Dispatch for january 29 , 2014 (wednesday) , 2 pia calabarzon pr , 4 weather watch ,

Aguinaldo Shrine

Pagsanjan Falls

Taal Lake

Antipolo Church

Lucban Pahiyas Feast

Dispatch for January 29 , 2014 (Wednesday) , 2 PIA Calabarzon PR , 4 Weather Watch , 3 Reg’l. Watch , 2 OFW Watch , 1 PNOY Speech , 15 Online News , 31 Photonews (Jan.27)

1. Weather Watch 24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST Note: Please refresh the page to ensure that the information is up-to-date.

Issued At:

5:00 a.m., 29 January 2014

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

Predicted Mean Sea Level Pressure Analysis for 8 a.m., 29 January 2014

Predicted Mean Sea Level Wind Analysis for 8 a.m., 29 January 2014

Satellite Image for 5:32 a.m., 29 January 2014

Synopsis: Northeast Monsoon affecting Luzon and Visayas.

Forecast: Luzon and Visayas will experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated light rains. Mindanao will have partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms.

Moderate to strong winds blowing from the northeast will prevail over Luzon and Visayas and coming from the northeast to north over Mindanao. The coastal waters throughout the archipelago will be moderate to rough.

2. Weather Watch GALE WARNING GALE WARNING NO. 45 For: Strong to gale force winds associated with the surge of Northeast Monsoon.

Issued at 5:00 a.m. today, 29 January 2014 Strong to gale force winds is expected to affect the eastern seaboards of Central and Southern Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

SEABOARD

WEATHER

THE EASTERN SEABOARDS OF Partly cloudy to CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN LUZON cloudy skies with (Aurora, Camarines Provinces, light rains Catanduanes, Eastern coast of Albay, Eastern coast of Sorsogon and Eastern coast of Quezon including Polillo Island) AND VISAYAS (Samar and Leyte)

WIND FORCE (KPH)/(KNOTS)

SEA CONDITION

WAVE HEIGHTS (meters)

(52- 63 /28 - 34)

Rough to very rough

3.4 to 4.5

THE EASTERN SEABOARDS OF MINDANAO (Surigao, Davao Oriental, Dinagat Province and Siargao Island)

Partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers and thunderstorms

(52- 63 /28 - 34)

Rough to very rough

3.4 to 4.5

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

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

3. Weather Watch

Tropical Cyclone Update As of today, there is no tropical cyclone existing within the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).

4. Weather Watch 4 hours ago

PAGASA weather forecaster Samuel Duran on DZMM: -Mabagal pa ring kumikilos pakanluran hilagang-kanluran tungo sa direksyon ng bansa ang binabantayang LPA. -Nananatili pa rin sa labas ng Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) ang LPA. Nasa layong 2,000km pa ito mula sa Mindanao.

-Tuloy naman ang pagpasok nito ngayong Huwebes o Biyernes kung saan tutumbukin nito ang Eastern Visayas at Eastern Mindanao.

-Isang araw matapos nitong pumasok ng PAR, posibleng maramdaman na ang katamtaman hanggang malakas na pag-ulan sa mga naturang lugar.

-Sa ngayon, tuloy ang pag-iral ng Amihan o Northeast Monsoon sa Luzon at Visayas na magdadala ng pulo-pulong mahinang pag-ulan.

-Pulo-pulong pagkidlat-pagkulog naman ang aasahan sa Mindanao.

Weather Watch

January 27 , 2013 ( Monday )

as of 6:00-7:00 AM

CAVITE : Sunny LAGUNA : Cloudy BATANGAS : Sunny RIZAL : Fair Weather QUEZON : Mosty Cloudy

PIA

Regional Watch

1. PIA Regional Watch 19 hours ago PIA-4A/BATANGAS: Isang simultaneous earthquake drill ang isinagawa ngayon sa Camp Miguel Malvar sa lungsod ng Batangas bilang bahagi ng disaster preparedness ng mga kapulisan.

2. PIA Regional Watch 20 hours ago PIA-4A/QUEZON: The Quezon Provincial Gender and Development (PGAD) Office conducted 'gender sensitivity training to the 32 barangay captains of Lucban, Quezon. Mayor Olivier Dator urged the participants to mainstream gender and development (GAD) programs in their respective barangays in order to promote gender equality and women empowerment.

3. PIA Regional Watch 21 hours ago PIA-4A/BATANGAS: Nagkaloob ang lokal na pamahalaan ng Calaca ng educational assistance sa 24 na benepisaryo ng scholarship program dito.Layon nitong makapagbigay ng tulong pinansyal upang makapagtapos sa pag aaral ang mga matatalino ngunit kapus palad na mag aaral.

OFW

Watch

1. PIA OFW Watch Yesterday PHILIPPINE STAR: The Philippine government banned the deployment of newly-hired overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to four troubled areas in Thailand. Newly-hired OFWs will no longer be allowed to go to Bangkok, Nonthaburi Province, Lad Lum Kaew District in Pathumthani Province and Bang Phli District in Samutprakan Province.

2. PIA OFW Watch

Yesterday PHILIPPINE STAR: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) said yesterday that significant reforms have been instituted in the implementing guidelines of the Overseas Voting Act of 2013 or Republic Act 10590. Comelec Commissioner Lucenito Tagle said that “salient features� of the law would be integrated in the pre-departure orientation seminars being conducted among overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) before leaving the country.

A. QUEZON

B. CAVITE

C. LAGUNA

D. BATANGAS

E. RIZAL

28 JANUARY 2014.

Despite clash with breakaway group, Palace hopeful there will be no serious disruption of peace process Palace open to proposals that FOI Bill to include full disclosure of official’s earnings Palace: Status quo in Mindanao not acceptable Aquino to lead the awarding to 3 outstanding Filipino for their significant contributions to national development Palace: Bangsamoro basic law may be certified urgent Effective crime prevention needs public cooperation, says Palace Despite clash with breakaway group, Palace hopeful there will be no serious disruption of peace process Despite recent reported clash between government troops and breakaway secessionist rebels, Malacañang on Tuesday voiced hopes there will be no serious disruption of the peace process.

Presidential Communications Operations Office head Herminio Coloma Jr. said last weekend's clash as part of efforts to secure the Moro Islamic Liberation Front communities from the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.

"Government is hopeful that with the support of the citizenry there will be no serious disruption of the peace process as it moves towards full fruition," Coloma said at a media briefing.

Last Saturday, the Philippine government and the MILF signed the last of four annexes that would pave the way for a comprehensive peace agreement.

Coloma also cited online news reports last weekend quoting a BIFF spokesperson as saying the splinter group will not sabotage the peace process.

Meanwhile, Coloma reiterated the government remains open to inputs from other groups such as the Moro National Liberation Front for a draft bill on the Bangsamoro basic law.

"Ang pananaw ng pamahalaan, gusto pa rin maging kasali lahat na may taya sa prosesong ito (Our government wants the peace process to be inclusive)," he said. PND (jl) TOP Palace open to proposals that FOI Bill to include full disclosure of official’s earnings Malacanang said on Tuesday that it is open to proposals that the Freedom of Information (FOI) Bill that is currently undergoing deliberations in Congress will include an amendment that will require government officials to disclose all their earnings in order to know how much an official earns.

Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago has proposed an amendment to the FOI Bill that will require all government officials to disclose all sources of income.

In a press briefing in Malacanang, Presidential Communications and Operation Office Secretary Herminio Coloma,Jr. said that the government will wait for the decision of lawmakers on this proposal and will abide by it. ―Hihintayin naming ang pagpapasya ng Senate Committee on Public Information at ng counter-part committee sa House. Hihintayin namin yung bubuuin na batas dahil ang pagpapanukala ng batas ay pangunahing tungkulin ng mga mambabatas,‖ Coloma said.

