Aguinaldo Shrine

Pagsanjan Falls

Taal Lake

Antipolo Church

Lucban Pahiyas Feast

Dispatch for July 31 , 2013 Wednesday , 5 PIA Calabarzon PRs , 9 Weather Watch,
6 OFW Watch, 1 PNOY Speech , 18 Online News , 4 Photonews

Weather Watch shared Dost_pagasa's photo.

WEATHER BULLETIN No. 03 Tropical Cyclone Alert: Tropical Storm #JolinaPH Issued at 11:00 AM, 31 July 2013 (Valid for broadcast until the next bulletin to be issued at 11 PM today) JOLINA has intensified into a tropical storm. Location of eye/center: At 10:00 AM today, the center of Tropical Storm JOLINA was estimated based on all available data at 450 km West of Subic, Zambales (15.0N, 115.6E). Strength: Maximum winds of 65 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 80 kph. Movement: Forecast to move Northwest at 11 kph. Forecast Positions: Tropical Storm JOLINA is expected to be at 660 km West of Subic, Zambales tomorrow morning and already outside of the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR). Estimated rainfall amount is from 5 15 mm per hour (moderate - heavy) within the 300 km diameter of the Tropical Storm. Tropical Storm JOLINA will enhance the Southwest Monsoon which will bring moderate to occasionally heavy rains and thunderstorms over MIMAROPA and CALABARZON. Meanwhile, a Low Pressure Area (LPA) was at 210 km East of Virac, Catanduanes (14.3N, 126.4E). The public and the disaster coordinating councils concerned are advised to take appropriate actions and watch for the next bulletin to be issued at 11 PM today. For more information and queries, please call at telephone numbers 927-1335 and 927-2877 or log on to www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph.

1. 2 hours ago DZMM: Napanatili ng bagyong Jolina ang lakas nito habang patuloy na kumikilos ng pahilagang kanluran sa West Phil Sea. Namataan ang bagyo sa layong 390km sa kanluran ng Subic, Zambales taglay ang lakas ng hangin na umaabot sa 55kph malapit sa gitna. Ayon sa PAGASA, palalakasin ng bagyong Jolina ang Habagat na maghahatid ng katamtaman hanggang malakas na pag-ulan, pagkulog at pagkidlat sa area ng MIMAROPA at CALABARZON. Inaasahang lalabas ng PAR ang bagyo mamayang hapon.

2. Weather Watch
3 hours ago GMA resident meteorologist Nathaniel Cruz - Mamayang gabi inaasahang lalabas na ng PAR ang bagyong Jolina. -Huli itong namataan 390km kanluran ng kanluran ng Subic, Zambales. -Wala itong direktang epekto sa bansa pero pinalalakas nito ang Habagat na siyang halos magpapaulan sa buong bansa. Pinakaapektado nito ang MIMAROPA at CALABARZON. -Ang Metro Manila naman at nalalabing bahagi ng bansa ay makakaroon ng maulap na kalangitan na may mahina hanggang sa katamtamang pag-ulan at pagkidlat-pagkulog.

3. Weather Watch
4 hours ago PAGASA weather forecaster Joey Figuracion on DZMM -Napanatili ng Bagyong Jolina ang lakas nito at huling namataan sa layong 390 km kanluran ng Subic, Zambales. Taglay pa rin nito ang lakas ng hangin n 55 kph malapit sa gitna at kumikilos pahilagang-kanluran sa bilis na 11 kph. - Kung hindi magbabago ang kanyang bili, lalabas ito ng PAR ngayong Miyerkules ng hapon. - Walang direktang epekto si Jolina sa bansa pero hahatakin nito ang Habagat na siyang magdadala ng katamtaman hanggang sa kung minsan ay malakas na pag-ulan at pagkidlat-pagkulog na maaaring magdulot ng mga pagbaha at pagguho ng lupa ang MIMAROPA at CALABARZON. - Ang Metro Manila naman at nalalabing bahagi ng bansa ay makakaroon ng maulap na kalangitan na may mahina hanggang sa katamtamang pag-ulan at pagkidlat-pagkulog.

Weather Watch
4 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines PIA-13: PAGASA 24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST issued at 5AM, 31 July. SYNOPSIS: At 4:00 am today, Tropical Depression "JOLINA" was estimated based on all available data at 390 km west of Subic, Zambales (14.6N, 116.4E) with maximum sustained winds of 55 kph near the center. It is forecast to move northwest at 11 kph. FORECAST: MIMAROPA and CALABARZON will experience cloudy skies with moderate to occasionally heavy rainshowers and thunderstorms which may trigger flashfloods and landslides. Metro Manila and the rest of the country will have cloudy skies with light to moderate rainshowers and thunderstorms. Moderate to strong winds blowing from the southwest will prevail over Palawan and its coastal waters will be moderate to rough. Elsewhere, winds will be moderate to occasionally strong coming from the southwest to southeast with moderate to occasionally rough seas.

4. Weather Watch
15 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines GMA: Naging tropical depression na ang binabantayang LPA ng PAGASA kung saan ito ay pinangalanang bagyong Jolina. Huling namataan ang bagyo sa layong 240 km West Southwest ng Subic, Zambales na may lakas ng hangin na 55 kph malapit sa gitna at ito ay kumikilos ng pa-kanluran hilagang-kanluran sa bilis na 11 kph. Tinataya namang lalabas ng PAR ang bagyong Jolina sa Huwebes. Samantala, asahan ang pag-ulan sa malaking bahagi ng Luzon, lalo na sa MIMAROPA. Mahina hanggang sa katamtamang ulan naman ang inaasahan sa Metro Manila bukas habang ang hanging Habagat naman ang magdadala ng pag-ulan sa Visayas, lalo na sa western section nito. Inaasahan din ang katamtamang lakas ng ulan sa malaking bahagi ng Mindanao.

5. Weather Watch
15 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines ABS-CBN: Naging bagyo na kaninang hapon ang LPA na namataan sa may Batangas at tinawag itong Tropical Depression Jolina. Huli itong namataan 240km west southwest ng Subic, Zambales na may lakas ng hangin na 55kph malapit sa gitna at kumikilos pa-west northwest sa bilis na 11kph. Samantala, asahan ang maulap na panahon na may pag-ulan sa Visayas, partikular sa western section dahil malapit ito sa bagyo. Maulap na panahon din na may pag-ulan ang asahan sa Mindanao.

6. Weather Watch
17 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines PAGASA weather forecaster Gladys Saludes on DZBB: - Ang binabantayan nating LPA ay ganap nang tropical depression at ang pinangalanan natin dito ay bagyong Jolina. - Itong bagyong Jolina ay namataan sa layong 240 km West Southwest ng Subic, Zambales. Taglay po nito ang lakas ng hangin na 55 kph malapit sa gitna at ito ay inaasahang kikilos ng pa-west northwest sa bilis na 11 kph. - Bukas ng hapon ay tinatantiya natin na nasa layong 470 km West ng Subic, Zambales ang bagyong Jolina. Ang estimated na labas nito ng PAR ay tomorrow evening or Thursday morning. - Itong bagyong Jolina ay inaasahan nating pag-iibayuhin ang Southwest Monsoon na magdadala ng moderate to occasionally heavy rains sa MIMAROPA at Western Visayas. - Samantala, ang Metro Manila at ang nalalabing bahagi ng bansa ay maulap na kalangitan ang ating inaasahan na may mahina hanggang sa katamtamang mga pag-ulan at pagkidlat-pagkulog.

7. Weather Watch
17 hours ago PAGASA TROPICAL CYCLONE ALERT: The low pressure area (LPA) west of Ambulong, Batangas has developed into a Tropical Depression and was named "Jolina." LOCATION OF CENTER: As of 4:00pm, 240km west southwest of Subic, Zambales (14.1N, 117.8E) Strength: Maximum winds of 55kph near the center Movement: West Northwest at 11kph FORECAST POSITIONS/OUTLOOK: Wednesday afternoon: 470km west of Subic, Zambales Thursday afternoon: 700km west of Dagupan City or outside the area of responsibility No Public Storm Warning Signals Raised Estimated rainfall amount is from 5-15mm per hour (moderate-heavy) within the 300km diameter of the Tropical Depression. Tropical Depression "Jolina" will enhance the Southwest Monsoon which will bring moderate to occasionally heavy rains and thunderstorms over MIMAROPA and Western Visayas. The public and the disaster coordinating councils concerned are advised to take appropriate actions and watch for the next bulletin to be issued at 11:00 tonight.

8. Weather Watch
19 hours ago DZBB: Kanselado ngayong araw dahil sa sama ng panahon ang dalawang biyahe ng Cebu Pacific na 5J-529 na biyaheng Manila to Busuanga at return flight nito na 5J-530 na Busuanga to Manila.

Weather Watch

July 31 , 2013 ( Wednesday )

as of 8 :00 AM

CAVITE LAGUNA BATANGAS RIZAL QUEZON

: : : : :

Cloudy and Drizzling Partly Cloudy Partly Cloudy Fair Weather Partly Cloudy with Scattered rainshowers

PIA

Regional Watch

1. PIA OFW Watch

3 hours ago DZBB: Tinuligsa ng Migrante Middle East ang pag-alis ng ban sa OFW na makapagtrabaho sa Iraq sa gitna ng pagsiklab ng karahasan sa ilang lugar doon. Sinabi ni Migrante Middle East coordinator John Lenard Monterona na ang nasabing hakbang ay maling payo.

2. PIA OFW Watch

17 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines GMA: Ibinebenta na ng mga Pilipino sa isang parke sa Paris, France tuwing weekend ang ilang Pinoy street food tulad ng kwek-kwek, kikiam, balut at halo-halo.

3. PIA OFW Watch

17 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines GMA: Arestado sa Hong Kong ang dalawang magkapatid na turistang Pinay matapos silang mahulihan ng mahigit 14 kg ng shabu.

4. PIA OFW Watch

19 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines DFA Asec. Raul Hernandez on ANC: Re: Sex-for-flight scheme - I believe that DoLE has already sent to the President the report of its fact-finding team.

5. PIA OFW Watch

19 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines DFA Asec. Raul Hernandez on ANC: Re: 2 Pinay drug mules arrested in Hong Kong - We already contacted with Hong Kong Customs and Exile Department. The two Filipino nationals were arrested last July 28. - We have our consul general there.

5. PIA OFW Watch

20 hours ago Akbayan Rep. Ibarra Gutierrez III on ANC: Re: Akbayan urges swift gov't action on sex-for-flight scheme - The witnesses who came forward, we endorsed them to DSWD. - I heard today that they are ready to file the criminal complaint, either to the DoJ or the Office of the Ombudsman.

6. PIA OFW Watch

21 hours ago DZMM: Sinabi ni DFA Asec. Raul Hernandez na mayroong panibagong dalawang Pinay na naaresto sa Hong Kong Airport dahil sa pagpupuslit ng nasa 14.5 kilo na shabu na nagkakahalaga ng P16M noong July 28. Tiniyak naman ni Hernandez na bibigyan ng kaukulang ayuda ang dalawang Pinay. Binanggit din nito na tuluy-tuloy ang fact-finding investigation ng DFA

sa sinasabing sex for fly scheme. Samantala, sa issue naman ng pagkakahulog ng bus sa Italy noong nakaraang araw, sinabi ni Hernandez na walang Pinoy na nadamay sa naturang aksidente. Mayroon din daw 20 tripulanteng Pilipino na kasalukuyang stranded sa karagatan ng Malta at humihingi pa ang DFA ng karagdagang balita kaugnay nito.

