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SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT OF DAVAO CITY
30 June 2011
Davao City Ecological Solid Waste Management Ordinance of 2009
(City Ordinance No. 0371-10)

Section 10. Mandatory Segregation of Solid Waste - The segregation of waste at source by generators as household and all establishments is MANDATORY.
(Gikinihanglan o mandato ang paglain-lain sa basura sa panimalay ug sa tanang establisemento)

TYPES OF SOLID WASTE (Mga klase sa basura nga ilain-lain)

BIODEGRADABLE (Malata)

-Salin-salin o pan-os nga pagkaon
-Panit ug liso sa prutas ug gulay
-Linimpyo ug bukog sa isda, manok ug karne
-Dahon, sanga ug sagbot
-Hugaw sa hayop
-Patay nga hayop
-Tissue paper
-Barbecue stick
-Upos sa sigarilyo

RECYCLABLE (di-malata pero mapuslan pa)

-botelya, bakal, bildo ug samin
-goma o ligid
-uga nga papel, karton
-lata, plastic, aluminum cans

RESIDUAL (di-malata ug di na mapuslan)

-sanitary napkin, diaper
-daan nga karpet
-sudlanan nga hinimo sa polyvinyl chloride (pvc)
-mga tetra pack ug sachets o mga sudlanan sa candy ug shampoo

SPECIAL WASTES (di malata, di mapuslan)

-sudlanan ug pintura, thinner
-baterya, spray cans
-daot nag mga appliances, sale set ug awarder kung mga dagko nga butang

TYPE OF DISPOSAL

Biodegrable - Practice backyard composting or turn over to barangay

Recyclable - May sold to junk shops or turn over to barangay (MRF)

Residual & Special wastes - shall be thrown to the designated collection point only during throwing time (6:00-9:00pm - City Proper, major thoroughfares & National highway)

Section 47. Prohibited Acts

1. Littering, scattering, throwing and dumping of waste matters in public places.
7. Open burning of solid waste
8. None-segregation of solid waste. (Dili paglain-lain sa baser sa panimalay ug establisemento)
12. Open dumping, burying of solid waste in flood prone areas

Section 51. Citation ticket. Administrative fine.

Any person apprehended or cited for violation and does not wish to contest the violation shall be allowed to pay the fine within one (1) week from the issuance of citation ticket. Otherwise, a corresponding case shall be filed.

1st OFFENSE
Fine of P300.00 and mandatory seminar

2nd OFFENSE
Fine of P500.00 or 5-day community service

3rd OFFENSE
Fine of P1,000 or 10-day community service

*4th and succeeding offense shall be prosecuted in court
Sec. 48. Penalties. Maximum penalty is P5,000 or six (6) months imprisonment

SOURCE: Davao City Environment and Natural Resources Office

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By RPN Gensan
502 IP teachers naka deploy sa kabukiran sa Sangani Province

Gikumpirma ni Provincial  IPMR Benjamin Donato nga adunay 502 IP Teachers nga employed sa Department of education nga nakadeploy karon sa kabukiran kon Indigenous People community sa probinsiya sa Sarangani aron maoy motudlo sa kabataang lumad ug kini gipamatud n usab ni Dep ed Superintendent Jun Soliven atol sa IP Day karong adlawa dungan sa selebrasyon sa 17th Munato Festival ug 27th Foundation Anniversary.  Tumong niining dili maulahi ang  kabataang lumad sa natad sa pagkab -ot ug edukasyon ilabina kadtong nagpuyo sa bukirang bahin.  Gawas pa niini gilunsad usab ang Eteaching apps sa smart communications kon hightech nga pagtudlo sa kabataan uban sa mga partners para sa sulong edukasyon sa pamunuan ni Governor Steve chiongbian Solon.  Ang kindergarten hangtud grade 3 maoy makapahimulos sa maong mga electronic application uban sa mga teacher's nga ma aasign sa maong programa.  Sa pamahayag ni Governor Solon atol sa maong IP day nagkanayong wala siyay  laing gipangayo mao ang panaghiusa ug kalinaw para sa tanang katawhan sa probinsya IP lumad,  muslim ug kristyano.  Samtang gipasalamatan niini ang IPMR ug IPS kon indogenous political structure tungod sa mga lihok ug inisyatibo aron magkahiusa ang mga tribu para sa kalambuan.  Mitambong sa maong IP day ang tanang IPMR sa matag munisipyo gikan sa glan, malapatan,  alabel, malungon,  maasim,  kiamba ug maitum ug mga IPS . Samtang susamang mensahe ug panawagan usab ni Provincial Tribal Chieftain Edmund Pangilan paghiusa ug malinawon nga IP community.  Gipasalamatan niini ang liderato ni Governor Solon ilabina ang  programang sulong tribu maoy hinungdan nga nag level up up ang mga events sa Ip day.  Samtang Gipasalamatan  usab ng Smart communication ilabina si Miss Hydee Bernbe  ug kaubanan nga kanunay nga naa nagtabang  ilabina sa mga kalihokan sa tribu.  Special mention usab  si Fred Basino kanhi PIPMR tungod sa pag author sa IP code sa Sarangani nga karon maoy model sa ubang mga lugar.  Samtang agkahapon mao ang palaro ng katutubo sa capitol grounds nga adunay mga papremyo.  ( Ronel Degorio Rpn -dxdx Gensan)

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Press Statement
PRESS STATEMENT
29 November 2019

There are posts currently circulating online and being shared in various social networking services stating the Typhoon "KAMMURI" will be hitting the country as a "Super Typhoon". To prevent unwanted panic on the part of the public, we would like to make some clarifications.

The Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) of the United States uses 1 minute as wind averaging period for the estimation of maximum sustained winds near the center (MSW), while PAGASA and other meteorological centers in the Western North Pacific use the WMO recommended 10-minute averaging period. Shorter wind averaging periods yield higher wind estimates compared to longer averaging period. As such, MSW from JTWC are generally higher than PAGASA and other major meteorological centers.

Meteorological centers use different thresholds for classifying tropical cyclones as Super Typhoon. Since May 2015, PAGASA classifies a tropical cyclone as Super Typhoon when 10-minute MSW exceeds 220 km/h. Meanwhile, JTWC's Super Typhoon, when converted from 1 to 10-minute averaging, has MSW exceeding 185 km/h. This means that on a 10-minute averaging, JTWC has a lower threshold for classifying Super Typhoon than PAGASA.

Based on latest available data, Typhoon "KAMMURI" (local name: Typhoon "TISOY") is less likely to reach Super Typhoon category at this time, but this scenario is not yet ruled out as the Typhoon is forecast to steadily intensify before making landfall in Southern Luzon. Official information on this Typhoon is being released by PAGASA through the following official accounts:

Website: bagong.pagasa.dost.gov.ph
Facebook: Dost_pagasa
Twitter: @dost_pagasa
YouTube: DOST-PAGASA WEATHER REPORT

The public is advised to undertake precautionary measures, continue monitoring for updates and remain vigilant against unofficial information coming from unverified sources.

(Sgd.)
ESPERANZA O. CAYANAN, Ph.D.
Chief, Weather Division

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By RMN Gensan
DUHA PATAY HUMAN MAG-DWELO

General Santos City--- Patay ang duha ka katao human mag-dwelo sa Brgy. Lamfugon, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato. Kini ang gikumpirma ni Pol. Maj. Johnrick Medel, ang hepe sa Lake Sebu PNP.

Sumala niya nga migawas sa inisyal nilang imbestigasyon nga away sa yuta ang hinungdan sa pagdwelo sa duha ka tao nga nailang sila si Junie Mlaan, 32 anyos ug alyas Pee, 23 anyos.

Pamahayag niya nga gumikan sa kalayo sa lugar, mga patay'ng lawas nalang sa duha ang ilahang naabtan ug wala na ang mga armas nga gigamit.

Dugang pamahayag ni PMaj. Medel nga wala silay foul play nga nakit-an sa kamatayon sa duha kundili ang dwelo nga ilahang gihimo subay na usab sa pamahayag sa mga residente sa lugar.

Wala na matud pa narekober ang armas nga ilahang gigamit uig posibleng gikuha na sa ilahang mga kabanay. Gikonsidera na usab nilang case close ang kaso gumikan wala na silay mapasakaan ug kaso gumikan pareho man silang namatay.

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By RMN Radio
SARANGANI PROVINCE MAGSAULOG KARONG ADLAWA SA IKA-27 NGA FOUNDATION ANNIVERSARY

Ensakto baynte-syete (27) katuig karong adlawa ang kasumaran sa pagkamugna sa probinsya sa Sarangani human sa pagkahimulag niini sa South Cotabato. November 28, 1992 mao ang petsa kung diin unang nakaangkon og ginatawag nga "corporate existence" ang Provincial Government sa Sarangani pinaagi sa pagkapili sa unang mga provincial official gipangunahan kaniadto nila the late Congressman James Chiongbian ug the late Gobernadora Priscilla Chiongbian, mga apuhan ni Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon.

March 16, 1992 na-aprobahan ni Presidente Ferdinand Marcos ang balaod nga gipanday ni Congressman Chiongbian, ang Republic Act No. 7228 nga nagmugna sa Sarangani, adunay plebisito nga nahitabo ug pagka-Nobyembre nilingkod ang first set of provincial officials.

Lauman nga bisita karong adlawa sa anniversary program dungan sa selebrasyon usab sa ika-17 nga MunaTo Festival matigayon sa dakong stage nga gimuntar atubangan sa Kapitolyo sa Sarangani, ang pride sa Sarangani Province ug sa tibuok Pilipinas nga si Senador Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao, kuyog niini ang iyang igsoon nga si Congressman Ruel Pacquiao.

Pagasugdan alas singko sa kadlawon (5am) karong adlawa ang MunaTo Fun Run, ug musunod gayud dayon ang parada ug ang Employees Day sa tanang government workers sa probinsya ug sa pito (7) ka munisipyo. Pormal usab ablihan karong adlawa ang Municipal Village makita ang mga produkto ug destinasyon sa mga lungsod sa Sarangani, Craft Conference, Exhibition and Cultural Presentation sa mga kaigsoonang lumad ug Muslim, Sarangani Wildlife Museum sa ECPC, ug ang Flowerhorn and Beta Show Competition makita ang display sa nindot nga mga isda.

Karon pud mahitabo ang MunaTo Photo Contest paindigay sa nindot mukuha og mga larawan, Kulay Sarangan: Mural Showcase makita sa lobby sa Kapitolyo ang nindot nga mga gipinta nagpakita sa katahum sa Sarangani ug sa mga nanimuyo niini, ang tinuig pud nga Transport Summit alang sa transport sector, ug ang pagsugod sa MunaTo Youth Festival, may pa-boxing pa sulod sa Capitol Grounds.

Kagabii, daw mabungog ang Sarangani Capitol Gymnasium sa kadaghan sa mga tao nga nihatag og pagsuporta sa mga magdudula sa MPBL kon Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League, hilabi na ngadto sa Sarangani Marlins. Sa walay pabor-pabor, nidaog ang Sarangani Marlins batok sa Quezon City sa score nga 78-74, upat (4) ka pontos lang ang lamang sa Sarangani.

Kulbahinam ang matag minuto sa maong pagdula tungod dikit ang mga score. Gideklara nga best player of the game si Pari Llagas sa Sarangani Marlins. Dako na lamang ang pagpasalamat ni Coach Tumapat. Walay nakitang rason si Tumapat kundili ang homecourt ug homecrowd advantage tungod nakita sa mga basketball player sa Sarangani Marlins nga naghugyaw ang ilang mga kababayan sa Sarangani Province alang sa ilang kadaugan.

Daghan ang nakadayig sa bag-ong dagway sa Sarangani Capitol Gymnasium, hilabi na ang flooring nga sinaw ug pabor sa mga padula sa MPBL, PBA ug uban pang tournament.

Apan mas labing gikalipay sa libuan ka mga tao nga nipuno sa Capitol Gym kagabii ang presensya mismo nila Senador Manny Pacquiao ug Governor Solon nga personal nisaksi ug ni-ayuda sa duha (2) ka padula sa MPBL, kauban ang mga board member, ug mga municipal-barangay official, sa pagsuporta nila Congressman Ruel Pacquiao ug Vice Governor Elmer De Peralta.

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Digital Governance Awards (DGA) at the Jose Rizal Hall, Philippine International Convention Center (PICC).

DGA is an annual event recognizing Local Government Units' best practices in utilizing ICT for the effective and efficient delivery of public services to local communities and business stakeholders.

This is a joint project of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the National ICT Confederation of the Philippines (NICP).

From Loon FB Page

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Mga biktima's linog sa Mindanao
nagpasalamat sa tabang Bol-anon
By Ven Arigo

NAGPASALAMAT ang mga biktima sa linog sa Mindanao sa tabang sa mga Bol-anon pinangulohan ni Gob. Arthur Yap ug Bise Gob. Rene Relampagos, nga mao karoy acting governor.

Ang donasyon nga gikarga'g mga trak ug ayudang pinansiyal gihatud sa grupo ni Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Officer Anthony Damalero ngadto sa mga LGU sa Tulunan ug Makilala sa North Cotabato.

Matud ni Tulunan Mayor Roel Limbongan, otsenta porsento (80%) sa mga molupyo sa iyang lungsod adunay dugong Bol-anon.

Ang Tulunan maoy epicenter sa sunod-sunod nga kusog nga linog sa Cotabato, Davao ug ubang dapit sa Mindanao.

Human sa unang paglinog niadtong Oktubre, personal nga naghatud dayon si Gob. Yap og inisyal nga tabang nga iyang gipaagi kang Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio.

Nagpasalamat usab sa tabang sa Bohol si Makilala Mayor  Armando Quibod, kinsa usa mismo ka Bol-anon gikan sa Montaña, Baclayon samtang ang iyang asawa taga-Sambog, Corella.

Matud ni Damalerio, duna gani barangay sa makilala nga gitawag og Gasikas kay ang mga molupyo didto kaliwat og Garcia-Hernandez ug Sikatuna.

Sa ngan sa gobernador, nagpasalamat si Damalerio sa tanang nitubag sa panawagan sa kapitolyo sa pagtabang sa mga biktima's katalagman sa Mindanao.

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By Joshua Fullido
Lalaki gidunggab sa iyang asawa didto sa lungsod sa Balilihan.

Ang biktima nailhan nga si Lloyd Peter  Sab, 35 anyos, minyo, molupyo sa brgy. Baucan Norte lungsod sa Balilihan

Gisaysay sa igsuon sa biktima nga nahitabo ang  insidente pasado alas 9 sa gabii (11-24-19) nga ang biktima gikan kini namista didto sa lungsod sa Maribojoc ug sa pagpauli niini, pag-abot sa ilang panimay, nagvideoke pa kini, apan wala damha sa biktima nga magkuha ug sundang ang suspek nga iyang kapikas nga si Jennifer Sab, 35 anyos,  sa  way igong storya kalit lang gidunggab ang biktima makaduha nga higayon nga naigo sa ubos sa ilok..

Dugang pa nga posibleng problema  sa ilang relasyon  ang hinungdan sa pagpanunggab sa biktima .

Human panghitabo, daling gihatud paingon sa tambalanan ang biktima ug pagka karon, nagpaalim pa sa samad nga nahiaguman.

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CHRISTMAS and THE FOUR PILLARS
By Ven Arigo

Ang Pasko nagdala og mga gasa sa kalinaw, kahusay, panagda-it, kabulahanan ug kasadya.

Apan kini may katumbas. 

Atong itanyag ang atong buhat ug kaugalingon isip gasa ngadto sa isigkatawo, ngadto sa kaliwat ug kultura, ngadto sa kalikopan, ngadto sa paninguha sa paglambo.

Kini ang bulawanong hinungdan nganong gipasulbong ang Four Pillars o Upat ka Dagkong haligi sa adbokasiya sa probinsiya ubos ni Gob. Arthur Yap :

Care for the weak o pag-amuma sa huyang ug hinikawan; protection of the environment o pagpanalipod sa kalikopan; reawakening of Boholano culture o pagpukaw sa kulturang Bol-anon; ug growing tourism economy o pagpausbaw sa turismong ekonomiya.

Ang Pasko maoy pagyukbo ngadto sa Batang gihimugso ug naghigda sa pasongan sa baka.

Apan kini mao usab ang pag-atiman sa mga nag-antos, gigutom, giuhaw, walay kusog, napasagdan ug sinalikway.

Ang Pasko gitradisyon sa Christmas tree nga atong gidayandayan ug nagpangidlap sa kaanyag.

Apan usab kini nagdasig kanato sa pagtanum og minilyon ka mga kahoy taliwa sa peligrong kausaban sa klima.

Ang Pasko perpektong gihulagway sa Belen ug mga pastores nga naghatag kanato og kahimatngon sa Gasa sa Langit, kabalaan sa banay, ug pagyukbo nunot sa hugot nga kultura sa pagtoo.

Apan kini nagtudlo usab kanato nga bulawan ang matag pamilya ug bahandi ang himsog nga kultura ug pagtoong Bol-anon.

Ang Pasko gihimaya sa labing langitnon ug matahom nga talan-awon sa Bethlehem nga gibisita sa Tulo ka Hari.

Apan usab kini nagpahinumdum kanato sa pagpasalamat sa Labawng Magbubuhat nga nagmugna sa Bohol nga madanihong destinasyon ug gibisita sa minilyong turista sa kalibutan.

Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year!

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By Rey Tutas
199 KA MGA PULIS SA BOHOL, NA-PROMOTE

Mikabat sa 199 ka mga pulis gikan sa mga municipal ug city police station ingon man sa PNP Special Action Force sa lalawigan sa Bohol ang na-promote sa mas taas nga ranggo.

Nanguna si Police Lt.Col. Jimmy Aguisanda, ang bag-ong Deputy Provincial Director for Administration(DPDA) sa gipahigayon nga Mass Oath-taking ug Pinning of Ranks sa bag-ong na-promote nga mga pulis nga ilawom sa Bohol Police Provincial Office(BPPO) ug PNP-SAF kaganihang buntag, Nov. 25, didto sa Camp Francisco Dagohoy ning siyudad sa Tagbilaran.

Wala katambong si Bohol PNP Acting Provincial Director, Police Col. Jonathan Cabal sa pagpanumpa og pinning of ranks sa iyang mga sakop kay gipatawag usab siya didto sa Police Regional Office(PRO-7) sa dakbayan sa Sugbo.

Ang 193 ka mga bag-ong na-promote nga mga pulis ubos sa BPPO naglangkob sa 2 ka Police Major, 3 Lieutenant, 39 ka Executive Master Sergeant, 23 ka Chief Master Sergeant, 73 ka Staff Master Sergeant, 17 ka Master Sergeant, 27 ka Staff Sergeant ug 9 ka Corporal.

Samtang, ang 6 ka mga pulis gikan sa PNP-SAF naglangkob sa 1 ka Staff Master Sergeant, 2 ka Master Sergeant, 2 ka Staff Sergeant ug 1 ka Corporal.

Ang lima ka mga Police Commissioned Officers(PCO's) nga bag-ong na-promote sa mas taas nga ranggo mao sila si PMajor. Dennis Lumor, PMajor Bonifacio Lucerna, PLt. Leo Suma-oy, PLt. Delio Elumbaring ug PLt. Enel Enopi.

Nangunay mismo ang pamilya o mahal sa kinabuhi sa pinning of ranks sa bag-ong napromote nga mga pulis.

Sa wala pa ma-promote ang mga pulis, miagi una sila sa schooling ug uban pang pasulit para makab-ot ang promosyon.

Si Police Lt.Col. Aguisanda miingon nga dungan sa sayo nga pinaskuhan, ang promosyon sa kapulisan tugbang niini ang dako usab nga responsibilidad.

Gihagit usab ni Aguisanda ang bag-ong mga na-promote nga pulis nga himuon ang ilang tahas isip tigpatuman sa balaod ug subayon ang gabayan sa panerbisyo.

Nagpahinumdom usab siya nga sa pagtuman sa serbisyo, kanunay ibutang sa sentro sa kinabuhi ang Labaw'ng Makagagahum.(ReyTuts)

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Art fulfills airport ambulance promise
By Ven Arigo

Bohol Governor Arthur Yap has fulfilled his administration's promise to provide the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) a brand new ambulance unit for the Bohol Panglao International Airport.

The province acquired the unit through Chinese donation.

On Yap's behalf, Acting Gov. Rene Relampagos turned over the essential emergency facility right when the airport marked its first year anniversary today. 

The airport has been operated and managed by the CAAP since its inauguration on November 27 last year.

Private investor Aboitiz has been reported to take over its operation and maintenance.

The investor is calling a press conference on it in Cebu City on Friday, the report said.

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By RMN Gensan
KAMATAYON SA LIASON OFFICER SA ABU SAYYAF DAKONG KAWAD-ON SA MGA TERORISTA

General Santos City--- Pito na ang natalang patay sa han-ay sa teroristang Abu Sayyaf  sulod sa tulo ka adlaw nga operasyon sa militar sa Sulo lakip na ang liason officer sa international ISIS ug abu ayyaf nga si Abu Talha ug ang sub lider sa abu sayyaf nga si Mundi Sawadjaan.

Sumala kang Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Commander sa Western Mindanao Command nga ang operasyon batom kang Talha ang resulta sa mas gipakusgang case build-up ug impormasyon gikan mismo sa mga sibilyan.

Dugang pamahayag ni LT.GEN. Sobejana nga ang kamatayon si Abu Talha ang adunay dakong epekto ngadto sa aktibidad sa Abu Sayyaf gumikan nawad-an na matud pa sila ug koneksyon ngadto sa international terrorist.

Kung asa kini maoy nagahatag ug impormasyon sa ISIS ug nagadawat ug financial support gikan sa ilahang mga ka-alyado sa gawas sa nasud.

Si Talha matud pa ang makonsiderang dakong kawad-on sa grupo sa Abu Sayyaf gumikan kini maoy usa sa mga nagatudlo sa mga nasangpit sa paghimo ug bomba.
Kalabot niini, gibutyag ni Lt. Gen. Sobejana nga dako ang papel ni Abu Talha ug sub-leader sa abu sayyaf sa kinatibuk-an nilang operasyon hilabina sa ilahang mga teroristic attack.

Dako ang pagtuo sa opisyal nga human ang sunod-sunod nga operasyon batok abu sayyaf demoralize na ang maong grupo. Usa matud pa kini sa rason nganing adunay daghang miyembro karon sa abu sayyaf ang mibalik na sa sabakan sa gobyerno.

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DOE Press Release
Energy Family to Launch 2019 Energy Consciousness Month

TAGUIG CITY - The energy family headed by Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi gears up for the opening of the 2019 National Energy Consciousness Month (NECM) and the DOE's 47th Anniversary on 2 December 2019 at the agency's headquarters.

"With energy as a key element in our daily lives, the energy family has been tirelessly working towards providing secure, stable, reliable, accessible, and affordable energy services throughout the entire archipelago. We are united in our commitment to remain faithful in serving the public's best interests in all that we do," Secretary Cusi underscored.

The 2019 NECM theme, "Advancing Consumer Protection through Responsive and Proactive Energy Regulations", celebrates the energy family's efforts to uphold consumer welfare through increased awareness on energy matters, as well as the implementation of various programs, policies, guidelines, and rules that have been benefitting each and every Filipino.

The activities in store for this year's NECM include the Energy Investment Forum; Energy Safety, Health and Environment Conference; and a Renewable Energy Expo.

To commence this year's NECM, Secretary Cusi and the heads of the DOE's attached agencies will hold a press conference on Monday (2 December) at the DOE-Audio Visual Room at 10 o'clock in the morning.

Interested members of the media may register through http://bit.ly/MediaReg_2019_NECM_PressCon.

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Farmers must not only produce,
but be successful producers: Gov. Art Yap
By Ven Arigo

"We are giving them the ability not only to produce, but be also successful businessmen in rice production", Gov. Art Yap said of the rice growers as he attended the Farmers' Forum on Government Assistance to Irrigators' Associations in Region 7 today.

He shared to everyone his Bohol program of grouping the farmers to consolidate all the help that can be given.

Yap would want the Boholano farmers to graduate from rice production into processors of their harvest.

He said the forum is one approach to bring the agency closer to the farmers in terms of relaying information on irrigation development.

Invited forum guests included the officers of the Regional Federation of Irrigators Associations (IAs) from Cebu, Negros Oriental, Bohol and Siquijor.

Cabinet Secretary Karlo Alexei Nograles, Gen. Ricardo Visaya (NIA Administrator), Engr. Wilson Lopez (Acting Regional Manager, Region 7), and Atty. Jiselle Rae Villamor (NIA Board Secretary) were also present.

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By Ven Arigo
Mugnaon sa Bohol ang labing unang
Unified Command System sa probinsiya sa nasud

MUGNA-ON sa Bohol ang labing unang Unified Command Center (UCC) sa probinsiya sa nasud, sumala ni Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer (PDRRMO) Dr. Anthony Damalerio

Kini dako'g kagamitan sa pagresponde sa emerhensiya kay dili lang mga personahe sa PDRRMO, PDRRM Council ug TaRSIER 117 ang modumala niini.

Lakip sa mga motawo sa center ang mga tinugyanan sa PNP, AFP, Bureau of Fire, Coast Guard ug ubang unipomadong ahensiya.

Ang UCC mahimutang sa kilid sa TaRSIER 117 sa sud sa Kampo Bernido sa syudad sa Tagbilaran.

Mokantidad kini og halos P10 milyones, dala ang istruktura ug mga ekipo.

Ang proyekto gisuportahan sa PDRRMC atol sa tigom nga gipangunahan ni Acting Gov. Rene Relampagos ug Provincial Administrator Kathyrin Fe Pioquinto sa kapitolyo ganihang buntag.

Kini pinaagi sa resolusyon sa PDRRMC nga giduso ni Bokal Lucille Lagunay nunot sa awhag ni Relampagos ug Damalerio.

Matud ni Damalerio, bugtong Sta. Rosa City sa Laguna ang  syudad sa nasud nga adunay Unified Command System.

Ang Bohol maoy unang probinsiya nga aduna unya niini sa sunod tuig.

Ang Unified Command Center nunot usab sa programa ni Gob. Arthur Yap nga ang Bohol kanunayng luwas di lang sa iyang molupyo apan sa mga bisita ug turista.

BAG-ONG MGA SAKOP

Unang higayon nga nitambong ang pipila ka mga bag-ong sakop sa PDRRMC gikan sa mga komiteba sa environment, social services ug peace and order sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan.

Lakip kanila sila si Lagunay, Restituto Auxtero, Ricky Masamayor, Aldner Damalerio ug Elpidio Bonita.

Nitambong usab sila si Philippine Councilors' League-Bohol Pres. Jescelo Adiong ug Liga ng mga Barangay-Bohol Pres. Romulo Cepedoza, pulos ex-officio member sa hunta probinsiyal.

Una sab nga higayong nitambong ang bag-ong sakop sa PDRRMC nga si Dauis Mayor Meriam Sumaylo isip presidente sa tanang mayor sa kalungsoran sa Bohol.

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5TH COUNTER-TERRORISM FINANCING SUMMIT IN MANILA

Press Release:
The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC), in partnership with the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) and the Indonesian Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK), hosted the 5th Counter-Terrorism Financing (CTF) Summit last 12 to 14 November 2019 at Shangri-la at the Fort, Taguig City.

The summit was attended by over 350 representatives from 29 countries consisting of officials and experts from financial intelligence units (FIUs), senior representatives from the policy, regulatory, law enforcement and national security agencies, the FinTech/RegTech industry, multi-lateral bodies, think tank organizations and from the academe.

