Metro Express No. 27

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A VALIANT STAND ON SPREADING THE GOOD SIDE OF PH

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Dec. 12 - 19, 2011

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Sam: No indecent proposal

Aquino vows to be unrelenting, tireless in pursuit of justice

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Aquino cites role of each Pinoy in achieving change PAGE 2

Government releases P2.85 B to bolster infrastructure programs in ARMM PAGE 3

Vol 1 No 27

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BUSINESS & LEISURE:

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Aurora Rep. Juan ‘Sonny’ Angara calls for energy conservation in government offices

Saying the will of the people was behind him, President Benigno S. Aquino III vowed to be unrelenting and tireless in his and his administration’s pursuit of justice, saying he had no intentions of backing off from his mandate to protect and uphold the Constitution.

In his speech at the 1st National Criminal Justice Summit on Monday at the Manila Hotel, the President said it was his sworn duty as President of the Philippines to ensure that the injustices that occurred during the Martial Law years as well as the alleged corruption practiced by his predecessor are never repeated again.

“Ngayon, bilang inyong Pangulo, may sinumpaan akong tungkulin — ang pangangalagaan at ipagtatang-

gol ang Konstitusyon, ipatupad ang mga batas nito, maging makatarungan sa bawat tao, at italaga ang aking sarili sa paglilingkod sa bansa,” the President said.

“At bahagi ng aking mandato ang tiyaking hindi na maulit ang mga kadilimang nangyari noong panahon ng Martial law, at kung may gumawa man nito, ang siguruhing managot sila sa kanilang kasalanan,” he added.

He reminded the participants that the power to govern was not a title bestowed on anyone but bestowed by the people and thus it was incumbent upon those who took office to serve in the interest of the people. “… ang nakasaad sa Artikulo 2, Seksyon 1 ng ating Saligang batas: Cont’d on page 2

President Noy and Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. lead the ceremonial switch-on of the Presidential Christmas tree and ground lighting in Malacañang on December 01, a testament that Christmas is already upon us.

Merry Christmas To One And All!

THE NATION

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Dec.12 - Dec. 19, 2011

MetrEx: RP’s 1st & only WEEKLY Broadsheet Newsmagazine

Lawmaker calls for energy conservation in gov’t offices A lawmaker on Sunday said that although the national government is setting aside some P10.18 billion in the P1.812-trillion budget for next year for electricity and water use in its offices, the historical trend based on audit reports indicates it ends up spending almost a billion pesos more than what had been originally budgeted yearly.

“So next year, we are looking at an annual utility bill of P11 billion or something like P30.2 million a day, which is for national government agencies alone and does not include the utilities consumed by local governments,” saidAurora Rep. Juan Edgardo “Sonny”Angara.

Angara, chairman of the House committee on higher education, said the projected P11 billion utility expenses in government offices nationwide is more than double than what it was seven years ago.

“Kung lalagyan mo ng metro ang konsumo ng gobyerno sa kuryente at tubig, lalabas na ang patak nito ay P1.25 million kada oras (If you install electricity and water meters in government consumption, it will reach P1.25 million every hour). The government can actually build one classroom for every 30 minutes of its utility use,” he noted.

“The P10.23 billion in the 2012 budget for utilities is almost the same as the entire budget of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and six times the budget of the Department of Tourism (DoT). It can also fund 60 state colleges for a year,” he added.

In government budgeting, electricity, water and cooking gas consumption are lumped together under utility expenses, with electricity charges eating up 79 percent of allocations, water 21 percent, and cooking gas less than one percent, based on a 2009 audit report.

ByAngara’s calculation, the government is expected to rack up an electricity bill of P8.6 billion and P2.3 billion for water next year, which is double than what it paid in 2004.

The 2009 audited expenditures on national government utility payments also showed spending for power and water already reached P7.77 billion.

“That was already our bill two years ago, before the big jump in electricity rates, which has made our country the place with the most expensive power in Asia,” Angara pointed out.

The Aurora solon was referring to an Australian study released by PhilExport which showed that last year, the Philippines

Baldoz eyes labor reforms for security guards

Department of Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz said the agency is eyeing reforms to protect the rights and benefits of security guards.

“We are now solidifying the guidelines towards voluntary compliance of security agencies with general labor standards to ensure social welfare and protection of security guards,” she said.

Baldoz said the first step is to address the perennial problem of cut-throat competition among private security agencies (PSAs).

“The DOLE has already established a partnership with PADPAO. This partnership, hopefully, will result to an extensive action plan to strengthen the implementation of the Private Security Agency Law (RA 5487) to ensure that minimum rates President Benigno S. Aquino III is joined by Sandiganbayan Presiding Justice Francisco Villaluz, Jr., Supreme Court (SC) Chief Justice prescribed by law for standard salaries and Renato Corona, Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile, House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Jr., DOJ Secretary Leila de Lima and DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo for a snap shot during the 1st National Criminal Justice Summit at the Centennial Hall of the Manila Hotel on benefits for security guards will not be Monday (December 05). The event is a gathering of stakeholders of the justice system to re-examine the institutional criminal justice issues compromised by any form of undercutting and to forge strategies for enhanced delivery of justice. practices,” Baldoz said.

During the meeting, PhilippineAssociamotivation “to keep doing what needs to be charged the highest electricity rate to use of electrodeless fluorescent lamps tion of Detective and ProtectiveAgency done to see those numbers go up.” residential customers in Asia at 18.1 US (EFLs) from incandescent light bulbs, he Operators (PADPAO) President Ramon cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh).

“And secondly, also for our fellow said. (PNA) Palace considers high Bergado said the Government Procurement The same study made by the Australiaoptimism among Filipinos an inspiration to citizens, that hindi tayo nawawalan ng pag- Policy Board (GPPB) rules should be asa that we will see better days up ahead ,” amended and must include a provision on based International Energy Consultants also work even harder Valte said. showed that the Philippines has displaced Malacanang said it shares the high agency fees or administrative expenses.

The SWS survey said 36 percent of Japan in the most expensive power ranking, optimism of most Filipinos for the coming “This is to set a reasonable cap to as the latter charged an average of 17.9 US year adding it would use the renewed Filipinos expect their life would improve, prevent the undercutting of contract rates while nine percent expect their life to get cents per KwH when theAsia-wide survey public confidence to achieve national during public bidding,” he said. worse, resulting in a “high” net personal was conducted in October 2010. reform and progress.

The government is one of the largest optimism score (optimistic minus pessimisGiven this, Angara called on the Asurvey conducted by Social Weather procurers of security services from PSAs. tic) of +27 points.

Department of Energy (DoE) to continue Stations (SWS) in June showed that With the agency fee cap lacking on the This figure is 3 percentage higher conducting energy efficiency ratings on Filipinos remained optimistic about their GPPB rules, some security agencies offer compared to the “high” net personal public buildings and reward those with high quality of life and expect positive changes bids way below the mandated contract rate ratings, as an incentive. optimism score in March of +24 (35 in the country’s economy in 2012. by reducing the agency fee from 25 percent percent optimistic, 11 percent pessimistic), In addition, he said the different govern“We share your optimism, to everybody to a minimum of two percent. according to SWS. ment agencies should also retrofit their who feels optimistic about 2012. We also “This “race-to-the-bottom” practice is The SWS asked 1,200 respondents offices to make them more energy likewise feel optimistic and we will use that detrimental to security guards. With a nationwide, “In your opinion, what will be efficient, and thus be considered green optimism to keep putting our noses to the benchmark on the agency fee or adminisstructures. ground at tuloy lang po yung ating pagtatra- the quality of your life in the coming 12 trative overhead, which is part of the months?” in the survey conducted on June The government, as a bulk purchaser, baho,” Deputy presidential spokesperson security contract, we are setting a standardmay also push for discounted rates from 3 to 6.

Abigail Valte said in a press briefing in ized baseline and lowest possible rate in utility companies, he added.

The survey also found that Filipinos see Malacanang on Friday. any security services bidding, be it a “The endless power shocks should the economy to improve in the future, with government or a non-government client,” “Natutuwa po kami na patuloy po yung prompt the government to launch bureauoptimism at yung confidence ng ating mga 29 percent of respondents saying it would Baldoz said. cracy-wide energy conservation drive, as a kababayan,” she said. get better in the next 12 months. Sixteen She said the DOLE will meet with mere five percent reduction in power percent said it would get worse, resulting in PADPAO and the Department of Budget The high optimism, as showed by the consumption already translates to a P500 a net economic optimism score of +14 recent SWS survey means two things for and Management once the proposed points. million savings,” saidAngara. the government, Valte noted. First, the amendments to the GPPB guidelines are A good start can be simply shifting to the administration will use it as further Press Release finalized.