A. QUEZON
1. Tagalog news: Sakit na TB, layuning masugpo ng pamahalaang panlalawigan ng Quezon
By Carlo P. Gonzaga Tuesday 30th of July 2013 LUNGSOD NG LUCENA, Quezon, Hulyo 30 (PIA) --Layunin ng pamahalaang panlalawigan ng Quezon sa pamamagitan ng provincial chest clinic (PCC) na tuluyan ng masugpo ang sakit na tuberculosis (TB) sa buong lalawigan. Dahil dito, patuloy ang pagkilos ng PCC sa pamumuno ni Dr. Erlinda Plotria sa pagbibigay lunas sa nabanggit na sakit sa tulong ng dalawang non-government organizations (NGOs), ang Innovations and Mulit-sectoral Parternships to Achieve Control of TB (IMPACT) na suportado ng TB control program ng USAID at ang Philcat. Sa tulong ng dalawang NGOs, ang IMPACT at Philcat, mas lalong natututukan ang TB program sa buong lalawigan ng Quezon, sabi ni Dr. Plotria. Ayon kay Plotria, tuturuan nila ang lahat na barangay health workers (BHWs) sa bawat rural health unit sa buong lalawgian kung paano ang tamang paghawak sa mga pasyenteng lumalapit sa kanila upang magpa-konsulta at magpagamot. Kaugnay nito, nanawagan si Dr. Plotria sa mga mamamayan na huwag mahiya na magpakonsulta at magpagamot kung magkakaroon ng naturang sakit dahil sa kasalukuyan ay mayroon nang nakalaang gamot sa mga ito. Sinabi ni provincial administrator Romulo Edano, na sa kabila ng nakapakatagal na at patuloy na nananatiling problema ang sakit na TB, nagsusumikap ang pamahalaang panlalawigan sa pamumuno ni Gov. Suarez na tuluyang masolusyunan ang naturang problema. Idinagdag pa ni Edano na sa nakalipas na taon ay nagiging maganda ang performance ng lalawigan ng Quezon sa paglaban sa TB, kung saan pumangalawa lamang tayo sa lalawigan ng Rizal. Target ng Quezon na manguna sa buong bansa sa paglaban sa TB na kayang-kayang makamit ng lalawigan sa patuloy na pagbibigay ng suporta sa programa ni Gov. David Jayjay C. Suarez, pagtatapos ni Edano. (CPG, PIA4A at ulat mula sa Quezon PIO)

2. Tagalog news: 90 mga guro at mag-aaral ng QNHS, nagsanay sa kahandaan sa kalamidad

By Carlo P. Gonzaga Tuesday 30th of July 2013 LUNGSOD NG LUCENA, Quezon, Hulyo 30 (PIA) --Limamput isang mga guro at 39 na mag-aaral ng Quezon national high school (QNHS) ang sumailalim sa pagsasanay sa kahandaan sa kalamidad kamakailan. Isinagawa ng provincial disaster risk reduction management council (PDRRMC), tinalakay sa pagsasanay ang pagtatag ng command center na siyang magiging sentro ng lahat ng operasyon sa panahon ng kalamidad at pagbubuo ng rescue operations team na siya namang tutugon sa mga nangangailangan ng first aid at iba pang tulong. Sinabi ni Dr. Henry Buzar na dapat ang lahat ay maging handa sa anumang banta ng kalamidad upang maiwasan ang pagbuwis ng buhay. Patuloy na sinisikap ng aming tanggapan na mabigyan ng sapat na kaalaman ang mamamayan na may kaugnayan sa tamang paghahanda sa kalamidad, ayon kay Dr. Buzar. Sinabi ni Concepcion Alcantara, department head ng music art physical education health (MAPEH) ng QNHS na ang mga guro na nagsanay ang siyang itatalagang emergency response team ng eskuwelahan sakaling magkaroon ng kalamidad. Ituturo din namin sa iba pang mga guro at mag-aaral ang natutunan namin sa pagsasanay upang mas marami ang nakaka-alam sa mga dapat gawin kapag may kalamidad, sabi pa ni Alcantara. Ilang mag-aaral na sumailalim sa pagsasanay ang nagsabing malaking tulong ang dagdag kaalaman na natutunan nila sa pagsasanay na maaari nilang maibahagi sa kanilang mga kapitbahay tulad ng first aide at rescue operations. Ang pagsasanay ay bahagi ng mga ibat ibang aktibidad tulad ng earthquake at fire drill na isinasagawa ng PDRRMC upang maihanda ang mga mamamayan ng Quezon sa panahon ng kalamidad. Ito rin ay bilang tampok na gawain sa pag-obserba ng National Disaster Consciousness Month ngayong Hulyo na may temang Ligtas na bayan, Maunlad na pamayanan. (Quezon PIO/PIA4A)

B. CAVITE

C. LAGUNA

1. Tagalog news: NSO, nagdiriwang ng ika-73 taong anibersaryo

By Carlo P. Gonzaga Tuesday 30th of July 2013

LUNGSOD NG SAN PABLO, Laguna, Hulyo 30 (PIA) -- Ipinagdiriwang ng National Statistics Office (NSO) ang ika-73 ng anibersaryo ng pagkakatatag nito sa buwan ng Agosto na may temang Handog ng NSO: 73 Taong Pusong Serbisyo sa Mundo. Itinatag ang NSO noong ika-19 ng Agosto 1940 at sa loob ng 73 taon, taos pusong serbisyo pa rin ang mga tauhan ng NSO sa publiko sa pangangalap at pag-uulat ng tunay at napapanahong estadistika di lamang para sa pamahalaan pati na rin sa mga pribadong sektor at mag-aaral na nangangailangan ng datos upang magamit sa pagpapaplano ng isang proyekto o negosyo sa ating bansa. Taos pusong serbisyo pa rin ang mga tauhan ng NSO sa mga may kahilingan sa kanilang dokumentong pangsibil tulad ng kapanganakan, kasal at kamatayan saan mang lugar sa mundo naninirahan ang isang Filipino. Ang pangyayari ng panganganak, pagpapakasal at pagkamatay ng Filipino sa ibang bansa ay inirerehistro sa Consul General ng Philippine Embassy kung saan sila naninirahan at ito naman ay dadalahin sa tangapan ng NSO sa Pilipinas. Dati ang tala sa dokumentong sibil ng isang tao ay di maaaring baguhin kung hindi daraan sa korte, subalit sa pamamagitan ng mga pagbabago sa batas tulad ng Republic Act 9048, Republic Act 9255 at Republic Act 10172, ilan sa mga talang may pagkakamali ay maaari nang baguhin na hindi na kailangang ihain pa sa korte. Ang kahilingan ay maari nang ilapit sa pinakamalapit na Local City Registry Office kung saan siya naninirahan. Kung nasa ibang bansa naman, maaari din itong ilapit sa Consul General ng may pinakamalapit na Philippine Embassy. Sa pamamagitan ng mga electronic devices ang kahilingan sa mga datos o dokumentong pangsibil ay makakarating sa kanila na di na kailangan pang magsadya sa NSO. Maaaring humiling ang publiko ng mga dokumentong pangsibil sa pinakamalapit na BREQS Outlets tulad ng LGUs at SM branches. Ito ay dadalhin ng kanilang mga tauhan sa pinakamalapit na NSO Serbilis Outlet upang iproseso sa pamamagitan ng electronic system. Maaari ding humiling ang publiko sa pamamagitan ng pagtawag sa NSO Helpline Plus na may numero 02-737-1111 o kaya ay sa pamamagitan ng pag log-on sa www.census.gov.ph. Ang mga prosesong ito ay naghatid ng kaluwagan sa mga Pilipino saan mang lugar sa mundo sila naninirahan sa kasalukuyan. Kabilang ang sangay ng NSO-Laguna sa pagbibigay ng taos pusong serbiyso sa publiko. Sa kabila ng kaabalahan ng mga gawain sa tanggapan nito, pinangungunahan pa rin ni Provincial Statistics Officer Magdalena T. Serquea ang magdaos nang apat-na-beses sa isang taon na Tree Planting Activity bilang pangangalaga sa kalikasan. Samantala, aos puso ang pasasalamat ni PSO Serquea sa media, Provincial/Municipal/City Planning and Development Office, City/Municipal Registrars, Department of Interior and Local Government, mga lokal at nasyonal na pamahalaan at mga pamunuan ng sektor ng negosyo sa kanilang pagsuporta sa NSO lalo na sa mga isinagawang Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture, 2012 Census of Agriculture and Fisheries at 2012 Census of Philippine Business and Industry. (NSO-Laguna)

2. DTI warns the public against unaccredited cargo forwarders

Tuesday 30th of July 2013

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna, July 30 (PIA) --The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) warns the public particularly the overseas workers that ships in cargoes from abroad to transact only with freight forwarders accredited with the Philippine Shippers Bureau (PSB) to avoid problems with their shipments. The alert came up, as last year, PSB received 153 complaints regarding the non-delivery of balikbayan boxes shipped from various origins worldwide. DTI-PSB records show that from 2008 up to the present, there were 550 complaints that have been filed/received, processed, acted upon, monitored, and referred to. In 2011, there were 208 complaints filed mostly on undelivered balikbayan boxes. Last year, PSB received 150 complaints.

DTI-PSB records show that most incidents of undelivered balikbayan boxes involved freight forwarding companies without PSB accreditation. Of the complaints, 60 have either already been delivered or picked up by the consignees through the assistance of DTI-PSB; eight cases were withdrawn by the complainants, 41 were referred to regular courts, four were elevated for arbitration and 41 still for DTI-PSBs disposition because additional information from the complainants are needed. DTI Undersecretary for Consumer Welfare and Business Regulation Group (CWBRG) Zenaida CuisonMaglaya emphasized that accredited freight forwarders follow government standards that guarantee their capability to provide reliable service to their customers. Maglaya added that aside from observing ethics in doing business, accredited forwarders subject shipments under insurance coverage. According to Atty. Victorio Mario A. Dimagiba, PSB Director-in-Charge, non-delivery of balikbayan boxes usually occurs when foreign consolidators/ principal sea freight forwarders do not remit a portion of their collected charges to their accredited Philippine agents/ local sea freight forwarders to prompt the release and delivery of balikbayan boxes. Dimaguiba said that DTI-PSB is mandated by law to promote and protect the interest of the shipping public and helps to professionalize the freight forwarding industry by granting accreditation to weed out those companies that are not ready and nor qualified to engage in the cargo handling business. He added that DTI-PSB does not grant accreditation to freight forwarders who have pending or unresolved complaints. The erring companies are listed in the PSB Advisory/Alert which was updated July 19, 2013. Freight forwarding without the PSB accreditation and/or subject of complaints pertaining to balikbayan boxes are contained in the PSB ADVISORY/ALERT updated as of July 19, 2013. Said companies were either issued formal charges; issued Decisions by DTI's Office of Legal Affairs; or issued Show Cause Orders by the DTI-PSB Consumer Arbitration Officers the DTI Office of Legal Affairs (DTI-OLA). Dimagiba explained that, when necessary, foreign principals did not remit funds to accredited Philippine agent/local freight forwarders and as consequence, shipment or the balikbayan boxes with the Bureau of Customs will not be released and will not be delivered to consignees/ recipients. Philippine counterparts/agents of principals/cargo consolidators are under investigation pertaining to undelivered balikbayan boxes and other violations under the PSB Administrative Order No. 6, series of 2005. For more information on the lists of accredited freight forwarding companies and those companies with complaints against them, visit www.dti.gov.ph or call DTI-PSB at +632.751.3304. DTI urges the public to file a complaint regarding non-delivery, loss or pilferage of balikbayan boxes through the DTI-PSB email dti_psb@yahoo.com.ph or through telephone at the DTI Direct (02) 751.3330. (Charlie S. Dajao, DTI Calabarzon)

D. BATANGAS

E. RIZAL
1. Rizal Information Officers League elects new members

Tuesday 30th of July 2013

ANTIPOLO CITY, Rizal, July 30 (PIA) --The Rizal Information Officers League (RIOL) has recently elected a new set of officers in line with the 2013 midterm elections and possible re-organization and re-assignment of several information officers. The organization which consists of designated municipal and city information officers held a meeting at the Rizal Provincial Capitol Multi Purpose Hall in order to delegate a new set of officers to serve the group for the next three years. Elections were officiated by the Rizal Provincial Government through the Public Information Office. Rodriguez Municipal Information Officer and previous RIOL President Girlie Singson was re-elected for the same post. Antipolo City IO Dominador Coronado was elected Vice President, Jalajala IO Liberty Garcia for Secretary, Pililia IO Ofelia Sta Maria as Treasurer, Baras IO Lily Buenaventura as Auditor and Morong IO Julian Joseph De Ungria as Business Manager. Re-elected RIOL President Singson stated that RIOL is counting on the cooperation of its members, new and old, in supporting the groups future projects. (GG-PIA4A)

30 JULY 2013.

1. 2. 3. 4.

