PIA National News Dispatch

PIA News Dispatch - Monday, February 13, 2012

2012-02-13T16:17:00.000-08:00

Aquino receives ambassadors of Hellenic Republic and New Zealand in Malacañang

President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomed the envoys of the Hellenic Republic (Greece) and New Zealand, who presented their respective credentials to the Chief Executive in Malacanang on Monday.

The President first welcomed Her Excellency Constantina Koliou, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Greece at the Music Room of the Malacanang Palace. Koliou was accompanied by Nikolaos Verghis, Deputy Head of Mission and Styliani Koraka.

There has been a long standing and excellent diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Greece where both sides have expressed interest in further promoting the whole range of bilateral cooperation, with greater emphasis on shipping, tourism, energy and construction sectors which have the greatest potential.

A large number of Filipinos live and work in Greece where there is a tradition of Philippine seamen manning Greek-owned vessels.

The Philippine Embassy is situated in Athens since 1988 while Greece’s Embassy in Manila went into operation in February of the year 2007.

New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines Reuben Anthony Joannes Levermore also presented his credentials to President Aquino in simple rites at the Music Room of the Malacanang Palace.

The presentation ceremony was witnessed by Heather Garven, First Secretary for Administration and Consul, and Nathanael Mackay, First Secretary and Immigration Board Manager, both of New Zealand.

The Philippines-New Zealand relationship is considered to be one that is growing and becoming stronger and more diverse. New Zealand’s trade with the Philippines is very substantial, and the people-to-people links between the two countries are growing rapidly.

The Philippines is New Zealand’s 13th largest export market and its third largest market for dairy products. New Zealand exports about six times as much to the Philippines as it imports from there. Over half of the Philippines’ exports to New Zealand are fruit products (mostly bananas).

Prior to the presentation of credentials, President Aquino also received outgoing Ambassador Yogendra Kumar of the Republic of India.

Also present during these events were Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Maria Theresa Lazaro, among others. (PCOO)

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Malacañang cites Filipino high-school students for their success in Raffles-Invitational Mathematical Olympiad in Singapore

Malacanang said the success of four Filipino high-school students who won four medals in the Raffles Invitational Mathematical Olympiad (RIMO) held from February 6 to 11, 2012 in Singapore was an indication that Filipinos could show the world Filipino academic excellence.

"We congratulate four Filipino students for their success in the recently held Raffles Invitational Mathematical Olympiad (RIMO) in Singapore," Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said in a statement during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Monday.

Lacierda said Mikaela Angelina Uy, Camille Dee, Brandon Chan, and Ruselle Guadalupe brought pride to the Philippines by winning in the biennial international mathematics event organized by the prestigious Raffles Institution, the oldest school in the city-state. Some 100 contestants from Southeast Asia, China, and Australia participated in the competition.

Reports showed that Uy, a third-year high-school student of the St. Jude Catholic School in Manila, bagged a silver medal in the nine-nation competition.

Uy’s team mates - Camille Dee from the Immaculate Conception Academy in San Juan City, Brandon Chan from the Philippine Cultural College in Caloocan City, and Russelle Guadalupe from the Valenzuela Science High School in Valenzuela City- won a bronze medal each.

"Credit and congratulations go to the Mathematics Trainers’ Guild-Philippines members who served as coaches for these young achievers: Team Leader Man Fai Anthony Ang and coach Arvie Ubarro," Lacierda said.

He said the successful students are an inspiration for all who want to improve science and math in our educational system.

As part of its commitment to build a strong educational foundation, the Aquino administration increased the budget for the Department of Education by 15.2 percent this year.

"Together with instituting clarity and transparency in the budgetary processes, we are working to ensure more school children are empowered to achieve their fullest potential," Lacierda said.

"Undoubtedly the strengthening of these core competencies will allow more students to excel in their classrooms and show the world Filipino academic excellence," he said.

"This achievement echoes the success of Filipino students in the 2011 Australian Mathematics Competition where 11 were awarded for their high scores in the competition and 60 other Filipino students placed in the top two percent of 300,000 participants," Lacierda said. (PCOO)

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Malacañang says Filipinos tangibly benefit from efforts of gov't in effecting reforms to improve public services and upgrade disaster response capabilities

Malacanang said that the Filipino people has been tangibly benefitting from the results of the unyielding efforts and hard work of the Aquino administration in effecting reforms to improve the public services, push for inclusive growth and the advancement of its disaster-response capabilities as shown in the “very good” public satisfaction survey result conducted recently by the Social Weather Stations (SWS).

In a regular press briefing in Malacanang on Monday, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said that the recent survey proves the people’s continued trust and confidence in the Aquino government and its insistent commitment to justice and economic progress.

“This recent measurement of public opinion indicates that the public not only sees, but has tangibly felt, the government’s efforts to improve services, push for inclusive growth and upgrade response to disasters. It contradicts the hypercritical few who refuse to see the government doing its work, under the indivisible view that justice and expanding the economy must be jointly pursued,” Lacierda said.

“Public office is indeed a public trust, which is best maintained by leading by example, living up to one’s word, and never relenting in pushing for reforms,” he added.

Lacierda noted the public’s concern on certain issues as he acknowledged that the solutions to such problems not only lie on the government’s actions but also by the cooperation of the public.

He assured that the other issues which are presently being addressed by the government may need some time for the public to feel the full beneficial effects.

“We view public opinion on other issues as an indication of public concern over these issues like oil and peace talks with the CPP-NPA, yet we also note how overall satisfaction remains unchanged. We believe this suggests that the public acknowledges our efforts but that solution is not entirely in the government’s hands alone,” Lacierda said.

The SWS survey conducted on Dec. 3-7 found 67% of respondents satisfied, 21% ambivalent and 11% dissatisfied with the government’s general performance, for a net rating of +56 (% satisfied minus % dissatisfied) that was unchanged from three months earlier.

The survey bared the overall satisfaction score remained above those of all previous governments since the poll was started in February 1989.

It also shows the people’s "sustained trust and confidence" in the Aquino government and that Filipinos likely "raised the bar" with regard to lower issue-specific scores. Problems are being addressed but the results will take time to be felt.

The SWS utilized face-to-face interviews of 1,200 adults nationwide for the Dec. 3-7 poll, which has sampling error margins of ±3% for national and ±6% for area percentages. (PCOO)
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Aquino declares Feb. 17 as special non-working day in Bayanan City, Negros Oriental in celebratin of its "Tawo-Tawo Festival'

President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared February 17 which falls on Friday as a special non-working day in the city of Bayawan, in Negros Oriental in celebration of its Tawo-Tawo Festival.

In Proclamation No. 320 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on Jan. 19, President Aquino issued the declaration to give the people of Bayawan City the full opportunity to celebrate and participate in the occasion.

Tawo-Tawo Festival reflects the culture of the city being a rice granary of the southern part of the province of Negros Oriental.

The farmers in Bayawan are using scarecrows or tawo-tawo to drive away the little native birds called maya that feed on ripening golden rice grains. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Sunday, February 12, 2012

2012-02-12T04:19:00.000-08:00

Coloma urges Filipinos to instill in them initiatives to attain peace and development for the country based on goals of Aquino government

Echoing the principles of President Benigno S. Aquino III on leadership through transparency, accountability and good governance, Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio “Sonny” B. Coloma Jr. encouraged the people to take the initiative in carrying out efforts to attain peace and development in the country that are founded on the tenets of the Aquino government.

In his brief talk entitled “The Zen of Rotary Leadership” during the Rotary International District 3830 Presidents-Elect Training Seminar (PETS) at the Peak Sports Bar of the Timberland Sports and Nature Club in San Mateo, Rizal on Friday, Secretary Coloma said that great leaders serve as motivators to others.

“Great leaders are able to inspire people to act … they create a following of people who are motivated to act in a very deeply personal manner,” Coloma said.

He stressed that the search to attain peace through serving others must start from everyone.

The PCOO chief defined peace as the sense of happiness, inner security and calmness, saying that these are potent for the country’s economic progress and development.

Coloma discussed several principles on good and effective leadership that include Zen Buddhism, which embodies self-realization, wisdom from experience, and the process of absorption and meditation.

In his presentation, Coloma also reminded the people to always consider the two important factors in every endeavor: purpose and action. “In everything that you do remember two salient things, purpose and action,” Coloma said.

“In the principles of “Zen,” the purpose is embodied in the following: right intentions, right view, right concentration and right mindfulness… it’s all embedded in mind and consciousness,” Coloma noted adding that “action could be manifested in right speech, right action, right livelihood and effort.”

The Presidents-Elect Training Seminar is a two-day, annual Rotary International-mandated leadership training seminar for all incoming presidents of the club. It is a fundamental tradition within the Rotary Club to prepare future leaders.

Rotarian’s are committed in rendering services within the community, in the workplace, and to other people around the globe.

The 1.2 million Rotary Club members, making up more than 34,000 Rotary clubs in nearly every country in the world share a dedication to the ideal of “Service Above Self”.

Rotary clubs are open to people of all cultures and ethnicities who are not affiliated with any political or religious organizations. (PCOO)

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Malacanang warns Overseas Filipino Workers from working as drug mules to avoid death penalty

Malacanang warned Filipinos working as drug mules for international drug syndicates in exchange for money to prevent them from being subjects to death penalty, a Palace official said on Saturday.

Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda issued the statement during an interview aired over government-run dzRB Radyo ng Bayan on Saturday, following the arrest of two Filipinos in Macau for alleged drug trafficking last February 1.

The Aquino administration, which has a strong anti-illegal drug policy, is undertaking comprehensive and proactive measures to address the drug mules issue and to protect Filipinos from being victimized by international drug syndicates.

Lacierda said Filipinos should learn from the fate of those who were executed in China for drug trafficking last year.

"Pagkatapos kung sakaling i-impose sa kanila ang death penalty kargo po ng sambayanang Pilipino ang kanilang problema. So sana matuto na po ang ating mga kababayan na huwag pagamit sa mga drug syndicates," he said

He urged the Filipinos to heed the government's call to protect themselves against falling prey to international drug syndicates.

"Ito ang pakiusap natin sa mga Overseas Filpino Workers (OFWs) at sa mga taong lalabas ng bansa -- huwag po tayo pagagamit sa mga syndikato ng droga at huwag tayong papayag na gamitin ang ating mga kagamitan, mga maleta na lalagyan ng kanilang mga gamit na hindi nila personally ini-inspect," he said.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) reported that two Filipinos - a man and a woman - were apprehended by the Judiciary Police in an apartment in Macau. The two Filipinos were reportedly found in possession of 46 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride, popularly known in the Philippines as shabu.

The seized drugs have an estimated street value of 90,000 patacas (US$11,392.405). Several drug paraphernalia were also found in the apartment.

A suspected buyer, also a Filipino, was likewise invited by Macau police authorities for questioning.

Lacierda said the government has already extended assistance to the detained Filipinos to ensure that their rights are respected.

There are at least 19 Filipinos currently detained in Macau on drug cases.

The Philippine government is closely cooperating with the law enforcement agencies in other countries on efforts against anti-drugs trafficking. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Saturday, February 11, 2012

2012-02-12T04:16:00.000-08:00

Malacanang announces appointment of Jardeleza as Solicitor General

President Benigno S. Aquino III has appointed Deputy Ombudsman for Luzon Francis H. Jardeleza as the new Solicitor General following the resignation of Jose Anselmo Cadiz.

The Office of Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. announced the appointment of Jardeleza on Saturday.

The newly-installed Solicitor General Jardeleza was formerly senior vice president and general counsel of the food and beverage giant San Miguel Corporation.

A graduate from the University of the Philippines (UP) College of Law, Jardeleza placed third in the 1974 Bar exams and completed his master of laws in Harvard University in the United States.

Last February 6, President Benigno S. Aquino III expressed his profound thanks and appreciation to outgoing Solicitor General Cadiz. He recognized Cadiz’s work that has considerably contributed in achieving a reinvigorated Office of the Solicitor General. (PCOO)

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Aquino attends family rosary crusade celebration of Universal Day for the Sick

President Benigno S. Aquino III attended Saturday the prayer for public officials in the celebration of the Catholic Church’s Universal Day for the Sick at the Villamor Airbase in Pasay City.

The event, held at the Shrine of Saint Therese of Child Jesus, was also attended by the members of the President’s Cabinet, government officials, police and military officials as well as church leaders.

In the Prayer of Entrustment led by the President, he asked for guidance so that his administration could overcome the difficulties the country has been facing to achieve justice, reforms and progress.

“Today, Blessed Mother, as we move forward to the 500th year of the Christianization of this land, you bring our lives the purposes and aspirations, our labors and strivings, for you and for Jesus your son,” the President said in his prayers to the Virgin Mary.

The event is also part of the A Million Roses for the World campaign initiated by the Family Rosary Crusade of the Philippines. The campaign is intended for Filipinos living in the Philippines and other parts of the world to pray the rosary for world peace.

The campaign started on October 10, 2011 with prayer intentions for Angola that will end on May 20, 2012 with Catholics praying for the Philippines in 200 days.

A Million Roses for the World campaign is aimed at bringing all the peoples of all nations of the world to Jesus Christ and his Father and the Holy Spirit through the Virgin Mary.

Joining the President during Saturday’s event were Vice President Jejomar Binay, Energy Secretary Rene Almendras, Social Welfare Secretary Dinky Soliman, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Public Works and Highway Secretary Rogelio Singson, Education Secretary Armin Luistro, Science and Technology Secretary Mario Montejo and NEDA Director General Cayetano Paderanga Jr. (PCOO)

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Aquino inaugurates new Lufthansa Technik maintenance hangar

President Benigno S. Aquino III inaugurated Friday the $30-million new maintenance hangar of the Lufthansa Technik Philippines (LTP) noting that the feat of the company in the Philippines should inspire Filipinos to achieve national progress.

The President said LTP’s operation in the Philippines has been a success since it put up its business in the country in early 2000.

Aside from the success achieved by the LTP, the President said Filipinos could also draw inspirations from the Airbus A380, the aircraft that will be serviced by the LTP in its newly inaugurated hangar in Villamor Airbase in Pasay City.

In his message during Friday’s inauguration, the President said the reforms he has initiated made Filipinos dream again and become ambitious.

“Our people can be confident that their government is doing everything in its power to achieve the goals of an equitably progressive Philippines. The dream here is to totally rebuild our nation by giving all our people a chance to live dignified lives. And as we set to achieve this, we must think about the engineers and technicians who work long hours to successfully develop the Airbus A380,” he said.

“We must think about the contractors who made this inauguration possible, for giving 400 of our most talented workers the chance to display their skills to the rest of the world,” the President added.

“Through them we are made to believe again. These people are evidence that no matter how grand or how long term our goals for this country may be, if we sit down and put our hearts and minds and work towards them, then our dreams will become realities sooner rather than later.”

LTP’s expansion in the Philippines signifies its confidence for the Philippines and its Filipino work force, the chief executive said. The President added that the liberalization of the aviation industry is one of the key reforms being initiated by the administration.

Government is also continuously working to upgrade the country’s infrastructure so that more and more airline companies enter the Philippines for the benefit of the entire economy, he added.

He also mentioned three sectors seen by the government as major drivers of inclusive growth by providing jobs. These include tourism, agriculture and infrastructure, he said.

LTP, a joint venture of German firm Lufthansa Technik and Philippine MacroAsia Corp., is one of the largest providers of aircraft maintenance services in Asia. The new LTP maintenance hangar would mean 400 new jobs for Filipinos in addition to its current workforce of 2,700.

An Airbus specialist, LTP will start maintenance works and cabin modifications for Airbus A380, currently the biggest aircraft in the world that could accommodate up to 800 passengers.

LTP services more than 50 airlines in the world, doing comprehensive technical services including lease return checks and cabin modifications for different Airbus aircraft models.

Also present during the inauguration were Transportation and Communication Secretary Mar Roxas, LTP Chairman of board Washington Sycip, Philippine Airlines chief executive officer Lucio Tan, and LTP President and chief executive officer Gerald Frielinghaus. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Friday, February 10, 2012

2012-02-12T04:13:00.000-08:00

Aquino cites government's commitment to create more economic opportunities for Filipinos

President Benigno S. Aquino III said that the government remains committed to pursue its efforts in creating more economic opportunities for the Filipino people as expressed in the priority programs of his administration including the continuous training and skills development of the citizenry.

In keynoting the launching of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Specialista Technopreneurship Program (TSTP) at the TESDA Auditorium, TESDA Complex along East Service Road in Taguig City on Friday, President Aquino reiterated that government is mandated to hone the innate skills and talents of the Filipino citizenry which, he said, could lead not only to a better standard of living but also to a progressive and developed national economy.

“Simula’t sapul pa lang ng ating panunungkulan prayoridad na ng ating gobyerno ang paglikha ng mga trabaho at palawakin pa ang mga oportunidad para sa mas nakararami,” the President said.

“Malinaw ang ating naging mandato… linangin ang kakayahan ng mga Pilipino at tanggalin ang mga hadlang upang matamasa nila ang maayos na pamumuhay. Alam natin na magbubunga ng mabuti ang paglilingkod sa mas nangangailangan dahil ang pagtaas ng antas ng kanilang pamumuhay ay siya ring pagtaas ng kumpyansa ng Pilipinas na umusad sa tunay na kaunlaran,” he added.

The President expressed full trust and confidence in the leadership of TESDA Director-General Joel Villanueva as he thanked him for the efforts in effecting reforms in the agency in order to achieve inclusive growth for the people.

“Tiwala tayo sa liderato ni Secretary Villanueva… walang ‘wang-wang’ sa TESDA, walang manglalamang at walang perang mapupunta sa mga walang kabuluhang programa. Nagpapasalamat po tayo sa TESDA sa pagtupad nito sa panata natin sa taumbayan --- walang maiiwan sa pag-unlad,” President Aquino said.

Based on the impact evaluation studies conducted last year, the President said, almost 61 per cent of those who graduated in the technical, vocational and educational training of TESDA are now earning through their respective jobs.

He added that the government is focusing on providing more jobs for the remaining 39 per cent.
“Thirty-nine per cent po ang dadagdagan natin ng pansin para may makakuha na rin sila nang mga trabaho…” the President noted.

The Chief Executive, assisted by Secretary Villanueva, distributed tool kits to the selected eight TESDA “Specialistas” from the National Capital Region, Region 3 and Region 7.

President Aquino also bared that the government has allocated a total of P500 million under the economic stimulus program for the training of some 65 thousand individuals in preparation for their possible employment in the business process outsourcing sector (BPO).

The TESDA Specialista Technopreneurship Program (TSTP) is one of TESDA’s responses to the goal of the government to achieve inclusive growth as embodied in the Labor and Employment Plan and National Technical Education and Skills Development (NTESDP) 2011-2016.

It is designed to facilitate employment for certified workers/persons to get into productive undertakings through the provision of services in demand in the community.

TPSP shall develop a pool of trained and certified TESDA Specialistas who will respond to the demand for services by the households and the immediate communities.

Present during the event were other government officials led by Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio “Sonny” B. Coloma Jr., Education Secretary Armin Luistro, Commission on Higher Education Secretary Patricia Licuanan, and Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation Chairman Cristino Naguiat.

Also in attendance were Taguig City Mayor Laarni Cayetano, Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim, Victoria Tarlac Mayor Candido Guiam III, Oriental Mindoro Representative Rey Umali and Manila Representative Carlo Lopez.

In the same event, the President also witnessed the awarding of ISO 9001-2008 Certificate to TESDA.

Director-General Villanueva received the award from Mr. Chia Jen, general manager of the TUV-SUD PSB Malaysia which is a service provider for a comprehensive and integrated suite of product testing, inspection and certification services. Its operation in the Philippines was set up more than 11 years ago with the aim of helping companies achieve business excellence. (PCOO)

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Government to continue aggressive job generation thrust, says Aquino

President Benigno S. Aquino III said his administration will continue its present thrust to carry out plans that create more job opportunities for Filipinos amid a sluggish global economy.

In an interview during the launching of an entrepreneurial program of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) on Friday, the President said the target of his administration is to maximize employment for Filipinos through measures being implemented by various government agencies.

Since last year, the President said the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has been working with TESDA, the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) so that jobs are matched with those applying for work.

“We have been investing in a… as an example, sa BPO (business process outsourcing) industry, we’re investing P500 million this year precisely to train them further to increase their possibility of getting employed in this sector that is really fast growing,” he said.

“Yung sector naman has been appealing to us to assist them for the managerial supervisory positions, they’re hard pressed to meet their targets. Parang ang daming oportunidad nasasayang dahil hindi pa natin na-develop yung talent for that.”

That industry expects to grow, according to the chief executive noting however that the limiting factor for growth is the availability of talent and skilled workers that fit the job. As a response, the government carries out programs so that they get the training and skills they need at the earliest possible time.

Asked about the government’s job target this year, the President said he got a report saying there are one million new entrants to the marketplace. He noted that the employment rate last year, which was peg at around 7 percent, was significant.

“The target is open-ended. Kaya nga yung mga programs na hina-highlight ng TESDA ngayon are those that have ready employment opportunities,” the President added. (PCOO)
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Aquino says BoC needs more time to carry out reforms

The public must give the Bureau of Customs (BoC) more time to carry out reform measures considering the severity of the problems that it faces, President Benigno S. Aquino III said.

“Ang hinahabol natin umasenso lahat. Ngayon, na-highlight sa Customs dahil napakalayo nila doon sa inaasam-asam natin at tatatlong buwan pa lang si Ruffy Biazon at si Danny Lim, tapos medyo malalalim na ugat ng problem diyan sa Customs at talaga namang kailangan bigyan natin ng realizable target,” the President said in an interview on Friday.

The President was interviewed by the media during the launching of an entrepreneurial program of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in Taguig City on Friday. Reporters asked the President about the government agencies that he will prioritize in the implementation of reforms.

Aside from discussing the reforms at the BoC, the President said he is impressed at the way TESDA Director General Emmanuel Joel Villanueva does his work.

Despite the P2.4 billion debt, the President said TESDA was able to get ISO certification as well as posting 61 percent employment record.

“Talaga namang happy tayo (with the performance). But of course, pag ni-report ni Joel na 100 percent ng 100 percent, mas happy tayo,” he said. (PCOO)

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Coloma stresses 'excellence and dedication' at work to Presidential Management Staff Employees Association

Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio “Sonny” Coloma Jr. called on government employees to keep striving for excellence and dedication to attain "harmony at work" in line with President Benigno S. Aquino III's mandate to give efficient and quality service to the Filipinos.

In his inspirational message during the Presidential Management Staff- Employees Association (PMS-EA) General Assembly held at the Presidential Management Staff (PMS) Building located on Arlegui Street, San Miguel, Manila on Friday, Secretary Coloma underscored the need to achieve harmony at work to help contribute to nation building.

"Paano tayo magkakaroon ng harmony at work. Dapat maging matapat sa tungkulin, maagap at masipag at higit sa lahat may malasakit sa trabaho at kapwa. Hindi natin tinatranslate in English ang salita na may malasakit kasi walang exact transalation iyon. Tayong mga Pilipino lang talaga ang nakakaalam nun," he said.

Sec. Coloma also stressed the importance of achieving "work, life and harmony" to be good public servants. "Our sense of worth is related to or dependent on the significance of our work," he noted.

"Ang importanteng elemento sa work, life and harmony ay tatlo rin - integrity, quality time and tender loving care. Ma-achieve natin ito kung tayo ay integrated person. Walang pagkakaiba ang buhay mo bilang isang ama or bilang boss. Kung ano ang trato mo sa opisina dapat ganun ka rin dapat sa pamilya. Kung ano ang pagmamahal mo sa isa ay ganun ka rin dapat sa isa. Consistent ka dapat," he said.

Coloma also stressed the fact that excellence in public service depends greatly on the performance and dedication of government officials and employees. He also reminded them of their commitment to take the straight path.

During the General Assembly which coincides with the anniversary of the employees' association, Coloma also congratulated the officers and members of the association and wished them all the best and success in all their endeavors.

Coloma, who served as Presidential Management Staff (PMS) chief under former President Corazon C. Aquino, told employees that he was happy to meet with them in an important event. He recalled the many memories during his time as PMS head. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Thursday, February 9, 2012

2012-02-09T02:06:00.000-08:00

Aquino cites Chinese-Filipino Business Club members as invaluable partners of government in nation building

President Benigno S. Aquino III cited the members of the Chinese Filipino Business Club, Incorporated (CFBCI) for being invaluable partners with government in nation building.

In his speech keynoting the CFBCI’s 7th Biennial Convention on Thursday at the Manilia Hotel, the President said the group’s unwavering compassion and continued engagement to help in government efforts to improve the lives of the people was key to the success of this endeavor.

“Your organization (CFBCI) is among those who did not waver in their resolve to help this country. Ever since your establishment in 1998, you have been doing what you can to support this nation,” the President said.

He noted that the group’s aid was as far-reaching and diverse as to help improve the Philippine National Police’s mandate to protect the people through the CFCBI’s donation of thirty motorcycles that will “help us strengthen our police force’s law enforcement capabilities” to providing services to the community that help in economic development.

“The Chinese-Filipino Business Club, Inc., or the CFBCI, has also been very helpful on the economic front, supporting the government in its efforts to create jobs and strengthen the economy. You have actively undertaken trade missions and tax consciousness campaigns, among other projects,” the President said.

He thanked CFBCI for being “responsible corporate citizens” in spearheading talks with government officials about projects such as drug consciousness campaigns, and book drives for the less fortunate.

“For this, I extend my gratitude to all the members and the board of the CFBCI. Your members are some of the most successful businessmen in the country, and you could have simply focused your efforts on turning in even larger profit margins for your companies, but instead you’re here, intent on giving back to the community,” the President said.

“These initiatives of yours can only be good for your businesses. After all, a good community is vital to fostering a good business environment,” he added. (PCOO)

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Malacanang says government doing everything to save lives and help quake victims in Negros Oriental

Malacanang defended from criticisms government response in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake that hit Negros Oriental saying the government will do everything to save human lives and help the victims recover from the tragedy.

The government was being criticized for the slow conduct of rescue operations in the devastated areas in the Guihulngan City and La Libertad in Negros Oriental.

“You have to take into consideration the physical difficulties there. Ina-assess ng DPWH ang mga lugar ngayon, kausap ko si Secretary Babes Singson kanina at sinabi nga n’ya na ina-assess nila. Marami na silang na-assess yung kalye, yung market,” Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda said in an interview in Malacanang on Thursday.

“So we are going to do everything possible to make sure that their lives would go back to normal,” he added. Lacierda also said saving human lives is a priority of the government adding that the lives of the people are valuable.

President Benigno S. Aquino III celebrated his 52nd birthday on Wednesday visiting disaster areas in Negros Oriental, assessing the damage as well as overseeing ongoing relief and reconstruction efforts.

The Chief Executive issued several directives to various government agencies working to help the victims recover from the tragedy. He ordered that roads and bridges must be repaired or rerouted so that basic goods could reach the victims, particularly food, water, medicines and clothing.

The police and the military were also instructed to provide security and maintain order as relief workers distribute goods to the victims. The police and the military are also expected to secure stores as they start regular operations.

The government also announced more than P5-million budget to fund cash-for-work program that will help residents get employment and at the same time rebuild their communities.

According to the figure released by the provincial government of Negros Oriental on Wednesday, 26 persons died in the quake with 50 still missing. The quake also resulted to about P665 million worth of damage to infrastructure and affected economic activity in the province.

A separate figure from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said more than 12,000 families were affected by Monday’s earthquake. (PCOO)

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Aquino to inaugurate Lufthansa Technik Philippines’s new maintenance facility Friday

President Benigno S. Aquino III will lead the inauguration of the Lufthansa Technik Philippines’s new maintenance hangar for Airbus aircraft in Villamor Airbase in Pasay City on Friday.

The maintenance hangar, located at Macro Asia Special Economic Zone inside the Villamor Airbase, is intended for Airbus A380 aircraft.

Upon his arrival at the venue, the President will simulate operating an Airbus A380 aircraft. He will then pull the throttle that will signal the opening of the new maintenance hangar.

After his speech, the President will tour the existing hangar servicing the Airbus A380 aircraft.

Friday’s inauguration of Lufthansa Technik Philippines’s new maintenance hangar is considered a milestone in the Philippine aviation industry, making it one of the world’s nine locations capable of maintaining, repairing and overhauling the Airbus A380, the biggest aircraft in the world today.

For more than a decade, Lufthansa Technik Philippines, a German-Filipino joint venture, has placed the Philippines in the global aviation map by having German-technology, precision, and innovation in addition to Filipino craftsmanship.

Lufthansa Technik Philippines’s $30-million new investment is expected to expand the company’s capacity, create more local jobs and contribute to nation building. (PCOO)

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Aquino names Escudero as member of U.P. Board of Regents and new officials of the judiciary

President Benigno S. Aquino III has appointed Evelina Buencamino Guevara-Escudero as member of the University of the Philippines-Board of Regents, a Palace official said on Thursday.

During the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Thursday, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said Escudero replaced Magdaleno B. Albarracin Jr. Escudero's term will expire on February 18, 2014.

Lacierda also announced other appointments to the judiciary.

President Aquino appointed Judge Marlo B. Campanilla as presiding judge of the Metropolitan Trial Court Branch 83 in Caloocan City. Prior to his appointment, Campanilla served as the 4th Manila Assistant City Prosecutor since 2002.

Lacierda said Judge Dennis J. Rafa was appointed to MTC Branch 84 in Caloocan City. A graduate of Bachelor of Laws from the Manuel Luis Quezon University (MLQU), Rafa served as Makati Prosecutor II since 2007 until his appointment to Caloocan MTC Branch 84.

Judge Michael V. Francisco was designated as the presiding judge of the MTC Branch 85 in Caloocan City. He graduated Bachelor of Laws from the University of the Philippines and practiced law in several private law firms.

Judge Lourdes Grace Barrientos-Sasondoncillo was appointed to MTC Branch 86 Caloocan City. Prior to her appointment, she worked as Graft Investigation and Prosecution Officer I in the Office of the Ombudsman. She also worked in various banks and was a part-time faculty law professor in various schools. (PCOO)

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Second U.S. warship to arrive in the country this year – Malacanang

The United States government will deliver a second warship to the Philippines within this year to guard the country’s waters, a Palace official said on Thursday.

Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda told reporters in an interview in Malacanang that Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin made an assurance that the said warship from the US will arrive within this year.

But Lacierda reiterated that the country’s neighbors shouldn’t worry about the acquisition of another warship noting that the Philippine military is just beefing up its defense capabilities.

“They shouldn’t be concerned because primarily it’s about protecting our external waters. That shouldn’t be a concern for our neighbors because primarily it’s for the protection of our waters,” he said.

The government commissioned last December the BRP Gregorio del Pilar after getting it from the US Coast Guard. The BRP Gregorio del Pilar, the Philippines’ first Hamilton-class cutter, arrived in the country in August last year. The warship is the Navy’s largest ship at 380 feet long.

The BRP Gregorio del Pilar was deployed by the Navy in the West Philippine Sea. Defense officials said more ships to be acquired by the government will secure the energy projects in Malampaya off Palawan.

During the visit of US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton last November, she assured that the US would provide the Philippines second warship for its Navy.

Also members of the US Congress who visited the country last month said they would support the country’s plan to acquire more warships from the US. (PCOO)

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Aquinio invites CFBCI to invest in agriculture, tourism and infrastructure sectors

President Benigno S. Aquino III invited members of the Chinese Filipino Business Club, Incorporated (CFBCI) to invest in the top three industries the government will be keenly focusing on this year, saying that they stand to earn a profit should they decide to do so.

The President extended the invitation to the CFBCI members to invest in the agriculture, tourism and infrastructure sectors during his speech keynoting the CFBCI’s 7th Biennial Convention at the Manila Hotel on Thursday.

The CFBCI is one of the major business organizations in the Philippines whose main goal is to improve the lives of all Filipinos by assisting the government in its economic development program.

“In light of your corporate stewardship, allow me to extend another invitation for those of you who want to help and profit even more. A few weeks ago, I attended the Arangkada Forum, and I spoke about the administration’s focus this year on three specific sectors namely agriculture, tourism, and infrastructure,” the President said.

“We have identified these sectors as the ones that can provide the most employment for those in the margins of society. They are also sectors that offer plenty of opportunities for businesses like yours to enter. Our national budget has been aligned to provide massive support to these three sectors, and I invite all of you to capitalize on these opportunities, while at the same time taking a larger role in creating jobs and helping stimulate the economy,” he added.

He pointed out that by partnering with government in the development of these sectors early on would ensure a “win-win” situation with “plenty of opportunities to profit and the psychic returns go on top of the monetary gains.”

“Getting involved now will give your companies plenty of opportunities to profit, and the psychic returns go on top of the monetary gains. It is indeed a win-win situation: you will profit, and at the same time allow our people to live even more dignified lives through the jobs that will be generated,” the President said.

“You will empower the communities you operate in, and make certain that the momentum of the Philippine economy will pick up, and be sustained,” he added. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Wednesday, February 8, 2012

2012-02-08T16:38:00.000-08:00

Aquino to keynote Chinese-Filipino Business Club Convention Thursday

President Benigno S. Aquino III will keynote the 7th Biennial Convention of the Chinese-Filipino Business Club, Incorporated (CFBCI) that will be held at the Centennial Hall of the Manila Hotel on Thursday, February 9.

Joining the President will be Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo, CFBCI president Lino Uy and Manila Hotel Chairman Emilio Yap.

Aside from addressing the group, the President will also witness the ceremonial turnover of thirty motorcycle keys to Police Director General Nicanor Bartolome symbolizing the CFBCI’s support for the ongoing transformation and upgrade program of the Philippine National Police.

The Chinese Filipino Business Club, Inc. (CFBCI) was organized as a socio-civic, non-profit organization whose primary goal is to support the government in its goal of creating an environment conducive to job creation and economic advancement.

From its inception in 1998, CFBCI is now composed of 400 members from all over the Philippines whose membership includes pillars of the Chinese-Filipino trade and commerce, manufacturing, construction, banking and other industries. (PCOO)

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Aquino declares Feb. 10 as special non-working day in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte

President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared February 10 which falls on a Friday, as a special non-working day in the city of Laoag in celebration of its Pamulinawen Festival.

In Proclamation No. 328 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on January 31, President Aquino issued the declaration to give the people of Laoag the full opportunity to celebrate and participate in the occasion with appropriate ceremonies. The festival showcases the Ilocano culture in dance and drama.

The Pamulinawen Festival is the annual fiesta of Laoag City in Ilocos Norte to honor St. William, the patron saint of Laoag. The residents believe the patron saint intercedes to the Lord to save Laoag from calamities. (PCOO)

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Aquino celebrates 52nd birthday visiting quake damaged areas; assures victims of immediate recovery

DUMAGUETE CITY: President Benigno S. Aquino III spent his 52nd birthday on Wednesday visiting earthquake-affected areas in Guihulngan City and La Libertad in Negros Oriental following a 6.9-magnitude quake that hit the Visayas on Monday.

The President inspected damaged areas and met residents affected by the earthquake. He also oversaw government relief operations in disaster-affected areas.

In an interview following his visits to Guihulngan City and La Libertad, the chief executive assured that there are enough government resources to help affected communities recover from the disaster and bring everything back to normal.

“Siguro more than anything, kanina yung nakita nating problema sa isang bagay na medyo nakakasakit sa damdamin lalo na yung nawalan ng buhay. Pero on the other hand, talaga namang maraming kakayanan ang gobyerno ngayon para maibalik sila as much as possible sa normal na sitwasyon,” the President said.

“So yung maraming kawani ng gobyerno, local, national, may mga NGOs (non-government organizations) rin tumutulong na nagdamay-damay dito para mabawasan nga ‘yung paghihirap ng ating mga kababayan doon.”

The President said he has seen the extent of the damaged particularly in Guihulngan City and La Libertad, which he said may be exacerbated by the continuing aftershocks that according to authorities may last for several more weeks. He also stressed the great necessity of the residents for potable water.

