Dispatch for August 18, 2015 , 2 PIA Calabarzon PRs , 2 Weather Watch , PNOY Speech , 26 Online News (Aug 17, 2015 ) , 23 Photonews (Aug 17)

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

DAILY WEATHER FORECAST

Issued at: 5:00 AM today, 18 August 2015 
Valid Beginning: 5:00 AM today until 5:00 AM tomorrow

Synopsis: 

Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) affecting Visayas And Palawan. Meanwhile, at 4:00 AM TOday, the Eye of Typhoon "GONI" (International Name) outside the Philippine Area Of Responsibility (PAR) was located based on all available data at 1,600 KM East of Luzon (18.0°N, 137.2°E) with maximum sustained winds of 170 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 205 kph. It is forecast to move west northwest at 25 kph. 

Predicted Mean Sea Level Pressure Analysis 8 AM 18 August 2015

Predicted Mean Sea Level Wind Analysis 8 AM 18 August 2015

Forecast: 

Cloudy skies with light to moderate rains and isolated thunderstorms will be experienced over Visayas and the Province of Palawan. Partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated thunderstorms will prevail over Metro Manila and the rest of the country. 


Moderate to occasionally strong winds blowing from the southwest to west will prevail over Mindanao and its coastal waters will be moderate to occasionally rough. Elsewhere, winds will be light to moderate coming from the northwest to west with slight to moderate seas. 

PAGTAYA: Maulap na kalangitan na may mahina hanggang sa katamtamang mga pag-ulan at pulu-pulong pagkidlat-pagkulog ang mararanasan sa Kabisayaan at lalawigan ng Palawan. Bahagyang maulap hanggang sa maulap na kalangitan na may pulu-pulong pagkidlat-pagkulog ang iiral sa Metro Manila at sa nalalabing bahagi ng bansa.

Katamtaman hanggang sa malakas na hangin mula sa timog-kanluran hanggang sa kanluran ang iiral sa Mindanao at ang mga baybaying-dagat nito ay magiging katamtaman hanggang sa kung minsan ay maalon. Sa ibang dako, ang hangin ay magiging mahina hanggang sa katamtaman mula sa hilagang kanluran hanggang sa kanluran na may banayad hanggang sa katamtaman ang pag-alon.

Over Metro Manila:

Maximum Temperature: 1:30 PM yesterday --- 34.5 ºC
Minimum Temperature: 6:00 AM yesterday --- 25.0 ºC

Maximum Relative Humidity: 6:00 AM yesterday --- 93 %
Minimum Relative Humidity: 1:30 PM yesterday --- 54 %

High Tide Today: 12:09 AM ..……….... 1.04 meters
Low Tide Today: 07:04 PM ..……….... 0.32 meter
High Tide Tomorrow 01:02 AM ..……….... 0.70 meter

Sunrise Today 5:42 AM
Sunset Today: 6:17 PM

Moonrise Today: 8:20 AM
Moonset Today: 8:37 PM
Illumination Today: 8 %

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

August 18 , 2015  (   Tuesday )     as of  9:00 AM

PIA4A / PIA QUEZON  :  Sunny in Lucena City

NORTHERN


SOUTHERN


EASTERN


WESTERNB

  QUEZON 

Tagalog news: Mga natatanging magsasaka at mangingisda, pinarangalan 

•  August 18, 2015

 LUNGSOD NG LUCENA, Quezon, Agosto 18 (PIA) --Pinarangalan ng pamahalaang panlalawigan sa pamamagitan ng Tanggapan ng Panlalawigang Agrikultor ang mga natatanging magsasaka at mangingisda ngayong taon sa idinaos na Araw ng Pamilyang Magsasaka kaugnay ng pagdiriwang ng Niyogyugan Festival, Agri-Tourism Exposition noong Agosto  11, 2015 sa Quezon Convention Center.

Ang pinarangalan na provincial winners ng Gawad Saka – Outstanding Achievers ay sina: Carmen Cabling ng Sariaya, Outstanding Organic Farmer; Cesar De Ramos ng Sariaya , Outstanding Corn Farmer; Glorio Gajisan ng Sariaya, Outstanding Rice Farmer; Ramelito Barte ng Sariaya, Outstanding High Value Crops Farmer; Nelson Padin ng Lungsod ng Tayabas, Outstanding Young Farmer, Padua Family ng Lungsod ng Tayabas, Outstanding Farm Family; Ibabang Palsabangon Rural Improvement Club (RIC) ng Pagbilao, Outstanding RIC; Quezon Agricultural Farmers ng Pagbilao, Outstanding Small Farmers Association; Lucban Municipal Agricultural and Fishery Council (MAFC), Outstanding MAFC; Infanta Municipal Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council (MFARMC), Outstanding MFARMC at Samahan ng Bantay Lawang Tikub ngTiaong, Outstanding Small Fisherfolks Organization.

Kinikilala ng pamahalaang panlalawigan sa pamumuno ni Governor David “Jay-Jay” C. Suarez ang malaking kontribusyon ng mga magsasaka at mangingisda sa buong lalawigan sa pagpapanatili ng maayos na suplay ng mga produktong pang-agrikultura at pag-angat ng sektor ng agrikultura sa lalawigan.

“Ang mga magsasaka at mangingisda ang sektor na bumubuhay sa ating lalawigan, nagpapakain sa ating lalawigan, sa ating mamamayan, sa ating rehiyon at sa bansa,” ayon pa sa Gobernador.

Base sa datos ng National Statistics Office (ngayon ay Philippine Statistics Authority), 56 porsyento ng lahat ng palay, mais, gulay, isda, manok at karne na kinokonsumo ng Region IV-A ay nanggagaling salalawigan ng Quezon.

Ang GAWAD Saka ay isa rin sa mga programa ng kagawaran ng pagsasaka na naglalayong mabigyan ng parangal at pagkilala ang mga natatanging magsasaka, maging ang mga samahan ng mga magsasaka na malaki ang naiambag sa pagpapaunlad ng agrikultura sa mga lalawigan sa bansa.

Ibinalita naman ng gobernador saharap ng libong magsasaka at mangingisda ang karagdagang P100M scholarship fund para sa mga kabataang gustong magtapos ng pag-aaral kung saan prayoridad ang mga anak ng mga magsasaka at mangingisda.

Samantala, sa unang bahagi ng palatuntunan ay idinaos ang iba’t ibang palarong Pinoy ng mga samahang pang-nayon tuladng fish and nut relay, the amazing rice (pagbayo ng palay), on-the-spot canvass painting contest, OPM vocal solo singing contest at quiz bowl. (Quezon PIO/ RMO, PIA-Quezon)

 RIZAL 

Tagalog news: Antipolo, kinilala bilang 3rd Most Competitive City sa Pilipinas

•  August 18, 2015

 ANTIPOLO CITY, Rizal, Agosto 18 (PIA)  --Nakamit ng lungsod ng Antipolo ang titulong “3rd Most Competitive City” sa buong bansa para sa Infrastructure Development Category at umangat din ngayong taong bilang 6th Overall Most Competitive Component City sa buong Pilipinas mula sa ika-26 na pwesto noong 2014.

Mula sa masusing pagpili ng National Competitiveness Council (NCC), isa ang Antipolo sa mga kinilala bilang maunlad na lungsod sa 3rd Regional Competitiveness Summit na ginanap sa Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), Pasay City kamakailan.

Naging kapansin-pansin sa NCC ang mga proyektong ipinatupad sa Antipolo City sa loob lamang ng dalawang taon sa ilalim ng panunungkulan ni Mayor Jun Ynares. Sinimulan ito sa pagpapatayo ng apat na ospital na sinundan pa ng ibang comprehensive infrastructure development program katulad ng Antipolo City Institute and Technology (AiTECH), Antipolo Science High School, ang bagong renovated na city hall, mga rural hospital units (RHU), road constructions, pabahay, school buildings at ang matagumpay na  rehabilitasyon ng Hinulugang Taktak Protected Landscape (HTPL).

Naging salamin din ito ng pagtaas ng Project Implementation Rate ng lungsod ng Antipolo kung saan 78 porsyento ng mga programa at proyekto sa Annual Investment Program (AIP) ang naisakatuparan kumpara noong nakaraang administrasyon na umabot lamang sa 53 porsyento ng mga proyekto at programa ang naisagawa.

Personal na tinanggap ni Mayor Ynares ang prestihiyosong parangal kasama ang mga kawani ng pamahalaang lungsod. Samantalang ang 1st and 2nd place ay iginawad sa lungsod ng Naga at Dasmariñas. (LAReyes, Antipolo PIO/PIA-Rizal)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/631439853545/tagalog-news-antipolo-kinilala-bilang-3rd-most-competitive-city-sa-pilipinas#sthash.jBxpAssN.dpuf

17 AUGUST 2015 CSC wants to donate used pens, pencils to DepEd Tawi-Tawi execs face raps for delayed/unremitted GSIS premiums Maguindanao execs charged for unremitted Pag-ibig premiums and BIR taxes No ‘pork’ in 2015 budget – DSWD Launching of Santiago City Credit Surety Fund slated today Japanese government assists RP infra development Japanese minister visits DPWH Traffic bill gains support from DOJ 1st JobStart Philippines Program graduation: Milestones include 677 job placements and 685 internship placements Roxas to Rural leaders: Walang iniwan, walang maiiwan Bottom up Budgeting in action in Bukidnon DTI simultaneously launches 5 Negosyo Centers in Region II Free performances, art workshops at Sikat Pinoy Fair DepEd boosts capacity for its last mile efforts 14,462 Police Officers promoted to next higher rank Peace panel lauds retention of parliamentary system but decries change in seat allocation in Senate bill High school studes squeeze out creative juices in DOST poster contest Regional airports O&M PPP up for qualification Statement on the recent Chinese recruitment video DFA continues to strengthen frontline services against human trafficking SSS chief visits OFWs in Europe August 2015 Mining Engineer Licensure Examination results released in two (2) working days Approved applicants for registration without examination as Psychologists/Psychometricians The next great hires could come from Pangasinan, La Union - Villanueva Chris Brown promoter released on bail MB places Farmers’ Rural Bank, Inc. under PDIC receivership, all valid insured deposit claims will be paid