President Aquino leads opening of exhibit featuring former President Cory Aquinos paintings DSWD allots P12.7-million of emergency relief resources for flood victims in Mindanao DOLE wrapping up investigation of 'sex-for-flight' scheme, says Palace Aquino orders law enforcement agencies to coordinate with Comelec in ensuring peaceful, credible Syncronized Barangay and Sanguniang Kabataan Elections

5. Govt assures public of enough rice supply

1. President Aquino leads opening of exhibit featuring former President Cory Aquinos paintings

President Benigno S. Aquino III led the opening of an exhibit featuring his mother, former President Corazon Cojuangco Aquinos paintings at the Lobby Lounge and Roma Salon of the Manila Hotel on Monday. The exhibit, aptly titled, A Gift of Self, showcases around 90 paintings of the former President and pieces from the personal collection of her daughters Ballsy Cruz and Viel Dee, Senate President Franklin Drilon, House Speaker Sonny Belmonte, Metrobank founder George Ty and his wife Mary, and PLDT chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan. The President, who arrived at 6 p.m. formally opened the exhibit by unveiling a painting of his mother by Emi Mercado and signing a guest list canvass prepositioned near the painting. In his speech, the President said the paintings were a small part of the legacy she left behind. She understood how freedom was such a fundamental requirement for human life and so she fought for it and taught others to appreciate and care for it. She had every hope that the Philippines could rise above the dark days of Martial Law and so she did all she could to uplift the country and to inspire others to do the same, the President said. Moms paintings are a very small part of the legacy she left behind. It is a legacy we feel every day as we live and work in a society now free from the iron fists of the dictator and from a military and police force that existed to serve one man alone, he added. Joining the President were Cabinet Secretary Rene Almendras, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation Chairman Cristino Naguiat, Jr, Philippine Economic Zone Authority Director General Lilia De Lima and Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa. The exhibit "A Gift of Self will run until August 2. PND (rck) TOP 2. DSWD allots P12.7-million of emergency relief resources for flood victims in Mindanao

The Department of Social Welfare and Development has set aside P12.7-million worth of emergency relief resources for the victims of floodings that have hit Mindanao due to heavy rains, Malacanang said on Tuesday. In a press briefing in Malacanang, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said the DSWD has also been in close coordination with local counterparts in Mindanao to augment technical assistance and resource augmentation (TARA) needed by the victims. Strong rains dumped over the provinces of Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat and Cotabato City over the weekend and have caused floods and displaced more than 50,000 residents from their homes. The information that we have is that all DSWD teams are already in close coordination with their loc al counterparts for any request for technical assistance and resource augmentation or what we call the TARA, Valte said. The DSWD has already prepositioned P12.70-million worth of emergency relief resources consisting of standby funds, of family food packs, and other food items and other non-food items, she added. Valte pointed out that the national government has moved to augment DSWD and LGU (local government unit) actions by providing additional food packs for residents in the affected areas. The national government has provided an augmentation of 6,000 food packs for DSWD-ARMM (Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao) and that DSWD Secretary Dinky Soliman has approved the release of additional 30,000 food packs for Maguindanao and for Sarangani, Valte said. PND (rck) TOP 3. DOLE wrapping up investigation of 'sex-for-flight' scheme, says Palace

Malacanang assured that justice will be served and reforms will be carried in handling distressed overseas Filipinos workers allegedly being victimized by Filipino personnel abroad particularly in the Middle East. Some groups have voiced their concerns on the ongoing investigation of the Department and Labor and Employment and the Department of Foreign Affairs in connection with the reported sex-for-flight scheme in the Middle East.

These groups have been asking about the government assessment and investigation and want to know if the administration was able to prosecute officials involved. The secretary of labor have provided a timetable kung gaano katagal niyang dapat aksyunan ang bagay na ito. Gusto lang siguraduhin ng DOLE na masinop ang kanilang mga magiging findings, Deputy Presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a press briefing Tuesday in Malacanang. Meron silang period of time to evaluate the facts and the evidence, including the testimonies that they were able to gather on their trip, at iaakyat iyan sa disciplining authority which, in this case, is the secretary of labor. The DOLE has been following a particular timetable and will come up with a complete investigation result soon, according to Valte. Valte said Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz sent a fact-finding team to the Middle East to conduct the inquiry. The group already returned to the Philippines two weeks ago, she said. The government is already doing an assessment to prevent future abuses relative to calls by migrant organizations asking for more protection for Filipinos working abroad. A month ago, Secretary Baldoz briefed the President on the ongoing investigation and the possible measures that the government could implement to prevent similar situations from occurring, the Palace official said. Women welfare workers will now be prioritized for postings. Sila ang magiging house mothers ng mga welfare centers natin abroad. Pina-prioritize na natin ang deployment ng mga babaeng welfare workers natin, Valte said. PND (as) TOP 4. Aquino orders law enforcement agencies to coordinate with Comelec in ensuring peaceful, credible Syncronized Barangay and Sanguniang Kabataan Elections

President Benigno S. Aquino III has directed the law enforcement agencies and other concerned agencies to coordinate and cooperate with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in ensuring free, orderly, honest, peaceful, and credible Synchronized Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections on October 28. The directive was issued by virtue of Memorandum Order No. 56 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on July 23. The Comelec, through its Resolution No. 9731 (s. 2013), resolved to request the concurrence of the President in the deputation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and other law enforcement agencies, in connection with Synchronized Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections. "Pursuant to Section 2 (4), Article IX-C of the Constitution, the Comelec is empowered to deputize, with the concurrence of the President, law enforcement agencies and instrumentalities of the Government, including the Armed Forces of the Philippines, for the exclusive purpose of ensuring free, orderly, honest, peaceful, and credible elections," the memorandum read. The Chief Executive concurred with Comelec Resolution No. 9731, deputizing AFP, PNP and other law enforcement agencies, to assist the Comelec in ensuring the free, orderly, honest, peaceful, and credible conduct of October elections. This Memorandum Order shall take effect immediately. PND (js) TOP 5. Govt assures public of enough rice supply

Malacanang said there is enough government intervention to ensure sufficient supply of rice during the lean season. In a press briefing on Tuesday, Deputy Presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said there is enough buffer stock in government warehouses as the country enters the lean months. The National Food Authority (NFA) said rice prices will increase until September because of the lean season. The NFA also released in the market P32 per kilo high-quality, commercial well-milled rice for public consumption, Valte said. Asked by reporters about the possibility of some rice traders seizing the opportunity to overprice, she said the NFA is already acting on those concerns. Earlier this month, Valte said the government was conduct strict monitoring of rice prices to prevent traders from unreasonably jacking up the price of the major staple. She said however that the increase in rice prices would be

temporary. Valte said concerned government agencies were doing the monitoring adding that the price increase was seasonal and would be going back to original prices once the harvest season starts. The increase was part of a natural cycle of rice supply, Valte noted. Rice farmers have just started to plant palay and the NFA was just starting its assessment of its buffer stock in preparation for the lean season. PND (as) TOP

30 HULYO 2013 1. Nanguna ang Pangulong Aquino sa pagbubukas ng exhibit na nagtatampok sa paintings ng dating Pangulong Cory Aquino 2. P12.7 milyong tulong pangkagipitan sa mga biktima ng baha sa Mindanao, inilabas ng DSWD 3. Tiniyak ng Malacanang ang katarungan at reporma sa mga OFWs na biktima umano ng 'sex-for-flight' scheme 4. Inatasan ni Aquino ang mga alagad ng batas na makipag-ugnayan sa Comelec para matiyak ang mapayapa at matapat na halalan ng Baranggay at ng SK 5. Tiniyak ng gobyerno na may sapat na bigas ang bansa 1. Nanguna ang Pangulong Aquino sa pagbubukas ng exhibit na nagtatampok sa paintings ng dating Pangulong Cory Aquino

Pinangunahan ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III ang pagbubukas ng exhibit na nagtatampok sa mga paintings ng kanyang ina, dating Pangulong Corazon C. Aquino sa Lobby Lounge and Roma Salon ng Manila Hotel Lunes. Pinamagatang A Gift of Self, ang exhibit ay katipunan ng mga guhit o paintings ng dating Pangulo na ang iba ay galing sa personal na koleksiyon ng mga anak niyang sina Ballsy Cruz at Viel Dee, Pangulo ng Senado Franklin Drilon, Speaker Sonny Belmonte, Tagapagtatag ng Metrobank George Ty at maybahay nitong si Mary, at Tagapangulo ng PLDT Manuel V. Pangilinan. Dakong ika-6:00 ng gabi nang dumating ang Pangulo at inalisan ng tabing ang larawan ng ina niya na guhit ni Emi Mercado at nilagdaan ang guest list canvass sa tabi ng larawan. Sinabi ng Pangulo na ang mga guhit na ito ay maliit na bahagi ng mga pamanang naiwan ng yumao niyang ina. Alam niya kung gaano kahalaga ang kalayaan sa buhay ng isang nilalang kaya ipinaglaban niya ito at itinuro sa kapuwa ang pagpapahalaga at pag-aaaruga rito. Maalab ang kanyang pananalig na ang Pilipinas ay maka-aahon sa madidilim na araw ng Martial Law at ginawa ang lahat ng makakaya upang ibangon ang bansa at bigyang ispirasyon ang ibang tao na ganito rin ang gawin, dugtong pa ng P angulo. Ang mga guhit na larawan ng aming ina ay maliit na bahagi lamang ng kanyang naiwang pamana. Ito ay pamanang nadarama natin araw-araw habang nabubuhay tayo at naglilingkod sa isang lipunang malaya na ngayon sa kamay na bakal ng isang diktador at s a militar at pulisyang pinaglilingkuran lamang ay iisang tao, wika ng Pangulo. Kasama ng Pangulo sa pagtitipong ito sina Kalihim ng Gabinete Rene Almendras, Kalihim Voltaire Gazmin ng Tanggulang Bansa, Kalihim Herminio Sonny Coloma ng Presidential Comm unications Operations Office (PCOO), Kalihim Tagapagpaganap Paquito N. Ochoa, Jr., Tagapangulong Cristino Naguiat, Jr. ng Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation at Direktor Heneral Lilia De Lima ng Philippine Economic Zone Authority. PND (rck/zaf) TOP 2. P12.7 milyong tulong pangkagipitan sa mga biktima ng baha sa Mindanao, inilabas ng DSWD

Kabuuang P12.7 milyong halaga para sa pangkagipitang tulong sa mga biktima ng bahang bunga ng malakas at walang tilang pag-ulan sa Mindanao ang inilaan ng Kagawaran ng Kagalingang Panlipunan at Kaunlaran (DSWD), sang-ayon kay Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte sa pulong-balitaan sa Malacanang Martes.

