PIA News Dispatch - Tuesday, July 30, 2013

President Aquino leads opening of exhibit featuring former President Cory Aquino’s paintings

President Benigno S. Aquino III led the opening of an exhibit featuring his mother, former President Corazon Cojuangco Aquino’s paintings at the Lobby Lounge and Roma Salon of the Manila Hotel on Monday.

The exhibit, aptly titled, “A Gift of Self,” showcases around 90 paintings of the former President and pieces from the personal collection of her daughters Ballsy Cruz and Viel Dee, Senate President Franklin Drilon, House Speaker Sonny Belmonte, Metrobank founder George Ty and his wife Mary, and PLDT chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan.

The President, who arrived at 6 p.m. formally opened the exhibit by unveiling a painting of his mother by Emi Mercado and signing a guest list canvass prepositioned near the painting.

In his speech, the President said the paintings were a “small part of the legacy she left behind.”

“She understood how freedom was such a fundamental requirement for human life and so she fought for it and taught others to appreciate and care for it. She had every hope that the Philippines could rise above the dark days of Martial Law and so she did all she could to uplift the country and to inspire others to do the same,” the President said.

“Mom’s paintings are a very small part of the legacy she left behind. It is a legacy we feel every day as we live and work in a society now free from the iron fists of the dictator and from a military and police force that existed to serve one man alone,” he added.

Joining the President were Cabinet Secretary Rene Almendras, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation Chairman Cristino Naguiat, Jr, Philippine Economic Zone Authority Director General Lilia De Lima and Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa.

The exhibit "A Gift of Self” will run until August 2. PND (rck)

DSWD allots P12.7-million of emergency relief resources for flood victims in Mindanao

The Department of Social Welfare and Development has set aside P12.7-million worth of emergency relief resources for the victims of floodings that have hit Mindanao due to heavy rains, Malacanang said on Tuesday.

In a press briefing in Malacanang, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said the DSWD has also been in close coordination with local counterparts in Mindanao to augment technical assistance and resource augmentation (TARA) needed by the victims.

Strong rains dumped over the provinces of Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat and Cotabato City over the weekend and have caused floods and displaced more than 50,000 residents from their homes.

“The information that we have is that all DSWD teams are already in close coordination with their local counterparts for any request for technical assistance and resource augmentation or what we call the TARA,” Valte said.

“The DSWD has already prepositioned P12.70-million worth of emergency relief resources consisting of standby funds, of family food packs, and other food items and other non-food items,” she added.

Valte pointed out that the national government has moved to augment DSWD and LGU (local government unit) actions by providing additional food packs for residents in the affected areas.

“The national government has provided an augmentation of 6,000 food packs for DSWD-ARMM (Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao) and that DSWD Secretary Dinky Soliman has approved the release of additional 30,000 food packs for Maguindanao and for Sarangani,” Valte said. PND (rck)

DOLE wrapping up investigation of 'sex-for-flight' scheme, says Palace

Malacanang assured that justice will be served and reforms will be carried in handling distressed overseas Filipinos workers allegedly being victimized by Filipino personnel abroad particularly in the Middle East.

Some groups have voiced their concerns on the ongoing investigation of the Department and Labor and Employment and the Department of Foreign Affairs in connection with the reported sex-for-flight scheme in the Middle East.

These groups have been asking about the government assessment and investigation and want to know if the administration was able to prosecute officials involved.

“The secretary of labor have provided a timetable kung gaano katagal niyang dapat aksyunan ang bagay na ito. Gusto lang siguraduhin ng DOLE na masinop ang kanilang mga magiging findings,” Deputy Presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a press briefing Tuesday in Malacanang.

“Meron silang period of time to evaluate the facts and the evidence, including the testimonies that they were able to gather on their trip, at iaakyat iyan sa disciplining authority which, in this case, is the secretary of labor.”

The DOLE has been following a particular timetable and will come up with a complete investigation result soon, according to Valte.

Valte said Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz sent a fact-finding team to the Middle East to conduct the inquiry. The group already returned to the Philippines two weeks ago, she said.

The government is already doing an assessment to prevent future abuses relative to calls by migrant organizations asking for more protection for Filipinos working abroad.

A month ago, Secretary Baldoz briefed the President on the ongoing investigation and the possible measures that the government could implement to prevent similar situations from occurring, the Palace official said.

