PIA News Dispatch - Thursday, August 30, 2012

Aquino declares September 3 as special non-working day in Iriga City, Camarines Sur in celebration  of its 44th Founding Anniversary

President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared September 3, which falls on a Monday, as a special (non-working) day in the city of Iriga in the province of Camarines Sur in celebration of its 44th Founding Anniversary.

The Chief Executive issued the declaration through Proclamation No. 456 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on Aug. 14 to give the people of Iriga the full opportunity to celebrate and participate in the occasion with appropriate ceremonies.

On July 8, 1968, Iriga was converted into a city by virtue of Republic Act 5261. However, it was only on September 3 of the same year that the city was formally organized and inaugurated as the third city of the Bicol Region by then President Ferdinand Marcos. (js)

Palace satisfied with 2nd quarter growth

Malacañang is satisfied with the economic growth performance of the country for the second quarter, a senior government official said on Thursday.

In a press briefing in Malacañang, Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Secretary Ramon Carandang said that the 5.9 percent growth rate posted by the country in the second quarter was still within the growth range of 5-6 percent projected by the government economists.

“Yes... we’re very happy with 5.9 percent economic growth because number one, it exceeded the market expectations. The consensus estimate was around 5.3 percent, so we’ve done that,” Carandang said.

He added that the modest growth rate posted by the country is still one of the highest in the region which, with the rest of the world, has been reeling from the effects of a global economic downtrend.

“Number two, it is among the highest in Asia, among our peers. At a time when there is a lot of economic uncertainty, our economy continues to show relative strength,” Carandang said.

“So, yes, we are very happy about it,” he added. (rck)

Malacanang says Mining Industry Coordinating Council is expected to submit proposed implementing rules and regulation for new mining policy by end of September

The Mining Industry Coordinating Council (MICC) is expected to submit to President Benigno S. Aquino III the proposed implementing rules and regulations (IRR) for the new mining policy by the end of September, a Palace official said on Wednesday.

The MICC is the newly-created body tasked to formulate the implementing rules and regulations for Executive Order 79, also known as the new mining policy.

"Let me cite the legislation that the industry is waiting for, the EO calls for a review of the current legislation on royalties for mining. The MICC which has been meeting consistently is hoping to have a draft of the legislation by the end of September to show to the Palace," Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office Secretary Ramon Carandang said during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Thursday.

"So I can assure the industry that things are moving along at a good pace. I think, once those issues have been clarified we will see an increase in activity from that sector," Carandang said.

Carandang said the executive order on mining aims to generate more revenues for the government and address mining industry and environmental concerns.

President Aquino signed on July 6, 2012 Executive Order No. 79 (Institutionalizing and Implementing Reforms in the Philippine Mining Sector by providing policies and guidelines to ensure Environmental Protection and Responsible Mining in the utilization of Mineral Resources).

With the crafting of the new mining policy, the Aquino administration hopes that the new measure will generate more revenues for the government in the face of a high demand for metallic resources. The new Executive Order also aims to balance out concerns on environment protection and economic gains. (js/1:57pm)

Aquino receives Smart Gilas Pilipinas in a courtesy call

President Benigno S. Aquino III received the members of the Smart Gilas Pilipinas national basketball team in a courtesy call in Malacanang on Thursday.

Smart Gilas team presented the President a jersey and a basketball with signatures of the players and in return the Chief Executive gave each of the Smart Gilas members a token.

The national basketball team posted a historic win over taller American squad on Sunday to bag its first William Jones Cup title in 14 years, 76-75, in Taipei, Taiwan.

The country first won the Jones Cup by the Centennial Teamin 1996 led by Philippine Basketball Association legends Alvin Patrimonio and Allan Caidic.

In 2011, the Philippines placed third in the Jones Cup with a 6-3 record with the first incarnation of the Smart Gilas team, comprised of amateur players and PBA members.

Smart Gilas team players include LA Tenorio, Jay-R Reyes, Ranidel de Ocampo, Sonny Thoss, Gabe Norwood, Sol Mercado, Mac Baracael, Marcus Douthit, Larry Fonacier, Garvo Lanete, Enrico Villanueva, Matt Ganuelas, Jeff Chan, and Gary David.

Smart Gilas team officials who met the President include Smart Communications chief wireless adviser Orlando Vea, Smart Sports’ Patrick Gregorio, Head coach Chot Reyes, team manager Butch Antonio, assistant coaches Jong Uichico, Ryan Gregorio and Josh Reyes. Physical therapist Dexter Aseron and liaison officer Yvette Ruiz, and utility officer Bong Tulabot were also present.

Smart Gilas Pilipinas is a developmental Philippine National Basketball team sponsored by Smart Communications and the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP).

