Aquino and Thai Prime Minister Abhisit reaffirm cordial ties
BANGKOK, Thailand: President Benigno S. Aquino and Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva reaffirmed the warm and cordial relations between the Philippines and the Kingdom of Thailand.
The two leaders echoed the close relations between the two countries during their Joint Press Conference on Thursday following their bilateral talks at the Government House here.
"Prime Minister Abhisit and I met mainly to affirm the warm and cordial relations between Thailand and the Philippines," the President said in his opening statement.
"We recognized the political, economic and socio-cultural benefits our countries and peoples have so far reaped and continue to enjoy as a result of the close ties between our countries," he stressed.
According to the President, these include a significant increase in bilateral trade between our two countries in 2010, where Thailand’s top ten exports to the Philippines contributed significantly and Philippines direct investments of the Philippines in Thailand reached 20.7 million dollars.
Confirming President Aquino's statement, Prime Minister Abhisit, in the presence of both the Philippine media delegation and the Thai journalists, said the closer relations between the two countries will go beyond their respective term of office.
The Chief Executive also said that interaction between the peoples of the two countries has also heightened with Thailand becoming one of the top destinations for many Filipinos traveling overseas, whether for tourism or business purposes.
He also noted that together with the Thai Prime Minister, they likewise affirmed their respective commitments to help in realizing the vision of an ASEAN Community by 2015.
In summary, the President cited the two main reasons why he visited Thailand.
"First, Thailand and Prime Minister Abhisit share with us democratic ideals and the belief in helping the poorest in our country,” he said adding that these shared values make Thailand an important partner when we face the rest of the world.
The President pointed out that "when we have issues with other countries, Thailand will stand with us just as we will stand by them."
The second reason cited by the President was Thailand's thriving business community has a lot to contribute to the development of the Philippines.
“By inviting the Thai business community to invest in our country we will generate jobs for our people,” the President said. (PCOO)
Thai business giants vow to expand investments in Phl
BANGKOK, Thailand: President Benigno S. Aquino III on Thursday welcomed the interests of three Thai business groups to expand their businesses in the Philippines.
The President separately met with the top officials of the three Thai business groups at the Chairman’s Room of Shangri-la Hotel shortly after he arrived here from Manila for a two-day official visit upon the invitation of Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva.
Presidential Communications Strategic Development and Strategic Planning Office Secretary Ramon Carandang said the business leaders expressed their strong desire to expand their investments in the Philippines.
The Charoen Pokphand (CP) Group, led by its chairman and chief executive officer Dhanin Chearavanont, according to Carandang, informed the President of the group’s intention to expand their agri-business in the Philippines by infusing capital in the hog raising industry because of the absence of foot-and-mouth disease in the country.
In a separate courtesy call, the Siam Cement Group (SCG) headed by its president and CEO Kan Trakulhoon likewise assured President Aquino of their company’s confidence in the Philippines as he echoed their company’s desire to expand investments in the Philippines particularly in power related commerce. Currently, the SCG owns the Mariwasa Tiles Company in the Philippines.
Carandang also said that the top officials of Petroleum Authority of Thailand (PTT) Public Company Limited, led by its president Prasert Bunsumpun, informed President Aquino they were considering to infuse their capital in the manufacture of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in the country.
Likewise, Carandang noted that the President invited the PTT officials to invest in the country’s compressed natural gas (CNG).
At present, only Pilipinas Shell was involved in the exploration of CNG in the Philippines. The government is currently exploring the potentials of renewed gas, hydro-electric power, geothermal energy, and other alternative sources of energy in order to lessen the country’s dependence to imported fuels. (PCOO)
Aquino welcomes participation of Thai companies in Public-Private Partnership infrastructure development projects
BANGKOK, Thailand: President Benigno S. Aquino III on Thursday night formally welcomed the participation of Thailand companies in the infrastructure development projects through the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) program his administration has initiated.
In his opening statement during the Joint press Conference with Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva following their bilateral meeting at the Government House here, the Chief Executive said Thailand has proven its track record in Private-Public Partnership projects especially in the construction of extensive network of elevated roadways in Bangkok.
“My government welcomes the participation of Thai companies in the country’s infrastructure development through the Public-Private Partnership program,” the President stressed.
He said that during their bilateral talks, he formally presented to Prime Minister Abhisit his PPP program that aims to attract more private businesses, both local and foreign, to invest in various infrastructure projects in the Philippines.
The President also took the opportunity to thank the Thai business community for their continued trust and confidence to the Philippine government by expanding their investments in the country.
According to the President, Thailand’s thriving business community has a lot to contribute in the development of the Philippines, saying that by inviting the Thai business community to invest there “we will generate more jobs for our people.”
The President also expressed his deep appreciation for the investments of Thai businessmen in the Philippines which he said have given employment opportunities to thousands of Filipinos. “I also thank them for expanding their business operations in the country,” he added.
Among the Thai companies he mentioned that presently have business interests in the country are the Charoen Pokphand Group (piggery and poultry), the Siam Cement Group (Mariwasa Tiles company), and the Petroleum Authority of Thailand Company Limited (selected gasoline station in Metro Manila), among others.
