PIA News Dispatch - Wednesday, February 19, 2014

President Aquino assures urban poor of safe long-term housing solutions

President Benigno Aquino III on Wednesday reassured urban poor communities of the government's continued efforts to ensure safe and clean shelter for them in the long run.

The President made the reassurance after inspecting the micro medium-rise building model units in Manila's Sampaloc district.

"Ngayon, ang tutok natin: mas ligtas na tahanan para sa mga residente, malinis at malawak na daluyan ng tubig, at pangmatagalang solusyon sa malawakang pagbaha sa Kamaynilaan (Our efforts are focused on providing residents with safe homes, clean waterways and a long-term solution against flooding)," he said.

He added his administration's solution differs from the past where families were evicted and have nowhere to go.

Also, he noted the present solution includes ensuring the health of residents in the community.

The President earlier inspected the micro medium-rise building model units, which were constructed starting November 2013 and were completed last January.

Micro-MRBs are meant to maximize the use of urban land and are easier to maintain.

President Aquino said the government is eyeing 167 informal settler families at Estero de San Miguel as beneficiaries of the housing program.

The President also said the government had initially set aside P10 billion to move urban poor families away from danger zones.

So far, he said some 3,400 families had been moved to safer communities, with another 11,000 families within three meters of waterways being targeted by August.

"Makakaasa po kayo: Sa bawat detalye ng ating programa, prayoridad natin ang makabubuti sa mas nakararami (You can be assured every detail of our program prioritizes the greatest good of the greatest number)," he said. PND (jl)

President Aquino to discuss peace, trade with Malaysian PM during visit

President Benigno S. Aquino III expects to discuss with Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak several topics, ranging from the peace process to enhanced trade, during his two-day visit to Malaysia.

In an interview with media, the President said the discussions may take place during his bilateral meeting with the Prime Minister.

"Yung peace, ‘yung trade, ‘yung commerce (We may discuss peace, trade and commerce)," he said, but clarified the two countries' claim to Sabah is "not part of the agenda."

The President noted Malaysia has been instrumental in the peace process between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

He added Malaysians have also offered possible livelihood support for MILF members who want to go the way of peace.

On the other hand, the President said he may seek an update on the condition of Filipinos involved in the Lahad Datu incident last year.

Most of these were followers of the late Sulu Sultan Jamalul Kiram III, who tried to occupy Sabah and engaged Malaysian forces in deadly clashes.

Several of Kiram's followers face charges before Malaysian courts.

"Palagay ko kukumustahin din natin ‘yung kalagayan ng ating mga kababayan na nagpunta doon sa Lahad Datu incident (I may ask about the condition of Filipinos involved in the Lahad Datu incident)," the President said.

The President pointed out the Philippine government is continuously monitoring the condition of the Filipinos. He added these Filipinos are represented by lawyers.

"So pinapangalagaan din natin ang karapatan nila through fair and due process (We are safeguarding their rights through fair and due process)," he said. PND (jl)

President Aquino: Anti-Cybercrime Law not meant to curb freedom of expression

Despite the controversy over some of its provisions including online libel, the Anti-Cybercrime Law is not meant to curb freedom of expression, President Benigno S. Aquino III said Wednesday.

In an interview with media in Sampaloc in Manila, the President said citizens have nothing to be afraid if they speak the truth.

"Ngayon, ‘yung pipigilin ba ang freedom of expression? Hindi naman yata ‘yon ang layunin. Pero, kayo, bilang mga responsableng mamamahayag meron ding mga—may karapatan kayo, at meron rin namang hangganan ang karapatan ng lahat, di ho ba (Curbing the freedom of expression is not an aim of the law's provision on online libel. But as responsible media practitioners, you are aware you have rights, but those rights also have limits, is that not the case)?" he said.

He said it would not be fair if an inaccurate or wrong statement were repeated in various forms of media.

On the other hand, he said people who tell the truth should not have anything to fear.

"Kung tama naman ang sinasabi mo, bakit ka kakabahan doon sa libel na isyu (If you know you speak the truth, why be worried about libel)?" he said. PND (jl)

President Aquino to revisit calamity-hit areas next week

President Benigno S. Aquino III on Wednesday said he plans to revisit next week some of the areas affected by last year's natural calamities, including a magnitude-7.2 quake and Typhoons Pablo and Yolanda.

In an interview with media in Manila, the President said he expects to get a picture of government efforts to help affected residents recover from the calamities.

"Well, palagay ko hintayin natin hanggang next week kung saan ako iikot muli, ano, sa Yolanda, sa Pablo, sa Bohol na-earthquake at maipakita sa inyo kung nasaan na tayo (Let's wait until next week when I go around areas hit by Typhoons Yolanda and Pablo, and the quake that hit Bohol)," he said.

Some groups had criticized the government for its supposedly slow response to survivors of calamities, particularly of super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan).

Yolanda left more than 6,200 dead after devastating the Visayas and parts of Southern Luzon.

The President said the government continues to assist 1.4 million families affected by Yolanda.

He added he will address the concerns raised by some of the survivors who submitted a petition to him for assistance.

Meanwhile, the President assured the government will continue to extend assistance to Yolanda survivors, but voiced concerns over calls to give each affected family P40,000.

He said giving the amount to about 1.4 million families may entail some P56 billion - almost 10 percent of the P600-billion budget for personal services and Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE).