The R. William Jones Cup, or the Jones Cup, is an international basketball tournament held annually since 1977 in Taipei, Taiwan. William Jones founded the tournament with participants coming mainly from the Asian and North American regions.

The Jones Cup also invites clubs, collegiate teams, and national teams around the world. (as/2:52pm)

Economic team working to sustain momentum in the first half

The country’s economic managers are watching the developments overseas particularly in Europe and the US because of its possible impact on the Philippine economy in the second half of the year, a Palace official said on Thursday.

The Philippines continues to diversify its exports to different countries and carries out other measures having in mind that uncertainty in those regions could make local conditions difficult to handle, Secretary Ramon Carandang of the Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office said in a press conference in Malacanang on Thursday.

The question whether Greece stays in the Euro, or whether the Republicans and the Democrats in the US come to terms in some kind of budget deal are the things that the economic cluster are watching out for possible risks to the country’s gross domestic product, he noted.

“That will have an impact on us. It will have an impact on remittances, possibly, and on exports,” Carandang said.

But mentioning figures from Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, Carandang said that actually the Philippines’s capital formation or investments increased by about two percent in the second quarter—2.3 percent. During the same period last year, it was down by 10.1 percent, he said.

“Arsi (Balisacan) says that he believes that this is a trend that has begun, that capital formation has bottomed out and that we’re going to see new investments and new capital formations, contributing increasingly to economic growth as we move forward. So hopefully that will, to some extent, offset some of the uncertainty that we’re facing in Europe and North America,” he added.

Carandang also said the Aquino administration is satisfied with the 5.9 percent economic growth posted by the country for the second quarter noting that it even exceeded market expectations. (as)

PIA News Dispatch - Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Aquino confers Order of Sikatuna on outgoing Ambassador of the Netherlands to the Philippines

President Benigno S. Aquino III conferred the Order of Sikatuna with the rank of Grand Cross (Datu, Silver Distinction) on outgoing Ambassador Robert Gerard Brinks of the Kingdom of The Netherlands in ceremonies at Malacanang.

In his farewell call at the Music Room of the Malacanang Palace on Wednesday, the Chief Executive presented the award to Ambassador Brinks for his significant works in various fields as Netherlands's envoy to the Philippines that further strengthened the bilateral relations between the two countries during his five-year tour of duty in the country.

These include the maritime sector, specific visa issuance policies, combating human trafficking, the promotion of human rights and the preservation of cultural heritage.

The Dutch envoy has actively participated in the country’s maritime sector through the Netherlands-Philippines Maritime Institute in Palompon, that train cadets along Dutch standards for wok in Dutch vessels.

He has maintained close cooperation with the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Environment and the Dutch Ship-owners association in efforts to address issues in the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) in a way that both the interests of the ship-owners and the Philippines are served.

Ambassador Brinks also introduced a Philippine specific visa policy to address the increasing number of visa applicants from the Philippines, reducing the waiting period for the issuance of visas to three days for seafarers and one week for other types.

He has likewise pushed for the enhancement of efforts to combat human trafficking from the Philippines and adopt an integrated approach at the Dutch Embassy dedicating most of its financial and manpower resources to address this illegal activity.

The Dutch envoy pushed for the promotion of human rights through close coordination and cooperation with the Commission on Human Rights, other concerned private entities and the promotion of programs on this cause.

Ambassador Brinks has been a steadfast friend of the Filipino people throughout his tour of duty in the country.

Witnessing the event were Ruth G.M. Emmerink, Counsellor and Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of The Netherlands in Manila and Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Erlinda F. Basilio, among others.

The Philippines and The Netherlands have been enjoying close relations since 1598 when a Dutch naval merchant fleet entered the Philippine waters for the first time. Over time, this relationship has flourished and today the Dutch are present in the Philippines in many different ways.

Dutch companies, both large multinationals and Small and Medium Enterprises have strongly contributed to trade and commercial ties and nurtured links between the two countries.

At present, Dutch companies operate within a wide range of sectors, among these are in agriculture, shipping and maritime services, information technology and energy supply. Equally important are the people to people contacts, the activities of several Dutch Non-Government Organizations and the initiatives of many private Dutch organizations and citizens working closely with disadvantaged groups in Philippine society. (jcl/11:30 a.m.)

Aquino declares September 4 as special non-working day in Monkayo, Compostela Valley in celebration of its 58th Foundation Day and 17th Kariyawan Festival

President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared September 4, which falls on a Tuesday, as a special (non-working) day in the municipality of Monkayo in the province of Compostela Valley in celebration of its 58th Foundation Day and 17th Kariyawan Festival.

The Chief Executive issued the declaration through Proclamation No. 450 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on Aug. 9, 2012 to give the people of the municipality of Monkayo the full opportunity to celebrate and participate in the occasion with appropriate ceremonies.

On September 4, 1954, Monkayo became a municipality by virtue of a Presidential Executive Order No. 65 by the late President Ramon Magsaysay.