CSC wants to donate used pens, pencils to DepEd

Source: http://web.csc.gov.ph

The Civil Service Commission (CSC) is initiating a social responsibility program by collecting pencils and pens used by examinees after taking the civil service examination and donating them to public schools. Examinees may voluntarily give their used pens and pencils to the Room Examiner or Proctor, who will then turn them over to the CSC’s Regional or Local Examination Committee. The CSC will identify the beneficiary-school and coordinate with the concerned local Department of Education (DepEd) office for the donation procedure. “Through this program, we are introducing a more systematic way of collecting and donating used writing materials to children who may not be capable of buying such items for school,” said CSC Acting Chairperson Robert S. Martinez. The CSC – through its Examination, Recruitment, and Placement Office – conducts the Career Service Examination-Paper and Pencil Test (CSE-PPT) twice a year, with each examination having no less than 150,000 takers nationwide. Each examinee is required to bring a pen and at least two lead pencils. The CSC advised examinees that, instead of leaving their pencils on the seats or throwing them away, they may opt to donate said materials after the exam. “Your simple gesture can go a long way in contributing to the learning of less-fortunate students,” he said. The next CSE-PPT is scheduled on October 18, 2015. Filing of application is ongoing until September 3. Applicants should personally file their applications at the CSC Regional or Field Office covering the area where they intend to take the examination. Applications forms and details on testing centers, qualifications, application requirements, and other relevant information are available at www.csc.gov.ph.

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Tawi-Tawi execs face raps for delayed/unremitted GSIS premiums

Source: http://www.ombudsman.gov.ph

The Office of the Ombudsman charged former Simunul, Tawi-Tawi Mayor Benzar Tambut and former Municipal Treasurer Frieda Inni with 25 counts of violation of Section 6(b) in relation to Section 52(g) of Republic Act No. 8291 (The Government Service Insurance System Act of 1997) for their failure to timely remit the insurance premiums deducted from the salaries of the municipal employees. Investigation disclosed that from February 2006 to May 2010, the local government unit failed to remit GSIS premiums amounting to P4,948,816.95 within the 30-day allowable period in 22 instances, and completely failed to remit insurance premiums in 3 instances. RA No. 8291 provides that the heads of offices and the personnel involved in the collection of premium contributions and other accounts due to the GSIS are liable when there is failure, refusal or delay in the remittance of such accounts within 30 days from the time that they are due and demandable.

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Maguindanao execs charged for unremitted Pag-ibig premiums and BIR taxes

Source: http://www.ombudsman.gov.ph

The Office of the Ombudsman affirmed the finding of probable cause holding South Upi, Maguindanao Mayor Abdullah Campong and Municipal Treasurer Onofre Natividad liable for the municipality’s failure to remit Pag-ibig premiums from April 2007 to November 2007 as well as the taxes withheld on employees’ compensation from January 2007 to December 2007. Campong and Natividad face eight (8) counts of violation of Section 23 of Presidential Decree No. 1752 (An Act Creating the Home Development Mutual Fund) as amended by Republic Act No. 7742, and 12 counts of violation of Section 272 (b) of Republic Act No. 8424 (An Act Amending the National Internal Revenue Code). Records show that in a letter dated 19 November 2007, Pagibig sent to the Office of the Mayor a copy of the Schedule of Unremitted Contributions and Government Counterpart. The Ombudsman ruled that Campong and Natividad are primary fiduciary officers responsible for making sure that Pag-ibig contributions and BIR taxes are promptly paid and remitted. P.D. No. 1752 mandates employers to remit contributions within 15 days from the date the contributions were collected while R.A. No. 8424 provides that payment of income tax withheld on compensation shall be made on or before the 10th day of the month following the month in which the withholding was made.

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No ‘pork’ in 2015 budget – DSWD

Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) maintains that there are no pork barrel funds in its 2015 budget and that all budget allotments are properly broken down into corresponding programs and services. This is in response to the issue raised by Kabataan party-list Representative Terry Ridon on alleged budget insertions and presence of ‘pork barrel’ funds in government agencies including DSWD which has P401.5 million of alleged insertions for its protective services for individuals and families in especially difficult circumstances. “I don’t recall that there is any insertion. The budget is broken down into clear expenditure items, except for the calamity funds because we don’t know what we’ll be spending for a calamity that is still to come. And the other one is our Assistance for Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) fund because we issue based on the application for assistance we receive,” DSWD Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman reiterated. The Secretary explained that the P401.5 million “later released allotment” is part of the total budget approved by Congress for DSWD Protective Services for individuals and families in especially difficult circumstances. Under the AICS, individuals in emergency or urgent situations seek assistance from the Department, where their needs are assessed by DSWD social workers. Among the needs being responded to by AICS are requests for assistance for medical needs, food, transportation or Balik Probinsya, burial, and education. “No immediate breakdown can be provided for AICS as the provision of assistance is based on the need of the individuals, and DSWD cannot determine beforehand the number of people seeking help and the magnitude of their needs,” Sec. Soliman explained. She, however, stressed that this does not mean that the funds cannot be accounted for. For the assistance provided to individuals in crisis situations, these are in accordance with the assessment of the social workers on the needs and supporting documents submitted by clients in crisis like the social case study report, medical abstract, and certificate of indigency, among others. Another measure to ensure that AICS funds are accounted for is the use of the Crisis Intervention Monitoring System (CRIMS), an online database system, to form part of the assessment of the worker based on the client’s previous records available in the CRIMS. Fund accountability can also be established based on the levels of approval of designated officers that review and grant the release of assistance to clients. All program expenditures are also audited by the Commission on Audit (COA). Just recently when requests for educational aid peaked in June and July due to the opening of classes, DSWD attended to some 800-1,500 requests per day at the Central Office alone. The DSWD takes public trust highly, and thus, adheres to the principles of transparency and accountability in program implementation.

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Launching of Santiago City Credit Surety Fund slated today

Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph

The Santiago City Credit Surety Fund (Santiago City CSF) will be formally launched today as the 41st CSF in the country. The ceremony will take place at the Zen Hotel, Santiago City, and will be highlighted by the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) among stakeholders headed by Santiago City Mayor Joseph Salvador Tan and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Monetary Board Member Juan D. De Zuñiga, Jr., the participating cooperatives and partner institutions. The Fund is expected to spur more economic activities and entrepreneurial opportunities for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Santiago City. Initiated by the BSP in August 2008, the CSF Program is a credit enhancement scheme created by pooling cash contributions from participating cooperatives, local government units and partner institutions. This Fund will serve as alternative collateral for loans extended by banks to MSMEs and cooperatives that participate in the CSF Program. The CSF, through the issuance of a surety agreement, takes the place of hard collaterals that banks traditionally require from borrowers to secure their loans. So far, seven (7) cooperatives have joined the Santiago City CSF and have contributed an aggregate amount of P3.0 million while the City Government of Santiago pledged P10.0 million. The CSF’s partner institutions such as the Industrial Guarantee and Loan Fund, Development Bank of the Philippines and Land Bank of the Philippines are also expected to put up their counterpart contributions to the Santiago City CSF. About a month ago, the Cagayan and Nueva Ecija CSFs were launched in the cities of Tuguegarao and Cabanatuan, respectively. Three more will be established this year; Malaybalay City CSF on 24 August, Valencia City CSF on 25 August, both in the Province of Bukidnon, and in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija in September 2015. As of 30 June 2015, the total accumulated loans approved by the lending banks under the CSF Program amounted to P1.8 billion, of which P1.5 billion has already been released to 14,591 beneficiaries nationwide. Including the Santiago City CSF, the Program has been established in 30 provinces and 11 cities nationwide.

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Japanese government assists RP infra development

Source: http://www.dpwh.gov.ph

The Government of Japan will consider assistance to the Philippines on water resources management particularly the construction of dams, sabo technology, retarding basin and other flood control structures including sharing of expertise and technologies. Visiting Japanese Minister Akihiro Ohta of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism is open to the proposal of Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio L. Singson in providing cooperation program on flood mitigation and management. Earlier, Secretary Singson has expressed its gratitude to Japanese government for the full support to the country’s infrastructure development particularly through a number of Official Development Assistance (ODA) provided to improve and modernize the Philippines’ infrastructure. Secretary Singson also proposed for possible inclusion of training and capacity building program assistance on water resources and flood management for selected young civil engineers joining DPWH in its recruitment program which the Japanese Minister believes is a good idea and in need of further discussion. Singson said that the DPWH has developed a flood control master plan for Metro Manila to include the structural measures for the Pasig-Marikina River Basin and adjacent areas. The design of a proposed dam project to be constructed in the upstream portion of Upper Marikina River in Rodriguez, Rizal is now being finalized by the DPWH. Minister Ohta expressed his admiration for Secretary Singson and the Aquino administration for coming up with a long term vision for flood mitigation and roadmap for transport infrastructure development that will address worsening traffic in Metro Manila and surrounding areas. The Government of Japan thru Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) provided invaluable assistance in the development of transport roadmap with the goal of modernizing transport facilities. In his visit in Manila, the Japanese Minister with his party had a brief tour of the Pasig-Marikina River Channel Improvement Project which is now on its third phase of implementation. The project is financed through a loan granted to the Philippines by JICA. Implemented by the DPWH, over a million people will directly benefit from the mitigating structural measures for the Pasig-Marikina River Basin and adjacent areas. Later, Singson and Ohta witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation between Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) headed by its President and Chief Executive Officer Arnel Paciano D. Casanova and Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Corporation for Transport and Urban Development (JOIN) headed by its President and Chief Executive Officer Takuma Hatano for the Clark Green City Project in Clarkfield, Pampanga particularly in the establishment of project implementation framework to enable the project commercially and economically viable for private business and investors and attract project financing.

