MAY PLANO AKO – Albay Provincial Health Officer Dr. Luis Domingo B. Mendoza, discuss the Maternal and Child Health situation in the province of Albay, during the MEDIA Kapihan with CHD 5 & Albay Province held at Pepperland Hotel, Legazpi City, last October 18, 2010. (Alex Cal/PIA)
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
ALBAY INVESTS P67.4M TO BOOST EDUCATION
LEGAZPI CITY — The investment of the Provincial Government of Albay for this year’s education sector has reached P67.4 million, the highest budgetary allocation of the provincial government next to health, which it has properly divided among different projects.
Albay Governor Joey Salceda’s thrust in education is to ensure that there is a college graduate in every family and to give recognition to outstanding teachers, principals, and students as well as providing cash incentives to local government units implementing new innovation in education projects.
“Education is the only investment that guarantees a return, the moment a child is born, parents are thinking about education. When employees come to work, a vast majority is working to pay for education in one form or another, this is why the provincial government is investing more to education sector,” Salceda said.
Every year, the provincial government through the Provincial Education Department (PED) is appropriating P6 million for Gawad Albay sa Edukasyon. This program aims to give recognition to the Outstanding Principal in the province; Ten Outstanding Teachers in Albay (TOTAL), Student Excellence in Academic Leadership (SEAL) and Kadunong Award for Best Practices in Education program being implemented by the local government unit.
The awarding ceremony for all categories of Gawad Sa Edukasyon is set every 17th of December.
As of October 18, 2010, there are 16 finalists for SEAL; 15 finalists for TOTAL; eight qualifiers for outstanding principals; and four LGU finalists for Kadunong Award.
Governor Salceda said that winners for TOTAL and Outstanding Principals will receive P100,000 each plus a plaque of recognition while SEAL winners will receive P20,000 each, a plaque of recognition and a Lakbay Aral Program sponsored by private partner.
The best local government unit with best education practices will receive P200,000 and a plaque or medal of recognition.
Aside from giving recognition to individuals with excellence performance in the sector of education, the provincial government has maintained its Education Assistance for the past four to five years with a total amount of P38.8 million fund for calendar year 2009 to 2010.
“This amount is being utilized as financial assistance to some 7,000 college students enrolled in 12 indentified educational institutions in the province including 3 Bicol University Local Campuses,” Salceda said.
Since last year the province is implementing the Graduate Study Subsidy Program (GRASSP) for teachers taking master's degree. This program has a total budget allocation amounting to P2 million.
Governor Salceda emphasized that GASSP’s main objective is to promote highly competitive, intellectual standards and teaching competencies through quality research and this program is available to all graduate students.
For thesis writing, each student will receive a minimum of P30,000 and a maximum of P60,000 subsidy while for dissertation writing, a student is entitled to a minimum of P50,000 and maximum of P100,000.00 subsidy.
Meanwhile, the Albay Higher Education Contribution Scheme (AHECS) is now is now on the 2nd semester of implementation. This is a newly introduced education program in the province with a total budget appropriation amounting to P16 million to cover at least 1,600 target student beneficiaries for school year 2009-2010.”
AHECS is a study now pay later scheme for poor but deserving students in the province. “Because of the increasing number of scholars and high school graduates every year, the provincial government has decided to provide a new program to help students decide what course they wish to enroll to in college,” Salceda said.
AHECS beneficiaries are given free hand to choose their courses and schools. (MDRama, PNA Bicol/PIA/mal)
FAMILIES IN POVERTY THRESHOLD, MORE VUILNERABLE TO MAN-MADE, NATURAL RISKS
NAGA CITY — Among the sectors of the government, families living beyond the poverty threshold are more vulnerable to risks such as illness, death of a family member and catastrophic disasters, whether it is man-made or a natural calamity, disclosed by Joel Campipi, Department of Finance –National Credit Council (DOF-NCC) Technical Staff during a consultation meeting held at Starview Hotel here over the week end.
The event, spearheaded by DOF-NCC in cooperation with the Insurance Commission (IC), was attended by various stakeholders coming from different parts of the region. Most of the attendees are either head of their cooperatives or officers or members of lending institutions.
During the said interfacing, a run through of the road map to literacy on micro insurance was conducted. The result presented was taken from various regional consultations on financial literacy conducted by the aforementioned agencies.
The study revealed that while insurance seems like a good option to prepare oneself from any calamity, it is most often than not neglected either due to lack of awareness and understanding of its nature; low financial literacy level especially among the low-income sector and the negative perception of insurance due to bad experience with other companies or tales of dismay regarding its services.
DOF records show that only 13.92% of the Philippine population has life insurance while insurance penetration of the proportion of the premiums to GDP was only 1.05% in 2008. The result of the study further showed that of the 27.6m poor Filipinos, only about 2.9 have some kind of risk protection, almost half of which is normally provided by various entities.
Campipi said that with the effort that the government is doing, particularly with the national strategy for micro-finance , more and more people will change their opinion on insurance and eventually see its importance in protecting their lives and properties.
“We would like to enhance the awareness and at the same time increase access of the low-income sector to insurance and this is strongly manifested in our vision to have an adequate risk protection for them through a strong insurance culture among the Filipinos.”
Some of the stakeholders that the National Strategy for Microfinance have identified are the legislators, for the formulation of laws; government regulatory agencies who shall issue rules, regulations, and guidelines for the mainstreaming of micro-insurance; the national agencies who shall effectively link micro-insurance providers and clients; local government units who shall take the lead in promoting financial literacy and insurance providers who shall take the lead in directly providing micro insurance products and services to the low-income sectors.
The agency is also encouraging private entities such as the brokers and agents or intermediaries who shall facilitate the provision of micro insurance products and services to clients, support institutions, donors and other developmental partners and existing and potential clients or consumers. (LSMacatangay, PIA CamSur/mal)
TWO COPS KILLED IN MASBATE AMBUSH
CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur -- Two policemen were ambushed and killed on Monday (October 18) by unidentified gunmen in a village in Pio V. Corpuz town in Masbate, a police official said.
Police Senior Superintendent Thomas Seminiano, Masbate Provincial Director identified the fatalities as PO3 Nonilon Agbones and SPO1 Nilo Abejuela, both members of the Pio V Corpuz town police force.
Semeniano said the fatalities were on board a motorcycle to report for duty at the town police station around about 8:30 am when they were waylaid by 10 heavily-armed men at Sitio Cabintay, Barangay Buenasuerte in Pio V.Corpuz.
The volley of fire instantly killed the victims that suffered multiple gunshot wounds in various parts of their body.
The victims’ bodies were immediately brought to the local police station for autopsy.
Joint police and military operatives of Task Force Masbate (TFM) that responded to the ambush cite recovered spent casings for M 16 and M14 rifles.
Seminiano said that the police are still determining the identities of the attackers who may be either members of a private armed group or New People’s Army (NPA) rebels operating in the area.
TFM operatives, led by 1st Lieutenant Ronnie Garchitorena, and elements from the Masbate PNP led by Police Inspector Moratala are on hot pursuit against the attackers.
“The crime scene was an ambush site where in 2003 a town police chief was slain that same area when ambushed by NPA rebels,” Semeniano said.
Investigators said the attackers seemed to have stayed for a while to spot for the victims as indicated by the food traces in their position,” said Seminiano .
The ambush killing of two policemen was the first election related incident to occurred in said town Semeniiano said.
Earlier operatives of Special Task Force Masbate recently arrested at least 6 suspected PAGs members and the confiscation of 8 highpowered firearms last month in Masbate. (HMCabunoc, DPAO 9ID PA/PIA/mal)
70,000 TILAPIA FINGERLINGS, SUPPORT SERVICES
GIVEN TO FISHERFOLKS ON FISHCON WEEK
DAET, Camarines Norte — Some 70,000 tilapia fingerlings were distributed to the fish farmers and local government units (LGUs) of coastal towns during the opening of the 47th Nationwide Fish Congress Week Celebration last week.
The activity was sponsored by the Provincial Government of Camarines Norte Fisher folks Council of Leaders, Provincial Agricultural and Fishery Council and Socio- Pastoral Action Center Foundation.
Provincial Agriculturist Dr. Helen Abordo said that the distribution of tilapia fingerlings to fisherman-beneficiaries and LGUs is part of the livelihood support program of the provincial government.
An opening of ‘tiangge’ sa FishCon and ribbon cutting marked the opening day led by Governor Edgardo Tallado at the Inner Court Yard of the Provincial Capitol.
A radio program entitled “FARMC on Air” will be held October 20 at the DWCN-FM Radyo ng Bayan.
On October 21-23 will be the Proficiency Training on the Use of GPS, reading and plotting on Nautical Chart, distribution of certificates/token and closing program.
This year’s theme of the nationwide 47th FishCon Week Celebration is “ Asenso sa Pangisdaan, makakamit sa sama-samang pagtutulungan” (RBManlangit, PIA CamNorte/mal)
OWWA BICOL, HOSPITALS FORGE PARTNERSHIP FOR OFW MEDICAL PROGRAMS
LEGAZPI CITY — The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) in Bicol has tied-up with major hospitals in the region for its newly introduced medical programs for OFWs, according to the agency’s top regional official.
OWWA Bicol Director Jocelyn Hapal disclosed that the agency has recently entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital (OLLH) and Santissima Trinidad Hospital of Daet (STHD), both in Camarines Norte, and with Sta. Maria Josefa Hospital Foundation (SMJHF) in Iriga City, Camarines Sur for the initial implementation of the program
Hapal explained that OWWA’s new medical programs consist of HEALTHPRO and REHABPRO, established in response to the medical and rehabilitation assistance needs of OFWs. HEATHPRO covers hospitalization of OFWs whose illnesses are either classified intensive, dreaded and catastrophic cases; while REHABPRO consists of rehabilitation services to OFWs with physical disability and/or mental illness contracted overseas.
She furthered that a maximum of 100,000 pesos financial assistance will cover hospital bills, medicines, laboratory tests and similar expenses for active-OWWA member OFWs.
“Meanwhile, rehabilitation services may include physical therapy and assistive devices for OFWs with physically disability, and for mentally ill OFWs, institutional care and special medicines. Other special diagnostic procedures shall also be extended to cover CT-scan guided thoracentesis, angiography and others,” she said.
Hapal noted that with these tie-ups with hospitals, qualified OFWs will be assured medical treatment. Payments will be made directly by OWWA to the hospital to ease the problem of the OFWs particularly in deposit requirements and further treatment.
OWWA Bicol will soon reach other hospitals in Masbate, Catanduanes, Camarines Sur, Sorsogon and Albay, to reach the entire OFW population in the region needing medical assistance. (KTVillamor, OWWA V/PIA/mal)
DOST–TAPI SETS INVENTION CONTEST AND EXHIBITS ON NOV. 25-27 IN CEBU CITY
LEGAZPI CITY— the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), thru the Technology Application and Promotion Institute (TAPI), will conduct this year’s National Invention Contest and Exhibits (NICE) on 25–27 November 2010 at SM Cebu Trade Hall, SM City, Cebu City.
DOST Bicol Director Tomas Briñas said that pursuant to Article II of RA No.7459, NICE aims to select and grant cash rewards to Outstanding Inventions (TUKLAS AWARD), Outstanding Utility Models, Outstanding Industrial Designs, Outstanding Creative Researches (LIKHA AWARD) and Outstanding Student Creative Research (SIBOL AWARD) for high school and college students.
This year’s entries comprise the qualifiers/finalists from three hundred seventy six (376) competing entries during the Regional Cluster Invention Contests in Mindanao, Visayas, Northern Luzon, Southern Luzon, Central Luzon, and the National Capital Region.
With the theme, “Filipino Inventions and Innovations: The Way Forward”, this S&T event underscores the invaluable contributions of Filipino inventions and innovations in helping the country move forward by coping with diverse challenges brought about by global economic uncertainties.
NICE 2010 provides support to Filipino Inventors by bringing their inventions to public and potential investors and commercialization partners. It is also a venue to stimulate and encourage inventiveness and ingenuity of Filipino youth and the technically-oriented sectors in the country.
2010 NICE will also feature Non-Contest Invention Exhibits and Inventors’ Fair and Seminars/Fora. The Opening Ceremonies will be held on Thursday, 25 November 2010 (Thursday), 10:00 a.m. Viewing of Exhibits is scheduled from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. ADMISSION IS FREE!!!
Inventors, makers, designers, researchers, entrepreneurs and would-be entrepreneurs, students and S&T enthusiasts are enjoined to participate and celebrate in this year’s NICE.
It is an important gathering of Filipino inventors and innovators supported by the Federation of Filipino – Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FFCCCII), Chemrez Technologies, Inc., and Philippine Development Alternatives Foundation (PDAF). (TAPI/POLucena, DOST V/PIA/mal)
TWO BICOL TOWNS GET DILG “GOOD HOUSEKEEPING SEAL” AWARD
LEGAZPI CITY --- Two Bicol towns were among the 15 towns across the country that were awarded on Monday (October 18) the “good housekeeping seal” for their exemplary performance in governance, including promotion of transparency and accountability, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) in Bicol said.
Blandino Maceda, DILG regional director, said the towns of Sto Domingo in Albay and Mobo in Masbate were among the top awardees of the good housekeeping seal among other 4th-5th class municipalities in the country.
