The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) conducted a buy-bust operation in Wao, Lanao del Sur and arrested three notorious drug personalities after a firefight that left one drug personality dead and two others wounded, yesterday morning, January 9, 2012.
PDEA Director General Undersecretary Jose S. Gutierrez, Jr. identified the arrested suspects as Minda Ontawar, alyas Inang; Kadaffy Mimbalawag; and Bocari Abubakar, all residents of Barangay Kili-kili, Wao, Lanao del Sur. He further identified the fatality as alias Mike and the wounded as Baulo Ontawar, alias Ulo, and Tochi Cagas.
Operatives of PDEA Regional Office in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PDEA-ARMM) supported by the 8th Infantry Battalion, 4th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army (PA), conducted an entrapment operation against target drug personalities in Barangay Kili-kili, Wao, Lanao del Sur. During the conduct of the said operation, collaborators of the targets engaged the operating team in a firefight which lasted for 15-minutes.
“We are fortunate that we did not have any casualties on our side,” Gutierrez said, as he lauded the operating team, led by PDEA ARMM Regional Director Edwin Layese. Gutierrez said that members of the operating team were aware of the considerable risks involved when they conducted the operation in what is considered as an “untouchable area” in Lanao del Sur, because of the existence of private armed groups (PAGs) in the community.
The PDEA chief said this is not the first time that elements of PDEA-ARMM penetrated PAG-infested areas in Muslim Mindanao. In 2011, PDEA, with the support of the Philippine Army and the Philippine National Police, neutralized a total of three shabu tiangges and 19 drug dens in Cotabato, Maguindanao, and Marawi. Evangeline DJ Almenario, Chief, Public Information Office, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency
Tuklasin Natin Adverts
Tuklasin Natin Adverts
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Ombudsman reverses dismissal of Pestaño case
Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales yesterday reversed the Joint Resolution dated June 15, 2009 that dismissed the criminal and administrative charges filed by spouses Felipe and Evelyn Pestaño for the murder of their son, Ensign Philip Andrew Pestaño.
In a 21-page Joint Order that granted the Pestaño spouses’ Motion for Reconsideration, Ombudsman Morales found probable cause to indict Naval Captain Ricardo Ordoñez and nine other naval officials for Murder.
Ombudsman Morales also found the respondents administratively liable for Grave Misconduct and ordered them dismissed from service.
The nine other naval officials are Cdr. Reynaldo Lopez, HM2 Welmenio Aquino, LCdr. Luidegar Casis, LCdr. Alfrederick Alba, MR2 Sandy Miranda, LCdr. Joselito Colico, LCdr. Ruben Roque, Petty Officer 1st Class Carlito Amoroso, and Petty Officer 2nd Class Mil Leonor Igcasan.
The Ombudsman ruled out the suicide theory as she found prima facie case of conspiracy to commit murder, after taking a hard look at the case including the additional evidence unearthed in the AFP investigation which were made available to the complainants ten years after the death of Ensign Pestaño.
The Information for murder was filed today, January 10, 2012 with the Sandiganbayan. ams/ Dir. Edgardo C. Diansuy, MAB-OMB
In a 21-page Joint Order that granted the Pestaño spouses’ Motion for Reconsideration, Ombudsman Morales found probable cause to indict Naval Captain Ricardo Ordoñez and nine other naval officials for Murder.
Ombudsman Morales also found the respondents administratively liable for Grave Misconduct and ordered them dismissed from service.
The nine other naval officials are Cdr. Reynaldo Lopez, HM2 Welmenio Aquino, LCdr. Luidegar Casis, LCdr. Alfrederick Alba, MR2 Sandy Miranda, LCdr. Joselito Colico, LCdr. Ruben Roque, Petty Officer 1st Class Carlito Amoroso, and Petty Officer 2nd Class Mil Leonor Igcasan.
The Ombudsman ruled out the suicide theory as she found prima facie case of conspiracy to commit murder, after taking a hard look at the case including the additional evidence unearthed in the AFP investigation which were made available to the complainants ten years after the death of Ensign Pestaño.
The Information for murder was filed today, January 10, 2012 with the Sandiganbayan. ams/ Dir. Edgardo C. Diansuy, MAB-OMB
Big-time oil price hike warrants junking of Oil Deregulation Law
Amidst the impending big-time hikes in the prices of petroleum products, labor center Kilusang Mayo Uno called on the government anew to junk the Oil Deregulation Law, saying the public needs protection from the oil cartel’s profiteering and overpricing schemes in the face of the global economic crisis.
The Department of Energy has confirmed that the per liter price of gasoline is expected to increase by P1.75 and of diesel by P1.30 this week, due to soaring prices in the world market.
“Given the economic crisis and the political turmoil that it is causing, the international and local cartel will never run out of excuses to hike oil prices. We need to at least moderate the oil companies’ greed by clipping their power to unilaterally increase prices,” said Roger Soluta, KMU secretary-general.
“For this round of increase, the international oil cartel is taking advantage of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and unstable market prices to dictate even higher prices. The local oil cartel will no doubt implement their overpricing schemes on the already exorbitant world prices,” he added.
“Because the Oil Deregulation Law is still in place, all the government can do is comment on price movements. We need to junk this anti-people law so the government can exert some control on price movements in the country,” he said.
Transport rep to audit team
KMU also criticized the DOE’s appointment of Atty. Vigor Mendoza of party-list group 1-UTAK as transport sector representative to an audit team that will be created to investigate the oil companies’ books.
The labor center said Mendoza served as a lawyer of the Aquino-owned Hacienda Luisita Incorporated before serving as a party-list representative.
“Atty. Mendoza cannot possibly represent the transport sector. He will represent the Aquino government, not the tranport sector, in the audit team. He will continue the Aquino government’s service to the oil cartel by clearing the latter of any wrongdoing,” Soluta said.
“This early, the Aquino government’s review of the Oil Deregulation Law is being exposed as a charade. It is becoming clearer that the government does not want to protect the public, but merely wants to de-odorize the reputation of the oil companies and the Oil Deregulation Law,” he added. Roger Soluta, KMU Secretary General
The Department of Energy has confirmed that the per liter price of gasoline is expected to increase by P1.75 and of diesel by P1.30 this week, due to soaring prices in the world market.
“Given the economic crisis and the political turmoil that it is causing, the international and local cartel will never run out of excuses to hike oil prices. We need to at least moderate the oil companies’ greed by clipping their power to unilaterally increase prices,” said Roger Soluta, KMU secretary-general.
“For this round of increase, the international oil cartel is taking advantage of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and unstable market prices to dictate even higher prices. The local oil cartel will no doubt implement their overpricing schemes on the already exorbitant world prices,” he added.
“Because the Oil Deregulation Law is still in place, all the government can do is comment on price movements. We need to junk this anti-people law so the government can exert some control on price movements in the country,” he said.
Transport rep to audit team
KMU also criticized the DOE’s appointment of Atty. Vigor Mendoza of party-list group 1-UTAK as transport sector representative to an audit team that will be created to investigate the oil companies’ books.
The labor center said Mendoza served as a lawyer of the Aquino-owned Hacienda Luisita Incorporated before serving as a party-list representative.
“Atty. Mendoza cannot possibly represent the transport sector. He will represent the Aquino government, not the tranport sector, in the audit team. He will continue the Aquino government’s service to the oil cartel by clearing the latter of any wrongdoing,” Soluta said.
“This early, the Aquino government’s review of the Oil Deregulation Law is being exposed as a charade. It is becoming clearer that the government does not want to protect the public, but merely wants to de-odorize the reputation of the oil companies and the Oil Deregulation Law,” he added. Roger Soluta, KMU Secretary General
On the ongoing demolition in San Juan
Labor center Kilusang Mayo Uno supports the urban poor of Barangay Corazon de Jesus, Pinaglabanan, San Juan who are fighting the demolition teams sent by the city government of San Juan and the Aquino government.
The struggle of the residents of Barangay Corazon de Jesus against the demolition of their homes is just. Their homes are being demolished to give way to the construction of a medium-rise housing project which will most likely not benefit them.
We condemn the city government of San Juan under the leadership of Mayor Guia Gomez for using an excessive amount of force against the urban poor. We condemn its use of teargas, water cannons and even stones against the urban poor.
We condemn the city government of San Juan for ignoring the proposals made by the residents of Barangay Corazon de Jesus to accommodate the city government’s plans. Such proposals include a reblocking of the area, an adjustment of the spaces occupied by the residents’ houses, and in-city relocation.
Barangay Corazon de Jesus is near Greenhills and the city government has so far failed to present the barangay’s residents with a blueprint for the project. The barangay’s residents have every reason to suspect that the city government is actually planning to construct a commercial center, not a housing project.
We condemn the Aquino government for carrying on with its war against the urban poor. It has been ardently supporting big capitalists’ projects while denying the poor of decent homes and decent jobs.
It is the city government of San Juan and the Aquino government, not the progressive organizations of the poor, who have instigated the residents of Barangay Corazon de Jesus to use force in fighting the demolition teams.
The country’s urban poor are resorting to force because of the Aquino government’s overkill in using violence against urban poor residents who are defending their homes and communities from demolition. Roger Soluta, KMU Secretary General
The struggle of the residents of Barangay Corazon de Jesus against the demolition of their homes is just. Their homes are being demolished to give way to the construction of a medium-rise housing project which will most likely not benefit them.
We condemn the city government of San Juan under the leadership of Mayor Guia Gomez for using an excessive amount of force against the urban poor. We condemn its use of teargas, water cannons and even stones against the urban poor.
We condemn the city government of San Juan for ignoring the proposals made by the residents of Barangay Corazon de Jesus to accommodate the city government’s plans. Such proposals include a reblocking of the area, an adjustment of the spaces occupied by the residents’ houses, and in-city relocation.
Barangay Corazon de Jesus is near Greenhills and the city government has so far failed to present the barangay’s residents with a blueprint for the project. The barangay’s residents have every reason to suspect that the city government is actually planning to construct a commercial center, not a housing project.
We condemn the Aquino government for carrying on with its war against the urban poor. It has been ardently supporting big capitalists’ projects while denying the poor of decent homes and decent jobs.
It is the city government of San Juan and the Aquino government, not the progressive organizations of the poor, who have instigated the residents of Barangay Corazon de Jesus to use force in fighting the demolition teams.
The country’s urban poor are resorting to force because of the Aquino government’s overkill in using violence against urban poor residents who are defending their homes and communities from demolition. Roger Soluta, KMU Secretary General
Sendong’s damage to food processing and construction industries in CDO and Iligan reach P 100 M
The Department of Trade and Industry- Region 10 reported an estimated 100 million pesos worth of damages to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the cities of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan due to the flashfloods brought about by typhoon Sendong.
In an interview with DTI Director Thelma Dumpit Murillo over Radyo ng Bayan, DTI Region 10 Assistant Director Linda Boniao said the food processing industry in Cagayan de Oro City was hardest hit by the typhoon, completely destroying several factory plants and equipment and facilities of major food processors in the city. Among those hardly hit are Pines TGO Foods and Darling Foods, producers of processed meat such as ham, hotdog, and sausage.
ARD Boniao reported that in Iligan City, vehicles and heavy equipment of construction companies were swept away to the sea by flood waters.
DTI Region 10 has coordinated with Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and Small Business Corporation (SB Corp) to assist SMEs in acquisition of new equipment and to provide them access to loans to repair their facilities.
The amount of damages reported was only partial as of airtime and possibly will increase after they have assessed all the affected SMEs in the region.
The DTI-Region 10 is continuously monitoring the prices and supply of goods in the typhoon-hit areas. ARD Boniao told that price of basic necessities and prime commodities in Region 10 is stable. However, there was shortage in the supply of some items such as canned goods caused by the rise in demand in affected areas.
ARD Boniao said she and her staff are thankful that while they personally lost some properties, they survived Sendong. Reden Miranda, DTI-PRO
In an interview with DTI Director Thelma Dumpit Murillo over Radyo ng Bayan, DTI Region 10 Assistant Director Linda Boniao said the food processing industry in Cagayan de Oro City was hardest hit by the typhoon, completely destroying several factory plants and equipment and facilities of major food processors in the city. Among those hardly hit are Pines TGO Foods and Darling Foods, producers of processed meat such as ham, hotdog, and sausage.
ARD Boniao reported that in Iligan City, vehicles and heavy equipment of construction companies were swept away to the sea by flood waters.
DTI Region 10 has coordinated with Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and Small Business Corporation (SB Corp) to assist SMEs in acquisition of new equipment and to provide them access to loans to repair their facilities.
The amount of damages reported was only partial as of airtime and possibly will increase after they have assessed all the affected SMEs in the region.
The DTI-Region 10 is continuously monitoring the prices and supply of goods in the typhoon-hit areas. ARD Boniao told that price of basic necessities and prime commodities in Region 10 is stable. However, there was shortage in the supply of some items such as canned goods caused by the rise in demand in affected areas.
ARD Boniao said she and her staff are thankful that while they personally lost some properties, they survived Sendong. Reden Miranda, DTI-PRO
DTI to boost exports and investments this 2012 thru new strategic initiatives
The Department of Trade and Industry revealed the direction it is taking to boost export and for investments this year.
During a radio interview with DTI-Public Relations Director Thelma Dumpit Murillo, Undersecretary for Trade and Investment Promotion Cristino Panlilio said among this year’s plan is to revive the PhilTrade as a permanent venue for exporters to showcase their world-class products.
