Aguinaldo Shrine Pagsanjan Falls Taal Lake Antipolo Church Lucban Pahiyas Feast

Dispatch for October 24 , 2013 ( Thursday) , 3 PIA Calabarzon PRs , 10 Weather Watch,

7 Reg’l. Watch , 2 OFW Watch, 1 PNOY Speech , 16 Online News , 16 Photonews

1. Weather Watch

24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST

Issued At: 5:00 a.m., 24 October 2013

Valid Beginning: 5:00 a.m. today until 5:00 a.m. tomorrow

Predicted Mean Sea Level Pressure

Analysis for 8 a.m., 24 October 2013

Predicted Mean Sea Level Wind

Analysis for 8 a.m., 24 October 2013

Satellite Image

for 4:30 a.m., 24 October 2013

Synopsis:

At 4:00 a.m. today, the eye of Typhoon "URDUJA" was located based on all available data at 855 km Northeast of Itbayat,

Batanes (25.1°N, 129.8°E) with maximum sustained winds of 130 kph and gustiness of up to 160 kph. It is forecast to move

North at 09 kph.

Forecast:

The regions of Ilocos, Cordillera and Cagayan Valley will experience parlty cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated light rains.

Metro Manila and the rest of the country will be partly cloudy to cloudy with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms.

Moderate to strong winds blowing from the northeast to northwest will prevail over Luzon and its coastal waters will be

moderate to rough. Elsewhere, winds will be light to moderate coming from the northwest to west with slight to moderate

seas

2. Weather Watch

GALE WARNING GALE WARNING NO. 7

For: Strong to gale force winds associated with the surge of Northeast Monsoon enhanced by Typhoon "URDUJA" .

Issued at 5:00 a.m. today, 24 October 2013

Strong to gale force winds is expected to affect the seaboards of Northern Luzon and the eastern seaboards of Central and

Southern Luzon.

SEABOARD WEATHER WIND FORCE

(KPH)/(KNOTS)

SEA

CONDITION

WAVE

HEIGHTS

(meters)

The seaboards of Northern Luzon

(Batanes, Calayan, Babuyan,

Cagayan, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur and

Isabela)

Partly cloudy to

cloudy skies with

light rains

(52 - 71) / (28 - 38) Rough to very

rough

3.4 to 5.5

The eastern seaboards of Central

Luzon and Southern Luzon

Partly cloudy to

cloudy skies with

isolated

(52 - 68) / (28 - 36) Rough to very

rough

3.4 to 5.0

(Aurora) rainshowers or

thunderstorms

The eastern seaboard of Southern

Luzon

(Camarines Provinces and the

eastern coast of Catanduanes, Albay,

Sorsogon and Quezon including

Polillo Island)

Partly cloudy to

cloudy skies with

isolated

rainshowers or

thunderstorms

(52 - 63) / (28 - 34) Rough to very

rough

3.4 to 4.5

Fishing boats and other small seacrafts are advised not to venture out into the sea while larger sea vessels are alerted

against big waves.

The next update will be issued at 5:00 PM today.

3. Weather Watch

WEEKLY OUTLOOK

Issued at: 5:00 p.m. 21 October 2013

Valid until: 5:00 p.m. 28 October 2013

The whole country will have generally fair weather aside from isolated light rains over Metro Manila,

Ilocos Region, Cordillera Administrative Region and Central Luzon due to the Northeast Monsoon

(AMIHAN) and isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms over the rest of the country. Meanwhile, at 4:00 PM

today, the eye of Typhoon "FRANCISCO" [International Name] was located based on all available data at

1,330 km east of Extreme Northern Luzon (20.7°N, 135.7°E) with maximum sustained winds of 160 kph and

gustiness of up to 195 kph. It is forecast to move north northwest at 11 kph.

By Tuesday (October 22), "FRANCISCO" is expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility

(PAR) and will be given a local name "URDUJA". However, it will pose no treat to any part of the country.

Though "URDUJA" will enhance the Northeast Monsoon that will bring strong winds over Northern Luzon, it

has no significant effect to the weather situation in the region. The entire archipelago will have generally fair

weather aside from isolated light rains over Northern Luzon and isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms over

the rest of the country. Moreover, "URDUJA" is expected to exit the par by Thurday morning. Similarly, the

same weather condition will be experienced until Friday (October 25).

On Saturday to Monday (October 26 - 28), the tail-end of a cold front will bring cloudiness with light to

moderate rainshowers and thunderstorms over Bicol Region and Visayas. Meanwhile, the rest of the country

will be partly cloudy to cloudy with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms particularly over Palawan and

Mindanao.

Moderate to rough seas will prevail over the seaboards of Northern Luzon and eastern seaboard of Central

Luzon while the rest of the archipelago will have slight to moderate seas.

This outlook will be updated as soon as significant changes in the weather pattern occurs.

4. Weather Watch

Typhoon "URDUJA"

PAGASA Track as of 2 a.m., 24 October 2013

Satellite Picture at 4:30 a.m., 24 October 2013

Weather Bulletin Number SIX (FINAL)

Tropical Cyclone Alert: Typhoon "URDUJA" (FRANCISCO)

Issued at 5:00 a.m., Thursday, 24 October 2013

Typhoon "URDUJA" is now outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility.

Location of Center:

(as of 4:00 a.m.)

855 km Northeast of Itbayat, Batanes

or 230 km Southeast of Okinawa, Japan

Coordinates: 25.1°N, 129.8°E

Strength: Maximum sustained winds of 130 kph near the center

and gustiness of up to 160 kph

Movement: Forecast to move North at 9 kph

Forecast Positions/Outlook:

Thursday afternoon:

890 km Northeast of Itbayat, Batanes or

at 190 km East Southeast of Okinawa, Japan or

No Public Storm Warning Signals Raised

Estimated rainfall amount is from 10 - 25 mm per hour (heavy - intense) within the 700 km diameter of the

Typhoon.

Sea travel is risky over the seaboards of Northern Luzon and the eastern seaboards of Central and Southern

Luzon.

With this development and unless re-entry occurs, this is the final bulletin for this weather disturbance.

5. Weather Watch

13 hours ago

ANC: The press briefing of the President at Loon Municipal Hall in Bohol has ended few minutes ago. The

President listened to sentiments of quake-affected residents in Loon.

6. Weather Watch

15 hours ago

PIA-7/BOHOL: DSWD plans to increase bulk of relief in Bohol into two weeks supply to minimize truck

mobility needs. --DSWD Sec. Dinky Soliman.

7. Weather Watch

15 hours ago

ABS-CBN: Isinasagawa na ang press briefing ng mga Kalihim kasama si PNoy sa munisipyo ng Loon, Bohol.

Ina-update sa briefing kung ano ang efforts ng gobyerno sa mga biktima ng lindol. Nakatakda namang

magpalipas ng gabi si PNoy sa Bohol.

8. Weather Watch

15 hours ago

ANC: The President has returned to quake-hit Bohol. He distributed goods to affected residents at the Lady of Light

Parish in Loon.

9. Weather Watch

15 hours ago

ABS-CBB: Sa tala ng PHIVOLCS ay umabot na sa 2,547 ang aftershocks kasunod ng magnitude 7.2 na lindol sa Visayas

noong Oct. 15. 64 naman sa mga nasabing aftershock ang naramdaman. Samantala, sa datos naman ng NDRRMC ay

umabot na sa 195 ang patay, 651 ang sugatan habang 12 ang nawawala pa rin sa nangyaring pagyanig.

10. Weather Watch

18 hours ago

DZBB: Nasa mahigit 3,000 mga tao umano ang maaaring mapahamak sa Caloocan City sakaling tumama ang lindol na

kasinlakas ng nangyari sa Central Visayas. Ito ang sinabi ni PHIVOLCS Dir. Renato Solidum sa ginawang technical

briefing sa Caloocan. Aniya, para maiwasan ang maraming casualty ay kailangan ng masusing paghahanda at pag-iingat

ng isang pamilya. Ayon pa rito, responsibilidad ng LGU na ipaalam sa mga residente kung delikado ang kinatitirikan ng

bahay ng mga ito o gusali.

Weather Watch

October 24 , 2013 ( Thursday ) as of 6:00-7:00 AM

CAVITE : Sunny LAGUNA : Cloudy BATANGAS : Sunny RIZAL : Fair Weather QUEZON : Mostly CLoudy

PIA Regional Watch

1. PIA Regional Watch

46 minutes ago near Quezon City

PIA-4A/LAGUNA:The Department of Trade & Industry (DTI-Laguna) recently conducted a disposal

activity of some 194 uncertified helmets at DTI Office Grounds in Victoria, Laguna witnessed by COA

representative.

2. PIA Regional Watch

15 hours ago

PIA-4A/LAGUNA: The DTI-Laguna recently conducted a disposal activity of some 194 uncertified helmets

at DTI Office Grounds in Victoria, Laguna witnessed by COA representative.

3. PIA Regional Watch

19 hours ago

PIA-4A/BATANGAS: Isinusulong sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan ng Batangas ang kahilingan ng pagsasama

sa anim na barangay sa Verde Island at 15 barangay sa bayan ng Tingloy na mapabilang ito sa electrification

program na isinusulong ng administrasyong Aquino. Ito ay upang mas maisulong ang pag-unlad ng mga

island barangay na may potensyal na maging tourist destination sa lalawigan.

4. PIA Regional Watch

20 hours ago

PIA-4A/CAVITE: The provincial government will be conducting Cavite Children's Day on Friday, October

25 at the Convention center in General Trias. Objectives of the said activity is to promote the rights of

children and encouragement of the different stakeholders promoting children's rights.

5. PIA Regional Watch

20 hours ago

PIA-4A/QUEZON: The provincial child labor committee reported during their meeting this morning held at

the conference room of DOLE-Quezon provincial office that child labor cases in the province decreased due

to different programs that have been implemented by the committee in the province such as parents

effectiveness seminar, livelihood programs for parents of child laborers, organization of child labor

committee in the schools and alternative learning system program. Provincial child labor committee was

organized to eliminate child labor cases in the province particularly in towns of Catanauan and Calauag and

Lucena City.

6. PIA Regional Watch

20 hours ago

PIA-4A/LAGUNA: The Society of Filipino Foresters, Inc., a group of public and private foresters in the

country, will hold a three-day National Seminar-Workshop in celebration of its 65th anniversary with a

theme "The Filipino Forester: Facing Challenges Now....Gearing up for the Future" at DL Umali Hall,

UPLB, Laguna, October 23-25, 2013.

7. PIA Regional Watch

Yesterday near Quezon City

Pulse Asia approval ratings, Sept. 14-27:

PNoy - 79% (up from 73% in June)

VP Binay - 77%

Senate president Drilon - 50% (down from 62% in June)

Speaker Belmonte - 37%

Chief Justice Sereno - 42%

The Pulse Asia survey also showed PNoy obtained majority national trust rating in September at 76%, down

from 77% in June.

| via Inquirer

1. PIA OFW Watch

14 hours ago

ABS-CBN: Nangangamba ang mga OFW na stranded pa rin sa Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Nabatid kasi na sa

Nov. 3 na ang crackdown sa illegal worker sa Saudi Arabia kung saan huhulihin na ang mga walang

papeles.

2. PIA OFW Watch

18 hours ago

DZBB: Lumutang pa umano ang isa pang mahalagang saksi sa imbestigasyon ng DFA kaugnay ng sex for

flight scheme. Ayon kay Rep. Walden Bello, batay sa natanggap niyang ulat sa DFA, ang bagong saksi ay si

Erwin Santos na driver sa Kuwait. Lumabas sa testimonya ni Santos na 10 beses itong nagbyahe ng mga

babae mula OWWA Center sa Kuwait patungo sa isang sex den tuwing madaling araw. Sa OWWA Center

umano na ito nakatalaga naman si Blas Marquez na kasama sa mga isinasangkot sa naturang sex for flight

scheme.

A. QUEZON

1. Comprehensive action program to control scale

insect infestation, to be implemented in Quezon

BY: RUEL M. ORINDAY

Monday 21st of October 2013

LUCENA CITY, Quezon, Oct. 21 (PIA) –The provincial agriculture office (PAO) and the

Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Quezon I is jointly implementing a scale insect

comprehensive action program to control the further spread of the coconut scale insect

infestation in Quezon province.

In a recent meeting of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council

(PDRRMC), provincial agriculturist Roberto Gajo said the program is in line with the

provincial government’s response to control immediately the widespread infestation of

coconut trees in the province.

Gajo reported that about 41,000 coconut trees in the municipalities of Sampaloc, Polilio,

Mauban, Tiaong and San Antonio have been affected by the infestation.

Part of the program, according to Gajo, is the establishment of a bio control laboratory in

barangay Talipan, Pagbilao for the propagation of coccinelid beetle which is known to be

effective in countering coconut scale insects.

