Rep. Winston “Winnie” Castelo (LP, Quezon City) today urged President Benigno Aquino III to assume the post of a powerful disaster management czar to address every national calamity situation.
In a statement, Castelo also called for the inclusion of disaster management and preparedness in the elementary school curriculum, saying this is an issue that should be taught to children in their formative years.
Although the Republic Act 10121, or the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010, has named the defense secretary as chair of the National Disk Reduction and Management Council, the key and decisive disaster management player is the President, Castelo said.
As the take-charge guy in every calamitous situation, the disaster management czar will have to address four major areas: disaster preparedness, disaster mitigation, emergency response, and post-disaster rehabilitation of victims.
Also, according to Castelo, the time-honored spirit of bayanihan should be inculcated into the mind of schoolchildren, as they get educated on the necessity of disaster management.
RA 10121 empowers the defense secretary, as chair of the National Disaster Risk reduction and Management Council, to coordinate government agencies to act on every calamity and mandates the teaching of disaster management and preparedness to high school and college students.
Congress could look into the possibility of providing the President with additional powers to become the disaster management czar, particularly post-disaster rehabilitation of victims, which is considered crucial in disaster management.
Congress could amend RA 10121 to mandate the teaching of disaster management and preparedness to elementary school children, Castelo said, even as he noted that schoolchildren are the frequent victims of calamities.
The disaster management czar should be empowered to manage disaster risk reduction and operations during crisis situation, provide better disaster mapping nationwide, and identify all areas prone to disasters, and the adoption of disaster preparedness programs at grassroots level.
“This is the age of disasters – both natural and man-made,” Castelo said. “We have no choice but to adapt, as Mother Nature exacts its vengeance for all the abuses that have been committed by man.”
Typhoons, storms, tropical depressions, and weather disturbances visit the nation regularly, triggering huge winds, heavy rainfalls, floods, and landslides that kill and maim people, render them homeless, and destroy crops and property, Castelo said. Also, the country lies along the “belt of fire,” which means devastating volcanic eruptions, lahar flows, earthquakes, and tsunamis.
Moreover, extensive drought, mass pollution and poisoning, and epidemics, or pandemics, whether natural or man-induced, also occur regularly, Castelo said.
In some parts of Mindanao, where a mini-war has been waged for decades, disasters happen, as civilians get caught in the crossfire and its adverse effects like famine, Castelo observed.
The global warming and the melting of the polar caps create havoc on this planet, as seawater level rises and climactic changes crop out with unpredictable effects. All told, these catastrophes mean human misery, Castelo said. 30
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Showing posts with label KAMARA BALITA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label KAMARA BALITA. Show all posts
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
10/4 IS ANSWER TO RISING PRICES AND STAGNANT WAGES
Rep. Winston “Winnie” Castelo today said the current economic situation, where workers have to grapple with rising prices and stagnant wages, as the compelling reasons for his proposal for a ten-hour, four-day work week, or 10/4.
“In my consultations with my constituents, who are mostly workers from the depressed communities in my congressional district, the common complaint is that they could hardly have both ends meet because of rising prices and stagnant wages,” Castelo said.
“As their elected representative and public servant, I could only share their frustration and hardship, but the imperative is to do something and help them at the soonest possible,” Castelo said.
“Legislating wage hikes is definitely an option, but employers are averse to the idea; giving them additional benefits is another option, but some sectors are opposed to it,” Castelo said.
“Given the time constraint, we have to be most creative and innovative in our approach to help the working class. We have to come out with novel and fresh but workable ideas that could at least ease the economic pressures on our people,” Castelo said.
“I understand the apprehension and concern of the various sectors, which include the employers and organized labor, about 10/4. It’s normal for a novel idea to meet stiff opposition,” Castelo said.
“If we cannot agree on 10/4, the remaining option is to go back to legislating wage hikes,” Castelo said.
“But at the moment, let’s subject this proposal to serious and extensive discussions at the proper forum. The House committee on labor to which my bill has been assigned will conduct public hearings and consultations with various sectors to iron out and galvanize the various views and opinions about 10/4,” Castelo said.
“Let’s invite ordinary citizens to express their views and concern about 10/4. Let’s have a healthy and sustained debate on the proposal,” Castelo said. 30
“In my consultations with my constituents, who are mostly workers from the depressed communities in my congressional district, the common complaint is that they could hardly have both ends meet because of rising prices and stagnant wages,” Castelo said.
“As their elected representative and public servant, I could only share their frustration and hardship, but the imperative is to do something and help them at the soonest possible,” Castelo said.
“Legislating wage hikes is definitely an option, but employers are averse to the idea; giving them additional benefits is another option, but some sectors are opposed to it,” Castelo said.
“Given the time constraint, we have to be most creative and innovative in our approach to help the working class. We have to come out with novel and fresh but workable ideas that could at least ease the economic pressures on our people,” Castelo said.
“I understand the apprehension and concern of the various sectors, which include the employers and organized labor, about 10/4. It’s normal for a novel idea to meet stiff opposition,” Castelo said.
“If we cannot agree on 10/4, the remaining option is to go back to legislating wage hikes,” Castelo said.
“But at the moment, let’s subject this proposal to serious and extensive discussions at the proper forum. The House committee on labor to which my bill has been assigned will conduct public hearings and consultations with various sectors to iron out and galvanize the various views and opinions about 10/4,” Castelo said.
“Let’s invite ordinary citizens to express their views and concern about 10/4. Let’s have a healthy and sustained debate on the proposal,” Castelo said. 30
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
CASTELO TO ECOP: REJECT 10/4 WORK SCHEME OR INCREASE WAGES
Rep. Winston “Winnie” Castelo (LP, 2nd Dist., Quezon City) today said a new round of legislated wages would be the option, if employers would reject his proposal for a ten-hour, four-day work week, or 10/4.
In a statement, Castelo insisted that the proposed 10/4 work week scheme is a “win-win formula” to improve the labor situation and urged employers to subject it to serious public discussions before making an outright rejection.
“If employers do not want wage hikes, they might as well agree to the 10/4 work formula because the alternative to improve the workers’ plight is to lessen their daily expenditures while going to work,” Castelo said.
“Both parties are winners in 10/4 scheme. Workers reduce their expenditures when going to work, while employers reduce maintenance and operational cost and overtime pay,” Castelo said.
Castelo made the statement as the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) was opposed the 10/4 work scheme, which would permit workers to render daily 10 hours of work from Monday to Thursday instead of the regular eight hours of work from the Monday to Friday.
At the same time, Castelo praised Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz for expressing openness to the 10/4 work week scheme, saying Baldoz appeared to know the importance of flexibility in the workplace.
Castelo was reacting to the statement of a top ECOP official, who said that the proposed 10/4 work formula has “noble intention,” but would not help the country’s overall competitiveness.
Castelo said the 10/4 work scheme is premised on the basic assertion that if the nation could not raise the workers’ wages or provide them benefits, the recourse is to lessen their expenditures while working.
Easily, a worker saves at least 20 percent of his weekly expenditures, Castelo said, adding that employers stand to benefit from the 10/4 work week since it means less maintenance and operational cost and overtime pay.
Castelo made the 10/4 work week proposal to save on cost and enable workers to have extended weekend with their families.
The 10/4 formula could mean weekly savings of at least 20 percent in work expenses, stressing it can serve as a “poverty alleviation” program by itself for cash-strapped workers, Castelo said.
If a worker in Metro Manila spends P200 a day in transport fare, food and snacks, and other expenses in going to work, or P1,000 every week, Castelo said the 10/4 work week will mean a savings of P200 per week. For workers in the provinces, who spend a daily average of P100, the weekly savings could be P100, Castelo said.
Overall, the proposed 10/4 work week could mean weekly savings amounting to at least P20 billion for the over 20 million private sector workers and 1.5 million state employees.
According to Castelo, the advantages of the 10/4 work scheme far outweigh the disadvantages, as the 10/4 could provide the following:
1. Greater morale and productivity for workers since he is not financially, physically, and mentally drained to attend to his work;
2. The extended weekend would enable workers to spend greater time with their families, providing them the domestic stability;
3. The extra day-off would enable workers to pursue other interest like learning or retooling themselves with new skills that would be necessary to the workplace;
4. The additional day-off would also enable workers to pursue their hobbies and leisure. 30
In a statement, Castelo insisted that the proposed 10/4 work week scheme is a “win-win formula” to improve the labor situation and urged employers to subject it to serious public discussions before making an outright rejection.
“If employers do not want wage hikes, they might as well agree to the 10/4 work formula because the alternative to improve the workers’ plight is to lessen their daily expenditures while going to work,” Castelo said.
“Both parties are winners in 10/4 scheme. Workers reduce their expenditures when going to work, while employers reduce maintenance and operational cost and overtime pay,” Castelo said.