Cabinet members who were with the President during the briefing about the disaster said relief and reconstruction efforts continue to help the affected communities.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said around 6,000 food packs are expected to be distributed Wednesday as well as bottled water, tents, blankets and mosquito nets.

Social Welfare and Development Secretary Dinky Soliman said, cash-for-work program will be provided those affected to help them recover from the disaster and at the same time rebuild their communities.

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Department of Energy (DOE) said they are both working to immediately construct damaged roads and bridges including power lines destroyed by the earthquake.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), on the other hand, assured the President about the steady supply of basic commodities as well as ensuring that prices remain at normal levels.

For its part, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) said it has deployed a public safety battalion to ensure peace and order and help other government agencies transport necessary goods for the affected residents. (PCOO)

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Aquino wants safer structural design and immediate reconstruction of vital infrastructure in quake-ravaged areas in Negros Oriental

DUMAGUETE CITY: President Benigno S. Aquino III, who visited quake-ravaged communities in Negros Oriental, said he wants new design and immediate reconstruction of vital infrastructure so that economic activity could start in disaster-affected areas.

At the same time, the Chief Executive said the peace and order must be maintained so that basic goods are transported to the needy with prices staying at normal levels.

“When you start designing all of these road networks make sure that we do not have a situation na mawala yung connectivity. Paano ba natin ma-ma-maximize na ma-maintain yung road networks, for instance, to be able to bring in whatever has to be brought in?” the President said as he asked the officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways tasked to undertake the rebuilding of the damaged infrastructure.

The President, who celebrated his 52nd birthday on Wednesday, toured the disaster areas in Guihulngan City and La Libertad in Negros Oriental and assessed the damaged of the 6.9 magnitude earthquake that hit the area on Monday and oversaw ongoing relief and reconstruction efforts.

The government will be doing an inventory of public and private infrastructure so that these structures meet the country’s building code, which according to law must withstand a 7.2 earthquake, the President said.

With regards to the supply of basic goods, the President said he has talked with manufacturers and suppliers to access their products directly from factories in coordination with the National Food Authority (NFA) to reduce prices. He said manufacturers and distributors are shipping by Thursday and could to be selling the goods by Friday.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) was given an instruction by the President to ensure that prices of basic commodities remain at normal level. He added that according to law, he is authorized to impose price control once a state of calamity is declared.

Because of reports of disorder in buying basic goods, the President said the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will ensure order in calamity areas so that basic products reach the people.

“The PNP and AFP also will be assisting to ensure that we have peace and order habang dinadala yung mga relief supplies,” he said.

According to the latest figure released by the provincial government of Negros Oriental, 26 persons died in the quake with 50 still missing. The quake also resulted to about P665 million worth of damage to infrastructure and affected economic activity in the province.

A separate figure from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) says more than 12,000 families were affected by Monday’s earthquake. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Tuesday, February 7, 2012

2012-02-07T02:58:00.000-08:00

Aquino goverment attends to needs of earthquake victims in Visayas region

Malacanang assured that the Aquino government is exerting all out efforts to attend to the needs of the victims in the 6.9 magnitude earthquake that jolted several provinces in the Visayas region on Monday as it echoed President Benigno S. Aquino III’s call to the people to stay calm and cooperate with the concerned authorities in their respective area.

In a statement he read during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Tuesday, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said that various government agencies were already directed by the President to perform their duties and services to the people.

“The President is deeply concerned about our countrymen in the affected areas. He is focused on ensuring that services resume at the soonest possible time. He appeals to everyone to remain calm and to cooperate with the authorities as they work to bring these areas back to normaly,” Valte said.

“President Aquino has already ordered concerned agencies to activate their response teams to aid the victims. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) have placed their quick response teams on standby ready for deployment, and have at least 2,000 family packs ready for augmentation. Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) units have initiated evacuation efforts, search and rescue operations; and helped in relief operations, alongside the assets of the Philippine Navy (PN),” she said adding that “together with the affected local government units (LGUs), the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) has been conducting Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis (DANA) in the affected areas, as instructed by the President”.

Valte further said that the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has been conducting clearing and re-routing operations in roads and bridges rendered impassable.

Rehabilitation efforts, she added, are also underway for infrastructure that has been substantially damaged apart from the continuous work being done by the Department of Energy (DoE) to restore power in the affected areas.

Valte likewise said the continued monitoring efforts of the NDRRMC, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS) on the situation in the areas of concern to make sure that advisories and bulletins will be disseminated properly and on time.

“The NDRRMC, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and the DOST-PHIVOLCS and their corresponding regional offices will continue to monitor the situation and disseminate advisories and bulletins to the public, particularly to coastal communities in Negros Oriental and Cebu that need to be watchful of sea level changes due to aftershocks,” Valte said.

As of 12:30, Tuesday morning, the NDRRMC has already accounted 15 fatalities, 52 injured, and 29 missing individuals following the destructive natural calamity.

Recent reports bared the powerful quake hit a narrow strait between the provinces of Cebu and Negros which caused damage to buildings and other infrastructure and brought down the power supply in the area.

The Philippines is situated along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” a belt around the Pacific Ocean where friction between shifting tectonic plates that usually causes frequent occurrence of earthquakes and volcanic activities. (PCOO)

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Aquino declares Feb. 13 as special non-working day in Paranaque City

President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared February 13 which falls on a Monday as a special non-working day in the city of Paranaque in commemoration of its 14th cityhood anniversary.

In Proclamation No. 329 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on February 3, the President issued the declaration to give the people of Paranaque City the full opportunity to celebrate and participate in the occasion.

Parañaque City was converted as the 11th city in Metro Manila in 1998.

The name "Parañaque" is derived from the phrase "para na aque," which was commonly used in the past when people wished to disembark from kalesas (horse-drawn carriages). (PCOO)

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Aquino welcomes new International Maritime Organization Secretary General

President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomed Koji Sekimizu, the new Secretary General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), who called on him in Malacañang on Tuesday.

Joining the President in welcoming Sekimizu were Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert Del Rosario, Transportation and Communication Secretary Manuel Roxas, Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz and Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) Administrator Emerson Lorenzo.

In an interview, Baldoz said Sekimizu informed the President of his organization’s support to further develop the country’s maritime industry.

“He (Sekimizu) expressed willingness to help develop (the Philippines’) maritime industry,” Baldoz said.

She added that another meeting is being scheduled where stakeholders could discuss and iron out the details of this initial meeting. (PCOO)

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Aquino confers order of Sikatuna on outgoing French ambassador

President Benigno S. Aquino III on Tuesday conferred the Order of Sikatuna on outgoing French Ambassador Thierry Borja de Mozota in recognition of his role in strengthening bilateral ties between France and the Philippines.

Aquino conferred the Order of Sikatuna with the Rank of Datu, Grand Cross (Gold Distinction) to Ambassador Mozota during his farewell call on him at Malacanang Palace.

The distinction was given to de Mozota for his outstanding efforts in strengthening the relations of France and the Philippines particularly on trade, culture and science and technology.

De Mozota, who was born in Paris in 1948, holds a bachelor’s degree in international law and a diploma in advanced political science.

He began his career at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with an assignment at the Embassy of France in New Delhi before he joined the Office for Asia-Oceania Affairs in Paris.

Before he assumed his post as French ambassador to the Philippines, he was the Ambassador of France to Brunei.

De Mozota was also conferred the national orders of Germany, Spain, Iceland, Italy, Norway, Argentina, Chile, Mexico, Lebanon, Morocco, Tunisia and Nepal. (PCOO)

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On the President’s trip to Dumaguete on his birthday tomorrow

In keeping with the values of servant leadership espoused by his family, President Aquino will spend his birthday tomorrow in Dumaguete City, one of the areas most affected by the 6.9 magnitude earthquake that hit the Visayas yesterday.

He will inspect damaged areas and meet with our countrymen affected by the calamity, as well as with the government workers who are providing much needed relief operations on the ground.

President Aquino has been keeping abreast of the situation since the earthquake struck yesterday morning. Agencies and departments are implementing his instructions concerning the disaster relief and information-dissemination operations. Two helicopters have been sent by the East Mindanao Command; another two helicopters have been sent by the West Mindanao Command; the Philippine Coast Guard has dispatched one helicopter and one islander aircraft, as well as two Coast Guard vessels which have joined a Philippine Navy vessel delivering provisions by sea to affected areas.

The DSWD Region 7 office has provided 2,000 family packs, 2,000 bottles of mineral water, boxes of canned goods, tents, mats, blankets and mosquito nets to Negros Oriental. The President is in touch with Rep. Jocelyn Limkaichong of the 1st District of Negros Oriental concerning four cities and municipalities in her district badly hit by the recent earthquake: Guihulngan City, the municipalities of La Libertad, Tayasan, and Jimalalud. Rep. Limkaichong has arranged for the delivery of 400 bags of rice from the NFA for residents. We encourage private citizens to assist by means of donations in the form of food, water, and clothing in aid of these areas. Adonation desk is set up at the DSWD Field Office VII located at M.J. Cuenco Avenue, Cebu City. Its hotline number is (032) 232-1192.

The President continues to appeal for citizens to cooperate with the authorities, and to keep in mind that public safety must be kept the highest priority. This is an unusual situation which calls for the utmost responsibility, particularly in disseminating information. It does no one any good to sensationalize the situation. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Monday, February 6, 2012

2012-02-06T00:48:00.000-08:00

Aquino cites continuing government reforms for high dividend contributions of GOCCs

President Benigno S. Aquino III cited the continuing government reforms for the improving dividend contributions of government owned and controlled corporations.

In his message at the ceremonial turnover of GOCCs check dividends at the Rizal Hall of Malacañang on Monday, the President said the more than P19-billion remitted by 21 GOCCs was a result of government’s crackdown on corruption in government.

“Nang manungkulan po tayo, ginawa natin kaagad ang tama at makatuwirang hakbang. Inatasan natin ang mga GOCCs na isakatuparan ang mabuting pamamahala sa kanilang mga tanggapan. Tinanggal natin ang mga tiwali sa kanilang mga institusyon, hinanap ang mga tagas sa pondo na dumidiretso sa kapritso ng iilan, at tinuldukan ang mga short-cut sa mga transaksyon ng kanilang korporasyon,” the President said.

By stemming corruption, the Presidnet pointed out that the saved funds could now be used for the government’s various social programs such as providing education, healthcare, food and livelihood for more Filipinos.

“Malinaw po ang nangyari… kung hindi natin inayos ang pamamalakad sa GOCCs, hindi po natin makakamit ang halagang ito na malaki ang maitutulong upang pondohan ang ating mga serbisyong panlipunan,” the President said.

“Patunay lamang po ang tagumpay na ito sa GOCC na tuwirang nakakaapekto ang mabuting pamamahala sa kabuhayan ng mga Pilipino; natutulungan nitong iahon sa kumunoy ng kahirapan ang ating mga kababayan,” he added. (PCOO)

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Aquino receives P19.283-B dividend from GOCCs

President Benigno S. Aquino III received P19.283-billion representing dividend contributions from 21 Government-Owned and –Controlled Corporations (GOCC) in ceremonies marking GOCC governance day in Malacañang on Monday.

The President turned over the amount to National Treasurer Roberto Tan.

The Land Bank of the Philippines topped the list with a total of P5-billion in remittances while the Development Bank of the Philippines remitted P4.012-billion.

The Philippine National Oil Company and its subsidiary PNOC-Exploration Corporation turned in P3.5-billion while the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines and the Philippine Ports Authority remitted P1.362-billion and P1.2-billion, respectively.

Other GOCCs that turned over their dividends included the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (P1-billion); Manila International Airport Authority (P1.142-billion); Philippine Reclamation Authority (P700-million); Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (P470-million) National Home Mortgage Finance Corp. (P18-million); Cebu Ports Authority (P50 million); Clark Development Corporation (P100 million); Philippine Leisure and Retirement Authority (P106.90-million); Trade Investment and Development Corporation (P65-million); Philippine Economic Zone Authority (P276-million);

Bases Conversion Development Authority (P504-million); Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (P150-million); National Livelihood Development Corporation (P70-million); Cebu Ports Authority (P50-million); Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (P48-million); and National Housing Authority (P7.30-million).

Under the Dividends Law of 1994, GOCCs and GFIs (government financial institutions) are required to remit to the national government half of the income earned in each fiscal year. The remittance should be in the form of cash or in unencumbered or real estate properties with clean titles. (PCOO)

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Aquino orders PHILVOCS to monitor areas affected by earthquake in Negros Oriental

President Benigno S. Aquino III has tasked the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) to monitor the affected areas for further seismic activity following an earthquake that hit Tayasan town in Negros Oriental on Monday morning.

"The President has been informed and is being constantly updated of the situation," Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said in a statement issued in Malacanang on Monday.

"A Level 2 Tsunami alert has already been issued by PHIVOLCS requiring residents in affected areas to stay away from the shorelines and to be on alert for unusual waves," Lacierda said.

Transporation and Communictions Secretary Manuel Roxas II has instructed Rear Admiral Edmund Tan, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant, to prevent fishermen from going out to sea for the duration of the alert.

Lacierda said the Philippine National Police Region VI and VII have already been instructed by PNP Chief Nicanor Bartolome to keep the population away from the shoreline, and to ensure the maintenance of peace and order, while the alert is ongoing.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) personnel are already on standby to lend support and relief to affected citizens.

"While there are no forced evacuations being ordered, we implore the people in affected areas to remain vigilant and take the necessary safety precautions. Let us cooperate with government agencies, allow them to do their work, and remain calm and watchful," Lacierda said.

A magnitude 6.9 earthquake was reported at 11:49 this morning Monday at Tayasan town in Negros Oriental.

Intensity III tremors were reported as far south as Butuan and Cagayan de Oro, and as far North as Legaspi City in Albay. The nearest major city to the epicenter, Dumaguete experienced Intensity VII tremors. (PCOO)

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Aquino appoints Lagura-Yap as Associate Justice of the Court of Appeals and new officials in judiciary

President Benigno S. Aquino III has appointed Cebu regional trial court (RTC) Judge Marilyn B. Lagura-Yap as Associate Justice of the Court of Appeals (CA), a Palace official announced on Monday.

Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said Yap graduated cum laude from the University of the Philippines (UP) College of Cebu, before earning her law degree from the University of San Carlos. She has been in government for almost 27 years.

Lacierda also announced other appointments of the Aquino government to the judiciary.

President Aquino has appointed Judge Jacob M. Montesa II to the Metropolitan Trial Court Branch 80 in Muntinlupa City. An experienced litigator, he worked for the Public Attorneys Office (PAO) before becoming a prosecutor for Las Pinas City.

Judge Jean Susan Desuasido Gill has been appointed to the Metropolitan Trial Court Branch 79 in Las Pinas. She took up her Master of Laws at the London School of Economics and Political Science. She worked in the private sector before lending her talents as branch Clerk of Court to the Muntinlupa RTC.

"We are confident that they will stand with the banner of integrity and professionalism in the judiciary, and contribute to the reforms that we are laying out in every branch of government," Lacierda said. (PCOO)

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Aquino urges Filipinos to take part in government's initiatives to achieve sustainable progress

President Benigno S. Aquino III urged the people to take part in government efforts to bring the country to real progress and development through the “daang matuwid” and get rid of the graft and corrupt practices in the bureaucracy as he promised that those who will abide by these reforms will be rewarded while those who will do otherwise will face the consequences of their malevolent deeds.

In his speech during the 110th Founding Anniversary celebration of the Bureau of Customs (BoC) at the BoC Social Hall in Port Area, Manila on Monday, President Aquino encouraged the Filipinos, especially those working in the BoC, to continue supporting the Aquino government’s initiatives to achieve sustainable progress saying that good deeds will be rewarded.

“Sa mga susunod sa atin pong tuwid na landas, alam ko naman po meron kayong karampatang kakulangan sa benepisyo… meron hong tinatapos na plano kasama po si Secretary Purisima at Secretary Butch Abad, meron po tayong productivity incentive bonus na gagawin ng pormal na sistema kung saan pag meron kayong itinulong at inambag sa ikahuhusay ng gobyerno sa bawat ahensya, tanggapan ng ating pong gobyerno, may kaukulang bonus points dagdag po sa inyong sahod,” the President said.

“Gawin ninyo yung tama, gagantimpalaan kayo ng atin pong estado…” he stressed.

President Aquino underscored the very important role of the people in attaining the government’s goals to uplift the standards of living of millions of Filipinos through various developmental programs.

“Tulungan ninyo akong iayos ang sistema at sisiguraduhin ko naman na iaayos rin po ang inyong estado ng atin pong pamahalaan, gawin ninyo ang tama at tama naman po ang gagawin ng gobyerno para sa inyo,” the President said.

The Chief Executive also said that the government remains committed in its efforts to go after those unscrupulous individuals who serve as obstacles in the nation’s progress.

He added that the government will continue to dispense all necessary actions to bring back to the people the spirit of integrity and love for country.

“Buo ang paninindigan natin sa pagbagtas sa tuwid na daan, kailan man hindi tayo magpapasindak o magpapatiklop, hindi po natin palalagpasin ang kabuktutang dulot ng katiwalian,” the President noted.

“Ibinabalik natin ang malinaw na pag-unawa ng lipunan sa kung ano ang mali at tama… ito po ang daan na magpapalayo sa atin sa kahirapan at magdadala sa atin sa kasaganaan,” he added.

Also present during the event were other government officials led by Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima and BoC Commissioner Rozanno Rufino Biazon, among others.

Biazon said that the celebration coincides with a momentous event for the Bureau after posting record breaking total cash collection of P256.810 billion for the year 2011, the highest collection so far in the BoC history.

The BoC chief also assured several changes and transformation within the Bureau as directed by President Aquino in line with his social contract with the Filipino people. (PCOO)

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Aquino thanks Cadiz for his dedication and zeal in achieving a reinvigorated office of the Solicitor General

President Benigno S. Aquino III expressed his profound thanks and appreciation to outgoing Solicitor General Jose Anselmo Cadiz following the latter’s resignation from his post to attend to his personal plans in career and family as a private citizen.

In an ambush interview following his attendance of the 110th Founding Anniversary Celebration of the Bureau of Customs (BoC) at the BoC Social Hall at Port Area, Manila on Monday, President Aquino acknowledged the accomplishments of Cadiz in his two years of serving the Filipino people in the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG).

“There is a point that, in a sense, those who came with me into this administration did it for love of country. Pero there is love of family also, there are other concerns. So parang a lot of them were thinking mga two years baka pwede na ang kanilang contribution,” President Aquino said.

“He has also plans for himself so that is the primary reason for his resignation and he has certain plans that I will leave it up to him to announce… But he needs more time to attend to those things and I am grateful that he gave us close to two years of service,” he added.

When asked on who will be picked to replace Cadiz, the Chief Executive said “I’ll announce (his replacement) at the appropriate time”.

In a separate statement published in the Official Gazette (www.gov.ph) also on Monday, President Aquino recognized Cadiz’s work that has considerably contributed in achieving a reinvigorated OSG.

“From the time he took his oath of office, to the present, he has done his work with dedication and zeal. He can look back at his time in office as one in which the foundations for a reinvigorated Office of the Solicitor-General have been laid,” the statement read.

“While the time has come for him to return to private practice as we agreed, he can do so confident in the knowledge that the office he has headed is once more imbued with an authentic sense of public service and professionalism. I thank Atty. Cadiz for his loyalty and dedication, not just to the administration, but to upholding the interests of the Filipino people. He has fought the good fight and earned a deserving rest to enable him to spend more time with his family,” continued the statement.

The Solicitor-General is the lawyer of the Republic who is tasked to argue the government’s cases with vigor, to approach each case with integrity, and to serve as the tribune, or advocate, of the people of the Philippines before the courts. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Sunday, February 5, 2012

2012-02-05T16:38:00.000-08:00

Malacanang hails inclusion of Boracay as one of world's top beach destinations

Malacañang hailed on Sunday the inclusion of Boracay Island in Aklan as one of the top beach destinations in the world by a well-known travel website saying the honor was a testament to the government’s aggressive efforts to boost tourism in the country.

In a radio interview aired over dzRB Radyo ng Bayan, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said the Department of Tourism’s campaign to invite more visitors to the Philippines through the “It’s more fun in the Philippines” program was working.

“In (the) furtherance of our (tourism) campaign through the “Its more fun in the Philippines” (program), just to share some good news with you, the travel website TripAdvisor has ranked Boracay as the number one beach destination in Asia and second in the world,” Valte said.

TripAdvisor (www.tripadvisor.com), a travel website that assists customers in gathering travel information, posting reviews and opinions of travel-related content and engaging in interactive travel forums, chose Boracay over Maldives (2nd) and Koh Phangan in Thailand (3rd) for its powdery white sand, affordable accommodations and courteous and hospitable people.

“At only 4.5 miles long, Boracay is small enough to navigate by rented bicycle or motorbike. But don't let its small size fool you—you'll have several excellent beaches to choose from. Yapak Beach is known for beautiful white shells; White Beach has picture-perfect sunsets; and Balinghai Beach is a secluded spot, perfect for honeymooners. As long as you visit during dry season, you'll agree this is one of the best beach destinations in the world,” the TripAdvisor (http://www.tripadvisor.com/TravelersChoice-Beaches-cTop10-g2) wrote.

Valte also hailed the ranking of Siargao Island in Mindanao as one of the top surfing sites as compiled by CNNGo (www.cnngo.com), the travel advisory website of the Cable News Network (CNN).

Valte said the CNNGo had placed Siargao as the 8th out of 50 top surfing sites in the world. (PCOO)

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Palace welcomes positive feedback for DTI online Philippine Business Registry system

Just a week after its successful launch led by President Benigno S. Aquino III last January 27, the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) online Philippine Business Registry system has been receiving positive feedbacks, Malacañang reported on Sunday.

Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said people who have benefited from this new service offered by the DTI cited in particular the speed by which they were able to register their business name online and the fact that physical appearance is no longer needed just to complete the process.

“Gumugulong na po ito. Mayroon nang mga nakapag-register ng kanilang business name online at mabilis daw ang proseso at masaya tayo na ganito ang initial feedback at napaka-importante nga nito dahil hindi na kailangang pumunta nang pisikal sa Department of Trade and Industry para makapag-register ng business name,” Valte told radio dzRB Radyo ng Bayan.

Given this development, Valte encouraged those who plan to start small businesses as their source of livelihood in the country to make use of DTI’s Philippine Business Registry system which was established primarily to streamline business registrations in the country and eliminate red tape.

“’Yung mga naglalayong magkaroon ng maliit na negosyo at makapagtayo naman ng kanilang kabuhayan, mas madali na ang pagsisimula ng kanilang negosyo dahil sa online Philippine Business Registry system,” she said.

Launched only two Fridays ago, the Philippine Business Registry system serves as a one-stop shop for entrepreneurs who want to transact or register their businesses by linking several agencies so that applicants can register businesses even without their presence.

Interlinked government agencies under the Philippine Business Registry include the DTI, Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG), Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth), Social Security System (SSS) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Saturday, February 4, 2012

2012-02-04T07:04:00.000-08:00

Malacanang supports proposal of Senator Recto on proper filing of statement of assets, liabilities, and net worth

The Palace said it supports the proposal of Sen. Ralph Recto who asked the Civil Service Commission (CSC) to conduct a nationwide education campaign to all government offices for proper filing of the new statement of assets, liabilities and net worth (SALN).

“Maganda pong mungkahi ’yan galing kay Senator Recto. In fact, naka-receive kami ng memorandum galing po sa Civil Service Commission tungkol sa bagong form ng SALN at may maliit na guide kung papaano pini-fill up,” Deputy Presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a radio interview over dzRB Radyo ng Bayan on Saturday about the procedure on filing the SALN.

Valte said she has seen a copy of a memorandum issued by the CSC Chairman Francisco Duque last week discussing the new format and a guide in filling out the SALN.

The filing of SALN by government officials has turned into a major concern after President Aquino’s congressional allies filed an impeachment case against Chief Justice Renato C. Corona for non-filing of his SALN as well as other charges.

The prosecution panel filed eight articles of impeachment against Corona zeroing in on Article 2 for non-disclosure of his SALN.

Under the Constitution, constitutional officers like a justice or the chief justice of the Supreme Court could be removed from office through impeachment. The four grounds for impeachment include culpable violation of the Constitution, treason, graft and corruption, and betrayal of public trust.

In the ongoing impeachment trial, the prosecution panel said Corona undervalued numerous real estate properties on his (SALN). They argued that Corona’s inaccurate declaration in his SALN is a violation of the Constitution and betrayal of public trust. (PCOO)

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Aquino appoints Gordon member SBMA board of directors

President Benigno S. Aquino III has appointed former Zambales Vice Governor Anne Marie C. Gordon as member of the board of directors of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA).

In an interview aired over government-run dzRB Radyo ng Bayan, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said Gordon replaced Teodoro D. del Rosario.

"In-appoint po ni Pangulong [Benigno] Aquino si Anne Marie C. Gordon bilang miyembro, representing the local government unit of Olongapo City, sa board of directors ng Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority," Valte said.

Valte said Gordon's term will expire on August 17, 2013.

Gordon is the wife of Olongapo City Mayor James "Bong" L. Gordon, Jr.

The SBMA is the operating and implementing arm of the Government of the Philippines for the development the 262 square mile (670 square kilometer) area of Subic Bay Freeport (SBF) in Subic Bay into a self-sustaining tourism, industrial, commercial, financial, and investment center to generate employment opportunities. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Sunday, February 3, 2012

2012-02-04T06:58:00.000-08:00

Aquino declares Feb. 10 as special non-working day in Kidapawan City in commemoration of its 14th Foundation Day

President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared February 10 which falls on Friday as a special non-working day in the city of Kidapawan in Cotabato province in connection with the 14th Foundation Day of the city.

In Proclamation No. 321 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on January 20 the President issued the declaration after the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Kidapawan requested that February 10 instead of February 12 which falls on Sunday, be declared as a special non-working day.

February 12, 2012 marks Kidapawan City’s 14th Foundation Day but the Sangguniang Panlungsod made the request to President Aquino to enable the people of the city to fully participate in the occasion.

Kidapawan became a City on February 12, 1998 by virtue of Republic Act No. 8500 inked by the 12th President Fidel V. Ramos, making it a Component City of the Province of Cotabato.

Kidapaweños overwhelmingly ratified the cityhood in a plebiscite on March 21, 1998.

The city has vast eco-tourism potentials due to its strategic location at the foot of the country’s highest peak, Mount Apo. (PCOO)

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Aquino forwards substitute Freedom of Information Bill to congressional allies

President Benigno S. Aquino III said his administration has submitted a substitute Freedom of Information Bill (FOI) to their allies in the lower house for the eventual passage of the legislation aimed at having wider public access to government information.

“Now because it’s your 112th anniversary, let me give you my gift. Here’s the scoop: I am happy to share with you that we have made progress in a much talked about issue. Earlier today—and actually this afternoon—we formally submitted to our coalition partners in the House of Representatives a substitute Freedom of Information Bill, which we believe addresses stakeholders’ desires to have more transparency and more access to information in government,” the President said in his speech at the 112th anniversary of the Manila Bulletin on Thursday.

“We want every other administration voted into power to work under the same standard of transparency and accountability that we have set for ourselves. This is a significant step toward achieving that goal,” he added.

Just before his announcement, the President instructed his communications group, which has been doing consultations to craft the legislation, to “push ahead” with the much-delayed Freedom of Information bill.

During the 14th Congress, the House of Representatives failed to ratify the FOI bill due to lack of quorum and protests from congressmen, although the Senate ratified a similar measure in the bicameral conference committee.

There are several versions of the FOI bill filed in the 15th Congress that have been pending at the committee level in both the houses of Congress. The 15th Congress wanted the passage of the controversial measure as its major achievement.

Once passed, the FOI bill would allow the public to obtain records of government transactions, meetings and other businesses, a right enshrined in the Constitution. It will also provide definite procedure in dealing with requests for information and seeks to penalize officials denying access to information.

President Aquino vowed to support the passage of the bill during the 2010 presidential campaign. (PCOO)

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Aquino attends 112th anniversary celebration of Manila Bulletin

President Benigno S. Aquino III attended Thursday the 112th anniversary of the Manila Bulletin and he expressed hope that the newspaper will continue to provide positive news stories about the country.

“It is my fervent hope that, as you celebrate your 112th anniversary, the Manila Bulletin adheres to the calling proclaimed in your masthead: to be the exponent of Philippine progress,” he said in a message during the event at the Manila Bulletin in Intramuros, Manila on Thursday.

“As the oldest English language daily in the country, you are an ambassador of the country to the world; what you headline is read not just here, but also globally.”

February 2, the President said, is also the anniversary of the ratification of the 1987 Constitution. He said that 25 years ago, the Filipino people ratified a new constitution that has weathered many storms but remained as the foundation of the country’s ideals and aspirations.

The Philippine press, according to the President, preserves those ideals and hopes.

“As media practitioners, you have reported the strides we have taken in governance; and you have communicated to us in government the aspirations of the Filipino people. In your pages are accounts of how we have endeavored to strengthen our institutions, and how we have pursued the idea that the letter of the law must be used to uphold the spirit of the law,” he said.

“Our Constitution is the bulwark of our freedoms–including the freedom of the press. With that freedom comes the corresponding responsibility of the Fourth Estate to be balanced and fair,” the President added.

Joining the President during the event were former president Fidel V. Ramos, Joseph Ejercito Estrada, Manila Bulletin owner Don Emilio Yap, Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr., Rizal Gov. Casimiro Ynares Jr., Manila 3rd District Rep. Zenaida Angping and Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim. (PCOO)

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Aquino cites importance of good governance in achieving sustainable progress and development

President Benigno S. Aquino III stressed the importance of implementing good governance in pursuit of real and sustainable progress in the country and the people as he warned those who are still living in deceit and corruption to be ready to face the consequences of their malevolent acts.

In his speech during the 65th anniversary celebration of the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) at the Penthouse of the Bulwagan ng Diwang Pilipino, DBP Head Office in Makati City on Friday, President Aquino expressed the unyielding and intensified efforts of the government to go after unscrupulous public servants who are getting wealthy at the expense of the Filipino people.

“To those who might still be holding on to their ways despite my expressed direct order to thread the straight path, please do not test me… I can be a patient man but my patience has its limits especially for those who stand as obstacles to reform,” the President said.

“Keep this in mind especially for the next year, which will be more challenging and more important, we will be continuing our pursuit… conviction and punishment of those who have done wrong and we will make certain that the fruits we have picked along the path of good governance redounds in tangible ways to the benefit of the Filipino people,” he added.

President Aquino cited the acceptable results of good governance that could promote the influx of more investors in the country resulting to more jobs and economic opportunity for the people.

“Good governance pays dividends… it fosters confidence in our institutions attracting more investors in establishing a system of predictable outcomes and stability,” the President said.

“Those who fall in line, follow the rules and work hard will get their goals… those who break the law will be held accountable. All of us must strengthen our efforts at good governance… on your shoulders lies the fate of the development projects for our countrymen,” he stressed.

The Chief Executive, together with Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, led the celebration of the state-owned Development Bank of the Philippines’ anniversary rites.

During the event, DBP president and chief executive officer Francisco del Rosario Jr. reported on the new DBP initiatives designed to increase its assistance to various priority thrusts of the Aquino administration. This includes the Connecting Rural and Urban Intermodal Systems Efficiently (CRUISE) program which is the bank’s response to the national government’s efforts to promote increased investment in the transport infrastructure.

With a budget allocation of 20 billion pesos, it is aligned with the Philippine Development Plan 2011-2016 for infrastructure investments.

Other DBP projects include the Tree-Planting Financing Program (TPFP) and Financing for Public Basic Education (FPBE), among others.

The DBP officials and Board of Directors assisted by Secretary Purisima also presented to the President, the symbolic check bearing the P4 billion dividends to the national government. The actual check will be given to the government during the Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations (GOCC) Governance Day on February 6, Monday.

Forty one scholars representing the 458 DBP student scholars for the school year 2011-2012 under the DBP Endowment for Education Program (DEEP) were also presented. (PCOO)

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Palace expects immediate passage of Freedom of Information Bill

Malacanang expressed hope that the proposed substitute Freedom of Information (FOI) Bill will be approved soon by the present Congress, according to a Palace official.

Undersecretary Manuel Quezon III of the Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office (PCDSPO) said the Aquino administration hopes that the legislators will pass it in the second regular session of the 15th Congress.

“I think it would be fair to assume that this ought to be, should be, and will be one of the crowning achievements of the 15th Congress,” Quezon said in a press conference in Malacanang on Friday in response to a question profounded by reporters about the time line of the passage of the bill.

Quezon said that the heading of Budget Secretary Florencio Abad’s letter for the House Speaker as well as the members of the lower house indicates the urgency of its passage. Abad was designated by the President, together with other Palace officials, to draft the substitute legislative measure.

Asked by reporters if the administration is open to flexibilities to change the proposal, Quezon said members of Congress could still improve it.

“Sa aming pananaw napalakas namin ang bill na ito, naging mas malinaw at mas matibay ang mga garantiya ng mga karapatan para sa tao,” Quezon said.

Compared to other measures that are still pending in Congress, Quezon said one of the differences is the organization of the law. He noted that the Aquino administration believes that broad and large categories of government information should be made accessible to the public.

The President disclosed on Thursday that a substitute FOI bill was forwarded to the administration allies at the lower house.

The Chief Executive also mentioned that the passage of the bill must be a legacy of his administration because of its continuing defense and assurance to the public of the transparency of government documents, records and information.

Quezon said the President believes that the reforms in government particularly its transparency to the people must remain a policy of any government.

During the 14th Congress, the House of Representatives failed to ratify the FOI bill due to lack of quorum and protests from congressmen, although the Senate ratified a similar measure in the bicameral conference committee.

Once passed, the FOI bill would allow the public to obtain records of government transactions, meetings and other businesses, a right enshrined in the Constitution. It will also provide definite procedure in dealing with requests for information and seeks to penalize officials denying access to information.

President Aquino vowed to support the passage of the bill during the 2010 presidential campaign. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Thursday, February 2, 2012

2012-02-02T16:45:00.000-08:00

TESDA announces programs to boost employability and entrepreneurial skills of Filipinos

In line with President Benigno S. Aquino III’s directive to expand the delivery of skills development services to the people, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) announced that it is implementing seven new programs for 2012 to boost the employability, livelihood and entrepreneurial skills of Filipinos.

In a letter for the President dated January 30, TESDA Director General Emmanuel Joel Villanueva said these seven programs form part of TESDA’s new platform of governance dubbed REAL DEAL TESD that aims to “answer the what, where, when, who and how the agency will place itself to benefit the greater part of the community it serves.”

REAL DEAL TESD (Reach the grassroots, Empower the reached. Assure quality training and Lifelong education Development. Enable, and Actively-engage Labor force members in job opportunities thru employability and livelihood skills) encompasses the agency’s desire to marshal the entire resources of TESDA towards a proactive response to the President’s call for “Landas na Matuwid” and do away with a government that is insensitive to the plight of the ordinary citizen.

To achieve this, TESDA will focus its resources on managing technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in the Philippines with stewardship and inclusiveness as its twin underpinning principles.

Of the seven, five are training and retooling programs while the other two are partnerships with government and a private company for the certification of public utility drivers and empowering women retailers, respectively.

