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Association (ABARBA) with 28 ARB-members. The DAR helped the 137 ARB-members of the MDCARBA organized themselves into cooperatives and developed themselves thru the land tenure improvement-program beneficiaries development Integration approach. At present Php4Million credit line is now available to the members thru DA-DAR-LBP’s Agrarian Reform Credit Program (APCP) and Php500,000 is being used to finance the cultivation of the initial lots provided to the farmers. Meanwhile Task Force Mapalad (TFM) assisted the 28 ARB-members of ABARBA to avail themselves of credit assistance under APCP and Negros Island Savings Credit Cooperative (NISCO) which offers lowest interest rate of 8.5% per annum and payment terms based on the production cycle of ARBs’ crop. “The CARP with Extension and Reform (CARPER) does not end with the installation of the ARBs and the distribution of CLOAs but it is rather the start of a vision and a challenge to be able to improve the quality of lives of the ARBs using the newly-awarded lands as your basic resource and by continuously providing support services to the farmers,” Flores said. |
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| Daang Hari - SLEX link road |
| Source: http://www.dpwh.gov.ph |
| Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Rogelio L. Singson (2nd from right) gestures as he inspects the on-going construction of Daang Hari-SLEX Link Road from the junction of Daang Reyna and Daang Hari in Las Piñas/Bacoor, Cavite to South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) through the Susana Heights Interchange in Muntinlupa, traversing the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) Reservation. The 4-kilometer 4-lane toll road project costing P2.01 Billion, the first PPP Project successfully bid out by the Aquino administration and won by the Ayala Corporation, will decongest traffic in Cavite, Las Piñas, and Muntinlupa. With Secretary Singson are Ayala Corporation Project Manager Mel Cruz; PertConsult International Consultants Homobono C. Pique, Fil Bagares Jr. and Victor Corredor Peña, and Engieer Ariel C. Angeles of DPWH-Public Private Partnership Service. |
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| DENR, DepEd, DOH, EU partner for lead and mercury-free schools |
| Source: http://www.denr.gov.ph |
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The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) teams up
with the Department of Education (DepEd), the Department of Health
(DOH) and the European Union (EU) to eliminate lead and mercury
exposures in primary schools all over the country. DENR Secretary Ramon J.P. Paje said the three line agencies and EU will launch tomorrow (June 24) a nationwide campaign that aims to “promote greater inter-agency and multi-stakeholder support towards lead and mercury-free school environments for Filipino children.” He said the launching of the campaign, dubbed as “Lead and Mercury-Safe Schools for Bright and Healthy Kids,” will be held at the Commonwealth Elementary School in Quezon City, which was the regional champion in the elementary school category of the DENR’s National Search for Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Schools in 2011 and 2013, and national champion in the same category for the Meralco Energy Leadership Awards. Paje will be joined at the launch by Education Secretary Armin Luistro and Health Undersecretary Eric Tayag. They are expected to sign a so-called “Solidarity Statement” where they commit to take concrete steps to protect school children from the hazards of lead and mercury exposures such as promoting the use of lead-safe paint and switching to mercury-free alternatives. EU Ambassador Guy Ledoux and representatives of the Eco-Waste Coalition and the International POPs Elimination Network (IPEN), a global network of more than 700 non-government organizations whose common objective is to eliminate persistent organic pollutants or POPs, will also take part in the event. Paje underscored the need for schools to manage lead and other harmful chemicals. “Chemical safety and security must be a priority of the schools. Administrators, supervisors, teachers and students alike must work together to ensure that these chemicals are handled with precaution and care,” he said. Lead and mercury are toxic heavy metals being regulated by the DENR. Exposure to these chemicals has been found to cause irreversible neurological damage among children, leading to a decrease in intelligence and an increase in violent behavior. Aside from promoting consciousness on the use of lead and mercury-safe alternatives within the education sector, the program also aims to bring attention to government policies on these chemicals. Last year, Paje issued DENR Administrative Order No. 2013-24 or the Chemical Control Order for Lead and Lead Compounds. The directive prohibits the use of lead and its compounds in locally-produced consumer products, from manufacture to packaging, importation, sale, distribution and disposal. It also reinforces the ban on the use of lead as a fuel additive and sets a standard content of lead in locally-produced paint. In October last year, Paje represented the Philippine government in signing the Minamata Convention during the United Nations Conference on Mercury in Japan. The international treaty calls on all member states to regulate mercury and develop action plans to reduce and eventually phase out its use. For its part, the DOH issued in 2008 an administrative order phasing out the use of mercury in Philippine healthcare facilities and institutions, including mercury-containing products such as thermometers, dental amalgams and sphygmomanometers. |
