PIA Calabarzon 4 PR May 27 , 2013, Dispatch for May 28 , 2013 Tuesday, 20 Weather Watch, 11 Regional Watch , 6 OFW Watch , 14 Online News

Aguinaldo Shrine Pagsanjan Falls Taal Lake Antipolo Church Lucban Pahiyas Feast

Weather Watch 2 hours ago

GMA resident weather forecaster Nathaniel Cruz: -Ayon sa PAGASA, ang ITCZ pa rin ang nakakaapekto sa Mindanao. Dahil dito, ang Mindanao ay makakaranas ng maulap na papawirin na may mahina hanggang sa katamtamang pag-ulan at pagkidlat-pagkulog. -Sa datos naman ng Weather Central, mas maraming ulan ang maaaring bumuhos sa maghapon lalo na sa Davao, GenSan at Marawi. -Sa Metro Manila, bahagyang aaliwalas na ang panahon bagama't may mga mahinang pag-ulan pa rin na aasahan lalo sa hapon o gabi.

Weather Watch 3 hours ago

PAGASA weather forecaster Fernando Cada on DZMM: -Mas mataas po ang posibilidad na magkaroon ng thunderstorm ngayong araw na ito dahil sa tail-end ng cold front. -Sa bahagi naman ng Mindanao, doon po ay talagang maulap at may mga katamtamang pag-ulan na posibleng maranasan dahil po ‘yung active na orientation ng ITCZ ay bahagyang tumaas. -Ang buong Mindanao po ay posibleng makaranas ng mga pag-ulan. -Ang pinakamainit po dito sa Metro Manila kahapon ay umabot ng 33.3 degrees Celsius.

Weather Watch shared Dost_pagasa's status. 12 hours ago

Thunderstorm Advisory No. 17 Issued at 08:30PM 27 May 2013

Thunderstorms over Orion and Limay which may persist for 1-2 hrs and expected to affect Mariveles. #Bataan.

All are advised to take precautionary measures against heavy rains, gusty winds, lightning strikes and possible flash flood. Keep monitoring for the next updates.

Weather Watch 13 hours ago near Quezon City

GMA: Inaasahang magiging maulan pa rin bukas sa Metro Manila lalo na pagdating ng hapon o gabi. Magiging maulan din sa ibang bahagi ng Luzon lalo na sa hilaga at gitnang bahagi nito dahil sa epekto ng diffused tail-end of a cold front. Malaki rin ang posibilidad ng pag-ulan sa malaking bahagi ng Visayas partikular na sa gitnang bahagi nito. Magiging maulap na may pag- ulan din sa malaking bahagi ng Mindanao lalo na sa Zamboanga Peninsula dahil sa epekto ng ITCZ.

Weather Watch 14 hours ago near Quezon City

ABS-CBN: Ang mga pag-ulan sa Metro Manila kanina ay dulot ng localized thunderstorm at ang pagsasalubong ng mainit at malamig na hangin o convergence. Nagsisimula ang tag-ulan o rainy season kapag nakapagtala ang PAGASA ng 1mm ng ulan sa eight weather stations nila sa tatlong magkakasunod na araw. Samantala, makakaapekto bukas ang buntot ng cold front sa hilagang bahagi ng bansa habang nakakaapekto naman ang ITCZ sa Mindanao.

Weather Watch 14 hours ago near Quezon City

ABS-CBN: Umulan ng yelo sa Mendez, Cavite kaninang bandang 1:30 ng hapon.

Weather Watch shared Dost_pagasa's status. 14 hours ago

Thunderstorm Advisory No. 16 Issued at 07:30PM 27 May 2013

Thunderstorms over #Tarlac (Capas, San Jose & nearby areas), #Zambales (San Marcelino, Subic and nearby areas), #Pampanga (Mabalacat) and #Bataan (Balanga, Abucay and nearby areas) which may persist for 1-2 hrs.

All are advised to take precautionary measures against heavy rains, gusty winds, lightning strikes and possible flash flood. Keep monitoring for the next updates.

Weather Watch 14 hours ago near Quezon City

GMA: Nakaranas ng kalat-kalat na pag-ulan ang ilang lugar sa Metro Manila kanina. Bahagya namang sumikip ang daloy ng trapiko sa ilang kalsada dahil sa nangyaring pag-ulan. Ayon naman sa PAGASA, hindi pa rin nagsisimula ang panahon ng tag- ulan. Samantala, pinaghahandaan na ng ilang barangay tulad ng Brgy. Bagong Silangan sa Quezon City ang pagsisimula ng tag-ulan.

Weather Watch 14 hours ago near Quezon City

ABS-CBN: Bumuhos ang ulan sa Quezon City at ilang Metro Manila kaninang hapon. Hindi naman nakapagtala ang MMDA ng pagbabaha.

Weather Watch 15 hours ago

PIA-4A/LAGUNA: The Weather Philippines Foundation/Aboitiz Group of Companies (WPF-Aboitiz) recently donated Automated Weather Station (AWS) in the province of Laguna. The donation aims to develop the capabilities of all concerned especially the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices to regulate potential occurence of weather disturbances and to be able to apply the necessary precautions.

Weather Watch 15 hours ago

DZMM: Pinaghahanda ng PAGASA ang publiko, partikular sa mga nasa low-lying areas na mag-ingat sa pagbaha sa mga biglaang pagbuhos ng ulan. Ayon sa PAGASA, posibleng tumagal ang ulan mula 30 minuto hanggang isang oras. Makakaranas ang bansa ng light to moderate na pag-ulan na posibleng magbagsak ng 2.5 to 2.7 mm kada oras. Maliban sa Metro Manila nakakaranas din ng pagulan ang Bulacan at Pampanga. Nilinaw naman ng PAGASA na hindi pa sila nagdedeklara ng opisyal na pagpasok ng panahon ng tag-ulan.

Weather Watch 15 hours ago near Quezon City

PAGASA weather forecaster Manny Mendoza on DZBB: - Ang diffused tail-end of a cold front ang nakakaapekto sa Northern and Central Luzon. Kasama rin sa naaapektuhan ang Metro Manila. - Ang Metro Manila at ang mga rehiyon ng Ilocos, Cordillera, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon at CALABARZON ay magkakaroon ng mga mahina hanggang sa katamtamang pag-ulan at pagkidlat-pagkulog. - Nakakaapekto naman sa may Southern Mindanao, partikular na sa Zamboanga Peninsula ang ITCZ. Magkakaroon din po ito (Zamboanga Peninsula) ng mahina hanggang sa katamtamang pag-ulan at pagkidlat-pagkulog. - Ang nalalabing bahagi ng bansa ay magkakaranas ng bahagya hanggang sa kung minsan ay maulap na papawirin na may pulu-pulong pag-ulan o pagkidlat-pagkulog lalo na sa kanlurang bahagi.

Weather Watch 16 hours ago near Quezon City

PAGASA weather forecaster Meno Mendoza on DZMM: -Ang sanhi po ng pag-ulan ngayong araw ay epekto ng tail end of a cold front. -Wala pong bagyo. -Posible ding magkaroon ng pag-ulan bukas hanggang sa Miyerkules. -Ang tail end nasa buntot, ang cold front doon nagmi-meet ang cold at warm air sa kalngitan. -Mas nakakalamang ang cold. -Hindi pa ito umpisa ng rainy season. -Wala pang hanging habagat. -Mararanasan din ang pag-ulan sa Ilocos region, Central Luzon. -Hindi naman magdudulot ito ng pagbaha dahil hindi naman matatagalan ang mangyayaring pag-ulan.

Weather Watch shared Dost_pagasa's status. 17 hours ago

Thunderstorm Advisory No. 14 Issued at 03:55PM 27 May 2013

Thunderstorm #Bulacan (San Idelfonso, San Rafael, San Miguel & Gen Tinio) & #Pampanga (Candaba) which may persist for 1-2 hrs and expected to affect #Bulacan (Cabiao & San isidro) & #Pampanga (Arayat).

All are advised to take precautionary measures against heavy rains, gusty winds, lightning strikes and possible flash flood. Keep monitoring for the next updates.

Weather Watch shared Dost_pagasa's status. 17 hours ago

Thunderstorm Advisory No. 15 Issued at 04:40PM 27 May 2013

Isolated thunderstorms over #NuevaEcija, #Tarlac, #Pampanga and #Bulacan which may persist for 1-2 hrs.

All are advised to take precautionary measures against heavy rains, gusty winds, lightning strikes and possible flash flood. Keep monitoring for the next updates.

Weather Watch shared Dost_pagasa's status. 17 hours ago

Thunderstorm Advisory No. 14 Issued at 03:55PM 27 May 2013

All are advised to take precautionary measures against heavy rains, gusty winds, lightning strikes and possible flash flood. Keep monitoring for the next updates.

Weather Watch shared Dost_pagasa's status. 18 hours ago

Thunderstorm Advisory No. 13 Issued at 03:20PM 27 May 2013

Thunderstorm #Bulacan (San Idelfonso, San Rafael & Gen Tinio) & #Pampanga (Candaba) which may persist for 1-2 hrs and expected to affect #Bulacan (San Miguel).

All are advised to take precautionary measures against heavy rains, gusty winds, lightning strikes and possible flash flood. Keep monitoring for the next updates.

Weather Watch shared Dost_pagasa's status. 18 hours ago

Thunderstorm Advisory No. 12 Issued at 03:00PM 27 May 2013

Thunderstorm #Bulacan (Sta Maria, Marilao, Angat, Norzagaray, Dona Remedio Trinidad, Pandi, Bustos, SJDM, Bocaue, Meycauayan and nearby areas), #MetroManila (QC, CAMANAVA, Marikina, Pasig, San Juan, Las Pinas, Muntinlupa, Pasay, Paranaque & Manila) & #Rizal (San Mateo, Cainta, Antipolo, Montalban, Tanay and nearby areas) which may persist for 1-2 hrs.

All are advised to take precautionary measures against heavy rains, gusty winds, lightning strikes and possible flash flood. Keep monitoring for the next updates.

Weather Watch shared Dost_pagasa's status. 19 hours ago

Thunderstorm Advisory No. 11 Issued at 02:40PM 27 May 2013

Thunderstorm #MetroManila (QC, CAMANAVA, San Juan, Manila, Mandaluyong, Pasay, Marikina & Pasig) which may persist for 1-2 hrs.

All are advised to take precautionary measures against heavy rains, gusty winds, lightning strikes and possible flash flood. Keep monitoring for the next updates.

Weather Watch shared Dost_pagasa's status. 20 hours ago

Thunderstorm Advisory No. 04 Issued at 12:18PM 27 May 2013

Thunderstorms over Zambales (Palauig, Sta Cruz, Candelaria, Masinloc & Mabini), Batangas ( Nasugbu, Magallanes, Gen. E. Aguinaldo), Cavite ( Silang, Carmona & Imus), Laguna (Jala-Jala, Sn Pablo, Lumban & Pagsanjan) and Quezon (Tayabas & Real ) are expected to affect nearby areas within the next 2-3 hrs w/c may persist in 1-2 hrs.

All are advised to take precautionary measures against heavy rains, gusty winds, lightning strikes and possible flash flood. Keep monitoring for the next updates.