WB approves LGU support loan for PHL The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors has approved a US$ 50 million new loan for the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) to fund investments in local public infrastructure and services.

In a statement, the multilateral lender said the fund will finance Regional Infrastructure for Growth Project (RIGP) that is targeted to “physical and economic integration within and across local government units (LGUs) in participating provinces and regions by increasing access to finance for an open menu of local public infrastructure and services.”

“This project will build on DBPs existing support for improved physical and economic integration — such as the Roll-on-roll-off (RORO) network — by encouraging LGUs to work with each other and with private sector partners to improve connectivity and access to better infrastructure development and services, especially to poor communities,” DBP President and Chief Executive Officer Francisco F. Del Rosario Jr. said.

Under the program, DBP extend financing to LGUs, public utilities or eligible local government-owned and controlled corporations, and private sector enterprises developing local infrastructure as well as providing services through public-private partnerships (PPP).

The DBP will also offer direct retail sub-loans, DBP will also channel financing through wholesale loans to eligible private financial institutions for onlending to local service providers.

Del Rosario said “the project will finance a wide array of local public infrastructure and services that meet the objective of improving physical and economic integration.”

“These projects will typically be among the priorities identified by a provincial agency or by a regional body or authority through their development and physical framework plans,” he said.

Some of the projects to be funded under this program are environmental infrastructure (water supply, solid waste facilities, drainage systems); agriculture support systems (irrigation, small impounding reservoirs, supply chain infrastructure); disaster risk mitigation (sea walls, flood protection, slope protection); social (school buildings, hospitals, health centers); transport (provincial and local roads, local ports, public transport facilities); and tourism support (eco-parks, convention centers, heritage sites, resorts).

Del Rosario noted that “while significant strides have been made to improve local infrastructure and service delivery in many parts of the country, a number of LGUs and communities continue to face development challenges, including inadequate infrastructure and inefficient services due to limited access to finance.

“RIGP aims to help address these challenges,” he added.

Relatively, WB Acting Country Director to the Philippines Chiyo Kanda said “many poor communities in the Philippines do not have access to adequate physical and economic infrastructure and services that promote integration such as vital link roads and bridges, and critical inputs such as electricity and water supply, among others.

“That is why the World Bank is committed to work with development banks, LGUs and other stakeholders to accelerate the implementation of these provincial and regional priorities,” he said.

“Projects like RIGP are important for achieving inclusive growth or growth that works for the poor,” he added.

Aquino vows...

From page 1

ang ganap na kapangyarihan ay nasa sambayanan, at ang lahat ng kapangyarihang pampamahalaan ay nagmumula sa kanila,” the President said.

“Kami pong mga nanumpa sa tungkulin ay iisa lamang ang pinagkakautangan ng loob — kayong mga Boss namin, ang sambayanang Pilipino. Narito kami para maglingkod sa ating bansa; at para may manilbihan nang buong katapatan at sigasig sa mga Pilipino,” he stressed.

The President enjoined all Filipinos to fight and end the decades-long problem of corruption.

“Obligasyon ko, at obligasyon nating lahat na manatiling tumahak sa iisang direksyon, sa ilalim ng nagkakaisa nating adhikain: ang paglingkuran at pangalagaan ang interes ng sambayanan,” the President said.

“Sa lahat ng nakikibalikat sa atin sa tuwid na daan, manalig kayo: Hangga’t nasa tama tayo, wala tayong laban na aatrasan. Hanggang nasa likod natin ang taumbayan, magtatagumpay tayo. Huwag natin silang bibiguin,” he said.

Justice system Meanwhile, President Aquino has also underscored the importance of improving the country’s criminal justice system to be up to date and in tune with the rigors and necessities of solving crime in this day and age.

In his speech keynoting the 1st National Criminal Justice Summit on Monday at the Manila Hotel, the President said this gathering of stakeholders of the justice system was an opportune time to reexamine institutional criminal justice issues and forge strategies towards the enhanced delivery of justice.

“Ang pagtitipon natin ngayong umaga ay isang pagkakataon para higit na masuri ang lakas at kahinaan ng ating kasalukuyang criminal justice system, at makalikom ng mga makabago at napapanahong inisyatibang pangkatarungan,” the President said.

The President cited the timeliness of holding the Summit “as it brings to fore the important role clerks of court, lawyers and judges play in our democracy.”

Dec. 12 - Dec. 19, 2011

BUSINESS & POLITICS

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MetrEx: RP’s 1st & only Weekly Broadsheet Newsmagazine

Government releases P2.85 B to bolster infrastructure programs in ARMM The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has released P2.85 billion to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to rehabilitate and pave national and secondary roads; as well as to replace national bridges in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

Secretary of Budget and Management Florencio B. Abad said the fund is part of the P8.5billionARMMTransitionandInvestment Support Plan, which is included in the P72billion disbursement acceleration program of President Benigno S.Aquino III. The government is paving the road for the ARMM’s social, economical development that will be supported by reformed governance in the region,” he said, noting that last month, DBM released an additional funding of P1.97 billion for the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to beef up social services delivery in theARMM. “This recent allotment release will boost key infrastructure developments in the said region to be able to attract local and foreign investors and to provide jobs for its people,” he added.

Of the amount, P1.25 billion will be used

for preventive maintenance projects in Sulu (P139.69 million), Basilan (P45.64 million), Lanao del Sur (P623.28 million) and Maguindanao (P442.05 million). Also, P517.35 million has been allotted to rehabilitate typhoon-damaged national roads in Sulu (160.62 million), Tawi-tawi (P210.75 million), Lanao del Sur (P130.98 million) and Maguindanao (P15 million).

Likewise, P1.02 billion will go for the upgrading of roads in Sulu (P193.04 million), Basilan (P434.13 million), Lanao del Sur (P157.09 million), Maguindanao (P234.23 million). Lastly, P64.63 million is allotted for the National Bridges Program of the DPWH, which will includes the replacement of Gubawan Bridge in Basilan, and which will amount to P33.03 million, and Pagatin and Matilak Bridges in Maguindanao, amounting to P21.6 million and P10 million, respectively.

Abad said the DPWH is committed to complete the pavement of the total 15,872 kilometers (km) of national arterial roads by 2014; 15,370 km of national secondary roads by 2016; and the repair, reconstruction or replacement of all 7,793 national bridges by 2016.

Aquino cites role of each Pinoy in achieving change President Benigno S. Aquino III cited the important role every common Filipino should take in achieving the nation’s genuine change just as what his parents, the late Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. and former President Corazon “Cory”Aquino and the awardees of their Fellowship for Professional Development, have shown that are worth emulating for.

In his speech during the awarding ceremonies of the 22nd Ninoy and CoryAquino Fellowship Awards for Professional Development (Journalism and Public Service Categories) at the Rigodon Ballroom II of the Peninsula Hotel Manila in Makati City on Tuesday, the President underscored the efforts of some Filipinos, including that of his parents, who have gone beyond what are expected of PRES. AQUINO them to contribute more for the country and their fellowmen.

“I believe that what we are truly celebrating today is the capacity of every common Filipino to contribute to genuine and lasting change… this is what I’d like everyone to remember about my mother and my father and about those whom we have awarded these fellowships… that they are just like each and every one of us, that have chosen to go far beyond what is required of them as citizens to help their fellowmen,” the President said.

The Chief Executive noted the need for cooperation and concerted efforts of the government and the citizenry in pushing for the welfare of the country and the people as well. He encouraged every Filipino to live the life that his parents led and the examples that were shown by the awardees.

“Our country is in the process of recovery, of rebuilding institutions that have served us so well in the past years… the reality is that this is a difficult job, one that cannot be accomplished by one person or even by the government alone. But if the Filipino people hear about the stories of Father Ponpon (Vasquez) and Lieutenant Beltran… if they take it to heart and if they follow the examples of our awardees each of their own little way then what this great nation hurled with great people can achieve may well be limitless,” the President said.