Panlilio said talks are currently underway between the DTI and the owners of the property, Social Security System (SSS) and Philippine National Bank (PNB). Once re-established, PhilTrade Center will be a permanent exhibition center open year-round for buyers of products such as garments, housewares, furniture, Christmas decors and others.
This will also serve as a venue for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to exhibit their goods, as well as to facilitate the buyers in finding local products.
Another strategy that is underway is the reorganization of the Foreign Trade Service Corps (FTSC), DTI’s trade and investments promotion arm abroad which will focus on specific markets by geographic location such as Europe, North America, India-Pakistan-Sri Lanka-Nepal market, and others, Panlilio said.
Each market will be served by a team of experts in the area of export, importation, investments, commercial intelligence and data gathering. This move, which will start this month, is expected to make the FTSC more efficient and deliver results.
DTI constantly hold talks with export groups to seek their suggestions on how the government can improve the department’s programs and services. Usec. Panlilio said one of the current initiatives of the department is the establishment of Shared Services Facilities in various regions in the country.
This project, which is under the Regional Operations Group headed by Usec. Merly Cruz, aims to provide MSMEs affordable means to package their products and eventually turn these enterprises into world-class exporters.
On investment promotions, Usec. Panlilio said that good governance under the Aquino administration is encouraging investors to put up their business in the Philippines.
One of DTI’s priority sectors is the revival of the garments industry. Director Murillo said that DTI is still hoping for the passage of the Save our Industries Act, which will provide preferential duty treatment to certain Philippine-made garments exported to U.S. She said that the garments sector is making a comeback as garments manufacturers from China are transferring their operations here.
The rise in the labor costs and the lack of skilled workers in China provide buyers an alternative investments destination for apparel makers. Its revival will mean creation of about 200,000 jobs and export receipts of $ 3 billion. Reden Miranda, DTI-PRO
During a radio interview with DTI-Public Relations Director Thelma Dumpit Murillo, Undersecretary for Trade and Investment Promotion Cristino Panlilio said among this year’s plan is to revive the PhilTrade as a permanent venue for exporters to showcase their world-class products.
Panlilio said talks are currently underway between the DTI and the owners of the property, Social Security System (SSS) and Philippine National Bank (PNB). Once re-established, PhilTrade Center will be a permanent exhibition center open year-round for buyers of products such as garments, housewares, furniture, Christmas decors and others.
This will also serve as a venue for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to exhibit their goods, as well as to facilitate the buyers in finding local products.
Another strategy that is underway is the reorganization of the Foreign Trade Service Corps (FTSC), DTI’s trade and investments promotion arm abroad which will focus on specific markets by geographic location such as Europe, North America, India-Pakistan-Sri Lanka-Nepal market, and others, Panlilio said.
Each market will be served by a team of experts in the area of export, importation, investments, commercial intelligence and data gathering. This move, which will start this month, is expected to make the FTSC more efficient and deliver results.
DTI constantly hold talks with export groups to seek their suggestions on how the government can improve the department’s programs and services. Usec. Panlilio said one of the current initiatives of the department is the establishment of Shared Services Facilities in various regions in the country.
This project, which is under the Regional Operations Group headed by Usec. Merly Cruz, aims to provide MSMEs affordable means to package their products and eventually turn these enterprises into world-class exporters.
On investment promotions, Usec. Panlilio said that good governance under the Aquino administration is encouraging investors to put up their business in the Philippines.
One of DTI’s priority sectors is the revival of the garments industry. Director Murillo said that DTI is still hoping for the passage of the Save our Industries Act, which will provide preferential duty treatment to certain Philippine-made garments exported to U.S. She said that the garments sector is making a comeback as garments manufacturers from China are transferring their operations here.
The rise in the labor costs and the lack of skilled workers in China provide buyers an alternative investments destination for apparel makers. Its revival will mean creation of about 200,000 jobs and export receipts of $ 3 billion. Reden Miranda, DTI-PRO
DOST equipment thieves are also murderers - DOST chief says
Department of Science and Technology Secretary Mario G. Montejo likens to murderers the thieves who stole several meters of cables and five pieces of 12 volts batteries at the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS) seismic relay stations in Sto. Domingo, Alba.
“These unscrupulous individuals are not only thieves they could also qualify as murderers. By stealing cables of seismic sensors to sell for a measly sum, they jeopardize the safety and put at risk the very lives of the people of Albay, their properties, as well as the resources of the province in the event of a major volcanic activity,” Sec. Montejo expressed his dismay over the theft in the unmanned Phivolcs relay station near Mayon Volcano in Albay.
According to an official report, the seismic station of the DOST- Phivolcs in Legazpi has not received any data from the two relay stations in the Municipality of Sto. Domingo since December 14 last year. Upon inspection of the team from DOST-Phivolcs, they discovered that meters of cables connected to the seismic sensors from the unmanned relay stations and five pieces of 12 volts batteries were missing.
DOST- Phivolcs’ unmanned relay stations are equipped with seismic sensors and radio transceivers that transmit seismic data to the PHIVOLCS central station in Quezon City. These stations transmit vital information on seismic and volcanic activities in the province.
DOST- Phivolcs Director Renato U. Solidum said that the incident has caused 50 percent loss in data transmission. “It is a good thing that Mayon Volcano is not active as of this time,” he told.
Dir. Solidum added that Mayon Volcano is on Alert Level 1 which, in a scale of 0-5, it is considered abnormal. “There were several volcanic activities that were monitored,” explained Dir. Solidum.
However, Dir. Solidum stressed that the incident, although it caused temporary disruption in seismic data transmission, did not hinder the normal operations of the agency in terms of volcanic and seismic monitoring. “The incident did not cripple Phivolcs because other relay stations in Albay are functioning efficiently,” he revealed.
Sec. Montejo urged the people who live near DOST weather and seismic forecasting and monitoring stations to be vigilant in reporting malicious activities that compromise the safety of the people.
“The safety of the people is our primordial concern, which is why the government is aggressively installing weather forecasting and other monitoring equipment like rain gauges and water level sensors critical to monitoring flood prone areas,” he added.
This year, the government is set to install water level sensors and rain gauges in all major river systems in the country as part of the national flood forecasting, monitoring and mitigation program spearheaded by the DOST . Sec. Montejo raised the matter of pilferage of DOST monitoring equipment during yesterday’s interagency meeting on the national flood program convened by the Department of Public Works and Highways and attended by the Departments of Justice, Interior and Local Government, Social Work and Development, and the Environment and Natural Resources. The DILG and the DOJ in particular will look into ways on how to protect these vital monitoring equipment in the local level and immediately prosecute those caught stealing them.
Sec. Montejo also appealed to the community and their leaders to help protect these equipment. “More importantly, people in the areas where monitoring equipment are installed should help safeguard these equipment. After all, their lives, properties, and communities’ safety are all at stake here.”, Montejo said.
President Aquino has certified as urgent the proposed bill in Congress penalizing the stealing of weather and disaster monitoring equipment of the DOST. STII-DOST
“These unscrupulous individuals are not only thieves they could also qualify as murderers. By stealing cables of seismic sensors to sell for a measly sum, they jeopardize the safety and put at risk the very lives of the people of Albay, their properties, as well as the resources of the province in the event of a major volcanic activity,” Sec. Montejo expressed his dismay over the theft in the unmanned Phivolcs relay station near Mayon Volcano in Albay.
According to an official report, the seismic station of the DOST- Phivolcs in Legazpi has not received any data from the two relay stations in the Municipality of Sto. Domingo since December 14 last year. Upon inspection of the team from DOST-Phivolcs, they discovered that meters of cables connected to the seismic sensors from the unmanned relay stations and five pieces of 12 volts batteries were missing.
DOST- Phivolcs’ unmanned relay stations are equipped with seismic sensors and radio transceivers that transmit seismic data to the PHIVOLCS central station in Quezon City. These stations transmit vital information on seismic and volcanic activities in the province.
DOST- Phivolcs Director Renato U. Solidum said that the incident has caused 50 percent loss in data transmission. “It is a good thing that Mayon Volcano is not active as of this time,” he told.
Dir. Solidum added that Mayon Volcano is on Alert Level 1 which, in a scale of 0-5, it is considered abnormal. “There were several volcanic activities that were monitored,” explained Dir. Solidum.
However, Dir. Solidum stressed that the incident, although it caused temporary disruption in seismic data transmission, did not hinder the normal operations of the agency in terms of volcanic and seismic monitoring. “The incident did not cripple Phivolcs because other relay stations in Albay are functioning efficiently,” he revealed.
Sec. Montejo urged the people who live near DOST weather and seismic forecasting and monitoring stations to be vigilant in reporting malicious activities that compromise the safety of the people.
“The safety of the people is our primordial concern, which is why the government is aggressively installing weather forecasting and other monitoring equipment like rain gauges and water level sensors critical to monitoring flood prone areas,” he added.
This year, the government is set to install water level sensors and rain gauges in all major river systems in the country as part of the national flood forecasting, monitoring and mitigation program spearheaded by the DOST . Sec. Montejo raised the matter of pilferage of DOST monitoring equipment during yesterday’s interagency meeting on the national flood program convened by the Department of Public Works and Highways and attended by the Departments of Justice, Interior and Local Government, Social Work and Development, and the Environment and Natural Resources. The DILG and the DOJ in particular will look into ways on how to protect these vital monitoring equipment in the local level and immediately prosecute those caught stealing them.
Sec. Montejo also appealed to the community and their leaders to help protect these equipment. “More importantly, people in the areas where monitoring equipment are installed should help safeguard these equipment. After all, their lives, properties, and communities’ safety are all at stake here.”, Montejo said.
President Aquino has certified as urgent the proposed bill in Congress penalizing the stealing of weather and disaster monitoring equipment of the DOST. STII-DOST
RESPOND TO CRISIS WITH REGULATION, NATIONALIZATION OF OIL INDUSTRY NOT FUEL RATIONING - ILAGAN
“Fuel rationing is not an action plan.”
This is according to Gabriela Women’s Party Representative Luz Ilagan as she called for concrete and immediate action for the Aquino government to address head-on a potential oil crisis that would inevitably further push oil prices to unimaginable heights, as an offshoot of intensifying crisis in Iran and the Middle East.
“The government cannot feign helplessness in this situation and limit its role to oil price projection and monitoring while leaving the purchase and importation of petroleum products to big oil companies ready to pounce on the opportunity to make huge profits in crisis situations,” said Ilagan.
Earlier today, Petron and Chevron increased retail prices of gasoline, diesel and kerosene products by P1 per liter. Eastern Petroleum also imposed a P1.75 per liter increase in the prices of gasoline while diesel prices will go up by P1.50 per liter. The Department of Energy had projected a P1.30 per liter increase on diesel and P1.75 per liter increase on unleaded gasoline.
The Gabriela solon said, “it is high time that Congress tackles the repeal of the Downstream Oil Industry Deregulation Act (RA 8479) that not only allows oil companies to indiscriminately increase prices of petroleum products, it also creates a toothless government that is tolerant of overpricing despite appeals from a poor population forced to endure price increases not just in oil products, but in basic commodities as well.”
“Because we have allowed oil multinationals to dominate for decades, we are now extremely vulnerable. This is a situation that should immediately be rectified. Steps must be taken towards the dismantling of the oil cartel and the nationalization of the oil industry.”
In January 2011, Ilagan and fellow Gabriela representative Emmi De Jesus filed House Resolution 880 directing the Committee on Energy to investigate the price monitoring and regulatory system instituted by the Department of Energy in the light of allegations of overpricing by oil companies. They also called for the creation of mechanisms to protect consumers against the ill effects of oil price increases and the immediate repeal of the Downstream Oil Industry Deregulation Act (RA 8479). Jang Monte, Public Information Officer, REP. LUZVIMINDA C. ILAGAN
This is according to Gabriela Women’s Party Representative Luz Ilagan as she called for concrete and immediate action for the Aquino government to address head-on a potential oil crisis that would inevitably further push oil prices to unimaginable heights, as an offshoot of intensifying crisis in Iran and the Middle East.
“The government cannot feign helplessness in this situation and limit its role to oil price projection and monitoring while leaving the purchase and importation of petroleum products to big oil companies ready to pounce on the opportunity to make huge profits in crisis situations,” said Ilagan.
Earlier today, Petron and Chevron increased retail prices of gasoline, diesel and kerosene products by P1 per liter. Eastern Petroleum also imposed a P1.75 per liter increase in the prices of gasoline while diesel prices will go up by P1.50 per liter. The Department of Energy had projected a P1.30 per liter increase on diesel and P1.75 per liter increase on unleaded gasoline.
The Gabriela solon said, “it is high time that Congress tackles the repeal of the Downstream Oil Industry Deregulation Act (RA 8479) that not only allows oil companies to indiscriminately increase prices of petroleum products, it also creates a toothless government that is tolerant of overpricing despite appeals from a poor population forced to endure price increases not just in oil products, but in basic commodities as well.”
“Because we have allowed oil multinationals to dominate for decades, we are now extremely vulnerable. This is a situation that should immediately be rectified. Steps must be taken towards the dismantling of the oil cartel and the nationalization of the oil industry.”