“Women welfare workers will now be prioritized for postings. Sila ang magiging house mothers ng mga welfare centers natin abroad. Pina-prioritize na natin ang deployment ng mga babaeng welfare workers natin,” Valte said. PND (as)

Aquino orders law enforcement agencies to coordinate with Comelec in ensuring peaceful, credible Syncronized Barangay and Sanguniang Kabataan Elections

President Benigno S. Aquino III has directed the law enforcement agencies and other concerned agencies to coordinate and cooperate with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in ensuring free, orderly, honest, peaceful, and credible Synchronized Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections on October 28.

The directive was issued by virtue of Memorandum Order No. 56 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on July 23.

The Comelec, through its Resolution No. 9731 (s. 2013), resolved to request the concurrence of the President in the deputation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and other law enforcement agencies, in connection with Synchronized Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections.

"Pursuant to Section 2 (4), Article IX-C of the Constitution, the Comelec is empowered to deputize, with the concurrence of the President, law enforcement agencies and instrumentalities of the Government, including the Armed Forces of the Philippines, for the exclusive purpose of ensuring free, orderly, honest, peaceful, and credible elections," the memorandum read.

The Chief Executive concurred with Comelec Resolution No. 9731, deputizing AFP, PNP and other law enforcement agencies, to assist the Comelec in ensuring the free, orderly, honest, peaceful, and credible conduct of October elections.

This Memorandum Order shall take effect immediately. PND (js)

Govt assures public of enough rice supply

Malacanang said there is enough government intervention to ensure sufficient supply of rice during the lean season.

In a press briefing on Tuesday, Deputy Presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said there is enough buffer stock in government warehouses as the country enters the lean months.

The National Food Authority (NFA) said rice prices will increase until September because of the lean season. The NFA also released in the market P32 per kilo high-quality, commercial well-milled rice for public consumption, Valte said.

Asked by reporters about the possibility of some rice traders seizing the opportunity to overprice, she said the NFA is already acting on those concerns.

Earlier this month, Valte said the government was conduct strict monitoring of rice prices to prevent traders from unreasonably jacking up the price of the major staple. She said however that the increase in rice prices would be temporary.

Valte said concerned government agencies were doing the monitoring adding that the price increase was seasonal and would be going back to original prices once the harvest season starts.

The increase was part of a natural cycle of rice supply, Valte noted. Rice farmers have just started to plant palay and the NFA was just starting its assessment of its buffer stock in preparation for the lean season. PND (as)

PIA News Dispatch - Monday, July 29, 2013

President Aquino confers Order of the Golden Heart with the rank of Grand Cross on former Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Tsuneo Tanaka

President Benigno S. Aquino III conferred the Order of the Golden Heart with the rank of Grand Cross (Maringal na Krus) on former Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines Tsuneo Tanaka for his role in establishing numerous health, education and livelihood projects for Filipinos during a simple ceremony in Malacanang on Monday.

The Chief Executive awarded the Order of the Golden Heart on Tanaka in a simple ceremony at the Music Room of Malacanang Palace.

The President cited the former Ambassador for "playing a vital role in establishing numerous health, education and livelihood projects throughout the country in service of the Filipino masses with the guiding principle that the underprivileged can learn to make a living with pride."

"Tanaka was also recognized for promoting and fostering a culture of service-oriented volunteer work for Japanese nationals in the Philippines through the Global Voluntary Service of which he serves as Senior Adviser," the President said.

Tanaka was likewise cited for actively encouraging activities to provide financial and monetary assistance for programs that have helped improve the living standards and economic conditions of Filipinos.

The Order of the Golden Heart was established in 1954 by the late President Ramon Magsaysay to recognize individuals who had rendered distinguished services or material aid to improve the condition of the masses.

Joining the President during the conferment ceremony are Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Rafael Seguis, Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Toshinao Urabe, Director Kiyoshi Takiuchi of the Japan Information Center, Embassy of Japan, and Presidential sister Ballsy Aquino-Cruz among others. PND (js)

Malacañang appeals to all to ‘take a look’ at the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement, says peace accord will benefit all Bangsamoro

Malacanang appealed to all Filipinos to closely review the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement (BFA), saying the peace accord will benefit the Bangsamoro whether they be members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, the Moro National Liberation Front or the Lumads.

Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda issued the appeal in a press briefing in Malacanang on Monday amid reports that the MNLF would declare independence for Mindanao if the BFA would be implemented through the abrogation of the 1996 peace agreement between the Government of the Philippines and the MNLF.

Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Deles clarified that what the government sought was the termination of the tripartite review mechanism brokered by the Organization of Islamic Conference and maintained that “the government will continue to engage relevant parties of the MNLF, through the existing mechanism, to find a just and comprehensive political solution for the issue of the southern Philippines.”