With the theme "Together United—Strengthening Our Region," participants reflected on the growth and substantial achievements of the summit and its working groups, since its establishment in 2015. This includes the evolution of the regional Financial Intelligence Consultative Group (FICG) to improve the understanding of key regional CTF risks and strengthen operational collaboration between regional FIUs on mutually agreed transnational crime priorities.

The summit addressed a range of key and emerging money laundering and terrorism financing issues, such as child exploitation, human trafficking, wildlife smuggling, trade-based money laundering, and corruption. The abuse of crowdfunding, social media platforms, and virtual assets was also considered.

"The summit has evolved into an innovative and leading example of international cooperation to understand and respond to the challenges of terrorism financing and other forms of financial threats," said Secretary Hermogenes C. Esperon Jr., National Security Adviser and Director-General of the National Security Council of the Philippines, during the opening ceremony. "Our own FIU, the AMLC, has been a trusted and active partner in this endeavor."

In his welcome remarks, AMLC Secretariat Executive Director Mel Georgie B. Racela, disclosed that "because of collaboration with domestic law enforcement agencies, the estimated value of frozen assets has amounted to over one billion pesos from January 2018 to July 2019." This "includes PhP52 million worth of terrorism funds, which is approximately US$1 million dollars." Further, "the estimated value of assets subject to civil forfeiture from 2018 to September 2019 alone has already amounted to over PhP600 million, bringing the total to nearly PhP1.7 billion, beginning 2017."

"Money is the lifeblood of terrorists and organized crime syndicates. They cannot operate without it. Cutting off their life source is thus a crucial step to undermine their capabilities and frustrate their ability to carry out terrorist attacks," Secretary Esperon said. "This is where we have to step up our financial intelligence capabilities to determine how illicit funds are raised or generated, moved or transferred, and used."

Ms. Nicole Rose PSM, Chief Executive Office of AUSTRAC also commended the broadening of the scope of the summit to now incorporate serious transnational crimes. She also emphasized the sharpened focus of the summit on creating opportunities for operational engagement among the region's FIUs and the private sector leading to production of actionable financial intelligence for use by the region's law enforcement agencies.

The Minister of Finance of Indonesia, Mrs. Sri Mulyani Indrawati, highlighted the huge economic and human cost of transnational organized crimes that include environmental crimes, terrorist financing, corruption, and tax evasion. She drew attention to new financial technologies that help drive global trade while recognizing the dangers they pose when abused by criminals. In response, she called for greater domestic and international cooperation and increased information-sharing to combat these threats. Minister Mulyani also commended the CTF Summit for its power to facilitate real collaboration among FIUs, law enforcement, and the private sector.

Mr. Kiagus Ahmad Badaruddin, Head of PPATK, expressed his vision and desire for legislation among regional countries to reduce barriers to timely sharing of information among FIUs.

Based on the outcomes from the plenary meetings, participants:

Agree to proactively identify and share counter-terrorism financing strategies through regional operational collaboration based on the outcomes and recommendations of the Southeast Asia Counter-Terrorism Financing Working Group Disruption Toolkit, which provides a range of collaborative measures for how competent authorities, including FIUs, law enforcement, and counter-terrorism agencies, will collaborate to detect, deter, and disrupt the funding of terrorism in the region;

Commit to the continuation in 2020 of the development and testing of a secure online information-sharing platform that will greatly enhance and enrich the exchange of intelligence between regional FIUs;

Support the findings and recommendations of the Regional Threat Assessment on Laundering of Corruption Proceeds to develop a "red flags" product for use by the private sector and to strengthen collaboration to prevent serious transnational corruption in the region;
Support the outcomes of the Virtual Assets: Operational Guidance for Financial Intelligence Purposes report through collaboration between FIUs and the private sector to reduce the risk of money laundering and terrorism financing of virtual asset activities in the region and reduce the risk of regulatory and supervisory arbitrage;

Agree to expand on existing operational initiatives, including the Multilateral Analyst Exchanges, Analyst Hubbing, and the regional Financial Intelligence Analysis Course to increase the capacity, understanding, analysis, and sharing of intelligence held by each FIU and to partner with the private and non-government sectors to address a range of serious transnational crimes in the region;

Confirm the role of the FICG as the principal CTF Summit Committee for commissioning and overseeing strategic and operational engagement across the region's FIUs, noting the increasing number and range of operational activities being undertaken by the body;

Agree that in order to accommodate the increasing operational focus of the Financial Intelligence Consultative Group, the CTF Summit now be conducted on a biannual basis with the next Summit to be held in 2021; and

Note the outcomes of this year's summit align with and support announcements from other recent international fora, including the 2019 No Money for Terror Conference and the 6th Australia-Indonesia Ministerial Council on Law and Security in November 2019.

"The three days of the summit have been an opportunity to discover best practices and new inputs from various sessions; expand networks in the area of countering terrorism financing; and, of course, experience the Filipino people's famous brand of hospitality," said Executive Director Racela.


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FOR THE PEOPLE OF DANAO. Gov. Art Yap leads the groundbreaking and ceremonial capsule-laying of the two-classroom one-storey academic building to rise at the Danao Technological College Site in Poblacion, Danao, a project of the provincial government for the people of Danao.  The bidding of the project is scheduled on June 24.

The governor also announced that another two-classroom building will also be constructed by the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) which he solicited through his father, Domingo Yap, who is the president emeritus of the FFCCCII.

This means Danao will get four classrooms.

The governor also graced the blessing and ribbon-cutting ceremony of the new Multipurpose Building adjacent to the school building site.

With the governor were Danao Mayor Jose Cepedoza, Provincial Board Member Romulo Cepedoza, and 2nd District Cong. Aris Aumentado.

Mas barato nga fastcraft
nagbyahe sa Tagb-Cebu

TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, June 12 (PIA)—Sa pletehan nga mas kubos kay sa kasagaran apan sa kaanindot, kamoderno ug ka limpyo, ubanan pa sa di hingtupngan nga pasilidad, gihanyag sa Island Water Shogun Shipping ang ilang duha ka barko nga catamaran isip pili-anan sa kasakyan alang sa ruta nga Cebu-Tagbilaran-Cebu.

Kompetensya sa nahiluna na nga OceanJet ug Supercat, ang mga barko sa Island Waters nga MV Island Biri ug MV Island Calayan, pareho nga catamaran ang desinyo ug may katas-on nga 29 metros ug may labing kusog nga dagan nga naa sa 18 ka knots.

Hinay man og dyutay sa iyang kompetensya nga mga fastcrafts, ang Island Waters nagtumong nga motanyag sa mga nananakay sa kasinati-an sa kahamugaway ug pagpalabay sa de-kalidad nga oras sama sa cruise speeds.

Ang kinatibuk-an nga byahe sa Island Waters nga mga barko, moabut sa 2 ka oras ug 15 minutos, mga  kinse minutos nga langay kay sa mas paspas nga mga fastcraft sa nahisgutan nga ruta.

Apan, matud pa ni Trisha dela Pena didto sa Press Conference luwan sa nahisgutan nga barko, buot nila nga ipatagamtam sa mga sumasakay ang kasinati-an nga sama sa cruise: hinay apan de kalidad nga oras, ug wala nay lain pang gi-apas apan kasinati-an sa kahamugaway.

Gidesinyo sa ilang chairman sa kompanya, ang nga bag-ong barko napadagan sa duha ka dagko nga Cummins diesel engines nga may halos 2,000 ka horsepower sa iyang gikusgon nga 18 ka knots.

Gawas pa, ang mga barko sa Island Waters may mas luag nga mga lingkoranan nga panit, may limpyo nga mga restrooms, pulos airconditioned nga mga cabins ug may maabi-abihon nga mga tripulante ug mga opisyal sa byahe.

May onboard snack bar usab kini samtang ang ilang luggage storage, naa sa sulod sa barko aron mapaneguro nga walay gamit sa pasahero nga mabasa o masabligan sa tubig dagat.

Nagtanyag sa duha  ka accommodations: ang Island Waters nga mga barko may Premium Economy nga tag P475 ug Business VIP nga naa sa tag P675 ang usa  ka byahe, may libre nga kape, WIFI ug movie streaming.

Ang Island Biro mokarga og 160 ka pasahero lamang samtang ang Island Calayan makakarga og 162 ka pasahero, segun pa ni dela Pena.

Gikatakda nga mobalhin na gayud sa Pier 1 alang sa permanente nga dunggu-anan, ang Island Waters tua pa magagikan sa Pier 3.

Hinuon, may barker sila nga tua sa gawas sa Pier 1 ug mga libre sila nga shuttle gikan sa Pier 1 ngadto sa Pier 3, aron may makagiya samtang wala pa sila makabalhin. (rahc/PIA-7/Bohol)

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By Joshua Fullido
Batan-on  samdan human naigo sa saag nga bala didto sa lungsod sa Danao

Ang biktima nailhan nga si Junrel Macalandag, 18 anyos, taga brgy. San Carlos lungsod sa Danao.

Gisaysay sa inahan sa biktima nga nahitabo ang insidente pasado alas 12 sa kaadlawn (11-25-2019) nga ang biktima nagtindog kini sa gawas sa discohan didto sa brgy. Sta. Fe lungsod sa Danao, og didto sa maong dapit, dunay buto sa armas ang nadungog sa biktima  ug natingala nalang kini nga nagkadugo na ang iyang paa nga maoy nakaingon sa pagkasamad sa biktima.

Suma  pa sa biktima nga wa siyay gikabangi adtong mga tungura ug naglantaw lang siya sa kalingawan .

Tungod madugoon nga panghitabo,  gitabang dayon kini ug gihatud paingon sa tambalanan. Pagka karun nagpaalim pa kini sa samad nga nahiaguman.

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By Joshua Fullido
Amahan ug anak nga sakay sa motorsiklo pulos angol human makaingkwentro ug tricycle didto sa lungsod sa Danao

Ang driver motorsiklo nailhan nga si Bonifacio Membreve Sr. 58 anyos, minyo, nakaangkon ug samad sa nawong  ug  ang angkas niini nga iyang anak nga si Christopher Membreve , 32 anyos, ulitawo, nakaangkon ug samad sa nawong ug lawas nga molupyo sa brgy. Catigbian lungsod sa Buenavista

Gisaysay sa kapikas sa driver nga nahitabo ang aksidente pasado alas 4 sa hapon (11-24-19) nga sina Membreve gikan sila namista didto sa brgy. Sta. Fe, Danao ,  ug sa ilang pagpauli pag-abot didto sa unahang bahin sa nahisgotang barangay, dunay gikasugat sila nga tricycle , og didto sa maong dapit , kalit lang nagkapang-abot ang ilang mga sakyanan nga nakaingon sa pagkadisgrasya.

Tungod niini, daling girescue ang mga motorista ug gihatud paingon sa tambalanan. Pagka karon , nagpaalim pa sila sa angol nga nahiaguma.

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Press Release: We are giving them the ability not only to produce but also to be successful businessmen with rice production", Bohol Governor Art Yap said as he attended the Farmers' Forum on Government Assistance to Irrigators' Associations in Region 7.

He shared to everyone that here in Bohol we are grouping the farmers to consolidate all the help that we can give. He wants the Boholano farmers to graduate from production into processing their own palays.

The said forum is one approach to bring the agency closer to the farmers in terms of relaying information on irrigation development. Invited guests are Regional Federation of Irrigators Associations (IAs) from Cebu, Negros Oriental, Bohol and Siquijor.

Cabinet Secretary Karlo Alexei Nograles, Gen. Ricardo Visaya (NIA Administrator), Engr. Wilson Lopez (Acting Regional Manager, Region 7), and Atty. Jiselle Rae Villamor (NIA Board Secretary) were also present in the event.

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By Joshua Fullido
Kusinero gitigbas sa tag balay sa iyang gilutoan didto sa lungsod sa Calape

Ang biktima nailhan nga si Cirilo Reambunanza, 42 anyos, minyo, molupyo sa brgy. Masunoy  lungsod San Isidro

Gibutyag sa biktima nga nahitabo ang  insidente pasado alas 8 sa gabii (11-25-19) nga human niya sa  pagtadtad sa karne,   nag-inum sila ug tuba kauban ang suspek nga iyang ig-agaw nga maoy  tag  balay.

Og tung-tunga sa ilang inum , kalit lang nagkuha ug sundang ang suspek ug gitigbas siya makaduha nga higayon nga naigo sa likod ug kamot.

Dugang pa sa biktima wala siya kahibaw kung unsay ilang gikabiklan apan nasayod siya nga pulos sila ubos sa ilimnung makahubog.

Human sa panghitabo , daling gihatud sa tambalanan ang biktima . Pagka karon , luwas na kini ug nagrecover pa sa samad nga nahiaguman.

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Press Release
Sec. Cusi Continues Push for Streamlined Energy Contract Awarding and Administration Process

TAGUIG CITY -  As part of the Department of Energy's (DOE) continuous efforts to effectively implement the Department Order (DO) providing a streamlined process for the awarding and administration of service/operating contracts, as well as the issuance of permits, endorsements, or certifications for energy projects (DO2019-07-0018), Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi on Friday (22 November), directed the agency's officials to ensure that all pending items relative thereto are acted upon on or before 20 December 2019.

"One of the profound changes being effected under President Duterte's leadership is the eradication of bureaucratic red tape. We at the DOE have been striving to help fully realize this vision by streamlining our processes, most especially those involving the service or operating contracts," the Energy Chief stressed.

In his memorandum, the Secretary also instructed all Undersecretaries, Assistant Secretaries, and concerned Bureau Directors to submit an inventory of (a) all pending applications for service/operating contracts, including their dates of application, status, and actions taken; and (b) status reports on all existing service contracts.

"We are undertaking all measures that would maximize our operational efficiency. These inventories would guide us in making sure that all pending action items are acted upon before 2019 comes to a close," Secretary Cusi concluded.

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A PEACE WITH FREEDOM
Speech of His Excellency

President Joseph Ejercito Estrada
at the Asia Dinner
New York, 28 July 2000
I THANK the Asia Society, its Chairman, Mr. Hank Greenberg, and President, Ambassador Nick Platt for this great opportunity and honor to meet with you.
Heads of Asian States, including my own, have come to this city and met with the good members of the Asia Society to see if they might be able to catch the attention of the financial and cultural capital of the world. Even if only briefly, on behalf of their distant lands. As a Filipino, I could lay claim to an important edge over your other visitors: I represent a people whose association with you no other in the far east can easily match - a relationship that has spanned more than one hundred years and which has taken many forms.
No other country in the region has patterned so many of its democratic institutions - from its legal and political systems to its business and educational systems - so closely to yours. The Philippines has three million Filipinos living among you as fellow citizens and permanent residents. And no other ally in the region has stood by you through all the wars in the last six decades - from the Pacific war to the Korean war, from the Vietnam war to the Cold War.

But much has happened to the global community since our partnership underwent its last transition in the early 90's, when American military presence in my country ended. So, I make this visit - the first by a Philippine President in the new millennium - to enhance our century-old alliance and guide it to a new era of partnership. In this new world order, with interdependence and new security challenges intensifying. We anticipate the character of our alliance to make another transition.

As with any long-standing partnership, our alliance has seen both bad times and good. One difficult phase occurred within the first year of my watch, during the deliberations over the Visiting Forces Agreement or VFA. The VFA sought to allow US military forces to conduct joint military exercises and training with our forces in Philippine territory. It also provided the legal framework for the treatment of US personnel during the period of the exercises and training.

The debate was intense and the fight was no small political feat. Once the decision was made to pursuit it, however, my administration stood its ground and faced the opposition head on. The VFA was ratified and Philippine-American Defense Cooperation has been revitalized.

Political and economic challenges such as this have marked the first two years of my term as President, the financial and economic crisis that affected our region was triggered from beyond our borders and control. Yet had an inevitable impact on our economy, especially in the banking, industry and other sectors.

Other crises, such as what hit our Philippine Stock Exchange earlier this year, have had a more domestic character, surfacing from within our private and public institutions. These events cannot be excused nor brushed aside and they have served to pinpoint areas that required reform. Yet, even as they have served as a wake-up call, they also, ironically, have been the best demonstration of the basic soundness of our economic fundamentals and the resilience of our political system.

It is generally conceded that among the countries directly affected by the Asian crisis, the Philippines managed to pull itself through relatively unscathed.

In 1998, during the worst year of the crisis, the Philippines recorded a GDP contraction of only half a percent. That contraction could not even be primarily attributed to the original financial crisis but rather to the impact of adverse weather on our agriculture.

Last year, Philippine GDP grew by 3.2 percent. And for the first semester of this year, we anticipate a GDP increase of over 4 percent.

My assertions on the resilience of the Philippine economy are not mine alone. Allow me to quote from a recent IMF study on the Philippines, entitled Philippines: Toward sustainable and rapid growth. "On balance," it says, "the Philippine economy has been able to weather the regional crisis better than most of its neighbors, reflecting more favorable starting conditions as well as the pragmatic implementation of sound macroeconomic policies."

The report attributed the creditable performance of the Philippines during and in the aftermath of the crisis to "favorable starting conditions" and sound economic policies and management.

The first refers to the fact that, compared to our neighbors, the Philippines had less time to enjoy the Asian boom - and therefore less time to overload on cheap foreign credit and its other excesses - before the crisis struck. It is the second, however, the sound economic policies and management, which is the more interesting story but which, unfortunately, is often brushed aside.

The Philippines is one of the most open economies, a result of a series of market-oriented reforms to liberalize, deregulate and restructure the economy that our government started putting in place since 1986, and a legacy that my administration continued. These reforms and policies had the effect of making the economy more resilient to cope with the crisis when it came.

Specifically, barriers to investment were removed in key industries such as power, telecommunications, banking, insurance, domestic aviation, oil and mining, foreign exchange controls were lifted after 40 years of a regulated regime. The entry of foreign equity and investors was facilitated. Import restrictions were lifted and tariffs reduced.

Despite the many calls to resort to protectionist measures during the crisis, my administration continued to uphold these policy and structural reforms. The alternative would have seen a reversal of the gains from deregulation and liberalization.

Beyond those basic macro-economic reforms I have just mentioned are other areas that have received the priority attention of my administration.

I am happy to inform you that in recent months we had several home-runs with the Philippine Congress, and we anticipate more in the next few months.

Last March, I signed into law the new General Banking Act, which, among other things - enables the adoption of internationally accepted banking supervision and regulation standards. In the same month, we enacted the Retail Trade Law, which opened our retail trade to foreign companies after a century of protection.

Last June, about two weeks before the US Congress was able to do the same, our Congress passed a landmark E-Commerce Act. This Act provides the legal framework governing both commercial and non-commercial transactions through the Internet. It provides penalties for computer crimes.

Finally, just two weeks ago, I affixed my signature to a new Securities Act, which aligns the regulation of capital markets with international practices on full disclosure. The Act is a milestone in our efforts to reform and deepen Philippine Capital Markets.

Other important pieces of legislation I am pushing include the Omnibus Power Bill and Amendments to the Omnibus Investment Incentives Act. The Power Bill, which will further deregulate and privatize the power sector, is now in the Bicameral Conference Committee.

I am also pushing for the early enactment of an AntiRacketeering Law with anti-money laundering provisions, and a Bill that seeks to further strengthen the supervision capacity of the Central Bank. These are for instituting greater transparency, accountability and good governance in our public and corporate sectors.

Just as important, by taking more concerted efforts to pro-fit our education system and upgrade our communications infrastructure, my administration is equipping our most important resource - our people - for the global knowledge economy.

You may have heard that your country, the United States, recently garnered the top ranking in the global new E-Economy Index, which maps the "technological vitality" of the world's 47 leading economies. The Philippines did well, too, being ranked number 26 overall. Well ahead of most of our neighbors and Italy, Brazil, Mexico, China and Korea. We were adjudged the world's number 1 in the category of knowledge jobs. That put us ahead of Australia, the US, Canada and France, in terms of qualified engineers, availability of its skills, availability of Senior Management and higher education enrollment.

As Captains of Industry and pillars of American business, you will not have failed to notice that the reforms my administration is continuing and those that we have - begun all take the strategic view. They are not short-term, unsustainable palliatives. Not only are they intended to address weaknesses laid bare by the crisis; they are meant to further fortify Philippine Economic-Foundations, and brace the country for the challenges and opportunities of the new economy. We are building for the future now.

And this same orientation is what we have for the other aspects of our national life. Yes, we want long-term prosperity, so we yearn and now work hard for lasting peace.

You have heard, without a doubt, about the difficulties we have recently been facing in the southern part of the country.

For so long, the peace of the nation and the authority of the state have been threatened by elements seeking to dismember our land. Like all free nations that fought long and hard for their independence, we cannot allow this sorry situation to fester.

My government's first aim in Mindanao is to restore and maintain peace for without peace development will be a pipe dream. We know that poverty and the long government neglect that bred it are the roots of our present travails. But any government earnestly seeking to redress this wrong will fail if lawlessness runs rampant.

Accordingly, my government has been seeking to uphold its authority and solemn duty under the Constitution to preserve the integrity of our nation. We cannot allow lawless violence and barbaric terrorism to run our country down.

The reconstruction and socio-economic development efforts in Mindanao have begun. We will not stop until we uplift the lives of all Filipinos there. We will actively talk peace ad actually build it with everyone who sincerely seeks it.

When I sought and assumed the Philippine presidency two years ago, my overriding ambition was to give the best I can back to the nation that has been so good to me. That has not changed. It has only crystallized into the three-pronged goal I now wish to win for my country.

I want my people to enjoy peace, but only with freedom, I want my people to savor prosperity, but only with fairness, and I want my people to experience stability, but only with openness.

Our road to lasting peace, sustained prosperity and social stability may be long and arduous. But one thing is certain, our journey is now underway, and it will be much more difficult if we are so foolhardy as to try to do it all alone.

As my predecessors in office had done in the past, we actively seek the support and cooperation of friendly countries and partners.

In this global village, a nation's life and fate are inextricably linked with those of others. This is as true to us - in East Asia as it is in Europe and to yourselves in the Americas. For interdependence, integration and cooperation are the guideposts of today and tomorrow.

East Asian integration is on the march. In the economy sphere, ours is already one of the most integrated developing regions in the world. Our production networks are so closely interlinked. Intra-Regional Trade and Tourism are rising fast, even the gyrations of our currency and equity markets are highly correlated.

Consider for instance China, a country which for so long was a world unto itself. Before its opening to the world in the late '70s, China's economic ties with its neighbors were small or negligible. The trade volume between China and Japan was only a little over one billion US dollars in 1972; by 1999, it was more than 66 billion US dollars.

Last year, China's two-way trade with South Korea was 25 billion US dollars, and with the major economies of Southeast Asia. Nearly 27 billion US dollars, indeed, China's trade with its east Asian neighbors now exceeds that between China and America or between China and Europe.

Of course, the clearest proof yet of how closely linked east Asian economies are with one another was our common experience of three years ago. The Asian financial crisis showed that even global investors see east Asia as a unitary whole, and that, of course, was both good and bad. Bad because the fundamentals of individual economies were summarily disregarded. And good because east Asians came to realize that they must count on each other's understanding and support.

Thus, the Asians contributions to the financial packages for South Korea, Thailand and Indonesia. Thus, China's restraint from devaluing the Yuan. Thus, the new Miyazawa initiative and the Obuchi plan. And last, the ASEAN economic and financial surveillance process.

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MAINTAINING OUR LINKS WITH FILIPINOS IN NORTHEASTERN AMERICA

Speech of His Excellency
President Joseph Ejercito Estrada
Filipino-American Community
of Northeastern USA
Grand Ballroom, Waldorf-Astoria, New York
8:00 p.m., July 29, 2000
(TAGALOG) MAGANDANG GABI SA INYONG LAHAT,
(ILOCANO) NAIMBAG NGA ARABI-I-KADA KAYO AMIN.
(ILONGGO) MAAYONG GAB-I SA INYONG TANAN.

(CEBUANO) MAAYONG GAB-I KA-NINYONG TANAN.

(BICOL) DIYOS MARAY NA BANG-GI SA INDO GABOS.

(WARAY) MAUPAY NGA GAB-I IYO TANAN

(CHAVACANO) BUENAS NOCHES A TODOS HERMANOS Y HERMANAS.

(KAPAMPANGAN) MAAYAP A BENGI MGA KABALEN.

(MUSLIM) ASALAM ALAIKUM.

ISANG MASAYANG PAGBATI ANG IPINAA-ABOT KO SA LAHAT NG MGA MINAMAHAL KONG KABABAYAN MULA SA NEW YORK, NEW JERSEY, CONNECTICUT, PHILADEPHIA, AT IBA PANG BAHAGI NG NORTHEASTERN UNITED STATES. AKO AY LUBOS NA NAGAGALAK NA MAKASAMA KAYO SA GABING ITO, AT ANG UNANG GINANG AT AKO, KASAMA ANG MGA KASAPI NG AKING DELEGASYON, AY NAGPAPASALAMAT SA INYONG MAINIT AT MASIGLANG PAGSALUBONG AT PAGTANGGAP SA AMIN.

I TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO EXTEND OUR WARM WISHES ANG GREETINGS TO ALL OF YOU WHO NOW SERVE AS PERMANENT AND RESIDENT AMBASSADORS OF GOODWILL OF OUR PEOPLE IN THIS COUNTRY, KASAMA NA IYONG MGA TNT.

I WOULD ALSO LIKE TO EXTEND MY GREETINGS TO AMBASSADOR AND MRS. THOMAS HUBBARD. AS YOU MAY KNOW, AMBASSADOR HUBBARD IS ONE OF THE MOST LOVED AMBASSADORS IN THE PHILIPPINES. HIS CHARMING WIFE, JOAN, IS EQUALLY ADMIRED FOR HER MANY CHARITABLE WORK IN OUR COUNTRY. THIS COUPLE HAS SO TRAVELED EXTENSIVELY THROUGHOUT OUR COUNTRY THAT THEY MAY HAVE BEEN TO MORE PLACES IN THE PHILIPPINES THAN MANY OF US FILIPINOS. IN FACT, THEY HAVE SO LOVED THE PHILIPPINES THAT THEY ARE FINDING IT DIFFICULT TO END THEIR TOUR OF DUTY THERE.

I ALSO GREET AMBASSADOR ERNIE MACEDA WHO HAS BEEN A VERY OUTSTANDING AMBASSADOR. HE WORKED HARD TO MAKE MY VISIT HERE A BIG SUCCESS. ON THE OTHER HAND, HE MAY SOON BE LEAVING HIS POST IN THE UNITED STATES. KNOWN AS "MR. EXPOSE" TO MANY OF US, HE WOULD LIKE TO ONCE AGAIN ASSUME A FIGHTING STANCE AS A COMEBACKING SENATOR NEXT YEAR.

LIKEWISE, I COMMEND FINANCE SECRETARY JOSE "TITOY" PARDO AND TRADE AND INDUSTRY SERETARY MAR ROXAS FOR ATTRACTING INVESTORS AND SEALED VARIOUS AGREEMENTS FOR THEM TO ESTABLISH BUSINESS IN THE PHILIPPINES. THEY REALLY WORKED HARD TO ORGANIZE INVESTORS FOR BADLY NEEDED FOREIGN CAPITAL TO COME TO OUR COUNTRY.

THIS EVENNG WILL NOT BE COMPLETE IF WE DO NOT RECOGNIZE THE EFFORTS OF THE CORE GROUP OF ORGANIZATIONS, AND THE MEN AND WOMEN BEHIND THEM, WHO WORKED HARD AND LATE, SO THAT WE CAN SPEND THIS EVENING TOGETHER.