The awarding rites held at Malacanang, Palace, highlighted the Launching of New Initiatives with President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III in celebration of the 20th year of Local Autonomy.
Albay Gov. Joey Salceda, who accompanied Sto Domingo Mayor Herbie Aguas in Malacanang, commended the political leadership of Aguas for being the recipient of the house keeping seal.
Salceda said “We congratulate the people of Sto. Domingo and its political leadership under Mayor Herbie Aguas.”
In the statement Salceda goes on to explain that in a recent comparative analysis on Human Development Index (HDI) of the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) performance, Sto. Domingo also came out on top followed by Polangui, Albay among our 18 LGUs.
The two Bicol towns that belong to the 4th and 5th class municipalities that were bestowed the seal received P2 million each.
Maceda said Sto Dominog and Mobo towns were picked based on their performance in governance particularly in the areas of planning, fiscal management, transparency and accountability.
The awardees would also be qualified to avail of the Performance Challenge Fund (PCF) where they can acquire necessary funds for the development of their respective municipalities.
The PCF is part of the DILG’s proposed P86.9 billion budget for 2011. (PNA Bicol/PIA/mal)
POWER COOP IN GEOTHERMAL-RICE SORSOGON IN SEARCH FOR ENERGY SUPPLIER
By Danny O. Calleja
SORSOGON CITY — Sorsogon Electric Cooperative (SORECO) II covering the first district of Sorsogon province that plays host to a giant geothermal energy production project is looking for a power supplier vice the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM).
WESM is a creation of the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) of 2001 that opened a venue where electricity from power-producing companies are centrally coordinated and traded like any other commodity in a market of goods in a level playing field with prices driven by the law of supply and demand.
The WESM in its web site said its role in the country's overall energy reform is to create a fair, transparent and reliable trading environment that will attract investments and encourage healthy competition leading to the ultimate objective of cheaper electricity for all consumers.
SORECO II wants another supplier to dispel the exorbitant power rates of the WESM that trigger considerable amount of increases owing to its higher generation and system loss charges, among others, Isagani Mendoza, a member of the cooperative’s Board of Directors, on Tuesday said.
“We have been under the mercy of WESM since last month when the government-owned National Power Corporation and Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management (PSALM) Corporation did not renew our supply contract,” Mendoza said.
No explanation could be had as to why the NPC/PSALM declined to renew its supply contract with the cooperative and Mendoza said they themselves at the Board do not have the exact idea to answer the question correctly.
A flier of notice being distributed by the cooperative to its member-consumers says that “since last August 26 and until a new supplier is found, SORECO II had no choice but derive its power supply from the WESM and pay whatever amount it would charge.”
Similar to the stock market, power rates of WESM are not permanent. They may increase or decrease based on the Time of Use (TOU) and prevailing cost, it explained.
Immediately affected, the flier said the generation charge and whatever the amount billed upon the cooperative will also be the amount it would collect from the end users.
The rise or fall of the generation charge will also affect the system loss charge being collected by the cooperative from its member-consumers and that explains why the same charge along with the generation charge also increased during the latest statements of account received by each of them, it said.
The other items in the bill like the distribution, supply and meter reading charges remain at their original rates and will not be moved unless ordered by the Energy Regulatory Board (ERC), the flier added.
Percival Alvarez, the SORECO II general manager said “we are doing our best to find a new supplier that can be of help to the cooperative and could provide unwavering power service to all its nearly 500,000 member-consumers”.
“And until we find one, Alvarez said, “our situation will be similar to the fate of most of the cooperatives and power distribution utilities in the Bicol region or elsewhere in the country whose supply contracts were not renewed by the NPC/PSALM: enduring the higher cost of power supply from the WESM”.
Power bills covering consumption between August 26 and September 30 issued by SORECO II to its consumers over the weekend carries with it the additional burden: generation and system loss charges up by a total of over P2 per kilowatt-hour (kwh) of consumption compared to the July-August billing when the cooperative’s supply contract with the NPC was still in effect.
From P4.8514 per kwh in July-August, the generation charge rose to P5.9429 in August-September.
As a result, a household that consumed 100 kwh between August and September had to pay about P1,400, some P400 more that what was charged for the same amount of consumption in the previous months when the supply was still from the NPC. Rate of electricity in the province reaches over P10 per kwh.
Mendoza said, the situation is very unfortunate for the first district of Sorsogon that covers this city where the Bacon-Manito (BacMan) geothermal energy complex of the Energy Development Corporation (EDC) sits at an expansive reservation covering Mt. Inang Maharang at the boundaries of Bacon area and Manito, Albay.
BacMan, from where the Luzon Grid draws 110 megawatts of energy is also where the geothermal power plants of the NPC that converts the geothermal steam into electricity are situated.
Meanwhile, the SORECO II over the weekend announced that it is already accepting applications for the five percent discount in power consumption of senior citizens.
The privilege is in connection with the implementation of Republic Act 9994 or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010, according to Alvarez.
Qualified for the rebate, he said are senior citizens whose electricity consumptions do not exceed 100 kwh per month.
Under the new law, senior citizen centers or residential care institutions like group homes are also entitled to discounts in power bill payments as much as 50 percent, Alvarez added. (PNA Bicol/PIA/mal)
LA NIÑA UPDATE:
ONSET OF LA NIÑA 2010
Early stages of cold conditions in the equatorial Pacific Ocean that started in July 2010 continue to persist and further strengthened reaching the La Niña threshold level as shown by the recent oceanic and atmospheric indicators. The weak to moderate La Niña event is likely to continue at least until early 2011, as suggested by the dynamical and statistical model forecasts.
La Niña periods are usually associated with above normal rainfall across most areas of the country during the last quarter of the year and early months (Jan-Mar) of the following year. Climate pattern in the country during the months of August and September (Northern Hemisphere summer) was generally influenced by the moderate to strong easterlies, one of the key indicators of typical La Niña event. Impact of this was below normal rainfall in most areas of Luzon during August and most areas of the country during September indicated weak southwest monsoon activity.
With the persistent anomalous strengthen of the easterlies over the central and western tropical Pacific, enhanced rainfall during October-December season is likely, coinciding with the start of the northeast monsoon period. Near normal to above normal rainfall condition is expected over most areas of Luzon and generally, near normal over the rest of the country.
The present La Niña episode may adversely impact on domestic, water supply, agriculture and the health sector. This may also cause flood, flashflood and rain-induced landslides in hazard-prone areas.
PAGASA will continue to closely monitor these conditions and regular updates/advisories shall be issued as appropriate. Meanwhile, all government agencies and the public are advised to take precautionary measures to mitigate the potential impacts of this event. (PAGASA /PIA/mal)
LA NIÑA ADVISORY NO. 1
Persistent cooling of the sea surface temperature (SST) in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean reached the La Niña threshold level last July 2010 as shown by the key atmospheric and oceanic indicators. This further strengthened and is now a weak to moderate La Niña event and likely to continue at least until early 2011, as suggested by the dynamical and statistical model forecasts.
The climatic condition in the country during the least two months was generally influenced by the moderate to strong easterlies, one of the key indicators of typical La Niña event impact of this was below
normal rainfall in most areas of Luzon during August and most areas of the country during September, which indicate a weak southwest monsoon activity. The other weather systems that affected the country during September were the ridge of high pressure area (HPA), intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ), low pressure area (LPA) and two tropical cyclones namely: Tropical Storm “Henry” (September 3-4) and Typhoon ‘Inday’ (September 18-19). These tropical cyclones have no significant effect on the rainfall distribution of the country during the month.
Rainfall assessment for September was below normal in most parts of Luzon, Leyte province and Eastern Mindanao. Near to above normal rainfall was observed over most areas of the Bicol region, Central Visayas, Western and Central Mindanao.
Average air temperature observed during September were slightly warmer than normal in most parts of the country. The actual ranges were as follows: 23 degrees C to 34 degrees C over the lowlands of Luzon, 16 degrees C to 24 degrees C for the mountainous areas of Luzon, 24 degrees C to 33 degrees C for Visayas, 22 degrees C to 34 degrees C over the lowlands of Mindanao, and 17 degrees C to 31 degrees C over the mountainous areas of Mindanao.
Gradual shift of the wind from the southwest to the northeast flow is generally experienced during the later part of September up to October. However, due to the present La Niña event, prevalence of the NE wind flow was already observed.
The northeast (NE) monsoon, ITCZ, the tail end of the cold front, ridge of HPA and three or four tropical cyclones are the weather systems likely to affect the country in October. There is a probability of above normal rainfall condition to be experienced over some areas of Central Luzon, Bicol region, Mindoro provinces and the northern portion of Panay Island and generally near normal over the rest of the country. Predicted ranges or temperature for October are: for Luzon, 22 degrees C to 32 degrees C, the mountainous areas of Luzon from 16 degrees C to 24 degrees C, the Visayas from 23 degrees C to 32 degrees C, Mindanao from 22 degrees C to 32 degrees C, and the mountainous areas of Mindanao from 18 degrees C to 25 degrees C.
PAGASA will continue to monitor the day-to-day weather condition and the large scale climatic patterns that will affect the country. Updates/advisories on the on-going La Niña shall be issued as appropriate. (PAGASA/PIA/mal)
Aquino welcomes UAE Foreign Minister
MANILA — President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomed the United Arab Emirates Foreign Minister, His Highness Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan who called on the Chief Executive in Malacañang on Wednesday (October 20).
His Highness Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan was accompanied to Malacanang by His Excellency Assistant Minister Khalid Al Ghaith and UAE Ambassador to the Philippines Moosa Al Khajah.
Joining the President in welcoming Sheikh Abdullah at Malacañang’s Music Room were Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo, Office of Middle East and African Affairs (OMEAA) Assistant Secretary Virgilio Reyes, Jr and Chief of Presidential Protocol and Presidential Assistant on Foreign Affairs Miguel Perez-Rubio.
In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs said the one-day visit of Sheikh marks the 30th year of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the UAE.
Because of this, the DFA said, “the Philippines will take the visit as an opportunity to reaffirm the importance of ties between the two countries, advance the well-being and welfare of Filipino workers in the UAE, invite the UAE to do business in the Philippines, and seek development assistance for the southern Philippines.”
The DFA added that aside from a government delegation, Sheikh Abdullah was accompanied by “business leaders, including officials of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, and the Abu Dhabi Petroleum Investment Corporation, among others.”
“The UAE business delegation will be meeting and networking with Philippine businessmen and government officials from the energy, trade, development and investments sectors at the sidelines of Sheikh Abdullah's meetings,” the DFA said.
Upon his arrival at the palace grounds, Sheikh Abdullah was accorded military honors by members of the Presidential Security Group Honor Guards.
He was then ushered to the second floor of Malacañang where he signed the Palace Guest Book before a closed-door meeting with the President in the Music Room.
The UAE is the Philippines' second largest trading partner in the Middle East and the second top destination of overseas Filipino workers in the region. (PIA V/mal)
Aquino wants comprehensive plan for poverty reduction
MANILA — President Benigno Aquino III on Tuesday (October 19) urged the Poverty Reduction Cluster to come up with a comprehensive plan that will help alleviate poverty in the country.
In a press briefing in Malacanang, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said President Aquino convened the anti-poverty group on Monday to discuss the ongoing plans and measures towards poverty alleviation.
Secretary Lacierda said the President directed the multi-agency cluster to formulate a master plan that will be implemented in the next five years.
He added that the Chief Executive wanted to have a speedier benchmark system that will gauge the success of the program.
Poverty reduction is one of the centerpiece programs of the government which aims to uplift the living standard of the people.
The cabinet secretaries involved presented their framework for poverty reduction based on the previous discussions amongst themselves.
Present during the meeting are representatives from member-agencies including the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC), Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Department of Budget and Management and the Department of Health (DOH), among others.
Also present is Presidential Adviser on Peace Process Secretary Teresita “Ging” Deles who discussed issues on the peace process affecting poverty reduction.
Recently, the United Nations observed the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, which aims to promote awareness of the necessity to eradicate poverty and destitution in all countries, particularly in developing countries. It has become a development priority among nations. (PIA V/mal)
Aquino satisfied over efficient handling of super-typhoon “Juan”
MANILA — President Benigno S. Aquino III expressed satisfaction over the excellent handling by the national government and local government units (LGUs) of the super-typhoon “Juan” (international codename Megi).
“I am very happy to report to the public that everyone has delivered. The thorough preparations of all concerned agencies are in marked contrast to the official helplessness of the past, and at present, we haven’t had to ask the public to contribute outside resources,” the Chief Executive said in a statement read by Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda on Tuesday (October 19) at the Briefing Room in Malacanang.
According to the President, the excellent handling of the storm allowed him to focus on other equally important matters such as presiding over the Anti-Poverty Cabinet Cluster Meeting and meeting with the Mindanao governors on Monday.
The President noted that Typhoon Juan, the strongest typhoon the world experienced this year with gustly winds of 260 kilometers per hour, left significant damages but minimal loss of life.
He cited the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) through the leadership of Science and Technology Secretary Mario Montejo and Undersecretary Graciano Yumul, for its accurate and timely weather forecasts that prompted other agencies to prepare for Typhoon “Juan.”