Lacierda said the BFA, once completed, would foster peace and development in Mindanao whose benefits would redound to all, as this was a “major improvement over the organic Act of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.”

“The Bangsamoro Framework Agreement will benefit all Bangsamoro. It includes whether you are MILF, MNLF or Lumad, kasama kayo sa makikinabang sa Bangsamoro Framework Agreement,” Lacierda said.

“We ask all people, all Bangsamoro to take a look at the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement. This is a major improvement over the organic act of the ARMM and therefore, we will come up with the framework agreement as well as the annexes ultimately to peace and development in Mindanao,” he added.

“And therefore we ask the MNLF to seriously look into this agreement, not as MNLF but as Bangsamoro, and it includes everyone: MILF, MNLF and the Lumads,” he further said.

The BFA is a commitment by the government and the MILF to establish a new autonomous political entity in Muslim Mindanao. It will replace the ARMM with a more empowered and more equitable system called the Bangsamoro. PND (rck)

President Aquino declares August 10 as special non-working day in Gumaca, Quezon in commemoration of Lorenzo Tañada Sr. Day

President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared August 10, which falls on a Saturday, as a special (non-working) day in the municipality of Gumaca in the province of Quezon in commemoration of Lorenzo Tañada Sr. Day.

The Chief Executive issued the declaration through Proclamation No. 624 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on July 17 to give the people of Gumaca the full opportunity to celebrate and participate in the occasion with appropriate ceremonies.

Born on August 10, 1898 in Gumaca, Quezon, Tañada obtained his AB and law degrees from the University of the Philippines; Master of Laws from Harvard University; and Doctor of Civil Law from the University of Santo Tomas.

Tañada served as Manila assistant city fiscal in 1929 and eventually became judge of the Court of the First Instance of Manila in 1945. He was elected senator in 1948, and re-elected in 1953, 1959 and 1965.

He sponsored a bill changing the date of Philippine Independence Day from July 4th to June 12.

He sponsored the bill requiring government officials to make public their assets and liabilities, as well as the Tañada Picketing Law which gives protection to laborers on strike. Another bill to his credit was to prohibit discrimination in the workplace, as well as the law that prohibits and penalizes wiretapping and other related violations of the privacy of communication. PND (js)

PIA News Dispatch - Sunday, July 28, 2013

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe departs for Japan after fruitful Manila visit

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe departed from Manila to Japan Saturday afternoon after concluding his two-day official visit to the Philippines.

The Japanese leader left Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal II around 5pm Saturday on board a Boeing 747 jumbo jet.

Among the members who sent him off include Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, Transportation and Communication Secretary Jose Emilio Abaya and Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Toshinao Urabe.

During the meeting between Abe and President Benigno S. Aquino III in Malacanang, both leaders expressed their commitment to further strengthen relations to improve economic engagements, maritime and security ties.

Abe’s visit to the Philippines is expected to elevate the Philippines-Japan strategic partnership to a higher level in the midst of continuing Chinese intrusion in the West Philippine Sea.

The President thanked the Japanese government for helping enhance the capacity of the Philippine Coast Guard by building a multi-role response vessels and by providing communication equipment

Under the expanded bilateral agreement, both leaders agreed to continue high-level visits and people-to-people exchanges, allowing more tourists and students to enter Japan and the Philippines.

Abe first visited the Philippines in December 2006 during his first term as Japanese prime minister.

The Philippines was the last leg of Abe’s three-Asian nation swing. Prior to his arrival in Manila, the Japanese leader visited Malaysia and Singapore. PND (as)

PIA News Dispatch - Saturday, July 27, 2013

Japanese Prime Minister Abe arrives in Manila

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe arrived in Manila Friday evening for a two-day official visit to the Philippines aimed at strengthening bilateral relations.

Among the government officials who welcomed Abe were Vice President Jejomar Binay, Transportation and Communication Secretary Jose Emilio Abaya and Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario.

The Japanese prime minister arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 2 at around 9:00 p.m. Friday.

Immediately after his arrival Abe proceeded to the Intercontinental Hotel in Makati City for a reception hosted by the Philippines-Japan Society.

In his message during the event, Abe said he is grateful that he was able to once again visit the Philippines after his huge political victory in Japan. He said he first visited the country six and a half years ago during his first term as Japan’s leader.

The visiting Japanese leader said he hopes that with the revival of the Japanese economy Japan could contribute to peace and stability in the Asian region.