In January 2011, Ilagan and fellow Gabriela representative Emmi De Jesus filed House Resolution 880 directing the Committee on Energy to investigate the price monitoring and regulatory system instituted by the Department of Energy in the light of allegations of overpricing by oil companies. They also called for the creation of mechanisms to protect consumers against the ill effects of oil price increases and the immediate repeal of the Downstream Oil Industry Deregulation Act (RA 8479). Jang Monte, Public Information Officer, REP. LUZVIMINDA C. ILAGAN
GABRIELA SOLON CONDEMNS THE VIOLENT DEMOLITION OF SAN JUAN RESIDENTS
Gabriela Women’s Party Representative Luz Ilagan condemned today the violent demolition of homes in Bgy. Corazon de Jesus in San Juan injuring several residents are resisting eviction and transfer to Rodriguez, Rizal.
“This heartless and violent demolition clearly illustrates how the San Juan local government and the Aquino administration view informal settlers like rats. This betrays its inhumanity and lack of sincerity in pursuing a comprehensive program that will provide decent housing and social services to the poor,” said Ilagan.
The Gabriela solon stressed residents’ appeals and proposals for in-city relocation in lieu of their transfer to Rodriguez, Rizal were ignored.
“Residents are being forced to relocate where jobs, electricity and water are scarce. Demolitions and forced evictions automatically translate to workers having to leave their sources of income and children having to stop going to school. The violent demolition of homes and forced eviction of urban poor residents amid worsening poverty, unemployment and the depravation of basic social services is the height of social injustice.” Jang Monte, Public Information Officer, REP. LUZVIMINDA C. ILAGAN
“This heartless and violent demolition clearly illustrates how the San Juan local government and the Aquino administration view informal settlers like rats. This betrays its inhumanity and lack of sincerity in pursuing a comprehensive program that will provide decent housing and social services to the poor,” said Ilagan.
The Gabriela solon stressed residents’ appeals and proposals for in-city relocation in lieu of their transfer to Rodriguez, Rizal were ignored.
“Residents are being forced to relocate where jobs, electricity and water are scarce. Demolitions and forced evictions automatically translate to workers having to leave their sources of income and children having to stop going to school. The violent demolition of homes and forced eviction of urban poor residents amid worsening poverty, unemployment and the depravation of basic social services is the height of social injustice.” Jang Monte, Public Information Officer, REP. LUZVIMINDA C. ILAGAN
DENR workers pooled P2.6 million cash aid for co-workers affected by ‘Sendong’
A total of P2,619,892.00 has already been raised by employees of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to aid some 249 co-workers in Cagayan De Oro City (CDO) affected by typhoon “Sendong” last December 17, 2011.
DENR Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje turned over the initial amount of P2 million in manager’s check to DENR-Region 10 employees union president Felixberto Capadocia in simple rites held Monday (January 9) during the flag raising ceremonies at the DENR Central Office grounds in Quezon City .
“More relief goods and cash donations are still coming in and these will be turned over to ease the suffering of our co-workers in Cagayan de Oro City,” said Paje.
Some 40 boxes containing of essential daily items like clothings, footwear, toiletries, and beddings have already been either shipped or are ready for transport to CDO for distribution to the victims.
"We do hope that our modest contribution would go a long way in easing the suffering of our affected co-workers and their families,” Paje said, lauding the humanitarian gesture of the members of the K4-DENR Employees Union (DENREU) who pooled together their resources in response to the fund-raising campaign he launched last December 21, 2011.
K4-DENREU is the association of all union chapters of the department’s employees, numbering around 18,525 nationwide.
Paje likewise cited the response from the DENR’s staff and line bureaus which pooled a total donation of P1,198,850.
“The outpouring of aid spawned responses even from private loan and saving cooperative body organized by some DENR employees,” Paje said, referring to the Forestry Saving and Loan Association (FOSLA) which gave P8,000. PAO-DENR
BSWM to establish more Agromet Stations using Automatic Weather Station (AWS)
With the effects of climate change threatening the agriculture sector, the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) is proposing a program that seeks to upgrade and increase the number of its Agro-Meteorological (Agromet) Stations in highly vulnerable agricultural areas.
The project, BSWM Executive Director Dr. Silvino Tejada said, will provide farming communities a tool for climate change adaptation and the development of a local early warning system for weather disturbances. The project will cost P175 million and will have a duration of three years. It will involve the following: Regional Field Units (RFUs) of the Department of Agriculture (DA); National Agricultural and Fishery Council; concerned local government units (LGUs); Agricultural State Colleges and Universities (ASCUs); Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Service Administration (PAGASA); Advanced Science and Technology Institute; and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.
“While PAGASA already has weather stations in many parts of the country, there is a need to establish Agromet Stations in highly vulnerable agricultural areas which are not saturated by the domestic weather agency,” Tejada said.
In his report to DA Secretary Proceso J. Alcala, the BSWM is proposing to upgrade 10 of its 16 Agromet Stations to Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) and to establish an additional 84 AWS nationwide using the latest weather tracking technology. The program is now approved and was funded under US PL-480 grant. This will result in the country having more 100 AWS in highly vulnerable agricultural areas, like those located in the uplands.
The new AWS will be located in the offices of the 16 RFUs of the Department of Agriculture, the campuses of selected ASCUs, and LGUs that have highly vulnerable agricultural areas, among others.
Each of the new AWS and upgraded agromets will have one climatic data observer/encoder and one alternate who both will be trained in the operation of the weather instruments and the upkeep of the stations.
The weather data generated will be sent to the central server in the BSWM on real time basis through GSM, and can be accessed by the stations, DA-RFU’S and PAGASA through coded password.
The objectives of the program are:
1.) Develop a national base of agro-meteorological data that will cater to the needs on the design, development and management of water resources projects for the agricultural sector as a tool for mitigation and adaptation for climate change;
2.) Develop an enabling environment in the rural areas by engaging the services of DA-RFUs, ASCUs and LGUs to operate and maintain the 100 AWS/Agromets by 2012;
3.) Develop a strategy on the awareness and preparedness on disaster risk reduction management at the local community influenced by the station through trainings; and
4.) Develop the agro-ecological cell/zone in the influenced area of the weather stations by updating the soil map in the areas as database for crop planting and management in preparation for the adaptation to climate change.
“This project is expected to help make communities in highly vulnerable agriculture area to adapt to climate change based on hard data. Naturally, the BSWM, DA-RFUs, ASCUs and LGUs will take the lead in helping these vulnerable farming communities take the necessary steps in adapting to climate change based on the data gathered or processed from the weather stations,” Tejada said.
In the second or third year of the program, two Climate Field Schools will be established for each weather station, where members of irrigators associations and cooperatives will be trained on weather and climatic elements in relation to plant growth and disaster risk reduction management.
“What this program also intends to do is make the small farmers more aware of the effects of climate change on agriculture, and for him or her to be proactive in dealing with the effects of climate change,” Tejada added. Veron Hernandez, PSciJourn Mega Manila
The project, BSWM Executive Director Dr. Silvino Tejada said, will provide farming communities a tool for climate change adaptation and the development of a local early warning system for weather disturbances. The project will cost P175 million and will have a duration of three years. It will involve the following: Regional Field Units (RFUs) of the Department of Agriculture (DA); National Agricultural and Fishery Council; concerned local government units (LGUs); Agricultural State Colleges and Universities (ASCUs); Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Service Administration (PAGASA); Advanced Science and Technology Institute; and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.
“While PAGASA already has weather stations in many parts of the country, there is a need to establish Agromet Stations in highly vulnerable agricultural areas which are not saturated by the domestic weather agency,” Tejada said.
In his report to DA Secretary Proceso J. Alcala, the BSWM is proposing to upgrade 10 of its 16 Agromet Stations to Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) and to establish an additional 84 AWS nationwide using the latest weather tracking technology. The program is now approved and was funded under US PL-480 grant. This will result in the country having more 100 AWS in highly vulnerable agricultural areas, like those located in the uplands.
The new AWS will be located in the offices of the 16 RFUs of the Department of Agriculture, the campuses of selected ASCUs, and LGUs that have highly vulnerable agricultural areas, among others.
Each of the new AWS and upgraded agromets will have one climatic data observer/encoder and one alternate who both will be trained in the operation of the weather instruments and the upkeep of the stations.
The weather data generated will be sent to the central server in the BSWM on real time basis through GSM, and can be accessed by the stations, DA-RFU’S and PAGASA through coded password.
The objectives of the program are:
1.) Develop a national base of agro-meteorological data that will cater to the needs on the design, development and management of water resources projects for the agricultural sector as a tool for mitigation and adaptation for climate change;
2.) Develop an enabling environment in the rural areas by engaging the services of DA-RFUs, ASCUs and LGUs to operate and maintain the 100 AWS/Agromets by 2012;
3.) Develop a strategy on the awareness and preparedness on disaster risk reduction management at the local community influenced by the station through trainings; and
4.) Develop the agro-ecological cell/zone in the influenced area of the weather stations by updating the soil map in the areas as database for crop planting and management in preparation for the adaptation to climate change.
“This project is expected to help make communities in highly vulnerable agriculture area to adapt to climate change based on hard data. Naturally, the BSWM, DA-RFUs, ASCUs and LGUs will take the lead in helping these vulnerable farming communities take the necessary steps in adapting to climate change based on the data gathered or processed from the weather stations,” Tejada said.
In the second or third year of the program, two Climate Field Schools will be established for each weather station, where members of irrigators associations and cooperatives will be trained on weather and climatic elements in relation to plant growth and disaster risk reduction management.
“What this program also intends to do is make the small farmers more aware of the effects of climate change on agriculture, and for him or her to be proactive in dealing with the effects of climate change,” Tejada added. Veron Hernandez, PSciJourn Mega Manila
Enhanced SSS program ensures pensions to rightful payees
Social Security System (SSS) pensioners will be required to report to their depository bank or any SSS branch starting this year to validate their eligibility to continue to receive pensions, a top official said.
SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Emilio de Quiros, Jr. said changes in the Annual Confirmation of Pensioners (ACOP) program, which the SSS introduced in 2004, aims to protect the fund from undue pension payments and fraudulent claims.
"The ACOP protects members’ contributions by ensuring the integrity of the SSS fund," he said. "We want SSS benefits to go to the right members and beneficiaries."
De Quiros said SSS will give special consideration to those unable to make a personal appearance, such as pensioners based overseas, under confinement or physically unable to travel due to health conditions or old age.
"We will accept requests for home visits and documents such as medical records and official certifications sent via mail or through representatives. Pensioners residing abroad only need to send the required documents," he said.
The institution provides lifetime pensions for retirement, total disability and death to over 1.6 million pensioners. Under the law, pensions are stopped when the member dies, recovers from disability or becomes re-employed if below age 65, or when the surviving spouse remarries.
"SSS will mail a notification letter two months before the member’s month of retirement, death or disability. Pensioners have three months, which will end on the last day of their contingency month, to make a one-day personal appearance at their savings bank or any SSS branch," De Quiros said.
The ACOP requires retiree pensioners and beneficiaries of deceased members to present their notification letter to their depository bank once a year. Total disability pensioners will present SSS’ letter and report to any SSS branch for a yearly medical check-up.
"Those receiving pension checks must present their letter to the SSS office nearest them as ACOP compliance," De Quiros said.
After SSS stopped the ACOP in 2006, pensioners with ATM pension accounts change their PIN code at their depository bank every year while total disability pensioners go to SSS for an annual physical examination.
"SSS requires banks to submit an annual list of pension accounts without any withdrawal for the past 12 months, which we use to investigate if a pensioner still exists," De Quiros said. Sigfredo Ibay, SSS
SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Emilio de Quiros, Jr. said changes in the Annual Confirmation of Pensioners (ACOP) program, which the SSS introduced in 2004, aims to protect the fund from undue pension payments and fraudulent claims.
"The ACOP protects members’ contributions by ensuring the integrity of the SSS fund," he said. "We want SSS benefits to go to the right members and beneficiaries."
De Quiros said SSS will give special consideration to those unable to make a personal appearance, such as pensioners based overseas, under confinement or physically unable to travel due to health conditions or old age.
"We will accept requests for home visits and documents such as medical records and official certifications sent via mail or through representatives. Pensioners residing abroad only need to send the required documents," he said.
The institution provides lifetime pensions for retirement, total disability and death to over 1.6 million pensioners. Under the law, pensions are stopped when the member dies, recovers from disability or becomes re-employed if below age 65, or when the surviving spouse remarries.
"SSS will mail a notification letter two months before the member’s month of retirement, death or disability. Pensioners have three months, which will end on the last day of their contingency month, to make a one-day personal appearance at their savings bank or any SSS branch," De Quiros said.
The ACOP requires retiree pensioners and beneficiaries of deceased members to present their notification letter to their depository bank once a year. Total disability pensioners will present SSS’ letter and report to any SSS branch for a yearly medical check-up.
"Those receiving pension checks must present their letter to the SSS office nearest them as ACOP compliance," De Quiros said.
After SSS stopped the ACOP in 2006, pensioners with ATM pension accounts change their PIN code at their depository bank every year while total disability pensioners go to SSS for an annual physical examination.
"SSS requires banks to submit an annual list of pension accounts without any withdrawal for the past 12 months, which we use to investigate if a pensioner still exists," De Quiros said. Sigfredo Ibay, SSS
Friday, January 6, 2012
UP lawyer to SC spokesman: Shut up and ship out
UP Law Professor and human rights lawyer Harry Roque assailed Supreme Court Administration and Spokesman Midas Marquez for acting as the personal spokesman of impeached Chief Justice Renato Corona.
“Marquez has no business serving as the personal apologist of the embattled Chief Justice. He should be speaking for the entire Supreme Court, not just Corona, and explaining collegial decisions, not just the views of his boss,” Roque said.