NAIS KONG PASALAMATAN ANG PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL SA PANGUNGUNA NG ATING CONSUL GENERAL NA SI LINGLING LACAN-LALE, ANG KANYANG ASAWANG SI DR. ERIC LACAN-LALE, ANG IBA PANG MGA KAWANI NG KONSULADO, AT ANG IBA'T IBANG FILIPINO ORGANIZATIONS NA NAGKAISA UPANG MAGKASAMAMA TAYO NGAYONG GABI.

KABILANG DITO ANG PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE DAY COMMITTEE SA PAMUMUNO NI ALAN BRITANICO, THE PHILIPPINE-AMERICAN COMMUNITIES EXECUTIVE COUNCIL NA PINANGUNGUNAHAN NI JULIET PAYABYAB, THE FILIPINO EXECUTIVE COUNCIL OF GREATER PHILADELPIA UNDER JOE MAGANA, THE PHILIPPINE-AMERICAN FRIENDSHIP COMMITTEE SA ILALIM NI SONIA BALANDRA, THE PHILIPPINE DAY ORGANIZING COMMITTEE SA PAMUMUNO NI ABRAHAM AQUINO, AT ANG FEDERATION OF FILIPINO-AMERICAN ASSOCIATIONS IN CONNECTICUT, PANGUNGUNA NI ARNIE ROSARIO.

I WOULD ALSO LIKE TO RECOGNIZE THREE SPECIAL PEOPLE WHO DO US PROUD BY THEIR ACHIEVEMENTS. BERGEN COUNTRY MAYOR BOB RIVAS, THE ELECTED FILIPINO-AMERICAN MAYOR IN THE NORTHEASTERN UNITED STATES, AND DEPUTY MAYORS LINDA MAYO AND ADOR EQUIPADO OF JERSEY CITY, WHO CONTINUOUSLY SEE TO IT THAT THE INTERESTS OF THEIR FILIPINO-AMERICAN CONSTITUENTS ARE ALWAYS PROPERLY ADDRESSED.

NAIS KO RING PASALAMATAN ANG FILIPINO-AMERICAN COMMUNITY NG NEW YORK, NEW JERSEY AT PHILADELPHIA SA KANILANG MATAGUMPAY NA PAGDIRIWANG NG ATING ARAW NG KALAYAAN NOONG NAKARAANG HUNYO. I WAS TOLD THAT HERE IN NEW YORK, FIRST LADY HILARY RODHAM CLINTON AND CONGRESSMAN RICK LAZIO CELEBRATED WITH US, TOGETHER WITH MAYOR RUDOLPH GUILLIANI.

I AM MOST ESPECIALLY PLEASED TO SEE OUR VETERANS TONIGHT: SILA ANG MGA BAYANING PINAGKAKAUTANGAN NATIN NG LOOB AT HINDI NATIN MAAARING MAKALIMUTAN DAHIL SA KANILANG MALASAKIT SA ATIN GBAYN. DALA NILA AT NINYO DITO NGAYON ANG MAYAMANG TRADISYON AT KASAYSAYAN NG ATING PAGKABANSA. WE MUST ENRICH THESE TRADITIONS HERE AS A PEOPLE DISTINCTLY PROUD OF OUR RACE.

I AM AWARE THAT THOUSANDS OF FILIPINO VETERANS ARE STILL WAITING FOR THE BENEFITS THEY WERE PROMISED FOR THEIR SERVICE IN THE SECOND WORLD WAR. THE PHILIPPINE GOVERNMENT FULLY SUPPORTS THEIR CAUSE AND WE WILL NEGOTIATE FOR THE FULL RECOGNITION OF THEIR RIGHTS. IN FACT, IN MY MEETING WITH PRESIDENT CLINTON LAST THURSDAY, HE PROMISED TO EXTEND FULLEST ASSISTANCE TO THE CAUSE OF OUR HIGHLY DESERVING VETERANS. PRESIDENT CLINTON SAID THAT, ALTHOUGH THE NECESSARY LEGISLATION HAS NOT YET BEEN PASSED BY THE U.S. CONGRESS, HE HAS ISSUED AN EXECUTIVE ORDER DIRECTING THE SECRETARY OF VETERANS AFFAIRS TO DO EVERYTHING POSSIBLE WITHIN THE BOUNDS OF LAW TO IMPROVE THE BENEFITS AVAILABLE TO FILIPINO VETERANS.

IT IS ALWAYS A PRIVILEGE TO BE WITH FELLOW FILIPINOS OVERSEAS, FOR YOUR SENTIMENTS EVOKE MORE THAN JUST A PASSING INTEREST IN THE AFFAIRS OF YOUR COUNTRY AND THE WELL-BEING OF YOUR KABABAYANS.

IT IS AMONG FILIPINOS OVERSEAS THAT I FIND MANY MEN AND WOMEN WHO ARE INTENSELY DEVOTED TO THE CAUSE OF THEIR MOTHER COUNTRY. IT IS AMONG YOU THAT I DERIVE ONE OF MY BIGGEST INSPIRATION TO MAKE OUR COUNTRY SUCCEED SO THAT THERE MAY BE MORE RERASONS FOR YOU TO COME BACK, AND FOR OTHERS TO REMAIN AT HOME.

IN ADDITION, WE ARE PROUD THAT YOU HAVE PROMOTED FILIPINO CULTURE AND TRADITIONS AMONG YOURSELVES AND WITHIN MAINSTREAM AMERICA. ABOVE ALL, I THANK ALL OF YOU FOR KEEPING THE BOND THAT BINDS US TO EACH OTHER.

THIS IS WHAT I HAVE COME TO SAY TO YOU IN AMERICA. I AM HERE NOT JUST TO COMMEND YOU FOR YOUR GOOD WORK IN PRESERVING YOUR FILIPINO HERITAGE. I AM HERE TO TELL YOU, AND ALL OUR AMERICAN FRIENDS, ABOUT WHERE THE PHILIPPINES IS HEADED AND WHAT YOU ALL CAN DO TO HELP US GET THERE. BUT BEFORE I DO THAT, LET ME FIRST SHARE WITH YOU MY EXPERINCE AT THE WHITE HOUSE THE OTHER DAY.

I WAS SO IMPRESSED WITH THE WARMTH AND HOSPITALITY ACCORDED ME BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE MOST POWERFUL COUNTRY IN THE WORLD. I COULD NOT POSSIBLE ASK FOR MORE SINCE HE VIRTUALLY BECAME MY TOURIST GUIDE AT THE WHITE HOUSE. NEITHER CAN I FIND THE RIGHT WORDS TO THANK PRESIDENT CLINTON FOR THE PERSONAL ATTENTION HE HAD SHOWN ME AND THE MEMBERS OF MY DELEGATION IN OUR MEETING WITH HIM, WHICH WAS EXTENDED BY AN ADDITIONAL HOUR. IN MY MEETING WITH THE FILIPINO STAFF IN THE WHITE HOUSE, PRESIDENT CLINTON INTRODUCED EACH OF THEM TO ME LIKE THEY WERE PART OF HIS FAMILY. INDEED, I WAS VERY PROUD OF THE PRAISE GIVEN BY PRESIDENT CLINTON TO HIS FILIPINO HOUSEHOLD STAFF.

I COULD PERHAPS DESCRIBE THAT DAY IN WASHINGTON AS THE MOST MEANINGFUL OFFICIAL VISIT I EVER HAD SINCE I BECAME PRESIDENT. INDEED, THIS IS A SIGNIFICANT WAY TO START THE THIRD YEAR OF MY PRESIDENCY.

I USED TO BE A REAGAN ADMIRER. AFTER LAST THURSDAY, I HAVE BECOME A CLINTON CONVERT AND NOW, I'M SUSPECTED OF BEING A DEMOCRAT.

I KNOW THAT MANY OF YOU ARE ANXIOUS TOHEAR ABOUT THE PRESENT STATE OF AFFAIRS OF THE PHILIPPINES. YOU HAVE HEARD FROM OTHERS ABOUT WHAT IS SUPPOSED TO BE HAPPENING IN THE PHILIPPINES. NOW, IT IS TIME THAT YOU HEAR DIRECTLY FROM ME.

ALAM KONG KAHIT KAYONG LAHAT AY NASA MALAYONG LUGAR , AN INYONG MGA PUSO'T ISIPAN NASA PILIPINAS PA RIN. I KNOW THAT YOU ARE CONCERNED OVER THE EVENTS THAT ARE TAKING PLACE BACK HOME, SUCH AS THE CONFLICT IN MINDANAO. I UNDERSTAND YOUR CONCERNS, AND I WELCOME THIS VISIT AS AN OPPORTUNITY FOR ME TO CLARIFY MATTERS.

SUBALIT' BAGO KO ITO GAWIN, HINIHILING KO LAMANG SA INYO NA HUWAG SANA KAYONG PADADALA SA MGA GRUPONG NAGSASAGAWA NG DISINFORMATION CAMPAIGNS PARA SIRAAN ANG AKING PAGDALAW DITO SA ESTADOS UNIDOS. HINDI KO NA IYAN PINAPANSIN DAHIL ALAM KO NAMANNA MAS MADALI ANG MAGBATIKOS KAYSA GUMAWA AT ANG KNAILANG PANINIRA AY WALANG BASEHAN AT GAWA-GAWA LAMANG NG MGA AYAW AKONG MAGTAGUMPAY.

BALEWALA SA AKIN ANG KANILANG MGA PAGPUNA AT PANINIRA DAHIL ANG MAS MAHALAGA PARA SA AKIN AY MAGPATULOY ANG PAG-UNLAD NG KABUHAYAN NG ATING MGA KABABAYAN, LALUNG-LALO NA ANG MAHIHIRAP. ANG INIISIP KO NA LAMANG AY PARA DIN YANG SA PELIKULA: ANG BIDA AY NAGPAPABUGBOG MUNA SA UNA, PERO SA BANDANG HULI AY SIYA RIN ANG PANALO.

AS CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF THE LAND, I MUST DO WHAT I AM SUPPOSED TO DO FOR THE GREATER BENEFIT OF THE GREATEST NUMBER OF OUR PEOPLE. I WAS ELECTED BY AN OVERWHELMING MAJORITY TO IMPLEMENT POLICIES THAT WILL ADVANCE THE NATIONAL INTEREST AND IMPROVE THE LIVES OF ALL CITIZENS, ESPECIALLY THE POOR AND THE LESS PRIVELGED.

THIS IS THE REASON WHY THE FILIPINO MASSES HAVE HIGH EXPECTATIONS FROM THEIR GOVERNMENT. THIS IS ALSO THE REASON WHY WE ARE DEALING WITH THE CORRUPT, THE CRIMINALS, AND THOSE WHO VIOLENTLY ASSAULT THE REPUBLIC IN THE STRONGEST MANNER ALLOWED BY LAW. THEY STAND IN THE WAY OF OUR PEOPLE AND THEIR DREAMS OF A BETTER LIFE, SO WE MUST REMOVE THEM IN ORDER TO REALIZE THOSE DREAMS.

HOWEVER, I ASSURE YOU THAT THE SITUATION IN THE PHILIPPINES IS UNDER CONTROL. MY ADMINISTRATOIN WILL ALWAYS STAY COMMITTED TO DEMOCRACY, TO POVERTY ALLEVIATION, AND TO ECONOMIC REFORM AND DEVELOPMENT. I DID NOT BECOME PRESIDENT TO PRESIDE OVER THE DISMEMBERMENT OF OUR COUNTRY. WE ARE ONE NATION AND THIS CAN NEVER BE COMPROMISED.

WE HAVE TO UNDERSTAND THAT WHAT IS HAPPENING IN MINDANAO DOES NOT REFLECT THE GENERAL PEACE AND ORDER SITUATION IN THE REST OF THE COUNTRY. WE MUST ALSO REALIZE THAT UNLESS PEACE REIGNS IN OUR LAND, WE CAN NEVER CREATE A CLIMATE THAT IS CONDUCIVE TO BUSINESS AND ECONOMIC GROWTH. THIS IS THE REASON WHY I ASSUMED A FORCEFULSTAND AGAINST SECESSIONIST AND BANDIT GROUPS WHO HAVE GONE FAR ENOUGH. WE HAVE TO REMIND THEM THAT IN OUR COUNTRY, WE SUBMIT TO ONE FLAG ONLY, ONE CONSTITUTION, ONE GOVERNMENT, AND ONE ARMED FORCES.

WHEN I TOOK OFFICE, I SWEAR TO PRESERVE AND DEFEND THE CONSTITUTION. IT WAS MY SOLEMN DUTY UNDER THAT CONSTITUTION TO REPEL THE ARMED REBELLION AND TO DEFEND THE SOVEREIGNTY AND INTEGRITY OF THE REPUBLIC.

I BELIEVE THAT THE MINDANAO PROBLEM CAN BE RESOLVED ONLY BY A COMPREHENSIVE POLITICAL, ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND CULTURAL APPROACH, WHICH I AM MOST WILLING TO UNDERTAKE. WE WILL CONVERT MINDANAO INTO THE MAIN FOOD BASKET OF THE PHILIPPINES, AN AGRICULTURAL PARADISE AND A BOOMING MANUFACTURING BASE. WE WILL DO ALL OF THESE BEFORE I STEP DOWN AS PRESIDENT IN THE YEAR 2004.

WHEN I RAN FOR THE PRESIDENCY IN 1998, I CAMPAIGNED ON A FLATFORM OF GROWTHWITH EQUITY. THESE TWIN OBJECTIVES WERE BASED ON MY BELIEF THAT GROWTH IS A PRECONDITION FOR POVERTY REDUCTION AND IMPROVEMENT IN THE STANDARD OF LIVING. MOREOVER THE FRUITS OF ECONOMIC GROWTH SHOULD BE EQUITABLY SHARED.SUBALIT MARAHIL AY NATATANDAAN NINYO NA NANG AKO AY NAUPO BILANG PANGULO, NASA KALAGITNAAN TAYO NG KRISIS PINANSIYAL SA ASYA. BUKOD DITO, WALANG LAMAN NOON ANG KABAN NG BAYAN, AT KAILANGAN PA NATING MAGBAYAD NG UTANG NA MINANA NG AKING ADMINISTRASYON. KOKONTI ANG PONDO, MALAKI ANG PROBLEMA SA PANANALAPI, AT KULANG NA KULANG SA KAPITAL. KAYA ANG NASABI KO SA AKING SARILI NOON, ANO BA ITONG NAPASUKAN KO?

PERO HINDI AKO NAWALAN NG LAKAS NG LOOB, NAGTIPID TAYO AT NAG-IPON NG SALAPI. AT SA DALAWANG TAON NG AKING PANUNUNGKULAN BILANG PANGULO, NASIMULAN NATING IPATUPAD ANG ISANG PRO-POOR AGENDA NA NAGHAHANGAD NA TUGUNAN ANG MGA PANGUNAHING PANGANGAILANGAN NG BAWAT PILIPINO, TULAD NG PAGKAIN O FOOD SECURITY, PABAHAY O MASS HOUSING, AT PAGKAKAROON NG KATAHIMIKAN O PEACE AND ORDER.

IN THE FIRST TWO YEARS OF MY PRESIDENCY, OUR AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION HAS SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASED. THE HOUSING PROGRAM IS NOW MOVING AND I HAVE MADE A PROMISE THAT BY THE END OF MY TERM, ANG MGA BAGONG BAYANI NG ATING PANAHON - ANG MGA GURO, PULIS, SUNDALO AT OVERSEAS FILIPINO WORKERS - AY LAHAT SILA AY MAY SARILI NANG TAHANAN. DATI-RATI, SUNOD-SUNOD ANG MGA KIDNAPPINGS, BANK ROBBERIES AT HOLD-UPS LALO NA SA METRO MANILA, PERO HINDI NA KAYO MAKAKABASA NG GANITONG MGA PANGYAYARI SA MGA PAHAYAGAN NGAYON. KAYA LAMANG AY MUKHANG NALIPAT YATA ANG KIDNAPPINGS SA MINDANAO SA KAGAGAWAN NG MGA ABU SAYYAF.

WE CONTINUE TO EMBARK ONPROGRAMS THAT WILL ENSURE THE EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION OF ECONOMIC GROWTH. OUR VISION TO ALLEVIATE THE PLIGHT OF THE POOR IS TRANSLATED INTO PROGRAMS OUTLINED IN THE MEDIUM-TERM DEVELOPMENT PLAN, WHICH WE HAVE CALLED "ANGAT PINOY 2004".

IN THE FIRST DAY OF MY OFFICIAL VISIT TO THE U.S., I FEEL THAT WE HAVE ALREADY ACCOMPLISHED A GREAT DEAL.
MY MEETINGS WITH CHIEF I.T. OFFICERS FROM SILICON VALLEY AND MCLEAN, VIRGINIA HAVE RESULTED IN THE SIGNING OF SEVERAL AGREEMENTS. WHEREIN WE WERE ABLE TO ATTRACT MAJOR INVESTMENTS BECAUSE OF OUR HIGH LEVEL INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY WORKERS. LAST NIGHT, I ASSURED BUSINESSMEN AT THE DINNER HOSTED BY THE ASIA SOCIETY THAT THE CLIMATE IN THE PHILIPPINES IS MORE CONDUCIVE THAN EVER TO FOREIGN INVESTMENTS.

OUR MEETINGS WITH CONGRESSIONAL LEADERS WERE HIGHLIGHTED BY THEIR HEIGHTENED INTEREST IN THE SITUATION IN MINDANAO. I TOLD THEM THAT WE HAD TO DEMOLISH THE REBELS APPARATUS FOR MAKING WAR IN ORDER TO ENSURE PERMANENT PEACE IN THE FUTURE. I THINK I CONVINCED THEM THAT WE DID NOT CHOOSE THE MILITARY OPTION BUT IT WAS FORCED UPON US, WE USED IT AND WE SUCCEDED.

PRESIDENT CLINTON AND I, TOGETHER WITH OUR RESPECTIVE DELEGATIONS, HELD EXTENSIVE TALKS TO ADVANCE COOPERATION BETWEEN THE PHILIPPINES AND THE UNITED STATES. OUR DISCUSSIONS COVERED DEFENSE AND SECURITY, ECONOMIC AND DEVELOPMENT COOPERATION, TRADE AND INVESTMENT, AS WELL AS OTHER SUBJECTS.

WE HAVE A LOT TO DO FOR OUR COUNTRY, AND IN THIS ENDEAVOR I NEED THE ASSISTANCE OF EACH AND EVERY FILIPINO, WHETHER IN THE FILIPINOS OR ABROAD. MY ADMINISTRATION WANTS TO BUILD ON THE TRADITION OF SERVICE AND CIVIC ACTION OF OUR FILIPINO COMMUNITIES ABROAD. IN AMERICA, FURTHERMORE, YOU BELONG TO THE LARGEST, BEST ESTABLISHED, AND MOST TALENTED OF ALL OUR OVERSEAS FILIPINO COMMUNITIES. IN THIS AGE OF THE INTERNET AND INSTANT COMMUNICATIONS, YOU CAN ALSO PLAY A BIGGER ROLE IN AIDING PHILIPPINE PROGRESS THAN ANY GENERATION OF OVERSEAS FILIPINOS BEFORE YOU HAD DONE.

I AM HAPPY TO NOTE THAT HERE IN THE NORTHEAST, YOU ARE GENEROUSLY HELPING IN THIS EFFORT THROUGH YOUR ASSISTANCE FOR SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS IN THE PHILIPPNES, PARTICULARLY THE POVERTY ALLEVIATION PROGRAM OF THE PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL. CONSUL GENERAL LACAN-LALE HAS REPORTED TO ME THAT YOUR DONATIONS HAVE ALREADY EXCEEDED 40,000 DOLLARS.

BACK HOME, SEVERAL PROJECTS HAVE BEEN CONCEIVED THAT WE HOPE YOU WILL SUPPORT.

FIRST IS THE "PC'S FOR PHILIPPINE PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOLS" PROJECT OF THE COMMISSION ON FILIPINO OVERSEAS (CFO). THIS A JOINT GOVERNMENT AND PRIVATE SECTOR INITIATIVE TO GENERATE DONATIONS FOR 50,000 PERSONAL COMPUTERS FOR MORE THAN 4,000 PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOLS. YOU WOULD WELCOME KABABAYANS IN AMERICA TO JOIN US IN THE WORTHY PROJECT.

SECOND, WE HAVE PREPARED A PHILIPPINE SECTORAL DEVELOPMENT AND NEEDS PROFILING SYSTEM TO HELP OVERSEAS FILIPINOS DIRECT THEIR ASSISTANCE TOWARDS THE MOST NEEDY AND MOST DESERVING RECEPIENTS IN THE PHILIPPINES. WE HOPE THAT YOU WILL HELP US IMPLEMENT THIS SYSTEM AMONG FILIPINO ASSOCIATIONS HERE IN AMERICA.

THIRD, WE WOULD LIKE FILIPINOS IN THE UNITED STATES TO PARTICIPATE IN THE "INFO 2000: TIPANAN SA MAYNILA CONFERENCE," WHICH WILL BE HELD THIS COMING DECEMBER, OUR ANNUAL "MONTH OF OVERSEAS FILIPINOS." IN DECEMBER ALSO, I WILL ALSO BE GIVING THIS YEAR'S PRESIDENTIAL AWARDS FOR FILIPINO INDIVIDUALS AND ORGANIZATIONS OVERSEAS IN MALACANANG. I EXPECT TO RECEIVE A STRONG CONTINGENT FROM AMERICA DURING THAT EVENT, WHICH IS OF SPECIAL SIGNIFICANCE SINCE THE YEAR 2000 HAS BEEN DESIGNATED AS "THE YEAR OF OVERSEAS FILIPINO WORKERS."

IN THIS LIGHT, I WOULD LIKE TO SALUTE YOU, OUR KABABAYANS HERE IN THE NORTHEASTERN UNITED STATES, FOR MAINTAINING YOUR LINKS WITH OUR HOMELAND, AND FOR YOUR ACHIEVEMENTS AND YOUR EMERGENCE AS A POLITICAL FORCE IN THE UNITED STATES. IN DEED, WE CELEBRATE THE PRIDE THE SUCCESS OF OUR COUNTRYMEN, BOTH IN PRIVATE FIELDS AND IN HIGHLY RESPONSIBLE ELECTIVE POSITIONS IN THE AMERICAN GOVERNMENT. THEIR SUCCESS IS OUR COLLECTIVE SUCCESS, FOR THEIR ACCOMPLISHMENTS WOULD NO HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE WITHOUT THE SUPPORT OF THE FILIPINO-AMERICAN COMMUNITY.

YOUR EMERGENCE IN U.S. CIVIC LIFE IS A FITTING CULMINATION OF THE SPECIAL RELATIONSHIP THAT BINDS THE PHILIPPINES AND THE UNITED STATES. I, THEREFORE, WISH YOU MORE SUCCESS IN THE FUTURE, AND MAY YOU CONTINUE TO DO THE PHILIPPINES PROUD WITH YOUR TALENT, DEDICATIONS AND PROFESSIONALISM.

BILANG PANGWAKAS, INUULIT KO NA WALA AKONG TANGING HANGAD NGAYON KUNG HINDI ANG BIGYAN NG MAGANDANG BUHAY ANG ATING MGA KABABAYAN, LALONG LALO NA ANG MGA MAHIHIRAP. AKO AY NAHALAL NA PANGULO SA SUPORTA NG MASANG PILIPINO, KAYA ITO AY IPINANGAKO KO BILANG PAGTANAW NG UTANG NA LOOB SA KANILA. AT GAGAWIN KO ANG LAHAT UPANG MATUPAD ANG PANGAKONG IYAN BAGO MATAPOS ANG AKING PAGIGING PANGULO.

MARAMING SALAMAT PO AT MABUHAY KAYONG LAHAT!



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RENEWED PARTNERSHIPS FOR THE NEW ERAP
Speech of His Excellency

President Joseph Ejercito Estrada
Dinner hosted by the
United States Chamber of Commerce
Hall of Flags, US Chamber of Commerce Building, Washington, D.C.
7:00p.m., 26 July 2000
I THANK MR. THOMAS DONOHUE, PRESIDENT OF THE U.S. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, FOR HIS MOST GENEROUS INTRODUCTION. I WISH TO THANK ALSO THE U.S. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ITSELF FOR VERY KINDLY HOSTING THIS DINNER. MOST OF ALL, I WANT TO EXPRESS MY PERSONAL APPRECIATION TO ALL OF YOU FOR COMING TONIGHT.
HEADS OF GOVERNMENT COME TO THIS TOWN TO SEE IF THEY MIGHT NOT BE ABLE TO CATCH ITS ATTENTION, EVEN IF ONLY BRIEFLY, ON BEHALF OF THEIR DISTANT COUNTRIES. WE FILIPINOS, ON THE OTHER HAND, CAN CLAIM TO ENJOY A HISTORIC ASSOCIATION WITH YOU WHICH NO OTHER COUNTRY IN THE SO-CALLED FAR EAST CAN EASILY MATCH -- A RELATIONSHIP THAT HAS SPANNED A CENTURY AND TAKEN ON MANY FORMS.

THE PHILIPPINES WAS FIRST A COLONY, THEN A PROTECTORATE, AND FINALLY, AN INDEPENDENT ALLY OF THE UNITED STATES. NO OTHER COUNTRY IN THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION HAS PATTERNED SO MANY OF ITS INSTITUTIONS -- FROM ITS LEGAL POLITICAL AND BUSINESS SYSTEMS TO ITS EDUCATIONAL SYSTEMS -- SO CLOSELY TO YOURS. NO OTHER COUNTRY IN THE REGION HAS SENT NEARLY AS MANY OF ITS NATIONALS TO LIVE AMONG YOU AS FELLOW   CITIZENS AND PERMANENT RESIDENTS. AND NO OTHER ALLY IN THE REGION HAS STOOD BY YOU THROUGH ALL THE WARS IN THE LAST SIX DECADES - FROM THE PACIFIC WAR TO THE KOREA AND VIETNAM WARS.

BUT MUCH HAS HAPPENED TO THE GLOBAL COMMUNITY IN THE TEN YEARS SINCE OUR PARTNERSHIP UNDERWENT ITS LAST TRANSITION IN THE EARLY '90S, INCLUDING THE ONSET OF A NEW MILLENNIUM AND A NEW GLOBAL NETWORKED ECONOMY. SO WE MAKE THIS VISIT TODAY AN ENHANCEMENT OF OUR CENTURY-OLD ALLIANCE AND SHEPHERD IT AS IT CROSSES OVER INTO A NEW ERA. IN THIS NEW WORLD ORDER, WE ANTICIPATE THAT THE CHARACTER OF OUR ALLIANCE WILL ONCE AGAIN MAKE ANOTHER TRANSITION.

AS WITH ANY LONG-STANDING PARTNERSHIP, OUR ALLIANCE HAS SEEN BOTH BAD TIMES AND GOOD. ONE DIFFICULT PHASE OCCURRED DURING THE FIRST YEAR OF MY WATCH WHILE DELIBERATIONS WERE UNDERWAY OVER THE VISITING FORCES AGREEMENT, OR  VFA. THE VFA SOUGHT TO ALLOW U.S. MILITARY FORCES TO CONDUCT JOINT MILITARY EXERCISES ND TRAINING WITH PHILIPPINE FORCES IN PHILIPPINE TERRITORY AND PROVIDED THE LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR THE TREATMENT OF U.S. MILITARY PERSONNEL DURING THE PERIOD OF THE EXERCISES AND TRAINING.