Being both maritime nations, Abe said he supports the Philippines position in upholding the rule of law in the contested waters in the region. He said he hopes the Philippines could also contribute to peace and prosperity of the Asian region by adhering to the guidelines supported by the international community.

Japan and the Philippines share common values on democracy, freedom and deep respect to human rights as well as the rule of law making these the foundations for stronger bilateral relations, he said.

Abe also praised the Philippines for having a continuously increasing population, noting this is the country’s asset. This is contrary to Japan’s experience as it faces several concerns because of its aging society, a country with slowly diminishing succeeding generations of nation builders.

With regards to the Philippines-Japan Society, the Japanese prime minister said the organization has been contributing to stronger bilateral relations between Japan and the Philippines adding that attendees to the occasion will be the bridge between Japan and the Philippines in future relations.

President Benigno Aquino III welcomed Abe in Malacanang Saturday to discuss bilateral cooperation and regional issues, and ways to further advance the Strategic Partnership between the Philippines and Japan.

Abe’s stop in the Philippines is the last leg of his three-Asian-nation tour, after visiting Malaysia and Singapore. PND (as)

Aquino welcomes Japanese Prime Minister Abe in Malacanang

President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomed Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe during arrival honors in Malacañang Palace on Saturday.

A 21-gun salute was rendered in honor of the Prime Minister during the playing of the national anthems of both countries at 10 a.m. at the Malacañang grounds.

After the arrival ceremonies, the President ushered Prime Minister Abe to Malacañang Palace for the traditional signing of the Palace Guest Book.

The visiting Prime Minister arrived in Manila on Friday for a two-day Official Visit. The Philippines is Prime Minister Abe's last leg in his 3-nation tour of Southeast Asian neighbors.

Earlier, Abe first went to Rizal Park in Manila for the wreath-laying rites at the foot of the monument of the national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, before proceeding to Malacanang Palace.

Joining the President in welcoming the Prime Minister were Cabinet Secretary Jose Rene Almendras, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario, Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz, Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson, Science and Technology Secretary Mario Montejo, National Economic and Development Authority Director-General Arsenio M. Balisacan, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos Deles, Presidential Adviser for Political Affairs Ronald Llamas, Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio “Sonny” Coloma Jr., Presidential Management Staff head Secretary Julia Abad, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority chairman Francis Tolentino, Commission on Higher Education head Patricia Licuanan, among others.

President Aquino and Prime Minister Abe are expected to discuss bilateral cooperation and regional issues, and further advance the Strategic Partnership between the Philippines and Japan.

Prime Minister Abe visited the Philippines in December 2006 during his first term as head of the Japanese Government.

In 2012, Japan was the Philippines’ number one trade partner and provider of official development assistance as well as the second major source of approved investments and third source of tourist arrivals.

Prime Minister Abe undertook a 3-nation swing in the southeast that brought him to Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines. PND (js)

President Aquino commits to further strengthen relations with Japan not only to improve economic engagements but also maritime and security ties

President Benigno S. Aquino III has committed to further strengthen relations between the Philippines and Japan not only to improve economic engagements but also maritime and security ties.

In his speech during a joint conference with Japenese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, following the signing of the expanded bilateral agreement between the two countries in Malacanang on Saturday, the President said both countries vowed to actively pursue strategies for growth and positive engagement.

The Prime Minister's official visit to Manila is expected to elevate the Philippines-Japan strategic partnership to an even higher plane of vigor, dynamism and relevance, the President said.

"We reviewed the security challenges that confront our nations, and pledged to cooperate in advancing our common advocacy for responsible action from international players. We believe that it can be done by upholding the rule of law in international affairs, and by finding just and peaceful solutions to our territorial disputes and maritime concerns—so that we may create a secure and stable environment that leads to our collective progress," he said.

Both leaders had agreed to strengthen maritime cooperation, which is a pillar of our strategic partnership.

"We thank the Japanese Government for helping enhance the capacity of the Philippine Coast Guard by building multi-role response vessels and by providing communication systems for their use," he said.

Under the expanded bilateral agreement, Aquino said both leaders agreed to strengthen their bilateral policy dialogues, and to continue high-level visits and people-to-people exchanges.

The President welcomed the Japanese Government’s decision to encourage more Filipino tourists to visit Japan by allowing multiple-entry visas, and the expansion of the Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youth program.

He said the Japanese move paves the way for the students of both countries to cultivate friendships and deepen their appreciation for their respective cultures and societies.

"On the economic front, I congratulated the Prime Minister for the economic gains that Japan enjoys at present. This revival is the result of the Japanese government’s resolve to efficiently manage the economy by improving productivity and increasing the participation of citizens, particularly women, in the labor force. This growth is a positive sign for the global economy and for the Filipino people," the President said.

