PIA News Dispatch - Friday, August 30, 2013

President Aquino welcomes US Defense Secretary Hagel in Malacanang

President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomed United States Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel who emphasized his country's commitment to the "deep and unbreakable" alliance between the Philippines and the United States.

During a courtesy call at the Music Room of Malacanang Palace on Friday, Hagel expressed his gratitude to the Chief Executive for the warm welcome accorded him.

Hagel was sworn in as the 24th Secretary of Defense on February 27, 2013, becoming the first enlisted combat veteran to lead the Department of Defense.

Hagel's visit to the Philippines is seen as a continuing US effort to assure the Philippines that it will help maintain peace in the region amid territorial disputes in the West Philippine Sea.

The President met Hagel in a bid to enhance vibrant relations between the Philippines and the US on various issues of mutual concerns, especially in defense and security matters.

The Philippines is presently negotiating with the United States to institutionalize the policy of increased rotational presence of American troops through a framework agreement.

The negotiations will enable the Philippines and US to conduct activities such as bilateral exercises, including the prepositioning of equipment for disaster response and development of Philippine facilities, among others.

Joining the President in welcoming Hagel were Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Jesus Yabes, Armed Forces of the Philippine Chief of Staff General Emmanuel Bautista, Defense Assistant Secretary Raymund Quilop, Foreign Affairs Acting Assistant Secretary Gina Jamoralin, among others.

Also in attendance were US Ambassador Harry K. Thomas Jr., US Department of Defense Chief of Staff Mark Lippert, Acting Assistant Secretary for Asia Policy Dr. Peter Lavoy, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Defense for Southeast Asia Vikram Singh and USMC Senior Military Assistant Lieutenant General Thomas Waldhauser.

Hagel is in Manila in the last leg of a week-long Southeast Asian tour that included Malaysia, Indonesia, and attendance to the ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting in Brunei before returning to Washington August 30. PND (js)

Gazmin says Philippines and United States continue to seek ways to develop each other’s capabilities for regional peace and stability

Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin said the Philippines and the United States (US) continue to seek ways to develop each other’s capabilities to address the security challenges of mutual concern and contribute to regional peace and stability.

"Our alliance remains relevant today as it was before," Gazmin said in his remarks during the press conference on the visit of U.S. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel to Manila held at the Heroes' Hall of Malacanang Palace on Friday.

Hagel is in Manila as part of his four-nation trip to South-East Asia.

"As fellow members of the ASEAN defense ministers’ meeting (ADMM)-plus, which was convened for the second time yesterday (Thursday) in Brunei Darussalam, the defense establishments of our two countries deemed

it important to enhance our relations not only as allies but also as fellow stakeholders of regional security," Gazmin said.

Hagel's visit to Manila coincides with the 62nd anniversary of the signing of the Philippines-US Mutual Defense Treaty.

"The visit of U.S. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel to the Philippines coincides with an important date for Philippines-U.S. defense relations for it was on August 30, 1951 that the Mutual Defense Treaty was signed," Gazmin said.

"The defense relations between our two countries have evolved since then. From military-to-military relations between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. Pacific Command, we have begun conducting policy consultations between our defense establishments," Gazmin added.

In addition to the bilateral strategic dialogue between senior officials from the Defense and Foreign Affairs Departments of the Philippines and the US, which was first held in 2011, Gazmin said the two countries held the two-plus-two ministerial consultations between the secretaries of the Philippine and U.S. Defense and Foreign Affairs Departments in April 2012.

Gazmin said the Philippines and US Defense departments are focusing on key areas of cooperation, including maritime security, humanitarian assistance, and disaster response, and cyber security and information sharing.

"Indeed, after more than 60 years, the alliance between the Philippines and the U.S. remain relevant as we continue to enhance our capacity to address current concerns and emerging security issues. Thus, we shall continue to work closely to promote our common interests as well as peace and stability in the region," he stressed. PND (js)

US Defense Secretary says he had productive meeting with President Aquino, assures that U.S. remains committed to further develop ties with the Philippines

United States Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said he had a productive meeting with President Benigno S. Aquino III on Friday and assured that the US remains committed to further develop its close ties with the Philippines.