A provincial Task Force (TF) Kontra Scale Insects is now being organized by the provincial

agriculturist and the PCA-Quezon I, Gajo added.

He said that he requested the provincial government through the PDRRMC to allocate funds

for the programs and activities.

In addition, the PDRRMC unanimously approved Gajo’s appeal to the Sangguniang

Panlalawigan to pass a resolution declaring Quezon province under the state of calamity due

to the widespread infestation.

The PAO is encouraging the community particularly the coconut farmers to remove and burn

affected plant parts at early sighting of signs of infestation and report the case to help in

preventing the infestation from spreading out. (RMO, PIA-Quezon)

2. Tagalog news: Quezon, panalo sa individual at group

category ng regional Gawad Saka 2013

Sunday 20th of October 2013

LUNGSOD NG LUCENA, Quezon, Oktubre 20 (PIA) --Nagwagi sa dalawang kategorya

mula sa siyam na kategoryang sinalihan sa regional Gawad Saka 2013 ang mga kinatawan ng

lalawigan ng Quezon sa ginanap na awarding kamakailan sa provincial auditorium ng

lalawigan ng Batangas.

Sa individual category, wagi sina Jerson Cabriga ng barangay Lawigue, Tayabas bilang

Outstanding Young Farmer at Romulo Ayag ng barangay Pili, Sariaya bilang Outstanding

High Value Crops Development Program Farmer.

Tumanggap ng parangal sa group category ang Cawayan I 4H Club ng barangay Cawayan I,

San Francisco bilang Outstanding Farmers Organization at Del Rosario Rural Improvement

Club (RIC) ng barangay Del Rosario, Tiaong bilang Outstanding Rural Improvement Club.

Ang Gawad Saka ay isa sa mga programa ng Kagawaran ng Pagsasaka na naglalayong

bigyan ng pagkilala ang natatanging magsasaka at mangingisda na nakatulong ng malaki sa

pagpapaunlad ng agrikultura sa mga lawigan at sa buong bansa.

Sa pamamagitan ng tanggapan ng panlalawigang agrikultor, ang pamahalaang panlalawigan

ng Quezon sa pangunguna ni Gov. David Suarez ay patuloy na sumusuporta sa mga

magsasaka at mangingisda sa pamamagitan ng pagpapatupad ng iba’t-ibang programa at

pagkakaloob ng mga serbisyo na makakatulong sa pagtaas ng produksyon sa agrikultura at

pag-aangat ng kanilang kabuhayan. (OPA-Info. & Training Unit, Quezon PIO/ RMO-PIA-

Quezon)

B. CAVITE

C. LAGUNA

D. BATANGAS

1. Tagalog news: Kahandaan sa kalamidad,

katahimikan at kaayusan, tampok sa joint meeting ng

PPOC at PDCC

Tuesday 22nd of October 2013

LUNGSOD NG BATANGAS, Okt. 22 (PIA) --Magkasamang nagpulong ang mga

kinatawan ng Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) at Provincial Disaster

Coordinating Council (PDCC) upang talakayin ang mga napapanahong isyu tungkol

sa kahandaan sa kalamidad at sitwasyong pangkapayapaan at seguridad ng lalawigan.

Nanguna sa joint PPOC/PDCC meeting si Batangas Governor Vilma Santos Recto

kasama ang iba pang mataas na opisyal ng konseho na kinabibilanagan ni Batangas

PNP provincial director Police S/Supt. Omega Jireh Fidel, Vice Governor

Mark Leviste, PDRRMC chairman, Pedrito Martin M. Dijan Jr., DILG provincial

director Noel Bartolabac at mga opisyal ng mga local government units (LGUs) na

kinatawan ng mga punong bayan.

Inilatag ng Batangas PNP sa harap ng lupon ang kanilang

programang pangkapayapaan sa ilalim ng bagong talagang Provincial PNP director

sa katauhan ni Police S/Supt. Fidel.

Kinapapalooban ito ng mga hakbang ukol sa mga operasyon laban sa

organized crime, drug dealers na kanilang minamatyagan ang operasyon sa

lalawigan, ganundin ang pinaigting na police visibility upang maiwasan ang

crime against person and properties.

Nakalatag na din ang kanilang operation guidelines sa pagpapatupad ng gun ban sa

panahon ng darating na barangay elections.

Sa hanay ng PDCC, inilatag ni PDRRMC chairman Dijan ang kasalukuyang

operational capabilities ng pamahalaang panlalawigan

Isinaad din sa presentasyon ang tala ng mga kagastusan ng PDRRMC at pag-

gamit nito ng calamity fund na inilaan sa pagpapalakas ng kakayahan ng

disaster responders, pag-angkat ng mga bagong rescue and communication

equipments at pag-agapay sa mga kinakailangan tulong ng mga local government

unit disaster counterparts.

Binuksan ni Governor Vi sa hanay ng disaster operations ang pagpapahayag ukol sa

pagpapalakas at pagpapabilis ng ugnayan ng komunikasyon sa pagitan ng operators

ng Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council, media organizations,

municipal PDRRMC officials kasama ang kanilang barangay disaster responders .

Sa pag papalakas ng ugnayan ng mga nabanggit na disaster responders, inaasahang

mapapabilis ang paglalabas ng mga impormasyon at mga babala ukol sa darating na

mga kalamidad partikular sa bagyo na nagdudulot ng pagbaha at landslides sa ilang

bahagi ng lalawigan.

Inaasahan din na sa pagbuo ng mabilis na communication network,

epektibong mapapaganap ng PDRRMC ang kanilang rescue and relief operations

bunga ng reliable and accurate information mula sa mga ahensya. Maiiwasan na rin

ang paglikha ng kalituhan at panic bunga ng di inaasahang maling

impormasyon mula sa mga non-accredited PDRRMC members. (Edwin V.

Zabarte PIO Capitol/PIA-Batangas)

E. RIZAL

23 OCTOBER 2013.

Aquino government vows to strictly enforce the intellectual property rights to fight piracy

President Aquino sees press as guardian of democracy, nation builder

Government has many programs that will create more jobs, says Aquino

Aquino sees opportunities for the country once ASEAN becomes a single block

Aquino says he’s confident of attaining 2013 Gross Domestict Product target

Aquino optimistic about MILF peace deal before 2016

Aquino flies to Bohol to ease anxiety of earthquake victims

President Aquino returns to Bohol to get updates on the rehabilitation and relief efforts

Aquino government vows to strictly enforce the intellectual property rights to fight piracy

The Aquino government is working harder to strictly enforce the intellectual property rights (IPRs) in its quest to fight against piracy and counterfeiting, Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. said. "Government believes that stricter intellectual property enforcement and raising the level of IP awareness in the country through education are consistent with our overarching agenda to combat organized and transnational crime," Ochoa said in his message to organizers and participants of the 3rd Philippine Anti-Counterfeiting and Piracy Summit held at the

Marriot Manila Hotel on Monday. Ochoa noted that the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHIL) has made significant progress in addressing piracy and counterfeiting activities in the country with the record breaking seizure of fake goods worth 6.13 billion pesos this year. "The latest numbers from the IP Office reveal that from January to September this year, the government seized pirated and counterfeit goods worth 6.13 billion pesos, with the Bureau of Customs contributing the most to this effort, as it seized 3.17 billion pesos-worth of fake goods," Ochoa said. "These encouraging figures are a result of an intensified and continuous government campaign against piracy and counterfeiting. In the first three quarters of the year, the multi-agency task force National Committee on Intellectual Property Rights managed (NCIPR) to conduct 1,812 inspections and issued 514 search warrants and 10 seizure warrants," Ochoa stressed. In 2012, Ochoa noted, the Philippines was removed from the list of ―Notorious Markets‖ for piracy and counterfeiting of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) for 2013 after being on the list for six years. Ochoa said the government, through the IP Office, is working hard to remove the Philippines from the Watch List of the USTR for 2013. Another breakthrough this year in the government's efforts against piracy was the enactment of Republic Act No. 10372, which amends and updates the copyright laws in the Philippine Intellectual Property Code. "This bestows an enforcement mandate on the Philippine IP Office, a first among the IP Offices in the whole of Southeast Asia. This is expected to boost the IP enforcement programs of the government," said Ochoa, adding that inter-government cooperation remains the key element to succeed in its anti-piracy fight. Ochoa said the NCIPR composed of the IP Office, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Justice, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Bureau of Customs, National Telecommunications Commission, National Bureau of Investigation, Philippine National Police, Optical Media Board, National Book Development Board, and the Bureau of Food and Drugs, must ensure that IPRs are protected and its violators will be apprehended. He emphasized the need for the concerned government agencies to continue working together in increasing public awareness about the ill-effects of piracy. "What many of our people do not understand, and what we must endeavor to inform our citizens of, is that the manufacture and distribution of the counterfeit and pirated products are often linked to organized crimes, with the sales from these reportedly being used to fund other criminal activities, such as money laundering and illegal drugs," he said. The UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), in a report released in February this year, found that the shipments of fraudulent pharmaceuticals in West Africa are being carried out by transnational organized crime syndicates which are also engaged in cocaine trafficking and the smuggling of migrants. "The same link is also evident in the Philippines and in Southeast Asia. According to the World Customs Organization, around 75% of counterfeit products seized worldwide between 2008 and 2010 were manufactured in East Asia, and primarily China," said Ochoa, citing the UNODC report. According to the report, the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Vietnam are cited as key East Asian departure points for counterfeit goods. As much as 30% of medicines in parts of Asia, Africa and Latin America could be fraudulent, the UNODC report said. "This poses serious risks to the health of the Filipino consumers as the counterfeit drugs are either less effective than the real thing, or contain no active ingredients to address illness, or worse, contain poisonous ingredients. It is in the context of these realities that piracy has become one of the priority crime areas of the Philippine Center on Transnational Crime, which houses INTERPOL Manila," Ochoa said, stressing that government vows to make vigorous efforts to strictly enforce the IPRs. "Rest assured that the Aquino Government has and continues to take intellectual property rights violations seriously, and will continue to be supportive of the education, capacity building and enforcement initiatives of the IP Office and of the multi-agency task force on the enforcement of IP, the NCIPR," he said. PND (js)

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President Aquino sees press as guardian of democracy, nation builder

President Benigno S. Aquino III said he expects the media to continue protecting democracy and become part of nation building. In a message during the Annual Presidential Forum of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP), the President asked the media to continue pursuing its journalistic ideals. He said the government, media, and private citizens have a never-ending task of protecting and advancing Philippine

democracy. In the midst of so many issues that affects the country today, the President said he expects journalist to be able to separate important issues from the frivolous, the spin from the facts, and the lies from the truth. ―I am confident that you will pursue the type of journalism that those who came before us has fought for and at times died for. The type of journalism that builds nations,‖ he said in his message during the FOCAP forum at The Manila Hotel. He likewise encouraged the press to continue reporting what is important to the public just as he continue his endless pursuit of giving Filipinos the government they deserve. The President expects the media to become the bearers of truth that the people deserve. The President also highlights the significance of Wednesday’s FOCAP forum, which he said is a way to further strengthen the relationship between the government and media. Through such forum, he said he and his Cabinet could gain greater feel of the pulse of the people and give rise to balanced, informed reporting that works for the public’s interest. FOCAP, which consists of international agencies, publications, radio and television networks, is one of the country’s most prestigious media organizations. It was founded in 1974 to safeguard press freedom during martial law years under former president Ferdinand Marcos. The presidential forum is an annual event of FOCAP where the President discusses key policies, answer questions on foreign affairs, politics, economy and other social issues. PND (as)

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Government has many programs that will create more jobs, says Aquino

The government is carrying out measures to address joblessness in the country and attain inclusive growth, President Benigno S. Aquino III said on Wednesday. In an interview during his attendance to the annual Presidential Forum of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP), the President said his administration is to focused on expanding the conditional cash transfer program, enhancing education and tourism,as well as developing the country’s infrastructure. He said that one of the proposals in the 2014 budget is to expand the CCT program to keep children in school and ensure safe pregnancy of women. Keeping children in high school creates economic gains in the future, according to the President. ―Why are we insisting on this? The idea being that there is a study by the Philippine Institute for Developmental Studies that stated a direct correlation between finishing high school and having a 40 percent premium on income versus those who just graduate from grade school as one of the steps towards inclusive growth,‖ he said. The government also started active partnership between the education sector and the industry, the President said. One example is TESDA’s work-for-scholarship program, he said, noting TESDA’s graduates have a higher percentage in having jobs in the BPO industry, in particular. Another plan is revitalization, he said. For instance, intercropping in the coconut industry, he said. The President noted that when farmers adopt intercropping they could increase their income. Developing the country’s tourism is also another area, since the sector creates a multiplier effect in job generation, he said. The government targets 5.5 million foreign tourist arrivals by this year, he said. ―We want access to all of our tourist sites that are much more efficient and more convenient,‖ the President said. This is the reason why the government has been investing in improving various airports, as well as the construction of new airports. He reported that finally, the government was able to resolve all of the issues with regards to the connector road between the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and South Luzon Expressway (SLEX). ―At the end of the day, we believe, people are our greatest resource and all of the investments are geared towards giving them the necessary skills so that they can take advantage of all the opportunities that are in existing already, and are forthcoming in the horizon,‖ he said. PND (as)