Weather Watch

May 28 , 2013 (Tuesday) as of 10:09 AM

CAVITE : LAGUNA : BATANGAS : RIZAL : QUEZON : Partly Cloudy in Lucena City

PIA Regional Watch

PIA Regional Watch 15 hours ago

PIA4A/LAGUNA: Eighty (80) agricultural extension workers (AEWs) in the province recently underwent training on Geo- tagging tools at the Agricultural Program Coordinating Office in Sta. Cruz, Laguna. The Global Positioning System workshop introduced participants to basic GPS principles.

PIA Regional Watch 15 hours ago

PIA- 4A/BATANGAS: Pinalalakas pa ng pamahalaang lungsod ng Batangas ang kampanya kontra sexually infectious disease at HIV/AIDS.Ilan sa mga programang ipinatutupad ang pagbibigay ng libreng papsmear at gamot sa mga sex workers,gayundin ang pagbibigay ng anti hepatitis b

PIA Regional Watch 15 hours ago

PIA 4A/BATANGAS...May 23 magaaral sa sekondarya at 25 sa kolehiyo na pawang mga scholar ng Alay Lakad Foundation Inc.Batangas chapter ang sumailalim sa isang seminar ukol sa stress management.Layon nitong maisulong ang pagpapalakas ng tiwala sa sarili upang mabawasan ang tumataas na bilang ng mga nagpapakamatay na kabataan sanhi ng depresyon at kalungan

PIA Regional Watch 16 hours ago

PIA IVA/QUEZON: The week-long festival called 'Pasayahan sa Lucena' has city main street and its side streets into 'tiangge' and entertainment area. The festival highlighted the promotion of 'tinapa' (smoked fish), the city's One Town, One Product, will boost its industry in the barangay.

PIA Regional Watch 16 hours ago

PIA-4A/QUEZON: The provincial agriculture office conducts seminar on post harvest handling of organic produce at audio visual room room, 3rd floor, Quezon convention center, Lucena City. The seminar which is being participated by farmers and municipal agriculturists is part of organic market 2nd anniversary celebration which aims to help organic producer to have regular market of organic products at Perez park, Lucena City and patronize organic products in the province.

PIA Regional Watch 16 hours ago

PIA IV-A/CAVITE: Vice President Jejomar Binay will be the guest of honor and speaker tomorrow, May 28 on the 115th anniversary of the Battle of Alapan. The program will start at 8 in the morning at Alapan Elementary School in Barangay Alapan 1-C. The Vice President will lead the raising of the Philippine Flag signalling the start of the 115th Philippine Iindependence Day celebration. Ruel Francisco.

PIA Regional Watch 16 hours ago

PIA-4A/RIZAL: DOST Rizal is set to organize a Renet cheese making training at the Llano Multipurpose Cooperative, Jalajala, Rizal this June 5-6 from 8am to 5pm for members of the said co-op. The training includes seminars from speakers from the University of the Philippines - Los Banos.

PIA Regional Watch 16 hours ago

PIA-4A/RIZAL: DOST Rizal is set to participate in the upcoming FNRI Nationwide Nutrition Survey which includes barangays from different municipalities of jhe province to assess the nutritional situations in them. The agency is aiming to collect data this June-July with the cooperation of the provincial and local governments.

PIA Regional Watch 16 hours ago

PIA IVA/QUEZON: The city government of Lucena is planning to install a city tourism office. According to city administrator Anacleto Alcala, Jr., they will first identify and develop the possible touist destinations in the city before installing office.

PIA Regional Watch 16 hours ago

PIA 4A/BATANGAS...Isang kasunduan na naglalayong mapangalagaan ang kalusugan at inuming tubig ng mga mamamayan ang nilagdaan sa bayan ng Rosario.Ang proyekto ay kinabibilangan ng tatlong uri,ang iron removal filter,biosand filter at biogas digester na inaasahang makakatulong sa mga benepisaryo ng naturang programa.

PIA OFW Watch 14 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines

GMA: Tinatayang nasa 6,000 Pilipino ang apektado ng freeze hiring na ipinatutupad ng Taiwan. Samantala, ang iba namang OFW na nauna nang nakakuha ng visa at nakabiyahe na pa-Taiwan ay pinagsuot ng kanilang mga agency ng T-Shirt na may nakasulat na nangangahulugang "I love Taiwan."

PIA OFW Watch 17 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines

DZMM: 75 pang mga undocumented OFW mula sa Saudi Arabia ang inaasahang makakauwi na sa bansa sa mga darating na araw. May kabuuan ng 203 na mga undocumented OFWs ang nakauwi na sa bansa.

PIA OFW Watch 17 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines

DZMM: 75 pang mga undocumented OFW mula sa Saudi Arabia ang inaasahang makakauwi na sa bansa sa mga darating na araw. May kabuuan ng 203 na mga undocumented OFWs ang nakauwi na sa bansa.

PIA OFW Watch 17 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines

DZMM: 75 pang mga undocumented OFW mula sa Saudi Arabia ang inaasahang makakauwi na sa bansa sa mga darating na araw. May kabuuan ng 203 na mga undocumented OFWs ang nakauwi na sa bansa.

PIA OFW Watch shared Noynoy Aquino (P-Noy)'s status. 18 hours ago

[Adm-03] Filipino seafarers can now file work-related complaints with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) even while they are onboard.

POEA Administrator Hans Leo Cacdac said that the agency,in its efforts to increase the modes of conciliation and mediation of labor disputes in the maritime industry, will be accepting complaints from seafarers through email ([email protected]) and at tel. nos. +6328336992, +6325516641 and +6325511560.

PIA OFW Watch 20 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines

DZBB: Mahigpit na iminungkahi ng pamahalaang Pilipinas ang pagtiyak ng kaligtasan ng mga Pinoy migrant workers sa Sweden. Sa ulat na nakalap ng DFA mula sa Philippine Permanent Mission sa Geneva, binigyang diin ni DFA Usec. Jesus Yabes sa katatapos lang na Global Forum on Migration and Development na dapat lang na ipagpatuloy ang pagpapalakas ng proteksyon sa mga manggagawa sa naturang bansa.

A. QUEZON

Tagalog news: NSO-Quezon inilabas ang resulta ng 'Listing of Establishments' survey

By Joselito M. Giron

Monday 27th of May 2013

LUNGSOD NG LUCENA, Quezon, Mayo 27 (PIA) -- Inilabas ng National Statistics Office (NSO)-Quezon ang resulta ng isinagawang Listing of Establishments (LE) survey noong 2012 na ginawa sa buong lalawigan ng Quezon.

Ang LE ay rehistro at listahan ng mga negosyo at ayon sa ulat ng NSO, tinatayang nasa 18,380 ang bilang ng mga business establishments sa lalawigan.

Sa buong lalawigan, halos kalahati o 49.9 porsyento ng kabuuang bilang ng mga business establishments ay may kinalaman sa "wholesale and retail trade" at "repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles."

Sa ulat, may tatlong pangunahing grupo ng negosyo sa lalawigan. Ito ay ang agrikultura, industriya at serbisyo. Mahigit na 1.6 porsyento ang nasa sektor ng agrikutura; 14.9 porsyento naman ang nasa sektor ng industriya at 83.4 porsyento ay nasa sektor ng serbisyo.

Kung ang pagbabasehan ay legal na organisasyon ng mga business establishments, 90.03 porsyento ay kasama sa single proprietorship. Ang natitirang porsyento ay kabilang sa partnership, korporasyon ng pamahalaan, stock corporation, non-stock, non-profit corporation, kooperatiba at iba pa.

Sa economic organization, nasa 86.6 porsyento ay mga single establishments, 10 porsyento ay branches at ang natitira ay kinabibilangan ng establishments at main office at auxiliary unit.

Sa kabuuang bilang ng mga business establishments, nasa 83,449 ang mga nagtatrabaho. Mayroong tatlong sektor na may pinakamalaking bilang ng nagtatrabaho tulad ng wholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles & motorcycles - 31,906 workers, manufacturing -13,832 workers at accommodation and food services - 9,303 workers. (CPG/JMG/PIA4A-Quezon with report from Alma C. Padua–NSO Quezon)

B. CAVITE

1. VP Binay to lead 115th Anniversary of Battle of Alapan

Monday 27th of May 2013

CITY OF IMUS, Cavite, May 27 (PIA) -- Vice President Jejomar Binay will be the guest of honor and speaker on the 115th Anniversary of the Battle of Alapan tomorrow (May 28).

The program will start at 8 a.m. at Alapan Elementary School in Barangay Alapan 1-C wherein, the Vice President together with Cavite 2nd District Representative Erineo Maliksi, Governor Jonvic Remulla, City Mayor Emmanuel Maliksi, former Prime Minister Cesar EA Virata and Dra. Maria Serena Diokno of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) will raise the Philippine Flag.

Last April 27, Malacañang signed Proclamation No. 373 Series of 2012 declaring May 28 as special (non-working) holiday in the municipality being the anniversary of the Battle of Alapan (Pambansang Araw ng Watawat) where the Philippine Flag was first flown.

This, according to Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, Jr. is “to give the people of Imus and the local government the opportunity to celebrate and participate in any occasion with appropriate ceremonies in preparation for this historical event”.

The Battle of Alapan was the first victory of General Emilio Aguinaldo after returning from overseas (Singapore) and it was also in Alapan where the Philippine flag was first hoisted.

On May 28, 1898, Filipino revolutionists secretly delivered about 2,000 rifles and 20,000 rounds of ammunitions to Alapan, a barrio of Imus. When the Spaniards learned about this, they raided the area to confiscate the armaments. Instead of surrendering, the local revolutionists engaged in a fight which lasted from 10 in the morning to 3 in the afternoon of the same day. The Filipino revolutionists won the battle and took the Spanish prisoners to the revolutionary headquarters in Cavite.

Former president Fidel V. Ramos signed Republic Act 8491 declaring May 28 to June 12 of every year as Flag Day and enjoined all offices, agencies of the government including business establishments to display flag. (CPG/RBF/PIA4A-Cavite)

2. Cavite starts week long Brigada Eskwela 2013

By Ruel B. Francisco Monday 27th of May 2013

TRECE MARTIRES CITY, Cavite, May 27 (PIA) -- Local government units, stakeholders including teachers, parents, volunteers and private institutions in the province’s 17 towns and 6 cities are giving extra time and effort for the week-long Brigada Eskwela program initiated by the Department of Education (DepEd).

This year’s Brigada Eskwela, now on its 10th year, carries the theme “Isang Dekada ng Bayanihan sa Paaralan.” It started last Monday and ended last May 25.

DepEd’s Brigada Eskwela 2013 is an annual maintenance program wherein teachers, students, parents and non- government organizations joined hands in cleaning, repairing of several classrooms including other facilities in public schools in time for the class opening this coming June 3.

In Carmona, the local government under the leadership of Mayor Dahlia Loyola led kick-off ceremonied of DepEd District’s Brigada Eskwela 2013 in nine (9) public schools around the municipality. This is to ensure that schools and its facilities are already cleaned and prepared for the students.