"In my meeting with President Aquino, I noted that the deep and unbreakable alliance between United States and Philippines is an anchor for peace and stability and prosperity in this region," Hagel said in his remark during a joint press conference with Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin held at the Heroes' Hall of Malacanang Palace.

"Our close ties with the Philippines have been forged through history of shared sacrifice and common purpose, and continuing to strengthen the close partnership between our nations is an important part of America’s long-term strategy of re-balancing in the Asia Pacific,” he said.”

Hagel is in Manila as part of his four-nation trip to South-East Asia. During his visit, Hagel paid a courtesy call on the Chief Executive at the Music Room of Malacanang Palace on Friday.

"One thing that I want to emphasize is that United States is committed to the mutual defense treaty between our nations. It was borne out of Americans and Filipinos fighting shoulder-to-shoulder during World War II, and it has formed the foundation of the US-Philippines security relationship for more than 60 years," Hagel stressed.

Hagel's visit to the Philippines is seen as a continuing US effort to assure the Philippines that it will help maintain peace in the region amid territorial dispute in the West Philippine Sea. PND (js)

US Defense Chief Hagel reaffirms commitment for greater US-Philippine military cooperation

Visiting United States Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel reaffirmed his country’s commitment to the ongoing discussions on a Framework Agreement that will allow wider US military presence in the Philippines for greater regional stability.

In a statement following his meeting with President Benigno S. Aquino III Friday in Malacanang, Hagel said the agreement will strengthen cooperation between the two countries militarily and help them work together more effectively.

“So, both now and the future, that relationship will strengthen,” Hagel said adding that “this progress is welcomed and encouraging. I noted that negotiating teams are working hard to finish the Framework Agreement in the near future.”

The US official also assured that the United States doesn’t seek permanent bases in the Philippines and instead use a new model of military-to-military cooperation suited for the US and the Philippines military partnership.

Hagel said that the US looks to increase its rotational presence in the Philippines as what America did recently in Singapore and Australia.

“Such an arrangement would benefit both our militaries by increasing our ability to train and operate together. Deepening engagement opportunities between our forces will further support President Aquino’s defense modernization agenda,” the US defense official said.

Hagel said the US has a great deal of experience in building a modern military and his country is willing to share what it learned in the past to its Filipino allies.

Hagel stressed that he discussed with President Aquino the situation in the South China Sea, an issue which the United States and its partners hope to resolve through peaceful means and without coercion.

The US, he said, supports ASEAN’s efforts to negotiate the South China Sea Code of Conduct, which will help peacefully-manage disagreements and tensions arising from competing territorial and maritime claims.

Hagel encouraged claimant nations to peacefully resolve their disputes to internationally accepted mechanisms in accordance with international law including the Law of the Sea.

Hagel said the US supports the Philippines’ efforts to solve its dispute by bringing the issue to international arbitration.

The US Defense Secretary arrived in Manila as part of his four-nation trip to South-East Asia. His visit to the Philippines coincides with the 62nd anniversary of the signing of the Philippines-US Mutual Defense Treaty on August 30, 1951. PND (as)

United States Defense Secretary says U.S. seeks international coalition in response to Syria’s alleged use of chemical weapons

United States Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said on Friday that the US is presently seeking an international coalition in response to the move of Syria of reportedly using chemical weapons.

During a joint press conference held at the Heroes Hall in Malacanang Palace on Friday, Hagel emphasized the need to seek consultations with its allies in response to Syria's alleged use of chemical weapons.

The Syrian government forces are accused of being behind a chemical attack on a Damascus suburb on August 21 that reportedly killed hundreds of people.

"As to an international effort and collaboration, it is the goal of President (Barrack) Obama and our government to whatever decision is taking, that it be an international collaboration and an effort," Hagel said.

"We are continuing to consult with the British as we are with all of our allies and partners; and that consultation includes ways forward together on our response to this chemical weapons attack in Syria," he stressed.

Hagel said Washington respected the position of the British parliament in rejecting participation in any punitive strikes against Syria's regime.

The British government was defeated by just 13 votes in the House of Commons in its bid for a "strong humanitarian response" to the alleged use of chemical weapons by the Syrian regime.