Kariyawan Festival is being celebrated together with the Araw ng Monkayo every 4th day of September. (js)

Malacanang says President Aquino to announce Robredo's successor before he leaves for the APEC Leaders' Summit next week

President Benigno S. Aquino III will appoint a new Interior and Local Government Secretary before he leaves for Russia to attend the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders' Summit next week, a Palace official said on Wednesday.

But while the President is still looking for somebody who will replace the late Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo, Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. will remain as Officer-in-Charge of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda said during the regular press briefing in Malacanang.

The President’s main consideration for the replacement would be someone who can continue carrying out reforms that he envisioned for local governance and the police.

“Secretary Robredo has done so much for the improvement of local governance through the local governments and so reforms that have been started by Secretary Robredo will be a continuing policy under the new secretary of the Interior and Local Government,” Lacierda said.

Lacierda also said the Chief Executive hasn’t spoken of any candidate that would replace Robredo but he is seriously considering the best successor for Robredo.

Robredo, who died in a plane crash in Masbate on August 18, was given a state funeral by the Aquino administration. President Aquino also conferred on him the Philippine Legion of Honor with the rank of Chief Commander (posthumous) prior to his burial Tuesday. (as/2:02pm)

President Aquino to leave next week for Vladivostok in Russia to attend the 20th APEC Leaders' Summit

President Benigno S. Aquino III will travel to Vladivostok, Russia, next week to join the 20 other world leaders attending the 20th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders' Summit on September 8 to 9.

This year’s APEC summit, which has for its theme "Integrate to Grow, Innovate to Prosper," is hosted by the Russian Federation.

President Aquino will be joined by Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo and Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima.

During the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting (AELM), the leaders will discuss four priorities namely: trade and investment liberalization and regional economic integration, strengthening food security, establishing reliable supply chains, and cooperation to foster innovative growth.

Undersecretary for International Economic Relations Laura del Rosario of the Department of Foreign Affairs said the President will also participate in the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) Dialogue with the Leaders, a key feature of the AELM.

The APEC Business Advisory Council Dialogue gives ABAC members the opportunity to meet with the APEC leaders to discuss the entire year’s ABAC work program and to raise issues of pressing concern to the business community.

ABAC Philippines will be represented by A. Magsaysay Inc. president and chief executive officer Doris Magsaysay, Jollibee Food Corp. Chairman and CEO Tony Tan Caktiong, and Ayala Corp. chairman and CEO Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala.

Undersecretary Del Rosario also said that during the 20th APEC Summit in Vladivostok, President Aquino will also be holding bilateral meetings with other countries.

Del Rosario also said that during this summit, the announcement of the Philippines' hosting of the APEC summit in 2015 is expected through the APEC Leaders’ Declaration.

APEC is an organization of economies in the Asia-Pacific region. It is the premier forum for facilitating economic growth, cooperation, trade and investment in Asia-Pacific region.

It has 21 members which account for approximately 40 percent of the world’s population, approximately 54 percent of the world gross domestic product and about 44 percent of world trade. (co)

Aquino urges Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines to be partners of the government in nation building

President Benigno S. Aquino III called on the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) to work together with the government to sustain the momentum along the straight and righteous path towards the realization of the country’s great potential.

"We in government remain steadfast in fulfilling our shared task of positive national transformation," the Chief Executive said in his message to the CEAP on the occasion of its 2012 National Convention on Wednesday.

The CEAP, the country's largest educational association, opened on Wednesday the 2012 National Convention at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. The convention would end on Friday.

"Your institutions play a vital role in the values formation of our students, and we in government are pleased to have you as part of the private education sector, transforming our youth into God-fearing, goal-oriented, responsible citizens,” the President said.

He expressed hope that the occasion reaffirms “your commitment to strengthening the curriculum administration and teaching competencies of your 1,345 member-schools, in response to the challenges of our globalized milieu.”

"Indeed, the tenets of our faith that are essential to your collective are also vital to realizing the principles of equality and fairness, as articulated by our Social Contract with the Filipino People," the President said. (js/4:46pm)

PIA News Dispatch - Tuesday, August 28, 2012

President Aquino leads nation in paying tribute to the late DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo

President Benigno S. Aquino III joined the entire Filipino nation in paying tribute to the late Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo who was laid to rest in his hometown of Naga City in Camarines Sur on Tuesday.

In his eulogy delivered during the state funeral rites for the late Secretary at the Basilica Minore de Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia in Naga City, the President extolled the hard work, dedication, and love that Robredo displayed as a humble public servant working towards the betterment of his countrymen and as a family man providing for the needs of his wife and three daughters.