Castelo made the statement as the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) was opposed the 10/4 work scheme, which would permit workers to render daily 10 hours of work from Monday to Thursday instead of the regular eight hours of work from the Monday to Friday.
At the same time, Castelo praised Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz for expressing openness to the 10/4 work week scheme, saying Baldoz appeared to know the importance of flexibility in the workplace.
Castelo was reacting to the statement of a top ECOP official, who said that the proposed 10/4 work formula has “noble intention,” but would not help the country’s overall competitiveness.
Castelo said the 10/4 work scheme is premised on the basic assertion that if the nation could not raise the workers’ wages or provide them benefits, the recourse is to lessen their expenditures while working.
Easily, a worker saves at least 20 percent of his weekly expenditures, Castelo said, adding that employers stand to benefit from the 10/4 work week since it means less maintenance and operational cost and overtime pay.
Castelo made the 10/4 work week proposal to save on cost and enable workers to have extended weekend with their families.
The 10/4 formula could mean weekly savings of at least 20 percent in work expenses, stressing it can serve as a “poverty alleviation” program by itself for cash-strapped workers, Castelo said.
If a worker in Metro Manila spends P200 a day in transport fare, food and snacks, and other expenses in going to work, or P1,000 every week, Castelo said the 10/4 work week will mean a savings of P200 per week. For workers in the provinces, who spend a daily average of P100, the weekly savings could be P100, Castelo said.
Overall, the proposed 10/4 work week could mean weekly savings amounting to at least P20 billion for the over 20 million private sector workers and 1.5 million state employees.
According to Castelo, the advantages of the 10/4 work scheme far outweigh the disadvantages, as the 10/4 could provide the following:
1. Greater morale and productivity for workers since he is not financially, physically, and mentally drained to attend to his work;
2. The extended weekend would enable workers to spend greater time with their families, providing them the domestic stability;
3. The extra day-off would enable workers to pursue other interest like learning or retooling themselves with new skills that would be necessary to the workplace;
4. The additional day-off would also enable workers to pursue their hobbies and leisure. 30
Monday, September 5, 2011
CASTELO PUSHES TEN HOUR, FOUR DAY WORK WEEK
Rep. Winston “Winnie” Castelo (Quezon City, LP) today pushed for the adoption of a ten-hour, four-day, or 10/4, work week in both public and private sectors to save on cost and enable workers to have extended weekend with their families.
The proposed 10/4 work week formula does not change the traditional 40 hours of work every week, according to Castelo, who is set to file the bill, to be dubbed as the “Four-Day Work Week Act of 2011.”
“It will still be 40 hours a week, but the work schedule will run from Monday to Thursday instead of until Friday. Public and private sector employees will put in two additional hours of work daily,” Castelo said.
“”There won’t be any reduction in the required 40 hours of work every week, nor any cut back in service or productivity,” Castelo said.
Castelo said the 10/4 formula could mean weekly savings of at least 20 percent in work expenses, stressing it can serve as a “poverty alleviation” program by itself for cash-strapped workers.
If a worker in Metro Manila spends P200 a day in transport fare, food and snacks, and other expenses in going to work, or P1,000 every week, Castelo said the 10/4 work week will mean a savings of P200 per week. For workers in the provinces, who spend an average of P100 a day, the weekly savings can reach P100.
Overall, the proposed 10/4 work week could mean weekly savings amounting to at least P20 billion for the over 20 million private sector workers and 1.5 million state employees, Castelo estimated.
The 10/4 work formula seeks to address the economic difficulties caused by rising prices and stagnant wages, Castelo said, as he noted that the continuing increases in the prices of petroleum products have triggered a corresponding rise in the prices of goods and services.
Castelo said the three-day extended weekend can make employees more revitalized and motivated, as they have more time to spend with their families and pursue other activity, including hobby and leisure.
Also, the additional day-off can push workers to pursue other productive activity, including learning new skills to retool himself and hone his competitiveness in the labor market, Castelo said.
In the end, the 10/4 work week can provide a positive impact on the worker’s morale and productivity in the workplace, Castelo said.
For the employers, the 10/4 work formula can result in savings in maintenance cost and employees’ overtime pay, Castelo explained.
Castelo said the 10/4 work week formula is already being enforced at the House of Representatives with what he has described as resounding positive effects and enormous savings on government.
“Employees at the House of Representatives start at 8 am and end up at 7 pm for a total of 10 hours of work every day. Yet service and productivity is never compromised by the shorter work week and longer weekend,” Castelo said. 30
The proposed 10/4 work week formula does not change the traditional 40 hours of work every week, according to Castelo, who is set to file the bill, to be dubbed as the “Four-Day Work Week Act of 2011.”
“It will still be 40 hours a week, but the work schedule will run from Monday to Thursday instead of until Friday. Public and private sector employees will put in two additional hours of work daily,” Castelo said.
“”There won’t be any reduction in the required 40 hours of work every week, nor any cut back in service or productivity,” Castelo said.
Castelo said the 10/4 formula could mean weekly savings of at least 20 percent in work expenses, stressing it can serve as a “poverty alleviation” program by itself for cash-strapped workers.
If a worker in Metro Manila spends P200 a day in transport fare, food and snacks, and other expenses in going to work, or P1,000 every week, Castelo said the 10/4 work week will mean a savings of P200 per week. For workers in the provinces, who spend an average of P100 a day, the weekly savings can reach P100.
Overall, the proposed 10/4 work week could mean weekly savings amounting to at least P20 billion for the over 20 million private sector workers and 1.5 million state employees, Castelo estimated.
The 10/4 work formula seeks to address the economic difficulties caused by rising prices and stagnant wages, Castelo said, as he noted that the continuing increases in the prices of petroleum products have triggered a corresponding rise in the prices of goods and services.
Castelo said the three-day extended weekend can make employees more revitalized and motivated, as they have more time to spend with their families and pursue other activity, including hobby and leisure.
Also, the additional day-off can push workers to pursue other productive activity, including learning new skills to retool himself and hone his competitiveness in the labor market, Castelo said.
In the end, the 10/4 work week can provide a positive impact on the worker’s morale and productivity in the workplace, Castelo said.
For the employers, the 10/4 work formula can result in savings in maintenance cost and employees’ overtime pay, Castelo explained.
Castelo said the 10/4 work week formula is already being enforced at the House of Representatives with what he has described as resounding positive effects and enormous savings on government.
“Employees at the House of Representatives start at 8 am and end up at 7 pm for a total of 10 hours of work every day. Yet service and productivity is never compromised by the shorter work week and longer weekend,” Castelo said. 30
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
ZERO LEVEL CORRUPTION’ IN GOV’T POSSIBLE BY 2015 – CASTELO
Rep. Winston “Winnie” Castelo today described the goal to eradicate completely the widespread corruption in government as possible to achieve in 2015, but said this objective would require the full mobilization of the public and private sectors to develop an anticorruption culture and the deployment of a “critical mass” of supporters to enforce the anticorruption laws.
While describing the current anticorruption campaign as a “sequel” to the 1986 EDSA Revolution and the “centrepiece program” of the Aquino administration, Castelo (Liberal Party, Quezon City) said “a different, albeit special, kind of political will be necessary to drive away from public service the corrupt elements.”
Castelo has proposed a set of initiatives to strengthen the anticorruption campaign. These include:
• increase in the budget of the Office of the Ombudsman to at least one percent of the annual national budget;
• sustained lifestyle check of public officials;
• enactment of a law protecting whistleblowers;
• empowerment of the private sector to go after corrupt public officials,
• development of a mass culture that rejects corruption as a way of life, and
• creation of an “anti-corruption army,” which would involve and represent a critical mass of ordinary citizens, who would run after corrupt public officials.
Castelo said he has based his anticorruption agenda on complete cooperation of the public and private sectors, stressing that it requires the full involvement of the private sector, which includes the Church, civil society, business community, the academe, and even the youth and young professionals, who have bigger stake in the nation’s future.
“What we need now a new social movement that would reject corruption as a way of life and usher a new mass culture that highlights integrity in public service,” Castelo said. “Anything short of a mass movement would lead to failure.”
Castelo defined corruption is the use of power for private gain. It involves public officials, who use their power to extort bribes and private persons, who bribe officials to gain advantage or secure profitable government contracts.
Corruption impedes national development, discourages investments, and negates moves to make the country as globally competitive as possible. It denies the poor the access to public services, as the government loses resources, Castelo added.
While saying that the country has become notorious for being one of the most corrupt nations in Asia, Castelo stressed it has to develop the political will to confront and tackle corruption, but warned it cannot leave the anticorruption agenda to the government alone since “it neither has the wherewithal, the political will, nor new ideas” to handle corruption.