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Japanese minister visits DPWH

Source: http://www.dpwh.gov.ph

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Rogelio L. Singson (at center) poses with visiting Minister Akihiro Ohta of Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (3rd from right) during the latter’s courtesy visit at the DPWH Head Office in Bonifacio Drive, Port Area, Manila. Government of Japan is among the biggest provider of Official Development Assistance (ODA) in financing the Philippines’ infrastructure development. Also in photo are (from right) DPWH Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) River Management Advisor Takeshi Muronaga, DPWH Undersecretaries Romeo S. Momo and Maria Catalina E. Cabral, Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Kazuhide Ishikawa and Japanese Director General for International Affairs Hiroshi Narahira.

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Traffic bill gains support from DOJ

Source: http://www.doj.gov.ph

Justice Secretary Leila De Lima supported the bill creating the Metro Cebu Traffic Management Authority (MCTMA). In a position paper submitted before the House Committee on Government Enterprises and Privatization, De Lima manifested no constitutional or legal objection to the bill. She said, “we find the proposed bill very timely and responsive to the current traffic condition within the metropolitan area of Cebu City and the Province of Cebu.” House Bill 5556 authored by Cebu Rep. Gabriel Luigi Quisumbing, seeks to create a central body to be tasked with the formulation and implementation of an efficient traffic system in Cebu. De Lima proposed the inclusion of Cebu City in the enumeration of cities and municipalities composing Metro Cebu. She also suggested the addition of a provision in the draft bill for the installation of a single ticketing system and the legal authority of MCTMA over its implementation. Further, the Secretary recommended the inclusion of a provision expressly lodging certain powers and functions of the Chairman and General Manager of the proposed MCTMA.

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1st JobStart Philippines Program graduation: Milestones include 677 job placements and 685 internship placements

Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph

“JobStart Philippines Program’s full-cycle employment facilitation service has, indeed, prepared more young people for productive employment.” Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz expressed this observation yesterday after receiving an update report from the Bureau of Local Employment saying that 677 JobStart Philippines Program beneficiaries have found gainful work after having been immersed in the program. “To be job-ready, one needs to have the basic technical competencies for the job; and to excel at work, to have the required non-technical life-skills. JobStart offers exactly these know-how to its beneficiaries for their entry in the labor market,” said Baldoz at the first graduation rites of JobStart at the Midas Tent in Pasay City. The graduation is the culmination of the implementation of the pilot phase of the program that saw 601 young Filipino men and women complete the three cycles of JobStart—life skills training, technical training, and internship. BLE Director Anna Dominique Rubia-Tutay reported that 5,424 registered for JobStart at its inception last year, but only 1,819 have been selected. Of this number, 1,413 completed the first cycle—the life skills training—and 685 went through the technical skills training and internship cycles. Finally, only 601 graduated. “The JobStart Client Tracking System show that 431 of the 1,413 who completed the life skills training were immediately placed in various jobs. Added to this are the 246 who found jobs on their own after the LST, or a total of 677 JobStarters who are now productive members of the labor force,” said Dir. Tutay in her report. She said the number of JobStarters placed under the program came from Taguig City with 157 placed beneficiaries; followed by General Trias, Cavite, with 99; City of San Fernando, Pampanga, with 89; and Quezon City, with 86. On the other hand, of the 246 beneficiaries who found jobs after completing the LST, 132 came from Taguig City, 132; Quezon City, 49; City of San Fernando, Pampanga, 45; and General Trias, Cavite, 20. “Those who found jobs on their own, or placed in jobs after their LST training are working either as production staff, hospitality service staff, service crew, housekeeping attendant, gaming attendant, administrative/office staff, food and beverage staff, manufacturing operator, public area attendant, or store supervisor,” Tutay added. She also said there are also 28 JobStart beneficiaries who went through technical training, and they, too, have found jobs. Of this number, 12 are from Taguig City; eight from General Trias, Cavite; seven from Quezon City; and one from City of San Fernando, Pampanga. She further said that 47 of those who completed their internship were absorbed by the training company; 107 were retained by various manpower agencies; and three were referred for potential absorption after internship. “JobStart is a partnership program of the DOLE, Asian Development Bank (ADB), and the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) which aims to increase the employability of the youth by providing them access to technical and life skills training demanded by employers and by mentoring and tooling them to improve their job searches and outcomes,” Baldoz said, emphasizing the program’s objective to raise youth job placement rate to 80 percent from the current 60-65 percent rate. For the pilot program, JobStart was implemented in four areas, namely, Quezon City, with 796 selected participants; Taguig City, 440; City of San Fernando, Pampanga, 410; and General Trias, Cavite, 200. The DOLE had signed memorandum of understanding with the chief executive officers of these four local government units (LGUs) and agreements with employers for internship slots for the pilot implementation of JobStart. “The agreements with private sector employers to take on beneficiaries as interns ensure that the process is employer-led. At the onset, a training plan is agreed upon between the JobStart team, the intern, and the employer. This plan will cover technical and life skills and on-the job training at the enterprises," Baldoz said. Among the top 10 internship positions offered by employers are: (1) Service Crew, with 169 pledged positions; (2) Sales Agent, 138; (3) Production Crew, 130; (4) Manufacturing Operator, 105; (5) Hospitality Service Staff, 99; (6) Store Supervisor, 96; (7) Gaming Attendant, 60; (8) Housekeeping Attendant, 40; (9) Technician, 27; and (10) Ink Jet Opertors and Marketing Staff, 10 each. “The Philippines is already reaping the fruits of the government’s strategic investments, which started in 2010 after President Benigno Aquino III assumed public office,” Baldoz said. The fruits of these investments are our youth, the next generation of future workforce. I am confident that, with sustained cooperation from our partner agencies in implementing JobStart, unemployment will soon be addressed as there will be more workers with skills set that meet industry needs—job-ready—and readily-absorbable by the labor market,” she finally said.

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Roxas to Rural leaders: Walang iniwan, walang maiiwan

Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph

From the national level to the local, good leadership is essential. Much has been said about President Aquino’s leadership, but little has been said about the leadership on the ground. The Koalisyon ng Mamamayan Para sa Reporma (KOMPRe) has sought to aid the growth of that group through leadership training. The event, entitled Basic Leadership Training for Rural Development, was held in Valencia City, Bukidnon, on August 13. Secretary of Interior and Local Government Mar Roxas attended the program and discussed the importance of a continuation of projects that have been put in place. These programs, such as the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and Bottom-up Budgeting (BuB), Roxas said, ultimately aid regular citizens in raising their standard of living, and make them the center of development. “Ang pinaglalaban natin sa Daang Matuwid ay ang pagkakataon na mamuhay na hawak natin ang ating kapalaran. ‘Yan ang dahilan kung bakit yung mga programa na ipinaglalaban natin,” Roxas said. “Ang pamahalaan na naandyan—binubuo ninyo, nagmumula sa inyo, at dapat para sa inyo. Wala nang interes na pinagsisislbihan kundi ang interes ng bawat isa sa inyo," he added. Roxas believes that empowerment is very personal to a citizen. “Simple lang ang pangarap. Na mamuhay nang may dignidad. Mamuhay na may kauswagan, kaginhawaan, mamuhay ng may bukas na puno ng pagkakataon,” Roxas said. "Pero ang lumang sistema, binebenta natin ang dangal natin. Binebenta natin yung pagkatao natin. Binebenta sa mga makapangyarihan," he added. Roxas also explained the merits of the BUB program. “Hindi naman pwede na manatiling masagana 'yung nasa taas kung mahirap 'yung nasa baba, hindi ba? Kayo ang nagpapasiya kung saan gagastusin ito.” He noted how programs like BUB, along with the 4Ps, are hallmarks of Daang Matuwid, and under the good leadership of President Aquino, programs like these have flourished and aided millions of Filipinos. “Hindi tinatanong kung mula taga-saan sila. Kinukuha ang listahan ng pinakamahihirap na nangangailangan ng tulong, at iyon ang tinutulungan,” Roxas said. “Ang pinaglalaban po natin ay ang magandang bukas ng bawat Pilipino," he added.

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Bottom up Budgeting in action in Bukidnon

Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph

The commercial district in Valencia, Bukidnon, has flourished as of late, thanks to the public market that was improved under the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)'s Bottom-up Budgeting (BuB) program. Visiting the largest trading post in Bukidnon, Secretary of Interior and Local Government Mar Roxas was greeted with wild cheers as he made his rounds in the Valencia Public Market yesterday (August 13). Roxas visited to see the results of BuB in Valencia, which he describes as the commercial hub of Bukidnon. “Ang nakikita natin ang BuB, ito naman ‘yung project na pinili ng mamamayan ng Valencia. Pinili nila na pagandahin nila at palawakin nila ang kanilang palengke,” he said. The workers of the public market also used their BuB funds to buy two tricycles, two push carts, and twenty rickshaws, which they received on February 17, 2015. Antonio Robledo, the president of the Market Vendors Association of Valencia Incorporated, said that the materials they got were extremely helpful because it made moving heavy materials easier. At the same time, it cut the laborer’s expenses because more materials could be moved to the market. “Nakikita dito na masigla ang pagnenegosyo, masigla ang panininda, at ang ating mga mamimili ay satisfied sa mga nabibili dito,” Roxas said. Roxas also noted that a thriving market is a good sign for a community. “Maayos ang takbo ng palengke dito at ‘yan naman ang dahilan kung bakit mabilis din ang pag-unlad ng Valencia,” he added. “Dapat masigla ang ating mga palengke dahil ‘yan ang sentro de komersyo. Masasabi na ‘yan ang larawan ng tayo ng isang komunidad," Roxas said. He added that not only do the vendors benefit from having a good market, but other citizens as well. "Kaya sa kahit anong trabaho, lumipat ang aking pagiging trabaho ay parating naroon pa rin tayo sa palengke,” he said.