In response, Prime Minister Abhisit said the Thailand government appreciates President Aquino’s willingness and ongoing drive to remove the impediments in trade and investments, especially to foreign nationals who want to invest in the Philippines. (PCOO)
Aquino and Abhisit cites importance of working together in addressing regional and global challenges
BANGKOK, THAILAND: President Benigno S Aquino III and Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva discussed the importance of working together in addressing common regional and global challenges, particularly in agriculture cooperation, drug trafficking, and disaster risk reduction and management.
In his opening statement during the Joint Press Conference with the Thai Prime Minister following their bilateral talks at the Government House here, the Chief Executive said that on agriculture cooperation, he proposed the enhancement of agriculture cooperation between the Philippines and Thailand in line with the Memorandum of Understanding that the two countries signed in 2003, especially in agricultural biodiversity management and conservation, and agricultural engineering among others.
On drug trafficking, the President said that they agreed that this problem is a common scourge requiring joint concerted action by all countries.
“In line with this, I proposed that our two countries look into ways of further enhancing cooperation between and among our drug enforcement agencies,” he said.
On disaster risk reduction and management, the President noted that he and the Thai leader agreed to ask the concerned agencies of their respective governments to help strengthen each other’s disaster management capabilities through sharing the best practices, among other measures.
“We acknowledge the readiness between our two countries to help each other in times of natural disasters and calamities. Our response to the tsunami that hit Phuket and other areas in the Indian Ocean in 2004, and when a strong typhoon inundated Manila and neighboring localities in 2009, brought our two nations together,” he said adding that these experiences will serve them well in their efforts to better address unforeseen challenges in the future.
The President likewise noted that he discussed with Prime Minister Abhisit cooperation between the Philippines and Thailand in the field of education because many of the Filipinos in Thailand are working as teachers, who, he said, contribute to the enhancement of people-to-people contacts between the two countries.
“We agreed to cooperate closely on our respective government’s candidatures in regional and multilateral fora, bearing in mind that our two countries come from the same region of the world,” he said. (PCOO)
Aquino thanks Thai Prime Minister for the warm welcome
BANGKOK, Thailand: President Benigno S.Aquino III expressed his profound thanks to Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva and the people of the Kingdom of Thailand for the warm welcome they have accorded him during his two-day official visit here.
“It is nice to be in the company of the Thai people; and it is nice to be in the company of my dear friend, Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva. Our little encounters make those ASEAN Summits a little more interesting, so I have always looked forward to seeing somebody in a similar situation as mine,” the President said in his statement before he offered a toast to the Thai Prime Minister during the State Banquet at the Government House here.
The President said that the Philippines and Thailand have a lot in common.
“We share the same democratic values; we share the same aspirations for a better life for our people; and it follows that we should build upon these common ideals to accomplish our common goals, which is why I am glad to be here to further strengthen our bilateral relations,” he said.
After his statement, the President proposed a toast to the health of Their Majesties, the King and Queen of Thailand, to the health of his good friend and fellow young leader Prime Minister Abhisit, to the deepening friendship between the Kingdom of Thailand and the Republic of the Philippines, and to the Thai people as they continue in their task of making a great nation even greater. (PCOO)
Aquino government keen on pushing reforms, gains support for equitable growth
Malacanang reassured the public on the government’s commitment in pushing bureaucratic reforms that would further boost optimism among business groups and investor confidence in the country despite the effects of various unfavorable repercussions that has adversely affected the global market.
In an official statement released on Friday, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda laid down the stringent efforts being done by the government that would further increase business optimism and investors’ confidence in the country.
Lacierda said that despite the political instability in North Africa and the Middle East, the consequent rise in oil prices and the calamities that hit Japan, the country’s macroeconomic fundamentals remain sound and investments continue to flow in.
“Necessary reforms are being implemented to further swell the ranks of the optimists, who at this point, still far outnumber the pessimists. Our team of economic managers continue to work on ways to streamline business processes”, Lacierda said.
Apart from the bureaucratic reforms, several projects under the government’s Public Private Partnership program has been gaining support from various investors that will eventually reach completion.
“Our Public Private Partnership projects are well on their way to fruition”, Lacierda noted.
“These efforts will further enhance the economic outlook of our country. Its effects will be felt by the majority of our countrymen over the coming years as the Aquino administration continues to realize its vision of equitable growth”, he added. (PCOO)
Aquino government extends assistance to families of Filipino tornado victims
Malacanang bared on Friday that the government will extend necessary assistance to the families of the Filipino victims in the devastating tornado that struck Missouri, USA last May 22.
In an informal interview with the members of the Malacanang Press Corps at the Palace, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said the government is willing to provide any kind of help to the families of Filipinos who suffered during the onslaught of the powerful tornado.
“Handa naman po tayong mag-provide ng kahit anong assistance… ang assistance po natin ay depende sa gravity ng nangyari sa kanila”, Valte said.