Nananatili ang ating pananaw ng pagbibigay ng sapat na oras sa ating mambabatas para itaguyod yung mga aspeto ng batas,‖ he added. PND (rck) TOP Palace: Status quo in Mindanao not acceptable

The failure to establish a new Bangsamoro political entity that will change the status quo in Mindanao will not be an acceptable scenario for MalacaĂąang.

Presidential Communications Operations Office head Herminio Coloma Jr. stressed this as he said the government is focused on winning the peace in Mindanao by effecting needed changes.

"Government efforts are focused on winning the peace in Mindanao. The alternative to change is the status quo and the status quo is not acceptable," he said at a media briefing.

At the very least, he said the government will continue to perform its task of ensuring peace and statbility and protecting the citizens.

Coloma also assured the public the government has enough forces to maintain peace and order in Mindanao from various armed groups.

"It is still the primordial duty of the state to mtaintain law and order," he said.

The government is hoping to bring much-needed peace to Mindanao with the signing of an annex that would pave the way for a comprehensive peace agreement. PND (jl) TOP Aquino to lead the awarding to 3 outstanding Filipino for their significant contributions to national development President Benigno S. Aquino III will lead on Wednesday "The Outstanding Filipino (TOFIL) 2013 Awarding Ceremonies," honoring Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson, a forester and a scientist for their significant contributions to national development.

The Chief Executive will grace the TOFIL 2013 Awarding Ceremonies which has for its theme "Building Legacies" at the Insular Life Auditorium, Insular Life Corporate Center, Filinvest Corporate City, Alabang, Muntinlupa at 10 a.m.

President Aquino will witness the awarding to Arsenio B. Ella, Forester of the Department of Science and Technology for Environmental Conservation and Sustainable Development; Dr. Alfredo Mahar Francisco A. Lagmay for Geology and Earth Science and Sec. Singson for Governance and Public Service.

The TOFIL Award is a project of Junior Chamber International (JCI) Senate Philippines and the Insular Life Assurance Co., Limited. Conceived in 1988, the institution honors the country‘s men and women who have made significant contributions to the advancement in his/her field of expertise, public welfare and national development.

Vicente Ayllon, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of the Insular Life and John Enerio, Junior Chamber International Inc. (JCI) Senator and National Chairman 2013 TOFIL Executive Committee will also attend the event. PND (js) TOP Palace: Bangsamoro basic law may be certified urgent A prospective basic law on the Bangsamoro political entity may be certified urgent as it is a priority program of the administration, MalacaĂąang said Tuesday.

Presidential Communications Operations Office head Herminio Coloma Jr. said they are hoping to have the political entity in place and its officials elected by 2016.

"Lahat ng indikasyon patungo diyan, dahil nga ito ay isang priority program ng ating administrasyon (The indications point to the bill being certified as urgent, because it is a priority program of our administration)," he said when asked if the Palace will certify the bill as urgent.

Following the signing last weekend of the annex on normalization, peace negotiators of the government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front are now working on a comprehensive peace agreement that would end the MILF's rebellion.

Under Article VI, Section 26 of the 1987 Constitution, no bill passed by either house of Congress shall become a law unless it has passed three readings on separate days, "except when the President certifies to the necessity of its immediate enactment to meet a public calamity or emergency."

In the meantime, Coloma said the Palace is hoping lawmakers will be one with it in working to bring peace to Mindanao soonest.

"Umaasa tayo na pag-aaralan nila ang merito ng Bangsamoro Basic Law, at tutuparin nila ang tungkulin na kanilang sinumpaan na gagawin nila ang kanilang responsibilidad sa abot ng kanilang makakaya, at naaayon sa kapakanan

ng pinakamalawak na sektor ng mga mamamayang Pilipino (We hope lawmakers study the merits of the proposed Bangsamoro basic law, and fulfill their sworn duty to serve the people)," he said.

He also expressed hopes the lawmakers will see the merits of the bill and use it as basis to decide on it.

"Umaasa tayo na pagkatapos ng talakayan, pagkatapos ng mga debate, lilitaw naman ‗yung katwiran at ‗yung pagiging tama ng mga probisyon sa ipapanukalang Bangsamoro Basic Law, at ito ang magiging batayan ng ating mga mambabatas sa kanilang pagpapasya (We hope that after the discussions, they will decide on the merits of the proposed measure)," he said. PND (jl) TOP Effective crime prevention needs public cooperation, says Palace Fighting crime remains the government‘s top priority, the Palace said on Tuesday adding however that effectively combating it needs public assistance. ―Lahat ng paglabag sa batas ay siniseryoso ng ating pamahalaan dahil ito ay hindi katanggap-tanggap. Kaya‘t pinagiibayo ang efforts ng ating law enforcement agencies to prevent crime,‖ Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr said in a press briefing in Malacanang.

Coloma added that crime prevention is best achieved through community efforts and doesn‘t solely rely on the deterrent or punitive aspects through the police and the justice system. ―Kaya‘t matitiyak tayo na sineseryoso ng pamahalaan ang lahat ng uri ng krimen at ang ating layunin ay bawasan at supilin ito sa lahat ng anyo at sa lahat ng larangan.‖ With regards to the re-imposition of the death penalty to deter would-be criminals, Coloma said the administration has some reservations implementing capital punishment because the country‘s justice system has some flaws.

If the justice system is flawed, it might convict or punish innocent people and that is dangerous, the Palace official said.

And on judicial reforms, Coloma said it‘s been a general observation that there‘s a lot of things to be done to improve the country‘s judicial process especially in terms of speeding up the pace of litigations. ―Kaya siguro nabanggit ng Pangulo yan noong nakaraan na kinakailangan talagang bigyan ng priority attention hindi lamang iyong proposal na magre-impose ng mas mataas na penalty kung hindi iyong pagsasagawa ng mga karampatang reporma sa ating criminal justice system in order to eliminate the flaws that have been noted,‖ he added.

PND (as) TOP

28 ENERO 2014 Inaasahan ng Malacanang na hindi magkakasagabal ang proseso sa kapayapaan sa kabila ng labanan ng mga kawal at ng BIFF Bukas ang Malacanang sa mungkahing isama sa ‘FOI Bill’ ang lubusang paghahayag ng kinikita ng mga pinunong bayan Hindi katanggap-tanggap ang ‘status quo’ sa Mindanao, ayon sa Palasyo Pangungunahan ng Pangulong Aquino ang pagbibigay ng Gawad sa 3 Pilipino dahil sa pambihirang naiambag sa pambansang kaunlaran Maaaring masertipikahang ‘urgent’ ang ‘Bangsamoro baisc law’—Palasyo Kailangan ang tulong ng sambayanan para masugpo ang krimen-Palasyo Inaasahan ng Malacanang na hindi magkakasagabal ang proseso sa kapayapaan sa kabila ng labanan ng mga kawal at ng BIFF Inaasahan ng Malacanang na hindi makasasagabal sa prosesong pangkapayapaan ang naganap na sagupaan ng mga kawal ng pamahalaan at ng tumiwalag na sesesyonistang rebelde kamakailan .

Sinabi ni Kalihim Herminio Coloma, Jr. ng Presidential Communications Operations Office sa pulong balitaan Martes

na ang naganap na sagupaan noong nagdaang linggo ay bahagi ng pagsisikap ng gobyerno na pangalagaan ang kaligtasan ng mga komunidad ng Moro Islamic Liberation Front sa mga Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters. ―Umaasa ang pamahalaan na sa tulong ng mamamayan ay hindi magkakaroon ng malubhang suliranin ang prosesong pangkapayapaan dahil ito ay patungo na sa katuparan nito,‖ wika ni Kalihim Coloma.

Noong Sabado, ang pamahalaang Pilipino at ang MILF ay lumagda na sa pinakahuli sa apat na ―annexes‖ na hahawan ng landas tungo sa malawakang kasunduan sa kapayapaan.