“Worse, by defending Corona to the hilt using the Supreme Court as his platform, Marquez is practically saying that there’s nothing wrong with culpable violation of the Constitution, betrayal of the people’s trust and graft and corruption for which Corona now faces an impeachment trial by the Senate,” Roque pointed out.
Roue added also reminded Marquez that “the impeachment of CJ Corona has absolutely nothing to do with the workings or decisions of the SC, thus he has no business speaking out on Corona’s impeachment in his capacity as SC spokesman.”
“Marquez has blatantly blurred the lines separating the duties of an SC spokesman from that of a private spokesman or lawyer who should be doing the talking for CJ Corona pertaining to his impeachment,” he stressed.
“Let Corona’s designated private lawyers speak for him, not someone who is paid his salary with taxpayers’ money,” Roque said.
Roque added that Marquez may even be held criminally liable for overstepping the bounds of his duties. “After all, the personnel, offices and other resources of the SC cannot be conscripted or used in defense of any members of the high court facing impeachment, whether he be the Chief Justice.”
“Marquez will end up a towering disgrace to the lawyering profession if he insists on acting as Corona’s spokesperson and repeating the same chicanery and falsehoods peddled by his boss,” Roque said.
“From one lawyer to another, here’s my friendly advice to Midas: ‘Shut up and ship out’. Either you resign and join Corona’s legal team or shut up and stop dragging the entire Supreme Court in your obvious attempt to please your boss”, Roque said. Aileen R. Garcia, Program Officer, Center for International Law (CenterLaw)
“Marquez has no business serving as the personal apologist of the embattled Chief Justice. He should be speaking for the entire Supreme Court, not just Corona, and explaining collegial decisions, not just the views of his boss,” Roque said.
“Worse, by defending Corona to the hilt using the Supreme Court as his platform, Marquez is practically saying that there’s nothing wrong with culpable violation of the Constitution, betrayal of the people’s trust and graft and corruption for which Corona now faces an impeachment trial by the Senate,” Roque pointed out.
Roue added also reminded Marquez that “the impeachment of CJ Corona has absolutely nothing to do with the workings or decisions of the SC, thus he has no business speaking out on Corona’s impeachment in his capacity as SC spokesman.”
“Marquez has blatantly blurred the lines separating the duties of an SC spokesman from that of a private spokesman or lawyer who should be doing the talking for CJ Corona pertaining to his impeachment,” he stressed.
“Let Corona’s designated private lawyers speak for him, not someone who is paid his salary with taxpayers’ money,” Roque said.
Roque added that Marquez may even be held criminally liable for overstepping the bounds of his duties. “After all, the personnel, offices and other resources of the SC cannot be conscripted or used in defense of any members of the high court facing impeachment, whether he be the Chief Justice.”
“Marquez will end up a towering disgrace to the lawyering profession if he insists on acting as Corona’s spokesperson and repeating the same chicanery and falsehoods peddled by his boss,” Roque said.
“From one lawyer to another, here’s my friendly advice to Midas: ‘Shut up and ship out’. Either you resign and join Corona’s legal team or shut up and stop dragging the entire Supreme Court in your obvious attempt to please your boss”, Roque said. Aileen R. Garcia, Program Officer, Center for International Law (CenterLaw)
P-NOY TO LEAD TANDANG SORA BICENTENNIAL RITES
President Benigno Aquino III will lead tomorrow (January 6) the bicentennial celebration of the birthday of Melchora Aquino, or Tandang Sora, which will highlighted by the re-interment of the heroine’s remains at the Tandang Sora shrine at Banlat Road in Quezon City.
President Aquino, who has been invited as guest of honor and speaker, will be joined by Mayor Herbert Bautista and Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte in the commemorative program and re-interment ceremony jointly prepared by the QC government and the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP).
The commemorative program will be highlighted by a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tandang Sora shrine that will be participated by President Aquino, Mayor Bautista and Vice Mayor Belmonte.
The re-interment of Tandang Sora’s remains will be held between 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. The ceremony will include the blessing of the heroine’s tomb and firing of the 21-volley of musketry.
Rev. Fr. Antonio Tobias will officiate the blessing of tomb.
Tandang Sora’s remains were exhumed on the eve of her 200th birthday at the Himlayang Pilipino which has been the heroine’s burial grounds for the past 42 years. The Himlayang Pilipino administration, through its president, Alberto Albano, recently acceded to the request of the Quezon City government and the family of Tandang Sora to have the heroine’s remains exhumed for permanent burial in her birthplace.
“The move of Himlayang Pilipino is for the greater good,” said Albano.
Meanwhile, in an earlier statement, Mayor Bautista said the events that will transpire during the Tandang Sora bicentennial celebration shall serve as a big step towards the development of the Tandang Sora area.
“Tandang Sora is part of the boom at the Visayas Avenue area,” said Mayor Bautista.
After exhumation, Tandang Sora’s remains were placed in a flag-draped wooden receptacle to be carried by a horse-drawn carriage during a funeral procession from the Himlayang Pilipino to Quezon City Hall.
Mayor Bautista and Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte will lead city officials in welcoming the remains of Tandang Sora, which will arrive today (January 5) at the QC Hall.
Military and police personnel will provide escort to the funeral procession.
In addition, about 100 traffic enforcers and 20 motorcycle units from the QC department of public order and safety have also been mobilized to direct traffic flow during the funeral procession.
At QC Hall, there will be a funeral ceremony where people will have the opportunity to offer their final respects to Tandang Sora, who has been recognized for her exceptional heroic contributions to the struggle for Philippine Independence despite her advanced age
City hall officials will be joined by descendants of Tandang Sora, especially officers and members of the “Mga Apo ni Melchora (Tandang Sora) Aquino Association Inc., in welcoming the heroine’s remains.
An overnight vigil will also be held at QC Hall hosted by the cultural and tourism affairs office, office for senior citizens affairs, scholarship and youth development program, general services department and the Liga ng mga Barangay.
A memorial mass in honor of the heroine will be held in the morning of January 6 at the QC Hall before her remains will be finally transferred to the Tandang Sora shrine for re-interment.
Tandang Sora’s remains will also be carried by a horse-drawn carriage during a funeral procession, this time, from QC Hall to the Tandang Sora shrine.
Senior adviser to the Mayor, Dr. Manuel Alba, has been tapped by Vice Mayor Belmonte, to handle the negotiation for the transfer of the remains of Tandang Sora from Himlayang Pilipino to the Tandang Sora shrine at Banlat Road.
The year 2012 has been declared as Tandang Sora Year by the QC government through Ordinance No. SP-2092, S-2011.
Vice Mayor Belmonte, who also sits as chairperson of Task Force Tandang Sora said various activities will be mounted by the city government to highlight the celebration of the Tandang Sora Year.
These include, among others, production of a documentary on the life of Tandang Sora, a travelling photo exhibit and mounting of the Gawad Tandang Sora award that will be given to outstanding women who best exemplify the ideals espoused by Tandang Sora.
According to the Vice Mayor, the city government will seal partnership with SM for the travelling exhibit and, with the History Department of the University of the Philippines – Diliman for the production of the Tandang Sora documentary.
National Geographic is also working on a documentary on the life of Tandang Sora, said Vice Mayor Belmonte.
Born on January 6 – Epiphany Day, in 1812, Melchora Aquino was named after one of the Three Wise Men. It can be recalled that despite her old age, Melchora Aquino, better known as Tandang Sora, opened her doors to Katipuneros who risked their lives during the revolution. She kept the spirits of the Katipuneros alive by providing them with food, clothing and shelter.
Charged with aiding the Katipunan on August 20, 1896, Tandang Sora was arrested by the Guardia Civil and jailed at the Bilibid Prison. In complete disregard of her age and sex, the Spanish authorities exiled her to Guam, where she stayed for seven years as a servant.
Tandang Sora came home to her native land on February 26, 1903 at the age of 91. She died on February 19, 1919 at the age of 107. Precy/ Ramir/ Maureen Quiñones, PAISO
President Aquino, who has been invited as guest of honor and speaker, will be joined by Mayor Herbert Bautista and Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte in the commemorative program and re-interment ceremony jointly prepared by the QC government and the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP).
The commemorative program will be highlighted by a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tandang Sora shrine that will be participated by President Aquino, Mayor Bautista and Vice Mayor Belmonte.
The re-interment of Tandang Sora’s remains will be held between 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. The ceremony will include the blessing of the heroine’s tomb and firing of the 21-volley of musketry.
Rev. Fr. Antonio Tobias will officiate the blessing of tomb.
Tandang Sora’s remains were exhumed on the eve of her 200th birthday at the Himlayang Pilipino which has been the heroine’s burial grounds for the past 42 years. The Himlayang Pilipino administration, through its president, Alberto Albano, recently acceded to the request of the Quezon City government and the family of Tandang Sora to have the heroine’s remains exhumed for permanent burial in her birthplace.
“The move of Himlayang Pilipino is for the greater good,” said Albano.
Meanwhile, in an earlier statement, Mayor Bautista said the events that will transpire during the Tandang Sora bicentennial celebration shall serve as a big step towards the development of the Tandang Sora area.
“Tandang Sora is part of the boom at the Visayas Avenue area,” said Mayor Bautista.
After exhumation, Tandang Sora’s remains were placed in a flag-draped wooden receptacle to be carried by a horse-drawn carriage during a funeral procession from the Himlayang Pilipino to Quezon City Hall.
Mayor Bautista and Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte will lead city officials in welcoming the remains of Tandang Sora, which will arrive today (January 5) at the QC Hall.
Military and police personnel will provide escort to the funeral procession.
In addition, about 100 traffic enforcers and 20 motorcycle units from the QC department of public order and safety have also been mobilized to direct traffic flow during the funeral procession.
At QC Hall, there will be a funeral ceremony where people will have the opportunity to offer their final respects to Tandang Sora, who has been recognized for her exceptional heroic contributions to the struggle for Philippine Independence despite her advanced age
City hall officials will be joined by descendants of Tandang Sora, especially officers and members of the “Mga Apo ni Melchora (Tandang Sora) Aquino Association Inc., in welcoming the heroine’s remains.
An overnight vigil will also be held at QC Hall hosted by the cultural and tourism affairs office, office for senior citizens affairs, scholarship and youth development program, general services department and the Liga ng mga Barangay.
A memorial mass in honor of the heroine will be held in the morning of January 6 at the QC Hall before her remains will be finally transferred to the Tandang Sora shrine for re-interment.
Tandang Sora’s remains will also be carried by a horse-drawn carriage during a funeral procession, this time, from QC Hall to the Tandang Sora shrine.
Senior adviser to the Mayor, Dr. Manuel Alba, has been tapped by Vice Mayor Belmonte, to handle the negotiation for the transfer of the remains of Tandang Sora from Himlayang Pilipino to the Tandang Sora shrine at Banlat Road.
The year 2012 has been declared as Tandang Sora Year by the QC government through Ordinance No. SP-2092, S-2011.
Vice Mayor Belmonte, who also sits as chairperson of Task Force Tandang Sora said various activities will be mounted by the city government to highlight the celebration of the Tandang Sora Year.
These include, among others, production of a documentary on the life of Tandang Sora, a travelling photo exhibit and mounting of the Gawad Tandang Sora award that will be given to outstanding women who best exemplify the ideals espoused by Tandang Sora.
According to the Vice Mayor, the city government will seal partnership with SM for the travelling exhibit and, with the History Department of the University of the Philippines – Diliman for the production of the Tandang Sora documentary.
National Geographic is also working on a documentary on the life of Tandang Sora, said Vice Mayor Belmonte.
Born on January 6 – Epiphany Day, in 1812, Melchora Aquino was named after one of the Three Wise Men. It can be recalled that despite her old age, Melchora Aquino, better known as Tandang Sora, opened her doors to Katipuneros who risked their lives during the revolution. She kept the spirits of the Katipuneros alive by providing them with food, clothing and shelter.
Charged with aiding the Katipunan on August 20, 1896, Tandang Sora was arrested by the Guardia Civil and jailed at the Bilibid Prison. In complete disregard of her age and sex, the Spanish authorities exiled her to Guam, where she stayed for seven years as a servant.
Tandang Sora came home to her native land on February 26, 1903 at the age of 91. She died on February 19, 1919 at the age of 107. Precy/ Ramir/ Maureen Quiñones, PAISO
Paje reiterates appeal to LGUs: Read geohazard maps, stop issuing small-scale mining permits
Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje today reiterated his appeal to all local government officials to revisit the geohazard maps distributed by the agency and institute mitigating measures to shield communities from danger.
At the same time, he asked the same officials to cease from further issuing small-scale mining (SSM) permits as the DENR no longer issues environmental compliance certificate (ECC) for SSM.
Paje sounded off the appeal in the wake of the Pantukan landslide early Thursday morning, which has already reportedly claimed 25 lives as of press time.
The DENR chief said that he has already dispatched a team of geologists to assess the area for possible dangers posed on rescuers, warning them of the possibility of further landslides due to the condition of the soil as well as holes caused by small-scale mining.
He said that he, along with Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo, had visited in April 2011 and found cracks along the mountain ridges. “The area continues to act as a magnet to as many as 200,000 individuals during a gold rush,” he said. They had then warned the LGU that it would only be a matter of time before the mountainside would collapse. PAO-DENR
At the same time, he asked the same officials to cease from further issuing small-scale mining (SSM) permits as the DENR no longer issues environmental compliance certificate (ECC) for SSM.