“Kung mayroon pong kamag-anak dito na gustong pumunta doon or kung gusto po ibalik yung remains dito is just one of the forms of assistance that we could provide pag nagkakaroon po ng ganitong sitwasyon,” she added.
Valte added that the government has already sent some of its personnel to the families of those who died in the tragedy to assess their needs and facilitate any other kind of help they may require.
“Alam ko po nagpadala na tayo ng mga kasamahan natin doon po sa naulila po ng dalawa nating kababayan na nasawi sa naging trahedya doon sa Missouri… and we are continuing to extend assistance,” Valte said.
Valte noted the government’s efforts to constantly communicate with Filipinos in Missouri to check if there are other victims of the fatal tornado.
“Na-contact na po natin ang mga leaders ng Filipino community na nandun sa lugar na yun to check kung mayron pa po tayong mga kababayan na na-injure o nasawi doon sa naging trahedya”, Valte said.
At least 117 people were killed, including two Filipinos, when the town of Joplin took a direct hit from a tornado on Sunday (Monday, Manila time).
Hundreds of others remain missing in the town, which saw 30% of its buildings flattened. (PCOO)
Aquino approves permanent appointments of Robredo and Paje
BANGKOK, Thailand: President Benigno S. Aquino III announced on Thursday that he has approved the permanent appointments of Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo and Environment Secretary Ramon Paje after performing their duties in an acting capacity.
In an interview Thursday night at Shangri-la Hotel, the President confirmed the permanent appointments of Robredo and Paje respectively.
“He (Robredo) and Paje will be appointed permanently. We will forward their papers to the Commission on Appointments,” the President told reporters covering his 2-day official visit here upon the invitation of Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva.
He said he decided to approve the permanent appointments of the two officials following the good performance they’ve shown as head of their respective departments. (PCOO)
Aquino says heads will roll if the alleged VIP treatment given to Ampatuan Sr. is proven
BANGKOK, Thailand: President Benigno S. Aquino assured the public on Friday that “heads should roll” if the alleged special treatment given to former Maguindanao Governor Andal Ampatuan Sr. is indeed true.
In an ambush interview on Friday morning after his meeting with the members of the Filipino community at the Grand Ballroom of the Shangri-la Hotel, the President stressed that somebody should be held liable once the investigation on the reported special treatment provided Ampatuan Sr. at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City is completed.
“There should be no VIP (very important person) treatment. Definitely, if that happens then heads should roll,” he stressed.
On Thursday evening, the President has expressed concern about the reported laxity of prison officials who allowed Ampatuan Sr. to roam around the jail premises in Camp Bagong Diwa.
He told reporters that he tasked Interior Secretary Jesse Robrero to conduct a thorough probe on the alleged special treatment of Ampatuan Sr.
He also issued directives to the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Department of Justice (DOJ) and his economic managers to come up with proposals to reform the prison system.
“The President also recognizes the state of prisons in the country, and acknowledges that steps need to be taken, especially as regards the ratio of guards to prisoners, and congestion due to lack of facilities,” said Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda in his official statement issued on Friday.
“In the same way that due process is being accorded to the victims, it must also be accorded to the accused. What the government can assure the public is that the scales of justice will not be tipped over to one side or another,” he added.
He said DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo has ordered the administrative relief of Jail Chief Inspector Glennford Valdepeñas, jail warden of Quezon City jail annex at Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig, pending the investigation on the matter.
The influential Ampatuan clan was accused of slaughtering 58 people, including 34 journalists in Maguindanao on November 23, 2009. (PCOO)
Aquino flies home following a successful visit to Bangkok Thailand
BANGKOK, Thailand: President Benigno S. Aquino III returned home on board a Philippine Airlines commercial flight on Friday afternoon after his successful two-day official visit here.
Prior to his departure, the Chief Executive attended a meeting with the members of the Filipino community at the Shangri-La Hotel where he briefed them on the positive changes he made back home since he assumed the presidency in June 2010.
The meeting, which was attended by more than 500 Filipino overseas workers from various parts of the Kingdom of Thailand, received President Aquino warmly upon his arrival at the hotel.
In his remarks, the President urged them to support his administration's ongoing development programs for the benefit of millions of Filipinos.
The President expressed confidence that more positive changes will take place in the Philippines and more opportunities will be available for all Filipinos when he steps down in 2016.
Earlier, the President was conferred the honorary Doctorate of Philosophy (Economics) by the Kasetsart University.
The honorary degree is in recognition of his "great achievement and strong leadership, which have proven great benefit to people, and in particular in view of the superb capability and dedication which he has shown."
During his visit, the President met with top business executives of various Thai business groups who apprised him of their strong desire to expand their investments in the Philippines. They are officials of the Charoenw Pokphand (CP), Siam Cement Group (SCG) and the PTT Public Company Limited.
The President welcomed this positive gestures from the Thai business groups and even asked most of them to participate in his administration's Public-Private Partnership infrastructure development program.
"I presented our government's Public-Private Partnership Program that aims to attract private businesses, both domestic and foreign to invest in various infrastructure projects in the Philippines," he stressed.