“Talaga pong huwarang lingkod-bayan si Jesse, nakatuon palagi sa kapwa at handang magsakripisyo. Sa lahat ng mga nakakausap ko, siya ang taong walang kapasepasensya sa bola. Kay Jesse, what you see is what you get. Tahimik at masipag siyang nagtatrabaho. Hindi siya nagpadala sa kapangyarihan. Sa kabila ng naabot niya, nanatiling simple ang kanyang pamumuhay, hindi nalalayo sa karaniwang taong napakalapit sa kanyang puso,” the President said.

He lauded Robredo’s work ethic of always aiming to finish any given task way before its intended time of completion. A trait, the President said that Robredo exercised as mayor of Naga City and as head of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

“Bukod sa mabait, matino, at mahusay si Jesse, mabilis din siyang umaksyon. Lahat, ASAP (as soon as possible) sa kanya; hindi niya ugaling patagalin sa mesa ang mga magagawa naman ngayon. Kung kayang simulan, sinisimulan niya agad,” the President stressed.

“Hindi lang ang mag-anak ni Robredo ang nawalan ng Padre de Familia... pati ang buong DILG, ang mga nagtatrabaho sa field, ang lahat ng natulungan niya, ang buong Naga, parang nawalan ng ama. Kaya nga po bukod sa kalungkutan, matinding panghihinayang din ang nararamdaman ko ngayon,” he added.

The President also praised Robredo’s dedication as a family man, who always had time for his family.

“Sagrado sa kanya ang oras kasama ang pamilya. Palagi siyang nagmamadaling makauwi sa Naga,” the President said.

In closing, the President quoted a passage from the Holy Bible culled from the Letters of Paul to Timothy, Chapter 4, Verses 6 to 7: “For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith,” saying this passage defined the late Secretary.

“Angkop na angkop po ito kay Jesse – mission accomplished na siya sa mundong ito. Marapat lang na matamasa na niya ang mga gantimpala ng isang buo at mabuting buhay sa piling ng Diyos Ama. Nasa hanay na po si Jesse ng mga bayaning sumusubaybay sa atin mula sa kalangitan, at nagbibigay-lakas sa atin upang ipagpatuloy ang kanilang mga mabuting gawain,” the President said.

“Kaya’t huwag na po tayong lumuha. Sa halip, magpasalamat tayo sa maikling panahong narito siya sa mundo, tayo po ang nabiyayaan ng pagkakataong makapiling si Jesse Manalastas Robredo,” he concluded. (rck)

President Aquino confers on the late DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo the Philippine Legion of Honor

President Benigno S. Aquino III conferred on Tuesday the Philippine Legion of Honor with the rank of Chief Commander (posthumous) on the late Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo, who died in a plane crash off the coast of Masbate on August 18.

The Philippine Legion of Honor is considered the highest award the President can bestow on an individual without the need for approval of Congress.

The award was conferred on the late Secretary Robredo for his achievements as Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and as Mayor of Naga City, according to a citation read by Secretary of Budget and Management Florencio B. Abad during the conferment ceremonies.

"For being an advocate, as Mayor of Naga City from 1988 to 1998 and again from 2001 to 2010, and Secretary of Interior and Local Government, of true and transformative change which led to a revitalized city and a vibrant culture of transparency, accountability, and people empowerment," the citation said.

"For being a mentor to public servants who are likewise supportive of change; for choosing to tread the straight and righteous path, even at the risk of political persecution, instead of taking the easy and crooked road of the unprincipled," the citation continued.

"For institutionalizing a virtuous cycle in the Department of the Interior and Local Government by establishing a full disclosure policy and seals of good housekeeping in local governments," the citation further said.

Before he was named as Interior and Local Government Secretary, Robredo was a multi-awarded local chief executive of Naga City. Under his leadership, Naga transformed into the premier city of the Bicol Region.

Robredo was an Edward Mason Fellow and a graduate of Masters in Public Administration at the John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts. He completed his Masters in Business Administration at the University of the Philippines, finishing at the top of his class as university and college scholar. He was an alumnus of the De La Salle University, having obtained undergraduate degrees in Industrial Management Engineering and Mechanical Engineering.

The late Secretary Robredo joined San Miguel Corporation's Magnolia division after his graduation from De La Salle in 1980. Returning home to Naga City in 1986, he was named Program Director of the Bicol River Basin Development Program, an agency tasked to undertake integrated area development planning in the region's three provinces.

In 1988, he won his mayoralty bid in Naga, making him the youngest Philippine city mayor at the age 29. He would later serve the city for an unprecedented six 3-year terms as local chief executive.

Cited in 1999 by Asiaweek Magazine for transforming Naga City from a lethargic Philippine city into one of Asia's Most Improved, Robredo energized the bureaucracy, dramatically improved stakeholdership and people participation in governance, in the process restoring Naga to its preeminent position as a premier city of the Bicol Region. Today, Naga is considered a model local government in the country and a laboratory of local government innovation.

