Aguinaldo Shrine

Pagsanjan Falls

Taal Lake

Antipolo Church

Lucban Pahiyas Feast

Dispatch for August 15 , 2013 Thursday , 4 PIA Calabarzon PRs , 7 Weather Watch,
12 Regional Watch , 4 OFW Watch , 2 PNOY Speech , 15 Online News , 6 Photonews

For more information and queries, log on to www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph or please call at telephone numbers 927-1335 and 927-2877.

1. Weather Watch
about an hour ago GMA News TV: Kinansela ng PAL ang kanilang MNL-Hong Kong-MNL flights dahil sa masamang lagay ng panahon doon. Samantala, kinansela rin ng Cebu Pacific ang kanilang MNL-Caticlan-MNL flights dahil naman sa aircraft situation.

2. Weather Watch
2 hours ago PIA-1/LA UNION PNOY'S VISIT TO CERVANTES : Security is tight at the Aluling bridge as of 9:10 am while the crowd awaits the President's arrival. Securing the area are members of the PNP, AFP, PSG and Philippine Army.

3. Weather Watch
3 hours ago PIA-13: PAGASA 24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST issued at 5AM, 15 August. SYNOPSIS: Southwest Monsoon affecting the western section of northern and central Luzon. FORECAST: The Regions of Ilocos and Cordillera, Cagayan, Batanes and Babuyan Group of Islands will experience cloudy skies with light to moderate rainshowers and thunderstorms. 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 southwest will prevail over Luzon and the coastal waters along these areas will be moderate to rough. Elsewhere, winds will be light to moderate coming from the southeast to southwest with slight to moderate seas.

4. Weather Watch
14 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines GMA-7 resident meteorologist Nathaniel Cruz on 24 Oras: - Patuloy na nakakaapekto ang hanging habagat sa kanlurang bahagi ng Hilaga at Gitnang Luzon. - Kaya pinag-iingat ng PAGASA ang mga taga-Ilocos Region, CAR, Zambales, Bataan at Babuyan Group of Islands. - Makakaranas ng mahina hanggang katamtamang pag-ulan sa mga lugar na ito. - Dahil sa malakas na hanging habagat posibleng umabot sa 4.5 meters ang taas ng mga alon sa kanlurang baybayin ng Hilaga at Gitnang Luzon. - Kaya pinapayuhan ang mga mangingisda at maliliit na sasakyang pandagat na iwasan munang pumalaot sa mga nabanggit na baybayin. - Sa datos naman ng Weather Central, patuloy na magiging maulan at makulimlim ang papawirin sa Western section ng Luzon pero sa natitirang bahagi tulad sa Bicol Region ay mahihinang pag-ulan lang ang inaasahan. - Magiging bahagyang maulap naman sa Metro Manila, mababa drn ang tsansang umulan buong araw kaya ang init factor ay aabot ng 37C. - Mas maayos na panahon naman ang inaasahan sa Visayas at sakaling umulan man ay mahina lamang ito at maaliwalas na papawirin rin ang inaasahan sa malaking bahagi ng Mindanao pero posibleng magkaroon ng thunderstorms kaya dapat na maging handa.

For more information and queries, log on to www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph or please call at telephone numbers 927-1335 and 927-2877.

Weather Watch

August 15 , 2013 ( Thursday )

as of 8 :00 AM

CAVITE LAGUNA BATANGAS RIZAL QUEZON

: : : : :

Sunny Sunny Fair weather Fair weather Partly cloudy

PIA

Regional Watch

1. PIA Regional Watch

about an hour ago near Quezon City, Philippines PIA-4A/LAGUNA: Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) Administrator Euclides G. Forbes said that the agency has recently intensified its massive pest control drive to wipe out the scale insect pests that have infested coconut trees in Calabarzn region.

2. PIA Regional Watch

16 hours ago

PIA-IVA/QUEZON: The Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PG-ENRO) conducted a forum with the officers of Quezon National High School (QNHS)student council regarding solid waste management within the campus premises. The forum will help the students plan their solid waste segregation program in the campus.

3. PIA Regional Watch

17 hours ago PIA-4A/BATANGAS: Bahagyang tumaas ang halaga ng mga gulay at prutas sa mga pamilihan dto sa lungsod ng Batangas sanhi ng nagdaang bagyong Labuyo.

4. PIA Regional Watch

17 hours ago PIA-4A/BATANGAS: Muling hinikayat ng PNP ang mga establisimyento sa lungsod ng Batangas na maglagay ng cctv camera upang mas mapangalagaan ang kaligtasan ng mga mamimili at negosyante.Layon nitong mapababa ang insidente ng nakawan sa lungsod.

5. PIA Regional Watch

17 hours ago PIA-4A/QUEZON: Quezon avenue Lucena City is now closed to all pasenger jeepneys due to 'Niyogyugan grand parade' which started from SM City Lucena City to Perez Park, Lucena City. Said activity is a part of the weeklong celebration of Quezon day which aims to promote local tourism in the province.

6. PIA Regional Watch

19 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines PIA-4A/CAVITE: A total of forty TB patients will be receiving a hot meals daily for the next two months as part of the intensive phase of treatment under TB DOTS programs initiated by the local government of Carmona through their Municipal Health Office. Each beneficiary was given a nutritional theraphy card which will serve as their daily monitoring card.

7. PIA Regional Watch

19 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines PIA-4A/CAVITE: The Sangguniang Panlalawigan pledged their all-out support and joined hands in the conduct of Information, Education and Communication campaign for the Water Quality Management Areas (WQMA) for Imus-Ylang-Ylang-Rio Grande. Its was initiated by the Environmental Management Bureau CALABARZON Region , PENRO and PG-PENRO.

8. PIA Regional Watch

19 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines PIA-4A/CAVITE: The Municipal Healh Office of Carmona recognized the regular and top blood donors during the recent 3rd Annual Blood Donors Recognition wherein distinctions were given to individual volunteers and institution and companies for their continuous support.

9. PIA Regional Watch

22 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines PIA-4A/QUEZON: The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) reported that almost 2,200 child laborers are now in school because of the International Programme on the Elimination of Child Labor (IPEC) and the existence of Provincial Child Labor Committee (PCLC). According to DOLE Quezon provincial director Edwin Hernandez, the IPEC and the PCLC contributed a lot in solving cases of child laboring in the province.

10. PIA Regional Watch

22 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines PIA-4A/LAGUNA: Asec. Blesila Lantayona, DTI Regional Operations Group stated that the only criterion needed to start a business is the commitment to start a business adding that DTI is here to provide assistance to small and medium entrepreneurs and would-be-entrepreneurs. Asec. Lantayona is guest speaker at the SME Roving Academy Region IV-A launch and Go Negosyo Seminar being held today in Calamba City,Laguna.

11. PIA Regional Watch

22 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines PIA-4A/QUEZON: The Quezon Police Provincial Office {QPPO} yesterday lauded PS1 Fernando C. Reyes 111, chief of police of San Antonio MPS for the exemplary leadership and public service he renders in his command. APD Carlos said that San Antonio MPS initiated programs that contributed to the maintenance of peace and order such as drug free family program that aims to eliminate the rampant use of illegal drugs among users and the constant conduct of foot patrol and police visibility which is deterrent factor in the commission of crime.

12. PIA Regional Watch

23 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines PIA-4A/RIZAL: DTI-Rizal and UP Institute of Small Scale Industries are currently conducting the Planning for Expanding Business Training (PlanET) from August 14 to 16 and September 4 and 5. Around 15 Rizal business groups have been invited to participate in the said training and workshop.

1. PIA OFW Watch

16 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines DZBB: Nasa 10 pang undocumented OFW mula sa Riyadh, Saudi Arabia ang dumating sa NAIA. Sakay ng Etihad Airlines flight 424 ang 10 OFW na kinabibilangan ng siyam na lalaki at isang babae. Ayon sa isa sa mga OFW, halos dalawang buwan silang pabalik balik sa shelter bago naiayos ang kanilang mga papeles pabalik ng bansa.

2. PIA OFW Watch

16 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines Sen. TG Guingona on DZMM: - Hindi kapani-paniwala ang mga sinasabi ni Mr. Musa. - Mukhang mahaba pa ito kasi isang hearing, isang witness. - Haharap siya (Musa) bukas kasama na si Mr. Villafuerte. - Okay na okay iyon. Kung iyan ang gusto nila (witnesses/victims), rerespetuhin natin sila. Hindi naman po kailangan na maipakita ang kanilang mga mukha. - The best way siguro ay magtulung-tulong ang lahat ng mga departamento gaya ng DoLE at DSWD sa paghahanap-hanapbuhay (ng mga OFW) rito.

3. PIA OFW Watch

18 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines DZIQ: The House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs warned DOLE to cut their 2014 budget by 25% if the agency fails to endorse and penalize personnel involved in the sex for flight scheme.

4. PIA OFW Watch

20 hours ago near Quezon City, Philippines DZMM: Hindi napigilan ni Rep. Luzviminda Ilagan na mabanggit sa budget hearing na masyadong maliit ang pondo para sa mga OFW. Ilang OFWs lang daw ang mapapauwi ng P50M samantalang napakaraming OFW ang nakatakdang i-repatriate ng bansa.

A. QUEZON
1. 10 outstanding Quezonians, to be awarded with Medalya ng Karangalan
By Ruel M. Orinday Wednesday 14th of August 2013 Tweet FacebookYahooEmailShareThis LUCENA CITY, Quezon, Aug. 14 (PIA) --The provincial government of Quezon through the Quezon Medalya ng Karangalan Lupon ng Gawad Parangal 2013 will award Quezon Medalya ng karangalan (QMK) to 10 outstanding Quezonians on August 16 at Quezon Convention Center, this city. Quezon Medalya ng Karangalan is an award given by Quezon province to its outstanding citizens for their exceptional and meritorious achievements which greatly contributed to the advancement and interest and welfare development of the province and its people by virtue of Provincial Board Resolution 612 dated August 5, 1970. The awarding of QMK 2013 to outstanding residents of Quezon is in line with the celebration of Quezon Day or the 135th birth anniversary of the late President Manuel L. Quezon. The awardees are: Ireneo San Agustin Robles, Jr. culture and arts; Dir. Josefina C. Go- government service; Menchu R. de Luna- health (OFW); Ysmael V. Baysa- business management; PDir. Elpidio Z. de Asis, Jr.- police service; Prudencio M. Maxino, Jr,. public service; Eduardo M. Munoz- community service; Dir. Clarito M. Barron,Ph.D.- government service (agriculture); Belen C. Palad- agriculture and Carmen Q. Mendoza- education. The Tumbaga 1 Bukal Irrigators Association, Inc. on the hand will receive special citation (agriculture) from the provincial government. The QMK Lupon ng Gawad Parangal 2013 is composed of Quezon Gov. David Suarez- honorary chairperson; Atty. Vicente M. Joyas- chairperson; Bishop Emilio Z. Marquez- co-chairperson; Romulo M. Edano,Jr. vice chairperson and the twelve members of the committee. (RMO-PIA, Quezon)

B. CAVITE

C. LAGUNA
1. Laguna Police provincial office reports lower crime rate in S1 2013
Thursday 15th of August 2013 SANTA CRUZ, Laguna, Aug 15 (PIA) --The crime rate in Laguna province has decreased during the first half of the year, a Laguna Police Provincial Office (LPPO) report said. During the regular Peace and Order Council meeting here, P/SSupt. Pascual Munoz, provincial director said crime rate in the province has decreased by 12.74 percent for the first half of the year 2013 as compared to last year. This can be attributed to the Agencys intensified programs against criminality such as Oplan Wildcat, Angry Bird, Counter Strike, Oplan Berde, Anti-Illegal Game Operation among others, Munoz said. The Office has conducted 10,000 checkpoints which resulted in confiscation of 42 hot vehicles including 94 motorcycles and the arrest of 152 suspected drug pushers and users. The operation also neutralized seven criminal groups and led to the arrest of eight persons in possession of illegally cut log worth P558,650, and the arrest of 892 individuals involved in illegal gaming activity and confiscation of P873,000 bet money. The LPPO had recently received recognition as Best Provincial Police Community Relations (PCR) Branch/National Level during the observance of the 18th Police Community Relation Month in July. Likewise, San Pablo City Police Station was awarded as the best city police station in CALABARZON region and San Pedro Municipal Police Station as the best municipal station nationwide. P/Insp. Rolando A. Libed, PCR Section, San Pablo City Police Station, was also bestowed the Best Chief of Police award.(ERF/PIA-Laguna)