He also expressed his deep appreciation for their existing investments that have given emolument opportunities to thousands of Filipinos in the Philippines.
"I also thanked them for expanding their business in the country," the President added.
During his bilateral talks with Thai Prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, the two leaders affirmed the warm and cordial relations between Thailand and the Philippines.
"We recognized the political, economic and socio-cultural benefits our two countries and peoples have so far reaped and continue to enjoy as a result of our countries close ties," the President said.
The President noted that these include as significant increase in bilateral trade between the two countries in 2010 wherein Thailand's top 10 exports to the Philippines contributed significantly and Philippine direct investments in Thailand reached 20.7 million dollars also in 2010.
On trade and investments, President Aquino said that like the Thai business community, he likewise presented the PPP program to Prime Minister Abhisit.
"Given Thailand's proven track record in PPP in constructing the extensive network of elevated roadways in the capital city of Bangkok, my government welcomes the participation of Thai companies in the Philippines' infrastructure development through the PPP program," he said.
According to the President, they also discussed the importance of working together in addressing common regional and global challenges particularly in agriculture cooperation, drug trafficking, and disaster risk reduction and management.
The President said that in agriculture cooperation, he proposed the "enhancement of our agriculture cooperation in line with the Memorandum of Understanding that our two countries signed in 2003, especially in agricultural biodiversity management and conservation, and agricultural engineering, among others."
He also discussed with the Thai Prime Minister cooperation in education since many of the Filipinos in Thailand are teachers, who contribute to the enhancement of people-to-people contacts between the Philippines and Thailand.
The President said that they also agreed to cooperate closely on their respective government's candidature in regional and multilateral fora and affirmed the two countries' respective commitments to help in realizing the vision of ASEAN Community in 2015. (PCOO)
Aquino commends weather bureau for improved performance
BANGKOK, Thailand: President Benigno S. Aquino III commended on Friday the improved performance of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) under his leadership.
In his speech during his meeting Friday morning with some 500 members of the Filipino community here at the Grand Ballroom of Shangri-la Hotel, the President said that from giving out several erroneous predictions on weather disturbances in the past, PAGASA has slowly improved its performance in warning the public on incoming typhoons.
“Pansinin ninyo hindi na tayo nakakabalita na daan-daang tao ang napinsala hindi po ba,” the President said noting that around 23 typhoons regularly visited the country every year.
He related that since he assumed office last year, he checked on the complaints of shortage in equipments and other financial problems besetting the agency.
The Chief Executive said that because of the accurate weather predictions of PAGASA now, hundreds and thousands of lives and damages to properties have been saved or averted.
He also informed them that his administration has continued in its efforts in curbing corruption, improved the delivery of basic services, spur economic development and helped enhance the country’s education system.
“Basta umasa ho kayo ginagawa na natin ang tama. Magbabago ang Pilipinas at nababago na natin ito,” he said. (PCOO)
Aquino's visit to strengthen friendship/ties between Thailand and Phl - Abhisit
BANGKOK, THAILAND: Thailand Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva extended his warm welcome to President Benigno S. Aquino on behalf of the Royal Thai Government saying the Chief Executive's two-day official visit here "will not only strengthen the long standing friendship and cordial ties between our two countries but also reaffirm the shared commitment to multi- faceted cooperation in confronting common problems and challenges."
Prime Minister Abhisit echoed this statement during the State Dinner he hosted in honor of President Aquino on Thursday at the Santi Maitri Building of the Government House here.
"There can be no doubt that the relationship between the Philippines and Thailand is based on a strong and stable foundation, " the Thai Prime Minister said.
He pointed out that the Philippines and Thailand are founding members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and "our two countries share a natural affinity, based on a strong commitment to democracy, justice, rule of law, and other common values."
According to Prime Minister Abhisit, the close and cordial relationship between the two countries are reinforced by regular exchanges of high-level visits, research and development cooperation and sharing of information.
"This close collaboration also extends to the private sector, as reflected in our substantial bilateral trade and investment. In 2010, the value of our bilateral trade investment rose to 7.26 billion US dollars, an 84 percent increase from 2009 and almost quadrupling the volume in 2002," he added.
The Philippines has become Thailand's 4th major trading partner in ASEAN and it's 15th largest trading partner worldwide.
In addition to the two countries economic ties, Prime Minister Abhisit expressed the belief that people-to-people contacts represent another "vital cornerstone and fundamental component of our connectivity, which will in turn, contribute to the greater ASEAN community."
"Indeed, our collaboration has expanded and has been strengthened by the efforts we have been making to address the common global challenges facing us today, which range from food security to climate change, from pandemic and natural disasters to transnational crimes," he noted adding that even the political turmoil in other parts of the world has unavoidably pushed energy security to the forefront of the agenda.
Prime Minister Abhisit described his meeting with President Aquino as "fruitful" and "constructive".
After his dinner remarks, Prime Minister Abihisit invited the President and the officials and guests to join him in a toast "to the cordial 'ties beyond times' between the people of the Kingdom of Thailand and the Republic of the Philippines and to the good health and continued success of President Aquino." (PCOO)
BANGKOK, Thailand: President Benigno S. Aquino and Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva reaffirmed the warm and cordial relations between the Philippines and the Kingdom of Thailand.