These programs include: 1. IT-BPO Talent Investment Program that will train 65,000 scholars to qualify for jobs in the business process outsourcing industry;

2. TESDA-SEIPI (Semi-conductor and Electronics Industry of the Philippines) Partnership for the Semi-Conductor Electronics Industry that will train more than 9,000 new and existing workers to keep them geared up for the demands of the semi-conductor and electronics industry;

3. Partnership with PLDT (Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co.) for the training of 1,300 technicians;

4. TESDA-Holcim Partnership to train some 2,200 out-of-school-youths in construction trades such as masonry, carpentry and blueprint reading certification;

5. Partnership with LTRFB (Land Transportation Regulation and Franchising Bureau) in PUV driver’s certification;

6. TESDA Specialista Technopreneurship Programs that brings together stakeholders to serve the multifarious service requirements of households and small communities; and

7. Updates on TESDA-Coke National Convergence Program on Empowering Women Retailers.

Villanueva said these programs are also in line with the public-private partnership thrust of the Aquino government. (PCOO)

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Aquino government urges educators to continue instilling among the youth the importance of 1987 Constitution

As the country celebrates today the 25th anniversary of the Ratification of the 1987 Constitution, the government of President Benigno S. Aquino III called on educators to live up to their responsibility of educating our youth about the importance and provisions of our basic law.

"This is a time to bear in mind the hopes and aspirations for a just society, as enshrined in our Charter, and which we continue to work towards every day," Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a statement during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Thursday.

Valte said the Constitution, through the loyalty and devotion of the Filipino people themselves, has overcome every challenge to its basic principles.

"May it continue to serve as the bulwark of our freedoms, and the fullest expression of our democratic ideals," she said.

The Constitution currently in effect was enacted in 1987, during the administration of President Corazón C. Aquino, and is popularly known as the "1987 Constitution".

The Philippine constitutional law experts recognise three other previous constitutions as having effectively governed the country — the 1935 Commonwealth Constitution, the 1973 Constitution, and the 1986 Freedom Constitution.

Constitutions for the Philippines were also drafted and adopted during the short-lived governments of Presidents Emilio Aguinaldo in 1898 and José P. Laurel in 1943.

In 1986, the People Power Revolution ousted Ferdinand Marcos as president. After her inauguration, President Corazón C. Aquino issued Proclamation No. 3, declaring a national policy to implement the reforms mandated by the people, protecting their basic rights, adopting a provisional constitution, and providing for an orderly translation to a government under a new constitution.

President Aquino later issued Proclamation No. 9, creating a Constitutional Commission to frame a new constitution to replace the 1973 Constitution which took effect during the Marcos martial law regime.

The said commission completed its task on October 12, 1986 and presented the draft constitution to President Aquino on October 15, 1986.

A plebiscite for its ratification was held on February 2, 1987 and more than three-fourths of all votes cast, 76.37% (or 17,059,495 voters) favored ratification as against 22.65% (or 5,058,714 voters) in opposition.

On February 11, 1987, the new constitution was proclaimed ratified and took effect. On that same day, Aquino led government officials and the Armed Forces of the Philippines in pledging allegiance to the new Constitution. (PCOO)

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Palace condemns abduction of two foreign nationals in Tawi-Tawi

Malacanang condemned the kidnapping of two foreign nationals in Tawi-Tawi on Wednesday as it vowed to speed up the resolution of the case and bring the perpetrators to justice.

“We condemn the abduction; and the national and local governments, as well as all agencies concerned are working to ensure the resolution of the situation, the recovery and release of the men who remain in the hands of their captors, and the bringing to justice of the lawless elements involved,” Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a statement on Thursday.

Swiss national Lorenzo Vinciguerra, 47, and Dutchman Ewold Horn, 52, were kidnapped while on a bird watching trip in Sitio Look-Look, in the village of Parangan in Panglima Sugala, Tawi-Tawi. Their Filipino guide, Ivan Sarenas, escaped from the gunmen.

Valte said the Tawi-Tawi crisis management committee was immediately activated with Gov. Sadikul Sahali in charge of resolving the kidnapping case. Governor Sahali will oversee all of the police and military operations.

“Joint elements of the Philippine National Police, the Philippine Navy, and Philippine Marines are now conducting search operations. For its part, the Department of Foreign Affairs has notified the embassies of the nationals concerned, and will keep them abreast of all relevant information and updates on the situation,” Valte said.

Valte likewise advised tourists visiting the country to inquire with the Department of Foreign Affairs or their own embassies, regarding advisories on conditions that may affect their travel plans.

Kidnappings in Mindanao, particularly of foreign nationals have been a major concern of Philippine authorities. Many of these cases were perpetrated by the Mindanao-based Muslim extremist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), which was founded in the 1990s. ASG is also being blamed for the worst terrorist attacks in the country.

In 2000, the group kidnapped 21 western tourists from a Malaysian island resort and brought them by boat to Jolo. The hostages were released after ransom amounting to millions of dollars was paid.

The Abu Sayyaf also kidnapped three Americans the following year, along with a group of Filipino tourists. During a rescue attempt, one of the Americans was beheaded and another was killed. (PCOO)

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Malacanang says DOLE orders abolition of bus boundary system to improve income of drivers

Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz has ordered the abolition of the bus boundary system for drivers in a bid to improve their income, a Palace official said on Thursday.

Baldoz issued Department Order 118-12 that abolishes the system of paying the bus drivers and the conductors on a commission basis, according to Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte in a statement during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Thursday.

"Instead, the bus drivers and the conductors are to be placed on a “part-fixed and part performance-based wage system,” Valte said.

"The fixed component of their earnings at a minimum shall meet the minimum wage and other statutory wage-related benefits, while an incentive system based on safety performance, business performance and other related parameters is also hereby adopted," Valte stressed.

Valte said the new system took effect in Metro Manila on Wednesday. She added that the new system will take effect in the rest of the country by July 2012.

According to Valte, the Aquino government hopes that the new policy will address the longstanding concern of the bus drivers, conductors, and passengers alike.

"We believe that this system is fairer to the bus drivers because it guarantees them a better wage. It should also improve traffic discipline, which will redound to the benefit of the commuters and motorists," she said. (PCOO)

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Economic condition improved under Aquino administration, says Palace official

Defending the economic achievements of the Aquino administration, a Palace official said recent surveys indicated positive economic conditions for the country.

“Contrary to claims made by some members of the opposition, economic indicators show improvement in general economic conditions. Self-rated poverty is down; growth has resumed its upward trajectory as shown by the fourth quarter figures which are higher than the second and third quarter figures; unemployment in the fourth quarter was also down; infrastructure spending has been accelerated; and the stock market has once again reached new highs,” Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a statement.

“All of these indicate that, while we expect this year to be challenging due to the global economic environment, the business environment is improving, and policies toward promoting equitable growth are taking effect,” she added.

Early this week, Valte said, the Aquino government will exert its best efforts to achieve five to six percent gross domestic product (GDP) target this year based on the instruction of the President.

“We will certainly be exerting our best efforts to meet the target. And, as such, the President has already made several pronouncements on this and we will be following… the concerned agencies will follow suit,” Valte said in a press briefing in Malacanang.

Although the economic growth under the initial year of the Aquino government is a bit lower compared to the previous administration, more Filipinos benefited from the inclusive growth achieved by the present government, Valte said.

Valte reiterated the government‘s thrust of a more aggressive spending this year to boost the country’s economy, particularly in infrastructure development and agriculture.

While there are some criticisms about the lackluster spending of the government that affected the country’s economic growth last year, the administration said external factors have contributed to a slower economic performance. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Wednesday, February 1, 2012

2012-02-01T18:37:00.000-08:00

Aquino declares Feb 3 as special non-working day in Cabanatuan City in commemoration of its 62nd Foundation Day

President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared February 3 (Friday) as a special non-working day in the city of Cabanatuan in commemoration of its 62nd Foundation Day.

In Proclamation 327 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on January 31, 2012, President Aquino issued the declaration to give the people of Cabanatuan City the opportunity to celebrate and participate in the occasion.

The city will mark the event with the theme Nagkakaisang Mamamayan Hangaring Umunlad ang Cabanatuan. Mayor Julius Cesar "Jay" Vergara said the theme expresses the collective aspiration of the Cabanatueños to move forward to real progress and prosperity for the benefit of the city’s great majority.

The City of Cabanatuan is considered the commercial, industrial and educational hub of the province of Nueva Ecija.

Cabanatuan was founded as Barrio of Gapan in 1750 and became a municipality of Nueva Ecija in 1780. It became a city by virtue of Republic Act No. 526 which was approved in 1950.

Cabanatuan is the site of the historical Plaza Lucero and the Cabanatuan Cathedral, where General Antonio Luna was ambushed on his way to Palanan.

During World War II, the occupying Japanese built Cabanatuan Prison Camp, where many American soldiers were imprisoned, some of whom were forced to endure the infamous "Bataan Death March".

In January, 1945 elements of the U.S. Army 6th Ranger Battalion marched 30 miles behind enemy lines to rescue the prisoners in what became known as the “Raid at Cabanatuan.” (PCOO)

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Aquino leads 25th Anniversary rites of the Philippine Information Agency

President Benigno S. Aquino III stressed the importance of cooperation in the formulation of solutions to the challenges rather than being part of the problem as he urged them to continue supporting the government’s various efforts to effect reforms towards achieving sustainable progress and development in the country.

In his speech during the 25th Anniversary celebration of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) at its main office at the Visayas Avenue in Quezon City on Wednesday, the President cited the relevance of proper information handling and dissemination.

“Muli't muli po nating ididiin ang halaga ng ating pagkakaisa sa pakikibahagi sa solusyon, sa halip na dumagdag pa sa problema. Kakambal ng isinusulong nating katarungan sa lahat ng antas ng pamamahala ang pagtataguyod ng pangmatagalang kaunlaran sa ating bansa,” the President said.

“Patuloy po nating palaganapin ang liwanag ng pagbabago, at patibayin pa ang ating pagkakapit-bisig tungo sa pagkakamit ng tunay na kasaganahan sa ating bayan,” he added.

The President acknowledged the PIA’s role in efforts to ferret out the truth for the benefit of the country and the Filipino people.

“Ito (PIA) ang magiging kasangga natin sa paglalabas ng katotohanan hindi paminsan-minsan kundi palagian… at iyon po ang inaasahan natin sa kanila… na talagang mabibigyan ang ating mga kababayan ng tunay at tamang impormasyon sa tamang oras para naman po maka-desisyon ang ating mga mamamayan ng tama parati,” President Aquino said.

He added that through the PIA, significant data are made known to the people, eventually making them equipped to decide on matters of national interest.

The Chief Executive also expressed high hopes that the launching of PIA’s newest technological tools in information management would lead to a better and more intelligent citizenry.

“Iyan po ang palagay kong buod ng inyong mandato, hindi po magpa-pogi kanino man, kundi para tulungan na mabigyan ng kakayahan at kapangyarihan ang ating mga mamamayan maka-desisyon ng tama sa lahat po ng panahon. Inaasahan ko po na iyan ang mangyayari sa inyong mga bagong pamamaraan,” the President said.

During the event, President Aquino led in launching the agency’s new website, text blast system and art gallery.

Witnessing the simple ceremonies are cabinet officials led by Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio “Sonny” B. Coloma Jr., Health Secretary Enrique Ona, Environment and Natural resources Secretary Ramon Paje, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Director General Joel Villanuevaa and Commission on Human Rights Chairperson Etta Rosales.

Also in attendance were Quezon City Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte, PIA Director General Jose Fabia and Philippine Broadcasting Service Director Tito Cruz, among others.

President Aquino also witnessed the turn over of the symbolic discs by Fabia to Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office (PCDSPO) Undersecretary Manolo Quezon III. The discs contain PIA’s collection, which were handed over to the Presidential Museum and Library under the PCDSPO.

The New PIA Website (www.pia.gov.ph) is the new face of the Agency in the online microcosm. It is a vast improvement from the previous website as it incorporates an interactive feature allowing real-time feedback mechanism while providing access to timely news and photos around the country, updates on government programs and projects, official pronouncements, and links to other government portals.

The PIA Text Blast is a Public-Private Partnership project of the PIA and the National Telecommunications Commission with the major telecom companies. It serves as a platform for sending free short messaging system (SMS) on vital government information to mobile phone users nationwide.

Among the SMS that will be sent for free include Presidential pronouncements, information on people’s health, updates on government programs, services and news advisories.

The PIA Art Gallery provides a venue for budding artists to showcase their outstanding works of art and at the same time, inspire others to promote Filipino culture through different art forms. (PCOO)

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Creation of Philippine Information Agency is a milestone in country’s new concept of governance, says Coloma

Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio “Sonny” B. Coloma Jr. considers the creation of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) as a milestone showing the country’s new concept of governance where communication is utilized in pushing for the well-being and development of the Filipino people.

In an ambush interview during the 25th Anniversary celebration of the Philippine Information Agency at the its main office at the Visayas Avenue in Quezon City on Wednesday, Secretary Coloma said that the PIA’s establishment, through Executive Order No. 100 issued December 24, 1986 in accordance with the revolutionary legislative powers of then President Corazon C. Aquino under the 1986 Freedom Constitution, is one of the significant fruits of the Edsa People Power revolution.

He said that the Agency will never again be used as a propaganda tool by the government as practiced prior to its inception.

“The PIA was established by an Executive Order, which is a law that was enacted when President Corazon Aquino had legislative powers and it is a very significant milestone because it is a fruit of the Edsa People Power revolution, that we now have a new concept of communication and a new concept of governance that communication will never again be used as a propaganda tool but used for the well-being and for the development of our people… that is the significance of the milestone that we are observing today,” Coloma said.

“Binabati ko po lahat ng mga kasapi ng organisasyon ng PIA, mga kawani, mga opisyal, regional directors, staff directors, at lahat ng mga stakeholders natin, kabilang na ang iba’t-ibang ahensya ng pamahalaan sapagkat ito pong PIA ay nag-e-exist para makapaglingkod sa ating mga mamamayan, para sa mga government agencies at para sa kapakanan ng buong Sambayanang Pilipino,” Coloma noted.

Upon its creation, the PIA was envisioned to provide a free flow of accurate, timely and relevant information that will assist the people in decision-making and identification of opportunities to improve the quality of life. It also enables the citizenry to participate meaningfully in the democratic processes.

Its tasks include the establishment and maintenance of selected regional/provincial information centers on community needs for use in planning communications programs and provide basic information of government and on areas of particular interests to the community it serves.

The PIA is also mandated to perform the following provision of technical assistance to other government agencies on the communication component of their programs; initiate the planning and implement the information programs of national scope; assessment of information needs of the people through opinion polls and surveys to be used to systematically obtain the public's needs and views on government programs, and to plan information programs; lead in the conduct of research studies for policy formulation and the evaluation of information program effectiveness; and the upgrading of skills of government information officers, rural broadcasters, communicators, journalists and other communications personnel through training services and/or consultancy, among others. (PCOO)

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Aquino lays out plans to help transport sector cope with fuel price increases

President Benigno S. Aquino III detailed Wednesday plans of the administration to help the transport sector cope with the effect of the continuing fuel price increases part of which is to work out a 30-day buffer supply of petroleum products.

The President said he has asked for an update on the movement of fuel prices from the Department of Energy (DOE) adding that while there are recent increases in prices these adjustments are minimal compared to last year prices.

“Yung sinisigurado natin na mayroon tayong nasa 24 days (buffer stock), kung hindi ako nagkakamali. We’re targeting that instead of just 24 and a half days there is a 30-day buffer supply. That’s number one,” the President told reporters in an interview during the Philippine Information Agency’s (PIA) 25th anniversary celebration on Wednesday in Quezon City.

The government is also continuing the Pantawid Pasada program that helps the transport sector cope with the increases in fuel prices.

“Ang Pantawid Pasada program, there’s still an allocation of roughly something like about P200 million plus remaining balance. In short, we don’t need a new funding for it. Puwede pa nating gamitin yung dati para ma-service yung roughly about 60 percent,” the President said.

The government can still provide two cycles of Pantawid Pasada without increasing the funding, the President said. The government has enough money after the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) reviewed the list of legitimate franchised holders who are entitled for government support.

The chief executive said his administration is also working out to create a mechanism that could directly link drivers and transport operators to manufacturers and suppliers so they can get cheaper materials and spare parts for their vehicles.

“Maraming schemes pero yung pinaka-workable, kakausapin natin yung mga manufacturers, magbubukas ng mga factory outlets diretso na sa kanila, bawas yung profit ng middleman, para mabawasan yung gastos nila sa kanilang mga pagpapatakbo ng mga sasakyan,” he said.

There are also loans available to transport cooperatives planning to set up their own gasoline stations. The President said the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) and the Philippine National Bank (PNB) can give up to P10-million per gasoline station.

According to the President, this scheme is now being implemented in Baguio City, saying that part of the program is training in the downstream improvement of the energy sector.

The President also issued a warning against the illegal bus operators to abide by the law. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Tuesday, January 31, 2012

2012-01-31T06:00:00.000-08:00

‘Elevate public discourse, empower people’, Coloma tells communicators

Mass media practitioners have a major role in elevating public discourse as well as empowering the people towards national progress and reform, Presidential Communication Operations Office Secretary Herminio “Sonny” Coloma Jr. said before the graduating batch of journalism students of the Asian Institute of Journalism and Communication in San Juan City on Monday.

“In the context of the present day Philippine realities what are your responsibilities as citizens and scholars? I want to suggest that to be truly relevant citizens-scholars must work purposively to become instruments for liberating our fellow Filipinos from the shackles of poverty and ignorance.

“Kalayaan po ang pinag-uusapan natin dito,” Coloma said in his commencement message.

To achieve this goal, Coloma cited three imperatives – that the graduates serve as channel for the propagation of communication for development or C4D, that they should work together to elevate the quality of public discourse, and that the students, being masters of their craft, serve as teachers, mentors and artists of encouragement.

Explaining the C4D as a dialogue or a social process, Coloma said this is where communities express their aspirations and concerns and community members participate in decisions that relate to their environment.

The role of media practitioners is to empower people in their communities to engage them in shaping their own destiny, Coloma said.

“Kailangan po nating bigyan ng pagkakataon ang ating mga mamamayan na isaad ang kanilang saloobin, iparating ang kanilang mga hinaing at bigyang-tinig at kahulugan ang kanilang mga pangarap. Iyan po ang layunin ng Philippine Development Plan ng administrasyon ni Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III,” he said.

According to Coloma, President Aquino wants that even the poorest Filipino benefits from the inclusive growth achieved by the country through government economic endeavors.

The media has tremendous role in raising the awareness of the people on many issues, particularly climate change and disaster response, Coloma added.

To raise the quality of public discourse, Coloma suggested that media practitioners must also focus on developmental form of reportage instead of delving too much on politics and controversies.

In concluding his message, Coloma urged the graduates to take on their roles as masters and mentors with vigor and dedication.

“Sana po ay maglingkod at magsilbi tayong lahat bilang tagapaghatid ng bagong pag-asa at tagapagtaguyod ng makabuluhang pagbabago sa ating mahal na bansang Pilipinas,” Coloma said. (PCOO)

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Aquino to lead Philippine Information Agency’s 25th Anniversary celebration Wednesday

President Benigno S. Aquino III will lead in a series of events on Wednesday in line with the 25th Anniversary celebration of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), the lead agency which serves as the direct link of communication between the government and the people as well as a dais where the citizens could express their opinions, views and beliefs to the highest official of the land.

Upon his arrival, the President will be received by Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio “Sonny” B. Coloma Jr. and PIA Director General Jose Fabia.

Topping President Aquino’s activities are the launching of the agency’s newest technological approach in efforts to better serve the Filipino people, the PIA’s New Website and SMS portal.

Following the launch, the Chief Executive will also witness the turn-over of the symbolic discs by Fabia to Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office (PCDSPO) Undersecretary Manolo Quezon III. The discs are PIA’s collection that will be handed to the Presidential Museum and Library under the PCDSPO.

Culminating the President’s attendance to the PIA event will be the viewing of the PIA Exhibit and Art Gallery.

The Philippine Information Agency was created by virtue of Executive Order No. 100 issued December 24, 1986 in accordance with revolutionary legislative powers of then President Corazon C. Aquino under the 1986 Freedom Constitution.

Upon its creation, the PIA was envisioned to provide a free flow of accurate, timely and relevant information that will assist the people in decision-making and identification of opportunities to improve quality of life. It also enables the citizenry to participate meaningfully in the democratic processes.

Its tasks include the establishment and maintenance of selected regional/provincial information centers on community needs for use in planning communications programs and provide basic information of government and on areas of particular interests to the community it serves.

The provision of technical assistance to other government agencies on the communication component of their programs; initiate the planning and implement the information programs of national scope; assessment of information needs of the people through opinion polls and surveys to be used to systematically obtain the public's needs and views on government programs and to plan information programs; lead in the conduct of research studies for policy formulation and the evaluation of information program effectiveness; and the upgrading of skills of government information officers, rural broadcasters, communicators, journalists and other communications personnel through training services and/or consultancy, among others. (PCOO)

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Aquino government to exert extra effort to achieve 2012 economic growth target

Malacanang said the Aquino government will exert its best efforts to achieve five to six percent gross domestic product (GDP) this year based on the instruction of President Benigno S. Aquino III.

“We will certainly be exerting our best efforts to meet the target. And, as such, the President has already made several pronouncements on this and we will be following… the concerned agencies will be following suit,” Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said during a press briefing in Malacanang on Tuesday.

Valte was responding to reporters’ questions whether the government considers achieving the five to six percent GDP target an uphill fight for the Aquino administration.

Valte also defended the economic growth of the country during the initial years of the Aquino government saying that while figures are a bit lower compared to the previous administration, more Filipinos benefited from the achievements of the present government.

“Mas maganda naman yung inclusive growth. Katulad ng sinabi ng Pangulo, while you see numbers that is to the liking of some of our economists, mas maganda naman po na mas marami sa atin ang nakakaramdam of the growth that we have had now,” she said.

At the same time, Valte reiterated the government thrust of a more aggressive spending this year to boost the country’s economy particularly in infrastructure development and agriculture.

While there are some criticisms about the lackluster spending of the government that affected the country’s economic growth last year, the administration said external factors have contributed to slower economic growth.

Among these factors include the financial woes in Europe, the slowdown of the US economy, the disasters that hit Japan, and the political uncertainties in the Middle East.

The Philippines, being an exporter of semiconductors and electronic products as well as agricultural products and human services, was affected by the recent developments in the global economic environment. (PCOO)

Malacanang announces appointment of new government officials

Malacanang bared the newly-appointed officials of the government who will be part of the Aquino administration’s continuous initiatives in pushing for developmental programs through the straight and righteous path towards sustainable development and progress for the Filipino citizenry.

In a regular press briefing in Malacanang on Tuesday, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte announced the newly-installed officials led by Cherrie B. Belmonte-Lim as Acting Director III, Department of National Defense.

A practicing lawyer since 1995, Belmonte-Lim has served as Officer-in-Charge, Director III under the Department of Health, Legislative Staff Officer VI in the Senate and Researcher/Writer in the Regional Trial Court Branch 36, among others.

Belmonte-Lim obtained her law degree from the University of the Philippines and earned her Masters Degree in National Security Administration from the National Defense College of the Philippines in the year 2000.

Also appointed were Eva P. Ponce De Leon as Regular Member of the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) and Benjamin P. Reyes as Deputy Executive Director for Operations of the DDB.

Ponce De Leon who served as Chairperson of the Philippine National Red Cross has been active in social work including the programs on the prevention and treatment of drug abuse in the country.

Reyes for his part has also been equally involved in the drug abuse treatment and prevention programs of the government. He graduated Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of the Philippines in 1994.

Valte also announced the appointment of Jesus Leocario Barrera as member, Representing the Sugar Millers, Sugar Regulatory Administration under the Department of Agriculture. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Monday, January 30, 2012

2012-01-30T06:57:00.000-08:00

Aquino swears in Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry officers

President Benigno S. Aquino III administered the oaths of office of the newly elected Board of Directors and Officers of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry in ceremonies held in Malacañang on Monday.

Of the 44 new officers, only 30 were able to attend the swearing in by the President, who was joined by Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo.

These were: Miguel Varela, president; Jose Pardo, chairman Council of Advisers; Alfredo Yao, chairman; Francis Chua, chairman Emeritus; Sergio Ortiz-Luis, Jr., honorary chairman; Edgardo Lacson, honorary chairman; Donald Dee, vice chairman;

Jose Alejandro, George Barcelon, William Co, Eric Cruz, Menardo Jimenez, Sammie Lim, Antonio Lopa, and Benjamin Romualdez, Nora Lacuna, Victoria Gaetos, Eduardo Nicolas III, Ricardo Juliano as vice presidents;

Roberto Amores, chair for agriculture; Apolinar Aure, chair for mediation; Francis Ferrer, chair for ICT; Francisco Floro, chair for MSMEs; Henry Lim-Bonliong, chair for food-security; Tomasa Lipana, chair for taxation; Eduardo Ong, chair for formal education;

Renato Simbulan, chair for Philippine Chamber Development Institute; Alfonso Siy, chair for trade; Jesus Varela, chair for information and Public Relations; and Nelson Yuchongtian, Co-Chair for Trade.

The President wished the new officers good luck on their endeavors as he informed them of the strides the government is making to make the Philippines a more attractive investment venue.

He said the manufacturing sector is on an upswing and the government is working towards sustaining this outlook by implementing measures that will bring down electricity rates through the implementation of the open access electricity market that allows large electricity users in Luzon and Visayas to choose their own power suppliers.

For his part, PCCI president Miguel Varela assured the President of the group’s continued support.

“The PCCI will continue to work in partnership with government. We will put in the necessary inputs to make that work and that’s what we are doing right now,” Varela said. (PCOO)

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Palace says PHL remains committed towards peaceful Asia-Pacific region

The Philippines remains committed in ensuring peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region in the midst of a stronger military cooperation with the United States.

“From our point of view we continue to be committed to ensuring peace and stability in the region. And again in connection to whatever disputes that we may have our commitment remains firm that we will pursue every diplomatic channel, avenue and recourse that we may be able to solve it peacefully,” Deputy Presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said during the press conference in Malacanang on Monday.

Valte made this statement in reaction to a question whether China has something to worry about with regards to the Philippines’s commitment towards peace and stability in the region.

Valte said the Philippines will not compromise the peace in the region even as the country forges bilateral relations with other countries.

On Sunday, China’s state media said the Chinese government should impose “sanctions” against the Philippines after the latter offered to allow more US troops on its soil. The statement came in the midst of growing tensions over the disputed waters in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).

But Valte reiterated that dispute on the West Philippine Sea is a small facet of the good relationship between China and the Philippines. She said the Philippines has been pursuing several other relationships with China such as tourism and trade which was bolstered by President Aquino’s visit there last year.

The President’s spokesperson also reiterated that the discussion on the expanded presence of the US in the region is something that is still in the early stages of talks.

“Nothing is final yet. We have expressed several initiatives mainly on how to assist us to boost our defense capabilities. Again, as we stated earlier, we really do need to catch up with our neighbors when it comes to our defense capabilities,” she said.

China, Philippines, and Vietnam, have rival claims to parts of the West Philippine Sea, an area located in the world’s most important shipping lanes and believed to hold vast deposits of fossil fuel. Other claimants to the disputed Spratly Islands include Taiwan, Brunei and Malaysia.

Last year, the Philippines and Vietnam complained on what they said were increasingly aggressive acts by China in the decades-long rift. (PCOO)
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Aquino declares Feb. 4 as special non-working holiday in Zambales for the holding of special elections in Second District

President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared February 4, which falls on Saturday as a special non-working holiday in the province of Zambales in connection with the holding of the special elections for the 2nd District of Zambales following the death of 2nd District Representative Antonio Magsaysay Diaz last year.

In Proclamation No. 324 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on January 25, 2012, the President underscored the need to issue the declaration to afford the registered voters of the Second Legislative District the opportunity to participate fully in the special elections.

The President noted that "there may also be registered voters in the Second Legislative District who are working in the neighboring First Legislative District of the Province of Zambales."

On November 29, 2011, the Commission on Elections en banc promulgated Resolution No.11-1203, setting the second district congressional special elections on February 4, to fill up the vacant position left by Rep. Diaz.

The late congressman, who died on August 3, 2011, was a nephew of former President Ramon Magsaysay.

The election body announced the enforcement of a gun ban in Olongapo City and 13 other towns in Zambales for the start of the special elections in the second district of the province.

The COMELEC guidelines said any private individual, incumbent officials or political candidates are prohibited to carry firearms or hire armed personnel during the congressional election. The campaign period is ongoing until February 2. (PCOO)

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Malacañang says Aquino government taking steps to lessen impact of continuing rise of crude oil in the world market

The Aquino government has started exerting all possible efforts to lessen the impact of the continuing rise of prices of crude oil in the world market on consumers and our economy, a Palace official said on Monday.

Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte issued the statement during the regular press briefing held in Malacanang on Monday, in response to news reports regarding the claims of Iran that oil prices could rise as high as $150 a barrel because of the European Union (EU) ban on imports of Iranian crude.

"I believe that is something that the Department of Energy (DOE) is already aware of and again, they have been taking steps to come up with measures if and when something like that happens," Valte said.

The DOE has stepped up its efforts to ensure that prices of petroleum products in the country remain fair and reasonable. The DOE also started implementing other measures to address the impact of the continuing rise of prices of crude oil.

News reports revealed that the European Union Foreign Ministers have agreed to ban oil imports from Iran starting July 1 as part of measures to ratchet up the pressure on the Persian Gulf nation’s nuclear program, the 27-nation bloc said in a statement issued last week.

The EU will freeze assets of the Iranian central bank in Europe as well as of eight other entities and ban the trade in gold, precious metals, diamonds and petrochemical products from Iran, the EU said.

Iran Deputy Oil Ministry Ahmad Qalebani said oil prices could rise as high as $150 a barrel in the future, according to news reports. (PCOO)

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Aquino leads Galing Pook 2011 Awards in Malacañang

President Benigno S. Aquino III underscored the important role of local government units as partners of the Aquino administration in pushing for developmental projects focusing on poverty alleviation, education and health as part of his social contract with the Filipino people.

Speaking before fellow public servants, guests and the winners in the Galing Pook Awards 2011 at the Rizal Hall of the Malacanang Palace on Monday, the President said that through good governance as a result of constant cooperation from the national and local governments with the unwavering support from the people, the country will undoubtedly fulfill sustainable progress and development.

“Manalig lamang po tayo sa mga makabuluhang bunga ng mabuting pamamahala, sa pakikipagtulungan ng lokal at pambansang pamahalaan, at sa pakikibalikat ng bawat isa. Sama-sama po natin itong (progress) abutin sa tuwid na daan tungo sa isang mas matibay at mas masaganang kinabukasan,” the President said.

“Sadyang hindi matatawaran ang papel na ginagampanan ng ating Local Government Units sa ating krusada tungo sa kaunlaran. Kayo ang katuwang ng ating administrasyon sa pagpapatupad ng mga reporma sa lokal na antas; kayo ang nagsisilbing sangay ng pambansang pamahalaan sa pagsisiguro na tugma ang ating mga inisyatiba at proyekto, at direkta nitong naaapektuhan ang buhay ng bawat Pilipino sa positibong paraan,” he added.

Unity and cooperation, the President said, are essential tools in attaining the objectives in the United Nations’ Millennium Development Goals.

“Kung ang Millennium Development Goals ng United Nations ang ating magiging sukatan ng mga natatamasa nating kaunlaran — mula sa pagsugpo sa kahirapan at kagutuman, sa pagpapabuti ng sistemang pang-edukasyon, sa pagkakapantay-pantay sa lipunan, hanggang sa pangangalaga sa kalusugan at kapaligiran — talaga naman pong masasabi nating mas mabilis natin itong maaabot sa ating pagbabayanihan sa tuwid na daan,” the President said.

The Chief Executive also recognized the various projects of the local government units (LGUs) that have directly affected the lives of the Filipinos.

“Ang lahat po ng mga proyektong ito ay nagbunga mula sa masusing koordinasyon ng pambansa at lokal na pamahalaan, at ang masigasig na pakikiisa ng mamamayan. Sumasaludo po ako sa mga local chief executives na kasama natin ngayon. Hindi niyo lamang sinisiguro ang tagumpay ng bawat isinasagawa ninyong proyekto; binibigyang-lakas din ninyo ang mga mamamayan upang makilahok sa katuparan ng ating mga adhikain,” the President noted.

Initiated in October 21, 1993, the Galing Pook awards is a pioneering program that recognizes innovations and excellence in local governance.

The awardees are chosen from a national search of local governance programs, evaluated through a rigorous multilevel screening process based on positive results and impact, promotion of people’s participation and empowerment, innovation, transferability and sustainability, and efficiency of program service delivery.

Beyond the awards, winning programs become models of good governance promoted for adoption in other communities. They provide useful insights and strategies to find innovative solutions to common problems. More importantly, they affirm the community and the local government’s commitment to good governance.

Since its inception, at least 230 programs of 152 local governments were awarded the Galing Pook. These awardees become very important advocates in stimulating and inspiring other local governments to introduce innovative practices and provide a fertile environment for the replication of successful reforms.

A total of 137 entries were submitted this year, 55 from Luzon, 33 from Visayas and 49 from Mindanao.

The ten awardees for 2011 are Sarangani Province (Justice on Wheels), Misamis Oriental (Turning red to green), Upi Maguindanao (rural community e-Center), Zamboanga del Norte (empowering the Subanen people), Limasawa Southern Leyte (poor municipality can eliminate malnutrition), Alimodian Iloilo (bringing high schools closer to home), Bohol province (rabies prevention and elimination), Maribojoc Bohol (LGU-led cadastral survey), Albay province (health strategy for MDG attainment) and Real, Gen. Nakar, Infanta and Panukulan in Quezon Province (community-based mental health management). (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Sunday, January 29, 2012

2012-01-29T04:21:00.000-08:00

Aquino to lead Galing Pook 2011 Award ceremonies in Malacanang Monday

President Benigno S. Aquino III will lead ceremonies for the 2011 Gawad Pook Awards that will be held in Malacañang on Monday, January 29, 2012.

He will be joined by Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo, Galing Pook National Selection Committee chair Rafael Coscolluela, and Galing Pook Foundation chairperson Nieves Confesor.

The Galing Pook Awards, which began in 1993, is an annual search for the best governance programs across the nation.

A stringent screening and judging process looks at positive results and impact, people’s participation and empowerment, innovation, efficiency of program service delivery, and transferability and sustainability.

This year’s Galing Pook awardees were chosen for providing innovative solutions to disaster response, community-based funeral services, increasing public participation in governance, creating model communities, boosting an agricultural economy, environmental management, and improving health services.

At least 150 local government units (LGUs) have been awarded, involving more than 240 programs covering health care, peacekeeping, livelihood, housing and a variety of issues. (PCOO)

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Malacanang thanks U.N. representative for positive feedback on government efforts to address flood victims in Northern Mindanao

Malacañang on Sunday thanked the special representative for disaster risk reduction sent by the United Nations for her positive feedback on the services rendered by the government to address the plight of the flood victims in Northern Mindanao.

Margareta Wahlstrom, head of the Geneva-based UN International Strategy for Disaster Reduction, was quoted in a newspaper report commending the Philippine government as well as non-government organizations, church and civil society groups on what she described as “very good and prompt response” in the aftermath of tropical storm Sendong.

Wahlstrom visited Cagayan de Oro and Iligan—the two cities that suffered the most damages and casualties—last January 24 to 27 at about the same time President Benigno S. Aquino III spearheaded the shelter-building communities there.

Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte welcomed Wahlstrom’s positive remarks, saying that this shows us the value of cooperation not only between the local and national governments but the private sectors as well.

Wahlstrom specifically cited the NGO’s plan of actions for the survivors of the flashfloods, calling it an “impressive work”.

“Ito lang po ‘yung isang example na…kapag lahat po tayo nagko-cooperate sa isa’t isa—nandiyan ang private sector, nandyan po ang national at local government. Kaya nagpapasalamat naman po tayo na nagkakaroon naman ng magandang feedback—hindi lang sa response ng pamahalaan kundi sa response po nating lahat,” Valte said.

In his visit to Cagayan de Oro and Iligan cities last Wednesday, President Aquino assured those who survived the onslaught of typhoon Sendong that the government will not stop until their lives are back to normal again.