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Aquino sees opportunities for the country once ASEAN becomes a single block

Philippine industries can compete well with other industries in the region when the Association of Southeast Asian

Nations adopts a single community by 2015, President Benigno S. Aquino III said on Wednesday. During the annual Presidential forum of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP), the President was asked how local industries could compete once the Philippines opens to the rest of ASEAN in 2015. ―We have comparative advantages in certain areas, for instance, car manufacturing, truck manufacturing or assembly, might be better in certain areas within ASEAN but that doesn’t preclude us from participating in terms of producing the necessary parts for all of these vehicles. And there have been significant growth in that aspect,‖ he noted. The President cited for instance, the B/E Aerospace, a locator company engaged in airplane parts manufacturing. Its Batangas plant is the first plant outside North America and Europe, he said, noting the advantages of Filipino skills and talent. Another competitive sector is the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector, he said. Other countries are looking at the efficiencies that they can gain by locating in the Philippines. ―I can go on and on about the list, the bottom line is, we have comparative advantages that enable us to be a good player within this ASEAN community and the bigger market redounds to more opportunities for our people in their companies,‖ he said. The President also mentioned that Mexico is interested in working with the Philippines to have an access to ASEAN particularly on trade and commerce given their close ties during the colonial period. President Aquino attended the 23rd ASEAN Summit in Brunei this early month in preparation for the implementation of the regional block's planned single community in 2015. PND (as)

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Aquino says he’s confident of attaining 2013 Gross Domestict Product target

President Benigno S. Aquino III said he is confident that his administration will meet its 2013 gross domestic product (GDP) target given the current developments in the economy. The President attended the annual Presidential Forum of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) at the Manila Hotel where he was asked about his expectations about the economy. ―Can I just say that we’re confident we’ll reach our targets. But I will not be displeased if we surpass the targets,‖ the President said when asked for comments. Analysts expect the Philippine economy to grow over seven percent this year, eclipsing the high end of the government’s official 6-7 percent target. The country posted a strong 7.6-percent expansion in the first half. In September, the New York-based think tank GlobalSource Partners and the Ayala-led Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) said the GDP growth would hit 7.2 percent this year, coming off a strong 7.6-percent expansion in the first half. The country’s GDP expanded 7.5 percent in the second quarter, matching China as the fastest-growing country in Asia, sustaining the over seven percent pace for a fourth straight quarter. PND (as)

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Aquino optimistic about MILF peace deal before 2016

President Benigno S. Aquino III said he is confident that his administration could seal a peace pact with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) before he steps down from power in 2016. Some issues have been raised about the current pace of the peace negotiations with the MILF with some airing concerns about the delay of the conclusion of the Framework Agreement. But during the annual Presidential forum of the FOCAP on Wednesday, President Aquino said that both parties acknowledged that the annexes will have the most contentious issues to iron out. But he said the talks are progressing. ―Of the four annexes, we’ve concluded discussions on two. We have the remaining two. That doesn’t stop us from having the Sajahatra program---I hope you’re familiar with that---and actually acting on it and showing them the benefits of peace,‖ the President told the forum. Although the government and the MILF were not able to meet their targets, the President acknowledged that coming up with a binding agreement takes time. ―Crafting the correct agreement that is livable and doable by all will necessarily take time, and we are cognizant of that fact. And better to have the good deal rather than to have any deal that is not livable by all parties,‖ he said. The Philippine government and the MILF, the country’s largest rebel group, signed a landmark peace agreement on

October last year, which will give the rebels a larger share of power and wealth in a new autonomous political region by 2016. Malaysia brokered the peace talks. The peace deal is aimed at ending a four-decade-old conflict that killed hundreds of thousands in Mindanao. PND (as)

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Aquino flies to Bohol to ease anxiety of earthquake victims

President Benigno S. Aquino III said he was flying to Bohol Wednesday afternoon to join people near the epicenter of the quake to ease their anxiety on the possible dangers on the ground. The President told the participants of 39th Philippine Business Conference and Expo at the Manila Hotel that he won’t be able to attend his intended appearance on Thursday because he will be in Bohol Wednesday and Thursday. ―I’m scheduled to speak before you tomorrow but unfortunately there is an issue that I have to address in Bohol. As you know, a lot of our countrymen are still, shall I say, unsettled because the aftershocks will be continuing for about two to three weeks,‖ the President said in his message. He said he received text messages from the residents in Bohol fearing that there are impending dangers that are still lurking. He said easing the anxiety of the people in Bohol is a very high priority at this point. He will be in Bohol Wednesday afternoon and will stay overnight in the most hard-hit area and to tell the people to believe the PHIVOLCS and the Mines and Geo-Sciences Bureau statements that said major danger has already lapsed or has already passed. ―And I believe it is my duty to be with them at this point in time because the unnecessary anxiety is creating far more problems for the community that I think as President I should be at the rescue,‖ he said. At the same time, the President said he will also assess the efficiency of government’s relief efforts and tell the people about the government’s initiatives to rebuild damaged infrastructures in the province. ―I thank you on behalf of our countrymen. I wish you success in all of your endeavors and as always we pledge government support for all of the worthwhile and noble intentions to the full uplifting a lot of our countrymen,‖ the President said. PND (as)

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President Aquino returns to Bohol to get updates on the rehabilitation and relief efforts

(LOON, Bohol) President Benigno S. Aquino III visited anew the province to check on the progress of the rehabilitation and relief operations for the various municipalities that were devastated by magnitude 7.2 earthquake last October 15. At 3:10 p.m. Wednesday, the Chief Executive left for Bohol to visit Tagbilaran City and the municipalities of Loon, Tubigon and Sagbayan. After landing in Tagbilaran airport, President Aquino was welcomed by Bohol Governor Edgar Chatto and other local officials. The President first visited Loon South Central School which serves as one of the evacuation centers for displaced residents of Loon and nearby municipalities. At the school grounds, President Aquino led the distribution of relief goods to some 166 affected families. He then proceeded to the site of Our Lady of Light Parish which was totally devastated by the earthquake. The President also distributed relief goods to affected families who were temporarily staying at the evacuation center in front of the parish. President Aquino also checked on the buildings of the public market and the Congressman Natalio P. Castillo Sr. Memorial Hospital before proceeding to the Loon Municipal Hall where he was briefed by officials from the national government and local government units on the progress of the rehabiliation and relief operations in the province. Joining the President at the Loon Municipal Hall were Defense Secretary and National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) Chairman Voltaire Gazmin, Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson Jr., Social Worker and Development Secretary Corazon Soliman, and other officials of concerned government agencies and local government units. The President assured the Bohol residents that the government has P20 billion savings to fund the rehabilitation and relief efforts for the residents. He said the government has already distributed 163,000 food packs for the affected families in the province. "Narito ako para damayan kayo. Huwag kayo matakot. Ngayon gabi nga ay dito kami matutulog," he said. The President decided to stay over night in Loon.

On Thursday, President Aquino is scheduled to visit the municipalities of Tubigon and Sagbayan that were also severely affected by the earthquake. Classes are still suspended in the province because of the occurrence of aftershocks. The Department of Public Works and Highways deployed personnel in Bohol to conduct evaluation on the structural soundness of all affected areas. The DPWH-V had coordinated with District Engineering Offices regarding the effects of earthquake in Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor, Negros Oriental, Iloilo and other areas. The DPWH personnel are also conducting assessment of damaged roads, bridges and buildings in Bohol while engineering teams are currently conducting repair of damaged roads and finding passable detour roads in the province. Last October 16, the President flew to the provinces of Bohol and Cebu to assess the extent of damages brought by the earthquake. He also directed the officials to firm up strategies to minimize the impact of the earthquake to the communities. A state of calamity has been declared by the government in Cebu and Bohol provinces. The President directed his officials to immediately restore the living conditions of the affected residents. PND (js)

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23 OKTUBRE 2013

Mahigpit na pagpapatupad ng intellectual property rights, pangako ng gobyernong Aquino para sugpuin ang piracy

Ang pamahayagan ang tanod ng demokrasya at tagapagtatag ng bansa, ayon sa Pangulong Aquino

Maraming programa ang gobyerno para makalikha pa ng trabaho—Aquino

Ibayong pagkakataon para sa bansa ang nakikita ni Aquino kapag ang ASEAN ay naging 'single community'

Mahigpit na pagpapatupad ng intellectual property rights, pangako ng gobyernong Aquino para sugpuin ang piracy

Ibayong pagsisikap ang ginagawa ng gobyernong Aquino upang mahigpit na maipatupad ang intellectual property rights (IPRs) sa layuning sugpuin ang pamimirata at panghuhuwad, sabi ni KalihimTagapagpaganap Paquito N. Ochoa, Jr. ―Naniniwala ang pamahalaan na ang mahigpit pang pagpapatupad ng intellectual property rights at pagpapalaganap ng edukasyon sa buong bansa tungkol sa bagay na ito ay naaayon sa hangaring labanan ang organized and transnational crime,‖ wika ni Ochoa sa mensahe sa tagapamahala at kalahok sa 3rd Philippine Anti-Counterfeiting and Piracy Summit na idinaos sa Manila Hotel Lunes. Binanggit ni Ochoa na malaki ang nagawa na ng Intellectual Property Office ng Pilipinas sa pagbaka sa piracy at panghuhuwad sa bansa na sa taong ito ay umabot sa halagang P6.13 bilyon ang nasamsam na mga huwad na paninda. ―Salig sa ulat ng IP Office, lumitaw na mula Enero hanggang Setyembre ng taong ito, nakasamsam ang gobyerno ng pinirata at hinuwad na iba-ibang uri ng produkto na P6.13 bilyon ang halaga. Ang Kawanihan ng Aduana ay malaki ang naiambag sa bagay na ito dahil sa may P3.17 bilyon ang halaga ng nasamsam nilang mga huwad na paninda,‖ wika ni Ochoa. ―Ang malaking halagang huwad na panindang nasamsam ay bunga ng pinag-ibayo at walang humpay na kampanya ng pamahalaan laban sa pamimirata at panghuhuwad sa unang tatlong kuwarter ng taong kasalukuyan. Ang multi-agency task force ng National Committee on Intellectual Property Rights ang nagsagawa ng 1,812 ispeksiyon at 514 ang nailabas na search warrants at sampung seizure warrants,‖ dugtong ni Ochoa. Ayon kay Ochoa, noong 2012, natanggal ang Pilipinas sa listahan ng tinatawag na ―Notorious Markets‖ ng United States Trade Representative para sa 2013 ukol sa pamimirata at panghuhuwad pagkaraan ng anim na taong pagkasama sa listahang nasabi.