Samantala, inulit ni Coloma na nananatiling bukas ang pamahalaan sa ano mang ibig sabihin ng ibang grupong katulad ng Moro National Liberation Front tungkol sa draft bill na gagawing Bangsamoro basic law. ―Ang pananaw ng pamahalaan, gusto pa ring maging kasaling lahat na may taya sa prosesong ito,‖ paliwanag ni Coloma. PND(jl/zaf) TOP Bukas ang Malacanang sa mungkahing isama sa ‘FOI Bill’ ang lubusang paghahayag ng kinikita ng mga pinunong bayan Bukas ang Malacanang sa mga mungkahing ang panukalang batas na Freedom of Information na kasalukuyang tinatalakay sa Kongreso ay isama ang susog na mag-aatas sa mga pinunong bayan na ihayag ang lahat ng kinikita nila upang malaman kung magkano ang kinikita ng nasabing opisyal.

Iminungkahi ni Senador Miriam Defensor-Santiago ang isang susog sa FOI Bill na mag-aatas sa lahat ng pinuno ng pamahalaan na ilantad ang lahat ng pinagmumulan ng kanilang mga kinikita.

Sa pulong-balitaan sa Malacanang, sinabi ni Kalihim Herminio Coloma, Jr. ng Presidential Communications Operations Office na hihintayin ng pamahalaan ang pasiya ng mga mambabatas tungkol sa mungkahi at aalinsunod sila rito ―Hihintayin namin ang pagpapasiya ng Lupon ng Senado sa Public Information at ng katapat nitong lupon sa Kapulungan ng mga Kinatawan. Hihintayin namin ang bubuuing batas dahil ang pagpapanukala ng batas ay pangunahing tungkulin ng mga mambabatas,‖ pahayag ni Coloma. ―Nananatili ang ating pananaw ng pagbibigay nang sapat na oras sa ating mga mambabatas para itaguyod ang mga aspeto ng batas,‖ wika pa ni Coloma. PND (rck/zaf) TOP Hindi katanggap-tanggap ang ‘status quo’ sa Mindanao, ayon sa Palasyo

Ang pagkabigong maitatag ang isang bagong Bangsamoro political entity na babago sa kasa-lukuyang kalagayan sa Mindanao ay hindi katanggap-tanggap sa Malacanang.

Binigyang diin ni Kalihim Herminio Coloma, Jr. ng Presidential Communications Operations Office na ang pakay ng pamahalaan ay ang kapayapaan sa Mindanao sa pamamagitan ng mga pagbabagong gagawin. ―Nakatuon ang lahat ng pagsisikap ng pamahalaan na mamayani ang kapayapaan sa Mindanao. Ang alternatibo sa pagbabago ay ang status quo o ang kasalukuyang umiiral doon at ang status quo ay hindi katanggap-tanggap,‖ pagbibigay-diin ni Coloma.

Tiniyak din ni Coloma sa madla na ang pamahalaan ay may sapat na lakas upang pangalagaan ang katahimikan at kaayusang pambayan sa Mindanao laban sa mga sandatahang pangkat na naghahasik ng kaguluhan. ―Pangunahing sagutin ng pamahalaan na panatilihin at pangalagaan ang pag-iral ng batas at kaayusan,‖ sabi ni Coloma.

Inaasahan ng pamahalaan na mamayani ang kailangang-kailangang kapayapaan sa Mindanao sa pamamagitan ng paglagda sa ―annex‖ na siyang magbibigay-daan sa isang malawakang kasunduan sa kapayapaan. PND(jl/zaf) TOP Pangungunahan ng Pangulong Aquino ang pagbibigay ng Gawad sa 3 Pilipino dahil sa pambihirang naiambag sa pambansang kaunlaran Pangungunahan ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III Miyerkoles ang The Outstanding Filipino (TOFIL) 2013 Awarding Ceremonies na magpaparangal kay Kalihim Rogelio Singson ng Pagawaing Bayan at Pambansang Lansangan, isang forester isang siyentipiko dahil sa makabuluhan nilang ambag sa pambansang kaunlaran.

Dadaluhan ng Punong Tagapagpaganap ang TOFIL 2013 Awarding Ceremonies sa Insular Life Auditorium, Insular Life Corporate Center, Filinvest Corporate City sa Alabang, Lungsod ng Muntinlupa.

Bukod kay Kalihim Singson, tatanggap din ng Gawad sina Arsenio B. Ella, forester ng Kagawaran ng Agham at Teknolohiya dahil sa Environmental Conservation and Sustainable Development; Dr. Alfredo Mahar Francisco A. Lagmay para sa Geology and Earth Science. Si Kalihim Singson ay pinarangalan dahil sa ―Governance and Public Service.‖ Ang TOFIL Award ay proyekto ng Junior Chamber of International (JCI) Philippine Senate at Insular Life Assurance Co., Limited na sinimulan noong 1988 upang kilalanin at pahalagahan ang mga nagawa ng mga lalaki at babaing nakatulong sa ikauunlad ng kanilang mga larangan ng kasanayan, kagalingang pangmadla at pambansang kaunlaran.

Si Vicente Ayllon, Chairman of the Board at Chief Executive Officer ng Insular Life at John Enerio, Junior Chamber International Inc. (JC) Senator at Pambansang Tagapangulo 2013 TOFIL Executive Committee, ay dadalo rin sa pagtitipong ito. PND(js/zaf) TOP Maaaring masertipikahang ‘urgent’ ang ‘Bangsamoro baisc law’—Palasyo

Maaaring masertipikahang urgent ang mahalagang batas na may kaugnayan sa Bangsamoro political entity dahil ito ay mahalagang programa ng administrasyon, sang-ayon sa Malacanang.

Sinabi ni Kalihim Herminio Coloma, Jr. ng Presidential Communications Operations Office na inaasahan nilang maaayos na ang political entity at ang mga pinuno nito ay ihahalal sa 2016. ―Lahat ng indikasyon ay patungo diyan. Dahil nga ito ay isang priority program ng ating administrasyon,‖ sabi ni Coloma nang tanungin ng mga reporter kung masesertipikahan ang panukala bilang urgent.

Matapos malagdaan ang annex tungkol sa normalisasyon, ang mga negosyador ng pamahalaan at ng Moro Islamic Liberation Front ay abala naman ngayon sa pagbalangkas ng kasunduan ukol sa malawakang kapayapaang siyang magwawakas sa paghihimagsik ng MILF. Sa ilalim ng Artikulo VI, Seksiyon 26 ng Saligang batas ng 1987, walang panukalang batas na magiging batas kung hindi ito nakapasa sa tatlong pagbasa sa magkakahiwalay na mga araw, ―maliban kung ito ay siinertipikahan ng Pangulo na kailangang-kailangang mapagtibay upang maipatupad agad upang tugunan ang isang kalamidad o emergency (kailangang-kailangan)‖ Sinabi ni Coloma na inaasahan ng Palasyo na magkakaisa upang sikaping magkaroon ng kapayapaan sa Mindanao sa lalong madaling panahon. ―Umaasa tayo na pag-aaralan nila ang merito ng Bangsamoro Basic Law at tutuparin nila ang tungkulin na kanilang sinumpaan na gagawin nila ang kanilang responsibilidad sa abot ng kanilang makakaya at naaayon sa kapakanan ng pinakamalawak na sektor ng mga mamamayang Pilipino,‖ dugtong ni Coloma.

Nagpahayag din siya ng pag-asang makikita ng mga mambabatas ang merito ng panukalang batas at magagamit itong saligan ng pagpapasiya nila. ―Umaasa tayo na pagkatapos ng talakayan, pagkatapos ng mga debate, lilitaw naman ang katuwiran at ang pagiging tama ng mga probisyon sa ipapanukalang Bangsamoro Basic Law, at ito ang magiging batayan ng ating mga mambabatas sa kanilang pagpapasiya,‖ dugtong pa ni Coloma. PND (jl/zaf) TOP Kailangan ang tulong ng sambayanan para masugpo ang krimen-Palasyo Ang pagsugpo sa krimen ang pangunahing pinagtutuunan ng pansin ng pamahalaan, subali‘t kailangan ang tulong ng sambayanan para maging matagumpay ang layuning ito, sabi ni Kalihim Herminio Coloma, Jr. ng Presidential Communications Operations Office. ―Lahat ng paglabag sa batas ay siniseryoso ng ating pamahalaan dahil hindi ito katanggap-tanggap. Kaya, pinagiibayo ng mga alagad ng batas ang pagsisikap upang maiwasan ang krimen,‖ dugtong pa ni Coloma.