THE VFA WAS EVENTUALLY RATIFIED, S YOU MANY KNOW, BUT EMOTIONS WERE HIGH AND THIS WAS NO SMALL POLITICAL FEAT. ONCE THE DECISION WAS MADE TO PURSUE IT, HOWEVER, MY ADMINISTRATION STOOD ITS GROUND AND FACED THE OPPOSITION HEAD-ON.

POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC CHALLENGES SUCH AS THIS HAVE MARKED THE FIRST TWO YEARS OF MY TERM AS PRESIDENT. THE FINANCIAL AND ECONOMIC CRISIS THAT AFFECTED THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION, FROM THAILAND TO LATIN AMERICA, WAS TRIGGERED BEYOND OUR BORDERS AND CONTROL, YET HAD AN INEVITABLE IMPACT ON OUR OWN ECONOMY, IN THE BANKING, INDUSTRY AND AGRICUTLTURE SECTORS.

OTHER CRISES, SUCH AS WHAT HIT OUR PHILIPPINE STOCK EXCHANGE EARLIER THIS YEAR, HAVE HAD A MORE DOMESTIC CHARACTER, SURFACING FROM WITHIN OUR PRIVATE AND PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS AND BROUGHT ABOUT BY THE PECULIAR BUT VIBRANT DYNAMIC THAT IS PHILIPPNE POLITICS. THESE EVENTS CANNOT BE EXCUSED NOR BRUSHED ASIDE, AND THEY HAVE SERVED TO PINPOINT AREAS WITHIN THE PRIVATE AND PUBLIC DOMAINS WHICH REQUIRED REFORM YET, EVEN AS THEY HAVE ERVED AS WAKE UP CALL, THEY ALSO, IRONICALLY, HAVE BEEN THE BEST DEMOSTRATION OF THE BASIC SOUNDNESS OF OUR ECONOMIC FUNDAMENTALS AND THE RESILIENCE OF OUR POLITICAL SYSTEM.

IT IS GENERALLY CONCEDED THAT AMONG THE CUNTRIES DIRECTLY AFFECTED BY THE ASIAN CRISIS, THE PHILIPPINES MANAGED TO PULL ITSELF THROUGH RELATIVELY UNHURT. IN 1998, DURING THE WORST YEAR OF THE CRISIS, THE PHILIPPINES RECORDED A CONTRACTION OF ONLY HALF A PERCENTAGE POINT, WHILE OTHER ASIAN COUNTRIES SUFFERED CONTRACTIONS RANGING FROM 6 TO 14 PERCENT. THE PHILIPPINES' CONTRACTION COULD NOT EVEN BE PRIMARILY ATTRIBUTED TO THE ORIGINAL FINANCIAL CRISIS BUT RATHER TO THE COMPOUNDING IMPACT OF THE EL NINO PHENOMENON.

ALSO, IN 1999, BY ACHIEVING A 3.3 PERCENT RATE OF GDP GROWTH FOR THE FIRST YEAR OF THE RECOVERY, THE PHILIPPINES WAS AMONG THE FIRST COUNTRIES TO REGAIN AND, INDEED, EXCEED THE LEVEL OF ECONOMIC ACTIVITY THAT IT HAD ENJOYED BEFORE THE CRISIS. THIS HAS BEEN MAINTAINED DURING TEH FIRST QUARTER OF 2000, WHERE GDP GREW BY 3.4 PERCENT, A RATE CONSISTENT WITH OUR GROWTH TARGET FOR THE YEAR OF 4 TO 5 PERCENT.

MY ASSERTIONS ON THE RESILIENCE OF THE PHILIPPINE ECONOMY ARE NOT UNSUBSTANTIATED. ALLOW ME TO QUOATE FROM A RECENT IMF STUDY ON THE PHILIPPINES, ENTITLED, PHILIPPINES: TOWARD SUSTAINABLE AND RAPID GROWTH. IT SAYS, "ON BALANCE, THE PHILIPINE ECONOMY HAS BEEN ABLE TO WEATHER THE REGIONAL CRISIS BETTR THAN MOST OF ITS NEIGHBORS, REFLECTING MORE FAVORABLE STARTING CONDITIONS AS WELL AS THE PRAGMATIC IMPLEMENTATION OF SOUND ECONOMIC POLICIES. THAT THIS HAS BEEN ACHIEVED DURING A PERIOD OF POLITICAL TRANSITION TESTIFIED TO THE RESILIENCE OF THE PHILIPPINE ECONOMY AND BROAD-BASED CONSENSUS FOR SOUND ECONOMIC POLICIES."

THE REPORT ATTRIBUTED THE PERFROMANCE OF THE PHILIPPINES AFTER THE CRISIS TO "FAVORABLE STARTING CONDITIONS' AND SOUND ECONOMIC POLICIES AND MANAGEMENT. THE FIRST REFERS TO THE FACT THAT, COMPARED TO OUR NEIGHBORS, THE PHILIPPINES HAD LESS TIME TO ENJOY THE ASIAN BOOM -- AND THEREFORE LESS TIME TO OVERLOAD ON CHEAP FOREIGN CREDIT AND ITS OTHER EXCESSES -- BEFORE THE CRISIS STRUCK. IT IS ITHE SECOND FACTOR HOWEVER, THE SOUND ECONOMIC POLICIES OF OUR COUNTRY AND THEIR PRAGMATIC IMPLEMENTATION, WHICH IS THE MORE INTERESTING STORY BUT WHICH, UNFORTUNATELY, IS OFTEN BRUSHED ASIDE.

THE PHILIPPINES IS ONE OF THE MOST OPEN ECONOMIES, A RESULT OF A SERIES OF MARKET-ORIENTED REFORMS TO LIBERALIZE, DE-REGULATE AND RE-STRUCTURE THE PHILIPPINE ECONOMY THAT THE PHILIPPINE GOVERNMENT STARTED PUTTING IN PLACE SINCE 1986 AND A LEGACY THAT MY ADMINISTRATION CONTINUED. THESE REFORMS AND POLICIES HAD THE EFFECT OF MAKING THE ECONOMY MORE RESILIENT TO COPE WITH THE CRISIS WHEN IT CAME.

SPECIFICALLY,

BARRIERS TO INVESTMENT WERE REMOVED IN KEY INDUSTRIES, SUCH AS POWER, TELECOMMUICATOINS, BANKING, DOMESTIC AVIATOIN, MOTOR VEHICLE DEVELOPMENT, OIL, AND MINING.'

FOREIGN EXCHANGE CONTROLS WERE LIFETED AFTER 40 YEARS OF A REGULATED REGIME.

THE ENTRY OF FOREIGN EQUITY AND INVESTORS WAS FACILITATED. LAND WAS ALLOWED TO BE LEASED UP TO 75 YEARS AD FOREIGN INVESTORS WERE ASSURED OF (1) REPATRIATON OF INVESTMENTS; (2) REMITTANCE OF EARNINGS; (3) RIGHT TO FOREIGN LOANS AND CONTRACTS; (4) FREEDOM FROM EXPROPRIATON; AND (5) NON-REQUISITION OF INVESTMENTS. OTHERS IN THE REGION DO NOT COMMONLY EXTEND SOME OF THESE ASSURANCES.

IMPORT RESTRICTIONS WERE LIFTED AND TARIFFS REDUCED. BY 2003, THE PHILIPPINES WILL BE A GATEWAY TO A MARKET OF NOT JUST 72 MILLION FILIPINOS BUT 500 MILION PEOPLE OF THE ASEAN FREE TRADE AREA.

DESPITE THE NUBMER OF CALLS THAT WERE MADE TO INSTITUTE EMERGENCY MEASURES DURING THE CRISIS, MY ADMINISTRATION CONTINUED TO UPHOLD THESE POLICY AND STRUCTURAL REFORMS. THE ALTERNATIVE WOULD HAVE SEEN A REVERSAL OR SUSPENSION OF THE GAINS FROM DEREGULATION AND LIBERALIZATION.

BEYOND THE BASIC MACRO-ECONOMIC REFORMS MENTIONED ABOVE, HOWEVER, OTHER AREAS RECEIVED THE PRIORITY ATTENTION BY MY ADMINISTRATION. THESE WERE SELECTED TO FURTHER STRENGTHEN THE FOUNDATIONS OF OUR ECONOMY, PREVENT A RECURRENCE OF THE ASIAN AND, ALSO, SHEPHERD IN THE NEW WORLD ECONOMY. I AM HAPPY TO RELAY THAT WE HAD SEVERAL HOME-RUNS WITH CONGRESS IN RECENT MONTHS AND ANTICIPATE MORE IN THE NEXT FEW MONTHS TO COME.

LAST MARCH, THE RETAIL TRADE LAW WAS PASSED WHICH OPENED OUR RETAIL TRADE TO FOREIGN BUSINES COMPANIES AFTER HALF A CENTURY OF PROTECTION. LAST MAY, THE GENERAL BANKING ACT WAS PASSED WHICH ENABLED THE ADOPTION OF INTERNATIONALLY ACCEPTED BANKING, SUPERVISION AND REGULATION STANDARS.

LAST JUNE, ON THE OTHER HAND, ABOUT TWO WEEKS BEFORE THE UNITED STATES WAS ABLE TO DO THE SAME, CONGRESS PASSED A LANDMARK ELECTRONIC COMMERCE ACT WHICH PROVIDED THE LEGAL AND REGULATORY FRAMEWORK TO GOVERN BOTH COMMERCIAL AND NON-COMMERCIAL TRANSACTIONS THROUGH THE INTERNET. THE LAW GIVES ELECTRONIC MESSAGES AND DOCUMENTS THE LEGAL EFFECT, VALIDITY AND ENFORCEABILITY OF A WRITTEN DOCUMENT, MANDATES ALL GOVERNMENT AGENCIES TO USE AND ACCEPT THEM, AND PROVIDES PENALTIES FOR COMPUTER HACKING.

FINALLY, A WEEK AGO, I AFFIXED MY SIGNATURE TO THE SECURITIES REGULATION CODE, WHICH ALIGNS REGULATION OF CAPITAL MARKETS WITH INTERNATIONAL PRACTICES BY ADOPTING THE FULL DISCLOSURE METHOD FO REGULATION, AMONG OTHER FEATURES, THE ACT IS A MILESTONE IN OUR EFFORST TO REFORM AND DEEPEN OUR CAPITAL MARKETS.

FOR YOUR INFORMATION, WE ARE CLOSELY FOLLOWING THE PROGRESS OF THE OMNIBUS POWER BILL AND THE BILL TO AMEND THE OMNIBUS INCENTIVES ACT. THE POWER BILL FURTHER DE-REGULATES AND PRIVATIZE THE POWER SECTOR IN THE  PHILIPPINES, THE BILL WAS APPROVED ON THIRD READING BY BOTH HOUSES OF CONGRESS AND IS PENDING BICAMERAL CONFERENCE COMMITTEE DELIBERATONS.

ALLOW ME TO RECOGNIZE THE PRESENCE AT THIS DINNER OF THE SEANTORS AND CONGRESSMENT WHO HAVE CHAMPIONED THESE BILLS THROUGH THE LEGISLATIVE PROCESS.

THE QUALITY OF OUR POLICIES, OUR RESOLVE IN SUSTAINING THEM, AND THE CONOMIC TEAM THAT I PUT TOGETHER TO MANAGE THEIR IMPLEMENTATIONS, WAS MY ADMINISTRATIONS' RESPONSE TO THE CRISIS. IT SAW US THROUGH THE RESTORATION OF MACRO-ECONOMIC STABILITY AND WILL CARRY US FORWARD AS WE RESUME A PATH OF SUSTAINABLE RAPID GROWTH SO RUDELY INTERRUPTED THROUGHOUT THE REGION.

THE PURSUIT OF AN OPEN, COMPETITIVE ECONOMIC REGIME WAS AND HAS BEEN A DRIVER OF OUR COUNTRY'S PROGRESS THROUGHOUT THE ASIAN AND OTHER DOMESTIC CRISES. BUT LET ME NOW MENTION TWO OTHER DRIVERS WHICH ARE JUST AS SIGNIFICANT: OUR LIVELY AND STABLE DEMOCRATIC INSTITUTIONS ON THE POLITICAL FRONT, AND THE UNIQUELY GIFTED FILIPINO, A RESOURCE QUITE UNMATCHED IN THE ASIAN REGION.

WE HAVE BEEN ZEALOUS -- AND HAVE SUCCEEDED -- IN MAINTAINNG A DEMOCRATIC AND STABLE GOVERNMENT. WE BOAST A CONSISTENTLY PEACEFUL TRANSITION OF POWER SINCE THE PEOPLE POWER REVOLUTION IN 1986 WHEN FILIPINOS PEACEFULLY TOPPLED A 20-YEAR DICTATORSHIP. WE LIKEWISE BOAST OF A CONSTITUTION WHICH HAS ENSHRINED DEMOCRATIC PRINCIPLES THAT ENSURE THE HEALTHY CHECK AND BALANCE AMONG OUR EXECUTIVE, LEGISLATIVE AND JUDICIAL BRANCHES OF GOVERNMENT. OUR CONSTITUTION ALSO HAS A STRONG SOCIAL JUSTICE CHARACTER TO ENSURE THAT ANY ECONOMIC GAINS ARE DISTRIBUTED THROUGHOUT THE PHILIPPINE ARCHIPELAGO.

YES, FROM TIME TO TIME, WE ARE FACED WITH BANDITRY AND INSURGENCIES, WHICH I AM CERTAIN YOU HAVE HEARD ABOUT THROUGH THE MEDIA, ESPECIALLY OUR RECENT TROUBLES IN SOUTHWEST MNDANAO. I SHOULD STRES, HOWEVER, THAT SUCH CRIMINAL ACTIVITIES ARE NOT ENDEMIC AND ARE LIMITED ONLY TO TWO REMOTE AREAS ON THE ISLAND, SULU AND BASILAN. NEITHER DO THEY POSE MILITARY THREATS. AS SHOWN BY THE RECENT FALL OF THE INSURGENTS HEADQUARTERS IN A PLACE CALLED CAMP ABUBAKAR, SUCH SITUATIONS ARE SWIFTLY CONTAINED.

WE ARE MOST PROUD, HOWEVER, OF OUR PEOPLE. THEY ARE OUR MOST VALUABLE ASSET, WHO ARE RECOGNIZED WORLDWIDE FOR THEIR INTELLIGENCE, PRODUCTIVITY, AND INDUSTRY. WE WITHSTOOD THE ASIAN CRISIS ANCHORED UPON THE RESIILIENCE OF OUR PEOPLE AND WE INTEND TO EMERGE INTO THE NEW ECONOMY WITH OUR PEOPLE ONCE AGAIN LEADING THE WAY.

AGAIN, THIS ASSERTION IS NOT UNSUBTANTIATED, WHETHER BY SURVEY OR BY THE RATE AT WHICH OUR BEST HAVE BEEN PIRATED OUT OF THE COUNTRY, IT IS CLEAR THAT THE PHILIPPINES HAS A RESOURCE WHICH IS IN GREAT DEMAND AS THE WORLD ENTERS INTO THIS KNOWLEDGE-BASED AGE. HE MOST RECENT STUDY WAS ONE WHICH WAS RELEASED LAST MONTH, AUTHORED BY DR. HOWARD RUBIN, CHAIRMAN OF THE DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE, HUNTER COLLEGE OF THE CITY UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK, AND DR. MARGARET JOHNSON OF THE DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE OF STANFORD UNIVERSITY.

IN THEIR BOOK, 47 COUNTRIES WERE RANKED ON THEIR TECHNOLOGICAL POTENTIAL AND COMPETITIVENESS USING FIVE CATEGORIES, NAMELY, KNOWLEDGE JOBS, GLOBALIZATION, ECONOMIC DYNAMISM AND COMPETITION, TRANSFORMATION TO DIGITAL ECONOMY, AND TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION CAPACITY. BASED ON ALL FIVE CATEGORIES, THE PHILIPPINES CAME OUT NO. 26, AHEAD OF ALL ITS SOUTHEAST ASIAN NEIGHBORS, EXCEPT SINGAPORE, AND AHEAD ALSO OF ITALY, GREECE, PORTUGAL, KOREA, BRAZIL, ARGENTINA, MEXICO, AND CHINA.

MORE IMPORTANTLY HOWEVER, THE PHILIPPINES TOPPED THE RANKING FOR THE FIRST AND ARGUABLY THE MOST IMPORTANT CATEGORY OF KNOWLEDGE JOBS AND WORKERS. THIS CATEGORY MEASURED THE AVAILABILITY OF ENGINEERS, QUALIFIED INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY WORKERS, AND COMPETENT SENIOR MANAGERS IN A COUNTRY'S LABOR MARKET, AS WELL AS THE NET ENROLLMENT IN PUBLIC AND PRIVATE HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS FOR PERSONS AGED 17 TO 34. ON THIS SCORE, THE PHILIPPINES RANKED NO.1. AHEAD OF AUSTRALIA, THE UNITED STATES, CANADA, FRANCE, GERMANY, AND INDIA.

IT IS A PITY THAT WHILE THE PHILIPIPNES HAS THE COMPETITIVE EDGE IN THE I.T. INDUSTRY AND HAS, IN FACT, BEEN THE ENGINE OF MANY KNOWLEDGE-BASED SERVICES FOR SOME TIME NOW, OTHER COUNTRIES ENJOY A HIGHER PUBLIC PROFILE IN THIS ARENA. THE "BREAK" FOR THE COUNTRY, SO TO SPEAK -- THE EVENT WHICH PUT THE COUNTRY SQUARELY ON THE I.T. RADAR - UNFORTUNATELY CAME A THE PRICE OF NOTERIETY, WHEN THE "I LOVE YOU" VIRUS CAUSED BILLIONS OF DOLLARS IN LOSSES TO COUNTLESS INTERNET USERS ALL OVER THE WORLD LAST MAY. SADLY, APTITUDE FOR THE ENW TECHNOLOGY CAN GO IN THE OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS - ONE WHICH CAN BUILD AND THE OTHER WHICH CAN DESTROY.

WHILE IT WAS FILIPINO TALENT, HOWEVER, THAT LAUNCHED THE DESTRUCTIVE VIRUS, IT WAS ALSO FILIPINO TALENT WHICH FORMULATED ITS ANTIDOTE. CURIOUSLY, THIS LAST FACT DID NOT RECEIVE EQUAL MEDIA TREATMENT OR ATTENTION. IN ANY CASE, CYBER CRIME HAS NO PLACE IN THE PHILIPPINE CYBER ENVIRONEMENT, AND WE HAE ISNCE MOVED QUICKLY TO PLUG THE HOLES AND STRENGTHEN OUR INSTITUTIONS SO THAT SUCH ACTS ARE PREVENTED.

IT IS IN THE ARENA OF I.T. AND E-COMMERCE WHERE OUR TIES AS A COUNTRY CAN BE LEVERAGED INTO THE NEW MILLENNIUM.

IF THERE IS ANY COUNTRY WHICH HAS HARVESTED THE INTELLECTUAL CAPITAL OF THE PHILIPPINES, IT IS THE UNITED STATES. FILIPINOS ARE AND HAVE BEEN A PROMINENT FEATURE OF THE AMERICAN LANDSCAPE -- IN HOMES, OFFICES, AND FACTORIES -- PRODUCING QUALITY SERVICES IN EVERY POINT OF THE TECHNOLOGY VALUE CHAIN. OUR POEPLE ARE OUR BEST AMBASSADORS. WE HOPE THAT YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH THEM CAN TESTIFY TO THIS FACT TO OTHER  WORLD MARKETS.

MANY WELL-KNOWN FIRMS IN THE UNITED STATES HAVE RECOGNIZED THE I.T. POTENTIAL OF THE PHILIPPINES AND HVE, IN FACT, EMPLOYED FILIPINO I.T. PROFESSIONALS IN THEIR OWN OPERATIONS. IT MUST BE ONE OF THE BEST-KEPT SECRETS THAT THE LIKES OF AOL, BARNES AND NOBLE, BECHTEL, CALTEX AND ARTHUR ANDERSE, HAVE EITHER ESTABLISHED SHARED SERVICE AND BACKROOM OPERATIONS IN THE COUNTRY OR HAVE RE-LOCATED FILIPINO AND TECHNOOGY WORKERS AND THEIR FAMILIES INTO THE U.S. DURING A RECENT INVESTMENT SEMINAR HELD IN NORTHERN VIRGINIA LAST MAY, A REPRESENTATIVE FROM ONE OF THESE COMPANIES GAVE THEIR CORPORATE EXPERIENCE IN THE PHILIPPINES A 95 PERCENT SATISFACTORY RATING. THE OTHER 5 PERCENT WAS WITHHELD ON THE GROUNDS THAT NOTHING WAS PERFECT.

WITH THE ENACTMENT OF OUR E-COMMERCE LAW AND OTHER CAPITAL MARKET AND ECONOMIC REFORM INITIATIVES, MY ADMINISTRATION HAS TAKEN A PROACTIVE STANCE IN APPROACHING THE INFORMATION AGE. IT HAS DECIDED TO LIMIT ITSELF TO DOING WHAT GOVERNMENT DOES BEST: TO PROVIDE A FAVORABLE LEGAL AND REGUALTORY ENVIRONMENT FOR THE PRIVATE SECTOR TO INVEST, CREATE NEW JOBS, AND INVENT NEW TECHNOLOGIES FOR THE NEW ECONOMY. A JOINT STATEMENT BETWEEN THE SECRETARIES OF COMMERCE OF OUR TWO COUNTRIES, WHICH IS NOW BEING PREPARED, WILL REITERATE THIS, OUTLINING AREAS OF BILATERAL COOPERATION ON THE PROMOTION AND DEVELOPOMENT OF E-COMMERCE.

WITH THESE INITIATIVES IN PLACE, IT IS MY HOPE THAT OUR BUSINESS COMMUNITY CAN CONFIDENTLY CLAIM THAT ITS GOVERNMENT IS ON THE BALL AND PROCEED TO FORGE PARTNERSHIPS WITH YOU SO THAT, TOGETHER, YOU MAY, IN TURN, DO WHAT THE PRIVATE SECTOR DOES BEST: PROVIDE THE CREATIVITY, CAPITAL AND ENERGY TO FUEL ECONOMIC GROWTH, OPPORTUNITY AND PROSPERITY.

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN:

THE ASIAN CRISIS WAS THE FIRST OF THE GLOBALIZED ERA AND SHOWED ALL COUNTRIES HOW, IN A MORE GLOBAL, INTER-CONNECTED ECONOMY, EVENTS OUTSIDE ONE'S OWN COUNTRY AND CONTROL CAN, NEVERTHELESS, HAVE A DRAMATIC IMPACT ON OUR ECONOMY AND SOCIETY.

EVEN MORE SO BETWEEN TWO COUNTRIES LIKE THE UNITED STATES AND THE PHILIPPINES, WHOSE TIES GO BACK OVER ONE HUNDRED YEARS, AND WHOSE HOMES, SCHOOLS AND WORKPLACES HAVE CULTURAL AND PHYSICAL IMPRINTS OF THE OTHER. ALTHOUGH THE U.S.A. MAY CONSIDER ITSELF WAY AHEAD IN THE TECHNOLOGY GAME, THE LONG-TERM HEALTH OF THE GLOBAL ECONOMY DEPENDS UPON YOUR ACTIVE CONTINUED ENGAGEMENT WITH US AND WITH OTHER DEVELOPING NATIONS.

THE PHILIPPINES HAS MODERNIZED ITS INSTITUTIONS, LIBERALIZED ITS TRADE AND INVESTMENT PRACTICES, AND IS CONTINUOUSLY INVESTING IN ITS PEOPLE. WITH THAT, I LOOK FORWARD TO NEW ALLIANCES FOR BOTH OUR PUBLIC ANDPRIVATE SECTORS.

THANK YOU AND GOOD EVENING.

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Speech of His Excellency
President Joseph Ejercito Estrada
Reception to be hosted by Mayor Brown
City Hall Rotunda, San Francisco
7:00 p.m., July 25, 2000
.
I AM VERY PLEASED TO BE HERE TODAY IN THE BEAUTIFUL CITY OF SAN FRANCISO, AS I BRING WARM GREETINGS FROM THE PHILIPPINES. AS YOU KNOW, THERE IS A LONG HISTORY OF KINSHIP BETWEEN OUR COUNTRY AND SAN FRANCISCO. AFTER ALL, HISTORICAL RECORDS SHOW THAT FILIPINOS CAME TO THIS CITY AS EARLY AS 1595, AS SAILORS ABOARD THE SAN AGUSTIN, WHICH WAS SHIPWRECKED NEAR POINT REYES BY THE MOUTH OF THE SAN FRANCISCO BAY. IT, THEREFORE, BRINGS ME PARTICULAR PLEASURE TO BE ABLE TO TAKE PART IN THIS CONTINUING ENDEAVOR TO DEEPEN AND STRENGTHEN OUR HISTORIC TIES.
I AM GRATEFUL TO MAYOR WILLIE BROWN, THE SAN FRANSCISO-MANILA SISTER CITY COMMITTEE, THE COMMONWEALTH CLUB, AND THE WORLD AFFAIRS COUNCIL FOR GIVING ME THE OPPORTUNITY TO BRING YOU NEWS ABOUT THE PHILIPPINES. BEING OUR VERY GOOD FRIEND, I KNOW YOU ARE VERY MUCH CONCERNED ABOUT WHAT IS ALLEGED TO BE HAPPENING IN OUR COUNTRY. LET ME THEN TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO TELL YOU WHAT IS ACTUALLY TAKING PLACE: THAT THE PHILIPPINES, UNDER MY ADMINISTRATION, REMAINS ON TRACK IN REALIZING IT S VISION OF SUSTAINABLE GROWTH WITH SOCIAL EQUITY.

WHILE OUR ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE LAST YEAR APPEARED TO LAG BEHIND THOSE OF OTHER ASIAN COUNTRIES, WE WERE NONETHELESS ONE OF THREE ECONOMIES THAT HAVE EXCEEDED THEIR PRE-CRISIS OUTPUT LEVELS, THE OTHER TWO BEING SINGAPORE AND SOUTH KOREA.

IN 1999, OUR GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT INCREASED TO 3.3 PERCENT FROM 0.5 PERCENT A EYAR AGO. IN THE FIRST QUARTER OF THIS YEAR, GROSS NATIONAL PRODUCT REACHED 3.45 PERCENT, COMPARED WITH 1.5 PERCENT FOR THE SAME PERIOD LAST YEAR. WE CONTINUED TO LEAD ASEAN WITH THE HIGHEST EXPORT GROWTH RATE OF 30 PERCENT.

THESE ECONOMIC GAINS REFLECT WIDELY SHARED OPTIMISM OVER OUR ECONOMIC RECOVERY. AT THE SAME TIME, THEY HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO THE IMPROVEMENT OF THE LIVING CONDITIONS OF OUR PEOPLE.

OVER A MILLION JOBS WERE CREATED LAST YEAR ALONE, REDUCING THE AVERAGE UNEMPLOYMENT FROM 10.1 PERCENT IN 1998 TO 9.7 PERCENT. BIG AMERICAN COMPANIES LIKE AMERICA ONLINE, ORACLE AND FEDERAL EXPRESS HAVE RECOGNIZED THE STABILITY OF THE PHILIPPINE ECONOMY AND HAVE INVESTED HEAVILY IN THE COUNTRY.