During the event, PresidentAquino and United StatesAmbassador to the Philippine Harry K. Thomas awarded the 2011 Ninoy and CoryAquino Fellowship for Professional Development to two outstanding Filipinos who have shown exemplary accomplishment in the fields of journalism and public service.

Father Eduardo C. Vasquez Jr., a Catholic priest and media champion working in the conflict-affected towns in Maguindanao province was awarded for his dedication and unwavering courage to highlight the plight of the less fortunate through the production of documentaries that shed light on their struggles for a better future.

The same recognition was conferred by the Embassy of the United States of America on Lieutenant Junior Grade Roberto Mamaril Beltran of the Philippine Navy in recognition of his

PPA suspends mandatory weighing at Manila North Harbor The Philippine PortsAuthority (PPA) put on hold its mandatory weighing scheme at Manila North Harbor due to complaints of delay raised by truckers and other cargo shipping stakeholders.

“In the best interest of the service and after due consideration of the necessary improvements that must be put in place, pleased be advised of the temporary suspension of the mandatory weighing scheme of outbound containers and roll-on/roll-off (RORO) vehicles at Manila North Harbor,” the port regulator said in a statement.

The PPAsaid it made this decision after truckers complained of the long turnaround time forced upon them by the queuing for mandatory weighing.

The PPAearlier instructed all cargo handling operators to install more weighbridges if they exceed the mandatory 120 container and RORO vehicle volume set by the port agency.

President Benigno S. Aquino III presents the Bagong Bayani Awards for Outstanding Employees to Analiza Liezl Perez-Amurao during the 2011 Bagong Bayani Awards ceremony at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (December 01). Amurao was conferred the 2009 Teacher of the Year of the Mahidol University International College in Thailand. Her teaching prowess in methodology and research was cited and honored by her employer. She was instrumental in designing and implementation of the new student-centered curriculum at the PreCollege. The Award is given to OFWs who have earned the respect, trust and confidence of his or her employer, superiors, and co-workers.

SC suspends CA security guard for duty neglect The Supreme Court (SC) has penalized a Court of Appeals (CA) security guard after he was found administratively liable in a complaint filed against him by a court employee in June 2009.

In a resolution penned by Associate Justice Arturo Brion, the SC’s Second Division imposed on Enrique E. Manabat Jr., Security Guard I of the CA, a penalty of one month suspension and one day without pay for simple neglect of duty.

The SC also directed Manabat “to undergo, during his suspension, a firearm handling security course with the appropriate unit of the Philippine National Police, at his own expense, and shall be deemed to have completely served his suspension only upon submission of proof of the completion of this course.”

The case arose from the administrative complaint filed by the CAthrough Atty. Teresita Marigomen, CA Clerk of Court.

In an investigation report dated June 15, 2009, Reynaldo Dianco, chief of the CA Security Services Unit, informedAssociate Justice Normandie Pizarro, chairperson of the CA Security and Safety Committee, that at around 8 a.m. of June 8, 2009, Manabat accidentally fired his service pistol, a 9mm FEG Hungary, while in the process of unloading it for turnover to SG1 Miguel Tamba, the guard on duty for the next shift.

Dianco recommended that Manabat be dismissed from the service for gross neglect

of duty.

The matter was brought before Marigomen for investigation. On June 22, 2009, the CA Clerk of Court filed a formal charge against Manabat.

Manabat explained that the firing of his service pistol was “purely accidental; it was not done with evident bad faith, and it did not cause undue injury to any party; hence, his dismissal from the service was unwarranted.”

He narrated that the pistol went off after he removed the magazine and while emptying the chamber load; that immediately after the incident, he reported the same to the CA Clerk of Court; and that in turning over the pistol to SG1 Tamba, he observed the usual and safety procedure of pointing the gun’s muzzle towards the ground, particularly to the inner wall of the guardhouse, and at a safe distance from his co-officer.

After a review of the records, the Office of the Court Administrator (OCA) agreed with the CA’s finding that the respondent was guilty of simple neglect of duty.

The OCA did not find the elements of gross negligence in the case.

However, the OCA said that it “could not absolve the respondent from liability because the latter, by accidentally firing his service pistol, still failed to exercise the diligence required in the proper discharge of his functions.”

In its ruling, the SC said that “the unex-

pected discharge of a firearm may occur for a variety of reasons.”

“It can be the result of mechanical failure such as wear, faulty assembly, damage or faulty design of the firearm, but most often, undesired discharges result from operator error or due to the carelessness or ineptness of the person handling the firearm,” the SC resolution said.

“It is for the latter reason that our court security personnel are taught the basic rules of firearm or gun safety in order to prevent incidents of undesired discharges,” the SC said.

However, the SC ruling said that it “cannot consider the respondent’s negligence as gross in nature because there is nothing in the records to show that the respondent willfully and intentionally fired his service pistol.”

The SC also said that at the time of the incident, Manabat “did observe most of the safety measures required in unloading his firearm.”

The ruling also warned him “that a repetition of the same or similar offense shall be dealt with more severely.”

The SC asked the CA Presiding Justice “that the firearms and ammunition issued to the CA security force be technically examined for their mechanical safety and working order.”

Concurring with the ruling wereAssociate JusticesAntonio Carpio, Jose Portugal Perez, Ma. Lourdes Sereno and Bienvenido Reyes.

DA allots P500 M for Cordillera agri projects The Department of Agriculture is allotting more than P500 million to undertake various agricultural, irrigation, and infrastructure projects in the six provinces of the Cordillera region, to further prop up its distinction as a major source of vegetables and other high-value crops.

Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala committed the amount during his recent three-day (November 25-27, 2011) visit of the provinces of Benguet, Ifugao, Mountain Province, and Baguio City, where he monitored various projects, and dialogued with farmers and local officials.

The bulk of the fund, amounting to P268 million mainly from the DA’s National Irrigation Administration (NIA), is allotted for the repair and rehabilitation of several irrigation systems in Ifugao, Mt. Province, and Benguet that were damaged by recent typhoons, including some portions of the Ifugao Rice Terraces.

Of the total irrigation fund, NIA Administrator Antonio Nangel said P100 million is earmarked for the Butigue irrigation system in Atok, Benguet, P40 million for the Hapid irrigation system in Lamut, Ifugao, P10 million to repair eroded and damaged portions, and reinforce the irrigation systems of the rice terraces at Batad town, and the rest of the amount will be used to repair communal irrigation systems and construct irrigation canals and road opening in other towns and province.

To restore the Ifugao Rice Terraces, he also committed an additional P20 million from the DA-Cordillera region and national rice program to repair and upgrade other rice terraces in Banaue, Mayoyao, Hapao, and Kiangan.

Secretary Alcala also committed to put up one village-type rice processing center in all six Cordillera provinces, worth P20 million each, for a total of P120 million. He also provided each province two four-wheel tractors, worth P48 million, under a counterparting arrangement.

For his part, DA National Rice Program coordinator Dante Delima said the rice processing center in Ifugao will also house a rice museum featuring the agricultural practices, farm implements, culture, and tradition of the mountain tribe responsible for carving the world-famous Ifugao Rice Terraces. In particular, it will showcase upland rice varieties like tinawon, unoy, and ulikan.

DA Cordillera regional director Marilyn Sta. Catalina said the DA will also provide other production support, totaling P47.8 million and comprising of: six production centers of compost and bio-control agents, one for each province; 40 hand tractors with trailers; 120 head of carabaos with implements; the establishment of fishponds and rice-fish culture paddies, six coffee seedling nurseries, and six greenhouses.

Director Delima said the DA will also provide P2 million for the upgrading of a municipal agri trading center in Lamut, Ifugao.

In appreciation of the hundreds of farmers and local officials who attended and actively participated in the respective forums and town hall meetings during this three-day visit, Secretary Alcala raffled off P2.6 million worth of farm equipment as prizes (i.e., hand tractors with trailers, hermetic cocoon grain storage units, collapsible dryers, knapsack sprayers, and plotters), draft carabaos with implements, several dozens of farm animals (native pigs and chicken, rabbits, and upgraded goats); and registered and native rice seeds.

At Atok, in Benguet, he led the inauguration of a P3-million municipal packing house and two agricultural tramlines at barangays Bocao and Bonglo to support the town’s production of cabbage, potato, lettuce, carrot, radish, garden peas, and cutflowers.