Aside from cleaning and repairing, Brigada Eskwela also aimed to eliminate dengue breeding grounds and ensure that all public schools are safe from different diseases. (Carmona PIO/CPG/RBF/PIA4A-Cavite)

C. LAGUNA

D. BATANGAS

Tagalog news: Brigada Eskwela, nasasalamin ang espiritu ng bayanihan

By Mamerta P. De Castro Monday 27th of May 2013

LUNGSOD NG BATANGAS, Mayo 27 (PIA) -- Muling nakita ang “bayanihan spirit” ng mga Pilipino sa ginagawang Brigada Eskwela noong Mayo 20-24, kung saan nagtutulungan ang buong komunidad sa paglilinis at pagkukumpuni ng mga sirang bahagi at gamit ng paaralan bilang paghahanda sa pasukan sa Hunyo.

Sinabi ni Remedios Cantos, Department of Education Values Education Supervisor sa lungsod, na katulong sa nasabing gawain ang mga stakeholders, mga lokal na opisyal, NGO, alumni ng mga paaralan, barangay officials, PTA Officers at mga magulang. Mahalaga aniya ang pagtutulong-tulungan ng mga ito para sa pagpapaganda at paghahanda ng paaralana para sa pagbubukas ng klase sa June 3

“Malaking tulong sa aming mga teachers ang Brigada Eskwela sapagkat madami ang linisin sa bawat classroom at kapaligiran ng paaralan. Madami ring kailangang pagkukumpuni kagaya ng mga sirang upuan, mesa, pinto, bintana, at pagpipintura ng classroom," sabi ni Mary Grace De Torres, Grade I teacher sa Alangilan Central Elementary School,.”

Nagpapasalamat din si De Torres sa mga magulang at stakeholders para sa pagbibigay ng mga gamit para sa paglilinis ng bawat silid.

Ayon naman kay Antonio Rosal, isa sa mga magulang na tumutulong sa Brigada Eskwela, “maganda ang nasabing gawain sapagkat nagkakaroon ng pagkakataon na magkakilala ang mga magulang ng mga bata at mas magiging convenient sa mga bata ang pagpasok sa unang araw ng pasukan kung malinis na ang bawat classroom. “

Samantala, on-going ang enrollment sa pampublikong paaralan. Kailangan lang na magdala ang magulang ng report card at birth certificate ng kanyang anak na papasok. Walang kokolektahin ni isang sentimo sa pag-eenroll. (Monina Beredo-Fernandez, PIO/CPG/MPDC/PIA4A-Batangas)

E. RIZAL

27 MAY 2013.

Aquino declares May 28 as special non-working day in Imus, Cavite in celebration of the anniversary of

the battle of Alapan

Malacañang says Aquino government to publish information on Philippine Flag on the Official Gazette

in commemoration of Flag Days

Malacañang says government welcomes decision of Moro Islamic Liberation Front to form political

party

Malacañang says Aquino administration extending aid and assistance to families of seven soldiers who

died in Patikul, Sulu

Palace says Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources is helping Filipino fishermen affected by maritime

dispute in West Philippine Sea

Aquino declares May 28 as special non-working day in Imus, Cavite in celebration of the anniversary of the battle of Alapan

President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared May 28 which falls on a Tuesday as a special (non-working) day in the city of Imus in the province of Cavite in celebration of the anniversary of the Battle of Alapan.

The Chief Executive issued the declaration through Proclamation No. 581 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on May 20 to give the people of Imus the full opportunity to celebrate and participate in the occasion with appropriate ceremonies.

The Philippine Revolutionary Army led by General Emilio Aguinaldo defeated the Spanish forces in the Battle of Alapan on May 28, 1898. It was also the first time when the Philippine National Flag was hoisted at Teatro Caviteno in Cavite Nuevo (now Cavite City).

President Diosdado Macapagal first proclaimed May 28 as "Flag Day" in 1965. This day commemorates the date when the Philippine flag, brought home by General Aguinaldo, was first unfurled.

On February 12, 1998, President Fidel Ramos signed Republic Act 8491, known as the "Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines," prescribing the code of the National flag, anthem, motto, coat-of-arms and other heraldic items and devices of the Philippines. Under Section 26 of this code, the official celebration of "Flag Days" was prescribed from May 28 to June 12. PND (js)

TOP

Malacañang says Aquino government to publish information on Philippine Flag on the Official Gazette in commemoration of Flag Days

The Aquino government will publish an infographic regarding the Philippine flag on the Official Gazette in commemoration of Flag Days, a Palace official said on Monday.

Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a statement during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Monday that an infographic on the elements of the Philippine flag will be published on the Official Gazette (www.gov.ph) as part of its portal functions.

"Tomorrow, we mark the 115th anniversary of the first time the Philippine flag — in its original form, as sewn by Filipino expatriates in Hong Kong — was used as the revolutionary standard during the Battle of Alapan, Cavite," Valte said.

"It also marks the beginning of Flag Days, mandated by Republic Act 8491 or the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines, that designates May 28 (anniversary of the Battle of Alapan) to June 12 (Independence Day) every year as a period when the display of the Philippine flag — the Sun and Stars — in homes, government buildings, and private establishments is encouraged," she noted.

In commemoration of this annual observance, Valte said the Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office (PCDSPO) is publishing a series of features on the development of the flag, the country‘s coat of arms, as well as other historical flags of the Philippines on the Presidential Museum and Library website.

"We enjoin our countrymen to learn more about our flags and take pride in this unifying symbol of our nationhood and our collective aspirations," Valte said.

Valte also announced that the PCDSPO has published a comprehensive historical briefer on the storied Mansion House in Baguio in celebration of May as National Heritage Month.

"From its beginnings as a summer retreat for American Governors-General and venue for diplomatic activities, the Mansion House now serves as the official residence of the Chief Executive in the country‘s summer capital," Valte said.

"Integrating memoirs and official documents from the American period through World War II and the contemporary era, the briefer celebrates the legacy of one of Baguio‘s most prominent landmarks as a contribution to the yearlong commemoration of Philippine heritage and history, spearheaded by the National Commission on Culture and the Arts," she added. PND (js) TOP

Malacañang says government welcomes decision of Moro Islamic Liberation Front to form political party

The Aquino administration welcomed the decision of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to form a political party that will run in future elections, a Palace official said on Monday.

Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte issued the statement during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Monday following reports that the MILF led by chairman Al Hadj Murad Ebrahim, will form a political party to field candidates in future elections.

"The government welcomes the political plans of the MILF for 2016. As you all know the road map towards the establishment of the Bangsamoro ends in 2016 and, understandably, the MILF needs to prepare for that to make the necessary preparations," Valte said.

Valte said the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the MILF are determined to finish during the term of President Aquino the implementation of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro, the new autonomous political entity that would replace the 23-year old Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

"Well, work on the three annexes are continuing and the panel will provide updates to the media as soon as they are available. Allow us to say at this point that both parties are determined to complete the implementation of the BFA or the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro and its annexes within the term of the President so as not to leave any unfinished business for the next administration," Valte said.

The GPH and the MILF are now working to complete the annexes on Wealth-sharing, Power-sharing and Normalization, to complete the comprehensive peace pact for the establishment of the Bangsamoro.

In December last year, the President issued Executive Order No. 120 creating a Transition Commission that will draft the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law provided for in the Framework Agreement signed by the government and the MILF on October 15, 2012.

The EO will provide a mechanism for authentic democratic collaboration in the crafting of a proposed law where the affected people themselves are actively involved.

Among the commission‘s major work is to coordinate with Congress and other government agencies to craft the basic law that will pave the way for a Bangsamoro region in Mindanao.

Last February 11, President Benigno S. Aquino III led the formal launching of the Sajahatra Bangsamoro project aimed at accelerating the transition of conflict-affected communities into productive areas in Sultan Kudarat in Maguindanao, while the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) iron out the final peace agreement with the Muslim secessionists.

"We‘ve seen this in the socio-economic initiatives that we‘ve launched the Sajahatra, and I would defer to Secretary Deles and to the members of the panel if any sort of assistance towards their political plans have been discussed among themselves," Valte said. PND (js)

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Malacañang says Aquino administration extending aid and assistance to families of seven soldiers who died in Patikul, Sulu

The Aquino administration is extending aid and assistance to the families of the seven soldiers who died in an attack perpetrated by armed group in Patikul, Sulu last Saturday, a Palace official said on Monday.

Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte issued the statement during a press briefing in Malacanang following reports that seven soldiers who belonged to the 3rd Marine Brigade were killed in a clash with suspected bandits in Barangay Tugas, Patikul town at 6:45 a.m. Saturday.

Valte said the families of the slain soldiers will receive pension, burial and financial assistance, among others.

"Ang importante sa kanila ‗yung pension dahil killed in the line of duty po sila. So makaka-receive po, kung may asawa na po sila, iyong kanilang may-bahay na naiwan, makukuha ang kanilang pension; at kung wala naman ay sa magulang mapupunta," Valte said.

"Pangalawa, meron din po silang educational assistance na matatanggap. Kung meron pong naiwang mga anak, makatatanggap ng scholarship sa kolehiyo," she noted.

The government condemned the attack perpetrated by armed men against government troops, Valte said.

Valte also said authorities are now conducting investigations to identify the perpetrators.

The government also condemned the attack perpetrated by armed men against the PNP's elite Special Action Force that resulted in the death of seven policemen in Allacapan, Cagayan province on Monday morning.

"I don‘t want to comment first on the identity, primarily, because we are still getting reports on the incident. However, what I can confirm at this point, is that meron nga po tayong seven na fatalities at meron po tayong pito na wounded," she said.

Valte said the PNP is currently conducting pursuit operations against the perpetrators.

Reports said that a truck carrying members of the PNP-SAF hit the landmine while travelling in Barangay Cataratan at 8:30 a.m. After the land mine exploded, armed men fired at the PNP-SAF members.

"Without divulging the operational details of what the actions are, what I can say at this point, is that they are heightening their operations. Pinapaigting ho ang paghabol sa mga may sala sa mga pangyayaring ito," she said. PND (js)

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Palace says Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources is helping Filipino fishermen affected by maritime dispute in West Philippine Sea

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) is helping Filipino fishermen who were affected by the maritime disputes in the West Philippine Sea, a Palace official said on Monday.

Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said during the regular press briefing in Malacanang that the BFAR had already deployed aggregate fishing devices called "payao" in the waters off western Luzon to help local fishermen who were affected by the maritime disputes in the Scarborough Shoal or Scarborough Reef also known as Panatag Shoals and Bajo de Masinloc.

"Iyong mga payao po na tumutulong doon sa mga mangingisda natin ay nandun pa para hindi na sila lumayo mula sa pampang," Valte said.

The payao, each composed of a metallic float --an ―anchor‖ made of stone, rope and leaf fronds-- will enable small- scale fishermen catch big fish without having to go to the Scarborough Reef.

Valte said the BFAR had also encouraged local fishermen to find alternative fishing grounds.

"Hindi naman ibig sabihin na wala na pong ibang lugar," she said.

The Aquino administration remains steadfast in using diplomatic solutions in resolving the maritime disputes in the West Philippine Sea, Valte said.

She said the government opted not to respond to provocative statements and provocative actions that would tend to escalate the situation.

"We have consistently reiterated that ‗what is ours, remains ours‘, but there is a deliberate choice to avoid or to not respond to any provocative actions. We‘ve decided to take it to the proper forum. We‘ve chosen to take it to the arbitral tribunal and we are pursuing that particular action," Valte said.