"First, every nation has responsibility to make their own decisions, and we respect that of any nation. The British have been very strong in condemning the Syrian regime’s used of chemical weapons. And that vote in the parliament doesn’t change that. And that’s a very significant position for any nation to take publicly," Hagel stressed.

"So, our approach is to continue to find an international coalition that will act together and I think you’re seeing a number of countries publicly state their position on the use of chemical weapons," he concluded. PND (js)

Aquino leads PSG change of command ceremony

President Benigno S. Aquino III attended Friday the change of command of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) at Malacanang Park recognizing PSG’s contribution to nation building.

In his message during the event, the President told the members of the PSG to continue traversing the righteous path in the remaining years of the Aquino administration.

“Bilang mga lingkod-bayan, nananatili ang hamon sa atin ng sambayanang Pilipino na ibandera ang tapat at mabuting pamamahala,” he said.

“Huwag nating bibiguin ang ating mga Boss; pangunahan, at igabay natin sila sa landas ng ganap at malawakang pagbabago ng Pilipinas.”

The President praised outgoing PSG chief Brig. Gen. Ramon Mateo Dizon for reforming the PSG and maintaining its dignity and dedication to service.

To the incoming PSG head, Navy Capt. Raul Ubando, the President said the new PSG leadership will inherit a dedicated and capable security force. He said he expects the new PSG chief to continue the reform measures carried out by Dizon.

Ubando, the first head of the PSG to come from the Philippine Navy, is a graduate of Philippine Military Academy. He earned his Masters in Management from the Philippine Christian University in Manila. Ubando was commissioned in the navy in 1985.

Early in his career, Ubando served the navy ship Rajah Lakandula and after the EDSA People Popwer Revolution, he was assigned at the BRP Ang Pangulo. In 1988, he was assigned to BRP Quezon based in Palawan.

Ubando’s first stint at the PSG was in December 1989 under former President Corazon Aquino. In 1999 he was reassigned to his mother unit.

In June 2010, in his second tour of duty in the PSG, Ubando was designated as the Deputy Group Commander. In October 2012, he became the senior military/aide-de-camp of President Aquino.

Ubando is a recipient of numerous military awards and decorations both in combat and administration such as the Distinguished Service Stars, Bronze Cross Medal, Military Merit Medal, and Military Civic Action Medal.

He is married to Ms Annie Untalan and with two children Abigail and Ralph Kevin.

Organized in 1986, the PSG ensures the security of the President, his Cabinet, the official family, visiting dignitaries and the Palace complex. Under President Aquino, the PSG conducted more than 3,000 security operations both in the Philippines and abroad.

Also present during Friday’s event were Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Sonny Coloma, MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino and officials of the armed services. PND (as)

PIA News Dispatch - Thursday, August 29, 2013

President Aquino sees incarceration of alleged pork barrel scam mastermind a step towards right direction of uncovering the truth

President Benigno S. Aquino III sees the incarceration of fugitive Janet Lim-Napoles to face charges of serious illegal detention a step towards the right direction of achieving justice and finally uncovering the truth concerning the alleged misuse of the priority development assistance fund (PDAF), Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said on Thursday.

In a press briefing in Malacanang, Lacierda said the President expressed concern and has viewed this matter seriously.

“The President has stated that the presence of Ms. Napoles adds to finding out the truth. 'Yun ang mahalaga,” Lacierda said.

“And the President views this matter very seriously and he wanted to make sure that she was safely turned over to the courts,” he added.

“By bringing her (Napoles) to us and voluntarily surrendering to the President, now the process of finding the truth can begin in earnest,” Lacierda further said.

Lacierda said that it was yesterday afternoon when he was contacted by Napoles’ lawyer, Lorna Kapunan, to discuss Napoles’ terms before surrendering to the President.

Kapunan wanted the assurance of the President for the safety of Napoles before surrendering herself.

After agreeing to rendezvous with Kapunan in Makati, Lacierda finally met Napoles at the Heritage Park in Taguig City at a little past 9 p.m.

Together with Napoles, according to Lacierda, was her brother Jimmy Lim and a househelper.