Idinugtong ni Ochoa na sinisikap ng pamahalaan na matanggal, sa pamamagitan ng IP Office ang Pilipinas sa Watch List ng USTR para sa 2013. Ang isa sa mahalagang ginawa ng pamahalaan sa taong ito laban sa pamimirata ay ang pagpapatibay ng Batas ng Republika Blg. 10372 na nagsusog sa mga batas ukol sa copyright sa ilalim ng Philippine Intellectual Property Code. Binigyang diin ni Ochoa na ang pagtutulungan ng mga ahensiya ng pamahalaan sa pagpapatupad ng IP enforcement programs ang paraan sa tagumpay ng kampanya ng gobyerno laban sa pamimirata. Ito ang dahilan, sabi ni Ochoa, kaya ang NCIPR ay binubuo ng IP Office ng mga Kagawaran ng Kalakal at Industriya, Katarungan, Interyor at Lokal na Pamahalaan, gayundin ng Kawanihan ng Aduana, Pambansang Komisyon ng Telekomunikasyon, Pambansang Pulisya, Pambansang Kawanihan ng Pagsisiyasat, Optical Media Board, National Book Development Board at Bureau of Food and Drugs na siyang titiyak na mapangangalagan ang IPRs at madarakip ang mga lumalabag dito. Sinabi pa ni Ochoa na sinisikap ng pamahalaan na ipaalam sa taong bayan na ang paggawa at pamamahagi ng mga huwad at piniratang mga produkto ay karaniwang kaugnay ng organisadong krimen sapagka’t ang kinikita ritong salapi ay ginagamit sa ibang gawaing criminal na tulad ng money laundering at ilegal na droga. Sa ulat ng UN Office on Drugs and Crime noong Pebrero ng taong ito ay sinabing natuklasan ang mga huwad na gamot sa Kanlurang Africa ay dinadala sa ibang bansa ng mga sindikato ng transnational organized crime na siya ring nagpupuslit ng cocaine at mga migrante. ―Ang naturang ugnayan ay malinaw rin sa Pilipinas at Timog Silangang Asya, at ayon sa World Customs Organization ay 75% ng mga huwad na produktong nasamsam sa buong mundo noong 2008 at 2010 ay gawa sa Silangang Asya, partikular sa Tsina,‖ sabi ni Ochoa salig sa ulat ng UNODC. Binanggit din sa report na ang Pilipinas, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Hapon, Timog Korea, Singapore at Vietnam ay mga bansa Silangang Asya na departure points ng mga huwad na paninda at produkto. Sa naturang report ng UNODC ay sinabi ring may 30% ng mga gamot sa bahagi ng Asya, Africa at Latin America ay mga huwad. ―Ang bagay na ito ay malaking panganib sa kalusugan ng mga Pilipino kapag nakabili ng mga huwad na gamot na walang bisa at hindi nakalulunas sa sakit at ang mahirap pa, baka ito ay may timplang lason. Dahil dito kaya ang pamimirata ay isa sa mga krimen na pangunahing pinagtutuunan ng pagsisikap ng Philippine Center on Transnational Crime kung saan nakapailalim ang INTERPOL Manila,‖dugtong pa ni Ochoa. Tiniyak ni Ochoa na patuloy ang gobyernong Aquino sa pagsisikap na masugpo ang mga lumalabag sa intellectual property rights at hindi tatantanan ang pagsisikap na patuloy na ipatupad ang mga batas na susugpo sa pamimirata at panghuhuwad. PND (js/zaf)

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Ang pamahayagan ang tanod ng demokrasya at tagapagtatag ng bansa, ayon sa Pangulong Aquino

Inaasahan ng Pangulong benigno S. Aquino III na ipagpapatuloy ng media ang pangangalaga at pagtatanggol sa demokrasya, bukod pa sa pagiging bahagi ng pagtatatag ng bansa. Sa talumpati sa Annual Presidential Forum ng Foreign Corrrespondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) sa Manila Hotel Miyerkoles, hiniling ng Pangulo sa media na patuloy na itaguyod ang mga adhikain ng pamahayagan. Binigyang diin ng Pangulo na ang pamahalaan, ang media at ang karaniwang mamamayan ay may walang katapusang saguting pangalagaan at isulong ang demokrasyang Pilipino. Sinabi ng Pangulo na sa gitna ng napakaraming mga isyung nakaaapekto sa bansa sa kasalukuyan, inaasahan niyang mahihiwalay ng mga mamamahayag ang mahahalagang isyu sa mga kakatuwa, mga pinaikot na katotohanan at mga kasinungalingan buhat sa katotohanan. ―Malaki ang aking tiwala na itataguyod ninyo ang isang uri ng pamamahayag na ipinaglaban nang puspusan at naging dahilan pa ng pagkaputi ng buhay ng mga nauna sa atin. Ito ay ang uri ng pamamahayag na nagtatatag ng bansa,‖ sabi ng Pangulo sa FOCAP Forum sa Manila Hotel. Hinikayat din ng Pangulo ang mga mamamahayag na patuloy na iulat kung ano ang mahalaga para sa madla katulad ng patuloy niyang pagsisikap tungo sa walang katapusang pagtataguyod ng simulaing mabigyan ang sambayanang Pilipino ng isang uri ng pamahalaang karapat-dapat sa kanila. Idinugtong ng Pangulo na inaasahan niyang ang media ay magiging tagahatid ng katotohanang karapat-dapat mabatid ng sambayanan. Itinampok din ng Pangulo ang halaga ng FOCAP Forum‖ Miyerkoles na ayon sa kanya ay isang paraan upang lalo pang tumibay ang pagsasama ng pamahalaan at ng media. Idinugtong ng Pangulo na sa pamamagitan ng ganitong forum siya at ang kanyang Gabinete ay tunay na makadarama ng

pulso ng bayan at nang mabigyang daan ang isang balanse, makatotohanang pagbabalitang ang pinaglilingkuran ay ang kapakanan ng sambayanan. Ang FOCAP ay binubuo ng mga pandaigdig na ahensiya ng pamamahayag, mga pasulatan, mga himpilan ng radyo at telebisyon, at isa sa pinakakinikilalang samahan ng media sa bansa. Itinatag ito noong 1974 upang pangalagaan ang kalayaan ng pamamahayag noong panahon ng martial law sa ilalim ng dating Pangulong Ferdinand E. Marcos. Ang presidential forum ay taunang pagtitipon ng FOCAP kung saan ang Pangulo ay panauhing pandangal upang talakayin ang mahahalagang mga patakaran, sagutin ang mga tanong tungkol sa ugnayang panlabas, ekonomya at iba pang isyung panlipunan. PND (as/zaf)

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Maraming programa ang gobyerno para makalikha pa ng trabaho—Aquino

Ginagawa ng pamahalaan ang maraming mga hakbang upang matugunan ang kawalang hanapbuhay sa bansa at makamtan ang kaunlaran, ito ang binigyang diin ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III. Sa panayam nang dumalo siya sa taunang Presidential Forum ng Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) na idinaos sa Manila Hotel Miyerkoles, sinabi ng Pangulo na nakatuon ang administrasyon niya sa pagpapalawak pa ng conditional cash transfer program, edukasyon at turismo, gayundin ang pag-aayos ng mga imprastraktura ng bansa. Ipinaliwanag niyang isa sa mga nakalagay na panukala sa badyet ng 2014 ay ang pagpapa-lawak pa ng conditional cash transfer program upang ang mga bata ay patuloy na makapag-aral at tiyakin ang kaligtasan ng mga babaing nagdadalang-tao. Idinagdag ng Pangulo na kapag nagpatuloy ng pag-aaral ang mga bata sa mataas na paaralan ay kasing kahulugan ito ng pakinabang sa kinabukasan. ―Bakit namin ito iginigiit? Ito ay dahil alinsunod sa pag-aaral ng Philippine Institute for Developmental Studies, may tuwirang pagkakaugnay ang pagtatapos sa mataas na paaralan at sa pagkakaroon ng dagdag na 40 porsiyento sa kikitain ng isang tao kaysa sa nagtapos lamang sa mababang paaralan na siyang pakay namin para makamtan natin ang kaunlaran,‖ sabi pa ng Pangulo. ―Sinimulan na ng pamahalaan ang puspusang pag-uugnay sa sektor ng edukasyon at sa industriya,‖ wika ng Pangulo at ibinigay na halimbawa ang programang work-for-scholarship ng TESDA na sabi niya ay nagbigay ng higit na malaking pagkakataon sa mga nagtapos dito para makapasok sa trabaho, lalo na sa industriya ng BPO. Pagsisikap namang maragdagan ang kita ng mga magsasaka ang isa pa sa panukala ng gobyerno, ayon sa Pangulo at sinabing kapag nagsagawa ng intercropping ang mga magsasaka, mararagdagan ang kanilang kita. Ang pagpapaunlad ng turismo sa bansa ay isa pang makalilikha ng dagdag na trabaho, paliwanag pa ng Pangulo kaya ang target ng pamahalaan ay paabutin sa 5.5 milyong dayuhang turista ang makapunta sa Pilipinas sa taong ito. ―Ibig naming maging mabilis ang pagpunta sa ating mga tourist sites na higit na magaganda at kasiya-siyang puntahan,‖ dugtong ng Pangulo. Binigyang diin ng Pangulo na ito ang dahilan kaya ginugugulan ng pamahalaan ang pagpapaayos sa mga paliparan ng bansa, gayundin ang pagpapagawa ng mga bagong paliparan nang lalong maging mabilis ang pagbibiyahe sa mga pook na naiibigang puntahan ng mga turista. Binanggit din ng Pangulo na nilutas ng kanyang administrasyon ang lahat ng mga isyung may kaugnayan sa connector road sa pagitan ng North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) at South Luzon Expressway (SLEX). ―Ang pakay ng lahat nang ito ay dahil sa aming paniniwala na ang taong bayan ang pinakamalaki nating kayamanan at lahat ng pamumuhunan ay dito natin itinutuon upang mabigyan sila ng kaukulang kasanayan upang masamantala nila ang mga pagkakataong narito na ngayon at ang mga iba pang parating na rin,‖ pahayag pa ng Pangulo. PND (as/zaf)

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Ibayong pagkakataon para sa bansa ang nakikita ni Aquino kapag ang ASEAN ay naging 'single community'

Maaarinhg makipagkompitensiyang mabuti ang mga industriya ng Pilipinas sa ibang mga industriya sa rehiyon kapag sinagawa na ng Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) ang pagiging single community sa 2015, sabi ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino Miyerkoles. Ito ang naging tugon ng Pangulong Aquino sa taunang Presidential Forum ng Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) sa Manila Hotel Miyerkoles sa tanong kung paano makikipagkompitensiya ang mga lokal na industriya sa sandaling buksan na ang Pilipinas sa mga kapuwa bansang ASEAN sa 2015. ―Nakahihigit tayo sa ilang larangan. Halimbawa sa paggawa ng kotse, o paggawa ng trak na maaaring higit na mainam sa

ilang pook sa ASEAN, subali’t hindi ang ibig sabihin nito ay hindi na tayo maaaring lumahok sa pamamagitan ng paggawa naman ng ilang piyesa ng lahat ng mga sasakyang nasabi. At, malaki na ang naisulong natin sa nasabing larangan,‖ sabi ng Pangulong Aquino. Binanggit din ng Pangulo ang B/E Aerospace na isang locator na kompanyang gumagawa ng mga piyesa ng eroplano. Ang planta nito sa Batangas ang kauna-unahang planta sa labas ng Hilagang Amerika at Europa at kung saan naipakita ang pambihirang husay at talino ng mga Pilipino. Ang isa pang competitive sector ay ang business process outsourcing (BPO) sector, ayon sa Pangulong Aquino. Ang nakikita ng ibang bansa ay ang husay at kakayahang magagamit nila kapag naglagay sila ng negosyong ito sa Pilipinas. ―Marami pa akong mababanggit, nguni’t ang higit na mahalaga, nakalalamang tayo sa iba at iyon ang dahilan kaya tayo magiging good player sa loob ng komunidad ng ASEAN at higit na malaking merkadong nagbibigay ng malaki ring pagkakataon para sa ating mga kababayan sa kompanya nila,‖ dagdag ng Pangulo. Tinukoy rin ng Pangulo na ang Mexico ay interesadong makatrabaho ang Pilipinas upang magkaroon ng puwang sa ASEAN, lalo na sa larangan ng kalakalan dahil sa mabuting ugnayang nagsimula noong panahong sakop ang mga bansa natin ng Espanya. Dumalo ang Pangulong Aquino sa 23rd ASEAN Summit sa Brunei noong mga unang araw ng buwang ito bilang paghahanda sa panrehiyong blokeng ukol sa binabalak na iisang komunidad sa 2015. PND (as/zaf)

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President Benigno S. Aquino III's Speech at the Annual Presidential Forum of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP)