Binigyang diin ni Valte na patuloy ang pakikipag-ugnayan ng DSWD sa mga sangay nito sa Mindanao upang mapagkalooban pa ang mga biktima ng baha ng karagdagang tulong sa pandagdag na technical assistance and resource augmentation (TARA). Napakalakas at walang tila halos na pag-ulan ang naranasan ng Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat at Lungsod ng Cotabato noong nakaraang linggo na naging dahilan ng malalim na baha at pinsala sa mahigit na 50,000 mamamayan doon. Batay sa impormasyong dumating sa amin, puspusan nang kumikilos ang mga tauhan ng DSWD sa naturang mga lalawigan para sa ano mang dagdag na technical assistance and resource augmentation na tinatawag naming TARA, dugtong pa ni Valte. Naglaan na ang DSWD ng P12.7 milyong halaga ng pangkagipitang tulong tulad ng st anby funds, pagkain ng mag-anak at iba pang mga bagay na kakailanganin ng mga biktima ng baha, dagdag pa ni Valte. Niliwanag ni Valte na kumilos ang pambansang pamahalaan para tulungan ang lokal na DSWD at ang mga lokal na pamahalaan sa mga pook na sinalanta ng baha sa pamamagitan ng pagkakaloob sa kanila ng karagdagang pagkain. Aabot sa 5,000 food packs para sa DSWD-Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao at pinagtibay na ni Kalihim Dinky Soliman ng DSWD ang paglalabas ng karagdagang 30,000 food packs para sa Maguindanao at sa Sarangani, sabi pa ni Valte. PND (rck/zaf) TOP 3. Tiniyak ng Malacanang ang katarungan at reporma sa mga OFWs na biktima umano ng 'sex-for-flight' scheme

Tiniyak ng Malacanang na makakamit ang katarungan at repormang kailangan ng mga overseas Filipino workers na umano ay biktima ng mga Pilipino na tauhan ng gobyerno sa ibayong dagat, lalo na sa Gitnang Silangan. Ilang grupo ang nagpahayag ng pag-aalala sa ginagawang pagsisiyasat ng Kagawaran ng Paggawa at Hanapbuhay at ng Kagawaran ng Ugnayang Panlabas tungkol sa umano ay sex-for-flight scheme sa Gitnang Silangan. Inuusisa ng grupong ito ang kinalabasan ng pagsisiyasat at kung nausig na ang mga pinunong umano ay kasangkot sa bagay na ito. Nagtakda ng kaukulang panahon ang Kalihim ng Paggawa kung gaano katagal niyang dapat aksiyunan ang bagay na ito. Gusto lamang siguruhin ng DOLE na masinop ang kanilang mga magigi ng findings, sabi ni Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte sa pulong-balitaan sa Malakanyang Martes. May itinakda silang panahon para masusing pag-aralan ang mga katibayan, kasama na ang mga salaysay na natipon nila sa pagtungo nila roon. Ihaharap iyan sa disciplining authority na sa kasong ito, walang iba kundi ang Kalihim ng Paggawa, dugtong pa ni Valte. Tiniyak ni Valte na ang kinalabasan ng pagsisiyasat ng DOLE ay ilalabas pagkaraan ng ginawang puspusang imbestigasyon. Idinugtong ni Valte na nagpadala ng fact-finding team si Kalihim Rosalinda Baldoz ng Paggawa sa Gitnang Silangan para sa pagsisiyasat na dapat gawin. Nakabalik na sa Pilipinas, sabi ni Valte, ang mga tagapagsiyasat dalawang linggo na ang nakalilipas. Ginagawa na ring ng pamahalaan ang kaukulang hakbang upang maiwasan ang ano mang pagmamalabis at higit na pangangalaga sa mga Pilipino na nasa ibang bansa, sabi ni Valte. Isang buwan na ang nakalilipas, iniulat ni Kalihim Baldoz sa Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III ang tungkol sa ginagawang imbestigasyon at ang mga hakbang na maaaring ipatupad ng pamahalaan upang maiwasan ang mga kahalintulad na pangyayari. wika pa ni Valte. Uunahing ipadala ang mga women welfare workers upang maging house mothers sa mga welfare centers nati n sa ibayong dagat, pahayag pa ni Valte. PND (as/zaf) TOP 4. Inatasan ni Aquino ang mga alagad ng batas na makipag-ugnayan sa Comelec para matiyak ang mapayapa at matapat na halalan ng Baranggay at ng SK

Inatasan ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III ang mga alagad ng batas at iba pang kinauukuang ahensiya ng pamahalaan na makipagtulungan sa Komisyon sa Halalan (Comelec) para matiyak ang malaya, maayos, matapat, mapayapa at kapani-paniwalang Synchronized Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections sa Oktubre 28. Ang utos ng Pangulo ay nilalaman ng Memorandum Order No. 56 na nilagdaan ni Kalihim Tagapagpaganap Paquito N. Ochoa, Jr. noong Hulyo 23.

Ang Comelec, sa pamamagitan ng Resolusyon Blg. 9731 (s.2013) ay nagpasiyang hilingin sa Pangulo na sangayunan ang deputasyon ng Sandatahang Lakas ng Pilipinas, Pambansang Pulisya (PNP) at ng iba pang ahensiyang tagapagpatupad ng batas kaugnay ng Synchronized Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections. Alinsunod sa Seksiyon 2 (4) ng Artikulo IX-C ng Kostitusyon, ang Comelec ay may kapangyarihang i-deputize (katuwangin) sa pahintulot ng Pangulo, ang mga ahensiyang tagapagpatupad ng batas at mga sangay ng Pamahalaan, kabilang ang Sandatahang Lakas ng Pilipinas, para sa saguting tiyakin ang malaya, maayos, matapat, mapayapa at kapani-paniwalang halalan. Sabi sa memorandum. Ang Punong Tagapagpaganap ay kumatid sa Resolusyon Blg. 9731 ng Comelec ukol sa deputisasyon ng AFP, PNP at iba pang ahensiyang tagapagpatupad ng batas, upang tulungan ang Comelec na tiyaking malaya, maayos, matapat, mapayapa at kapanipaniwala ang halalang idaraos sa Oktubre. PND (js/zaf) TOP 5. Tiniyak ng gobyerno na may sapat na bigas ang bansa

Tiniyak ng Malacanang na may sapat na bigas ang bansa na nasa mga bodega ng pamahalaan sa iba-ibang mga lalawigan para tugunan ang pangangailangan sa panahong ito. Binigyang diin ni Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte na ang mga bigas na ito sa mga bodega ng pamahalaan ay inilaan sa panahong ito na katatanim pa lamang ng palay ng mga magsasaka, lalo na sa Gitnang Luson. "Sinabi ng National Food Authority (NFA) na ang halaga ng bigas ay karaniwang tumataas hanggang sa buwan ng Setyembre. Kaya naman naglabas ang NFA ng bigas na P32 ang isang kilo na komersiyal at maputing bigas, paliwanag ni Valte. Ayon kay Valte, ginagawa na ng NFA ang mga karampatang hakbang upang maiwasang samantalahin ng ilang magbibigas ang pagkakataong itaas ang presyo dahil nga bagong katatanim pa lamang ng palay ng mga magsasaka. Nabanggit na rin ni Valte na ang pamahalaan ay masusing nagbabantay sa presyo ng bigas para walang magbibigay na bigla na lamang magtaas ng halaga ng pangunahing pagkain ng mga Pilipino. Idinugtong niyang tumaas man ang halaga ng bigas ay tiyak na pansamantala lamang ito at muling bababa sa panahon ng anihan. Idinagdag pa ni Valte na sinusubaybayan din ng mga ahensiya ng gobyerno ang pagtaas ng presyo ng bigas at inaasahang babalik ito sa dating halaga kapag nag-anihan na. Ipinaliwanag pa ni Valte na ang pagtaas ng halaga ng bigas ay karaniwang nagaganap sa mga panahong tulad nito na bagong tanim pa lamang ang palay sa mga kabukiran at bago dumating ang katulad nitong panahon, may bigas na ang NFA para tugunan ang pangangailangan ng taong bayan sa panahong tinatawag na kawitang palakol o malayu-layo pa ang susunod na anihan. PND (as/zaf) TOP

President S. Aquino III's Speech during the Opening of "A Gift of Self" Exhibit Lobby Lounge, Manila Hotel 29 July 2013

Magandang gabi po sa inyong lahat. Baka napansin ho nyo, tatlo sa kapatid ko may painting dito sa gitnang pader na to, baka hinahanap nyo yong sa akin, simple lang naman po ang paliwanag diyan. Karamihan ho sa inyo nandito, palagay ko mayroon kayong mga pinahiram na mga painting na bigay sa inyo ng Nanay kobuti pa kayo. [laughter] Tinanong ko pa kasi Nanay ko,

sabi ko, Mom, favorite son mo ako, wala ka pang binibigay sa akin. Sagot niya sa akin, Puli tiko ka, baka pamigay mo lang. Ngayon, nalaman ko lang si Vice President mayroon dinpulitiko rin siya. Hanggang namatay ang Nanay ko, may pinahiram po siya sa aking mga paintings sa office sa Senate, and now in my office currently, naka-display doon. On-loan from the family siguro iyon. Kaya tatanungin ko baka mayroong note na iniwan ang Nanay ko na baka mayroong conditionality na when I retire from politics, I will be given a painting miski a painting. Those of you with whom I have had the pleasure of sharing some personal time will attest to my love of books and music. Of course, now that very little of my time is my own, the piles of CDs and reading material that I must set aside for another day grow taller each time I look at them. For nowand for the next two years, eleven months, and two daysthe thought of turning up the volume, and actually immersing myself in a book without worrying about things of national importance, must remain something to look forward to. I believe that what those books and CDs are to me, painting was to Mom a president who, in light of the enormous challenges she faced, had to defer simpler pleasures for a later time. After all, she had to restore and nurture a democracy after more than a decade of tyranny. And there were also the coup attempts, the Mt. Pinatubo eruption, and a very long El Nio, among others. She had to be a mother to the entire nation. In that trying time, prayerwhich was already a constant in her lifebecame her greatest refuge. Given her presidency, and the amount of time she spent helping others, my sisters and I were glad to see Mom develop an interest in painting. Beginning in 1996, Mom worked with oils and acrylics under the guidance of Jeff Consumo to produce studies on her favorite subjects: women and flowers, all in bright colors. Looking back, I cannot think of an activity more appropriate for Mom someone who wanted a quiet home life, who would have been content with being a wife and partner to Dad, and a mother to us. So, even if she could never fully withdraw from the public sphere, Mom took the opportunity to revert to quiet things on her own time. As my older sister Ballsy said in a speech two years ago: Painting was an extension of Moms deep and abiding spirituality. And it was only natural for this to come to life in the canvases she filled with images of optimism and hope, expressions of her appreciation for the simplest, and yet the most beautiful things in life. In these ideals, Mom has always been consistent. She understood how freedom was such a fundamental requirement for human life, and so she fought for it and taught others to appreciate and care for it. She had every hope that the Philippines could rise above the dark days of Martial Law, and so she did all that she could to uplift the country, and to inspire others to do the same. Moms paintings are a very small part of the legacy she left behind. It is a legacy we feel every day as we live and work in a society now free from the iron fist of the dictator and from a military and police force who existed to serve one man alone. Most people would think that my family would be daunted by all this; they will wonder if we are burdened by the pressure to live up to our name. Let me be clear: it is not a burden. It reminds us what each and every one of us is capable of. This is also why I keep Moms painting of some flowers and a rosary in my office in Malacaangan office once used ironically by Mr. Marcos himself. More than ensuring that Mom and Dad are always close by, that painting reminds me what my duties are as President and as a Filipino. Our parents were extraordinary people who did extraordinary things, but the lessons they taught us were very simple: live with honor and follow your conscience. Always make the most of opportunities to alleviate the suffering of your countrymen. And, perhaps the simplest lesson of all: have faith, in both God and the people. It was because of faith that Mom found the courage to stand up against the dictatorship. It was because of faith that she was able to keep putting other people before herself, to keep giving until the very end. Mom valued her privacy, but she was never a solitary or selfish person. Whether in prayer, in service, or in art, the thought of other people was never far from her mind. So, even when she found a hobby she could truly indulge in, she chose to instead give of herself just a little more. She held joint exhibits with friends, and sold some of her paintings to raise funds for her advocacies. And she also gave away many of her works to friends and colleaguesthose of you here with us today, and may I add also relatives excluding yours truly. [laughter] I believe there is no more appropriate title for this exhibit than the one it bears: A Gift of Self. We would not be here if it were not for Moms selflessness. This is more than just an art exhibit, and my family and I are humbled and honored by your presence here: by the way the entire nation continues to cherish Cory Aquino and her legacy. And it is our deepest hope that your love for Mom does not stop with gratitudethat you choose to live out her example every day, and do your part in building a better country. Thank you. Good evening. [HOME]