The two leaders echoed the close relations between the two countries during their Joint Press Conference on Thursday following their bilateral talks at the Government House here.
"Prime Minister Abhisit and I met mainly to affirm the warm and cordial relations between Thailand and the Philippines," the President said in his opening statement.
"We recognized the political, economic and socio-cultural benefits our countries and peoples have so far reaped and continue to enjoy as a result of the close ties between our countries," he stressed.
According to the President, these include a significant increase in bilateral trade between our two countries in 2010, where Thailand’s top ten exports to the Philippines contributed significantly and Philippines direct investments of the Philippines in Thailand reached 20.7 million dollars.
Confirming President Aquino's statement, Prime Minister Abhisit, in the presence of both the Philippine media delegation and the Thai journalists, said the closer relations between the two countries will go beyond their respective term of office.
The Chief Executive also said that interaction between the peoples of the two countries has also heightened with Thailand becoming one of the top destinations for many Filipinos traveling overseas, whether for tourism or business purposes.
He also noted that together with the Thai Prime Minister, they likewise affirmed their respective commitments to help in realizing the vision of an ASEAN Community by 2015.
In summary, the President cited the two main reasons why he visited Thailand.
"First, Thailand and Prime Minister Abhisit share with us democratic ideals and the belief in helping the poorest in our country,” he said adding that these shared values make Thailand an important partner when we face the rest of the world.
The President pointed out that "when we have issues with other countries, Thailand will stand with us just as we will stand by them."
The second reason cited by the President was Thailand's thriving business community has a lot to contribute to the development of the Philippines.
“By inviting the Thai business community to invest in our country we will generate jobs for our people,” the President said. (PCOO)
Thai business giants vow to expand investments in Phl
BANGKOK, Thailand: President Benigno S. Aquino III on Thursday welcomed the interests of three Thai business groups to expand their businesses in the Philippines.
The President separately met with the top officials of the three Thai business groups at the Chairman’s Room of Shangri-la Hotel shortly after he arrived here from Manila for a two-day official visit upon the invitation of Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva.
Presidential Communications Strategic Development and Strategic Planning Office Secretary Ramon Carandang said the business leaders expressed their strong desire to expand their investments in the Philippines.
The Charoen Pokphand (CP) Group, led by its chairman and chief executive officer Dhanin Chearavanont, according to Carandang, informed the President of the group’s intention to expand their agri-business in the Philippines by infusing capital in the hog raising industry because of the absence of foot-and-mouth disease in the country.
In a separate courtesy call, the Siam Cement Group (SCG) headed by its president and CEO Kan Trakulhoon likewise assured President Aquino of their company’s confidence in the Philippines as he echoed their company’s desire to expand investments in the Philippines particularly in power related commerce. Currently, the SCG owns the Mariwasa Tiles Company in the Philippines.
Carandang also said that the top officials of Petroleum Authority of Thailand (PTT) Public Company Limited, led by its president Prasert Bunsumpun, informed President Aquino they were considering to infuse their capital in the manufacture of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in the country.
Likewise, Carandang noted that the President invited the PTT officials to invest in the country’s compressed natural gas (CNG).
At present, only Pilipinas Shell was involved in the exploration of CNG in the Philippines. The government is currently exploring the potentials of renewed gas, hydro-electric power, geothermal energy, and other alternative sources of energy in order to lessen the country’s dependence to imported fuels. (PCOO)
Aquino welcomes participation of Thai companies in Public-Private Partnership infrastructure development projects
BANGKOK, Thailand: President Benigno S. Aquino III on Thursday night formally welcomed the participation of Thailand companies in the infrastructure development projects through the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) program his administration has initiated.
In his opening statement during the Joint press Conference with Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva following their bilateral meeting at the Government House here, the Chief Executive said Thailand has proven its track record in Private-Public Partnership projects especially in the construction of extensive network of elevated roadways in Bangkok.
“My government welcomes the participation of Thai companies in the country’s infrastructure development through the Public-Private Partnership program,” the President stressed.
He said that during their bilateral talks, he formally presented to Prime Minister Abhisit his PPP program that aims to attract more private businesses, both local and foreign, to invest in various infrastructure projects in the Philippines.
The President also took the opportunity to thank the Thai business community for their continued trust and confidence to the Philippine government by expanding their investments in the country.
According to the President, Thailand’s thriving business community has a lot to contribute in the development of the Philippines, saying that by inviting the Thai business community to invest there “we will generate more jobs for our people.”
The President also expressed his deep appreciation for the investments of Thai businessmen in the Philippines which he said have given employment opportunities to thousands of Filipinos. “I also thank them for expanding their business operations in the country,” he added.
Among the Thai companies he mentioned that presently have business interests in the country are the Charoen Pokphand Group (piggery and poultry), the Siam Cement Group (Mariwasa Tiles company), and the Petroleum Authority of Thailand Company Limited (selected gasoline station in Metro Manila), among others.