Manila Hotel, One Rizal Park, Manila 23 Oct 2013

Excellencies and members of the Diplomatic Corps; Secretaries Cesar Purisima, Leila de Lima, Icot Petilla, Sonny Coloma, Ricky Carandang, Ging Deles; Mr. Jason Gutierrez; of course, the institution of Mr. Gabby Tabuñar; officers and members of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines; fellow workers in government; honored guests; ladies and gentlemen: Good morning. Over the past couple of years, I have indeed come to look forward to this event, since the questions you almost always ask make for a memorable experience; and on the days leading up to this forum, I make a point to review all the data I need to explain the issues clearly. I remember that in 2011, I addressed you for the first time as President of the Republic. Back then, we had to face a

delicate balancing act. As we took a long hard look at the contracts and systems we inherited, and set about to purge them of opportunities for graft, the necessary pause led to a growing demand to pump prime the economy. This was the dilemma we faced when we set about to fulfill our two pronged promise of eliminating corruption to significantly lessen poverty. Simply going back to business as usual to provide stimulus would fatally hamper our anticorruption drive; on the other hand, economic momentum had to be maintained, even accelerated, as the public demanded to see the fruits of reforms. This is why, in this very forum two years ago, I announced our strategy to address both these concerns. As some agencies had to retool, so to speak, for good governance, we had other agencies take up the slack. This was the idea behind the stimulus package I unveiled to you two years ago. By spending money the right way—without kickbacks, without overpricing, without collusion in contracts—we had generated a great amount of savings. This, along with additional and new sources of funds, could be spent strategically to accelerate and expand much-needed programs. It was an embodiment of our campaign promise: By curbing corruption, we saved money; and we were able to channel this to programs that would bring us closer to our goal of alleviating poverty. If I may give a concrete example: The Araneta Underpass in Quezon Avenue was allotted a budget of P694.15 million. But because we undertook a proper, transparent bidding process, we were able to lower the project’s total cost to P430 million, and it was even finished a hundred days ahead of schedule. The savings, worth P264 million in this case, then went back to the national coffers, which could then be allocated towards other projects under the national strategy—whether it was building other road projects, or funding vital services such as education and health. I am happy to report that the stimulus program went on to help thousands of our countrymen. We were able to relocate informal settlers who were living in danger areas, build necessary infrastructure through the DPWH, and upgrade the facilities of government hospitals, such as the Lung Center of the Philippines, the Philippine Heart Center, and the Philippine Children’s Medical Center. The program also helped fund TESDA’s Training for Work Scholarship Program, and was responsible for also electrifying 1,513 sitios all around the Philippines. It provided funds for the PNP to hire an additional 15,000 non-uniformed personnel to do administrative work, so that our policemen can fulfill the duties that they were trained for. It also funded Project NOAH, which has saved countless lives and freed many more from the unease brought about by natural calamities. The stimulus package was successful in advancing the benefits accrued to the citizens. When, in the past, such benefits would be delayed by a cumbersome bureaucracy, our processes ensured the biggest positive impact in the most efficient and fastest possible manner. Needless to say, the program was very well received. The World Bank even said, in their quarterly report, that the stimulus program contributed 1.3 percentage points to GDP growth in the fourth quarter of 2011. It helped us overcome the inertia that the economy was experiencing then. And we are sustaining the momentum up to now. In 2012, our economy grew by 6.8 percent, and then by another 7.6 percent in the first half of 2013, exceeding the forecasts of many experts. We moved to the 59th spot in the World Economic Forum’s Competitiveness Rankings, marking a 26-place jump in only three years, which allowed us to leapfrog more traditionally competitive countries in the rankings. Above that, our proper spending on that stimulus package—and our general fiscal responsibility—convinced the world’s three most renowned credit ratings agencies to grant our country investment grade status. This stimulus program that heralded our country’s economic boom was named the Disbursement Acceleration Program. You may have heard of it. After all, at this point, who has not? For the past few weeks—nearly two years after I announced it—it has been unjustly and oddly vilified in the media. Perhaps I can repeat that for emphasis: Two years after I announced the program—nearly two years after the same media lauded government for its resourcefulness, and after two years worth of projects that have helped perhaps millions of our countrymen—it is receiving intense criticism from some quarters. In fact, I was perplexed to hear that some people equated the DAP with PDAF, when, simply, it was a program that strategically allocated funds to agencies that had already proven the capacity to implement projects and programs rapidly and efficiently. The legality of such a process is clearly stated in Executive Order 292, or the Administrative Code of 1987, amongst other laws. It is difficult to fathom how one could equate this program with PDAF. The only thing one could remotely relate to PDAF were those projects undertaken through consultation with our legislators. After all, just as we engaged regional offices, local partners, and civil society in identifying projects, was it not also appropriate to hear the proposals of the elected officials of the land? Taking this into account, such projects by the legislators made up a mere nine percent of the entire program. Why, then, is the DAP being made an issue? The criticism of DAP also coincides with the criticism we are receiving about the bonuses granted by the SSS—the framework for which was outlined in the GOCC bill we signed into law two years ago. Even our reforms over at the Bureau of Customs—which the public had long been asking for—has received unfair criticism. There have been personal attacks on some of the Deputy Commissioners we have just appointed; and you may have even gotten a vitriolic white paper attacking the person of Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima. And if I may share this: I read an article on the matter a few weeks ago that, again, perplexed me. It mentioned a certain court decision issuing a Temporary Restraining Order against one of our steps to reform the Bureau of Customs. The decision suggested that ―grave injustice‖ would be done if Customs personnel were detailed to a new unit that would focus on crafting much needed administrative, procedural, and legislative reform in the bureau. Where is this ―grave injustice,‖ may I ask, when these personnel would be paid exactly the same amount as they are making in their old posts and with their seniority intact? I wonder what would happen to our country, if every employee that was assigned a new task by his superior would find it prudent to petition for a TRO and expect it to be granted. Since I am in a room full of journalists, perhaps I can leave it to you to connect the dots: All of these attacks came after

plunder cases, among others, that were filed before the Office of the Ombudsman against a few well-known politicians. And perhaps, again because I am in a room full of journalists, I do not need to remind you of the true issue that has seemingly been drowned out by all the background noise. And so I ask you: Let’s keep our eye on the ball. The public was outraged by the audacity with which public officials allegedly stole from the national coffers through PDAF. This is an outrage we share, and this is precisely why we abolished PDAF, and followed the evidence so that we may hold all those who committed wrongdoing accountable. Our media and our people are far too good—far too wise—to be grossly and brazenly led to the wrong issue. Plunderers should be taken to account. As FOCAP, formed in 1974 to resist the Martial Law regime’s iron grip on information, has seen: the Philippines developed a moribund reputation because the world saw that reforms could be stopped in their tracks by the corrupt. Yet, I submit that at no other time in living memory have we been so close to achieving permanent change. In the coming months and years, we can expect those wedded to the old ways to stop at nothing to prevent this change. I am confident, however, that the sober reporter—the responsible journalist—will see just how far we have gone, and how much the old crooks have their backs to the wall. I am here to ask all of you only to continue pursuing your journalistic ideals. After all, upon all our shoulders—government, media, and private citizens alike—rest the never-ending task of protecting and advancing our democracy. In the midst of the cacophony of voices, the journalist must be able to separate the important from the frivolous, the spin from the facts, the malicious lies from the simple truth. I am confident that you will pursue the type of journalism that those who came before us fought for, and at times, died for. The type of journalism that builds nations. I encourage all of you to continue reporting what is important to the public. Just as I continue my own endless pursuit of giving Filipinos the government they deserve—I hope that you continue your equally endless pursuit of being the media that our people deserve. I believe this is the significance of our forum. This is why I am very eager to have a candid, transparent conversation with all of you: to further strengthen the relationship between government and media; to help myself and my Cabinet gain an even greater feel of the pulse of the people; and to give rise to balanced, informed reporting that works for the public’s interest. Thank you. I believe, at this point, I should be ready for any or all your questions.

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ONLINE NEWS

23 OCTOBER 2013

End-August infra spending jumps by 38.5% Y-0-Y

Victims of calamities warned vs illegal recruiters

DSWD tightens monitoring of NGO compliance, demands liquidation of PDAF

MOFYA winners proclaimed in Region 1

BSP grants regulatory relief to banks affected by typhoon "Santi"

Baldoz clarifies pay rules for earthquake-stricken areas in the Visayas; urges employers to ensure workers' safety

Journalists Caraballo, Ordinario, and Jalandoni Win 5th NSM Media Awards

Independent policing body for Bangsamoro meets to begin work

Phl upholds Human Rights and Environmental Protection

379 examinees in Riyadh take special Professional Licensure Board examinations

Paje hails Ph contribution to ozone layer recovery

DILG R-3 introduces Regulatory Simplification Process on new business registrations

Convergence initiative provide P228-M worth Of projects in Cam Sur

DA eyes 8.2 MMT record corn harvest

PDIC files syndicated estafa against former President, officers, borrowers of closed rural bank

PhilHealth Executive is Presidential Lingkod Bayan Awardee

End-August infra spending jumps by 38.5% Y-0-Y

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

Consistent with the Aquino administration’s goal of ramping up infrastructure spending this year, the Department of

Budget and Management (DBM) announced that expenditures for infrastructure and capital outlay as of end-August had climbed by 38.5 percent year-on-year, as the Aquino administration continued to roll out and implement key projects to spur economic expansion. This—along with improved year-on-year levels for other government expenditures—helped bring disbursements as of August to P1.222 trillion—a 12.6-percent or P137.1 billion increase year-on-year—higher than the average growth rate shown in last eight years for the same period. ―Consistent improvements in our infrastructure and capital outlay disbursements are proof of the Aquino government’s commitment to further expand the economy through strategic infrastructure investments. We’re looking at speeding up our spending momentum for infrastructure and other key expenditures, in line with our goal of pushing infrastructure spending to 5 percent of our GDP by 2016,‖ Budget and Management Secretary Florencio ―Butch‖ Abad said. Disbursements for infrastructure and capital outlay rose to P169.6 billion from last year’s P122.4 billion, bolstered by irrigation projects of the Department of Agriculture’s National Irrigation Administration (DA-NIA). Projects supported by these disbursements include the Agno River integrated irrigation project, Balog-balog multi-purpose project, small irrigation projects and rehabilitation of existing irrigation systems nationwide, among others. Abad also cited significant disbursement increases under Personnel Services (PS), Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE), and subsidies to GOCCsas key contributing factors in the sustained growth in government expenditures as of August. ―Government expenditures are expected to climb further in the remaining months of the year, thanks to several budget reforms that helped make disbursements more efficient. To date, we have already released 91 percent of the P2.006-trillion obligation program for the year. These releases will support the quick implementation of key programs and projects designed to generate rapid and sustainable economic growth,‖ said Abad. ―Although we see a slight decrease—one percentage point to be exact—on the rate of growth recorded as of August compared to July’s 13.6 percent, this is generally in line with average spending behaviors that have been observed for this period. Nonetheless, we have already conducted a series of meetings with the Account Management Teams (AMTs) to determine problem areas and bottlenecks in project implementation,‖ Abad added.

Disbursements by Expense Class, 2012 vs. 2013, as of August 2013 in billion pesos, unless otherwise indicated

Particulars January-August Increase/Decrease

2012 2013 Amount % Current Oper. Exp. 900.8 1,002.1 101.2 11.2 PS 344.3 377.4 33.1 9.6 MOOE 153.6 185.3 31.7 20.7 Subsidy 15.4 33.8 18.4 119.6 Allotment to LGUs 145.8 161.2 15.5 10.6 IP 221.1 228.9 7.8 3.5 TEF 20.7 15.5 (5.2) (25.1) Capital Outlays 169.5 219.8 50.4 29.7 Infra & Other CO 122.4 169.6 47.1 38.5 Equity 0.9 0.5 (0.4) (45.6) Cap. Transfers to LGUs 46.1 49.8 3.6 7.9 CARP-LO - - - - Net Lending 14.5 (0.1) (14.5) (100.5) TOTAL 1,084.7 1,221.8 137.1 12.6

DISBURSEMENTS BY EXPENSE CLASS, AS OF AUGUST 2013 Maintenance and Other Operating Expenditures (MOOE) continued to rise by P31.7 billion or 20.7 percent from last year’s level, attributed to releases for the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) potable and safe water supply to water-less barangays and the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) interim shelter assistance to informal settler families along eight priority waterways in Metro Manila. Personnel Services expanded further by 9.6 percent or P33.1 billion year-on-year with the continued release for the PBB granted to employees of DepEd, Department of Finance (DOF), Office of the Vice-President (OVP), National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and the Presidential Communication Operation Office (PCOO). Subsidy to GOCCs had the largest year-on-year increase percentage-wise at 119.6 percent or P18.4 billion over the 2012 outturn. This is due to the releases for the 2013 National Health Insurance Program (NHIP) premium subsidy, the National Electrification Administration (NEA)-implemented Sitio Electrification Program and National Housing Authority’s 2011 and 2012 Resettlement Program and AFP/PNP Housing Project. Interest Payments recorded a P7.8 billion or 3.5 percent increase from last year’s P221.1 billion, driven by a higher requirement for domestic borrowings, specifically from the issuances of retail treasury bonds.

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DSWD tightens monitoring of NGO compliance, demands liquidation of PDAF

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

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) clarified today that Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) releases to non-government organizations (NGOs) are all accounted for and are in the process of liquidation by concerned NGOs. The clarification came after news circulated that, based on a 2012 Report of the Commission on Audit, the DSWD has P854.4 M of unliquidated PDAF. The Department explained that the reported fund releases constitute all PDAF released by the DSWD Central Office and its 16 regional offices to NGOs from 2002, or even earlier, up to 2012. From 2010 to 2012, the DSWD released to NGOs a total of P1.2 billion from PDAF. Of this amount, P819 million – or 71 percent – have already been liquidated as of August 31, 2013. The DSWD emphasized that the process of liquidation is a continuing activity. It requires the submission of documentation of program implementation until all expenditures are fully accounted for. The Department added that it has a working system of monitoring NGO compliance. Its Protective Services Bureau monitors project implementation, while its Finance and Management Service monitors liquidation, sends NGOs demand letters if they fail to liquidate properly, and forwards the matter to the Legal Service for legal action if the NGOs fail to comply. As early as February of this year, even before the PDAF issue has surfaced, the Department already referred 11 erring NGOs to the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) for filing of cases. ―At present, a number of NGOs are responding to our demand letters and are submitting their liquidation reports. These reports, in turn, are being validated by our Internal Audit Service,‖ DSWD Secretary Corazon Juliano Soliman said. As of today, the DSWD is reviewing and validating NGO liquidation reports amounting to P144 million. ―We expect that more reports will be forthcoming, as we are tightening our monitoring systems,‖ Secretary Soliman added. ―Rest assured that all PDAF funds went to legitimate NGOs implementing DSWD accredited programs and services for the benefit of qualified beneficiaries,‖ Secretary Soliman stated.