The government will adhere to a rules-based approach in finding a peaceful solution to the maritime disputes, including the Ayungin Shoal, Valte noted.

"I will have to defer to the DFA on that. As far as I know, they have already filed the diplomatic protest," she said.

According to news reports, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said the Philippines has filed a diplomatic protest to complain China‘s encroachment into the Philippines‘ established maritime borders, with the entry of at least three government ships around the Ayungin Shoal. PND (js)

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27 MAY 2013 Idineklara ni Aquino ang Mayo 28 na special non-working day sa Imus, Cavite upang ipagdiwang ang Araw ng

Labanan sa Alapan Maglalabas ang gobyernong Aquino ng impormasyon tungkol sa watawat ng Pilipinas sa Official Gazette

bilang alaala sa Flag Days Tanggap ng gobyerno ang pasiya ng Moro Islamic Liberation Front na magtayo ng isang lapiang pampulitika,

sabi ng Malacanang Hindi pinababayaan ng administrasyong Aquino ang mga pamilyang naulila ng pitong kawal na nasawi sa

Patikul, Sulu, sabi ng Malacanang Tinutulungan ng Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources ang mangingisdang pilipinong apektado ng gusot

sa West Philippine Sea

Idineklara ni Aquino ang Mayo 28 na special non-working day sa Imus, Cavite upang ipagdiwang ang Araw ng Labanan sa Alapan

Idineklara ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III ang Mayo 28, na natapat sa araw ng Martes, bilang special non-working day sa Lungsod ng Imus sa lalawigan ng Cavite upang ipagdiwang ang anbiersaryo ng Labanan sa Alapan.

Inilagda ng Pangulo ang deklarasyon sa pamamagitan ng Proiklamasyon Blg. 581 na nilagdaan ni Kalihim Tagapagpaganap Paquito N. Ochoa, Jr. noong Mayo 20, 2013 upang magkaroon ng pagkakataon ang mga mamamayan ng Imus na makadalo sa mga seremonyang may kaugnayan sa naturang makasaysayang araw.

Natalo ng Hukbong Pilipino sa pangunguna ni Heneral Emilio Aguinaldo ang mga kawal ng Espanya sa Labanan sa Alapan noong Mayo 28, 1898. Sa araw ring ito iwinagayway sa kauna-unahang pagkakataon ang Pambansang Watawat ng Pilipinas sa Teatro Caviteno sa Cavite Nuevo na kilala ngayon bilang Lungsod ng Cavite.

Ang noon ay Pangulong Diosdado Macapagal ang nagdeklarang Araw ng Watawat ang Mayo 28 noong 1965. Paggunita ito sa araw nang iwagayway sa unang pagkakataon ang watawat ng Pilipinas na iniuwi ni Heneral Aguinaldo mula sa Hong Kong.

Samantala, Pebrero 12, 1998 naman nang lagdaan ng Pangulong Fidel V, Ramos ang Batas ng Republika 8491 o Flag and Heraldic Code ng Pilipinas na nagtatakda ng kodigo ukol sa Pambansang Watawat, Pambansang Awit, kawikaan, coat-of-arms at iba pang heraldic items and devices ng Pilipinas. Alinsunod sa Seksiyon 26 ng naturang code, itinakda na ang opisyal na pagdiriwang sa ―Mga Araw ng Watawat ― ay mula sa Mayo 28 hanggang Hunyo 12. PND (js/zaf)

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Maglalabas ang gobyernong Aquino ng impormasyon tungkol sa watawat ng Pilipinas sa Official Gazette bilang alaala sa Flag Days

Maglalabas ang gobyernong Aquino ng Infographics tungkol sa watawat ng Pilipinas sa Official Gazette kaugnay ng pagdiriwang ng Flag Days.

Ito ang pahayag ni Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte sa pulong-balitaan sa Lunes sa Malacanang at idinugtong na ang mga bagay na may kinalaman sa watawat ng Pilipinas ay matutunghayan sa Official Gazette (www.gov.ph) na bahagi ng portal functions nito.

―Bukas, ipagdiriwang natin ang ika-115 taong anibersaryo ng kauna-unahang pagkakataon na ang watawat ng Pilipinas, sa orihinal na anyo nito na tinahi ng mga Pilipinang nasa Hongkong, ay ginamit bilang sagisag ng himagsikan sa Labanan sa Alapan, Kabite,‖ sabi ni Valte.

―Ito rin ang simula ng Flag Days alinsunod sa Batas ng Republika 8491 o ang Flag and Heraldic Code ng Pilipinas na nagtakda na ang Mayo 28 (anibersaryo ng Labanan sa Alapan) hanggang Hunyo 12 (Araw ng Kasarinlan) taun-taon ay dapat magwagayway ng watawat ng Pilipinas sa mga tahanan, mga gusali ng pamahalaan at pribadong establisiyamento,‖ sabi ni Valte.

Sinabi ni Valte na ang Presidential Communications Development and Srategic Planning Office (PCDSPO) ay maglalathala ng mga bagay tungkol sa watawat, gayundin ng iba pang makasaysayang watawat ng Pilipinas sa Presidential Museum and Library website.

―Hinihiling natin sa ating mga kababayan na sikaping malaman ang maraming bagay tungkol sa ating watawat na sagisag ng ating pagkakaisa bilang lahi at ng sama-samang pangarap ng sambayanan,‖ wika pa ni Valte.

Idinagdag din ni Valte na ang PCDSPO ay naglathala ng kasaysayan ng Mansion House sa Lungsod ng Baguio bilang pagdiriwang sa Mayo bilang Buwan ng Pambansang Kamanahan ng Lahi.

―Sapul nang ito ay maging bahay-bakasyunan ng mga Gobernador-Heneral na Amerikano at pook kung idinaraos ang mga pagtitipong diplomatiiko, ang Mansion House sa Lungsod ng Baguio ay siya ring opisyal na tahanan ng Punong Tagapagpaganap ng Bansa sa nasabing summer capital,‖ dagdag ni Valte.

―Ang mga memoirs (alaala) at mga opisyal na kasulatan sa panahon ng mga Amerikano hanggang sa Ika-2 Digmaang Pandaigdig at sa kasalukuyang panahon, itinatampok ng briefer ang mahahalagang pangyayari sa isa sa pinakamakasaysayang pook sa Baguio, kaugnay ng isang taong pagdiriwang ng kamanahan at kasaysayan ng Pilipinas sa pangunguna ng Pambansang Komisyon sa Kalinangan at Sining,‖ pahayag pa ni Valte. PND (js/zaf)

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Tanggap ng gobyerno ang pasiya ng Moro Islamic Liberation Front na magtayo ng isang lapiang pampulitika, sabi ng Malacanang

Tanggap ng administrasyong Aquino ang pasiya ng Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) na magtayo ng isang lapiang pampulitika na lalahok sa mga halalan sa hinaharap na panahon.

Inihayag ito ni Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte sa pulong-balitaan sa Malacanang Lunes pagkaraang mabalita na ang MILF na pinamumnuan ni Al Hadj Murad Ebrahim ay magtatayo ng lapiang pampulitika upang magkaroon ng mga kandidato sa mga halalan sa hinaharap na mga panahon.

―Tanggap ng pamahalaan ang mga balak pampulitika ng MILF para sa 2016. Alam naman nang lahat na ang pagtatatag ng Bangsamoro ay magtatapos sa 2016 at angkop lamang na paghandaan ng MILF ang naturang bagay,‖ sabi pa ni Valte.

Idinugtong pa ni Valte na titiyakin ng Pamahalaan ng Pilipinas (GPH) at ng MILF na matatapos sa temino ng Pangulong Aquino ang pagpapatupad ng Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro, ang bagong autonomous political entity na papalit sa 23 taon nang Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

―Patuloy na ginagawa ang tungkol sa tatlong annexes at ipababatid ng panel sa media agad ang bagay na ito sa sandaling matapos. Sa panahong ito, sinisikap ng dalawang panig na matapos ang pagpapatpad ng BFA o Framework Agreement tungikol sa Bangsamoro at ang mga annexes nito sa loob ng termino ng Pangulo para hindi na maiwan sa susunod na administrasyon ang ano mang hindi tapos na bagay,‖ dugtong ni Valte.

Kasalukuyang tinatapos ng GPH at MILF ang mga susog sa Hatian ng Kayamanan, Hatian ng Kapangyarihan at Normalisasyon para matapos na ang malawakang kasunduan ukol sa kapayapaan upang maitatag ang Bangsamoro.

Noong nakaraang Disyembre, inilabas ng Pangulo ang Kautusang Tagapagpaganap Blg. 120 na lumikyha ng Transition Commission na babalangkas ng panukalang Bangsamoro Baisc Law na itinakda ng Framework Agreement na nilagdaan ng pamahalaan at ng MILF noong Oktubre 15, 2012.

Mahalagang gawain ng komisyon ang pakikipag-ugnayan sa Kongreso at iba pang sangay ng pamahalaan na balangkasin ang isang batas na magiging daan ng paglikha ng rehiyon ng Bangsamoro sa Mindanao.

Noong Pebrero 11, pinangunahan ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III ang pormal na paglulunsad ng Sajahatra Bagnsamoro project na naglalayong mapabilis ang pagpapaunlad ng mga pook sa Sultan Kudarat sa Maguindanao na apektado ng mga kaguluhan habang ang pamahalaan at ang Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) ay nagsisikap na magkaroon ng pinal na kasunduang pangkapayapaan sa mga sesesyonistang Muslim.

―Ipinauubaya natin kina Kalihim Deles at sa mga kagawad ng lupon ang pagpapahayag kung sa pamamagitan ng inilunsad na Sajahatra ay may mga natalakay nang ano mang tulong sa kanilang mga panukalang pampulitika,‖ dugtong pa ni Valte. PND (js/zaf)

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Hindi pinababayaan ng administrasyong Aquino ang mga pamilyang naulila ng pitong kawal na nasawi sa Patikul, Sulu, sabi ng Malacanang

Puspusang tulong ang ipinagkakaloob ng administrasyong Aquino sa mga pamilya ng pitong kawal na nasawi sa pagsalakay ng sandatahang grupo sa Patikul, Sulu noong nakaraang Sabado.

Ito ang tiniyak ni Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte sa pahayag sa Malacanang kaugnay ng mga ulat na mga tauhan ng 3rd Marine Brigade ang pitong kawal na nasawi sa pakikipagsagupa sa mga pinaghihinalaang mga tulisan sa Baranggay Tugas, Patikul ika-6:45 ng umaga ng Sabado.

Ayon kay Valte, ang mga nasawing kawal ay tatanggap ng pensiyon, burial at financial assistance.

―Ang importante sa kanila ay ang pensiyon dahil namatay sila sa pagtupad sa tungkulin kaya ang kanilang mga naulilang maybahay, makakukuha ng pensiyon, at kung wala namang asawa ay sa mga magulang nila ibibigay ang pensiyon,‖ paliwanag ni Valte.

―Pangalawa, mayroon din po silang educational benefit para sa kanilang mga naulilang mga anak. Ito po ay hanggang sa kolehiyo na iskolarsip,‖ sabi ni Valte.

Binigyang diin ni Valte na kasalukuyang sinisiyasat ng maykapangyarihan kung sino ang mga sumalakay sa mga kawal ng pamahalaan.