In response, Prime Minister Abhisit said the Thailand government appreciates President Aquino’s willingness and ongoing drive to remove the impediments in trade and investments, especially to foreign nationals who want to invest in the Philippines. (PCOO)
Aquino and Abhisit cites importance of working together in addressing regional and global challenges
BANGKOK, THAILAND: President Benigno S Aquino III and Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva discussed the importance of working together in addressing common regional and global challenges, particularly in agriculture cooperation, drug trafficking, and disaster risk reduction and management.
In his opening statement during the Joint Press Conference with the Thai Prime Minister following their bilateral talks at the Government House here, the Chief Executive said that on agriculture cooperation, he proposed the enhancement of agriculture cooperation between the Philippines and Thailand in line with the Memorandum of Understanding that the two countries signed in 2003, especially in agricultural biodiversity management and conservation, and agricultural engineering among others.
On drug trafficking, the President said that they agreed that this problem is a common scourge requiring joint concerted action by all countries.
“In line with this, I proposed that our two countries look into ways of further enhancing cooperation between and among our drug enforcement agencies,” he said.
On disaster risk reduction and management, the President noted that he and the Thai leader agreed to ask the concerned agencies of their respective governments to help strengthen each other’s disaster management capabilities through sharing the best practices, among other measures.
“We acknowledge the readiness between our two countries to help each other in times of natural disasters and calamities. Our response to the tsunami that hit Phuket and other areas in the Indian Ocean in 2004, and when a strong typhoon inundated Manila and neighboring localities in 2009, brought our two nations together,” he said adding that these experiences will serve them well in their efforts to better address unforeseen challenges in the future.
The President likewise noted that he discussed with Prime Minister Abhisit cooperation between the Philippines and Thailand in the field of education because many of the Filipinos in Thailand are working as teachers, who, he said, contribute to the enhancement of people-to-people contacts between the two countries.
“We agreed to cooperate closely on our respective government’s candidatures in regional and multilateral fora, bearing in mind that our two countries come from the same region of the world,” he said. (PCOO)
Aquino thanks Thai Prime Minister for the warm welcome
BANGKOK, Thailand: President Benigno S.Aquino III expressed his profound thanks to Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva and the people of the Kingdom of Thailand for the warm welcome they have accorded him during his two-day official visit here.
“It is nice to be in the company of the Thai people; and it is nice to be in the company of my dear friend, Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva. Our little encounters make those ASEAN Summits a little more interesting, so I have always looked forward to seeing somebody in a similar situation as mine,” the President said in his statement before he offered a toast to the Thai Prime Minister during the State Banquet at the Government House here.
The President said that the Philippines and Thailand have a lot in common.
“We share the same democratic values; we share the same aspirations for a better life for our people; and it follows that we should build upon these common ideals to accomplish our common goals, which is why I am glad to be here to further strengthen our bilateral relations,” he said.
After his statement, the President proposed a toast to the health of Their Majesties, the King and Queen of Thailand, to the health of his good friend and fellow young leader Prime Minister Abhisit, to the deepening friendship between the Kingdom of Thailand and the Republic of the Philippines, and to the Thai people as they continue in their task of making a great nation even greater. (PCOO)
Aquino government keen on pushing reforms, gains support for equitable growth
Malacanang reassured the public on the government’s commitment in pushing bureaucratic reforms that would further boost optimism among business groups and investor confidence in the country despite the effects of various unfavorable repercussions that has adversely affected the global market.
In an official statement released on Friday, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda laid down the stringent efforts being done by the government that would further increase business optimism and investors’ confidence in the country.
Lacierda said that despite the political instability in North Africa and the Middle East, the consequent rise in oil prices and the calamities that hit Japan, the country’s macroeconomic fundamentals remain sound and investments continue to flow in.
“Necessary reforms are being implemented to further swell the ranks of the optimists, who at this point, still far outnumber the pessimists. Our team of economic managers continue to work on ways to streamline business processes”, Lacierda said.
Apart from the bureaucratic reforms, several projects under the government’s Public Private Partnership program has been gaining support from various investors that will eventually reach completion.
“Our Public Private Partnership projects are well on their way to fruition”, Lacierda noted.
“These efforts will further enhance the economic outlook of our country. Its effects will be felt by the majority of our countrymen over the coming years as the Aquino administration continues to realize its vision of equitable growth”, he added. (PCOO)
Aquino government extends assistance to families of Filipino tornado victims
Malacanang bared on Friday that the government will extend necessary assistance to the families of the Filipino victims in the devastating tornado that struck Missouri, USA last May 22.
In an informal interview with the members of the Malacanang Press Corps at the Palace, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said the government is willing to provide any kind of help to the families of Filipinos who suffered during the onslaught of the powerful tornado.
“Handa naman po tayong mag-provide ng kahit anong assistance… ang assistance po natin ay depende sa gravity ng nangyari sa kanila”, Valte said.