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| PRIME benefits more than 100k IPs & Muslim learners |
| Source: http://www.deped.gov.ph |
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The Philippine government, through the Department of Education (DepEd),
and the Australian government formally closed the three-year program
Philippines' Response to Indigenous Peoples' and Muslim Education
(PRIME), benefiting more than 100k Indigenous and Muslim learners in
nine (9) regions in the country. "Australia is our biggest partner in education. Through PRIME, we were able to provide inclusive and culture-based education for our indigenous and Muslim learners. We were able to reach far-flung areas and engage different communities by addressing education needs through an inclusive approach," DepEd Undersecretary for Regional Operations Rizalino Rivera said. PRIME program was implemented in nine (9) regions in the country: Regions I, II, IV-B, IX, X, XI, XII, XIII, and Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). It covered 725 schools providing access to indigenous and Muslim learners. The program not only provided interventions to address the issues on drop-outs, absenteeism, and poor participation of said group of learners in schools but also engaged the communities to take part in preserving its culture. Since its launch in 2011, PRIME has provided access to education to more than 75,000 IP learners, and more than 31,000 Muslim learners. Continued commitment to education With the closing of PRIME program, the Australian government reiterated its continuous commitment to education. "Australia is here for the long haul. Our commitment does not end with PRIME. Through Basic Education Sector Transformation (BEST), we aim to continue our partnership with DepEd to support better education outcomes in the Philippines that is inclusive and relevant. We believe that our investment in education of Filipino children will have far reaching effects and will lead to a prosperous Philippines where citizens can better participate in the local economy and in the region," Chargé d'Affaires of the Australian Embassy Layton Pike said. BEST and Basic Education Assistance for Mindanao (BEAM) in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao are some of the ongoing programs of Australia to aid Philippine education. |
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| Roxas highlights Power of Community in Disaster Response, Recovery |
| Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph |
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Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas today underscored
the power of community working together as a people in responding to
natural calamities such as typhoon Yolanda. Roxas, vice chairman for preparedness of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said the nation was dealt with the hardest blow when Yolanda, strongest storm to ever make landfall in history, more than seven months ago on November 8, 2013. “We reeled from its impact, staggered at its effect, but we never fell,” says Roxas. Roxas, who delivered the keynote address during the launch of the Kapit Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services – National Community-Driven Development Program (KC-NCDDP) in Ormoc City on Monday challenged various stakeholders to continue working together as they have shown in the past seven months after Yolanda. The program was highlighted by the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on World-Bank – Asian Development Bank Parntership for the KC-NDCCP led by WB Country Director Motoo Konishi and ADB Country Director Richard Bolt. “The nation and the Filipino people were the cornerstone of response and recovery,” he said. Adding that while there were tremendous outpouring of aid from the international community the people are thankful for, he said “It was the people who made quick response and recovery possible, and which prevented further deterioration of conditions on the ground.” Launched by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the KC-NCDDP scales up the program which aim to empower communities in targeted municipalities, improve access to services and to participate in a more inclusive local planning, budgeting and implementation. Specifically, the program aims to strengthen community groups and barangay level institutions to better identify and articulate development needs, and manage public resources, financing priority small-scale community sub-projects, and enhancing the capacity of municipal-level government to partner with barangays in responding to priority development needs; and to respond promptly and effectively to an eligible crisis or emergency. The DILG, which serves as project management of the Grassroots Participatory Budgeting Process (GPBP) in partnership with various national and local government agencies, people’s organizations (POs) and nongovernment organizations (NGOs) is encouraging a broader civil society participation in governance by identifying projects and programs that they believe would matters most for their communities. This year, the national government has allotted P20 billion for various anti-poverty projects to be implemented across the country. The projects and programs were eaelier identified by POs, NGOs and community-based groups together with local government units (LGUs) during budgeting processes last year. “The Yolanda response showed us the power of community. Beyond just a place where people