“Hindi po tayo makakapayag na laging nasa bingit ng alanganin at naglalaro sa dehado ang kaligtasan ni Juan dela Cruz. Sa tulong ng mga katuwang na ahensiya, tinitiyak natin na ang bawat inisyatibang ating ipinapatupad ay hindi lamang panandaliang tugon, hindi lamang paunang-lunas na bukas-makalawa ay isa nang problema; bagkus mga pangmatagalang solusyon,” the President said in a speech at Barangay Sta. Elena in Iligan City.

The government has allocated over P300-million courtesy of the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Quick Response Fund and the National Housing Authority to subsidize over 5,000 housing units for the benefit of the flood victims. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Saturday, January 28, 2012

2012-01-28T02:19:00.000-08:00

Government now working to prevent marine pollution

The Aquino government has started implementing measures to address the problem of pollution threatening the country’s fish supplies, a Palace official said on Saturday.

During an interview aired over government-run dzRB Radyo ng Bayan on Saturday, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) are now working actively to prevent and eliminate marine pollution.

"Nakikipag-coordinate po ‘ang Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resource sa ilalim ni Attorney Asis Perez para ma-dismantle ng mga local government units ang mga illegal pens," Valte said.

In coordination with other concerned government agencies, the BFAR continues to intensify its efforts towards the complete elimination of the practice of dumping of pollutants that endanger the marine environment.

Valte assured the public that the Aquino government remains steadfast in its drive to prevent air, land and water pollution.

Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje vowed to further enhance the country’s air quality management program in the wake of a report that air pollution remains one of the three major health issues confronting the nation, according to Valte.

"Pangalawa, conscious po ang DENR diyan. Kung naaalala niyo po ito ‘yung crackdown natin doon sa mga smoke emission testing centers na either walang lisensya or masyadong maraming certification na nilalabas na obvious namang hindi nila tine-test," Valte said.

"Dahil dito, bumaba naman ang pollution index natin. It is an issue that the DENR is very aware of," she said.

News reports said the UN marine experts claimed that fish habitat is being destroyed by pollution and climate change. It is also urging all governments and business establishments to do something to prevent pollution.

Vincent Sweeney, United Nations Environment Programme’s coordinator for the Global Program of Action to prevent marine environment degradation from land-based pollutants, said up to 90 percent of sewage in developing countries is discharged untreated into rivers, lakes and oceans, posing one of the most serious threats to water resources. (PCOO)

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Puerto Princesa Underground River makes it to final list of New Seven Wonders of Nature

Malacanang expressed elation over reports that the Puerto Princesa Underground River (PPUR) was declared as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, a Palace official said on Saturday.

"Confirmation that the Puerto Princesa Underground River is one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature is welcome news indeed. Throughout the competition, Filipinos from all walks of life have given time, energy, and resources to this campaign," Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said in a statement issued on Saturday.

Puerto Princesa Underground River (PPUR) is now confirmed as one of the New7Wonders of Nature. It is reputed to be the longest navigable underground river in the World.

"This effort has raised awareness not only overseas, but nationally as well: visits to the PPUR have increased tremendously. This is proof positive of how effective a national effort of this sort can be --- to build awareness, express pride, and achieve results," Lacierda said.

In 2011, President Benigno S. Aquino III urged all Filipinos here and abroad to vote and support the country’s pride, the Puerto Princesa Underground River, as one of the finalists in the global search for the New 7 Wonders of Nature.

For his part, Bernard Weber, Founder-President of New7Wonders, congratulated the people of the Philippines for supporting their national finalist in the global campaign.

“When your very own President Aquino came out in support of the PPUR campaign, I knew that this country was taking the New7Wonders of Nature seriously,” Weber said.

“Fans of PPUR all over the world responded to his call for action by voting in record numbers and today’s confirmation is the well-earned reward for this extraordinary display of enthusiasm,” he added.

Puerto Princesa Underground River is located some 50km north of the city of Puerto Princesa, on Palawan Island in the Philippines.

It consists of a limestone karst mountain landscape, several large chambers containing significant formations of stalactites and stalagmites, and an 8.2 km. navigable underground river that winds through a cave before flowing directly into the West Philippine Sea. At the exit, a flawless lagoon is framed by ancient trees growing right to the water’s edge.

The provisional New7Wonders of Nature are, in alphabetical order: Amazon, Halong Bay, Iguazu Falls, Jeju Island, Komodo, Puerto Princesa Underground River, and Table Mountain.

Following Jeju Island, Puerto Princesa Underground River is the second to be confirmed on a preliminary basis, as New7Wonders has now completed the telephone voting validation in the Philippines.

The remaining five provisional New7Wonders of Nature are currently undergoing the three steps of the verification process, namely the national voting validation, the global voting calculation confirmation by an independent audit firm, and the preparation and implementation of the Official Inauguration ceremonies. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Friday, January 27, 2012

2012-01-27T03:45:00.000-08:00

Aquino leads launching of Philippines Business Registry System

President Benigno S. Aquino III led the launching Friday of the Philippines Business Registry System (PBRS) in Makati City which is aimed at streamlining business registrations in the country and eliminating red tape.

The PBRS is a web-based system that will serve as a one-stop shop for entrepreneurs who want to transact or register their businesses. The computerized registration systems will link several agencies so that applicants can register businesses even without their presence.

Interlinked government agencies under the PBR system include the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG), Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (Philhealth), Social Security System (SSS) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Through the PBRS, sole proprietors can now register their business names, generate or validate their tax identification number (TIN) and get employer registration numbers from the SSS, Philhealth and Pag-IBIG Fund.

One of the local government units (LGU) connected with the system is Quezon City. Caloocan and Mandaluyong are expected to connect to the system in the coming months.

The launching ceremony is the first phase of the PBR program. This year, more LGUs and other regulatory offices will connect to the system.

The PBR is one of the government’s priority projects to streamline business registration process and eliminate red tape. Through the PBRS, the Aquino administration hopes that the country will be more attractive to investors and will improve its ranking in the global business competitiveness.

During the launching rites, the President had a briefing on the actual client applications. He also witnessed the awarding of citation certificates to the five heads participating agencies that include SEC chairperson Teresita Herbosa, Pag-IBIG Fund Chief Executive Officer Darlene Berberabe, BIR Deputy Commissioner Lilia Guillermo, SSS president and Chief Executive Officer Emilio de Quiros Jr.

Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo and Trade Undersecretary Zenaida Maglaya also joined the President during the event. (PCOO)

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Malacanang maintains there are no plans for American military bases in the country

The Philippines and the United States will hold joint military drills to improve the defense capabilities of the two countries, but there are no plans to re-establish vast American military bases in the country, a Palace official said on Friday.

During the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Friday, Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office (PCDSPO) Secretary Ramon Carandang said there are no discussions on bringing back permanent U.S. military bases in the country.

"None of these initiatives involve any kind of basing arrangements similar to what we had prior to 1991. Hindi po tayo nag-iisip na magbalik ng US bases similar to Subic and Clark prior to 1991. What we’re really looking at is to enhance our defense cooperation," Carandang said.

The exercises aim to improve RP-US combined planning, combat readiness, and interoperability and enhance security relations to respond to threats that include terrorists, pirates and smugglers, or dealing with natural disasters.

He averred that they are still in the process of detailed planning to ensure the success of the scheduled military exercises called the 2012 Balikatan.

"The Aquino administration, since it came into office, has been working very hard to enhance our defense capabilities, particularly our maritime capabilities. We’re doing this in cooperation not just with the United States, but also with Australia and other Asian neighbors. So that’s part and parcel of our efforts to enhance our defense capabilities," he said.

The Balikatan or "shoulder-to-shoulder" exercises have mostly been done around northern Luzon in the past years. For this year, the Philippines and the US are planning to hold the joint military exercises in Palawan.

The Balikatan is an annual RP-US bilateral military humanitarian assistance and training exercise under the auspices of the Mutual Defense Treaty and the Visiting Forces Agreement.

Carandang assured that the exercises will be held within the undisputed Philippine territory.

The Philippine Senate voted in 1991 to close major U.S. military bases in the country. (PCOO)

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Aquino leads launching of Bureau of Corrections ten-year Roadmap at New Bilibid Prison

President Benigno S. Aquino III bared the various continuing efforts of the government to implement essential reforms in the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) to provide a sense of hope to those undergoing rehabilitation.

In his speech during the launching of the BuCor 2022 Road Map and Stakeholders Fellowship at the New Bilibid Prison Reservation in Muntinlupa City, Friday, President Aquino said that the bureau should be identified as a source of “Hope” by the inmates as they prepare to face the challenges outside the penitentiary.

“Ito na nga po ang magiging bagong mukha ng bilibid: pag-asa… na pagkatapos nilang pagbayaran ang mga maling nagawa nila sa nakaraan, may pagkakataon silang magkaroon ng maayos na trabaho at disenteng pagkakakitaan dahil handa na silang humakbang tungo sa bagong buhay at kinabukasan,” the President said.

“Ito ang pag-asang hatid ng ating sistemang koreksyonal … ito ang pagbabago na ipinangako natin noon na tinutupad natin ngayon bilang isang makatarungan, maunlad at makataong bansa sa tuwid na daan… Sa paglulunsad natin ng Bureau of Corrections roadmap itutulak natin ang ating sistemang koreksyonal tungo sa tuwid na daan kung saan ang tanging layunin ng bilibid at ng bilangguan sa Pilipinas ay ang tiyakin ang makabuluhang rehabilitasyon at pagbabagong buhay ng mga bilanggo upang sila ay maging handa sa kanilang pagbabalik bilang bahagi ng kalakhang lipunan,” he added.

The President said that the reforms initiated in the BuCor include the construction of new buildings in various detention facilities in the country to help in decongesting the penitentiary and the continuous launching of livelihood programs that could help the inmates not only in supporting their families financially but also in their skills development.

“Layon nating tapusin na ang mga araw ng mga seldang maihahambing sa lata ng sardinas, hangad nating wakasan na ang pagbabalewala sa kalusugan at karapatan ng mga nakabilanggo… nais nating putulin na ang talamak na kuntyabahan at palakasan ng may mga impluwensyang tao.”

At present, the Chief Executive said, around 20 thousand were detained in the New Bilibid Prison which only has a capacity to confine nine thousand people.

“Siyam na libo lang po dapat ang kapasidad ng New Bilibid Prison subalit sa kasalukuyan humigit kumulang dalawampung libong katao po ang nakakulong dito,” the President said.

He added that the government is considering the transfer of the facilities in a much better location.

“Kaya naman kasalukuyan nang inaayos ang planong paglilipat ng New Bilibid Prison sa mas angkop na lokasyon upang ito ay maging isang mas malawak at mas epektibong koreksyonal na pasilidad,” President Aquino added.

“Patuloy tayong naglulunsad ng iba’t-ibang programang pangkabuhayan sa mga kulungan na maaari nilang (inmates) kapulutan ng bagong mga abilidad at karunungan,” he said.

President Aquino also said that he has already directed the Department of Justice to expedite the processing of data that will be included in the National Justice Information System that serves as data base of records from various agencies of the government.

Also, the government is pushing for the BuCor modernization bill which aims to further train and enhance the capabilities of the BuCor personnel.

Also present during the event were Justice Secretary Leila de Lima, Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Bureau of Corrections Director Gaudencio Pangilinan, Muntinlupa City Mayor Aldrin San Pedro and Bureau of Immigration Commissioner Ricardo David Jr., among others.

The Bureau of Corrections Strategic Plan: “BuCor 2022” aims to improve public safety; provide humane, decent and secured inmate environment; provide an expanded inmate post-release opportunities; professional and accountable corrections administration and an improved resource management system. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Thursday, January 26, 2012

2012-01-26T17:45:00.000-08:00

Malacanang remains committed to curb piracy

Malacanang vowed to curb the proliferation of intellectual piracy in the country saying that there will be no “sacred cows” among the officials of the Aquino government following the involvement of one of its cabinet members in the purchase of “pirated” digital video discs (DVDs), recently.

In a regular press briefing in Malacanang, Thursday, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda stressed that the Aquino government remains committed to efforts undertaken by the various concerned agencies that include the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Optical Media Board, among others, in addressing the problem of “piracy.”

“Our commitment, not only with respect to OMB but also with respect to DTI and the other agencies which are in the fore front of the fight against intellectual piracy… we remain firm in our fight against intellectual piracy in all its forms,” Lacierda said.

“I think it is important, incumbent on us public officials to behave in accordance with law…to behave in support of our drive in whatever drive the government has launched and one of them is the drive against intellectual piracy,” he added.

When asked if Presidential Political Adviser Secretary Ronald Llamas is indispensable, Lacierda made it clear that nobody is being given special treatment among the Aquino Cabinet officials.

“No one is indispensable… I can tell you that, if you’re going to ask me for calls for resignation, that is a personal decision on the part of Secretary Llamas to do so,” Lacierda said.

He added that the President has yet to discuss with Llamas what really transpired in the pirated DVD purchase issue.

“I think gustong marinig ni Pangulong Aquino kung ano talaga ang nangyari doon… ang sinabi ni Pangulong Aquino hindi pa klaro so, siguro magandang ipaliwanag ni Secretary Llamas kay Pangulong Aquino,” Lacierda said.

“None of us are untouchable… I just want to clarify,” Lacierda stressed.

Reports revealed that Secretary Llamas was spotted allegedly buying pirated DVDs in a mall in Quezon City raising queries on such actions of conflict with the government’s drive against the purchase of the illegal merchandise. (PCOO)

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Ochoa enjoins public servants to support 'Bayanihan ng Bayan'

Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. encouraged on Thursday government officials and employees to promote and participate in the "Bayanihan ng Bayan" project of the administration to help rebuild lives of typhoon victims in Mindanao.

Ochoa issued Memorandum Circular No. 26 enjoining all public servants to support the Bayanihan ng Bayan from January 25 to 28 in Iligan City after Tropical Storm "Sendong" ravaged the area and Cagayan De Oro City over a month ago.

"The event aims to illustrate the collective response and various ways the Filipinos can help victims of the typhoon," Ochoa stated in the memorandum. "It also intends to gather commitments from all over the country to rebuild devastated areas in Northern Mindanao."

On Wednesday, President Benigno S. Aquino III visited the relocation sites in Iligan City and Cagayan De Oro City, and launched the shelter program for typhoon victims. The President also assured local government units of the national government's support as they rehabilitate areas affected by Sendong.

Memorandum Circular No. 26, signed on January 25, specifically orders officials and employees of all departments, bureaus and agencies of the national government, as well as government-owned and -controlled corporations to support and take part in the Bayanihan ng Bayan. (PCOO)

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Aquino to attend Business Registry System launching

President Benigno S. Aquino III will lead on Friday the launching of the Philippines Business Registry System (PBRS) in Makati City which is aimed at speeding up business registrations in the country.

The PBRS is a web-based system that will serve as a one-stop shop for entrepreneurs who want to transact or register their businesses, Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) documents as well as Home development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG), Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (Philhealth) and Social Security System (SSS). Those documents are prerequisite in opening up a business.

The computerized registration systems will link those agencies so that applicants can register businesses even without their presence.

Through the PBRS, sole proprietors can now register their business names, generate or validate their tax identification number (TIN) and get employer registration numbers from the SSS, Philhealth and Pag-IBIG Fund.

During the launching rites, the President will be briefed on the actual client applications. He is also expected to witness the awarding of citation certificates to the five participating agencies.

The President will be joined by Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo, Trade Undersecretary Zenaida Maglaya and Provincial Director Arnaldo del Rosario of the Department of Trade and Industry-National Capital Region. (PCOO)

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Aquino declares Feb. 3 as special non-working day in commemoration of birth anniversary of Blas Ople

President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared February 3 which falls on a Friday as a special non-working day in the province of Bulacan in connection with the 85th birth anniversary of Blas F. Ople.

In Proclamation No. 323 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on January 25, 2012, the President issued the declaration to give the people of Bulacan the opportunity to commemorate the birth anniversary of Ople.

"Ople, who served as Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Senate President and Secretary of Labor, had devoted decades of his life to selfless dedicated and sincere service to our country and our people," the President said.

Ople was born in Hagonoy, Bulacan on February 3, 1927 to Felix Antonio Ople, a craftsman who repaired boats, and his wife Segundina Fajardo.

He graduated valedictorian of his grade school class at the Hagonoy Elementary School in 1941. Upon the invasion of the Philippines by Japan during World War II, the teenage Ople joined the guerilla movement and fought under the Del Pilar Regiment and the Buenavista Regiment of the Bulacan Military Area founded by Alejo Santos.

In 1948, he finished his high school studies at the Far Eastern University. He worked towards a degree in liberal arts at the Educational Center of Asia (formerly Quezon College) in Manila. Ople pursued a career in journalism.

Ople held several high-ranking positions in the executive and legislative branches of the Philippine government, including as Senate President from 1999 to 2000, and as Secretary of Foreign Affairs from 2002 until his death. He died on December 14, 2003. (PCOO)

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Stronger democracy improves country’s Press Freedom ranking, says Palace

The Philippines has improved in the 2011 Press Freedom Index by the Reporters sans Frontières (RSF) or Reporters without Borders because of better democratic space in the country, a Palace official said on Thursday.

RSF, a Brussels-based organization, said the Philippines has improved slightly in its 2011 Press Freedom Index although it still reels from the stigma of the November 2009 Maguindanao massacre where at least 57 were killed including 32 media people.

The Philippines ranked 140th in the 2011 Press Freedom Index, an annual rating index published by RSF that covers 178 countries worldwide.

“I think the press is not subjected to the kind of intimidation that they were in the previous administration. I think the people see that the violence being committed on media people is being addressed,” Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office (PCDSPO) Secretary Ramon Carandang said in an interview.

“And look at the kind of debate that goes on in media, it’s very free. And if we have complaints from time to time you can see everybody is free to ask what they want. There is room for discourse,” he added.

Asked if he believes the passage of the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill will improve the country’s ranking, Carandang said, he doesn’t know the impact of the bill on the press. But he added that even without the FOI bill reporters can still get the information they need through their ingenuity.

He believes, however, that the FOI bill will definitely improve the democratic space in the country.

The Philippines dropped to 156th place a year after the Maguindanao massacre, slipping from its former ranking at 122nd.

Although there is improvement, the RSF still included the Philippines in its 2011 Press Freedom Index, together with Pakistan and Afghanistan “where violence and impunity persist.”

The RSF said paramilitary groups and private militias continued to attack media workers in the Philippines. (PCOO)

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Malacanang says decision of DOJ to file criminal charges against Pichay and Landingin represents milestone in Aquino government’s quest to fight corruption

The decision of the Department of Justice (DOJ) to file criminal charges against former Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) Board Chairman Prospero Pichay Jr. and acting LWUA Administrator Daniel Landingin in connection with the anomalous purchase of the troubled Express Savings Bank Inc. (EXSBI) represents yet another milestone in the Aquino government's quest to fight corruption, a Palace official said on Thursday.

"We welcome the decision of the DOJ panel of prosecutors to file charges of corruption, malversation, and violation of the banking law, against Pichay and Landingin. These recent developments represent yet another milestone in our quest to promote a culture of good governance in this country, where the fight against corruption and the fight against poverty are equally important in achieving our vision of a progressive and prosperous Philippines," Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said in a statement issued on Thursday.

In 2009, the LWUA, under the leadership of Pichay and Landingin, entered into allegedly anomalous transactions with Express Savings Bank, Inc. (ESBI), then on the verge of bankruptcy.

Eighty million pesos was used to acquire 60 percent of the outstanding capital stock of ESBI, while another 400 million pesos taken from the LWUA funds was deposited into the ESBI.

The resolution of the DOJ panel, along with all records of the case, has been transmitted to the Office of the Ombudsman for appropriate action.

"Our resolve to weed out corruption in government and hold guilty officials accountable has not lessened; but rest assured that we will likewise be vigilant in affording the respondents the rights due to them under the Constitution," Lacierda said. (PCOO)

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Aquino keynotes Arangkada Philippines Forum

President Benigno S. Aquino III keynoted the Arangkada (accelerate) Philippines Forum held at the Grand Ballroom of the Mariott Hotel in Pasay City on Thursday.

Arangkada Philippines is a comprhensive advocacy paper that share recommendations leading to the creation of US$75 billion in new foreign investment, 10 million jobs and over P1-trillion in revenue for the Philippine economy within this decade.

Conducted by the Joint Foreign Chambers, Arangkada Philippines estimates that, to achieve these results, the country must focus on more rapid development of the Seven Big Winner Sectors namely: agribusiness, business process outsourcing, creative industries, infrastructure, manufacturing and logistics, mining and tourism.

In his speech, the President said that although these seven sectors were part of his platform in the 2010 Presidential campaign, his government would focus on three – agribusiness, infrastructure and tourism – whose benefits would redound to the Filipino people.

“The Joint Foreign Chambers of the Philippines (JFCP), acting in solidarity with our agenda of national transformation, has graciously conducted a study on how to accelerate investments and economic growth, and create jobs in the country,” the President said.

“The Arangkada study mentioned seven promising sectors. Some in the audience may recall that these same seven sectors were part of my platform during the 2010 election campaign. They represent the global competitive advantage of the Philippines. They are primary areas of growth that can create millions of jobs for our economy and potentially change the tragic paradigm of poverty afflicting too many of our citizens,” he stressed.

The President pointed out that focusing on the development of the aforementioned three sectors was in line with his administration’s advocacy of “equitable progress and inclusive growth.”

“The driving principle behind my government has always been equitable progress and inclusive growth, and we believe that the success of these three sectors-- tourism, infrastructure, and agriculture-- redound to the benefit of the common Filipino,” the President said.

“They offer immediate opportunities to those in the margins: those who live in poverty; who are in the rural areas; who, by a systemic neglect of their dignity, have been disallowed more active participation in the national economy. These are the same people who are being targeted by our investments in social services such as education, health, and community development,” he added.

The Chief Executive expressed optimism that through this development framework, the Filipinos would “reap the profits of our efforts and become skilled, healthy, empowered individuals.”

“They will be the ones to spur the entire economy forward-- consumers who will allow businesses to thrive; experts who will fuel the growth of BPO companies; award-winners in our creative industries; not only production-line workers, but also engineers and managers,” the President concluded. (PCOO)

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Aquino to focus on three sectors of Arangkada Philippine

President Benigno S. Aquino III said on Thursday that his administraton would prioritize the development of three of the seven sectors outlined in a study conducted by the Joint Foreign Chambers entitled, Arangkada Philippines, for it’s ability to promote inclusive growth or an equitable allocation of resources with benefits accruing to every section of society.

These sectors, the President said, are in, tourism, infrastructure and agribusiness.
He pointed out that the government has taken several steps in ensuring that these three sectors are given the rightful attention it deserves.

To attract more tourists which, the President said, is pegged at 3.917 million or 11.2% higher than the 3.520 million posted in 2010, the government has begun liberalizing Philippine aviation and upgraded various airports, to allow more carriers into the country.

The President also announced that around two thirds of the country’s budget for infrastructure has been released and is ready to fund projects such as refurbishing of NAIA (Ninoy Aquino International Airport) Terminal 1 and the completion and full utilization of Terminal 3, upgrading and widening the Manila North Road, and extending the light rail transit 1’s south and east portions.

“Now that the necessary project integrity checks and systems are in place, I am happy to report that as of January 13 of this year, around two thirds of the 205.8 billion peso budget for the infrastructure program has been released. This means 137.4 billion pesos that will redound to employment for those who work in construction, increase mobility for goods and services across the nation, and more livelihood opportunities for those in our local communities,” the President said.

On agribusiness, the President said the country’s goal to be rice sufficient by 2013 and improve the wages of farmers was still plausible since the Department of Agriculture’s budget this year was increased by 51.3 percent, to P53.3 billion.

“The basic strategy is to sustain the increase in productivity and improve our competitiveness; to enhance economic incentives and enable mechanisms for our farmers; and to manage the demand and diversification of our staples,” the President said.

“Irrigation, community seed-banking, and the construction of farm-to-market roads are all part of the package. These will all allow us not only a stronger rice farming industry, but also an opportunity to tap into other growth possibilities such as coconut, poultry and livestock, fisheries, and bio-fuel,” he added.

The President said that the benefits of these three sectors would redound to the common Filipino who will “reap the profits of our efforts and become skilled, healthy, empowered individuals, they will be the ones to spur the entire economy forward.”

“The driving principle behind my government has always been equitable progress and inclusive growth, and we believe that the success of these three sectors-- tourism, infrastructure, and agriculture-- redound to the benefit of the common Filipino,” the President said.

“They offer immediate opportunities to those in the margins: those who live in poverty; who are in the rural areas; who, by a systemic neglect of their dignity, have been disallowed more active participation in the national economy. These are the same people who are being targeted by our investments in social services such as education, health, and community development,” he said.

Arangkada Philippines is a comprehensive advocacy paper that share recommendations leading to the creation of US$75 billion in new foreign investment, 10 million jobs and over P1-trillion in revenue for the Philippine economy within this decade.

Conducted by the Joint Foreign Chambers, Arangkada Philippines estimates that, to achieve these results, the country must focus on more rapid development of the Seven Big Winner Sectors namely: agribusiness, business process outsourcing, creative industries, infrastructure, manufacturing and logistics, mining and tourism. (PCOO)

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Gov’t working to bring electricity rates down

In order to address the needs of the manufacturing industry, which the Philippines will see a resurgence of this year, President Benigno S. Aquino III said that the government is working on several measures to bring electricity rates down.

In a forum with participants to the Arangkada Philippines on Thursday at the Mariott Hotel in Pasay City, the President said that making electricity rates in the Philippines affordable will entice more investors to put up shop here.

“...as you know, manufacturing suffers in the fact that we have very high electricity rates. The electricity rates, we are working on bringing them down. First, by encouraging the setting up of the based-generating plants. But more importantly trying to hasten the open access for and to have the wholesale electricity spot market really fully functional,” the President said

An open access electricity market allows large electricity users in Luzon and Visayas to choose their own power suppliers. Eventually, households will have the capacity to choose as well. This set up is unlike the current system in which consumers are limited to the suppliers that have jurisdiction over their respective areas.

“Now, that is a necessary step for us to be able really encourage manufacturing concerns to come back here,” the President said. (PCOO)

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Aquino to discuss liberalization of PHL healthcare institutions with Obama in US visit this year

President Benigno S. Aquino III said on Thursday that he will bring the concerns of the Philippine healthcare industry to the attention of US President Barack Obama when he visits the United States by the middle of this year.

Aging Filipino-Americans residing in the US mainland have not been able to retire in the Philippines as the healthcare industry, which include hospitals and retirement homes, here is not accredited by the US government.

President Aquino said he will discuss with Obama the possibility of extending extra “considerations” for Philippine facilities.

“I will be having a visit with President Obama sometime, towards the middle of the year. You can count on my…requesting him again for a consideration of accrediting more of our facilities,” the President said.

He said that discussions with US lawmakers in previous meetings touched on the subject adding that “there are invitations to talk with them again when we visit the America so I will be sure to request for that liberalizing of the facilities for the retirees.” (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Wednesday, January 25, 2012

2012-01-25T03:35:00.000-08:00

Aquino honors mother’s birth anniversary by joining Sendong victims in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan Cities

President Benigno S. Aquino III honored the 79th birth anniversary of his mother, former President Corazon C. Aquino, by joining the victims affected by Typhoon Sendong in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan Cities on Wednesday.

In a statement, the Office of Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said that the President is in Mindanao today to ensure that the rehabilitation process for the victims is going on smoothly and on track in order for them to “get back on their feet at the soonest possible time.”

“Today, on the birth anniversary of the late President Corazon C. Aquino, the President paid tribute to the values espoused by his mother by traveling to Iligan and Cagayan de Oro to join shelter builds and conduct inspections in areas that were devastated by Typhoon Sendong,” the statement read.

“President Aquino is committed to a rehabilitation process that will help the victims get back on their feet at the soonest possible time, while also ensuring that the assistance provided to local government units will reach those who need it the most. He also believes that communities should be rebuilt in areas out of harm’s way,” it added.

“Through the joint initiatives of the DSWD, the local government units, the National Housing Authority, and volunteers from Habitat for Humanity and Gawad Kalinga, the Aquino administration is showing its commitment not just to restoring communities stricken by disaster, or to the people who lost their livelihoods, but also to the very principle that no one should be left behind,” the statement said.

The former President was born on January 25, 1933 in Tarlac. She served as the 11th president of the Philippines from 1986 to 1992 and has the distinction of being the first female president of the Philippines.

She succumbed to cancer on August 1, 2009. (PCOO)

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Aquino says people power spirit very much alive in Iligan City rebuilding efforts

ILIGAN CITY---Visiting the permanent relocation site of the victims of Typhoon Sendong in Iligan City, President Benigno S. Aquino III likened the rebuilding of the city to the period where the country rose in the aftermath of the Marcos dictatorship.

The fight against the Marcos’s tyranny was spearheaded by the President’s mother, former president Cozaron C. Aquino who died in August 2009 after a fight with colon cancer. The country commemorates today the birthday of the former leader.

“Napapanahon din po siguro ang pagdiriwang natin ngayon sa paggunita sa kaarawan ng aking yumaong ina. Maaari po nating maihambing ang ginawang pagbangon ng mga Pilipino noong matapos ang diktadurya sa pagbangon natin ngayon pagkatapos ng trahedya,” the President said during his speech in Sta. Elena, Iligan City, where houses are being built for flood survivors.

“Bilang paggunita po sa iniwang biyaya sa atin ng aking yumaong ina, patuloy nawa nating ipamalas ang diwa ng People Power upang harapin ang iba’t ibang suliranin ng ating bansa at mapaunlad ang kabuhayan ng ating kapwa.”

With the ideals that former president Cory Aquino fought for the country, President Aquino said it inspired Filipinos to rise from the ruins of the Marcos dictatorship. And with the reforms being initiated by the present government, President Aquino said Filipinos are witnessing the transportation of the nation as a new society.

Filipinos responded to the call of former President Cory Aquino to restore democracy in the Philippines and the President said he’s calling on the Iligan City residents to live with that call of the icon of Philippine democracy.

“Tulad po ng ipinamalas natin sa araw na ito, muli’t muli po nating patunayan sa mundo ang bisa ng pagkakaisa at pagkakapwa-tao,” President Aquino said.

The President added that he’s proud of his Cabinet members who immediately acted to respond to the disaster particularly by assisting people in need during the December 16 flashfloods in Iligan and Cagayan de Oro City.

The building of new homes for the survivors of the Iligan City flashfloods won’t be possible without the dedication of all the government agencies as well as the local government unit that gave their all out efforts, the President said.

At the same time, the chief executive vowed to provide the additional money needed to complete the housing project in Sta. Elena in Iligan City, in addition to the fund already donated by private corporations.

The local government of Iligan City partnered with Gawad Kalinga to build the new community for the survivors of the flashfloods. Proponents intend to build 300 new homes in the 16-hectare area until February.

According to local officials, the location can accommodate up to 1,900 new homes for the survivors. They are also eyeing for another 15-hectare land in another site in the city to relocate other survivors.

Each house costs around P110,000, according to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). (PCOO)

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Aquino orders security forces to guard urban centers from bomb attacks

ILIGAN CITY--President Benigno S. Aquino III said he has instructed the police and the military to increase security measures in the country’s urban centers following the Makati bomb blast this week.

“Inutusan ko ‘yung ating security forces na dagdagan pa ‘yung tinatawag na hardening aspects sa atin pong mga urban—‘yung potential areas na tatargetin para mabawasan ‘yung pagkakataon ng mga masasamang loob na maghasik ng lagim o magkaroon ng pagkakataon na magdulot ng pinsala sa ating mga kababayan,” the President said during an interview in Iligan City on Wednesday.

The President was in the city to visit shelter building efforts by the government and the private sector for the survivors of the deadly December flashfloods.

The cooperation and vigilance of the public have helped the authorities to secure the urban centers in addition to more police visibility, according to the President.

Investigators haven’t identified person or groups behind the Makati blast, the President said noting that it’s hard to speculate. But he said he had a meeting with security officials to determine what group was behind the explosion.

At the same time, the Chief Executive defended the security situation in the Philippines, saying any country is vulnerable to attacks even those in Europe and America.

The President explained that countries like Norway and Japan, both industrialized nations and have very good security capabilities, weren’t able to stop madmen from being attacked.

It can be recalled that last year, a lone attacker bombed a populated area in Norway and opened fire in a resort killing scores of people. A few years ago, a gas attack was carried out in Japan that killed several people.

“I think we are not any worse off than a lot of other countries. In the news they talk of religious strife in Africa and the Middle East and they’re talking about also ‘yung regime changes in the Middle East. So are we any less safe?” the President asked.

The President was responding to a question whether it is still safe for the tourists to stay in Philippines following the Makati blast. The government has recently launched a tourism slogan aimed at increasing tourist arrivals. (PCOO)

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ARMM can effectively fight illegal logging once regional body is complete, Aquino says

ILIGAN CITY: President Benigno S. Aquino III said the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Gov. Mujiv Hataman could effectively respond to the illegal logging activities in the region once a regional assembly is organized.

The region has blamed Illegal logging activities for the deadly flashfloods that killed thousands of people in Iligan City and Cagayan de Oro city last December.

The President said he hasn’t lifted the state of national calamity he declared after the flashfloods enabling the government to respond more effectively to the disaster.

The President was in Iligan City on Wednesday to visit the shelter building activities in the city which will be the permanent relocation site for the survivors of the December flashfloods.

In a media interview in Iligan City on Wednesday, the Chief Executive also said he is awaiting the complete report on the disaster although he expects an initial briefing from Governor Hataman probably this week.

The President reiterated that one of his instructions to Governor Hataman is to stop illegal logging activities in ARMM to avoid similar disasters in the future.

“Isa sa mga unang iniatas natin kay Governor Hataman ay tugunan itong illegal logging na siyang dahilan kung bakit] nagkaroon ng pinsala dito, tukuyin yung may kasalanan at ihabla yung mga may kasalanan,” he said.

The government will make sure that illegal loggers do not get a market for their illegally produced products to completely halt logging activities in the ARMM, the President said.

The President also explained that the existing state of national calamity enables the government to do certain things more expeditiously particularly in finding long term solutions that reduce danger of disasters pose to vulnerable communities.

With regards to the ongoing housing project in Iligan City for the flood survivors, the President said housing agencies committed to finish the 1,700 housing units by June 2012.

“Ang punto nito, talagang sinisigurado natin na maisasaayos at the earliest possible time lahat ng mga kababayan natin, maibabalik sa normal ang kanilang pamumuhay at masiguro na yung dating risk na tinatamasa nila ay hindi na mangyari,” he said. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Tuesday, January 24, 2012

2012-01-24T03:15:00.000-08:00

Aquino breaks ground for new aviation school

CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Pampanga: President Benigno S. Aquino III led ground breaking ceremonies for the construction of a new aviation training center here on Tuesday.

The Philippine Academy for Aviation Training, Incorporated (PAAT) is a joint venture between Cebu Pacific Air (CEB) and Canadian Aviation Electronics (CAE).

Once completed by the third quarter of 2012, the $50-million PAAT will have the capability to train over 2,500 pilots annually as well as other aviation professionals for CEB and third-party airlines in the region.

In his speech, the President lauded the CAE and CEB joint venture saying the investment once again recognizes the talent, skill and hard work of Filipinos.

“It is always good to see the hard work and creativity of Filipinos being recognized by companies from in and out of the country; and today is further proof of the confidence companies like Cebu Pacific and CAE have in our people's talent and potential,” the President said.

“You are expressing your confidence not just in words, but in dollars and cents—to the tune of forty to fifty million dollars,” he added.

The President said that once the facility is completed, Filipinos will be given a chance to hone their flying skills and further be recognized as one of the world’s best pilots.

“Soon we will be able to train world-class pilots here; we will provide a whetstone that will hone yet another of our countrymen's many talents,” the President said.

“They will come here and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with students from all over the world—effectively cementing our position as a hub for aviation training in the Asia-Pacific region,” he added.