"Siguro ang importante nito, ‘yung ano bang magiging pangmatagalan na solusyon ang P40,000 na ‘yan? So ‘yon hindi ko nakita (The important thing is, do we see the granting of P40,000 leading to a long-term solution? I have yet to see it)," he said. PND (jl)

President Aquino says government ready to extend Napoles medical care but court must decide on her detention

The government will ensure that Janet Lim-Napoles gets the medical treatment she needs while staying in prison but it’s up to the court to decide whether she would be kept under hospital arrest, President Benigno S. Aquino III said on Wednesday.

The camp of Napoles has been asking for her transfer to a medical facility after it was reported that she’s suffering from an ailment.

“Siyempre obligasyon natin manigurado iyong mga taong nakapiit sa ating mga kulungan ay pinapangalagaan ang kalusugan. So ipapa-check natin kung talagang meron siyang medical na reason. Tapos at this point, korte ang magsasabi kung saan pwede siyang dalhin,” the President said in an interview during the inauguration of Estero de San Miguel Micro Medium-Rise Building model unit in Sampaloc, Manila.

With regards to calls for Napoles’s transfer to a regular detention facility, the President said the government is after the testimony of Napoles to shed light to the P10-billion pork barrel anomaly.

Napoles has kept her silence on the issue despite the huge government expenses for her detention in Camp Sto. Domingo in Sta. Rosa City in Laguna.

“Lahat ng ating mga kilos at hangarin, hinahabol natin iyong ebidensiya na magagamit sa paglilitis ng mga kaukulang nagkasala,” he said.

The President also said Justice Secretary Leila de Lima has not submitted the list of the third batch of officials to be charged in connection with the pork barrel scam.

The justice secretary was given a lot of assignment and she’s probably busy with those tasks which is why she has not come up with the list of additional names, the President said.

But he expects De Lima to submit the list as soon as the Department of Justice is ready to file charges against individuals being implicated in the scam. PND (as)

President Aquino cites 3 driving forces to ensure the country's readiness for ASEAN integration by 2015

President Benigno S. Aquino III has cited connectivity, productivity and complementarity as driving forces in enhancing the country's competitiveness and readiness for the integration of economies among the 10-member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) by 2015, Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said on Wednesday.

In his keynote speech during the Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines (FINEX) 2nd General Membership Meeting held at the InterContinental Manila in Makati City, the Communications Secretary said the Chief Executive has discussed with concerned government agencies the policy agenda in ensuring that the Philippines is ready for ASEAN integration.

"On the sidelines of the Mindanao Business Forum held in Davao City last August 8, the President cited the importance of connectivity in terms of airports and seaports considering that the Philippines is an archipelago and, unlike other ASEAN member-countries, it does not have land boundaries with its neighboring countries," Coloma said.

The President also said the government has crafted measures to alleviate the country's poverty, he said.

"He also talked about addressing poverty among millions of Filipinos in the agriculture and fisheries sector," he said.

"Product diversification is another option that is actively pursued. According to the President, a Bicol University college of agriculture research team headed by its dean, Dr. Justino Arboleda, is presently drawing up a blueprint on the production of coconut by-products such as coco coir, cocopeat, coco water and charcoal briquette in factories that may be run by coconut farmers themselves. Initial studies show that payback period on initial investment can be as quick as one year," Coloma said.

President Aquino said the country's participation in ASEAN integration aims at providing greater access to new markets.

"President Aquino himself is upbeat and optimistic about the country's participation in ASEAN integration as it should send strong signals to a business community that seems to be skeptical about the country's prospects," he said.

"For those who share our President's view that current efforts are converging towards complementarity both within the country and in the region, then there is cogent reason to believe that, indeed, the Philippines is well-poised to take its place among the region's competitive economies in an integrated economic regime," Coloma said.

"We need to consolidate and fortify the gains we have achieved in terms of breaking out of the vicious cycle that made our country the 'sick man of Asia'," he said.

Financial executives gathered on Wednesday to discuss the challenges and opportunities of ASEAN integration.

The ASEAN is pursuing the integration of economies among the 10-member states with the establishment of an ASEAN Economic Community by December 2015. ASEAN is composed of Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, Brunei, Laos, Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar and the Philippines.

The integration will allow companies based in ASEAN member-nations to enter each other’s markets, with lowered tarriffs and capital market integration. PND (js)

PIA News Dispatch - Tuesday, February 18, 2014

President Aquino invites investors to take larger role in helping Filipinos

President Benigno S. Aquino III on Tuesday invited investors to play a larger role in efforts to make the country and the economy greater than ever before.

Speaking at the Euromoney Philippines Investment Forum at the Solaire Resort and Casino in Pasay City, the President said opportunities abound along the path to shared prosperity.

"As our people continue to rewrite the story of the Philippines—from the apathy of the past to the dynamism of the present, from our previous fumbles to the firm resolve that is propelling us towards a more promising future—I invite all of you to take a larger role here—to be present as our people pursue the permanence of our prosperity, on the road to becoming an economy and a country greater than ever before," he said.

He also said the Philippines' days as the so-called Sick Man of Asia are "becoming a distant memory."

Now, he said the Philippines is seeing so many international organizations and publications referring to it as “Asia’s Bright Spot,” or as the “New Asian Tiger.”

Also, he said that despite last year's successive tragedies, Filipinos have shown their resiliency, with the government extending the needed assistance.

"We want to empower them to take hold of their destinies once more; and to do that, we must give them the opportunity to work for their personal advancement, and for the advancement of their families and communities. This is how we approach the task of relief and recovery. It is not simply about distributing goods or putting up shelter; it involves coming up with strategies to revitalize the economies in the local communities, to create jobs, and to encourage productivity in the areas in the soonest possible time," he said.