Samantala, sinalakay rin ng mga sandatahang lalaki ang Special Action Force ng Pambansang Pulisya sa Allacapan, lalawigan ng Cagayan Lunes ng umaga.

―Ayoko pang tumukoy ng pangalan sapagka‘t hinihintay pa namin ang mga karagdagang ulat. Nguni‘t ibig kong patunayan ang report na mayroon nga pong pitong namatay at may pito pa ring sugatan,‖ dugtong ni Valte.

Sinabi ni Valte na tinutugis na ng Pambansang Pulisya ang mga may kagagawan ng pananambang.

Ayon sa mga ulat, isang trak na may sakay na mga tauhan ng PNP-SAF ang nakasagasa sa landmine habang binabagtas ang lansangan sa Kataratan dakong ika-8:30 ng umaga. Nang sumabog ang landmine, pinaputukan pa ng mga sandatahang lalaki ang mga tauhan ng PNP-SAF na lulan ng trak.

―Ang masasabi ko po lamang, pinaiigting po ang paghabol sa mga may kagagawan sa mga pangyayaring ito. Hindi ko po maibubunyag ang mga detalye ng operasyon,‖ sabi ni Valte.

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Tinutulungan ng Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources ang mangingisdang pilipinong apektado ng gusot sa West Philippine Sea

Tinutulungan ng Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) ang mga mangingisdang Pilipino na apektado ng sigalot sa West PhilippineSea.

Sinabi ni Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte sa pulong-balitaan sa Malacanang Lunes na naglagay na ang BFAR ng ―payaw‖ o gamit pangisda sa karagatang nasa may Kanlurang LuZon upang tulungan ang mga lokal na mangingisdang hindi makapalaot dahil sa sigalot sa katubigang nasa Scarborough Shoal o Scarborough Reef na kilala rin bilang Panatag Shoals at Bajo de Masinloc.

―Ang mga payaw po na tumutulong sa mga mangingisda natin ay naroon pa rin para hindi na sila lumayo sa pampang,‖ dagdag ni Valte.

Ang payaw, bawa‘t isa ay binubuo ng metallic float—isang anchor na yari sa bato, lubid at leaf fronds—ay makatutulong sa mga mangingisda na makahuli ng malalaking isda nang hindi na kailangang tumungo pa sa Scarborough Reef.

Idinugtong pa ni Valte na hinihimok ng BFAR ang mga mangingisda na humanap pa rin ng ibang mapangingisdaan nila.

―Hindi naman ang ibig sabihin ay wala na pong ibang lugar,‖ wika ni Valte.

Naninindigan ang administrasyong Aquino sa paggamit ng solusyong diplomatiko sa paglutas sa gusot sa West Philippine Sea.

Ayon kay Valte, minarapat ng pamahalaan na huwag nang pansinin ang mapaghamong mga salita at kilos na lalo pang magpapalala sa kalagayan.

―Ulit-ulit na nating nasabi na ‗ang mga bagay na atin ay mananatiling atin,‘ subali‘t sinisikap nating iwasan na ang ano mang mapaghamong hakbang. Ipinasiya nating idulog ito sa kinaukulang tanggapan na siyang magsisilbing tagapamagitan. Iyan ang minarapat nating hakbang na gawin,‖ pahayag pa ni Valte.

Binigyang diin ni Valte na igigiit ng pamahalaan natin ang mga hakbang na naaalinsunod sa paghanap ng mapayapang kalutusan ng sigalot sa karagatan, pati na ang sa Ayungin Shoal.

Binanggit din ni Valte na nagharap na ng protestang pandiplomata ang Kagawaran ng Ugnayang Panlabas upang isumbong ang ginawa ng Tsina na panghihimasok sa kinikilalang maritime borders ng Pilipinas nang magpadala ng tatlong bapor ang pamahalaang Tsino sa palibot ng Ayungin Shoal. PND (js/zaf)

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ONLINE NEWS

27 MAY 2013 1. Gov't disbursements increase by 25% in April; Abad: New budget regimes enable focused, faster spending for inclusive growth 2. Bank lending standards remain generally steady in Q1 2013 3. Baldoz cites POLO-Syria on repatriation of 4,178 OFWs 4. OPAPP exec challenges educators to take part in promoting peace through cultural diversity 5. ASEAN integration gains more ground with Malaysian delegation visit to PH 6. MIMAROPA MSMEs join international food show 7. SC sets Bidders’ Forum on May 27-28 8. Municipal accountant found guilty of violating GSIS law 9. Schedule of depositors-borrowers forum for the closed Cooperative Rural Bank of Bulacan 10. PH wins New Frontiers Award for typhoon rebuilding efforts 11. 34 Filipinos to arrive home from Syria 12. Business sentiment soars to an all-time high in Q2 2013 13. CSC issues guidelines on grant of eligibility to Sanggunian Members 14. CSC reiterates prohibition of liquor consumption in government offices

Gov't disbursements increase by 25% in April; Abad: New budget regimes enable focused, faster spending for inclusive growth

Source: http://www.dbm.gov.ph

Budget and Management Secretary Florencio B. Abad today reported that national government spending in the month of April reached P153.2 billion, a 25.3-percent increase from the P122.2-billion disbursement level in April last year. This brings the disbursement level in the first four months of 2013 to P584.0 billion, which is P66.9 billion or 12.9 percent year-on-year.

Abad also initially reports that public spending on infrastructure and other capital outlays have increased by more than 40 percent year-on-year in the last four months. Maintenance and other operating expenditures (MOOE) also grew by more than 30 percent over the same period.

―The reforms that the Aquino government embedded in the 2013 National Budget helped us ensure faster and more focused government spending. This allows us to accelerate the delivery of priority programs and projects for inclusive growth, particularly infrastructure and social services,‖ he said.

―The new budgeting regimes introduced so far—the one-year validity of all appropriations, the policy against lump sum funds, procurement innovations that enable the early tender of projects, and tighter focus on the administration‘s priority deliverables, among others—bolster the government‘s capacity to deliver the people‘s development priorities,‖ he added.

Of the total amount spent from January to April, non-interest expenses accounted for P462.0 billion or a 14.8-percent increase year-on-year. Meanwhile, interest payments grew by a slower rate of 6.4 percent year-on-year to P122.0 billion. The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) will release within this week a more detailed assessment of government disbursements as of April.

The Government reported that it achieved a P36.8-billion budget surplus in April, a record-high for the traditionally surplus month. Better revenue collections, which reached P190.0 billion in April or 24 percent higher year-on-year, contributed to the surplus.

The cumulative deficit in the first four months of this year has reached P29.7 billion. In contrast, the deficit in the same period of last year was only P2.9 billion.

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Bank lending standards remain generally steady in Q1 2013

Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph

Results of the Q1 2013 Senior Bank Loan Officers‘ Survey showed that overall credit standards were generally steady as most of the respondent banks maintained their credit standards for loans to both enterprises and households during the quarter. Most banks indicated generally unchanged bank credit standards for the sixteenth consecutive quarter starting Q2 2009, based on the percentage of responding banks indicating whether they tightened, loosened, or maintained their credit standards.

Based on the diffusion index (DI) approach, a minimal net easing of overall credit standards for loans to both enterprises and households relative to the previous quarter was noted with a DI of -9.7 percent and -4.2 percent, respectively. 1,2 The details of the DI computation are found in Table 1. In the previous quarter, credit standards for both business and household loans also showed a minimal net easing following the DI approach.

The survey consists of questions on perceptions relating to the overall credit standards of universal/ commercial banks (U/KBs) in the Philippines, as well as factors affecting the supply of and demand for loans by both enterprises and households.3 All of the 35 U/KBs included in the survey4 responded to the Q1 2013 survey, representing a 100- percent response rate.5 The analysis in the survey is based on comparisons with data for the immediately preceding quarter. The BSP has been conducting this survey since Q1 2009 to enhance its understanding of banks‘ lending behavior, which is an important indicator of the strength of credit activity in the country. The survey also helps the BSP assess the robustness of demand conditions, potential risks in the asset markets, and possible strains in the bank lending channel as a transmission channel of its monetary policy.

Lending to Enterprises

Most banks continue to indicate generally unchanged credit standards for enterprises.6 However, a few banks eased their credit standards for enterprises citing an improved profile of borrowers and profitability of banks‘ asset portfolio, a more favorable outlook on the domestic economy, and an increased deposit base of banks as important factors that contributed to the easing. In particular, some banks reported less strict loan covenants and longer loan maturities across all types of business loans. Banks‘ responses also indicated narrower loan margins, increased credit line sizes, and less strict collateral requirements, except in the case of micro enterprises. Meanwhile, some banks appeared to have reduced the use of interest rate floors, particularly for top corporations and micro enterprises.7

In terms of borrower firm size, the percentage of respondent banks that reported easing credit standards for top corporations and large middle-market enterprises remained low but was higher than those indicating the opposite for the fourth and third consecutive quarter, respectively. Overall credit standards for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) also showed a slight net easing after being unchanged in the previous quarter. Meanwhile, credit standards for micro enterprises continued to show a slight net tightening, consistent with the expected net tightening indicated by banks‘ responses in the previous quarter.

Over the next quarter, most of the respondent banks expected credit standards for loans to enterprises to remain unchanged. However, the percentage of banks foreseeing a slight easing of credit standards for loans across all firm sizes was higher compared to those expecting otherwise. Those responding banks cited expectations of an improvement in the profitability and liquidity of banks‘ asset portfolio as factors behind the potential easing of standards.

Lending to Households

The survey results likewise showed most of the respondent banks reporting unchanged credit standards for loans extended to households.8 However, some banks indicated a slight easing of credit standards for household loans in Q1 2013 for the third consecutive quarter on the back of improved profitability of banks‘ asset portfolios, more aggressive competition from banks and non-bank lenders, increased tolerance for risk, and improved profile of borrowers. In particular, a few banks reported increased credit line sizes for the fourth consecutive quarter. Some of the respondent banks also indicated longer maturities and reduced use of interest rate floors for housing loans, while collateral requirements and loan covenants were unchanged, except for auto loans. Banks‘ responses also reflected a net widening of loan margins for all types of household loans.

With regard to specific types of household loans,9 banks‘ responses indicated a slight net easing of standards for housing and personal/salary loans, but unchanged credit standards for credit card and auto loans based on the DI approach.

Most of the respondent banks foresee maintaining their credit standards over the next quarter. However, some banks expect credit standards across all types of household loans to ease further given expectations of improved profitability in the asset portfolio of banks, more favorable economic outlook, and increased tolerance for risk.

Loan Demand

The survey results also showed a net increase in overall demand10 for loans from both enterprises and households. For loans to businesses, the net increase in loan demand was attributed by banks to increased accounts receivable financing and working capital needs. Meanwhile, the net increase in demand for household loans reflected higher housing investment and household consumption, lower interest rates, and banks‘ more attractive financing terms.

The positive net change in demand for both business and household loans was consistent with monthly data showing robust bank lending growth during the quarter.

Looking ahead, a large fraction of respondent banks expect demand for credit from both firms and households to increase further in the next quarter owing largely to expectations of increased accounts receivable financing and working capital needs of borrowers in the following quarter amid the sustained low interest rate environment. Similarly, the expected net increase in households‘ demand for credit was due largely to the continued increase in household consumption and housing investment as well as low interest rates and banks‘ more attractive financing terms.