The President also commended Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Social Welfare and Development Secretary Corazon “Dinky” Soliman, and National Disaster Risk and Reduction Management Council Executive Director Benito Ramos “for their effective management of their respective mandates” and that the needs of affected communities were promptly delivered.
At the same time, the President extended his deepest sympathies and condolences to the families of those who have lost their loved ones.
Initial reports said Typhoon Juan killed at least 10 people as it generated waves as big as houses and destroyed thousands of hectares of crops.
As the super typhoon is moving away from the Philippines area of responsibility, the President said that work of bringing life back to normal in the soonest possible time is underway.
The President likewise said authorities are now geared up to restore power in areas where power supply was shut down as a precautionary measure while the DSWD is attending to the needs of 8,042 evacuees (as of 6:00AM, October 19, 2010).
He added that affected LGUs were advised to inform concerned agencies if they need any additional assistance.
The President also issued today Memorandum Circular No. 4 suspending office work in Regions I and II and the Cordillera Administrative Region for all non-essential personnel, to allow affected communities to attend to clean up and do rehabilitation work.
He said that the minimal damage and loss of life due to Typhoon Juan can be credited to the cooperation of both the government and the people.
“This should serve as a timely reminder to all to depart ourselves from the notion that government resides or depends on one person. It is the sum of all parts, the product of group effort and individual initiative and responsiveness…we proved that, together, we can mitigate risk; and that Filipinos working together, minimized of the costs of natural disasters,” the President stressed.
He also asked every Filipino to remain vigilant and be prepared for any eventuality until the weather condition improves. (PIA V/mal)
LEGAZPI CITY — The investment of the Provincial Government of Albay for this year’s education sector has reached P67.4 million, the highest budgetary allocation of the provincial government next to health, which it has properly divided among different projects.
Albay Governor Joey Salceda’s thrust in education is to ensure that there is a college graduate in every family and to give recognition to outstanding teachers, principals, and students as well as providing cash incentives to local government units implementing new innovation in education projects.
“Education is the only investment that guarantees a return, the moment a child is born, parents are thinking about education. When employees come to work, a vast majority is working to pay for education in one form or another, this is why the provincial government is investing more to education sector,” Salceda said.
Every year, the provincial government through the Provincial Education Department (PED) is appropriating P6 million for Gawad Albay sa Edukasyon. This program aims to give recognition to the Outstanding Principal in the province; Ten Outstanding Teachers in Albay (TOTAL), Student Excellence in Academic Leadership (SEAL) and Kadunong Award for Best Practices in Education program being implemented by the local government unit.
The awarding ceremony for all categories of Gawad Sa Edukasyon is set every 17th of December.
As of October 18, 2010, there are 16 finalists for SEAL; 15 finalists for TOTAL; eight qualifiers for outstanding principals; and four LGU finalists for Kadunong Award.
Governor Salceda said that winners for TOTAL and Outstanding Principals will receive P100,000 each plus a plaque of recognition while SEAL winners will receive P20,000 each, a plaque of recognition and a Lakbay Aral Program sponsored by private partner.
The best local government unit with best education practices will receive P200,000 and a plaque or medal of recognition.
Aside from giving recognition to individuals with excellence performance in the sector of education, the provincial government has maintained its Education Assistance for the past four to five years with a total amount of P38.8 million fund for calendar year 2009 to 2010.
“This amount is being utilized as financial assistance to some 7,000 college students enrolled in 12 indentified educational institutions in the province including 3 Bicol University Local Campuses,” Salceda said.
Since last year the province is implementing the Graduate Study Subsidy Program (GRASSP) for teachers taking master's degree. This program has a total budget allocation amounting to P2 million.
Governor Salceda emphasized that GASSP’s main objective is to promote highly competitive, intellectual standards and teaching competencies through quality research and this program is available to all graduate students.
For thesis writing, each student will receive a minimum of P30,000 and a maximum of P60,000 subsidy while for dissertation writing, a student is entitled to a minimum of P50,000 and maximum of P100,000.00 subsidy.
Meanwhile, the Albay Higher Education Contribution Scheme (AHECS) is now is now on the 2nd semester of implementation. This is a newly introduced education program in the province with a total budget appropriation amounting to P16 million to cover at least 1,600 target student beneficiaries for school year 2009-2010.”
AHECS is a study now pay later scheme for poor but deserving students in the province. “Because of the increasing number of scholars and high school graduates every year, the provincial government has decided to provide a new program to help students decide what course they wish to enroll to in college,” Salceda said.
AHECS beneficiaries are given free hand to choose their courses and schools. (MDRama, PNA Bicol/PIA/mal)
FAMILIES IN POVERTY THRESHOLD, MORE VUILNERABLE TO MAN-MADE, NATURAL RISKS
NAGA CITY — Among the sectors of the government, families living beyond the poverty threshold are more vulnerable to risks such as illness, death of a family member and catastrophic disasters, whether it is man-made or a natural calamity, disclosed by Joel Campipi, Department of Finance –National Credit Council (DOF-NCC) Technical Staff during a consultation meeting held at Starview Hotel here over the week end.
The event, spearheaded by DOF-NCC in cooperation with the Insurance Commission (IC), was attended by various stakeholders coming from different parts of the region. Most of the attendees are either head of their cooperatives or officers or members of lending institutions.
During the said interfacing, a run through of the road map to literacy on micro insurance was conducted. The result presented was taken from various regional consultations on financial literacy conducted by the aforementioned agencies.
The study revealed that while insurance seems like a good option to prepare oneself from any calamity, it is most often than not neglected either due to lack of awareness and understanding of its nature; low financial literacy level especially among the low-income sector and the negative perception of insurance due to bad experience with other companies or tales of dismay regarding its services.
DOF records show that only 13.92% of the Philippine population has life insurance while insurance penetration of the proportion of the premiums to GDP was only 1.05% in 2008. The result of the study further showed that of the 27.6m poor Filipinos, only about 2.9 have some kind of risk protection, almost half of which is normally provided by various entities.
Campipi said that with the effort that the government is doing, particularly with the national strategy for micro-finance , more and more people will change their opinion on insurance and eventually see its importance in protecting their lives and properties.
“We would like to enhance the awareness and at the same time increase access of the low-income sector to insurance and this is strongly manifested in our vision to have an adequate risk protection for them through a strong insurance culture among the Filipinos.”
Some of the stakeholders that the National Strategy for Microfinance have identified are the legislators, for the formulation of laws; government regulatory agencies who shall issue rules, regulations, and guidelines for the mainstreaming of micro-insurance; the national agencies who shall effectively link micro-insurance providers and clients; local government units who shall take the lead in promoting financial literacy and insurance providers who shall take the lead in directly providing micro insurance products and services to the low-income sectors.
The agency is also encouraging private entities such as the brokers and agents or intermediaries who shall facilitate the provision of micro insurance products and services to clients, support institutions, donors and other developmental partners and existing and potential clients or consumers. (LSMacatangay, PIA CamSur/mal)
TWO COPS KILLED IN MASBATE AMBUSH
CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur -- Two policemen were ambushed and killed on Monday (October 18) by unidentified gunmen in a village in Pio V. Corpuz town in Masbate, a police official said.
Police Senior Superintendent Thomas Seminiano, Masbate Provincial Director identified the fatalities as PO3 Nonilon Agbones and SPO1 Nilo Abejuela, both members of the Pio V Corpuz town police force.
Semeniano said the fatalities were on board a motorcycle to report for duty at the town police station around about 8:30 am when they were waylaid by 10 heavily-armed men at Sitio Cabintay, Barangay Buenasuerte in Pio V.Corpuz.
The volley of fire instantly killed the victims that suffered multiple gunshot wounds in various parts of their body.
The victims’ bodies were immediately brought to the local police station for autopsy.
Joint police and military operatives of Task Force Masbate (TFM) that responded to the ambush cite recovered spent casings for M 16 and M14 rifles.
Seminiano said that the police are still determining the identities of the attackers who may be either members of a private armed group or New People’s Army (NPA) rebels operating in the area.
TFM operatives, led by 1st Lieutenant Ronnie Garchitorena, and elements from the Masbate PNP led by Police Inspector Moratala are on hot pursuit against the attackers.
“The crime scene was an ambush site where in 2003 a town police chief was slain that same area when ambushed by NPA rebels,” Semeniano said.
Investigators said the attackers seemed to have stayed for a while to spot for the victims as indicated by the food traces in their position,” said Seminiano .
The ambush killing of two policemen was the first election related incident to occurred in said town Semeniiano said.
Earlier operatives of Special Task Force Masbate recently arrested at least 6 suspected PAGs members and the confiscation of 8 highpowered firearms last month in Masbate. (HMCabunoc, DPAO 9ID PA/PIA/mal)
70,000 TILAPIA FINGERLINGS, SUPPORT SERVICES
GIVEN TO FISHERFOLKS ON FISHCON WEEK
DAET, Camarines Norte — Some 70,000 tilapia fingerlings were distributed to the fish farmers and local government units (LGUs) of coastal towns during the opening of the 47th Nationwide Fish Congress Week Celebration last week.
The activity was sponsored by the Provincial Government of Camarines Norte Fisher folks Council of Leaders, Provincial Agricultural and Fishery Council and Socio- Pastoral Action Center Foundation.
Provincial Agriculturist Dr. Helen Abordo said that the distribution of tilapia fingerlings to fisherman-beneficiaries and LGUs is part of the livelihood support program of the provincial government.
An opening of ‘tiangge’ sa FishCon and ribbon cutting marked the opening day led by Governor Edgardo Tallado at the Inner Court Yard of the Provincial Capitol.
A radio program entitled “FARMC on Air” will be held October 20 at the DWCN-FM Radyo ng Bayan.
On October 21-23 will be the Proficiency Training on the Use of GPS, reading and plotting on Nautical Chart, distribution of certificates/token and closing program.
This year’s theme of the nationwide 47th FishCon Week Celebration is “ Asenso sa Pangisdaan, makakamit sa sama-samang pagtutulungan” (RBManlangit, PIA CamNorte/mal)
OWWA BICOL, HOSPITALS FORGE PARTNERSHIP FOR OFW MEDICAL PROGRAMS
LEGAZPI CITY — The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) in Bicol has tied-up with major hospitals in the region for its newly introduced medical programs for OFWs, according to the agency’s top regional official.
OWWA Bicol Director Jocelyn Hapal disclosed that the agency has recently entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital (OLLH) and Santissima Trinidad Hospital of Daet (STHD), both in Camarines Norte, and with Sta. Maria Josefa Hospital Foundation (SMJHF) in Iriga City, Camarines Sur for the initial implementation of the program
Hapal explained that OWWA’s new medical programs consist of HEALTHPRO and REHABPRO, established in response to the medical and rehabilitation assistance needs of OFWs. HEATHPRO covers hospitalization of OFWs whose illnesses are either classified intensive, dreaded and catastrophic cases; while REHABPRO consists of rehabilitation services to OFWs with physical disability and/or mental illness contracted overseas.
She furthered that a maximum of 100,000 pesos financial assistance will cover hospital bills, medicines, laboratory tests and similar expenses for active-OWWA member OFWs.
“Meanwhile, rehabilitation services may include physical therapy and assistive devices for OFWs with physically disability, and for mentally ill OFWs, institutional care and special medicines. Other special diagnostic procedures shall also be extended to cover CT-scan guided thoracentesis, angiography and others,” she said.
Hapal noted that with these tie-ups with hospitals, qualified OFWs will be assured medical treatment. Payments will be made directly by OWWA to the hospital to ease the problem of the OFWs particularly in deposit requirements and further treatment.
OWWA Bicol will soon reach other hospitals in Masbate, Catanduanes, Camarines Sur, Sorsogon and Albay, to reach the entire OFW population in the region needing medical assistance. (KTVillamor, OWWA V/PIA/mal)
DOST–TAPI SETS INVENTION CONTEST AND EXHIBITS ON NOV. 25-27 IN CEBU CITY
LEGAZPI CITY— the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), thru the Technology Application and Promotion Institute (TAPI), will conduct this year’s National Invention Contest and Exhibits (NICE) on 25–27 November 2010 at SM Cebu Trade Hall, SM City, Cebu City.
DOST Bicol Director Tomas Briñas said that pursuant to Article II of RA No.7459, NICE aims to select and grant cash rewards to Outstanding Inventions (TUKLAS AWARD), Outstanding Utility Models, Outstanding Industrial Designs, Outstanding Creative Researches (LIKHA AWARD) and Outstanding Student Creative Research (SIBOL AWARD) for high school and college students.
This year’s entries comprise the qualifiers/finalists from three hundred seventy six (376) competing entries during the Regional Cluster Invention Contests in Mindanao, Visayas, Northern Luzon, Southern Luzon, Central Luzon, and the National Capital Region.
With the theme, “Filipino Inventions and Innovations: The Way Forward”, this S&T event underscores the invaluable contributions of Filipino inventions and innovations in helping the country move forward by coping with diverse challenges brought about by global economic uncertainties.
NICE 2010 provides support to Filipino Inventors by bringing their inventions to public and potential investors and commercialization partners. It is also a venue to stimulate and encourage inventiveness and ingenuity of Filipino youth and the technically-oriented sectors in the country.