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MOFYA winners proclaimed in Region 1

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

The families of Alberto L. Balbalan and Segundino M. Revita were proclaimed winners of the search for Model OFW Family of the Year Award (MOFYA) 2013 in Region 1. The awarding ceremony was held on October 14, 2013, at Max’s Restaurant, in San Fernando City, La Union. Chief Engineer Alberto L. Balbalan of Burgos, Ilocos Sur, winning the title for the sea-based category was nominated by the local government unit of Burgos, Ilocos Sur while Mr. Segundino M. Revita of Rosales, Pangasinan, grabbing the title for land-based category was endorsed by the OFW Association of Rosales, Pangasinan. They competed against six (6) other families. The two winners received plaques from OWWA RWO1 plus P20, 000 worth of G-cash from Globe Telecom. Aside from the eight candidates who were joined and supported by their respective families and nominating parties, members of the Selection and Screening Committee were also present during the event. Director Grace Y. Ursua of Department of Labor and Employment Region 1 and chairperson of the committee was represented by Mr. Charlie O. Las Marias, Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) was represented by Mr. Edwin Visaya, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) was represented by Ms. Juvy Cahiga, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) was represented by Provincial Director Daria R. Mingaracal, Diocesan Desk for Pastoral Care of Migrants & Itinerant People (DDMI) was represented by Program Coordinator Sr. Lolita J. Guibac. They were welcomed by OWWA-Regional Welfare Office 1 Officer in Charge-Director Ma. Luisa S. Reyes. Two special awards were also given to deserving OFWs who excelled in community projects and entrepreneurship. The Outstanding Achievement in Community Projects was awarded to Dr. Jose G. Soriano of Mangaldan, Pangasinan and the Outstanding Achievement in Entrepreneurship was awarded to Chief Engineer Heriberto B. Claudio of Bayambang, Pngasinan. Both of them received plaques from OWWA RWO1. MOFYA is an annual event of Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) giving recognition to outstanding OFWs and their families who have demonstrated best practices in attaining optimal success in all aspects of life in the face of overseas migration. The nominees were assessed and evaluated according to the following selection criteria: Wholesome OFW Family, Civic/Community Involvement of OFW and/or family members, Success in children’s or family member/s’ education, and Success in Managing Family Finances.

Chief Engineer Alberto L. Balbalan and Mr. Segundino M. Revita will represent Region I in the 2013 National MOFYA to be held on November 28, 2013 in Metro Manila.

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BSP grants regulatory relief to banks affected by typhoon "Santi"

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

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas is granting regulatory relief measures to banks to enable them to similarly assist and ease the financial burden of bank customers adversely affected by Typhoon ―Santi‖ which devastated several parts of the country from 11 to 13 October 2013. Eligible for the relief measures are those in the following areas identified by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council on 14 October 2013: Region I : Pangasinan Region II : Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya and Quirino Region III : Aurora, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac and Zambales Region IV-A : Laguna and Rizal Similar relief measures were extended by the BSP to thrift and rural/cooperative banks in cities/provinces that were affected by previous typhoons such as Sendong, Pedring, Mina and Juaning in 2011, and Southwest Monsoon (Habagat), typhoons Helen, Gener, Pablo, and tropical depression ―Quinta‖ in 2012, and typhoon ―Labuyo‖ and Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) enhanced by Tropical Strom ―Maring‖ in 2013. As approved on 17 October 2013 by the Monetary Board, the BSP’s policy-making body, the temporary relief measures include: For Thrift Banks/Rural Banks/Cooperative Banks a) Excluding existing loans of borrowers in affected areas from the computation of past due ratios provided these are restructured or given relief; b) Reducing the 5 percent general loan loss provision to 1 percent for restructured loans of borrowers in the affected areas; c) Non-imposition of penalties on legal reserves deficiencies with head office and/or branches in the affected areas; d) Moratorium on monthly payments due to BSP for banks with ongoing rehabilitation programs; e) Subject to BSP approval, booking of allowance for probable losses on a staggered basis over maximum of five (5) years for all types of credit extended to individual and businesses directly affected by the calamity; f) Non-imposition of monetary penalties for delays in the submission of supervisory reports; For All Banks a) Allowing banks to provide financial assistance to their officers and employees who were affected by the calamity including those assistance that may not be within the scope of the existing BSP-approved Fringe Benefit Program; For All Rediscounting Banks a) Granting of a 60-day grace period to settle the outstanding rediscounting obligations as of 13 October 2013 with the BSP of all rediscounting banks in the affected areas; and b) Allowing banks to restructure with the BSP, on a case-to-case basis, the outstanding rediscounted loans of borrowers affected by the calamity. These measures will be in effect for a defined period and covered by additional specific and other prudential conditions.

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Baldoz clarifies pay rules for earthquake-stricken areas in the Visayas; urges employers to ensure workers' safety

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

Tagbilaran City--In consideration of the occupational risks attendant to the 15 October earthquake which left a wide swath of destruction in Bohol and parts of Cebu and other Visayas provinces, Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz yesterday urged employers to ensure the safety of their work premises and secure clearance from competent authorities before resuming business operation and allowing the re-entry of workers to affected buildings and worksites.

She also clarified the pay rules applicable during the days covered by the declaration of state of calamity in areas affected by the October quake. In Labor Advisory No. 08-A Series of 2013, Baldoz highlighted the importance of the Safety Committee required under the law and which she said should be composed of trained first-aiders, nurses, doctors, and safety officers. "The members of the Safety Committee in every private business establishment should be physically present in the establishments during the state of calamity," Baldoz told DOLE regional and DOLE Bohol provincial officials during her visit to this city. During her visit, she expressed concern for the plight of workers, particularly those in the tourism services sector, in her conversation with Bohol Governor Edgar Chatto and in a meeting with Bohol Vice Governor Concepcion Lim. Baldoz was accompanied in her visit to Bohol by DOLE Regional Office No. 7 Director Chona Mantilla, Assistant Regional Director Lilia Estillore. ILO Manila Office Director Jeff Lawrence Johnson also joined Baldoz.

"Employers should also provide first aid medicines and ensure that immediate medical attention is rendered to injured workers by coordinating with the nearest hospital to facilitate workers' access to medical services during emergency situations. They may also provide such other extra incentives or benefits to employees who reported for work during the emergency," she added. As to the pay rules for 15 October, Baldoz said that since it was a regular holiday in observance of Eidul-Adha, a worker who did not report for work shall be paid 100 percent of his daily wage. For work done during the regular holiday, the employee is entitled to 200 percent of the amount of his daily wage for eight hours of work, or 100 percent holiday pay, and proportionate daily wage depending on the number of hours worked. For the succeeding days covered by the declaration of state of calamity, the following rules shall apply: (1) If the employee did not work, the 'no-work, no-pay' principle shall apply, unless there is favorable company policy, practice, or collective baragaining agreement (CBA) granting payment on the said day; (2) If the employee has accrued leave credits, he may be allowed to utilize such leave so that he will have compensation on said days; and (3) If the employee worked, he shall be paid 100 percent of his daily wage. "I urge private sector employers to voluntarily comply with the holiday pay rules," she said, reiterating that ―proper observance of these pay rules is decent and moral and encourages productive and proficient workers. Any question about this release? Please call the DOLE Hotline 527-8000, the nearest DOLE regional office in your area (for DOLE-NCR 400-6011), or the Bureau of Working Conditions at tel. no. 527-3000, local 301 or 302.

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Journalists Caraballo, Ordinario, and Jalandoni Win 5th NSM Media Awards

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

Awarding rites for this year’s National Statistics Month (NSM) Media Awards was held on October 1, 2013 during the joint opening ceremonies of the 24th NSM and the 12th National Convention on Statistics (NCS) at the Edsa Shangri-La Hotel in Mandaluyong City. Adjudged winner for the print category is Ms. Mayvelin Caraballo of the Manila Times. She was awarded for her article ―PH Tourism needs to be more competitive‖ published in the May 13, 2013 issue of the Manila Times. For the online news category, the award went to Ms. Cai Ordinario for her online article ―MAP: The poorest provinces in PH posted on Rappler on April 27, 2013. Ms. Ordinario now writes for the Business Mirror. ABS-CBN news reporter, Ms. Apples Jalandoni was adjudged winner for the broadcast category for her news report ―Pinoy bachelors outnumber single women‖ aired on February 15, 2013 on Bandila news program. Each winner received a Plaque of Recognition and a cash prize of PhP 15,000. The Board of Judges for the 5th NSM Media Awards includes: Dr. Vicente B. Valdepeñas, Jr., as Chair with Dr. Romulo A. Virola and NSCB Assistant Secretary General Lina V. Castro as members. The NSM Media Awards are given to media practitioners in recognition of their important role in promoting and communicating statistics and valuing its use in planning and decision-making as well as for the professional handling of statistical information. Meanwhile, the NSCB also announces the winners for the annual NSM Best Activity Contest. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Bureau of Agricultural Statistics (BAS) were recognized as major awardees in the 23rd NSM Best Activity. The DENR initiated ―Focused Career Orientation Forum for Graduating High School Students" was adjudged Best Statistical Fora while the BAS ―On-the-Spot Essay Writing Contest‖ was declared Best Statistical Contest. The DENR and the BAS each received a plaque of recognition and PhP 10,00 cash prize for their awards. For the Best NSM Region category, Region 8 (Eastern Visayas) won the 2012 Best NSM Region and received a

Plaque of Recognition and cash prize of PhP 20,000. The Board of Judges for this year’s Best NSM Activity was led by OIC Director Teresa V. Peralta of the Bureau of Labor and Employment Statistics (BLES). The NSM Awards System has been instituted to give recognition to the outstanding participation in the NSM celebration. It is also a means of providing incentive to participating individuals and agencies in the observance of NSM and a way of encouraging wider participation in the NSM celebration. At the same time, it promotes the conduct of activities that further the objectives and spirit of this annual statistical event. The awarding rites for this year’s NSM Best Activity and Best Region were held on October 2, 2013 during the closing ceremonies of the 12th NCS at the Edsa Shangri-La Hotel in Mandaluyong City. LINA V. CASTRO Officer-in-Charge Office of the Secretary General

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Independent policing body for Bangsamoro meets to begin work

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

Manila – The Independent Commission on Policing (ICP) constituted by the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on Monday, October 21, held its first meeting with the GPH Negotiating Panel in preparation for its task of submitting recommendations to the peace panels on the appropriate form, structures, and relationships of the police force for the envisioned Bangsamoro region. ―This is a getting-to-know-you session and we hope to provide you with some overview of the institutional context of the task on hand‖ said GPH peace panel chair Miriam Coronel-Ferrer who presided over the meeting held at the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process headquarters in Pasig City. In attendance were the members of the ICP, namely, Randall Beck as Chairperson (from Canada); retired Police Director Ricardo De Leon (GPH selected local expert); retired Police Chief Superintendent Amerodin Hamdag (MILF selected local expert); Police Dir. Lina Sarmiento (GPH appointed representative); Von Al Haq (MILF appointed representative); and Cedric Netto (international expert from Australia). Another international expert who will be nominated by the Japan government has yet to be named. Hirotaka Ono, First Secretary of the Japanese Embassy in the Philippines and member of the International Contact Group (ICG), attended in the meantime. During the meeting, Sarmiento discussed the structure, history, and constitutional mandate of the Philippine National Police while Coronel-Ferrer presented the legal framework relevant to policing in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. After the meeting with the Panel, the ICP led by its chairperson proceeded to the Canadian Embassy to hold their organizational meeting. They arranged to continue discussions until Wednesday. The ICP was convened for the first time in September during the 40th round of talks wherein the parties, in a joint statement, said that ―the ICP shall commence its work by mid-October.‖ The ICP's Terms of Reference was signed by the parties on February 27, 2013 during the 36th GPH-MILF exploratory talks. As stated in the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB), the commission ―shall recommend appropriate policing within the Bangsamoro which is civilian in character and responsible both to the Central Government and the Bangsamoro Government, and to the communities it serves.‖ Also present in the said meeting were GPH panel member Undersecretary Yasmin Busran-Lao; Atty. Jesus Doque IV, member of the GPH Technical Working Group on Normalization; and officials of the Canadian Embassy to the Philippines, namely Benoit Girouard and James Christoff. Rasid Ladiasan, Head of Secretariat of the MILF ceasefire committee, also came as notetaker for the MILF representative.