EXCEPT FOR ISOLATED CASES OF VIOLENCE INITIATED BY TERRORIST ELEMENTS IN THE ISLANDS OF BASILAN AND SULU IN MINDANAO, WE HAVE CONTAINED CRIMINALITY IN THE PHILIPPINES. WE HAVE CAPTURED CAMP ABUBAKAR, WHICH THE SEPARATIST MORO ISLAMIC LIBERATION FRONT, OR MILF, HAD CLAIMED TO BE IMPREGNABLE. SO, ALL THE MILF CAMPS ARE NOW IN THE HANDS OF GOVERNMENT FORCES. WE REMAIN COMMITTEED TO THE CAUSE OF PEACE, AS WE REITERATE OUR WILLINGNESS TO TALK TO THE MILF WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF MAINTANING THE TERRITORIAL INTEGRITY OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES

THESE FACTS ARE UNASSAILABLE AND SERVE TO CONFIRM THAT, DESPITE THE ODDS, WE HAVE TRIUMPHED. THE FILIPINOS HAVE ONCE AGAIN PREVAILED OVER ADVERSITY, AND EMERGED AS A PEOPLE EMPOWERED.

THE EMERGENCE OF THE FILIPINO AS AN EMPOWERED PEOPLE IS NOT SOMETHING CONFINED TO OUR NATIONAL BORDERS. IN OTHER PARTS OF THE WORLD THAT I HAVE VISITED, AND PARTICULARLY HERE IN THE UNITED STATES, I HAVE SEEN FOR MYSELF HOW THE FILIPINOS HAVE MADE SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE COUNTRIES WHERE THEY LIVE.

SINCE THEY 1900'S, FILIPINOS HAVE HELPED BUILD THE INFRASTRUCTURE OF U.S. INDUSTRIES AS THE MAJOR LABOR FORCE IN AGRIBUSINESS IN HAWAII AND THE WEST COAST. IN THE LAST TWO OR THREE DECADES, NEW IMMIGRANTS FROM THE PHILIPPINES HAVE CHANGED THE PROFILE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN AMERICA, AS WE SENT PROFESSIONALS AND HIGHLY-SKILLED PERSONNEL TO MEET THE DEMANDS OF THE U.S. ECONOMY

TODAY, YOU CAN FEEL THE PRESENCE OF THE FILIPINO AMERICAN COMMUNITY IN PRACTICALLY ALL ASPECTS OF AMERICAN LIFE, AS WE SEE FILIPINOS IN GOVERNMENT, IN BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY, IN THE MEDICAL PROFESSION, IN THE KNOWLEDGE BASED INDUSTRY, AND IN THE SERVICE SECTORS.

THE RESULTS OF THE RECENT U.S. CENSUS MAY CONFIRM THAT WE ARE THE LARGEST ASIAN-AMERICAN COMMUNITY IN CALIFORNIA. WE HAVE THE HIGHEST AVERAGE FAMILY INCOME AMONG ALL ASIAN IMMIGRANTS. WE HAVE ELECTED A GOVERNOR IN HAWAII, A STATE REPRESENTATIVE IN WASHINGTON STATE, AND A NUMBER OF MAYORS IN CALIFORNIA LIKE HENRY MANAYAN, MICHAEL GUINGONA AND EDUARDO MANUEL. WE ARE IN THE CITY COUNCILS AND THE NATIONAL FEDERATION OF FILIPINO AMERICAN ASSOCIATIONS DESCRIBES IT, "THE FILIPINO AMERICAN NOW SITS AT THE TABLE OF POWER."

YET, THIS RE-ENGINEERING OF THE FILIPINO AMERICAN FROM A SILENT MINORITY TO A POTENT POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC FORCE IS A RESULT OF TWO FACTORS. THESE ARE THE AWAKENING OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY TO THE STRENGTHS INHERENT IN THEIR ABILITY AND NUMBERS, AND THE RECOGNITION AND SUPPORT AFFORDED BY THE MAINSTREAM COMMUNITY. THE FILIPINO AMERICANS HAVE MADE THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS TO THEIR SECOND HOMELAND AND THEY HAVE BEEN REWARDED BY RECOGNITION AND FRIENDSHIP.

I AM GRATEFUL TO MAYOR BROWN OF THE GREAT CITY OF SAN FRANCISCO FOR GIVING THIS MARVELOUS RECEPTION. I ALSO COMMEND HIM FOR BEING A FRIEND WHO HAS ALWAYS RECOGNIZED THE FILIPINO AMERICAN'S CONTRIBUTIONS TO SOCIETY. HE, IN TURN, HAS WON THE HEARTS OF MANY FILIPINOS, NOT TO MENTION ONE SPECIAL FILIPINA, MRS. BLANCHE VITERO BROWN.

MAY I ALSO TAKE THE OPPORTUNITY TO EXPRESS MY APPRECIATION TO THE SAN FRANCISCO-MANILA SISTER CITY COMMITTEE, THE COMMONWEALTH CLUB, AND THE WORLD AFFAIRS COUNCIL FOR CONTINUING TO PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR DIALOGUE AND INTERACTION WITH THE PHILIPPINES.

TONIGHT, I SEE BEFORE ME A SHINING EXAMPLE OF WHAT WE CAN DO WHEN WE WORK TOGETHER. SO, TO MY COUNTRYMEN AND OUR FRIENDS, LET US CARRY ON OUR PROUD TRADITION OF PARTNERSHIP AND FRIENDSHIP. LET US CONTINUE TO WORK TOGETHER, ALONGSIDE EACH OTHER, AS WE BUILD A BETTER SAN FRANCISCO, A BETTER PHILIPPINES, AND A BETTER WORLD, FOR US AND FOR THE FUTURE.

THANK YOU AND MABUHAY!

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PAL donates relief goods for evacuees
By ATR (PIA-Cotabato)
July 2000

COTABATO CITY -- Philippine Airlines (PAL) through the PAL Foundation Inc. has donated 35 cartons of assorted relief goods for evacuees of Cotabato province.

Atty. Domingo Duerme, PAL vice-president for sales in Mindanao, and Davao City branch manager Arturo Balaga represented the airline during the turnover ceremony at the rooftop of the Provincial capitol.

The relief goods consisted of used clothing, blankets and canned goods which will be distributed to evacuees in Pikit, Aleosan, Carmen and Midsayap.

Earlier, PAL donated 20 cartons of relief goods and 100 boxes of mineral water to Mayor Muslime Fema for evacuees in Cotabato City.

Duerme hoped that the airline's gesture would help ease the plight of evacuees now housed in evacuation centers since hostilities broke out between government troops and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) rebels last April 27. He expressed the company's willingness to be part of the rehabilitation program of the government.

Meanwhile, flights to Cotabato City remain suspended despite an earlier clearance issued to the flag carrier by the Air Transportation Office. The airline's lessors and insurers are not convinced of the aircraft's safety, Duerme said. He was optimistic, however, that flights will resume as soon as peace and order conditions in Central Mindanao improve.

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NFA assists 200 families in Cotabato province
COTABATO CITY, Sept. 11, 2000 (PIA-12) -- A total of 200 poorest families in Cotabato Province have been identified as beneficiaries of the Lingap Para sa Mahirap Program by National Food Authority (NFA).

Since December 1999 until September 6 this year, NFA Cotabato has already established 9 Erap Sari-Sari Stores in several barangays of Kidapawan City, Arakan and Aleosan.

Each baranngay in Kidapawan has 20 beneficiaries each while the four barangays in Arakan and Aleosan have 25 beneficiaries each.

The existence of the projects in the identified areas do not only benefit the targetted recipients but the whole community as well. It provides an affordable price for rice and other basic food needs in the barangays.

Under the Lingap Para sa Mahirap Program, the local government identifies the 200 poorest of the families in the locality as the priority beneficiaries. NFA, on the other hand, ensures that rice and other basic food needs are made available and accessible to these families.

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New fast craft treks Cotabato to Sultan Kudarat
COTABATO CITY, Sept. 11, 2000 (PIA-12) -- Commuting public making use of commercial watercraft facilities will only be spending more than 2 hours instead of the usual more than 6 hours travel from Cotabato City to Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat province and vice versa.

The Southern Philippines Trans-Marine Services Cooperative (SPTSC) owner of M/L Ammerlyne I said their fast craft will now lessen the period of time being spent by other commercial water vessels plying said route.

The fast track was purchased in Japan by SPTSC by 12 million pesos. It is officially registered to ferry 97 passengers with light baggages. Cargoes are not allowed since the vessel is classified as "luxury" vessel.

In a press conference arranged by the Department of Tourism Region XII, SSTC Chairman Manuel Lontok said the fare to this air-conditioned vessel is 390 pesos.

The fast craft which docked at the Cotabato City wharf after its maiden trip from Kalamansig early Saturday morning was boarded by Sultan Kudarat Governor Datu Pax Mangudadatu and officials of GEM, SPTSC, local government officials, and media practitioners to see for themselves the real picture of the vessel.

Mangodadatu promised to closely coordinate with mayors of the coastal towns of Palembang, Lebak and Kalamansig for the safety of the vessel and its passengers while cruising along the said areas. The management of the vessel looks forward to acquire more fast crafts in the future.

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Brin keeps Olympic hopes alive

TAEJON City, South Korea - Romeo Brin became the second Filipino fighter to barge into the semifinal round of the second Asian Olympic qualifying Sunday when he beat Yamaguchi Iuroshi of Japan in their light welterweight quarterfinal duel at the Chung Mu Stadium here.

The 26-year-old Army sergeant outslugged the game Japanese in a virtual brawl that resulted in 15-11 decision for the Filipino, who joined compatriot Ramil Zambales in the next round where no less than a berth in this year's Sydney Games is at stake.

Brin goes up against Lu Zung Wei of China Monday while Zambales climbs the ring against1996 Atlanta Games gold medalist Somluck Kamsing of Thailand in their featherweight clash.

Both hailing from Puerto Princesa City, Brin and Zambales are the remaining survivors of a five-man RP squad.

Failing to advance into the medal round in their first tries were light flyweight Danilo Lerio, welterweight Junie Tizon and bantamweight Roel Laguna, who lost to hometown bet Cho Seok Hwan, 15-7, earlier on Sunday.

Brin took the first two rounds against the taller Iuroshi where he piled up points from his head and body shots. But the Japanese came charging back in the third round with his own barrage of blows that saw Brin barely keep a one-point lead going into the last frame.

"Napuruhan din ako sa last round, nahilo ako. Pero alam ko kaya ko kaya hindi na ako nagpatakot, sinabayan ko na rin," said Brin, who recovered in time to save his lead and his place in the semis.
:: Philippine Star Archive 2000
 

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Sporting Chance - By Joaquin M. Henson (2000 Philippine Star Archive)

Leaning on Asi
Mobiline coach Eric Altamirano called his celebrated center Asi Taulava "a changed man" and said he expects bigger things from the 6-10 Fil-Tongan in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) this season.

"Asi's lost more than 10 pounds in two weeks," gushed Altamirano who nearly gave up on Taulava when he reported for camp about 20 pounds overweight. "He's very determined. He wants to prove himself to everyone, including me -- he wants to make up for last year."

Altamirano admitted Mobiline was close to trading Taulava. "We thought about trading Asi but in the end, we decided we're better off with him," he said. "Our whole team supports him. Despite all that trade talk, I'm impressed at the way Asi handled the situation. He never lost focus. He continues to work hard at practice, running every morning on his own then reporting for 2 1/2 hours a day in the afternoon with the guys. There's a drastic change in Asi's attitude -- I hope he keeps it up."

A rumor floated that Taulava has broken up with girlfriend Anna Mae Corveau, a former Binibining Pilipinas candidate. Is that why Taulava is more concentrated on his job? Altamirano's reply was simply no comment.

Although Mobiline didn't make it to a single semis last season, Altamirano said the disappointment produced something positive.

"It was a learning experience," explained Altamirano. "We played with a lot of pressure last year -- we couldn't cope with the expectations. Now, we've got a new outlook, a different approach. We want to enjoy the season and as we go along, we'll build on our experience."

Altamirano said this year's lineup is a lot more balanced.

"We used to be loaded with guards," he continued. "We used to try to win games on defense. We worried about other teams instead of other teams worrying about us. Now, we're more balanced in terms of offense and defense. We've become taller and quicker so we'll be able to create matchup problems. We've got the ability to score from outside and inside. We're more versatile in offense. We'll be an exciting, up-tempo team."

Mobiline has 11 players on its roster at the moment. Altamirano said he's still evaluating whether or not to add another player. There is talk that Bong Ravena is interested in joining the Phone Pals.

Gone from last year's lineup are Jeffrey Cariaso (to Tanduay), Robin Mendoza (released on his request), Bryan Gahol, (to Shell), Glenn Capacio (to Red Bull) and TonyBoy Espinosa (to Batangas in the Metropolitan Basketball Association).

The holdovers are Patrick Fran, Al Solis, Boyet Francisco, Eric Reyes, Josel Angeles, Jerry Codiñera and Taulava.

New arrivals are Jherome Ejercito, Don Camaso, Gido Babilonia, and Victor Pablo.

"Jherome's a 6-3 point guard who can score and play with poise, just like Johnny (Abarrientos)," said Altamirano. "I've been trying to convince Jherome to play in the PBA since 1998. He's a nice kid, tahimik lang, and a good leader inside the court. He's a humble guy but at the same time, he's confident and cocky. We owe his cousin, Mayor Jinggoy Estrada of San Juan, a debt of gratitude for allowing him to play in the PBA."

As for Camaso, Altamirano said the 6-7 forward is quick, lean, and a high leaper. "He's quicker than Danny Ildefonso and he's a natural outside shooter although Danny Siegle has more range on his shot," added Altamirano. "He plays three or four. His drawback is a lean frame -- he's got to bulk up to bang bodies."

On Babilonia, Altamirano said he was lucky to find the 6-7 center available. "Expired na `yung MBA contract ni Gido," related Altamirano. "We were looking for a backup center. Swerte lang kami he was unsigned. It's hard to find a backup center in the PBA. That's why we looked in the MBA."

Pablo came in via the Cariaso trade. "Vic plays like Jeff only he's bigger," said Altamirano. "We were lucky to get him, too."

The Pablo trade was triggered by a snag in renegotiating Cariaso's expired contract.

"We offered Jeff a two-year contract but he asked for five years," disclosed Altamirano. "We had to do something. Shell wasn't interested in Jeff -- they wanted a tall player. Tanduay was interested in Jeff so we worked out a three-way trade. Tanduay's a good team for Jeff -- the team fits his style and it's a contender. We're happy for Jeff. Shell got its wish -- they got big guys (Mark Telan and Gahol) and we ended up with Vic."

Altamirano said Bogs Adornado is no longer in his coaching staff but Frankie Lim, Ryan Gregorio and Leo Isaac are back.

Team owner Manny Pangilinan has provided the team an inspirational lift, pointed out Altamirano. "Mr. Pangilinan is on top of the situation -- that's a big morale boost for us," he revealed. "We meet with him constantly. He's excited about the coming season -- he's very upbeat."

Next month, Altamirano will take the Phone Pals to Tagaytay for a three to four-day team building session.

Altamirano said his goal is to qualify for the semis in the All-Filipino Cup starting Feb. 20 then "we'll build from there." He singled out San Miguel Beer, Tanduay, Alaska, and Purefoods as the top contenders in the coming tournament.

And of course, there's Mobiline.

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IOC ruling to boost RP's golden quest

Philippine Olympic Committee president Celso Dayrit yesterday said the country may field more athletes in this year's Sydney Olympics without going through the usual qualifying tournaments.

"We're happy with this development considering that it will bolster our chance of winning RP's first ever Olympic gold medal," said Dayrit after being informed by the International Olympic Committee that it is opening berths in seven sports for the Sydney Games.

These events are archery, judo, shooting, lawn tennis, weightlifting, taekwondo and triathlon.

But the POC must submit its recommendations and get approval from a tripartite body organized by the IOC, Association of National Olympic Committee and the International Federation.

Dayrit said he has yet to meet with the NSAs (National Sports Associations) involved before coming up with a certain number of athletes but hinted they might recommend about eight to nine athletes to the IOC body.

According to the POC chief, they may recommend three or four in shooting, two in judo, Maricris Fernandez of tennis and three in archery namely Christian Cubilla, Purita Joy Mariño and Marifi Martinez, who made strong finishes in the Asian Archery Championship and the Olympic Qualifying tournament last year. - Joey Villar
- Philippine Star: 2000 year Archive

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TO CONTAIN POLIO: STATE OF HEALTH EMERGENCY MAY BE NEEDED

House Deputy Majority Leader Rep. Bernadette Herrera, has called for a more aggressive response to the growing public health threat of polio, especially in poverty-stricken and polio-hit areas of Mindanao, after Health Secretary Francisco Duque  revealed that there are two more suspected cases of polio in Mindanao, in addition to the three new confirmed polio cases and the first  confirmed case in Datu Piang, Maguindanao.

"There are now at least four children with polio in Mindanao making us inclined to  believe that the current measures may not be enough. Given the seriousness of the growing polio threat to public health, more aggressive and pro-active steps, including a possible 'localized state of health emergency'  may be in order, which the DOH Secretary has the power to do under our administrative and public health laws," said Herrera, who in her private capacity as a Governor of Rotary International here in the Philippines, is coordinating efforts of Rotary Clubs against polio.

The Department of Health is scheduled to conduct a polio vaccination campaign from November 25 to December 7 in Mindanao, as well as in Metro Manila.

"Rotary Clubs in various locations will stand side by side with the DOH to administer the polio vaccines as we have done this year and in years past," the Bagong Henerasyon Party-list lawmaker said. (END)
- press release

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Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Convenes the Financial Education Stakeholders Expo 2019

25 November 2019, Pasay City. The Financial Education Stakeholders Expo, organized by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), begins today at SMX Convention Center Manila. The two-day Expo is attended by around 1,000 participants from government agencies, private institutions, development partners, international organizations, civic society and the academe.

The Expo, designed as the BSP's flagship event for financial education, provides the venue for key stakeholders to share lessons learned, identify challenges and find solutions and opportunities to enhance the financial literacy of Filipinos. The ultimate objective of the Expo is to build an organized network of financial education champions and advocates, collaborating on scalable, sustainable and measurable financial education programs that are geared toward achieving the shared vision of a financially healthy Philippine citizenry.

Governor Benjamin E. Diokno, in his opening message, noted that the Expo is one way of bringing the BSP closer to the public, in line with the BSP's three strategic advocacies for financial education, financial inclusion and consumer protection.

The Expo is supported by the Department of Education (DepEd), represented by Undersecretary Annalyn M. Sevilla who will lead the launch of DepEd's Financial Education Policy and Roadmap during the opening plenary. It is also supported by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), represented by Undersecretary Rosemarie G. Edillon, in view of NEDA's role as coordinator of the Economic and Financial Literacy Week celebrations mandated under Republic Act No. 10922.

The Expo activities include plenary and breakout sessions will tackle how financial education contributes to green and sustainable development; lessons on responsible financial planning, making our money grow and becoming good financial role models; stock market investing; practicing customer centricity in financial services; and mainstreaming financial education in school curriculums.

The Expo also includes interactive sessions, such as financial education board game, a theater production, a live financial literacy competition, and an awards program. Special performances from a guest actor and a percussion group will conclude the Expo. These sessions are free and exclusive for representatives of invited institutions.

Alongside the Expo is an Exhibit with 76 booths, where public and private institutions are showcasing their wares, ranging from financial products and services to handicrafts by microentrepreneurs. This two-day Exhibit is open for all Expo participants as well as the general public. The first ever Expo was convened last 2018 with equally exciting activities.

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BANKNOTES SUPPLY DURING YULE SEASON IS ADEQUATE

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) assures the public that there is adequate supply of currency in line with the seasonal demand for fresh banknotes during the Christmas season. According to the BSP, the country's currency supply also remains sufficient to meet the needs of a growing economy.

Similar to the practice of other central banks that print their own currency, the BSP partially outsources the production of banknotes to meet surges in currency demand under domestic procurement regulations or international competitive bidding processes.
The BSP likewise continues to educate the public on the proper handling of banknotes under its nationwide "Clean Note Policy" as a multi-stakeholder initiative to minimize the cost of producing currency. The campaign is aimed at extending the life span of banknotes, thereby reducing the cost of currency production.

The BSP continuously invests in and upgrades its capacity for coin and banknote production to further increase its agility in meeting the country's currency requirements. Towards this end, the BSP plans to establish a larger currency production facility in New Clark City.

Moreover, the BSP fosters an environment conducive to a cash-lite economy. This is in view of an evolving global market landscape that takes into account the efficiencies brought about by advances in electronic payment systems and the potential of technology in enhancing financial inclusion.

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Public Consultation on Murang Kuryente

Press Release: The Department of Energy (DOE), in collaboration with the Department of Finance (DOF), conducted a public consultation last Friday (22 November) on the draft Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act (RA) No. 11371,  "An Act Reducing Electricity Rates by Allocating a Portion of the Net National Government Share from the Malampaya Natural Gas Project for the Payment of the Stranded Contract Costs and Stranded Debts", otherwise known as the Murang Kuryente Act (MKA), which was enacted into law on 8 August 2019 and took effect on 29 August.

Pursuant to RA 11371, the DOE and the DOF, in consultation with the Department of Budget and Management, the Bureau of the Treasury, and the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp. (PSALM), shall, with 90 days from the effectivity of the law, promulgate its implementing rules and regulations.

MKA is envisioned to help prevent further increases on electricity rates stemming from the imposition of universal charges, as allowed by Republic Act. No 9136 or the EPIRA, to cover PSALM stranded debts and stranded contract costs with a total estimated amount of 87-centavos per kWh. MKA allocates PhP208 billion from the government's shares or income generated from the exploration and development of energy resources in the country, in relation to Presidential Decree (PD) No. 87, the Oil Exploration and Development Act of 1972.

Undersecretary Felix William B. Fuentebella, in his welcome message, stressed that this initiative has been recommended by the Cabinet since 2016. However, as the use of funds, pursuant to PD 910, is limited to financing energy resource development and exploitation programs and projects of the government, the passage of RA 11371 was needed to allow for the funding appropriation for other purposes, such as that of the Murang Kuryente Act.

The consultation was attended by representatives from Senate, other government agencies, consumer and business groups and electric power industry participants.

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By Rey Tutas
BOKAL ADIONG NAPILING PCL- 7 VICE-CHAIRPERSON

Napili ang pangu sa Philippine Councilors League sa lalawigan sa Bohol nga si Bokal Jescelo Adiong isip Regional Vice-Chairperson sa PCL-Central Visayas.

Sama sa bag-ong pangu sa maong liga sa rehiyon, way kontra ang pagkapili ni Konsehal Adiong sa lungsod sa Loay atul sa piniliay nga gipahigayon niadtong Miyerkules, Nob. 20, didto sa Bai Hotel sa dakbayan sa Sugbo.

Wala sa'y kontra ang bag-ong napili'ng PCL-7 Regional Chairperson nga si Konsehal Raymond Alvin Garcia sa dakbayan sa Sugbo.

Ang bag-ong mga napili'ng opisyal sa PCL-7 mao sila si Roselyn Asok isip Regional Secretary General, Regional Treasurer si Francis Edward Salimbagon, Regional Council Auditor si Ricardo Amores ug Public Relation Officer si Herman January Carballo.

Gawas kang Adiong, laing duha ka konsehal sa Bohol ang napili usab, sila si Maricris Jamora sa Jagna ug Jay Unajan sa Carmen isip Board of Directors.

Ang mibotar sa bag-ong mga opisyales sa PCL-Region 7 mao ang mga opisyales sa city ug provincial chapter sa mga lalawigan sa Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental ug Siquijor.

Si Garcia, chairman sa PCL-Cebu City Chapter maoy nihulip kanhi Konsehal ug karon Bise Mayor Earl Oyas sa lungsod sa Catmon, Cebu.

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By Joshua Fullido
Anaa sa critical nga kahimtang ang usa ka lalaki human gipusil sa  wala pa matinong suspek didto sa lungsod sa Ubay

Ang biktima nailhan nga si Armando Casicas, 33 anyos, ulitawo, taga brgy. San Pascual lungsod sa Ubay

Matud pa ni Helen igsuon sa biktima nga nahitabo ang insidente pasado alas 8 kagabii nga ang biktima gikan kini nag-inum ug ilimnung makahubog  ug sa pagpauli niini , mihunong kini sa waitingshed  dihang  dunay motorsiklo ang kalit lang miduol  ug gidul-itan siya pagpusil sa  wala pa matinong suspek nga nakaingon sa pagkaangkon ug samad sa ulo lagbas sa liog .

Human sa panghitabo, misibat dayon ang suspek  samtang ang biktima girescue dayon kini ug gihatud sa Ubay Hospital  wa madugay girefer dayon kini dinhe sa Gov. Celestino Gallares Memorial Hospital ning syudad arun sa dugang pagpatambal.

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By Joshua Fullido
Naigo sa kilat
1 patay samtang 4 angol human naigo sa sunod-sunod nga pag LiTe didto sa lungsod sa Panglao.

Patay ang biktima nga nailhan sa  alyas "Jendel Montesa" 34 anyos , minyo, naigo ug kilat sa dughan   samtang nabandahan usab ang kauban niini nga si Cristal Jane Guiritan, 11 anyos, nakaangkon ug labad sa ulo nga  pulos nagpoyo sa brgy. Danao, Panglao.

Suma pa ni Guiritan nga sa mga pasado alas 12:30 sa udto kagahapon nga  samtang nanginhas sila sa baybayon sa sitio Daurong brgy. Danao , mikalit lang ang  pag kusug sa  uwan  inubanan  sa pagkilat-kilat nga miresulta nga naigo ang biktima ug nabandahan siya.

Dugang pa nga direktang miigo ang kilat sa kwentas sa biktima nga nakaingon sa pagkaangol.

Samtang sa laing bahin,   laing 3 ka biktima ang naigo sa LiTe didto sa Virgin island ,  Panglao.

Ang mga biktima nailhan nga sina Inocentes Demigos, 62 anyos, ulitawo, nakaangkon ug paglabad sa ulo ug panakit sa lawas, ug  si Jessa Mae Pandan, 16 anyos, ug si Mitch Tabiliran, 19 anyos, pulos nakaangkon ug pamaol sa lawas  nga taga brgy. Anislag lungsod sa Corelia.

Gisaysay sa mga biktima nga sa mga pasado ala 1 sa hapon kagahapon nga samtang sakay sila sa Bangka didto sa hunasan sa Virgin island, nangaon sila dihang  mikalit lang  ang pagkilat  ug naigo direkta si Demigos samtang ang 21 ka pasahero nabandahan usab.

Og tungod sa mga minor injuries wala ra gidala sa tambalanan ang uban pasahero  apan ang tulo ka biktima gihatud dayon sila sa tambalanan arun sa dinaliang pag-atiman. Pagka karon, nagpaalim pa sila sa angol nga nahiaguman.

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Anna Lissa Bahay went to South Korea in December 1996.  An advocate who fights for the migrants' rights in South Korea, she has been a part of the World Human Rights Cities Forum.  She also wrote a book on minority empowerment and served as a presenter to the forum.

She worked as a counselor at the Emergency Support Center for Migrant Women 1577-1366 of the Women's Human Rights Institute of Korea.  Currently, she works as a counselor at the Multi-Cultural Family Integration Center of the Korean Institute for Healthy Family.

She is also an active member of the Gwangju-Jeonnam Filipino Community (GJFC) where she takes part in various activities of the organization.  GJFC provides social, spiritual, and entertainment activities for the Filipino community in Gwangju.  It also offers services such as medical, translation and legal assistance, among others, for the Filipinos.