They then proceeded back to Malacanang where they finally presented themselves before the President at 9:37 p.m.

With the President in receiving Napoles in Malacanang were Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, Cabinet Secretary Jose Rene Almendras, Interior Secretary Manuel Roxas II, Communications Secretary Ramon Carandang, and Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte. PND (rck)

President Aquino declares September 5 as special non-working day in General Santos City, South Cotabato in celebration of its 15th Tuna Festival

President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared September 5, which falls on a Thursday, as a special (non-working) day in the city of General Santos in South Cotabato in celebration of its 15th Tuna Festival.

The Chief Executive issued the declaration through Proclamation No. 638 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on August 22 to give the people of General Santos City the full opportunity to celebrate and participate in the occasion with appropriate ceremonies.

The Tuna Festival is an annual gathering that highlights the significant role of the tuna industry – the city's primary source of income.

The Tuna Festival coincides with the celebration of the Charter Day of General Santos City, now on its 45th year.

On July 8, 1968, the municipality of General Santos was converted into a city by virtue of Republic Act No. 5412. The city was inaugurated on September 5 of the same year. PND (js)

Palace serious in unearthing pork barrel anomaly, asks press not to preempt inquiry

Malacanang appealed Thursday not to preempt the ongoing investigation to the P10-billion pork barrel anomaly stressing that the inquiry will go where the evidence leads it.

In a press briefing in Malacanang, reporters asked Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda if the Aquino government is still interested in running after the big fishes with regards to the pork barrel scam.

“Don’t preempt. My request to the press is don’t preempt this government. The President has already said: ‘Where the evidence leads, we will go there',” Lacierda said.

“So please don’t preempt our administration. The investigations are ongoing and, once charges are filed, you will know.”

Fugitive Janet Lim-Napoles surrendered to President Benigno S. Aquino III Wednesday evening in Malacanang. Napoles is facing a serious illegal detention charge.

The President sees Napoles’s surrender as a step towards the right direction of achieving justice and finally uncovering the truth concerning the alleged misuse of the priority development assistance fund (PDAF), Lacierda said.

The camp of Napoles said it would cooperate with the ongoing investigation into the multi-billion pork barrel scam.

The anomaly stemmed from the alleged anomalous spending by some lawmakers of their pork barrel allocations through the use of bogus or non-existing foundations and other organizations.

On Wednesday, the President announced a P10-million reward offer to anyone who can provide information to authorities that could lead to the arrest of Napoles. PND (as)

Aquino administation welcomes reports that country’s economy grew by 7.5 percent in the second quarter of this year

The Aquino administration welcomed reports that the Philippine economy grew by 7.5% in the second quarter this year, making the country the best performer among emerging economies in the ASEAN region and growing at par with the People’s Republic of China.

Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda issued the statement on Thursday following reports that the Philippine economy, as measured by the gross domestic product (GDP), grew by 7.5 percent in the second quarter of 2013 compared to the same quarter last year.

"Despite the particularly challenging climate for emerging economies, the Philippine economy has shown remarkable resilience. This is the fourth consecutive quarter that GDP has expanded above 7%, representing a continued and sustained rally for the Philippine economy," Lacierda said.

"This heady growth rate, which has not dipped below 6% since the first quarter of 2012, hews closely to the GDP growth targets set by the Philippine Development Plan," he said.

The Philippines economy expanded 7.5 percent in the April to June quarter following increase in investor and consumer confidence and infrastructure activities.

"Notably, the Secretary for Socioeconomic Planning (Arsenio M. Balisacan) has expressed optimism that the Philippine economy continues to industrialize and with that expand its ability to provide better jobs for our countrymen," Lacierda stressed.

According to National Economic Development Authority, strong growth for the quarter was buoyed by greater infrastructure activities, higher investor and consumer confidence, favorable interest rates, stable inflation, inbound tourism, and an optimistic domestic economic outlook.

"Throughout the Aquino administration, we have persistently proven that good governance does result in good economics. As such, we will continue to push toward establishing an environment that underscores accountability, transparency, and that which encourages further partnerships between the public and private sectors to meet our developmental goals," Lacierda said.