Paje sounded off the appeal in the wake of the Pantukan landslide early Thursday morning, which has already reportedly claimed 25 lives as of press time.
The DENR chief said that he has already dispatched a team of geologists to assess the area for possible dangers posed on rescuers, warning them of the possibility of further landslides due to the condition of the soil as well as holes caused by small-scale mining.
He said that he, along with Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo, had visited in April 2011 and found cracks along the mountain ridges. “The area continues to act as a magnet to as many as 200,000 individuals during a gold rush,” he said. They had then warned the LGU that it would only be a matter of time before the mountainside would collapse. PAO-DENR
PCA to use embryo culture to conserve, raise production of a coconut variety useful as anti-diabetic xylose or wood sugar
The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) is tapping the use of embryo culture to conserve and eventually raise production of a coconut variety which has a great potential to be a source of xylose, an anti-diabetic wood sugar that has high market value.
The use of embryo culture in increasing chances of propagating the Tutupaen tall coconut is being initiated by PCA’s Zamboanga Research Center (ZRC).
“Coconut is difficult to conserve because of its large and recalcitrant seeds. Dissemination of seednuts also carries the risk of transmitting pathogens and pests. But embryo culture is now enabling us to overcome these difficulties,” said PCA Administrator Euclides G. Forbes.
The Tutupaen tall variety, known to be native to Ilocos, is seen to have a great commercial potential since its thick shell is a source of xylose, a type of sugar isolated from wood. It is associated with the production of xylitol, a sugar alcohol sweetener used as an anti-diabetic, naturally-occurring sugar substitute.
“The coconut shell is one of the best sources of xylose (wood sugar). A 2B company owned by Korean and Japanese investors are now mass producing xylose in Davao using coconut shell. We expect the Tutupaen tall variety's distinct thick shell could provide higher volume of xylose than the normal coconut varieties,” said PCA-ZRC Officer-in-Charge Ramon L. Rivera.
The conservation of Tutupaen tall coconut is part of PCA’s aim to add value to the local coconut, much as how it is also using embryo culture to produce more makapuno seedlings.
“The focus now is on high value and emerging products. Makapuno meat has now been recognized as the best source for galactomannan, protein and VCO. EC technology is the only protocol that best suits the mass production of Makapuno,” said Rivera.
Embryo culture technique is also being used to promote germplasm exchange between the Philippines and other coconut-producing countries.
“EC technology addresses more the conservation and exchange of coconut germplasm. We are now embarking on collecting Neu Afa variety from Solomon Islands and other Pacific Islands for coconut husks,” he said.
PCA-ZRC’s research and development work called “Application of Coconut Embryo Culture Technique in the Field Collecting, Movement and Culture of Tutupaen Tall Variety for Ex Situ Conservation” has just made it as a finalist at the Bureau of Agricultural Research’s (BAR) National Research Symposium.
In its partnership with BAR, it also has a project called “Establishment of Core Collection of Tall Coconut Varieties using Microsatellite Marker Technology.” BAR funded this for P3 million.
PCA-ZRC is further proposing for an extended partnership with BAR on the identification of other coconut varieties that are suitable for various commercial uses. These commercial varieties must include those for highly in-demand coconut products such as virgin coconut oil and coconut sugar that have higher value added.
“Developing superior coconut varieties for value adding will contribute significantly to raising income of coconut farmers which are among our poorest farmers,” said BAR Director Nicomedes P. Eleazar.
Coconut is one of Philippines’ biggest agricultural export earners bringing around $1 billion in foreign exchange earnings yearly.
Rivera said the ZRC’s research and development (R&D) work on embryo culture, funded by Bioversity International, has already led to government’s international exchange program with three countries. These are Ivory Coast in West Africa, Papua New Guinea, and Sri Lanka.
This collaboration on germplasm sharing has enabled Philippines to obtain a drought-resistant coconut variety from Africa. This variety can last months of severe drought or lack of water or rainfall.
This drought-resistance trait will be of critical importance to the country’s coconut supply specially in light of the threats of climate change. But it will take time before this variety may become available commercially.
“The normal coconut cycle is four-five years. Selection may require another five years (using DNA markers). So, we need at least 10 years (to make this commercially available),” he said.
Over the long term, PCA aims to double Philippines’ coconut production from the two million metric ton (MT) level to four million MT level. Its R&D institutions like the ZRC are working on an accreditation process where coconut plantations may be recognized as sources of good coconut planting materials that may produce high-yielding coconut varieties.
“Planting materials will come from PCA-managed seed gardens and seed production sites. The greater portion of the seednuts-seedlings will come from accredited or registered coconut plantations in coconut growing regions,” he said.
Yield at present is just at 600 to 700 kilos per hectare. But PCA has recommended hybrids or cultivars developed in ZRC that can yield four to six MT per hectare. Melody Aguiba/Mr. Ramon L. Rivera, Bureau of Agricultural Research of the Philippines
The use of embryo culture in increasing chances of propagating the Tutupaen tall coconut is being initiated by PCA’s Zamboanga Research Center (ZRC).
“Coconut is difficult to conserve because of its large and recalcitrant seeds. Dissemination of seednuts also carries the risk of transmitting pathogens and pests. But embryo culture is now enabling us to overcome these difficulties,” said PCA Administrator Euclides G. Forbes.
The Tutupaen tall variety, known to be native to Ilocos, is seen to have a great commercial potential since its thick shell is a source of xylose, a type of sugar isolated from wood. It is associated with the production of xylitol, a sugar alcohol sweetener used as an anti-diabetic, naturally-occurring sugar substitute.
“The coconut shell is one of the best sources of xylose (wood sugar). A 2B company owned by Korean and Japanese investors are now mass producing xylose in Davao using coconut shell. We expect the Tutupaen tall variety's distinct thick shell could provide higher volume of xylose than the normal coconut varieties,” said PCA-ZRC Officer-in-Charge Ramon L. Rivera.
The conservation of Tutupaen tall coconut is part of PCA’s aim to add value to the local coconut, much as how it is also using embryo culture to produce more makapuno seedlings.
“The focus now is on high value and emerging products. Makapuno meat has now been recognized as the best source for galactomannan, protein and VCO. EC technology is the only protocol that best suits the mass production of Makapuno,” said Rivera.
Embryo culture technique is also being used to promote germplasm exchange between the Philippines and other coconut-producing countries.
“EC technology addresses more the conservation and exchange of coconut germplasm. We are now embarking on collecting Neu Afa variety from Solomon Islands and other Pacific Islands for coconut husks,” he said.
PCA-ZRC’s research and development work called “Application of Coconut Embryo Culture Technique in the Field Collecting, Movement and Culture of Tutupaen Tall Variety for Ex Situ Conservation” has just made it as a finalist at the Bureau of Agricultural Research’s (BAR) National Research Symposium.
In its partnership with BAR, it also has a project called “Establishment of Core Collection of Tall Coconut Varieties using Microsatellite Marker Technology.” BAR funded this for P3 million.
PCA-ZRC is further proposing for an extended partnership with BAR on the identification of other coconut varieties that are suitable for various commercial uses. These commercial varieties must include those for highly in-demand coconut products such as virgin coconut oil and coconut sugar that have higher value added.
“Developing superior coconut varieties for value adding will contribute significantly to raising income of coconut farmers which are among our poorest farmers,” said BAR Director Nicomedes P. Eleazar.
Coconut is one of Philippines’ biggest agricultural export earners bringing around $1 billion in foreign exchange earnings yearly.
Rivera said the ZRC’s research and development (R&D) work on embryo culture, funded by Bioversity International, has already led to government’s international exchange program with three countries. These are Ivory Coast in West Africa, Papua New Guinea, and Sri Lanka.
This collaboration on germplasm sharing has enabled Philippines to obtain a drought-resistant coconut variety from Africa. This variety can last months of severe drought or lack of water or rainfall.
This drought-resistance trait will be of critical importance to the country’s coconut supply specially in light of the threats of climate change. But it will take time before this variety may become available commercially.
“The normal coconut cycle is four-five years. Selection may require another five years (using DNA markers). So, we need at least 10 years (to make this commercially available),” he said.
Over the long term, PCA aims to double Philippines’ coconut production from the two million metric ton (MT) level to four million MT level. Its R&D institutions like the ZRC are working on an accreditation process where coconut plantations may be recognized as sources of good coconut planting materials that may produce high-yielding coconut varieties.
“Planting materials will come from PCA-managed seed gardens and seed production sites. The greater portion of the seednuts-seedlings will come from accredited or registered coconut plantations in coconut growing regions,” he said.
Yield at present is just at 600 to 700 kilos per hectare. But PCA has recommended hybrids or cultivars developed in ZRC that can yield four to six MT per hectare. Melody Aguiba/Mr. Ramon L. Rivera, Bureau of Agricultural Research of the Philippines
PDEA SUPPORTS SENATE BILL BY SEN MIRIAM DEFENSOR-SANTIAGO
The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) supports a bill authored by Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago that seeks to eliminate the incidence and prevalence of alcohol, tobacco and drug abuse among Filipino students by establishing comprehensive prevention programs in schools nationwide.
PDEA Director General Undersecretary Jose S. Gutierrez, Jr. said the agency supports Senate Bill 3085, or the “Stay Clean and Sober Act”, to help address the incidence of alcohol, tobacco and drug abuse among students.
The proposed bill tasks the Department of Education (DepEd), in coordination with the Commission of Higher Education (CHED), the Department of Health (DOH) and the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) to establish a comprehensive program that includes prevention, intervention, referral for evaluation, treatment and aftercare for students in all secondary schools, colleges and universities.
Gutierrez said the said senate bill complements Section 43, Article IV of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, which provides for the integration of “instruction on drug abuse prevention and control in elementary, secondary and tertiary curricula of all public and private schools” nationwide.
“This highlights the significant role of the schools in promoting anti-drug education to keep students from abusing drugs and other substances like alcohol and tobacco,” Gutierrez said.
The PDEA chief mentioned the recent initiative of PDEA in collaboration with the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) and Rotary Club of North Balintawak District 3780, in tapping public school teachers in Quezon City as partners and trainers on drug abuse prevention.
“We facilitated a three-day training for 53 elementary and high school teachers to equip them with effective management skills in preventive drug education. The said training highlighted the role of educators, as mentors of the youth, in creating a drug-free country,” Gutierrez said, explaining that the activity for the selected Quezon City public school teachers is a pilot project that is expected to be replicated in other schools all over the country.
“I am encouraging other civic groups, like the Rotary Clubs, to partner with PDEA and adopt a school where we could tap teachers as our force multipliers in implementing sustained drug abuse prevention programs to protect our youth from the clutches of illegal drugs,” Gutierrez said. Ms. Evangeline DJ Almenario, Chief, Public Information Office, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency
PDEA Director General Undersecretary Jose S. Gutierrez, Jr. said the agency supports Senate Bill 3085, or the “Stay Clean and Sober Act”, to help address the incidence of alcohol, tobacco and drug abuse among students.
The proposed bill tasks the Department of Education (DepEd), in coordination with the Commission of Higher Education (CHED), the Department of Health (DOH) and the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) to establish a comprehensive program that includes prevention, intervention, referral for evaluation, treatment and aftercare for students in all secondary schools, colleges and universities.
Gutierrez said the said senate bill complements Section 43, Article IV of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, which provides for the integration of “instruction on drug abuse prevention and control in elementary, secondary and tertiary curricula of all public and private schools” nationwide.
“This highlights the significant role of the schools in promoting anti-drug education to keep students from abusing drugs and other substances like alcohol and tobacco,” Gutierrez said.
The PDEA chief mentioned the recent initiative of PDEA in collaboration with the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) and Rotary Club of North Balintawak District 3780, in tapping public school teachers in Quezon City as partners and trainers on drug abuse prevention.
“We facilitated a three-day training for 53 elementary and high school teachers to equip them with effective management skills in preventive drug education. The said training highlighted the role of educators, as mentors of the youth, in creating a drug-free country,” Gutierrez said, explaining that the activity for the selected Quezon City public school teachers is a pilot project that is expected to be replicated in other schools all over the country.
“I am encouraging other civic groups, like the Rotary Clubs, to partner with PDEA and adopt a school where we could tap teachers as our force multipliers in implementing sustained drug abuse prevention programs to protect our youth from the clutches of illegal drugs,” Gutierrez said. Ms. Evangeline DJ Almenario, Chief, Public Information Office, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency
Php20 M Seized Ukay-Ukay to be Donated to Typhoon Sendong Victims
Twenty million pesos worth of illegally imported used clothing from Hongkong seized last December 7, 2011 by operatives of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) Operations and Intelligence Office of the Enforcement Group (OIO-EG) would soon be donated to thousands of typhoon Sendong victims in Mindanao .
In the media presentation today of the five (5) forty footer container vans of used clothing that were seized at the Port of Manila for violation of Section 2503 for misdeclaration and Republic Act No. 4653 banning the importation of used clothing, Customs Commissioner Ruffy Biazon said the importers and brokers of the used clothing, Heritage Asia International Products Trading Corp. and Global Welltrade Trading Co., would soon be slapped with the appropriate charges in court.
“We are starting the year with an even more intensified anti-smuggling campaign and faster filing of appropriate charges against smugglers in court,” Biazon said, adding that, “I would like to start the year then, with a stern warning to smugglers not to mess with the Bureau of Customs or they will have their place in jail, where they rightfully belong.”