D. BATANGAS

1. Tagalog news: NGCP nanawagan sa publiko na pangalagaan ang mga transmission lines
By Mamerta P. De Castro Thursday 15th of August 2013 LUNGSOD NG BATANGAS, Agosto 15 (PIA) -- Muling nanawagan ang National Grid Corporation of the Phils. (NGCP) sa publiko upang pangalagaan ang mga transmission lines. Sa isang power seminar na isinagawa ng NGCP para sa mga local media sa lalawigan ng Batangas, binigyangdiin ni Atty. Cynthia Alabanza, NGCP spokesperson, na ang pagbibigay ng tama at de-kalidad na serbisyo sa mga konsumidores ng kanilang kumpanya ang kanilang prayoridad. Bunsod nito, nanawagan si Alabanza sa mga mamamayan na makinig sa kanilang ipinalalabas na kalatas o impormasyon kaugnay sa kanilang mga transmission lines. Aniya, hindi biro ang kanilang panawagan na huwag nakawin ang mga linya ng transmission sapagkat malaki ang peligrong dala sa kukuha nito dahil sa lakas ng boltahe na dumadaloy dito. Mataas ang posibilidad na makuryente kapag lumampas sa clearance line ng kanilang transmission dahilan sa pinakamababang boltaheng dumadaloy dito ay 69,000 volts. Ayon pa sa opisyal maging ang pagtatanim ng mga punong kahoy at pagtatayo ng anumang establismyento ay mahigpit ding ipinagbabawal para sa kaligtasan ng mga mamamayan. Inihayag din ng NGCP ang Transmission Development Plan (TDP) kung saan nakasaad ang mga plano para sa pagpapalawak ng rehabilitasyon at pagsasaayos ng transmission system mula 2012 hanggang 2021. Sa kasalukuyan ilang mga ERC approved projects ang isinasagawa upang mas mapaganda ang serbisyo at maibigay ang kinakailangang demand mula sa mga kunsumidores ng NGCP. Upang mas maging epektibo ang proyekto ng NGCP, nagsasagawa sila ng corporate social responsibility (CSR) tulad ng pagkakaloob ng mga suplay at iba pang pangangailangan ng eskwelahan o komunidad kung saan itatayo ang kanilang transmission lines. Bahagi din ng kanilang CSR ang tinatawag na Gabay Linya kung saan nakikipag-ugnayan sila sa mga lokal na residente at kumukuha sila ng mga maaaring sanayin bilang linemen at kalaunan ay maaring kunin ng NGCP ang serbisyo. Sa usapin naman ng sabotahe, ayon kay Alabanza, malimit ay sa bahaging Mindanao lamang ito nagaganap at karaniwang pilferage o pagnanakaw lamang ng linya ang nararansan sa South Luzon. (MAL/MPDC-PIABatangas)

2. Tagalog news: Mahigpit na pagbabawal sa pagtitinda ng junk food, ipinatutupad ng DepEd

By Mamerta P. De Castro Wednesday 14th of August 2013 LUNGSOD NG BATANGAS, Agosto 14 (PIA) --Pursigido ang Department of Education (DepEd) sa lungsod na ito na ipagbawal ang pagtitinda ng mga junk food, soft drinks at juice products sa mga pampubliko at pribadong paaralan.

Base sa DepEd Order No. 8 series of 2007 o ang "Revised Implementing Guidelines on the Operation and Management of School Canteen in the Public and Private Elementary and Secondary Schools," tanging nutrient-rich foods at fortified food products na may label na mayaman sa protina, energy, vitamins at minerals ang pwedeng itinda. Layon nitong masiguro na ang lahat ng pagkain ng mga bata ay puro masustansya at tamang pagkain na magbibigay sa kanila ng isang malusog na katawan. Isang malaking bahagi ito ng maayos na performance ng isang mag-aaral sa paaralan. Sinabi Melba Dinglasan, home economics teacher at in-charge ng school canteen sa Julian Pastor Memorial Elementary School (JAPMES), simula pa lang ng pasukan ay tinanggal na nila ang mga unhealthy foods at tanging ang masustansyang pagkain na lamang tulad ng nilagang itlog, kakanin tulad ng buchi, nilupak, camote at banana cue ang kanilang ibinibenta. Aniya, noong una ay nahihirapan sila sa pagpapatupad ng no junk food policy ngunit kalaunan ay nasanay na din ang mga bata sa mga pagkaing ibinebenta. Ginagawa na lamang nilang iba't iba ang mga kakanin upang hindi manawa ang mga bata at tanging tubig at gatas lamang ang inuming ibinibenta nila upang makaiwas sa mga sakit na tulad ng diabetes na mula sa mga inuming mataas ang sugar content. Malaki naman ang pasasalamat ng mga magulang sa patakarang ito dahil natutulungan sila sa pangangalaga sa kalusugan ng kanilang mga anak. Isang proyekto din ng Parents teachers Association (PTA) ang pagpapakain ng libreng tanghalian tuwing Lunes, Miyerkules at Biyernes kung saan nagluluto sila ng isda at gulay para sa mga bata. (Liza delos reyesPIO Batangas City/PIA Batangas)

3. Tagalog news: Tamang pangangalaga ng kita ng mga OFs, binigyang diin sa financial literacy seminar
By Mamerta P. De Castro Wednesday 14th of August 2013 ROSARIO, Batangas, Agosto 14 (PIA) -- Upang mapangalagaan ang kitang ipinadadala ng mga Overseas Filipinos (OFs), isang financial literacy seminar ang isinagawa ng Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) at Atikha, isang non government organization sa 12 bayan na may mataas na bilang ng OFs sa lalawigan. Sinabi ni Aileen Constantino Penas, Atikha deputy executive director, na ito ang unang pagsasanay na ibinigay nila sa lalawigan bagamat may mga pagsasanay na naipagkaloob sa ibang mga lalawigan tulad ng Cavite at Laguna. Layunin nitong sanayin ang mga focal persons sa OFW help Desk upang kanilang ipagbigay alam sa mga pamilya ng mga OFs sa kanilang bayan ang kahalagahan ng tamang pangangasiwa ng kita. Sinabi pa ni Penas na hindi biro ang pagbabanat ng buto sa ibang bansa kung saan lahat ng uri ng hirap ay dinaranas ng isang OF,bukod sa pisikal ay dumadanas din sila ng mental at psychological na hirap sa kanilang trabaho at maging sa mga employer na kanilang nakakasalamuha. Itinuro sa mga dumalo sa pagsasanay ang tamang konsepto ng pag-iimpok at pang-iinvest, tamang pagbabadyet at maging ang pag-utang. Tinalakay din dito ang pagpaplano kung paano ang pagbalik sa bansa at pagsisimula ng negosyo o pagkikitaan, mga planong kinakaharap ng OFs at pamilya nito at kung paano ito

matutugunan. Ayon naman kay Florita Lachica, assistant provincial social welfare and development officer, hangad nito na matugunan ang mga problemang kinakaharap ng bawat OFs at pamilya nito upang magkaroon ng maayos na pamumuhay at kinabukasan. Layunin din nitong maiwasan ang pagkakapariwara ng mga pamilyang maiiwan sa Pilipinas at maunawaan nila ang kundisyon ng mga OFs sa ibang bansa. Ang Atikha ay isang international non-government organization na layong matulungan ang mga OFs at pamilya nito sa tamang pangangasiwa ng kita. Isa din sa mandato nito ang paghikayat sa pagiimpok,pagsasanay sa mga lokal na pamahalaan upang maglagay ng OFW Help Desk, mobilisasyon ng investment ng mga OFs at pagbibigay ng trainers training sa financial literacy. Bahagi din ng Atikha ang paghikayat sa mga kabataang anak ng mga OFs na sumali sa Batang Atikha Savers Club kung saan katuwang nito ang Bangko Kabayan, isang rural bank sa lalawigan. Sa kasalukuyan may 1,000 miyembro na ang batang Atikha Savers Club mula sa bayan ng Lemery, Ibaan, Batangas City, Cuenca at Mabini. Kaugnay nito, nagsasagawa din sila ng Batang Atikha Congress kung saan hinihirang nila ang Savers of the Year base sa monitoring na isinasagawa nito. Sa paraang ito kinikilala ang pagkamasigasig ng mga bata na mag-impok at pahalagahan ang paghihirap ng kanilang mga magulang sa ibang bansa. (PIA Batangas)

E. RIZAL

1. DTI-Rizal, UP-ISSI hold PlanET for local entrepreneurs

By Gideon Gapayao Wednesday 14th of August 2013 ANTIPOLO CITY, Rizal, Aug. 14 (PIA) --The Department of Trade and Industry-Rizal provincial office and UP Institute of Small Scale Industries has launched the Planning for Expanding Business Training (PlanET) for around 15 local entrepreneur groups of Rizal province. PlanET is a five-day seminar organized by DTI-Rizal from August 14-16 and September 4-5 in order to empower local businesses on strategies for business expansion and growth held at the La Travieza Seafood Restaurant, Antipolo City, Rizal. Topics include preparation of expansion plans (market, production, organization) and workshops on market, production and organization expansion plans to be discussed by trainers from the UP-ISSI. Participants will then have their prepared business plans critiqued on the last day of the training (Sept. 5) for evaluation and to receive their certificates. (GG-PIA4A)

14 AUGUST 2013.

1. President Aquino says government pushes for passage of Bangsamoro Basic Law for peace and progress in Mindanao 2. Malacanang puts infographic materials and articles online about former Senator Ninoy Aquino to mark 30th Death Anniversary 3 China-ASEAN Expo to further boost trade and economic ties between the Philippines and Peoples Republic of China 4. Malacanang confident Mindanaoans will not be swayed to counter importance of Bangsamoro Framework Agreement
1. President Aquino says government pushes for passage of Bangsamoro Basic Law for peace and progress in Mindanao

President Benigno S. Aquino III said his administration is working hard for the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law by 2014, paving the way towards a peaceful and prosperous Mindanao. In his speech during the dinner in celebration of Eidl Fitr held at the Rizal Ceremonial Hall in Malacanang Palace on Tuesday, the Chief Executive underscored the importance of the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law to end the decades-long armed conflict in Mindanao. "The Framework Agreement that we forged with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front stands today as a testament to the meaningful change that can be borne of true partnership and a willingness to sacrifice," the President said. "Now, our goal of a peaceful and prosperous Mindanao has come into view. We still have some steps to go, as we work to pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law by 2014. For this reason, let us continue to find in our hearts the trust and goodwill necessary for the fulfillment of our dreams of peace, bearing in mind not the interest of the few, but the betterment of the majority," he said. The President vowed to deal with all the obstacles that hinder the efforts of the government, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and peace advocates to end the armed conflict in Mindanao and bring progress in the region. "I ask you to do even more to attain our shared goals. Just as we are committed to do the right and to work together to advance the common good, there are those who are committed to perpetuating the conditions that lead to the misery of many, and enrich a powerful few," he said. The President said his administration is stepping up its efforts to stop a few groups who are trying to disrupt the peace process in their bid to advance their own interests. "Therefore all of us, who are people of good will, must overcome every obstacle they place in our path. Every effort they make to disrupt the peace process should be met by our superior effort. In this manner, we will ensure that, just as we are in the right, our just cause will prevail," he said. The President also lauded the Filipino-Muslim community for their efforts and sacrifices to work together with the government to achieve genuine peace and progress in Mindanao. "Our commitment to positive change will therefore determine the outcome of our endeavors. Just as you have all fasted and fulfilled one of the great obligations of your faith, it is my hope that every Filipino will find in your example the kindness, humility, and devotion to sacrifice, which are fundamental to establishing lasting peace in our country," the President said. Eidl Fitr (Feast of Ramadan) is celebrated by the Muslim World for three (3) days after the end of the month of fasting. Ramadan is the month when Muslims observe strict fasting for a period of 12 hours daily, from sunrise to sunset. Ramadan is also a month of sacrifice and purification as the Muslims worldwide fast, pray and act with kindness towards the poor and the less fortunate. PND (js) TOP 2. Malacanang puts infographic materials and articles online about former Senator Ninoy Aquino to mark 30th Death Anniversary