In 2012, Japan was the number one trade partner of the Philippines and provider of official development assistance, as well as the second major source of approved investments and third source of tourist arrivals.

"After all, Japan is the Philippines’ top trading partner, in 2012, our total bilateral trade amounted to 16.35 billion dollars. Japan remains our largest source of development assistance, and our country’s second largest source of approved investments, which in the previous year amounted to more than 69 billion pesos. Japan is also our third largest source of tourists, as 412,474 Japanese nationals visited our shores last year," he said.

Aquino said the Philippines will continue to initiate reforms to make the country a stable investment destination.

"Inclusiveness and the adherence to sound policy fundamentals are the same principles that have paved the way for the resurgence of our own economy. During our discussions, I underscored the commitment of my administration to meaningful reform, which is essential in nurturing an attractive and stable investment climate," the President said.

The President, likewise, thanked Prime Minister Abe for Japan’s commitment to Philippine development, and for extending assistance in critical areas such as infrastructure development, transportation, connectivity, and disaster preparedness and response.

During the press conference, the Prime Minister presented to Aquino the technical assistance provided by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in developing a Transport Roadmap Study for Metro Manila and its Surrounding Areas.

"I also expressed appreciation for Japan’s positive response to our request for a Post Disaster Stand-by Loan through the Stand-by Emergency Credit for Urgent Recovery. I also thanked the Prime Minister for the positive indication from his government with respect to improvements in the Philippines’ aviation safety standards; we look forward to productive discussions for our air services," he said. PND (js)

President Aquino announces intention to attend Commemorative Summit in Tokyo in December this year

President Benigno S. Aquino III announced his intention to attend the Commemorative Summit in Tokyo in December, marking the 40th year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation in Tokyo this coming December.

"As I have told the Prime Minister, I look forward to the Commemorative Summit in Tokyo in December, as we mark the 40th year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation," the Chief Executive said in his speech during a joint conference with His Excellency Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan, in Malacanang on Saturday.

"The relationship between Japan and ASEAN serves as a cornerstone of harmony and dialogue in our part of the world," Aquino said.

ASEAN and Japan's cooperative partnership began in 1973 with the establishment of ASEAN-Japan forum on synthetic rubber. Through the years, ASEAN and Japan have forged close cooperation towards peace, stability, development and prosperity in Asia.

The ASEAN and Japan have established close business partnership with total bilateral trade amounting to 248 billion US dollars in 2011. ASEAN member-states are major foreign direct investment destinations for Japanese enterprises.

"Your Excellency (Prime Minister Abe), your presence today reaffirms our shared commitment to deepen our relations, foster cooperation, and more importantly build a more peaceful and more secure Asia Pacific region. It is by treading the path to progress and peace that we can bring about meaningful change for our peoples," he said. PND (js)

Japanese Prime Minister Abe underscores strenghtening friendly ties with the country

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe recalled Saturday that his grandfather, former Prime Minister Nobusuke Kishi, was the first prime minister to visit the Philippines in 1957.

“[A]nd ever since then, both Japan and the Philippines have continued to foster friendship,” Abe noted in a toast during the official luncheon hosted by the President in his honor on the occasion of his Official Visit, the second since 2006, during his first term as head of the Japanese government.

Prime Minister Abe also thanked President Aquino for a warm welcome and lauded “the excellent Philippine economy.”

For his part, President Aquino assured Prime Minister Abe that the Philippines is committed to further strengthen its relationship with Japan.

“Mr. Prime Minister, the relations between our countries have been extensive and historic. After overcoming conflict, we have developed both a strong alliance and a deep friendship,” the President said.

President Aquino recalled that Japan was one of the first countries to support his mother’s government after the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution, and that one of the first countries that his mother visited as president was Japan.

“Now, our relations have only grown stronger on the foundation of our shared beliefs in democracy and in the rule of law,” he said.

The president further underscored that Japan is one of the Philippines’ strategic partners.

“Moving forward, the Philippines fully intends to deepen our relationship with Japan so that we may bequeath to younger generations a legacy of prosperity, peace and productive solidarity between our countries,” he said.

“So long as we stand alongside one another and build further on our long friendship, then certainly, we can move closer to realizing our common aspiration of a peaceful and prosperous Asia Pacific Region,” he added.