He also visited an Arabica coffee production center jointly operated by the Benguet State University and Rocky Mountain Café.

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Fitzgerald Cecilio Asst. Editor Benjie Alejandro Editorial ContributorColumnist The Metro Express is a weekly broadsheet newsmagazine published by el amigo media solutions and distributed widely in Metro Manila at LRT/MRT Stations, the House of Representatives, the Senate and other government offices. For press, photo releases and advertising inquiries, text or call Hotlines Globe 0915-5517486 and Smart 09491661022. Emails: esns03@yahoo.com & 2011metroexpress@gmail.com.

While Arroyo gets special treatment, sick political prisoners barely survive MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ONE AND ALL!

By Anne Marxze D. Umil (bulatlat.com)

MANILA – Relatives and supporters of political prisoners decried what they called “special treatment” accorded to former president Gloria Macapagal Arroyo as they demanded anew the release of political prisoners in the country, especially the sick and the elderly.

According to Samahan ng Ex-Detainees Laban sa Detensyon at Aresto (Selda), there are 360 political prisoners in the country, including the 78 who were arrested under the Aquino administration. Eleven of them are elderly, while there are 43 who are sick. The group said these political prisoners should be released on humanitarian grounds.

“The political prisoners who have been languishing in jails for years don’t have money to buy for their medicines.And yet, the Aquino government will use people’s money for a human rights violator like Arroyo,” Fr. Dionito Cabillas of the Promotion of Church People’s Response (PCPR), said.

Arroyo, now representative of Pampanga’s second district, has been under hospital arrest for charges of electoral sabotage. The local court recently issued a ruling ordering her transfer to the government-run Veterans Memorial Medical Center. Malacanang expressed willingness to shoulder the costs of Arroyo’s hospitalization.

In the same vein, Bayan Muna Rep. Teddy Casiño said, “It is ironic that Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, the one responsible for so many human rights violations, is being given special treatment and even pampered by the Aquino administration while her victims have to go on a hunger strike just to air their demands that should and can readily be granted by the authorities.”

Since Dec. 3, political prisoners in various detention facilities have launched hunger strike and other forms of protest.

“Arroyo should be nowhere but in jail,” said Angie Ipong, Selda secretary general.

“This [special treatment to Arroyo] is unacceptable for the 360 political prisoners who are charged with trumped up charges and imprisoned because of political beliefs, who are now languishing in jails in dire conditions,” Ipong said.

“She has no life-threatening illness, but is very comfortable in the hospital. Political prisoners, on the other hand, do not receive proper medical treatment for their grave illnesses,” Ipong said.

The group cited the case of Crisanto Tomarse Fat who died of heart ailment while in jail at the Negros Provincial Jail on Sept. 20. Fat, a peasant leader in Moises Padilla town in Negros Occidental, was falsely charged with illegal possession of firearms and explosives.

Rolando Pañamogan, 47, arrested in January 2002, is suffering from diabetes, toxic goiter and congestive heart disease. Pañamogan, a leader of Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas in Ponpunan, Baybay, Leyte, is now detained at the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City. He has been confined at the NBP hospital, where facilities and attending medical personnel are scarce. On several occasions, he had been rushed to the clinic for shortness of breath and convulsive seizure. “He, who is not guilty of the trumped-up charges the government filed against him, has no money to buy for his medicines,” Cabillas said.

Another political prisoner detained at the NBP, Rogelio Natividad, 61, has been in jail for the last 20 years. “Compounding his long years of imprisonment are the inhumane conditions in jail where there is meager food ration and poor hygiene which has resulted in his kidney infection, ulcer and hypertension. He has been found to have kidney stones, which is currently causing him pain,” Selda said.

Bernardo Andrade, 61, a fisherman from Old Sagay, Sagay City, Negros Occidental, and who has been detained for ten years already, has diabetes, asthma and hypertension. Since his arrest in 2001, his family had never visited him for lack of financial and material support.

Cresenciano Inocerta, 64, has contracted tuberculosis while inside the jail in NBP. He underwent treatment for six months. He has been considered healed of tuberculosis but he continues to suffer from asthma, arthritis and constant cough. Like Andrade, Inocerta has never been visited by his family from Valencia, Negros Oriental due to lack of finances.

Manolito Matricio, 60, from Mamburao, Mindoro Occidental, has been suffering from arthritis, diabetes and hypertension. He is one of the EDITOR’S NOTE: All commentaries and or opinions submitted by columnists and herein published shall remain as personal opinion of writers. As such, these cannot and never be construed nor considered as similar to that of this publication (Metro Express)’s stand on issues discussed. Be that as it may, Metro Express shall not be held liable on any legal issues related/pertaining to, or any column/commentaries that may appear herein.

Supreme power Former President Joseph Estrada once branded the sage men and women of the Supreme Court as “hoodlums in robes” but grave as his accusation was, libel charges escaped him, spared owing maybe of his Chief Executive status then.

But the good men and women in robes only bided their time and when the opportunity came for them to pin him down, Estrada went tumbling down and PGMA, now CGMA, was swiftly sworn into office via Chief Justice Davide then.

Even during her tenure, PGMA also experienced first-hand the supreme power throughout the land that the Supreme Court possesses or have.

The SC shoot contracts after contracts Malacanang had before during PGMA’s time whatever international repercussions they may have.

Now, CGMAcould only hoper she’ll be dealt with a more friendly card yes, from no other than personages she appointed before.

Xmas bonus Government employees are assured of a White Christmas what with PresidentAquino’s announcement that the national government would give P10,000 in additional holiday bonus to each one of the 1.17 million civil servants, including those hired on temporary, casual or contractual basis.

But wait, here’s the kicker: Malacanang said the full amount will only be given to employees who had rendered at least four months of service as of November 30.

This would be “on top of the (13th month pay and the P5,000 cash gift), there is a P10,000 productivity enhancement incentive (PEI), which is due to be given by December 15,” Mr. President said.

Nice, eh?

Satisfaction survey Malacanang’s feeling of Christmas generosity may be attributed to PNoy’s latest so-so rating that says more and more Pinoys believe that life would be better in the next 12 months to come, meaning in the next chapter of our lives or in 2012.

Social Weather Stations (SWS) conducted the survey from Sept. 4 to 7 of which found 39 percent of respondents believe or expect that the quality of their lives would improve (“optimists”) in the next 12 months.

Pessimists only had a nine percent share expecting their lives would only get worse or for a net score of 30.

Take note, the said survey was higher than the 36 and 35 percent optimism recorded in June and March, respectively.

On Quality Of Living For the information of everyone, Imperial Manila ranks 128 out of 221 cities in the world. This is again based on a survey by Mercer’s 2011 Quality of Living ranking highlights.

“Mamburao 6” who were convicted of killing the two sons of a local land lord in Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro.

Ernesto Dumlao, detained at the Quezon City Jail, has asthma and has been sleeping on the floor of the Quezon City Jail because he cannot pay for a “tarima” (cot) that costs P3,000.

Antonino Roda, detained at the Misamis Occidental Provincial Reformatory Jail, has severe kidney infection, urinating with blood for several times already.

Emeterio Antalan, one of the detained consultants of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) and now at Camp Bagong Diwa has kidney problems and fluctuating blood pressure. He had collapsed while he was in jail in Nueva Ecija but did not receive proper medical attention nor was he rushed to the hospital, according to Selda.

CHANCES ARE

ISMAEL A. AMIGO 1ST-APLUMA

Said Quality of Living Survey is based on political and social environment, medical and health considerations, public services and transport, consumer goods, economic environment, sociocultural environment, schools and education, natural environment, recreation and housing criteria.

New York serves as the base city for the ranking.

More spending

We really hope for a better 2012 if Malacanang will make good with its promise to spend more in 2012.

When money flows by a drip, life would really be agonizingly slow to all of us Filipinos especially when there are but a little amount of public services are flowing on a snail pace.

If there is no infrastructure projects flowing from your congressman chances are there is but a little job available to townspeople and local economy also comes to a standstill.

Now this is the very reason, Malacanang is stepping up spending next year particularly on infrastructure development.

Take it from PS Edwin Lacierda: “We’re going full blast by 2012 and we expect more PPP projects coming out… both from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC).”