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Phl upholds Human Rights and Environmental Protection

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

23 October 2013 - Organized by the Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF), together with the Raoul Wallenberg Institute of Sweden, the French Ministry of Foreign and European Human Rights And Environmental Protection Affairs and the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the 13th Informal Seminar on Human Rights opened on October 21 at the Moltkes Palace in Copenhagen, Denmark. Speaking on behalf of the organizers, Philippine Foreign Affairs Adviser and Ambassador Rosario G. Manalo, delivered her remarks on the seminar’s theme ―Human Rights and the Environment,‖ which explores the protection and promotion of human rights in relation to the environment and climate change within the Asia Europe Meeting (ASEM) framework.

Ambassador Manalo, the current Philippine Commissioner of the ASEAN Inter-Governmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR), emphasized that the Philippines has been at the forefront of human rights in Southeast Asia while it has suffered the devastating impacts of environmental degradation and climate change. ―I am sure none of us would dispute that the objectives of protecting human rights and the environment are interlocking, both ultimately aim to improve the conditions of human life. The right to environment and how it can be accommodated into the human rights theory should be explored further, and identify the issues and challenges confronting this relationship,‖ remarked Ambassador Manalo. The Philippine official expressed hope that the insights gained from the exchange of ideas among Asian and European experts could develop synergy that would integrate effective policies and strategies in mutually reinforcing protections in each field. Hosted by the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Danish Institute for Human Rights, the event welcomed more than 120 participants including official representatives from ASEM countries as well as civil society members dealing with human rights and the environment. Participants discussed key concerns of human rights and environmental protection, and developed policy recommendations for Asian and European decision-makers. Ms. Ida Auken, the Danish Minister for the Environment, and Dr. John Knox, the United Nations Independent Expert on Human Rights and the Environment, were among the keynote speakers. Mr. Karsten Warnecke, Deputy Executive Director of the Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF) and Mr. Rolf Ring, Deputy Director of the Raoul Wallenberg Institute were also in attendance. Working group discussions focused on the interaction between sustainable development, environment and human rights; access to information, participatory rights and access to justice, among others. Joining Ambassador Manalo in the event were the DFA’s Executive Director for European Affairs Marichu Mauro and Director for the United Nations and other International Organizations Shirlene Mananquil. The Informal ASEM Seminar on Human Rights Series was initiated by France and Sweden at the 1st ASEM Foreign Ministers Meeting in 1997. The DFA joined the series as an organiser in 2011. The initiative promotes mutual understanding and cooperation between Asia and Europe in the area of political dialogue, particularly on human rights issues.

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379 examinees in Riyadh take special Professional Licensure Board examinations

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

23 October 2013 - A total of 379 Filipinos took the recently conducted Special Professional Licensure Board Examinations (SPLBE) held in Riyadh from October 15 to 17. The Examinations were supervised by a Team from the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC), headed by Director Lily Ann R. Baldago, Head of the five-member PRC Team. As in previous years, this year’s examinations were organized and coordinated by the officers and members of Philippine Professional Organizations (PPO) under the leadership of its current Chairman Engr. Modesto Gibas. The Special Professional Licensure Board Examinations were administered for seven disciplines. Nursing still topped the number of examinees with 87 examinees, closely followed by Architecture with 86 examinees, Registered Master Electrician with 54 examinees, Civil Engineering with 49 examinees, Mechanical Engineering with 46 and Certified Public Accountants with 24 examinees. The PRC Team earlier met with Philippine Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Ezzedin Tago. During the call, the PRC and Embassy officials discussed the mandate of the Commission and other administrative arrangements related to the conduct of the examinations.

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Paje hails Ph contribution to ozone layer recovery

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

Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje hailed the efforts and contributions the Philippines has made during the last 25 years to help restore the ozone layer, which experts say is on track to fully recover over the next four decades. Paje cited the country’s compliance to all obligations under the Montreal Protocol, an international treaty to phase out ozone-depleting substances (ODS), particularly chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).

―For 25 years, our country has been working very hard to cooperate with the international community to implement national programs for phasing out ODS such as CFCs that were traditionally used as cooling chemicals for refrigerators and air conditioners, blowing agent for foam, and as propellant for spray cans, among its other uses,‖ Paje said. The protocol, which the Philippines signed on Sept. 14, 1988, was said to have helped reduce the size of the hole in the ozone layer that protects humans and other organisms against the sun’s harmful ultraviolet radiation. Paje reported that the Philippines has contributed to the global key achievements of the Montreal Protocol, which include the phase-out of 98 percent of historical production and consumption of ODS and the anticipated healing of the ozone layer following 2012 reports that the ozone hole has shrunk and was recorded to be the smallest in the last decade. He said that since most ODS are also greenhouse gases (GHG), the Montreal Protocol has already averted GHG emissions equivalent to more than 135 billion tons of carbon dioxide. According to the environment chief, controls implemented under the protocol have enabled the global community to avoid millions of cases of fatal skin cancer and tens of millions of cases of non-fatal skin cancer and eye cataracts. Paje said that since 1991, or three years after the Philippines became a signatory to the international treaty, ―the country has been in compliance to all obligations under the Montreal Protocol and many times, phased out substances ahead of the target schedule.‖ He said the country had already completed the ban on seven of eight ODS. These include the three types of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) which were used in foam, aerosols and as refrigerants; halon, a fire-extinguishing agent; carbon tetrachloride, a dry cleaning agent; methyl chloroform, used in manufacturing metal and plastic products; and methyl bromide, used in agricultural pesticides and fumigation of products for export. The remaining ODS – hydrochloroflourocarbons (HCFCs) also known as ―super GHG‖ – are set to be gradually banned starting 2015. Early this year, the government has frozen the import of HCFCs at the 2010 base level of 162 ozone-depleting potential tons. The level would then be reduced by 10 percent in 2015; 35 percent in 2020; 67 percent in 2025; 97.5 percent in 2030; and altogether banned in 2040. Paje said a United Nations-backed HCFC Phase-out Management Plan (HPMP) has been put in place to help the Philippine government achieve its objectives. The HPMP lead agency is the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), while the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) is assisting the government in the investment projects for the foam sector. ―Being the key stakeholders and as Filipino citizens working to protect the ozone layer, it is our duty to be models in environmental protection and ambassadors of the Earth,‖ Paje said. Accordingly, he called on the public to patronize ozone-friendly products and services to protect the earth’s so-called ―natural sunscreen.‖ ―When buying your home air-conditioners, choose the HCFC-free air conditioners – they are usually more energy efficient, too, and will multiply your savings from your electricity consumption,‖ Paje pointed out. He said the DENR will update its procurement guidelines on choosing ozone-friendly, low-global warming potential and energy efficient air conditioning systems. ―I continue to urge you to patronize service shops accredited by the Department of Trade and Industry for your refrigerators, air conditioners and vehicles. We must remain vigilant against fake refrigerants that are still rampant in the country,‖ he added.

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DILG R-3 introduces Regulatory Simplification Process on new business registrations

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

The Department of the Interior and Local Government Region 3 conducted an Orientation-Briefing on Regulatory Simplification Process for its Business Permit and Licensing System (BPLS) Provincial Focal Persons on September 17, 2013 at the DILG LGRRC, Maimpis City of San Fernando, Pampanga. Regulatory Simplification for new business permitting and licensing is the enhanced version of BPLS. Expected outcomes of this project are reduced number of steps, lower average time to get a business permit, improved procedures, policies and practices. Another benefit of this project is an improved capacity of the LGUs to regulate businesses. The activity was participated by the Provincial and City BPLS Focal Persons and Regional Personnel involved in BPLS. An overview was given by MED Chief Lerrie S. Hernandez while ARD Abraham A. Pascua supervised the successful conduct of the activity.

The Provincial Focal Persons are expected to roll-out this project to their respective provinces and cities.

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Convergence initiative provide P228-M worth Of projects in Cam Sur

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

Agrarian reform beneficiaries in the municipality of Garchitorena in Camarines Sur will soon enjoy greater economic opportunities as the government pours various infrastructure and livelihood projects to help farmers increase their income. Through the National Convergence Initiative of President Benigno Aquino III, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), in partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), banded together to fund the implementation of the P228-million rural development program. Launched in the coastal Barangay of Asonvia, the program dubbed ―Garchitorena: A Landscape in Rural Development‖ aims to boost farm productivity, augment household income and spur rural development. DAR Regional Director Luis Bueno Jr. explained that the convergence initiative is a government strategy that seeks to decrease poverty in the countryside by providing badly needed infrastructure projects, agricultural technology advancement and wider access to rural credit. ―Operationally, the DAR-DA-DENR convergence works on sharing expertise and information. We collaborate and complement each agency’s program [on rural development] for a more efficient delivery of support services. This way, we maximize the use of each agency’s resources,‖ Bueno said. Bueno explained that the local convergence initiative started with the collaboration between DAR and PCA when then DAR Regional Director Maria Celestina Tam and PCA Manager Eduardo Allorde agreed to expand their partnership by involving other line agencies namely, the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Social Work and Development (DSWD), Education (DepEd), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA). Under the convergence initiative plan, Garchitorena will be provided rural infrastructures such as farm-to market-roads, school buildings, bridges, flood control projects, and potable water systems. Forty six classrooms are likewise programmed for repair, Bueno said. On the production support side, Bueno informed that, the town’s farmers will be provided farm machineries and garden tools; seedlings of seaweeds, coconut and other high value crops; tilapia fingerlings and mangrove propagules. ―Intensified coconut production, tree planting under the National Greening Program (NGP) and organic farming are also included in the package. A livestock and poultry multiplier farm will likewise be established in the area,‖ Bueno added. In order to ensure sustainability, these projects will be complemented with appropriate livelihood programs, like livestock raising and vegetable production, while the farmers will undergo technology trainings as para-technicians and agri-extension workers, he said. During the launch, CamSur 4th District Representative Felix William Fuentebella expressed his full support to the program. He said: ―With the combined efforts of government agencies, rural development will definitely improve and will be more efficient. Garchitorena is a 4th class municipality, and this unprecedented program under the convergence initiative will boost its economic activity.‖

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DA eyes 8.2 MMT record corn harvest

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

DA eyes 8.2 MMT record corn harvest The Department of Agriculture is expecting another record harvest of corn this year, estimated at 8.2 million metric tons (MMT), in spite of the damaged wrought by recent typhoons. Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala said the 2013 corn harvest would be 10.8 per cent (%) more than last year’s output of 7.4 MMT, and 28% more than in 2010. He said the annual production of corn — the country’s second most important crop next to rice, and serves as main staple of 14 million Filipinos — has been steadily increasing during the Aquino Administration.

―Likewise, the country’s corn sufficiency level has improved, from 83% in 2010 to 98% in 2012, and we expect to hit 105% sufficiency by year-end,‖ said the DA chief at a media briefing, October 22, 2013, as a prelude to the 9th Philippine National Corn Congress and 2013 National Quality Corn Achievers Awards, from October 23 to 25, in Tagaytay City. With the estimated record harvest, the country is expecting a surplus of 150,000 MT to 200,000 MT, of which the private sector, particularly the Philippine Maize Federation, Inc. (PhilMaize) is planning to export 100,000 MT, said Assistant Secretary Edilberto de Luna, who serves as the DA national corn program coordinator. PhilMaize president Roger Navarro said they are awaiting the approval of the National Food Authority (NFA) Council on their application to export quality corn to interested foreign buyers. Early this year, the country exported its first-ever shipment of 24 MT of corn silage as cattle feed to South Korea. As of August, total shipment has reached 280 MT, which forms part of the 15,000 MT of corn feed and grains worth P75 million to be shipped by December 2013. For 2014, the DA national corn program, with a proposed budget of P1.797 billion, targets to produce at least 8.4 MMT. A/Sec de Luna said the additional production would come from identified 300,000 hectares of coconut areas that could be intercropped with corn. He said the DA national corn program is partnering with the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) to implement said corn intercropping program. More and more Filipinos have also been consuming white corn grits (or bigas-mais), as shown by increase in the per capita of 10.26 kilograms (kg) in 2012, from 7 kg in 2009. Further, corn imports have been reduced by one-half, from an average of 171,000 MT yearly from 2001 to 2009, to only 91,000 MT from 2010 to 2012. As a result of more investments in drying and processing facilities, corn postharvest losses were reduced to 12.9% in 2012, from 15% in 2011. The DA targets to reduce it further to 9% by 2014, said A/Sec de Luna. For these milestones, Secretary Alcala said the DA extends its gratitude to and honors the country’s corn farmers, the private sector like PhilMaize and National Corn Board, local government officials, provincial, city and municipal agriculturists and extension workers, and other industry stakeholders. Finally, he said the DA will not waver in its commitment to bring prosperity to corn farmers and the industry, in general, by: Continuously investing in the establishment of postharvest facilities such as corn-in-a-cob dryers, and processing and trading centers; Teaching more farmers ―Good Agricultural Practices‖ or GAP to make them at par with, if not better than, their counterparts in major corn-producing countries; and Sustaining efforts to provide farmers and traders on precise market price information, and link farmers directly to markets.