ONLINE NEWS
29 JULY 2013
30 JULY 2013 1. GSIS offers restructuring for housing loan borrowers 2. Abad: Digitized payroll key to efficiency, transparency in gov't 3. DOLE and tripartite partners review, update Project JobsFit 4. DOLE lauds the creation of Provincial Committee on Child Labor 5. BSP Governor bags top Communication Award for 2013 6. NSO to conduct the National Demographic and Health Survey 7. DepEd, BPFI to provide bicycles to increase student participation 8. 11 more most wanted persons fall in manhunt operations 9. DOST-FNRI launches recipe book on brown rice 10. Wealth sharing agreement paves way for inclusive growth in Bangsamoro 11. Caritas Macau turns over donation for Typhoon Pablo victims to PHL Consul General 12. BRP Ramon Alcaraz departs Guam 13. DENR gives 'The PEN' P1.3-M subsidy on eco-friendly cooling system 14. BI probes alien activists in anti-SONA rally 15. July 2013 Real Estate Appraiser Licensure Examination results released in three (3) working days 16. Former Deputy Ombudsman, two others, found liable for tampering with official documents 17. VP Binay outlines policy reforms for inclusive growth 18. Cavite-Laguna Expressway Project draws 11 propespective bidders

1. GSIS offers restructuring for housing loan borrowers Source: http://www.gsis.gov.ph Applicants entertained by appointment only The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) will accept applications for its new housing loan restructuring program beginning August 1, 2013. Interested applicants in Metro Manila may call telephone numbers 479-3548, 479-3583 and 479-3587 to set an appointment. To contact GSIS provincial offices, call 847-4747. To avoid unnecessary waste of the member's valuable time and ensure they are properly attended to, GSIS will only entertain applicants who have previously set an appointment. GSIS President and General Manager Robert G. Vergara said the program is another initiative of the pension fund to help GSIS housing loan borrowers settle their arrears or update their housing accounts. PGM Vergara said the GSIS will condone all unpaid penalties and surcharges and grant extended payment terms for those qualified to restructure their accounts. Even those with current accounts will also benefit from the program, as their monthly amortization will be reduced through an extended payment term if they apply for restructuring. He added that foreclosable Real Estate Loan accounts and cancelled Deed of Conditional Sale (DCS) accounts that have not yet been sold are eligible under the program, saying that by restructuring, the auction of the property may be postponed and the foreclosure case or cancellation of the DCS account will be withdrawn. The program also grants incentives for accounts with arrears and the borrowers intend to pay in full. Those with arrearages of not more than six months will get 100% discount on unpaid interest, penalties and surcharges. Those accounts with arrearages of more than six months will get discounts based on their payment performance record. The program is open to: (1) borrowers whose accounts are current or up-to-date; (2) awardees of accounts with cancelled deeds of conditional sale but are not yet sold; (3) accounts under foreclosure proceedings; (4) buyers of rights; and (5) heirs of deceased borrowers who will be able to meet the eligibility criteria and documentary requirements. However, borrowers whose properties have been auctioned and who were already issued a certificate of sheriff sale can no longer avail of the program. Application for loan restructuring will be accepted until 31 December 2013. No application fee is required for the program. |TOP| 2. Abad: Digitized payroll key to efficiency, transparency in gov't Source: http://www.dbm.gov.ph Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Florencio Abad today highlighted the role of the

National Payroll System (NPS) in the Aquino administrations drive for increased transparency and accountability in the Philippine bureaucracy, adding that the move to reform the existing payroll system will also facilitate the quick and efficient processing of employee salaries and benefits across government. As a fully automated and digitized system, the NPS will play a central role inensuring greater ef ficiency, transparency, and accountability in the governments human resource processes. And because the system will be completely electronic, all payroll-related activities will be implemented more quickly and with better accuracy, whether were talking about the distribution of monthly salaries due to government workers, or the regular monthly remittances that are made out to our employees social security and health insurance accounts, Budget and Management Secretary Florencio Butch Abad said. The Administrations Public Financial Management (PFM) Committeeof which the Department of Budget and Management is a memberhas been tasked to develop the centralizing software for the NPS, which will be pilottested in select agencies at the end of the year. The NPS is also a component of the larger Government Human Resource Information System (GHRIS), which will harmonize and unify all human resource management operations in government, from the recruitment phase all the way to retirement. Completion of the GHRIS is expected in the second quarter of 2014. We want to make it clear, however, that the DBM will not exert control over the personnel requirements of agencies. Together with the other members of the PFM Committee, we are only developing the software that will make payroll reform possible in the bureaucracy, Abad added. Under the reformed and digitized payroll system, agencies will continue to have discretion over their respective human resource and personnel requirements. This will be expressed in a Monthly Cash Plan relating to Personnel Services that will be submitted to the Bureau of Treasury (BTr), which will in turn provide a payment file to the proper bank for the timely processing of employee salaries. According to the DBM, agencies will be asked to establish Automated Teller Machine (ATM) payroll accounts for all their employees to allow for the electronic distribution of monthly salaries. Government servicing banks such as Land Bank and the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) will be prioritized, although other banks may also be proposed should Land Bank or DBP ATMs be unavailable for use in a particular area. Apart from facilitating the prompt release of salaries and benefits to government workers, the NPS will also ensure the timely remittance of withholding fees to the Bureau of Internal Revenue, Government Service Insurance System, Pag-ibig Fund, and PhilHealth. Switching to electronic means for the management of payroll processes is hardly a new concept. Its par for the course in the private sector, where companies are able to generate significant cost savings by abolishing check payments and the manual processing of monthly salaries and withholding fees. Similarly, the NPS will relieve the governments human resource units from the burden of handling cash and manually keeping track of all payroll activities, Abad said. It is, very simply, a matter of government finally keeping up with the times, where we do away with an outdated and grossly inefficient approach to personnel compensation in favor of an electronic payroll system that makes every transaction quick, verifiable, and transparent, he added. Abad also noted that the NPS will be a valuable instrument in eliminating ghost employees and preventing other payroll-related irregularities in the bureaucracy. To qualify for an ATM payroll account, you must apply for it in person with proper identification and the necessary endorsement from your mother agency. An agencys payroll database should also agree with the banks ow n records. In other words, ghost employees wont stand a chance under such strict standards. Were making it much harderif not impossiblefor unscrupulous individuals to corrupt the governments payroll system to their advantage. Best of all, the NPS will make it possible for all government employees to get their pay right on time, with all their remittances automatically made for them and their proper taxes withheld. This can only be wonderful news for our public servants, who will be efficiently compensated for their work, and for the public, to whom we can assure that every peso is being spent exactly as it should be, Abad said. |TOP| 3. DOLE and tripartite partners review, update Project JobsFit Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph "With the continuous improvement of the country's economy and further strengthening of its peaceful and harmonious industrial relations climate, the DOLE will brook to no obstacles and will be twice as intense as in the previous years three years in working to address job-skills mismatch." Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz pledged this yesterday as she announced that the DOLE, together with its tripartite partners, has concluded the annual review of the project, Project JobsFit: DOLE 2020 Vision and is now in the process of integrating the findings of the review through a National Integration Workshop held at the Ichikawa Hall of the Occupational Safety and Health Center in Quezon City, also yesterday. The DOLE led in the conduct of the workshop based on the results of earlier stakeholder consultations organized at the regional level across the country. Close to 100 representatives from DOLE regional offices, Departments of Education, Science and Technology,

Energy, Public Works and Highways, Environment and Natural Resources, Tourism, Social Welfare and Development, and Trade and Industry, Commission on Higher Education, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, National Statistical Coordination Board, National Economic Development Authority, National Statistics Office, and various industry stakeholders attended the National Integration Workshop. Project JobsFit: DOLE 2020 Vision is a labor market signalling study that the DOLE initiated in 2009 as part of the its firm resolve to adopt coherent and innovative strategies to provide efficient employment facilitation services and to respond to the prevailing job-skill mismatch that underlies the unemployment and underemployment problems of the country. The outputs of this study were consolidated in a report, published as Project JobsFit: DOLE 2020 Vision, and launched in June 2010. JobsFit: DOLE 2020 Vision provides a map that guides jobseekers to their dream jobs and employers to their ideal workers through appropriate and relevant signals. It identified the key employment generators that have the potential to absorb the most number of workers from 2011-2020, namely, agribusiness, cyber services, health and wellness; hotel, restaurant and tourism; mining, construction; banking and finance; manufacturing; ownership dwellings and real estate; transport and logistics; wholesale and retail trade; and overseas employment. It also named the industries which are seen to provide the most number of employment opportunities in the long term, namely, creative industries, strategic farming and fishing, power and utilities, and renewable energy. "There had already been major changes on the current trends in the labor market since the study was conducted; as such, it is important to update the information contained in the document report," Baldoz said, adding that the government is steadfast in conducting roundtable discussions on policy inconsistencies and administrative inefficiencies that hinder job creation. The National Integration Workshop has, for its objectives, the following: (1) present the progress made relative to the recommendations identified in the Project JobsFit: DOLE 2020 Vision; (2) provide technical inputs on demand and supply of skills and perspectives on job-skills mismatch; (3) discuss the findings of the JobsFit regional consultations to DOLE officials, including the members of the oversight committee and technical working group on JobsFit Labor Market Information (LMI) report as well as to other stakeholders; and (5) to develop a draft LMI Report. The whole-day activity was divided in two parts. The first part included plenary sessions on such topics as "Objectives of JobsFit LMI Report and Post-Project JobsFit Progress Report; Where the Jobs Are; Where the Labor Supply Is; What Job-Skill Mismatch Is; Evidence of Occupational Surpluses and Shortages; and Summary Presentation of Regional Stakeholder Consultations' Report. During the second part, participants were grouped into three geographic clusters comprising the Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao groups. Each group reviewed and validated their summary reports and responded to questions in line with issues and gaps on demand and supply competencies as well as on strategies and programs that will strengthen the government's job-skill matching system. The National Integration Workshop is expected to produce an updated version of the Project JobsFit: DOLE 2020 Vision identifying the new set of key employment generators and emerging industries, together with the corresponding skill requirements on a national scale supported by regional action plans. Baldoz expressed confidence that the review and update of the Project JobsFit: DOLE 2020 Vision will result to a flexible road map that would guide students and new entrants to the labor force in identifying college and technical-vocational courses they may pursue in order to land in a job relevant to their expertise, or to engage in self-employment undertaking right after graduation. Toward this end, she called anew for sustained pro-activism from the government and its tripartite partners, saying that by working together inclusive growth and sustainable development can be fast achieved. The efforts of DOLE in addressing jobs and skills mismatch is in-line with President Benigno S. Aquino III's 22point labor and employment agenda, whose overarching goal is to invest in the country's human resource to make them more competitive and employable. |TOP| 4. DOLE lauds the creation of Provincial Committee on Child Labor Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph Balanga City, BataanLabor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz yesterday lauded the DOLE Regional Office No. 3 under Regional Director Raymundo Agravante for urging the Province of Bataan to establish a Provincial Committee on Child Labor (PCCL), saying this is an important step towards the delivery of focused programs that will reduce, if not eliminate, the incidence of child la bor in Bataan. The organization of a Provincial Committee on Child Labor will complement the Bataan Provincial Council for the Protection of Children (PCPC) which has been established ahead. It will surely benefit the parents and the so-called children at risk" through convergence of several anti-child labor programs," said Baldoz. Director Agravante said in a report to the Secretary that the DOLE regional office encouraged the establishment of the PCCL during the conduct by the DOLE Bataan Provincial Office of an orientation on child labor for Balanga City officials, DOLE stakeholders, and child labor program implementers in observance of the World Day Against Child Labor last 12 June. The observance was anchored on the theme, No to Child Labor in Domestic Work. Bataan Field Office head Leilani Reynoso hosted the orientation in partnership with the PCPC. It covered discussions on the child labor situation in Central Luzon; Child Labor Law (RA 9231); Anti-Human Trafficking Law (RA 9208); and the new Kasambahay Law (RA 10361). The discussants at the orientation were Reynoso, who provided an overview of the Anti-