Lacierda said equitable and inclusive growth remain at the core of Aquino administration's initiatives as the government helps build a more robust economy for the benefit of all Filipinos. PND (js)

PIA News Dispatch - Wednesday, August 28, 2013

President Aquino announces P10-million reward for the capture of Janet Lim Napoles

President Benigno S. Aquino III announced on Wednesday that a reward of P10-million has been offered to anyone who can give information for the immediate arrest of the alleged pork barrel mastermind Janet Lim Napoles.

The President made the announcement in an interview after keynoting the 8th East Asia Conference on Competition Law and Policy held at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Hotel in Pasay City.

"P10-million ang reward for information leading to the arrest of Ms. Napoles," the President said.

He reminded coddlers of Napoles that aiding and abettting a fugitive from the law and obstruction of justice are crimes.

"Harboring of a fugitive, kaso yun. Obstruction of justice, kaso rin yun. So yung babala: kung nasa wastong pag-iisip ang mga kumukupkop sa kanya, dapat maalala ito. At kung akala nila na titigilan namin ang paghahanap dito, nagkakamali sila," the President stressed.

He expressed "reasonable confidence" that Napoles and and her cohorts would be captured soon. PND (rck)

President Aquino declares September 3 as special non-working day in Iriga City, Camarines Sur In celebration of its 45th Founding Anniversary

President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared September 3, which falls on a Tuesday, as a special (non-working) day in the city of Iriga in the province of Camarines Sur in celebration of its 45th Founding Anniversary.

The Chief Executive issued the declaration through Proclamation No. 637 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on August 22 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. PND (js)

Aquino wants Janet Lim Napoles to face charges first before her turning state witness can be discussed

President Benigno S. Aquino III wants the alleged pork barrel scam suspect Janet Lim Napoles to face charges leveled against her before any discussion to the possibility of her turning state witness can proceed.

The President stressed the importance of Napoles being in government custody first as a warrant of arrest has already been issued against her.

"Siguro unang-una muna, kailangan ma-serve ‘yung warrant of arrest, mapunta sa custody ng gobyerno itong si Ms. Napoles at humarap doon sa mga akusasyon laban sa kanya," the President said.

He pointed out that Napoles' turning state witness would also have to be studied first before any action could be taken on such.

"Iyong pagiging state witness, pag-aaralan ‘yan pero ang importante muna – may warrant of arrest, kailangan ma-serve ng Executive itong warrant of arrest," the President said. PND (rck)

President Aquino reminds security forces to remain 'neutral'

President Benigno S. Aquino III called on the members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police on Wednesday not to take sides and remain neutral on issues affecting the country.

The President issued the call in an interview after keynoting the opening of the East Asia Conference on Competition Law and Policy held at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Hotel in Pasay City.

He underscored the importance of remaining neutral as any position taken by security forces may be misconstrued differently by others.

The President was referring to the Facebook account of Brigadier General Alexander Balutan, chief of 1st Marine Brigade based in Sultan Kudarat who expressed disappointment over the controversy surrounding the priority development assistance fund.

The President said that although he shared the sentiment of the General, it was inappropriate for him to share his feelings over the social media.

"Wala naman akong nakikitang mali sa sinabi ni General Balutan, ano. Perhaps, dapat lang mapaalala sa kanya na heneral siya at meron tayong patakaran na dapat ang ating militar at saka ang ating kapulisan dahil may monopoly of force, ay kailangan talagang all the time ay neutral," the President said.

"...hindi ka puwedeng nagsasalita ng ganoon dahil marami ng gagamit doon sa mga sinabi mo para mag-create ng negative consequences sa ating lipunan. At sana dapat mapaalala kay General Balutan ito," he added. PND (rck)

President Aquino hails as timely the holding of the 8th East Asia Conference on Competition Law and Policy in Manila

President Benigno S. Aquino III hailed as "timely" the holding in Manila of the 8th East Asia Conference on Competition Law and Policy, an open event for key high-level officials of competition agencies, to further advocate the importance of competition policy and promote competition and a level playing field in the market.

In his speech delivered at the Mindanao Ballroom of the Sofitel Philippine Plaza in Pasay City on Wednesday, the President lauded the participants from at least 8 countries as they begin their task of discussing ways to create fair trade between themselves and within their respective countries.