Malacanang makes available online infographic materials and articles about former Senator Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr. in line with the observance of his 30th Death Anniversary, a Palace official said on Wednesday. "August 21, 2013 marks the 30th anniversary of Senator Benigno S. Aquino Jr.s return to the Philippines and his martyrdom. In fulfillment of its mandate as custodian of institutional memory, the Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office (PCDSPO) is spearheading an online commemoration which will feature an interactive page with a comprehensive timeline, music of the era, infographic maps, essays, and testimonials on Ninoy and his sacrifice, on the Presidential Museum and Library website," Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda issued the statement during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Wednesday. The government called on the Filipino people to participate in the online commeration which seeks to keep the spirit of Ninoys martyrdom alive as an example of the selfless sacrifice of a man who gave up his life to free a shackled country, Lacierda said. "We call on Filipinos to participate in this campaign, which will source and publish short statements from those who had lived through that watershed event in our history," Lacierda said. "We will also be featuring a remarkable collection of interviews of Ninoys family and close associates, gathered by Ms. Cynthia Sycip and published in 1984. We will also put online, for the first time, the majority and minority reports of the Agrava Commission on the Official Gazette," he stressed. Lacierda asked the Filipino people to join the commemoration by posting on Twitter and Facebook with the hashtag #Ninoy or by sending an email to heritage@pcdspo.gov.ph. "The nation once again marks Ninoys sacrifice, and your recollections and opinions will play a vital role in enabling a new generation of Filipinos to understand that period of martial law, and the turning point that was August 21, 1983," he said. PND (js) TOP 3. China-ASEAN Expo to further boost trade and economic ties between the Philippines and Peoples Republic of China

The Philippine hosting of the 10th China- ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) in China this September will further boost trade and economic cooperation between the country and the People's Republic of China, a Palace official said. "This is one proof of the multi-faceted relationship with China. Were focusing now on trade and the economic agenda," Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Wednesday. Lacierda said the Philippines will host the 10th CAEXPO to be held in Nanning, capital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China from September 3 to 6, this year. This year's CAEXPO aims at further developing cooperation between China and ASEAN countries in trade, investment, economy and technology, as well as in projects and labor sourcing. Chinese and ASEAN government officials, business leaders and scholars are also expected to attend the event. Lacierda said the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) will announce whether President Benigno S. Aquino III will attend the event this September. "Well wait for the DFA to confirm. We have not received any word kung tuloy na siya. Whether pupunta or not si Presidente is just a subject of confirmation yet. May Philippine delegation pupunta doon dahil tayo ang host ng ASEAN-CAEXPO," said Lacierda, stressing that economy is primarly the focus of the CAEXPO. "Its a primarily economic ang agenda. Wala kaming nakikitang pag-uusapan tungkol sa situation natin with China on the West Philippine Sea. It is primarily an economic and trade event," he said. "Our concern with the West Philippine Sea is already being handled in the UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea) arbitral tribunal. The discussions on that area with respect to our situation in the West Philippine Sea has been reserved to the arbitral tribunal to decide," he said. PND (js) TOP 4. Malacanang confident Mindanaoans will not be swayed to counter importance of Bangsamoro Framework Agreement

Malacanang expressed confidence on Wednesday that the people of Mindanao will not be easily swayed by moves to counter the importance of the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement (BFA) saying Mindanaoans were cognizant of the hard work put in by the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front to draft the BFA and its Annexes. In a press briefing in Malacanang, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said the government and the MILF had put in earnest efforts to draft the peace accord and now that it is nearly ready to be implemented, peace and development are at hand.

They (Mindanaoans) saw how difficult it was for us to come up with the Framework Agreement. They saw our earnest efforts from both sides: from MILF and from the government to come up with a workable, doable Framework Agreement and also the Annexes. This shows sincerity on the part of government. This also shows sincerity on the part of the MILF to come up with a doable solution to the decades-old problem of conflict and underdevelopment in Mindanao, Lacierda said. You dont need to tell someone that theres a prospect for progress, (that) theres a prospect for peace. Peace is at hand right now. Once we finish with the comprehensive agreement, the benefits will redound to the entire Muslim Mindanao, he added. The Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro is a preliminary peace agreement signed in Malacanang last October 15, 2012. The Framework Agreement calls for the creation of an autonoumous political entity named Bangsamoro, replacing the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) which was described by President Aquino as "a failed experiment." It also outlines general agreements on major issues, including the extent of power, revenues and territory granted for the new Muslim autonomous region. PND (rck) TOP

14 AGOSTO 2013 1. Para sa kapayapaan at kaunlaran ng Mindanao ang isinusulong ni Aquino na pagpapatibay ng Bangsamoro Basic Law 2. Naglagay ang Palasyo ng infographic materials and articles online tungkol sa dating Senador Ninoy Aquino sa ika-30 Taon ng Kamatayan nito 3. Isusulong na lalo ng China-Asean Expo ang ugnayan sa kalakalan at ekonomya sa pagitan ng Pilipinas at ng Peoples Republic of China 4. Tiwala ang Malacanang na hindi mahihimok ang taga-Mindanao na tutulan ang halaga ng 'Bangsamoro Framework Agreement' 1. Para sa kapayapaan at kaunlaran ng Mindanao ang isinusulong ni Aquino na pagpapatibay ng Bangsamoro Basic Law Dahil sa hangaring maging mapayapa at masagana ang Mindanao kaya isinusulong ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III na mapagtibay sa 2014 ang Bangsamoro Basic Law. Ito ang binigyang diin ng Pangulong Aquino sa talumpati niya kaugnay ng pagdiriwang ng Eidl Fitr na idinaos sa Rizal Ceremonial Hall sa Malacanang Martes. Tahasang sinabi ng Pnagulo na mahalagang mapagtibay ang Bangsamoro Basic Law upang wakasan na ang dekadekadang sagupaan sa Mindanao. Ang Framework Agreement na nilagdaan namin sa Moro Islamic Liberation Front ay malinaw na katibayan ng makabuluhang pagbabagong maaaring ibunga ng tapat na pagsasamahan at k ahandaang magpakasakit, sabi ng Pangulo. Sa kasalukuyan, ang hangad natin ay mapayapa at masaganang Mindanao ang sumibol. Ilang hakbang pa ang gagawin natin habang sinisikap na mapagtibay ang Bangsamoro Basic Law sa 2014. Dahil dito, sana, patuloy nating panatilihin sa ating mga puso ang pagtitiwala at kagandahang-loob na kailangan para maisakatuparan ang ating pangarap na kapayapaan, nang ang nasa isip ay hindi ang kapakanan lamang nang iilan, kundi ang kapakanan at kabutihan nang higit na nakararami, sabi ng Pangulo. Nangako ang Pangulo na sisikapin niyang lakdawan ang mga sagabal sa pagsisikap ng pamahalaan, ng Moro Islamic LiberationFront (MILF) at ng mga tagapagsulong ng kapayapaan para wakasan na ang sagupaan sa

Mindanao nang mamayani ang kasaganaan sa rehiyon. Hinihiling ko sa inyo na dagdagan pa ang pagsisikap upang matamo ang nagkakaisang mga hangarin. Kung paanong nanunumpa tayong gawin lamang ang tama at magtulungan alang-alang sa kapakanang panlahat, mayroon namang ang pakay ay magpatuloy ang kasalukuyang kalagayang nagsasadlak sa marami sa kasawian at iilang makapangyarihan lamang ang nagpapasasa sa kayamanan, mariing wika ng Pangulo. Sinabi ng Pangulo na pinag-iibayo ng administrasyon niya ang pagsisikap na sagkaan ang iilang grupo na ang nais ay biguin ang proseso ng kapayapaan upang isulong naman ang kanilang mga makasariling interes. Dahil dito, tayong lahat na mga taong maganda ang layunin ay angkop lamang na lakdawan ang bawat sagabal na inilalagay nila sa ating daan. Sa bawat panggugulo nila sa proseso ng kapayapaan, dapat nating tugunin nang ibayong pagsisikap para biguin ang mali nilang pakay. Sa ganitong paraan lamang natin matitiyak na yamang nasa tama tayo, ang ating makatarungang simulain ang mamamayani, dugtong ng Pangulo . Pinuri ng Pangulo ang komunidad ng Pilipinong Muslim sa pagsisikap at pagpapakasakit ng mga ito na samasamang makiisa sa pamahalaan upang makamtan ang tunay na kapayapaan at kasaganaan ng Mindanao. Dahil dito, ang panata natin tungo sa positibong pagbabago ang magiging saligan ng bunga ng ating mga pagsisikap. Yamang katatapos lamang ninyong mag-ayuno at tumupad sa isa sa mga dakilang pananagutan ng inyong pananalig, umaasa ako na kayo ang magiging ulirang halimbawa ng bawat Pilipino sa kabutihan, kababaang-loob at katapatan sa pagpapakasakit na mahalaga upang magkaroon ng tunay na kapayapaan sa ating bansa, sabi ng Pangulo. Tatlong araw na ipinagdiriwang ng mga Muslim sa daigdig ang Eidl Fitr (Pista ng Ramadan) pagkatapos ng isang buwang singkad nilang pag-aayuno. Mula bukang-liwayway hanggang dapit-hapon, isang buwang nag-aayuno ang mga Muslim kung panahon ng Ramadan bilang pagpapakasakit. PND (js/zaf) TOP 2. Naglagay ang Palasyo ng infographic materials and articles online tungkol sa dating Senador Ninoy Aquino sa ika-30 Taon ng Kamatayan nito Naglagay ang Malacanang ng online infographic materials and articles tungkol sa dating Senador Benigno Ninoy Aquino, Jr. kaugnay ng paggunita sa kanyang ika-30 Taon ng Kamatayan. Sa Agosto 21, 2013 ay ika-30 anibersaryo ng pag-uwi ni Senador Benigno S. Aquino, Jr. sa Pilipinas at ng kanyang pagkamartir. Pag-alinsunod sa mandato bilang tagapangalaga ng alaala ng dakilang kamanahan, ang Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office (PCDSPO) ay nangunguna sa online commemoration na magtatampok ng alaala ng panahon, musika, infographic maps, sanaysay at mga pagpapatotoo tungkol kay Ninoy at sa kanyang pagpapakasakit, sa Presidential Museum and Library website, sabi ng Tagapagsalita ng Pangulo sa pahayag sa pulong-balitaan sa Malacanang Miyerkoles. Nanawagan ang pamahalaan sa sambayanang Pilipino na lumahok sa online commemoration na ang pakay ay panatilihing buhay ang alaala ng pagkamartir ni Ninoy bilang ulirang halimbawa ng walang katulad na pagpapakasakit ng isang lalaking naghandog ng buhay upang mapalaya ang lugaming bansa, wika ni Lacierda. Hinihiling namin sa lahat ng Pilipino na mak iisa sa kampanyang ito na kukunin at ilalathala ang maiikling pahayag mula sa mga namuhay sa masaklap na yugtong iyon ng kasaysayan natin, dagdag ni Lacierda. Ipakikita rin namin ang mahahalagang koleksiyon ng mga interbyu sa pamilya ni Ninoy at mga mal alapit na kaibigan na tinipon at inilathala ni Bb. Cynthia Sycip noong 1984. Sa kauna-unahang pagkakataon, ang report ng mayorya at minorya ng Komisyong Agrava ay ilalabas sa Official Gazette, pagbibigay-diin pa ni Lacierda. Hiningi ni Lacierda na makiisa ang sambayanang Pilipino sa pamamagitan ng paglalagay sa Twitter at Facebook na may hashtag na #Ninoy o sa pamamagitan ng pagpapadala ng email sa heritage@pcdspo.gov.ph. Minsan pa, aalalahanin ng bansa ang mga pagpapakasakit ni Ninoy at ang inyong alaa la at opinion ay gaganap ng mahalagang papel upang maunawaan ng bagong saling-lahing Pilipino ang panahong iyon ng martial law, at ang kaganapan noong Agosto 21, 1983, sabi pa ni Lacierda. PND (js/zaf) TOP 3. Isusulong na lalo ng China-Asean Expo ang ugnayan sa kalakalan at ekonomya sa pagitan ng Pilipinas at ng Peoples Republic of China Ang gagawing pagiging punung-abala ng Pilipinas sa 10th China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) sa Setyembre ay lalong magpapalakas ng pagtutulungan sa kalakalan at ekonomya sa pagitan ng Pilipinas at ng Peoples Republic of China. Binigyang diin ng Tagapagsalita ng Pangulo Edwin Lacierda sa pulong-balitaan sa Malacanang Miyerkoles na ang 10th CAEXPO na Pilipinas ang magiging punung-abala ay sa Nanning, kapitolyo ng Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Tsina gaganapin Setyembre 3-6, 2013. Ito ay isang katibayan ng mahusay na pakikipag-ugnayan natin sa Tsina. Ang adyenda ng kalakalan at ekonomya ang pinagtutuunan ngayon ng pansin, wika pa ni Lacierda.