live, ‘community’ during Yolanda meant ‘people who had, and lived through the same experience finding common unity of purpose and resolve to respond,’” he stressed. According to the DILG chief, the success of Kalahi-CIDSS over the past 12 years showed that a united people, provided with full government support, can and do accomplish miracles. The DILG chief said that the up-scaling of the program through the KC-NCDDP demonstrate the Aquino administration’s commitment to fulfill its social contract with the people, anchored on Pres. Aquino’s “Kayo ang Boss” policy. “Kayo ang boss, sabi nga ni Pang. P’Noy. Ito po iyon. Bilang pagkilala at pagtupad sa kontrata ng pamahalaan sa taong bayan, ibinibigay naming sa inyo ang pagkakataon napangunahan bilang tagapag-plano at bilang mga managers ng recovery, rehabilitation, at development sa pamamagitan ng KC-NCDDP,” he said. |
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| 2ex-Congressmen, ex-DA secretary face PDAF complaints |
| Source: http://www.ombudsman.gov.ph |
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The Office of the Ombudsman is going after non-Napoles NGOs too. Ombudsman investigators recently filed a formal charge or complaint for Malversation of Public Funds and violation of Section 3(e) of Republic Act No. 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act) against former Nueva Ecija Representative Rodolfo Antonino, former Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Arthur Yap, and five others in connection with the alleged irregular allocation and utilization of the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF). Antonino and Yap shall undergo preliminary investigation along with former National Agribusiness Corporation (NABCOR) officials Alan Javellana, Encarnita Cristina Munsod, Rhodora Mendoza and Maria Niñez Guanizo as well as Marilou Antonio, President of Buhay Mo Mahal Ko Foundation, Inc. (BMMKFI, a non-Napoles NGO), and Carmelita Barredo, General Manager of CC Barredo Publishing House (CC Barredo). Meanwhile, Ombudsman investigators also filed a separate complaint for Malversation of Public Funds and violations of Section 3(e) and (h) of RA No. 3019 against former Isabela Representative Anthony Miranda, and nine others also in connection with the alleged irregular allocation and utilization of PDAF. Miranda shall undergo preliminary investigation along with Technology Resource Center (TRC) officials Antonio Ortiz, Dennis Cunanan, Marivic Jover, Belina Concepcion, Francisco Figura, Maria Rosalinda Lacsamana, and Consuelo Lilian Reyes Espiritu as well asDomingo Mamauag and Edison Sabio of Aksyon Makamasa Foundation, Inc. (AMFI). Incumbent public officials Cunanan, Jover, Concepcion, Lacsamana and Espiritu also face administrative charges for Grave Misconduct, Serious Dishonesty, and Conduct Prejudicial to the Best Interest of the Service. Field investigation was ordered conducted on the PDAF scam as early as July 2013 when Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales motu proprio initiated a fact-finding investigation in response to news reports on the “pork barrel scam” exposé. Several investigation teams were subsequently created to expedite the investigation by gathering numerous documents and interviewing hundreds of witnesses nationwide based on the Commission on Audit (COA) Special Audits Office Report No. 2012-03 which involved a total of P6.156 billion worth of PDAF released from 2007 to 2009 by various implementing agencies to 82 non-government organizations (NGOs). Rep. Antonino’s P15M alleged “ghost” livelihood kit The first phase of investigation on Rep. Antonino covered his P15 million PDAF allocation to the DA for an Integrated Livelihood Project for the 4th district of Nueva Ecija, under Special Allotment Order (SARO) No. ROCS-07-02898. Investigation unearthed that on February 14, 2007 or even prior to the actual transfer of funds to the DA, Rep. Antonino requested then DA Secretary Yap to transfer the funds to NABCOR even if NABCOR was not identified in the General Appropriations Act of 2007 as one of the implementing agencies of PDAF. An Advice of Notice of Cash Allocation (NCA) was issued on February 23, 2007 by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to the DA which subsequently entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with NABCOR on March 7, 2007. A disbursement voucher in favor of NABCOR was issued on March 9, 2007, which facilitated payment on March 16, 2007 through a Landbank check dated March 14, 2007. Two days prior to the March 7, 2007 MOA signed by DA Secretary Yap and NABCOR President Javellana, however, records show that NABCOR (through Javellana) already entered into a MOA with BMMKFI (through its president, Marilou Antonio), upon the request of Rep. Antonino, on the implementation of the project worth P14,550,000.00. Records also show that Javellana approved the release of the first tranche of payment to BMMKFI without the signature of NABCOR accountant Roderica Bitancor who was supposed to certify that the supporting documents are complete and proper. NABCOR received the first amount (90%) on March 21, 2007 through a UCPB check signed by Javellana and Mendoza, NABCOR Director for Financial Services. It was discovered that BMMKFI exclusively procured from CC Barredo 7,275 sets of Livelihood Technology Kits (Volumes 1-1V) with a unit cost of P2,000 or a total of P14,550,000.00, as evidenced by Purchase Order No. 03-011-2007. Investigators noticed, however, that CC Barredo made an offer to BMMKFI as early as February 14, 2007. On March 23, 2007, CC Barredo purportedly delivered the kits