Sinabi niya na ang pagsugpo sa krimen ay magtatagumpay sa tulong ng mga komunidad at ng taong bayan at hindi sa pamamagitan lamang ng mabibigat na parusa. ―Kaya makatitiyak tayo na seryoso ang pamahalaan sa pagsugpo sa lahat ng uri ng krimen at ang layunin natin ay bawasan at supilin ito sa lahat ng anyo at sa lahat ng larangan,‖ sabi pa ng Kalihim ng PCOO. Tungkol sa pagpapataw uli ng parusang kamatayan para masupil ang mga nais gumawa ng katampalasanan, sinabi ni Coloma na atubili ang administrasyon sa pagpapatupad ng bitay sapagka‘t may ilang dapat pang ayusin sa ‗justice system‘ sa bansa at baka ang walang kasalanan ay maparusahan at iyon ang masama. ―Kaya siguro nabanggit ng Pangulo iyan noong nakaraan na kailangang talagang bigyan ng unang atensiyon, hindi

lamang ang panukalang pagpapataw uli ng bitay kung hindi ang pagsasagawa ng mga karampatang reporma sa ating criminal justice system upang maalis ang mga hindi angkop na nakita,‖ sabi ni Coloma. PND (as/zaf) TOP

ONLINE NEWS

28 JANUARY 2014 DOST’s 2014 starter menu: Food processing gizmos Disaster victims in Mindoro to get new homes soon PDIC increases to P50,000 the amount of valid deposits eligible for payout without need to file a claim Statement of Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda on the Week of January 27-31, 2014 Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah to send home remaining 1,000 tent city campers in the coming days Turkey-Philippines Business Council to bring investment mission to Manila in 2014 PRC holds consultative meeting with Maritime Training institutions conducting practical assessment Ombudsman strengthens lifestyle check investigations Ombudsman uses document security stickers GSIS grants emergency loan to Agaton-hit members in Northeast Mindanao Meet the lady photographer of DSWD—Ma. Dadiva Villanueva DOJ Advisory: Online Application for NBI Clearance now available DOLE and DOST ink pact for a technology-driven, resource-based, sustainable livelihood program PNoy admin drafts blueprint for inclusive growth; Abad: Budget priorities framework to guide gov't in reaching dev'l goals Education gets lion's share of 2014 budget; Abad: Quality education remains top priority of PNoy admin DOST’s 2014 starter menu: Food processing gizmos Source: http://www.dost.gov.ph The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) recently unveiled locally-developed equipment that will make local food processors more productive.

Developed by DOST‘s Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI), said equipment are part of the science department‘s High Impact Technology Solutions (HITS) that support the growth and competitiveness of the country‘s small and medium enterprises.

Water retort. This is a cooking vessel capable of withstanding extreme pressures and designed to destroy all microbes to prolong shelf-life and make product safe.

Freeze dryer. It dehydrates heat sensitive materials through the sublimation process, or changing solid ice into gas, under vacuum conditions. This process preserves perishable items and make them more convenient for transport.

This equipment is used in prolonging the shelf life of buko pie; vegetables, meat and fish for instant meals and soups; cheese; yoghurt; proteins; enzymes, etc.

Vacuum fryer. This is designed to fry food in deep fat under reduced pressure and in a closed system that lowers the boiling point of both oil and water in food. Vaccum fried foods include potato chips, durian, pineapple, kiwi, and others.

Spray dryer. It turns liquids into a spray of droplets, then converts these droplets into powder. This equipment is used in making milk powder, coffee, spices, flavorings, medical ingredients, additives, and even paint pigments, ceramic materials, and others.

Vacuum packaging machine. It removes air before sealing food products in retort pouches.

Immersion freezer. Its contents, usually food products (meat, fish, fruits, vegetables) are submerged in cold liquid that serves as freezing agent.

Vacuum evaporator. This equipment concentrates heat sensitive liquid food material, such as herbs, fruits, and vegetables.

Most of the equipment have already been tested in function and performance, and the rest will be tested within the year. ―This program has several objectives First, DOST wanted to substitute the imported with locally designed, developed and manufactured equipment,‖ says DOST-ITDI Director Nuna Almanzor. ―Second, DOST would also want to increase local technologies and to help our SMEs, including those in the metals industry, and ultimately lower the acquisition costs of these equipment.‖ DOST‘s Project Management Engineering Design Service Office designed said equipment while the Metals Industry Research and Development Center was commissioned to fabricate the prototypes. On the other hand, DOST-ITDI provides performance testing for the equipment.

The equipment will be available for use at the Food Innovation Centers in Region 2 at Cagayan State University, Region 5 at Bicol University, Region 6 at the DOST Regional Office 6 in Iloilo City, Region 8 at Eastern Visayas State University, Region 10 at Mindanao University of Science and Technology, and Region 11 at Philippine Women‘s University.

DOST‘s Food Innovation Centers aim to make the Philippine food manufacturing industry competitive with other ASEAN countries at the onset of the ASEAN Economic Integration in 2015. |TOP| Disaster victims in Mindoro to get new homes soon Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro - Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman led recently the groundbreaking ceremony of the housing project for disaster victims in this town to be constructed through the Department‘s Core Shelter Assistance Project (CSAP).

The CSAP provides disaster victims with structurally strong shelter units that can withstand up to 220-kph wind velocity and intensity 4 earthquake.

DSWD provided the P27-million budget for the houses to be built in Sitios Cigaras and Yapang.

A total of 397 families from Barangay Ilvita whose houses were destroyed by Typhoon Jolina in 2009 will be transferred to the project sites.

According to Mayor Eduardo Gadiano who also attended the activity, the barangay suffered from subsequent widespread flooding that ruined houses and livelihood. This prompted him to develop a relocation plan for the families to ensure their safety.

In her message during the groundbreaking, Sec. Soliman stressed that the convergence of efforts among stakeholders is vital in the success of any project. ―Hindi lang magsisilbing panibagong tirahan ang mga bahay na itatayo dito, kung di tatayo din itong modelo para sa iba pa nating kababayan dahil sa inyong pagpupursigi na mabuo ito (The houses that will rise here will not only serve as your new homes, these too can serve as model for others),‖ Sec. Soliman said referring to the commitment being shown by the local government unit and the beneficiaries themselves in pursuing the project.

Mayor Gadiano thanked the Department for the housing project vowing that the beneficiaries will have safer and stronger houses before the typhoon season begins.

Also present during the ceremony were Congresswoman Josephine Sato and DSWD-Field Office IV-B Director Wilma Naviamos. |TOP| PDIC increases to P50,000 the amount of valid deposits eligible for payout without need to file a claim Source: http://www.dof.gov.ph

The Board of Directors of the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) has approved to increase the amount of valid deposits of closed bank depositors eligible for outright payment of deposit insurance from P15,000 to P50,000. Valid deposits eligible for payment without the need to file deposit insurance claims are accounts with balances of P50,000 and below, which have no outstanding obligations with the bank as of date of closure, and have complete and updated addresses in the bank‘s records.

The PDIC reported that historically, 84.5% of the total number of accounts in a closed bank have balances of P50,000 and below. It is therefore expected that under the new policy, only about 15% of a closed bank‘s depositors will be required to file deposit insurance claims. These are depositors who have account balances greater than P50,000 or have outstanding obligations with the closed bank; and those who do not have complete or updated addresses in the bank‘s records as of date of closure.

This increase will therefore make it even more convenient for most of the depositors of closed banks because there will be no need to go to the site where PDIC conducts its field operations claims settlement (FOCS) to file claims.