The President then went on to pitch for the new tourism campaign of the Philippines saying, “In the spirit of the campaign recently launched by our Department of Tourism—we will soon be able to say that even aviation training is more fun in the Philippines.” (PCOO)

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Aquino says construction of new aviation training school timely as country ramps up aviation reforms

CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Pampanga: President Benigno S. Aquino III said on Tuesday that the construction of the Philippine Academy for Aviation Training, Inc. (PAAT), a new aviation training center here, would help in the government’s quest to improve and reform the country’s aviation industry to be at par with world standards.

In his speech keynoting the ground breaking ceremony for PAAT, the President said the Philippine aviation reforms include regaining Category 1 status under the United States Federal Aviation Administration and liberalization of aviation rules in order to boost domestic and international air traffic and, in turn, the economy.

“Today’s groundbreaking comes at a time of transformation, as we ramp up our efforts to reform aviation in the country. Right now, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines is focused on regaining Category 1 status under the US Federal Aviation Administration. A positive outcome will result in the expansion of our airlines' capacities, which will redound to a healthier aviation industry, more mobility for our people, and ultimately, a more robust and equitably progressive economy,” the President said.

“We have also been working on liberalizing aviation here. In the last year we have seen our liberalization programs translate into very robust growth in both domestic and international air traffic. Likewise, the Department of Tourism has hit the ground running in the implementation of our Pocket Open Skies policy,” he added.

The President said that these positive results would directly benefit the tourism sector which, he said, “is one of the low-lying fruits of our economic agenda.”

“We are aware of how gifted our country is—from our natural wonders to the inherently welcoming attitude of our people. Make no mistake about it: we plan on capitalizing on these competitive advantages. Each new job in the tourism industry takes on a multiplier effect, empowering our citizens' financial capacity, allowing local businesses to thrive, and creating even more jobs for the rest of our countrymen,” the President said. (PCOO)

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Aquino cites strides achieved in aviation history

CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Pampanga: President Benigno S. Aquino III cited the giant strides achieved by the human race in perfecting its quest of piloting an aircraft, saying this determination is “enduring and undeniable proof that if we set our minds to it, and if we’re willing to work hard each and every day, then we can certainly achieve anything we set out to do.”

The President said that after only 75 years after the first Filipino pilots flew from Manila to Spain in 1936, we are now ready to train other Filipinos and peoples of the world to become pilots.

“It is exciting to envision how, in a few months, this facility will be completed—already teaching eager pilots how to properly operate aircrafts,” the President said in his speech at the ground breaking ceremonies for the Philippine Academy for Aviation Training, Inc. (PAAT) here.

“In three generations, we have gone from the pioneering flights of Filipino aviators, such as the first flight of Antonio Arnaiz and Juan Calvo from Manila to Spain in 1936—and the setting up of our first international air terminal in Nielson Field just one year later—to our now possessing the technology, the know-how, and the skills to train thousands of pilots, who will eventually be flying travelers across continents every single day,” he added.

“But seeing how much progress we have made in such a short time—from celebrating our first flight a little more than 75 years ago to where we find ourselves now—we see how far hard work and commitment can take us in fulfilling our shared dreams,” the President said.

The President pointed out that he wanted the progress achieved by the aviation industry to be reciprocated in our country.

“What we want to do can be stated simply: we want to change the way this country works; we want to improve the lives of our people; and we want to put an end to corruption, so that we could put an end to poverty,” the President said.

“We are aware that the path to fulfilling these goals will be difficult. I will need not just our effort, but the effort of each and every Filipino. And we must also aspire to soar. We must dare to dream that we have a winning team,” he added.

He stressed that this dream can be achieved as long as we focus and do more than what is asked of us.

“If we all focus, if we do the things we can and need to do, no matter how small; if we always strive for excellence, and if we do not lose sight of the dreams we share for this country, then surely, we can soar higher than we already have,” the President said. (PCOO)

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Aquino confers Presidential Legion of Honor on Liwag

President Benigno S. Aquino III conferred the Presidential Legion of Honor (PLOH) with the Rank of Lakan on outgoing Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant Admiral Ramon C. Liwag in ceremonies held at the PCG headquarters in Port Area, Manila on Tuesday.

The awarding ceremonies were held simultaneous with Liwag’s retirement and turnover of command of the PCG to his successor Rear Admiral Edmund Castor Tan.

In his speech keynoting the PCG Change of Command and Retirement rites for Admiral Ramon C. Liwag, the President paid tribute to outgoing PCG chief for his exemplary performance.

The President cited Liwag for enhancing maritime law enforcement and security and giving special focus on the agency's drive against terror threats, smuggling, illegal fishing, poaching, illegal drugs and trafficking of persons, illegal recruitment and protection of marine environment, transnational crimes among others.

"Sa loob ng siyam na buwan, pinatunayan mong ang pagkakaroon ng mataas na katungkulan sa anumang organisasyon o tanggapan ay hindi para sa mapang-abuso at makasarili; bagkus, isa itong responsibilidad na dapat lamang na iginugugol upang paglingkuran ang ating bandila at isulong ang kapakanan ng nakakarami," the President said.

The Chief Executive was joined by Transportation and Communications Secretary Mar Roxas when he presented the Presidential Legion of Honor to Liwag.

Roxas also presented the DOTC Plaque, Plaque of Honorable Service and Medal Frame to Liwag, the 23rd PCG commandant. A Certificate of Appreciation was presented to Maria Fe. G. Liwag, wife of the outgoing commandant.

In his speech, Liwag thanked the President for entrusting him the responsibility to lead the PCG in working with other agencies to carry out the goverment's security agenda.

"Mahal na Pangulo, dahil po sa iyong suporta, mataas po ang morale ng iyong tauhan sa PCG at ipinagmamalaki po naming mag-suot ng unipormeng tanda ng responsibilidad na ipinagkatiwala sa amin ng iyong pamunuan at ng ating mga kababayan," Liwag said.

During Liwag's term, Executive Order No. 57, which directed the PCG to play a leading role in the operations of the National Coast Watch Center, was signed by President Aquino.

"The PCG takes pride in being among the first to take part in the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships (RECAAP) in Asia," Liwag said.

Although a product of the public school system having completed his primary and secondary education in his hometown in Cabiao, Nueva Ecija, Liwag graduated as salutatorian. Pursuing a military career in the Philippine Military Academy, Admiral Liwag is a proud member of a long gray line of Matapat Class 1979.

He also wished his successor, Rear Admiral Tan, the 24th PCG commandant.

During the event, the President greeted Liwag who retires today as he celebrates his 56th birthday, the mandatory retirement age for those in the military.

Those who attended the event were members of the diplomatic corps, Ambassador Legowo from Indonesia, Jorge Domecq from Spain, Thierry Borja de Mozota, Ambassador of France to the Philippines; Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio “Sonny” Coloma, Police Director General Nicanor Bartolome, Commodore Lino Dabi, Commissioner Ruffy Biazon of the Bureau of Customs. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Monday, January 23, 2012

2012-01-24T02:59:00.000-08:00

Aquino, declares January of every year as ‘Philippine Tropical Fabrics Month’

President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared the month of January of every year as “Philippine Tropical Fabrics Month.”

In Proclamation No. 313 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on January 12, 2012, President Aquino issued the declaration to promote public awareness and use of indigenous textiles in the country.

Under Republic Act 9242 otherwise known as the Philippine Tropical Fabrics Law of 2004, tropical fabrics are defined as those containing natural fibers produced, spun, woven or knitted, and finished in the Philippines. These fabrics are used mostly for the uniforms of government officials and employees.

"The implementation of RA No. 9242 shall raise awareness on the utilization of natural fibers like pineapple, banana, abaca and Philippine silk for textile and allied products and bring about the revival and upgrading of the local textile and garments industries, thus redounding to the creation of livelihood in the agricultural and industrial sectors," the President said.

The Chief Executive noted that Proclamation No. 86 (s. 2010) declared January 24, 2011 as “Philippine Tropical Fabrics Day” under the auspices of the Philippine Textile Research institute (PTRI) of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) which increased interest on tropical fabrics from among the local industries.

In issuing Proclamation No. 313, the President cited "the need to sustain the gains from the celebration of the first Philippine Tropical Fabrics Day and to engage a more active participation of government institutions and local industries on the use of Philippine Tropical Fabrics, as well as local natural fibers."

President Aquino, directed the PTRI-DOST to source funds to defray the cost of the celebration.

He also ordered the PTRI-DOST to ensure that extensive research on the judicious utilization of local natural fibers be continued.

“All fabric producers, textile manufacturers, garments and geotextile industries, including the private sector, associations, institutions and the academe, are hereby enjoined to actively participate in the proper observance of the “Philippine Tropical Fabrics Month” and to partner with the government in bringing about an evolution of the Philippine textile industry as an emerging leader in the global textile market," President Aquino said. (PCOO)

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Malacanang says Aquino gov't committed to rationalize sin taxes

Malacanang expressed the Aquino administration’s commitment and unyielding efforts to rationalize the collection of sin taxes in the country to get more revenues for the government that could be used for various developmental programs.

In a press briefing in Malacanang on Monday, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said that the amendment to the structure of sin taxes collection is long overdue.

“The situation is this: We are rationalizing the various levels of sin taxes. At present, there are a number of levels - four levelsare that we would like to rationalize...this amendment is long overdue,” Lacierda said.

When asked on the government’s position of entering into a compromise with major stakeholders that will be affected by the rationalization, Lacierda said that the government is not considering such move pending the discussion of the amendments in the committee level.

“No, well, it’s up to the legislators to do that. We have presented our bill and so our position is very clear: we want to rationalize the sin taxes. As to whatever compromises, that is something that they will have to present… I mean, the tobacco industry would have to present their position in the debates in the committee level,” Lacierda said.

The government expects to earn P60 billion a year from the rationalization of taxes on alcohol and tobacco products. Without such a bill, the finance department estimates that government will lose P2 billion to P2.4 billion a year by 2013. (PCOO)

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Malacanang says Aquino government implementing measures to contain inflation

The Aquino government started implementing measures to contain inflation amid global economic slowdown, a Palace official said on Monday.

During the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Monday, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda issued the statement following the forecast of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) that the inflation will be "well-contained until 2013."

"Well, our concern should always be high inflation as it would mean higher prices and all those consequent factors. What the economic managers have so far done is to contain and, in fact, Bangko Sentral has agreed that the inflation rate would be kept and it would be contained," Lacierda said.

Pressures on global commodity prices are seen to continue to abate amid weaker global growth prospects, according to news reports. Due to these developments, the Philippine economy is likely to face external headwinds in 2012.

Lacierda, however, said the Aquino administration remains optimistic that the inflation outlook will remain within the target range.

"And so we believe that we would be able to weather whatever storms that would be coming as long as we manage the economy properly," Lacierda said.

Although the BSP sees a manageable inflation outlook, it remains watchful of the impact of developments in Europe on investor sentiment and global aggregate demand. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Saturday, January 21, 2012

2012-01-24T02:55:00.000-08:00

Aquino leads celebration of 66th foundation anniversary of Liberal Party

President Benigno S. Aquino led Friday the celebration of the Liberal Party’s (LP) 66th foundation anniversary saying he’s a proud member of the party that spearheads reform in the country.

“Sa Liberal Party… hindi natin ipagkakanulo ang ating tungkulin, hindi tayo malilihis ng landas ng prinsipyo, at hindi natin pagtataksilan ang taumbayan,” the President said in his message during the anniversary celebration held at Liberal Party headquarters in Cubao, Quezon City.

“Ang boss natin ay ang mamayang Pilipino. Kinikilala natin ang biyayang kaloob nila sa atin. Ang biyaya ng pagkakataong maglingkod sa kanila. HIndi po tayo nakalilimot sa ating sinumpaang tungkulin at tuwid na tuwid po ang takbo ng bangka ng bayan,” he added.

Under a president who is a Liberal Party member, President Aquino said the country starts the New Year with good news as the government inaugurates many businesses and investments that open more opportunities for Filipinos.

The reforms being initiated by the government started to take effect, according to the President adding this is good for the country because it increases investors’ confidence in putting their businesses in the Philippines.

The Liberal party membership has been increasing, the President said noting it is a good development because more sectors in the Philippines will be represented like farmers, urban poor, workers, women and youth.

“Ang Partido Liberal ay hindi isang pulutong ng mga pulitikong bingi sa pagtibok ng puso ng karaniwang tao, isa itong samahan, isa itong pamilya na binubuo ng mga Pilipinong walang ibang nais kundi ang maiangat ang antas ng lipunan sa pamamagitan ng pagtahak ng tuwid na daan,” he said.

“Karangalan ko pong maging kasapi ng isang partidong kumakatawan sa mga adhikain ng mamamayan. Karangalan kong tahakin ang landas ng katuwiran, katarungan at kaunlaran kasama kayo,” he continued.

The Liberal Party was founded on January 19, 1946 by Manuel Roxas, the first President of the Third Philippine Republic.

Among the well-known members of the Liberal Party who fought the Marcos dictatorship include Senators Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., Gerry Roxas and Jovito Salonga. Many of its leaders and members were prosecuted and killed during the Marcos regime.

In 2000, the party stood against the corruption of the Estrada administration and in 2004 it withdrew its support from President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo following the controversies of the presidential election that year.

Philippine presidents who came from the LP include Elpidio Quirino and Diosdado Macapagal. Ramon Magsaysay and Ferdinand Marcos were also former LP members who later became presidents after leaving the party.

Among the prominent personalities who joined the President during Friday’s event include House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Transportation and Communication Sec. Mar Roxas, Interior and Local Government Sec. Jessie Robredo, Rep. Neil Tupas, Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim, boxing champ and Sarangani Rep. Manny Pacquiao, among others. (PCOO)

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Malacanang announces new appointments

Malacanang announced on Saturday the appointment of Dr. Emelita V. Almosara as executive director of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA).

The Office of Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. announced the presidential appointment of Almosara, who served as National Historical Institute’s deputy executive director.

The Palace also announced the appointment of officials for the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).

Mario L. de Leon Jr., Frank R. Cimafranca, and Irene Susan B. Natividad were appointed as chiefs of mission of the DFA.

Rodolfo M. Santos was named as acting Director IV of the DSWD.

The other appointees were Johnson G. Canete and Maria Criselda R. Sy as Directors IV of the DOLE.

Also appointed were Ma. Calpiza J. Sardua and Yvette T. Sunga as acting local government operations officers VIII. (PCOO)

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Govt agencies continue to work for benefit of people

Cooperation between national government agencies and local government units (LGUs) continues to produce materials and services that benefit the poor, the Palace said on Saturday.

In a statement, Deputy presidential spokesman Abigial Valte said they got a report from the City Government of Tagum saying it received P19.65-million worth of illegal timber seized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in the Davao region last year.

Through a Memorandum of Agreement between the Tagum City government, the DENR, and the Department of Education (DepEd), the logs were converted into school and hospital fixtures, as well as double-deck beds for soldiers and law enforcers.

“The report stated that about 12,000 of these school chairs, desks, and hospital beds have so far been distributed to our brothers and sisters in disaster-ravaged Davao Del Norte and Compostela Valley Province,” Valte said in the statement.

At same time, Valte also reported that the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) launched their Convergence on Tourism Infrastructure Program aimed at coordinating support for tourism-related businesses in local communities.

The program also forged tie ups between the two departments in constructing the roads throughout the Philippines to reach the country’s tourist sites.

Valte said this in preparation for the influx of 10 million foreign visitors targeted by the government by 2016, as well as ensuring that inclusive growth will redound to the marginalized.

“These reports are reminders of the sea-change in how we do things in this country: a nefarious practice transformed to aid those in dire need; a public-sector initiative rolled out to benefit those in the farthest margins.

The fight for transparency, accountability, inclusive growth, and good governance has many fronts—these stories tell us that we are winning in the fight,” she said. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Friday, January 20, 2012

2012-01-24T02:52:00.000-08:00

Aquino declares January 26 as special non-working day in Cadiz City, Negros Occidental

President Benigno S. Aquino has declared January 26, 2012 as a special non-working day in the city of Cadiz in Negros Occidental in celebration of the 44th Dinagsa Festival of the city.

In Proclamation No. 311 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on Jan. 9, 2012, President Aquino issued the declaration to give the people of Cadiz, Negros Occidental the full opportunity to celebrate and participate in the occasion.

Cadiz City celebrates its own version of Ati-atihan, the Dinagsa Festival. ”Dinagsa” (local dialect) means – to flock.

The festival involves street dancing and merry-making to the beat of drums. Participants wearing colorful and creative costumes dance in the street of the city. They paint their whole body with black to depict the color of the first people in the country, the aetas.

At present, many participants of the street dancing smear each other with brightly colored paint. (PCOO)

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Aquino receives more than a billion US dollars government shares from Malampaya Gas-to-Power Project

President Benigno S. Aquino III received more than a billion US dollar on behalf of the Philippine government from its shares in the Malampaya Gas-to-Power project, which is considered as one of the largest and most significant industrial endeavors in the country’s history.

During the symbolic handover of the Malampaya Deepwater Gas-to-Power project’s revenue contribution to the National Government for the year 2011, President Aquino accepted a mock check containing the exact amount of One Billion One Hundred Thirty Four Million Six Hundred Sixty Nine Thousand and One Hundred Fifty Seven US Dollars ($1,134,669,157) from Edgar Chua, Shell Philippines Country Manager.

Energy Secretary Jose Rene Almendras, who witnessed the turnover event said that the amount was part of the government’s share from the Malampaya project, a joint venture by the government headed by his department and the private sector.

He added that the share is given annually from the total earnings of the project.

“Joint venture po kasi ang project so may share po ang gobyerno and it is given every year. Yung 1.1 billion dollars is the total for 2011,” Almendras said adding that the amount will go directly to the Malampaya fund that is being managed by the Department of Finance (DoF).

“That goes to the Malampaya fund po… iba po ang accounting nun, iba po ang treatment dun ng Bureau of Treasury,” Almendras noted.

He expressed high hopes that the government will be receiving the same amount in the coming years if the price and quantity of produce will be stabilized.

Almendras added that the government’s shares will decrease if it will reinvest in Phases 2 and 3 of the project.

“Hopefully, the supply will continue so that’s the same amount of shares and if the price stays as it is that should be the quantity that we should be getting,” Almendras said.

“The only time that it will go down is when we reinvest, kasi di ba we have to invest for the Malampaya Phase 2 and Phase 3…. This is still the original contract and not the extension yet, there’s a Phase 2 and 3 which will require us to invest so that we can get more gas and prolong the supply of gas because we need gas as much as we can," he added.

Also present during the event were Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Philippine National Oil Company Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Gemiliano Lopez, Shell Philippines managing director Sebastian Quinones Jr. and Shell Philippines assistant manager Sabino Santos.

The Malampaya Deep Water Gas-to-Power project is a joint undertaking of the Philippine national government and the private sector. The project is spearheaded by the Department of Energy, developed and operated by Shell Philippines Exploration B.V. (SPEX) on behalf of joint venture partners Chevron Malampaya LLC and the PNOC Exploration Corporation. (PCOO)

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US vows wider access for Philippine bananas

American officials assured the Philippine government of more banana imports following the ongoing sanctions against Iran which drastically affected Filipino banana farmers, President Benigno S. Aquino III said on Friday.

In an interview in Malacanang on Friday, the President told reporters that among his discussions with visiting US legislators were the impact of the recent Iran sanction to the Philippine banana industry.

The President said 30 percent of the country’s total banana exports go to Iran.

“Pag nagkaroon ng mga financial transactions na pinahirapan ang Iran apektado kaagad tayo. So ipinarating natin itong view point na ito sa American congressional delegation at pinangakuan tayong tutulungan tayo doon para may access na dagdag raw sa Amerika para hindi mahirapan ang ating mga kapatid na nasa pagtatanim ng saging,” the President said.

The President met earlier this week with US Senators John McCain, Joe Lieberman, Sheldon Whitehouse and Kelly Ayotte in Malacanang. McCain, Lieberman and Ayotte are all members of the US Senate Armed Services Committee.

Aside from banana imports, the US and the Philippines also agreed for a stronger military cooperation following the visit of the four American senators.

In a media briefing also this week, Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda said the American senators told Filipino officials about the increased American military involvement in the Asia-Pacific region. This will also mean more military exercises with the American allies in Asia-Pacific area including the Philippines.

Lacierda clarified, however, that the US is not establishing any bases in the Philippines.

Lacierda said the Philippines also asked for a second Hamilton class cutter, a request that the US senators vowed to support. The first Hamilton class cutter arrived in the Philippines last August. It is now commissioned by the Philippine Navy to protect the country’s waters.

Prior to the visit of McCain’s group this week, President Aquino also met with several members of the US House of Representatives who also arrived in the country. The visiting US congressmen commended the reform agenda of the Aquino government. (PCOO)

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Aquino cites loss of trust and confidence as reason for dismissal of National Bureau of Investigation Director Gatdula

President Benigno S. Aquino III cited loss of trust and confidence as the reason which led to the dismissal from office of National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) director Magtanggol Gatdula saying that the personalities being considered for the vacated position are now being evaluated.

In an ambush interview following the ceremonial switch-on for the “Project Heart and Soul: Household Electrification Assistance Through Renewable Technology and Social Preparation for the Upliftment of Lives” at Malacanang Palace on Friday, President Aquino underscored the importance of the people’s trust on heads of principal agencies of the government.

“The head of the principal agencies will be a person who has our trust and confidence. The trust is no longer there,” the President said.

He added that Justice Secretary Leila de Lima, who has direct supervision over the country’s lead investigation agency, has already appointed an Officer-in-Charge for the bureau until a new director has been selected.

“Merong OIC na itinalaga. Well, una muna si Secretary of Justice mismo ang tumawag sa NBI, bine-vet niya ngayon ’yung candidates to replace Director Gatdula,” the President said.

The Chief Executive also belied reports that Gatdula was deprived of due process. He said that the sacked NBI chief failed to follow instructions from his superiors.

“Preliminary investigation has already been completed. Ang punto po nito, doon sa investigation na ginawa, there were several occasions when he was informed either by the media or the secretary of Justice herself and others of the question on Ohara being detained at the NBI. ‘Yung she’s a foreigner ‘no para bang kung ang main issue muna ay illegal entry then the proper venue is the Bureau of Immigration,” the President said.

“May orders to transfer the person to the Bureau of Immigration that was not carried out. That to me is insubordination…” the President noted.

Gatdula was sacked after being involved in the alleged kidnap and extortion of a 32-year-old Japanese woman, Noriyo Ohara, in October 2011.

A DoJ panel recommended the filing of charges against Gatdula and several others who were implicated in the alleged kidnapping and extortion of Ohara. (PCOO)

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Malacanang says Aquino government committed to push reform agenda, cites SWS survey

The Aquino administration remains committed to the pursuit of justice on all fronts, inclusive growth and equitable progress following the latest survey by the Social Weather Stations (SWS) which shows the number of families that consider themselves poor has declined to 45%.

"Today the Social Weather Stations released the results of its survey on self-rated poverty, which says the number of families that consider themselves poor has declined to 45%, thus far the lowest under this administration," Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said in a statement issued on Friday.

While the Aquino government welcomes the results of the survey, Lacierda said, the present administration will not let up in its reform agenda.

"We remain firm in the belief that good governance is the root cause of positive results in our economic and human development efforts," Lacierda said.

"Among these efforts are this morning’s ceremonial switch-on of the Heart and Soul Project and the Household Electrification Program, which President Aquino led. It brings us closer to our goal of giving electricity to 90 percent of households currently without electricity by 2017," he noted.

Lacierda stressed that both endeavors also prioritize the electrification of off-grid households through the use of sustainable and renewable energy sources adding that the potential of such projects can only be fully realized if they are handled with integrity. (PCOO)

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Aquino leads ceremonial switch on electrification project in Malacanang

President Benigno S. Aquino III assured the Filipino people of the government’s sincerity in effecting reforms that would lead to uplifting their lives as he stressed that such change can actually be felt and are not just for mere publicity.

In his message during the ceremonial switch on for the “Project Heart and Soul: Household Electrification Assistance Through Renewable Technology and Social Preparation for the Upliftment of Lives” at the Rizal Hall of the Malacanang Palace, Friday, the President said that the people should be confident that they will really feel the effects of reforms being implemented by the government apart from its various pro-people developmental projects.

“At the bottom line is principle and honor; No one can fool the people. Filipinos should be confident that when we say we have brought light to peoples’ homes, it is truly the case; that when we say we are working with partners, we actually have people like those in the Department of Energy (DOE) and Team Energy on the ground, making a tangible impact on peoples’ lives,” the President said.

“Sa madaling salita po, at ito po ang pinaka-importante: Unang-una, hindi namin kayo bobolahin talaga, kung ano yung totoong nangyayari sasabihin namin sa inyo. Pangalawa, sasabihin namin sa inyo ang plano kung paano natin matutugunan ang lahat ng kakulangan ng ating bansa. Pangatlo po, ipapaliwanag kung paano natin maaabot iyong mga hinahabol natin sa mga darating na mga araw, sa mga darating na buwan, at sa mga darating na taon,” he added.

The Chief Executive also said that the event being undertaken aptly reflects the Aquino government’s target of achieving inclusive growth for the people.

“I believe today’s ceremony most accurately reflects our administration’s goal of inclusive growth. As our economy grows, our priority is to allow ordinary people to feel the benefits of national development and access to electricity is one of those benefits. It is one of the most basic things that should be afforded every and all citizens,” the President said.

He expressed confidence of hitting these targets as long as there is continuous support from the Filipinos.

“We are not afraid to set ambitious targets, because we know we can achieve them: we want ninety percent of all unenergized households to have access to electricity by 2017. We know that in achieving this, there will be challenges along the way; but with the help of people who share our vision, we know that we will prevail,” President Aquino noted.

“Dulo po niyan, pipilitin natin na pag umangat ang Pilipinas talagang buong Pilipinas at lahat ng Pilipino umaangat. Sa tulong po niyo mangyayari po iyon,” he added.

The Aquino government, through the DOE, and Team Energy Foundation Inc. (TEFI) have successfully completed the electrification of some 3,400 homes in off-grid areas in one of the remotest places in the country using solar energy.

The event marked the 100 per cent electrification of barangays in the remote Polilio Islands of Quezon Province. Such public-private-partnership (PPP) project benefitted the over 3,000 households from the Municipalities of Burdeos, Patnanungan and Panukalan.

Project Heart and Soul, using stand-alone solar home systems, is funded by the government through the DOE which aims to attain a 90 per cent sitio household electrification in the country by the year 2017.

For this year, the PPP project targets to energize an additional 2,151 households in 12 barangays in the previously mentioned municipalities to fully saturate the electrification of households. This is the first time in the Philippines that all households of a barangay are provided electricity through renewable energy. (PCOO)

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Aquino leads Philippine Quality Award conferment ceremonies

President Benigno S. Aquino III led Friday the conferment of this year’s awardees of the Philippine Quality Award in Malacanang noting the reform in government and good corporate governance in the country.

“Today's gathering, however, aims to recognize more than individual success. It celebrates organizational excellence, which can only be attained in environments in which individual talent and drive are amplified through teamwork, in an atmosphere of trust,” the President said in his speech during the awarding ceremony.

“Since 1997, the Philippine Quality Awards has given due recognition to organizations—both public and private—that have consistently demonstrated the highest quality in their work, and have constantly pursued excellence in business,” he added.

The chief executive said the awards become possible because everyone recognizes the value of good corporate governance for the private sector. Success is easier for companies whose employees and managers are morally upright, competent, and responsible, he added.

“A company riddled with corruption will find it difficult to sustain its success. A company whose systems are stuck in antiquity will find it difficult to innovate. And a company that cannot adopt a winning attitude is doomed to fail,” he said.

The President also said he is pleased to see recipients from the government sector, which changes the public perception about the country’s government agencies. This means that the reforms that he initiated have been taking effect.

“I hope to see more of us—from the national line agencies, local government units, and government-owned and controlled corporations—become part of the roster of awardees. May you serve as role models to both private and government institutions,” he said.

“As recipients of the highest award for organizational excellence, your mission now is to become agents of change— encouraging and inspiring other organizations to strive for excellence and to make sure that no one gets left behind in the quest for improvement.”

The recipients of the PQA’s Recognition for Proficiency in Quality Management were Automotive Airconditioning Technology Philippines Inc. (Laguna) and NYK-TDG EBusiness Corp. (Taguig City).

For the PQA’s Recognition for Commitment to Quality Management, the awardees were the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Region 9 and the Metals Industry Research and Development Center (Taguig City), which is also under DOST. (PCOO)

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California organization presents 14-millionth reused book to President Aquino

Books for the Barrios Inc., a California-based, not-for-profit, public-benefit corporation, presented to President Benigno S. Aquino III Friday in Malacanang the fourteen-millionth children’s book shared by California’s youth to Filipino children.

According to the corporation, Friday’s event is a “pure gesture of solidarity between our peoples, as we work together to promote peace and protect the environment through literacy opportunity for all.”

Books for the Barrios, founded in 1990, intends to provide environmental protection through books-reuse service to the state and the general public for educational purposes.

This is accomplished by engaging California schoolchildren in a comprehensive global green action program that becomes the model in the country.

California youth rescued from destruction over 5,000 tons of high-quality learning materials gathered from their homes and schools. These books were given to the children of developing nations around the world such as the Philippines.

Currently, there are over 100,000 American students who volunteered to achieve this record and help poor kids in nations like the Philippines.

The Philippine partners in government and the private sector have instituted comprehensive programs to work with Books for the Barrios to promote reforestation projects led by schoolchildren as part of their special Tree Raising Environment Education (TREE) ongoing curriculum.

Also, 43 California public school teachers volunteered over a course of a decade to create a National Education Development Program for the Philippines training 8,000 instructor delegates in advanced professional techniques.

As a result, the pro-environment program transformed 57 most disadvantaged public elementary schools in poverty stricken areas into world-class model green academies. At the same time, functional libraries have been placed in 14,000 deprived and underserved public schools.

Representing the organizations during the book presentation with the President were Nancy Stowe Harrington, the president and executive director of Books for the Barrios and her husband Dan Joseph Harrington, the chairman.

Education Secretary Armin Luistro was also present during the event. (PCOO)

PIA News Service - Thursday, January 19, 2012

2012-01-19T17:52:00.000-08:00

Thailand Prime Minister Shinawatra arrives for official visit Thursday

The Aquino government warmly welcomed Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra of the Kingdom of Thailand who is meeting President Benigno S. Aquino III during her Official Visit Thursday, which aims to further strengthen the bilateral relations between the two countries.

Prime Minister Shinawatra and her official delegation, on board a government aircraft Airbus 310 of the Thai Royal Airforce, touched down at exactly 9:50 a.m., Thursday on the runway of the Villamor Airbase in Pasay City.

The Thai delegation was welcomed by Philippine government officials led by Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario, Commission on Higher Education Secretary Patricia B. Licuanan, Philippine Ambassador to Thailand Linglingay F. Lacanlale, Manila International Airport Authority General Manager Jose Angel A. Honrado and Philippine Airforce Commanding General Major General Lauro Catalino de la Cruz, among others.

Upon their arrival, Thai Ambassador to the Philippines Prasas Prasasvinitchai and Chief of Presidential Protocol and Presidential Assistant on Foreign Affairs Ambassador Miguel A. Perez Rubio ascended the Thai aircraft to greet and welcome Prime Minister Shinawatra.

Following the arrival ceremonies, the Thai leader also went to Rizal Park in Manila to personally offer flowers and respects to Filipino National Hero Dr. Jose P. Rizal.

During the wreathlaying event, Prime Minister Shinawatra was received and joined by Manila Mayor Alfredo S. Lim, Secretary Licuanan, Philippine Nacy Flag Officer in Command Vice Admiral Alexander P. Pama, Ambassador Rubio, National Parks Development Committee Executive Director Juliet H. Villegas and Brig. General Ramona Go, Aide-de-Camp assigned to the Thai leader.

Prime Minister Shinawatra then proceeded to Malacanang Palace to attend to a series of activities that include a bilateral discussion with President Aquino.

The discussions will also be attended by other officials from both the Philippines and Thailand focusing on the issues of energy, agriculture, defense, culture, education, combating drug trafficking, and disaster risk reduction and management, among others.

Issues on the significant developments in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are also expected to be discussed.

Culminating the official visit is President Aquino’s hosting of a luncheon in honor of Prime Minister Shinawatra before she leaves back home in the afternoon.

The visit is one of the highlights of the 63rd anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Thailand, which is being commemorated this year. (PCOO)

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Aquino declares Feb. 11 special non-working holiday in Iriga City, Camarines Sur

President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared February 11, 2012 as a special non-working day in the city of Iriga in the province of Camarines Sur in celebration of the Tinagba Festival.

By virtue of Proclamation No. 319 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr on January 19, 2012, President Aquino declared Feb. 11 which falls on a Saturday as a special non-working day in Iriga City to give the people a full opportunity to celebrate and participate in the occasion.

Tinagba is a harvest offering on the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes held every 11th of February in Iriga City.

The word 'Tinagba' is derived from the Bicol word "Tagba” which means "to gather the first harvest and offer it to God."

Originally, the participants of this festival had well-decorated carabao-drawn carts laden with all their farm-products At present, carts and carabaos have been replaced by festive floats. (PCOO)

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President Aquino invites Thailand investors to Public-Private Partnership program

President Benigno S. Aquino III has invited Thai investors and businessmen to invest in the Philippines through the Public Private Partnership (PPP) program, a government program aimed at accelerating the financing, construction and operation of key government infrastructure projects,

The President issued his invitation during his Expanded Bilateral Talks with Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra in Malacañang on Thursday.

He cited the importance of the private sector as an invaluable partner in the Philippine government’s quest to uplift the life of Filipinos.

“I also took the opportunity to invite Thai companies to invest in my government’s PPP program. The private sector is a vital partner in fulfilling our growth and development objectives,” the President said.

“The government is committed to providing the enabling environment for private sector participation through Public Private Partnerships (PPP),” he added.

For her part, Prime Minister Shinawatra said the Thai government was ready to throw its full support for businessmen and investors who will invest in the Philippines.

“Thailand is ready to provide support to Thai investors who wish to invest in the Philippines under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) programs,” Shinawatra said.

The Philippines and Thailand share one of the oldest and strongest bilateral relationships in Southeast Asia at 63 years which the two leaders have hailed as “a dynamic and fruitful partnership.” (PCOO)

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President Aquino, Thai PM Shinawatra hold ‘fruitful’ bilateral talks in Malacañang

President Benigno S. Aquino III said he and Thailand Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra held “fruitful” bilateral talks in Malacañang as part of the Thai leader’s six-hour Official Visit to the Philippines on Thursday.

In a joint press conference after their Expanded Bilateral meeting at Malacañang’s Aguinaldo State Dining Room, the President said the meeting centered on “bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest to both our countries.”

“I believe the good Prime Minister will agree with me that the resilient economies of the Philippines and Thailand are the product of our shared commitment to free trade and investment,” the President said.

“Our open markets have paved the way for the exchange of goods and services that have translated into billions of US dollars. Capital and investment are pouring in. Businesses are expanding beyond our borders,” he added.

The President also said that he and Shinawatra “agreed to further expand our functional cooperation in key areas such as education, combating drug trafficking, and disaster risk reduction and management.”

The two leaders also agreed to “continue working toward enhancing our countries’ excellent partnership and productive engagement both in the bilateral and multilateral arena.”

“On this matter, we both acknowledged the value of regular and sustained policy dialogue. We both look forward to Manila’s hosting of the 5th Meeting of the Philippines-Thailand Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC), which will allow us to substantially discuss ways to further strengthen the implementation of our existing cooperation in the areas of energy, agriculture, defense and culture,” the President said.