One of this is the government’s plan to bid out this year the Daang HariSouth Luzon Expressway Road construction project and the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) project.

There are already interested bidders for the Daang-Hari project and it is expected to be awarded before year’s end the PS says.

Tthe Department of Education (DepEd) is also looking on PPP for the construction of more classrooms, he added.

“The respective Cabinet members will be announcing the forthcoming PPP projects,” he said.

Also, Lacierda said, the government has instituted reforms so it can scrutinize projects in the pipe line while at the same time ensuring speedy implementation.

According to the government, projects that could still be included in the 2011 bidding list will be the P6.8-billion New Bohol (Panglao) airport project, the P8.85-billion LRT Line 2 East extension, the P83.25-billion LRT Line 1 South extension, the P4.14-billion Puerto Princesa airport development project, the P450- to P675-million-a-year Laguindingan Airport O&M contract, and the P6.88-billion New Legazpi airport development.

So there, let’s wait and see…Merry Christmas!

Selda called on Aquino to release political prisoners in time for the commemoration of the International Human Rights Day on Dec, 10, like what he did when he ordered the withdrawal of charges against the Morong 43 last year. The Morong 43 health workers were illegally arrested in February 2009 while conducting a medical training in Morong, Rizal.

They were detained for ten months.

“In the spirit of the commemoration of the International Human Rights Day, we call on Aquino to the release of political prisoners, especially the sick and elderly, as this is a just and humane act that renders justice for all those who were illegally arrested, tortured and detained,” Ipong said.

The group also reiterated their call for the release of all political prisoners through general, unconditional and omnibus amnesty.

Dec. 12 - Dec. 19, 2011

THE METROPOLIS

5

MetrEx: 1st & only Weekly Broadsheet Newsmagazine

SC orders Caloocan RTC to remit P310M to gov’t The Supreme Court (SC) has given the Caloocan City Regional Trial Court (RTC) the “green light” to remit to the government some P310 million which was consigned to Judge Thelma Pe-Aguirre of Branch 129 by the Manila North Tollways Corporation (MNTC) on Dec. 30, 2010.

In a resolution of the SC en banc, it said that there is no more legal impediment for the remittance of the money to the government because all motions pertaining to the case filed before the SC had been resolved.

Likewise, the SC also ordered the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) “to prepare and finalize the implementing rules and guidelines relative to the determination of the net income remittablebythePhilippineNationalConstruction Corporation (PNCC) to the national government, and to proceed with the same with dispatch.”

The said amount represents the percentage share of the PNCC in the toll revenues and dividends from the operations of North Luzon Expressway (NLEX).

“Considering that the pending motion, from which Judge Thelma Pe-Aguirre based her denial of MNTC’s RTC manifestation and urgent motion, has already been resolved by this Court, there is, therefore, no more impediment that would prolong the compliance with this Court’s directive to remit the subject consigned amount to the national government,” said the SC en banc resolution signed

by Clerk of Court Enriqueta Vidal.

The money was consigned to the judge by the MNTC pending the issuance by the SC of a final resolution on a clarification in its Oct. 19, 2010 ruling.

The SC had affirmed the constitutionality of the toll rate adjustments along the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), the South Metro Manila Skyway and the NLEX. When the SC clarified the matter due to the MNTC’s motion, it also directed the Caloocan City RTC to remit the consigned money to the government.

However, a motion was also filed by the PNCC asking clarification in its resolution that ruled the clarification filed by the MNTC. Judge Aguirre denied the motion of the MNTC to remit the money to the national treasury while PNCC’s petition was pending before SC. The SC resolved PNCC’s motion onApril 12, 2011.

It also reiterated its order to the Caloocan City RTC to remit the money. (PNA)

In this photo released by UNICEF in Manila, British soccer player of the Los Angeles Galaxy and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador David Beckham meets former Filipino street children during his visit to a UNICEFsupported government center for children rescued from the streets Friday, Dec. 2, 2011 in a suburb of Manila in the Philippines. Beckham is here for a friendly soccer match against the Philippines’ Azkals team, in the second leg of his team’s three-country-tour that included Indonesia and Australia.

MMDA to open more Christmas lanes for motorists In anticipation of heavy traffic along major thoroughfares of Metro Manila as the Christmas season nears, the Metropolitan Manila DevelopmentAuthority (MMDA) has said that it is opening more Christmas lanes for motorists.

“It is a part of an improved traffic plan for the holidays, but give us 10 more days because we are still on the process of clearing the roads of obstructions,” said MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino, adding the agency has yet to identify the alternate routes that would be opened.

The Christmas lanes, also known as Mabuhay lanes, were introduced by the MMDA last year in line with its continuous efforts to decongest Epifanio delos Santos Avenue (EDSA), particularly during the Christmas season when traffic is usually heavy.

The Christmas lanes start at both north and south entry points of EDSA. For motorists from the north going south through MacArthur Highway, they may turn

right to Samson Road in Caloocan City, left to C-4/Letre, R-10,A. BonifacioAvenue, Roxas Boulevard to destination.

For motorists coming from the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), they can exit at various points, including the newly-opened MindanaoAvenue access ramp leading to Novaliches, Quezon City.

From south to north, the Christmas lanes start at the Coastal Road and South Luzon Expressway (SLEX).

The agency clarified that motorists using the so-called Christmas lanes are not exempted from the Unified Vehicular Volume Reduction Program (UVVRP) or the “number-coding” scheme.

Additional routes are still being assessed by the agency, Tolentino said.

Press Release

BI warns foreign athletes, entertainers to secure special work permits Professional foreign athletes and entertainers must first secure a special work permit (SWP) from the Bureau of Immigration (BI) before they could play or perform in the country to avoid sanction for violating immigration laws.

BI Commissioner Ricardo David warned that they cannot engage in gainful activity in the country unless they have work permit.

“Foreigners and promoters who do not comply with this requirement are liable for violating our immigration laws, thus they can be arrested, deported or fined by the bureau,” the BI chief stressed.

David said the agency has been enforcing the SWP requirement on foreign athletes and entertainers since 1999 when the bureau launched a crackdown against imports playing in the Philippine BasketballAssociation.

The requirement applies to all foreign athletes, including trainers and coaches, hired to play in any sports tournament and foreign entertainers, such as singers and dancers, scheduled to perform in concerts and television shows in the country.

Lawyer Grace Lara, BI chief of staff, said that in the case of foreign athletes, their SWP application should be endorsed by the organization or sports association that sponsored the competition.

For foreign entertainers, Lara said they should be endorsed by the Asosasyon ng Musikong Pilipino (AMP), Organisasyon ng Pilipinong Mang-aawit (OPM), FilmAcademy of the Philippines (FAP), or by the Filipino Society of Composers,Authors and Publishers.

She pointed out that the documentary requirements for an SWP are very simple as the applicant needs only to submit a letter-request from his or her petitioning employer, copy of passport with updated stay, and a BI certificate stating that the applicant has no derogatory record.

The employer shall also submit a written undertaking that all taxes due from the income of the applicant shall be withheld and remitted to the Bureau of Internal Revenue.

An SWP applicant is charged a total of P6,440 as payment for application, processing, service, legal research, express lane, and clearance certificate fees.

DBM releases P210M for potable water No labor inspection during Christmas, New Year —Baldoz To ensure that labor inspectors will have no opportunity for bribery, gift solicitation, or other forms of graft and corruption, Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz has suspended all labor inspection activities during the Christmas and New Year holidays.

The suspension is contained in Administrative Order No. 490, Series of 2011, which Baldoz issued on Nov. 17.

“We have to affirm the integrity of the DOLE’s labor inspection process under the administration of President Benigno S. Aquino III, hence, this moratorium,” said Baldoz.

The suspension will be in full effect for a two-month period starting 01 Dec. 1 2011 and ending on Jan. 31, 2012. The regular/routine inspection will commence on Feb. 1, 2012.

In her order, the labor and employment chief specifically directed all DOLE regional directors to suspend all labor inspection activities in their respective regions, including the conduct of Training and Advisory Visits and Self-Assessment Activities. The order also suspends implementation of Project LEAP, or Labor Enforcement Action Program.