Hangarin ng CAEXPO sa taong ito na lalo pang magkatulungan ang Tsina at ang mga bansang ASEAN sa larangan ng kalakalan, pamumuhunan, ekonomya at teknolohiya, gayundin sa mga proyekto at mga manggagawa. Inaasahang dadaluhan ng mga pinunong bayan, lider ng negosyo at mga iskolar ng Tsina at ASEAN ang nasabing CAEXPO. Ayon kay Lacierda, ang Kagawaran ng Ugnayang Panlabas ang magpapahayag kung dadalo ang Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III sa Setyembre. Hintayin natin ang pahayag ng DFA. Wala pa tayong natatanggap na pasabi kung tuloy na siya. Kung pupunta o hindi si Presidente ay malalaman pa. May delegasyong Pilipino na pupunta roon dahil tayo ang punung-abala sa ASEAN-CAEXPO, sabi pa ni Lacierda at binigyang diin na ang ekonomya ang pinagtutuunan ng pansin ng CAEXPO. Ekonomya ang pangunahing adyenda. Wala kaming nakikitang pag-uusapan sa ugnayan natin sa Tsina tungkol sa West Philippine Sea. Ito ay para lamang sa ekonomya at kalakalan,dugtong ni Lacierda. Ang tungkol sa West Philippine Sea ay bahala na ang United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) arbitral tribunal. Ang pag-uusap tungkol sa West Philippine Sea ay ipinauubaya na natin sa arbitral tribunal na siyang magpapasiya, pahayag pa ni Lacierda. PND (js/zaf) TOP 4. Tiwala ang Malacanang na hindi mahihimok ang taga-Mindanao na tutulan ang halaga ng 'Bangsamoro Framework Agreement' Nagpahayag ng pagtititwala ang Malacanang na hindi maibubuyo ang mga mamamayan ng Mindanao na kalabanin ang halaga ng Bangsamoro Framework Agreement (BFA) sapagkat batid ng mga taga-Mindanao ang walang katulad na malasakit ng pamahalaan at ng Moro Islamic Liberation Front upang ihanda ang BFA at ang mga Annexes nito. Sa pulong-balitaan sa Malacanang Miyerkoles, sinabi ng Tagapagsalita ng Pangulo Edwin Lacierda na ang pamahalaan at MILF ay kapuwa walang pasubaling nagsikap para ihanda ang balangkas ng kasund uan sa kapayapaan na ngayon ay halos handa na itong ipatupad kaya ang kapayapaan at kaunlaran ay abot-kamay na. Nasaksihan ng mga taga-Mindanao kung gaano kahirap bago nabuo ang Framework Agreement. Nakita nila ang tapat na malasakit ng magkabilang panig: buhat sa MILF at sa pamahalaan para mabuo ang mahusay at maipatutupad na Framework Agreement at maging ang mga Annexes nito. Katibayan ito ng katapatan ng pamahalaan. Nagpapatunay rin ito ng matapat na hangarin ng MILF na magkaroon ng tunay na lunas sa dekadekada nang problema ng hidwaan at kawalang kaunlaran ng Mindanao, dagdag ni Lacierda. Hindi na kailangan pang sabihin kanino man na ito ay mangangahulugan ng kaunlaran dahil sa kapayapaang mamamayani. Abot-kamay na ang kapayapaan ngayon. Sa sandaling matapos natin ang malawakang kasunduang ito, ang mga biyaya at pakinabang ay lalasapin ng buong Muslim Mindanao, pahayag pa ni Lacierda. Ang Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro ay paunang kasunduan sa kapayapaan na nilagdaan noong Oktubre 15, 2012 sa Malacanang. Itinakda ng Framework Agreement ang paglikha ng isang autonomous political entity na tatawaging Bangsamoro at ipapalit sa Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) na sa paglalarawan ng Pangulong Aquino ay isang bigong eksperimento. Nakasaad din sa pangkalahatang kasunduan ang mahahalagang isyu, kabilang na ang lawak ng kapangyarihan, mga buwis at teritoryong ipinagkaloob sa bagong Muslim autonomous region. PND (rck/zaf) TOP

President Benigno S. Aquino III's Speech during the Dinner Celebration for Eid'l Fitr (Feast of Ramadan) Rizal Ceremonial Hall, Malacaang 13 August 2013

Thank you. Please sit down. Senate President Franklin Drilon, Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, Excellencies of the Diplomatic Corps, Secretary Ging Deles, Secretary Mehol Sadain, other Cabinet members present, Honorable members of the Senate and the House of Representatives, Honorable members of the Judiciary, fellow workers in government, honoured guests, mga minamahal ko pong kababayan: Magandanga gabi po sa inyong lahat. During the Holy Month of Ramadan, Muslims around the world fulfill one of the five pillars of Islam. By fasting from dawn to sunset for one lunar month, my Muslim brothers and sisters, you do not simply observe a ritual of belief; you reaffirm the truths revealed through the Holy Quran. Through prayer, sacrifice, and penitence, you choose to bind yourselves with the greater community of believers of the justice and benevolence of the Almighty God. As people of the Book, we are all commanded by faith to help the poor and protect the defenseless, and to strive to make this world a haven for the oppressed. These are the shared imperatives of every Filipino; these shed light on the narratives of faith that bind us, and allow us to pursue a common vision as one Filipino nation. And tonight, we gather to give thanks to the Almighty God for the gifts He has bestowed upon us as a people. This gathering also reminds us that far greater things are achieved when we work hand-in-hand, and that it is by living the virtuous life, in solidarity, that we ensure stability and harmony in our communities, and, ultimately, in our country. This is precisely the path our administration has taken ever since we assumed office: by doing what is right and just, we have regained the trust and confidence of our people, and have enabled them to live dignified lives. Tonight, we share fellowship in that spirit of trust and dignity. The Framework Agreement that we forged with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front stands today as a testament to the meaningful change that can be borne of true partnership and a willingness to sacrifice. Now, our goal of a peaceful and prosperous Mindanao has come into view. We still have some steps to go, as we work to pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law by 2014. For this reason: let us continue to find in our hearts the trust and goodwill necessary for the fulfillment of our dreams of peace, bearing in mind not the interest of the few, but the betterment of the majority. I ask you to do even more to attain our shared goals. Just as we are committed to do the right and to work together to advance the common good, there are those who are committed to perpetuating the conditions that led to the misery of many, and enriched a powerful few. Therefore all of us, who are people of goodwill, must overcome every obstacle they place in our path. Every effort they make to disrupt the peace process should be met by our superior effort. In this manner, we will ensure that, just as we are in the right, our just cause will prevail. Our commitment to positive change will therefore determine the outcome of our endeavors. Just as you have all fasted and fulfilled one of the great obligations of your faith, it is my hope that every Filipino will find in your example the kindness, humility, and devotion to sacrifice, which are fundamental to establishing lasting peace in our country. And as we tread the straight path to progress and peace, it is our prayer that the Almighty God will continue to guide us, giving our nation the fortitude and determination to overcome the challenges set before us, so that we, as one people, may fulfill our collective aspirations. Thank you. Assalamu Alaikum! [HOME]

President Benigno S. Aquino III's Speech at the 112th Police Service Anniversary PNP Multi-Purpose Center, Camp Crame, Quezon City 13 August 2013 Magandang umaga pong muli sa inyong lahat. Nito lamang pong nakaraang SONA, kinilala at sinaluduhan natin sa harap ng sambayanan ang ilan sa magigiting na miyembro ng ating kapulisan. Tumatak sa Pilipino ang mga pangalang PO3 Edlyn Arbo, PO3 Felipe Moncatar, at PO2 Dondon Sultan, dahil sa ipinamalas nilang tapang, katapatan, at dedikasyon sa serbisyo. Hindi man nila hinangad ang pagkilala, ipinakita natin ang halaga at bunga ng pagsusumikap at laging pagpanig sa tama. Ang mga tulad nilang lingkod-bayan ang kumatawan sa tumataas na kumpiyansat pag-asa ng pamahalaan at ng sambayanan sa hanay ng ating kapulisan. Sa umaga pong ito, nagtitipon tayo upang ipagbunyi ang dakilang serbisyo ng ating mga pulis sa bandila at sa Pilipino: ang pagpapanatili ng kaayusan at kapayapaan sa lipunan, at ang pagsisiguro sa kaligtasan ng ating