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DTI simultaneously launches 5 Negosyo Centers in Region II

Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph

Five (5) Negosyo Centers were simultaneously launched on 30 June 2015 in the province of Cagayan, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, Quirino, and in Santiago City pursuant to the Republic Act 10644, or Go Negosyo Law that mandates the establishment of Negosyo Center (NC) in all Local Government Units (LGUs) nationwide. Also present during the event were local government officials, regional line agencies, small, medium enterprises (SMEs), businessmen, and media. The establishment of Negosyo Center aims to provide one-stop shop business services for small, medium, enterprises (SMEs) nationwide which will consequently increase jobs generation and promote inclusive growth through the development and empowerment of SMEs. Among the services offered in the Negosyo Centers include business registration through the Philippine Business Registry (PBR) System, business advisory services wherein business consultancy on access to market finance and business development is provided to entrepreneurs, business information and advocacy, and monitoring and evaluation to track the progress of SMEs. In addition to the establishment of NCs, other frontline services will also be integrated in the full operation of the NCs. In Quirino, alongside with the launching, a mini trade fair was prepared during the activity. Customized fans and mugs were also distributed to participants as tokens. The launching of Negosyo Center in Nueva Vizcaya were attended mostly by the academe and representatives from various line agencies. A press conference was also conducted in Santiago City during their launching attended by key officials. Meanwhile, in Isabela, the launching was attended by representatives from the national government agencies such as TESDA, DOLE and DOST, government officials both from the Governor’s Office and the local government unit of the City of Ilagan, Media, MSMEs and private sector were all welcomed by DTI Isabela Provincial Director Ma. Salvacion A. Castillejos. Sanggunian Panglunsod member Hon. Fred Alili graced the occasion together with Dr. Olive Domingo Assistant City Administrator of Ilagan City. In the messages they delivered, both stressed the importance of the Negosyo Center to all MSMEs in the province. Provincial Agriculture Officer Danilo Tumamao and Philippine Chamber of Commerce (PCC)-Isabela Chapter President Simplicio L. Caleon representing the government and private sector respectively expressed their support and commitment for the success of the Negosyo Center. Representatives from the Media -Bombo Radyo Philippines, DWDY and ABS-CBN also joined the launching activity and some actively participated during the press briefing.

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Free performances, art workshops at Sikat Pinoy Fair

Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph

The Sikat Pinoy National Art & Fashion Fair slated for 14-16 August 2015, at the SM Megatrade Halls at SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City, will showcase some 130+ art and fashion entrepreneurs to promote the creative industries and the best products from the country’s 13 regions. The three-day event will also be a celebration of the arts, with performances and workshops open to the public free of charge. On Friday, August 14, the program includes a talk by Surf Reyes on creative film-making followed by screening of short films in the morning. The opening ceremony, scheduled at 2PM, will feature Noel Cabangon and the Lahing Batangan Dance Troupe. The day ends with a talk on music by Joey Ayala, performance art with knit sculpture by Axe Ong, and organic etnik music by Luna Trip Band. On Saturday, August 15, the line-up consists of a talk on regional film-making in Luzon and Mindanao by Teddy Co, some short films, a peformance by Jesse Lucas of Talent Co, a craft bloggers workshop, an artists forum by the Artists Welfare of the Philippines, a performance by the Philippine Ballet Theatre, with Luna Trip Band ending the day. Sunday, August 16, will start out with a Cinekasimanwa forum on regional film-making in Western Visayas, short films, a performance by The Rude Mechanicals Theater, a Ballet Manila performance, a pottery demo by Joey de Castro, a painting workshop by Fernando Sena with students, and a closing day jam by Lazaro Band. The Sikat Pinoy National Art & Fashion Fair aims to provide marketing support to SMEs engaged in the creative industries, to help them reach a wider domestic market and eventually become globally competitive. It brings together different art forms, including paintings, sculptures, prints, film, pottery, literature, music, the performing arts, and more. There will also be fine jewelry and ethnic crafts from the regions. Also being showcased is the country’s vibrant fashion industry, with fashion pieces such as handcrafted accessories, inticately woven fabrics, and unique apparel and other wearables. Footwear, leather goods, bags and other accessories will also be on display. For more information, contact the DTI-Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion at telephone number 751-3223, fax number 751-3224, or email bdtp@dti.gov.ph. Please “Like” the Facebook page sikatpinoyfairs for updates.

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DepEd boosts capacity for its last mile efforts

Source: http://www.deped.gov.ph

ANGELES CITY - The Department of Education (DepEd) is conducting a series of workshops for its regional and division coordinators for the Adopt-A-School Program (ASP) to strengthen the capacity of its field offices for building partnerships and linkages with educational stakeholders from different sectors for the Department’s Senior High School and other last mile efforts. The workshop aims to orient newly-designated ASP coordinators on their roles and responsibilities, strengthen coordination, and reinforce guidelines concerning the said program. Standardization among ASP-related processes from project preparation to implementation and monitoring was also emphasized. DepEd Undersecretary for Partnerships and External Linkages Mario Deriquito said that partnerships with the Local Government Units (LGUs), National Government Agencies (NGAs), Non-Government Organizations (NGOs), companies, business establishments, cooperatives and schools and other training institutions are vital in achieving expected outcomes in DepEd's various programs. “Co-ownership is what we need to establish,” he said. He underscored the importance of engaging stakeholders in institutionalizing educational reforms and in ensuring the continued delivery of quality basic education to Filipino learners. “Through partnerships, we are able to build a constituency, a community of supporters,” he added. Deriquito cited some of the notable DepEd programs that need partnerships and linkages such the K to 12 Senior High School and programs for hard-to-reach learners like Pedals and Paddles Project, the Kariton Klasrum, and the recently launched LightEd PH. The Pedals and Paddles Project targets to provide 35, 734 bikes and 1,216 boats to learners in far-flung areas to ease access to schools. Kariton Klasrum aims to provide street children, out-of-school children (OOSC) and school drop-outs aged 5 to 14 with access to basic education. LightEd PH is a campaign that hopes to engage partners in expanding access to electricity and technology to 1,101,501 learners enrolled in over 5,000 schools that are still un-energized through conventional and alternative sources of energy. Emphasizing that education is everyone’s responsibility, Deriquito added, “There is no need to do everything ourselves. Partnerships allow us to focus on what we do best.” As the Department heads in the full implementation of the K to 12 Senior High School (SHS), Deriquito believes that through the collective efforts of different sectors, we can deliver quality basic education to our learners. “Local government units, national government agencies, companies and business establishments, civil society organizations, and other institutions can help provide work immersion opportunities, hands-on expertise, and additional resources for DepEd to be able to offer a more effective Senior High School program,” Deriquito said.

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14,462 Police Officers promoted to next higher rank

Source: http://pnp.gov.ph

PNP Chief Police Director General Ricardo Marquez has approved the promotion of 14,462 Police Commissioned Officers (PCO) and Police Non-Commissioned Officers (PNCO) who qualified for the 2015 2nd Level Regular Promotion Program. A total of 1,521 Police Commissioned Officers and 12,941 PNCOs passed the examination and interviews to qualify for the regular promotion. At the National Headquarters, Police Deputy Director General Marcelo Garbo Jr. administered the oath of office to 1,291 Camp Crame-based police officers, composed of 226 PCOs and 1,065 PNCOs assigned with the National Support Units, Command Group and Directorial Staff offices during a mass oath-taking and pinning of ranks this morning (August 17). Promoted were 84 Police Superintendents; 664 Police Chief Inspectors; 554 Police Senior Inspectors; 219 Police Inspectors; 1,278 SPO4; 279 SPO3; 2,867 SPO2; 2,543 SPO1; 2,980 PO3; and 2,994 PO2. According to Police Director Dominador E. Aquino Jr., the PNP Director for Personnel and Records Management (DPRM), a total of 36,739 police officers applied for the said program. “After the rigid process of screening and evaluation, only 14,461 met the qualification standards and complied with the requirements” PDir Aquino added. Each unit and office has its PCO and PNCO Promotion Board who processed the applications of those who are qualified for Permanent Appointment to the next higher ranks. The observance of mass promotion is to give honor and recognition to newly-promoted PNP uniformed personnel as well as to uplift the morale of the police force.(PNP-PIO)

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Peace panel lauds retention of parliamentary system but decries change in seat allocation in Senate bill

Source: http://www.opapp.gov.ph

MANILA – The government peace panel that negotiated with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) today lauded both the Ad Hoc House Committee chaired by Rep. Rufus Rodriguez and the Senate Committee on Local Government chaired by Sen. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for retaining the proposed parliamentary form of government for the Bangsamoro region in its version of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL). “We laud the two chambers of Congress for retaining the provisions establishing a parliamentary form of government in the region, seeing as it is crucial to the reforms we hope to put in place in the Bangsamoro,” government chief negotiator Prof. Miriam Coronel-Ferrer said. According to Ferrer, the parliamentary system is the most important structural change being introduced, and that it’s “a shift well within the powers of Congress to grant since the Constitution left it up to Congress to define the structure of government in the autonomous region.” She noted, however, that while the House version retained the original proposal in the BBL, the Senate’s substitute bill radically altered the allocation of seats in the proposed Bangsamoro legislature. The original proposal allocated 24 seats in the Bangsamoro parliament to parliamentary districts, 30 seats to party lists and the remaining six seats to reserved seats for non-Moro indigenous peoples, settler communities, and women, among others. In the Senate version submitted by Senator Marcos’ committee, district representation was jacked up to 40 seats, reserved seats were increased to 12, and only eight seats were allocated for party lists. In both versions, 60 seats would make up the Bangsamoro parliament. “Lopsided representation in favor of district representatives, presumably elected on the basis of plurality or highest number of votes, will perpetuate personalistic politics, clan dynasties and weak political parties,” said Ferrer. “On the other hand, we believe that allocating more seats to regional political parties and sectoral representatives would encourage the practice and development of a political culture in the region that is based on broad-based political parties with defined programs of governance competing in free and fair elections,” Ferrer said. Ferrer appealed to senators to seriously reconsider the seat allocations in the regional parliament in order to ensure that new entrants in the electoral arena such as the erstwhile Moro liberation fronts, women’s groups, environmental advocates, and indigenous peoples will stand a good chance to win seats. “Our goal with this parliamentary form of government as envisioned in the original BBL is to ensure inclusive and more participatory governance. Allocating a large majority of the seats of the Bangsamoro parliament for parties and marginalized sectors will encourage politics based on principles and not personalities. It will empower the different segments of the people in the Bangsamoro,” Ferrer explained. Ferrer said the government peace panel is ready to provide technical assistance to the Senate when floor debates start on the Bangsamoro bill to help provide insights on the intent of the proposed provisions in the original BBL, especially the rationale behind the proposed parliamentary form of government for the region.