2010 NICE will also feature Non-Contest Invention Exhibits and Inventors’ Fair and Seminars/Fora. The Opening Ceremonies will be held on Thursday, 25 November 2010 (Thursday), 10:00 a.m. Viewing of Exhibits is scheduled from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. ADMISSION IS FREE!!!
Inventors, makers, designers, researchers, entrepreneurs and would-be entrepreneurs, students and S&T enthusiasts are enjoined to participate and celebrate in this year’s NICE.
It is an important gathering of Filipino inventors and innovators supported by the Federation of Filipino – Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FFCCCII), Chemrez Technologies, Inc., and Philippine Development Alternatives Foundation (PDAF). (TAPI/POLucena, DOST V/PIA/mal)
TWO BICOL TOWNS GET DILG “GOOD HOUSEKEEPING SEAL” AWARD
LEGAZPI CITY --- Two Bicol towns were among the 15 towns across the country that were awarded on Monday (October 18) the “good housekeeping seal” for their exemplary performance in governance, including promotion of transparency and accountability, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) in Bicol said.
Blandino Maceda, DILG regional director, said the towns of Sto Domingo in Albay and Mobo in Masbate were among the top awardees of the good housekeeping seal among other 4th-5th class municipalities in the country.
The awarding rites held at Malacanang, Palace, highlighted the Launching of New Initiatives with President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III in celebration of the 20th year of Local Autonomy.
Albay Gov. Joey Salceda, who accompanied Sto Domingo Mayor Herbie Aguas in Malacanang, commended the political leadership of Aguas for being the recipient of the house keeping seal.
Salceda said “We congratulate the people of Sto. Domingo and its political leadership under Mayor Herbie Aguas.”
In the statement Salceda goes on to explain that in a recent comparative analysis on Human Development Index (HDI) of the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) performance, Sto. Domingo also came out on top followed by Polangui, Albay among our 18 LGUs.
The two Bicol towns that belong to the 4th and 5th class municipalities that were bestowed the seal received P2 million each.
Maceda said Sto Dominog and Mobo towns were picked based on their performance in governance particularly in the areas of planning, fiscal management, transparency and accountability.
The awardees would also be qualified to avail of the Performance Challenge Fund (PCF) where they can acquire necessary funds for the development of their respective municipalities.
The PCF is part of the DILG’s proposed P86.9 billion budget for 2011. (PNA Bicol/PIA/mal)
POWER COOP IN GEOTHERMAL-RICE SORSOGON IN SEARCH FOR ENERGY SUPPLIER
By Danny O. Calleja
SORSOGON CITY — Sorsogon Electric Cooperative (SORECO) II covering the first district of Sorsogon province that plays host to a giant geothermal energy production project is looking for a power supplier vice the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM).
WESM is a creation of the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) of 2001 that opened a venue where electricity from power-producing companies are centrally coordinated and traded like any other commodity in a market of goods in a level playing field with prices driven by the law of supply and demand.
The WESM in its web site said its role in the country's overall energy reform is to create a fair, transparent and reliable trading environment that will attract investments and encourage healthy competition leading to the ultimate objective of cheaper electricity for all consumers.
SORECO II wants another supplier to dispel the exorbitant power rates of the WESM that trigger considerable amount of increases owing to its higher generation and system loss charges, among others, Isagani Mendoza, a member of the cooperative’s Board of Directors, on Tuesday said.
“We have been under the mercy of WESM since last month when the government-owned National Power Corporation and Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management (PSALM) Corporation did not renew our supply contract,” Mendoza said.
No explanation could be had as to why the NPC/PSALM declined to renew its supply contract with the cooperative and Mendoza said they themselves at the Board do not have the exact idea to answer the question correctly.
A flier of notice being distributed by the cooperative to its member-consumers says that “since last August 26 and until a new supplier is found, SORECO II had no choice but derive its power supply from the WESM and pay whatever amount it would charge.”
Similar to the stock market, power rates of WESM are not permanent. They may increase or decrease based on the Time of Use (TOU) and prevailing cost, it explained.
Immediately affected, the flier said the generation charge and whatever the amount billed upon the cooperative will also be the amount it would collect from the end users.
The rise or fall of the generation charge will also affect the system loss charge being collected by the cooperative from its member-consumers and that explains why the same charge along with the generation charge also increased during the latest statements of account received by each of them, it said.
The other items in the bill like the distribution, supply and meter reading charges remain at their original rates and will not be moved unless ordered by the Energy Regulatory Board (ERC), the flier added.
Percival Alvarez, the SORECO II general manager said “we are doing our best to find a new supplier that can be of help to the cooperative and could provide unwavering power service to all its nearly 500,000 member-consumers”.
“And until we find one, Alvarez said, “our situation will be similar to the fate of most of the cooperatives and power distribution utilities in the Bicol region or elsewhere in the country whose supply contracts were not renewed by the NPC/PSALM: enduring the higher cost of power supply from the WESM”.
Power bills covering consumption between August 26 and September 30 issued by SORECO II to its consumers over the weekend carries with it the additional burden: generation and system loss charges up by a total of over P2 per kilowatt-hour (kwh) of consumption compared to the July-August billing when the cooperative’s supply contract with the NPC was still in effect.
From P4.8514 per kwh in July-August, the generation charge rose to P5.9429 in August-September.
As a result, a household that consumed 100 kwh between August and September had to pay about P1,400, some P400 more that what was charged for the same amount of consumption in the previous months when the supply was still from the NPC. Rate of electricity in the province reaches over P10 per kwh.
Mendoza said, the situation is very unfortunate for the first district of Sorsogon that covers this city where the Bacon-Manito (BacMan) geothermal energy complex of the Energy Development Corporation (EDC) sits at an expansive reservation covering Mt. Inang Maharang at the boundaries of Bacon area and Manito, Albay.
BacMan, from where the Luzon Grid draws 110 megawatts of energy is also where the geothermal power plants of the NPC that converts the geothermal steam into electricity are situated.
Meanwhile, the SORECO II over the weekend announced that it is already accepting applications for the five percent discount in power consumption of senior citizens.
The privilege is in connection with the implementation of Republic Act 9994 or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010, according to Alvarez.
Qualified for the rebate, he said are senior citizens whose electricity consumptions do not exceed 100 kwh per month.
Under the new law, senior citizen centers or residential care institutions like group homes are also entitled to discounts in power bill payments as much as 50 percent, Alvarez added. (PNA Bicol/PIA/mal)
LA NIÑA UPDATE:
ONSET OF LA NIÑA 2010
Early stages of cold conditions in the equatorial Pacific Ocean that started in July 2010 continue to persist and further strengthened reaching the La Niña threshold level as shown by the recent oceanic and atmospheric indicators. The weak to moderate La Niña event is likely to continue at least until early 2011, as suggested by the dynamical and statistical model forecasts.
La Niña periods are usually associated with above normal rainfall across most areas of the country during the last quarter of the year and early months (Jan-Mar) of the following year. Climate pattern in the country during the months of August and September (Northern Hemisphere summer) was generally influenced by the moderate to strong easterlies, one of the key indicators of typical La Niña event. Impact of this was below normal rainfall in most areas of Luzon during August and most areas of the country during September indicated weak southwest monsoon activity.
With the persistent anomalous strengthen of the easterlies over the central and western tropical Pacific, enhanced rainfall during October-December season is likely, coinciding with the start of the northeast monsoon period. Near normal to above normal rainfall condition is expected over most areas of Luzon and generally, near normal over the rest of the country.
The present La Niña episode may adversely impact on domestic, water supply, agriculture and the health sector. This may also cause flood, flashflood and rain-induced landslides in hazard-prone areas.
PAGASA will continue to closely monitor these conditions and regular updates/advisories shall be issued as appropriate. Meanwhile, all government agencies and the public are advised to take precautionary measures to mitigate the potential impacts of this event. (PAGASA /PIA/mal)
LA NIÑA ADVISORY NO. 1
Persistent cooling of the sea surface temperature (SST) in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean reached the La Niña threshold level last July 2010 as shown by the key atmospheric and oceanic indicators. This further strengthened and is now a weak to moderate La Niña event and likely to continue at least until early 2011, as suggested by the dynamical and statistical model forecasts.
The climatic condition in the country during the least two months was generally influenced by the moderate to strong easterlies, one of the key indicators of typical La Niña event impact of this was below
normal rainfall in most areas of Luzon during August and most areas of the country during September, which indicate a weak southwest monsoon activity. The other weather systems that affected the country during September were the ridge of high pressure area (HPA), intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ), low pressure area (LPA) and two tropical cyclones namely: Tropical Storm “Henry” (September 3-4) and Typhoon ‘Inday’ (September 18-19). These tropical cyclones have no significant effect on the rainfall distribution of the country during the month.
Rainfall assessment for September was below normal in most parts of Luzon, Leyte province and Eastern Mindanao. Near to above normal rainfall was observed over most areas of the Bicol region, Central Visayas, Western and Central Mindanao.
Average air temperature observed during September were slightly warmer than normal in most parts of the country. The actual ranges were as follows: 23 degrees C to 34 degrees C over the lowlands of Luzon, 16 degrees C to 24 degrees C for the mountainous areas of Luzon, 24 degrees C to 33 degrees C for Visayas, 22 degrees C to 34 degrees C over the lowlands of Mindanao, and 17 degrees C to 31 degrees C over the mountainous areas of Mindanao.
Gradual shift of the wind from the southwest to the northeast flow is generally experienced during the later part of September up to October. However, due to the present La Niña event, prevalence of the NE wind flow was already observed.
The northeast (NE) monsoon, ITCZ, the tail end of the cold front, ridge of HPA and three or four tropical cyclones are the weather systems likely to affect the country in October. There is a probability of above normal rainfall condition to be experienced over some areas of Central Luzon, Bicol region, Mindoro provinces and the northern portion of Panay Island and generally near normal over the rest of the country. Predicted ranges or temperature for October are: for Luzon, 22 degrees C to 32 degrees C, the mountainous areas of Luzon from 16 degrees C to 24 degrees C, the Visayas from 23 degrees C to 32 degrees C, Mindanao from 22 degrees C to 32 degrees C, and the mountainous areas of Mindanao from 18 degrees C to 25 degrees C.
PAGASA will continue to monitor the day-to-day weather condition and the large scale climatic patterns that will affect the country. Updates/advisories on the on-going La Niña shall be issued as appropriate. (PAGASA/PIA/mal)
Aquino welcomes UAE Foreign Minister
MANILA — President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomed the United Arab Emirates Foreign Minister, His Highness Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan who called on the Chief Executive in Malacañang on Wednesday (October 20).
His Highness Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan was accompanied to Malacanang by His Excellency Assistant Minister Khalid Al Ghaith and UAE Ambassador to the Philippines Moosa Al Khajah.
Joining the President in welcoming Sheikh Abdullah at Malacañang’s Music Room were Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo, Office of Middle East and African Affairs (OMEAA) Assistant Secretary Virgilio Reyes, Jr and Chief of Presidential Protocol and Presidential Assistant on Foreign Affairs Miguel Perez-Rubio.
In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs said the one-day visit of Sheikh marks the 30th year of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the UAE.
Because of this, the DFA said, “the Philippines will take the visit as an opportunity to reaffirm the importance of ties between the two countries, advance the well-being and welfare of Filipino workers in the UAE, invite the UAE to do business in the Philippines, and seek development assistance for the southern Philippines.”
The DFA added that aside from a government delegation, Sheikh Abdullah was accompanied by “business leaders, including officials of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, and the Abu Dhabi Petroleum Investment Corporation, among others.”
“The UAE business delegation will be meeting and networking with Philippine businessmen and government officials from the energy, trade, development and investments sectors at the sidelines of Sheikh Abdullah's meetings,” the DFA said.
Upon his arrival at the palace grounds, Sheikh Abdullah was accorded military honors by members of the Presidential Security Group Honor Guards.
He was then ushered to the second floor of Malacañang where he signed the Palace Guest Book before a closed-door meeting with the President in the Music Room.
The UAE is the Philippines' second largest trading partner in the Middle East and the second top destination of overseas Filipino workers in the region. (PIA V/mal)
Aquino wants comprehensive plan for poverty reduction
MANILA — President Benigno Aquino III on Tuesday (October 19) urged the Poverty Reduction Cluster to come up with a comprehensive plan that will help alleviate poverty in the country.
In a press briefing in Malacanang, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said President Aquino convened the anti-poverty group on Monday to discuss the ongoing plans and measures towards poverty alleviation.
Secretary Lacierda said the President directed the multi-agency cluster to formulate a master plan that will be implemented in the next five years.
He added that the Chief Executive wanted to have a speedier benchmark system that will gauge the success of the program.
Poverty reduction is one of the centerpiece programs of the government which aims to uplift the living standard of the people.
The cabinet secretaries involved presented their framework for poverty reduction based on the previous discussions amongst themselves.
Present during the meeting are representatives from member-agencies including the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC), Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Department of Budget and Management and the Department of Health (DOH), among others.
Also present is Presidential Adviser on Peace Process Secretary Teresita “Ging” Deles who discussed issues on the peace process affecting poverty reduction.