Trafficking Law and shared the best practices and success stories of the Bulacan PCCL; Jacqueline Tigas, who highlighted the Philippine Child Labor Program and discussed in-depth the Child Labor Law and the International Labour Organizations definition of the Rights of Children; Rose Yambot, who presented R.A. 10311, or the Kasambahay Law; and Regina Agustin, the new Kasambahay Law focal person in the region. Agustin, having served recently as administrative staff at the Philippine Overseas Labor Office in the Middle East, shared some of her experiences in dealing with various requests for assistance on issues faced by domestic workers. She said that Filipinos working both here and abroad, especially those working as domestic workers, must be educated on their rights as workers and what programs and services they can avail from the DOLE. "We wholeheartedly support the creation of a Provincial Committee on Child Labor. It will contribute greatly to our work towards a Child Labor-Free Bataan, said Marilyn Tigas, Bataan Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office head and Co Chairman of the Bataan Provincial Council for the Protection of Children. Tigas said the creation of the Bataan Provincial Committee on Child Labor will only require an executive order signed by the Provincial Governor of Bataan. The DOLE regional director should chair it and it can have the same composition as the Provincial Council for the Protection of Children, Tigas noted. |TOP| 5. BSP Governor bags top Communication Award for 2013 Source: http://www.bsp.gov.ph Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Amando M. Tetangco, Jr. received the Lifetime Achievement Award for Communication Excellence in Organizations from the International Association of Business Communicators, Philippines. Governor Tetangco has been recognized by several international organizations as one of the worlds best central bank governors and is serving an unprecedented second six-year term. IABC said his outstanding leadership in crafting meaningful, credible and relevant monetary policies and communicating these effectively in a timely and clear manner has strengthened confidence in the Philippine economy and played a pivotal role in the countrys first ever investment grade status. The award was presented (from right) by IABCs Awards Chair Chit Arce, Chairman Elpi Cuna, and President Ritzi Ronquillo. |TOP| 6. NSO to conduct the National Demographic and Health Survey Source: http://www.nscb.gov.ph Beginning August 5 until September 24, 2013, the National Statistics Office (NSO) will be distributing the questionnaires to collect data for the 2013 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS). Conducted every five years, the NDHS is a part of the worldwide Measure Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) program which collects information on a variety of health-related topics such as fertility, family planning, and maternal and child health. The survey is also a designated statistical activity under Executive Order No. 352, Designation of Statistical Activities that will Generate Critical Data for Decision -Making of the Government and the Private Sector, issued on July 1, 1996. The 2013 NDHS will specifically collect data and information on the background characteristics of women 15-49 years old, on reproductive behaviour and intentions, family planning, maternal and child health, marriage and sexual activities, human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) and other health issues, household characteristics, and domestic violence. The survey will cover 17,000 females aged 15-49 years from 16,000 households nationwide, with an expected response rate of 98%. Survey results are expected to be released on August 20, 2014. Key findings from the 2008 NDHS showed that 20% of women in the country experienced physical violence. This was found to have an inverse correlation with the economic and academic status of the women; women coming from wealthier households and those with higher levels of education reported lesser occurrences of experiencing physical violence. Relatedly, it was also revealed that fertility has a reverse correlation with mothers education and economic status. Women who have had college education have an average of two children, while those with only elementary education have, on the average, five children. The poorest women were also found to have more than twice the number of offspring than women living in the wealthiest households. Survey results showed that more than half of married Filipino women use family planning 34% of which uses a modern family planning method. The 2008 survey reported that though almost all (94%) Filipino women 15-49 years of age have heard of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), only 22% have comprehensive knowledge of the causes of the disease. Results from the 2008 NDHS also revealed that the proportion of children 12-23 months who received all recommended vaccines at any time prior to the survey increased from 70% in 2003 to 80% in 2008. Moreover, 89% of households in the country used an improved source of drinking water and two thirds of the households have access to an improved toilet facility. The NDHS is one of the surveys reviewed and granted clearance through the Statistical Survey Review and Clearance System (SSRCS). This mechanism was instituted by the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) through Resolution No. 4 (series of 1988), Clearance of Statistical Survey Forms/Questionnaires, and Memorandum Circular Nos. 4-88, Implementation of National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) Resolution No. 4-88 on the Clearance of Statistical Survey Forms/Questionnaires Pursuant to Sec. 5 (a) and (d) of Executive Order No. 121, and 4-95, Statistical Survey Review and Clearance System, to ensure that censuses/surveys sponsored and/or conducted by government agencies conform to prescribed statistical standards, and consequently, to make certain that statistics generated out of these censuses/surveys are reliable, comparable, and consistent.

The public is enjoined to respond to and support the conduct of the 2013 NDHS. |TOP| 7. DepEd, BPFI to provide bicycles to increase student participation Source: http://www.deped.gov.ph PASIG CITY The Department of Education (DepEd) has officially partnered with Bikes for the Philippines Foundation Inc. (BPFI) to provide bicycles for qualified and deserving students of Baclayon National High School in Bohol as well as train them in proper bike handling and maintenance. Php 600,000 worth of bicycles would be donated by the foundation. In a Memorandum of Agreement signing, Education Secretary Br. Armin A. Luistro FSC and BPFI President Joel Uichico agreed to look into expanding the project to cover more areas. I have asked the field offices to evaluate their areas to see if their students can be beneficiaries as well, announced Luistro, adding that the educational dimension of the project must not be overlooked. This will not only help them get to school but also provides a way to teach road safety and environmentalism. Target recipients are grade 7 to 12 students, with options being studied to expand the age range of beneficiaries. |TOP| 8. 11 more most wanted persons fall in manhunt operations Source: http://pnp.gov.ph Eight more suspects listed as Most Wanted for alleged involvement in various criminal activity, including two who carried over P5-million reward each, were arrested in separate operations by Philippine National Police Units. PNP Chief, Director General Alan L Purisima said the arrest of these high-value targets is in line with the current operational thrust against organized crime groups, wanted persons and loose firearms. The Chief PNP announced the arrest CPP/NPA Southern Mindanao Regional Party Committee member Ma. Loida MAGPATOC y Tuzo in Digos City at 4:50 AM on Sunday by operatives of CIDG, Davao del Sur PPO and Philippine Army. Magpatoc, 52, was secretary of the Far South Mindanao Regional Committee of the CPP/NPA/NDF that operates in the South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, General Santos City region and portions of Davao del Sur. In 2004, Judge Zenaida Placer of RTC Branch 7 of Agusan del Sur has issued a Warrant of Arrest for Magpatoc who is accused in Criminal Case 2252 for Robbery with Double Homicide and Damage to Property. DILG-DND Joint Order No. 10-2009 offered Php 5,600,000.00 reward for information leading to Magpatocs arrest. On Thursday last week, another high-value target, Sali Basal TAIB alias Gong-gong Sali/ Abu Husni, was arrested by CIDG, Philippine Army and NICA operatives in Payatas, Quezon City. TAIB is co-accused along with other Abu Sayyaf members in six separate criminal cases of Kidnapping & Serious Illegal Detention of workers of Golden Harvest Plantation in Lantawan, Basilan with a Warrant of Arrest issued by Judge Leo Jay Principe of RTC Branch 1 of Isabela City. Taib is also a subject in another Warrant of Arrest issued by Judge Danilo Bucoy of RTC Branch 2 of Isabela City for involvement in four separate criminal cases for Kidnapping & Serious Illegal Detention for Abduction of nurses at Dr. Torres Hospital in Lamitan, Basilan. A monetary reward of Php 5,300,000.00 has been offered for information leading to Taibs arrest under DILG -DND Joint Orders No. 14-2012 & 15-2012. Other Most Wanted Persons arrested in separate manhunt operations were: 1. Edgardo RAPANAN y Castillo @ Tuknoy, 23, of Brgy. Parian, Calamba City, Laguna by virtue of warrant of arrest dated May 21, 2013 issued by Hon Judge Gregorio M Velasquez of Regional Trial Court Br 35 of Calamba City for the alleged rape of a 12-year old girl committed in Jan, 6, 2012. 2. Christian Apa BUENSALIDA alias Ian, listed 5th Most Wanted in Malimono, Surigao del Sur who is the subject of a Warrant of ARREST issued by Judge Emmanuel Escatron of RTC Branch 30 of Surigao City for the crime of Rape with no bail recommended. 3. Ruben DE PAZ y Severino, arrested in Tacloban City by CIDG operatives by virtue of a Warrant of Arrest issued by Judge Yolando Dagandan of RTC Branch 7 of Tacloban City for the crime of Statutory Rape. 4. Rodrigo PAUSAL y Manlapas alias Amay, arrested in Poblacion Compostela, Compostela Valley on orders of the RTC Branch 3 of Nabunturan for alleged violation of RA 9165 and Qualified Theft. 5. Reynaldo Verzosa DE CASTRO, arrested in La Trinidad, Benguet on orders of Hon Mia Joy Oallares-Cawed of RTC Branch 4 of Baguo City for alleged violation of R 7610. 6. Jessie MISLOS y Prima, 9th Most Wanted Person of San Pablo City who is the subjectof a Warrant of Arrest issued by Hon. Agripino Morge, of RTC Branch 32of San Pablo City for the crime of Murder. 7. Rommel ESPOSITO y Tuazon, Most Wanted in Region 1 for the 2003 Murder of Eduardo de Guzman in San Carlos City with P140,000.00 reward for information leading to his arrest. 8. Rolando CELESENA y Gonzales, wanted for alleged Statutory Rape in Curimao, Ilocos Norte in 2009.With