In recognition of his skills and competence as a leader and development manager, his peers elected Robredo as president of the League of Cities of the Philippines in 1995, the national association of city mayors. He was also elected chairman of the Regional Development Council, the regional planning and coordinative body of Bicol's six provinces and seven cities, from 1992-98. Since 1995, he also was chair of the Metro Naga Development Council.

In recognition of his work, Robredo received 14 major individual awards, including the 2000 Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government Service, the 1996 Outstanding Young Persons of the World (TOYP) Award, the Outstanding Young Men of the Philippines (TOYM), 1998 Konrad Adenauer Medal of Excellence as Most Outstanding City Mayor of the Philippines and the first ever “Dangal ng Bayan ” Award of the Civil Service Commission. In March 2008, he was conferred an honorary Doctor of Humanities degree by the Far Eastern University in Manila.

A trustee of Synergeia Foundation, a national advocacy group for education governance reforms, Robredo was a member of the Liberal Party of the Philippines and a prime mover behind the Kaya Natin!, a national movement that seeks to bring genuine change and ethical leadership in the country. (js)

‘Legion of Honor Award affirms my husband’s commitment to public service,’ says Leni Robredo

Lawyer Leni Robredo received Tuesday the Philippine Legion of Honor award bestowed on her husband, the late Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo, which she said is an affirmation of the late DILG Secretary’s life and work as a dedicated public servant.

“I accept this Legion of Honor award with deep respect and gratitude. This award recognizes my husband’s achievement in public service, an affirmation of his life and work. I am honored, ...our entire family is honored,” Mrs Robredo said in her acceptance message after receiving the award from President Benigno S. Aquino III.

At the same time, Mrs. Robredo thanked the President for all the assistance that his administration extended to the Robredo family, including the space and time he gave for them to grieve.

She likewise extended her gratitude to Transportation and Communication Secretary Mar Roxas, Budget Secretary Florencio Abad and Rep. Jun Abaya who were Robredo’s close friends when he was still alive.

Mrs Robredo also thanked Social Welfare and Development secretary Dinky Soliman, Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office Secretary Ramon Carandang, Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda, Energy Secretary Jose Rene Almendras, Presidential Peace Adviser Teresita Deles and Justice Secretary Leila de Lima.

Robredo’s widow also recognized the help and contributions by other members of the Aquino Cabinet, the rescue teams and divers, the local officials of Masbate and Naga City, and all the people involved in the rescue operation.

President Aquino conferred posthumously the Philippine Legion of Honor with the rank of Chief Commander on Robredo who died in a plane crash off Masbate on August 18 while flying home from Cebu.

The award, which is the highest a sitting president can bestow without congressional approval, was given after the funeral mass at the Basilica Minore de Peñafrancia on Tuesday.

The award is given to Robredo "for being an advocate of true and transformative change leading to a revitalized city, of transparency, accountability and people empowerment," according to the citation read by Budget Secretary Abad.

In giving the award, the President cited Robredo’s life achievement as head of the Department of Interior and Local Government and mayor of Naga City. (as/2:17pm)

PIA News Dispatch - Monday, August 27, 2012

Aquino leads National Heroes Day rites at Libingan ng mga Bayani

President Benigno S. Aquino III led the nation in commemorating the National Heroes Day in ceremonies held at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City on Monday.

In keeping with this year’s theme: “Pilipinong Tapat, Magiting at Makabayan: Ikaw ang Bayani sa Tuwid na Daan,” the President paid homage to the known, un-sung and modern-day heroes by honoring their patriotism and valor, which he said, has been a shining example of selflessness and love for country worth emulating by all Filipinos.

“Taun-taon, nagbubuklod tayo upang gunitain ang kadakilaan ng mga bayaning Pilipino; hindi lamang ang mga ninuno nating napatayuan ng monumento, hindi lamang ang mga bidang nakalimbag sa aralin at libro; kundi maging ang mga indibidwal na wala mang pangalang nakaukit sa tanso, ay nakiambag upang makamit natin ang kalayaan, kapayapaan, at kaunlarang tinatamasa natin sa kasalukuyan,” the President said.

“Iniaalay din natin ang okasyong ito sa mga bayaning nabigo man sa laban ay nanindigan pa rin sa katuwiran, at binigyan tayo ng magandang halimbawa upang gawin ang tama. Dahil higit sa anumang bagay, sinusukat ang ating tagumpay hindi sa yaman, sa dami ng medalya o sa katanyagan, kundi sa ating prinsipyo, at sa halaga ng ating nagawa para maiangat ang ating kapwa,” he added.

The President pointed out though that not all heroes are those who bravely fought and died for our motherland in the historic battles and are now etched in history books but also those who have given their time selflessly in the name of service.