Among the bases for PDIC being named the Deposit Insurance Organization (DIO) of the Year for 2013 by the International Association of Deposit Insurers (IADI) was for significant achievements in banking resolutions and payouts. IADI is a Switzerland-based organization of 71 member deposit insurance organizations across the globe. |TOP| Statement of Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda on the Week of January 27-31, 2014 Source: http://www.opapp.gov.ph On Saturday, a significant step closer to peace in Mindanao took place. After months of negotiations, the final Annex on Normalization and the additional Addendum on Bangsamoro Waters were completed. This was the culmination of a process that Secretary Teresita Deles described as one characterized by ―painstaking deliberation,‖ and ―discussion and internal consensus-building.‖ According to her, this process was ―grounded on extensive consultations with concerned local government units, religious and civil society leaders, and communities especially in the conflict-affected areas.‖ The news was met with an outpouring of good wishes for the Philippines. Advocates of peace here at home and abroad greeted this news with optimism. Countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, Switzerland, and international bodies such as the European Union and the United Nations, praised this achievement.

This milestone gives the entire nation confidence that the next steps in the peace process are on track. The work does not end here. In particular, we look forward to the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB). The Bangsamoro Transition Commission is also working on the Bangsamoro Basic Law, which our legislators will enact, moving forward. We believe that this achievement signals the unshakeable commitment of the Philippines to all stakeholders in the country, as well as people of good will in the world: that this process will come to fruition, and that lasting peace and development in Muslim Mindanao are at hand.

As we take stock of this shared achievement, we also look forward to a week characterized by the successes of our countrymen, as the President leads the presentation of awards for The Outstanding Filipino (TOFIL) 2013 Awarding Ceremonies and the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) 2013 Agency Performance Awards.

Both seek to recognize men, women, and organizations, which have exhibited excellence in their respective fields— excellence that has contributed not only to their personal success, but has also yielded benefits for our countrymen.

These events underscore a truth our administration has always subscribed to: that genuine and lasting change is indeed built on the shoulders of hardworking, determined, and sincere Filipinos. Let us continue to work together, and to each do what we can to contribute to the realization of our shared aspirations for the Philippines: a country where what was once impossible is now, indeed, possible. |TOP| Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah to send home remaining 1,000 tent city campers in the coming days Source: https://www.dfa.gov.ph 28 January 2014 - The Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah successfully negotiated with Saudi Immigration and Deportation officials in sending home the remaining 1,000 stranded overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). Beginning January 26, the Consulate can bring 100 Filipinos daily to the General Services Center (GSC) facility in Al-Shumaisy, about 60 kilometers outside Jeddah, through a special arrangement with the host government.

The OFWs – all males – boarded buses provided by the Philippine Government. They are among the almost 8,000 who approached the Consulate General beginning April last year for assistance in the issuance of exit visas by Saudi authorities. The Consulate will transport men and women (and their children) on alternate days.

The rest of the passengers came from those camped outside the Consulate. There are up to 1,000 overstaying OFWs who wish to be repatriated. Most of them are staying in makeshift tents. The Consulate General maintains a

shelter open to displaced OFWs but most opt to stay at the ―tent city‖.

Consulate representatives proceed daily to the GSC to monitor and report on the progress of the exit visa processing and the final departure of the OFWs. The Consulate repatriated at least 4,167 Filipinos in 2013, a year of crisis in mass repatriation which was brought about by the Kingdom‘s campaign against illegal workers. The number is four times the 1,197 deported by Saudi Arabia in 2012 and more than the 3,720 in 2011 when the host government issued an amnesty for overstaying workers.

As of January 23, the Consulate General was able to facilitate the repatriation of 4,231 undocumented Filipinos, while the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh sent home a total of 2,946 individuals as of January 24, bringing the overall total for Saudi Arabia to 7,177. |TOP| Turkey-Philippines Business Council to bring investment mission to Manila in 2014 Source: https://www.dfa.gov.ph 28 January 2014 – Philippine Ambassador to Turkey Maria Rowena Mendoza Sanchez met with the members and Chairman of the Turkish-Philippines Business Council, Mr. Hakan Esen, on January 20 at the Council‘s head office in Istanbul to discuss business opportunities in the Philippines.

Among the topics discussed were tourism projects, agriculture and tropical food products, manufacturing, automotive parts, defense industries, construction, energy and power projects. Those present expressed deep interest in these areas and Mr. Esen committed to bringing an investment mission to Manila in 2014, in coordination with his counterpart, Mr. Ernesto Chua, Chairman of the Philippines-Turkey Business Council. |TOP| PRC holds consultative meeting with Maritime Training institutions conducting practical assessment Source: http://www.prc.gov.ph Manila, January 2014 – Professional Regulation Commission Chairperson Teresita R. Manzala presided at the Consultative Meeting with Maritime Training Institutions conducting the Practical Assessment at the PRC Examiners Lounge on Wednesday, January 22.

Chair Manzala underscored the critical factors to be considered in the implementation of the new practical assessment procedures.

The PRC will create a Technical Working Group to be composed by the PRC, members of the Professional Regulatory Boards for Marine Deck and Marine Engineer Officers, and representatives from the Maritime Training Institutions.

Others in attendance were Maritime Training Institutions represented by K-Line, Far East, Mariana, NYK-Fil, MAAP (AMOSUP), New Sim, Hanseatic, ZRC, Protect, Sandigan, Maritech, Intership, Barkopro, Philcamsat, Exact, BSM, Magsaysay, Great Seas, members of the Professional Regulatory Boards for Marine Deck and Marine Engineer Officers, and PRC Regional Directors from Cebu, Davao, and Iloilo. |TOP| Ombudsman strengthens lifestyle check investigations Source: http://www.ombudsman.gov.ph In order to speed up the disposition of lifestyle check (LSC) investigations involving officials and personnel of the Department of Finance and its attached agencies, Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales designated a Special LSC Fact-Finding Team to ensure that high-value and high-impact LSC cases are prioritized.

As an anti-corruption measure, lifestyle check is an investigation strategy developed to determine the existence of illgotten and unexplained wealth of government officials and employees.

Under the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees (Republic Act No. 6713), all public officials and employees including their families shall lead modest lives appropriate to their position and income.

Further, the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (Section 8 of RA 3019) states that a public official can be dismissed if he has been found to have acquired during his incumbency, whether in his name or in the name of other persons, property and/or money manifestly out of proportion to his salary and other lawful income. Generally, the indicators of unexplained wealth are manifestly excessive expenditure, unexplained bank deposits, and ostentatious display of wealth, including frequent travels abroad.

Ombudsman Morales directed the team to coordinate with fact-finding bodies or agencies to ensure the adequacy of evidence and prioritize the survival rate of fact-finding investigation.

Aside from the fact-finding investigation panel, a separate special panel was reconstituted to conduct preliminary investigation and administrative adjudication including the filing of informations and petitions for forfeiture before the proper courts, where warranted. |TOP| Ombudsman uses document security stickers Source: http://www.ombudsman.gov.ph Since January 2, 2014, the Office of the Ombudsman has been using security stickers in its official action documents. As a document feature, the security stickers will be placed on all Ombudsman decisions, resolutions, orders including preventive suspension orders as an added security measure to prevent the proliferation of spurious issuances.

The tamper-resistant stickers are also being used by the Ombudsman sectoral and area offices for Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao and the Military and Other Law Enforcement Offices (MOLEO). |TOP| GSIS grants emergency loan to Agaton-hit members in Northeast Mindanao Source: http://www.gsis.gov.ph The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) will grant emergency loan to more than 48,000 members who either work or reside in areas devastated by typhoon Agaton and declared under a state of calamity by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.

These areas include the provinces of Agusan Del Norte (including Butuan City), Agusan Del Sur, Lanao Del Norte (including Iligan City), Surigao Del Norte and the municipalities of Kalong, Carmen, Asuncion, New Corella, and Tagum City in Davao Del Norte.