to BMMKFI which reportedly delivered the same to Rep. Antonino on even date. The remaining 10% of the project cost was thereafter released by NABCOR to the BMMKFI through a disbursement voucher dated April 24, 2007 signed by Munsod and Guanizo. After receiving the remaining amount (10%) on the same day through a UCPB check signed by Javellana and Mendoza, BMMKFI paid CC Barredo on April 30, 2007. Based on the list of Project Beneficiaries certified correct by Rep. Antonino, the 7,275 livelihood kits were purportedly distributed in Gapan City and the municipalities of San Isidro, General Tinio, Cabiao, Jaen, Peñaranda and San Leonardo. The complaint alleges that the project is inexistent based on on-site validation showing that a number of concerned city and municipal officials attested that their respective local government units did not receive the livelihood sets nor were there records relative thereto. Investigation found that neither the BMMKFI nor Rep. Antonino’s office submitted a list of actual beneficiaries or a detailed liquidation report. The BMMKFI Report indicated only the total number of kits without identifying the breakdown or names of beneficiaries. To date, the COA Report categorized the funds as “unliquidated in full.” Rep. Miranda Allegedly gave P21M PDAF to his own NGO From 2007 to 2009, Rep. Miranda’s P21 million PDAF was released to AMFI as the conduit NGO through TRC (then known as Technology and Livelihood Resource Center or TLRC) as the implementing agency for livelihood programs and projects in the 4th district of Isabela. The funds were released under SARO Nos. ROCS-07-00608 (P10M) and ROCS-07-004174 (P11M) on January 15, 2007 and February 23, 2007, respectively Investigation shows that on February 8, 2007, Rep. Miranda requested that the first PDAF of P10 million be released to AMFI, of which Rep. Miranda acted as incorporator, director and chairman of AMFI based on AMFI’s General Information Sheet for 2007 on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). DBM issued the advice of NCA on February 13, 2007 for credit to TLRC’s account. TLRC Legislative Liaison Officer Concepcion recommended to TLRC Director-General Ortiz on March 9, 2007 the release of P9.5 million, citing a MOA between TLRC and AMFI which entitled TLRC to retain the total amount of P500,000 for the cost of livelihood materials (P100,000 or 1%), livelihood training (P100,000 or 1%), and 3% service fee (P300,000 or 3%), the pertinent documents of which were reviewed and initialed by TLRC Group Manager Figura and approved by Ortiz on same date. On same date, AMFI’s Mamauag prepared a Work and Financial Plan detailing the conduct of agro-farming and livestock seminars, distribution of farming seeds livestock product, and livelihood training materials, which AMFI Chairman Sabio noted. Attached to the Plan is the Project Proposal which was endorsed by Rep. Miranda. It was only on March 12, 2007 that TLRC Director General Ortiz, Rep. Miranda and AMFI Chairman Sabio executed the required MOA with a certification of availability of funds signed by TLRC Accounting Division Chief Jover, which MOA was notarized by a certain Atty. Donato Manguiat. On same date, Mamauag received the P9.5 million Land Bank check dated March 13, 2007 through an undated disbursement voucher signed by Cunanan, Jover and Ortiz. Respecting the second amount of P11 million, records show that DBM issued the advice of NCA on March 5, 2007 for credit to the account of TLRC. On March 12, 2007, Rep. Miranda requested that the P11 million PDAF be similarly released to AMFI, through an endorsement letter with an attached Work and Financial Plan (also detailing the conduct of agro-farming and livestock seminars, distribution of farming seeds livestock product, and livelihood training materials) and a Project Proposal likewise endorsed by Rep. Miranda. TLRC Group Manager Lacsamana recommended on March 23, 2007 the release of P10,560,000.00 under the terms of a MOA with AMFI. On March 30, 2007, TLRC Director General Ortiz, Rep. Miranda and AMFI Chairman Sabio executed a MOA on this second project, bearing also Jover’s certification of availability of funds, which was notarized by Atty. Joel Gordola, notary public. On April 2, 2007, Mamauag acknowledged receipt of the amount of P10,560,000.00 via Land Bank check through a disbursement voucher signed by Cunanan, Jover and Ortiz. Ombudsman investigators claim that the two MOAs were filled with irregularities, such as lack of identified beneficiaries, lack of standards for project implementation and project acceptance, lack of project cost estimates, one lump sum payment instead of a schedule of release of payment, among others items required under the COA circular. The complaint alleges that TLRC failed to heed the COA circular on NGO accreditation, while AMFI failed to submit the required three-year financial statements to TLRC that would have ensured that AMFI had a stable financial condition such that the fund assistance shall not be its sole source of funds, and had proven experience in fund management. SEC records show that AMFI sourced its funds only from government assistance, and did not comply with SEC reportorial requirements from 2007 to present. Investigation did not yield any record showing that AMFI implemented or completed the projects, despite demand by COA to liquidate as early as May 30, 2012. |
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24 JUNE 2014
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| Google+ Photo Releases of PNoy | |