An anticorruption agenda requires the full participation and mobilization of the government, civil society, the Church, business community, and the youth in a social movement against it, Castelo said.
“Their mobilization and participation would be crucial to reduce corruption to zero level by 2015,” he said.
Initially, the budget of the Office of the Ombudsman should be raised because its current budget of 0.7 percent or less of the national budget is insufficient, Castelo said.
“Raising it to at least one percent of the national budget would signal the serious policy shift to combat corruption,” Castelo said. “In contrast, the government loses at least 20 percent of the national budget to corruption.”
Because of its limited budget, the Office of the Ombudsman could hardly build up cases and prosecute them, as shown by its batting average of winning only 7% or less of all lawsuits it has filed in court is hardly satisfying, Castelo said.
The Office of the Ombudsman has hardly run after any other big fish, making corruption a “high yield, but low risk” activity in the country, Castelo said.
“Hence, corruption has become endemic, taking roots in the nation’s social, economic, and political fabric, Castelo said, adding that opinion polls showed that most Filipinos have learned to accept corruption as a way of life.
Castelo also called for a vigorous, sustained, and continuous lifestyle check of public officials, adding that this is easier to pursue because a glaring difference between his lifestyle and his reported statement of assets and liabilities would be enough to establish prima facie evidence of corruption.
The proposed anticorruption agenda calls for enactment of the Whistlebowers’ Protection Law, which elevates to state policy the provision of ample protection to people, who would spill the beans on public officials, who have committed – or about to commit – corrupt activities.
Embedded in government, whistleblowers possess knowledge about corrupt acts; they are in the best position to expose and make them public, Castelo said. “Hence, a whistleblowing policy becomes necessary for the detection and prosecution even of well-hidden anomalous transactions.”
Castelo said that a major reason for the government inability to prosecute corrupt public officials is the continuing failure to protect whistleblowers, who feel that the government would leave them alone when the situation becomes tough.
Castelo’s anticorruption agenda includes the fourth point, which requires the multisectoral involvement – from the nongovernment and people’s organizations that compose civil society, the business community, the Church, the academe, and even from ordinary citizens.
“The imperative is for the private sector to take the lead,” Castelo said, even as he pointed to the fiftth point, which is the development of the anticorruption culture, or the counter-consciousness that stresses the negative effects of corruption.
“The anticorruption agenda should propagate the awareness that corruption is not normal in a developing nation like ours. It has to develop the counterculture that justifies and rewards whistleblowing,” Castelo said.
Also, the fifth point should strive to the creation of an anticorruption army of private citizens, who would readily report and run after corrupt public officials and even private parties, who corrupt public officials. 30
While describing the current anticorruption campaign as a “sequel” to the 1986 EDSA Revolution and the “centrepiece program” of the Aquino administration, Castelo (Liberal Party, Quezon City) said “a different, albeit special, kind of political will be necessary to drive away from public service the corrupt elements.”
Castelo has proposed a set of initiatives to strengthen the anticorruption campaign. These include:
• increase in the budget of the Office of the Ombudsman to at least one percent of the annual national budget;
• sustained lifestyle check of public officials;
• enactment of a law protecting whistleblowers;
• empowerment of the private sector to go after corrupt public officials,
• development of a mass culture that rejects corruption as a way of life, and
• creation of an “anti-corruption army,” which would involve and represent a critical mass of ordinary citizens, who would run after corrupt public officials.
Castelo said he has based his anticorruption agenda on complete cooperation of the public and private sectors, stressing that it requires the full involvement of the private sector, which includes the Church, civil society, business community, the academe, and even the youth and young professionals, who have bigger stake in the nation’s future.
“What we need now a new social movement that would reject corruption as a way of life and usher a new mass culture that highlights integrity in public service,” Castelo said. “Anything short of a mass movement would lead to failure.”
Castelo defined corruption is the use of power for private gain. It involves public officials, who use their power to extort bribes and private persons, who bribe officials to gain advantage or secure profitable government contracts.
Corruption impedes national development, discourages investments, and negates moves to make the country as globally competitive as possible. It denies the poor the access to public services, as the government loses resources, Castelo added.
While saying that the country has become notorious for being one of the most corrupt nations in Asia, Castelo stressed it has to develop the political will to confront and tackle corruption, but warned it cannot leave the anticorruption agenda to the government alone since “it neither has the wherewithal, the political will, nor new ideas” to handle corruption.
An anticorruption agenda requires the full participation and mobilization of the government, civil society, the Church, business community, and the youth in a social movement against it, Castelo said.
“Their mobilization and participation would be crucial to reduce corruption to zero level by 2015,” he said.
Initially, the budget of the Office of the Ombudsman should be raised because its current budget of 0.7 percent or less of the national budget is insufficient, Castelo said.
“Raising it to at least one percent of the national budget would signal the serious policy shift to combat corruption,” Castelo said. “In contrast, the government loses at least 20 percent of the national budget to corruption.”
Because of its limited budget, the Office of the Ombudsman could hardly build up cases and prosecute them, as shown by its batting average of winning only 7% or less of all lawsuits it has filed in court is hardly satisfying, Castelo said.
The Office of the Ombudsman has hardly run after any other big fish, making corruption a “high yield, but low risk” activity in the country, Castelo said.
“Hence, corruption has become endemic, taking roots in the nation’s social, economic, and political fabric, Castelo said, adding that opinion polls showed that most Filipinos have learned to accept corruption as a way of life.
Castelo also called for a vigorous, sustained, and continuous lifestyle check of public officials, adding that this is easier to pursue because a glaring difference between his lifestyle and his reported statement of assets and liabilities would be enough to establish prima facie evidence of corruption.
The proposed anticorruption agenda calls for enactment of the Whistlebowers’ Protection Law, which elevates to state policy the provision of ample protection to people, who would spill the beans on public officials, who have committed – or about to commit – corrupt activities.
Embedded in government, whistleblowers possess knowledge about corrupt acts; they are in the best position to expose and make them public, Castelo said. “Hence, a whistleblowing policy becomes necessary for the detection and prosecution even of well-hidden anomalous transactions.”
Castelo said that a major reason for the government inability to prosecute corrupt public officials is the continuing failure to protect whistleblowers, who feel that the government would leave them alone when the situation becomes tough.
Castelo’s anticorruption agenda includes the fourth point, which requires the multisectoral involvement – from the nongovernment and people’s organizations that compose civil society, the business community, the Church, the academe, and even from ordinary citizens.
“The imperative is for the private sector to take the lead,” Castelo said, even as he pointed to the fiftth point, which is the development of the anticorruption culture, or the counter-consciousness that stresses the negative effects of corruption.
“The anticorruption agenda should propagate the awareness that corruption is not normal in a developing nation like ours. It has to develop the counterculture that justifies and rewards whistleblowing,” Castelo said.
Also, the fifth point should strive to the creation of an anticorruption army of private citizens, who would readily report and run after corrupt public officials and even private parties, who corrupt public officials. 30
Monday, August 22, 2011
FAST TRACK ‘HEALTH FOR ALL’ PROGRAM – CASTELO
Rep. Winston “Winnie” Castelo today urged the Department of Health (DoH) to hasten the implementation of the free hospitalization program for the 5.2 million “poorest of the poor” families, even as he asked for a realignment of a portion of the proposed P40 billion conditional cash transfer (CCT) fund to finance and sustain the program.
In a statement, Castelo (LP, Quezon City) praised Health Secretary Enrique Ona for crafting a program that provides the Filipino people the universal access to health services, but said this requires its fast tracking because of the rising incidents of dengue fever and other major ailments in the country.
“The ‘Health for All’ program of the Department of Health is definitely in the right direction, although long overdue. It needs all support to ensure its success,” Castelo said adding that its funding support has to be identified to ensure its sustainability and success.
Castelo suggested a realignment of at least P10 billion or 25 percent of the P40 billion CCT fund, which the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will administer under the proposed 2012 national budget, to finance the free hospitalization program.
“The use of the conditional cash transfer fund to meet the health requirements of the poorest families will mean its prudent use,” Castelo said. “It’s a better option than simply doling it out to the poor.”
Castelo said the DoH’s free hospitalization program will require the compulsory enlistment of these beneficiary-families under the national health insurance system, which the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) administers uder Republic Act 7875, or the National Health Insurance Act of 1995.
The P10 billion CCT fund could be used to pay for the regular monthly premium contributions of these families, which are considered “poorest of the poor,” Castelo said.
With the National Government paying at least P100 per month as regular monthly premium contribution for every for every indigent family, the Health for All program could be genuine and sustainable.
RA 7875 mandates the National Government to pay for the premium contributions of “indigent families,” who are not in the position to pay them due to poverty and lack of means.