For his part, Deputy Commissioner for Enforcement Group Horacio Suansing said the used clothing seizure was effected after OIO-EG officials lawyer Imelda Cruz and Capt. Arnel Baylosis recommended the issuance of the corresponding Alert Orders for the five containers after weeks of surveillance and profiling of said shipment.
“We shall expedite the processing of the seized used clothing to enable us to facilitate its donation and transfer to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for its immediate distribution to the typhoon victims in Mindanao ,” Suansing said.
Global Welltrade Trading Co. was the declared consignee of the four (4) forty footer container vans of used clothing worth P 16 million, while Heritage Asia-International Products Trading Co. was the consignee of one (1) forty footer container van worth P 4 million. Jessil A. Felisario, Public Information & Assistance Division (PIAD), Bureau of Customs
In the media presentation today of the five (5) forty footer container vans of used clothing that were seized at the Port of Manila for violation of Section 2503 for misdeclaration and Republic Act No. 4653 banning the importation of used clothing, Customs Commissioner Ruffy Biazon said the importers and brokers of the used clothing, Heritage Asia International Products Trading Corp. and Global Welltrade Trading Co., would soon be slapped with the appropriate charges in court.
“We are starting the year with an even more intensified anti-smuggling campaign and faster filing of appropriate charges against smugglers in court,” Biazon said, adding that, “I would like to start the year then, with a stern warning to smugglers not to mess with the Bureau of Customs or they will have their place in jail, where they rightfully belong.”
For his part, Deputy Commissioner for Enforcement Group Horacio Suansing said the used clothing seizure was effected after OIO-EG officials lawyer Imelda Cruz and Capt. Arnel Baylosis recommended the issuance of the corresponding Alert Orders for the five containers after weeks of surveillance and profiling of said shipment.
“We shall expedite the processing of the seized used clothing to enable us to facilitate its donation and transfer to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for its immediate distribution to the typhoon victims in Mindanao ,” Suansing said.
Global Welltrade Trading Co. was the declared consignee of the four (4) forty footer container vans of used clothing worth P 16 million, while Heritage Asia-International Products Trading Co. was the consignee of one (1) forty footer container van worth P 4 million. Jessil A. Felisario, Public Information & Assistance Division (PIAD), Bureau of Customs
KMU slams New Year oil price hike
“The oil cartel’s greed for bigger profits did not spare the holiday seasons. It surely raked in bigger profits as it timed its round of oil price hike during the return of people from vacations and provinces.”
This was the statement of Kilusang Mayo Uno as it slammed the recent round of oil price hike implemented by oil companies starting Monday.
More oil companies including Petron, Total, Caltex and Eastern Petroleum jacked up their prices yesterday following the Shell’s increase of oil prices last Monday.
Oil companies increased their prices by 90 centavos and 60 centavos for premium and regular gasoline; and by 30 centavos and 20 centavos for diesel and kerosene, respectively.
“This recent round of oil price hike is a clear sign that 2012 would be worse for workers and people already struggling from high prices while giant oil companies would rake in even bigger profits,” said Roger Soluta, KMU secretary-general.
“The Aquino government perpetuating such price hikes through the continued implementation of Oil Deregulation Law should prepare for bigger workers’ and people’s protests," said Soluta. Roger Soluta, KMU Secretary General
This was the statement of Kilusang Mayo Uno as it slammed the recent round of oil price hike implemented by oil companies starting Monday.
More oil companies including Petron, Total, Caltex and Eastern Petroleum jacked up their prices yesterday following the Shell’s increase of oil prices last Monday.
Oil companies increased their prices by 90 centavos and 60 centavos for premium and regular gasoline; and by 30 centavos and 20 centavos for diesel and kerosene, respectively.
“This recent round of oil price hike is a clear sign that 2012 would be worse for workers and people already struggling from high prices while giant oil companies would rake in even bigger profits,” said Roger Soluta, KMU secretary-general.
“The Aquino government perpetuating such price hikes through the continued implementation of Oil Deregulation Law should prepare for bigger workers’ and people’s protests," said Soluta. Roger Soluta, KMU Secretary General
ALU’s Anti-asbestos Campaign Saves Millions of Students, Teachers From Deadly Asbestos Dust in Philippine Schools
The Associated Labor Unions’ (ALU) ban asbestos campaign virtually saved millions of students, teachers, non-teaching personnel, and communities from primary and secondary exposure from asbestos dust following the recent decision of private colleges and state universities’ to ban the toxic wire gauzes from their campuses nationwide.
It can be recalled that in November last year, the Department of Education (DepEd) issued an order to all regional, provincial, city and municipal district superintendents to recall asbestos-containing wire gauzes from all elementary and high school laboratories.
The Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities (PACU) President Peter Laurel recently disclosed they will review the wire gauzes used in their schools. And if these contain asbestos, they will ban its use and replace them with non-asbestos wire gauze.
This was followed by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) who said that these asbestos-containing wire gauzes should be recalled and disposed of to avoid further contamination and/or exposure by students, faculty, and the entire academic communities.
“In support of your campaign against the total ban and phase-out of asbestos in the country considering the hazards it brings to our health with constant exposure with the said chemical, we have already sent a memorandum to all our regional offices so they can direct all HEIs (schools) in their respective jurisdictions to dispose all asbestos-containing materials used in chemistry and biology laboratories,” said Atty. Julito Vitriolo, CHED executive director, in his letter received by the campaign last week.
In a text message, Laurel, on the other hand, said: “we are behind you in the anti-asbestos campaign.”
These responses came after the Associated Labor Unions’ Ban Asbestos Philippines advocacy campaign met and gave CHED and PACU letters urging their officials to ban the toxic wire gauzes. PACU has 180-members private schools and colleges within their umbrella while CHED supervises more than 2,180 state and local universities, colleges including state university satellites all over the country.
“We are grateful that PACU and CHED positively answered our call and moves toward ban and recall of all asbestos-containing wire gauzes from their campuses. This is a huge victory for the campaign and very important preventive measure in protecting millions of students, teachers, non-teaching staffs, and immediate communities from incurable cancers and diseases caused by primary and secondary exposure from asbestos dust,” said Gerard Seno, ALU National Vice President and Ban Asbestos Philippines program coordinator.
Three per cent of the deadly Chrysotile asbestos was found in a wire gauze the ALU took from a school four months ago. In an analyses and tests conducted by a private laboratory using polarized light and dispersion staining technique, it was found out that it contains the deadly Chrysotile asbestos that causes various and incurable asbestos-related diseases and cancers such as asbestosis, pleural plaques thickening and effusions, and mesothelioma which destroys the linings that coat internal organs.
Asbestos-containing wire gauze is used in between a beaker or a flask from direct heat of the flame. Repeated exposure to high and direct flames, wire gauzes become brittle and crumbly. When disturbed, first and second-hand exposure from its dust begins. The dust is almost invincible to the naked eye because it is five thousand times smaller than hair in diameter.
Once inhaled or ingested, asbestos dusts are lodged in the lungs, larynx and other internal organs developing into cancer and other diseases 10 to 30 years later.
Since 1977, the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), and the International Labour Organization (ILO) maintained that exposure to all asbestos, even in small amount of its dust fibers, causes asbestos-related diseases.
Wire gauzes are used to separate the beaker or the flask from direct fire from Bunsen burner. Repeated exposure to fire, wire gauzes become fragile and crumbly. When the crumbly gauze is disturbed, first and second-hand exposure to its dust begins—jeopardizing the health of teachers, students, and their families at home.
The PACU is the oldest educational organization in the Philippines representing private higher educational institutions. PACU recognizes education’s responsibility to society and believes that access to relevant quality education is the cornerstone of a democratic society.
CHED was created in 1994 and acts as a collegial body in formulating plans, policies, and strategies relating to higher education.
The ALU, meanwhile, is the country’s pioneer in championing the ideals of free-trade unionism. It partners with the Building and Woodworkers International (BWI) in working towards ban and phase out of asbestos in public and private infrastructures including residences, schools, workplaces, churches, malls and power plants. Alan A. Tanjusay, ALU Policy Advocacy Officer
It can be recalled that in November last year, the Department of Education (DepEd) issued an order to all regional, provincial, city and municipal district superintendents to recall asbestos-containing wire gauzes from all elementary and high school laboratories.
The Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities (PACU) President Peter Laurel recently disclosed they will review the wire gauzes used in their schools. And if these contain asbestos, they will ban its use and replace them with non-asbestos wire gauze.
This was followed by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) who said that these asbestos-containing wire gauzes should be recalled and disposed of to avoid further contamination and/or exposure by students, faculty, and the entire academic communities.
“In support of your campaign against the total ban and phase-out of asbestos in the country considering the hazards it brings to our health with constant exposure with the said chemical, we have already sent a memorandum to all our regional offices so they can direct all HEIs (schools) in their respective jurisdictions to dispose all asbestos-containing materials used in chemistry and biology laboratories,” said Atty. Julito Vitriolo, CHED executive director, in his letter received by the campaign last week.
In a text message, Laurel, on the other hand, said: “we are behind you in the anti-asbestos campaign.”
These responses came after the Associated Labor Unions’ Ban Asbestos Philippines advocacy campaign met and gave CHED and PACU letters urging their officials to ban the toxic wire gauzes. PACU has 180-members private schools and colleges within their umbrella while CHED supervises more than 2,180 state and local universities, colleges including state university satellites all over the country.
“We are grateful that PACU and CHED positively answered our call and moves toward ban and recall of all asbestos-containing wire gauzes from their campuses. This is a huge victory for the campaign and very important preventive measure in protecting millions of students, teachers, non-teaching staffs, and immediate communities from incurable cancers and diseases caused by primary and secondary exposure from asbestos dust,” said Gerard Seno, ALU National Vice President and Ban Asbestos Philippines program coordinator.
Three per cent of the deadly Chrysotile asbestos was found in a wire gauze the ALU took from a school four months ago. In an analyses and tests conducted by a private laboratory using polarized light and dispersion staining technique, it was found out that it contains the deadly Chrysotile asbestos that causes various and incurable asbestos-related diseases and cancers such as asbestosis, pleural plaques thickening and effusions, and mesothelioma which destroys the linings that coat internal organs.
Asbestos-containing wire gauze is used in between a beaker or a flask from direct heat of the flame. Repeated exposure to high and direct flames, wire gauzes become brittle and crumbly. When disturbed, first and second-hand exposure from its dust begins. The dust is almost invincible to the naked eye because it is five thousand times smaller than hair in diameter.
Once inhaled or ingested, asbestos dusts are lodged in the lungs, larynx and other internal organs developing into cancer and other diseases 10 to 30 years later.
Since 1977, the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), and the International Labour Organization (ILO) maintained that exposure to all asbestos, even in small amount of its dust fibers, causes asbestos-related diseases.
Wire gauzes are used to separate the beaker or the flask from direct fire from Bunsen burner. Repeated exposure to fire, wire gauzes become fragile and crumbly. When the crumbly gauze is disturbed, first and second-hand exposure to its dust begins—jeopardizing the health of teachers, students, and their families at home.
The PACU is the oldest educational organization in the Philippines representing private higher educational institutions. PACU recognizes education’s responsibility to society and believes that access to relevant quality education is the cornerstone of a democratic society.
CHED was created in 1994 and acts as a collegial body in formulating plans, policies, and strategies relating to higher education.
The ALU, meanwhile, is the country’s pioneer in championing the ideals of free-trade unionism. It partners with the Building and Woodworkers International (BWI) in working towards ban and phase out of asbestos in public and private infrastructures including residences, schools, workplaces, churches, malls and power plants. Alan A. Tanjusay, ALU Policy Advocacy Officer
Thursday, January 5, 2012
PDEA RAIDS CLAN LAB IN AYALA ALABANG, 5 CHINESE OPERATORS ARRESTED
The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) opened the year with the dismantling of a clandestine laboratory and the arrest of five Chinese nationals during a raid conducted in an exclusive subdivision in Ayala, Alabang in the early morning of January 6, 2012.
PDEA Director General Undersecretary Jose S. Gutierrez Jr. identified the Chinese nationals operating the clandestine laboratory as Ken Ming Chao, alias Lam Tse Kin, 49; Lam Ka Chun, 51; Choi Yiu Kit, 33; Choi Yiu Chun, 33; and Kwok Chi Keung, 42. Gutierrez said his men have been monitoring the activities of the group for almost a year now before the Chinese nationals settled in the one-hectare property in Acacia Avenue last July 2011.
By virtue of a search warrant, elements of PDEA National Capital Region, under Director Pedrito Magsino, raided the property at 504 Acacia Avenue, Ayala, Alabang in Muntinlupa City at around 4:30 am. The suspects tried to escape but PDEA agents were able to capture all five of them. Finished products, drums containing controlled precursors and essential chemicals, and high-end laboratory equipment were discovered in the site.
“Based on the laboratory equipment we found, the estimated capacity of the facility is 10 kilograms per production cycle which takes about two to three days,” Gutierrez said, adding that inventory is still ongoing to determine the volume and value of all the drug and non-drug evidence.
Considering that PDEA regulates the importation of controlled precursors and essential chemicals to prevent diversion into illegal manufacture of dangerous drugs, Gutierrez expressed interest on how the chemicals were acquired by the suspects. “I want to find out if these chemicals are diverted or smuggled,” the PDEA Chief said.