Recently, the United Nations observed the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, which aims to promote awareness of the necessity to eradicate poverty and destitution in all countries, particularly in developing countries. It has become a development priority among nations. (PIA V/mal)
Aquino satisfied over efficient handling of super-typhoon “Juan”
MANILA — President Benigno S. Aquino III expressed satisfaction over the excellent handling by the national government and local government units (LGUs) of the super-typhoon “Juan” (international codename Megi).
“I am very happy to report to the public that everyone has delivered. The thorough preparations of all concerned agencies are in marked contrast to the official helplessness of the past, and at present, we haven’t had to ask the public to contribute outside resources,” the Chief Executive said in a statement read by Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda on Tuesday (October 19) at the Briefing Room in Malacanang.
According to the President, the excellent handling of the storm allowed him to focus on other equally important matters such as presiding over the Anti-Poverty Cabinet Cluster Meeting and meeting with the Mindanao governors on Monday.
The President noted that Typhoon Juan, the strongest typhoon the world experienced this year with gustly winds of 260 kilometers per hour, left significant damages but minimal loss of life.
He cited the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) through the leadership of Science and Technology Secretary Mario Montejo and Undersecretary Graciano Yumul, for its accurate and timely weather forecasts that prompted other agencies to prepare for Typhoon “Juan.”
The President also commended Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Social Welfare and Development Secretary Corazon “Dinky” Soliman, and National Disaster Risk and Reduction Management Council Executive Director Benito Ramos “for their effective management of their respective mandates” and that the needs of affected communities were promptly delivered.
At the same time, the President extended his deepest sympathies and condolences to the families of those who have lost their loved ones.
Initial reports said Typhoon Juan killed at least 10 people as it generated waves as big as houses and destroyed thousands of hectares of crops.
As the super typhoon is moving away from the Philippines area of responsibility, the President said that work of bringing life back to normal in the soonest possible time is underway.
The President likewise said authorities are now geared up to restore power in areas where power supply was shut down as a precautionary measure while the DSWD is attending to the needs of 8,042 evacuees (as of 6:00AM, October 19, 2010).
He added that affected LGUs were advised to inform concerned agencies if they need any additional assistance.
The President also issued today Memorandum Circular No. 4 suspending office work in Regions I and II and the Cordillera Administrative Region for all non-essential personnel, to allow affected communities to attend to clean up and do rehabilitation work.
He said that the minimal damage and loss of life due to Typhoon Juan can be credited to the cooperation of both the government and the people.
“This should serve as a timely reminder to all to depart ourselves from the notion that government resides or depends on one person. It is the sum of all parts, the product of group effort and individual initiative and responsiveness…we proved that, together, we can mitigate risk; and that Filipinos working together, minimized of the costs of natural disasters,” the President stressed.
He also asked every Filipino to remain vigilant and be prepared for any eventuality until the weather condition improves. (PIA V/mal)
Monday, October 18, 2010
PEACE AND ORDER IS THE KEY TO ECONOMIC GROWTH: SALCEDA
LEGAZPI CITY -- Albay Gov. Joey Salceda said that peace and tranquility are among the key elements in measuring Bicol's robust economic growth area in the country.
“Let me emphasize that the absence of conflict and the semblance of peace and order are economic factors with the highest economic returns,” said Salceda
Salceda in his visit at the 9th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army (PA) headquarters in Pili, Camarines Sur on Saturday said that the economic growth of the region was mainly due to the successful security operations of the Philippine Army.
Salceda claimed that in 2009, Bicol became one of the fastest growing economy in the country with a rate of 8.2% growth as compared to the 1.1% growth of the whole country.
He cited that he expects that this year, Bicol’s economic growth will hit 12.4 percent due to the positive impact on the regions peace and order condition where the Philippine Army’s has been successful in the conduct of security operations.
Salceda commended the officers and men of the 9ID saying, “You’re doing so well in your job (in security operations) in Bicol because of this we are becoming the fastest growing economy.”
The Philippine Army in the Bicol Region has recently been credited for its successful campaign against insurgency.
The insurgency problem in Bicol for the past four decade had been the major obstacle in the region’s economic growth as it has discourage national and foreign investors to put up industries and business here because of the presence of the communist rebels.(PNA Bicol/PIA/mal)
LANDBANK CITES TOP PARTNERS CFI’s
LEGAZPI CITY — The Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) recently honored its outstanding partner countryside financial institutions (CFIs) for their significant support to the Bank’s credit programs aimed at promoting countryside development.
Finance Secretary and LandBank Chairman Cesar V. Purisima and LandBank President and CEO Gilda E. Pico led the conferment of 27 awards with total cash prizes of P2.7 million.
LandBank is now on its 12th year of paying tribute to outstanding CFIs which serve as models of excellence in rural financial services.
LandBank named the Peoples Bank of CARAGA, Inc. from Agusan del Sur as the most outstanding CFI in the national category followed by the Zambales Rural Bank, Inc. in Olongapo City. The Agribusiness Rural Bank, Inc. in Nueva Vizcaya bagged the third place while the Asian Hills Bank, Inc. in Bukidnon and the Rural Bank of Goa, Inc. in Camarines Sur landed in fourth and fifth places, respectively.
The first, second and third place winners in the national level received P300,000; P200,000; and P150,000 respectively while the fourth and fifth place winners received P100,000 and P75,000, respectively.
Elevated to the Hall of Fame Award which received a plaque and cash prize of P300,000 was the Rural Bank of Marayo, Inc. in Negros Occidental.
LandBank also gave citations and a cash prize of P50,000 each to the most outstanding rural banks in 12 political regions:
Region 1 – Rural Bank of Lingayen, Inc.
Region 2 – Agribusiness Rural Bank, Inc.
Region 3 – Zambales Rural Bank, Inc.
CALABARZON – Bangko Kabayan (A Rural Bank), Inc.
Region 5 – Rural Bank of Goa, Inc.
Region 6 – Progressive Bank, Inc.
Region 8 – Rural Bank of Hilongos, Inc.
Region 9 – Rural Bank of Pres. M. Roxas (ZDN), Inc.
Region 10 – Asian Hills Bank, Inc.
Region 11 – Rural Bank of Digos, Inc.
Region 12 – Partner Rural Bank (Cotabato), Inc.
CARAGA – Peoples Bank of CARAGA, Inc.
NCR – Enterprise Capital Bank, Inc.
Special awards were also give to the Gateway Rural Bank, Inc. of Bulacan as Best CFI Intermediary; Zambales Rural Bank, Inc. as Best CFI Availer – Agri/Agra Loans; Rural Bank of Lingayen, Inc. of Pangasinan as Best CFI Availer – Microfinance Loans; Rural Bank of Porac, Inc. of Pampanga as Best CFI Availer – All Loans; Rural Bank of Digos, Inc. as Best in Capital Build-Up; Peoples Bank of CARAGA, Inc. as Best in Reciprocal Business; and the Progressive Bank, Inc. of Iloilo as Best in Profitability.
The recipient of the Golden Award this year is the Rural Bank of Pola, Inc. from Oriental Mindoro. The Golden Award recognizes the Bank’s past Hall of Fame awardees that have sustained highly sound and profitable operation while maintaining support to the small farmers and fisherfolk. The winner received a plaque and P350,00 as cash prize.
“We at LandBank consider the countryside financial institutions as vital partners in facilitating growth and development. They are key players in delivering timely credit to marginalized sectors in the rural areas, that is why we continue to expand our assistance to them,” LandBank president and CEO Gilda E. Pico said.
From January to June 2010, LandBank loan releases to 265 CFIs reached P8.18 billion, 3.1 per cent higher than the P7.93 billion released in the same period last year. These loans benefited 146,015 small farmers, fisherfolk, and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) nationwide. (LBP Legazpi City/PIA/mal)
COMELEC NAMES 311 ELECTION HOTSPOTS IN BICOL
LEGAZPI CITY – The Bicol region has 311 election hotspots that are under tight watch by the Philippine Army, the Philippine National Police the Commission on Elections and the respective local government units, according to an army officer in Bicol.
Major Harold Cabunoc, Army’s 9th Infantry Division spokesman, said that Bicol Region has 70 villages placed as Category 1 and 241 villages as Category 2 of the COMELEC’s tally of election watch lists of areas (EWAS) or “hotspots”.
“A Category 1 election ‘hotspot’ refers to areas where there are intense political rivalry and where armed groups supporting various politicians are present. Meanwhile, the presence or influence of the NPA rebel in certain areas makes them (villages) as Category 2 election “hotspots” Cabunoc said.
Masbate tops the list with 69 villages placed under Category 1 and 103 villages as Category 2 ‘hotspots’.
Sorsogon has 61 villages as Category 2 ‘hotspots’ with Gubat town having the most number with 13 followed by Sorsogon City with 10 villages.
The AFP and PNP earned accolades for their successful security operations during the May 2010 elections with the least number of election-related violent incidents (ERVIs) as compared to the 2004 and 2007 elections. The said national election was said to be the most peaceful in Bicol’s election history.
Army soldiers have intensified its area security patrols as part of its tasking by the COMELEC in preparation to the upcoming local elections. Soldiers also support the manning of checkpoints which is primarily tasked to the PNP. (RENasol, PNA Bicol/PIA/mal)
FIRE BUREAU INSPECTS ESTABLISHMENTS FOR FIRE SAFETY COMPLIANCE
SORSOGON CITY — The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in Sorsogon City is conducting an advance inspection to all establishments in anticipation for the yearly one-stop-shop program to facilitate business permits and licenses’ renewal in January next year, according to the agency’s top official.
Fire Marshal Chief Inspector Renato Badong Marcial of BFP station here said the program is to give time to business owners comply with the recommendations given by our fire safety inspectors adding that it is merely about their permits and licenses but more on public safety to avert fire incidents.
Safety Inspection Certificate (FSIC) which is being issued by the BFP is considered necessary as a pre-requisite for the issuance of business permit and licenses.
Marcial furthered that the agency is one of the members of the Joint Inspection Team, along with Offices of Permits and Licenses Section, City Treasurer’s Office, City Health Office, City Engineering Office, City Environmental and Natural Resources Office, City Zoning Administrator’s Office and the City Veterinary Office.
It can be recalled that the BFP is strictly implementing RA 9514 otherwise known as the “Fire Code of the Philippines of 2008” to ensure public safety, promote economic development through the prevention and suppression of all kinds of destructive fires, and promote the professionalization of the fire service as a profession.
Under the said law the BFP shall enforce all laws, rules, and regulations to ensure adherence to standard fire prevention and safety measures, and promote accountability in the fire protection and prevention services.
Marcial further reminded the applicant to strictly conform to the fire safety standard and regulations of the BFP. “Once an establishment violated the Fire Code of the Philippines, a notice to correct violation at a given grace period is conferred; on the other hand if the owner failed to comply with the recommendations of the fire safety inspector then they will be penalized with a corresponding amount of fine stipulated in the fire code and this will be paid to the authorized collecting officer of the province.
The Fire Safety Enforcement Section (FSES) of the BFP, Sorsogon City has recorded a total of 821 FSICs issued to different establishments from the month of January up to present.
For the applicant’s benefit, here are the lists of the requirements needed for FSIC issuance:
Photocopy of electrical inspection certificate (City Engineering Office)
Fire Code Fees Assessment (City Treasurer’s Office)
Fire Code Fees Payment (Collecting Officer of BFP)
Photocopy of Insurance Policy Contract (If there is)
Documentary Stamp (1 piece)
BFP Sorsogon City will continue to strictly enforce the fire code thus, bestowed by law, it has the authority to revoke the permit of any establishment to operate up to the extent of closing it if found to be a fire hazard and mainly violating the fire safety rules and regulations. (FO1 MGLEbio, BFP Sorsogon City/PIA/mal)
NATIONAL CHILDREN’S MONTH AND 21ST NATIONAL STATISTICS MONTH OBSERVANCE ON
DAET, CAMARINES NORTE – A Statistical Exhibit and Gallery of Child Friendly Movement (CFM) activities was formally opened last Monday (October 11) in consonance with the National Children’s Month and 21st National Statistics Month Celebration.
The statistical exhibit features statistics on the situation of women and children in the province while the gallery are photos of activities of the good practices for CFM.
This year’s theme for children’s month “ Kung Bright Child ang Gusto, Mundo’y Ingatan Mo”.
The opening rites was spearheaded by the Provincial Government through Provincial Administrator Jose Boma and Provincial Planning and Development Officer Architect Madonna Abular and Provincial Statistics Officer Rodolfo Guevarra of the National Statistics Office (NSO).
This year’s theme for the statistics month “Towards a Philippine Statistical System Responsive to Emerging National and Global Challenges”.
Also held Monday was the dialogue of pillars of justice system and the start of the one week garantisadong pambata, Philippine Statistics Quiz (PSQ) provincial level and observance of national hand washing day and tooth brushing for school children was held on October 15 while the orientation/advocacy to local media and child youth leaders on October 15-16.
The Division Science and Math Quest on October 21-23, Children’s Play Day for Pre-School on October 22 and on October 28 will be the CFM Assembly to highlight the Presentation of Provincial State of the Children’s Report and Provincial Nutrition Awarding Ceremony.
The last week will be the Division Read-a-thon and the Provincial Day Care Children’s Congress on Oct. 29.