By using the CCT fund for the health requirements of the poorest families, the National Government will also satisfy the mandated compulsory enrollment of all Filipinos within a 15-year period since PhilHealth’s establishment in 1995 and the remittance of their regular monthly premium contributions. 30
In a statement, Castelo (LP, Quezon City) praised Health Secretary Enrique Ona for crafting a program that provides the Filipino people the universal access to health services, but said this requires its fast tracking because of the rising incidents of dengue fever and other major ailments in the country.
“The ‘Health for All’ program of the Department of Health is definitely in the right direction, although long overdue. It needs all support to ensure its success,” Castelo said adding that its funding support has to be identified to ensure its sustainability and success.
Castelo suggested a realignment of at least P10 billion or 25 percent of the P40 billion CCT fund, which the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will administer under the proposed 2012 national budget, to finance the free hospitalization program.
“The use of the conditional cash transfer fund to meet the health requirements of the poorest families will mean its prudent use,” Castelo said. “It’s a better option than simply doling it out to the poor.”
Castelo said the DoH’s free hospitalization program will require the compulsory enlistment of these beneficiary-families under the national health insurance system, which the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) administers uder Republic Act 7875, or the National Health Insurance Act of 1995.
The P10 billion CCT fund could be used to pay for the regular monthly premium contributions of these families, which are considered “poorest of the poor,” Castelo said.
With the National Government paying at least P100 per month as regular monthly premium contribution for every for every indigent family, the Health for All program could be genuine and sustainable.
RA 7875 mandates the National Government to pay for the premium contributions of “indigent families,” who are not in the position to pay them due to poverty and lack of means.
By using the CCT fund for the health requirements of the poorest families, the National Government will also satisfy the mandated compulsory enrollment of all Filipinos within a 15-year period since PhilHealth’s establishment in 1995 and the remittance of their regular monthly premium contributions. 30
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
SOLON URGES OIL FIRMS TO ROLL BACK PRICES BY P5 PER LITER
Rep. Winston “Winnie” Castelo (LP, Quezon City) today expressed dismay over the inability of local oil firms toroll back immediately prices of pump-in petroleum products and said urged them to lower their prices by at leastP5 per liter.
“While they raise their petroleum prices at the slightest indication of an increase in the world market.the domestic oil firms have been very slow to roll back their prices when world oil prices decline steadily,” Castelo said.Castelo said local oil firms, especially the three largest, which include Petron, Pilipinas Shell, and Exxon, shouldlower their petroleum products by at least P5 since Brent crude oil prices have plunged to below P99 per barrel inthe world market from a high of P127 per barrel in April last year. Also, US crude oil has reached P77 per barrel.Oil prices have been steadily declining in the world market as a result of the downgrade of the US credit rating,raising fears of a global economic depression in the coming weeks. Their new prices have declined below whatwere described as their “comfort zone” level of prices.
Citing press reports, Castelo said local independent petroleum producers, led by Chevron, have lowered theirpump-in petroleum products by an average of 50 centavos to P1, but this was an initiative that has yet to beemulated by the three biggest local oil firms.
At the rate prices of crude oil have been declining in the world market, Castelo said the oil price rollback shouldbe a minimum of P5 per liter, saying “this is the realistic level.”
While conceding that the oil deregulation law has explicitly subjected prices of local petroleum products to“market forces,” Castelo urged local oil producers to follow the law and acknowledge the market dynamics.
According to Castelo, failure to acknowledge the market forces virtually renders the oil deregulation lawmeaningless, allowing the domestic oil firms to become “greedy” in amassing more profits at the expense of theFilipino people. 30
“While they raise their petroleum prices at the slightest indication of an increase in the world market.the domestic oil firms have been very slow to roll back their prices when world oil prices decline steadily,” Castelo said.Castelo said local oil firms, especially the three largest, which include Petron, Pilipinas Shell, and Exxon, shouldlower their petroleum products by at least P5 since Brent crude oil prices have plunged to below P99 per barrel inthe world market from a high of P127 per barrel in April last year. Also, US crude oil has reached P77 per barrel.Oil prices have been steadily declining in the world market as a result of the downgrade of the US credit rating,raising fears of a global economic depression in the coming weeks. Their new prices have declined below whatwere described as their “comfort zone” level of prices.
Citing press reports, Castelo said local independent petroleum producers, led by Chevron, have lowered theirpump-in petroleum products by an average of 50 centavos to P1, but this was an initiative that has yet to beemulated by the three biggest local oil firms.
At the rate prices of crude oil have been declining in the world market, Castelo said the oil price rollback shouldbe a minimum of P5 per liter, saying “this is the realistic level.”
While conceding that the oil deregulation law has explicitly subjected prices of local petroleum products to“market forces,” Castelo urged local oil producers to follow the law and acknowledge the market dynamics.
According to Castelo, failure to acknowledge the market forces virtually renders the oil deregulation lawmeaningless, allowing the domestic oil firms to become “greedy” in amassing more profits at the expense of theFilipino people. 30
Monday, August 8, 2011
QC SOLON REJECTS VOTE RECOUNT IN COMELEC-DOJ PROBE OF ELECTORAL FRAUD IN 2004 PRESIDENTIAL POLLS
A Quezon City lawmaker today rejected the proposed vote recount of the 2004 presidential polls and urged the joint Commission on Elections (Comelec) and Department of Justice (DoJ) team to focus instead its investigation solely on the alleged poll irregularities committed by the camp of ex-president and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
In a press statement, Rep. Winnie Castelo (2nd District, Quezon City) said a vote recount proposed by certain quarters would be unnecessary to establish the actual winner of the 2004 presidential elections, but stressed that the official probe on alleged electoral fraud by Mrs. Arroyo and her allies would be sufficient and sustainable.
“The clamor to pursue a vote recount would be totally costly, laborious and impractical,” Castelo said. “The proposed vote recount would only to divert the attention of the Comelec-DoJ team from its mandate of probing electoral fraud.”
Castelo made the statement as new witnesses have emerged to provide new pieces of evidence and corroborate earlier testimonies of other witnesses that Mrs. Arroyo’s camp had indeed cheated to make her win in 2004.
But certain quarters identified with Mrs. Arroyo rejected the official Comelec-DoJ investigation and argued strongly that only a vote recount would establish the winner of the 2004 presidential elections.
“We need a closure on a controversial issue of tremendous magnitude and importance,” said Castelo, a neophyte lawmaker, who claimed to have perceived what he felt a “groundswell of popular support” for a probe on the alleged electoral fraud by Mrs. Arroyo and her allies.
Castelo said the nation’s inability to put a closure on nagging political issues has been a stumbling block towards the attainment of political stability.
At the same time, Castelo warned that any official probe declaring the late movie actor Fernando Poe Jr. as the winner of the 2004 presidential polls could lead to devastating consequences for Mrs. Arroyo and her family, saying the nation should prepare itself for what he a “reversal of fortune” that would have no precedent in the country’s political history.
“We have to treat the issue of electoral fraud in 2004 presidential elections with urgency,” Castelo said, as he stressed it has attained dimensions of becoming a political question that requires immediate settlement.
“Contrary to claims of other quarters, Mr. Poe’s death does not make the issue moot and academic. The probe could continue without the participation of the presidential candidate, who was allegedly cheated in 2004,” Castelo said.
“The persons, who claimed to have been part of the alleged fraud, are around and willing to give their testimonies before an appropriate forum. We have to welcome them and listen to what they want to say,” Castelo said. 30
In a press statement, Rep. Winnie Castelo (2nd District, Quezon City) said a vote recount proposed by certain quarters would be unnecessary to establish the actual winner of the 2004 presidential elections, but stressed that the official probe on alleged electoral fraud by Mrs. Arroyo and her allies would be sufficient and sustainable.
“The clamor to pursue a vote recount would be totally costly, laborious and impractical,” Castelo said. “The proposed vote recount would only to divert the attention of the Comelec-DoJ team from its mandate of probing electoral fraud.”
Castelo made the statement as new witnesses have emerged to provide new pieces of evidence and corroborate earlier testimonies of other witnesses that Mrs. Arroyo’s camp had indeed cheated to make her win in 2004.
But certain quarters identified with Mrs. Arroyo rejected the official Comelec-DoJ investigation and argued strongly that only a vote recount would establish the winner of the 2004 presidential elections.
“We need a closure on a controversial issue of tremendous magnitude and importance,” said Castelo, a neophyte lawmaker, who claimed to have perceived what he felt a “groundswell of popular support” for a probe on the alleged electoral fraud by Mrs. Arroyo and her allies.
Castelo said the nation’s inability to put a closure on nagging political issues has been a stumbling block towards the attainment of political stability.