Japanese Prime Minister Abe is in Manila for an official visit. It is his second visit to the Philippines as Prime Minister. President Aquino welcomed the Japanese Prime Minister on Saturday at 10 a.m. in Malacanang after the wreath laying ceremony at the Rizal Park in Manila. PND (co)

PIA News Dispatch - Friday, July 26, 2013

President Aquino cites role of physicians who continue to explore, refine solutions for diagnosis, mitigation and prevention of disease

President Benigno S. Aquino III cited the role of physicians who continue to "explore and refine solutions" for the diagnosis, mitigation, and prevention of disease.

"Our professionals are at the forefront of this age of rapid development, confronting its challenges with our fellow Filipinos and empowering them to secure their personal growth and that of our society," the Chief Executive said in his message to the participants of the 16th Philippine College of Chest Physicians (PCCP) Midyear Convention.

The Philippine College of Chest Physicians Northern Mindanao Chapter opened the 16th PCCP Midyear Convention which has for its theme "The Pulmonary X Factor” in Grand Caprice, Lim Ket Kai Mall, Cagayan de Oro.

"The challenge of sustainable development is a key concern in your field and in our overall movement of revitalization. May you be steadfast in this advocacy, which is also crucial to the development of your proud region," he said.

"May this assembly reaffirm the role of our physicians, as you unite towards collaborative discovery that contributes to our nation’s advancement. May this convention imbibe the vigor and renewed hope of Mindanao, and galvanize your organization as you march, together with our countrymen, on the path towards equitable progress," he noted. PND (js)

Aquino appoints new ambassadors

President Benigno. S. Aquino III appointed new ambassadors that will fill several posts around the world, Malacanang announced Friday.

Deputy Presidential spokesperson Abigal Valte said in a press briefing on Friday that among the appointments made by the President include the designation of Cecilia B. Rebong as the country’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland; Maria Rowena M. Sanchez, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Turkey with concurrent jurisdiction over the Republic of Azerbaijan;

Victoriano M. Lecaros, Ambassador to the Czech Republic; Maria Theresa P. Lazaro, Ambassador to the French Republic with concurrent jurisdiction over the Principality of Monaco; Victor B. Ledda, ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands; Catalino R. Dilem Jr., Ambassador to the United Mexican States; Narciso T. Castaneda, Ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman;

Edsel P. Barba, Ambassador to the Republic of Iraq; and Vicente Vivencio T. Bandillo ambassador to the Peoples Republic of Bangladesh.

The President also expanded the area of jurisdiction of Ambassador Jose Cuisia Jr., who is the Philippine ambassador to the United States with concurrent jurisdiction over the US Virgin Islands, Granada and Puerto Rico.

With the expanded jurisdiction, Cuisia will have concurrent jurisdiction over the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica and Haiti.

Aside from designating new ambassadors, the President made new appointments at the Department of Energy and the Energy Regulatory Commission.

Valte said that last July 23, the President appointed Josefina Patricia A. Magpale-Asirit as Commissioner of Energy Regulatory Commission with a seven-year term of office.

The President also appointed Aina Asirit as undersecretary of the Department of Energy, according to Valte. PND (as)

Palace hopes for Moody’s rating upgrade soon

Malacanang said its hopes to hear good news soon as the Moody’s Investors Service reviews the country’s credit rating for possible revision to investment grade.

“Hopefully, we will get good news. They’re reviewing the status. I am not quite sure how long the review will take but, hopefully, we will get good news soon,” Deputy Presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a press briefing in Malacanang Friday on the Moody’s review.

In a statement this week, Moody’s said the review focuses on the country’s domestic economic sustainability, the stable and favorable government funding conditions, improvement of fiscal and debt situation, and the political stability and strengthened mandate of the government.

The credit rating agency will also review the government’s foreign currency shelf rating, as well as the the central bank’s liabilities.

The ratings agency upgraded the country’s credit rating to a notch below investment grade at “Ba1” with “Stable” outlook after noting the continued improvement in the economic and fiscal performance amid negative global economic developments, better medium term economic prospects, and stable financial system.

Moody’s is the only major credit rating agency that has not given the Philippines an investment grade rating.

Last March, Fitch Ratings upgraded the country's long-term foreign currency issue default rating (IDR) to ‘BBB-‘ from ‘BB+’ with ‘Stable’ outlook citing the continued improvement of the country’s external position, domestic growth, and fiscal management among others.

It also upgraded to ‘BBB’ from ‘BBB-‘ with ‘Stable’ outlook the country’s long-term local currency IDR, the Philippines’ Country Ceiling to 'BBB' from 'BBB-' and the Short-Term Foreign-Currency IDR to 'F3' from 'B'.