Activities conducted already were radio guesting and the “Sagot mo I-DevInfo Mo” on October 7-15 while the hanging of streamers, annual search for child friendly barangay and municipal day care children congress will be for the whole month of October.
Earlier, Governor Edgardo Tallado has issued an Executive Order No. 2010-33 approving the celebration of Children’s Month in the province through appropriate activities. (RBManlangit, PIA Cam Norte)
CSC BICOL JOINS THE 2010 WORLD FOOD DAY
LEGAZPI CITY — In line with the “World Food Day Celebration” (WFD) the Civil Service Commission (CSC) in Bicol joins Bicolanos in celebrating the 2010 World Food Day celebration from October 11-16, 2010 with the theme “United Against Hunger”.
As partners in the annual celebration of this Global Affair, the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) have lined-up several activities/events commencing with the nationwide Reading of WFD Pledge during the flag raising ceremony on Monday, October 11, 2010.
To ensure the success of the celebration, all government agencies are encouraged to conduct a simultaneous flag raising ceremony, reading of pledge to kick-off the WDF celebration, and to hang WFD tarpaulins or streamers.
Among other activities/events held in several venues include reading of pledge to kick-off the WFD celebration and to hang WFD tarpaulin/streamers, ceremonial lighting of candle together with DA key officials and FAO representatives at the start of the program, nationwide On-the-Spot Poster Making Contest, urban gardening in elementary schools in Metro Manila, distribution of planting materials such as seeds, seedlings and IEC materials, milk feeding program for elementary school participants, mangrove reforestation and fingerling dispersal, showcasing and retail-selling of organically grown food products (fresh/processed, food sampling/tasting). (CSC V/PIA/mal)
LAND SERVICES MANUAL OUT
LEGAZPI CITY — Adhering to the Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007 (R.A. 9485), the Land Management Bureau (LMB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has launched its Key Services Manual to enhance the land management and administration skills of its land sector personnel nationwide to the benefit of the public.
“It is very encouraging to see that the Public Service Excellence Development Program (PSEDP) of the LMB has paved the way for the development of the manual which seeks to equip the lands sector personnel with appropriate knowledge and skills that will enable them to provide efficient land-related services to the people,” DENR Secretary Ramon J.P. Paje said.
Paje said the manual, which contains the key procedures in conducting land survey and land titling, among others, conforms to the DENR Citizen’s Charter.
The DENR Citizen’s Charter identifies the frontline services of the department, covering those that are frequently rendered to the public such as land, forestry and protected areas and wildlife transactions. Specifically on land sector, Paje said the DENR Charter gives emphasis on the application and processing of free patents and the issuance of land survey authority.
The Land Key Services Manual also serves to aid the public on how to avail of such services from the land bureau as it identifies the documents that need to be submitted by the clients, including the required fees, response time ad the person responsible in the processing of applications. It also features an improved integrated service delivery system, effective feedback processes from customers as well as an updated accountability structure, including.
The Land Management Bureau is DER’s staff bureau in charge of formulating plans, policies and programs of the land sector. It also undertakes project development, monitoring and evaluation activities related to land surveys and titling.
LMB Director Allan V. Barcena said the key services manual is among the information materials developed to expedite the processing of applications ad other land-related transactions in the land bureau. He also said that the manual aims to promote greater transparency and accountability among LMB employees.
Barcena also said the development of the Key Services Manual was made possible through a technical assistance provided by the Philippines-Australia Human Resource Development Facility (PHRDF) and the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID).
He also said the manual was a product of intense training and coaching by selected LMB personnel as they go through the development of service guides for each of the critical frontline services of the LMB such as land administration and utilization, records management, legal, geodetic surveys, administrative and finance and planning management. (LMB-DENR V/PIA/mal)
Palace confident on gov't disaster preparedness plan
MANILA — Malacanang expressed confidence in the inter-agency preparedness plan of the government in the wake of possible damages expected from super typhoon “Juan”.
During the meeting of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) at Camp Aguinaldo on Monday (October 18) , Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. said the government is confident that the preparedness plans of various agencies are enough to address the possible damage typhoon “Juan” could pose particularly in the provinces of Cagayan, Isabela, Kalinga, Mt. Province and Ifugao.
Considering the early deployment of the Quick Response Teams (QRT), Ochoa stressed the urgency of sustaining the preparations and alertness to assure a zero-casualty target.
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Corazon “Dinky” Soliman said a total of 3,832 volunteers have been deployed to assess and manage the relief operations in Regions I, II, III, IV-A, IV-B, V, the National Capital Region (NCR) and the Cordillera Autonomous Region (CAR) including their central office.
Soliman noted that part of their Prepositioned Emergency Relief Resources is a standby fund amounting to P2,827,456.23 covering the affected areas.
The DSWD also prepositioned P360,000 worth of 2,000 family packs which are ready for transport and hauling to affected areas in addition to the stockpile in their field offices.
The department has also allocated an additional P2 million as standby funds at P500,000 each for CAR and Region 1 and P1 million for Region 2.
The National and Regional Disaster Response Operations Monitoring and Information Centers are on 24/7 operations for data generation and in close coordination with the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the NDRRMC at all levels.
A total of 627 families or 3,066 persons have been evacuated in the provinces of Cagayan and Isabela.
Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson said the water level in Angat Dam was pegged at 180.66 meters, way below the critical spilling level of 192 to 198 meters.
The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said typhoon “Juan” (international code name: Megi) has maximum winds of 225 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 260 kph.
As of 4 a.m. Monday, its center has been located 220 km East of Tuguegarao City moving west southwest at 19 kph on a 350 km radius.
It was forecasted to be at 100 km Northwest of Baguio City by Tuesday morning and 560 km West Northwest of Baguio City on Wednesday morning. (PIA V/mal)
Aquino bares plans to improve RP healthcare
MANILA — President Benigno S. Aquino III announced that the Department of Health’s budget will be increased in next year’s General Appropriation Act to ensure that more Filipinos will be provided greater access to healthcare.
In his speech keynoting the joint opening of the International Federation of Head and Neck Oncologic Societies (IFHNOS) and the Philippine Societies of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (PSO-HNS) conventions at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Pasig City on Sunday (October 17) , the Chief Executive said the 13.6 percent increase in the DoH’s 2011 budget would be used to increase the coverage of Philhealth “to five million families in three years or less.”
“In the area of healthcare, there is much more that needs to be done, but here is what we have done so far: We have increased the budget of the Department of Health by 13.6 percent next year. Much of that money will go to public health centers,” the President said.
According to the President, universal health care “is created particularly for our poor countrymen. We aim to protect them not only from the undesirable health effects but also from the adverse financial implications of diseases, illnesses and emergencies.”
“We aim to do this by improving the coverage and benefits of PhilHealth, our national health insurance agency,” he stressed.
A couple of weeks back, the President noted that the government, through the DoH conducted the National PhilHealth Registration Day, and enrolled more than 192,000 poor families. We will not stop here. In the coming weeks, enrollment of more indigent families will continue as we have proposed P3.5 billion in the DOH budget for this purpose. Our aim is to cover about five million Filipino families in three years or less,” he added.
The President emphasized that while the government is committed to increasing the number of people Philhealth can accommodate, it is also incumbent upon itself to improve the benefits that the national health insurance agency gives to its members.
“We are not only increasing coverage, we are also increasing their benefits. Head and neck injuries and surgery, including treatment, are covered by Philhealth insurance. If the patients become aware of their entitlements, benefits and their responsibilities of being a Philhealth member, we will make Philhealth work better for its members especially for our poor countrymen,” the President said.
“This will not only save thousands of families from the impoverishing of disease and illness, it will save thousands of lives,” he said.
The President also announced that government healthcare facilities will be upgraded to ensure that government will respond better to the health needs of our countrymen.
“Furthermore, we will upgrade the state of government facilities all over the country. They have long suffered from neglect and misplaced priorities. We will improve our hospitals, rural health units and health centers by providing them functional equipment and competent health workers based on their needs,” the President said.
He explained that this will enable his administration to “better respond to the health needs of our countrymen and we will do away with the statistic that says 40 percent of our population never get to see a health professional.”
All these, the President said, were the “concrete steps” his administration were taking “to improve the country’s education and health care system for those of us who have less in life.” (PIA V/mal)
PCCI submits 10-point agenda to President Aquino
MANILA — The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry has urged President Benigno S. Aquino III to convene the Legislative Economic Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) so he can present the sector’s 10-point priority agenda to enhance business competitiveness.
The agenda, part of the 36th PBC Resolutions read by Benjamin Philip Romualdez, conference chairman, includes: a) crafting a National Industrialization Plan; b) a National Infrastructure Development Plan with a Public Private Partnership Framework; c) defining key energy and power objectives in terms of supply reliability and quality, rate/tariff, competitiveness and sustainability; d) ensuring stability and consistency of policies for the mining industry.
It calls for the modernization of agriculture with the full implementation of the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act (Republic Act 8435) and a review of the entire Philippine tax system.
The PCCI also called for investment promotions for the tourism industry and the adoption of the Business Permits and Licensing System as an integral part of the government’s business process reform initiatives.
Business leaders also want a full implementation of the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 as well as a review of existing trade agreements.
Romualdez said President Aquino’s first 100-Day report cited among others that procurement contracts earlier approved are now keenly reviewed, with a number of contracts cancelled and subjected to new bidding resulting in substantial savings in public works and agriculture projects. More efficient use of funds has allowed government savings to be channeled to social services.
“With the Millennium Challenge Corporation’s grant of $434-M to the Philippine Government, efforts to reduce poverty by addressing corruption and building and rehabilitation of infrastructure, which will improve access of farmers, fisherfolk, cottage industries, micro and small enterprises to markets, will further raise the economic profile of the country,” Romualdez said.
Propelling the country on a growth trajectory are the global competitiveness ranking which climbed four notches, following a series of progressive decline; GDP growth in the first and second quarter of the year at 7.2 percent and 7.9 percent, respectively; renewed investors’ confidence in government; record-high stock market index at 4,196.73 points; strengthening peso; and, steady prices of good, Romualdez said. (PIA V/mal)
Aquino names envoys to Cambodia, Brunei
MANILA — President Benigno S. Aquino has appointed Noe Wong as Ambassador to Cambodia and Nestor Ochoa as ambassador to Brunei Darussalam.
The President also appointed Vicente T. Hualdo Jr. as Commissioner representing the shipping sector of the Cebu Port Authority along with Engr. Ben Acol; Arturo R. Barit, representing the cargo handling sector and Atty Joselito Pedaria; Engr. Carlos G. Co and Engr. Dennis Villamor, representing the business sector. The Cebu Port Authority is under the Department of Transportation and Communication.
Last October 12, the President confirmed his appointment of Manila Electric Co. chairman Manuel Lopez as the ambassador to Japan, vice Domingo Siazon Jr. who held the post during the Ramos administration before becoming Secretary of Foreign Affairs under President Estrada. Lopez is the second member of the influential Lopez clan to be part of Aquino's administration.
The President retained Mercedes Tuason as the Philippine ambassador to the Vatican. (PIA V/mal)
Palace tells candidates for barangay/S.K. positions: Being elected is not the only way to serve the people
MANILA — Malacanang cautioned the candidates for the coming barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections on Oct. 25 not to resort to violence and killings “as this is just an election and being voted upon is not the only way to be of service to the people.”
In an interview with Radyo ng Bayan Saturday (October 16), Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said “we should not resort to violence or other undesirable means just to be elected into office as serving the people does not end with getting elected.”
Go slow and do not be too emotional or excited as this might distract your focus. Let us all work together to ensure that the coming election will be clean and that the results will reflect the genuine sentiments of the voters, Valte added.
Last week, President Aquino ordered Philippine National Police Chief Gen. Raul Bacalzo to look into the killing of a candidate for kagawad and put the perpetrators before the bar of justice so that no other similar incidents will happen as the elections near.
Bacalzo said the President asked him to impose stricter measures to ensure that such poll violence will not occur again. (PIA V/mal
LEGAZPI CITY -- Albay Gov. Joey Salceda said that peace and tranquility are among the key elements in measuring Bicol's robust economic growth area in the country.
“Let me emphasize that the absence of conflict and the semblance of peace and order are economic factors with the highest economic returns,” said Salceda
Salceda in his visit at the 9th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army (PA) headquarters in Pili, Camarines Sur on Saturday said that the economic growth of the region was mainly due to the successful security operations of the Philippine Army.
Salceda claimed that in 2009, Bicol became one of the fastest growing economy in the country with a rate of 8.2% growth as compared to the 1.1% growth of the whole country.
He cited that he expects that this year, Bicol’s economic growth will hit 12.4 percent due to the positive impact on the regions peace and order condition where the Philippine Army’s has been successful in the conduct of security operations.
Salceda commended the officers and men of the 9ID saying, “You’re doing so well in your job (in security operations) in Bicol because of this we are becoming the fastest growing economy.”
The Philippine Army in the Bicol Region has recently been credited for its successful campaign against insurgency.
The insurgency problem in Bicol for the past four decade had been the major obstacle in the region’s economic growth as it has discourage national and foreign investors to put up industries and business here because of the presence of the communist rebels.(PNA Bicol/PIA/mal)
LANDBANK CITES TOP PARTNERS CFI’s
LEGAZPI CITY — The Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) recently honored its outstanding partner countryside financial institutions (CFIs) for their significant support to the Bank’s credit programs aimed at promoting countryside development.