Members may apply for the loan beginning today, January 24, 2014 until February 22, 2014. They may apply either through any GSIS branch under its "file anywhere" policy or through the GSIS Wireless Automated Processing System (GWAPS) kiosks stationed in provincial capitols, city halls, selected municipal offices, and large agencies.

Portable kiosks will also be deployed in areas to facilitate the loan application of affected members.

Members may avail of the emergency loan if they are not on leave of absence without pay; have no arrears in the payment of mandatory monthly contributions; and have no loans that are declared in default.

Members who do not have eCards but who are eligible to apply for the loan may apply over-the-counter (OTC) at any GSIS office. Proceeds of OTC applications will be credited to a temporary eCard.

If the loan proceeds were not credited within seven days from the date of application, members may go to the nearest GSIS office or the nearest kiosk for the status of their account.

GSIS has budgeted a total of Php5 billion for emergency loan this year. In 2013, the System, released Php5.7 billion in emergency loans which benefited close to 304,000 members.

For inquiries on the emergency loan program, members may call the GSIS contact center at 847.4747. |TOP| Meet the lady photographer of DSWD—Ma. Dadiva Villanueva Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph MANILA, Jan. 26 (PNA)–For the 64-year old lady photographer of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), there are a lot of pleasant and unpleasant experiences that she can impart to her grandchildren when she retires next year.

In her 30th service as a lady photographer of DSWD, the still energetic and kicking Ma. Dadiva Villanueva popularly and fondly called ‗Tita Mary‘ or ‗Ate Mary‘ in the Social Marketing Service (SMS) of the department happily said that she was lucky enough to work side by side with many DSWD chiefs in the coverage of the department‘s services and various events. ―I feel lucky. I did not expect that my experience as a photographer from my previous job will give me the chance to experience the joy and privilege of working in a protective and caring agency like the DSWD,‖ narrated Ate Mary with

a smile as she looked back.

She disclosed that before she got the item of a photographer in DSWD in 1986, she had worked first as a photographer of Floro Photo until she worked as a relief grantee in 1985 in the department performing various jobs like assisting the social workers in bringing service to the poor and less fortunate sectors of the society.

Ate Mary added that she feels a bit proud about having the chance to express through her photos the challenges and accomplishments of the department under the leadership of DSWd chiefs, namely Mita Pardo de Tavera since 1986 to Corazon Alma de Leon, Gloria Macapacagal-Arroyo, Dulce Saguisag, Lina Laigo, Esperanza Cabral, Celia Yangco, until current DSWD Secretary Corazon J. Soliman.

She admits that she sometimes feels that the job is overwhelming and fulfilling too because she got the chance to meet different kinds of people from those being served by the department to other notable people also serving the government. ―It is in this job where I feel the respect and dignity of a human being serving the people even if I do not belong to the category of those who have the highest position in the government. I remember former President Fidel V. Ramos, who was then serving as a cabinet minister during that time even exchanged pleasantries with us in some occasions,‖ she excitedly recalls.

She cited that even the current DSWD chief Soliman had even made her feel that some government people are ‗down to earth‘ too when the secretary herself had volunteered to take a photo of her with the Philippines and United States ‗Balikatan Exercises‘ men in Zambales during a coverage. ―I was really surprised when she (Secretary Soliman) noticed how amazed I was while watching the men in uniform with military paraphernalia. I felt very happy and elated when she volunteered to take a photo of me with the military men as my remembrance,‖ she giggled with a smile saying that was one of the most unforgettable moments of her life that she will love to look back.

She swears also that in all the years she had served as a photographer of DSWD, one of her favorite DSWD chief was Mita Pardo de Tavera whom she worked with since 1986. ―She was one among the DSWD chiefs who had shown much concern and kindness to all of us, from the lowest ranking employee to the highest,‖ she sighed.

She recalled that it was during de Tavera‘s term where she experienced a helicopter landfall on a rice fields on their way to visit and do a coverage on the assistance given to disaster stricken province due to a strong typhoon. ―Luckily, thanked God, we survived it and we were not hurt during that helicopter accident,‖ she smiled.

Though frightened from that experience, she cited that such incident led to the strengthening of the cravings in herself to pursue the job and told herself she was determined to pass all the trials and difficulties that go with the job of a lady photographer and believe that God will provide protection.

Since then she got used to the job and enjoy the pleasure of experiencing to travel in many parts of the country from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao not only during disasters but also to other lighter events of DSWD. A few years later, she met Wilfredo who also work in other department of DSWD. They fell in love and they got married which lead to the birth of their three children, all of whom have finished their studies. ―That is the reason why I will always love DSWD. It is where I met the love of my life, had my children and were able to raise them properly even if my job requires me not to be a mother who is always at the side of my children,‖ she said.

She was thankful that in all her absence on some important occasions on the lives of her children was filled by her mother who was supportive to take care of them. ―It is good I have a mother who was there to fill the gaps and explained to my children my duties in my job,‖ she added.

She said that doing the job of a photographer had exposed her not only to danger of accidents but also to some emotional pain and skin disease too.

She said she had a miscarriage when she covered the Mayon volcano eruption in 1993 and suffered stress and had skin diseases when she covered Payatas tragedy in 2009.

The job also requires her to bring the camera along with her during wee hours in the morning or very late coverage in the evening made her highly susceptible to risk of being victims of holdup too. ―I just do some prayers for guidance and protection. But definitely I have no regret in this job. All of those experiences helped to hone me where I am today. In every job there is always pain and pleasure, right?,‖ she sighed

and nodded.

She added that when you love the job and enjoy doing it there are no ifs and buts, and with the job she had in DSWD quitting never came to her mind. ―Working here gave me the chance to help the less fortunate members of our community. I had the chance to refer their cases to the Crisis Intervention Unit (CIU) of DSWD especially those who need burial transportation and medical problems too,‖ she added.

During the recent 63rd anniversary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) held last January 17, she was one of the recipients of the loyalty awards given to many of the department‘s employees in recognition of their unselfish rendering of service that contributed to the accomplishment of its role as a protective and caring agencies to the vulnerable sectors of the society.

Ate Mary knows that one day as she retires her photos will not be remembered at all for many of them published in some newspapers were not by-lined to her. ―What matters is that in the heart and memory of my children and grandchildren, and those I worked with, my photos of covering the many big and small events of DSWD will always be alive,‖ she smiled. (PNA) |TOP| DOJ Advisory: Online Application for NBI Clearance now available Source: http://www.doj.gov.ph The Department of Justice today announced that beginning on 24 January 2014, applicants for the NBI Clearance can now apply and fill out the complete form online at www.doj.gov.ph/nbi or www.nbi.gov.ph.

"With the implementation of the new NBI system, we shall continue to roll-out and implement solutions to progressively eliminate queues and simplify processes," said Secretary of Justice Leila M. de Jima. "Online application is the logical next step after the switch," she added.

The NBI system is now run by the DOJ, a first in the agency's history and substantially upgrades the old systems.Newly appointed NBI Director Virgilio L. Mendez said "This is just our third full week of operation under our watch but we expect significant progress in the coming weeks with the delivery of additional equipment and increase in personnel." He added that the Renewal Module will be implemented next.

The NBI Clearance System is a component of the flagship National Justice Information System (NJIS) to link and share information among justice sector institutions.

After the online registration, applicants may proceed directly to any of the fifty-five (55) sites nationwide for payment and biometric enrollment for the release of the clearance. A list of these areas is available at http://www.nbi.gov.ph. |TOP| DOLE and DOST ink pact for a technology-driven, resource-based, sustainable livelihood program Source: http://www.dole.gov.ph Pledging to work together in an undertaking to benefit poor, vulnerable, marginalized, and displaced workers, including returning or disadvantaged overseas Filipino workers, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), with the support of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Agriculture (DA), yesterday signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) outlining the two department's full commitment for the promotion, implementation, and advocacy of a convergence program to be implemented from 2014-2016.

Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz and DOST Secretary Mario G. Montejo signed the agreement at the Occupational Safety and Health Center in Quezon City, with DOLE and DOST top officials, including their regional directors, DA and DTI representatives, representatives of national labor organizations, and the media witnessing the event.

In a press conference that followed the signing, Secretaries Baldoz and Montejo said the general objective of the convergence program is to provide a menu of technology-driven and resource-based livelihood packages to poor, vulnerable, and marginalized workers, workers displaced by natural calamities, and returning OFWs and their families.

Immediately after the MOA signing and press conference, regional directors of the two departments sat down for a planning workshop and presentation of the consolidated regional action plans that will signal the agreement's start of implementation.

"This is the DOLE's and the DOST's contribution to the Reconstruction Assistance on Yolanda (RA) Project, the

government's strategic plan for the rehabilitation of typhoon Yolanda-affected areas," said Baldoz and Montejo.

Under the agreement, the DOLE as the national government agency mandated to promote gainful employment opportunities and develop the country‘s human resource, shall identify target beneficiaries of the program; identify indemand skills vis-à-vis available skilled individuals in the communities; enrol projects to the program; and provide funds. It shall also coordinate with the DA and DTI to be able to provide information on raw materials and current market demand.

The DOST, on the other hand, as the premiere science and technology body in the country, will provide scientific and technological skills, strategies, and assistance that beneficiaries can use; tap the Technology Resource Center (TRC), DOST‘s corporate arm, to work on the business and livelihood programs interventions. For other technical requirements of the convergent program, the DOST shall tap its regional offices, councils, research and development institutes (RDIs).

More importantly, the DOST shall provide the necessary technologies for people or group of people for potential technology transfer or adoption for business, as well as counterpart funding, in the form of technologies and innovations, technical assistance, experts‘ man-hours, and the like.

Jointly, the DOLE and the DOST shall create a Project Management Office (PMO) in-charge of the overall management of the program; designate three officers from each department to serve as the coordinating body for the agreement's implementation; mobilize their concerned agencies and personnel identified to work on the program and the PMOs that may be subsequently created for specific projects.

The two agencies shall also implement other projects that will include employment and enterprise development of locally displaced workers, displaced or returning OFWs and their families, Typhoon Yolanda victims, self-employed and underpaid workers, and vulnerable workers, such as home-based workers, non-corporate construction workers, vendors, small transport workers, agricultural sector workers, and other informal sector workers. ―These times call for a concerted effort and united action. This is the right time to make a significant difference in the lives of our workers as they need us, the government agencies, to share a common goal of giving them the chance to start life anew,‖ Baldoz said, adding: "This MOA is a full shift from the traditional approach of delivering the government's livelihood program to the people, for it focuses on available technologies and resources which our workers may use to improve their lives." |TOP| PNoy admin drafts blueprint for inclusive growth; Abad: Budget priorities framework to guide gov't in reaching dev'l goals Source: http://www.dbm.gov.ph The administration under President Benigno S. Aquino III, through the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), has laid down its Budget Priorities Framework for 2014-2016, effectively setting the government‘s course in establishing rapid, long-term, and inclusive development before the conclusion of President Aquino‘s term. ―How we manage our National Budget has a precise and definitive impact on the success of our priority programs and projects. If we ensure enough budgetary support to government initiatives that will bring more Filipinos out of poverty—and if we likewise direct more funds to programs that help drive the economy—we can lay down the foundations for and ultimately catalyze inclusive development in the country,‖ Budget and Management Secretary Florencio ―Butch‖ Abad said. ―The Budget Priorities Framework will guide departments and agencies over the next three years, so that our goal of facilitating quick, sustainable development can be fully realized. The framework is essentially a blueprint of the Administration‘s broader strategy to eradicate poverty and further stimulate the economy, all while establishing lasting peace, sound climate change programs and policies, and governance reforms that will firmly stay in place even beyond this Administration,‖ he added.

The framework is also a preface to the 2015 National Budget, for which preparations will soon be underway. Overall, the Budget Priorities Framework will identify the following: Key outcomes that departments and agencies will need to attain, leading in particular to 2016 Strategies and programs that the FY 2015 budget will support ―Geographical focus areas‖ of these strategies, so that regions and areas in urgent need of development will be better-supported by the National Budget Guidelines and procedures in determining what these priority programs and initiatives are, specifically with respect to agency submissions and proposals for the 2015 budget.

The Budget Priorities Framework will also consider the impact of recent national disasters on the country‘s growth strategy, including Typhoon Yolanda and the destruction it wrought on several regions in the Visayas. ―Calamities affect not only the local governments and communities that suffered the brunt of the damage, but also the country‘s economic soundness and stability. The Budget Priorities Framework pays special attention to the setbacks that these disasters present to our pursuit of long-term growth, so we can focus even more intensely on

finding solutions that will help us overcome those same challenges. For example, the framework considers the urgent need for a more comprehensive and responsive disaster risk and climate change management strategy, not to mention the immense work ahead of rebuilding and rehabilitating all affected regions,‖ Abad said. ―Ultimately, what the framework seeks to produce through the next year‘s budget is a robust fiscal plan that will allow more Filipinos to benefit from the economic gains we‘ve been making. We‘ve achieved so much over the last three years; there‘s no better time for us to concentrate our efforts on reducing poverty on a large scale, bringing more jobs to more Filipinos, and beefing up industries that can improve our economic performance. The Budget Priorities Framework is ultimately about ensuring a better and more optimistic future for Filipinos, a goal wholly supported by President Aquino‘s good governance and fiscal reform agenda,‖ he added. |TOP| Education gets lion's share of 2014 budget; Abad: Quality education remains top priority of PNoy admin Source: http://www.dbm.gov.ph Advancing quality education in the country continues to be a priority under the Aquino administration‘s 2014 budget, with the education sector claiming a significant part of the total P841.8-billion allocation for social services in the FY 2014 General Appropriations Act (GAA).

Social services—which represent 37.2% of the total P2.265-trillion National Budget for the year—are the cornerstone of the Administration‘s poverty reduction plan. Programs and priorities under this sector include those that will improve public education, health care, and other antipoverty services across the country. ―A considerable portion of the 2014 budget will help ensure the continued improvement of our public education system. Last year, we were successful in narrowing down most of our educational requirement gaps, and we‘re even more determined now to address the remaining deficiencies completely,‖ Budget Secretary Florencio ―Butch‖ Abad said.

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) reported that the Department of Education (DepEd) has been given biggest budget among all national government agencies this year, with a 2014 allocation amounting to P309.43 billion. Comprising this is a P44.6-billion appropriation for the construction, repair and rehabilitation of at least 43,000 kindergarten, elementary and secondary school buildings nationwide. ―The Administration‘s education initiatives are also complemented by our efforts to ensure that children are able to enroll and, even more important, remain in school until they graduate. These are some very necessary investments in the country‘s human capital that the 2014 budget wholly supports,‖ Abad said.

Abad noted, for example, that through the expanded Conditional Cash Transfer program (CCT) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), a total of 4.3 million student beneficiaries will be sufficiently covered to allow them to graduate from high school.

Among other education targets for the year include the procurement of additional textbooks and workbooks to attain the ideal 1:1 student per textbook ratio. In support of the K-12 Program, an appropriation of P1.7 billion has likewise been set aside for the procurement of over 42 million learning modules and teaching guides.

Abad also announced that various programs and projects designed to enhance students‘ skills and capabilities will be implemented this year. This includes the school-based management installation support (P1 billion), the Alternative Delivery Mode Project (e-IMPACT) in the DepEd‘s regular budget, the Abot-Alam Program (P1.97 billion), and the Basic Education Madrasah Program (P535 million), among several others.

Financial assistance to in-need students will also be continued this year through various scholarship programs.

These include the Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education (GASTPE) program, which will be implemented this year with a budget of P7.45 billion. Other scholarship programs will also be under the wing of other agencies, including the Commission on Higher Education, Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), and various State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) nationwide.