P90,000 reward for offered by DILG-DND 9. Cesar FAJARDO y Lascota, list among Most Wanted in Region 1 with P140,000.00 reward. Accused in case for 8 counts of Rape in Tagudin, ILocos Sur. (PNP-PIO) |TOP| 9. DOST-FNRI launches recipe book on brown rice Source: http://www.dost.gov.ph In line with its goal of encouraging wider brown rice consumption among Filipinos, the Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) launched its recipe book featuring various ways of preparing brown rice. Entitled Lutong FNRI: Brown Rice Recipes para sa Lahing Kayumanggi the book was launched last July 26 as part of the Smarter Living Advocacy of the Expo Science 2013 held at SMX Convention Center, SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City. The book features 23 traditional and contemporary brown rice recipes developed by FNRI experts in fried rice, rice ulam, and snacks and desserts categories. As part of the launching, culinary experts Prof. Luchi Callanta and Chef Timothy Abejuela, both of the Center of Culinary Arts, held a cooking demo based on the recipe book. Secretary Montejo as well as the audience had a chance to taste the delectable brown rice dishes prepared by the guests. Brown rice is being promoted by DOST-FNRI for its numerous nutritional benefits. Being rich in minerals and B vitamins, brown rice can help in improving overall nutrition. It is also high in dietary fiber and can help prevent constipation. Brown rice likewise has a low glycemic index (GI) food, which means its carbohydrates break down slowly and release sugar slowly and steadily. Because they do not cause sudden spike in blood sugar levels, low GI foods are recommended for diebetics. DOST-FNRI also recommends brown rice because its production requires less energy inputs for polishing, yet it provides higher milling recovery. This would mean more savings and profits for both farmers and millers. (Luisa S. Lumioan, S&T Media Service) |TOP| 10. Wealth sharing agreement paves way for inclusive growth in Bangsamoro Source: http://www.neda.gov.ph DAVAO CITYThe National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said that the recently signed wealth sharing agreement between the Philippine Government (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) will pave the way for a more inclusive development in Mindanao, especially in the proposed Bangsamoro areas. The wealth sharing accord will allow the Bangsamoro to attain financial independenc e and enable it to steer its own growth and development, said Maria Lourdes Lim, Regional Director of NEDA Regional Office XI and chair of the GPH technical working group (TWG) on wealth sharing. Lim highlighted the provisions on official development assistance (ODA), the establishment of the Intergovernmental Fiscal Policy Board, Bangsamoro Auditing Body and formulation of the Bangsamoro development plan, gender and development as among the mechanisms that will help spur investment and open up socioeconomic opportunities in the area. The Annex on Revenue Generation and Wealth Sharing, which is an accompanying document to the main Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB), provides that the Bangsamoro will have the authority to contract loans with any lending institution, except in cases requiring sovereign guarantees which the Central Government will provide. Even after the signing of the FAB in October last year, there have been some interest in the area from investors. In fact, there were already international missions that visited Mindanao to explore potential investments in agriculture, housing, real estate, hotels and resorts. Through the agreements in the Annex, the Bangsamoro can engage with potential investors through public-private partnerships and ODA, said Lim. The NEDA official added that the national government oversight agencies such as the DOF, DBM and the NEDA may be involved in the proposed Intergovernmental Fiscal Policy Board, which ensures the attainment of fiscal autonomy of the Bangsamoro. The Annex provides that the Central Government will have a representation in the Board. While the list of membership has yet to be outlined, the oversight agencies will most likely be actively involved in it, said Lim. The Intergovernmental Fiscal Policy Board, according to the Annex, will be composed of representatives from selected ministries of the Bangsamoro Government, as well as from the Central Government. It will undertake periodic review of the taxing powers, wealth sharing arrangements and revenue sources needed to implement programs and projects in the region. Apart from this, Lim said that the NEDA may provide technical assistance to the Bangsamoro Government in the formulation of their development plans. Since the Annex provides for the Bangsamoro Governments participation in national development planning, the NEDA may also be extending its technical expertise in the preparation of the regions socioeconomic plans and

programs, said Lim. Lim said that the GPH-TWG on Wealth Sharing started drafting the technical details of the Revenue Generation and Wealth Sharing provision of the FAB in July last year. Work on the Annex followed immediately after the FAB signing in October 2012. Members of the GPH-TWG included Department of FinanceNational Tax Research Center Executive Director Teresita Rodriguez and Department of Environment and Natural Resources Assistant Secretary Anselmo Abungan, while the MILF-TWG representatives were Dr. Benjamin Domato, Atty. Raissa H. Jajurie and Prof. Alih S. Ayub. After the draft Annexs completion, the TWGs elevated the document to the GPH and MILF peace panels in December 2012. Sec. Senen Bacani was the lead GPH panel member for the drafting of wealth sharing annex. The Annex on Revenue Generation and Wealth Sharing, which is one of the four accompanying documents of the main FAB, was signed by both parties on July 13, 2013. The Annex on Transitional Arrangements and Modalities was signed on February 27, 2013. The other two annexes that still have to be completed are on Normalization and Power Sharing. |TOP| 11. Caritas Macau turns over donation for Typhoon Pablo victims to PHL Consul General Source: https://www.dfa.gov.ph 29 July 2013 - In a simple ceremony held at the Philippine Consulate in Macau, Caritas Macau Secretary General Paul Pun Chi Meng turned over a check of 50,000 Hong Kong dollars to Consul General Danilo T. Ibayan as donation to the Philippine Red Cross (PRC). The check was handed to Consul General Ibayan last July 02 in the presence of Vice Consul Fernando Beup, Jr., Labor Attach Ramon Lamberto Pastrana, and Finance Officer Felisa Macaraig. The donation was intended by Caritas Macau to help the victims of super typhoon Pablo (international designation Bopha) that had hit the southern island of Mindanao in the Philippines last December 2012 leaving more than 600 fatalities and thousands of people homeless. The donation was the second to be made by Caritas Macau since November 08, 2012 when it gave 100,000 Hong Kong dollars to the PRC for the victims of tropical storm Sendong (international name Washi). The check will be turned over by the Consulate to the PRC in Manila. |TOP| 12. BRP Ramon Alcaraz departs Guam Source: https://www.dfa.gov.ph 29 July 2013 - Philippine Consul General in Guam Bayani V. Mangibin formally sent off the BRP Ramon Alcaraz, the newly-acquired Hamilton-class cutter of the Philippine Navy, at ceremonies held Pier X -Ray, Guam Naval Base in the afternoon of July 28. Joining the Consul General in the simple but formal send-off ceremony were Col. David B. Riano of the Guam National Guard, the officers and staff of the Philippine Consulate General and their families, some FilipinoAmerican military officers and members of the Filipino-American community in Guam. Col. Riano presented a small wooden replica of the Latte Stone, a symbol of Guam, to Capt. David as a token of remembrance from the Guam National Guard. Capt. Baldovino, on the other hand, presented a certificate of appreciation to Col. Riano for the invaluable assistance and coordination extended by the Guam National Guard to BRP Alcaraz as well as a plaque of appreciation for the Filipino Community of Guam, headed by its President, Mr. Roy Adonay. In his departure message, Consul General Mangibin wished Captain Baldovino and his crew a safe travel as BRP Alcarazs takes its way to the Philippines where many are now awaiting its arrival. He also expressed to Col. Riano the Consulates deep appreciation for the great assistance extended by the Guam National Guard, headed by Major General Benny Paulino, in coordinating all the necessary activities together with the Guam Naval Base Port Operations Center to ensure that the services needed by Capt. Baldovino and his crew and the BRP Alcaraz are well attended to. He also thanked the Filipino Community of Guam and all those who extended help and hospitality to Captain Baldovino, his officers and crew to make their short stay on Guam memorable. Before they finally boarded the vessel, Rev. Fr. Romeo Convocar, a former Philippine Navy Chaplain in Manila from November 1997 to March 2007 and now a pastor of San Isidro Catholic Church in Guam, offered a prayer for safe voyage and blessed the officers and crew. The BRP Alcaraz, commanded by Captain Ernesto O. Baldovino and manned by 88 officers and crew, finally started sailing out of Pier X-Ray, Naval Base Guam at exactly 4:00 in the afternoon of July 28, for the last leg of voyage to the Philippines. |TOP| 13. DENR gives 'The PEN' P1.3-M subsidy on eco-friendly cooling system Source: http://www.denr.gov.ph

Being ozone-friendly sure has its perks. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on Monday awarded over P1.3-million in subsidies to the five-star hotel The Peninsula Manila for using an environmentally friendly air-conditioning system. The amount represents 15 percent of the cost of its newly installed chiller that uses ozone-friendly refrigerants in compliance with the requirements under the Philippine Chiller Energy Efficient Project (PCEEP), a World Bankassisted project being implemented by the DENR. PCEEP aims to speed up the replacement of inefficient chillers and other cooling equipment containing ozonedepleting substances (ODS) used by various industries. The project is funded by grants from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) amounting to US$2.6 million and the Ozone Trust Fund worth US$1 million. The Peninsula Manila is the first beneficiary of the PCEEP. Indeed, there is much reward to be had when you are ozone-friendly, DENR Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje said after handing out a check worth P1,362,438 to The Peninsula Manila General Manager Sonja Vodusek in a ceremony held at the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Nature Center in Quezon City. Paje also commended the Makati City-based luxury hotel for its consistent high marks in improving its operations toward becoming more ozone-friendly. On top of the subsidy, The Peninsula Manila stands to benefit more in terms of lower electric consumption and lower carbon footprint which may also be a big plus in its efforts to green its operations, Paje said. This alone is a tremendous boost to the hotel's corporate social responsibility, he added. The Peninsula Manila enrolled in the PCEEP its one 577 tons of refrigeration in December 2010. Five months later or in May 2011, a sub-grant agreement was signed between the DENR and the hotel to formalize the latter's participation in the project. In July 2012, the new 23XRV energy efficient chiller was installed to serve the air-conditioning needs of the hotel. A chiller is the main component in refrigeration and air-conditioning systems to cool buildings. Old chillers use ODS and greenhouse gases (GHG) as refrigerants, namely chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrofluorocarbons (HCFCs). PCEEP is in support of the country's commitments to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer and the Kyoto Protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. The primary objectives of the project are to reduce GHG emissions by replacing chillers with non-CFC energy efficient ones, and promote energy efficiency and savings. Ozone depleting substances are a major concern for the United Nations, and one of the reasons why we are having tremendous problem with our oceans, such as the sea level rise, coral bleaching and reduction in planktons, Paje said. Hotels, according to him, are one of the most vulnerable to rising sea level and changing weather patterns brought about by climate change. At the end of the project life on January 1, 2017, the PCEEP is expected to have replaced 30,649 tons of refrigeration, reduced 5,700 kilograms of ozone-depleting potentials, generated at least 124.7 gigawatt hours in electricity savings and reduced 62,400 tons of greenhouse gases. Throughout the project life, a total of 20 sub-grant agreements are expected to be signed that would cover the replacement of at least 53 chiller units. Under the project, a grant subsidy of 15 percent of the cost of new non-CFC-based energy efficient chillers will be provided. As an added incentive, owners of new chillers enrolled in the program can turn their savings from their electricity bill into revenues by selling them in the carbon finance trading under the Clean Development Mechanism. Aside from The Peninsula Manila, also enrolled in the PCEEP are known businesses and commercial establishments like Shoe Mart, Trinoma, Greenbelt, Manila Pavilion, Waterfront Insular Davao Hotel, Marco Polo Davao, Philamlife, Bank of the Philippine Islands, Security Bank, Philippine National Bank and Lufthansa Airlines. Government agencies and facilities like the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Mactan Cebu International Airport Authority, Social Security System, and Cultural Center of the Philippines are also enrolled in the project. We always say that with all the efforts of governments all over the world, it would still be that what you do locally that will impact on the global efforts toward climate change and climate change mitigation, the environment chief said.