“Kung mayroon pong kamag-anak dito na gustong pumunta doon or kung gusto po ibalik yung remains dito is just one of the forms of assistance that we could provide pag nagkakaroon po ng ganitong sitwasyon,” she added.
Valte added that the government has already sent some of its personnel to the families of those who died in the tragedy to assess their needs and facilitate any other kind of help they may require.
“Alam ko po nagpadala na tayo ng mga kasamahan natin doon po sa naulila po ng dalawa nating kababayan na nasawi sa naging trahedya doon sa Missouri… and we are continuing to extend assistance,” Valte said.
Valte noted the government’s efforts to constantly communicate with Filipinos in Missouri to check if there are other victims of the fatal tornado.
“Na-contact na po natin ang mga leaders ng Filipino community na nandun sa lugar na yun to check kung mayron pa po tayong mga kababayan na na-injure o nasawi doon sa naging trahedya”, Valte said.
At least 117 people were killed, including two Filipinos, when the town of Joplin took a direct hit from a tornado on Sunday (Monday, Manila time).
Hundreds of others remain missing in the town, which saw 30% of its buildings flattened. (PCOO)
Aquino approves permanent appointments of Robredo and Paje
BANGKOK, Thailand: President Benigno S. Aquino III announced on Thursday that he has approved the permanent appointments of Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo and Environment Secretary Ramon Paje after performing their duties in an acting capacity.
In an interview Thursday night at Shangri-la Hotel, the President confirmed the permanent appointments of Robredo and Paje respectively.
“He (Robredo) and Paje will be appointed permanently. We will forward their papers to the Commission on Appointments,” the President told reporters covering his 2-day official visit here upon the invitation of Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva.
He said he decided to approve the permanent appointments of the two officials following the good performance they’ve shown as head of their respective departments. (PCOO)
Aquino says heads will roll if the alleged VIP treatment given to Ampatuan Sr. is proven
BANGKOK, Thailand: President Benigno S. Aquino assured the public on Friday that “heads should roll” if the alleged special treatment given to former Maguindanao Governor Andal Ampatuan Sr. is indeed true.
In an ambush interview on Friday morning after his meeting with the members of the Filipino community at the Grand Ballroom of the Shangri-la Hotel, the President stressed that somebody should be held liable once the investigation on the reported special treatment provided Ampatuan Sr. at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City is completed.
“There should be no VIP (very important person) treatment. Definitely, if that happens then heads should roll,” he stressed.
On Thursday evening, the President has expressed concern about the reported laxity of prison officials who allowed Ampatuan Sr. to roam around the jail premises in Camp Bagong Diwa.
He told reporters that he tasked Interior Secretary Jesse Robrero to conduct a thorough probe on the alleged special treatment of Ampatuan Sr.
He also issued directives to the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Department of Justice (DOJ) and his economic managers to come up with proposals to reform the prison system.
“The President also recognizes the state of prisons in the country, and acknowledges that steps need to be taken, especially as regards the ratio of guards to prisoners, and congestion due to lack of facilities,” said Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda in his official statement issued on Friday.
“In the same way that due process is being accorded to the victims, it must also be accorded to the accused. What the government can assure the public is that the scales of justice will not be tipped over to one side or another,” he added.
He said DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo has ordered the administrative relief of Jail Chief Inspector Glennford Valdepeñas, jail warden of Quezon City jail annex at Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig, pending the investigation on the matter.
The influential Ampatuan clan was accused of slaughtering 58 people, including 34 journalists in Maguindanao on November 23, 2009. (PCOO)
Aquino flies home following a successful visit to Bangkok Thailand
BANGKOK, Thailand: President Benigno S. Aquino III returned home on board a Philippine Airlines commercial flight on Friday afternoon after his successful two-day official visit here.
Prior to his departure, the Chief Executive attended a meeting with the members of the Filipino community at the Shangri-La Hotel where he briefed them on the positive changes he made back home since he assumed the presidency in June 2010.
The meeting, which was attended by more than 500 Filipino overseas workers from various parts of the Kingdom of Thailand, received President Aquino warmly upon his arrival at the hotel.
In his remarks, the President urged them to support his administration's ongoing development programs for the benefit of millions of Filipinos.
The President expressed confidence that more positive changes will take place in the Philippines and more opportunities will be available for all Filipinos when he steps down in 2016.
Earlier, the President was conferred the honorary Doctorate of Philosophy (Economics) by the Kasetsart University.
The honorary degree is in recognition of his "great achievement and strong leadership, which have proven great benefit to people, and in particular in view of the superb capability and dedication which he has shown."
During his visit, the President met with top business executives of various Thai business groups who apprised him of their strong desire to expand their investments in the Philippines. They are officials of the Charoenw Pokphand (CP), Siam Cement Group (SCG) and the PTT Public Company Limited.
The President welcomed this positive gestures from the Thai business groups and even asked most of them to participate in his administration's Public-Private Partnership infrastructure development program.
"I presented our government's Public-Private Partnership Program that aims to attract private businesses, both domestic and foreign to invest in various infrastructure projects in the Philippines," he stressed.