Special Questions on Commercial Real Estate Loans

Most of the respondent banks also indicated unchanged overall credit standards for commercial real estate loans.11 However, banks reporting tighter overall credit standards for commercial real estate loans outnumbered those indicating the opposite for the third consecutive quarter in Q1 2013. The net tightening of overall credit standards for commercial real estate loans reflected a deterioration in the liquidity and profitability of banks‘ asset portfolio as well as in the profile of borrowers along with reduced tolerance for risk. In particular, a few banks reported wider loan margins, stricter collateral requirements and loan covenants, and increased use of interest rate floors for commercial real estate loans was higher compared to the proportion of banks indicating otherwise. Some of the respondent banks also reported increased credit line sizes and longer loan maturities for this type of loan. Meanwhile, respondent banks‘ loan- to-value ratios remained steady during the quarter.

At the same time, demand for commercial real estate loans in Q1 2013 showed a net increase given clients‘ improved economic outlook, increased accounts receivable financing needs, lower interest rates, and banks‘ more attractive financing terms.

For the next quarter, most of the respondent banks are expected to maintain their credit standards for commercial real estate loans. Meanwhile, banks that expected easing of credit standards outnumbered those expecting the opposite. In terms of demand for this type of loan, while most of the respondent banks foresee generally steady loan demand, a number of banks expect demand for commercial real estate loan to continue to increase in the next quarter.

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1 In the diffusion index approach, a positive diffusion index (DI) for credit standards indicates that the proportion of banks that have tightened their credit standards are greater compared to those that eased (―net tightening‖), whereas a negative DI for credit standards indicates that more banks have eased their credit standards compared to those that tightened (―net easing‖). 2 From Q1 2010 to Q4 2012 survey rounds, the BSP used largely the DI approach in the analysis of survey results. 3 This is consistent with the surveys of bank lending standards of other central banks, namely, the US Federal Reserve, the European Central Bank, the Bank of England, the Bank of Canada, and the Bank of Japan. 4 Out of the 36 universal/commercial banks, only 35 banks are included in the survey because one bank requested not to be included in the survey given a loan portfolio that is dominated by loans to its own employees. 5 As of June 2012, commercial banks‘ loans accounted for around 85.9 percent of the banking system‘s total outstanding loans. 6 Of the banks that responded to the question on the change in overall credit standards for loans to enterprises, 90.3 percent reported that they maintained their credit standards during the quarter. 7 The survey questionnaire identified six specific credit standards: (1) loan margins (price-based); (2) collateral requirements; (3) loan covenants; (4) size of credit lines; (5) length of loan maturities; and (6) interest rate floors. A loan covenant is an agreement or stipulation laid down in loan contracts, particularly contracts with enterprises, under which the borrower pledges either to take certain action (an affirmative covenant), or to refrain from taking certain action (a negative covenant); this is consequently part of the terms and conditions of the loan. Meanwhile, an interest rate floor refers to a minimum interest rate for loans. Greater use of interest rate floor implies tightening while less use indicates otherwise. 8 Of the banks that responded to the question on the change in overall credit standards for loans to households, 87.5 percent reported unchanged credit standards during the quarter. 9 Loans extended to households include: (1) housing loans; (2) credit card loans; (3) auto loans; and (4) personal/salary loans. 10 ―Diffusion index (DI) for loan demand‖ refers to the percentage difference between banks reporting an increase in loan demand and banks reporting a decrease. A positive DI for loan demand indicates that more banks reported an increase in loan demand compared to those stating the opposite, whereas a negative DI for loan demand implies that more banks reported a decrease in loan demand compared to those reporting an increase. 11 Of the banks that responded to the question on the change in overall credit standards for commercial real estate loans, 85.7 percent reported that they maintained their credit standards during the quarter.

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Baldoz cites POLO-Syria on repatriation of 4,178 OFWs

Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph

Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz yesterday renewed her call to remaining overseas Filipino workers in Syria to leave and return home to the Philippines, even as he cited the Philippine Overseas Labor Office for the repatriation of 4,178 OFWs from the war-torn country. "A majority of the OFWs in Syria have already been evacuated safely back to the Philippines, thanks to the mandatory repatriation program of the government through the Philippine Embassy in Damascus in coordination with the POLO," said Baldoz. The latest POLO update as of 20 May 2013 showed that 864 of the 4,178 OFWs have been repatriated in the first five months of this year, Baldoz said, adding to the 2,756 migrants who responded to the call and returned to the Philippines in 2012 and the 548 OFWs who were repatriated when the crisis started in 2011. In view of the worsening Syrian civil war, Baldoz reiterated her warning to OFWs that a total deployment ban remains in effect on Syria. ―The highest Crisis Alert Level imposed by the Philippine government since December 2011 continues to be maintained,‖ she said. Based on the POLO-Syria‘s report, the greater majority of the repatriated OFWs are undocumented migrants, while only 310 were documented overseas Filipino workers. POLO-Syria added that to-date, there are only 129 migrants left at the Philippine Embassy shelter and refuge facility who are being assisted for repatriation and reintegration to the Philippines under the joint DOLE-DFA One Country Approach. Baldoz explained that repatriated workers from Syria will be assisted by the DOLE in reintegrating themselves productively into the economic mainstream through the reemployment, skills upgrading, livelihood and other appropriate programs of the National Reintegration Center for OFWs.

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OPAPP exec challenges educators to take part in promoting peace through cultural diversity

Source: http://www.opapp.gov.ph

Quezon City – Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) Assistant Secretary Jennifer Oreta on Wednesday challenged the education sector to take part in advancing the peace process by ―changing mindsets, breaking symbolic and imagined barriers that divide, and embracing inclusivity and diversity.‖

―We need you to accompany us in this process,‖ Oreta told educators during a conference organized by the Asia- Pacific Network for International Education and Values Education (APNIEVE) held in Miriam College here.

In her address, Oreta urged participants to re-evaluate the ―data‖ being taught and the ―language‖ being used as these can either encourage or prevent discrimination and exclusivity.

―How much of the language and its symbolic meaning create the othering?‖ she asked. ―Mostly sa (on) terrorists, do we say ‗Christian terrorist‘? But if it is a Muslim, you will see there the label ‗Muslim terrorist.‘ So it is as if when you are a Muslim, laging kakabit (you are always tagged as one). Again, perhaps that is not the intention of the message; the subliminal message that it creates is also problematic.‖

Touching on the role of schools in embracing multi-culturalism, she asked the audience, ―How many of our schools actually have prayer rooms for other religions? How much of our food is halal? This is what we realize when we had some of our Muslim friends come over, wala silang makain sa (they can‘t eat anything at the) cafeteria.

―So again, we talk about inclusivity. We talk about non-discrimination,‖ Oreta said. ―Sometimes we look at them as trivial but these are actually big issues.‖

Summing up her address, Oreta told the participants, ―We talk about education as the ideological backbone of our political system. If that is the case, then we really have to do something with our education.‖

―At the same time that we want to promote a culture of peace, maybe we need to sharpen the discussions and discourse some more. How much of the core message of our curriculum actually promotes inclusivity and non- discrimination?‖ she added.

The audience in the APNIEVE conference was composed of educators from different regions in the country. APNIEVE is an organization that aims to promote peace, human rights, democracy, and sustainable development through values education.

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ASEAN integration gains more ground with Malaysian delegation visit to PH

Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph

In line with the ASEAN integration, an eight-person delegation from the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) recently visited the Philippines to discuss the interest of Malaysian manufacturers in the country‘s market and investment opportunities.

―As part of the preparations for the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), we express interest in strengthening strategic alliances with Malaysian manufacturers in the region‘s value chains,‖ Department Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary Ponciano C. Manalo Jr. said at the sidelines of FMM delegates‘ courtesy call on him on May 21 2013.

By 2015, the AEC is the goal of regional economic integration. It envisions the following key characteristics: a single market and production base, a highly competitive economic region, a region of equitable economic development, and a region fully integrated into the global economy.

The FMM is the largest private sector economic organization in Malaysia representing over 2,500 manufacturing and industrial service companies in varying sizes. It was established in 1968 and officially recognized and acknowledged as the voice of manufacturing industry in Malaysia. It is also said to have consistently led Malaysian manufacturers in spearheading the country‘s growth and modernization.

―Opportunities for participation in the Philippine economy are plentiful, and we have a competitive advantage in terms of availability of skilled labor, world-class industrial parks, competitive incentives, and a large domestic market,‖ Manalo said.

The FMM delegation was led by Adrian Yeo, and composed of Continental Top Products and Engineering Sdn Bhd, Dpstar Thermo Control Electric Sdn Bhd, Mega Fortis Trading Sdn Bhd, Reka Setia Playground Sdn Bhd, Sri Kota Rubber Mfg Sdn Bhd, Tech-Lab Manufacturing Sdn Bhd, and Tuck Sun & Co. Sdn Bhd.

The Malaysian companies have interests in accounting services; commercial and special purpose vehicles; industrial instruments and equipment; security seals; playground, fitness, and theme park equipment; automotive weather-strips and industrial rubber seals; laboratory and medical equipment and safety cabinets; and integrated logistics.

The FMM delegation also met with officials and members of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FFCCCI) for networking and business- matching. Moreover, the FMM delegation had briefing sessions with the Board of Investments (BOI) and the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and visited an economic zone in Laguna.

―We will continue to provide continued assistance and support to promote the country‘s trade and investment interests through the DTI‘s post abroad or the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) in Kuala Lumpur and in cooperation with the BOI and the PEZA,‖ PTIC-Singapore Commercial Counsellor Glenn G. Peñaranda said. Peñaranda also oversees PTIC Kuala Lumpur.

According to National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) data, total Investments Promotion Agencies (IPA)– approved Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) from Malaysia in the country amounted to P11.67B from 2003 to 2012. A bulk of these investments is in the manufacturing and construction sectors. In 2012, total FDI from Malaysia amounted to P1.599 billion, a 281% increase from its 2011 value of P567.6M.

In 2012, Malaysia is the Philippines' 11th trading partner, 11th export market, and 10th major importer. According to the Bureau of Export Trade Promotion (BETP) data, Philippine merchandise exports to Malaysia amounted to USD1,018.10M and total bilateral trade is valued at USD3,511.89M in 2012.

Earlier, the FMM was among the foreign exhibitors that joined in the 9th International Food Exhibition (IFEX), which is a global showcase of Asia‘s tropical food and the Philippines‘ fresh, processed, Halal-certified, and organic food sectors.

FMM International Business Division Assistant Manager Koh Wee Leng said some FMM‘s exhibitors will go back to look for sole distributors in the Philippines. She expects that the FMM will come back in a bigger group since half of their members are into food production.

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MIMAROPA MSMEs join international food show

Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan (MIMAROPA or Region 4B) assists micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to penetrate the export market through participating in the International Food Exhibition (IFEX) Philippines as a region for the first time.

―Through the financial assistance and cooperation of the provincial governments of Mindoro Occidental, Mindoro Oriental, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan, one pavilion was availed to showcase the best food products from the region,‖ DTI 4B Officer-in-Charge Joel B. Valera said.