"The road ahead promises many challenges, but we are convinced that with the backing of our people, and with the right partners in the private sector, we will prevail. We will complete the rehabilitation and improvement of the affected communities sooner rather than later; and all of you will see those areas brimming with more opportunity than ever before," he added.

The President also cited the Philippines' progress in a report card of sorts, where Fitch Ratings Agency gave the Philippines its first investment grade rating from a major credit rating agency in its history.

Standard & Poor’s followed suit, and so did Moody’s.

"Despite the disasters that befell our country in 2013, the Philippines still posted one of the fastest growth rates in Asia at 7.2 percent," he added.

The President also said the Philippines continued to defy expectations on several measures of competitiveness, climibing up the World Economic Forum’s Global Competitiveness Rankings, reaching 59th place.

Also, the Philippines recorded a marked improvement in the World Bank and International Finance Corporation’s Ease of Doing Business Report, moving up 30 places in just one year.

He added the Heritage Foundation also bumped the Philippines up in its 2014 Index of Economic Freedom, placing us 89th out of 178 countries—an eight-notch improvement from the previous year.

On top of this, after a 2013 survey of companies in Asia and Oceania, the Japan External Trade Organization said that the Philippines is the second most profitable among ASEAN-5 countries, trailing only Thailand.

For now, the President said the Philippines is fully intent on keeping up the pace of its progress.

He also said now is crucial as population projections by the United Nations show the Philippines will hit a “demographic sweet spot” starting in 2015.

This means a large portion of the population will hit working age.

"On average, hitting such a sweet spot has led to a ten-year period of 7.3 percent yearly growth. So one can only imagine the possibilities for us, considering our workers are renowned for their resilience, creativity, and loyalty," he said.

Meanwhile, the President said the Philippines remains committed to making a run at its 2016 target of 10 million international tourists.

It is also seeking to improve the performance of the agriculture sector, which grew only 1.1 percent last year.

On the other hand, the President said the self-esteem and morale of Filipinos are high after getting the feeling of having a government that actually works for them — "a government that does not break past promises, and in fact, underpromises, and over-delivers."

"Perhaps this is the single greatest guarantee that our reforms will outlast our term in office, and perhaps our lifetimes. The Filipino people have grown empowered. They have rediscovered how valuable they are to the country. They take pride in their work; and they have regained the capacity to demand excellence from their government. This is the lasting legacy we want to leave, and this is the legacy we will continue working for: A Filipino people revitalized—who will never again tolerate mediocrity—who will never again allow any leader to lead them away from the straight path," he said.

"As we continue showing them the profound, tangible impact of a government that embodies the spirit of public service, we know that we are building a more capable country—one that is always motivated and empowered to propel itself to greater heights," he added. PND (jl)

President Aquino declares March 7 as a special non-working day in the City of Tagum, province of Davao del Norte

President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared March 7, which falls on a Friday, as a special (non-working) day in the city of Tagum in the province of Davao del Norte in celebration of its "16th Araw ng Tagum."

The Chief Executive issued the declaration through Proclamation No. 719 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on February 7 to give the people of Tagum City the full opportunity to celebrate and participate in the occasion with appropriate ceremonies.

On January 30, 1998, Republic Act No. 8472 converting the municipality of Tagum into a city was signed by then President Fidel V. Ramos. The cityhood was ratified through a plebiscite on March 7, 1998. PND (js)

Palace encourages voluntary remedial measures in dealing with traffic due to infrastructure work

Malacañang on Tuesday encouraged citizens to adopt voluntary remedial measures in coping with heavy traffic due to major infrastructure projects in Metro Manila, including the Skyway 3 and NAIA Expressway projects.

Presidential Communications Operations Office head Herminio Coloma Jr. said these could include carpooling, company flexi-time and home office arrangements.

"Voluntary remedial measures such as community carpooling and company initiated flexi-time and home office arrangements for affected employees can contribute in easing traffic congestion," Coloma said at a media briefing.

"We would rather focus for now on the voluntary measures dahil mas epektibo ito, ano, kung gusto mismo ng mga naaapektuhan na gawin ‘yang mga aksyon na ‘yan (We would rather focus for now on the voluntary measures because these are more effective and involve what the concerned parties want to do)," he added.

In the meantime, he renewed his call to people to share in the burden of sacrifice, and bear with the short-term inconvenience, "so we can reap the benefits of faster travel and higher productivity."

Coloma said the government had long considered several remedial measures based on advance information reaching the Department of Public Works and Highways and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority.

They relay these suggestions to affected local governments, and they in turn draw up rerouting plans.

"Continuing process ito na isinasagawa ng ating pamahalaan through the MMDA and the local governments and DPWH (This is a continuing process undertaken by the government through the MMDA, local governments and DPWH)," he said.

Meanwhile, Coloma said the government is getting enough support from stakeholders.

"I think we should also recognize that many of our people are willing to do the necessary sacrifice that is needed and they are willing to bear with the inconvenience. Hindi naman ito ang unang pagkakataon na magkakaroon ng mga major projects na ganito. Nakita na rin natin (ito) noong nakaraan (This is not the first time we had issues involving major projects like this)," he said. PND (jl)

Government committed to fighting graft, says Palace

The Aquino administration vowed unwavering commitment to fight graft and corruption in the country as part of its campaign pledge during the 2010 presidential election.

There were fears from some quarters saying that the administration’s dedication to fight graft may waver over time.

But Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr., during the regular press briefing with Palace reporters said the public must remember that the Aquino government was elected on anti-graft and corruption platform.

“Tandaan natin na ang administrasyong ito ay nahalal dahil sa panawagang ‘kung walang corrupt, walang mahirap,’ kaya batayan ng administrasyon ang prinsipyo na kinakailangan ang mabuting pamamahala. Good governance is essential to attaining the political and economic development objectives of this administration,” he told reporters.

And with regards to the continuing Senate and DOJ’s investigation on the P10 billion pork barrel fund scam, Coloma said the government will pursue all the leads in the inquiry and prosecute people who committed wrongdoings.

As the Senate and the DOJ tighten its focus on Janet Lim-Napoles and several lawmakers in connection with the scam, there were reports about some lawmakers who maintained their own NGOs intended to be used for the diversion of their pork barrel allocations.

“Lahat ng mga umano’y katiwalian hinggil sa paggamit ng pondo ng bayan ay dapat siyasatin, alamin, at mabigyan ng tamang proseso para matunton kung merong mga lumabag sa batas,” he said.

As the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) investigates Napoles-related NGOs and their connection to alleged pork barrel irregularities, Coloma said the government carried out other measures to speed up its inquiry.

These include setting up an inter-agency anti-graft commission composed of the Department of Justice, Commission on Audit, and the Office of the Ombudsman. This inter-agency commission will work continuously to find out all those involve in the scam.

So far, among the major lawmakers implicated in the controversy were Senators Juan Ponce Enrile, Ramon Revilla Jr. and Jinggoy Estrada. PND (as)

Palace: There's no stopping government officials from taking public transport

Government officials are free to take public transport in response to the call from advocates for clean air, Malacañang said Tuesday.

But Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio “Sonny” Coloma Jr. said this must not come at the expense of the officials failing to fulfill their official duties.

"Wala naman sigurong pumipigil sa akin o kahit sino mang government official na isagawa ang bagay na ‘yan. Kailangan lang sigurong unawain na meron din namang mga kinakailangang gampanan na tungkulin (There is nothing stopping me or any government official from taking public transport. But we must understand government officials have many duties to fulfill)," Coloma said at a media briefing.

He was referring to a petition by clean air advocates before the Supreme Court to order government officials and employees to cut fuel consumption in half, and to take public transport.

Coloma said taking public transport should not have a negative impact on the quality of public service the government officials concerned will provide.

"Baka naman sa literal na translasyon ‘yang panukalang ‘yan, maantala din naman ‘yung paghahatid ng serbisyo publiko. Baka naman po unawain din na ‘yung nagsisilbi sa pamahalaan ay mayroon na rin pong mga sakripisyong isinasagawa (If we take the petition literally, it may diminish the quality of public service. We should understand that public servants are already making many sacrifices)," he said. PND (jl)

Country on track to achieving economic targets despite series of disasters, Balisacan says

The country remains on track with respect to its economic targets as laid out in the Philippine Development Plan 2011-2016 despite series of calamities, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan said.

"Despite the series of natural disasters that hit the country in the latter part of the year, the Philippine economy still expanded by 7.2 percent, improving from the 6.8 % achieved in 2012," the Socioeconomic Planning Secretary said during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Monday.

"This creditable performance was supported by strong macroeconomic fundamentals marked by low and stable inflation, favorable interest rates, sustainable fiscal and external positions and a stable financial sector," he said.

He noted that the country is one of the best performers among Asian economies during the said period.

In fact, Balisacan said the Philippine's credit rating has been upgraded to investment grade for the first time in the country's history.

The upgrade is an affirmation of the confidence of the international business community in the Philippines, he said.

"This has been reinforced by improvements in the Philippines’ ranking in several global competitiveness indices such as the IFC Ease of Doing Business (from rank 140 in 2009 to 108 in 2013) and the Global Competitiveness Report (from 75 in 2011 to 59 in 2013)," Balisacan said.

"In terms of the composition of growth, it is worthy to note the increasing contribution of fixed capital formation from 2 ppts in 2012 to 2.4 ppts in 2013 on the demand side. Equally notable on the supply side is the acceleration of the manufacturing subsector in 2013 as it provided more than three-fourths of the industry’s growth. Both these developments augur well for the growth of quality employment going forward," he said.

Balisacan presented to the media the Philippine Development Plan Midterm Update that spells out the government’s roadmap for inclusive growth.

"I am here today to discuss about the economy, its progress and challenges, and what the government is doing to ensure that economic growth materially improves the lives of the greatest number of our people," he said.

"Although our investment to GDP ratio of 21.1% in 2013 is not too far from our PDP goal of 22% by 2016, this is still way below what our ASEAN neighbors have achieved. Although our unemployment rate has been kept within the targeted range of 6.8-7.2%, a bigger challenge is reducing the underemployment rate, which is still close to 20%. An even bigger challenge is bringing down the poverty rate to 16.6% by 2016 from its 25.2% level in 2012," he said.

"In taking stock of the first three years of the PDP implementation, the lessons became clear. First, good governance is an effective platform upon which strategies should be implemented. Second, macroeconomic and political stability fuels positive expectations that lead to growth," he said.

"Third, economic growth is necessary but not sufficient for poverty reduction. Fourth, development strategies need to have spatial and sectoral dimensions to ensure inclusive growth. Lastly, disasters can negate the gains and even push back development," Balisacan said. PND (js)

PIA News Dispatch - Monday, February 17, 2014

President Aquino meets Miss Tourism International Angeli Dione Gomez

The last Filipina to win an international beauty title in 2013 paid a courtesy call on President Benigno S. Aquino III on Monday.