However, Baldoz exempted the following activities from the suspension: (1) investigation of labor standards complaints which shall in all cases be speedily disposed of; (2) Technical Safety inspections (mechanical equipment and electrical wiring installation; and (3) urgent inspections/TAVs that may be called for because of compelling circumstances, “in which case, the regional office concerned shall seek the approval of the Secretary of Labor and Employment before any such inspection/TAV activity may be conducted.”

During the suspension, the labor chief emphasized the period of suspension will be utilized for the disposition of all pending labor standards (LS) cases and the preparation of the Labor Standards Enforcement Program (LSEP) for CY 2012, which shall primarily ensure the effective continuation of the Department’s LS compliance monitoring program.

The LSEP shall include the following information necessary in determining the Department’s projected 2012 inspection targets: Total number of establishments targeted for regular/routine inspection; total number of orientation courses to be conducted under TAV, with target participants/establishments; total number of establishments for Self-Assessment; targets for Technical Safety Inspection (TSI), including number of establishments/units to be inspected; names of labor inspectors, hearing officers, provincial/district heads and SEAD (Single Entry Approach Desk) officers, including their plantilla position, designation, and their areas of assignment; and (6) master list of establishments for the three approaches.

The Aquino administration has completed the release of the P1.5-billion budget for the Potable Water Supply program in the country after the Department of Budget and Management (DMB) recently released P210 million for this purpose.

Budget and Management Secretary Florencio Abad said the program was among the administration’s priority program to ensure that Filipinos would have access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation.

“TheAquino administration has committed to provide the basic necessities of the citizens, and reduce the number of people without constant access to potable water in half, in line with the government’s commitment to the Millennium Development Goals and the President’s Social Contract to the Filipino People,” he said. The potable water program of the Department of Health (DOH) is in line with the conditional cash transfer (CCT) program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the government’s other social protection programs.

While the program will be implemented by the various local government units (LGUs).

Abad said that aside from the recent P210-million fund release for the program, the government had previously released P1.29 billion for the program.

He said officials of the DOH, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the National Anti-Poverty Commission signed last Jan. 4 a memorandum of agreement (MOA) for the program’s implementation.

He said beneficiary-LGUs were chosen based on poverty criteria of NAPC, “seal of good housekeeping” standards of DILG, priority areas identified by the DoH for the reduction of water-borne diseases, and guidelines of the National Economic Development AuthorityInvestment Coordination Committee pertaining to national government grants for devolved services. The recent fund release will be given to 21 provinces, six of which, namely, Bulacan, Laguna, Rizal, Cavite, Batangas and Albay have waterless resettlement sites.

PNP General Hospital gets P4-M financial assistance from PAGCOR The Philippine National Police (PNP) General Hospital is the latest recipient of an early Christmas financial assistance worth P4 million from the PhilippineAmusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).

PAGCOR’s donation to the PNP General Hospital will be used for the purchase of a Multix Swing X-ray Machine, a top-of-theline medical equipment, that will enable the PNP to provide improved health services for the 130,000-strong PNP force.

The financial assistance extended by PAGCOR every Christmas season is under the project “Pamaskong Handog ng PAGCOR 2011: 25 Days of Christmas, 25 Years of PAGCOR.” Director General Nicanor Bartolome, PNP chief, thank PAGCOR for its donation that will go a long way for the medical needs of PNP personnel and their immediate dependence.

During the occasion, 150 patients at the

PNP hospital also received special Christmas gifts from PAGCOR at the hospital auditorium Monday.

PAGCOR Director Jose Tanjuatco, assistant vice president for community relations Henry Reyes, assistant VP for surveillance and security Byron Tabangay, assistant VP for corporate communications Maricar Bautista, and Casino Filipino branch managerArthur Malatag attended the affair.

Caloocan reactivates ‘Noche Buena’ Caloocan Mayor Enrico “Recom” Echiverri has ordered the activation of the city’s “Noche Buena” fare price task force to ensure that the prices of Yuletide food will not dramatically skyrocket this Yuletide.

Echiverri said the task force would strictly monitor the prices of sweet ham, red cheese, spaghetti noodles and other “Noche Buena” staples in groceries and public markets in the city.

Ham sandwiches, fruit salad and spaghetti are the traditional fare of most Filipino families during “Noche Buena,” or the night before Christmas feast.

Echiverri said that the personnel who would man the task force will be coming from the city’s market and local Department of Trade and Industry.

FAITH, HEALTH, EVENTS, PLACES & PEOPLE

6

Dec. 5 - Dec. 19, 2011

METRO EXPRESS NEWSMAGAZINE

Hold on to God “Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart” (Psalm 37:3,4) They say, “A watched pot never boils”—meaning, if you impatiently obsess over what you’re waiting for, it’s going to take forever. Have you ever felt that way? Have you ever had something you wanted SO bad that it was all you could think about—and it almost drove you crazy? I know I have.

There is a way to not only survive the waiting game, but to win it. You win by making THE MOST of your wait. Imagine waiting for that pot of water to boil. You could either stand tapping your foot in front of the stove, getting more impatient by the minute. OR, you could realize that the pot will whistle when it’s ready and find something productive or fun to do in the meantime, like clean the kitchen or read a book. Not only will the time go by faster, but you will have accomplished much while you waited!

The Bible confirms this secret to maximizing our wait in Psalm 37:3,4; Look for the 2 key words: “Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness” “Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart” Did you see the 2 keys? Faithfulness and Delight. Faithfulness is when you’re tempted to give up but you keep holding onto God in trust and doing what He wants you to do.

And delight is just enjoying your relationship with God, regardless of your circumstances.

Let’s look at Joseph for a perfect example: Joseph had dreamt early on that he would be a great leader. But then his brothers sold him into slavery, and on top of that, he was falsely accused and thrown into prison!

Talk about the opposite of his dreams! But instead of giving up or cursing God, Joseph served God faithfully, no matter where he was. “But the Lord was with Joseph in the prison and showed him His faithful love. And the Lord made Joseph a favorite with the prison warden. Before long, the warden put Joseph in charge of all the other prisoners and over everything that happened in the prison. The warden had no more worries, because Joseph took care of everything. The Lord was with him and caused everything he did to succeed” (Genesis 39:21-23).

Even in the terrible wait, Joseph was faithful and delighted in God. What Joseph didn’t know was that he would be promoted from the prison to Pharoah’s palace and manage all of Egypt’s land. God was preparing him for this responsibility while he was waiting in slavery and prison. What if Joseph had given up early? What if he had denied God in the hardship?

Now let’s talk about you. What’s your dream? Maybe it’s been a long time coming and you’ve almost given up hope. Don’t! God is preparing you to do the great works He has called you to. I Corinthians 2:9 says, “”No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him.” But you have to wait for His perfect timing. You can come out on the other side by doing what God wants and enjoying Him while you wait. Like Jospeh, you will be so thankful that He prepared you so well when it comes!

Let’s wait for God’s dreams for us together! Find support for your dreams at the GodLife Facebook Community!

So this week, let’s pray together that: 1.

We would make the most of our waiting time

2.

We would continue to enjoy God and be faithful to Him

3.

Global Media Outreach would expand to the right and the left

We here at Global Media Outreach love you SO much! We pray for you everyday.

Please let us know how we can pray for you specifically by responding to this e-mail.

Your Friends at GodLife.com

Rayver okay to work with ex-GF Sarah ACTOR Rayver Cruz is willing to work with ex-girlfriend Sarah Geronimo in the future.

But Cruz clarified that the project may not be happening in the near future since his breakup with the young singer happened only a year ago.

“Okay lang naman sa akin. Pero sa ngayon siguro hindi pa kasi alam naman nating lahat (na nagkaroon ng issue) at konting madawit lang yung pangalan namin sa isa’t-isa eh ang dami ng nasasabi yung tao,” Cruz said.

The young actor was referring to the rift between Geronimo and his present girlfriend Cristine Reyes, which was highlighted by unfriendly exchanges on micro-blogging site, Twitter.

Cruz said he does not want to complicate things because he knows Geronimo is also happy with her personal life.

In a separate interview, Geronimo expressed interest in doing movie or television projects opposite Cruz’s girlfriend.

The young singer jokingly said that as long as she is not required to wear a swimsuit, she will definitely accept the project. “Wag lang ako mag swimsuit, kasi parang suicide yung sa aking part,” she

RAYVER

said.

Geronimo said she is also open to giving her Box-Office Queen title to Reyes or Anne Curtis, who both starred in the hit movie “No Other Woman”.