Ten MSMEs from MIMAROPA joined the event: six from Mindoro, two from Marinduque, one from Romblon, and one from Palawan. These MSMEs are Tuna Queen Fish Dealer (fresh and frozen tuna), NM Fish (fresh and frozen tuna), Percy Fish Buyer (fresh and frozen tuna), Merl‘s Native Delicacies (suman sa lihiya and coco jam), Harvey‘s Food Products (sweet and spicy dilis and pusit), Mikko‘s Banana Crackers (banana chips), Rejano‘s Bakery (arrowroot cookies), Marinduque Land Corp. (coconut products), Mamasyami Deli Foods (peanut butter), and Top Best Marine Products (fresh, frozen, and semi-processed squid).

IFEX Philippines is a global showcase of Asia‘s tropical food and the Philippines‘ fresh, processed, Halal-certified, and organic food sectors.

―To participate in this event, we identified potential MSMEs in the region that have the capability to generate sales and enter the export market with the help of DTI programs such as the Regional Interactive Platform for the Philippine Exporters (RIPPLES),‖ Valera said.

The RIPPLES is a partnership program of the Bureau of Export Trade Promotion (BETP) and the DTI‘s Regional Operations Development Group‘s (RODG). It enables the regional and provincial staff to handhold potential exporters through capacity-building trainings and provides direct interventions, such as product designs, market info seminars, compliance with market requirements, and export marketing activities, to potential and existing exporters enrolled under the RODG‘s Export Pathways Program (EPP).

In 2012, DTI in Region 4B and the MSME participants to the IFEX Philippines, together with other MSMEs, have undergone preparatory activities through road shows held in Manila for provinces Mindoro, Marinduque, and Romblon. A separate activity was conducted for Palawan.

This year, these MSMEs were enrolled in various training and seminar programs on marketing strategies such as trade negotiation, product development, and getting Food and Drug Administration‘s (FDA) License to Operate registration; and other technical assistances such as consultancy and packaging of documentary requirements.

Valera also noted DTI 4B shouldered half of the cost of product laboratory testing of some IFEX Philippines MSME participants. The other half was shouldered by the MSMEs.

Total actual and booked sales of the ten MSMEs during the event amounted to P191,771. This amount does not include sales that are currently under negotiation.

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SC sets Bidders’ Forum on May 27-28

Source: http://sc.judiciary.gov.ph

The Supreme Court of the Philippines (SC) will conduct a two-day Bidders‘ Forum on May 27-28, 2013 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the City Garden Suites, 1158 A. Mabini, Ermita, Manila.

Atty. Ma. Carina M. Cunanan, SC Office of Administrative Services Assistant Chief of Office and SC Procurement Planning Committee Chairperson, said the Forum aims to provide pointers on how bidders can avoid common errors that result in bid failures, as well as to increase the number of participants in the upcoming bids.

On the first day, experts from the Government Procurement Policy Board will orient participants on RA 9184 (Government Procurement Act) and its Implementing Rules and Regulation, while SC finance officers will discuss the Court‘s payment and procurement procedures and provide guides on how to speed up payment for the supplies and services that bidders provide. On the second day, participants will have interaction with the officials of the various Bids and Awards Committees of the SC. There will be an Open Forum.

Future procurement projects of the Court for bidding will also be announced.

There will be a registration fee of Php 2,000.00 per person. Those interested may email the Court at [email protected]. There will also be an on-site registration. Certificates of Participation will be issued.

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Municipal accountant found guilty of violating GSIS law

Source: http://www.ombudsman.gov.ph

The Office of the Ombudsman secured the conviction of the municipal accountant of Paglat, Maguindanao for violating the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) law.

In a 12-page Decision penned by Associate Justice Alex Quiroz and concurred in by Associate Justices Francisco Villaruz, Jr. and Samuel Martires, the anti-graft court‘s Third Division convicted Monawara S. Kiga, Paglat town‘s office- in-charge (OIC)-municipal accountant of violating Section 52 (g) of Republic Act No. 8291 (Revised Government Service Insurance System Act of 1997) and sentenced her to imprisonment of one (1) year and to pay a fine of P10,000.00, with subsidiary imprisonment in case of failure to pay the fine, and to suffer absolute perpetual disqualification from holding public office and from practicing any profession or calling licensed by the government.

The case stemmed from the letter-complaint filed by Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) President Datu Luminog M. Salendab of Paglat on August 5, 2003 charging Kiga, along with municipal mayor Datu Conte Tampungan Mangelen and OIC-municipal treasurer Salem M. Bagumbayan for failing, refusing and/ or delaying the remittance of GSIS premium contributions and collected dues from municipal employees amounting to P437,601.43.

The Decision stated that ―neither party contested that the GSIS premiums of the municipality…were not remitted on time.‖

―The municipality of Paglat…had incurred delay of more than thirty days in the payment, turnover, remittance or delivery to the GSIS of the municipal employees‘ monthly premiums and contributions,‖ the ruling stated.

The anti-graft court pointed out that Kiga had admitted her involvement in the collection of the premium contributions and dues of the municipal employees of Paglat, adding that ―the accused Kiga did not recant her admission nor argue it was made through palpable mistake.‖

The court dismissed the case against Mangelen in view of his death in 2006, while Bagumbayan remains to be at-large and an alias warrant was issued against him. The case was ordered archived without prejudice to continuation of trial upon his arrest or voluntary surrender.

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Schedule of depositors-borrowers forum for the closed Cooperative Rural Bank of Bulacan

Source: http://www.pdic.gov.ph

Branch Date Time Venue Bethel Christian Academy, Banga 1, Plaridel, Bulacan Head Office (Plaridel) 9:00 AM (near Walter Mart)

Bulacan 9:00 AM Barangay San Jose Covered Court, Bulacan, Bulacan Thursday, May 30, 2013

Bagbagin Elementary School Covered Court, (near Sta. Maria 9:00 AM Bagbagin Barangay Hall), E. Ramos St., Bagbagin, Sta. Maria, Bulacan Angat 2:00 PM Municipal Gymnasium, Angat, Bulacan

2nd Floor, Sangguniang Bayan Session Hall, Balagtas, Balagtas 9:00 AM Bulacan Friday, May 31, 2013 2nd Floor, AudioVisual Room, Meycauayan City Hall, Meycauayan 1:00 PM Meycauayan City, Bulacan

People’s Center, A. Bonifacio Avenue, Barangay Sto. Cainta Monday, June 3, 2013 9:00 AM Domingo, Cainta, Rizal

Malolos and Malolos- Malolos Sports and Convention Center, Malolos, Tuesday, June 4, 2013 9:00 AM Cabanas Bulacan

Note: The Schedules of the conduct of the Depositors-Borrowers Forum for the other Branches of Cooperative Rural Bank of Bulacan will be announced as soon as possible.

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PH wins New Frontiers Award for typhoon rebuilding efforts

Source: http://www.tourism.gov.ph

The Philippines is a recipient of the New Frontiers Award 2013 at this year‘s Arabian Travel Market (ATM), the Middle East‘s premier travel and tourism exhibition.

The New Frontiers Award started to be a main feature of the ATM six years ago, given to destinations that have surmounted great adversity to rebound its tourism industries. The award also gives tribute to the resilience of local communities to rebuild their lives, as well as bring attention to the crisis management and risk reduction practices of local authorities. It is the only citation extended during the event.

The Philippines was shortlisted, together with New York State (Hurricane Sandy) and Pakistan (2012 floods), among an original list of 10 nominees for outstanding contribution to tourism development in the face of overwhelming adversity.

―The Philippines, its government and its people, has shown remarkable fortitude and a stoic determination to get both communities and the local economy back on track following the devastation wreaked by Typhoon Bopha late last year, and their resilience in the face of such a monumental crisis is commendable,‖ Mark Walsh said.

Department of Tourism (DOT) Assistant Secretary Benito C. Bengzon, Jr., who led the Philippine delegation to ATM, received the award from Mark Walsh, Portfolio Director of Reed Travel Exhibitions. The crystal trophy came along with free exhibition space at the ATM worth US$10,000. The delegation was composed of 14 organizations representing nine tour operators, four hotel and resort companies, and one airline company.

The award is in recognition of the continuing efforts to rebuild infrastructure and the tourism economy after Typhoon Pablo (international name: Bopha) wrought havoc in December 2012. The catastrophe is deemed the world‘s deadliest last year, leaving millions homeless and infrastructure and agricultural farms vastly damaged.

―The Philippine government, under the administration of President Aquino and the Department of Tourism have worked hand-in-hand to establish tourism as a major generator of income for the people and the country. At times of adversity, such as this, the determined spirit of our countrymen, supported by assistance from the international community, shines through and, it is this same spirit that is driving our tourism industry forward,‖ Assistant Secretary Bengzon Jr., said.

The first quarter arrivals from the Middle East region recorded a 22.1% gain over the same period last year. ―We intend to attract more of the high-spending market from this region. Service providers are optimistic of the continued uptrend and are investing to take advantage of this windfall. Cebu Pacific has launched its first long-haul flight to Dubai to commence in October. Other airlines are to announce their services within the year,‖ Assistant Secretary Bengzon added.

―This award highlights the sheer resilience of our people and the resolve of all stakeholders to fast track recovery. We also are very thankful to the many countries and international agencies with their generosity to help in our rebuilding efforts. Our record-breaking performance and new highs of the industry clearly indicate that our partnerships are bearing fruit. Despite these crises, we remain undaunted and focused in showing our visitors that we are worth visiting,‖ DOT Secretary Ramon R. Jimenez, Jr. said.

―Indeed, what makes the Philippines more fun is its people. The bayanihan spirit, amplified during crisis, is a unique social phenomenon that will forever drive the Filipinos to remain steadfast and dependent on each other for strength, through good times and bad. That in the midst of great challenges, we still manage to put on a happy face,‖ Secretary Jimenez concluded.

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34 Filipinos to arrive home from Syria

Source: http://www.dfa.gov.ph

24 May 2013 – The Philippine Embassy in Damascus reported to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) that 34 Filipinos safely crossed the Syrian-Lebanese border today.

The group, which is now under the care of the Philippine Embassy in Beirut, will take a flight for Manila via Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).

They will arrive at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal I tomorrow, May 25 at 03:55 p.m. via Emirates Airlines flight EK 332.

Upon the group‘s arrival, the total number of repatriates will reach 4,212.

The DFA continues to urge all Filipinos who are still in Syria to seek immediate repatriation as the violence in the country continue to worsen. For assistance they may call the Embassy at 963-11-6132626, +963-96-8955057, +963- 93-4957926, +963-99-2264145, +963-96-8953340, or +963-95-8903893.

The families of Filipinos in Syria may also provide the DFA with up-to-date information regarding their next-of-kin‘s present location and contact details in Syria. Those who wish to do so may call the Office of the Undersecretary for Migrant Workers‘ Affairs (OUMWA) at (02) 834-3240 or 834-4583 or the DFA‘s 24-hour Action Center at (02) 834- 3333. END

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Business sentiment soars to an all-time high in Q2 2013 Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph

Business confidence registers a record high

Businesses were bullish in their outlook on the economy in Q2 2013, with the overall confidence index (CI) rising to 54.9 percent. This is the highest reading since the start of the nationwide survey in Q4 2006. The confidence index is computed as the percentage of firms that answered in the affirmative less the percentage of firms that answered in the negative with respect to their views on a given indicator.