President Aquino shook hands with Miss Tourism International 2013/2014 Angeli Dione Gomez Monday morning at the Music Room of Malacañan Palace.

With Gomez at her courtesy call on the President was Mutya ng Pilipinas president Jacqueline Tan.

Gomez, 20, bagged the international title in the last hours of 2013 in Malaysia.

She will now be a traveling ambassador to promote tourism and cultural exchanges.

Miss Tourism International is touted by its organizers to be the only New Year's Eve pageant "that plays host to more than 59 international beauty queens from around the world."

It started in 1994 and has set its mark in more than 76 countries.

Angeli Dione Gomez, the third Filipino to win the title succeeds Rizzini Alexis Gomez, the 2012 Miss Tourism International who also happens to be from Cebu City, but the two are not related.

In Year 2000, it was Maria Esperanza Manzano who first won the title. With Angeli wearing the crown this year, the Philippines now holds the record with the most number of titles in this pageant. PND (jl)

Investment forum, ISF model building inauguration, meet with SF mayor to highlight President Aquino's week

Attracting more foreign investments at a forum and inaugurating a medium-rise building model unit for informal settlers will highlight President Benigno S. Aquino III's week, Malacañang said Monday.

Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said the President will attend the third Euromoney Philippines Investment Forum, where he will highlight his administration's economic achievements stemming from good governance.

"The President will also talk about the administration's continued commitment to making our economic growth sustainable and even more inclusive," Lacierda said.

Also this week, President Aquino will inaugurate the Estero de San Miguel medium-rise building model unit for informal settler families.

Lacierda said the new unit has an "innovative" design that can fit into the available narrow lot outside the three-meter easement along the estero.

Such a structure can house up to 16 families in its initial phase, he said.

"This is part of the administration's strategy to help more informal settlers live dignified lives in safer communities," he added.

Also this week, the President will meet San Francisco City Mayor Edwin Lee and the San Francisco-Manila Sister City Committee delegation, as they pay him a courtesy call.

Lacierda said Lee is the first Asian American to head San Francisco, and played a major role in "fostering a sense of solidarity among the many immigrant groups in the city, one of which is the growing Filipino-American community."

He noted Lee and the committee expressed their support for the survivors of super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan).

"Their visit to our country reaffirms their solidarity and friendship with our people," he said.

Lacierda said this week's activities seek to reaffirm the Aquino administration's policy "to leave no one behind, as we tread the straight path to greater progress and development." PND (jl)

Give retired PNP Exec chance at Human Rights Board, Palace asks public

Malacañang on Monday appealed to the public to give retired police Director Lina Sarmiento a chance to prove herself as head of a board overseeing the distribution of some P10 billion in compensation to Martial Law victims.

Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said Sarmiento is considered a "security sector reformist," and deserves at least a chance to show her worth as head of the Human Rights Victims’ Claims Board.

"Let's give her a chance. Kasama niya rito sa board maraming narekomendang human rights advocates (Let's give her a chance. Besides, the board also has many human rights advocates who had been highly recommended)," Lacierda said at a media briefing.

Some former political detainees had questioned Sarmiento's appointment to the board, noting her job is to deal with victims of alleged abuse by state forces - including the police - during Martial Law.

During her stint in the Philippine National Police, Sarmiento had been assigned to head the PNP Human Rights Affairs Office.

Sarmiento also has the distinction of being the police force's first female police general. She was later promoted to a two-star rank. PND (jl)

President Aquino declares February 28 as a special non-working day in the City of Escalante, Province of Negros Occidental in celebration of its 13th Charter Day

President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared February 28, which falls on a Friday, as a special (non-working) day in the city of Escalante in the province of Negros Occidental in celebration of its 13th Charter Day.

The Chief Executive issued the declaration through Proclamation No. 718 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on February 7 to give the people of Escalante City the full opportunity to celebrate and participate in the occasion with appropriate ceremonies.

On February 28, 2001, Escalante became a city by virtue of Republic Act No. 9014. The cityhood was ratified by its residents in a plebiscite held on March 31, 2001. PND (js)

Philippine Development Plan midterm update aims to ensure sustainability and inclusiveness of the country's economic growth, Balisacan says

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) has updated the Philippine Development Plan: 2011-2016 (PDP) to ensure sustainability and inclusiveness of the country's rapid economic growth, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan said.

Balisacan presented during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Monday the updates on macroeconomic policy, financial sector, good governance and the rule of law, industry and services, agriculture and fisheries, infrastructure, environment and natural resources, social development, among others.

The Philippine Development Plan Midterm Update spells out the government’s roadmap for inclusive growth, Balisacan said.

"Overall, the ultimate goal of the updated Plan is inclusive growth. Accomplishments will be measured primarily in terms of economic growth, to an average of 7-8 percent until 2016, reduction in unemployment to 6.5-6.7 percent in 2016 and the incidence of income poverty to 18 to 20 percent," Balisacan said.

"In addition, we are committing to quality of life targets: raise the quality of employment and overall quality of life. The former will be reflected as a reduction of underemployment to about 17 percent in 2016 and the latter, as a reduction of the incidence of multidimensional poverty incidence to 16-18 percent," the Socioeconomic Planning Secretary said.

The PDP midterm update will highlight high and sustained economic growth; growth that generates mass employment; and growth that reduces poverty and facilitates the achievement of the millennium development goals.