“Pero napatunayan din nating hinuhubog ang bayani hindi lang sa husay sa pakikidigma, pagharap sa bala o sa pagdidilig ng sariling dugo sa lupang sinilangan. Maipapamalas din ito sa pagsasantabi ng sariling interes, at sa paggawa ng tama nang walang hinahangad na kapalit o pagkilala,” the President said.

He noted that the Filipino citizenry have witnessed the heroism and valor of these modern-day heroes who were instrumental in helping our fellow Filipinos affected by the torrential rains brought about by typhoon Gener and the southwest monsoon recently.

“Nasaksihan natin ang ganitong kabayanihan sa marami nating kababayan–pulis, sundalo, kawani ng gobyerno, pati na karaniwang Pilipino–nang humagupit si Gener at ang Habagat na nagdulot ng malawakang baha sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng Luzon,” the President said.

“Libu-libo ang rumesponde upang saklolohan ang sinalanta ng kalamidad. Hindi man alam ang pangalan o hindi man kaanu-ano ang tinulungan, isinugal nila ang buhay upang magmalasakit sa nangangailangan,” he stressed.

The President called on all Filipinos to emulate these modern-day heroes for the Filipino bayanihan spirit will continue for generations to come.

“Maliit man o malaki, sikat man o hindi, mayroon kang maiaambag—at sa ngalan ng bayan at kapwa, kailangan mong gawin ang iyong magagawa,” the President said.

“Ang mabuti mong halimbawa, manganganak pa ng mas maraming bayani; ang nag-iisa, dadami, upang tuluyan nating makamit ang ating mga hangarim,” he said.

Celebrated every last Monday of August as provided for by Republic Act No. 9492 and reinforced through Proclamation No. 295 signed by President Aquino in December 2011, National Heroes Day commemorates the Cry of Pugad Lawin, the fight for the country’s liberation from Spain by Filipino revolutionaries led by Gat. Andres Bonifacio 116 years ago. (rck)

Aquino confident new Chief Justice will renew Filipino people's trust and belief in the judicial system

President Benigno S. Aquino III expressed confidence that the Filipino people’s trust and belief in the judicial system will be renewed and further strengthened with the appointment of new Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno at the Supreme Court.

The Chief Executive expressed his thoughts in his speech keynoting the commemoration of National Heroes Day at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City on Monday.

Sereno, the youngest and first female Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, was appointed by President Aquino on August 16 and took her oath of office before him last Saturday, August 25 in Malacañang.

“Umaasa akong titimbangin mo ang iyong hatol at pasya upang manumbalik ang kompiyansa ng taumbayan sa institusyong iyong pamumunuan,” the President said.

“Ang atas sa iyo ng taumbayan: pairalin ang patas na sistemang pangkatarungan; wala dapat itong kilingan, mayaman man o mahirap, karaniwang Pilipino man o nasa kapangyarihan,” he added.

The President assured Chief Justice Sereno of his administration as well as the people’s support in dispensing her job as chief magistrate of the highest court of the land.

“Sa ating bagong Punong Mahistrado--- Huwag kang mawalan ng loob sakaling dumagsa ang mga pagsubok na kailangan mong pasanin; makakaasa kang kasangga mo ang sambayanang Pilipino,” the President said. (rck)

 Aquino declares September 1 as special non-working day in Cotabato in celebration of it's 98th Foundation Day

President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared September 1, which falls on a Saturday, as a special (non-working) day in the province of Cotabato in celebration of its 98th Foundation Day.

The Chief Executive issued the declaration through Proclamation No. 449 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on Aug. 9, to give the people of Cotabato the full opportunity to celebrate and participate in the occasion with appropriate ceremonies.

On September 1, 1914, Cotabato became a province by virtue of the Philippine Commission Act No. 2408. (js)

Aquino confers the Philippine Legion of Honor (posthumous) on the late DILG Secretary Robredo Tuesday

President Benigno S. Aquino III will confer on Tuesday the Philippine Legion of Honor with the Rank of Chief Commander (posthumous) on Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo, who died in a plane crash off the coast of Masbate on August 18.

The Philippine Legion of Honor is considered the highest award the President can bestow on an individual without the need for approval of Congress.

Secretary Robredo is being conferred the Philippine Legion of Honor for his achievement as Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and as Mayor of Naga City, according to Bulletin No. 11 released by the Committee on Funeral Arrangements and Burial of the late DILG Secretary.

On Monday, the casket bearing the remains of the late Secretary Robredo was brought to the Basilica Minore de Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia from Naga City Hall. The funeral cortege went around Naga City en route to the Basilica where the Philippine National Police (PNP) rendered arrival honors.

The public viewing and vigil will continue until 5 p.m. when a Pontifical High Mass is officiated by His Excellency Leonardo Zamora Legazpi, O.P., Archbishop of Nueva Caceres. After the mass, the public viewing and vigil will resume, until 8 a.m. Tuesday, August 28.