Also last May, Standard and Poor’s (S&P) made a similar upgrade adjusting the country’s rating to ‘BBB-A-3’ from ‘BB+B’ with stable outlook because of the “strengthening external profile, moderating inflation, and the government's declining reliance on foreign currency debt.”

S&P also raised upwards its long-term ASEAN regional scale rating on the country to ‘axA-‘ from ‘axBBB+’ as well as the transfer and convertibility assessment to ‘BBB’ from ‘BBB-‘.

The Philippines posted last year one of the highest GDP growth in Asia at 6.8 percent while expansion in the first quarter this year further rose to 7.8 percent. PND (as)

Aquino appoints new ambassadors to Europe, Middle East, Asia and other countries

President Benigno S. Aquino III has appointed new ambassadors to Europe, the Middle East, Asia and other countries.

In a transmittal letter to Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario, Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. said the Chief Executive signed the appointment letters of the new ambassadors on July 19.

President Aquino named Cecilia B. Rebong as Permanent Representative of the Republic of the Philippines to the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland; Maria Rowena M. Sanchez as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Turkey with concurrent jurisdiction over Georgia and the Republic of Azerbaijan; Victoriano M. Lecaros as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Czech Repubic, Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the French Republic with concurrent jurisdiction over the Principality of Monaco; Jaime Victor B. Ledda as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Kingdom of the Netherlands;

Catalino R. Dilem Jr. as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the United Mexican States with concurrent jurisdiction over Belize, the Republic of Coasta Rica, the Republic of El Salvador, the Republic of Guatemala, the Republic of Honduras, the Repubic of Nicaragua, the Republic of Panama, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, the Dominican Republic and the Republic of Cuba; Narciso T. Castaneda as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipontentiary to the Sultanate of Oman, Edsel P. Barba as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Iraq and Vicente Vivencio T. Bandillo as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the People's Republic of Bangladesh with concurrent jurisdiction over the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and the Republic of Maldives.

Jose L. Cuisa Jr., presently Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipontentiary to the United States of America with concurrent jurisdiction over the United States Virgin Islands, Grenada and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, was designated in concurrent capacity as envoy to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Commonwealth of Jamaica and Republic of Haiti .

Eleanor Jaucian, presently Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipontentiary to the Republic of Hungary with concurrent jurisdiction over Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Republic of Serbia, was designated in concurrent capacity as envoy to Romania, Republic of Bulgaria and Republic of Moldova.

Enrique Manalo, presently Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipontentiary to United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, was designated in concurrent capacity as envoy to Republic of Ireland.

Bayani Mercado, presently Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipontentiary to the Kingdom of Norway with concurrent jurisdiction over the Republic of Iceland and the Kingdom of Denmark was designated in concurrent capacity as envoy to Republic of Finland and Kingdom of Sweden.

Particia Ann V. Paez, presently Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Republic of Poland was designated in concurrent capacity as envoy to Republic of Estonia, Republic of Latvia and Republic of Lithuania.

George B. Reyes, presently Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipontentiary to United Mexican States with concurrent jurisdicion over Belize, the Republic of Costa Rica , the Republic of El Salvador, the Republic of Honduras, the Republic of Nicaragua and the Republic of Panama was designated in concurrent capacity as the envoy to Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Dominican Republic, and Republic of Cuba.

The President, likewise, appointed Josefina Patricia Magpale-Asirit, as the Commissioner of the Energy Regulatory Commission for a term of seven years beginning on July 11, 2013 until July 10, 2020. PND (js)

Combating poverty remains government’s top priority, says Palace

Fighting poverty is a continuing effort on the part of the Aquino administration and although it posted successes in some areas it won’t stop carrying out the program that alleviates the plight of poor Filipinos, a Palace official said on Friday.

Reacting to a Pulse Asia survey on poverty, Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said the public must take it from the President’s State-of-the-Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, noting the things that the administration was able to do and what it is doing.

“We’re not stopping just because we were able to achieve success in some areas but, yes, the efforts will go on,” Valte said.

“We knew that poverty is not something that we could resolve in a week or in a month in office, and it is a continuing effort on the part of the President and his Cabinet,” Valte said when asked why the administration has taken a longer time in eliminating poverty.

The Palace noted the thrusts mentioned by the President in his SONA to tackle poverty like the introduction of intercropping to coconut farmers as well as the creation of more cold storage facilities.

“Those are just some of the things that we’ve managed to do in the time that the President has been in office and we intend to do more,” she said.

Pulse Asia survey conducted on June 20 to July 4, showed that Aquino’s performance in poverty reduction earned an average grade of 75. The survey has a margin of error of plus-or-minus three percentage points.