"This is precisely why this conference is timely. All of you are gathered here to talk about what can be done to create a fair, level playing field," the President said.

"All of you here are, in some way, subscribed to the idea that true, inclusive economic growth can only be achieved by pursuing a healthy competitive environment—one that stokes the natural human drive to compete—to work hard, to innovate, and to create something of worth," he added.

He said the Philippines is one with the advocacy of the conference and is reflected in the reforms implemented by his administration to "create a business environment conducive to competition."

These, the President said, include the establishment of the National Competetiveness Council to monitor our competetiveness policies; easing rules and processes for companies to start businesses here; liberalizing the airline industry to allow other carriers to service the country; and the passage of the Common Carriers Tax Law, which will exempt all international air and shipping carriers from paying the three percent common carriers tax on receipts and income derived from transporting passengers.

"These policies, among others, makes it clear: The Philippine government—and the Filipino people—is fully committed to fostering a level playing field. We are doing this because it is one of the most critical pathways to economic growth; we are doing this because we know our entrepreneurs and our work force have the work ethic and the creativity to succeed in any environment.," the President said.

"Indeed, competition is vital to the growth of any nation. In fact, it is vital to the growth of the world economy, and even to the technological breakthroughs that have, time and again, pushed human civilization into its next great age. And the discussions you will be having here will be essential in continuing that tradition of growth and innovation. I am hopeful that you will take the time to share your ideas and to listen to the ideas of others, all with the vision of how we can best improve Asia’s—and the world’s—competitive landscape," he added. PND (rck)

Aquino lauds persons with disabilities for outstanding contributions to society

President Benigno S. Aquino III lauded the Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) for their outstanding contributions to the transformation of society despite their handicap.

In his speech during the 2013 Apolinario Mabini awarding ceremony held at the Heroes' Hall in Malacanang Palace on Wednesday, the Chief Executive said awardees serve as proof that any Filipino can achieve success and contribute to society with their innate talents and characteristics worth emulating by others.

Topping the list of Apolinario Mabini awardees was social worker Teddy M. Kahil who was named as the 2013 Disabled Filipino of the Year. Special Award was given to Jaime Tomas Perez-Diaz.

Other awardees included Autism Society of the Philippines for Disabled Group of the Year and JP Morgan Chase and Company for Employer of the Year.

Individuals and institutions from the private sector and government were also awarded for their contributions in advancing the welfare of PWDs.

The Disabled Friendly Establishments (Gold Category) were SM City Marikina, JP Morgan Chase and Company and Mall of Asia Arena.

Ayala Land, Harbor Point, Trinoma and UP Techno Hub (all under Ayala Land), SM Megamall, SM City Lanang, Citibank NA Phils. and Nuvali Evolving Center were named Disabled-Friendly Establishments (Silver Category).

Abreeza Mall, BHS, Glorietta 5, The District and One Legaspi, all of Ayala Land, SM Marketmall Dasmarinas, SM Supermarket Dasmarinas, SM Supermarket Makati, SM Supermarket Mandurriao, SM Department Store Marilao, SM Department Store Mega Mall, SM Super Store Southmall , SM City Molino, SM City Southmall, SM City Olongapo, SM City Fairview (Main building), SM City Consolacion, SM City General Santos, SM Las Pinas, SM Department Store Taytay, SM Department Store Makati, SM Department Store Baliwag, International School Manila, Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 and Aseana One were named Disabled-Friendly Establishments (Bronze Category).

The other awardees were Opol in Misamis Oriental, Daet in Camarines Norte and New Lucena in Iloilo were named Local Government Units of the Year (Silver Category) and San Jose de Buenavista in Antique was named LGU of the Year (Bronze Category).

Other awardees included Erlinda Koe for Individual Rehabilitation Volunteer of the Year, CBR Volunteers and Workers for Rizal for Group Rehabilitation Volunteer of the Year, Ivy Liza Mendoza for Media Advocate of the Year (Personality) and Radyo Eskwela, dyWC for Media Advocate of the Year (Program) and Dra. Josephine R. Bondoc for Mabini Presidential of the Year and Commissioner Rene V. Sarmiento for Special Award.