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PDIC files syndicated estafa against former President, officers, borrowers of closed rural bank

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

The Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) filed on October 10 with the Department of Justice (DOJ) a criminal complaint for syndicated estafa against six former officers, including the President and Chairman and relatives of controlling stockholders, of the closed Rural Bank of Milagros (Masbate), Inc. (RBMI). The Monetary Board placed the Rural Bank of Milagros under PDIC receivership on November 29, 2007. The PDIC filed charges of syndicated estafa through falsification of commercial documents, in violation of the Revised Penal Code, against RBMI former officers Rosie V. Besonia (Vice President, Manager and Stockholder), Mizel S. Tarantan (Corporate Secretary, Cashier and Stockholder) and Larry Descalzo Estrella (President, Chairman and Stockholder), Emmie Tamayo Estrella (Stockholder); and family relatives of controlling stockholders, Luis Romero Estrella and Eugene Tamayo Estrella, who were also borrowers of the bank. In its complaint, the PDIC alleged that respondents, in conspiracy with one another, with abuse of confidence reposed in them as directors, officers, stockholders and related interests (DOSRI), diverted and converted the bank’s funds aggregating Php0.86 million initially as loans to the Estrellas. These loans were approved by respondents Besonia and Tarantan from July 14 to November 29, 2006. The PDIC complaint further indicates that after the loan proceeds were received by the Estrellas and recorded as loans receivable in the bank’s books, the said loans were subsequently fraudulently removed from RBMI’s outstanding liability records through the falsification of official receipts, accounting tickets, proofsheets, and loan schedule days prior to the bank’s closure. This was done to make it appear that the loans had been paid when in fact, no loan payments were received by the bank. Affidavits of two former RBMI bookkeepers that are attached to the complaint state that there was no actual cash transacted to pay for the loans of the Estrellas, and that days prior to the bank’s closure, there were no more financial transactions in RBMI. The bookkeepers attested that it was upon the instruction of Besonia and Tarantan that they signed the official receipts as proof of payment.

The Corporation continues to pursue legal actions against bank officials and personnel who have been found to have engaged in unsafe and unsound banking practices, which pose grave threats to the stability of the country’s banking system. As co-regulator of banks, deposit insurer and receiver/liquidator of closed banks, the PDIC is authorized to conduct investigations and file necessary cases against erring bank officials and unscrupulous individuals. The pursuit for justice against erring bank owners, officers and employees is an important undertaking of PDIC to protect the Deposit Insurance Fund, PDIC’s funding source for payment of insured deposits, as well as to maintain financial stability.

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PhilHealth Executive is Presidential Lingkod Bayan Awardee

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

―The selection of Dr. Dennis S. Mas as a Presidential Lingkod Bayan Awardee is PhilHealth’s testimony of excellent service and stellar performance.‖ This statement was made by Alexander A. Padilla, PhilHealth President and CEO as he welcomed the good news that one of the executives of the State Insurance Agency, was chosen as a Presidential Lingkod Bayan Awardee for the year 2013. Dennis S. Mas, the youngest among the Regional Vice Presidents of PhilHealth, was chosen among the 16 semi-finalists for the Lingkod Bayan (Individual) Category for his outstanding contributions that had nationwide impact on public interest, security and patrimony. Through his able leadership, PhilHealth Regional Office VI was able to reduce the turnaround time of members’ benefit claims processing from an average of 133 days in 2011 to five (5) to seven (7) days by December 2012. There was also a significant reduction in refiled claims which saved the Corporation more than Php3 Million in 2012. ―This kind of dedication is shared by the more than 5,800 strong PhilHealth workers. PhilHealth is continually raising the bar of its performance and this has benefitted our more than 80 million beneficiaries. In fact, in a survey conducted by the Social Weather Station (SWS), PhilHealth, as an institution, has a net satisfaction rating of +82,‖ added the PhilHealth Chief. The Awards Rites is slated October 24, 2013 at the Malacanang Palace. RVP Dennis Mas will receive a gold-gilded medallion, Presidential Plaque with Citation and Signature of the President of the Philippines, and cash award of two (2) hundred thousand pesos. He is also entitled to other forms of rewards and incentives provided under Section 5 of Executive Order No. 508.

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Last Updated: 22 OCTOBER 2013

President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his message during the 39th Philippine

Business Conference (PBC) at the Manila Hotel in One Rizal Park, Manila City on

Wednesday (October 23). The 39th PBC will look into the strategies that will position

the Philippines on the path to higher and inclusive growth and in ensuring consistent and

stable policies, among others. Also in photo are Philippine Chamber of Commerce and

Industry president Miguel Varela, PCCI chairman Alfredo Yao and Interior and Local

Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo

Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 39th Philippine Business Conference (PBC)

at the Manila Hotel in One Rizal Park, Manila City on Wednesday (October 23, 2013).

The 39th PBC will look into the strategies that will position the Philippines on the path

to higher and inclusive growth – in ensuring consistent and stable policies, in

maintaining macroeconomic balance, in introducing further reforms in governance, in

rolling out infrastructure projects, in adopting international trade policies. (Photo by:

Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his message during the 39th Philippine

Business Conference (PBC) at the Manila Hotel in One Rizal Park, Manila City on

Wednesday (October 23). The 39th PBC will look into the strategies that will position

the Philippines on the path to higher and inclusive growth and in ensuring consistent and

stable policies, among others. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the annual Presidential Forum of the Foreign

Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) at the Manila Hotel in One

Rizal Park, Manila City on Wednesday (October 23). FOCAP is one of the country’s

most prestigious and respected media organization that include international agencies,

publications, radio and TV networks. The forum is a traditional annual event where the

President discusses key policies and answers questions on foreign affairs, politics, the

economy and social issues from the foreign media. Also I n photo are Presidential

Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. and FOCAP

president Jason Gutierrez. (Photo by Rolando Mailo / Malacañang Photo Bureau /

PCOO)

President Benigno S. Aquino III answers questions during the open forum in connection

with the Annual Presidential Forum of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the

Philippines (FOCAP) at lof the Manila Hotel in One Rizal Park, Manila City on

Wednesday (October 23). FOCAP is one of the country’s most prestigious and respected

media organization that include international agencies, publications, radio and TV

networks. The forum is a traditional annual event where the President discusses key

policies and answers questions on foreign affairs, politics, the economy and social issues

from the foreign media. Also in photo are Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima and FOCAP

president Jason Gutierrez. (Photo by Rolando Mailo / Malacañang Photo Bureau /

PCOO)

President Benigno S. Aquino III answers questions during the open forum of the annual

Presidential Forum of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines

(FOCAP) at the Manila Hotel in One Rizal Park, Manila City on Wednesday (October

23). FOCAP is one of the country’s most prestigious and respected media organization

that include international agencies, publications, radio and TV networks. The forum is a

traditional annual event where the President discusses key policies and answers

questions on foreign affairs, politics, the economy and social issues from the foreign

media. Also in photo are Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary

Herminio Coloma, Jr., FOCAP president Jason Gutierrez and Justice Secretary Leila de

Lima. (Photo by Rolando Mailo / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO)

President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the annual Presidential

Forum of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) at the

Manila Hotel in One Rizal Park, Manila City on Wednesday (October 23). FOCAP is

one of the country’s most prestigious and respected media organization. It was that

include international agencies, publications, radio and TV networks. The forum is a

traditional annual event where the President discusses key policies and answers

questions on foreign affairs, politics, the economy and social issues from the foreign

media. Also in photo are Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Presidential

Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr., FOCAP president

Jason Gutierrez, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima and Presidential Adviser on the Peace

Process Secretary Teresita Quintos-Deles. (Photo by Rolando Mailo / Malacañang Photo

Bureau / PCOO)

President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the annual Presidential Forum of the Foreign

Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) at the Centennial Hall B of the

Manila Hotel in One Rizal Park, Manila City on Wednesday (October 23). FOCAP is

one of the country’s most prestigious and respected media organization. It was that

include international agencies, publications, radio and TV networks. The forum is a

traditional annual event where the President discusses key policies and answers

questions on foreign affairs, politics, the economy and social issues from the foreign

media. Also in photo are Presidential Communications Development and Strategic

Planning Office, Secretary Ramon Carandang, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima and

FOCAP president Jason Gutierrez. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo

Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III answers questions during the open forum of the annual

Presidential Forum of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines

(FOCAP) at the Manila Hotel in One Rizal Park, Manila City on Wednesday (October

23). FOCAP is one of the country’s most prestigious and respected media organization

that include international agencies, publications, radio and TV networks. The forum is a

traditional annual event where the President discusses key policies and answers

questions on foreign affairs, politics, the economy and social issues from the foreign

media. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III answers questions directed to him during the open

forum in connection with the Annual Presidential Forum of the Foreign Correspondents

Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) at the Centennial Hall B of the Manila Hotel in

One Rizal Park, Manila City on Wednesday (October 23, 2013). FOCAP is one of the

country’s most prestigious and respected media organization. It was founded in 1974 to

safeguard press freedom during the Martial Law years under then, President Ferdinand

Marcos. It consists of international agencies, publications, radio and TV networks. The

forum is a traditional annual event where the President discusses key policies and

answers questions on foreign affairs, politics, the economy and social issues from the

foreign media. In photo are Presidential Communications Development and Strategic

Planning Office (PCDSPO) Secretary Ramon Carandang, Finance Secretary Cesar

Purisima, Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio

Coloma, Jr., FOCAP president Jason Gutierrez, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima and

Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) Secretary Teresita Quintos-Deles.

(Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III answers questions during the open forum of the annual

Presidential Forum of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines

(FOCAP) at the Manila Hotel in One Rizal Park, Manila City on Wednesday (October

23). FOCAP is one of the country’s most prestigious and respected media organization

that include international agencies, publications, radio and TV networks. The forum is a

traditional annual event where the President discusses key policies and answers

questions on foreign affairs, politics, the economy and social issues from the foreign

media. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III answers questions during the open forum of the annual

Presidential Forum of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines

(FOCAP) at the Manila Hotel in One Rizal Park, Manila City on Wednesday (October

23). FOCAP is one of the country’s most prestigious and respected media organization

that include international agencies, publications, radio and TV networks. The forum is a

traditional annual event where the President discusses key policies and answers

questions on foreign affairs, politics, the economy and social issues from the foreign

media. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III answers questions during the open forum of the annual

Presidential Forum of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines

(FOCAP) at the Manila Hotel in One Rizal Park, Manila City on Wednesday (October

23). FOCAP is one of the country’s most prestigious and respected media organization

that include international agencies, publications, radio and TV networks. The forum is a

traditional annual event where the President discusses key policies and answers

questions on foreign affairs, politics, the economy and social issues from the foreign

media. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III answers questions during the open forum of the annual

Presidential Forum of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines

(FOCAP) at the Manila Hotel in One Rizal Park, Manila City on Wednesday (October

23). FOCAP is one of the country’s most prestigious and respected media organization

that include international agencies, publications, radio and TV networks. The forum is a

traditional annual event where the President discusses key policies and answers

questions on foreign affairs, politics, the economy and social issues from the foreign

media. Also in photo are Presidential Communications Development and Strategic

Planning Office Secretary Ramon Carandang, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima,

Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr., Justice

Secretary Leila de Lima and Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary

Teresita Quintos-Deles. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III answers questions during the open forum of the annual

Presidential Forum of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines

(FOCAP) at the Manila Hotel in One Rizal Park, Manila City on Wednesday (October

23). FOCAP is one of the country’s most prestigious and respected media organization

that include international agencies, publications, radio and TV networks. The forum is a

traditional annual event where the President discusses key policies and answers

questions on foreign affairs, politics, the economy and social issues from the foreign

media. Also in photo are Energy Secretary Carlos Jericho Petilla, Presidential

Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office Secretary Ramon

Carandang, Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio

Coloma, Jr., FOCAP president Jason Gutierrez and Justice Secretary Leila de Lima.

(Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech at the annual Presidential Forum of

the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) at the Manila Hotel

in One Rizal Park, Manila City on Wednesday (October 23). FOCAP is one of the

country’s most prestigious and respected media organization. It was founded in 1974 to

safeguard press freedom during the Martial Law years under then, President Ferdinand

Marcos. It consists of international agencies, publications, radio and TV networks. The

forum is a traditional annual event where the President discusses key policies and

answers questions on foreign affairs, politics, the economy and social issues from the

foreign media. Also in photo are Energy Secretary Carlos Jericho Petilla, Presidential

Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office Secretary Ramon

Carandang, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Presidential Communications Operations

Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr., FOCAP president Jason Gutierrez, Justice

Secretary Leila de Lima and Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary

Teresita Quintos-Deles. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

Thank You and God Bless !!!!