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HIROSHIMA, Japan – President Benigno S. Aquino III is welcomed by JICA president Akihiko Tanaka upon arrival at the Hiroshima International Airport to participate in the Consolidation for Peace for Mindanao Conference organized by the Japan International Cooperation Agency and the Research and Education for Peace of the Universiti Sains Malaysia on Tuesday (June 24). (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III answer questions from members of the media while on board the plane to Hiroshima International Airport to participate in the Consolidation for Peace for Mindanao Conference organized by the Japan International Cooperation Agency and the Research and Education for Peace of the Universiti Sains Malaysia on Tuesday (June 24). (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Ryan Lim/ Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III poses with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe during the joint press conference after the summit meeting and working lunch at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence in Tokyo on Tuesday (June 24). The meeting was an opportunity for the two leaders to exchange views on recent regional developments and discuss areas of cooperation to enhance the Philippines-Japan strategic partnership. (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III poses with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe during the joint press conference after the summit meeting and working lunch at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence in Tokyo on Tuesday (June 24). The meeting was an opportunity for the two leaders to exchange views on recent regional developments and discuss areas of cooperation to enhance the Philippines-Japan strategic partnership. (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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TOKYO, Japan – President Benigno S. Aquino III listens as Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe delivers his remarks during the joint press conference after the summit meeting and working lunch at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence in Tokyo on Tuesday (June 24). The meeting was an opportunity for the two leaders to exchange views on recent regional developments and discuss areas of cooperation to enhance the Philippines-Japan strategic partnership. (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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TOKYO, Japan – President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his remarks during the joint press conference with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe after the summit meeting and working lunch at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence in Tokyo on Tuesday (June 24). The meeting was an opportunity for the two leaders to exchange views on recent regional developments and discuss areas of cooperation to enhance the Philippines-Japan strategic partnership. (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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TOKYO, Japan – President Benigno S. Aquino III upon arrival for the Summit Meeting & Working Lunch with Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence in Tokyo on Tuesday (June 24). The meeting was an opportunity for the two leaders to exchange views on recent regional developments and discuss areas of cooperation to enhance the Philippines-Japan strategic partnership. (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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TOKYO, Japan – President Benigno S. Aquino III listens to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe during the Summit meeting at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence in Tokyo on Tuesday (June 24). The meeting was an opportunity for the two leaders to exchange views on recent regional developments and discuss areas of cooperation to enhance the Philippines-Japan strategic partnership. (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Gil Nartea/ Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III poses with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe during press conference after the summit meeting and working lunch at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence in Tokyo on Tuesday (June 24). The meeting was an opportunity for the two leaders to exchange views on recent regional developments and discuss areas of cooperation to enhance the Philippines-Japan strategic partnership. (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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TOKYO, Japan – President Benigno S. Aquino III greets Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe during the Summit Meeting & Working Lunch at the Prime Minister’s Official Residence in Tokyo on Tuesday (June 24). The meeting is an opportunity for the two leaders to exchange views on recent regional developments and discuss areas of cooperation to enhance the Philippines-Japan strategic partnership. (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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TOKYO, Japan - President Benigno S. Aquino III arrives at the Tokyo Haneda International Airport on Tuesday (June 24) for a one-day working visit here. The President will meet with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Tokyo and speak at the Consolidation for Peace for Mindanao Conference in Hiroshima organized by the Japan International Cooperation Agency and the Research and Education for Peace of the Universiti Sains Malaysia. Also in photo are Consul General Marian Jocelyn R. Tirol-Ignacio, head of Mission