“I am confident that our fruitful and auspicious meeting this morning will contribute greatly to ensuring further benefits to bilateral relations between the Filipinos and Thais,” he added. (PCOO)

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Thais share equal pride with Filipinos in Pacquiao’s boxing success, says Thailand leader

The Thai people share equal pride with Filipinos with the success of Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao in the international sports arena, visiting Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra said on Thursday.

“It is a pleasure in visiting the Philippines, a country that shares close ties with Thailand and one that has produced great talents on the global stage including Manny Pacquiao in boxing,” Shinawatra said during the luncheon hosted in her honor by President Benigno S. Aquino III in Malacanang.

As a fellow Southeast Asian neighbor, Shinawatra said the Thai people feel great pride and honor with the success of Filipino athletes like Pacquiao in the global scene.

Pacquiao, the current World Boxing Council Super Welterweight World Champion and World Boxing Organization Welterweight World Champion, is an eight-division world champion. He is the first boxer in history to win ten world titles in eight different weight divisions.

Pacquiao, who is also a congressman representing Sarangani province, is also currently rated as the number one pound-for-pound best boxer in the world.

The Thai leader also thanked President Aquino for the warm welcome extended to her and her delegation during her brief visit in the country. Shinawatra is scheduled to go back to Thailand Thursday afternoon.

Shinawatra, Thailand's first lady leader, exchanged views with President Aquino on several bilateral and regional issues that are of mutual interest to the Philippines and Thailand.

She was briefed on the implementation of existing cooperation between the two countries in energy, agriculture, defense, culture, education, combating drug trafficking, and disaster risk reduction and management.

The visit is Shinawatra’s first trip to the Philippines since she assumed her post as prime minister in August 2011. The visit is part of the commemoration of the 63rd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Thailand. (PCOO)

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Aquino says Thai leader’s visit strengthens Philippine-Thailand relations

The visit of Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra to the Philippines further strengthens cooperation between the Philippines and Thailand for the benefit of the people of both countries, President Benigno S. Aquino III said in his speech during the luncheon he hosted for the visiting Thai leader.
“We have much in common. We share the same dream of a better life for our peoples and are filled with the same determination to achieve this aspirations. And your visit gives us a timely opportunity to build on our existing relationships towards the achievement of these goals,” the President said in his message.

The President thanked Shinawatra for the hospitality that Thailand extended to him and his delegation when he visited Thailand in May of last year.

At the same time, the President congratulated the Thai leader for her success during Thailand’s general election last July.

“Allow me to take the opportunity to personally congratulate you and your party for gaining your people’s mandate in the July general elections in Thailand. You hold a distinct honor of being the first woman Prime Minister of Thailand. My mother too was the first female president of my country,” he said.

The President also expressed his wish for the health, happiness and prosperity of Thailand’s King Bhumibol Adulyadej, and the visiting prime minister.

In response, Shinawatra thanked the President for the warm welcome extended to her during her brief stay in the Philippines. She likewise expressed the pride and honor that Thai people shared with Filipinos with the success of boxing champion Manny Pacquiao.

Shinawatra said Thailand and the Philippines enjoyed long history of close relationship since the diplomatic ties was established in 1949 and the foundation of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) in 1967.

“Our warm bilateral ties are supported not only by our many mutual interests but also by our shared values. Together, as leading democracies in Southeast Asia, Thailand and the Philippines have been at the forefront in promoting democratic values and good governance,” she said.

“We also work together to support human rights and the rights of women and children. These are strong foundations. Our relations can only grow further, and I am pleased that our discussions earlier today were fruitful and forward-looking,” she added.

Thailand is also committed for the establishment of the Asean community aside from the issues discussed with the President such as energy, agriculture, defense, culture, education, combating drug trafficking, and disaster risk reduction. (PCOO)

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Philippine-Thai leaders recommit to building ASEAN community

The Philippines and Thailand have recommitted their respective country’s efforts towards achieving an ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Community by 2015.

The two leaders echoed their recommitment in a joint press conference at the sidelines of their Expanded Bilateral Meeting during Thailand Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra’s Official Visit to the Philippines on Thursday.

The President underscored the country’s commitment to building an ASEAN Community that is founded “on the bedrock principle of compassion and respect for the rights and welfare of its peoples.”

“I also informed the Prime Minister of the Philippines’ major advocacies in the ASEAN, which includes connectivity, maritime security, food security, migrant workers’ protection, disaster management and biodiversity,” the President said.

“I was pleased to learn about Thailand’s own priorities, and to note synergy and congruence in our countries’ thrusts,” he added.

Shinawatra stressed the importance of maintaining a reliable and secure connectivity program between ASEAN-member countries to ensure that the building of an ASEAN Community would be a success.

“Both our two countries reaffirm our commitment to Asean communities in 2015 and to promote connectivity in the regions. Together, we hope to create an ASEAN community that is people-centered to the regional architecture and plays an important role in global affairs,” Shinawatra said.

The establishment of a borderless ASEAN Community by 2015 was signed during the 14th ASEAN Summit in Hua Hin, Thailand, in 2009. The creation of the ASEAN Community will be similar to that of the European Union (EU).

The ASEAN is composed of 10-member countries namely: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. (PCOO)

Malacanang says Aquino government continues to pursue its vision of safe, progressive and stable nation

The Aquino government continues to push for accountability and reform in governance, and strengthening bilateral relationships toward increased cooperation in matters of regional and global concern to attain its goal to make the Philippines a safe, progressive, and stable nation.

Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda issued the statement on Thursday following the arrival of Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra of the Kingdom of Thailand for an official visit to the Philippines.

"The fight against corruption and poverty is indivisible and multi-faceted; the push for accountability and reform in governance, and the strengthening of bilateral relationships toward increased cooperation in matters of regional and global concern, such as the economy and security, are ways in which we are pursuing our vision of a safe, progressive, and stable nation," Lacierda said.

"Today he meets the Prime Minister of Thailand, Yingluck Shinawatra, and will engage in a dialogue on improving the investment climate in Southeast Asia, mitigating the risk of natural disasters and climate change, as well as security concerns such as the West Philippine Sea," he said.

Lacierda said the first official visit of PM Shinawatra to the Philippines will further develop the 63-year-old strong ties that our country shares with Thailand.

He noted that the President’s continuing efforts to strengthen diplomatic relations with Thailand come on the heels of his recent discussions with delegations from the United States Congress.

In separate meetings with American congressmen and senators, the President discussed the Philippine position on the West Philippine Sea, which was favorably received by the American lawmakers, according to Lacierda. (PCOO)

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Aquino orders Justice Secretary to replace National Bureau of Investigation Director Gatdula

President Benigno S. Aquino III has directed Justice Secretary Leila de Lima to replace National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Magtanggol Gatdula amid reports of alleged involvement of some bureau officials in the reported kidnapping of an undocumented Japanese woman last year.

"The President has ordered the release of the report summarizing the factual findings and recommendations of the Department of Justice (DOJ); and, secondly, has authorized Secretary De Lima to replace the NBI director," Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Thursday.

Valte, however, did not give further details regarding the factual circumstances surrounding the replacement.

Justice Secretary De Lima will soon announce Gatdula's successor, according to Valte.

"Apparently, the President has already received the (DOJ) report and has reviewed the contents, and has made a corresponding action. He did not pose any objections to the recommendations of the panel. The President has always viewed accountability as objectively as possible," Valte said.

News reports showed that the DOJ panel headed by Undersecretary Francisco Baraan III has recommended the filing of criminal charges against Gatdula and other NBI officials in connection with the alleged kidnapping and extortion of Noriyo Ohara.

The complaint stemmed from the claim of Ohara’s foster family that some bureau officials demanded ransom.

Ohara flew to the Philippines in 2009 and stayed with the Marzan family who served as her foster family in Bugallon, Pangasinan. NBI agents arrested her for violating immigration laws on Oct. 28, 2011. (PCOO)

PIA News Service - Wednesday, January 18, 2012

2012-01-18T17:16:00.000-08:00

Aquino receives US senators in Malacanang

Former United States presidential aspirant Sen. John McCain, together with three other American senators, paid a courtesy call on President Benigno S. Aquino III in Malacanang Tuesday night.

Other members of the US Senate who met with the President include Sen. Joe Lieberman, Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, and Kelly Ayotte. McCain, Lieberman and Ayotte are all members of the US Senate Armed Services Committee.

Last week, the President also met several members of the US Congress who arrived in the Philippines.

In a press statement released Tuesday, Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda said the visiting US congressmen expressed their confidence in the reform agenda of the Aquino administration.

Lacierda said the Aquino government will continue with its thrust to curb corruption, fight poverty, and promote good governance in the country. With the administration’s achievements in the past one and a half years, Lacierda said these indicate forthcoming changes that will continue in the coming years.

McCain, a former prisoner of war, served as a naval aviator during the Vietnam War. He was first elected to the US House of Representatives from Arizona in 1982 and led the fight to eliminate wasteful government spending, and spearheaded the strengthening of the US armed forces.

He currently serves on the following Senate Committees during the 112th Congress: Ranking Member on the Senate Armed Services Committee; Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions; Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, and Committee on Indian Affairs.

McCain lost his campaign against Barack Obama in the 2008 US presidential election.

Lieberman, on the other hand, has been in the US Senate for more than 20 years championing environmental issues. Lieberman is best known for his Democratic vice presidential run in 2000.

He is a strong advocate for investing in American public schools, empowering parents, and challenging all students to meet higher academic standards. Regardless of income, Lieberman helped students go to college and develop the skills they need to succeed in the global economy.

He also works to expand quality and affordable healthcare to all Americans and to safeguard Medicare and Social Security for future generations of Americans. (PCOO)

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Judicial reform funds wasted – Lacierda

Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda believes Supreme Court Chief Justice “wasted” a loan given by the World Bank for judicial reforms, saying the funds were used for personal excesses.

The World Bank said on Tuesday that it had issued an aide memoire detailing “ineligible expenditures” found in the disbursement of the $24.4-million loan to fund judiciary upgrades found in the Judicial Reform Support Project.

Lacierda said the aide memoire was proof that the loan was misused.

“While the Chief Justice and his spokesman plead ignorance, the document is the surest evidence that funds meant for judicial reforms were wasted: and in the process, basic rules of good governance were ignored,” Lacierda said.

“The findings are as scandalous as they are shocking. The Chief Justice used judicial reform funds as a personal piggybank to fund travel, gifts, dining, and recreation; the Court Administrator who reports directly to the Chief Justice violated basic government rules by being the proponent, approver, and head of bidding for his own proposed expenses and acquisitions,” he added.

According to Lacierda, the purpose of the Judicial Reform Support Project (JRSP) is to support the development of a more effective and accessible judicial system that would foster public trust and confidence.

“Specifically the project would strengthen the Philippine court system by making the judicial process more efficient, timely and predictable,” Lacierda said.

“The Project would also contribute to the refinement of further reforms in the Philippine judicial system as a whole and deepen community and government support for such reforms,” he added. (PCOO)

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Malacanang says Thai Prime Minister Shinawatra’s official visit aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation

The strengthening of bilateral cooperation in all aspects of mutual interest to both the Philippines and Thailand will be the main focus of the discussion when Prime Minister of Thailand Yingluck Shinawatra meets President Benigno S. Aquino III during her official visit to the country on Thursday (January 19), a Palace official said on Wednesday.

The visit of Prime Minister (PM) Shinawatra aims to further strengthen the Philippines’ deep and strong bilateral relations with Thailand, according to Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Wednesday.

"There will be a bilateral discussion with Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra and the topics to be discussed will be cooperation on energy, agriculture, defense, culture, education, combating drug trafficking, and disaster risk reduction and management, among others," Lacierda said.

President Aquino III will meet with the Thai prime minister and discuss ways to further strengthen the implementation of existing cooperation in the areas of energy, agriculture, defense, culture, education, combating drug trafficking, and disaster risk reduction and management, among others. They will share perspectives on significant developments in Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), including the issue of the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

The President will host a luncheon in honor of the visiting leader after the meeting in Malacanang.

The visit is one of the highlights of the 63rd anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Thailand, which is being commemorated this year. (PCOO)

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Aquino confers Order of Sikatuna with Rank of Datu on Foreign Minister Yeo of Singapore

President Benigno S. Aquino III conferred the senior Order of Merit on former Foreign Minister of the Republic of Singapore George Yeo in recognition of his exemplary service and active commitment to his responsibilities as foreign relations official of his country.

In simple ceremonies, prior to their luncheon meeting, at the Music Room of the Malacanang Palace on Wednesday, President Aquino awarded the Order of Sikatuna with the Rank of Datu (Grand Cross) Gold Distinction to Yeo, who have rendered meritorious and exceptional work to foster better relations between his country and the Philippines.

Witnessing the conferment ceremonies were other government officials led by Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima and Transportation and Communications Secretary Manuel “Mar” Roxas II.

Also in attendance were Singaporean Ambassador to the Philippines Mr A. Selverajah and the honoree’s wife, Mrs. Jennifer Yeo.

Following the awarding rites, the President led Foreign Minister Yeo and his group to the adjacent Aguinaldo State Dining Room for a luncheon meeting.

The Order of Sikatuna was established in 1953 and is conferred by the President of the Philippines to give recognition to individuals who have rendered exceptional and meritorious services to the Philippines, and to diplomats, officials and nationals of foreign states who have rendered conspicuous services in fostering, developing, and strengthening relations between their country and the Philippines as well as personnel of the Department of Foreign Affairs both in the Home Office and in the Foreign Service. (PCOO)

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Malacanang says Aquino gov't continues to work hard to chart country to higher growth

The Aquino government continues to work harder to chart the country to a higher growth trajectory amid the latest survey by the Bank of America-Merrill Lynch showing that global fund managers have increased their position in the Philippines, making it the third most preferred market in the world.

"According to the Bank of America-Merrill Lynch survey, the Philippines has become the third most-preferred market in the world for global fund managers, after China and Indonesia. This is borne of expectations that in the wake of four credit upgrades, the country's investment grade will be further upgraded later this year," Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said in a statement issued on Wednesday.

"The survey also cites investor confidence being boosted by the President’s reform agenda," Lacierda said.

Reports said the series of upgrades last year manifest that the Aquino administration's economic program is on the right track.

Fitch Ratings raised its credit rating for the Philippines to BB+ from BB last June, just one notch below the credit rating company's investment grade.

Standard & Poor's, another credit rating company, raised its outlook to positive from stable last November, citing the country's strong external liquidity and improved fiscal position.

Lacierda said that the Aquino government continues to work toward the goal of having a sustainable inclusive growth for the country.

"The simple fact is justice, accountability, transparency, good governance, and the improvement of the economy to accomplish inclusive growth are an indivisible whole," Lacierda said.

"An economy that is inclusive is one in which citizens are empowered to improve their lives and contribute to the well-being of the national community," he said. (PCOO)

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US, Philippines agree to strengthen military ties

The United States and the Philippines have agreed for a stronger military cooperation following the visit of four American senators in the country on Tuesday.

President Benigno S. Aquino III met with Senators John McCain, Joe Lieberman, Sheldon Whitehouse and Kelly Ayotte during a courtesy call in Malacanang. McCain, Lieberman and Ayotte are all members of the US Senate Armed Services Committee.

“The senators said that they are increasing their presence in the Asia-Pacific region. As you know, they already have established bases in Australia and Singapore. There will be increased military exercises in Asia -Pacific region and that would also include the Philippines,” Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda said in a press briefing on Wednesday quoting Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin who also met with the US senators.

Lacierda clarified, however, that the US is not establishing any bases in the Philippines.

Lacierda said the Philippines also asked for a second Hamilton class cutter, a request that the US senators vowed to support. The first Hamilton class cutter arrived in the Philippines last August. It is now commissioned by the Philippine Navy to protect the country’s waters.

During their meeting, the President briefed the visiting US senators on the ongoing impeachment trial of Supreme Court Chief Justice Renato Corona, Lacierda said.

“Sen. John McCain lauded the President for his high approval ratings and Senator Lieberman told the President he was impressed with the way the President handles efforts on good governance,” he added.

The Philippines welcomed the wider military cooperation between the two countries, and the Philippines is ready to engage itself in more military exercises with the US, Lacierda said.

“We profit from the experiences of joint military exercises. It enhances our experience, it improves our capabilities. We learn from the Americans,” Lacierda said.

McCain and the three other US senators paid a courtesy call on President Aquino III in Malacanang Tuesday night. Some of the Filipino officials who were also present include Gazmin, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and Justice Secretary Leila de Lima.

McCain, who represents Arizona, currently serves on the following Senate Committees during the 112th Congress: Ranking Member on the Senate Armed Services Committee; Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions; Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, and Committee on Indian Affairs.

McCain lost his campaign against Barack Obama in the 2008 US presidential election.

Lieberman, an independent senator from Connecticut, is best known for his Democratic vice presidential run in 2000. He is a strong advocate for education reform, environment, healthcare and social security.

Last week, the President also met several members of the US Congress who arrived in the country. The visiting US congressmen commended the reform agenda of the Aquino government. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Tuesday, January 17, 2012

2012-01-17T19:49:00.000-08:00

Aquino orders DOJ to study 'frivolous lawsuits' filed by disqualified bidders against Robredo

President Benigno S. Aquino III has instructed the Department of Justice (DOJ) to study ‘frivolous lawsuits’ filed by disqualified bidders against Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo after failing to seal a deal with the government in the rebidding conducted by the latter’s office for its acquisition of new fire trucks to augment basic public services in the country.

In a speech delivered at the inauguration of D’Luxe Bags Philippines, Inc. in Concepcion, Tarlac on Monday, President Aquino explained that the rebidding was ordered by Robredo, “just to maximize and ensure that government funds are spent wisely,” in an effort to double the number of fire trucks in the country.

President Aquino noted that the last bidding for the new set of fire trucks was done about three years ago prior to his administration and the average price at the time was nine million (pesos) per unit. The government managed to settle at the price of five million (pesos) per unit after the rebidding in 2011.

“Therefore, with the available budget, we can double that which we will be able to acquire. And I guess everybody will agree, having done such an achievement, Secretary Robredo should be entitled to a round of applause, isn’t he?” the President said.

Ironically, however, President Aquino said the DILG chief instead got sued based on unfounded allegations of wrongdoings, leading to “a situation where people who have the temerity and the gall to start suing someone who is doing what is right were conspiring to defraud the country and its people of what is due them.”

“So I guess the appropriate response to them—and I’ve instructed the DOJ already to study the matter—is, once that suit is settled, for us to sue these people who are used [to] wasting the time of government by entertaining frivolous lawsuits,” the President said. (PCOO)

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Aquino share optimism of HSBC study on Philippine economy

President Benigno S. Aquino III is confident the Philippines can fulfill a recent Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation study saying the Southeast Asian Nation would gain much more prominence in the coming decades to become the world’s 16th largest economy by 2050.

In a speech keynoting the 3rd Recognition Ceremony for government institutions that have attained ISO (International Organization for Standardization) 9001 certification in Malacañang on Tuesday, the President said the country could handily achieve this feat because the skill, perseverance and dedication of the Filipino to his work is world-class.

“Kamakailan lamang inulat ng CNN (Cable News Network) ang isang pag-aaral ng HSBC na pagdating ng 2050, pang labing anim na ang Pilipinas na may pinaka-malaking ekonomiya sa mundo,” the President said.

“Tiwala tayo hindi ito malayong mangyari lalo pa’t makailang beses na nating ipinamalas sa mundo ang katangi-tanging husay at kakayahan ng mga Pilipino sa iba’t-ibang larangan,” he added.

He stressed, however, that though the study showed that the international arena looks favorably on the Philippines, this will not deter him and his government from continuing to work towards improving the lives of all Filipinos.

“Pataas man ng pataas ang kumpiyansa nating umasenso hindi tayo titigil sa puspusang pagta-trabaho,” the President said.

In a recent report entitled, “The World by 2050,” HSBC predicted the Philippines would “leapfrog” to become the world’s 16th largest economy helped by demographics, rising education standards and “multi-decade” growth. (PCOO)

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Gov’t institutions with new ISO 9001 Quality Management System Certification honored in Malacañang

Sixty government institutions that have recently attained ISO 9001 Quality Management System Certifications were honored by President Benigno S. Aquino III in Malacañang on Tuesday.

In his speech, the President thanked the national line agencies, government owned and controlled corporations, government financial institutions and local government units for displaying their utmost skill, perseverance and dedication in performing their duties as servants of the people in order to achieve this feat.

“Kahusayan, sipag at dedikasyon. Ito ang mga katangiang namamayani at pinatitingkad pa natin ngayon sa ating bayan. Sagisag nga po ang pagtitipon natin ngayon na marami tayong kasangga sa ating agenda ng mabuting pamamahala at nagtatagumpay na tayo sa tuwid na daan,” the President said.

“Lubos tayong nagpapasalamat sa iba’t ibang organisasyon ng gobyerno na nakakamit ng ISO 9001 Certification; patunay ito sa ipinapamalas ninyong dedikasyon at propesyunalismo sa inyong tungkulin,” he added.

He challenged the awardees, who are now part of the 134 ISO 9001 QMS certified government institutions, to continue working, honing and improving their work.

“Kaakibat ng iginawad sa inyong pagkilala ngayong araw, magsilbi rin sanang hamon at inspirasyon ito upang patuloy kayong magpamalas ng katangi-tanging pamamahala at epektibong pagtupad sa tungkulin,” the President said.

All Government agencies are mandated to implement and attain ISO (International Organization for Standardization) 9001 QMS Certification as ordered in Executive Order No. 605 s. 2007.

The EO entitled “Institutionalizing the Structure, Mechanisms and Standards to Implement the Government Quality Management Program, Amending for the Purpose Administrative Order No. 161 s. 2006” aims to effect actual improvements in public governance in recognition of ISO 9000 series which ensures consistency of products and services through quality processes in all government agencies.

Certification to ISO 9001 QMS standards of government management processes and systems provides opportunities for public sector entities to consistently fulfill its mandate, address citizen’s needs and expectations, and enhance citizen’s satisfaction. (PCOO)

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Aquino remains focused on the economy, says spokesman

President Benigno S. Aquino III will continue to focus on the country’s economic growth and will not be distracted by the ongoing impeachment trial of Supreme Court Chief Justice Renato Corona, the President’s Spokesman said.

“In his speech at the inauguration of the D’Luxe Bags Philippines, a 10-month-old luxury bag factory in Tarlac, the President said that while his administration holds fast to its commitment to good governance, it also would not waver in pursuing equitable economic growth, citing solid accomplishments such as creating an additional 2.1 million jobs last year, as well as having increased tourist arrivals by about a million additional visitors in 2011,” Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda said in a statement released to the media on Tuesday.

“The great strides that have been made in curbing corruption, fighting poverty, and promoting good governance—the achievements of the past one and a half years—are only indicators of the changes that will continue to sweep the Philippines in the coming years,” he added.

In the recent meeting of the President with the members of the US Congress, Lacierda said the American legislators expressed their confidence in the reform agenda of the Aquino administration.

During the press conference in Malacanang also on Tuesday, Lacierda said he issued the statement to emphasize the thrust of the President on the economy and to counter allegations that the chief executive is losing grip on the economic matters.

Last week, the CNN (Cable News Network), citing a recent assessment by the Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corp. (HSBC) reported that by 2050, the Philippines will leapfrog 27 places to become the world’s 16th largest economy.

HSBC has released a report predicting the rise and fall of the world’s economies in the next 40 years.

Keynoting the 3rd Recognition Ceremony for government institutions attaining ISO (International Organization for Standardization) 9001 certification, the President said the assessment of HSBC on the Philippines’ bright economic prospect is not far from reality.

“Pataas man nang pataas ang kumpiyansa nating umasenso, hindi po tayo titigil sa puspusang pagtatrabaho. Kaakibat ng pagtatama natin sa mga mali ng nakaraan ay ang kamulatan nating walang silbi ang mga datos pang-ekonomiya na maganda lamang tingnan sa papel subalit wala namang naidudulot na ginhawa sa mga kababayan nating nasa laylayan ng lipunan,” the President said. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Monday, January 16, 2012

2012-01-16T02:24:00.000-08:00

Aquino thanks Luen Thai CEO for 'commitment' to the Filipino people

CONCEPCION, Tarlac: President Benigno S. Aquino III expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Willie Tan for his “commitment” to the Filipino people through the investments put up by his company, Luen Thai Enterprises (LTE) and Tan Holdings Corporation, in the Philippines.

In his speech keynoting the formal inauguration of D’Luxe Bags Philippines on Monday here, the President said he was “pleased” whenever discussion turned to LTE and Tan because “it was always good news.”

D’Luxe Bags Philippines is part of the Luen Thai Group, one of the world’s premier apparel manufacturing companies, and manufactures and exports leather goods under the brand “Coach.”

As of December 2011, D’Luxe employs 1,200 employees capable of producing 90,000 to 100,000 pieces of Coach bags a month. LTE hopes to increase production exports to US$130-million by increasing its production to five million pieces of bags a year by 2014.

“Obviously before we spend some money we have to earn the money, and it is through efforts of people like Mr. Willie Tan who, I really am very glad that I met just barely two years ago, has already contributed so much to our country. He has so much commitment to the Filipino people,” the President said.

He further thanked Tan for planning to expand his company’s businesses in the Philippines in the following years such as employing “something like eventually 35,000 workers in the country” and by “expanding so much besides garments and bags…specifically in the tourism sector. As, I understand their companies are also engaged in the tourism sector. And we need all of the help that we can get,” the President continued.

“There are people who are helping us achieve the production of more and more opportunities for our people. It really is imperative on us to ensure that when they leave at the end of the day, or before they sleep, that they really made the right decision in providing us these opportunities. And with that, we will proceed from success to success. We will have inclusive growth and we will be able to achieve the dreams that we all aspire to,” he added. (PCOO)

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Aquino vows to get the bottom of alleged land grabbing incidents in Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway project

CONCEPCION, Tarlac: President Benigno S. Aquino III vowed on Monday to get to the bottom of the alleged land grabbing incidents concerning farmers and land owners affected by the construction of the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway project.

In an interview after inaugurating the D’Luxe Bags Philippines manufacturing plant here, the President said he would soon be meeting with the Departments of Agrarian Reform, Public Works and Highways as well as Justice to tell them to immediately conduct investigations on the matter.

“…may meeting ako sa DAR at nakausap ko na rin ang DPWH at iba pang mga sangay ng pamahalaan para bigyan ako ng report at nang mapa-imbestigahan natin ang alegasyon na ‘yan,” the President said.

“Ang dulo po nito siguro, ang maipapangako ko, na may conclusion ‘yung imbestigasyon; may sasabihing: mayroon bang nagkamali rito? Sino ang nagkamali? Sino ba ang may ginawang mali? Kailangan mabigyan natin siguro ng kaukulang deadline,” he added.

“So after ‘nung pagpulong ko sa DAR at DPWH, baka DOJ rin, ay mabibigyan nila ako ng idea kung kailan natin mako-conclude ang imbestigasyon na ‘yan,” the President said.

TPLEX, an 88.15 kilometer, four-lane travel way, is a build-operate-transfer (BOT) project awarded thru bidding to the Private Infrastructure Development Corporation (PIDC), a consortium led by San Miguel Corp. and DMCI Holdings, Construction.

When complete, it will pass through the municipalities of Victoria, Gerona, Paniqui, Moncada and San Manuel in Tarlac; Carmen, Urdaneta, Binalonan, Pozzorubio and Sison in Pangasinan; and Rosario in La Union. (PCOO)

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Aquino deputizes law enforcement agencies to assist COMELEC in 2nd District of Zambales special elections

President Benigno S. Aquino III has deputized the law enforcement agencies and instrumentalities of the government, including the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP), to assist the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) in ensuring the free, orderly, honest, peaceful, and credible conduct of February 4, 2012 special elections for the 2nd District of Zambales following the death of 2nd District Representative Antonio Magsaysay Diaz last year.

By virtue of Memorandum Order No. 29 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on January 9, 2012, President Aquino concurred with COMELEC Resolution No. 9312.

The election body, through its Resolution No. 9312 (s. 2011), resolved to request the concurrence of the President in the deputation of law enforcement agencies and other instrumentalities of the government in connection with the February 4, 2012 special elections in Zambales.

The Chief Executive, likewise, directed the law enforcement agencies and other concerned agencies to coordinate and cooperate with the COMELEC in the performance of their duties and functions. The MO shall take effect immediately.

The Comelec has set the second district congressional special elections on February 4, 2012 to fill up the vacant position left by 2nd District Rep. Diaz who died on August 3, 2011. The late congressman was a nephew of former President Ramon Magsaysay.

The election body announced the enforcement of gun ban in Olongapo City and 13 other towns in Zambales for the start of the special elections in the second district of the province.

The COMELEC guidelines said any private individual, incumbent officials or political candidates are prohibited to carry firearms or hire armed personnel during the congressional election.

Campaign period is set on January 19 to February 2 of this year. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Sunday, January 15, 2012

2012-01-16T02:21:00.000-08:00

Aquino to lead inauguration of int'l bag manufacturing plant in Tarlac

President Benigno S. Aquino III will lead the inauguration ceremony to formally open the D’Luxe Bags Philippines, Inc. in Barangay Sta. Rosa, Concepcion, Tarlac on Monday.

Upon his arrival, the President will lead the unveiling of the Plant Marker located at the main entrance of the plant’s Production Building 1 and tour the plant’s facilities before addressing some 200 guests composed of officers and employees of the company and government and local officials who will attend the event.

He will be joined by Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo.

D’Luxe Bags Philippines, Inc, is one of several companies under Luen Thai Enterprises & Tan Holdings whose chief executive officer is Willie Tan.

Tan had met with the President during his five-day visit to China from August 30 to September 3, 2011 to discuss investment possibilities.

Tan told President Aquino of Luen Thai Holdings' business investment in the Philippines, such as the recently established Coach luxury bags production facility in Concepcion, Tarlac as well as the expansion of its Cebu and Clark facilities.

Tan also disclosed that LTH is planning to build an apparel and textile mill in Bataan. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Saturday, January 14, 2012

2012-01-14T19:12:00.000-08:00

Palace elated over survey ranking the Philippines as 8th friendliest country

Malacanang expressed elation over the HSBC Expat Explorer Survey result, which ranked the Philippines as the eighth friendliest country in the world.

Earlier, the 2012 Index of Economic Freedom, published by The Wall Street Journal and The Heritage Foundation gave the Philippines a 57.1 score for economic freedom, making its economy the 107th freest in the 2012 Index. The score is 0.9 point higher than last year.

“We’re also happy to note that in one of the surveys conducted by HSBC, the Philippines ranked as one of the… the eighth friendliest country out of most of the countries rated in the world. And this is why we believe na talagang it really is more fun in the Philippines,” Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a radio interview over dzRB Radyo ng Bayan on Saturday.

“The administration will always promote what is good… what is good with the economy and people,” Valte said countering the criticisms being leveled against the Aquino administration.

According to HSBC’s Expat Explorer Survey released last year, the Philippines is the eighth friendliest country in the world for expatriates. HSBC surveyed 3,385 expats in 100 countries between May and July 2011.

The countries were ranked based on four categories: ability to befriend locals, success in learning the local language, capacity for integrating themselves into the community, and ease in which they fit into the new culture.

Forbes.com, citing the results of the HSBC survey, said the Philippines is a country “friendly on wallets,” with large number of expatriates saying they have an increased access to luxuries, including domestic staff, swimming pools and owning properties.

New Zealand topped the list of the world’s friendliest countries, posting excellent scores in all four categories. (PCOO)

Palace urges peaceful celebration of the Feast of the Sto. Nino

Malacanang called on the public to celebrate the Feast of the Sto. Nino in a peaceful and orderly manner, a Palace official said on Saturday.

"Sumunod po tayo doon sa ating mga awtoridad. Napaigting na po ng mga nagpo-foot patrol at mga nagbabantay ang Philippine National Police (PNP) at ang Navy para nga sa selebrasyon. At sana po maging orderly ang Sinulog," Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said during an interview aired over government-run dzRB Radyo ng Bayan on Saturday.

The Feast of the Sto. Nino is being held on the third Sundays of January. It is the period when Tondo and Pandacan in Manila, Cebu, and many other provinces, towns, and cities in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao pay homage to the Holy Child Jesus

The Sto. Niño, a representation of the Child Jesus, literally means “holy child.” Filipinos, being largely Roman Catholics, venerate and are faithful devotees of the Sto. Niño.

A mass is set to be officiated on Sunday morning by Archbishop Luis Antonio Tagle at the Sto. Nino Parish Church in celebration of the Tondo fiesta in Manila.

This will be followed by a Sto. Nino Fiesta grand procession from the said church to major streets in Tondo and then back to the church.

Meanwhile, the Sinulog is an annual festival held on the third Sunday of January in Cebu City.

The Sinulog celebration lasts for nine days, culminating on the final day with the Sinulog Grand Parade. The day before the parade, a fluvial procession from Mandaue City to Cebu City is held at dawn with a statue of the Santo Niño carried on a pump boat. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Friday, January 13, 2012

2012-01-13T18:25:00.000-08:00

Aquino leads Vin D’ Honneur rites in Malacanang

President Benigno S. Aquino III led government officials, religious leaders, local and foreign business and economic leaders, as well as members of the Diplomatic Corps in a first toast welcoming the New Year as he expressed commitment to continue working hard to uplift the lives of the people through fair and honest practices in governance.

In his Vin D’ Honneur message before the New Year’s toast at the Rizal Hall of the Malacanang Palace on Friday, President Aquino cited the significant confidence of the people, especially the business sector, on his style of governance that is anchored on righteousness and accountability as exemplified by the influx of investments by both local and foreign investors.

“We have already made great strides in our fight against corruption and poverty, as well as in our thrust to create a progressive economic climate guided by fair and honest practices. Local and foreign groups have acknowledged our triumphs by investing in our country, by lauding our efforts in open governance, and by supporting our programs,” the President said.

He said that the government will continue exerting unyielding efforts not only to strengthen the economy but also to ensure the safety of the people.

The Chief Executive also stressed the importance of unity among the various sectors of society in achieving all of these goals.

“At the heart of our work for the next year lies a desire to secure for our people a better standard of life, and a brighter future. And all of you present here today are crucial to achieving that goal… I am confident that so long as we stand together and remain consistent in our service to the public, our countrymen will be behind us every step of the way, as we work toward success,” the President said.

“This year, we will strengthen the programs that work for our countrymen, such as those in education, health, housing, and others like our Conditional Cash Transfer Program,” he added.

Apart from these developmental initiatives, the President said, the government will also run after those unscrupulous individuals or groups that seek to perpetuate the culture of impunity in the country.

“We will not relent in our quest to hold accountable those who seek to perpetuate the culture of impunity in our country… we will continue to ensure the safety of our nation: by upgrading our defense capabilities, and by working to achieve peace, while pursuing lawless and criminal elements,” the President said.

Present during the event were other government officials led by Vice President Jejomar Binay, Senator Franklin Drilon, House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr., former Chief Justice Artemio Panganiban, Cebu Archbishop Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Tagle, Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim, Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Jessie Dellosa and Philippine National Police Chief Director General Nicanor Bartolome, among others.

Also in attendance were members of the cabinet that include Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr., Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo, Social Welfare and Development Secretary Corazon Soliman, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala, Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz, Budget Secretary Florencio Abad and Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio “Sonny” Coloma Jr., among others.

Vin d’honneur is a traditional reception hosted by the President and held at the Palace to mark the New Year which dates back to the colonial period. This year’s Vin d’Honneur marks the 25th since the Edsa Revolution (the first one took place in 1987). Like last year, the event was held in the morning, in contrast to the afternoon or early evening practice in the past. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - THursday, January 12, 2012

2012-01-13T01:21:00.000-08:00

PNoy revises guidelines on suspension of classes, gov’t work due to disasters

President Benigno S. Aquino III has expanded the existing protocol on the cancellation or suspension of classes and work in government due to typhoons to include flooding, calamities and other weather disturbances in order to avoid the unnecessary loss of lives.

Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. said on Thursday the President issued Executive Order No. 66 on January 9, streamlining and simplifying the procedures for the cancellation or suspension of classes in public and private schools and work in government offices due to calamities.