At the same time, Castelo warned that any official probe declaring the late movie actor Fernando Poe Jr. as the winner of the 2004 presidential polls could lead to devastating consequences for Mrs. Arroyo and her family, saying the nation should prepare itself for what he a “reversal of fortune” that would have no precedent in the country’s political history.
“We have to treat the issue of electoral fraud in 2004 presidential elections with urgency,” Castelo said, as he stressed it has attained dimensions of becoming a political question that requires immediate settlement.
“Contrary to claims of other quarters, Mr. Poe’s death does not make the issue moot and academic. The probe could continue without the participation of the presidential candidate, who was allegedly cheated in 2004,” Castelo said.
“The persons, who claimed to have been part of the alleged fraud, are around and willing to give their testimonies before an appropriate forum. We have to welcome them and listen to what they want to say,” Castelo said. 30
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Castelo: “Let House inquire on alleged ‘ballot switching’ in 2005”
In a bid to train the spotlight away from the House of Representatives with the recent expose of Senior Supt. Rafael Santiago and his men of switching ballot boxes right at the Batasan Complex on orders of his superior, Rep. Winston “Winnie” Castelo of Quezon City today filed unnumbered House Resolution.
In that resolution, Castelo wants the three House Committees on Government and Public Accountability, Public Order and Safety, and Committee on Suffrage and Electoral Reforms to jointly conduct a summary inquiry, in aid of legislation.
“This ‘ballot switching’ in so far as it was undertaken right at the heart of the Batasan Pambansa Complex puts the august body in the fertile ground of serious social stigma. If push turns to shove, we might expect to discover a well-orchestrated system of electoral fraud perpetuated supposed-to-be highly accountable public officials,” Castelo pointed out.
In his resolution, Castelo said, “the House of Representatives can muster courage and marshal its wisdom toward a summary inquiry into the true event of 2005 where ‘ballot switching’ at Batasan Pambansa complex is alleged to have been undertaken in the interest of truth”.
It seems that the solon has vented his dismay but otherwise believes that ‘electoral integrity’ is the most fundamental issue that confronts the Filipino people’.
“To my mind, let us just go through the democratic ritual of giving all stakeholders a fair chance to be heard in a public hearing that may be called for the purpose so that it will also erase any doubt in the public mind that Congress as an institution is in cahoots,”, Castelo added.
“All told, this is in keeping with P-Noy’s moral crusade to rid bureaucracy of the wangwang culture”, Castelo finally pointed out. 30
In that resolution, Castelo wants the three House Committees on Government and Public Accountability, Public Order and Safety, and Committee on Suffrage and Electoral Reforms to jointly conduct a summary inquiry, in aid of legislation.
“This ‘ballot switching’ in so far as it was undertaken right at the heart of the Batasan Pambansa Complex puts the august body in the fertile ground of serious social stigma. If push turns to shove, we might expect to discover a well-orchestrated system of electoral fraud perpetuated supposed-to-be highly accountable public officials,” Castelo pointed out.
In his resolution, Castelo said, “the House of Representatives can muster courage and marshal its wisdom toward a summary inquiry into the true event of 2005 where ‘ballot switching’ at Batasan Pambansa complex is alleged to have been undertaken in the interest of truth”.
It seems that the solon has vented his dismay but otherwise believes that ‘electoral integrity’ is the most fundamental issue that confronts the Filipino people’.
“To my mind, let us just go through the democratic ritual of giving all stakeholders a fair chance to be heard in a public hearing that may be called for the purpose so that it will also erase any doubt in the public mind that Congress as an institution is in cahoots,”, Castelo added.
“All told, this is in keeping with P-Noy’s moral crusade to rid bureaucracy of the wangwang culture”, Castelo finally pointed out. 30
Thursday, July 28, 2011
“Solon shocked with PNP’s glide in global peace index” – Castelo
Alarmed with the 2010 Global Peace Index survey result of the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) finding the Philippines in the 130th place of 149 countries, Rep. Winston “Winnie” Castelo feels compelled to call for the full reorganization of Philippine National Police.
“There is obviously a very serious problem that has plagued the PNP that effectively rendered its mantra ‘to serve and to protect’ pure fiction. The current state this organization is in only reflects an irreversible case of doctrinal dysfunction that Congress in exercise of its oversight function should immediately look into”, the QC solon strongly pointed out.
Apparently, Philippines slid down 10 rungs lower from its 2009 ranking based on 23 indicators used to determine or measure the peace and order situation in the country. According to Castelo, this only means that before the eyes of the world, be them – academics, businessmen, philanthropists, or members of peace institutions – this country of ours is in real bad shape.
“What this most recent ranking is telling us is the indisputable fact that the PNP as an organization has ceased to perform at par. With poor and dismal scores in perceived criminality, violent crime, intensity of internal conflicts, respect for human rights, potential for terrorist acts, likelihood of violent demonstrations and ease of access to small arms and light weapons, it is of little wonder then that the PNP is in a complete state of decay”, Castelo further argued.
“This global peace index necessarily defines PNP’s present location in relation to its mandated duty to curb criminality, violence, crimes against persons or property, kidnap-for-ransom, communist insurgency and the like. And the way anyone will have to see it is the sad fact that it has become a complete failure”, Castelo pointed out.
The administrator solon seems bent on calling for a thorough investigation on this frightening position in the global chart which should be the concerns proper to the PNP and maybe the AFP.
“I hate to think that the PNP showcases the Philippines in an extremely bad light in the world scene as the 19th worst country in the world in terms of peace and order. And so therefore, it is only a serious security concern that has to be dealt with. No wonder, police officers themselves fool their own organization by passing off as brand new otherwise used or second hand helicopters and accepting intelligence funds from PCSO as if they were bribes”, Castelo said. 30
“There is obviously a very serious problem that has plagued the PNP that effectively rendered its mantra ‘to serve and to protect’ pure fiction. The current state this organization is in only reflects an irreversible case of doctrinal dysfunction that Congress in exercise of its oversight function should immediately look into”, the QC solon strongly pointed out.
Apparently, Philippines slid down 10 rungs lower from its 2009 ranking based on 23 indicators used to determine or measure the peace and order situation in the country. According to Castelo, this only means that before the eyes of the world, be them – academics, businessmen, philanthropists, or members of peace institutions – this country of ours is in real bad shape.
“What this most recent ranking is telling us is the indisputable fact that the PNP as an organization has ceased to perform at par. With poor and dismal scores in perceived criminality, violent crime, intensity of internal conflicts, respect for human rights, potential for terrorist acts, likelihood of violent demonstrations and ease of access to small arms and light weapons, it is of little wonder then that the PNP is in a complete state of decay”, Castelo further argued.
“This global peace index necessarily defines PNP’s present location in relation to its mandated duty to curb criminality, violence, crimes against persons or property, kidnap-for-ransom, communist insurgency and the like. And the way anyone will have to see it is the sad fact that it has become a complete failure”, Castelo pointed out.
The administrator solon seems bent on calling for a thorough investigation on this frightening position in the global chart which should be the concerns proper to the PNP and maybe the AFP.
“I hate to think that the PNP showcases the Philippines in an extremely bad light in the world scene as the 19th worst country in the world in terms of peace and order. And so therefore, it is only a serious security concern that has to be dealt with. No wonder, police officers themselves fool their own organization by passing off as brand new otherwise used or second hand helicopters and accepting intelligence funds from PCSO as if they were bribes”, Castelo said. 30
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Castelo: “no STL in QC”
In the face of impending disclosure of names of House Members allegedly receiving the 2.25% of net receipts generated by operators of the small-town lottery (STL), Rep. Winston “Winnie” Castelo is first to vent – unequivocably – that any allusion that might be made is entirely bereft of truth since then QC local chief executive now House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte did not allow STL operations in the city.
“As a matter of fact, the would-be STL operators even brought the case to court questioning the policy of then QC Mayor Feliciano Belmonte but all to naught since the court sided with the wishes of the city mayor. That alone makes it impossible for any allusion to be made that some House Members have been in the ‘payroll’ of STL operators since they are banned from operating in QC in the first place”, Castelo pointed out.
“For the sake of truth and justice, it should be properly disclosed if the whole of QC has ever been a test area for STL since, historically enough, it has failed to secure the approval and authority of the City Mayor to operate unless of course these have operated underground and without one knowing them”, the QC solon emphasized.
“Certainly, PCSO doesn’t have to give any share of that 2.25% monthly payoff to anyone in areas where the STL cannot operate because precisely it was never allowed by the then city mayor and more so by the courts”, Castelo finally pointed out. 30
“As a matter of fact, the would-be STL operators even brought the case to court questioning the policy of then QC Mayor Feliciano Belmonte but all to naught since the court sided with the wishes of the city mayor. That alone makes it impossible for any allusion to be made that some House Members have been in the ‘payroll’ of STL operators since they are banned from operating in QC in the first place”, Castelo pointed out.