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By Brigada News Davao
𝗔𝗞𝗧𝗢𝗥 𝗡𝗚𝗔 "𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗔 𝗞𝗔 𝗠𝗢𝗩𝗘 𝗢𝗡" 𝗔𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗧𝗢 𝗦𝗔 𝗞𝗔𝗣𝗢𝗟𝗜𝗦𝗔𝗡
Giaresto sa kapolisan ang usa ka lalaki nga matud pa pakyas sa gugma human kini nagdala-dala og armas sa panimalay sa iyang kanhi uyab sa Matina, Davao City ning milabayng kadlawon.
Ang suspek giilang si Kevin John Rosario, 31, nga taga  Lubogan, Toril, ning dakbayan kinsa giaresto sa mga sakop sa Talomo Police Station.
Sa imbestigasyon nasayran nga napakyas matud pa ang gugma sa suspek sa dihang gibulagan kini sa iyang uyab rason pugos gisulod ni Rosario ang panimalay sa babae kon asa nagbitbit kini og .38 revolver nga dunay mga buhing bala.
Ayha paman giablihan sa babae ang pultahan nagsumbong una kini sa pulis dayon makalmahon gihinabi ang aktor hantud nga miabot ang kapolisan og didto na kini giaresto.
Nasayran nga gibulagan sa biktima ang suspek duha na ka bulan ang milabay human naninion matud pa og pusil ang suspek.
Sa prisohan na lamang tagamtamon sa aktor ang kasakit sa iyang gibati uban sa kasong atubangon niini. BNFM-Davao

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PIA - His Excellency Noe A. Wong, Ambassador of the Philippines to the Republic of Korea (ROK), talks on the flourishing bilateral relations between the Philippines and South Korea in various areas such as politics, multilateral arena, economic side, people-to-people exchanges, defense, among others.

"Now on the economic side, the existing relations between the Philippines and South Korea is a robust one.  And this is characterized by an active dialogue in the engagement in the political security, the economic and even the socio-cultural spheres.  And in fact, I would say that our economic relations as of the moment is really flourishing," the Philippine envoy said.

According to Ambassador Wong, South Korea is one of the major destinations of Philippine export and the fourth (4th) trading partner of the Philippines.

He also spells out that the New Southern Policy, which puts the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on the top diplomatic priority list of South Korea, is the latter's pivot to Southeast Asia that will also be instrumental to the development of the Philippines.

"This New Southern Policy or this pivot, or this 30th ROK-ASEAN Summit will really redound to the benefit of the Philippines.  I will specifically mention one.  This pivot will redound to the Build,Build,Build program of the President.  There is a resurgence of infrastructure program in the Philippines and most of the construction companies here in Korea are going toward ASEAN," Ambassador Wong added.

Likewise, he explained that the forthcoming 30th ASEAN- ROK Commemorative Summit will be an avenue to assess what has been achieved during the 30 years of its dialogue partnership, and it will hasten the commitment of the ASEAN Leaders to future cooperation.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte is set to participate in the 2019 ASEAN-ROK Commemorative Summit in Busan, South Korea.

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Reposted from FB (via Berso Kabataan)
"I AM MENTALLY HEALTHY!".
PART 2

Bingag East Rising Star Organization- Youth in partnership with Paghatag og Pagtagad sa Kabililhon sa Kinabuhi Organization recently conducted their, BANGON: MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS TRAINING PROGRAM 2019.

The said awareness was facilitated by the PAGpakabuhi organization who aims to develop caring communities by addressing mental health issues through various interventions and to contribute towards psychological and social well-being of individuals and families through supportive living environment.

This was also participated by the other recognized organization in Barangay Bingag namely the San Pedro Youth Organization and Sibukaw Youth Organization.

Thank you so much everyone for your cooperation and undying support!!

Together, let's spread the positive energy to one and all.

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By Ric V Obedencio
BDJ: Bargaining plea helps
reduce inmate congestion

Bargaining pleas which appeared to be taken advantage of by the illegal drug accused in court litigation have indeed reduced the number of inmates thereby easing out congestion in Bohol District Jail.

BDJ warden chief Inspector Renan Torreon of the Bureau of Penology and Jail Management bared this in an exclusive interview with BNT last week.

He said that the number of inmates inside BDJ is now over 600 from used to be almost a thousand before the implementation of plea bargaining

Meanwhile, Torreon defended his budget for 2020 during budget hearing conducted by appropriations committee chaired by Vice-governor and now acting governor Rene Relampagos.

Former Talibon mayor and now Board Member Restituto Auxtero, committee's vice-chair, took over in presiding the budget hearing last week following Relampagos's assumption as acting governor in lieu of Gov. Art Yap who started Nov. 20 his 90-day preventive suspension.

BDJ's outlay for next year is reduced to just over P36 million from P38 million this year, Torreon said as he showed to BNT a copy of its budget.

As to the meals, each inmate is entitled to P100/day, he said.

This is being contributed by BJMP (P70.00) and province counterpart of P30.00.

The former Bohol Detention and Rehab Center has 100 personnel manning the prison facility.

There are 29 workers provided by BJMP and 37 and 34 plantilla and casual workers, respectively, by the provincial government.

BDRC management and operations were transferred to BJMP thru a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) executed by the provincial government during the time of then Governor Erico AUmentado and BJMP. (rvo)

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BSP Honored in the Excellence in Currency 2019 Coin Awards
for New Generation Currency Coin Series and Coin-Ed Campaign

The International Association of Currency Affairs (IACA) has recognized the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) in the Excellence in Currency 2019 Coin Awards at the biennial Coin Conference in Rome, Italy on 15 October 2019.

Established in 2007, IACA's Excellence in Currency Awards Program promotes and recognizes excellence in currency production, processing, management and distribution.

The BSP's New Generation Currency (NGC) Coin Series and the Coin-Ed Campaign were among the top three finalists awarded in the Best New Circulating Coins and Best Public Education Program categories, respectively.

The NGC Coin Series which includes the 10-Piso, 5-Piso, 1-Piso, 25-Sentimo, 5-Sentimo and 1-Sentimo, was released in circulation in March 2018. During the awards ceremony, IACA cited the enhanced aesthetic of the NGC coins, cutting-edge security features, and improved wear and corrosion resistance capabilities. The NGC coins feature native flora, heroes and stylized Philippine flag.

On the other hand, BSP's Coin-Ed Program was lauded for utilizing multiple communication channels aimed at increasing awareness and promoting public engagement in the recirculation and proper use of the new coins. Aside from face-to-face briefings, printed materials, television and radio, the BSP also made use of social media to expand the reach of its Coin-Ed animation videos and infographics.

The Tricolor 20 Ouguiya of the Central Bank of Mauritania was awarded Best Circulation Coin, while Bank of New Zealand's Armistice Day Coin Public Awareness Campaign was awarded Best Public Education Program.

The recognition follows the BSP's announcement to release in circulation an enhanced 5-Piso NGC coin in December to make it more distinct from other denominations in the NGC Coin Series. This reaffirms BSP's commitment to not only uphold the highest standard of excellence, but also listen to the public's feedback as it endeavors to bring central banking closer to the people. - Press Release

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Manila,  November 22, 2019 —  From November 19 to 20, 2019, the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines continued to partner with the Philippine Judicial Academy in training 24 Mindanao judges on money laundering, terrorist financing, and financial crimes.  The workshop included participants from Sulu, Basilan, Marawi, and Zamboanga, all areas of the Philippines which have had recent terrorist attacks.

During this two-day workshop, Judge Paul Warner (U.S. Chief Magistrate Judge, District of Utah) explained key ways criminal proceeds are laundered and techniques used to investigate financial crimes.  Judge Warner welcomed the opportunity to return to the Philippines where he had lived previously.  U.S. DOJ Resident Legal Advisor David Bragdon discussed international perspectives on ponzi schemes and asset management. 

Distinguished Philippine lecturers discussed forfeiture, the Philippine Anti-Money Laundering Council, and key procedural and substantive aspects of money laundering prosecutions.  The Philippine experts who presented included Atty. Matthew David of Anti-Money Laundering Council Secretariat, Professor Jose Jesus Disini, Jr. , Atty. Juan De Zuniga, Jr. from Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, and former Securities and Exchange Commission Chairperson Teresita Herbosa.

"We learned a lot as the laws discussed and situations presented are very relevant to these times, especially with the ease of transactions that the internet and other high technology gadgets provide.  Financial crimes are also becoming common now with the proliferation of pyramid and ponzi schemes here in the Philippines," RTC Judge Sittie Laarni Umpa of Marawi City stated.

Judge Umpa further stated, "We are very thankful to the speakers and the sponsors because we have gained deeper insights and those insights widened our perspective on the issues and laws discussed."

About the training, Judge Warner said, "The cooperation and goodwill between the United States and Philippines with respect to combatting money laundering was gratifying to me to see and experience.  I am confident that these training conferences serve both of our countries well."

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Press Release
Manila, November 22, 2019 — Deputy Chief of Mission John Law traveled to Cotabato to launch a new Countering Violent Extremism partnership with local government units and civil society.  He also met with BARMM officials to discuss U.S. support for the Bangsamoro Transitional Authority, totaling nearly Php 1 billion ($18.7 million).

The new CONVERGE Program supports local government units, researchers, and civil society organizations to reduce the drivers of violent extremism and increase community resilience to radicalization.  CONVERGE is funded with Php 86 million from the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations and implemented in partnership with The Asia Foundation through local implementers Kadtuntaya Foundation, Inc. (KFI), Integrated Resource Development for Tri-People, Inc.,  and Nagdilaab Foundation, Inc.

DCM Law also reaffirmed the U.S. government's commitment to democratic governance and health in the Bangsamoro during visits to two ongoing U.S. Agency for International Development projects.

•USAID's more than Php101 million FORWARD Bangsamoro project, implemented in partnership with The Asia Foundation, supports the Bangsamoro Transition Authority to bolster effective and accountable local governance.

•USAID's more than Php760 million health project, implemented at the request of BARMM Ministry of Health and in collaboration with the University Research Co, LLC, will implement programs to help save the lives of mothers and newborns and improve families' quality of life.

These projects build upon more than two decades of U.S. development assistance and investment to the Bangsamoro.

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Monetary Board Amends the Definition of Deposit Substitutes

        The Monetary Board approved the revision to the definition of a deposit substitute to align the same with the provisions of the BSP Charter which was amended under Republic Act No. 11211.  

Under Section 95 of the new BSP Charter, a deposit substitute refers to a form of obtaining funds from the public, other than deposits, through the issuance, endorsement or acceptance of debt instruments for the purpose of relending or purchase of other receivables and obligations.  The provisions of Section 95 clarify that the term "obtaining funds from the public" refers to borrowing from 20 or more lenders that are individuals or corporate entities which are not financial intermediaries.  

This means that borrowings from banks, quasi-banks and other financial intermediaries are no longer considered as deposit substitutes which are subject to reserve requirements.  Examples of these borrowings include interbank borrowings, repurchase agreements with financial counterparties as well as bonds issued to financial intermediaries. The exclusion of these types of borrowings from the reserve base of banks and quasi-banks will result in freed-up liquidity for lending or investment activities.  

This amendment is in line with the BSP's commitment to implement legislation and ensure that the BSP's regulatory framework is consistent with prevailing laws.  It also facilitates the flow of funds within the financial system which may help reduce intermediation costs and, in turn, support the economic activity.

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BSP and DOLE Hold Financial Forum for the Labor Sector

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), together with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), held the Financial Inclusion Forum for the Labor Sector on 18 November 2019 at the BSP Complex in Manila. The Forum was geared toward promoting awareness on financial inclusion, digital payments and the developments in the financial services industry that can enhance workers' welfare. Specifically, the Forum highlighted the benefits of using a transaction account – i.e., a bank account or an e-money account – considered as a gateway to a whole range of other digital financial services, including credit, insurance, payments and investments.

The Forum featured speakers from the BSP as well as GCash, PayMaya, Cebuana Lhuillier Rural Bank and Union Bank who introduced their innovative product offerings suitable for the workers and their employers. More than 150 participants from various employer and worker groups, including associations of informal workers and kasambahays, participated in the Forum.

The Forum is the first project of the DOLE as member of the Financial Inclusion Steering Committee (FISC), the 19-member strong interagency body that provides strategic direction, guidance, and oversight in the implementation of the National Strategy for Financial Inclusion (NSFI).  DOLE became a member of the FISC in September 2019.

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Matthew 3
 1  At nang mga araw na yaon ay dumating si Juan Bautista, na nangangaral sa ilang ng Judea, na nagsasabi,

 2  Mangagsisi kayo; sapagka't malapit na ang kaharian ng langit.

 3  Sapagka't ito yaong sinalita sa pamamagitan ng propeta Isaias, na nagsasabi, Ang tinig ng isang sumisigaw sa ilang, Ihanda ninyo ang daan ng Panginoon, Tuwirin ninyo ang kaniyang mga landas.

 4  Si Juan nga ay nananamit ng balahibo ng kamelyo, at may isang pamigkis na katad sa palibot ng kaniyang baywang; at ang kaniyang pagkain ay mga balang at pulot-pukyutan.

 5  Nang magkagayo'y nilabas siya ng Jerusalem, at ng buong Judea, at ng buong lupain sa palibotlibot ng Jordan;

 6  At sila'y kaniyang binabautismuhan sa ilog ng Jordan, na ipinahahayag nila ang kanilang mga kasalanan.

 7  Datapuwa't nang makita niyang marami sa mga Fariseo at Saduceo na nagsisiparoon sa kaniyang pagbabautismo, ay sinabi niya sa kanila, Kayong lahi ng mga ulupong, sino ang sa inyo'y nagpaunawa upang magsitakas sa galit na darating?

 8  Kayo nga'y mangagbunga ng karapatdapat sa pagsisisi:

 9  At huwag kayong mangagisip na mangagsabi sa inyong sarili, Si Abraham ang aming ama; sapagka't sinasabi ko sa inyo, na mangyayaring makapagpalitaw ang Dios ng mga anak ni Abraham sa mga batong ito.

 10  At ngayon pa'y nakalagay na ang palakol sa ugat ng mga punong kahoy: ang bawa't punong kahoy nga na hindi nagbubungang mabuti ay pinuputol at inihahagis sa apoy.

 11  Sa katotohanan ay binabautismuhan ko kayo sa tubig sa pagsisisi: datapuwa't ang dumarating sa hulihan ko ay lalong makapangyarihan kay sa akin, na hindi ako karapatdapat magdala ng kaniyang pangyapak: siya ang sa inyo'y magbabautismo sa Espiritu Santo at apoy:

 12  Nasa kaniyang kamay ang kaniyang kalaykay, at lilinisin niyang lubos ang kaniyang giikan; at titipunin niya ang kaniyang trigo sa bangan, datapuwa't ang dayami ay susunugin sa apoy na hindi mapapatay.

 13  Nang magkagayo'y naparoon si Jesus mula sa Galilea at lumapit kay Juan sa ilog ng Jordan, upang siya'y bautismuhan niya.

 14  Datapuwa't ibig siyang sansalain ni Juan, na nagsasabi, Kinakailangan ko na ako'y iyong bautismuhan, at ikaw ang naparirito sa akin?

 15  Nguni't pagsagot ni Jesus ay sinabi sa kaniya, Payagan mo ngayon: sapagka't ganyan ang nararapat sa atin, ang pagganap ng buong katuwiran. Nang magkagayo'y pinayagan niya siya.

 16  At nang mabautismuhan si Jesus, pagdaka'y umahon sa tubig: at narito, nangabuksan sa kaniya ang mga langit, at nakita niya ang Espiritu ng Dios na bumababang tulad sa isang kalapati, at lumalapag sa kaniya;

 17  At narito, ang isang tinig na mula sa mga langit, na nagsasabi, Ito ang sinisinta kong Anak, na siya kong lubos na kinalulugdan.



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February 2019 Press Release:
His tearful, impact valedictory State of the Province Address (SOPA) on Thursday did not only validate the rarity of Edgar Migriño Chatto, Bohol governor for nine years until noon of June 30, 2019.

The farewell report of the accomplished capitol chief executive summarized his achievements since 2010 that now more than pose a great challenge to who may succeed him.

Emotion overwhelmed the finale of the last SOPA delivered by the governor, who did cry, before the Sangguniang Panlalawigan in session on February 21, his 59th birthday.

Many consider the modern international airport and imposing new provincial capitol, Central Visayas' biggest government building, as crown jewels of Bohol infrastructure in Chatto's time.

Chatto thanked Pres. Rodrigo Duterte, DOTC Sec. Arthur Tugade and NEDA Sec. Ernesto Pernia for support to the airport project and other Bohol development programs.

He also thanked former Pres. Benigno Aquino III and the key officials of his administration who had hugely helped in ultimately realizing the airport dream 30 years after.

He cited the contributions of former governors Constancio Torralba, in whose time the modern airport was conceptualized, David Tirol, Rene Relampagos and Erico Aumentado.

Chatto inaugurated the new capitol after his SOPA ceremony, which lead witnesses included NEDA- 7 Dir. Efren Carreon, DA Dir. Salvador Diputado, Vice Gov. Dionisio Balite, Sangguniang Panlalawigan Members, Reps. Rene Relampagos and Arthur Yap, mayors, and Dr. Jose Abueva of the province's University of the Philippines Advisory Council, and domestic and foreign investors, among others.

"Happy are those who dream dreams and are ready to pay the price to make them come true," the governor opened his SOPA.

Chatto has been well-admired, too, for his extra-ordinary lead effort in the painstaking reconstruction and recovery of the island-province from the epic earthquake.

"We have always believed in shared leadership from the start, and this was clear in the way we crafted our plans and programs in consultation with the stakeholders," he said.

Still, Chatto said, not all plans are self-fulfilling and the Boholanos had to grapple with the many unpredictable events and unforeseen challenges.

These included the great earthquake and super typhoon Yolanda in 2013, the Queenie, Ruby and Senyang typhoons that submerged parts of Bohol, and Abu Sayyaf incursion almost two years ago.

Under the Bohol Earthquake Assistance (BEA) project in partnership with DILG, we have completed 1,038 reconstruction and rehabilitation projects—city and municipal halls, bridges, markets, other government buildings, and schools, among others.

Even churches and heritage buildings were able to benefit from national government funding through the National Historical Commission and National Museum.

CHALLENGES FROM THE START

Chatto recalled some definite challenges at the start of his term in 2010 like the need to perform well in the sectors of health, education, agriculture, tourism, financial management, etc.

He had to address the concerns of the Panglao airport project, which had zero budget, and low investment in province-run hospitals, with the hospitals in Clarin and island town of Pres. Garcia facing closure.

There were governance trials, in light of the fact that Bohol was not even ranked among the top 10 best-governed provinces under the DILG's Local Governance Performance Management System in 2009.

More challenges were indicated by high poverty incidence, low tourist arrival, moderate economic growth, and no fiber optic interconnection, which meant that Bohol was then not part of the communications highway.

There were sub-optimal production in agriculture, poor interior roads, educational challenges, and no Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office and TaRSIER 117 responders for emergencies.

But, Chatto said, "our partnership and shared leadership have enabled us to rise above these challenges."

"A true leader unites people. A true leader does not divide them. A true leader does not find faults. A true leader finds remedies. A true leader does not sow hate, but cultivate love," the governor said.

INDICATORS OF DEVELOPMENT

Chatto presented "clear and verifiable facts and figures showing our consistently improving socio-economic indicators" resulting from shared leadership.

Investments in tourism, small and medium enterprises, agriculture, eco-zones, and medical facilities amounted to P21.2 billion from 2014-2018.

The Bohol One Stop Shop and Negosyo Center, in partnership with the DTI and other national government partners, was the first in the region to operationalize the concept of the Business One-Stop Shop (BOSS).

Since the start, it has maintained a client satisfaction rating of 99.97%, based on client feedbacks themselves.

The thriving banking industry posted a total deposit of P49.6 billion by June 2018, marking a yearly increase of 16%.

Micro, small and medium enterprises increased from year to year, with a total new investment reaching P2.17 billion in 2018.

Tourist arrivals hit 1.496 million in 2018, a staggering 32% increase over the previous year, while there were only a little over 200,000 tourists after the earthquake.

Chatto happily announced, "Our flights now include four airlines, Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, AirAsia, and Air Juan. We expect that our daily flights will increase with our Bohol Panglao International Airport. AirAsia will soon offer Bohol as a hub for international and domestic flights, and the Taiwan-based Far Eastern Air Transport will start its international flights to Taiwan. Also, Air Swift is set to offer direct flights from Bohol to Palawan next month."

Stable rice production of regional significance has been validated by the Department of Agriculture, showing that Bohol accounted for 86.4% of the region's rice yield from 2016-2018.

There has been an increasing livestock and chicken inventory, with favorable indicators in the production of carabao, cattle, hog, goat and chicken meat.

The Bohol Dairy Development Program has produced a total of 1.8 million liters of raw milk since the start.

The Bohol Dairy Producers Association has earned P52 million in gross sales, which certainly means an increase in household income for the dairy farmers.

A major project being implemented in partnership with the World Bank and DA is the Philippine Rural Development Project.

"Through components, we have produced commodity investment plans for our priority agricultural products, with investments of P534 million, and P2.6 billion more in the pipeline; invested P532 million into 52 kms of farm-to-market roads and counting; invested P1 million each into 14 micro-enterprise projects; P9.2 million in dairy processing enterprise; P7.7 million in the native chicken enterprise; P9.7 million in global environment facility projects for seaweed production; and P23 million for marine protected areas," Chatto reported.

Despite all these developments, passenger traffic and migration, Bohol's crime incidence has consistently decreased from year to year, according to the Philippine National Police.

The employment rate has consistently increased, as shown by the Philippine Statistics Authority, to a record high of 96.3%.

The first large business process outsourcing or call center will soon open this year at Alta Cita, on the site of the old HNU campus.

Chatto said the investor, IBEX Global Solutions, a US-based company, will employ an initial 1,100 employees with competitive salaries and full health coverage.

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Gov. Nestor Espenilla, Jr. said Bohol's economy has grown growing at an average of 9.1%, much higher than the national average of 6.7%.
————
(Note from this writer: Espenilla died yesterday, Sunday, February 24, or three days after the Bohol governor's SOPA.) 
————

Bohol had an extremely high poverty incidence in 2000 at 50.2% and was among the country's 20 poorest provinces.

"Thanks to our combined efforts, we have succeeded in bringing down Bohol's poverty incidence to an unprecedented 21.7% in 2015 (the latest available figure from the Philippine Statistics Authority) – our lowest ever, even lower than the regional average," Chatto said.

INFRASTRUCTURE

From just 159 kilometers before his term, Chatto lengthened the concrete and asphalt provincial roads to 441 kms as of 2018.

In addition, 119 kms of provincial roads have been converted to national roads by virtue of his laws when he was congressman, ensuring that they would be widened and concreted.

Using other road improvement strategies and various sources of national and local government funds through the years, 192 kilometers of roads have been paved throughout the province.

"And we would like to say, without fear of contradiction, that in our term, we concreted the most number of roads in the province of Bohol, especially local roads."

Chatto said "this is a great challenge for the next administration, to continue the work that we started, with our predecessors."

NOT RESTING ON LAURELS

"We do not rest on our laurels," Chatto said, as there are many ongoing infrastructure projects which completion "we will see in the very near future."

Among them are:
* The offshore bridge connector between the Bohol Panglao International Airport and Tagbilaran City port, the first of its kind in Bohol, also known as the third Tagbilaran-Panglao island bridge
* Continuing port and terminal development 
* Cebu-Bohol power interconnection project, which is set to be completed in 2020.

"On top of that, we are still pursuing the One Bohol Power Project for sustainable long-term power Supply, as well as the Bohol Bulk Water Supply and Sanitation Project," said Chatto who is staging a comeback to Congress.

Other projects include:
* The construction of the new Loon hospital which is ongoing, as is the five-storey expansion of the Gov. Celestino Gallares Memorial Regional Training Hospital in the amount of P555 million
* The Bohol Youth Home, for children in conflict with the law, is also undergoing construction in Cortes.
* Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas full branch in Bohol, which is now in the procurement stage

MORE ASPECTS OF GOVERNANCE

The governor's SOPA also highlighted some major or significant social well-being and shelter programs, including the construction, as of this January, of already 6,564 quake core shelter houses.

The modernization program for the province-run hospitals has resulted in the consistent increases in bed capacity and occupancy, an indication of people's trust.
. 
The number of Philhealth clients served has also been consistently increasing, consequently improving the income of the devolved hospitals.

Chatto made special mention of the surgical missions facilitated by the Gift of Life under the "resourceful and passionate leadership" of the foundation's president, Francisca Baluyot.

The Chatto administration has supported education and skills development, augmenting the programs of DepEd and other national government agencies through many strategies.

Bohol's innovation—the Education Center under the Office of the Governor to link all education initiatives in the province, is now becoming a model in the country.

"We continue to strengthen our campaign against illegal drugs and our overall campaign against criminality. Our Joint Task Force Dagon is active in many sectors," the governor said of peace and order.

He felt "proud of how the entire Boholano community handled the Abu Sayyaf incursion into our beloved province, which gained national and international recognition."

Chatto cited the "valuable partnership and leadership of the PNP and AFP" and all other law enforcers and peacekeepers, as well as the civilian volunteers.

The governor also cited the essence of interconnectivity, referring to the strategic and purpose-driven convergence with fellow public officials, NGAs, LGUs, CSOs, people's organizations, private sector, and overseas development assistance (ODA) institutions, which he all thanked.

"And let me inform everyone here that, very soon, we will have our very own office of the Professional Regulation Commission. We are continuing our dialogue with the Department of Foreign Affairs to establish a branch office here in Bohol."

Reforms in local governance have led to a sustained increase in local revenue collection and significant increase in the yearly capitol budget from just P1.6 billion in 2016 to P2.936 billion in 2018.

Already P150.9 million has been turned over to the province as its share or dividend income since the start of the joint venture on power and water.

"This means that we have practically earned back 100% of the value of both power and water utilities which have been turned over to our private sector partner" for management, the governor said.

AWARDS, RECOGNITIONS

"We do not aim for awards and recognition. However, whatever awards we get serve to affirm that we are pursuing the right goals and moving in the right direction," Chatto said.

Among the province's foremost awards/recognitions include the "Hall of Fame" for its three consecutive Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) Awards; DILG's "Honor Roll" of 10 Governors in the country who have waged a relentless war against illegal drugs, and for exemplary leadership in good governance, transparency, business competitiveness and disaster preparedness; Most Business-Friendly Province Award from the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Pres. Rodrigo Duterte; number one in Central Visayas and number 12 nationwide in DTI's Competitiveness Index; and National Anti-Drug Abuse Council Exemplary Performance Award.

The Pag-asa Award, Dangal ng Bayan Award and Lingkod Bayan Award were all conferred to Chatto by the Civil Service Commission (CSC).

They are the three highest awards granted by the CSC to any public officials in the country.

Reputedly, this feat of Chatto has since not been equalled.

IN TEARS

Chatto began closing his over-an-hour farewell SOPA: "I could not have done it without all of you. Clearly, God's hands worked with us. We planned all of this from the start, and implemented it through God's grace."

Then he stunned all inside the Bohol Cultural Center, where he delivered his last SOPA, when emotion overwhelmed the last-termer 25th Bohol governor.