PDEA is completing documentary requirements to file appropriate cases against the arrested suspects for violation of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, particularly on Section 8 (Manufacturing), Section 11 (Possession), and Section 12 (Possession of Equipment for the Manufacture of Dangerous Drugs). Ms. Evangeline DJ Almenario, Chief, Public Information Office, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency
PDEA Director General Undersecretary Jose S. Gutierrez Jr. identified the Chinese nationals operating the clandestine laboratory as Ken Ming Chao, alias Lam Tse Kin, 49; Lam Ka Chun, 51; Choi Yiu Kit, 33; Choi Yiu Chun, 33; and Kwok Chi Keung, 42. Gutierrez said his men have been monitoring the activities of the group for almost a year now before the Chinese nationals settled in the one-hectare property in Acacia Avenue last July 2011.
By virtue of a search warrant, elements of PDEA National Capital Region, under Director Pedrito Magsino, raided the property at 504 Acacia Avenue, Ayala, Alabang in Muntinlupa City at around 4:30 am. The suspects tried to escape but PDEA agents were able to capture all five of them. Finished products, drums containing controlled precursors and essential chemicals, and high-end laboratory equipment were discovered in the site.
“Based on the laboratory equipment we found, the estimated capacity of the facility is 10 kilograms per production cycle which takes about two to three days,” Gutierrez said, adding that inventory is still ongoing to determine the volume and value of all the drug and non-drug evidence.
Considering that PDEA regulates the importation of controlled precursors and essential chemicals to prevent diversion into illegal manufacture of dangerous drugs, Gutierrez expressed interest on how the chemicals were acquired by the suspects. “I want to find out if these chemicals are diverted or smuggled,” the PDEA Chief said.
PDEA is completing documentary requirements to file appropriate cases against the arrested suspects for violation of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, particularly on Section 8 (Manufacturing), Section 11 (Possession), and Section 12 (Possession of Equipment for the Manufacture of Dangerous Drugs). Ms. Evangeline DJ Almenario, Chief, Public Information Office, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
PhilMech takes major role in rice production
The Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization (PhilMech) will take a major role in modernizing and increasing rice production up to 2016 as it embarks on a large-scale postharvest and mechanization program for the production of the staple.
“Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala has a vision of making the country self-sufficient in rice production by 2013, and PhilMech is totally behind this effort to achieve that, especially now that climate change and rising world food prices are expected to make an impact on world food supply in the future,” said PhilMech Executive Director Ricardo L. Cachuela.
Under the program of the Department of Agriculture (DA) for increasing rice production, mechanization and postharvest will be given second priority after irrigation, that is expected to increase rice production from 5% to 10%.
Farmer associations, organizations and cooperatives will be given the chance to own agricultural machineries with the support of a financing scheme where the government will shoulder 70% of the cost of the farm equipment.
Cachuela said that once the culture of mechanization takes root in rice farming, many farmers would be prompted to expand their planting to other idle lands, which will further increase rice production.
“Rice farming today is not largely mechanized in land preparation, seeding and harvesting, which are the most tedious and time-consuming labor undertakings in farming. Once those activities in rice farming are mechanized, farmers could expand their activities to idle lands,” Cachuela said.
The DA through PhilMech will partner with farmer associations, organizations and cooperatives in the deployment of thousands of pieces of primary farm equipment like hand tractors, 4-wheel tractors (medium) and threshers. The secondary farm machineries that will be deployed include seed cleaners, rice reaper, drum seeder, mini combine harvester and combine harvester.
The number of hand tractors to be deployed from 2011 to 2016 will reach almost 34,000; shallow tube wells 31,000 units from 2012 to 2016; transplanters 9,000 units from 2012 to 2016; threshers 9,000 units from 2011 to 2016; and reapers 3,050 units from 2012 to 2016.
Based on PhilMech research, the mechanization level of farms in the Philippines averaged 0.52 horsepower per hectare (hp/ha). The Philippines still ranks very low among Asian countries when it comes to overall agricultural mechanization. Japan still topped Asian countries in farm mechanization with 7.0 hp/ha; South Korea 4.11 hp/ha; China 3.88 hp/ha; Pakistan 1.02 hp/ha; India 1.0 hp/ha; Thailand 0.79 hp/ha; and Iran 0.70 hp/ha.
“The Philippines has a lot of catching up to do in agricultural mechanization and postharvest. The program for rice mechanization will help boost the mechanization level of farms in the Philippines. Of course, PhilMech also has a postharvest and mechanization plan for other crops like corn and high value commercial crops, but that is still being finalized,” Cachuela said. PRO-Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization
“Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala has a vision of making the country self-sufficient in rice production by 2013, and PhilMech is totally behind this effort to achieve that, especially now that climate change and rising world food prices are expected to make an impact on world food supply in the future,” said PhilMech Executive Director Ricardo L. Cachuela.
Under the program of the Department of Agriculture (DA) for increasing rice production, mechanization and postharvest will be given second priority after irrigation, that is expected to increase rice production from 5% to 10%.
Farmer associations, organizations and cooperatives will be given the chance to own agricultural machineries with the support of a financing scheme where the government will shoulder 70% of the cost of the farm equipment.
Cachuela said that once the culture of mechanization takes root in rice farming, many farmers would be prompted to expand their planting to other idle lands, which will further increase rice production.
“Rice farming today is not largely mechanized in land preparation, seeding and harvesting, which are the most tedious and time-consuming labor undertakings in farming. Once those activities in rice farming are mechanized, farmers could expand their activities to idle lands,” Cachuela said.
The DA through PhilMech will partner with farmer associations, organizations and cooperatives in the deployment of thousands of pieces of primary farm equipment like hand tractors, 4-wheel tractors (medium) and threshers. The secondary farm machineries that will be deployed include seed cleaners, rice reaper, drum seeder, mini combine harvester and combine harvester.
The number of hand tractors to be deployed from 2011 to 2016 will reach almost 34,000; shallow tube wells 31,000 units from 2012 to 2016; transplanters 9,000 units from 2012 to 2016; threshers 9,000 units from 2011 to 2016; and reapers 3,050 units from 2012 to 2016.
Based on PhilMech research, the mechanization level of farms in the Philippines averaged 0.52 horsepower per hectare (hp/ha). The Philippines still ranks very low among Asian countries when it comes to overall agricultural mechanization. Japan still topped Asian countries in farm mechanization with 7.0 hp/ha; South Korea 4.11 hp/ha; China 3.88 hp/ha; Pakistan 1.02 hp/ha; India 1.0 hp/ha; Thailand 0.79 hp/ha; and Iran 0.70 hp/ha.
“The Philippines has a lot of catching up to do in agricultural mechanization and postharvest. The program for rice mechanization will help boost the mechanization level of farms in the Philippines. Of course, PhilMech also has a postharvest and mechanization plan for other crops like corn and high value commercial crops, but that is still being finalized,” Cachuela said. PRO-Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization
BOI registers P368.9B investments - up by 35%
The Board of Investments (BOI) registered P368.9B investments for 2011, a significant 35% increase in terms of number of projects approved and 22% increase in growth value compared to last year’s P302B.
The investment numbers likewise reflect economic optimism earlier expressed by Trade Secretary Gregory L. Domingo towards a better year in 2012 noting that the country has moved forward from the global incidents and its challenges in 2011.
Investment commitments breached the year’s target with a total of 332 projects compared to 246 in 2010. These projects are expected to boost employment opportunities by 67,211 jobs once operational, almost double last year’s 36,751 jobs.
“These figures represent a renewed confidence in the reforms instituted by the present administration and in our country’s strong macroeconomic fundamentals. We are committed to sustaining and increasing investments in the next few years with a sharper focus on developing industry roadmaps,” said Undersecretary and BOI Managing Head Adrian S. Cristobal Jr.
Overall business sentiment improved in the fourth quarter, according to a report from the Bangko Sentral. Macroeconomic indicators likewise remained stable with inflation at 4.8% level; stable peso-dollar exchange rates, and gross domestic product (GDP) remained at positive level, although slightly weakened by slow exports demand.
In 2011, local investments saw an unprecedented growth level at P345.696B, while commitments from foreign investors amounted to P23.235B.
“Remarkable growth in investments came from local businesses, generated by a larger demand from the domestic market. Their increased stake in the economy reinforces overall investor confidence which will attract more local and foreign infusions,” added Undersecretary Cristobal.
Top performing sectors that generated majority of the investments in 2011 were low cost mass housing, P72.688B with net value added of 85% to 99%, including raw materials such as bathroom and kitchen fixtures as well as elevators and generators. Other high performing sectors in terms of investments were energy, with total approved investments of P87.785B; and mining, P63.286B.
Other key investment commitments for the period were tourism projects, P10.832B and agriculture, P1.917B.
“We want to balance this portfolio by attracting more investments in agriculture and tourism in line with the Philippine Investments Priorities Plan,” added Undersecretary Cristobal.
Under the BOI’s Investments Priorities Plan 2011, priority sectors include agriculture, tourism, ship building, mass housing, energy, infrastructure, research & development, motor vehicles, green projects, creative industries, disaster prevention; and public-private partnership.
The biggest chunk of investments for the year went to Central Luzon at 22% generating P82.851. The others were in the National Capital Region, 20%; Region 4 (Southern Luzon), 13%; Region 13 (Caraga), 13%; and Region 11 (Southern Mindanao), 10%.
Foreign investment projects approved came mostly from Japan, P6.059B followed by the Netherlands, South Korea, United States, and China.
The growth in investment projects approved for the manufacturing sector, amounting to P104.758B showed a significant increase of 122% from last year’s P47.178B. Investment projects include those in petroleum products, basic metals, motor vehicles, non-metallic mineral products, and food products.
“The manufacturing sector is a proven catalyst in employment generation. We will maximize this sector’s opportunities with a comprehensive roadmap and milestones to market their progress and development, along with other key sectors of the IPP,” explained Undersecretary Cristobal.
He also reported that BOI is currently revisiting its policies and incentive framework to ensure that the business environment will sustain more domestic and foreign investments in the coming years. Reden Miranda, PRO-DTI
Exporters urged to be more competitive, face global challenges
National Export Congress 2011. Speaking in behalf of DTI Secretary Gregory L. Domingo is DTI Undersecretary Merly M. Cruz (left) of Regional Operations and Development Group officially opened the National Export Congress held at the Philippine Trade Training Center, Pasay City. PRO-DTI
As business climate changes in times of uncertainties, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) encourages exporters to rise above the global challenges and boost their performance by adding value to their products and services.
In the recently concluded National Exporter Congress, the Philippine exporting community learned more of what they can achieve in global economies despite a continued slow recovery. “Since the global financial crisis, trading worldwide has shifted to multi-country sourcing, domestic and international integration, and vying for preferential regimes,” said DTI Secretary Gregory Domingo said.
With the theme, “Rev Up to Double Up!,” this year’s celebration of the National Exporter’s Week not only focuses the contribution of the export industry to national income but also to identify and foster linkages between value-creating activities for competitive advantage.
Activities such as Usapang Exports, Buy Pinoy Exporter’s Fair and other trade expositions, sessions on Doing Business in the Free Trade Areas (DBFTA’s), themed academic conferences and other special nationwide activities lead by the DTI culminated in the National Export Congress held on December 13, 2011 at the Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC) in Pasay City.
The theme also highlights the implemented Philippine Export Development Plan (PEDP) 2011-2012. It is the document that lays down the broad strokes and strategies to realize the national export targets. “The PEDP seeks to double up value of export from US$51.5 billion in 2010 to US$120 billion by 2016,” Domingo said.
The three-pronged strategic framework covers product, market and promotions. There are key several key export sectors that could spur substantial growth. These are IT/BPO and other services, electronics, agribusiness (fresh/processed/marine food products and coconut), minerals, shipbuilding, motor vehicle parts, garments/textile, home style, and wearable. “We also target a 5.8%-real GDP growth and additional 9.1 million job opportunities by 2016,” added Domingo.
The core product strategy is for the local export supply to move along the value chain which means for businesses to be more unique to be competitive in the global market. Exporters have to achieve strong creative input, reliable raw materials and effective branding.
DTI has on the forefront to advocate these strategies to exporters particularly in one of DTI’s banner programs called Doing Business in Free Trade Areas (DBFTAs) with seminar/workshops about opportunities within ASEAN and bilateral/regional trade partners like Japan, China, South Korea, India, Australia and New Zealand.
Other topics discussed with the exporters were unilateral preferential schemes of US and European Union. Since 2010, over 10,000 businesses benefited the DBFTA sessions organized by DTI.
The first DBFTA outside the country was held in Auckland and Wellington in New Zealand and China recently with business matching activities held for prospective New Zealand importers to source fresh mangoes, mango puree, coco sugar, and coconut oil from the Philippines.
“The DTI’s International Trade Strategy fully supports the administrative vision of attaining inclusive growth with the extent of local value-addition of the product or service, and a more deliberate approach at integrating poor communities into the export-value chain, either through their agri-based resources, or the use of other natural resources,” said Domingo.
Over the next two years, the Philippine export industry will still grow to over US$64 billion despite economic uncertainties. Reden Miranda, PRO-DTI
Exporters urged to be more competitive, face global challenges
As business climate changes in times of uncertainties, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) encourages exporters to rise above the global challenges and boost their performance by adding value to their products and services.
In the recently concluded National Exporter Congress, the Philippine exporting community learned more of what they can achieve in global economies despite a continued slow recovery. “Since the global financial crisis, trading worldwide has shifted to multi-country sourcing, domestic and international integration, and vying for preferential regimes,” said DTI Secretary Gregory Domingo said.