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High school studes squeeze out creative juices in DOST poster contest

Source: http://www.dost.gov.ph

High school students from around Metro Manila and Laguna took part in the Likhang SIPAG On-the-Spot Poster Making Contest of the Department of Science and Technology- Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) during the last day celebration of the 2015 National Science and Technology Week (NSTW). Now on its second year, the contest aims to dramatize the linkage between the science and technology (S&T) sector and education sector in achieving a strong S&T-based agri-economy as the country continually innovates for global competitiveness. Using only water-based paints as medium, the artworks revolved around the theme Strategic Industry Program for Agri-Aqua Growth, focusing on PCAARRD’s role to provide science-based know-how and tools that enable the agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources sectors to raise productivity to world-class standards. “DOST, through PCAARRD, commits to devote its resources to the development of valuable and productive technologies for the interest of our agri-aqua beneficiaries. DOST also commits to bring the fruits of its R&D efforts closer to them using the most feasible approach and strategies,” said DOST Secretary Mario G. Montejo in a previous PCAARRD event, in reference to the Council’s blueprint for alleviating poverty in the agriculture and aquatic sectors. Participants were given one and a half hour to work on their entries in the presence of the judges. Jestoni Albarillo Rubantes of Pasay City West High School won first place with his painting depicting PCAARRD’s commitment to raise the productivity of agri-aqua- natural resources sectors. Second and third place went to Yanicko Sydbourne Covar of Southbay Montessori School in Sta. Cruz, Laguna and Princess Dianne D. Sabino of St. Louis College of Valenzuela respectively. Covar’s work depicts the value of cooperation in achieving science-based knowledge and making it work for economic development while Sabino’s presents S&T’s role as an important ingredient in the country’s success in the field of agriculture and fisheries as it allows the country to double food production and provide farmers and fisherfolk with additional income. The entries were evaluated according to originality, relevance to the theme, creativity, and execution. Winners received cash prizes and certificates of recognition. The entries of all participants were put on display after the competition at the NSTW exhibit area at SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. (S&T Media Service)

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Regional airports O&M PPP up for qualification

Source: http://www.dotc.gov.ph

Firms Expected to Join Bid for Airport Modernization Qualification documents for the Development and Operations and Maintenance (O&M) of five (5) regional airports project are expected to be submitted tomorrow, August 17, at the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC). Five firms have expressed interest in the Public-Private-Partnership(PPP) project, namely: GMR-Megawide, Metro-Pacific-JG Summit Consortium, Aboitiz Equity Ventures, San Miguel Corp., Philippine Skylanders Inc., and Union Equities. The development and O&M of the regional airports will be bid out in two (2) bundles: Bundle 1: o Php 20.26 Billion Bacolod-SilayAiport Project o Php30.40 Billion Iloilo Airport Project Bundle 2: o Php 40.57 Billion Davao Airport Project o Php 14.62 Billion Laguindingan Airport Project o Php2.34 Billion New Bohol Airport Project The winning concessionaires for each bundle will handle the O&M of the airports for thirty (30) years and will undertake expansion of facilities, as most of the airports are operating beyond their design capacity. These improvements are needed in order to enhance passenger safety and convenience as well as to ensure more efficient airport operations. The opening of bids is scheduled in January 2016, while award will follow in February. Bacolod-Silay Airport Project Bacolod-Silay Airport operations began in 2008 after it replaced the Bacolod City Domestic Airport. The airport caters to residents of Negros Island and currently serves about 22% of air passenger traffic in Western Visayas. The project covers the expansion of the Passenger Terminal Building (PTB), which will boost its capacity to about 3.1 million passengers annually. Iloilo Airport Project The Iloilo Airport is among the top five airports in the country with the highest passenger traffic. The expansion project will allow it to accommodate up to 4.5 million passengers annually. Other upgrades include the expansion of the car park and the construction of a full parallel taxiway. Davao Airport Project The Francisco Bangoy (Davao) Airport is the third busiest airport in the country, which is why it is vital to expand the current PTB by up to 125,000 sq.m. This will increase the airport’s annual passenger capacity to 6.7 million. Laguindingan Airport Project The Laguindingan Airport serves as the main gateway to Northern Mindanao. The expansion of the PTB will boost annual passenger capacity to 4.3 million. The winning concessionaire will take charge of installing airport equipment at par with international standards. New Bohol (Panglao) Airport Project The New Bohol (Panglao) Airport will replace the existing terminal in Tagbilaran City, which is currently the eleventh (11th) busiest airport in the country. It caters to around 789,800 passengers in 2013 despite its size of only 850 square meters. The new, eco-friendly airport is currently being constructed by winning bidder Mitsubishi-Chiyoda Joint Venture and should to be completed in 2017. It can accommodate up to 1.7 million passengers annually.

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Statement on the recent Chinese recruitment video

Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph

16 August 2015 – On the recent Chinese recruitment video, the Philippines reiterates its full commitment to the peaceful resolution of the South China Sea disputes, in conformity with the rule of law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), as well as to the reduction of tensions through the 2002 ASEAN-China Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) and an eventual ASEAN-China Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC). The Philippines has won international respect and recognition for resorting to arbitration, and we reiterate our invitation to China to join in this process. We will continue resolutely on this path, not only to protect our national interests, but also to promote regional and global peace, stability and prosperity.

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DFA continues to strengthen frontline services against human trafficking

Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph

14 August 2015 – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) - Office of the Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs (OUMWA) continues its effort to strengthen its frontline personnel in combating trafficking in persons and providing consular assistance to overseas Filipinos and their families. OUMWA is organizing a seminar on civil registry documents and interview techniques to be participated in by OUMWA assistance-to-nationals officers and other DFA personnel who are preparing for overseas deployment. With experts from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), the participants are expected to acquire sufficient knowledge to detect forgery in civil registry documents, assist in the administrative correction of entries in civil registry documents, and elicit sufficient information in order to initiate prosecution against perpetrators of human trafficking and drug smuggling. The seminar shall take place on August 15. OUMWA Undersecretary Jesus I. Yabes will welcome the participants to the seminar and will remind them of their responsibility to respond promptly and competently to the needs of our overseas Filipinos who are in distress.

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SSS chief visits OFWs in Europe

Source: https://www.sss.gov.ph

As part of its coverage and collection efforts, the Social Security System (SSS) led by SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Emilio S. de Quiros, Jr. recently visited Rome, Italy and other countries in Europe to encourage Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in the continent to register as SSS members so that they can enjoy social security benefits upon their retirement in the Philippines. Right photo shows President de Quiros, Jr. together with the members of the Filipino communities in Rome after a briefing conducted about OFW coverage and the SSS Flexi-fund Program. SSS Flexi-fund Program is a voluntary provident fund program exclusive for OFWs which gives them an opportunity to save a bigger portion of their salary as a pension-savings plan to receive a bigger pension as well as become part of their investment in the future. Left photo shows President de Quiros with CBN Grupo Director Ben Javellana. CBN Grupo is one of the active partner remittance companies of SSS in Europe.

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August 2015 Mining Engineer Licensure Examination results released in two (2) working days

Source: http://www.prc.gov.ph

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announces that 173 out of 214 passed the Mining Engineer Licensure Examination given by the Board of Mining Engineering in Manila this August 2015. The members of the Board of Mining Engineering who gave the licensure examination are Cornelio Q. Casido, Chairman; Rufino B. Bomasang and Augusto C. Villaluna, Members. Registration for the issuance of Professional Identification Card (ID) and Certificate of Registration will be on August 24, 2015. Those who will register are required to bring the following: duly accomplished Oath Form or Panunumpa ng Propesyonal, current Community Tax Certificate (cedula), 1 piece passport size picture (colored with white background and complete nametag), 2 sets of metered documentary stamps and 1 short brown envelope with name and profession and to pay the Initial Registration Fee of P600 and Annual Registration Fee of P450 for 2015-2018. Successful examinees should personally register and sign in the Roster of Registered Professionals. The oathtaking ceremony of the successful examinees in the said examination as well as the previous ones who have not taken their Oath of Professional will be announced later.

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Approved applicants for registration without examination as Psychologists/Psychometricians

Source: http://www.prc.gov.ph

Manila, August 14, 2015 --- The Professional Regulation Commission announces the approved list of applicants who have qualified to be registered without examination as Psychologists/Psychometricians pursuant to Section 17, Article V of R.A. No. 10029, known as the “Philippine Psychology Act of 2009”, and Board of Psychology Resolution No. 03 series of 2012, approved by the Commission as follows: PSYCHOMETRICIANS RESOLUTION NOS. 25, 26, 29, 33 PSYCHOLOGISTS RESOLUTION NOS. 30, 32 The schedule of registration for registrants will be announced.