In tears, he said, "I believe that people may destroy your image, stain your personality, but they cannot take away your good deeds, because no matter how they describe you, you will still be admired by those who really know you better. We are not perfect in everything that we do. For things that I may have missed or, unknowingly, any hurt that I may have caused to anyone – my sincere apologies. Every failure is an opportunity to learn and become a better person."

"Leadership is a gift from God for man to develop and share with others," said Chatto who enjoined his audience to clap their hands for their "collective effort" for Bohol's good.

The governor thanked his family, especially his wife, Pureza, who is the Balilihan mayor, and daughter Trisha, the "last in my list" for acknowledgment but definitely the "first in my heart."

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March 2019 Press Release: THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT of Bohol's (PGBh) InSPIRED HEAT IT Bohol Caravan in Tubigon "stirred up" residents as it brought development initiatives closer to the people.

Tubignons, led by Mayor Wiiliam Jao and Vice-Mayor Billy Fortich, could not contain their excitement several days prior to the actual visitation in preparing the venue, putting up the necessary temporary structures to house participating agencies and with great anticipation, eagerly waited for the THE day when they again would see and meet with PGBh officials led by Gov. Edgar M. Chatto, Cong. Rene L. Relampagos, Cong. Art Yap, Executive Assistant "Tatay Billy" Tongco, Provincial Administrator Alfonso Damalerio II, Board Member Ricky Masamayor, other PGBh officials, staff, national government agencies, private sector and other organizations in bringing in all kinds of services to residents.

Mayor Jao, Vice-Mayor Fortich and LGU officials welcomed everyone with wide open arms, glad that at last, Tubigon, despite being considered a "well-off" town, is now enjoying the services of this widely-known activity, the brainchild of Gov. Chatto.

Aside from the usual services, which started with a film showing the night before and a Holy Mass early the following morning, activities also included the release of financial assistance from the PGBh to LGU Tubigon and barangay aid to its 34 barangays; release of Governor's burial assistance to its beneficiary; distribution of land titles c/o the Registry of Deeds (ROD) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR); turnover of assistive devices c/o the Office of the Provincial Welfare and Development (OPSWD); turnover of nutrition assessment tools to barangay captains and Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS) c/o the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA); turnover of one unit hand garden cultivator to Villanueva Planters Association c/o OPA and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR); turnover of feeds and fingerlings to Tubigon Fisherfolks c/o OPA and BFAR; turnover of corn seeds, rice seeds c/o OPA; the ceremonial distribution of hybrid coconut seedlings c/o PCA and OPA; turnover of books from the Provincial Library to Cawayanan High School, Tubigon West Central High School, Tubigon West National High School,  and Bagongbanwa National High School. Tropang Gising, Gov. Chatto's own close-in staff, with the cooperation of Balilihan Mayor Pureza Veloso-Chatto, also put up their own tent and offered free appliances and gadgets repair, sharpening of knives, nippers etc., free haircut and massage, among others.

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Matthew 2
 1  Nang ipanganak nga si Jesus sa Bet-lehem ng Judea sa mga kaarawan ng haring si Herodes, narito, ang mga Pantas na lalake ay nagsidating sa Jerusalem mula sa silanganan, na nagsisipagsabi,

 2  Saan naroon ang ipinanganak na hari ng mga Judio? sapagka't aming nakita ang kaniyang bituin sa silanganan, at naparito kami upang siya'y sambahin.

 3  Nang marinig ito ng haring si Herodes, ay nagulumihanan siya, at pati ng buong Jerusalem.

 4  At pagkatipon sa lahat ng mga pangulong saserdote at mga eskriba ng bayan, ay siniyasat niya sa kanila kung saan kaya ipanganganak ang Cristo.

 5  At sinabi nila sa kaniya, sa Bet-lehem ng Judea: sapagka't ganito ang pagkasulat ng propeta,

 6  At ikaw Bet-lehem, na lupa ng Juda, Sa anomang paraan ay hindi ikaw ang pinakamaliit sa mga pangulong bayan ng Juda: Sapagka't mula sa iyo'y lalabas ang isang gobernador, Na siyang magiging pastor ng aking bayang Israel.

 7  Nang magkagayo'y tinawag ni Herodes ng lihim ang mga Pantas na lalake, at kaniyang siniyasat ng buong ingat sa kanila ang panahong isinilang ng bituin.

 8  At pinayaon niya sila sa Bet-lehem, at sinabi, Kayo'y magsiparoon at ipagtanong ng buong ingat ang tungkol sa sanggol; at pagkasumpong ninyo sa kaniya, ay ipagbigay-alam ninyo sa akin, upang ako nama'y makaparoon at siya'y aking sambahin.

 9  At sila, pagkarinig sa hari ay nagsiyaon ng kanilang lakad; at narito, ang bituing kanilang nakita sa silanganan, ay nanguna sa kanila hanggang sa sumapit at tumigil sa tapat ng kinaroroonan ng sanggol.

 10  At nang makita nila ang bituin, ay nangagalak sila ng di kawasang galak.

 11  At nagsipasok sila sa bahay, at nangakita nila ang sanggol na kasama ng kaniyang inang si Maria; at nangagpatirapa sila at nangagsisamba sa kaniya; at pagkabukas nila ng kanilang mga kayamanan ay inihandog nila sa kaniya ang mga alay, na ginto at kamangyan at mira.

 12  At palibhasa'y pinagsabihan sila ng Dios sa panaginip na huwag silang mangagbalik kay Herodes, ay nangagsiuwi sila sa kanilang sariling lupain sa ibang daan.

 13  Nang mangakaalis nga sila, narito, ang isang anghel ng Panginoon ay napakita kay Jose sa panaginip, na nagsasabi, Magbangon ka at dalhin mo ang sanggol at ang kaniyang ina, at tumakas ka hanggang sa Egipto, at dumoon ka hanggang sa sabihin ko sa iyo: sapagka't hahanapin ni Herodes ang sanggol upang siya'y puksain.

 14  At siya'y nagbangon at dinala ang sanggol at ang ina nito sa kinagabihan, at napasa Egipto;

 15  At dumoon hanggang sa pagkamatay ni Herodes: upang maganap ang sinabi ng Panginoon sa pamamagitan ng propeta, na nagsasabi, Mula sa Egipto ay tinawag ko ang aking anak.

 16  Nang magkagayon, nang mapansin ni Herodes na siya'y pinaglaruan ng mga Pantas na lalake, ay nagalit na mainam, at nagutos, at ipinapatay ang lahat ng mga sanggol na lalake na nangasa Bet-lehem, at sa buong palibotlibot noon, mula sa gulang na dalawang taon hanggang sa pababa, alinsunod sa panahon ng kaniyang maingat na pagkasiyasat sa mga Pantas na lalake.

 17  Nang magkagayo'y naganap ang sinalita sa pamamagitan ng propeta Jeremias, na nagsasabi,

 18  Isang tinig ay narinig sa Rama, Pananangis at kalagimlagim na iyak, Tinatangisan ni Raquel ang kaniyang mga anak; At ayaw na siyang maaliw, sapagka't sila'y wala na.

 19  Nguni't pagkamatay ni Herodes, narito, ang isang anghel ng Panginoon ay napakita sa panaginip kay Jose sa Egipto, na nagsasabi,

 20  Magbangon ka at dalhin mo ang sanggol at ang kaniyang ina, at pumatungo ka sa lupain ng Israel: sapagka't nangamatay na ang nangagmimithi sa buhay ng sanggol.

 21  At nagbangon siya at dinala ang sanggol at ang kaniyang ina, at pumatungo sa lupa ng Israel.

 22  Datapuwa't nang mabalitaan niya na si Arquelao ang naghahari sa Judea na kahalili ng kaniyang amang si Herodes, ay natakot siyang pumatungo roon; at palibhasa'y pinagsabihan ng Dios sa panaginip, ay napatungo siya sa mga sakop ng Galilea,

 23  At siya'y dumating at tumahan sa isang bayang tinatawag na Nazaret; upang maganap ang mga sinalita ng mga propeta, na siya'y tatawaging Nazareno.



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Matthew 1
 1  Ang aklat ng lahi ni Jesucristo, na anak ni David, na anak ni Abraham.

 2  Naging anak ni Abraham si Isaac; at naging anak ni Isaac si Jacob; at naging anak ni Jacob si Juda at ang kaniyang mga kapatid;

 3  At naging anak ni Juda kay Tamar si Fares at si Zara; at naging anak ni Fares si Esrom; at naging anak ni Esrom si Aram;

 4  At naging anak ni Aram si Aminadab; at naging anak ni Aminadab si Naason; at naging anak ni Naason si Salmon;

 5  At naging anak ni Salmon kay Rahab si Booz; at naging anak ni Booz kay Rut si Obed; at naging anak ni Obed si Jesse.

 6  At naging anak ni Jesse ang haring si David; at naging anak ni David si Salomon, doon sa naging asawa ni Urias;

 7  At naging anak ni Salomon si Reboam; at naging anak ni Reboam si Abias; at naging anak ni Abias si Asa;

 8  At naging anak ni Asa si Josafat; at naging anak ni Josafat si Joram; at naging anak ni Joram si Ozias;

 9  At naging anak ni Ozias si Joatam; at naging anak ni Joatam si Acaz; at naging anak ni Acaz si Ezequias;

 10  At naging anak ni Ezequias si Manases; at naging anak ni Manases si Amon; at naging anak ni Amon si Josias;

 11  At naging anak ni Josias si Jeconias at ang kaniyang mga kapatid, nang panahon ng pagkadalang-bihag sa Babilonia.

 12  At pagkatapos nang pagkadalangbihag sa Babilonia, ay naging anak ni Jeconias si Salatiel; at naging anak ni Salatiel si Zorobabel;

 13  At naging anak ni Zorobabel si Abiud; at naging anak ni Abiud si Eliaquim; at naging anak ni Eliaquim si Azor;

 14  At naging anak ni Azor si Sadoc; at naging anak ni Sadoc si Aquim; at naging anak ni Aquim si Eliud;

 15  At naging anak ni Eliud si Eleazar; at naging anak ni Eleazar si Matan; at naging anak ni Matan si Jacob;

 16  At naging anak ni Jacob si Jose asawa ni Maria, na siyang nanganak kay Jesus, na siyang tinatawag na Cristo.

 17  Sa makatuwid ang lahat ng mga salit-saling lahi buhat kay Abraham hanggang kay David ay labingapat na salit-saling lahi; at buhat kay David hanggang sa pagdalang-bihag sa Babilonia ay labingapat na sali't-saling lahi; at buhat sa pagkadalang-bihag sa Babilonia hanggang kay Cristo ay labingapat na sali't-saling lahi.

 18  Ang pagkapanganak nga kay Jesucristo ay ganito: Nang si Maria na kaniyang ina ay magaasawa kay Jose, bago sila magsama ay nasumpungang siya'y nagdadalang-tao sa pamamagitan ng Espiritu Santo.

 19  At si Jose na kaniyang asawa, palibhasa'y lalaking matuwid, at ayaw na ihayag sa madla ang kaniyang kapurihan, ay nagpasiyang hiwalayan siya ng lihim.

 20  Datapuwa't samantalang pinagiisip niya ito, narito, ang isang anghel ng Panginoon ay napakita sa kaniya sa panaginip, na nagsasabi: Jose, anak ni David, huwag kang mangamba sa pagtanggap kay Maria na iyong asawa: sapagka't ang kaniyang dinadalang-tao ay sa Espiritu Santo.

 21  At siya'y manganganak ng isang lalake; at ang pangalang itatawag mo sa kaniya'y JESUS; sapagka't ililigtas niya ang kaniyang bayan sa kanilang mga kasalanan.

 22  At nangyari nga ang lahat ng ito, upang maganap ang sinalita ng Panginoon sa pamamagitan ng propeta, na nagsasabi,

 23  Narito, ang dalaga'y magdadalang-tao at manganganak ng isang lalake, At ang pangalang itatawag nila sa kaniya ay Emmanuel; na kung liliwanagin, ay sumasa atin ang Dios.

 24  At nagbangon si Jose sa kaniyang pagkakatulog, at ginawa niya ang ayon sa ipinagutos sa kaniya ng anghel ng Panginoon, at tinanggap ang kaniyang asawa;

 25  At hindi nakilala siya hanggang sa maipanganak ang isang lalake: at tinawag niya ang kaniyang pangalang JESUS.

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March 2019 Press Release: Bohol proves convergence is key to sustainable peace and development as Gov. Edgar Chatto led the blessing and inauguration of the Bohol Giant Clams Hatchery at the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Facility in Sinandigan, Ubay last Tuesday, March 19, 2019.

Six years saw to the success of the establishment of the hatchery for giant clams or locally known as taklobo. Provincial Agriculturist and chief of staff Liza Quirog shared that back in February 20, 2013 alongside the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), 240 giant clams were transported from the University of the Philippines (UP) Marine Science Institute based in Bolinao, Pangasinan and brought to the Marine Protected Area (MPA) in Bingag, Dauis. This was initiated under the Internal Peace and Security Program or IPSP Bayanihan, a program on human security.

The giant clams were then deployed to 9 other MPAs: Balicasag in Panglao, Basdio in Guindulman, Badiang in Anda, Lumayag in Mabini, Sinandigan in Ubay, Cataban in Talibon, Hambongan in Inabanga, Majingpit Bonbon in Clarin, and Gaus in Carlos P. Garcia (Pitogo).

With marine biologists and technicians in constant monitoring and biophysical assessment of the giant clams and together with the assistance of BFAR Guian, the hatchery was then established at the BFAR Facility in Ubay.

Chatto's leadership sees the endeavor as a priority and a long-term intervention of the Provincial Government to ensure sustainable management of the MPAs. It is also consistent with the goal of reducing poverty and ensuring food security through collective effort in the protection and conservation of marine resources.

The taklobo increases marine resources as it provides food and shelter for other marine organisms. It helps to enhance water visibility because of its ability to filter water. It helps to build and shape reefs. It attracts more fishes because it produces food for fishes. This helps to enhance marine biodiversity.

Giant clams are hermaphrodites and they are pulled out of the MPAs and brought to the hatchery for spawning. There are currently three species at the hatchery: tridacna gigas, tridacna squamosa, and hippopus hippopus. It takes up to two years for new giant clams to be brought back to the MPAs as operation culture was explained by marine biologist Vil Inguito-Pelindingue.

BFAR Reg. Exec. Dir. Alfeo Piloton congratulated Bohol for the initiative on food security and environmental conservation. He said the giant clams are listed as endangered in the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) because of its dwindling population. The hatchery makes possible the seeding of the giant clams in MPAs, he stated, thanking the Bohol Provincial Government for its program that enhances marine resources and thus ensuring food and livelihood for the Boholanos.

Also a partner to the project, Bohol Island State University through Dr. Zina Sayson calls the opening of the hatchery as a historic milestone for addressing two major concerns- Environmental Sustainability and Poverty Alleviation. BISU has fisheries programs in Clarin and Candijay.

Department of National Defense (DND) Usec. Cardoso Luna reading the message of DND Sec. Delfin Lorenzana said Bohol's success is truly commendable especially in shared commitment and in contribution to the national agenda of environmental protection and preservation and poverty alleviation, pre-cursors to lasting peace and security.

"Continue to walk this path. Never cease to work for peace," Lorenzana said of Bohol's outstanding achievement.

CENTCOM Deputy Commander Elie Alberto, BFAR Guian Center Director Nonita Cabacaba, 47IB Commander Col. Joel Malig, DILG Provincial Director John Joan Mende, Bohol Environment and Management Office (BEMO) head Tata Ganub, provincial and municipal officials also graced the blessing and inauguration of the giant clams hatchery.

On the same occasion Gov. Chatto, Usec. Luna, and DILG Provincial Dir. Mende also signed a tripartite agreement for the Construction of a Halfway House for Rebel Returnees under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP). The Chatto administration champions shared leadership in numerous initiatives that have become models for best practices cutting across various sectors.

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May 2019: Bohol Gov. Edgar Chatto and Mayor Elvi Peter Relampagos lead blessing and launching of TaRSIER117 sub-office in Loon with Board Member Ricky Masamayor, Provincial Administrator Ae Damalerio, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management officer Anthony Damalerio and TaRSIER117 head Mark Sidney Galia.
The TaRSIER117 sub-office is the 6th emergency response office, the main being in Tagbilaran City and sub-offices in Jagna, Carmen, Ubay, and Balilihan.
Established in 2011, TaRSIER117 has become a byword in emergency service delivery. The new sub-office will serve 252 barangays of Loon and neighboring towns of Maribojoc, Calape, and Tubigon.
The team underwent DOH accredited training and have also familiarized routes of areas covered, ready to start operations.

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Kay kamatis diay ni

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Press Release
Bohol Cong. Edgar Chatto leads distribution of assistance to families affected by the fire incident at Cogon Market. He is joined by Board Members Aldner Damalerio and Ricky Masamayor, Tagbilaran City First Lady Jane Yap on behalf of Mayor Baba Yap, Vice Mayor Toto Veloso, Brgy. Capt. Nick Besas, and Chief of staff Atty. Abeleon Damalerio. The program is under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations of the DSWD represented here by Cheryniel Nuda and Maria Gemma Umpad with Lucille Clarin of the City Social Welfare Office. Cong. Chatto turned over Financial assistance to 71 beneficiaries at the Cogon Market.

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By Rey Tutas
MGA NASUNUGAN SA COGON PUBLIC MARKET, NAKADAWAT OG PINANSIYAL NGA HINABANG GIKAN KANG KONG. CHATTO

Mikabat tanan sa P355,000.00 ang pinansiyal nga hinabang ang gihatag ni Kongresista Edgar Chatto sa unang distrito sa Bohol ngadto sa mga nasunugan sa merkado publiko sa Cogon ning siyudad sa Tagbilaran.

Personal nga gitunol ni Kong. Chatto ang P5,000.00 cash kada usa sa 71 ka benepisyaryo kagahapon, Nob. 15, didto mismo sa nasunog nga merkado.

Moabot tanan sa 76 ka biktima sa sunog ang benepisyaryo sa pinansiyal nga hinabang gikan kang Chatto pinaagi sa Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) apan 71 lang unang ang pasiuna nga nahatagan tungod kay gipaabot pa nga mahuman ang nahabiling lima sa gikinahanglang rekisitos.

Gipasabot ni Kong. Chatto nga nadugay ang paghatag sa pinansiyal nga hinabang kay giproseso pa ang mga requirements sa mga biktima sa sunog.

Misaksi sa paghatag sa pinansiyal nga hinabang sila si Bise Mayor Jose Antonio Veloso, Bokal Ricky Masamayor, Aldner Damalerio, kapikas ni Mayor Baba Yap nga si Jane ug Kapitan Nick Besas sa Barangay Cogon, amahan ni Kongresista Alexie Tutor sa tersero distrito.

Gikalipay sa mga biktima sa sunog ang ilang nadawat nga ayuda gikan sa kanhi gobernador.

Ang mga biktima sa sunog sa merkado sa Cogon niadtong Hulyo 10, 2019 wa pa gyud hingpit nga nakabangon tungod kay tolda o trapal lang ang ilang gihimong silonganan aron makapamaligya sa ilang mga produkto.(ReyTuts)

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Press Release
Bohol Governor Art Yap together with Governor Jose Alvarez led the ribbon cutting at the grand opening of the Best Western Plus The Ivywall Resort-Panglao.

They were given a tour of the hotel.

Engr. Danilo Tamayo (President), Yvonne Villacorte (General Manager), Nam Yeoh (Cluster General Manager), Andrea Marie Tamayo-Ulep (President-Dataland), Rosaleo Montenegro (Vice-Chair,Dataland), Engr. Edimar Ulep (COO,Whiteport Inc.), Engr. Cynthia Tamayo (Vice-Pres,Cost Control), Mayor Leonila Montero, Atty. Kathryin Pioquinto (Prov'l Administrator) and Jaypee Orcullo (DOT) were present.

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Bohol Governor Art Yap together with Mayor Roygie Jumamoy, Vice Mayor Ronnie Jumamoy, BM Franz Garcia and BM Ricky Masamayor led the ribbon cutting and inauguration of the 10-M road concreting project in Inabanga, Bohol.

Gov. Yap cannot contain his joy and gratitude for having been invited in the event and committed to help Inabanga to prosper more.

He admitted that he cannot do everything alone thus he asked for support and assistance in helping and giving back to the people of Bohol. He also mentioned the modernization of hospitals, adding more slots for CPG Scholars and livelihood funds.

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Press Release
Bohol Governor Art Yap attended the Christmas Lighting Ceremony at the Inabanga Cultural and Creative Park as they joined the festivities this season.

They have a food bazaar showcasing local food and products.

Mayor Roygie Jumamoy, Vice-Mayor Ronnie Jumamoy, BM Franz Garcia, BM Ricky Masamayor, Fumiya and Yamyam of PBB 8, and Fr. Val Pinlac joined the event.

Cheques for financial assistance were also distributed to Brgys. Dait Sur, U-og and Cuaming, Inabanga.

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P3.4 bilyones gisugyot nga
budget sa probinsiya sa 2020

MOKABAT og P3.4 bilyones ang gisugyot nga budget sa probinsiya sa sunod tuig nga mapunta ra sab sa kaayohan sa mga Bol-anon, ilabina sa mga menos ug hinikawan.

Ang tanang paningkamot itumong sa pagduga'g trabaho ug panginabuhi, pagmugna'g bahandi, ug pagtagad sa daghang kahingawa sa nagkadaiyang sektor.

Kini sumala ni Gob. Arthur Yap sa iyang budget message ngadto sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan pinangulohan ni Bise Gob. Rene Relampagos.

Ang mensahe sa gobernador gibutyag dinhi pinaagi kang Bokal Aldner Damalerio.

Apil sa proposed year 2020 budget sa kapitolyo ang pag-ugmad sa 10 ka mga tambalanan nga gidumala sa kagamhanan sa probinsiya sa kantidad nga P265 milyones.

Pakadak-an usab ang kapasidad sa pag-ayo sa kadalanan pinaagi sa mga bag-ong road construction equipment nga paliton sa kantidad nga P218 milyones.

Sa kinatibuk-ang budget nga P3.446 bilyones, P1.1 bilyones ang mapunta sa social services sector, P965 milyones sa general public sector, P624 milyones sa economic services sector, ug P451 milyones sa 20% Development Fund.

Giplano ang pagmugna og 135 ka mga bag-ong posisyon sa nagkalain-laing departamento sa kagamhanang probinsiyal.

Apil na niini ang 74 ka mga posisyon nga modugang sa pag-ugmad sa serbisyo ug kapasidad sa 10 ka mga tambalanan sa lalawigan. (Ven rebo Arigo)

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25 ka mga kanhi NPA midawat og halos
P1 milyong tabang sa kagamhanan
By Ven Arigo

DUGANG 25 ka mga kanhi sakop sa New People's Army (NPA) sa Bohol ang nidawat og kinatibuk-ang P975,000 gikan sa goberno alang sa panginabuhi sa ilang pagbalik sa sabakan sa balaod.

Ang tabang pinansiyal ngadto sa mga rebeldeng komunista nunot sa Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (ECLIP) sa nasyonal ug probinsiyal nga kagamhanan.

Kini gitunol kanila ni Lt. Gen. Macairog Alberto, commanding general sa Philippine Army (PA), uban kang Provincial Administrator Kathyrin Fe Pioquinto atol sa paglusad sa Dagohoy Patrol / Army Jungle Base sa Rizal, Batuan kagahapon, Lunes, Nobembre 18.

Si Pioquinto nagrepresentar kang Gob. Arthur Yap, kinsa didto sa kaulohan alang sa importanteng tigom.

Ang halos P1 milyon nga ayuda gibahin ning mosunod---P65,000 kada usa sa 15 ka mga kanhi NPA armed regular ug P15,000 matag usa sa 10 ka mga kanhi sakop sa "Militia ng Bayan" o MB.

Ang MB mga tigpaluyo sa rebeldeng komunista apan gikonsiderar usab nga reserbang puwersa nga andam mag-armado kon gikinahanglan.

Sa ilang pagbalik sa sosyedad ug sa pagpanumpa nga mounong sa kagamhanan, ang mga kanhi rebelde gitawag karon og mga KR o "Kauban sa Reporma."

Apil nga nisaksi sa seremonya sila si Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Provincial Director Johnjoan Mende; Lt. Col. Edgar Mangabay, group commander, VATG, TRADOC, PA; ug 1Lt. Michael Jungco, First Scout Ranger Regiment, SOCOM, PA; ug Provincial Social Welfare and Development Officer Carmelita Tecson.

'PASKO NA, IGSOON'

Sa social media, nanawagan ang 47th IB Katapatan Battalion sa "kaigsoonang (rebelde) sa pagkanaug sa bukid ug pagtugyan sa inyong mga armas ngadto sa kagamhanan."

"Nagkaduol na ang Pasko. Dili ba nindot nga saulogon ang Pasko uban ang inyong mga pamilya nga dili magtago-tago?" nagkanayon ang batalyon sa facebook account niini. (Ven rebo Arigo)

(Photo credit, Katapatan Battalion, 47th IB)

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YAP JUST AWAITS ORDER
By Ven Arigo

SOME have again asked if the reported preventive suspension for Bohol Gov. Arthur Yap may have been served already.

The governor had already said several weeks ago that he would serve the 90-day suspension once it would be served. He would comply with the mandated process while the Sandiganbayan trial would go and his legal remedies be pursued. 

Preventive suspension does not mean someone is guilty of an allegation---much less a punished because it is, in fact, also not a penalty. It is rather mandated by law to avoid a government official or  public figure to use his office to influence over the process of the hearing or trial of the case as alleged.

Daghan na sa Bohol ang mga opisyal ug politiko who were preventively suspended, but the complaints against them just got dismissed in the ultimate.

At the Bohol capitol itself, then Vice Gov. Dionisio Balite led the provincial officials who were suspended by the Sandiganbayan for even nine months. Kadto nagsukad sa reklamo ngadto sa Ombudsman kalabot sa transaksyon sa probinsiya tali sa supplier. Si Balite usa pa ka board member atol sa maong transaksyon sa administrasyon ni then Gov. Erico Aumentado. Igo lang si Balite ug kaubanan sa Sangguniang Panlalawigan niadtong higayona nga nitangdo sa gusto ni Aumentado nga i-authorize ang gobernador nga mo-transact sa bangko to open a letter of credit to pay the supplier by hundreds of millions of pesos.  Bise gobernador na's Balite sa dihang gi-serve ang preventive suspension. Apan wa kadto nagpasabot nga sad-an o nangawat sila's Balite.  Gani, posibleng si Aumentado maoy unang gobernador---o kanhi gobernador---nga masuspindir niadtong tungora kon buhi pa siya sa paggawas sa suspension.  Aumentado died before Balite was to become vice governor.

The incumbent governor, Yap, has appeared not unfazed by his reported suspension. Dugay ra siyang nisulti ngadto sa mga Bol-anon pinaagi sa media nga iya lang huwaton kon kanus-a kini i-serve sa Sandiganbayan pinaagi sa DILG.  Di man siya maka-function officially samtang gipatuman ang suspension, apan sa gihapon magpabilin siya nga piniling gobernador sa Bohol---hangtud nga opisyal nga mobalik human sa 90 ka adlaw o tulo ka buwan.  Si Bise Gob. Rene Relampagos maoy magsilbeng acting governor.

Yap has just been awaiting the order to be served---posibleng karon, ugma, o sunod nga mga adlaw. He is ready to comply with the mandated process.

Pabilin siyang makalambigit sa katawhang Bol-anon  isip ilang piniling gobernador bisan sa temporaryong suspensyon sa iyang opisyal nga gimbuhaton.