mamamayan. Kasabay nito, muli nating iniaangat mula sa hanay na ito ang mga natatanging hukbo at indibidwal, na naging bukal ng inspirasyon at huwarang serbisyo sa kanilang kapwa Pilipino. Sa kampanya kontra-terorismo, tunay pong kahanga-hanga ang ipinamalas na kakayahan at kahandaan sa serbisyo ng Police Regional Office 9 mula Zamboanga City. Sa isang engkwentro, natugis ng kanilang grupo ang limang miyembro ng Abu Sayyaf, kasabay ng pagligtas sa na-kidnap na Chinese national na si Yuan Kai Lin. At hindi lamang po nila naisalba ang buhay ng biktima; nasabat din nila ang ilang armas, kagamitan, at dokumento mula sa grupong ito. Marahil, narinig na rin ninyo ang makasaysayang tagumpay ng Special Operations Task Group (RSOTG) ng Lanao del Sur nitong eleksyon. Masaklap nga po na dahil sa talamak na dayaan at kapabayaan, para bang tanggap na ng ilan ang failure of elections sa Lanao del Sur kada halalan. Nawakasan na po na natin ito. Dahil sa masinsing pagtutok sa seguridad ng RSOTG, kasama na ang pakikiisa ng taumbayan, naging malinis at mapayapa ang unang pagsabay ng pambansa sa rehiyonal na halalan sa ARMM. Saludo din po tayo sa ipinakitang gilas at integridad ni PO2 Webster Odulio Liwag, mula sa Malolos City Police Station. Bahagi siya ng grupong nagbigay-daan sa pag-aresto kay Ryan Dominguez ng Dominguez Carnapping Group noong Mayo ng 2012. Kasabay ng operasyon, nakumpiska rin nila ang ilang baril at granada, shabu, at tatlong kotseng na-carnap. Hindi rin sila nadaan sa suholtahasan nilang tinanggihan ang tatlong milyong piso na sinubok ipalit sa pagpapalaya sa mga suspek. Para sa mga pulis na katulad ni PO2 Liwag, talagang hindi matutumbasan ng kinang ng salapi ang dangal ng nakakabit na tsapa sa kanilang dibdib. Idadagdag ko na rin po ang magandang balitang iniulat sa atin: Nitong Linggo lang, sa isang operasyon, nasabat ng ating Anti-Illegal Drugs Special Operations Task Force sa Subic ang nasa 432 na kilo ng shabu, na nagkakahalaga ng mahigit-kumulang dalawang bilyong piso. Naaresto din po ang ilang sangkot. Isa na naman po itong halimbawa sa epektibong pagpapatupad ng batas, at sa masusing pakikipagtulungan ng ating kapulisan sa mga ahensiya ng ating pamahalaan. Sa lahat ng ating mga pinarangalan sa araw na ito, kasama na ang libo-libo nating pulis na tapat sa serbisyo: saludo ang sambayanang Pilipino sa inyo. Kayo ang patunay na hindi mauubusan ng mabubuting halimbawa ang ating unipormadong hanay. Maraming salamat sa pag-ambag sa tinatamasa nating pagbabago. Ang serbisyong hatid ng mga tulad ninyo ang patuloy na nagtutulak sa ating pamahalaan upang mamuhunan sa ating kapulisan. Ngayong napipinto na nating makamit ang one-to-one police-to-pistol ratio bago matapos ang taon, mabubura na sa bokabularyo ng Pilipino ang terminong Pulis Patola. Sa kasalukuyan, nasa 37,578 uni ts na ng Glock 17 9mm pistol ang nai-deliver mula sa kabuuang 74,879 units para sa PNP. Bulto-bulto pang ihahatid ang natitirang baril sa mga darating na buwan, hanggang sa maisara na natin ang ating kakulangan sa larangang ito. Bahagi naman ng ating PNP Operational Transformation Plan ang pagpapatatag sa puwersa ng ating unipormadong hanay. Sa naitala po kasing 146,085 nating pulis nitong Abril, nasa 30,000 ang may trabahong administratibo. Malayo po ito sa target nating magkaroon ng 1 is to 500 ratio para sa actual field personnel-to-population ratio. Ang ating solusyon: kumuha ng tatlumpung libong Non-Uniform Personnel sa susunod na dalawang taon. Ang resulta: Bukod sa malilikhang bagong trabaho, ay mas maraming pulis na imbes na humarap lamang sa kompyuter o lamesa, ay haharap nang muli sa tao at tatanod sa kalsada. Kung umaasa po ang mamamayan sa mabuting serbisyo mula sa ating mga pulis, di po bat makatarungan lamang na tutukan naman ng estado ang kanilang kapakanan? Tuloy-tuloy po ang mga inisyatiba nating pabahay: Naipamahagi na natin sa Phase I ang 21,800 housing units para sa unipormadong hanay; 10,900 dito ang naihandog natin sa mga kasapi ng PNP. Sa Phase II naman, 26,050 units na ang ating natapos mula sa target na 31,200 ngayong taon, at ang pagkakaintindi ko itong buwan na ito, dapat matapos ang target na yan; 14,040 naman sa makakatanggap nito ang mula sa hanay ng ating kapulisan. Sa tuwid na daan, hindi na maaaring maetsa-puwera ang kapulisan; habang pinapanatili ninyong mapayapat ligtas a ng ating lipunan, titiyakin din ng gobyernong nasa mabuting kamay ang inyong pamilyat kinabukasan. Talaga naman po: Hindi natin hinahayaang madiskaril ang mga inisyatibang ipinunla ni Jesse Robredo; at walang ibang nagdidilig nito kundi ang dedikasyon ni DILG Secretary Mar Roxas para tutukan ang kapakanan at pangangailangan ng kapulisan. Kahit gaano karami po ang iniaatas natin sa kanya, alam kong kapag kay Mar ako bumaling, siguradong may mabuting resulta. Iyan po ang ating mabuting kalihim: Hindi reklamo o negatibismo, kundi palaging may solusyon sa mga problemang ipinapatong natin sa kanyang mesa. [Applause] Kaya nga po siya na rin ang nagiging punong abala sa masigasig nating kampanya upang linisin ang hanay ng kapulisan. Sigurado po akong kinakabahan na ngayon ang mga pilit dumudungis sa dangal ng pulis silang mga imbes na maging alagad ng batas, ay tila nagiging kampon pa ng dahas. Mulat po tayo sa katotohanang mayroon pa ring mga skalawag na kailangang purgahin mula sa inyong hanay. Hindi ko nga po maiwasang isipin: Bakit nga ba nagsusulputan itong mga kasong mismong mga pulis pa ang sangkot? Tuloy, ang kagagawan lang ng ilan, para bang pinagbabayaran ng buong institusyon. Kaya po ngayong magkakasama tayo, ito ang hiling at hamon ko sa inyo: magtulungan tayo sa pag-aangat ng dangal at kalidad ng serbisyo ng PNP. Tuldukan na natin ang kalakaran ng pagkakanya-kanya. Panahon na ng pakikilahok upang iangat ang isat isa. Kasama ninyo ako, at ang buong pambansang liderato sa pagtutulak ng pagbabago. Isipin po natin: Hindi bat kung ang bawat isa, nilalampasan ang inaasahang serbisyo ng taumbayan, magagawa natin ang paglilingkod nang mas ganap at mas tama? Ang pagpapatupad ng batas nang mariin at patas; ang pagaalalay sa serbisyo ng higit na sigasig at oras; ang pagkapit sa sinumpaang tungkulin sa bawat sandali ng katungkulankung ang lahat ay sama-sama sa paghakbang, pihadong malayo ang mararating, hindi lang ng hukbo ng kapulisan, kundi ng buong bayan.

Maliwanag po ang hinaharap natin sa tuwid na daan: Katuwang ang hanay ng kapulisang pinatatag ng husay, disiplina, at dangal, abot-kamay na natin ang isang lipunang malaya sa agam-agam at pag-aalinlangan. Isang bansa nating ihakbang pasulong ang inaasam nating Pilipinas na bukal ng tagumpay at kaunlaran. Mabuhay po ang hanay ng ating kapulisan. Bago po ako magtapos: Kanina po ay binanggit ng ating hepe na mayroon kayo sa first tranche na two-billion pesos na pondong dagdag. Sabi ko, Mar, parang maliit yata ang two billion. Ang tanda kong na -approve eh hindi ganoon. Tapos, pinaalala po sa akinfirst tranche lang po iyon dahil ang kabuuan po niyan ay mahigit nine billion. [Applause] Iyong shortcut po, saan pupunta yansa move, suit, and communicate, o yong pag-increase ng inyong abilidad. Kakalingain kayo ng estado. Madali mangampanya para dagdag ang pagkalinga kung talaga namang tuwang-tuwa sa inyo ang lipunan. Iisa lang po ang susi para magtagumpay tayo sa ating hinaharap na mga suliranin at problema. Kung kasangga natin ang taongbayan, wala pong tatalo sa atin. Kaya po, pag-isipan natin kada araw na tayo ay lalabas sa ating tahanan, magtatrabaho: para sa taumbayan ito, kasama ang taumbayan, at sila nga ang susi ng ating tagumpay. Magandang araw po. Maraming salamat sa inyong lahat. [HOME]

ONLINE NEWS
AUGUST 14, 2013

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Persons with Disabilities Call for 2016 Disability Inclusive Election 2013 BPI Search for the 10 Outstanding Expat Pinoy Children Deped launches search for Asiaa best impromptu speaker PhP 4.5 M Health Risk Used Clothing Seized by BOC PDIC to continue processing claims of Rural Bank of San Fernando (Cebu), Inc. depositors Baldoz orders massive Balik-Pinay Balik-Hanapbuhay Reintegration Package for FWRC wards Baldoz implements more stringent measures for efficient POLO operation Creativitys many facets unlocked in DOSTs invention forum Patient safety is foremost DOH reveals executives who are "biggest losers" Exports rebound to 4.1% in June 2013. Among few positive growths in Asia, says NEDA TESDA employees get performance bonus DAR Conducts Internal Probe On Malampaya Fund, Vows Full Cooperation With COA DAR launches 2 projects in Zamboanga del Norte PH hosts Global Consultation on Child Welfare Services

1. Persons with Disabilities Call for 2016 Disability Inclusive Election Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph Initiatives to make the polling places accessible for voters with disabilities and senior citizens did not get remarkable impact in the last May 2013 elections, according to the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), an attached agency of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The NCDA added that many voters with disabilities were still disenfranchised because polling places lacked ramps or access and volunteers to assist them. With these observations, organizations involved in promoting the welfare of persons with disabilities (PWDs), advocates and supporters reiterate their call for all stakeholders to brace up and start preparing for the needed infrastructure and support services for PWD-voters during the 2016 Presidential Election. In a press conference during the culminating activity for the National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week, PWD groups urged the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to establish accessible polling places and provide other forms of assistance to PWDs in voting centers on Election Day to ensure that they enjoy the right to

suffrage on an equal basis with others. According to election watchdog Legal Network for Truthful Elections (Lente), out of the 365,000 registered PWD voters, only 82,000 were able to cast their votes in the 2013 polls. Republic Act 10366, otherwise known as An Act Authorizing COMELEC to Establish Precincts Assigned to Accessible Polling Places Exclusively for PWDs and Senior Citizens, enables persons with disabilities and senior citizens greater ease in casting their votes during elections. The law which took effect on July 1, 2013, mandates the Comelec to establish a precinct that will be accessible for PWDs and senior citizens. Likewise, there should also be reasonable accommodations for PWDs and senior citizens, including assistance in the accommodation of the ballot. The law also provides for sensitivity training programs for people who perform electoral duties, including field officers, members of the Board of Election Inspectors, and accredited cit izens arms to familiarize themselves with the needs of PWDs and senior citizens. NCDA has been closely working with the Comelec in formulating the Implementing Rules and Regulations of RA 10366 in consultation with leaders of PWD organizations, civil society organizations, and other government agencies to ensure that all disability issues and concerns will be addressed in upcoming elections. |TOP| 2. 2013 BPI Search for the 10 Outstanding Expat Pinoy Children Source: http://www.owwa.gov.ph OWWA is the lead government agency tasked by the Philippine Government to safeguard and promote the welfare of our OFWs. Its programs and services protect and bolster the morale of not only the OFWs, but also of their families. Being an OFW family is not easy; one of their beloved family members is working abroad in order for them to have and enjoy a quality life. It is in this context that we advocate the value of education, financial literacy and keeping the family bond alive. OWWA is one with the private sector in their drive to raise awareness on good practices of the OFWs and their families. That being said, OWWA encourages the OFW communities to join the 2013 BPI Search for the 10 Outstanding Expat Pinoy Children. This program highlights the exceptional feats of the OFW children on how they value the education as their way to appreciate their parents sacrifice. |TOP| 3. Deped launches search for Asiaa best impromptu speaker Source: http://www.deped.gov.ph PASIG CITY The Department of Education (DepEd), together with the private sector and educational institutions, is launching the Search for the Best Impromptu Speaker in the 2nd Voice of Asia Speech Contest. Starting with school and division-level selection this August, the event will culminate in the International Finals in February 2014. This is a good venue for inter-cultural appreciation and understanding, which will foster camaraderie among the peoples of Asia, remarked Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC. The contest is open to Filipinos in 3rd year or 4th year high school or Grade 11 or Grade 12 for senior high school model schools. Each region is entitled to send two representatives to the national finals one from a public school and another from a private school. This is to give all students a chance to shine and show their best, Luistro explained. The winner in the national finals will represent the country in the international finals. The top five contestants in the national and the top five in the international finals will each receive prizes in cash and in kind. According to DepEd Memo 147, series of 2013, the selection for division contestants will be from August 14 to 23. The regional search will run from August 28 to September 6, while the national finals will be on October 16, 2013. The international finals will be on February 19, 2014 in Manila. Each participant will be given three minutes to deliver an impromptu speech about a topic to be given three minutes before his/her turn on stage. The contestants will be judged based on content (50%) and delivery (50%). The national winner will receive P50,000, the second placer will get P40,000, the third wins P30,000, the fourth placer brings home P20,000 and the fifth gets P10,000.In the international finals, the prizes are the following: US$5,000 (1st place), $4,000 (2nd place), $3,000 (3rd place), $2,000 (4th place) and $1,000 (5th place). The other co-presentors for the search are The Manila Times, The Manila Times College in cooperation with the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations and the Emilio Aguinaldo College. |TOP| 4. PhP 4.5 M Health Risk Used Clothing Seized by BOC Source: http://www.dof.gov.ph Three (3) twenty-footer container vans of ukay-ukay (used clothing) worth PhP 4.5 million and suspected to be illegally imported from the United States of America (USA) were seized recently by alert operatives of the Bureau of