The Pop Princess said the two lead stars deserve all the recognition they could get because of their tremendous work in the movie.

“Yung akin kasi bonus na lang ni Lord yun eh, yung Box-Office Queen. Hindi ko naman talaga inisip or inakala na tatanggapin ng tao yung tandem namin ni John Lloyd and Gerald,” she added.

In this photo released by the Philippine Army Chief Public Affairs Office, Filipino boxer and Congressman Manny Pacquiao, right, salutes at Army Chief Major General Emmanuel T Bautista, after being promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel (Reserve) in a ceremony Monday, Dec. 5, 2011 at the Army headquarters at Fort Bonifacio, suburban Taguig city, east of Manila, Philippines. Pacquiao, who recently defeated Mexican challenger Juan Manuel Marquez, holds 8 boxing records in 8 different weight divisions.

Sam willing to work with Marian KAPUSO actress Sam Pinto said she never received indecent proposals even if she was hailed as the sexiest woman this year by a men’s magazine.

Pinto said that after the sexiest woman announcement, more guys are afraid to make friends with her. “Feeling ko after ng FHM eh mas lalo silang na intimidate sa akin. siguro akala nila na meron akong wall na hindi sila makalapit.”

The model-turned-actress also shared that she’s very much single right now and her only focus is her showbiz commitments.

Asked if she’s open to work with Marian Rivera after their reported tiff second quarter of this year. Pinto said she would love to work with one of the biggest star of the Kapuso channel.

“I don’t mind working with her. I mean she’s been in the business for so long already, why not work with someone like that.”

She’s also not afraid of all the issues that would be thrown her way if she gets the opportunity to work with Rivera.

“For me naman as long as I don’t do anything to hurt her or anybody that she loves eh parang wala namang issue yun,” Sam ended.

Kristine Hermosa reveals name of her baby girl Actress Kristine Hermosa has revealed the name of her soon-to-be-born baby girl.

Hermosa said she and husband Oyo Sotto have chosen “Ondrea Bliss” as their baby’s name.

“Naghanap kami. Finally, God spoke to us na eto na ‘yung ipangalan ninyo. Ibig sabihin ng Ondrea, strong and courageous.

And bliss, ibig sabihin naman unmeasurable joy,” Hermosa explained.

“So ‘yun ‘yung pareho naming naramdaman (Oyo).And gusto naming maging strong and courageous din si Ondrea,” she added.

Hermosa said she is happy that Quiel, their adopted son, is looking forward to meeting Ondrea Bliss.

“Three years old na si Quiel. Kuya na siya, alam naman na niya na ‘I’m a Kuya,’ gumaganun,” she said.

Hermosa’s and Sotto’s relatives also shared their excitement over the newest addition to their family.

“Meron na kaming baby na mahihiram,” said Kathleen, Hermosa’s sister.

“Excited ako kasi di ba I also gave birth na girl din. Excited na ako na magiging barkada na sila,” said Danica, Sotto’s sister.

“Pinagdadasal talaga nila ‘yan eh.

Andaming boys na pamangkin,” said Ciara, Sotto’s cousin.

“I’m sure magiging super beautiful ang

baby dahil maraming pagmamanahan na mga magaganda at gwapo. No doubt,” said Dina Bonnevie, Sotto’s mother.

Press Release

Dec. 12 - Dec. 19, 2011

BUSINESS & POLITICS 2 MetrEx: 1st & Only Weekly Broadsheet Newsmagazine

7

More public-private partnership projects to be bidded out in ‘12 Malacanang said more public-private partnership (PPP) projects will be up for grabs next year as the government intensifies its spending, particularly on infrastructure development.

“We’re going full blast by 2012 and we expect more PPP projects coming out… both from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC),” Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda said.

He said the government is bidding out this year the Daang Hari-South

Luzon Expressway Road construction project and the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) project. There are already interested bidders for the Daang-Hari project and it is expected to be awarded before year’s end.

Tthe Department of Education (DepEd) is also looking on PPP for the construction of more classrooms, he added.

“The respective Cabinet members will be announcing the forthcoming PPP projects,” he said.

Also, Lacierda said, the government has instituted reforms so it can scrutinize projects in the pipe line

while at the same time ensuring speedy implementation.

According to the government, projects that could still be included in the 2011 bidding list will be the P6.8billion New Bohol (Panglao) airport project, the P8.85-billion LRT Line 2 East extension, the P83.25-billion LRT Line 1 South extension, the P4.14-billion Puerto Princesa airport development project, the P450- to P675-million-a-year Laguindingan Airport O&M contract, and the P6.88-billion New Legazpi airport development.

Press Release

BSP approves opening of 162 bank branches in restricted areas The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) policy-making Monetary Board (MB) has approved the application of seven banks to open a total of 162 branches in areas previously considered as “restricted” as part of bank branching liberalization.

The BSP said the new branches will be placed in eight cities in Metro Manila, subject to compliance with conditions stated in BSPCircular 728, namely Makati, Mandaluyong, Manila, Paranaque, Pasay, Pasig, and Quezon City as well as the municipality of San Juan.

The approved bank branching application were that of the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), Land Bank of the Philippines (Landbank), Security Bank, Eastwest Bank, Bank of Commerce, Planters Bank, and Philippine Business Bank.

Under Circular 728, central bank allows banks to apply for additional branches if these entities are able to meet certain prudential standards.

The BSP said “restrictions on the eight cities will be subsequently fully lifted by 01 July 2014.”

It cited that “the branching liberalization underscores the value of a competitive market environment in promoting quality financial services.”

“By opening these eight cities to branches, banks who are not yet deeply entrenched in these areas are provided the opportunity to have a physical base to deliver banking services to the public,” it said.

“This liberalization is expected to improve access to banking services. The public benefits with more choices while increasing competition among those banks that operate in these eight cities,” it added.

DTI drawing up comprehensive industry dev’t plan to boost competitiveness The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said it will develop and consolidate industry roadmaps to further boost the country’s competitiveness.

“DTI is working on a comprehensive industry development strategy for the Philippines. We will work towards consolidating industry roadmaps to help identify the key strategies, investment requirements, and the required policy support to increase our competitiveness and sustain economic growth,” Undersecretary for Industry Development and Trade PolicyAdrian S. Cristobal Jr. said.

Among 142 countries, the Philippines ranked 75 in the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Global CompetitivenessReport(GCR),up by 10 notches from the previous year. The WEF cited the Philip-

pines as one of the biggest improvements in its 2011 report.

The industry development plan is also based on the clamor various business chambers in the country.

Cristobal said the DTI would partner with the private sector, through the National Competitiveness Council (NCC), Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI), Joint Foreign Chambers of the Philippines and other business chambers, to achieve this goal.

DTI cited the existing growth industries included electronics, ICT/ BPO/call centers, shipbuilding, steel fabrication, mining, and plantation farming.

The second category of industries, mostly SMEs, are the agribusiness, tourism, processed food, handicraft and manufacturing businesses – industries that could help boost job generation in the countryside. The third

category of industries with large scale potential are car/tire manufacturing, bamboo, palm oil, rubber, corn, and prawn farming, among others.

Cristobal said the most matured industries, such as the IT/BPO and semiconductor and electronics industries, have their roadmaps in place and that the DTI would help the growing industries develop their respective roadmaps.

DTI’s public consultation series on trade policy “One Country, One Voice” held in key cities in the country and consultations with different business chambers surfaced the need for a comprehensive industry development plan. The DTI cites the public consultation series as instrumental in developing partnerships with the agency’s stakeholders.

DENR picks Palawan’s Snake Island site for coastal, marine research ctr A prime research center for the country’s coastal and marine resources will soon rise in idyllic Snake Island in Palawan.

Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources Ramon J. P. issued DENR Administrative Order (DAO) No. 2011-12 establishing Snake Island as site of the DENR National Coastal and Marine Center for Research (NCMCR).

“The establishment of a research center is a step towards a more effective and efficient conservation of our country’s vast biodiversity. We need to implement clear interventions in protecting and rehabilitating our coastal and marine ecosystems as they provide food and livelihood to millions of Filipinos,” Paje said.

Paje also said the Snake Island makes for an ideal and strategic site

for the country’s coastal and marine research program because it represents the megadiversity of the Philippines. “Being located in Palawan, which as we all know, is the country’s last ecological frontier, Snake Island is definitely a good choice to put up our research center,” Paje added.