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The next great hires could come from Pangasinan, La Union - Villanueva

Source: http://www.tesda.gov.ph

Companies could just find their next great hire or see the future business bigwigs in the provinces of La Union and Pangasinan. The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has poured in millions of funds for the two provinces in the north to train and initial 11,500 beneficiaries and make them ready for employment or to start a business. "For too long, technical vocational education has been stigmatized. The truth is many tech-voc trained people reach the heights of success in a wide-range of profession," TESDA Director General Joel Villanueva said. "Thousands of rewarding, skilled jobs go unfilled. TESDA and technical vocational institutions, through our various programs, hold an important key to addressing the skills shortages," he added. As the agency prepared to make available more scholarship slots, a fresh batch of trainees completed their training. In ceremonies at the St. Louis College of San Fernando, La Union Gymnasium, Villanueva led in feting around 300 graduates of the Special Training for Employment Program (STEP). A total of 100 graduates coming from Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte were also recognized. The graduates received toolkits to help them start their livelihood. The ceremony also saw the launch of TESDAMAN@Your Service, which featured the services offered by TESDA graduates sponsored by the association of private institutions in the province. The free services included manicure/pedicure, massage, haircutting, hair/foot spa and demonstration on food processing. The scholarship slots will be available to residents of La Union (1,504) and Pangasinan (9,931). All scholarships will be implemented through the following TESDA programs: Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP), Private Education Student Financial Assistance (PESFA); Special Training for Employment Program (STEP); and Bottom-Up Budgeting (BUB). ”We hope that the youth of these provinces can take the lead in pushing the growth of their respective provinces. Through their skills, they can get employed, improve the living condition of their families and their communities," Villanueva said.

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Chris Brown promoter released on bail

Source: http://www.immigration.gov.ph

Manila, Philippines—Canadian John Michael Pio Roda, the controversial promoter of international star Chris Brown was granted temporary liberty today after the Bureau of Immigration decided to approve the petition for bail submitted by his lawyer. Roda has been under Immigration custody after a Filipino firm, Maligaya Development Corporation, filed a complaint against him for allegedly defrauding them US$ 1 million. Roda is also held for working without the appropriate working visa and is also accused of being an undesirable alien. Bureau of Immigration spokesperson Elaine Tan says Roda’s counsel, Atty. Raymond Fortun, requested for the promoter’s bail last July 24. The BI approved the bail petition last August 11 shortly after Fortun posted a 50,000 peso cash bond for and on behalf of Roda. Consequently, BI has placed Pio Roda’s name in the Hold Departure List and has maintained custody of his Canadian passport. As a condition on his release, Pio Roda is required to appear to the BI’s Intelligence Division every first Monday and third Monday of the month.

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MB places Farmers’ Rural Bank, Inc. under PDIC receivership, all valid insured deposit claims will be paid

Source: http://www.pdic.gov.ph

The Monetary Board (MB) placed Farmers' Rural Bank, Inc. under the receivership of the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) by virtue of MB Resolution No. 1266.B dated August 14, 2015. As Receiver, PDIC took over the bank on August 14, 2015. Farmers' Rural Bank is a single-unit rural bank located at Rizal St., Lian, Batangas. Based on the Bank Information Sheet filed with the PDIC as of December 31, 2014, the bank is owned by Bettina T. Limjoco (31.21%), Teresa T. Limjoco (23.82%), Alexander L. Limjoco (14.08%), Juan Miguel T. Limjoco (9.41%), Rene T. Limjoco (9.41%) and Annadette L. Blanch (2.25%). The Bank's President and Chairman is Bettina T. Limjoco. Latest available records show that as of June 30, 2015, Farmers' Rural Bank had 1,689 accounts with total deposit liabilities of P28.7 million. Total insured deposits amounted to P27.9 million or 97.4% of total deposits. PDIC said that during the takeover, all bank records shall be gathered, verified and validated. The state deposit insurer assured depositors that all valid deposits shall be paid up to the maximum deposit insurance coverage of P500,000.00. Depositors with valid deposit accounts with balances of P100,000.00 and below shall be eligible for early payment and need not file deposit insurance claims, except when they have outstanding obligations with Farmers' Rural Bank or acted as co-makers of these obligations. Depositors have to ensure that they have complete and updated addresses with the bank. PDIC targets to start mailing payments to these depositors at their addresses recorded in the bank by the 4th week of August, 2015. Depositors may update their addresses until August 20, 2015 using the Mailing Address Update Forms to be distributed by PDIC representatives at the bank premises. For depositors that are required to file deposit insurance claims, the PDIC targets to start claims settlement operations for these accounts by the 1st week of September, 2015. The PDIC also announced that it will conduct a Depositors-Borrowers Forum on August 26, 2015. It enjoins all depositors to attend the Forum to verify with PDIC representatives if they are eligible for early payment. Those not eligible will be informed of the requirements and procedures for filing deposit insurance claims. The time and venue of the Forum will be posted in the bank premises and announced in the PDIC website, www.pdic.gov.ph. Likewise, the schedule of the claims settlement operations, as well as the requirements and procedures for filing claims will be announced through notices to be posted in the bank premises, other public places and the PDIC website. For more information, depositors may communicate with PDIC Public Assistance personnel stationed at the bank premises. They may also call the PDIC Toll Free Hotline at 1-800-1-888-PDIC (7342), the PDIC Public Assistance Hotlines at (02) 841-4630 to (02) 841-4631, or send their e-mail to pad@pdic.gov.ph.