“For the sake of truth and justice, it should be properly disclosed if the whole of QC has ever been a test area for STL since, historically enough, it has failed to secure the approval and authority of the City Mayor to operate unless of course these have operated underground and without one knowing them”, the QC solon emphasized.
“Certainly, PCSO doesn’t have to give any share of that 2.25% monthly payoff to anyone in areas where the STL cannot operate because precisely it was never allowed by the then city mayor and more so by the courts”, Castelo finally pointed out. 30
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
“Solon bats lower interconnection charges” – Castelo
In a bid to roll down interconnection charges pegged by all telecommunication companies to 85 million mobile phone users, Rep. Winston “Winnie” Castelo of Quezon City today filed House Bill No. 4939.
The QC solon bats for lower interconnection charges in the context that prevailing calling or texting rates within and across networks are one of the highest in the Asia Pacific Region. In his proposal, Castelo wants the prevailing P4 per minute of voice call be reduced to as low as P1, the text message reduced by half, and landline charge from P2 to P1. This way, the millions of subscribers and patrons of various telecom companies or networks will derive more value for their money.
‘With consumers saving P3 for voice calls and when text messages or landline charges are reduced by half as much, I think that subscribers and patrons will experience unrestricted access and in a substantial way, empower them with unlimited calls, texts and even internet. It shall be a welcome development in mobile communication and information in the country”, Castelo pointed out.
“The lives of tens of millions of the Filipino people have long been affected by some kind of predatory pricing in the telecommunication industry due to the almost monopolistic practices by leading telecom giants to the detriment of new emerging and minor players. Note here that not only the 85 million consumers will benefit but equally so with new telecom players”, Castelo pointed out.
“Millions of Filipino callers or subscribers will finally enjoy cheap and affordable call and text rates, intra or inter networks, since these reduced rates effectively removed access barriers between one network to another. Besides, can we recall a time when we, as subscribers, can demand refund for charging rates that should have been found as overpriced precisely because telecom networks are not being regulated?”, the lawmaker asked.
“In the bill’s main text, the schedule for reduced interconnection rates shall take three (3) years to implement and this staggered scheme is meant to allow the telecommunication companies affected to absorb whatever resulting impact it may have on their billing systems, business models, or revenue concerns. In other words, the government is not really flexing regulatory muscle to push them into a position of disadvantage”, Castelo reasoned out.
“On the other hand, we have a patronizing 85 million subscribers who should also have every right to get their monies’ worth given otherwise very inhibitive or limited bundles of benefits from these leading telecom giants like Globe or Smart or whatever especially under a climate of constricted competition”, the QC solon said.
“We should remember that for so long a time, the interconnection charges pegged by the telecom networks themselves independent of any NTC interference as would regulate pricing have gone a long sway beneficial to their business than to social benefits that should accrue to the consumers. This time, we want some kind of corporate social responsibility translates into giving back to consumers more ‘bundles of joy’ at fairly more affordable and reasonable rates for voice calls, text messages, and mobile to landline connections”, Castelo added.
Additionally, Castelo clarified that the prescribed reduced rates are being institutionalized to allow NTC to fully implement its proposal to these major telecom players and new and emerging ones.
“Let us look at this congressional action as actually just leveling the playing field”, Castelo finally quipped. 30
The QC solon bats for lower interconnection charges in the context that prevailing calling or texting rates within and across networks are one of the highest in the Asia Pacific Region. In his proposal, Castelo wants the prevailing P4 per minute of voice call be reduced to as low as P1, the text message reduced by half, and landline charge from P2 to P1. This way, the millions of subscribers and patrons of various telecom companies or networks will derive more value for their money.
‘With consumers saving P3 for voice calls and when text messages or landline charges are reduced by half as much, I think that subscribers and patrons will experience unrestricted access and in a substantial way, empower them with unlimited calls, texts and even internet. It shall be a welcome development in mobile communication and information in the country”, Castelo pointed out.
“The lives of tens of millions of the Filipino people have long been affected by some kind of predatory pricing in the telecommunication industry due to the almost monopolistic practices by leading telecom giants to the detriment of new emerging and minor players. Note here that not only the 85 million consumers will benefit but equally so with new telecom players”, Castelo pointed out.
“Millions of Filipino callers or subscribers will finally enjoy cheap and affordable call and text rates, intra or inter networks, since these reduced rates effectively removed access barriers between one network to another. Besides, can we recall a time when we, as subscribers, can demand refund for charging rates that should have been found as overpriced precisely because telecom networks are not being regulated?”, the lawmaker asked.
“In the bill’s main text, the schedule for reduced interconnection rates shall take three (3) years to implement and this staggered scheme is meant to allow the telecommunication companies affected to absorb whatever resulting impact it may have on their billing systems, business models, or revenue concerns. In other words, the government is not really flexing regulatory muscle to push them into a position of disadvantage”, Castelo reasoned out.
“On the other hand, we have a patronizing 85 million subscribers who should also have every right to get their monies’ worth given otherwise very inhibitive or limited bundles of benefits from these leading telecom giants like Globe or Smart or whatever especially under a climate of constricted competition”, the QC solon said.
“We should remember that for so long a time, the interconnection charges pegged by the telecom networks themselves independent of any NTC interference as would regulate pricing have gone a long sway beneficial to their business than to social benefits that should accrue to the consumers. This time, we want some kind of corporate social responsibility translates into giving back to consumers more ‘bundles of joy’ at fairly more affordable and reasonable rates for voice calls, text messages, and mobile to landline connections”, Castelo added.
Additionally, Castelo clarified that the prescribed reduced rates are being institutionalized to allow NTC to fully implement its proposal to these major telecom players and new and emerging ones.
“Let us look at this congressional action as actually just leveling the playing field”, Castelo finally quipped. 30
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
CASTELO EYES MEGA LOTTO WINNERS AS GOV’T PARTNERS IN SOLVING EDUCATION, HOUSING WOES
QUEZON City Rep. Winston ‘Winnie’ Castelo has found an innovative way to fund pro-poor government projects without raising new taxes.
Castelo recently filed House Bill 4774, a measure that will mandate every winner of grand mega lotto to contribute 20 percent of the pot to the education and housing programs of the government.
Of the 20 percent, 10 goes to housing while the other 10 goes to education, Castelo explained.
Castelo said the bill is only for the high lotto prize winners. The small prizes are not affected by the bill, he added.
“Before one gets confused, I would like to clarify that the bill would affect only winners of the grand mega lotto. It does not cover winners of small lotto prizes,” Castelo said.
Considering the huge money that mega lotto winners get, Castelo believe the instant millioners would agree to allot a small share of their millions to projects that would benefit the poor, particularly housing and education.
Castelo pointed out that problems on education and housing remain unsolved in the country due to lack of funding.
But with his proposal, Castelo said grand mega lotto winners can be an instant partner of the government in fighting homelessness and promoting education in the country.
“A few hundred thousand pesos would be more than enough to build additional classrooms or build some socialized housing units for our homeless countrymen,” Castelo said.
“There is no better way of giving thanks for a huge blessing than engaging in a humanitarian endeavor such as helping the poor,” Castelo added. 30
Castelo recently filed House Bill 4774, a measure that will mandate every winner of grand mega lotto to contribute 20 percent of the pot to the education and housing programs of the government.
Of the 20 percent, 10 goes to housing while the other 10 goes to education, Castelo explained.
Castelo said the bill is only for the high lotto prize winners. The small prizes are not affected by the bill, he added.
“Before one gets confused, I would like to clarify that the bill would affect only winners of the grand mega lotto. It does not cover winners of small lotto prizes,” Castelo said.
Considering the huge money that mega lotto winners get, Castelo believe the instant millioners would agree to allot a small share of their millions to projects that would benefit the poor, particularly housing and education.
Castelo pointed out that problems on education and housing remain unsolved in the country due to lack of funding.
But with his proposal, Castelo said grand mega lotto winners can be an instant partner of the government in fighting homelessness and promoting education in the country.
“A few hundred thousand pesos would be more than enough to build additional classrooms or build some socialized housing units for our homeless countrymen,” Castelo said.
“There is no better way of giving thanks for a huge blessing than engaging in a humanitarian endeavor such as helping the poor,” Castelo added. 30
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
“Solon urged ‘Pantawid Matrikula’ for urban poor” – Castelo
Recent developments in the delivery of social services indicate patterns of distribution to beneficiaries in the various sectors of society from the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or so-called 4Ps of P-Noy.
For instance, the latest disbursements under the 4Ps are the Pantawid Pasada for jeepney drivers as well as tricycle drivers. More recently, free birth certificate registrations were given to several families as children-beneficiaries of this program launched by DSWD for the whole month of May 2011.