The Montreal Protocol mandates a complete phase-out of production and consumption of ODS in developing nations by January 1, 2010 and countries are requested to develop measures for the effective use of the ODS recovered from the chillers to meet servicing needs in the refrigeration and air-conditioning sector. The Kyoto Protocol, on the other hand, requires developed countries to reduce GHG emissions by an average of 5.2 percent between 2008 and 2012 and enables them to reduce costs of compliance by the purchase of emissions reductions from projects in developing countries through a flexible scheme called the Clean Development Mechanism. |TOP| 14. BI probes alien activists in anti-SONA rally Source: http://immigration.gov.ph The Bureau of Immigration (BI) said it is investigating the foreigners who took part in last Mondays protest rally against President Aquinos SONA to find out if they could be deported for violating the countrys immigration laws. Immigration Officer-in-Charge Siegfred Mison said the BI is determining whether foreign activists who joined the demonstration near the Batasan committed acts which could be grounds for their deportation. We are verifying their identities and visa status and if there is basis to initiate deportation proceedings against them, Mison said. He explained that the alien demonstrators can be deported or ordered to leave if they commit acts that constitute overthrowing the government, unlawful destruction of property and violation of the conditions of their stay. Aside from deportation, he said the BI can also order the aliens to leave after which they will be blacklisted and banned from re-entering the Philippines. Mison stressed that temporary visitor visa holders have no business joining these protest rallies as it is tantamount to meddling in the countrys internal political affairs. So far, the BI has identified only 30-year-old Thomas Van Beersum, a Dutch activist, who was photographed taunting a crying policeman at the rallys dispersal line. Pictures of PO1 Joselito Sevilla who broke down and cried after refusing to strike back at the rallyists were published in newspapers and went viral on social media. Beersums insults at the crying Sevilla and his publicized open letter to the policeman drew angry reactions from the public and calls for his deportation. According to Atty. Ma. Antonette Mangrobang, Beersum arrived in Manila as a tourist last June 13 and was admitted for an initial stay of 21 days. She contended that Beersum was not supposed to join the rally because it meant violating the limitation and condition of his admission and stay as a temporary visitor and non-immigrant. |TOP| 15. July 2013 Real Estate Appraiser Licensure Examination results released in three (3) working days Source: http://www.prc.gov.ph |TOP| 16. Former Deputy Ombudsman, two others, found liable for tampering with official documents Source: http://www.ombudsman.gov.ph Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales ordered the filing of criminal cases against former Deputy Ombudsman for Luzon Mark Jalandoni, former Assistant Ombudsman Nennette De Padua, and former Executive Assistant Rosalyn D. Martinez for tampering with official documents. In a Resolution approved on 25 July 2013, Ombudsman Morales found probable cause on thirteen (13) counts of Falsification of Public Documents under Article 171, par. 6 of the Revised Penal Code (RPC), and fifty-six (56) counts of Infidelity in the Custody of Public Documents through Concealment under Article 226 of the RPC. Ombudsman Morales, in a separate Decision of even date, also found Jalandoni administratively liable for Grave Misconduct and Conduct Prejudicial to the Best Interest of the Service, and imposed upon him the penalty of dismissal from service with accessory penalties of cancellation of eligibility, forfeiture of retirement benefits, perpetual disqualification from holding public office, and bar from taking civil service examinations. In lieu of dismissal from the service, which penalty can no longer be implemented since Jalandoni resigned in April 2011, Ombudsman Morales imposed the penalty of fine equivalent to his salary for one (1) year. The case stemmed from a complaint filed in 2011 by Overall Deputy Ombudsman Orlando Casimiro who discovered that respondents allegedly conspired in tampering with decisions, resolutions, orders and other official documents during their tenure in the Office of the Ombudsman, which irregularities were discovered when then Acting Ombudsman Casimiro ordered an inventory of pending cases after the resignation of Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez.

The Resolution/Decision found that Jalandoni, De Padua and Martinez systematically tampered with official documents by patching the signatures of approving authorities, wherein the signature portion was superimposed with a patch of paper with Jalandoni as the purported approving authority. It was found that in at least 56 cases the tampering resulted in the delay in the release of already-approved documents, and in at least 13 cases, the patches were signed by Jalandoni, making it appear that he was the official authorized to sign the documents, when in fact they were already signed by various officials including Ombudsman Gutierrez herself. In resolving this case, we are hoping to send a clear and unequivocal message that we are serious in preserving the integrity of the Office of the Ombudsman, Ombudsman Morales stated. We will not relent in our fight against all forms of anomalies in government, even those committed inside our own office, and even those perpetrated by our own high-ranking officials. As the peoples vanguard against corrupt and abusive public officials, it is imperative that we closely monitor our ranks. As such, Ombudsman officials and employees should be beyond reproach, she added. The criminal complaint as against Amie Lou Fernandez, Associate Graft Investigation Officer; Grace Anne Arnan, Graft Prevention and Control Officer; and Ruby Ann Medallada, Administrative Aide, were dismissed for lack of probable cause. Fernandez and Medallada, however, were found administratively liable for Simple Misconduct and were meted the penalty of suspension for one (1) month and one (1) day. The administrative complaint as against Arnan was dismissed for lack of substantial evidence, while that against De Padua and Martinez were dismissed for lack of administrative disciplinary jurisdiction, the two having separated from service in good faith prior to the filing of the complaint. |TOP| 17. VP Binay outlines policy reforms for inclusive growth Source: http://ovp.gov.ph Vice President Jejomar C. Binay outlined Monday before business leaders a host of economic policies needed to sustain economic development and promote inclusive growth, as he described criticisms against the Aquino administrations achievements as unreasonable. Speaking before a joint meeting of the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP), Makati Business Club (MBC) and the Management Association of the Philippines (MAP), the Vice President said these policies include expanding the tax base by improving compliance and collection and not through tax increases, and continuing to reduce, lengthen and spread our maturing liabilities to avoid disruptive fiscal bumps. He also proposed to raise infrastructure spending from the current two percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to a truly progressive five percent of GDP. The Vice President added that there was a need to liberalize foreign investment restrictions to make the Philippines and Philippine enterprises more globally competitive, and provide the Filipino consumer cheaper and more affordable products. Binay said policy and infrastructure misalignments that emerge as gains are cascaded down must also be fixed. These include an airport development program to match the open skies policy, promoting investments in the power sector, and inefficiencies in the agriculture supply chain. In tourism for example, a true open skies policy with an aggressive airport development program has to be undertaken. A reform in the EPIRA law will unlock investments towards the power short areas in Mindanao and Visayas, he said. We must take a look at the inefficiencies of the agriculture supply chain that allow as many as eight layers of middlemen to deprive the Filipino farmer the full value of their produce, he added. The Vice President said the execution of development strategies must be decentralized and should take into account the particularities of each economic group and locality. That means that finally, we must decentralize execution,through the national gove rnment agencies, the local governments, and necessarily too, through the national as well as the local enterprises that these government entities must deal with, he said. He also said it was unreasonable to criticize the administrations record for the l ast three years. "China is in its fourth decade of economic expansion and inclusion and is still working to achieve the equitable distribution of economic gains. And so, it is unreasonable to take a harsh look at what we have accomplished over the past three years. We must look beyond the previous three years, even beyond the next three years, he said. Binay drew on his long experience as Mayor of Makati to explain why reforms must be sustained and expanded, as he addressed concerns over the supposed failure of the administration to provide relief to poor Filipinos. Before economic growth filters down to the rest of the Filipino people, Binay said the revenue base must first be expanded and that government resources must fill the needs of the poor. As I have learned from Makati, expansion must necessarily precede inclusion. As the revenues of Makati City

grew, we carefully focused the deployment of these resources in areas that would directly and sustainably benefit the Makati residents that need it most, he said. The Vice President identified three key programs that he said must be given focus to improve quality of life: infrastructure development, education, and social services. Since 1986, Makatis public investments have consistently focused on t hree domains. First, on raising the standards and quality of citys infrastructure to ensure the sustainability and continued expansion of citys economy; second, a comprehensive education agenda to ensure the access of the citys youth to the economic opportunities that are rapidly evolving in the city; and third, the access of its citizens to programs that enhance the quality of life, services like health, senior citizen programs and environment, he said. |TOP| 18. Cavite-Laguna Expressway Project draws 11 propespective bidders Source: http://ppp.gov.ph So far 11 firms have expressed interest in the Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAX) project, purchasing the prequalification documents for prospective bidders after the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) issued out its invitation to prequalify and bid last July 22, 2013. As of July 26, the interested firms include San Miquel Corporation, Korea Expressway Corporation, Alloy MTD Philippines Inc., Macquarie Infrastructure Holdings (Philippines) Pte. Limited, Megawide Engineering Excellence, Leighton Contractors (Philippines), Inc., Makati Development Corporation, AC Infrastructure Holdings Corporation, EGIS Projects Developer of Infrastructure & Service, Metro Pacific Tollways Development Corporation, and Aboitizland, Inc. CALAX is the third project of the DPWH under the public-private partnership mode and has, so far, the biggest project cost at 35.42 billion pesos. It involves the financing, design and construction, operation and maintenance of the entire 4-lane, 47 km closed-system tolled expressway connecting CAVITEX and SLEX. The Project will start from the CAVITEX in Kawit, Cavite and end at the SLEX-Mamplasan Interchange in Bian, Laguna. The project will have interchanges in 9 locations, namely: Kawit, Daang Hari, Governors Drive, Aguinaldo Highway, Silang, Sta. Rosa-Tagaytay, Laguna Blvd., Technopark, and a Toll Barrier before SLEX. When constructed, the CALAX project will decongest traffic along the Cavite Laguna road network as it connects the existing CAVITEX and SLEX roads, reducing the travel time from Metro Manila to the CALA area and back. According to the projects invitation to pre-qualify and bid, the submission of pre-qualification documents is slated for September 23, 2013. The two-stage/two envelope system for the open solicitation of bids under the BuildOperate and Transfer (BOT) Law will be applied. Bidders will first be pre-qualified based on minimum legal, technical and financial requirements set by the DPWH. |TOP|

Last Updated:

30 JULY 2013

Google+ Photo Releases of PNoy

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President Benigno Aquino III views the works of his mother , the late President Cory Aquino, during the opening ceremony of the exhibit "A Gift of Self" at the Manila Hotel Monday (July 29). The exhibit features the paintings of Cory given to relative and friends as gifts. (Photo by Gil Nartea/Malacanang Photo Bureau) President Benigno Aquino III delivers his message during the opening ceremony of the exhibit "A Gift of Self" at the Manila Hotel Monday (July 29). The exhibit features the paintings of Cory given to relative and friends as gifts. (Photo by Gil Nartea/Malacanang Photo Bureau)

President Benigno Aquino III (right), and his sisters Ballsy and Viel (from left), unveil the portrait of their mother, the late President Corazon Aquino, during the opening ceremony of the exhibit "A Gift of Self" at the Manila Hotel Monday (July 29). The exhibit features the paintings of Cory given to relative and friends as gifts. (Photo by Gil Nartea/Malacanang Photo Bureau) President Benigno Aquino III unveils the works of his mother, former President Cory Aquino, during the opening ceremony of the exhibit "A Gift of Self" at the Manila Hotel on Monday (July 29). The exhibit features arts and paintings of Cory given to relative and friends as gifts. (Photo by Gil Nartea/Malacanang Photo Bureau)

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