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President Benigno S. Aquino III's Speech at the 3rd death anniversary of Sec. Jesse Robredo Naga, Camarines Sur 18 Aug 2015   Medyo bago ho ito, di ko napraktis itong Bikol na itinuturo sa atin ngayon. Kung magkakamali ho, ang naturo sa akin si Jun Delantar po [na] taga-Capiz. Mga namomootan kong kababayan, marhay na aga sa saindong gabos. Kada dalaw ko po sa Bicol, parati po akong tinuturuan ni Jesse nung araw, at talagang dagdag na po sa ating mga nami-miss. Alam n’yo po, itong buwan ng Agosto, maraming mabibigat na alaalang ibinabalik sa akin. Taon 1971, August 21 nangyari ang Plaza Miranda Bombing. Halos naubos ang liderato ng Partido Liberal. Isa nga po sa pinakamalubhang tinamaan dito ang ina ng ating butihing Kalihim Mar Roxas, si Tita Judy Araneta-Roxas. Matapos ang ilang taon, August 21 din pumanaw ang lolo ko po, ama ng aking ina, si Jose Cojuangco. Siya po’y naglalakad doon po sa tabi ng tahanan niya sa Tarlac. Iniisip po ‘yung death sentence o death by musketry na ipinataw sa aking ama. Malapit na malapit ‘yung aking lolo at aking ama. Noong nakulong ang aking ama, siya na ang tumayong pangalawang ama sa akin, at talagang pinoproblema nga po niya ‘yung death sentence. May parte pa ngang ipinakiusap niya sa rehimeng Marcos noong araw, na kung pupuwede, siya na ang makulong kapalit ng kalayaan ng aking ama, at i-exile na lang ang aking ama. 1983 naman po, August 21 pinaslang ang aking ama. Pagdating nung 1987, coup attempt laban sa administrasyon ng aking ina; August 28 po, pinaulanan ng bala ang aking sinasakyan. Namatay ang tatlo sa kasama kong mga security, habang malubhang nasugatan ang huling nabuhay. Ako naman po ay tinamaan ng di-bababa sa apat na bala. At hanggang ngayon po, nasa leeg ko ang isang balang alaala doon, kasama na ang shrapnel. August 1, 2009 pumanaw ang aking ina. Kahapon naman po, August 17, pumanaw na rin ang aking Tito Butz. Kung itinuturing nga pong ghost month ang Agosto, talagang damang-dama namin ito sa amin pong pamilya. Ngayon naman po, tatlong taon na ang nakakaraan mula nang matanggap ko ang balitang nag-crash ang sinasakyang eroplano ni Jesse. Talagang hindi po ako mapakali noong araw na iyon. Medyo malalim na po ‘yung hapon. Isa na naman pong trahedya sa Agosto. Iniisip ko kung paano ipapaliwanag sa kanyang asawang si Leni at sa kanyang mga anak na sa kabila ng matinding pagsisikap ng ating pamahalaan at ng iba’t ibang mga volunteers, hindi pa rin nakikita si Jesse. Noong mga panahong iyon, hindi ko pa ganap na nakikilala ang pamilya niya, dahil talaga namang ginawa ni Jesse ang lahat para manatiling pribado ang kanyang buhay-pamilya. Ang pakikipag-usap na iyon nga po ang itinuturing kong isa sa pinakamahirap kong ginawa bilang pangulo. Naaalala ko, nagpasama pa ako kay Sec. Dinky dahil bahagya na niyang nakilala ang pamilya Robredo. Ang dialogue nga po namin noon, sino kaya ang pinakamalapit sa maybahay at pamilya ni Jesse. Ang sagot niya, “Ako nakilala ko na at palagay ko, ako na ang pinaka o isa sa dalawang pinakamay kakilala sa kanya.” Aminin ko po sa inyo ngayon: Hindi ko napigilang pagdudahan ang sarili ko noong mga panahong iyon. Inisip ko kung paano ko pa kaya kakayanin kung may mangyayari rin sa iba pang miyembro ng aking gabinete. Niyaya ko silang lahat samahan ako sa isang mapanganib na trabaho. Kapag may sakuna, kailangang pumunta. Kapag may peligro sa ating mga kababayan, kailangang pumronta. Kapag may makapangyarihang interes na nagsasamantala sa mga Pilipino, kailangang banggain. Dalawang taon pa lang po ako noon sa aking termino, talagang napakabigat na pasanin kung mababawasan pa uli ng kasama sa pakikipaglaban. Nabibilib nga po ako sa tatag na ipinakita, at ipinapakita ni Leni at nina Aika, Tricia, at Jillian. Alam ko kung gaano kabigat na pasanin ang mawalan ng haligi ng tahanan. Noong pumanaw ang aking ama, nawala na rin ang aming sentro, ang aming pinuno. May mga agam-agam kung paano ipagpapatuloy ang paghakbang nang mawala na ang aming gabay. Ang tanong namin: Paano pa natin ipagpapatuloy ito? Isang milagro nga po na kung dati, iisa ang namumuno, biglang dumami ang humalinhin. Si Leni, ni minsan hindi pinakita sa akin ang kanyang mga luha. Damang-dama ko sa kanya at sa kanyang mga anak na ayaw nilang maging pabigat kanino man. Sigurado ako, kung nasaan man si Jesse ngayon, masaya siyang makita na ang kanyang asawa ay isa sa pinakamaaasahang miyembro ng Kongreso sa ngayon. Ipagmamalaki niya ang magandang ipinapakita ng kanyang mga anak. Halimbawa na lang po ang panganay nilang si Aika, na ipinagpalit ang magandang sahod sa pribadong sektor para makiambag sa pamahalaan. Sigurado rin ako: Mahal na mahal niya kayong lahat. Hindi ko man kayo nakilala nang husto noon, nakita ko kung paano niya pinahalagahan ang bawat pagkakataong makasama kayo. Si Jesse, isang tunay na anak ng Naga. Nakita niya ang mga problema ng mga Nagueño at tinanong niya: Bakit kailangang maging ganito? Kagaya ng aking Tito Butz, iniwan niya ang kanyang komportableng buhay sa pribadong sektor para simulan ang paglilingkod sa kanyang mga kababayan. Ikinuwento niya sa akin kung paano niya tinugunan ang problema ng informal settlers. Ang ipinatupad niyang plano, pati ang ikalawang henerasyon, naasikaso na rin. Maging ang mga nasa paligid ng Naga, tinulungan niya para di na nila kailangang makipagsapalaran pa sa lungsod. Kung saan siya kailangan, doon siya nagpupunta. Kapag may bagyo, kahit gaano kataas ang baha, isusuot niya ang kanyang tsinelas at bibisita sa mga nasalanta. Kung sino ang dapat kausapin, ‘yun ang kinakausap niya. Walang bola, walang pamumulitika. Kahit mga jueteng lord o drug lord, o sariling kamag-anak, hindi siya nagdalawang-isip na banggain dahil alam niyang siya ay nasa tama. Nang makita ng kanyang mga kalaban na isa siyang malaking hadlang sa kanilang mga pansariling interes, nagbato sila ng kung ano-anong isyu. Pati nga ang pagka-Pilipino niya, kinukuwestiyon nila. Pero malinaw sa mga taga-Naga kung ano ang nararapat para sa kanila. Paulit-ulit nilang pinili ang matuwid na pamamahala. Napatunayan ni Jesse at ng mamamayan ng Naga: Hindi kinakailangang maging madumi ang pulitika. Puwedeng makamit ang mga layunin nang hindi isinasakripisyo ang mga prinsipyo. Nakakapanghinayang na talagang nakilala lang si Jesse sa labas ng Bicol nang pumanaw na siya. Hindi kaagad nalaman ng ibang Pilipino kung paanong sa pamamagitan ng matalas na estratehiya at matinding political will ay naitawid niya ang Naga mula 3rd class municipality patungong first class na siyudad. Pero di ba, ‘yun naman talaga ang maasahan natin sa isang taong hindi mahilig umepal at magbuhat ng sariling bangko? Para nga pong itinadhana na magkapareho ang petsa ng pagpaslang sa aking ama at ng pagkakatagpo sa katawan ni Jesse. Sa magkaibang paraan, pareho nilang pinatunayang “The Filipino is worth dying for.” Kung kasama si Jesse sa mga Pilipinong nagsiklab ang pagmamahal sa bayan dahil sa pagkamatay ng aking ama, natitiyak kong marami rin ang humuhugot ng inspirasyon sa ipinakitang halimbawa ni Jesse. Iyan po ang dahilan kung bakit itinuturing kong pagdiriwang ang pagtitipon-tipon nating ito. Hindi man natin siya kasama ngayon, mananatili sa ating mga puso at isipan kung paano namuhay at namuno si Jesse Manalastas Robredo: Ulirang ama at mapagmahal na asawa; mabuting kaibigan; at huwarang lingkod-bayan. Jesse, maraming salamat sa mga repormang nagawa at sinimulan mo, at sa patuloy na pagiging inspirasyon sa amin sa partido at sa ating mga kababayan. Habang pinag-iisipan ko nga po ang buhay ni Jesse, at ang mga nangyari sa aking pamilya, hindi ko maiwasang magtanong: Kung may mga taong handang ibigay ang kanilang sarili para sa kapakanan ng mas nakakarami, ano pa kaya ang kanilang nagawa kung mas marami ang nagpasyang makiambag sa kanila? Di po ba, mas marami pa silang problemang nalutas kung naging malaya silang tumutok sa ibang isyu dahil merong nagsabing “Sige na, sige na. Ako na ang bahala dito.” Tunay nga po: Ang pinakamagandang pasasalamat na maibibigay natin kay Jesse at sa iba pang dakilang taong nauna sa kanya ay ang pagpapatuloy at pagpapaunlad sa mga iniwan nila sa atin. Sa pamamagitan ng kanilang buhay, pagkamatay, at mga sakripisyo ay ipinakita nila sa atin kung ano ang posible. At sa pamamagitan ng paggawa ng mga posible ay nasisiguro nilang mas maganda ang pagsisimulan natin kaysa sa kanilang dinatnan. Nararapat lang na suklian natin ito ng sariling pagsisikap at pagmamalasakit sa mga susunod sa atin. Mga Boss, napakagandang panahon ito para abutin ang mas matatayog pang pangarap. Naitanim na natin ang binhi ng transpormasyon. Sa ating patuloy na pagdidilig at pagbabantay, at sa pakikiambag ng bawat disenteng Pilipino, higit pang bibilis ang pagkamit natin sa isang Pilipinas na mas maunlad, mas mapayapa at hinahangaan sa iba’t ibang panig ng mundo. Magbalik-tanaw tayo sa mga nauna po sa atin at kung saan tayo’y dinala, na di-hamak mas maganda kaysa sa kanilang dinatnan. Tandaan lang po natin ang pinanggalingna natin. Tandaan po natin na ito ang magbibigay ng lakas patungo sa ating mga inaasam-asam. Magandang araw po. Maraming salamat sa inyong lahat.   [HOME] Last Updated: 17 AUGUST 2015 Alternative photo archive with high resolutions Please click on thumbnails to magnify       President Benigno S. Aquino III presides over the Cabinet Meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (August 17). With the President in the meeting are Cabinet Secretary Rene Almendras, NEDA Arsenio Balisacan, Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala, and DPWH Secretary Rogelio Singson, among others (Photo by Gil Nartea / Lauro Montillano / Malacañang Photo Bureau)             President Benigno S. Aquino III leads his official family in prayer before presiding over the Cabinet Meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on Monday (August 17). (Photo by Lauro Montillano / Marcelino Pascua / Malacañang Photo Bureau)             APEC member-economies meet in first High-Level Policy Dialogue on Science and Technology in Higher Education as agents in "Developing 21st Century Innovators for Inclusive, Resilient and Sustained Growth". (First row, from left-right) Dir. Alex Rogers, APEC Secretariat; Usec. Ferdinand Cui, Jr., SOM Vice Chair; Sec. Mario G. Montejo, Department of Science and Technology; Sec. Patricia B. Licuanan, Commission on Higher Education; Hon. Malakai Tabar, Papua New Guinea Minister for Higher Education; Ms. Romy Tincopa, APEC Secretariat joined by member-economy senior officials and experts on S&T and Higher Education.             President Benigno S. Aquino III poses with newly appointed Star-Ranked Philippine National Police (PNP) officials after their oath-taking ceremony at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on wednesday, August 12, 2015. (Photo by Gil Nartea/ Rolando Mailo / Malacañang Photo Bureau)             President Benigno S. Aquino III administers the oath of office to newly appointed Star-Ranked Philippine National Police (PNP) officials in a ceremony at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on wednesday, August 12, 2015. (Photo by Rey Baniquet / Lauro Montillanol/ / Joseph Vidal / Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)             President Benigno S. Aquino III congratulates newly appointed Philippine National Police Chief Police Director General Ricardo C. Marquez during the oath-taking ceremony of star-ranked police officials Wednesday (August 12) at the Rizal Hall of Malacanang. Fifity other star-ranked police took their oath of office. (Photo by Lauro Montillano / Gil Nartea / Malacanang Photo Bureau)             President Benigno S. Aquino III administers the oath of office to Philippine National Police Chief Police Director General Ricardo C. Marquez in ceremonies held Wednesday (August 12) at the Rizal Hall of Malacanang. Fifity other star-ranked police took their oath of office. (Photo by Rey Baniquet / Rolando Mailo / Gil Nartea / Lauro Montillano / Joseph Vidal /Malacanang Photo Bureau)             President Benigno S. Aquino, accompanied by newly installed Rear Admiral Caesar Taccad, during the inspection at the Philippine Navy Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony at the Headquarters of the Philippine Navy, Naval Station Jose B. Andrada in Roxas Boulevard, Manila City on Monday (August 10). The Commander in Chief has appointed Rear Admiral Caesar Taccad as the 35th Flag Officer in Command, following the retirement of Vice-Admiral Jesus Millan from the military service. Taccad is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Sandigan” Class of 1982. (Photo by Rodolfo Manabat / Malacañang Photo Bureau)             President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the Philippine Navy Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony of Vice-Admiral Jesus Millan