In a bid to extend the 4Ps to other sectors, especially the most marginalized youth whose parents cannot afford to let their children go to school, Rep. Winston “Winnie” Castelo of Quezon City today proposed a “Pantawid Matrikula” for all children of the urban poor to avail of financial assistance or in the form of books or scholarships to deserving students or poor families.
“I think that we can likewise train our focus in the delivery of social services on the youth especially children or students who can ill afford to be sent to school by their parents who live below the poverty line. This way, government intervention will be rendered more meaningful since through education, most young people will be able to overcome poverty and lift up their living standards in the immediate future”, the QC solon said.
According to Castelo, since poverty is a temporary barrier, it will do well for government to address such concerns in the area of education because of its more lasting impact to fully address the economic plight of the urban poor.
“If we are able to educate them or help them acquire a college education and be gainfully employed, then we would have solved the problem of poverty and in fact, stopped this vicious cycle from recurring. With at least 2 to 3 children in a family enabled to acquire a college education, we would have solved poverty among the ranks of the urban poor,” Castelo strongly pointed out.
“I trust that P-Noy or the appropriate agency of government can soon launch this ‘Pantawid Matrikula’ in time for the opening of the school year on June next month hence the urgency of this personal call,” Castelo finally quipped. 30
For instance, the latest disbursements under the 4Ps are the Pantawid Pasada for jeepney drivers as well as tricycle drivers. More recently, free birth certificate registrations were given to several families as children-beneficiaries of this program launched by DSWD for the whole month of May 2011.
In a bid to extend the 4Ps to other sectors, especially the most marginalized youth whose parents cannot afford to let their children go to school, Rep. Winston “Winnie” Castelo of Quezon City today proposed a “Pantawid Matrikula” for all children of the urban poor to avail of financial assistance or in the form of books or scholarships to deserving students or poor families.
“I think that we can likewise train our focus in the delivery of social services on the youth especially children or students who can ill afford to be sent to school by their parents who live below the poverty line. This way, government intervention will be rendered more meaningful since through education, most young people will be able to overcome poverty and lift up their living standards in the immediate future”, the QC solon said.
According to Castelo, since poverty is a temporary barrier, it will do well for government to address such concerns in the area of education because of its more lasting impact to fully address the economic plight of the urban poor.
“If we are able to educate them or help them acquire a college education and be gainfully employed, then we would have solved the problem of poverty and in fact, stopped this vicious cycle from recurring. With at least 2 to 3 children in a family enabled to acquire a college education, we would have solved poverty among the ranks of the urban poor,” Castelo strongly pointed out.
“I trust that P-Noy or the appropriate agency of government can soon launch this ‘Pantawid Matrikula’ in time for the opening of the school year on June next month hence the urgency of this personal call,” Castelo finally quipped. 30
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
“Trash Oil Deregulation Law” – Winnie Castelo
In response to the government’s threat to sue oil firms for overprice, Rep. Winnie Castelo has this to say, “Mere review of the Oil Deregulation Law will not lower oil prices, not even filing of charges against the three oil cartels cannot legally compel them to decrease their oil rates. Unless we repeal the Oil Deregulation Law, major players could always argue pegging their prices against prevailing market forces.”
The QC Solon today joins other lawmakers who moved for the repeal of the oil deregulation law amidst a series of oil price hikes perpetrated by the three big companies.
In response to proposal to review the oil pricing formula, Castelo had this to say, “A mere review of oil prices cannot lower its cost. It’s time to repeal the oil deregulation law to enable the government to regulate once again oil prices”.
Apparently, RA 8479 failed to yield the desired results of a truly competitive market that would result in fair prices and adequate supply of oil and petroleum products.
“As of now, we are at the mercy of the three big oil cartels in pegging prices of crude oil,” the QC solon pointed out. According to Castelo, many stakeholders or 6 out of 10 Filipinos already favor the repeal of the oil deregulation scheme.
“With the strong positions in the oil industry of the top 3 players, Shell, Petron and Chevron and in fact, their possible collusion to dictate prices, the intent of the RA 8479 of a free market competition is systematically defeated. We have produced oligopolies instead”, Castelo finally pointed out.
“The Filipino people in general are the principal stakeholders whenever oil prices keep on changing and therefore, government should step in to effect the necessary safeguards against cartel, monopoly and unfair market competition”, the administration lawmaker said. 30
The QC Solon today joins other lawmakers who moved for the repeal of the oil deregulation law amidst a series of oil price hikes perpetrated by the three big companies.
In response to proposal to review the oil pricing formula, Castelo had this to say, “A mere review of oil prices cannot lower its cost. It’s time to repeal the oil deregulation law to enable the government to regulate once again oil prices”.
Apparently, RA 8479 failed to yield the desired results of a truly competitive market that would result in fair prices and adequate supply of oil and petroleum products.
“As of now, we are at the mercy of the three big oil cartels in pegging prices of crude oil,” the QC solon pointed out. According to Castelo, many stakeholders or 6 out of 10 Filipinos already favor the repeal of the oil deregulation scheme.
“With the strong positions in the oil industry of the top 3 players, Shell, Petron and Chevron and in fact, their possible collusion to dictate prices, the intent of the RA 8479 of a free market competition is systematically defeated. We have produced oligopolies instead”, Castelo finally pointed out.
“The Filipino people in general are the principal stakeholders whenever oil prices keep on changing and therefore, government should step in to effect the necessary safeguards against cartel, monopoly and unfair market competition”, the administration lawmaker said. 30
Saturday, March 19, 2011
“Solon bats perpetual closure of BNPP” – Castelo
In an urgent resolution, Rep. Winston “Winnie” Castelo today calls for the closing down of Bataan Nuclear Power Plant which no single president since its construction has decided to commission and operate as alternative source of energy.
“I urgently call for the final and perpetual closure of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant and an absolute moratorium on any other nuclear power plant to be constructed in Philippine territory since the lessons of history are too clear to be ignored”, the QC solon said.
Apparently, mothballed BNPP is built along major fault lines and proximate to Mount Pinatubo which actually erupted in recent past causing massive lahar explosion in the area.
“Inasmuch as all the chips are in place, meaning, we have fully paid this $2.3 project; reimbursed NAPOCOR the amount of P4.2 billion for maintaining it since it was mothballed; and that we are updated in paying P40 million a year for its maintenance, it may then behoove upon us to consider all the aggregate expenditures as one of “sunk costs” that we cannot nor need to recover anymore”, the lawmaker argued.
A portion of the resolution of Castelo thus reads, “… due to the clear and present danger of a disaster of unseen magnitude that could be caused by a nuclear meltdown or fall out since the absolute safety of such a nuclear power plant is beyond the care of man when natural disasters trigger nuclear explosions, it then behooves upon Congress to weigh in the overall social and economic benefits of its final and perpetual closure and absolute moratorium on any nuclear power plant ranged against purely financial or accounting costs”.
“Suffice that I am one of those who embrace the belief that it is far better to place the highest value to human life than what could only be a viable but dangerous source of alternative electricity especially in clear consideration of the dangers of a possible meltdown or fall out since plant was built in a coastal area where human settlements are placed in clear danger of an unforeseen nuclear explosions”, Castelo finally pointed out. 30
“I urgently call for the final and perpetual closure of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant and an absolute moratorium on any other nuclear power plant to be constructed in Philippine territory since the lessons of history are too clear to be ignored”, the QC solon said.
Apparently, mothballed BNPP is built along major fault lines and proximate to Mount Pinatubo which actually erupted in recent past causing massive lahar explosion in the area.
“Inasmuch as all the chips are in place, meaning, we have fully paid this $2.3 project; reimbursed NAPOCOR the amount of P4.2 billion for maintaining it since it was mothballed; and that we are updated in paying P40 million a year for its maintenance, it may then behoove upon us to consider all the aggregate expenditures as one of “sunk costs” that we cannot nor need to recover anymore”, the lawmaker argued.
A portion of the resolution of Castelo thus reads, “… due to the clear and present danger of a disaster of unseen magnitude that could be caused by a nuclear meltdown or fall out since the absolute safety of such a nuclear power plant is beyond the care of man when natural disasters trigger nuclear explosions, it then behooves upon Congress to weigh in the overall social and economic benefits of its final and perpetual closure and absolute moratorium on any nuclear power plant ranged against purely financial or accounting costs”.
“Suffice that I am one of those who embrace the belief that it is far better to place the highest value to human life than what could only be a viable but dangerous source of alternative electricity especially in clear consideration of the dangers of a possible meltdown or fall out since plant was built in a coastal area where human settlements are placed in clear danger of an unforeseen nuclear explosions”, Castelo finally pointed out. 30
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Castelo on P-Noy’s image problem
P-Noy has been the target of much criticism again especially that his latest poll surveys indicate a two-digit plunge thus confirming perception that his performance is below par.