He also expressed his deep appreciation for their existing investments that have given emolument opportunities to thousands of Filipinos in the Philippines.
"I also thanked them for expanding their business in the country," the President added.
During his bilateral talks with Thai Prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, the two leaders affirmed the warm and cordial relations between Thailand and the Philippines.
"We recognized the political, economic and socio-cultural benefits our two countries and peoples have so far reaped and continue to enjoy as a result of our countries close ties," the President said.
The President noted that these include as significant increase in bilateral trade between the two countries in 2010 wherein Thailand's top 10 exports to the Philippines contributed significantly and Philippine direct investments in Thailand reached 20.7 million dollars also in 2010.
On trade and investments, President Aquino said that like the Thai business community, he likewise presented the PPP program to Prime Minister Abhisit.
"Given Thailand's proven track record in PPP in constructing the extensive network of elevated roadways in the capital city of Bangkok, my government welcomes the participation of Thai companies in the Philippines' infrastructure development through the PPP program," he said.
According to the President, they also discussed the importance of working together in addressing common regional and global challenges particularly in agriculture cooperation, drug trafficking, and disaster risk reduction and management.
The President said that in agriculture cooperation, he proposed the "enhancement of our agriculture cooperation in line with the Memorandum of Understanding that our two countries signed in 2003, especially in agricultural biodiversity management and conservation, and agricultural engineering, among others."
He also discussed with the Thai Prime Minister cooperation in education since many of the Filipinos in Thailand are teachers, who contribute to the enhancement of people-to-people contacts between the Philippines and Thailand.
The President said that they also agreed to cooperate closely on their respective government's candidature in regional and multilateral fora and affirmed the two countries' respective commitments to help in realizing the vision of ASEAN Community in 2015. (PCOO)
Aquino commends weather bureau for improved performance
BANGKOK, Thailand: President Benigno S. Aquino III commended on Friday the improved performance of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) under his leadership.
In his speech during his meeting Friday morning with some 500 members of the Filipino community here at the Grand Ballroom of Shangri-la Hotel, the President said that from giving out several erroneous predictions on weather disturbances in the past, PAGASA has slowly improved its performance in warning the public on incoming typhoons.
“Pansinin ninyo hindi na tayo nakakabalita na daan-daang tao ang napinsala hindi po ba,” the President said noting that around 23 typhoons regularly visited the country every year.
He related that since he assumed office last year, he checked on the complaints of shortage in equipments and other financial problems besetting the agency.
The Chief Executive said that because of the accurate weather predictions of PAGASA now, hundreds and thousands of lives and damages to properties have been saved or averted.
He also informed them that his administration has continued in its efforts in curbing corruption, improved the delivery of basic services, spur economic development and helped enhance the country’s education system.
“Basta umasa ho kayo ginagawa na natin ang tama. Magbabago ang Pilipinas at nababago na natin ito,” he said. (PCOO)
Aquino's visit to strengthen friendship/ties between Thailand and Phl - Abhisit
BANGKOK, THAILAND: Thailand Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva extended his warm welcome to President Benigno S. Aquino on behalf of the Royal Thai Government saying the Chief Executive's two-day official visit here "will not only strengthen the long standing friendship and cordial ties between our two countries but also reaffirm the shared commitment to multi- faceted cooperation in confronting common problems and challenges."
Prime Minister Abhisit echoed this statement during the State Dinner he hosted in honor of President Aquino on Thursday at the Santi Maitri Building of the Government House here.
"There can be no doubt that the relationship between the Philippines and Thailand is based on a strong and stable foundation, " the Thai Prime Minister said.
He pointed out that the Philippines and Thailand are founding members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and "our two countries share a natural affinity, based on a strong commitment to democracy, justice, rule of law, and other common values."
According to Prime Minister Abhisit, the close and cordial relationship between the two countries are reinforced by regular exchanges of high-level visits, research and development cooperation and sharing of information.
"This close collaboration also extends to the private sector, as reflected in our substantial bilateral trade and investment. In 2010, the value of our bilateral trade investment rose to 7.26 billion US dollars, an 84 percent increase from 2009 and almost quadrupling the volume in 2002," he added.
The Philippines has become Thailand's 4th major trading partner in ASEAN and it's 15th largest trading partner worldwide.
In addition to the two countries economic ties, Prime Minister Abhisit expressed the belief that people-to-people contacts represent another "vital cornerstone and fundamental component of our connectivity, which will in turn, contribute to the greater ASEAN community."
"Indeed, our collaboration has expanded and has been strengthened by the efforts we have been making to address the common global challenges facing us today, which range from food security to climate change, from pandemic and natural disasters to transnational crimes," he noted adding that even the political turmoil in other parts of the world has unavoidably pushed energy security to the forefront of the agenda.
Prime Minister Abhisit described his meeting with President Aquino as "fruitful" and "constructive".
After his dinner remarks, Prime Minister Abihisit invited the President and the officials and guests to join him in a toast "to the cordial 'ties beyond times' between the people of the Kingdom of Thailand and the Republic of the Philippines and to the good health and continued success of President Aquino." (PCOO)