“This presidential issuance is an assertion of the State’s declared policy to institutionalize measures that will ensure that the general public, including students and state workers, will be safe from needless hazards and that their lives and limbs will be safeguarded,” Ochoa said.

EO 66 has set the following guidelines in the cancellation or suspension of classes in public and private schools and work in government:

• Signal No. 1 - Classes at the pre-school level, in the affected area, shall be automatically cancelled or suspended.
• Signal No. 2 - Classes at the pre-school, elementary and secondary levels, in the affected area, shall be automatically cancelled or suspended.
• Signal No. 3 - Classes at pre-school, elementary, secondary and tertiary levels, in the affected area, including graduate school, as well as work in all government offices, shall be automatically cancelled or suspended.

President Aquino also directed the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) to issue weather forecasts through various media outlets, including radio and television, not later than 10 p.m. of the previous day and 4:30 a.m. of the day of the intended cancellation or suspension of classes and work.

The President, however, said that in the event where there are classes and work in the morning and suspension of classes and work is only effective in the afternoon, PAGASA should issue the forecast not later than 11 a.m. of the said day.

At the same time, EO 66 provides that in the absence of typhoon signal warnings from PAGASA, the local chief executives shall implement localized cancellation or suspension of classes and government work in coordination with the weather bureau and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), particularly in flood-prone or high risk areas.

The local chief executives serve as chairpersons of the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (LDRRMC).

EO 66 sets the announcements of the cancellation or suspension not later than 4:30 a.m. of the same day or not later than 11 a.m. for suspension of classes and work in the afternoon. The announcement should be made through different media outlets, landline communications and other technologies for communication within the community or locality.

In areas affected by disasters other than typhoons, classes in all levels in both public and private schools and government work shall only be cancelled or suspended upon the declaration by the President of a state of calamity on recommendation of the NDRRMC.

The concerned LDRRM Office must then be responsible for the announcement of the suspension of classes and government work in the affected areas in coordination with the NDRRMC through various media outlets available under the circumstances.

EO 66 tasks the NDRRMC to immediately inform the Office of the President (OP), through the Executive Secretary, of any or all cancellation or suspension of classes and government work in the affected areas.

President Aquino, nevertheless, directed government agencies directly involved in disaster risk reduction and management to maintain the operations of their respective offices to ensure the continuity of the delivery of public service. The heads of the concerned government agencies shall determine which of their respective divisions or units shall maintain its operations.

These government offices are the Office of the Executive Secretary and the Departments of National Defense, the Interior and Local Government, Social Welfare and Development, Science and Technology, Health, Public Works and Highways, and Education, among others, which operations the President or the NDRRMC may deem necessary.

The OP, through the Executive Secretary, shall have concurrent authority with the NDRRMC to cancel or suspend classes and work in government offices during disasters, the EO stated. (PCOO)

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Aquino urges Filipinos to help promote use of renewable energy, cites importance of addressing massive problem of climate change

President Benigno S. Aquino III encouraged the major stakeholders in the energy sector to work hand in hand with the government in efforts to promote and implement the use of renewable energy as he stressed the importance of addressing the massive problem of climate change that is hounding not only the Philippines but also the rest of the world.

In his speech during the “1st Philippine BioEnergy Conference at the Fiesta Pavilion of the Manila Hotel, One Rizal Park in Manila, Thursday, President Aquino said that the success of saving Mother Earth lies in the unity of the people from all sectors of society to ensure a better environment for the next generations to enjoy.

“Working together, we can make the year brighter for many Filipinos, and for many people around the world. With your help, we can have more houses capable of switching on lights to welcome each New Year. With more emphasis on Renewable Energy resources, we can even make our own small contribution to addressing the massive problem that is climate change,” the President said.

“And if all of us—from different sectors and countries—can pull together and succeed, then we will indeed have brightened more than houses; we will have lit a beacon of hope, that humanity may thrive in communion with the Earth for many more generations to come,” he added.

The Chief Executive also noted that renewable energy has always been a key consideration towards achieving the vision of a greener and more vibrant Philippines.

He expressed elation in seeing the sector’s stakeholders gathered and united in discussions to formulate more options that may lead to using renewable energy resources, like bioenergy that is beneficial to the environment and the people.

At present, the President said, nearly 39 percent of the country’s energy requirements are being sourced out through renewable sources such as hydropower, geothermal, solar, wind, and biomass.

The government projects that the biomass sector’s contribution will increase from 39 megawatts of energy in 2010 to more than 300 megawatts by 2015.

The President said that this increase will also provide 89 thousand more jobs for the people apart from the stimulation of local economies that would create even more economic opportunities.

“Our projections also indicate that, in achieving this goal (biomass sector’s increase), around 89,000 more jobs will be generated for Filipinos. These of course have a multiplier effect, because citizens with sources of income become empowered consumers, who can stimulate local economies and create even more jobs,” President Aquino said.

“The effects of advancing the biomass sector will also reach close to 577,000 farm families who can benefit, for example, by gaining additional income through the sale of agri-waste or forest residues that can be used in the development of biomass resources,” he added.

Also present during the event apart from the major energy players were other government officials led by Energy Secretary Jose Rene Almendras and Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala.

With the theme, “Green Investments, Providing Solutions towards Energy Sustainability”, the event envisions a vibrant and profitable agribusiness sector in the country, promoting more green industries such as agribusiness, biofuel feedstock production and processing as well as the production of high value commercial plantation crops.

The two-day international convention aims to introduce the current status of the bioenergy industry and its latest developments, projects, and research initiatives currently undertaken, as well as its relevance to climate change and ecological balance as well as to the investment opportunities in the bioenergy sector to contribute in the economic growth of the country. (PCOO)

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Palace vows aggressive spending thrust

The Aquino government vowed to continue its aggressive spending this year as it eliminates leakages in the way it disburses public money, a Palace spokesman said on Thursday.

During a press briefing in Malacanang on Thursday, Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda fended off criticisms saying the administration underspent in 2011 as reflected in the 2012 Index of Economic Freedom published by The Wall Street Journal and The Heritage Foundation, Washington’s No. 1 think tank.

The government was also criticized for having lower trade freedom rating.

“We’ve been accused of underspending. But our government spending has been efficient in the sense that we have eliminated leakages and that’s seen in the way that we spent for last year. You can expect that our government spending, while it has started, will still maintain the same kind of standard that we will continue to weed out leakages in our spending,” Lacierda said.

“You can expect high government spending this year as we already have… as Secretary Butch Abad had announced”

With regards to improving the country’s trade freedom performance, Lacierda said the Aquino government will rationalize the grant of tax holidays to companies investing in the Philippines.

“We are looking at how we could rationalize the tax incentives in this country. We have tried to hasten business registration and all these are part of the trade freedom,” he said.

According to this year’s Index of Economic Freedom, the Philippines scored 57.1 on economic freedom, making its economy the 107th freest in the 2012 Index. Its score is 0.9 point higher than last year, with a significant improvement in business freedom.

The country ranks 19th out of 41 countries in the Asia-Pacific region and its overall score is slightly below the world and regional averages. Despite the challenging global economic environment, the Philippine economy has been on a steady path of economic expansion, the index observes.

The index uses 10 benchmarks that gauge the economic success of 184 countries around the world. These benchmarks include property rights, freedom from corruption, government spending, fiscal freedom, business freedom, labor freedom, monetary freedom, trade freedom, investment freedom and financial freedom.

The Index of Economic Freedom is an annual guide published by The Wall Street Journal and The Heritage Foundation. For over a decade, both organizations have tracked the march of economic freedom around the world with the influential economic index. (PCOO)

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Malacanang says Aquino government remains committed to achieving inclusive growth, reducing poverty and making progress in fiscal management

The Aquino government has remained committed to the goal of achieving inclusive growth and succeeded to build on the gains of the anti-government campaign and reduce poverty and even made progress in fiscal management, a Palace official said on Thursday.

During the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Thursday, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda issued the statement in response to criticisms hurled by former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo against President Benigno S. Aquino III's government.

In a paper titled "It's the economy, student," Pampanga Rep. Arroyo blamed Aquino's "politics of division" for pulling down the Philippine economy to only 3.2% growth in the third quarter of 2011, well below the downgraded forecasts and the 7% growth recorded when she stepped down.

"What growth was she talking about in her administration? That was not inclusive growth. We’re talking about inclusive growth in our administration here. We have hastened the pace of justice," Lacierda said, adding that "Ang sinasabi niya we have not come up with new ways. We have not come up with new ways of corruption that’s why we are driving away (corruption). We’re curbing corruption, we are finding ways of improving the justice system here in the country," Lacierda said.

He reiterated the President's resolve for "a transparent, accountable government, worthy of the people's trust" to push the country's economy forward in 2012.

“The Aquino administration has always aspired for an economy where the growth powered by private enterprise is felt by a larger number of people,” Lacierda stressed.

Lacierda also lashed back at Arroyo who criticized the President for weak infrastructure spending and the slow rollout of public-private partnership (PPP) projects.

"We’ve been accused of underspending. Our government spending has been efficient in the sense that we have eliminated leakages. We will continue to weed out leakages in our government spending. And you can expect high government spending this year as we have already…as Secretary Butch Abad has already announced," he said.

Economic experts said the President also made good progress in practical fiscal management, which spawned savings, job creation, and higher rice production in 2011.

"The political analysis of former President Arroyo is not in tune or is not in consonance with the optimistic analysis of business investors, business analysts abroad. We are being rated as one of the top three areas to invest in this year and there are plenty of growth opportunities in this region," he said.

"In our fight against poverty, we have increased the beneficiaries in the conditional cash transfer (CCT). What we’ve done is a marked improvement from the past administration. A greater number of people are now beneficiaries of the CCT program. We have provided employment for the greater number of people through the various agencies that’s why there’s going to be massive infrastructure spending and we are going to show growth to our tourism which is going to be happening this year and also to agricultural productivity," he said. (PCOO)

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Aquino leads 2011 The Outstanding Filipinos awards rites in Malacañang

President Benigno S. Aquino III honored the awardees of this year’s search for The Outstanding Filipinos (TOFIL) in ceremonies held at the Heroes Hall of Malacañang Palace on Thursday.

The TOFIL Awards pays tribute to the country’s men and women, 41 years and above of age, who have contributed significantly to the upliftment of the lives of their fellow Filipinos.

The 2011 awardees are: Dr. Jesus Estanislao for Governance; Jose Pardo for Business; Dr. Ramon Nery for Government and Public Service; Sylvia Pendon for Entrepreneurship; and Dr. Emerlinda Ramos for Education.

In his speech, the President lauded the awardees for striving to be the best they could be by continuing to challenge themselves to do more and never settling for mediocrity.

“Sa kaso po ng mga pinaparangalan natin, hindi sila nakuntento sa “pwede na;” hindi sapat sa kanila ang “okey na iyan.” Patuloy nilang hinahamon ang kanilang kakayahan – at ito ang katangiang bumukod sa kanila sa karamihan. Ganitong uri ng kadakilaan ang kinkilala natin ngayong hapon,” the President said.

Estanislao, a former Finance Secretary and accomplished academic, is known for his role in carrying out successful fiscal reforms during the administration of the late President Corazon Aquino.

Pardo, a former Trade and Industry Secretary and current chairman of the Philippine Stock Exchange, is being cited for pioneering the franchising model in the country.

Nery is being awarded for his untiring work in the poorest province of Mindanao, where he initiated a host of reforms to improve the services of public hospitals and alleviate the ailing healthcare situation.

Pendon is being cited for pioneering the organic food movement in Palawan and her efforts for strengthening the country’s cottage industry by introducing Philippine handicrafts to the world thereby creating a lucrative export market that we still benefit from today.

Roman deserves recognition for her accomplishments, not only for being the first woman president of the University of the Philippines, but also for being a model in education for more than 30 years.

“Tulad ng karamihan, bawa’t isa sa kanila ay nangarap din. Subalit hindi sila tumigil sa pangarap lamang. Mulat silang bawat munting adhikain ay may kaakibat na kaukulang pagkilos at sakripisyo, ng masusing paghahanda at puspusang dedikasyon,” the President said.

“Higit sa lahat, ang saklaw ng mga nais nilang makamit ay hindi lamang para sa kanilang sarili, kundi para sa mas nakakarami – para sa organisasyong kanilang kinabibilangan, para sa kanilang mga pamilya, at higit sa lahat, para sa bayan,” he added. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Wednesday, January 11, 2012

2012-01-11T17:36:00.000-08:00

‘We will not ration oil’ – Lacierda

Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda allayed fears that a fuel supply shortage due to a disruption in the delivery of oil from Iran would result in fuel rationing, saying this was only one of the contingency plans of the government.

In a press briefing in Malacanang on Wednesday, Lacierda said the Department of Energy continues to look for other solutions to the possible problem such as lowering the country’s consumption of fuel.

“I spoke to Energy Secretary (Jose Rene) Almendras on that. Let me clarify: it is only a contingency plan. He does not believe, that the events in the Strait of Hormuz will worsen,” Lacierda said.

The Strait of Hormuz is the only passage for ships carrying petroleum from major oil-exporting countries on the Arabian peninsula. Recently, Iran has raised tensions with the United States about access to said waterway thereby threatening the smooth delivery of fuel to and from the peninsula.

Lacierda said the government is pushing its program to develop alternative sources of energy and will soon revitalize the Pantawid Pasada program, a fuel subsidy scheme for public utility drivers and operators.

“What we are doing right now, is that we are going to, in light of increases in oil prices, activate the Pantawid Pasada as we still have funds of about P200-million,” Lacierda said.

“Let me clarify: we are not going to start rationing oil,” he added. (PCOO)

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Malacanang bares reactivation of Pantawid Pasada Program to cushion impact of increasing prices of petroleum products

Malacanang bared the reactivation of the Pantawid Pasada Program (PPP) of the Aquino government in efforts to curtail the negative effects of the increasing prices of petroleum products locally due to the irrepressible forces in the international market.

In his regular media briefing in Malacanang, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said that the Department of Energy (DOE) has set some P200 million to lessen the effects of the oil price hike under the PPP on the oil-consuming public, especially the transport sector.

“In the light of the increases in oil prices, we are going to activate the Pantawid Pasada (Program)… we still have funds there for about P200 million, so that is what we are doing right now. Just to let you know, the Dubai (oil) prices increased by six dollars per barrel that is the reason why there was an increase in the prices of oil,” Lacierda said.

Lacierda assured that the minor problems that were experienced by the concerned sector in the PPP’s first launch will surely be addressed in its reactivation.

When asked on the specific date of PPP’s reactivation, Lacierda said that he will have to confirm first from DOE Secretary Jose Rene Almendras.

“I will confirm with Secretary Almendras kung kailan ang umpisa ng Pantawid Pasada in so far as the glitches are concerned. I think based on experience maiaayos na natin ang Pantawid Pasada Program,” Lacierda noted.

He added that it will definitely be reactivated with the 200 million pesos funding to be sourced out from the Department of Energy.
“Sure na iyon, we will confirm anytime soon,” he said.

Major and independent oil players has announced and implemented another oil price hike Wednesday, with petroleum products prices going up as much as P1.75 per liter.

The increase was attributed to the ongoing tension in the Middle East, particularly in Iran, that may likely result to the closure of the Strait Hormuz which serves as a major passage way for oil tankers.

The blockade on the strait alone by Iran has already caused major concerns in the world market and has been seen as the major cause of increase in pump prices during the first week of 2012. (PCOO)

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Malacanang says plans to rehabilitate Angat Dam are underway to address possible water shortage

Plans are underway to rehabilitate and strengthen the Angat Dam amid reports that some parts of the country may experience water shortage due to the aggravating impact of weather disturbances, a Palace official said on Wednesday.

During the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Wednesday, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda assured that the Aquino government has started to address the concern on the possible water supply shortage in Metro Manila and other parts of the country.

Lacierda cited an on-going study by the World Bank to strengthen the Angat Dam and to tap other water sources. "There is a World Bank study that is being completed right now that involves water source study, as well as the maximization of the Angat Dam," he said.

Concerned government agencies, including the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS), have studied the proposals to tap other water sources like the Wawa River in Marikina; Laiban Dam in Tanay, Rizal; the Sierra Madre and Laguna Lake with due consideration on reliability, investments; operational cost, water quality and impact on water tariffs.

"Wawa Dam has a very small capacity. And also, it is not entirely reliable,” according to Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson. Doing the Laiban Dam will cost around a billion dollars. Wawa is a river that during the summer is low and it is not reliable in terms of volume. Secretary Singson also said that it may be cheaper but it is much smaller in capacity, in volume and it is unreliable during the dry months," he said.

The government started framing a water supply sector program or water roadmap to be implemented over the next six years.

The public was also urged to cooperate with the government's efforts to intensify water conservation as well as to protect the water resources or river basin systems. (PCOO)

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Aquino inaugurates expanded facility of New York-based outsourcing company

President Benigno S. Aquino III led the inauguration Wednesday of the additional center of the outsourcing provider ExlService Holdings Inc. at the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City.

In his speech during the inauguration, the President thanked the ExlService leadership for expanding its operations in the Philippines noting that its bigger operation is a good start for the country as it enters a new year.

ExlService expansion in the Philippines is a manifestation of the renewed investors’ confidence for the Philippines under the new government, the President said.

“Since I assumed office many expressed confidence on our country. But like I’ve said in inaugurations like this there is no greater expression of confidence than actually doing business here,” he stressed.

“Rest assured that as you continue doing business here, we will continue doing what we can to make things easier for you,” he said.

The Chief Executive expressed confidence that ExlService, like other business process outsourcing (BPO) companies, would be able to hire enough qualified personnel that is why the government launched the industry based training-for-work scholarship program under the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

The program provides free training to potential BPO workers in the contact center, software development, animation and medical transcription sectors, the President said.

He reported that as of January 4, 2012, the government released more than P140 million of the P500 million allocated for the BPO sector under the disbursement acceleration program, which is equivalent to over 23,000 scholarships.

The government also continues to work with the Business Process Outsourcing Association of the Philippines (BPAP) for the training and job generation program, the President said.

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is also working to improve the English proficiency of the country’s college students in preparation for BPO and call center jobs, he added.

To create more jobs outside Metro Manila, the President said, the government has been promoting next wave cities initiative to expand call center and BPO locations in the country that include the cities of Cebu, Davao, and Cagayan de Oro, he said.

“We are doing what we can for the BPO sector because we believe that your success goes hand in hand with national development. Your continued confidence has allowed us to be a global leader in the industry,” the President said.

As long as there are people who lack job opportunities and as long as there is prevalence in poverty, the government will continue to work to improve the lives of the people, the President said.

“We will strive to become even better, to have more streamlined processes, to have an even more skilled work force, to create an even more viable economic space so that we will be leaders in this industry in the foreseeable future,” he said.

ExlService, a New York-based outsourcing and transformation services company, delivers highly complex operations in insurance, healthcare, customer service, finance, accounting and legal support services.

ExlService’s expanded facility is expected to create 1,000 high-level jobs in the rapidly growing BPO industry. Its pioneer site in the Philippines currently employs more than 1,500 professionals. (PCOO)

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Aquino orders security and police officials to work on a plan that minimizes terror threats

President Benigno S. Aquino III said he has instructed the security and police officials to work on a plan that will minimize threats to civilian population as well as government installations pose by terrorist organizations.

“I took the opportunity at the change of command ceremonies in Villamor yesterday to talk to the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the director general of the Philippine National Police, the Secretary of National Defense and Secretary of Interior and Local Government precisely to work on a plan to minimize threats such as this,” the President said in an interview after spearheading an inaugural event of an outsourcing company in Pasay City on Wednesday.

“I gave them quite a number of directions, including perhaps to study the possibility---if there is a need, as you know we have elections next year.”

The President was asked by the media about the latest report on the security situation in the country.

The President said he wanted to know whether the attack on Cotabato City Vice Mayor Muslimin Sema was election-related, noting that the attack on Sema maybe a call on the government to implement operations that will ensure peaceful elections next year.

The President said the alert level in Metro Manila will stay as long as the suspected terrorists who were allegedly sent to the metropolis remain at large.

Government security forces are still looking for all of the suspects after previous raids yielded negative results, the President said.On Tuesday, the Palace defended the President’s announcement of a terror plot in Manila during the Feast of the Black Nazarene.

On Sunday, President Aquino ordered law enforcement agencies, including the military, to step up its efforts to maintain peace and order as millions of devotees converged in Quiapo, Manila for Monday‘s (January 9) celebration.

The President said intelligence reports over the past few months have apprised them of the intentions of lawless elements to create disruptions in Metro Manila particularly during the Feast of the Black Nazarene. (PCOO)

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Aquino says no need to lobby against US bill targeting BPO operations

President Benigno S. Aquino III said there is no need for the Philippines to lobby against an anti-outsourcing proposal in the US that may affect Philippine jobs considering it’s an election year in America.

“I am made to understand that this was an issue that was brought up during the last elections in America. And from that time, which is four years ago, up to now, the situation hasn’t changed. Perhaps, there isn’t that much of a need yet,” the President said in response to a question about the US bill.

Palace reporters interviewed the President in Pasay City following the inauguration of an expanded site of a New York-based outsourcing company operation in the Philippines.

The President said he’s considering the election season in the US and it is not surprising that American politicians would resurrect such proposals to gain public support.

“We have to take into account that this is an election year, perhaps those are election-related statements. At the end of the day, like any other country, America would want to make their companies more effective, competitive . . . and if outsourcing is one of the keys towards that, then I would presume it will continue. Well, hopefully it will not change because it is one of our sunrise industries,” he said.

Under US House Bill 3596 otherwise known as the Call Center and Consumers Protection bill, call center operators will be required to identify their location, giving US callers the option of choosing a US-based operator.

The bill also seeks to punish companies that will employ call center agents located in other countries by making them ineligible for grants and guaranteed loans from the federal government.

US call centers that would fail to report its relocation to an offshore location to the Labor Department within 60 days will be penalized. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Tuesday, January 10, 2012

2012-01-10T05:02:00.000-08:00

Ochoa commends police, government agencies for safe celebration of Feast of the Black Nazarene

Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. commended the police and military for ensuring the safety of the public during the celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene on Monday.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Ochoa assured that the government will continue to work to ensure that the public is safe against any threats pose by the enemies of the state.

Ochoa’s statement follows in full:

“I commend the Philippine National Police and the other government agencies involved in the preparations undertaken to ensure the peaceful conduct of the celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene.

“From the onset, the President has directed our security forces to be vigilant in the face of terror threats. The PNP, in particular, should be lauded for taking all the precautions necessary to secure the safety of the three million devotees who joined the procession that took the Black Nazarene through the streets of Manila to Quiapo Church.

“Let the peaceful Black Nazarene procession yesterday reassure our people that its government will continue to take all threats to their security seriously and will take the steps necessary to address such threats to keep our citizens out of harm’s way and ensure that Filipinos everywhere can continue to practice their faith as well as perform their everyday activities.” (PCOO)

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Safety of foreign tourists assured – Malacañang

Malacañang on Tuesday sought to downplay the Australian government’s recent travel advisory to its citizens against traveling to the Philippines due to possible threats to their safety, saying the police and military were on top of the situation of upholding peace and order in the country.

In a press briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda assured the safety of Filipinos as well as those of foreign tourists.

“We respect their travel advisory but again we assure the public, we assure the Australian tourists here as well as any tourist of their safety,” Lacierda said.

“We are on top of the situation that is why we did what we did yesterday, and days before the Black Nazarene Fiesta,” he added.

Last Sunday, President Benigno S. Aquino III bared the possibility that the Feast of the Black Nazarene on Monday (January 9) would be disrupted by unknown lawless elements.

The President urged those planning to attend this year's procession to exercise maximum vigilance as he ordered security forces in Manila to be put on high alert. (PCOO)

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Aquino assures Filipino soldiers of government’s continued support

President Benigno S. Aquino III assured every Filipino soldier of the government’s continued support to uplift their lives and its efforts to modernize their resources that will ensure better service to the Filipino people.

In his speech during the Philippine Air Force (PAF) Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony of Lt. Gen. Oscar Rabena at the Grandstand of the Jesus Villamor Airbase in Pasay City on Tuesday, the President cited the hard work and dedication of every soldier, particularly from the PAF as he vowed to continue providing beneficial projects for a more effective service to the people.

“Makaaasa kayo na katuwang ninyo ang gobyerno upang makalipad pa sa mas mataas na papawirin at mas epektibong makapaglingkod ang hukbong himpapawid sa atin pong mga boss (Filipino people),” the President said.

“Mulat po tayong kailangan pang palakasin ang inyong hanay, kaya naman makaaasa kayo sa tuloy-tuloy na modernisasyon ng inyong hanay upang mas mapabuti pa ang inyong serbisyo publiko… manalig kayo na hindi babalewalain ng ating administrasyon ang inyong pagmamalasakit sa bayan… susuklian natin ito ng karampatang kalinga at serbisyo para sa inyong kapakanan at ng inyong pamilya,” he added.

The President acknowledged the remarkable works of outgoing Air Force chief Lt. Gen. Oscar Rabena in maintaining peace and order and defending the country’s sovereignty.

“Buong bansa tayong nagpupugay sa sipag at husay na ipinamalas ni Heneral Rabena sa halos tatlumpu’t walong taon ng paglilingkod sa ilalim ng ating bandila… sa kanyang pamumuno higit na umigting ang ating krusada laban sa masasamang elemento at tumibay ang kalasag ng bansa laban sa mga banta sa seguridad ng ating soberenya,” the President noted.

Rabena’s stint as PAF commanding general has been very helpful in the Aquino administration’s initiatives to uplift the lives of the PAF personnel as well as in upgrading their equipment. These developmental programs include housing and facilities of the military bases in the country.

President Aquino likewise expressed full trust and confidence to the new PAF chief, Maj. Gen. Lauro Catalino dela Cruz saying that under his stewardship, the “Airmen” will surely continue to be dedicated to service for their fellowmen and will focus on doing their duties based on righteousness.

“Mahalaga po ang magkaroon ng isang mahusay at maaasahang pinuno, kaya naman tinitiyak natin sa pagtahak sa tuwid na daan, kasangga natin ang mga mapagkakatiwalaan at karapat-dapat na lider… lalo na sa atin Hukbong Himpapawid,” the President said.

“Tiwala akong sa bagong pinuno ng Philippine Airforce na si Heneral Lauro Catalino dela Cruz lalo pang titibay ang dedikasyon ng inyong hanay sa pagsisilbi ng tapat sa sambayanan at patuloy na isasapuso ng mga sundalong Pilipino ang makatwirang paninindigan,” he added.

Also present during the event were other government officials led by Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr., Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Jessie Dellosa and Philippine National Police Chief General Nicanor Bartolome, among others.

The seasoned fighter pilot Dela Cruz assumed the position as the 32ndCommanding General of the PAF after Rabena’s availment of early retirement from military service after almost four decades.

Dela Cruz said that under his leadership the people could expect a better Air Force as “Wings for Peace and Defenders of Freedom” responding to territorial defense works as well as disaster response.

The newly-installed PAF chief held key positions in the military force among which are -- Chief of Air Staff, Wing Commander of the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing, Deputy Wing Commander of the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing, and Deputy Wing Commander of the 710th Special Operations Wing.

He also served as flight instructor, training officer, management and operations officer and pilot instructor at the Philippine Air Force Flying School. (PCOO)

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Malacanang says President Aquino’s warning deterred terrorist attack on Feast of Black Nazarene

Malacanang said that President Benigno S. Aquino III’s warning of a possible terrorist attack has deterred attempts to disrupt the celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene on Monday.

Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said in Malacanang during a press conference on Tuesday that the President’s declaration wasn’t an overreaction to the threat uncovered by the intelligence community.

“This is a situation where we believe that the government acted prudently, acted promptly on credible threats. And we believe that we have successfully deterred any attempt to disrupt the January 9 Black Nazarene fiesta,” Lacierda said noting that what is important is that the government aborted a possible attack.

Asked by reporters if the public expects the President to issue similar warnings in the future, Lacierda said it depends on the advice of the intelligence community.

“If and when the President and the intelligence community advises the President to do so, the President will act prudently again taking into consideration the safety of the people concerned especially in situations where there are mass gatherings,” he said.

Lacierda also said there are tracker teams that are monitoring the terrorist groups that were reportedly sent to Metro Manila to attack mass gatherings of people such as the Feast of the Black Nazarene.

The President’s Spokesman said the government’s paramount concern is ensuring public safety and the people to heed the warnings of the government to thwart terrorist attacks.

“We need to be mindful of our surroundings lalo na kung may mga naiiwang gamit. Ito po ay isang common na babala na ginagawa sa mga airports at seaports. It’s also something that we might want the public also to be more aware of, to be mindful of your surroundings,” he said.

On Sunday, President Benigno S. Aquino III ordered law enforcement agencies, including the military, to step up its efforts to maintain peace and order as millions of devotees converge in Quiapo, Manila for Monday‘s (January 9) celebration.

The President said intelligence reports over the past few months have apprised them of the intentions of lawless elements to create disruptions in Metro Manila particularly during the Feast of the Black Nazarene. (PCOO)

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Palace condemns failed assassination of Cotabato City Vice Mayor

Malacanang condemned the attack on Cotabato City Vice Mayor Muslimin Sema Tuesday morning and ordered the police to pursue the perpetrators and bring them to justice.

“We condemn the ambush on Vice Mayor Sema and the PNP [Philippine National Police] has been instructed to look into the motives and the perpetrators of the heinous act,” Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda said in the press conference in Malacanang on Tuesday.

Asked by reporters if the dynamite explosion in Mindanao, the ambush of Sema, as well as the terror threat in Manila correlated, Lacierda said they didn’t see connections between those incidents.

Sema was rushed to Notre Dame Hospital after he was injured during Tuesday’s ambush at around 11:20 a.m. at the Rosary Heights VI in Cotabato City. Sema was on his way home from a city council meeting when he was attacked.

Although the assassin was also injured during the ambush, the police could not yet determine the motive and number of suspects who staged the attack on Sema.

The police is also determining the firearm used during the assault. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Monday, January 9, 2012

2012-01-09T03:24:00.000-08:00

Aquino welcomes international logistics group's plan to invest $500-million

President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomed the plan of an international logistics group Kuwait and Gulf Link, to invest an additional $500-million in the Philippines.

KGL Group of Companies Chairman and Managing Director Saeed Dashti, together with KGL Group Vice Chairman Marsha Lazareva and Investment Director Mark Williams, called on the President in Malacañang on Monday to personally convey the company’s investment plan.

The KGL Group has already invested $200-million for the construction of the Gateway Logistics Center, a 177-hectare development project which hosts business enterprises and operations of aviation and logistics related businesses located in the Clark Export Processing Zone in Pampanga.

Trade Undersecretary Cristino Panlilio said the additional $500-million would be used for infrastructure logistics, like the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) programs and other investment potentials.

Panlilio said that the President wanted the investment plan to move expeditiously but directed that “everything will have to be bidded out transparently.”

“He (President Aquino) welcomes this (KGL Group investment). This is definitely what we need here but of course everything will have to be bidded out transparently,” Panlilio said.

“We cannot give out extra or special favors but what we can offer you is a transparent bidding that will be done and will go straight to the departments and not to political patrons,” he added. (PCOO)

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Telecommunications companies temporarily disconnect services in some areas in metropolis in response to President Aquino's appeal - Malacañang

Telecommunication companies temporarily disconnected their services in some areas of the city of Manila, particularly along the route of the Black Nazarene procession, heeding the government's request to fully cooperate with law enforcement agencies and take precautionary measures to enhance public safety during the observance of the feast, a Palace official said on Monday.

During the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Monday, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte confirmed reports that telecommunication firms today jammed their mobile signals in response to the appeal of President Benigno S. Aquino III to the telecommunication companies and the public to cooperate with the government to ensure peace and order during the feast of the Black Nazarene.

"All of them responded. The disruption in mobile services will be along the routes to be taken by the procession and it will last for the entire duration," Valte said, adding that "as holders of a franchise, the public safety is paramount."

Last Sunday, the Chief Executive announced that intelligence reports have apprised them of the intentions of lawless elements to create disruptions in the National Capital Region particularly during the Feast of the Black Nazarene. He had ordered law enforcement agencies and the military, to step up its efforts to maintain peace and order during the celebration.

"On the interruption of the mobile services, of course we feel that it is warranted as an additional security measure and is necessary for us to ensure that nothing untoward will happen during the period of the procession, and the celebration," Valte said.

"Second, there are still landlines that are available for them to be able to report. It’s not the entire area, we wish to stress. There are areas that are not part of the interruption, or the disruption, in the mobile service," she said.

Lawless elements had used cellular phones to trigger explosives from remote locations in several countries in the past.

Valte also assured that the Philippine National Police (PNP) and other law enforcement agencies will continue implementing enhanced security measures not only in Manila but the entire NCR as well.

She stressed that the President's warning to the public about the intelligence reports had nothing to do with the United States (US) travel advisory.

"First, on the US travel advisory, as mentioned by the President (on Sunday) there is no connection to the release… of the advisory and the corresponding warnings that were made. While we routinely receive intelligence reports of this nature, as also mentioned by the National Security Adviser, there is a process by which we arrive at the assessment. And it was, because of recent developments, that it was conveyed to the President yesterday," she said. (PCOO)

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Malacañang says internal investigation set for culpability of local officials of Compostela Valley on recent tragedy

An internal investigation will be conducted to look into the culpability of local officials of Compostela Valley on the latest landslide in the area that killed over 30 people last January 5, a Palace official said on Monday.

"I believe the governor (Compostela Valley Governor Arturo Uy) has already called for an internal investigation and Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo also mentioned that we will be looking into the accountability of the local government officials," Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Monday.

Reports said Gov. Uy announced that an independent commission will be created to determine if there are local officials who were negligent in ensuring the safety of their constituents in the mining areas.

The probe body will be tentatively composed of the Department of Interior and Local Government, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, the Office of Civil Defense, the chairman of the Committee on Environment of the Provincial Board and a non-government organization.

Valte noted that local officials who were negligent in ensuring the safety of their constituents in mining areas will be held accountable.

"This time it will be different. We have always mentioned that accountability is one of the stronger points of the Aquino administration and certainly we will not hesitate to push for accountability where it lies," Valte said.

The landslide, which tore through a small-scale gold mining site in Sitio Palo Diat, Barangay Napnapan in Pantukan town, Compostela Valley last Jan. 5, killed over 30 people and left 44 more missing, as noted by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council in an advisory. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Sunday, January 8, 2012

2012-01-09T03:20:00.000-08:00

Growing reactions to new tourism slogan proves DOT campaign works – Palace

The growing number of reactions to the new slogan of the Department of Tourism, whether online or in print media, is proof that the campaign to attract more visitors to the Philippines is working, a Palace official said on Sunday.

Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said more and more Filipinos are getting “on board” and joining the government’s move to present the country as the best place to visit in 2012.

The DOT recently launched the “It’s more fun in the Philippines” campaign as part of its intensive efforts to promote the country as a premiere tourist destination.

Valte said that the debates and intrigues triggered by this new slogan “attest that it is more fun in the Philippines.”

“If you check the reactions on line, everybody is getting on board, everyone is having fun with the slogan,” Valte said.

“Ang dami nang lumalabas so it seems the people are on board and are staunchly behind the DOT if we look at the reactions online, she added saying, “it is being widely accepted by our people.”

She expressed confidence that this new campaign of the DOT will succeed to bring in the volume of tourist arrivals this year.

“The measure of how effective the slogan is will be, in the numbers, in the figures, in the number of tourist arrivals that the country will have,” Valte said.

“We will be able to measure by the number of tourist arrivals na madadala nitong “Its more fun in the Philippines” campaign,” she added. (PCOO)

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Aquino says Mindanao cancer center in Davao provides hope for poor cancer patients in the region

TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte: The Aquino administration has once again proven its commitment to providing premium and quality health care to the Filipinos through the launching of Mindanao’s only cancer treatment center, here, in support of President Benigno S. Aquino III’s efforts to advance the government’s medical services throughout the country.