Finance Secretary and LandBank Chairman Cesar V. Purisima and LandBank President and CEO Gilda E. Pico led the conferment of 27 awards with total cash prizes of P2.7 million.
LandBank is now on its 12th year of paying tribute to outstanding CFIs which serve as models of excellence in rural financial services.
LandBank named the Peoples Bank of CARAGA, Inc. from Agusan del Sur as the most outstanding CFI in the national category followed by the Zambales Rural Bank, Inc. in Olongapo City. The Agribusiness Rural Bank, Inc. in Nueva Vizcaya bagged the third place while the Asian Hills Bank, Inc. in Bukidnon and the Rural Bank of Goa, Inc. in Camarines Sur landed in fourth and fifth places, respectively.
The first, second and third place winners in the national level received P300,000; P200,000; and P150,000 respectively while the fourth and fifth place winners received P100,000 and P75,000, respectively.
Elevated to the Hall of Fame Award which received a plaque and cash prize of P300,000 was the Rural Bank of Marayo, Inc. in Negros Occidental.
LandBank also gave citations and a cash prize of P50,000 each to the most outstanding rural banks in 12 political regions:
Region 1 – Rural Bank of Lingayen, Inc.
Region 2 – Agribusiness Rural Bank, Inc.
Region 3 – Zambales Rural Bank, Inc.
CALABARZON – Bangko Kabayan (A Rural Bank), Inc.
Region 5 – Rural Bank of Goa, Inc.
Region 6 – Progressive Bank, Inc.
Region 8 – Rural Bank of Hilongos, Inc.
Region 9 – Rural Bank of Pres. M. Roxas (ZDN), Inc.
Region 10 – Asian Hills Bank, Inc.
Region 11 – Rural Bank of Digos, Inc.
Region 12 – Partner Rural Bank (Cotabato), Inc.
CARAGA – Peoples Bank of CARAGA, Inc.
NCR – Enterprise Capital Bank, Inc.
Special awards were also give to the Gateway Rural Bank, Inc. of Bulacan as Best CFI Intermediary; Zambales Rural Bank, Inc. as Best CFI Availer – Agri/Agra Loans; Rural Bank of Lingayen, Inc. of Pangasinan as Best CFI Availer – Microfinance Loans; Rural Bank of Porac, Inc. of Pampanga as Best CFI Availer – All Loans; Rural Bank of Digos, Inc. as Best in Capital Build-Up; Peoples Bank of CARAGA, Inc. as Best in Reciprocal Business; and the Progressive Bank, Inc. of Iloilo as Best in Profitability.
The recipient of the Golden Award this year is the Rural Bank of Pola, Inc. from Oriental Mindoro. The Golden Award recognizes the Bank’s past Hall of Fame awardees that have sustained highly sound and profitable operation while maintaining support to the small farmers and fisherfolk. The winner received a plaque and P350,00 as cash prize.
“We at LandBank consider the countryside financial institutions as vital partners in facilitating growth and development. They are key players in delivering timely credit to marginalized sectors in the rural areas, that is why we continue to expand our assistance to them,” LandBank president and CEO Gilda E. Pico said.
From January to June 2010, LandBank loan releases to 265 CFIs reached P8.18 billion, 3.1 per cent higher than the P7.93 billion released in the same period last year. These loans benefited 146,015 small farmers, fisherfolk, and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) nationwide. (LBP Legazpi City/PIA/mal)
COMELEC NAMES 311 ELECTION HOTSPOTS IN BICOL
LEGAZPI CITY – The Bicol region has 311 election hotspots that are under tight watch by the Philippine Army, the Philippine National Police the Commission on Elections and the respective local government units, according to an army officer in Bicol.
Major Harold Cabunoc, Army’s 9th Infantry Division spokesman, said that Bicol Region has 70 villages placed as Category 1 and 241 villages as Category 2 of the COMELEC’s tally of election watch lists of areas (EWAS) or “hotspots”.
“A Category 1 election ‘hotspot’ refers to areas where there are intense political rivalry and where armed groups supporting various politicians are present. Meanwhile, the presence or influence of the NPA rebel in certain areas makes them (villages) as Category 2 election “hotspots” Cabunoc said.
Masbate tops the list with 69 villages placed under Category 1 and 103 villages as Category 2 ‘hotspots’.
Sorsogon has 61 villages as Category 2 ‘hotspots’ with Gubat town having the most number with 13 followed by Sorsogon City with 10 villages.
The AFP and PNP earned accolades for their successful security operations during the May 2010 elections with the least number of election-related violent incidents (ERVIs) as compared to the 2004 and 2007 elections. The said national election was said to be the most peaceful in Bicol’s election history.
Army soldiers have intensified its area security patrols as part of its tasking by the COMELEC in preparation to the upcoming local elections. Soldiers also support the manning of checkpoints which is primarily tasked to the PNP. (RENasol, PNA Bicol/PIA/mal)
FIRE BUREAU INSPECTS ESTABLISHMENTS FOR FIRE SAFETY COMPLIANCE
SORSOGON CITY — The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in Sorsogon City is conducting an advance inspection to all establishments in anticipation for the yearly one-stop-shop program to facilitate business permits and licenses’ renewal in January next year, according to the agency’s top official.
Fire Marshal Chief Inspector Renato Badong Marcial of BFP station here said the program is to give time to business owners comply with the recommendations given by our fire safety inspectors adding that it is merely about their permits and licenses but more on public safety to avert fire incidents.
Safety Inspection Certificate (FSIC) which is being issued by the BFP is considered necessary as a pre-requisite for the issuance of business permit and licenses.
Marcial furthered that the agency is one of the members of the Joint Inspection Team, along with Offices of Permits and Licenses Section, City Treasurer’s Office, City Health Office, City Engineering Office, City Environmental and Natural Resources Office, City Zoning Administrator’s Office and the City Veterinary Office.
It can be recalled that the BFP is strictly implementing RA 9514 otherwise known as the “Fire Code of the Philippines of 2008” to ensure public safety, promote economic development through the prevention and suppression of all kinds of destructive fires, and promote the professionalization of the fire service as a profession.
Under the said law the BFP shall enforce all laws, rules, and regulations to ensure adherence to standard fire prevention and safety measures, and promote accountability in the fire protection and prevention services.
Marcial further reminded the applicant to strictly conform to the fire safety standard and regulations of the BFP. “Once an establishment violated the Fire Code of the Philippines, a notice to correct violation at a given grace period is conferred; on the other hand if the owner failed to comply with the recommendations of the fire safety inspector then they will be penalized with a corresponding amount of fine stipulated in the fire code and this will be paid to the authorized collecting officer of the province.
The Fire Safety Enforcement Section (FSES) of the BFP, Sorsogon City has recorded a total of 821 FSICs issued to different establishments from the month of January up to present.
For the applicant’s benefit, here are the lists of the requirements needed for FSIC issuance:
Photocopy of electrical inspection certificate (City Engineering Office)
Fire Code Fees Assessment (City Treasurer’s Office)
Fire Code Fees Payment (Collecting Officer of BFP)
Photocopy of Insurance Policy Contract (If there is)
Documentary Stamp (1 piece)
BFP Sorsogon City will continue to strictly enforce the fire code thus, bestowed by law, it has the authority to revoke the permit of any establishment to operate up to the extent of closing it if found to be a fire hazard and mainly violating the fire safety rules and regulations. (FO1 MGLEbio, BFP Sorsogon City/PIA/mal)
NATIONAL CHILDREN’S MONTH AND 21ST NATIONAL STATISTICS MONTH OBSERVANCE ON
DAET, CAMARINES NORTE – A Statistical Exhibit and Gallery of Child Friendly Movement (CFM) activities was formally opened last Monday (October 11) in consonance with the National Children’s Month and 21st National Statistics Month Celebration.
The statistical exhibit features statistics on the situation of women and children in the province while the gallery are photos of activities of the good practices for CFM.
This year’s theme for children’s month “ Kung Bright Child ang Gusto, Mundo’y Ingatan Mo”.
The opening rites was spearheaded by the Provincial Government through Provincial Administrator Jose Boma and Provincial Planning and Development Officer Architect Madonna Abular and Provincial Statistics Officer Rodolfo Guevarra of the National Statistics Office (NSO).
This year’s theme for the statistics month “Towards a Philippine Statistical System Responsive to Emerging National and Global Challenges”.
Also held Monday was the dialogue of pillars of justice system and the start of the one week garantisadong pambata, Philippine Statistics Quiz (PSQ) provincial level and observance of national hand washing day and tooth brushing for school children was held on October 15 while the orientation/advocacy to local media and child youth leaders on October 15-16.
The Division Science and Math Quest on October 21-23, Children’s Play Day for Pre-School on October 22 and on October 28 will be the CFM Assembly to highlight the Presentation of Provincial State of the Children’s Report and Provincial Nutrition Awarding Ceremony.
The last week will be the Division Read-a-thon and the Provincial Day Care Children’s Congress on Oct. 29.
Activities conducted already were radio guesting and the “Sagot mo I-DevInfo Mo” on October 7-15 while the hanging of streamers, annual search for child friendly barangay and municipal day care children congress will be for the whole month of October.
Earlier, Governor Edgardo Tallado has issued an Executive Order No. 2010-33 approving the celebration of Children’s Month in the province through appropriate activities. (RBManlangit, PIA Cam Norte)
CSC BICOL JOINS THE 2010 WORLD FOOD DAY
LEGAZPI CITY — In line with the “World Food Day Celebration” (WFD) the Civil Service Commission (CSC) in Bicol joins Bicolanos in celebrating the 2010 World Food Day celebration from October 11-16, 2010 with the theme “United Against Hunger”.
As partners in the annual celebration of this Global Affair, the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) have lined-up several activities/events commencing with the nationwide Reading of WFD Pledge during the flag raising ceremony on Monday, October 11, 2010.
To ensure the success of the celebration, all government agencies are encouraged to conduct a simultaneous flag raising ceremony, reading of pledge to kick-off the WDF celebration, and to hang WFD tarpaulins or streamers.
Among other activities/events held in several venues include reading of pledge to kick-off the WFD celebration and to hang WFD tarpaulin/streamers, ceremonial lighting of candle together with DA key officials and FAO representatives at the start of the program, nationwide On-the-Spot Poster Making Contest, urban gardening in elementary schools in Metro Manila, distribution of planting materials such as seeds, seedlings and IEC materials, milk feeding program for elementary school participants, mangrove reforestation and fingerling dispersal, showcasing and retail-selling of organically grown food products (fresh/processed, food sampling/tasting). (CSC V/PIA/mal)
LAND SERVICES MANUAL OUT
LEGAZPI CITY — Adhering to the Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007 (R.A. 9485), the Land Management Bureau (LMB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has launched its Key Services Manual to enhance the land management and administration skills of its land sector personnel nationwide to the benefit of the public.
“It is very encouraging to see that the Public Service Excellence Development Program (PSEDP) of the LMB has paved the way for the development of the manual which seeks to equip the lands sector personnel with appropriate knowledge and skills that will enable them to provide efficient land-related services to the people,” DENR Secretary Ramon J.P. Paje said.
Paje said the manual, which contains the key procedures in conducting land survey and land titling, among others, conforms to the DENR Citizen’s Charter.
The DENR Citizen’s Charter identifies the frontline services of the department, covering those that are frequently rendered to the public such as land, forestry and protected areas and wildlife transactions. Specifically on land sector, Paje said the DENR Charter gives emphasis on the application and processing of free patents and the issuance of land survey authority.
The Land Key Services Manual also serves to aid the public on how to avail of such services from the land bureau as it identifies the documents that need to be submitted by the clients, including the required fees, response time ad the person responsible in the processing of applications. It also features an improved integrated service delivery system, effective feedback processes from customers as well as an updated accountability structure, including.
The Land Management Bureau is DER’s staff bureau in charge of formulating plans, policies and programs of the land sector. It also undertakes project development, monitoring and evaluation activities related to land surveys and titling.
LMB Director Allan V. Barcena said the key services manual is among the information materials developed to expedite the processing of applications ad other land-related transactions in the land bureau. He also said that the manual aims to promote greater transparency and accountability among LMB employees.
Barcena also said the development of the Key Services Manual was made possible through a technical assistance provided by the Philippines-Australia Human Resource Development Facility (PHRDF) and the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID).
He also said the manual was a product of intense training and coaching by selected LMB personnel as they go through the development of service guides for each of the critical frontline services of the LMB such as land administration and utilization, records management, legal, geodetic surveys, administrative and finance and planning management. (LMB-DENR V/PIA/mal)
Palace confident on gov't disaster preparedness plan
MANILA — Malacanang expressed confidence in the inter-agency preparedness plan of the government in the wake of possible damages expected from super typhoon “Juan”.
During the meeting of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) at Camp Aguinaldo on Monday (October 18) , Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. said the government is confident that the preparedness plans of various agencies are enough to address the possible damage typhoon “Juan” could pose particularly in the provinces of Cagayan, Isabela, Kalinga, Mt. Province and Ifugao.