at the Headquarters of the Philippine Navy, Naval Station Jobe B. Andrada in Roxas Boulevard, Manila City on Monday (August 10). (Photo by Lauro Montellano Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)             President Benigno S. Aquino III presents the Command Plaque, Plaque of Honorable Service, Plaque of Appreciation, Medal Frame and Philippine Flag to former Navy Chief Vice-Admiral Jesus Millan during the Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony at the Headquarters of the Philippine Navy, Naval Station Jobe B. Andrada in Roxas Boulevard, Manila City on Monday (August 10). The Commander in Chief has appointed Rear Admiral Caesar Taccad as the 35th Flag Officer in Command following the retirement of Vice-Admiral Jesus Millan from the military service. Taccad is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Sandigan” Class of 1982. (Photo by Lauro Montelano Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)             President Benigno S. Aquino III presents the medal of the command symbol to the newly installed 35th Philippine Navy Flag Officer in Command Rear Admiral Caesar Taccad during the Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony at the Headquarters of the Philippine Navy, Naval Station Jose B. Andrada in Roxas Boulevard, Manila City on Monday (August 10). Taccad is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Sandigan” Class of 1982. (Photo by Rodolfo Manabat / Malacañang Photo Bureau)             President Benigno S. Aquino III passes the Philippine Navy Flag to newly installed 35th Philippine Navy Flag Officer in Command Rear Admiral Caesar Taccad after it was ceded by former Navy Chief Vice-Admiral Jesus Millan during the Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony at the Headquarters of the Philippine Navy, Naval Station Jose B. Andrada in Roxas Boulevard, Manila City on Monday (August 10). Taccad is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Sandigan” Class of 1982. (Photo by Lauro Montellano Jr. / Rodolfo Manabat / Malacañang Photo Bureau)             President Benigno S. Aquino III with outgoing Navy Chief Vice-Admiral Jesus Millan salutes during the Philippine Navy Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony at the Headquarters of the Philippine Navy, Naval Station Jose B. Andrada in Roxas Boulevard, Manila City on Monday (August 10). The Commander in Chief has appointed Rear Admiral Caesar Taccad as the 35th Flag Officer in Command following the retirement of Vice-Admiral Jesus Millan from the military service. Taccad is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Sandigan” Class of 1982. (Photo by Lauro Montellano Jr./ Malacañang Photo Bureau)             Newly installed 35th Philippine Navy Flag Officer in Command Rear Admiral Caesar Taccad and former Navy Chief Vice-Admiral Jesus Millan salute President Benigno S. Aquino III during the Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony at the Headquarters of the Philippine Navy, Naval Station Jose B. Andrada in Roxas Boulevard, Manila City on Monday (August 10). Taccad is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Sandigan” Class of 1982. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)             President Benigno S. Aquino III confers the Philippine Legion of Honor with the degree of Commander to outgoing Navy Chief Vice-Admiral Jesus Millan during the Philippine Navy Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony at the Headquarters of the Philippine Navy, Naval Station Jose B. Andrada in Roxas Boulevard, Manila City on Monday (August 10). The Commander in Chief has appointed Rear Admiral Caesar Taccad as the 35th Flag Officer in Command following the retirement of Vice-Admiral Jesus Millan from the military service. Taccad is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Sandigan” Class of 1982. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)             President Benigno S. Aquino graces the Philippine Navy Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony at the Headquarters of the Philippine Navy, Naval Station Jose B. Andrada in Roxas Boulevard, Manila City on Monday (August 10). The Commander in Chief has appointed Rear Admiral Caesar Taccad as the 35th Flag Officer in Command (FOIC) following the retirement of Vice-Admiral Jesus Millan from the military service. Taccad is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Sandigan” Class of 1982. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Rodolfo Manabat / Malacañang Photo Bureau)             President Benigno S. Aquino, accompanied by outgoing Navy Chief Vice-Admiral Jesus Millan, troops the line upon arrival for the Philippine Navy Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony at the Headquarters of the Philippine Navy, Naval Station Jose B. Andrada in Roxas Boulevard, Manila City on Monday (August 10). The Commander in Chief has appointed Rear Admiral Caesar Taccad as the 35th Flag Officer in Command, following the retirement of Vice Admiral Jesus Millan who from the military service. Taccad is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Sandigan” Class of 1982. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Lauro Montellano Jr. / Malacañang Photo Bureau)             Around 400 delegates and participants from APEC member economies attend the 6tH meeting on Policy Partnership on Science, Technology and Innovation to forge partnerships based on the theme, “science, technology and innovation for inclusive growth.” The meeting runs from August 10-12 and to be followed by the APEC High Level Policy Dialogue on Science and Technology in Higher Education on August 13-14, at the Philippine International Convention Center in Manila.             President Benigno S. Aquino III, along with Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II and PNP Chief Director General Ricardo Marquez, honors the colors during the 114th Police Service Anniversary at the PNP Multi-Purpose Center, Camp Crame in Quezon City on Friday, August 7 with the theme: “Pambansang Pulisya: Patuloy sa Makabuluhang Paglilingkod at Makatarungang Pagpapatupad ng Batas.” The Philippine National Police celebrates Police Service Anniversary in commemoration of the joint founding anniversaries of the Insular Constabulary established in 1901 and the Integrated National Police, organized in 1975, both forerunner organizations of the PNP. (Photo by Joseph Vidal / Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau)             President Benigno S. Aquino III honors the colors during the 114th Police Service Anniversary at the PNP Multi-Purpose Center, Camp Crame in Quezon City on Friday, August 7 with the theme: “Pambansang Pulisya: Patuloy sa Makabuluhang Paglilingkod at Makatarungang Pagpapatupad ng Batas.” The Philippine National Police celebrates the Police Service Anniversary in commemoration of the joint founding anniversaries of the Insular Constabulary established in 1901 and the Integrated National Police, organized in 1975, both forerunner organizations of the PNP. (Photo by Joseph Vidal / Malacañang Photo Bureau)             President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 114th Police Service Anniversary at the PNP Multi-Purpose Center, Camp Crame in Quezon City on Friday, August 7 with the theme: “Pambansang Pulisya: Patuloy sa Makabuluhang Paglilingkod at Makatarungang Pagpapatupad ng Batas.” The Philippine National Police celebrates the Police Service Anniversary in commemoration of the joint founding anniversaries of the Insular Constabulary established in 1901 and the Integrated National Police, organized in 1975, both forerunner organizations of the PNP. Also in photo are Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II and PNP Chief Director General Ricardo Marquez. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)             President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II during the 114th Police Service Anniversary at the PNP Multi-Purpose Center, Camp Crame in Quezon City on Friday, August 7 with the theme: “Pambansang Pulisya: Patuloy sa Makabuluhang Paglilingkod at Makatarungang Pagpapatupad ng Batas.” The Philippine National Police celebrates the Police Service Anniversary in commemoration of the joint founding anniversaries of the Insular Constabulary established in 1901 and the Integrated National Police, organized in 1975, both forerunner organizations of the PNP. Also in photo are Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II and PNP Chief Director General Ricardo Marquez. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)             President Benigno S. Aquino III receives a copy of the PNP coffee table book from PNP Chief Director General Ricardo Marquez during the 114th Police Service Anniversary at the PNP Multi-Purpose Center, Camp Crame in Quezon City on Friday, August 7 with the theme: “Pambansang Pulisya: Patuloy sa Makabuluhang Paglilingkod at Makatarungang Pagpapatupad ng Batas.” The Philippine National Police celebrates the Police Service Anniversary in commemoration of the joint founding anniversaries of the Insular Constabulary established in 1901 and the Integrated National Police, organized in 1975, both forerunner organizations of the PNP. Also in photo are PDDG Danilo Constantino, PDDG Marcelo Garbo and P/Dir. Juanito Vaño. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)         Please email us at pcoo.edp@gmail.com if you need a copy of last week's photo releases of PNOY Noynoy Aquino (P-Noy) 16 hrs ·  [Adm-02] Secretary Coloma's Note on Cabinet Meeting today: President Aquino directed the Cabinet to prepare a detailed road map for addressing the adverse effects of the El Nino phenomenon toward the end of the year and into the first four months of 2016. The food security council will be convened by its chairperson, NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, to map out specific action programs on attaining food production and supply objectives, as well as sustenance of farmers' incomes. The food security council is composed of the Department of Agriculture, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Finance, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, PAGASA, National Food Authority, National Irrigation Administration and the Philippine Statistics Authority. Adequacy of potable water supply will also be tackled by another task group headed by Public Works Secretary Rogelio Singson, and composed of representatives of the Local Water Utilities Administration, National Water Resource Board, Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System, and the National Irrigation Administration. The National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC) was also directed to coordinate with its local councils in preparing and implementing community-based water conservation and other mitigation programs. In the second half of the meeting, the Cabinet secretaries presented highlights of their respective departments' first semester performance. They also reported on vital programs for implementation for the rest of the year. The meeting was still ongoing as of the release of this note. | viaPresidential Communications Operations Office One Luzon e-NewsMagazine 18 August 2015 Vol. 5 No. 161 ISSUU.COM One Luzon e-NewsMagazine 18 August 2015 Vol. 5 No. 161 A daily E-NewsMagazine about North and Central luzon ISSUU.COM PIA News Desk 3 hrs ·  ONGOING: People's Forum on Jesse Robredo Day in Naga Cityhttp://t.co/GEeivJ4q90 | via @giotingson @PTVph PIA News (@PIANewsDesk) posted a photo on Twitter Get the whole picture - and other photos from PIA News PIC.TWITTER.COM Pia Quezon Like   Comment   Share PIA News Desk 1 hr ·  No ‘‪#‎pork‬’ in 2015 budget— ‪#‎DSWD‬. http://t.co/GAGeX4BGxLhttp://t.co/cZAaTO7J7w PIA News (@PIANewsDesk) posted a photo on Twitter Get the whole picture - and other photos from PIA News PIC.TWITTER.COM Pia Quezon Like   Comment   Share PIA News Desk 2 hrs ·  Passing ‪#‎BBL‬ now will benefit next administration, says ‪#‎Ferrer‬ - See more at: http://t.co/nBXByhVls6 http://t.co/ip1UCrJ8gM PIA News (@PIANewsDesk) posted a photo on Twitter Get the whole picture - and other photos from PIA News PIC.TWITTER.COM Pia Quezon Like   Comment   Share PIA News Desk 2 hrs ·  Some of our ‪#‎Filipino‬ words have officially made it to the Oxford English Dictionary. ‪#‎WikangFilipino‬ ‪#‎MediaNgBayan‬ http://t.co/WlUJ6HEiMZ PIA News (@PIANewsDesk) posted a photo on Twitter Get the whole picture - and other photos from PIA News PIC.TWITTER.COM Pia Quezon Like   Comment   Share PIA News Desk 1 hr ·  ‪#‎PMDP‬ welcomes back alumni n First Leadership Conference - See more at: http://t.co/YcYpwJPSlf http://t.co/SYpwfs2u6J PIA News (@PIANewsDesk) posted a photo on Twitter Get the whole picture - and other photos from PIA News PIC.TWITTER.COM Pia Quezon Like   Comment   Share