Special Award was also given to the SM Program on Disability Affairs for launching a program "Mapagmahal sa May Kapansanan."

The Apolinario Mabini Awards was launched in 1974 to give recognition to individuals with disabilities, professionals and various groups that have distinguished themselves in their chosen field of endeavor or have rendered outstanding services to people with disabilities.

The award was named after the country’s foremost hero, Apolinario Mabini, also known as the Sublime Paralytic whose disability did not become a hindrance to his creative genius that provided inspiration to the Philippine revolution.

The event was organized by the Philippine Foundation for the Rehabilitation of the Disabled, Inc. PND (js)

Aquino says government continues to improve lives of persons with disabilities through good governance

President Benigno S. Aquino III said his administration continues to step up efforts aimed at improving the lives of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) through the effective implementation of laws and programs.

In his speech during the awarding ceremonies of the 2013 Apolinario Mabini Awards at the Heroes' Hall of the Malacanang Palace on Wednesday, President Aquino said his government continues to protect PDWs and provide them with equal rights and opportunities in attaining success.

"Asahan naman po ninyo na patuloy na magsusumikap at maglalatag ng mga inisyatiba ang inyong pamahalaan para sa halos isa’t kalahating milyong Pilipinong kabilang sa sektor ng PWD sa buong bansa," the President said.

With the passage of various laws aimed at improving the lives of the PWDs, the Chief Executive said more Filipinos with disabilities would become productive members of society.

"Mayroon nga po tayong natanggap na mabubuting balita: sa pagtutulungan ng ating mga pampublikong ahensiya, naipasa na natin ang ilang mahahalagang batas. Isa po rito ang Republic Act 10366— na nag-aatas sa Commission on Elections na magtaguyod ng mga lugar kung saan mapapadali at mapapaginhawa ang pagboto tuwing halalan ng mga kababayan nating may kapansanan," the President said.

"Para naman sa higit na oportunidad sa hanapbuhay, naisabatas na rin ang Republic Act 10524. Dahil dito, nakareserba na ang isang porsiyento ng mga posisyon sa gobyerno para sa mga kabilang sa sektor ng PWDs, at hinihikayat din ang mga pribadong korporasyon na may higit isandaang empleyado na gawin ito," he said.

The President assured that his government is implementing programs and services for persons with disabilities.

"Sa bisa naman po ng Republic Act 10070, nakapagtaguyod na rin tayo ng mga PWD Affairs Offices sa ilang mga piling lalawigan, lungsod, at munisipyo sa kalakhang bansa. Bukod pa ito sa paghahatid natin ng serbisyo at technical assistance, sa pagtatayo ng Disability Section sa tatlong pamantasan sa bansa: sa Cebu Technological University, sa Cebu Normal University, at sa West Visayas State University," he stressed.

He also lauded the Apolinario Mabini PWD awardees for their contributions to society despite their handicap.

"Isa lamang sa matitingkad na halimbawa rito ay si Ginoong Teddy M. Kahil— ang kauna-unahang visually impaired at rehistradong Social Worker sa bansa na nakatanggap ng Master's Degree in Social Welfare. Subalit higit pa sa kanyang pansariling tagumpay, kinikilala natin ang pagbabahagi niya ng dunong at husay sa pagsusulong ng adbokasiya para sa sektor ng PWDs," he said.

The President also thanked government and private institutions for being responsive to the needs of the PWDs.

"Saludo rin po tayo sa mga kompanyang tulad ng JP Morgan Chase and Company, na kinikilala ang papel at kakayahan ng PWDs, at nagiging tulay sa kanilang marangal at magandang hanapbuhay. Sa kanila po kasing 12,000 empleyado sa buong bansa, 8.8 percent dito— o 984— ang kabilang sa sektor ng PWD; at 885 din sa kanilang mga manggagawa ang may anak na may kapansanan, at ngayon nasusuportahan na ang kani-kanilang mga pangangailangan," he said.

The President remained committed to the promotion of measures to prevent disability, protect and rehabilitate the disabled and equalize opportunities for disabled persons. PND (js)