After the Concelebrated Requiem Mass, the President will confer on Secretary Robredo the Philippine Legion of Honor with the rank of Chief Commander.

Budget and Management Secretary Florencio B. Abad will read the citation during the conferment ceremonies. The insignia will be presented by President Aquino to Lawyer Leni Robredo, widow of the late Secretary.

"The President will deliver a eulogy for Secretary Robredo, after which the casket will be brought out of the Basilica by casket bearers from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), accompanied by members of the Cabinet as designated honorary pallbearers of the family," the bulletin said.

After the conferment ceremonies, Secretary Robredo’s remains will be transported to the Funeraria Imperial for the state funeral.

The bulletin said the departure honors and a 19-gun salute will be rendered by the AFP while the national anthem is played at the Basilica.

"The casket will be loaded onto the hearse, after which the funeral cortege will proceed to the Funeraria Imperial. A PNP band and four platoons (from the PNP and the three service branches of the Armed Forces of the Philippines) will accompany the funeral cortege, preceding the hearse. Alongside the hearse will be the members of the Cabinet on foot serving as the Honorary Pallbearers," the bulletin said

"Following the hearse will be the President, Mrs. Robredo, and her children; followed by the late Secretary’s brother and sister; with other relatives, government officials, and other attendees.

The distance to be covered by the funeral cortege is 750 meters, with an estimated marching time of 40 minutes," the bulletin said.

At the crematorium, a three-volley salute will be rendered by the PNP. It will be followed by the playing of Taps rendered by the AFP.

Following the playing of Taps, the National Flag will be taken off the casket and folded by the PNP-AFP casket bearers, and handed over to the President. The President shall then present the folded National Flag to Lawyer Leni Robredo, marking the conclusion of the State Funeral. (js)

PIA News Dispatch - Sunday, August 26, 2012

Aquino leads departure honors for the late DILG Secretary Robredo after a two-day wake in Malacanang

President Benigno S. Aquino III led the departure honors for the late Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jesse Robredo whose remains was flown back to his hometown of Naga City, in Camarines Sur on Sunday.

The President, the immediate family of Secretary Robredo and members of his official family joined some 150 members of the Presidential Security Group Honor Guards who rendered the departure honors and paid their last respects to the former DILG chief with a 19-gun salute.

Prior to the send off ceremonies, which began at 6:55 a.m., a holy mass was officiated by Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Tagle at 5:30 a.m.

The hearse bearing the remains of the late Secretary left Malacanang grounds at around 7:25 a.m. for Villamor Air Base in Pasay City where a flight would bring the remains of Robredo and his family back to Naga City.

Robredo, who died with two others in a plane crash in the coastal waters off Masbate City last August 18, had been accorded a State funeral by Malacanang. His remains have been lying in state at the Kalayaan Hall since Friday, August 24. (rck)

PIA News Dispatch - Saturday, August 25, 2012

Aquino declares August 28 a non-working day in Naga City for interment of DILG Secretary Robredo

President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared August 28 which falls on a Tuesday as a special (non-working) day in the City of Naga, Camarines Sur, in view of the interment of the late Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse M. Robredo who died in a plane crash off the coast of Masbate on August 18.

The Chief Executive issued the declaration, through Proclamation No. 461, signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on August 24 to give the people of the City of Naga the opportunity to honor and show their respect for the late Secretary Robredo.

"Earlier, the City Government of Naga issued a resolution requesting the Office of the President to declare Tuesday, August 28, the day of Secretary Robredo’s interment, a non-working day. This is to allow the people of Naga to participate in the State Funeral and pay their last respects to their beloved former mayor and Secretary of the Interior," according to Bulletin No. 8 released by the Committee on Funeral Arrangements and Burial of the late Secretary Robredo.

The funeral mass for the late Secretary Robredo will take place in the Basilica Minore de Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, August 28.

"This will be followed by the rendering of full military honors at 11 a.m., and by the conclusion of the State Funeral at Funeraria Imperial, where the remains of the late Secretary will be cremated," the bulletin said. (js)

Aquino leads oath-taking ceremony for Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno

President Benigno S. Aquino III administered the oath of office Saturday to incoming Chief Justice of the Supreme Court Maria Lourdes Punzalan Aranal-Sereno after she was chosen to become the 24th Chief Justice of the High Tribunal.

The President led the oath-taking ceremony Saturday morning at Rizal Hall of Malacanang. Sereno was accompanied by her husband, Mario Jose Sereno and their two children Maria Sofia and Jose Lorenzo.

Also present during Saturday’s oath-taking ceremony were Rep. Erin Tanada, Budget Secretary Florencio Abad, Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr., Justice Secretary Leila de Lima, Bishop Efraim M. Tendero, former SC chief justice Artemio Panganiban, SC’s associate justices and former justices of the High Court.