In his message delivered by Health Secretary Enrique Ona during the formal inauguration of the Nuclear and Radiotherapy Center at the Mindanao Cancer Center, Davao Regional Hospital on Sunday in Apokon here, President Aquino said that the new medical facility serves as a sign of brighter hope for cancer patients, especially the underprivileged, to better medical care.

The President said that based on data gathered by the Department of Health (DOH), cancer is one of the most dreaded diseases that has claimed the lives of many Filipinos.

“Ang pagbubukas ng Mindanao Cancer Center ay siya ring pagtanglaw ng pag-asa sa mga Pilipinong biktima ng kanser. Ayon sa tala ng DOH, ang sakit na ito ang isa sa mga nangungunang dahilan ng pagkamatay sa ating bansa,” President Aquino said.

The DOH research also indicated that there are some 200,000 Filipinos who suffer from cancer every year, which will be addressed by the advanced equipments in the facility.

“Ang istatistikang ito ang nais solusyunan ng pasilidad na pinapasinayaan natin ngayon. Magpapalawak ito sa serbisyong medikal, hindi lamang mula sa Davao, kundi maging sa buong Mindanao,” the President said.

“Inaasahang tatlumpung pasyente kada araw ang makakatanggap ng sapat, mura at de-kalidad na tulong-medikal mula sa pagamutang ito. Sa pamamagitan din ng mga bagong serbisyo at kagamitan dito gaya ng Radiation therapy at ng Digital Linear Accelerator, mapipigilan natin ang paglala, kundi man natin tuluyang malunasan ang iba-ibang uri ng cancer,” he added.

The Chief Executive noted that through perseverance, unity and cooperation between the government and the citizenry, there will be no challenges that are hard to resolve.

“Tanda po itong kapag desidido tayong makapagdulot ng ginhawa at pagbabago, anumang uri ng kanser—kanser man sa katawan, o kanser man sa lipunan gaya ng kurapsyon, katiwalian at kahirapan—ay talaga namang kayang-kaya nating gamutin at solusyunan,” President Aquino said adding that the government is now more aggressive in pushing for medical programs beneficial for the Filipino people.

“Puspusan po nating tinutugunan ngayon ang mga suliranin sa sektor ng kalusugan. Todo-arangkada po ang DOH sa pagsusulong ng mga inisyatiba upang mas mapakinabangan ng mas maraming Pilipino ang ating serbisyong medical,” the President said.

The President said that the government has allotted at least P40 billion this year to fund the advancement of medical practitioners’ capabilities, infrastructure and equipment development of the health sector.

The health programs of the Aquino government also includes the increase in funding of the health insurance of the people through PhilHealth from P3.5 billion last year to P12 billion in 2012.

This fund increase will help provide medical assistance for the 5.2 million poor Filipinos who were identified through the National Household Targeting System.

For the DOH’s “Doctors to the Barrio” program, the President said that an additional one billion pesos will be allocated to shoulder the services of additional 200 doctors, one thousand midwives and 12 thousand nurses to the regional health units, barangay health stations and remote hospitals nationwide.

The major services and facilities of the Nuclear and Radiotherapy Center amounting to at least 157 million pesos include Radiation therapy using high energy X-rays which is used to kill cancer cells or to stop them from growing and spreading; Digital Linear Accelerator, a device for external radiotherapy that is designed to destroy the cancer cells while sparing the surrounding normal tissue.

The Mindanao Cancer Center also offers other types of radiotherapy that include External Beam Radiotherapy (XTR), Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (MTR) capable, 3-D Conformal Radiotherapy (9CRT) capable and ARC Therapy capable.

The realization of the cancer treatment facility and equipment was made possible through the funds allocated by the Aquino government, particularly the Department of Health with support from the local government officials in Davao region.

The Center will provide adequate, accessible and affordable cancer care to all patients in Mindanao regardless of capacity to pay, from early diagnosis to palliative care. The Center aims to contribute in increasing the awareness of the locals concerning the dreaded disease.

The Mindanao Cancer Center is also designed to provide the best clinical and ancillary services to cancer patients in Mindanao; teach and train medical, nursing and paramedical personnel on cancer care; provide state-of-the art cancer information service; create a database for research on cancer; and to network with various government and non-government organizations for the delivery of radiologic, nuclear and pharmaceutical care of patients. (PCOO)

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Aquino orders law enforcement agencies to step up efforts in maintaining peace and order and safety of devotees on feast of the Black Nazarene

To ensure that the observance of the Feast of the Black Nazarene is held without any untoward incident, President Benigno S. Aquino III said on Sunday that he had ordered law enforcement agencies, including the military, to step up its efforts to maintain peace and order when an estimated nine million devotees converge in Quiapo, Manila on Monday (January 9).

In a press briefing in Malacanang, the President said that intelligence reports over the past few months have apprised them of the intentions of lawless elements to create disruptions in the National Capital Region particularly during the Feast of the Black Nazarene.

The possibility that this would happen has prompted “us to warn you of the risk in attending the procession.”
“To those who will be attending you will note increased security preparations and measures. Your government wants to ensure to the fullest extent of its capabilities, your safety. We ask for your understanding and cooperation,” the President said.

“I call on our fellow citizens to exercise the maximum vigilance and discipline leading up to, and during, the procession. Report any and all suspicious activity directly to the authorities, or call 117,” he added.

He appealed to the devotees not “to bring the following to the procession: cellphones, weapons, fireworks” as anyone caught doing so would be penalized.

“In any open democracy there will always be challenges coming from antisocial forces. The sad reality of the world today is that terrorists want to disrupt the ability of people to live their lives in the ways they want to, including the freedom to worship and engage in community activities. Your government will do what it has to do, to ensure the safety and security of the public. With the people’s help, we will succeed,” the President said. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Saturday, January 7, 2012

2012-01-07T04:23:00.000-08:00

Palace pushing for sanctions of Compostela Valley officials over deadly landslide

Local Compostela Valley officials who were negligent in ensuring the safety of their constituents in mining areas will be held accountable for the this week’s deadly tragedy to avoid the repeat of similar incidents, Malacanang said on Saturday.

During a radio interview over dzRB Radyo ng Bayan Saturday, Deputy Presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said local officials should be punished for allowing the landslide victims to stay in the danger zones.

“Kailangan ho talaga dahil hindi pwedeng paulit-ulit na nangyayari ang mga ganitong bagay. Hindi biro ang mga ganitong landslide at nakita naman natin na hanggang ngayon patuloy ang search and rescue operations,” Valte said referring to the accountability of local officials.

The law must be strictly implemented this time so that no residents will stay in danger areas, she said, adding that allowing the people to go back to their dangerous dwelling places would be unacceptable.

“Kailangan naman talaga ay higpitan na natin, hindi na pwede yung… ‘kasi balik ho sila nang balik’ hindi na pwede yung ganoon,” she said.

“Kailangan na lang talagang hanapan ng relocation at hindi pupuwedeng isang beses sasabihan na ‘Bawal kayo dito.’ Kailangan yan babantayan. Hindi puwedeng ngayon sasabihan n’yo silang ‘hindi ho kayo puwede dito’ tapos bukas kakalimutan na.”

Valte also said she’s sure that Interior and Local Government Secretary Jessie Robredo has made his initial report to the President after doing an assessment in the area this week, as instructed by the President.

She added that Robredo already ordered forced evacuation of the residents in danger spots mandating local officials to strictly guard the place so that no residents will go back to their houses.

Also this week, Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said that the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) is looking into the lapses that resulted to the deadly incident which killed scores of people.

Military officials said some 100 individuals are still missing due to the landslide, which happened Thursday at around 3 a.m. following incessant rains. (PCOO)

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Aquino declares January 10 a special non-working day for Koronadal City, South Cotabato

President Benigno S Aquino III has declared January 10, 2012 as a special non-working day in the city of Koronadal, South Cotabato in celebration of its 72nd Foundation Day and the 12th Hinugyaw Festival.

By virtue of Proclamation No. 304 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on January 2, 2012, the President declared Jan. 10 which falls on Tuesday as a special non-working day in the city to give the people the opportunity to celebrate the occassion..

Koronadal City, popularly known to locals as Marbel, is the capital of the province of South Cotabato, Philippines.

The area that became the present City of Koronadal was once a populated by members of the B’laan and Maguindanao tribes.

Before World War II, people from Luzon and the Visayas settled in the place under the auspices of the National Land Settlement Administration (NLSA).

Municipal Council Resolution No. 32, Series of 1948 mandated and proclaimed January 10 of each year as the Municipal Town Fiesta commemorating the foundation of Marbel Settlement District of the National Land Settlement.

It became a component city of South Cotabato by virtue of Republic Act 8803 on October 8, 2000.

Koronadal City’s Hinugyaw Festival is celebrated every year to pay homage to the first settlers who came to the city before the Japanese invasion of the Philippines.

With the theme, "Building People, Building Character, Building Progress, the week-long Hinugyaw Festival 2012 celebration will be highligted by events such as the Settler's Night/ Handurawan to be held at the South Cotabato Gymnasium, Tree Growing, Wreath Laying at the 17 Martyr's Shrine, Hinugyaw Pyesta Korona, and the much anticipated Lakambini ng Koronadal 2012 among others. (PCOO)

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Palace appeals for orderly and peaceful celebration of the feast of the Black Nazarene on Monday

Malacanang reiterated an appeal by local and police officials to the devotees of the Black Nazarene to take necessary precautions and refrain from bringing along with them their children and valuables to ensure an orderly and peaceful celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene on January 9, a Palace official said on Saturday.

During an interview aired over government-run dzRB Radyo ng Bayan on Saturday, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte reiterated an earlier appeal by the Manila City officials, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and Philippine National Police (PNP) to the public against bringing children and valuables.

"Doon po sa ating mga debotong medyo may edad na, let’s take the necessary precautions dahil alam naman po natin ‘yong mga nagiging pangyayari tuwing nagkakaroon ng Pista ng Poong Nazareno. Maraming tao diyan, baka mainit, baka umulan, please let us take the necessary precautions para hindi naman magkaroon ng mga masasaktan. Minsan kasi diyan talagang tulakan," Valte said.

Valte also warned the public against criminal elements such as pickpockets and snatchers. "Let us not put ourselves in a less secure situation. At maging alerto po tayo," she said.

Manila Mayor Alfredo S. Lim said the procession’s route has been cleared of obstructions, potholes, hanging wires and even broken bottles and the like to ensure the safety of the devotees who will be joining the procession barefooted.

For so many years, thousands of devotees flock to the Feast of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo, Manila. Oftentimes, many were injured and some died from the stampede during the procession.

The Black Nazarene is the patron saint of Quiapo. The life size image of the Black Nazarene shows a “black” Jesus Christ carrying a cross. The statue has been housed at the Saint John de Baptist Church in Quiapo, Manila also known as the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene since 1787. The image of the Black Nazarene is brought out in procession on its feast day and on Good Friday.

The statue was brought to Manila by a Spanish priest in 1607. It was aboard a ship that caught fire, the image was burned, and it came to be known as the “Black Nazarene” which the people has since decided to preserve and honor. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Saturday, January 6, 2012

2012-01-07T04:18:00.000-08:00

Aquino leads commemoration of 'Tandang Sora' bicentennial

President Benigno S. Aquino III stressed the very important role everyone play in nation-building as exemplified by Filipino national heroes, years ago as he challenged the people to live by their characteristics that are worth-emulating.

In his speech during the commemoration of the bicentennial birth anniversary and re-interment of remains of Melchora “Tandang Sora” Aquino at the Tandang Sora Shrine on Banlat Road in Quezon City, Friday, President Aquino said that Filipinos should continue the greatness and patriotism of the Filipino heroes setting aside the hindrances that may come their way.

In remembering the great works of the Tandang Sora and her relevant contributions to the Philippine Revolution that broke out in 1896, the President shared the challenge to every individual: to contribute in collective efforts for sustainable and lasting progress.

“Ang hamon ni Tandang Sora sa atin ngayon: ano ang maiaambag mo para sa kapakanan ng mga susunod na Pilipino…Noon, hindi lamang heneral o rebolusyonaryo ang humubog sa ating tadhana. Ngayon, hindi lamang mga opisyal ng pamahalaan ang magtitimon sa pagtahak natin sa tuwid na daan,” the President said.

“Kasama dito ang bawat isa sa atin: ang mga gurong gumagabay sa paroroonan ng mga kabataan; ang mga doktor at nurse na pumupunta sa kanayunan para bigyang-lunas ang mahihirap na may karamdaman; ang mga abogado’t huwes na tumitiyak na pantay ang timbangan ng katarungan; at siyempre, kayong mga kasama ko ngayong umaga: kayong lumilingon at nagbibigay-halaga sa mga pamana ng ating kasaysayan; kayong hindi kailanman tinalikuran ang mga aral at kontribusyon ng ating mga dakilang ninuno. Mulat kayo sa tungkulin ng bawat Juan at Juana dela Cruz; batid ninyong nakasalalay sa inyong pakikilahok ang katuparan ng nagkakaisa nating mithiin,” he added.

Following his speech, the President solemnly observed in the re-interment ceremony of the remains of Tandang Sora that was led by Novaliches Bishop Antonio Tobias.

The Chief Executive said that the Tandang Sora Shrine serves as an encouraging force, especially those who visit the place to take the cudgels and take part in serving others and the country.

“Sa paglalagak natin ng mga labi ni Tandang Sora sa kaniyang bagong dambana, nawa’y magsilbing paalala sa bawat dumadalaw dito ang kakaibang uri ng kabayanihan ni Melchora Aquino: na kung gusto mo talagang pagsilbihan ang bayan, hindi hadlang ang edad, o ang kasarian, o anupamang balakid sa iyong harapan,” President Aquino said.

He also encouraged the people to live by the spirit of unity and concern for others as shown by Tandang Sora who dedicated part of her life to fellow Filipinos.

“Kaya naman tulungan natin ang ating kapwa, at nagkakaisa tayong kumilos para sa kapakanan ng ating bansa. Sa ganitong paraan, ipinapakita nating buhay pa rin ang pamana ni Melchora Aquino; at buhay pa rin ang kabayanihan at pagbabayanihan sa puso ng bawat Pilipino,” the President noted.

Also present during the event were House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr., Education Secretary Armin Luistro, Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista, Quezon City Vice Mayor Ma. Josefina “Joy” Belmonte-Alimurung, National Historical Commission of the Philippines Chairperson Maria Serna Diokno and Apo ni Melchora Tandang Sora Aquino Association Inc. President Josephine Geronimo, among others.

Melchora Aquino gained the titles “Grand Woman of the Revolution” and the “Mother of Balintawak” for her heroic contributions to Philippine history. In her native town, Tandang Sora operated a store, which became a refuge for the sick and wounded revolutionaries. She fed, gave medical attention to and encouraged the revolutionaries with motherly advice and prayers.

She was deported to Guam, Mariana Islands until the time the United States took control of the Philippines in 1898, Tandang Sora, like other exiles, returned to Philippines. She died on March 2, 1919 at the age of 107.

Prior to the re-interment in the Shrine, Tandang Sora’s remains was previously buried in her own backyard (now as Himlayang Pilipino Memorial Park, Quezon City). (PCOO)

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Palace commends SALN disclosure of two SC members

Malacanang commended the disclosure of the statements of assets, liabilities, and net worth (SALN) of two members of the Supreme Court and called on the other members of the judiciary to do similar practice and make it a routine.

“The cause of Justice can have no sturdier shield than the integrity of those who are tasked with discharging it. The decision of Associate Justices Antonio Carpio and Maria Lourdes Sereno to release the summaries of their statements of assets, liabilities, and net worth (SALN) upon the request of concerned citizens is commendable to the highest degree,” Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said in a statement Friday.

Lacierda said members of the judiciary disclosing their assets have everything to gain from embracing transparency and accountability noting that the Palace believes that demonstrating faith in the Filipino is the best way to obtain and retain public confidence.

It is regrettable that while it is simple to disclose their SALNs for public inspection, there are those who so fear people’s scrutiny, Lacierda said.

“We call on the judiciary to join the legislature and the executive in making the disclosure of SALNs a routine reality,” he added.

Carpio and Sereno were the only members of the SC to respond to the request of Kaya Natin! Movement for Good Governance and Ethical Leadership to release the summaries of their SALNs.

The group has been asking SC Chief Justice Renato Corona to release his SALN. Corona’s failure to disclose his SALN is among the key charges used by the House justice committee in filing an impeachment complaint against him.

Corona will go on trial at the Senate on January 16. (PCOO)

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Malacanang expects tourism, jobs boosts from ‘The Bourne Legacy’ filming

Malacanang expects that the filming of the Hollywood action movie “The Bourne Legacy” in the Philippines will promote tourism and create jobs for Filipinos.

“It will help our tourism, it will help our film industry, it will help employment in the country,” Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said in a media briefing in Malacanang on Friday.

“The Bourne Legacy” is the latest in the movie franchise based on the espionage series created by Robert Ludlum.
Local officials advised Metro Manila motorists about the closure of several roads starting next week to make way for the filming of the Hollywood movie.

Among the planned shooting locations include Intramuros, Malate and other parts of the City of Manila. There will also be a car chase shoot in the Edsa-Taft Avenue area in Pasay City.

Some scenes will also be filmed on Ayala Avenue in Makati City, Marikina City public market and at the Navotas City fish port, officials said.

Lead actress Rachel Weisz is also expected to ride a jeepney as it spins around, according to officials.

“The Bourne Legacy,” written and directed by Tony Gilroy, is the fourth installment of the blockbuster Hollywood series that had Matt Damon playing the title character, Jason Bourne, in the first three installments. (PCOO)

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Palace condemns killing of General Santos mediaman

Malacanang condemned in the strongest possible terms the killing of journalist Christopher Guarin who was shot dead in General Santos on Thursday evening, a Palace official said on Friday.

Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda issued the statement following reports that Guarin was attacked late Thursday by two unidentified men riding on a motorcycle.

"The case is now under investigation. The Philippine National Police (PNP) has identified leads and they are in hot pursuit. We will expect the PNP to apprehend the suspects. And again, we condemn the extra-legal killing of another journalist," Lacierda said during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Friday.

The Aquino government assured that it remains committed to solving media killings in the country by strengthening our law enforcement.

Guarin, publisher of a local newspaper, Tatak News Nationwide and a blocktimer in Radio Mindanao Network’s dxMD, died from five gunshot wounds in different parts of the body. He was rushed to the General Santos City Hospital where doctors declared him dead on arrival.

Guarin was also the former manager of the defunct RGMA Super Radyo. He also previously worked as reporter for Bombo Radyo Gensan.

His wife, Lyn, was reportedly wounded during the attack. Guarin and his wife were riding on their KIA sedan when the gunmen attacked them along Conel Road in Barangay Lagao, General Santos at around 10:30 p.m.

Guarin is the first mediaman to have been killed in the Philippines so far this year. (PCOO)

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Palace lauds tourism campaign slogan – ‘it’s more fun in the Philippines!’

Malacanang expressed full support for new campaign slogan of the Department of Tourism (DOT)—“It’s more fun in the Philippines” in a bid to further boost the country's tourism industry, a Palace official said on Friday.

During the regular briefing in Malacanang on Friday, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said President Benigno S. Aquino III has approved the release of the new promotional slogan.

The new brand campaign will be rolled out this quarter in different key markets, along with its local tourism drive called "#1 for fun Philippines.”

"It’s trending worldwide right now sa social media so it has apparently caught on and the President has been briefed about the slogan. So, we are in support of Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr. doon sa drive for the Philippine slogan and apparently a lot of people have been tweeting about ‘More fun in the Philippines,’ Lacierda said.

For his part, Jimenez said the campaign is expected to attract a total of 4.2 million tourists in 2012. Last year, the DOT recorded a total of 3.7 million tourists.

“With the campaign and the tourist arrival growth (in 2011), we aim to breach the 10 million mark by 2016” Jimenez said.

“The national line is a goal, a constant reminder to ourselves that we can tell travellers how it’s more fun here than anywhere else. It needs everyone’s support for it to stay true—we need to make sure that the people’s experiences in our country are positive, enjoyable, and most of all, fun.” he said.

Focusing on the country’s core strength, Jimenez said the campaign singles out what no other destination can offer—and that is the Filipino people. "For example, the Lonely Planet guidebook calls Filipinos ‘among the most easygoing and ebullient people anywhere,’ he said.

Lacierda said the DOT will soon launch a series of initiatives to boost the tourism industry. "This is just a first part of the campaign so expect more from the DOT," he said. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Thursday, January 5, 2012

2012-01-05T16:17:00.000-08:00

Aquino declares January 23, Chinese New Year as special non-working day

President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared January 23, 2012 as a special non-working day in the country in celebration of the Chinese New Year.

By virtue of Proclamation No. 295 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on November 24, 2011, the President declared Jan. 23 which falls on a Monday as a special non-working day in the country to give both Chinese-Filipinos and Filipinos alike the opportunity to celebrate the holiday.

"On January 23, 2012, the Chinese nationals all over the world will celebrate Spring Festival, popularly known as the Chinese New Year, which is one of the most revered and festive events celebrated not only in China but also in the Philippines by both Chinese Filipinos and ordinary Filipinos as well," President Aquino said in the proclamation.

"The joint celebration is a manifestation of our solidarity with our Chinese Filipino brethren who have been part of our lives in many respects as a country and as a people;” the President said.

Last December, Malacanang announced the list of the regular holidays, special (non-working) days and special holidays (for all schools) for the year 2012.

By virtue of Proclamation No. 295, President Aquino declared certain days as special or regular holidays.

The following regular holidays and special days for the year 2012 shall be observed in the country:

A. Regular Holidays

New Year’s Day January 1 (Sunday)
Maundy Thursday April 5
Good Friday April 6
Araw ng Kagitingan April 9 (Monday)
Labor Day May 1 (Tuesday)
Independence Day June 12 (Tuesday)
National Heroes Day August 27 (Last Monday of August)
Bonifacio Day November 30 (Friday)
Christmas Day December 25 (Tuesday)
Rizal Day December 30 (Sunday)

B. Special (Non-Working) Days

Chinese New Year January 23 (Monday)
Ninoy Aquino Day August 21 (Tuesday)
All Saints Day November 1 (Thursday)
Additional special (non-working) day November 2 (Friday)
Last Day of the Year December 31 (Monday)

C. Special Holidays (for all schools)

EDSA Revolution Anniversary February 25 (Saturday)

"The proclamations declaring national holidays for the observance of Eid’l Fitr and Eidul Adha shall hereafter be issued after the approximate dates of the Islamic holidays have been determined in accordance with the Islamic calendar (Hijra) or the lunar calendar, or upon Islamic astronomical calculations, whichever is possible or convenient. To this end, the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) shall inform the Office of the President on which day the holiday shall fall," the President said in the proclamation.

President Aquino directed the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to promulgate the implementing guidelines for this proclamation, which shall take effect immediately. (PCOO)

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Malacanang taps government agencies to attend to victims affected by landslide in Compostela Valley

Malacanang has tapped the various concerned government agencies to ensure the Aquino administration’s immediate actions to attend to the needs of the people who were affected by the massive landslide that claimed at least 25 lives and injuring 16 others in Mindanao.

In a media briefing in Malacanang on Thursday, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said that the military has been conducting search and rescue operations in Pantukan, Compostela Valley, particularly in Sitio Diat Uno and Diat Palo, Barangay Napnapan where the landslide occurred to save the lives of those who may have survived the accident and retrieve the remains of those who did not make it.

Lacierda also bared that apart from the military personnel that were deployed, the local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (DRRMC) and the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) has been actively conducting operations in the area. Other national government agencies involved include the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).

“The military is already there… the search and rescue operations are being undertaken right now, the regional DRRMC of the local government is already there, iincluding the OCD. The military also has its incident command post and the DENR is already there,” Lacierda said.

“Right now ang mahalaga muna ay yung search and rescue, and. I'm sure the DSWD will be going there to assess the situation,” he added.

Environmental and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon Paje, Lacierda said, has sent a team of experts to make sure that the lives of the rescuers will not be put into extreme danger in their efforts to save the lives of the victims.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo, for his part, has been closely monitoring the situation through constant coordination with the local officials of the province.

“The reason why nandun ang DENR ngayon, nagpadala si Secretary Mon Paje ng geologists kasi yung area na yun ay medyo hazardous so they want to be sure that in addition to helping those who have been affected by the landslide yung mga rescuers po ay hindi rin maaapektuhan, so it is important to first assess the geological situation of barangay Napnapan,” Lacierda said.

“Secretary Robredo has been asking for updates from the governor on the status of the areas in Pantukan and he will be going to Compostela Valley to confer with the local government officials,” he added.

Lacierda noted that the DILG will be looking into what are the lapses that resulted to the event that again claimed several lives of people in the area.

“The responsibility of force evacuation is with the local government officials. There will be an investigation and there will be some accountability,” Lacierda said.

Military officials said some 100 individuals are still missing due to the landslide, which happened at around 3 a.m. following incessant rains.

It will be recalled that in April of last year, a landslide also occurred in Pantukan where small-scale miners have been digging for gold. (PCOO)

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Palace defends economic achievements from criticisms

Malacanang expects to post significant growth in the agriculture sector given the increased budget allotted to the Department of Agriculture this year, which is expected to uplift the national economy as a whole.

In a press conference on Thursday, Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda fended off criticisms that say the country will not experience much economic growth this year due to weak government policies.

Lacierda said the country posted increased agricultural production despite the storms and calamities that hit the Philippines last year.

“Agricultural productivity is growth, is real and equitable growth. So many people would be benefited from increased agricultural productivity,” he said in response to comments claiming that the government hasn’t produced more jobs.

“This is growth for the farmers; agricultural productivity will benefit a great number of our people,” he stressed.

With a bigger budget this year, the DA said it would vigorously pursue initiatives that will ensure sufficiency in major staples by 2013 that include rice, white corn, cassava, and other basic commodities.

In his 2011 year-end report, Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala said a big chunk of the DA’s 2012 budget of P61.73 billion will be spent to implement the Food Staples Sufficiency Program (FSSP), which is the centerpiece program of the Aquino administration.

The program intends to frontload investments, particularly on infrastructure such as irrigation, farm-to-market roads, and postharvest facilities, Alcala said.

With an allocation of P24.5 billion for 2012 for irrigation, Secretary Alcala said the DA will construct new irrigation systems, and restore and rehabilitate existing ones that service a total of 224,850 hectares of farm lands nationwide.

For postharvest and other infrastructures, the DA has alloted P11.28 billion. This will be spent to construct drying, storage, and processing facilities, storage and milling equipment, including dairy equipment and machineries.

The DA said it would also construct major agri-fishery trading centers in many areas throughout the country. (PCOO)

PIA News Dispatch - Wednesday, January 4, 2011

2012-01-04T20:02:00.000-08:00

Malacañang confident DTI will meet export targets

Malacañang expressed confidence the Department of Trade and Industry would be able to fulfill the country’s export target of $120-billion as contained in the Philippine Export Development Plan (PEDP).

The PEDP seeks to double the value of exports from $51.5 billion in 2010 to $120 billion by 2016 through various programs aimed at increasing exports by 10 percent beginning 2011.

Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte told a press briefing on Wednesday that the government was supportive of these DTI programs that, according to DTI Secretary Gregory Domingo, will help exporters make full use of the opportunities presented by existing free-trade agreements (FTAs) and new preferential trade deals with the United States and Europe.

“Secretary Domingo said the Department remains optimistic and that they plan to exhaust other means of providing assistance to the export industry given the downturn we’ve seen in 2011,” Valte said.

“Of course it should be given a chance and we are fully supportive of the DTI efforts to help our exporters,” she added. (PCOO)

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Govt announces release of fund for waste management, Iloilo irrigation project

The Aquino administration announced the release of P680 million intended for solid waste and flood control projects as well as for the budget of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA).

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) also released P450 million for the Philippine-Korea irrigation project in Iloilo.

“Iloilo is one of our major rice basins and in line with the administration’s target of rice sufficiency by 2013, the money was released to support the first large-scale reservoir dam outside of Luzon that would provide uninterrupted irrigation water supply to 31,840 hectares of land mostly in Iloilo,” Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a press briefing in Malacanang on Wednesday.

Early this week, the DBM said the Aquino government has lined-up P141.8-billion worth of infrastructure projects, funded by the recently enacted General Appropriations Act (GAA) of 2012, which are ready for implementation starting January.

Budget Secretary Florencio B. Abad said these infrastructure projects include national roads and bridges; airports, seaports and lighthouses; classrooms and other education facilities; potable water supply systems, irrigation and post-harvest facilities; including flood control and slope protection structures.

He said the DBM will issue the allotments for the P141.8-billion infrastructure projects so that implementing departments and agencies could bid out their projects.

Because of the early approval of the 2012 appropriations, Abad said agencies can also start the project implementation this January compared to government’s time frame last year, Abad said. (PCOO)

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Malacanang says DOE is forming a team to scrutinize oil companies

The Department of Energy (DoE) is currently forming a team that will scrutinize the books of accounts of the oil companies in support of President Benigno S. Aquino III's call for transparency, a Palace official said on Wednesday.

"From what I understand from Energy Secretary Jose Rene Almendras, they are close to already forming the team that will scrutinize the books of the oil companies. They already have representation from the sectors," Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Wednesday.

Report said the oil firms are willing to open their books of accounts for government examination in response to a call from the President to face public scrutiny.

On the other hand, various groups expressed concern over reports that oil players will implement upward price adjustments this January, according to news reports.

Valte assured that the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is regularly conducting monitoring of prices to prevent overpricing.

"The DTI is always there to make sure that any increases in prices are warranted and are not in the area of overpricing," Valte said.

Oil companies are ready to follow the requirements being imposed by the DoE as mandated by appropriate provisions” relevant laws, such as the Downstream Oil Industry Deregulation Act.

The oil firms are also mandated to comply strictly with the “financial protocols of the Bureau of Customs and Bureau of Internal Revenue, as well as statutory submissions to the Securities and Exchange Commission. (PCOO)
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Malacanang assures Filipino workers in Syria of Aquino government’s assistance, long-term support

Malacanang assured the Aquino government’s immediate assistance as well as long-term support to the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who were affected by the escalation of violence due to political unrest in Syria specifically the creation of more jobs locally for better opportunities in their own country.

Presidential Deputy Spokesperson Abigail Valte made the assurance in reaction to the OFW concerns on lack of economic opportunity in the Philippines during her first media briefing this year in Malacanang on Wednesday.

Valte said that the government, through the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), has been providing enough financial assistance to the affected OFWs that they can use in small businesses of their choice.

“Meron naman po tayong ibinibigay na assistance from the Department of Labor and Employment, meron po tayong maliit na start-up fund na naibibigay that we believe will somehow provide the assistance that they need until such time that they can be deployed to other countries who have open opportunities for them,” Valte said.

She echoed the Department of Foreign Affairs’ (DFA) call to heed to the appeal on mandatory repatriation to ensure their safety.

“Again, allow us to reiterate that if you (OFWs) feel that your safety is threatened please contact the embassy and allow them to repatriate you,” Valte noted adding that the DFA has been exerting all-out efforts to account for the OFWs regardless of whether they are documented or not.

“Secretary Del Rosario of Foreign Affairs said that there is no distinction between the documented and undocumented Filipinos in Syria when it comes to government’s repatriation efforts,” Valte said.

“Yung long-term assistance naman po, in the case of Libya, we did look for other opportunities in other countries for them, apart from the short-term assistance that was given… of course it is the long-term goal to provide more jobs here so that going abroad will be a choice and not a necessity for most,” she added.

On Monday, the government has reiterated an appeal to over 4,000 Filipinos who are still in Syria to heed the government’s call for mandatory repatriation.

The Philippine Embassy in Damascus reported that the capital remains on high alert following the back-to-back car bombings there.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario flew to Syria recently to personally lead the agency’s efforts to convince the Filipinos to have themselves repatriated to Manila at government’s expense.

The Philippines has so far repatriated 434 Filipinos back to Manila since the start of the political crisis in Syria in March. Of this number, 349 were repatriated after the Philippine government called for their voluntary repatriation in August. (PCOO)

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Aquino approves Palace draft of Freedom of Information Bill

President Benigno S. Aquino III green lighted the Palace proposal on the Freedom of Information (FOI) Bill pending in Congress, which calls for the mandatory disclosure of government information to ensure enhanced transparency in government transactions.

The President met Wednesday morning with Secretaries Florencio Abad, Rene Almendras, Ricky Carandang, Edwin Lacierda and Undersecretary Manuel L. Quezon III to discuss the details of the Freedom of Information Bill.

Quezon, who shepherded the FOI bill in the Executive branch, said in a press conference in Malacanang on Wednesday that they conducted discussions with various stakeholders for several months regarding the bill based on the instructions of the President.

He said they presented the results of the consultations and studies to the President during Wednesday’s meeting.

“And the President’s marching orders to us was and this is his words: ‘to push ahead with the Freedom of Information,’” Quezon said.

However, Quezon noted that the President asked for the removal of the proposed Information Commission from the draft because the Chief Executive felt that it would add another layer of bureaucracy.

“The overall intention of this whole exercise, besides to make it as democratic and consultative as possible, was precisely because we were all working under the view that we have to make the constitutional injunction making information a right of the public a living reality,” Quezon said.

Asked about how soon the Palace expects the passage of the bill, he said it would depend on the leadership of both houses of Congress. But he said there is a consensus among lawmakers to make the bill a major achievement of the 15thCongress.

Inputs to the present version, the Tanada bill, will be included through amendments on the proposal which is currently pending in Congress.

While not all information can be released to the public, he said, the general rule is that information should always be available to the people as long as it doesn’t fall among those considered as restricted information.

These legitimate exceptions include information that harm the ability of the state to protect peace and order, diplomatic relations with other countries, and those that would expose police and military operations.

The President expressed his support to the FOI bill when he ran for President in the May 2010 presidential election. (PCOO)

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Continue and step up anti-crime efforts, Ochoa exhorts PNP amid lower crime rate

Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on Wednesday lauded the Philippine National Police (PNP) for its efforts in bringing down the country’s crime rate last year while asking police officials to take more effective measures to improve the peace and order situation.

“Although the reduction in crime is welcome, this should not be a cause for complacency. The PNP must continue to strive to reduce crime even further, ensure public safety, and maintain peace and order in the country,” Ochoa said in a statement.

Ochoa was reacting to a report released by the PNP showing that crimes across the country fell by 23.36 percent in 2011 from the previous year. Official data from the PNP showed that crimes committed last year dropped significantly to 248,378 from 2010 figures of 324,083.

The PNP also noted that figures compiled last year represented only half of the 502,665 total recorded crimes in 2009.

Ochoa, who chairs the Cabinet Cluster on Security, Justice, and Peace and the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), commended the PNP for putting in place measures to curb crime, but enjoined the 140,000-strong police force to continue to pursue sustainable crime prevention and reduction strategies.

“Despite these successes, our police should continue to step up its anti-crime efforts and must remain on alert against all sorts of crime,” Ochoa said.

Ochoa added that law enforcers should be encouraged by the example of President Benigno S. Aquino III, who has shown that under the present government, “no one is above the law, and those who violate our laws will be held accountable for their crimes.”

Earlier, PNP spokesperson Chief Superintendent Agrimero Cruz Jr. said the declining crime rate can be credited to the “strict implementation of police integrated patrol system nationwide.

Cruz said the presence of police supervisors in barangays (villages) “resulted in resolution of petty crimes and close cooperation of the public and local government units.”

He also cited the PNP’s use of new technology like the “E-blotter and E-warrants, which resulted to more wanted persons jailed.”

The average monthly index crime rate also showed a decreasing trend: 27.52 in 2009, 18.10 in 2010, and 13.62 in 2011, the report said. (PCOO)