With the theme, “Rev Up to Double Up!,” this year’s celebration of the National Exporter’s Week not only focuses the contribution of the export industry to national income but also to identify and foster linkages between value-creating activities for competitive advantage.
Activities such as Usapang Exports, Buy Pinoy Exporter’s Fair and other trade expositions, sessions on Doing Business in the Free Trade Areas (DBFTA’s), themed academic conferences and other special nationwide activities lead by the DTI culminated in the National Export Congress held on December 13, 2011 at the Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC) in Pasay City.
The theme also highlights the implemented Philippine Export Development Plan (PEDP) 2011-2012. It is the document that lays down the broad strokes and strategies to realize the national export targets. “The PEDP seeks to double up value of export from US$51.5 billion in 2010 to US$120 billion by 2016,” Domingo said.
The three-pronged strategic framework covers product, market and promotions. There are key several key export sectors that could spur substantial growth. These are IT/BPO and other services, electronics, agribusiness (fresh/processed/marine food products and coconut), minerals, shipbuilding, motor vehicle parts, garments/textile, home style, and wearable. “We also target a 5.8%-real GDP growth and additional 9.1 million job opportunities by 2016,” added Domingo.
The core product strategy is for the local export supply to move along the value chain which means for businesses to be more unique to be competitive in the global market. Exporters have to achieve strong creative input, reliable raw materials and effective branding.
DTI has on the forefront to advocate these strategies to exporters particularly in one of DTI’s banner programs called Doing Business in Free Trade Areas (DBFTAs) with seminar/workshops about opportunities within ASEAN and bilateral/regional trade partners like Japan, China, South Korea, India, Australia and New Zealand.
Other topics discussed with the exporters were unilateral preferential schemes of US and European Union. Since 2010, over 10,000 businesses benefited the DBFTA sessions organized by DTI.
The first DBFTA outside the country was held in Auckland and Wellington in New Zealand and China recently with business matching activities held for prospective New Zealand importers to source fresh mangoes, mango puree, coco sugar, and coconut oil from the Philippines.
“The DTI’s International Trade Strategy fully supports the administrative vision of attaining inclusive growth with the extent of local value-addition of the product or service, and a more deliberate approach at integrating poor communities into the export-value chain, either through their agri-based resources, or the use of other natural resources,” said Domingo.
Over the next two years, the Philippine export industry will still grow to over US$64 billion despite economic uncertainties. Reden Miranda, PRO-DTI
In the recently concluded National Exporter Congress, the Philippine exporting community learned more of what they can achieve in global economies despite a continued slow recovery. “Since the global financial crisis, trading worldwide has shifted to multi-country sourcing, domestic and international integration, and vying for preferential regimes,” said DTI Secretary Gregory Domingo said.
With the theme, “Rev Up to Double Up!,” this year’s celebration of the National Exporter’s Week not only focuses the contribution of the export industry to national income but also to identify and foster linkages between value-creating activities for competitive advantage.
Activities such as Usapang Exports, Buy Pinoy Exporter’s Fair and other trade expositions, sessions on Doing Business in the Free Trade Areas (DBFTA’s), themed academic conferences and other special nationwide activities lead by the DTI culminated in the National Export Congress held on December 13, 2011 at the Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC) in Pasay City.
The theme also highlights the implemented Philippine Export Development Plan (PEDP) 2011-2012. It is the document that lays down the broad strokes and strategies to realize the national export targets. “The PEDP seeks to double up value of export from US$51.5 billion in 2010 to US$120 billion by 2016,” Domingo said.
The three-pronged strategic framework covers product, market and promotions. There are key several key export sectors that could spur substantial growth. These are IT/BPO and other services, electronics, agribusiness (fresh/processed/marine food products and coconut), minerals, shipbuilding, motor vehicle parts, garments/textile, home style, and wearable. “We also target a 5.8%-real GDP growth and additional 9.1 million job opportunities by 2016,” added Domingo.
The core product strategy is for the local export supply to move along the value chain which means for businesses to be more unique to be competitive in the global market. Exporters have to achieve strong creative input, reliable raw materials and effective branding.
DTI has on the forefront to advocate these strategies to exporters particularly in one of DTI’s banner programs called Doing Business in Free Trade Areas (DBFTAs) with seminar/workshops about opportunities within ASEAN and bilateral/regional trade partners like Japan, China, South Korea, India, Australia and New Zealand.
Other topics discussed with the exporters were unilateral preferential schemes of US and European Union. Since 2010, over 10,000 businesses benefited the DBFTA sessions organized by DTI.
The first DBFTA outside the country was held in Auckland and Wellington in New Zealand and China recently with business matching activities held for prospective New Zealand importers to source fresh mangoes, mango puree, coco sugar, and coconut oil from the Philippines.
“The DTI’s International Trade Strategy fully supports the administrative vision of attaining inclusive growth with the extent of local value-addition of the product or service, and a more deliberate approach at integrating poor communities into the export-value chain, either through their agri-based resources, or the use of other natural resources,” said Domingo.
Over the next two years, the Philippine export industry will still grow to over US$64 billion despite economic uncertainties. Reden Miranda, PRO-DTI
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Trade Fair showcases entrepreneurship and tourism from Ilocos Sur
Ilocos Sur Governor Luis Chavit Singson looked at the best furniture pieces from Ilocos Sur at the recently concluded “Tawid Ken Partuat” (Inheritance and Heritage), Metrowalk Commercial Complex, Pasig City on December 14, 2011. Also in photo is DTI PRO Director Thelma Dumpit-Murillo (left). PRO-DTI
“Tawid Ken Partuat” is the annual trade fair of the Ilocos Sur province organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Ilocos Sur to showcase the best products of the province. “The trade fair presents the Ilocano ingenuity, innovativeness and creativity thru all the manufactured products and fresh produce of the province as well as to promote the splendid and scenic tourism sites,” said Governor Luis Chavit Singson of Ilocos.
Tawid Ken Partuat is literally translated to “Inheritance and Heritage” which can be seen from the traditional furniture, furnishings, native delicacies like bagnet and Vigan longganiza on display. The 9th installment of the trade fair offers the best of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) from 20 municipalities and 2 cities.
As the primary government agency mandated to promote the growth of enterprises, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) assisted the participating SMEs in how to set up in the trade fair. “The participation and contribution of the Provincial Government of Ilocos Sur made the fair possible in bringing all the exhibitors to Metro Manila,” said Grace Lapastora, DTI Provincial Director of Ilocos Sur.
Exhibit fees were waived and transportation fees and accommodation were provided for the small producers of the province participating in the trade fair by the local government. “They were persistent to join the trade fair urging the local government to assist them because they want to learn about the market and experience what it is like to be exposed to different clientele,” said Lapastora.
The fair also showcased tourism destinations from Sinait to Cervantes particularly the heritage site in Vigan. Recognized as UNESCO World Heritage, Vigan City continues to astound local and foreign tourists alike with its well-preserved Spanish colonial houses and cobbled streets.
Other exciting tourist spots include Governor Singson’s “Baluarte,” a local zoo of deer, sheep, alpacas, tigers, and pythons. It also has a shooting range, pony rides and animal shows. Resorts and beach houses abound the province since Ilocos Sur edges the West Philippine Sea and the CAR provinces of Abra, Mt. Province and Benguet.
Shoppers were treated to a fashion show called the “Abel Iloco,” which featured the native woven cloth, “abel” as a fashion item. “People are used to buy the abel for use as blanket but here in the fashion show. The abel is center stage as a fashion accessory like scarf or accent piece as designed by internationally acclaimed fashion designer Dita Sandico-Ong,” said Lapastora. Reden Miranda, PRO-DTI
NGP breaches 100,000-hectare target for 2011 by 17%
Some 69.37 million tree seedlings have been planted in some 117,688 hectares of open and denuded forestland, about 17 percent above the 100,000-hectare target for 2011.
Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje said the latest figure is based on the December 27, 2011 report of the National Greening Program (NGP), which is being implemented as a convergence initiative among the Department of Agriculture, Department of Agrarian Reform and the DENR.
“Our accomplishment this year already paints a very positive scenario for 2012 as all indicators point to meeting, if not breaching, our 2011 target despite the fact that the NGP went into full swing by the 2nd quarter of 2011 following the issuance of Executive Order 26 by President Aquino last February 24,” Paje said. The DENR intends to double the target at 200,000 hectares for next year.
Based on the report, some 567,324 individuals have already enlisted in the program and took part in planting the seedlings during the year. The tree planters represented a cross section of public and private volunteers from government agencies, schools, civic organization including the church, local government units and business sectors.
Paje reiterated NGP’s goal of posting a minimum survival rate of 80 percent for the seedlings by tapping science and sound upland practices and confining identified NGP planting sites only in areas where there are communities who will be tapped to maintain and ensure growth of planted seedlings into mature trees.
“We are using matured technology in the program to increase the survivability of the seedlings,” Paje said, referring to the Mycorrhiza technology and clonal technology which reproduce quality seedlings from vegetative parts of choice planting materials grown in clonal nurseries and are inoculated with root-growing hormones Mycorrhiza.
The NGP targets to plant 1.5 billion tree seedlings in 1.5 million hectares nationwide from 2011 to 2016. Priority areas for planting include mangrove and protected areas, ancestral domain areas, civil and military areas, urban areas under the greening plan of LGUs, inactive and abandoned mine sites, and all other suitable lands for reforestation. PAO-DENR
Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje said the latest figure is based on the December 27, 2011 report of the National Greening Program (NGP), which is being implemented as a convergence initiative among the Department of Agriculture, Department of Agrarian Reform and the DENR.
“Our accomplishment this year already paints a very positive scenario for 2012 as all indicators point to meeting, if not breaching, our 2011 target despite the fact that the NGP went into full swing by the 2nd quarter of 2011 following the issuance of Executive Order 26 by President Aquino last February 24,” Paje said. The DENR intends to double the target at 200,000 hectares for next year.
Based on the report, some 567,324 individuals have already enlisted in the program and took part in planting the seedlings during the year. The tree planters represented a cross section of public and private volunteers from government agencies, schools, civic organization including the church, local government units and business sectors.
Paje reiterated NGP’s goal of posting a minimum survival rate of 80 percent for the seedlings by tapping science and sound upland practices and confining identified NGP planting sites only in areas where there are communities who will be tapped to maintain and ensure growth of planted seedlings into mature trees.
“We are using matured technology in the program to increase the survivability of the seedlings,” Paje said, referring to the Mycorrhiza technology and clonal technology which reproduce quality seedlings from vegetative parts of choice planting materials grown in clonal nurseries and are inoculated with root-growing hormones Mycorrhiza.
The NGP targets to plant 1.5 billion tree seedlings in 1.5 million hectares nationwide from 2011 to 2016. Priority areas for planting include mangrove and protected areas, ancestral domain areas, civil and military areas, urban areas under the greening plan of LGUs, inactive and abandoned mine sites, and all other suitable lands for reforestation. PAO-DENR
Sunday, January 1, 2012
MORE FIRETRUCKS FOR QC
Quezon City will get more firefighting equipment, including firetrucks, from the Department of Interior and Local Government starting next year.
DILG Undersecretary Rico E. Puno gave this assurance today to Mayor Herbert Bautista and QC firemen during the city’s commemoration of the 115th death anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal.
Usec Puno was guest of honor during the commemorative ceremonies near the Rizal monument at QC Hall grounds. After the Rizal Day program, Puno also spoke before QC firemen during the launching of the city’s three-day yearend drive to seek public cooperation in preventing New Year’s Eve accidents and fire.
Puno said the DILG intends to buy more firetrucks and other firefighting equipment next year under a program that focuses more on fire prevention than on fire suppression.
He said that the firetrucks will be much cheaper than those acquired before 2010.
He also announced that the DILG wants to build a hospital for fire personnel and police officers, and is finalizing plans for an arrangement with the QC government to boost the department’s fire prevention efforts and provide more firefighting equipment to the city.
Meanwhile, Mayor Bautista has instructed QC fire officials and the city planning and development office to determine which barangays or areas in QC must be prioritized in the establishment of local fire stations.
The Mayor said community fire stations must first be established to justify to stationing of firefighting personnel and the acquisition of the necessary equipment in the priority areas. Mencio/Precy/Maureen Quiñones, PAISO
DILG Undersecretary Rico E. Puno gave this assurance today to Mayor Herbert Bautista and QC firemen during the city’s commemoration of the 115th death anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal.
Usec Puno was guest of honor during the commemorative ceremonies near the Rizal monument at QC Hall grounds. After the Rizal Day program, Puno also spoke before QC firemen during the launching of the city’s three-day yearend drive to seek public cooperation in preventing New Year’s Eve accidents and fire.
Puno said the DILG intends to buy more firetrucks and other firefighting equipment next year under a program that focuses more on fire prevention than on fire suppression.
He said that the firetrucks will be much cheaper than those acquired before 2010.
He also announced that the DILG wants to build a hospital for fire personnel and police officers, and is finalizing plans for an arrangement with the QC government to boost the department’s fire prevention efforts and provide more firefighting equipment to the city.
Meanwhile, Mayor Bautista has instructed QC fire officials and the city planning and development office to determine which barangays or areas in QC must be prioritized in the establishment of local fire stations.
The Mayor said community fire stations must first be established to justify to stationing of firefighting personnel and the acquisition of the necessary equipment in the priority areas. Mencio/Precy/Maureen Quiñones, PAISO
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