Customs (BOC) Sub-Port of North Harbor, Manila International Container Port (MICP) for violation of Section 2530 of the Tariffs and Customs Code of the Philippines (TCCP), as amended, and Republic Act No. 4653 banning the importation of used clothing. In the inspection of the seized ukay-ukay by Customs Commissioner Ruffy Biazon today (August 14, 2013), Biazon said the used clothing were misdeclared as Fishing Supplies by its shipper Devs Commercial to circumvent the law prohibiting the importation of used clothing. The three container vans of used clothing which were consigned to Isidro Enterprises of Iloilo City were intercepted at the Manila North Harbor on July 19, 2013. Under R.A 4653, the importation of ukay-ukay is banned to protect the health of the Filipinos and to preserve the Filipino dignity. This is the reason why the BOC is vigilant against smuggled used clothing in our ports, if only to secure the Filipino consumers from the risk of catching contagious diseases from contaminated smuggled used clothing smuggled from abroad. Biazon said. Aside from the health risks that come with the importation of used clothing, the local garment manufacturing industry is also complaining that the proliferation of ukay-ukay in the local market is affecting the viability of their industry. Some industry stakeholders blame the proliferation of ukay-ukay in the local market as one of the reasons for the folding up of some local garments manufacturing companies. On an overall perspective, we are not only helping secure the health of Filipinos by apprehending all imported used clothing, but we are also helping secure the local garments manufacturing industry. Biazon added. |TOP| 5. PDIC to continue processing claims of Rural Bank of San Fernando (Cebu), Inc. depositors Source: http://www.dof.gov.ph The Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) announced that it will continue to receive and process deposit insurance claims from depositors of the closed Rural Bank of San Fernando (Cebu), Inc. at the PDIC Claims Counter, 4th Floor, SSS Bldg., 6782 Ayala Avenue corner V.A. Rufino Street, Makati City. Claims may also be filed through mail. The state deposit insurer has already concluded the onsite claims settlement operations for RB San Fernando at the banks premises last July 26, 2013. PDIC sent notices of payment amounting to P4.45 million involving 2,323 accounts with balances of P15,000 and below where the filing of claims is waived by PDIC. Meanwhile, PDIC paid 1,034 claims during the onsite claims settlement operations involving 722 accounts for a total amount of P65.67 million worth of deposits. As of July 26, 2013, PDIC has yet to receive deposit insurance claims for 213 accounts, or 22% out of 956 accounts that require the filing of claims. The total amount of deposits covered by these claims is P9.25 million. Depositors who are below 18 years old should submit either a photocopy of their Birth Certificate issued by the National Statistics Office (NSO) or a duly certified copy issued by the Local Civil Registrar as an additional requirement. Claimants who are not the signatories in the bank records are required to submit an original copy of a notarized Special Power of Attorney of the depositor or parent in the case of a minor depositor. The procedures and requirements for filing deposit insurance claims are posted in the PDIC website, www.pdic.gov.ph . The Claim Form and format of the Special Power of Attorney may also be downloaded from the PDIC website. In accordance with the provisions of the PDIC Charter, the last day for filing deposit insurance claims in the closed RB San Fernando is on July 6, 2015. After the said date, PDIC, as Deposit Insurer, shall no longer accept any deposit insurance claim. For more information, depositors may contact the Public Assistance Department at telephone numbers (02) 8414630 to 31, or e-mail at pad@pdic.gov.ph. Depositors outside Metro Manila may call the PDIC Toll Free Hotline at 1800-1-888-PDIC (7342). |TOP| 6. Baldoz orders massive Balik-Pinay Balik-Hanapbuhay Reintegration Package for FWRC wards Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph Priority are those in Middle East FWRCs In a strong bid to encourage female OFWs sheltered in various Filipino Workers' Resource Centers (FWRCs), or Bahay Kalinga, in the Middle East to come home, Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz yesterday ordered a "massive" on-site implementation of the DOLE's Balik-Pinay Balik-Hanapbuhay Project, one of the major parts of the government's national reintegration program for OFWs. "We need to think out-of-the-box on how to fast track the reintegration of our distressed OFWs stranded in various FWRCs in the Middle East," said Baldoz in her marching orders to the National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and the Philippine Overseas Labor Offices (POLOs). "We need to assure them that when they come home for good, they will have something to live by in terms of income, which was the reason they went abroad in the first place. It would be best if the reintegration program is brought to them right on-site, in the FWRCs, while they are waiting for their exit visas and plane tickets for home," she emphasized.

For the second half of 2013, Baldoz has set aside an initial P10 million for the Balik-Pinay Balik Hanapbuhay Project's on-site implementation, specifically for 777 distressed OFWs sheltered at the FWRCs in Riyadh and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Abu Dhabi and Dubai, United Arab Emirates; Bahrain; Kuwait; Lebanon; Syria; Libya; Qatar; Oman; and Jordan. There are 101 distressed OFWs sheltered in six FWRCs in Asia, specifically, Hong Kong, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Brunei, Taiwan, and South Korea, who Baldoz said will be assisted as well through the Balik-Pinay Balik Hanapbuhay Project. The labor and employment chief directed all labor attaches in the Middle East to coordinate with the Philippine Embassy and the host governments on how to facilitate and fast track the issuance of exit visas for the distressed OFWs who are mostly women. She also instructed them to orient the distressed OFWs on the Balik-Pinay Balik Hanapbuhay Project. "You have to already issue certificates of eligibility to these OFWs after orientation and report immediately to the home office the types or nature of livelihood they would want to engage in once they are back so that the NRCO and the OWWA can prepare in advance the package of assistance that fits their needs and deliver this immediately upon their arrival," she said. She also ordered the NRCO and the OWWA to further simplify the requirements for eligibility to the project, and called for close coordination with the POLO to ensure the project's success. "If the OFWs are already familiar with their proposed income-generating enterprise, or are already skilled, remove the training requirement so they can immediately start earning. If they request a training, train them and provide them with all the technical assistance when they are already engaged in their income-generating activities," she said. Baldoz said she expects the first batch of the 777 distressed OFWs in the Middle East to arrive in the Philippines by September. "With the package of livelihood grant ready under the Balik-Pinay Balik Hanapbuhay Project, we hope for an early Christmas gift for these OFWs," she said. The Balik-PInay Balik Hanap-buhay Project was institutionalized under DOLE Administrative Order No. 77 Series of 2011 to assist returning OFWs through livelihood grants of P10,000. Priority is given to victims of illegal recruitment and trafficking, and other distressed and displaced household service workers. Under the Balik-Pinay, Balik-Hanapbuhay Project, returning women OFWs may avail of skills training and grants in the form of business starter kits for such home-based income generating occupations, such as cosmetology, haircutting, foot spa, food processing, massage, reflexology, baking, native snack preparation, handicraft, flower arrangement, dress making, beauty care, and pedicure and manicure. The business starter kits come in the form of equipment, tools and jigs, raw materials, and small start-up capital. "We conceived the Balik-Pinay, Balik Hanap Buhay Project to assist our women OFWs get a fresh start in life upon their return. As we give them a fresh start by guiding them in putting up small but income-generating, home-based businesses, we are not only assisting them financially, but also involving them as contributors towards increased economic activities in their own communities," Baldoz said. The NRCO has reported that in 2012, the Balik-Pinay, Balik Hanap Buhay Project provided livelihood starter kits and financial assistance amounting to P31 million to 3,846 OFW-beneficiaries. From January to June 2013, the NRCO trained 202 OFWs and provided them with livelihood starter kits worth P1.476 million. |TOP| 7. Baldoz implements more stringent measures for efficient POLO operation Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph Including installation of CCTV in POLOs and Bahay Kalinga Baldoz implements more stringent measures for efficient POLO operation Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz yesterday announced additional stringent reform measures in the operation of Philippine Overseas Labor Offices (POLO) following the controversial sex-for-fly allegations that has implicated three POLO officials and one local-hire employee. "In order to prevent, preempt, and hopefully permanently root out the alleged malpractices and misdemeanor against overseas Filipino workers, such as the sex-for-fly, I have further issued reform measures to be strictly implemented in the POLOs," said Baldoz after she signed DOLE Administrative Order No. 262-A, Series of 2013 that itemizes the measures calling for clear-cut supervisory rules in POLO operation. "The rules are designed to be gender-balanced and sensitive and values-oriented--in strong consideration of the plight of disadvantaged female migrant workers abroad," Baldoz added. The additional reform measures follow the issuance by the Secretary of Administrative Order No. 262 last 1 July 2013 outlining 10 new corrective measures to further enhance and strengthen POLO operations and the operations at the Migrant Workers and Other Filipino Resource Center (MWOFRC), popularly known as Bahay Kalinga. The latest order pertain to personnel management, resources or funding, and operation. On personnel administration, Baldoz has directed the International Labor Affairs Bureau to ensure that gender balance is observed in the staffing of all POLOs, particularly in the MWOFRCs with many wards. She ordered all personnel to be deployed overseas to undergo special training on gender sensitivity, and for the MWOFRC to have a full-time "house mother" who must be an administrative staff trained prior to deployment. "Only female personnel shall directly attend to the complaints and cases of wards, particularly during intake/initial interviews, for further processing and handling of the assigned Case Officer. Subsequent counseling and updating sessions, if handled by a male Case Officer, shall be done in the presence of the house parent or a female POLO staff," Baldoz instructed. Making more resources available for POLO operation, Baldoz instructed the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration to share in the cost of training of wards in the MWOFRC to ensure that materials and equipment are available. She also pledged adequate funding for the MWOFRC for the basic and personal necessities of the wards. "All POLOs should install sufficient CCTV cameras in their offices and in the MWOFRCs. The head of the POLO shall be the custodian of recorded videos," said Baldoz, adding: "To ensure transparency, I have instructed the installation of a clear glass-