Furthermore, the budget chief also mentioned the creation of around 34,700 new teaching and non-teaching positions with an allocated budget of P8.56 billion, which will help bring the teacher-to-pupil ratio to an ideal 1:45. A stand-by appropriation of P655 million for Quick Response Funds has likewise been allotted specifically for the repair, rehabilitation, renovation and/or replacement of school buildings and essential teaching aids and materials that may be destroyed by natural calamities. ―We remain mindful of the potential challenges that may hamper our progress this year, especially with respect to providing quality education to Filipino students. The 2014 National Budget considers these possible setbacks—such as typhoons and calamities—so that emergencies don‘t endanger our broader goal of establishing a robust public education system,‖ Abad added. |TOP|

Last Updated:

27 JANUARY 2014

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Presidential Assistant for Rehabilitation and Recovery Panfilo Lacson, updates members of Malacanang Press Corps on the rehabilitation efforts in the Yolanda stricken provinces in the Visayas during a press briefing held at Malacañang, Monday (January 27). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan/Malacañang Photo Bureau) President Benigno S. Aquino III celebrates the 81st birthday of former President Corazon C. Aquino, says the Holy Rosary with families and friends at Manila Memorial Park in Parañaque City, Saturday (January 25). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan/Malacañang Photo Bureau) President Benigno S. Aquino III lights candles in a simple celebration of the 81st birthday of former President Corazon C. Aquino, with families and friends at Manila Memorial Park in Parañaque City, Saturday (January 25?). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) President Benigno S. Aquino III meditates as he celebrates the 81st birthday of former President Corazon C. Aquino, with families and friends at Manila Memorial Park in Parañaque City, Saturday (January 25). (Photo by Benhur Arcayan/Malacañang Photo Bureau) President Benigno S. Aquino III exchanges views with His Majesty Carl XVI Gustaf, King of Sweden, during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (January 24). This is the first visit of a Swedish monarch and Head of State of Sweden to the Philippines.

Sweden’s reigning monarch will visit the projects of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines in Tacloban in the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), and other related projects of the Swedish Government implemented through the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. (Photo by Rodolfo Manabat / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO) His Majesty Carl XVI Gustaf, King of Sweden, escorted by Chief of Presidential Protocol Ambassador Celia Anna Feria, during the Departure Honors at the Reception Hall of the Malacañan Palace after the courtesy call on Friday (January 24). This is the first visit of a Swedish monarch and Head of State of Sweden to the Philippines. Sweden’s reigning monarch will visit the projects of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines in Tacloban in the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), and other related projects of the Swedish Government implemented through the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. (Photo by

Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) President Benigno S. Aquino III exchanges views with His Majesty Carl XVI Gustaf, King of Sweden, during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (January 24). This is the first visit of a Swedish monarch and Head of State of Sweden to the Philippines.

Sweden’s reigning monarch will visit the projects of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines in Tacloban in the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), and other related projects the Swedish Government implemented through the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) His Majesty Carl XVI Gustaf, King of Sweden, troops the line during the departure honors at the Malacañan Palace Main Lobby after the courtesy call on Friday (January 24). This is the first visit of a Swedish monarch and Head of State of Sweden to the Philippines. Sweden’s reigning monarch will visit the projects of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines in Tacloban in the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), and other related projects of the Swedish Government implemented through the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.

(Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) President Benigno S. Aquino III exchanges views with His Majesty Carl XVI Gustaf, King of Sweden, during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (January 24). This is the first visit of a Swedish monarch and Head of State of Sweden to the Philippines.

Sweden’s reigning monarch will visit the projects of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines in Tacloban in the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), and other related projects of the Swedish Government implemented through the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Also in photo are Vice President Jejomar Binay, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, Kingdom of Sweden Ambassador to the Philippines His Excellency Klas Molin and World Scout Foundation executive committee member Lars Kolind. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes His Majesty Carl XVI Gustaf, King of Sweden, during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (January 24). This is the first visit of a Swedish monarch and Head of State of Sweden to the Philippines. Sweden’s reigning monarch will visit the projects of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines in Tacloban in the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), and other related projects of the Swedish Government implemented through the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.

(Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) His Majesty Carl XVI Gustaf, King of Sweden, signs the Palace Guest Book at the Reception Hall of the Malacañan Palace for the courtesy call on Friday (January 24). This is the first visit of a Swedish monarch and Head of State of Sweden to the Philippines. Sweden’s reigning monarch will visit the projects of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines in Tacloban in the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), and other related projects the Swedish Government implemented through the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau) President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes participants of the Winter Escapade – It’s More Fun in the Philippines Tour of the Ambassadors, Consuls General, and Tourism Directors Tour (ACGTDT) Philippine Country Team in Canada during a courtesy call at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (January 24). The ACGTDT visits take place every year, not only to give Filipinos and their families residing abroad the chance to tour Metro Manila and other notable destinations, but also to foster a stronger sense of nationalism. Winter Escapade is a tour program launched by the Department of Tourism aimed at attracting snowbirds and balikbayans to visit the Philippines during the cold season in the West. Also in photo are Tourism Undersecretary Theresa Martinez, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and Philippine Ambassador to Canada His Excellency Leslie Gatan. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his message during the courtesy call of the participants of the Winter Escapade – It’s More Fun in the Philippines Tour of the Ambassadors, Consuls General, and Tourism Directors Tour (ACGTDT) Philippine Country Team in Canada at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (January 24). The ACGTDT visits take place every

year, not only to give Filipinos and their families residing abroad the chance to tour Metro Manila and other notable destinations, but also to foster a stronger sense of nationalism. Winter Escapade is a tour program launched by the Department of Tourism aimed at attracting snowbirds and balikbayans to visit the Philippines during the cold season in the West. Also in photo are Tourism Undersecretary Theresa Martinez, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, Philippine Ambassador to Canada His Excellency Leslie Gatan and Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Carlos Sorreta. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his message during the courtesy call of the participants of the Winter Escapade – It’s More Fun in the Philippines Tour of the Ambassadors, Consuls General, and Tourism Directors Tour (ACGTDT) Philippine Country Team in Canada at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Friday (January 24). The ACGTDT visits take place every year, not only to give Filipinos and their families residing abroad the chance to tour Metro Manila and other destinations, but also to foster a stronger sense of nationalism. Winter Escapade is a tour program launched by the Department of Tourism aimed at attracting snowbirds and balikbayans to visit the Philippines during the cold season in the West. (Photo by Gil Nartea / Rey Baniquet / Malacañang Photo Bureau / PCOO) Presidential Assistant on Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Panfilo M. Lacson answers questions from the media in an interview after he delivered his address at a forum in Makati City on Thursday (January 23). (Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau) Presidential Assistant on Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Panfilo M. Lacson stresses a point on rehabilitation work in areas hit by Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) during a forum in Makati City on Thursday (January 23). (Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau) President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes US Senator Marco Rubio during a courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (January 22). (Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau) Foreign Affair Secretary Albert Del Rosario greets US Senator Marco Rubio upon arrival at the Reception Hall of the Malacañan Palace for a courtesy call on Wednesday (January 22). (Photo

by Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

US Senator Marco Rubio, escorted by US Ambassador to the Philippines Philip Goldberg and Chief of Presidential Protocol Ambassador Celia Anna Feria, signs the Palace Guest Book at the Reception Hall of the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday (January 22). (Photo by Robert Viñas / Malacañang Photo Bureau) President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the launching ceremony of the Metro Manila Skyway Stage 3 at the Buendia – End of the Skyway Stage 1 in Makati City on Wednesday (January 22).

The P26.59-B major infrastructure project is intended to decongest traffic along Epifanio Delos Santos Avenue (EDSA), Quezon Avenue, Araneta Avenue, Nagtahan, and other major thoroughfares by about 55,000 vehicles daily. Also in photo are Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya and CCEC director Dodik Marseno. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau) Please email us at pcoo.edp@gmail.com if you need a copy of last week's photo releases of PNOY

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