In an interview after the ceremony, Presidential Communication Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said Chief Justice Sereno will have an opportunity to push the reforms in the judiciary especially those that started during the impeachment trial of the former chief justice.

The appointment of Sereno to the High Court will bring back the public trust and confidence to the country’s judicial system and ensure equal protection of the law, Coloma said noting that those who have less in life should have more in law.

Also during the same event, Justice Secretary de Lima, one of the contenders for the post, congratulated Sereno adding the Supreme Court will now be in good hands with her stewardship.

Sereno’s youth, dynamism and brilliance would ensure that the country can look forward to a judiciary that would be worthy of the people’s trust, she said.

Sereno, the country’s first woman chief justice, was appointed by President Aquino on August 16, 2010 as the 169th Justice of the SC. She was President Aquino’s first appointee to the SC.

Access to justice is one of the centerpiece advocacies of Justice Sereno. One of her earlier works in law school included a review of the interface between domestic laws and indigenous customary laws.

Prior to her joining the SC, she was engaged in major international litigation as co-counsel for the Republic, after which she joined the Asian Institute of Management as Executive Director of its think-tank - the AIM Policy Center - where she pursued her interest in policy reform and its impact on governance and the economy. (as)

Palace says Robredo’s successor must ensure DILG reforms continue

President Benigno S. Aquino III will ensure that reforms initiated by the late Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo will continue when he chooses a successor to the interior and local government post, a Palace official said on Saturday.

It was reported that there are groups apparently lobbying for the post left by Secretary Robredo but Deputy Presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said the President will not be swayed by anyone lobbying to get the position.

“The President has always made decisions based on his personal assessment of what is needed in a particular department and also based on his personal assessment of a person’s capability to carry out the mandate,” Valte said in a radio interview Saturday over dzRB Radyo ng Bayan.

“If you remember what ES Ochoa said when he first went to DILG last week, ang sinabi niya --- ‘Sisiguraduhin natin na ‘yung mga reporma tumutuloy.’ Alam natin na temporary OIC si ES Ochoa. Moving forward, the successor will also have to make sure that the reforms that were started by Secretary Jess are continued,” she said.

One of the reforms that should continue is eliminating red tape the way local government units conduct their businesses, Valte said adding the Aquino administration was able to do it in departments such as the Department of Trade and Industry in approving business permits.

Valet also noted that the Department of Interior and Local Government under the leadership of Robredo recognizes the achievements of LGUs on good governance and and this is something the administration wants to continue.

“Secretary Robredo was responsible for making sure that the LGUs would cooperate and would also streamline their system pagdating doon sa mga mayor’s permit, sa mga business permit na binibigay ng mga LGU.

So maraming mga LGU ang sumusunod sa shortened system natin dahil din sa pagsusumikap ni Secretary Jess. These are the reforms that we are also looking to continue,” Valte said.

Meanwhile, with regards to the ongoing investigation on the plane crash that killed Robredo, Valte said the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines has been strict in assessing the competency of flying schools in the country, especially the aircraft involved came from a flying school in Cebu.

Valte said that even before last week’s incident happened, CAAP Administrator William Hotchkiss, upon assuming office, tightened CAAP’s watch on the flying schools in the country.

Before the plane crash last Saturday, the aviation school, which owns the plane used by Robredo, became involved in a similar crash in Cebu. Robredo and two others died when their plane crashed off Masbate last Saturday. (as/1:02pm)

Palace hopes for Ambassador Brady’s full recovery

Malacanang said it hopes for the full recovery of Philippine Ambassador to China Sonia Brady after she suffered a stroke in her residence in Beijing this week. The Palace at the same time assured the public that the country has enough personnel in China to maintain the country’s interests there.

In a radio interview over dzRB Radyo ng Bayan on Saturday, Deputy Presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said Brady is already in stable condition and recovering in the hospital.

Valte said Malacanang was concerned about Brady’s health the time it received a report from China. But she said they got an assurance from the Department of Foreign Affairs that it is getting regular bulletins from its post in Beijing about the condition of Ambassador Brady.

“At the moment ang concern is for her recovery. We have very capable fellow workers in the Beijing post who can keep the affairs going on a daily basis,” she said.

Brady was brought to a hospital last Wednesday after she passed out in her residence in Beijing, according to the DFA.

President Aquino III named Brady the country’s ambassador in China in May 27 this year.

Brady, who turned 70 last Wednesday, is serving her second tour of duty as ambassador to China. She has served the same position from 2006 to 2010.

The Aquino administration hopes that Brady, a veteran diplomat, could find a peaceful solution to the Scarborough Shoal dispute by employing diplomatic means to resolve the issue. (as/1:55pm)