Pulse Asia asked 1,200 adult respondents nationwide to rate the President’s performance in 11 national concerns on a scale of zero to 100.

The President got highest marks in managing the economy and ensuring the delivery of basic services, with a “good” rating or 80. PND (as)

Aquino expresses belief the Armed Forces is capable of fulfilling its mandate

President Benigno S. Aquino III expressed strong belief in the capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in fulfilling its mandate to protect the lives of the Filipinos.

In his speech during the celebration of the 24th National Annual Convention of the School for Reserve Commission and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Office Candidate for School (OCS) Alumni Association Inc. held at the Tejeros Hall, AFP Commissioned Officer's Clubhouse in Camp Aguinaldo on Friday, the Chief Executive cited the AFP personnel for their integrity and bravery in fulfiling their duties to protect the lives of the citizens and maintain peace and order.

"Sa lahat ng bumubuo ng Sandatahang Lakas, nananalig ako sa inyong dangal at kabayanihan upang manatiling ligtas at payapa ang bawat sulok ng bansa. Bawat problemang ating nalalampasan; lahat ng pagkilala ng mundo sa mga pagbabagong tinatamasa ng ating bayan, at anumang tagumpay ng ating pamahalaan, bahagi palagi ang inyong hanay dito," President Aquino said.

"Kayong mga kawal, kayong mga sundalo, kayong mga bayaning Pilipino ---kayo ang mukha ng transpormasyon. Ipinagmamalaki ko kayo, ipinagmamalaki kayo ng lahing Pilipino," he stressed.

Aquino assured his administration's unwavering commitment and support for the AFP to further enhance its capabilities. He also vowed to provide more programs for the AFP personnel to improve the status of their lives and their families.

"Hindi pa rin po nagbabago ang posisyon ko ukol dito: Sang-ayon ako sa malawakang modernisasyon ng kasundaluhan, subalit hindi natin maaaring isugal ang mga pangunahing pangangailangan ng sambayanan, tulad ng edukasyon, kalusugan, at trabaho, para lang magmukhang matikas sa mata ng ibang bansa," he said.

With the signing of the Revised Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Act last December, President Aquino expressed confidence that the AFP can now better perform its mandate of upholding the sovereignty and defending the territorial integrity of the country at all times.

"Ngayon, sa unang tatlong taon pa lamang natin sa tuwid na daan, nahigitan na natin ito, at pumalo na sa 27.62 billion pesos ang nai-release nating pondo para sa AFP Modernization Program. Nilagdaan din natin noong Disyembre ang Revised AFP Modernization Act, kung saan kaakibat ng nailaan nang 75 bilyong pisong pondo sa unang limang taon ng programa, ay masisiguro rin ang implementasyon nito sa darating pang 15 taon," he said.

"Kumpiyansa akong hindi tayo madidiskaril dito, lalo pa’t katuwang ko ang mga kawal na kasapi ng AFP Officers Candidate School Alumni Association, gayundin ang mga kasama nating nagdiriwang ng ika-24 na National Convention of the School for Reserve Commission. Sakto nga po ang tema ng ating pagtitipon: Kaisa ng sambayanan para sa pagsulong sa tuwid na daan," he stressed.

The President also lauded the awardees belonging to the AFP and the Philippine Coast Guard for their exemplary contributions toward equitable progress.

"Kaisa ang sambayanan sa pagsulong sa tuwid na daan. Saludo po ako sa inyong pakikiambag tungo sa transpormasyon, lalo na sa 15 mahuhusay na kasapi ninyong pinarangalan ngayong hapon. Talaga naman pong sa sakuna man o sa banta ng masasamang elemento, buwis-buhay ang kabayanihan at paglilingkod ninyo sa bansa. Kaya naman sa ngalan ng bawat Pilipinong nakakatulog nang mahimbing dahil sa pagpapanatili ninyo ng kapayapaan at kaligtasan, maraming salamat po sa inyo," he said.

During the event which has for its theme "Team OCS: Kaisa ng Sambayanan Para sa Pagsusulong sa Tuwid na Daan", President Aquino witnessed the awarding ceremonies of outstanding graduates.

Defense Undersecretary Honorio S. Azcueta led the presentation of awards to outstanding graduates who are now currently belong to Philippine Army, Philippine Navy, Philippine Air Force and the Philippine Coast Guard.

Also in attendance were AFP Chief of Staff Emmanuel T. Bautista, Vice Admiral Jose Luis Alano, among others. PND (js)