In response to this, Rep. Winston “Winnie” Castelo of Quezon City had this to say, “It’s time for the President to explain his work ethic to the public to remove misconception of his lifestyle that has been the butt of ridicule even before elections”, Castelo strongly argued.
It can be recalled that then President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has always downplayed poll survey results that likewise present poor trust and satisfaction ratings of her presidency.
And P-Noy is not exempted from this predicament since it is part of the territory.
“I believe there should be concrete aggressive steps to correct this image. But portraying him as working president should be equated with actions. Mere lip-service and press statements are insufficient”, said the administration lawmaker.
“You cannot fake efficiency to the highest position in the land where public eye is focused on him”, Castelo finally quipped. 30
In response to this, Rep. Winston “Winnie” Castelo of Quezon City had this to say, “It’s time for the President to explain his work ethic to the public to remove misconception of his lifestyle that has been the butt of ridicule even before elections”, Castelo strongly argued.
It can be recalled that then President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has always downplayed poll survey results that likewise present poor trust and satisfaction ratings of her presidency.
And P-Noy is not exempted from this predicament since it is part of the territory.
“I believe there should be concrete aggressive steps to correct this image. But portraying him as working president should be equated with actions. Mere lip-service and press statements are insufficient”, said the administration lawmaker.
“You cannot fake efficiency to the highest position in the land where public eye is focused on him”, Castelo finally quipped. 30
Friday, March 4, 2011
Solon lauds efforts of government to OFW-evacuees – Castelo
In a statement, Rep. Winston “Winnie” Castelo lauds the efforts undertaken by various concerned government offices showing full support and assistance to all OFWs in Libya caught in the ensuing strife who have decided to leave for the Philippines.
“Altruistically, every Filipino must be more concerned with the threat to life and limb than some false hopes that the worsening strife will soon subside down and therefore they can decide to stay if only to keep their jobs from their foreign employers,” Castelo pointed out.
“The whole business of concerned government agencies is to reach out, extend a help, and secure all OFWs who have realized the urgent need to go back to the Philippines at this point in time”, the solon said.
Apparently, some positive actions have been undertaken by the DFA, the OWA, the DOLE, and the POEA to cushion off the impact of this unfateful development, according to Castelo.
“It is hoped that there would be a sustained and smooth system of getting our OFWs from Libya without the possibility of getting caught in a crossfire or incurring any single casualty”, the QC solon explained. 30
“Altruistically, every Filipino must be more concerned with the threat to life and limb than some false hopes that the worsening strife will soon subside down and therefore they can decide to stay if only to keep their jobs from their foreign employers,” Castelo pointed out.
“The whole business of concerned government agencies is to reach out, extend a help, and secure all OFWs who have realized the urgent need to go back to the Philippines at this point in time”, the solon said.
Apparently, some positive actions have been undertaken by the DFA, the OWA, the DOLE, and the POEA to cushion off the impact of this unfateful development, according to Castelo.
“It is hoped that there would be a sustained and smooth system of getting our OFWs from Libya without the possibility of getting caught in a crossfire or incurring any single casualty”, the QC solon explained. 30
Friday, February 25, 2011
Solon bat for permanent freeze in LRT/MRT fare rates
In the face of an imminent implementation of new fare rates for LRT and MRT, a lot of ruckus is created. This is why Rep. Winston “Winnie” Castelo today calls for something than mere postponement.
“Rather than a mere deferment in the implementation of new fare adjustment rates on MRT and LRT, why can’t we propose instead of a permanent freeze in order not to disrupt the equilibrium that a constant shift in pricing could cause”, Castelo strongly pointed out.
Apparently, when user’s fees on LRT or MRT are adjusted, it creates an uproar from the general public dependent on these mass transport systems. But the QC solon has a different take on the matter.
“After all, it is within the absorptive capacity of the government to subsidize our mass transport systems, albeit run and operated by the private sector. As one of few basic public utilities that Filipinos have to fully enjoy, a State-subsidized mass transport systems do have social and economic benefits that far outweigh the costs government incur to keep them in operation”, Castelo said.
According to Castelo, it is interesting to note that the LRTA opted to grant 20% off to students using the facility, if and when, new fare hikes will be implemented.
“With a proposed permanent freeze, shift in fare rates allowed every two years, would no longer be necessary on the part of the franchisee like LRT or MRT. I think that a more studied review of the return on investment can justify this policy window that we are looking at”, Castelo finally quipped. 30
“Rather than a mere deferment in the implementation of new fare adjustment rates on MRT and LRT, why can’t we propose instead of a permanent freeze in order not to disrupt the equilibrium that a constant shift in pricing could cause”, Castelo strongly pointed out.
Apparently, when user’s fees on LRT or MRT are adjusted, it creates an uproar from the general public dependent on these mass transport systems. But the QC solon has a different take on the matter.
“After all, it is within the absorptive capacity of the government to subsidize our mass transport systems, albeit run and operated by the private sector. As one of few basic public utilities that Filipinos have to fully enjoy, a State-subsidized mass transport systems do have social and economic benefits that far outweigh the costs government incur to keep them in operation”, Castelo said.
According to Castelo, it is interesting to note that the LRTA opted to grant 20% off to students using the facility, if and when, new fare hikes will be implemented.
“With a proposed permanent freeze, shift in fare rates allowed every two years, would no longer be necessary on the part of the franchisee like LRT or MRT. I think that a more studied review of the return on investment can justify this policy window that we are looking at”, Castelo finally quipped. 30
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
QC solon lauds MMDA on proposed bus lane
The new bus lane proposed by MMDA along the 12.4 kilometer long Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City to bring down the 57% statistics of accidents along this widest highway in the country found adherence in Rep. Winnie Castelo who represents this second legislative district.
“I find it commendable that the MMDA has initiated the installation of more CCTV cameras in addition to only three cameras so far installed for the purpose of monitoring the flow of traffic, recording violations committed by motorists, and bringing down number of road mishaps”, Castelo says in a statement.
It will be recalled that in response to an earlier vehicular accident involving a speeding bus that rammed the Pajero and killed its passengers, the Quezon City solon moved for a well-integrated plan to make the whole stretch of Commonwealth Avenue, otherwise known as ‘killer highway’ as an ‘Accident-Free Zone’. “This will require the help and cooperation of homeowners associations, private individuals and organizations, and concerned government agencies”, Castelo says.
“By making bus drivers and other motorists aware that CCTV cameras are placed in strategic areas, they will be compelled to follow road safety and courtesy. More importantly, since another lane will be dedicated for buses in this 10 to 18 lane highway with concrete separator, then this will effectively prevent if not totally stop overtaking or excessive lane-changing which are the major reasons for deaths and injuries from vehicular accidents based on a UP transport study”, Castelo further explains.
According to the lawmaker, if MMDA can afford to put up 25 cameras along EDSA then, it can also increase the CCTV cameras along Commonwealth Avenue proportionately at least to compensate for the limited footbridges put up along the entire Commonwealth Avenue of only 4 footbridges, all in all.
“Let us make Commonwealth Avenue a friendly highway and an accident-free zone in this part of Quezon City”, Castelo finally quips. 30
“I find it commendable that the MMDA has initiated the installation of more CCTV cameras in addition to only three cameras so far installed for the purpose of monitoring the flow of traffic, recording violations committed by motorists, and bringing down number of road mishaps”, Castelo says in a statement.
It will be recalled that in response to an earlier vehicular accident involving a speeding bus that rammed the Pajero and killed its passengers, the Quezon City solon moved for a well-integrated plan to make the whole stretch of Commonwealth Avenue, otherwise known as ‘killer highway’ as an ‘Accident-Free Zone’. “This will require the help and cooperation of homeowners associations, private individuals and organizations, and concerned government agencies”, Castelo says.
“By making bus drivers and other motorists aware that CCTV cameras are placed in strategic areas, they will be compelled to follow road safety and courtesy. More importantly, since another lane will be dedicated for buses in this 10 to 18 lane highway with concrete separator, then this will effectively prevent if not totally stop overtaking or excessive lane-changing which are the major reasons for deaths and injuries from vehicular accidents based on a UP transport study”, Castelo further explains.
According to the lawmaker, if MMDA can afford to put up 25 cameras along EDSA then, it can also increase the CCTV cameras along Commonwealth Avenue proportionately at least to compensate for the limited footbridges put up along the entire Commonwealth Avenue of only 4 footbridges, all in all.
“Let us make Commonwealth Avenue a friendly highway and an accident-free zone in this part of Quezon City”, Castelo finally quips. 30
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