"Multidimensional poverty incidence, unlike income poverty, looks at deprivation in various dimensions – health, education, access to water, sanitation, secure housing, etc. This indicator can then track the supposed outcomes of the different human development strategies, which impact on future income poverty." he said.

"Accelerating job creation requires building up of capital. Investments must continually rise for the economy to continue to grow and this requires a stable and predictable market environment. Thus, we should maintain positive expectations of consumer and business sectors through macroeconomic stability, a strong financial system, and a healthy external sector," Balisacan said.

Balisacan emphasized the need to raise productivity and sustain growth in the agriculture, industry, and services sectors.

"Reducing the cost of doing business in the country will continue to be a priority, consistent with the platform of good governance, and in order to encourage more investments. This requires addressing infrastructure bottlenecks, improving connectivity and increasing the availability of highly trainable and skilled labor," he said.

The plan aims to substantially reduce poverty by improving the skill sets of the poorest families and undertake more aggressive employment facilitation for better job-skills match especially concerning the poor.

"We believe that the key is to directly address the constraints faced by the poor, set against a backdrop of rapid and sustained growth. These constraints operate in a highly diverse, fragmented and hazard prone environment," he said.

"Some cities or provinces have been experiencing economic growth, but the poorest families are being left behind perhaps because the growing sectors do not require the goods or services that the poor can provide," he said.

"For this reason, we will make use of the data from the National Household Targeting System which identifies the poor households in these provinces by name. We will begin with the growth sectors present in these provinces, then focus on providing auxiliary and ancillary services that could be provided by the poorest families in the province. Based on our growth experience, these sectors could be IT-Business Process Management, tourism, construction, manufacturing, and logistics," he said.

The goverment acknowledges that the overall development of the country is ultimately a product of the dynamism of the private sector, Balisacan said.

"The role of government is to set the necessary policy and regulatory framework and provide public goods and services to catalyze private initiative and encourage efficiency improvements," he said.

The Plan emphasizes the government’s facilitative role in promoting competition and making it easy for firms and entrepreneurs, regardless of size, to do business in the country.

"The updated Plan specifies indicators of efficiency and effectiveness to measure success. The real measure of efficiency is the extent to which private effort has been steered towards the direction laid out in the Plan; effectiveness is the extent to which the well-being of Filipinos has been improved," he said. PND (js)

Country on track to achieving economic targets despite series of disasters, Balisacan says

The country remains on track with respect to its economic targets as laid out in the Philippine Development Plan 2011-2016 despite series of calamities, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan said.

"Despite the series of natural disasters that hit the country in the latter part of the year, the Philippine economy still expanded by 7.2 percent, improving from the 6.8 % achieved in 2012," the Socioeconomic Planning Secretary said during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Monday.

"This creditable performance was supported by strong macroeconomic fundamentals marked by low and stable inflation, favorable interest rates, sustainable fiscal and external positions and a stable financial sector," he said.

He noted that the country is one of the best performers among Asian economies during the said period.

In fact, Balisacan said the Philippine's credit rating has been upgraded to investment grade for the first time in the country's history.

The upgrade is an affirmation of the confidence of the international business community in the Philippines, he said.

"This has been reinforced by improvements in the Philippines’ ranking in several global competitiveness indices such as the IFC Ease of Doing Business (from rank 140 in 2009 to 108 in 2013) and the Global Competitiveness Report (from 75 in 2011 to 59 in 2013)," Balisacan said.

"In terms of the composition of growth, it is worthy to note the increasing contribution of fixed capital formation from 2 ppts in 2012 to 2.4 ppts in 2013 on the demand side. Equally notable on the supply side is the acceleration of the manufacturing subsector in 2013 as it provided more than three-fourths of the industry’s growth. Both these developments augur well for the growth of quality employment going forward," he said.

Balisacan presented to the media the Philippine Development Plan Midterm Update that spells out the government’s roadmap for inclusive growth.

"I am here today to discuss about the economy, its progress and challenges, and what the government is doing to ensure that economic growth materially improves the lives of the greatest number of our people," he said.

"Although our investment to GDP ratio of 21.1% in 2013 is not too far from our PDP goal of 22% by 2016, this is still way below what our ASEAN neighbors have achieved. Although our unemployment rate has been kept within the targeted range of 6.8-7.2%, a bigger challenge is reducing the underemployment rate, which is still close to 20%. An even bigger challenge is bringing down the poverty rate to 16.6% by 2016 from its 25.2% level in 2012," he said.

"In taking stock of the first three years of the PDP implementation, the lessons became clear. First, good governance is an effective platform upon which strategies should be implemented. Second, macroeconomic and political stability fuels positive expectations that lead to growth," he said.

"Third, economic growth is necessary but not sufficient for poverty reduction. Fourth, development strategies need to have spatial and sectoral dimensions to ensure inclusive growth. Lastly, disasters can negate the gains and even push back development," Balisacan said. PND (js) 

PIA News Dispatch - Sunday, February 16, 2014

Palace lauds religious group for showing solidarity with Yolanda survivors

Malacañang on Sunday lauded a religious group for showing solidarity with survivors of super Typhoon "Yolanda" (Haiyan) by holding a walk for a cause in Manila over the weekend.

Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio “Sonny” Coloma Jr. said that while the Iglesia ni Cristo set a world record, what is more important is the sympathy it showed.