Respondents attributed the record-high outlook to expectations of: (a) expansion of businesses, new product lines (for manufacturing and trade), and additional projects (particularly in construction and real estate), (b) brisker business due to election-related spending, and (c) seasonal uptick in demand during the summer and harvest/fishing seasons. They were also optimistic that their business operations would benefit from the country‘s strong macroeconomic fundamentals and investment grade credit rating from three ratings agencies, namely, Fitch Ratings, Standard and Poor‘s and Japan Credit Rating Agency.

The sentiment of businesses in the Philippines mirrored the bright business prospects in the US, UK, Singapore, Hong Kong SAR and South Korea, but was in contrast to the weaker outlook of those in Canada, Germany, New Zealand and India.

For the quarter ahead (Q3 2013), the business outlook continued to be favorable. However, the next quarter CI was lower at 46.2 percent compared to that of a quarter ago. According to respondents, their less optimistic views were due to seasonal factors, such as: (a) slowdown in demand (from a high base during election period) for those in the manufacturing and trade sectors, (b) interruption of regular business activities during the rainy season, (c) lower output (which leads to lower trade activities) during the planting season, and (d) expected slow month for businesses in August.

Outlook for both NCR and AONCR is upbeat

Tracking the national trend, the sentiment of businesses in both the National Capital Region (NCR) and Areas Outside the NCR (AONCR) was quite upbeat in Q2 2013 but turned less sanguine for the next quarter. For both the current and next quarters, NCR respondents remained more bullish in their outlook on the economy than those from AONCR. This indicated firms‘ expectations that economic conditions would be more favorable in NCR than in AONCR.

Importers are most optimistic

Businesses involved in international commodity trading had more favorable views in Q2 2013. Importers were the most optimistic. The outlook of dual-activity firms also improved appreciably during the quarter. However, the outlook of importing and dual-activity firms was less favorable although remaining positive in Q3 2013 due to expectations of lower consumer demand during the rainy and non-harvest seasons.

Exporters‘ outlook was more buoyant in both Q2 and Q3 2013, with expectations of more projects and orders as a result of the continuing recovery in the US economy and stronger growth prospects in emerging market and developing economies.

Optimism is observed across employment size

Business sentiment was more upbeat across employment size in Q2 2013. Large-sized firms‘ business confidence was the most buoyant, with the CI reaching an all-time high. Medium- and small-sized firms posted near record-high confidence in the current quarter. However, the outlook of all firms was less positive for Q3 2013.

Business confidence is high across sectors

Across sectors, the outlook of businesses was more bullish in Q2 2013. The confidence of firms in the construction and wholesale and retail trade sectors were at their highest levels. Likewise, greater optimism was observed among firms in industry and services. For the next quarter (Q3 2013), business confidence was less upbeat but remained positive across sectors, with the exception of firms in the construction sector which continued to have a more buoyant outlook.

Construction firms expected that the expansion of construction services would be sustained as more favorable business conditions would encourage the influx of foreign investments, particularly in office and housing construction and the expansion of factories. Construction firms also expected more public infrastructure projects after the May elections.

The sanguine outlook of the wholesale and retail trade and industry sectors stemmed from respondents‘ expectations of a surge in consumer demand and business activity due to election-related spending, the improvement/launch of new product lines and rise in investments.

The services sector recorded the most bullish outlook across sectors for Q2 and Q3 2013. Among its sub-sectors, financial services remained the most optimistic, with the CI registering a six-year high of 89.4 percent in Q2 2013. Likewise, the outlook of other sub-sectors rose, except for transportation which remained almost steady.

Businesses‘ outlook about their own operations is more upbeat

With respect to their own operations in Q2 2013, the outlook of businesses across sectors was more upbeat, except for wholesale and retail trade which turned less optimistic. The index for the trade sector was lower on account of expectations of higher volume of inventory in the current quarter and less favorable business conditions for the next quarter.

Firms expect easier access to credit and better financial conditions

The financial conditions index reverted to positive territory at 1.3 percent in Q2 2013 from -1.5 percent in the previous quarter. Firms were also of the view that their liquidity requirements could be met through available credit as more respondents continued to report easier access to credit relative to those that indicated the opposite a quarter ago. The credit access index rose to its highest level ever in Q2 2013.

Employment outlook improves

The employment outlook index for the next quarter increased to 24.1 percent from 23 percent last quarter. By sector, firms in the services sector were the most optimistic in their employment outlook in Q3 2013. The employment outlook of firms in the industry and construction sector was likewise upbeat, while that of the wholesale and retail trade declined slightly compared to that of the previous quarter.

Number of firms with expansion plans remains steady while average capacity utilization increases

In line with the favorable business sentiment for the next quarter, firms in the industry sector continued to have a favorable outlook on the economy. The percentage of businesses with expansion plans for the next quarter remained broadly steady at 28.7 percent. Meanwhile, the average capacity utilization for the current quarter slightly increased to 74 percent compared to 73 percent registered last quarter.

Competition and weak demand remain to be the major challenges to business

The top business constraints identified by respondents in Q2 2013 continued to be domestic competition (cited by about three-fifths of the total number of respondents) and insufficient demand (leading to low sales volume).

A stronger peso, higher inflation and lower interest rates are expected

Expectations on the direction of key economic indicators showed that strong macroeconomic fundamentals are expected to be sustained in the current and next quarters. Even as respondents who expected inflation to go up continued to outnumber those that held the opposite view, businesses anticipated that inflation would settle at the lower end of the inflation target—at 3.3 percent for both the current and next quarters. This is consistent with inflation expectations based on forecast surveys of private sector economists by the BSP and by Asia Pacific (AP) Consensus, indicating that inflation has remained well-anchored and within target for 2013-2014. Stronger inflationary pressures, however, could emanate from pending petitions for utility rate adjustments and the likelihood of higher electricity rates in Mindanao as a result of the current power supply shortfall. The possibility of a continued strong surge in liquidity arising from strong foreign exchange inflows on the back of favorable domestic growth prospects also constitutes an upside risk to inflation.

More respondents expected the peso to appreciate in Q2 and Q3 2013, although the number that said so declined compared to the previous quarter. Expectations of the peso‘s sustained appreciation could be due to the anticipated strong inflows of overseas Filipinos‘ remittances, business process outsourcing (BPO) services receipts, and foreign investments as well as the recovery of export demand. Meanwhile, more respondents expected interest rates to decline in the current and next quarters, as the impact of the cumulative 100-basis point reduction in policy rates as well as SDA rate cuts in 2012 continue to work its way into the economy.

Survey response rate is higher at 83 percent

The Q2 2013 BES was conducted during the period 1 April–10 May 2013. There were 1,554 firms surveyed nationwide. Respondents were drawn from the Securities and Exchange Commission‘s Top 7,000 Corporations in 2010, as follows: 607 companies in NCR and 947 firms in AONCR, covering all 17 regions nationwide. The survey response rate for this quarter was higher at 83 percent (from 80.2 percent in the previous quarter). The response rate was higher for both NCR at 81.7 percent (from 76.8 percent in the previous quarter) and AONCR at 83.8 percent (from 82.4 percent in Q1 2013).

A breakdown of responses by type of business showed that 14.9 percent were importers, 7.1 percent were exporters, and 17.6 percent were both importers and exporters. About 60.5 percent of the respondents were neither importers nor exporters, or did not specify their firm type.

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CSC issues guidelines on grant of eligibility to Sanggunian Members

Source: http://csc.gov.ph

Local government officials who complete their term of office may now be granted civil service eligibility.

The Civil Service Commission (CSC) has issued the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act No. 10156, otherwise known as ‗An Act Conferring Upon Members of the Sangguniang Bayan, Sangguniang Panlungsod, and Sangguniang Panlalawigan the Appropriate Civil Service Eligibility under Certain Circumstances, and for Other Purposes.‘ The law allows members of the Sangguniang Bayan, Sangguniang Panlungsod, and Sangguniang Panlalawigan a certain level of civil service eligibility.

The Sanggunian Member Eligibility (SME) may be granted to Sanggunian Members if they meet the required number of years of service and educational attainment as defined under RA 10156.

The Sanggunian First Level Eligibility is equivalent to a Career Service Sub-Professional Eligibility and is granted to Sanggunian Members who have served for an aggregate period of six years and have completed at least 72 academic units leading to a baccalaureate/bachelor‘s degree.

Meanwhile, the Sanggunian Second Level Eligibility corresponds to a Career Service Professional Eligibility and may be granted to Sanggunian Members who have served for an aggregate period of nine years and completed a baccalaureate/bachelor‘s degree.

Members of the Sangguniang Bayan, Panlungsod, and Panlalawigan who have been elected after the effectivity of the Local Government Code of 1991 (R.A. 7160) or on May 11, 1992 onwards and have met the requirements are entitled to the grant of Sanggunian Member Eligibility.

Under the guidelines, the prescriptive period for Sanggunian Members who have completed six or nine years of service is within five years from the effectivity of the IRR or in May of 2013. For those elected in the May 2013 elections, prescriptive period shall be within two years upon meeting required number of years of service.

The computation of the aggregate years of service of a Sanggunian Member shall be based on the actual number of years of service per official records of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and its regional offices.

Also, the number of years of service of a Sanggunian Member in any and in one or more positions may be accumulated for the purpose of computing and completing the required aggregate number of years of service.

However, Sanggunian Members who were not elected (ex. president of provincial, city, or municipal chapter of the Liga ng mga Barangay) are not entitled to the grant of eligibility.

The CSC Regional Offices are accepting applications from qualified Sanggunian Members whose last term of office or years of service were served in the province, city, or municipality under their respective geographical jurisdiction.

For additional information regarding RA 10156, visit the CSC website www.csc.gov.ph. For further inquiries, the public may call (02) 931-8092, (02) 931-7939, and (02) 931-7935.

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CSC reiterates prohibition of liquor consumption in government offices

Source: http://csc.gov.ph

The two-day liquor ban during the midterm polls may have been lifted, but the Civil Service Commission (CSC) reiterates the prohibition on the consumption of alcoholic beverages in government offices.

Pursuant to CSC Resolution No. 1100039, the consumption of alcoholic beverages such as, but not limited to, malt, wine, and intoxicating liquor in workplace among government officials and employees during office hours is prohibited.

CSC Chairman Francisco T. Duque III stressed that the mere consumption of alcoholic beverages in the workplace during office hours, as well as reporting for work while under the influence of alcohol, shall be considered as an administrative offense, separate and distinct from the offense of Habitual Drunkenness.

However, the consumption of alcoholic beverages may be allowed during programs and rituals such as ceremonial toasts and observance/honoring of local customs and traditions. In such instances, the alcoholic beverage must be limited to malt and wine, and the consumption shall not result to intoxication which is defined as, ―the impairment of a person‘s mental faculties ensuing to the loss of control over his/her behavior and/or actions.‖

Should an untoward incident happen as a result of such consumption, both the head of office and the officials or employees concerned will be held liable.

Officials and employees who are caught in the act of consuming intoxicating liquor and other alcoholic beverages during office hours, as well as those who will be reporting for work under the influence of alcohol, shall be held liable for Misconduct which is punishable by suspension for one to six months for the first offense, and dismissal from service on the second offense.

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Thank You and God Bless !!!!