Gilberto G. B. Asuque and Philippine Navy Captain Samuel Z. Felix. (PLDT powered by SMART) (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III, accompanied by Armed Forces of the Philippines Vice Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr., reviews the honor guards during the send-off ceremony at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal II on Tuesday (June 24). The President left for a one-day working visit to Japan where he will meet with Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Tokyo and speak at the Consolidation for Peace for Mindanao Conference in Hiroshima organized by the Japan International Cooperation Agency and the Research and Education for Peace of the Universiti Sains Malaysia. (Photo by Rolando Mailo / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his departure statement during the send-off ceremony at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal II on Tuesday (June 24). The President left for a one-day working visit to Japan where he will meet with Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Tokyo and speak at the Consolidation for Peace for Mindanao Conference in Hiroshima organized by the Japan International Cooperation Agency and the Research and Education for Peace of the Universiti Sains Malaysia. (Photo by Rolando Mailo / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. exchanges views with the ASEAN Minister during the 12th Conference of the ASEAN Ministers Responsible for Information (AMRI) in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar held on June 9-13, 2014. This year's theme “Socially Responsible Media for a Peaceful and Prosperous Community” highlights the importance of exercising social responsibility in the use of various forms of media, particularly in communicating the works of the ASEAN. | ||
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Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. links arms with the ASEAN Ministers during the 12th Conference of the ASEAN Ministers Responsible for Information (AMRI) in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar held on June 9-13, 2014. This year's theme “Socially Responsible Media for a Peaceful and Prosperous Community” highlights the importance of exercising social responsibility in the use of various forms of media, particularly in communicating the works of the ASEAN. | ||
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Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. poses for the group photo opportunity with the ASEAN Ministers during the 12th Conference of the ASEAN Ministers Responsible for Information (AMRI) in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar held on June 9-13, 2014. This year's theme “Socially Responsible Media for a Peaceful and Prosperous Community” highlights the importance of exercising social responsibility in the use of various forms of media, particularly in communicating the works of the ASEAN. | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III presides over the National Economic and Development Authority Board Meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (June 19). Also in photo are Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr., Science and Technology Secretary Mario Montejo, Secretary to the Cabinet Jose Rene Almendras, Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, Jr., Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima and Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon Jesus Paje. (Photo by Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III presides over the National Economic and Development Authority Board Meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (June 19). Also in photo are Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr., Science and Technology Secretary Mario Montejo, Secretary to the Cabinet Jose Rene Almendras, Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, Jr., Socio-Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan and Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III joins his official family in prayer before presiding over the National Economic and Development Authority Board Meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (June 19). Also in photo are Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr., Science and Technology Secretary Mario Montejo, Secretary to the Cabinet Jose Rene Almendras, Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, Jr., Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon Jesus Paje, Presidential Management Staff Head Julia Andrea Abad, Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo, Budget and Management Secretary Florencio Abad, Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson, Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II, Socio-Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan and Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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President Benigno S. Aquino III presides over the National Economic and Development Authority Board Meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (June 19). Also in photo are Secretary to the Cabinet Jose Rene Almendras, Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, Jr., Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon Jesus Paje, Presidential Management Staff Head Julia Andrea Abad, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority chairman Francis Tolentino and Mindanao Development Authority chairperson Luwalhati Antonino. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) | ||
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