enclosed room in the MWOFRC as venue for all transactions with the wards. The MWOFRC shall also maintain a first-aid kit for the wards and personnel." To further enhance operation, Baldoz now requires all POLOs, through the Labor Attache, to submit to the her quarterly reports on all matters relating to MWOFRC operations, copy furnished the head of the Post or the Ambassador or Consul General. She also directed the POLO to always prioritize the repatriation of wards and the resolution of their complaints and cases. "Upon admission at the MWOFRC, the POLO shall immediately profile and provide the ward with the necessary seminars and skills training in preparation for their repatriation. All the requirements that will entitle them to the Balik-Pinay, Balik-Hanapbuhay livelihood starter kits, or to any of the DOLE Enhanced Reintegration Program, shall be processed on-site for release upon their arrival in the Philippines," explained Baldoz. Finally, Baldoz reminded all POLO officials and personnel to always observe proper decorum and utmost professionalism in dealing with their wards and clients, pursuant to the Code of Conduct of POLO personnel, and to be forewarned that sexual harassment against women and men in the employment, education, and training environment is unlawful and carries with it stiff penalties under R.A. 7877, otherwise known as the "Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995." |TOP| 8. Creativitys many facets unlocked in DOSTs invention forum Source: http://www.dost.gov.ph Before inventing something, take a look at what is currently available. Note both the positive and negative aspects. Then spot whatever is interesting about these inventions and improve on it. This was the message of Dr. George M. Colorado, invention development division manager of the Department of Science and Technologys Technology Application and Promotion Institute (DOST -TAPI) during the technical forum on Creativity in Invention Development last August 1, 2013 at the Technological Institute of the Philippines (TIP) in Quezon City. Held as one of the activities during the DOST- National Capital Region 2013 Regional Invention Contest and Exhibits, the forum raised the awareness of students and professional researchers and inventors alike on the importance of creativity in the invention process. It also gave them pointers on how to be more creative while driving home the idea that the purpose of technology or innovation is to solve a problem. The natural process of thinking can be influenced to see what the problem is, and what the solution to that problem is, Dr. Colorado revealed to the audience inside the full-packed Seminar Room of TIPs Building 1. Reminding the audience that a mere change of material is not inventive, the speaker, who pleased the crowd with his humorous, witty remarks and examples, explained that as far as inventing new technology is concerned, there is a natural evolution of development which takes place during actual usage of the technology. Citing the chair as an example, Dr. Colorado narrated how it started as a mere bench and then improved into a soft chair. Later, it was built with armrests because people realized they needed something on which to place their arms. It further evolved into one with a backrest because people realized it had to have something for their backs to lean on. If the inventor is able to create technology that skips through these evolutionary stages or jumps through several of these phases, said Dr. Colorado, that would be an inventive invention. But you will be able to do this if you think in a creative manner, he declared. Citing perceptive thinking as one of the many qualities of creativity, he said that the inventor should constantly ask himself what will happen next if he develops something in particular. Consequences and sequels should be considered, he stressed. The TAPI official also reminded the budding inventors to get other peoples opinions. Ask your target clients what they want. And then you have a set of priorities that you can now integrate into the product, he said. The other qualities of creativity mentioned in the lecture were sensitivity, originality, flexibility or the capability to adjust to a new development, ability to combine ideas, analytical thinking, ability to simplify, being energetic, having broad knowledge and interests, and being open to new experiences, among others. Dr. Colorado however emphasized that the human mind must be trained to assimilate these qualities, since some of these factors may actually be influenced. There are environments which are not friendly to creativity, he explained. Lastly, Dr. Colorado advised the newbie and professional inventors to con tinue gaining knowledge. The fastest way to learn is to go to an expert and learn from him, he remarked to the crowd which was mostly made up of students whose attention was glued to the very engaging talk. During the Technical Forum on Creativity in Invention Development, Dr. George M. Colorado, division manager for invention development of the Department of Science and Technologys Technology Application and Promotion Institute, urged neophyte and professional inventors to create solutions to problems by improving on existing technologies. The forum was one of the activities during the 2013 Regional Invention Contest and Exhibits for the National Capital Region held at the Technological Institute of the Philippines in Quezon City. Photos above show some of the entries in the competition. Bottom photo shows the winning entry for the SIBOL Creative Research-High School Category by students from Batasan Hills National High School. Titled Difunctional Shoe, the invention aims to solve childrens health problems caused by flooding via a protective jacket inserted into the shoe. Made of polyphenol, the jacket is durable, water-resistant, and can cover almost the entire leg of a child. (Text by Angelica A. de Leon/ Photos by Gerry Palad and Henry A. de Leon, S & T Media Service, DOST-STII) |TOP| 9. Patient safety is foremost

Source: http://www.doh.gov.ph Health Secretary Enrique T. Ona stresses to media, during a forum at the Manila Hotel, that the further studies and research in the practice of stem cell therapy in the country should be boosted in order to ensure patient safety. Ona added that facilities doing such practice should be accredited by the Department of Health and that all reagents and medicines be approved by the Food and Drugs Administration. He also said that the use of stem cell therapy as a treatment modality should be designed for a specific individual. Also in photo (from left to right) are Philippine Society for Stem Cell Medicine President Dr. Rey Melchor Santos, Dr. Leo Olarte, Dr. Samuel Bernal, and former Senator Joey Lina. |TOP| 10. DOH reveals executives who are "biggest losers" Source: http://www.doh.gov.ph The Department of Health reveals today the executives who are considered as biggest losers, in terms waist circumference reduction, to culminate the six-month Belly Gud for Health: The Executive Edition Challenge where DOH top executives, directors, division chiefs and program managers volunteered themselves to healthy lifestyle interventions to lose some fats, from February to July 2013. Health Secretary Enrique T. Ona said, This is one of the few moments in life when losers are winners. We wanted all DOH staff, from the executives to the rank-and-file, to practice what they preach in maintaining good health. We dont want them to suffer the consequences of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) that could result from work stress, binge eating and lack of physical activity. Waist circumference is a simple and easy measure of central obesity which is the amount of visceral fat (the fat that surrounds the inner organs) among adults and a significant indicator of risk for NCDs particularly heart disease and stroke. The desirable waist circumference for adults is less than 90 centimeters (cm) for males and less than 80 cm for females. Declared grand winners and the biggest losers are: Dr. Carmela Granada of the National Center for Disease Prevention and Control who lost 15.70 centimeters (cm) from 108.20 cm to 92.50 cm; and Dr. Emmanuel Tiongson of the Dangerous Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment Program who lost 10.50 cm from 108.40 cm to 97.90 cm. Tiongson also received a special award in perfect attendance to the various healthy lifestyle intervention activities provided for the Challenge. The eight good performing participants or runners -up are: Dr. Vilma Diez of the National Epidemiology Center losing 9.70 cm; Dr. Rodolfo Albornoz of Environmental and Occupational Health Office (EOHO) losing 8.55 cm; Dr. Cecile Magturo of EOHO losing 8.50 cm; Engr. Luis Cruz of EOHO losing 8.30 cm; Assistant Secretary Enrique Eric Tayag losing 7.80 cm; Rosemarie Aguirre of the National Center for Health Promotion losing 7.05 cm; Undersecretary Madeleine Valera losing 5.50 cm; and Remedios Guerrero of Degenerative Disease Office losing 5.25 cm. Meanwhile, Undersecretary Teodoro Herbosa who is considered as the most-challenged participant at the start of the Challenge in February with his 118.30 cm waist circumference ended up in the 11th place, losing a total of 4.40 cm. During the six-month challenge, the participants worked on their own healthy lifestyle interventions in accordance to their preference, schedule and convenience. The DOH Challenge also provided the participants with laboratory/screening tests, nutrition counseling and aerobics exercise sessions, therapeutic massage services, and one-week Fitness Camp. The participants, however, were prohibited to the use of slimming drugs or herbal products and other formulations, including liposuction or other artificial interventions prohibition in the course of the Challenge. Each grand winner received P10,000 cash, a trophy and special prizes from Slimmers World, while each runner-up received a trophy. Pfizer, Inc. provided laboratory/screening tests and the Philippine Association of Licensed Massage Therapists provided therapeutic massage services. Ona announced that the DOH will start implementing the Belly Gud for Health Challenge in the following requesting government agencies: Commission on Audit; Government Service Insurance System, Department of Labor and Employment, and Department of Environment and Natural Resources. |TOP| 11. Exports rebound to 4.1% in June 2013. Among few positive growths in Asia, says NEDA Source: http://www.neda.gov.ph MANILAThe National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said the Philippines is one of the few Asian economies to register positive growth in exports in June this year, with value of outward shipments growing by 4.1 percent from last year. This statement came after the National Statistics Office reported that the value of exported goods and services reached US$4.49 billion in June 2013, which is higher than the US$4.31 billion in June 2012. Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan noted that most Asian economies registered contractions for the said period, including Japan (-12.4%), Malaysia (-6.0%), Indonesia (-4.1%), Thailand (-3.4%), China (-3.1%), Singapore (-1.5%) and Korea (-1.0%). On the other hand, Balisacan cited Viet Nam (13.3%), Taiwan (8.6%) and Hong Kong (4.9%) as among few major trade-oriented Asian economies that recorded positive increases, apart from the Philippines.

Export growth was driven by higher earnings from agro-based products, mineral products, and petroleum which contributed significantly to the recovery of exports. The rebound of the export sector shows that despite the subdued global economic outlook, the countrys prospects for sustaining good economic performance in the coming months are good, said Balisacan, who is also NEDA Director-General. The Cabinet official also expects continued increase in banana exports in succeeding months. Based on pronouncements made by the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), demand from continental US, Japan, Korea, and Middle East countries will likely increase shipments of bananas in the near-term, he said. According to NSO, growth in the value of exported bananas surged by 73.4 percent in June 2013 compared to 12 months ago. This buoyed the growth of total agro-based exports in June 2013 to 7.6 percent. Apart from total agro-based products, Balisacan said higher exports of minerals (35.5%) and petroleum (292.8%) likewise pushed the countrys exports rebound. Notable increases were seen in copper concentrates gold and other mineral products, according to the NSO. Most of the growth in other mineral products, which include salt, sulfur, plastering materials, lime and cement, was due to the sizable increase in shipments to Japan, China and Korea, the NEDA official said. He added that the increase in value of petroleum exports was due not only to higher petroleum prices but also to a significant increase in volume, which grew by 279.4 percent. Meanwhile, Balisacan mentioned that semiconductor exports may improve in the coming months despite the 12.6percent contraction in June 2013 from June 2012. According to industry sources, spending on semiconductors by global market leaders is anticipated to increase by 4.2 percent in 2013 as against a flat growth in 2012. Others also projected a moderate growth for the said industry this year, he said. Japan continues to be the top destination of Philippine exports in June 2013, accounting for 21.9 percent of the countrys total export receipts, according to the NSO. It was followed by the United States of America (14.1%), China (13.7%), Singapore (8.7%) and Hong Kong (8.6%). |TOP| 12. TESDA employees get performance bonus Source: http://www.tesda.gov.ph A cash bonus of up to P35,000 was paid recently to each of the employees of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) who has displayed exemplary performance in office. Secretary Joel Villanueva, TESDA director general, announced that TESDA was ranked Best among the agencies under the Department of Labor and Employment and has distributed the funds to its employees as performancebased bonus (PBB). A total of 3,654 TESDA employees all over the country were entitled to the PBB following a stringent evaluation of their performance at work for the year 2012. For this, the agency received P31.98 million from the Department of Budget and Management. The PBB is based on Executive Order No. 80 that seeks to recognize and reward agencies and employees for exemplary performance in government. This covers all state workers, including those working in government-owned and controlled corporations and those in state universities and colleges. "This evaluation tool will help strengthen the accountability of public offices and public servants to perform their mandated duties," Villanueva said. "We hope to inspire the best performers to continue their exemplary work in office and be a model to their colleagues, and prod the others to work even harder," he added. The PBB features a system of ranking bureau or delivery unit, and personnel within a department or agency according to their contribution to their respective department as measured by their major outputs, support to the President's programs, and good governance conditions. Agencies are required to fulfill all the good governance conditions set by the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Harmonization of the National Government Performance Monitoring, Information and Reporting Systems. For 2012, TESDA received a "Best" rank with a rating of 95 percent based on the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Performance Management Team evaluation. TESDA is an attached agency of the DOLE. Through the PBB, employees ranked as best in a best-performing office got as much as P35,000. Employees who got a "better" ranking received P20,000, while those ranked "good" got P10,000. The lowest bonus received by some of the employee was P5,000.