"Ang mahalaga sa naganap kahapon ang pagpapakita o manifestation ng pakikiisa sa ating kababayan na nasalanta ng kalamidad. Hindi ba ang titulo ng event ay 'Walk for a Cause?' Ang cause ay ang Yolanda assistance, ang pagbibigay ng tuwirang tulong sa nasalanta ng Yolanda (What is important is that they showed solidarity with those affected by the calamity. Isn't it the event was titled 'Walk for a Cause?' The cause was the assistance for Yolanda survivors)," Coloma said on state-run dzRB Radyo ng Bayan.

On Saturday, the Iglesia ni Cristo set a new Guinness world record for the largest charity walk set in one venue. The 1.9 kilometer walk started at the Cultural Center of the Philippines and ended near Diamond Hotel along Roxas Boulevard with some 175,000 participants.

The world record was previously held by Singapore for The New Paper Big Walk on May 21, 2000. That Singapore walk had some 77,500 participants on record was organized by The Singapore Press Holdings, The Singapore Amateur Athletic Association and The Singapore Sports Council to promote healthy living. The proceeds went to education, sports and charity organizations.

Kirstie Bennett, Guinness adjudicator in the Philippines, confirmed that Saturday's charity walk figure was based on the number of wristbands worn by participants and dropped in a box by the finish line. According to reports the said walkathon, simultaneously held in 54 other provinces and 27 other countries, sought to raise funds for survivors of Yolanda, which devastated Visayas and Southern Luzon last November.

Coloma noted the new world record was a "consequence" of the religious group's solidarity, something that merits the Palace's commendation.

"Ang pagkakaroon ng world record na yan ang naging consequence ng pagkakawanggawa at pagmamalasakit na pinupuri natin (The world record was a consequence of the solidarity and sacrifice the group's members showed. And we commend them for that)," he said. PND (jl)

Palace: 100 days after Yolanda, recovery still a long road ahead

One hundred days after super Typhoon "Yolanda" (Haiyan) left a trail of destruction, the government sought continued participation by the people in helping survivors of the calamity as the road to recovery remains a long one.

Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio “Sonny” Coloma Jr. said the government has not relaxed in providing assistance to those affected, and remains open to suggestions on how to improve its efforts.

"As we mark the 100th day after super Typhoon Yolanda hit the country, government is firmly determined to carry out massive rehabilitation efforts in all 171 municipalities and cities affected by this unprecedented calamity," Coloma said on state-run dzRB Radyo ng Bayan.

Coloma cited the advice of United Nations resident humanitarian coordinator Luiza Carvalho that no one can afford to become complacent at this time.

Quoting Carvalho, he said "authorities, UN agencies, non-government organizations, and the Filipino people should be commended for the pace of progress in relief and rehabilitation efforts (but) we cannot afford to be complacent.”

He also called on Filipinos to practice the spirit of the 1986 EDSA People Power revolt, whose 28th anniversary will be marked on Feb. 25, by continuing to work together.

"We call on all Filipinos in the spirit of bayanihan and in the spirit of EDSA People Power that we will be celebrating soon to continue working with government and all donor and aid agencies in extending a helping hand to our countrymen who are rebuilding their lives and seeking a better future," he said.

"We realize that despite its best efforts, government is unable to adequately respond to all the needs of all the affected families and individuals. We continue to welcome suggestions on how we can improve our response and assistance," he added.

In the meantime, Coloma said President Benigno S. Aquino III has directed the Cabinet to prepare a detailed roadmap for effective response to disasters before the onset of the rainy season in June. This includes new emergency alert protocols for storm surge, floods, and landslides, as well as the strict implementation of no-build zones along coastlines and higher standards for disaster resiliency of buildings and infrastructure.

Another priority is the setting up of an all-weather communications systems including satellite phones and mobile communications kits to ensure connectivity even if power is knocked out.

"The President has also said that, with the worsening effects of climate change, we must make even greater measures to adapt including reinforcing our supply of power," he said.

He added affected families living in bunkhouses and temporary shelters will be provided permanent housing in new human settlements with facilities for livelihood activities.

"New school buildings, municipal halls, public markets, and town centers will be constructed," he said.

On the other hand, he said the Philippines and other disaster-prone countries must break the cycle of prediction, devastation, and rehabilitation by adopting the principle of build-back-better and being more productive.

Meanwhile, Coloma thanked the UN, foreign governments, international and domestic organizations, civic organizations, and volunteers who "extended and continue to provide financial and logistical support, as well as valuable time, talent, and treasure to affected families in the calamity zones."

"We also thank leading business organizations and humanitarian foundations that have signified their willingness and commitment to become development sponsors in 24 priority areas in partnership with the Presidential Assistant on Rehabilitation and Recovery (PARR)," he said.

He said PARR Secretary Panfilo M. Lacson has already prioritized local government units that have done their homework in preparing a post-disaster needs assessment analysis and corresponding rehabilitation plan.

"Secretary Lacson is currently coordinating the efforts of Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Interior and Local Government, and National Housing Authority in preparing relocation and rebuilding sites for new permanent housing and local government facilities," he said.

For its part, the Department of Social Welfare and Development continues to attend to the basic needs of families still occupying temporary shelters.

Coloma said Department of Health doctors and paramedics are on the lookout against the outbreak of diseases.

The Department of Labor and Employment is providing cash-for-work and temporary employment opportunities while the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority is conducting skills training, he added. PND (jl)

28th EDSA-1 anniversary to be marked in Palace, govt eyes shift in focus of future EDSA celebrations

To avoid inconvenience to motorists and commuters, this year's anniversary celebration of the 1986 EDSA People Power revolution will be held inside the Malacañan Palace grounds.

Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio “Sonny” Coloma Jr. said this was the decision made by the EDSA People Power Commission under Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr.

"Para sa kapakanan ng mga mamamayan at upang hindi na lumikha ng dagdag na problema ng trapik sa EDSA, ang magiging sentro ng pagdiriwang sa ika-25 ng Pebrero ay ang Malacañan Palace grounds (So we will not disrupt traffic at EDSA, the center of this year's anniversary celebration will be held at the Malacañan Palace grounds)," Coloma said on state-run dzRB Radyo ng Bayan.

He said these include the flag-raising and traditional "salubungan" between the people and soldiers in the 1986 revolt that ousted then President Ferdinand Marcos.

The 1986 revolt had catapulted President Benigno S. Aquino III's late mother Corazon Aquino to the presidency.

Other activities include a "pulong-bayan" (town hall meeting) between President Aquino and representatives of various sectors.

Meanwhile, Coloma said this year's anniversary will have the theme “Kapit-bisig para sa Pagbangon (Linking arms together toward recovery).”

He said the administration is shifting the focus of EDSA 1 celebrations from those who took part in the 1986 revolt, to modern-day Filipinos working together to fight poverty.

"Unti-unti nating inilalayo ang sentro ng selebrasyon sa kabayanihan ng mga nanindigan sa EDSA noong 1986 tungo sa pagbabayanihan ng mga Pilipino sa kasalukuyang panahon upang maibsan ang paghihirap na dulot ng maraming dekada ng korapsyon at pagsasamantala ng mga nasa kapangyarihan (We are moving the focus of the celebrations away from those who took part in the 1986 revolt, to modern-day Filipinos who work together to fight corruption)," he said.

"Nais nating pagtuunan ng pansin ang pagpapa-angat sa antas ng kabuhayan ng mga Pilipino na patuloy na nakararanas ng ‘di makatarungang kahirapan. Pinahahalagahan natin ang pagpupunyagi ng mga mamamayan sa pagpapabuti ng kanilang pamumuhay, pagtutulungan, at pagmamalasakit sa isa’t isa sa panahon ng pangangailangan (We want to focus our efforts on improving the lot of Filipinos who continue to suffer from poverty. We want Filipinos to have better lives and to be there for each other in times of need)," he added. PND (jl)

Palace: Warm welcome awaits Olympian Michael Martinez

A warm welcome awaits Michael Christian Martinez for representing the Philippines at the Sochi Winter Olympics, Malacañang said Sunday.

Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio “Sonny” Coloma Jr. said Martinez, who competed in figure skating, did the country proud with his performance.

"Ang tinitiyak ko lang po ay kinikilala natin ang mahusay na performance ni Michael Martinez, at nakikiisa tayo sa ating mga kababayan, at tiyak na makatatanggap siya ng mainit na welcome at pagkilala sa kanyang pagbabalik (We acknowledge his fine performance and are one with the Filipino people in making sure he will get a warm welcome upon his return)," Coloma said on state-run dzRB Radyo ng Bayan.

While he failed to advance to the next rounds, Martinez awed audiences - including Filipinos who watched the televised coverage - with his performance in figure skating.

Many were particularly impressed that Martinez did well in an event where Filipinos are not expected to excel as the Philippines is a tropical country.

In the meantime, Coloma urged the private sector to help support Philippine athletes since the government lacks resources to do so by itself.

He said this is why President Benigno S. Aquino III had instructed that support be prioritized for events where Filipino athletes have a good chance of winning.

"Ang problema lang naman po kasi ay ‘yung paglalaan ng kaukulang pananalapi o resources dahil limitado po talaga ang resources ng pamahalaan dahil batid naman po natin ang prayoridad ay sa pagbabawas ng kahirapan, pagbibigay ng pagkalinga sa mga mahihirap at mga nangangailangang sektor (The problem is that the government has limited resources, and is prioritizing the use of such resources for poverty alleviation)," he said.

"Doon naman sa mga ibang larangan ay pwede rin namang himukin ang private sector na patuloy na sumuporta dito. So tulong-tulong lang po ang nakikita nating solusyon. Kung pagtutulungan po ng sambayanan, magbibigay tayo ng suporta sa mga mahuhusay na atleta katulad ni Michael Martinez at iba pa, ay sigurado naman pong makakamit natin ‘yung mga layunin natin sa larangang ‘yan (We can ask the private sector for help. The only solution we see is cooperation between government and the private sector to support excellent athletes like Martinez)," he added. PND (jl)

Palace appeals for patience as NCR infrastructure works starts Monday

Malacañang on Sunday appealed to Metro Manila residents for patience as traffic is likely to get slower as work for some major infrastructure projects starts on Monday.

Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio “Sonny” Coloma Jr. said the inconvenience is short-term and will lead to faster travel and more productive living in the long run.

"We call on our people to share in the burden of sacrifice and bear with the short-term inconvenience so we can build better roads that will ensure faster travel and more productive living in our highly congested National Capital Region," Coloma said on state-run dzRB Radyo ng Bayan.

On Monday, work is to start on some key infrastructure projects such as the Skyway 3 and the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Expressway Phase 3.

The work is expected to slow down traffic in some areas of Metro Manila.

"Nananawagan tayo sa mga mamamayan na makiisa sa mga isasagawang proyektong pang-imprastruktura tulad ng Skyway III na mag-uumpisa bukas (We call on the people to share the burden while the infrastructure project is ongoing)," Coloma said. PND (jl)