Considering the early deployment of the Quick Response Teams (QRT), Ochoa stressed the urgency of sustaining the preparations and alertness to assure a zero-casualty target.
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Corazon “Dinky” Soliman said a total of 3,832 volunteers have been deployed to assess and manage the relief operations in Regions I, II, III, IV-A, IV-B, V, the National Capital Region (NCR) and the Cordillera Autonomous Region (CAR) including their central office.
Soliman noted that part of their Prepositioned Emergency Relief Resources is a standby fund amounting to P2,827,456.23 covering the affected areas.
The DSWD also prepositioned P360,000 worth of 2,000 family packs which are ready for transport and hauling to affected areas in addition to the stockpile in their field offices.
The department has also allocated an additional P2 million as standby funds at P500,000 each for CAR and Region 1 and P1 million for Region 2.
The National and Regional Disaster Response Operations Monitoring and Information Centers are on 24/7 operations for data generation and in close coordination with the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the NDRRMC at all levels.
A total of 627 families or 3,066 persons have been evacuated in the provinces of Cagayan and Isabela.
Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson said the water level in Angat Dam was pegged at 180.66 meters, way below the critical spilling level of 192 to 198 meters.
The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said typhoon “Juan” (international code name: Megi) has maximum winds of 225 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 260 kph.
As of 4 a.m. Monday, its center has been located 220 km East of Tuguegarao City moving west southwest at 19 kph on a 350 km radius.
It was forecasted to be at 100 km Northwest of Baguio City by Tuesday morning and 560 km West Northwest of Baguio City on Wednesday morning. (PIA V/mal)
Aquino bares plans to improve RP healthcare
MANILA — President Benigno S. Aquino III announced that the Department of Health’s budget will be increased in next year’s General Appropriation Act to ensure that more Filipinos will be provided greater access to healthcare.
In his speech keynoting the joint opening of the International Federation of Head and Neck Oncologic Societies (IFHNOS) and the Philippine Societies of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (PSO-HNS) conventions at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Pasig City on Sunday (October 17) , the Chief Executive said the 13.6 percent increase in the DoH’s 2011 budget would be used to increase the coverage of Philhealth “to five million families in three years or less.”
“In the area of healthcare, there is much more that needs to be done, but here is what we have done so far: We have increased the budget of the Department of Health by 13.6 percent next year. Much of that money will go to public health centers,” the President said.
According to the President, universal health care “is created particularly for our poor countrymen. We aim to protect them not only from the undesirable health effects but also from the adverse financial implications of diseases, illnesses and emergencies.”
“We aim to do this by improving the coverage and benefits of PhilHealth, our national health insurance agency,” he stressed.
A couple of weeks back, the President noted that the government, through the DoH conducted the National PhilHealth Registration Day, and enrolled more than 192,000 poor families. We will not stop here. In the coming weeks, enrollment of more indigent families will continue as we have proposed P3.5 billion in the DOH budget for this purpose. Our aim is to cover about five million Filipino families in three years or less,” he added.
The President emphasized that while the government is committed to increasing the number of people Philhealth can accommodate, it is also incumbent upon itself to improve the benefits that the national health insurance agency gives to its members.
“We are not only increasing coverage, we are also increasing their benefits. Head and neck injuries and surgery, including treatment, are covered by Philhealth insurance. If the patients become aware of their entitlements, benefits and their responsibilities of being a Philhealth member, we will make Philhealth work better for its members especially for our poor countrymen,” the President said.
“This will not only save thousands of families from the impoverishing of disease and illness, it will save thousands of lives,” he said.
The President also announced that government healthcare facilities will be upgraded to ensure that government will respond better to the health needs of our countrymen.
“Furthermore, we will upgrade the state of government facilities all over the country. They have long suffered from neglect and misplaced priorities. We will improve our hospitals, rural health units and health centers by providing them functional equipment and competent health workers based on their needs,” the President said.
He explained that this will enable his administration to “better respond to the health needs of our countrymen and we will do away with the statistic that says 40 percent of our population never get to see a health professional.”
All these, the President said, were the “concrete steps” his administration were taking “to improve the country’s education and health care system for those of us who have less in life.” (PIA V/mal)
PCCI submits 10-point agenda to President Aquino
MANILA — The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry has urged President Benigno S. Aquino III to convene the Legislative Economic Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) so he can present the sector’s 10-point priority agenda to enhance business competitiveness.
The agenda, part of the 36th PBC Resolutions read by Benjamin Philip Romualdez, conference chairman, includes: a) crafting a National Industrialization Plan; b) a National Infrastructure Development Plan with a Public Private Partnership Framework; c) defining key energy and power objectives in terms of supply reliability and quality, rate/tariff, competitiveness and sustainability; d) ensuring stability and consistency of policies for the mining industry.
It calls for the modernization of agriculture with the full implementation of the Agriculture and Fisheries Modernization Act (Republic Act 8435) and a review of the entire Philippine tax system.
The PCCI also called for investment promotions for the tourism industry and the adoption of the Business Permits and Licensing System as an integral part of the government’s business process reform initiatives.
Business leaders also want a full implementation of the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 as well as a review of existing trade agreements.
Romualdez said President Aquino’s first 100-Day report cited among others that procurement contracts earlier approved are now keenly reviewed, with a number of contracts cancelled and subjected to new bidding resulting in substantial savings in public works and agriculture projects. More efficient use of funds has allowed government savings to be channeled to social services.
“With the Millennium Challenge Corporation’s grant of $434-M to the Philippine Government, efforts to reduce poverty by addressing corruption and building and rehabilitation of infrastructure, which will improve access of farmers, fisherfolk, cottage industries, micro and small enterprises to markets, will further raise the economic profile of the country,” Romualdez said.
Propelling the country on a growth trajectory are the global competitiveness ranking which climbed four notches, following a series of progressive decline; GDP growth in the first and second quarter of the year at 7.2 percent and 7.9 percent, respectively; renewed investors’ confidence in government; record-high stock market index at 4,196.73 points; strengthening peso; and, steady prices of good, Romualdez said. (PIA V/mal)
Aquino names envoys to Cambodia, Brunei
MANILA — President Benigno S. Aquino has appointed Noe Wong as Ambassador to Cambodia and Nestor Ochoa as ambassador to Brunei Darussalam.
The President also appointed Vicente T. Hualdo Jr. as Commissioner representing the shipping sector of the Cebu Port Authority along with Engr. Ben Acol; Arturo R. Barit, representing the cargo handling sector and Atty Joselito Pedaria; Engr. Carlos G. Co and Engr. Dennis Villamor, representing the business sector. The Cebu Port Authority is under the Department of Transportation and Communication.
Last October 12, the President confirmed his appointment of Manila Electric Co. chairman Manuel Lopez as the ambassador to Japan, vice Domingo Siazon Jr. who held the post during the Ramos administration before becoming Secretary of Foreign Affairs under President Estrada. Lopez is the second member of the influential Lopez clan to be part of Aquino's administration.
The President retained Mercedes Tuason as the Philippine ambassador to the Vatican. (PIA V/mal)
Palace tells candidates for barangay/S.K. positions: Being elected is not the only way to serve the people
MANILA — Malacanang cautioned the candidates for the coming barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections on Oct. 25 not to resort to violence and killings “as this is just an election and being voted upon is not the only way to be of service to the people.”
In an interview with Radyo ng Bayan Saturday (October 16), Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said “we should not resort to violence or other undesirable means just to be elected into office as serving the people does not end with getting elected.”
Go slow and do not be too emotional or excited as this might distract your focus. Let us all work together to ensure that the coming election will be clean and that the results will reflect the genuine sentiments of the voters, Valte added.
Last week, President Aquino ordered Philippine National Police Chief Gen. Raul Bacalzo to look into the killing of a candidate for kagawad and put the perpetrators before the bar of justice so that no other similar incidents will happen as the elections near.
Bacalzo said the President asked him to impose stricter measures to ensure that such poll violence will not occur again. (PIA V/mal
PEACE AND ORDER IS THE KEY TO ECONNOMIC GROWTH: SALCEDA
LEGAZPI CITY -- Albay Gov. Joey Salceda said that peace and tranquillity are among the key elements in measuring Bicol's robust economic growth area in the country.
“Let me emphasize that the absence of conflict and the semblance of peace and order are economic factors with the highest economic returns,” said Salceda
Salceda in his visit at the 9th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army (PA) headquarters in Pili, Camarines Sur on Saturday said that the economic growth of the region was mainly due to the successful security operations of the Philippine Army.
Salceda claimed that in 2009, Bicol became one of the fastest growing economy in the country with a rate of 8.2% growth as compared to the 1.1% growth of the whole country.
He cited that he expects that this year, Bicol’s economic growth will hit 12.4 percent due to the positive impact on the regions peace and order condition where the Philippine Army’s has been successful in the conduct of security operations.
Salceda commended the officers and men of the 9ID saying, “You’re doing so well in your job (in security operations) in Bicol because of this we are becoming the fastest growing economy.”
The Philippine Army in the Bicol Region has recently been credited for its successful campaign against insurgency.
The insurgency problem in Bicol for the past four decade had been the major obstacle in the region’s economic growth as it has discourage national and foreign investors to put up industries and business here because of the presence of the communist rebels.(PNA Bicol/PIA/mal)
LEGAZPI CITY -- Albay Gov. Joey Salceda said that peace and tranquillity are among the key elements in measuring Bicol's robust economic growth area in the country.
“Let me emphasize that the absence of conflict and the semblance of peace and order are economic factors with the highest economic returns,” said Salceda
Salceda in his visit at the 9th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army (PA) headquarters in Pili, Camarines Sur on Saturday said that the economic growth of the region was mainly due to the successful security operations of the Philippine Army.
Salceda claimed that in 2009, Bicol became one of the fastest growing economy in the country with a rate of 8.2% growth as compared to the 1.1% growth of the whole country.
He cited that he expects that this year, Bicol’s economic growth will hit 12.4 percent due to the positive impact on the regions peace and order condition where the Philippine Army’s has been successful in the conduct of security operations.
Salceda commended the officers and men of the 9ID saying, “You’re doing so well in your job (in security operations) in Bicol because of this we are becoming the fastest growing economy.”
The Philippine Army in the Bicol Region has recently been credited for its successful campaign against insurgency.
The insurgency problem in Bicol for the past four decade had been the major obstacle in the region’s economic growth as it has discourage national and foreign investors to put up industries and business here because of the presence of the communist rebels.(PNA Bicol/PIA/mal)
PIA ACTIVATES ‘WEATHER WATCH’ AND ‘TYPHOON JUAN’ FACEBOOK ACCOUNT
LEGAZPI CITY -- THE Philippine Information Agency (PIA) has activated a “Weather Watch” on its website (http://www.pia.gov.ph) in connection with the super-typhoon “Juan” to provide updates on what’s happening in the areas affected by the weather disturbance.
The Weather Watch, activated Saturday evening upon instruction of Secretary Herminio Coloma of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), involves the uploading of all reports from the regional and provincial offices of PIA regarding the typhoon, including measures being taken by government agencies.
At the same time the PIA also activated the “Typhoon Juan” Facebook page where messages, reports and reactions will be posted for people who want to be informed on what is happening in the field.
The public is encouraged to interact in the Typhoon Juan Facebook account, activated Sunday evening, with their own news reports and comments. “This is citizens’ journalism in action,” said Jose Fabia, director general of the PIA.
PIA is anticipating power failure in areas affected by the super-typhoon. Those who want to have their messages to appear at the PIA website and the Typhoon Juan Facebook page may text JUANNAMELOCATIONREPORT to 0917-TEXTPIA (8398742) or 0920-9380910.
These messages will serve as bases of government action as it moves towards rescue and rehabilitation of those affected by the typhoon.
At the same time, these will enable those affected to inform their relatives and friends of their actual situation as a consequence of the typhoon.
The reports received by the PIA’s Weather Watch are also disseminated to Radyo ng Bayan stations and all government TV networks. (PIA V/mal)
LEGAZPI CITY -- THE Philippine Information Agency (PIA) has activated a “Weather Watch” on its website (http://www.pia.gov.ph) in connection with the super-typhoon “Juan” to provide updates on what’s happening in the areas affected by the weather disturbance.
The Weather Watch, activated Saturday evening upon instruction of Secretary Herminio Coloma of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), involves the uploading of all reports from the regional and provincial offices of PIA regarding the typhoon, including measures being taken by government agencies.
At the same time the PIA also activated the “Typhoon Juan” Facebook page where messages, reports and reactions will be posted for people who want to be informed on what is happening in the field.
The public is encouraged to interact in the Typhoon Juan Facebook account, activated Sunday evening, with their own news reports and comments. “This is citizens’ journalism in action,” said Jose Fabia, director general of the PIA.
PIA is anticipating power failure in areas affected by the super-typhoon. Those who want to have their messages to appear at the PIA website and the Typhoon Juan Facebook page may text JUAN
These messages will serve as bases of government action as it moves towards rescue and rehabilitation of those affected by the typhoon.
At the same time, these will enable those affected to inform their relatives and friends of their actual situation as a consequence of the typhoon.
The reports received by the PIA’s Weather Watch are also disseminated to Radyo ng Bayan stations and all government TV networks. (PIA V/mal)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)