Under the DAO, the NCMCR in Snake Island would serve as a field station for applied research for marine and coastal ecosystems, ecotourism, and biodiversity. It would also house a laboratory for researchers to study interventions for coral reefs, seagrass, and mangroves.

The NCMCR would further serve as a model for sustainable coastal and marine management and showcase the proper implementation of ecotourism principles.

Based on Paje’s directive, no ap-

plication for foreshore lease agreements inconsistent with the objectives and functions of the NCMCR will be entertained by the DENR. Commercial and industrial businesses other than those related to agriculture will not also be allowed on the island, according to Paje.

Executive Director Jacob Meimban of the DENR’s Coastal and Marine Management Office said his office would coordinate with other marine experts, institutions, and agencies such as the DENR’s Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau, the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development, the University of the Philippines’ Marine Science Institute, and Silliman University in designing the NCMCR, particularly its laboratory facilities.

Press Release

Baltazar Punto of Sta. Quiteria, Caloocan City receives the P100,000 check for his win in the Oh My Gin (OMG) promo of Ginebra San Miguel and GSM Blue. Awarding the cash prize are Trade, Promotions and Merchandising (TPM) Associate Silver Zafranco and TPM Manager Ritchie Morta. Punto joined other P100,000 winners Alfredo Balana of Bulan, Sorsogon; Donna May Alimuin of Camaligan, Camarines Sur; Estanislao Campaner, Jr. of Taytay, Rizal and Jonathan Lacsi of Lipa City, Batangas. The promotion of Ginebra San Miguel, Inc. also gave away motorcycles, gadgets like iPad 2 and iPod Nano, Magic Sing and television sets. Promo is until December 31, 2011.

Varela takes over PCCI presidency Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), the country’s largest and most influential business organization, unanimously elected lawyer Miguel B. Varela as its president during a hotly contested elections Monday.

Varela’s election came as a surprise as he was never in contention until regional representations pushed for his presidency. Varela’s strength came from the provinces. Mindanao endorsed Varela based on the need to enhance relationships of the province with the international business community.

In view of his track record and international exposure, particularly in theASEAN where he is an acknowledged business leader, PCCI Vice President for Mindanao, Ricky Juliano said that a Varela presidency augured well for Mindanao, moreover, his previous stint indicated that the Mindanao business group might once again be unified.

Visayas vice president Francis Monera said Varela’s strengthened training and support programs and consultative dialogues in Regions VI, VII and VIII that led to the advancement of local chambers, thus making them relevant.

South Luzon, which hosts special economic zones and is a major contributor to employment, supported Varela in view of his expertise in the field of labor relations that have been helping them enhance competitiveness. North Luzon Area vice president Nelson Yungchongtian said 18 out of its 20 chambers went for Varela.

Varela is no stranger to PCCI’s af-

fairs having been continuously involved in PCCI affairs and previously held its presidency in 2000-2001. One of the most respected business leaders, Varela has held various top positions both in private business corporations and business-civic organizations.

Under his watch Varela vows to strengthen the ties and partnership between PCCI and government by directing PCCI’s more than 100 local chambers nationwide, 130 industry associations and close to 40 bilateral business councils, their proactive participation in various levels of governance reforms, economic development and enterprise support.

Anchoring on the theme “P.C.C.I Growth and Development Invest 2012 and Beyond” we shall chart the majors strategies that would give more impetus to business development growth and investment and thus be powerful motivators and partners with government and show that indeed the Philippines is a good investment destination.

PCCI under Varelas’s leadership will encapsulate an advocacy thrust that addresses gaps in critical drivers that influence the country’s ability to attract and expand investment in the Philippines into four broad areas of coordination, advocacy and policy setting. These include; P – for Power and Utilities, C- for competitiveness; C – for Countryside Development and I – for Industrial and Trade Policy Formulation.

Varela aims to harness the cooperation of the various business organizations, foreign chambers, embas-

sies and donor organizations in support of PCCI’s identified “Invest on DOZEN DRIVERS (IDDs) or 12 Sectors that should be beefed up for investment promotions and expansion as well as support for the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). These sectors are: Agribusiness; business process outsourcing; mining; tourism; home decors and life styles; shipbuilding; housing, construction and infrastructure; education, R&D and training; creative industries; electronics; transport equipment; and logistics.

“We will proactively seek government’s cooperation, attention and input to achieve our objectives and goals, indeed, in addressing national problems; we need a spirit of national community, a strong and shared conviction so we can find the strength to get closer to the future we all desire, “ Varela said in a statement. Also elected were business taipanAlfredo Yao as Chairman, outgoing President Dr. Francis Chua as Chairman Emeritus and Mr. Sergio Ortiz-Luis, Jr. as Honorary Chairman.

Elected to the Board of Directors were Ramon Ang, Jose Alejandro, George Barcelon, William Co, Angelito Colona, Raul Concepcion, Eric Cruz, Donald Dee, Menardo Jimenez, Edgardo Lacson, Samie Lim,Antonio Lopa, Benjamin Philip Romualdez, Miguel Varela, Alfredo Yao, Nora Lacuna, representing NCR; Victoria Gaetos, representing North Luzon; Edgardo Nicolas of South Luzon, Francis Monera representing Visayas and Juliano Recardo of Mindanao.

Multi-million peso lobby fund for RH an old yarn — Lagman Allegations that population control advocates are funding for the passage of the Reproductive Health (RH) bill in Congress is an old yarn, said House Minority Leader andAlbay Rep. Edcel Lagman.

“The allegation of a United States multi-million peso lobby fund for the enactment of the RH bill is an old yarn which is destitute of factual basis. This is a dead and fossilized tirade which anti-RH solons like Cebu Rep. Pablo Garcia try to resurrect every time the RH bill is at the threshold of approval,” said Lagman in a statement.

“The principal proponents of the RH bill are recognized nationalist legislators who will not take a cent from foreign lobbyists,” he said.

In a privilege speech last week, Garcia said the US funds the Philippine Legislators Committee on Population and Development (PLCPD) “led by Lagman” as its vehicle to get the bill passed in Congress.

Lagman dared Garcia to prove his allegations, noting that no one in the House of Representatives took his “bait” when he delivered his privilege speech as many knew that it was done only to further delay the passage of the bill.

“Garcia delivered a privileged speech to bait RH advocates to protracted and repetitive debates in order to further delay the passage of the RH bill, but there were no takers because the ploy of Garcia was too obvious and crude,” he said.

“Allegations is not proof. Garcia has consistently failed to prove his bare allegations,” he added.

Lagman said the PLCPD has been in existence for more than two decades, even before the RH campaign started.

“PLCPD does not promote population control, but advocates freedom of informed choice with respect to reproductive health and the various forms of family planning from the natural to the modern which are medically safe, legal, and truly effective,” he said.

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — Subic Freeport’s bid to become the next cruise ship playground received a fresh boost recently with

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the formal launching of theAsian Cruise TerminalsAssociation (ACTA), a group seeking to provide a unified marketing platform for the cruise ship industry in the Asian region.

According to Raul Marcelo, who is deputy administrator for business at the Subic Bay MetropolitanAuthority (SBMA), cruise ship operators are expected to turn toAsian destinations as economies in Europe and the United States falter.

Marcelo, who represented the SBMA at theACTAinauguration in Singapore, said that SBMA’s membership in the cruise terminal group would set the stage for Subic’s eventual establishment as a cruise ship destination.

“We have a very good reason to be opti-

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ACTA to boost Subic’s cruise destination bid

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mistic about this, because not only does Subic have deep harbor and ports, it also has tourism facilities and tourism attractions. Then, Subic’s connectivity to other destinations in Luzon would also boost its potential as a good cruise terminal,” Marcelo said.

“With the formal launching of ACTA,

Dec. 12 - 19, 2011

Subic would have the network to bank on for support. We’d grow asACTAgrow,” he added.

Subic became a founding member ofACTA when it was organized last year by Singapore Cruise Centre Pte Ltd. (SCC) and other terminal operators in China, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, Sri Lanka and India — the lone port to repre-

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sent the Philippines.

The SBMAsaid that Subic’s entry intoACTAwas a strategic move because the agency was targeting major players in the industry to make Subic part of their cruise itinerary.