Budget Secretary Florencio Abad earlier said that awarding of bonuses to deserving employees and institutions is in line with the Presidents directive to harmonize all performance -based management systems in government. |TOP| 13. DAR Conducts Internal Probe On Malampaya Fund, Vows Full Cooperation With COA Source: http://www.dar.gov.ph DAR Secretary Virgilio De Los Reyes disclosed yesterday that an internal investigation was already started as early as last year by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) on the P900-million Malampaya Fund disbursement. He further said that the initial findings of that investigation were contained in a report submitted by the DARs Internal Affairs Service (IAS) to the Commission on Audit (COA) as part of the ongoing investigation on the matter. "For several months now, the DAR has been furnishing the COA with reports and documents related to the investigation on the Malampaya fund disbursements involving our Department in 2009, Delos Reyes said. Among those submitted to the COA was the report of our Internal Affairs Service, which conducted a preliminary investigation on the Malampaya controversy, the DAR chief added. He also said that the DAR will continue to cooperate with and fully support the investigation being conducted by the COA or any other government agency on this controversy. Delos Reyes said his office had directed the IAS to conduct an investigation on the Malampaya Fund disbursement as early as November 13, 2012, after receiving reports that some of the supposed beneficiaries of the projects denied having received any financial assistance or projects from the Department. Documents submitted by the COA to the DAR showed that a total of P900 million was disbursed to the Department in 2009. The COA documents indicated that in Region I alone, a total of P300-million was released supposedly to cover funding requirement for support services to Agrarian Reform Communities to help them recover from the losses/damages brought about by typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng. The Fund was released through Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) which were allegedly tapped by local government units (LGUs) to distribute Farm Initiative Production Kits to farmers and agrarian reform beneficiaries in their respective localities. The biggest chunk of the Malampaya Fund released in Region I went to Pangasinan, which supposedly received P180 million for Urdaneta City and the towns of Rosales, Natividad, Mapandan, Mangaldan, San Nicolas, Umingan, Balungao, Alcala, Sual, San Quintin Sta. Maria, San Manuel, Tayug, San Jacinto, Asingan and Binmaley. Other municipalities that also supposedly received P10 million each include Banna, Pagudpud, Bacarra, Paoay, Pasuquin, Solsona, Vintar, Sinait, Marcos and San Nicolas in Ilocos Norte; Bagulin and Tubao in La Union, and Pulilan in Bulacan. The DAR got wind of possible anomalies in the fund disbursement after the COA, which constituted a team to audit the utilization of the Malampaya Funds on October 12, 2011, discovered that two former town mayors of Ifugao and Kalinga did not receive the agricultural kits supposedly distributed in their areas. The former mayorsRamon Tinawi of Hingyon, Ifugao, and now Kalinga Vice Gov. Allen Jesse Mangaoang of Balbalan wrote the COA auditors, copy furnished the DAR Secretary, denying any knowledge of the project. They both claimed that their signatures were forged in the documents used for the project. De Los Reyes reiterated that the DAR will complete its separate investigation, and continue to fully cooperate with the COA, on any and all Malampaya Fund disbursements. |TOP| 14. DAR launches 2 projects in Zamboanga del Norte Source: http://www.dar.gov.ph DIPOLOG CITY (Mindanao Examiner / Aug. 6, 2013) The Department of Agrarian Reform in Western Mindanao has led the groundbreaking ceremony of a P12-million farm-to-market road in the town of Tampilisan and the DARCDA (Cooperative Development Authority) Partnership Program on Strengthening and Capacity Building of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Cooperatives in Dipolog City in Zamboanga del Norte province. Governor Roberto Uy praised the project, saying it would hasten the delivery of agricultural products and at the same time uplift the living standards of farmers. Ako malaumon nga atong mapadangat ang kalamboan ngadto sa tibuok probinsiya pinaagi sa atong mga proyekto alang sa mga Katawhan, Uy said during the ceremony. Tampilisan Mayor Angeles Carloto II also praised DAR for the project. DAR officials said the 2.5-kilometer farm-to-market cost about P12.1 million under the Agrarian Reform Community Project II (ARCP2). Provincial agrarian reform officer Moh. Dassan Adju said DAR would continue its development efforts for the welfare of the agrarian reform beneficiaries. We never stopped to push the development of our agrarian reform communities, he said.

He said DAR accelerates the delivery of support services to agrarian reform beneficiaries and other farmers through the implementation of foreign- assisted projects, one of which is the ARCP2. Under the DARs Agrarian Reform Communities Development Framework, these FAPs provide a package of interventions designed to ensure the productivity of awarded lands, increase household incomes and enhance the socio-economic status of Agrarian Reform Community residents. It covers gender and development as well as participation of the indigenous people. The ARCP2 is funded by the Asian Development Bank and its long-term development goal is to reduce poverty in about 152 ARC clusters located in southern Philippines. Specifically, it aims to contribute to sustained improvements in the incomes of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries and non-ARBs and in the quality of life in the ARC. The ARCP2 is designed to provide development investment in the different components namely - the communitydriven development as a lead component to mobilize the community, strengthen the organizational processes, improve governance and build stronger platform for sustainability. Agriculture and Enterprise development to increase productivity and profitability of income generating activities, develop and improve markets and market linkages, and promote agribusiness. On the other hand, the rural infrastructure component is an enabler to improved production, cropping intensity, cost effectiveness and access to services, and enhanced ARC connectivity to promote agribusiness. Cooperarative Adju said they also launched the DAR-CDA (Cooperative Development Authority) Partnership Program on Strengthening and Capacity Building of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Cooperatives in Dipolog City. Under this program, the DAR had provided the necessary financial and technical assistance to the ARB cooperatives to enable them to effectively address the purposes and objectives of the cooperatives. The program also intended to provide 14 mandatory trainings that each cooperative must undergo as part of its continuing capacity building and cooperative professionalism process. To date, nine ARBOs consisting of nine cooperatives and two farmers or peoples organizations are being assisted in the ARCs and Agrarian Reform Areas (ARAs) in Zamboanga del Norte. From the nine assisted cooperatives in the ARCs and ARAs, nine cooperatives were re-registered with the CDA. To ensure that the prescribed training curricula for cooperatives, DAR Zamboanga del Norte had prioritized the nine cooperatives managing locally and foreign assisted projects to undergo the four mandatory trainings and as of this writing, the said trainings had already been undertaken. The training had focused on the development of competencies of the cooperative based on the provisions of the new cooperative code. It can be noted that although the cooperatives are managing their project with installed policies, system and procedures, the provision of these training programs will ensure that all officers of the cooperative have fundamental knowledge and understanding of cooperative programs, practices and legal underpinnings for an efficient and sustainable management of their business services as well as projects provided by the DAR. The activity aims to sustain the cooperatives operations and services to their members, and to enable them to engage in more sustainable, competitive and profitable business operations. Moreover, it also wants to gain insights on how to address the issues and concerns affecting the cooperatives in relation to the requirements of the CDA. Adju stressed that it is a must to continually educate the ARBs in order to empower them and to help them alleviate their lives from poverty which is the primary concern of the program. SOURCE: The Regional Newspaper: MINDANAO EXAMINER Link: http://www.mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20130808090823 |TOP| 15. PH hosts Global Consultation on Child Welfare Services Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph The Philippines, through the Inter-Country Adoption Board (ICAB), an attached agency of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), will host the 12th Global Consultation on Child Welfare Services from August 14 to 16, 2013 at the Manila Hotel. The international event will focus on the theme Post Adoption Services: The Way Forward. Post adoption services include measures to assist adopted children preserve their cultural links with their country of origin, and assist adoptive parents to recognize the value and importance of such links for the childs future development. DSWD Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman who will deliver her keynote address on the opening day (August 14) explained that the event is a bi-annual consultation of local and international adoption specialists which aims to discuss issues and concerns affecting children placed for adoption around the world. The multi-country collaborative consultation is envisioned to ensure a most substantial and timely sharing of trends and practices in inter-country adoption, Secretary Soliman said. The meeting will bring together representatives of Central Authorities of Andorra, Australia, New Zealand and Canada and our partner foreign adoption agencies from USA, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom. Local participants are social workers from

child caring institutions, court social workers and judges from Regional Trial Courts as well as adoptive families. Secretary Soliman emphasized that adoption is not a single event, but a life-long process. The Hague Convention on Inter-Country Adoption requires States to undertake a range of other general functions such as the provision of counseling or post adoption reports, preservation of information, childs right to information, and access to records, data protection and post adoption services. According to ICAB, the Philippine Inter-Country Adoption has been in existence way back in the 60s under the auspices of the DSWD. Over the years, an increasing number of Filipino adoptees have been returning to the Philippines for Motherland tours and for search and reunion with their birthparents. The first Motherland Tour of Filipino adoptees to Manila was in 1987. The group was composed of four boys and one girl, 18-22 years old, who were placed for adoption in the USA through Holt International Children`s Services. Three came from Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC) in Quezon City, one from Hospicio de San Jose and another from Home of Joy. They left for the USA to join their respective adoptive parents at a very young age. One of the boys was re-united with his grandfather in Baguio, the other adoptees had unknown backgrounds, hence were only able to meet their social workers and caregivers. Since 1986, approximately 600 adoptees visited the Philippines for Motherland tour, search and reunion. Every year, there is an increasing number of children, teen-ager, and young adults coming back to see their previous agencies, caregivers, foster parents and to experience first-hand the Filipino culture or do a search and eventually a reunion meeting with their birthmother/family. Just recently, four adoptive families and six adoptees with ages ranging from 11-19 years old had a successful Motherland Tour in the Philippines. One adoptee, Francis, 19 years old, shared that the Motherland Tour helped him learn more about where he came from and that the trip was his chance to meet his birthmother. He shared that the Philippines is a beautiful country full of pride and color and warmth. The people I have met, stories I have heard, and the places I have seen made me proud to have come from this country. Three adult adoptees who will be speaking/presenting in the Global Consultation desire to not just visit an d see their motherland but intend to search and reunite with their birthparents, Secretary Soliman concluded. |TOP|

Last Updated:

13 AUGUST 2013

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President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 112th Police Service Anniversary at the PNP Multi-Purpose Center, Camp Crame in Quezon City on Tuesday (August 13). With the theme: Serbisyong Makatotohanan: Handog ng Pulisya sa ating Pamayanan," the Philippine National Police celebrates Police Service Anniversary in commemoration of the joint founding anniversaries of the Insular Constabulary established in 1901 and the Integrated National Police, organized in 1975, both forerunner organizations of the PNP. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacaang Photo Bureau) President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the 112th Police Service Anniversary at the PNP Multi-Purpose Center, Camp Crame in Quezon City on Tuesday (August 13). With the theme: Serbisyong Makatotohanan: Handog ng Pulisya sa ating Pamayanan," the Philippine National Police celebrates Police Service Anniversary in commemoration of the joint founding anniversaries of the Insular Constabulary established in 1901 and the Integrated National Police, organized in 1975, both forerunner organizations of the PNP. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacaang Photo Bureau) President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the 112th Police Service Anniversary at the PNP Multi-Purpose Center, Camp Crame in Quezon City on Tuesday (August 13). With the theme: Serbisyong Makatotohanan: Handog ng Pulisya sa ating Pamayanan," he Philippine National Police celebrates Police Service Anniversary in commemoration of the joint founding anniversaries of the Insular Constabulary established in 1901 and the Integrated National Police, organized in 1975, both forerunner organizations of the PNP. Also in photo are PNP Chief Director General Alan Purisima and Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II. (Photo by Ryan Lim /

Malacaang Photo Bureau) President Benigno S. Aquino III, assisted by Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II and PNP Chief Director General Alan Purisima, presents the Plaque of Recognition for outstanding achievements in the campaign against organized crime, provincial level to Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Office during the awarding ceremony in the 112th Police Service Anniversary at the PNP Multi-Purpose Center, Camp Crame in Quezon City on Tuesday (August 13). With the theme: Serbisyong Makatotohanan: Handog ng Pulisya sa ating Pamayanan. The Philippine National Police (PNP) celebrates Police Service Anniversary in commemoration of the joint founding anniversaries of the Insular Constabulary established in 1901 and the Integrated National Police, organized in 1975, both forerunner organizations of the PNP. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Benhur Arcayan / Malacaang Photo Bureau) President Benigno S. Aquino III, assisted by Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II, presents the Plaque of Recognition for outstanding achievement in the field of Police Administration to NCRPO Regional Director PCSupt. Marcelo Garbo, Jr., during the awarding ceremony in the 112th Police Service Anniversary at the PNP MultiPurpose Center, Camp Crame in Quezon City on Tuesday (August 13). Garbo was cited for introducing policing innovation initiatives during his tour of duty in PRO7, primarily, by developing individual capabilities of personnel through 45 unit training programs, as well as the establishment of 40 Tourist Assistance Centers throughout the region. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacaang Photo Bureau) President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 112th Police Service Anniversary at the PNP Multi-Purpose Center, Camp Crame in Quezon City on Tuesday (August 13). With the theme: Serbisyong Makatotohanan: Handog ng Pulisya sa ating Pamayanan," the Philippine National Police celebrates Police Service Anniversary in commemoration of the joint founding anniversaries of the Insular Constabulary established in 1901 and the Integrated National Police, organized in 1975, both forerunner organizations of the PNP. Also in photo are PNP Chief Director General Alan Purisima and Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacaang Photo Bureau)

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