Puwede siyang mogahin og igo gyod hinuon nga panahon sa pagtanum og mga kahoy, ilabina na fruit trees, kay kini apil sa mga adbokasiya nga nagturok na sa dughan sa iyang administrasyon...

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By Ven Arigo
Pila nay populasyon sa Bohol?
Bag-ong census himoon

Tubagon sa census sa sunod tuig ang pangutana kon pila nay labing ulahing populasyon sa tibuok probinsiya sa Bohol.

Ang umaabot nga bag-ong ihap sa populasyon ug kabalayan himoon sa Mayo 2020.

Gibanabanang nilapas na sa 1.3 milyones ang populasyon sa Bohol---ug subra pa niini ang mga turista kada tuig.

Ang pagpahigayon niini gituki sa miting sa Provincial Census Coordinating Board (PCCB) sa kapitolyo kagahapon, Lunes, Nob. 18.

Sa ngalan ni Gob. Arthur Yap, ang tigom gitambongan ni Provincial Administrator Kathyrin Fe Pioquinto samtang ang Philippine Statistics Authority sa Bohol gipangunahan ni Jessamyn Alcazaren.

Ang population-housing census sa tanang barangay sa Bohol madungan sa census sa tanang ubang lalawigan sa nasud.

Magsilbeng census enumerator ang mga magtutudlo sa pangpublikong eskwelahan ubos sa Department of Education.

Mahinungdanon ang census sa pagplano ug pagpatuman sa mga programa'g serbisyo, ilabina ang direktang moapekto sa katawhan ug kahimtang sa pamuyo. (Glaiza Comendador, PRIMER)

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From Ven Arigo
LISTEN to the INTERVIEW on the PREVENTIVE SUSPENSION ORDER.-Statement from Provincial Administrator Kathyrin Fe Pioquinto responding to media queries as soon as she received the mandatory preventive suspension order for Gov. Arthur Yap this afternoon. A suspension order does not mean someone is guilty. It is not also a penalty. It is a normal process to prevent influencing the course of the hearing/trial of a complaint. Yap had long anticipated and awaited the order to be served so that he could comply with the process.

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Sharing from Facebook

HERE IS A COMMENT FROM A PSYCHOLOGIST REGARDING THE STATE OF PHILIPPINES The difference between the poor and rich nations is not the age of the Nation.

This can be demonstrated by countries like India and Egypt, which are more than
2000 years old and are still poor countries.

On the other hand, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, which 150 years back were insignificant, today are developed and rich countries.

The difference between the poor and rich nation does not also depend on the available natural resources.

Japan has limited territory, 80%  mountainous, unsuitable for agriculture or farming, but is the second in worlds economy. The country is like an immense floating factory, importing raw material from the whole world and exporting manufactured products.

Second example is Switzerland, it does not grow cocoa but produces the best chocolates in the world. In her small territory she rears animals and cultivates the land only for four month in a year, nevertheless manufactures the best milk products. A small country which is an image of security which has made it the strongest world bank.

Executives from rich countries who interact with their counterparts from poor countries show no significant intellectual differences.

The racial or colour factors also do not evince importance: migrants heavy in laziness in their country of origin are  forcefully productive in rich European countries.

What then is the difference?

The difference is the attitude of the people, moulded for many years by education and culture.

When we analyse the conduct of the people from the rich and developed countries, it is observed that a majority abide by the following principles of life:

1. Ethics, as basic principles.
2. Integrity.
3. Responsibility.
4. The respect for Laws and Regulations.
5. The respect from majority of citizens by right.
6. The love for work.
7. The effort to save and invest.
8. The will to be productive.
9. Punctuality.

In the poor countries a small minority follow these basic principles in their daily life.

We are not poor because we lack natural resources or because nature was cruel towards us.

We are poor because we lack attitude. We lack the will to follow and teach these principles of working of rich and developed societies.

WE ARE IN THIS  STATE  BECAUSE
WE WANT TO TAKE ADVANTAGE  OVER
EVERYTHING AND EVERYONE.

WE ARE IN THIS  STATE  BECAUSE
WE  SEE  SOMETHING  DONE  WRONG
AND SAY  - "LET IT BE"
WE  SHOULD  HAVE  A  SPIRITED MEMORY
AND  ATTITUDE...

ONLY THEN WILL WE BE ABLE TO CHANGE  OUR  PRESENT  STATE.

But, if you love your
COUNTRY
Try and circulate this message so that as many people can reflect on this.

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By Ven Arigo
Yap openly accepts, graciously submits
to 3-month preventive suspension

Bohol Governor Art Yap has openly accepted and graciously submitted himself to mandatory suspension for three months.

This is without prejudice to the legal rights and remedies he is entitled to.

Provincial Administrator Kathyrin Fe Pioquinto received on his behalf the Sandiganbayan order as served through the DILG yesterday afternoon.

Preventive suspension does not mean someone is guilty of an allegation---much less a punishment because it is also not.

It is rather mandated by law to avoid a government official and a public figure to use his office to influence over the process of the hearing or trial of the case as alleged.

Dunggon ug husayon pa ang kaso.

Daghan na sa Bohol ang mga opisyal ug politiko who were preventively suspended, but the complaints against them just got dismissed in the ultimate.

The suspension order will expire and Yap will be back to official function in February next year.

Meantime, magpadayon siya'g monitor sa mga programa, proyekto ug kalihyukan sa probinsiya isip pinili nga gobernador---ug morespeto sa mga imbitasyon isip guest samtang mas hugot nga makiglambigit sa katawhan.

UNSA MAN GUD NING KASOHA?

Ang kaso kalabot sa PDAF ni Mindanao Cong. Marina Clarete kaniadto sa kalihim pa's Yap sa agrikultura.

Dunay programa si Clarete kalabot sa agrikultura nga gusto niyang pondohan aron mapatuman pinaagi sa agri-business bureau sa Department of Agriculture or DA.

As DA secretary then, Yap was required by law to transfer the fund to the proper agency as requested to implement the program funded or supported by the congresswoman.

Nahitabo nga gipangkwestyon ang paggamit sa PDAF kay dunay poy mga sakop sa Kongreso, apil gani ang mga Senador, nga nga giingong niabuso niini.

Kini napunta sa Ombudsman, ug ang complaint kalabot sa kang Clarete giduso gyod ngadto sa Sandiganbayan.

Ang abogado sa goberno sa Pilipinas mao ang Solicitor General.

Apan ang Solicitor General nipabor kang Yap sa dihang gikwestyon ni Yap ang gibuhat sa Ombudsman.

Kay dunay duha ka susamang kaso involving two other congressmen---kanhi Bukidnon Rep. Candido Pancrud ug kanhi La Union Rep. Thomas Dumpit---nga gipaagi gihapon sa DA apan kini pulos na-dismiss.

So, nganong ang kaso involving Clarete's fund wa man pod ibasura?

ABOGADO SA NASUD MIDAPIG KANG YAP

Sa iyang manifestation sa Korte Suprema, ang solicitor general, nga maoy abogado sa kagamhanan sa Pilipinas, nagpadayag na nuon sa iyang pagpabor sa katarungan sa kanhi kalihim sa DA.

Nidapig ang Solicitor General ngadto kang Yap sa kaso sa implementasyon sa PDAF kay wa siyay kalambigitan niini.

Sa Korte Suprema, nagkanayon ang Solicitor General nga grabe ang abuso sa diskresyon sa Ombudsman.

Kini ilabina sa pag-ingon sa Ombudsman nga adunay panagkunsabo ug posibleng kaso batok kang Yap isip kalihim sa agrikultura kaniadto.

Niawhag ang Solicitor General sa Korte Suprema sa pagbaliwa sa resolusyon sa Ombudsman nga giduso ngadto sa Sandiganbayan.

Gisaway niini ang aksyon sa Ombudsman nga nakalapas pag-ayo sa balaod sa ebidensiya.

Kay gikas-a ma'g han-ok sa Ombudsman sa tanang implementing agencies ug kang Yap ang pagdeterminar sa accountability / liability o pagpanubag.

Matud sa Solicitor General, way usang ebidensiya nga nagpakita og partisipasyon ni Yap sa pagpatuman sa kontrata sa PDAF.

BUGTONG PARTISIPASYON

Ang bugtong partisipasyon ni Yap isip kalihim sa DA kaniadto mao ang pagtuman sa gisitar sa balaod.

Ang balaod nag-require kaniya isip DA secretary sa pag-transfer ngadto sa tukmang ahensiya sa pondo sa kongresista nga gisuporta sa programa's agrikultura.

Dili si Yap ang nag-implimintar.

Iyang gisang-at ang petisyon sa certiorari sa Korte Suprema sa hinungdan nga grabe ang pag-abuso sa diskresyon nga nahimo sa Ombudsman.

Ang iyang pagbalhin sa alokasyon sa PDAF sa magbabalaod  ngadto sa buhatan nga maoy nagpatuman sa proyekto dili makonsiderar nga pangawkaw.

Malaumon si Yap nga ibasura ra ang sumbong sa sandiganbayan.

KANIADTO PANG GIHUWAT

Kaniadto pang gidahom ug gipaabot daan ni Yap ang pag-isyo og preventive suspension sa Sandiganbayan nunot sa Seksyon 13 sa Akta Republika 3019.

Gani iya na kining gisulti sa media kaniadto kay nasayud siya nga kini kabahin sa proseso kon ang complaint iduso ngadto sa Sandiganbayan gikan sa Ombudsman.

Ang balaod nagmando sa korte sa pagsuspendir ni bisan kinsang opisyal sa goberno nga gisang-atan og balidong inpormasyon ngadto sa Sandiganbayan.

Matud niya, kaay maoy gilatid sa balaod, iyang gitamud ang mando sa Sandiganbayan---nga gipatuman sugod kagahapon pinaagi sa DILG.

ATONG USBON: WA KINI MAGPASABOT
NGA SAD-AN UG GISILOTAN

Preventive suspension does not mean someone is guilty of an allegation---much less a punishment because it is, in fact, also not. It is rather mandated by law to avoid a government official and a public figure to use his office to influence over the process of the hearing or trial of the case as alleged.

Daghan na sa Bohol ang mga opisyal ug politiko who were preventively suspended, but the complaints against them just got dismissed in the ultimate.

Still, they had to serve the preventive suspension because the law says so.

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Press Release
The Bohol Business One-Stop Shop (BOSS) Asenso Negosyo HEART Caravan continues this time in Trinidad, Bohol.

Gov. Yap shows his support to government agencies who are doing their best to deliver their obligations to the people of Bohol.

"It is better to put up your own business in your own home", Yap said.

In line with Tourism, there are business opportunities for sellers of bags, keychains, t-shirts and the rest to earn more. "The industry is big and we should all earn from it", Yap added. He enjoined everyone to give business a shot.

Gov. Yap also reiterated the programs under his administration that focuses on health, agriculture and tourism.

The Bohol Investment and Promotion Center gathered major government agencies involved in business name registration, permit, and licensing requirements namely BIPC, DTI, DILG, SEC, BIR, SSS, Pag-IBIG, and PhilHealth to provide efficient one-stop assistance for sustainable business.

Mayor Judith Cajes, Vice-Mayor Manuel Garcia, Emely Gucor (BIR), Atty. Alma Marie Dalena (SEC), and LGU officials were present.

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By Ven Arigo
4 ka 'mugbo'g lupad' nahagbong
sa laang sa mga lalake's NBI
-------------------------------------------

Upat ka mga babayeng "mugbo'g lupad" ang nahagbong ngadto sa mga lalakeng ahente diay sa NBI sa Coralandia resort sa syudad sa Tagbilaran kagabii, sumala sa taho sa radyo.

Nasikop usab ang babayeng giingong maoy ilang "bugaw" nga giilang si Rosalina Angalot, taga-Burgos St. sa syudad.

Sagad mga langyawng lalake nga gikan sa mga nasud sa Uropa (Europe) ang kustomer sa upat ka mga prostityut o pampam.

Ang matag usa mopresyo gikan sa P3,000 ngadto sa P4,500, depende sa kaseksi, sumala sa taho ni Willy Maestrado, DYRD reporter.

Pinaagi sa bugaw, nasabot sa taga-NBI nga nagtakuban nga ilang gamiton ang mga "nagbaligya's unod" sa presyong P6,000 kada usa.

Haybol dayon ug niarangkada ang NBI operation sa gisabotang dapit sa Coralandia kagabii.

Sumala sa balita, gihimakak sa bugaw nga ahente siya sa pamaligya'g unod.

Duha sa mga giingong pampam taga-Mindanao.

Bali'g P26,000 nga markadong kuwarta ang gibayad sa NBI ngadto sa bugaw para sa mga babaye ug kilat nga gisikop hasta ang mga prostityut.

Ang prostitusyon usa ka tinubdan sa gikahadlokan nga mga  sexually-transmitted disease, nga posibleng mosangpot sa pagdugang sa mga kaso sa HIV-AIDS.

Ang upat ka mga prostityut naglukob dayon sa habol aron dili maladlad ang ilang dagway bisan pa man kon normal kanila ang maghubo kay maoy pangita.

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By Ven Arigo
Padayong negosyo caravan sa probinsiya
midangat sa Trinidad sa Segundo Distrito

NAHIDANGAT sa Trinidad ning adlawa ang mga serbisyo, programa'g kasayoran sa pangita ug panginabuhi nunot sa padayong Bohol Business One-Stop Shop (BOSS) - Asenso Negosyo – HEART Caravan.

Gipadangat usab ni Gob. Arthur Yap ang iyang suporta sa mga ahensiyang nagbuhat og maayo sa ilang mga obligasyon ngadto sa mga tawo.

Sa caravan, gidala sa Bohol Investment and Promotions Center (BIPC) ang mga ahensiyang nalambigit sa pagrehistro, paghatag og permiso ug lisensiya sa negosyo, ug ubang serbisyo.

Apil niini ang Department of Trade and Industry, Security and Exchange Commission, Bureau of Internal Revenue, Social Security System, Pag-IBIG ug Philhealth.

Lakip nga nanguna sa caravan sa Trinidad sila si Emely Gucor sa BIR, Atty. Alma Marie Dalena sa SEC, Mayor Judith Cajes, Bise Mayor Manuel Garcia, ug ubang opisyal sa LGU.

Gihatud ngadto sa maong lungsod sa Segundo Distrito ang episyenteng one-stop shop assistance alang sa sustenableng negosyo.

Gidasig sa gobernador ang pagnegosyo diha mismo sa kabalayan.

Subay sa turismo, adunay kahigayonan sa negosyo para sa mamaligya og mga bag, keychain, t-shirt ug daghan pang souvenir item.

Gipasalig ni Yap ang pagpadayon usab sa mga inisyatibang nagtutok sa agrikultura ug kahimsog.

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By Ven Arigo
MORE JOB OPPORTUNITIES from the Provincial Government under Gov. Arthur Yap and thru the BEPO in partnership with the PESO, POEA, OWWA, TESDA, others.

COME TO THE BIG JOB FAIR at the Bohol Cultural Center on Nov. 30, Saturday, 8am to 4pm!

Target niini ang trabaho sa mga sektor sa construction, engineering, medical, BPO – call center, hotel ug restaurant, sales ug merchandising, manufacturing, retailing, ug general administrative.
Ang aplikante puwedeng morehistro og una sa Bohol Employment Placement Office (BEPO) sa kapitolyo o sa Public Employment Service Office (PESO) sa kalungsoran aron makakuha daan og registration card.
Gikinahanglan ang comprehensive biodata/resume, 2x2 ID picture, diploma/transcript of records/Form 138, TESDA certificate, NBI/Police/Barangay clearances, ug passport para sa overseas job.

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By Ven Arigo
BALAOD NI TUTOR UG CHATTO SA MALASAKIT CENTER:
Bohol Third District Rep. Kristine Alexie Tutor reported on her post that House Bill 5477 or the "Malasakit Program Act" was approved by the Lower House on third and final reading on Monday, November 18. The senior vice chair of the Committee on Health said she was "proud" it was passed. Once it becomes a law, more poor patients benefit nationwide.

HB 5477 is actually the final version reconciled from among the House bills of similar intent being filed. One of these, HB 01140, was co-authored by Bohol First District Rep. Edgar Chatto seeking to "institutionalize the Malasakit Centers in all accredited hospitals in the country."

Salamat sa duha ka mga kongresista. Kamoy tinuod nga Bol-anon, busa Padayon!

Their welfare act for the financially lest, last and lost stands with one of the four pillars of the administration of Gov. Arthur Yap which is the "care for the weak."

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Posted by Rey Tutas
WALAY PAGPANGOLEKTA UNA SA BASURA SA DAKBAYAN SA TAGBILARAN

Wala una'y himoon nga pagpangolekta sa mga basura sa tibuok dakbayan sa Tagbilaran, matud sa usa ka opisyal sa Solid Waste Management Office (SWMO) sa siyudad.

Kini human gisirhan sa Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) ang open dumpsite didto sa Barangay Dampas ning siyudad.

Nangunay mismo si DENR Undersecretary for Solid Waste Management and Local Government Units Concerns Benny Antiporda sa pagsira tungod sa reklamo nga nangalisbong baho sa open dumpsite sa siyudad pinaagi sa Cease and Desist Order(CDO) karong adlawa, Nov. 20.

Si Lito Taladua, hepe sa City Solid Waste Management Office mibutyag nga sugod kagahapon, giundang una nila ang pagpangolekta sa mga basura ug dili pa niya matino kung hangtod kanus-a kini kutob.

Ang tanang 15 ka mga barangay kapitan sa siyudad gipanguluhan ni San Isidro Punong Barangay Fausto Budlong gipatawag ni Mayor John Geesnell Yap II alang sa hiniusang aksyon sa pagsulbad sa suliran sa basura.

Gihimo ang tigom uban sa bag-ong direktor sa EMB-7 nga si Lormelyn Claudio didto sa JJ's Seafoods Village.

Giklaro ni Taladua nga ang ilang kolektahon mao lamang ang residual waste nga ilabay didto sa Albur Cluster Sanitary Landfill.

Nanawagan usab si Taladua sa tanang lumulopyo sa dakbayan apil na sa mga establisamento nga ipatuman gyud ang "waste segregation at source, kon sa balay pa lang ilain na ang mga malata sa dili malata ingon man residual waste.

Ang mga residual waste sihaon og maayo sa tipangolekta'g basura  dayon dalhon didto sa open dumpsite nga maoy mamahimong transfer station una kini ilabay ngadto sa ACSLF.

Moabot sa 8 ka toneladang residual waste matag semana gikan sa siyudad ang mahipos ug malabay ngadto sa ACSLF.(Rey Tut's)

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PRess Release
Bohol Governor Art Yap attended the Inauguration Ceremony of the PRDP SubProject Rehabilitation of Baang-Bagtic-Mahayag Norte Farm-To-Market-Road.

Handing over of maintenance tools was also done by Gov. Yap to Mayor Elizabeth Mandin Pace and the barangay officials of Baang, Bagtic and Mahayag Norte.

The PRDP is a six-year national project that aims to establish a modern, inclusive, value-chain oriented and climate-resilient agriculture and fisheries sector. It is implemented through the partnership of the DA, the World Bank and local government units.

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By Leah Sumampong
Atty. Abel Damalerio who represented Bohol Cong. Edgar Chatto joined Catigbian Mayor Elizabeth Mandin, Engr. Marcial Agad of the Department of Agriculture during ribbon cutting rites to inaugurate 3.5kilometer Baang-Bagtic-Mahayag Norte farm to market road.

The P29.8M project was implemented under the Philippine Rural Development Program of the World Bank, Department of Agriculture, and Provincial Government of Bohol.

Bohol was first to enter into the counter-parting program in 2014 when Cong. Chatto as then governor signed the agreement with then DA Sec. Proceso Alcala.

Bohol led in the implementation of the program and has been hailed as best implementor in Central Visayas.

The Provincial Engineering Office implemented the project that was completed under the leadership of Gov. Art Yap.

PRDP has as components planning,  infrastructure, enterprise development, and project implementation support for programs that increase rural income and enhance farm and fishery productivity in target areas.

The 6-year project promotes inclusive development by supporting farmers and fisherfolk to increase productivity and income as well as to improve access to markets.

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By Leah Sumampong

Bohol Cong. Edgar Chatto is honored by University of the Philippines School of Economics Alumni Association (UPSEAA) together with fellow alumni elected as legislators.

He received a plaque of recognition from UPSEAA President Jeffrey Ng. Also given the distinction were Senator Nancy Binay and Sen. Pia Cayetano whose award was received by COMELEC Comm. Rowena Guanzon. Fellow alumni and legislators given recognition were Hon. Cyrille Abueg-Zaldivar, Hon. Bernadette Herrera-Dy, Hon. Stella Liz-Quimbo, Hon. Isagani Amatong, Hon. Roman Romulo, Hon. Jose Christopher Belmonte, Hon. Peter John Calderon, with a tribute to Hon. Rodel Batocabe.

The legislators were recognized for accepting the challenge of continued public service by fulfilling their mandate as elected legislators.

Cong. Chatto was a member of Class 1981 of the UP School of Economics and was among UPSE distinguished alumni during the 50th founding anniversary of the UPSE in 2015.

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"Climate Change Consciousness Week:
Adapting for A Sustainable Future"

[Privilege Speech delivered on 20 November 2019 at the 1st Regular Session, Eighteenth (18th) Congress, House of Representatives, Batasan Hills, Quezon City]

Philippines and Climate Change

In a 2018 survey, the Philippines ranked third – just behind India and Pakistan – among countries most vulnerable to climate change. This year, in the Global Peace Index (GPI) report released by Australia-based Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), the Philippines is now first among the list of countries facing the highest risk of climate change hazards.

The study finds that 47 percent of the country's population is in areas highly exposed to multiple climate hazards such as earthquakes, tsunami, floods, tropical cyclones and drought.

Honorable Speaker, my dear colleagues in this August chamber, I stand before you today on a matter of personal and collective privilege: as a member of this esteemed body nine years ago, from the year 2001-2009, as principal author of The Tourism Act of 2009 and as present chair of the House Committee on Climate Change.

​​November is Climate Change Consciousness Month. This year, we celebrate the 12th Global Warming and Climate Change Consciousness Week from November 18-25 with the theme, "Adapting for A Sustainable Future."

Twin Frameworks on Tourism and Climate Change

Consequently, both Republic Act No. 9593 or "The Tourism Act of 2009" and Republic Act No. 9729 or the "Climate Change Act of 2009" were passed on the same year and both are celebrating their decade anniversary this year.

​This is significant because tourism is a major economic factor in the country contributing Php 2.2 trillion or 12.7% of the total GDP and generating 5.4 million employment for the year 2018 alone. Sustaining tourism, which is highly dependent on our natural resources, amidst the threat of climate change, is a challenge we all face now.

During my second and third terms in the 13th and the 14th Congresses, I chaired the House Committee on Tourism. Our main goal: the passage of a law that will lay the national tourism framework in the country. Working to pass the law back then was no easy task. It took us five years to convince all stakeholders of the importance of a national framework on tourism.

RA 9593 or The Tourism Act, hence, paved the way, among many others, for the formulation of the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP); major re-organization of the DOT, including its attached agencies; due recognition to the private sector; and the creation of the convergence program of relevant agencies of government on tourism infrastructure. As a result, we now have 12 international gateways, ports are further being developed, tourism destinations are continuously being improved and many of our tourism highways have either been constructed or rehabilitated.

Republic Act No. 9729 or the "Climate Change Act of 2009", on the other hand, created the Climate Change Commission (CCC) as the principal climate policymaking body of the government.  Accordingly, the National Framework Strategy on Climate Change (NFSCC) for 2010 to 2022 was formulated and translated to the National Climate Change Action Plan (NCCAP) 2011-2028 which sets the directional plan for the government in implementing short, medium and long term actions in seven thematic areas: food security, water sufficiency, ecological and environmental stability, human security, climate smart industries and services, sustainable energy, and knowledge and capacity development.

Upon coming back as legislator for the 18th Congress, and having finished my three terms as governor of the province of Bohol, I accept the chairmanship of the Committee on Climate Change. It is an advocacy close to heart and is intimately related to almost everything I commit myself to as a public servant – environment, agriculture, food security, health, tourism. The challenge is big – herculean to say the least. But I know, Honorable Speaker, my dear colleagues that I have this august chamber as partners in this fight against the adverse effects of climate change.

Addressing Global Climate Change

According to DOST-PAGASA, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) has set out two central approaches in dealing with climate change: The first is to address the root cause by reducing greenhouse gas emissions from human activity while the second is to manage its impacts.

​According to the Climate Change Commission (CCC), "while the Philippines contribute next to nothing to the climate change problem, in terms of greenhouse gas emissions, yet we suffer the brunt. Nevertheless, we are making a stand because we believe that a resilient low-carbon future is the only pathway that will secure inclusive, enduring development for all. There is no excuse for inaction. It is our moral and intergenerational responsibility to build the capacities of our communities to these impacts and to take greater steps to protect our oceans."

In March last year, His Excellency, President Rodrigo R. Duterte, signed the landmark Paris Agreement on Climate Change that calls for the reduction of carbon emissions, which have been linked to the occurrence of natural disasters and extreme weather conditions.

Two months ago, youths across the globe joined in protest to call on world leaders to respond decisively to the climate emergency with climate justice. Greta Thunberg, teen environmental activist and face of global climate strike efforts has been making waves in exacting accountability and creating awareness.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), recommends for the Philippines, "to listen to the science in its report and push for more integration of climate actions that would go beyond the time frame of their political positions. The government should really push for more ambitious targets in terms of adaptation and mitigation, because adaptation is not enough. Ecosystem-based adaptation should be in conjunction or reduction of emissions."

"Fiercer storms and drier droughts" is how they describe the effect of climate change in the country. And we are not surprised. We had Typhoons Ondoy and Yolanda. In Bohol a state of calamity was declared due to the drought in the farmland. Indeed, climate change is the new normal.

Climate Change and Tourism

Focusing on tourism alone, we cannot deny the value of tourism for the country. Our major asset: our natural resources. But travel in general contribute to carbon footprints, unregulated practices of the tourism sector and tourism activities have an adverse effect on our natural resources. Unless we mainstream sustainable tourism, we fail our natural resources, we fail the next generation.

According to the World Tourism Organization, sustainable tourism is "Tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment, and host communities".

Hence, adaptation and mitigation advocacies must be made part of tourism promotions. There are a thousand and one ways to do that: from eco-friendly designs of buildings and facilities, cleanliness and sanitation, ecotourism practices and activities, conservation efforts to tree planting in tourist sites – the possibility is vast.

Sustainable tourism should also maintain a high level of tourist satisfaction and ensure a meaningful experience to the tourists, raising their awareness about sustainability issues and promoting sustainable tourism practices amongst them.

​It has been said that climate change is irreversible but it is not unstoppable. The Philippines' vulnerability to the adverse effects of climate change gives us no excuse to be complacent in our mandate.

We have a lot to do. First on the list is the strengthening of the functional and organization structure of the Climate Change Commission. We need to allocate for research, for development of technical experts, for the empowerment of LGUs and communities and for the implementation down to the household level.

We need to strengthen the "whole-of-government" approach on climate change. We need to replicate best practices. In Bohol, for example, we were among the first provinces which approved an ordinance declaring our strong stand for a "No Coal Policy".

Finally, political leaders, including members of Congress, carry a lot of influence on our respective constituencies. Being strong advocates on climate change adaptation and mitigation both in policy development and in actual day to day living can make a big difference in developing a resilient community. It should start in us: as leaders and as members of our respective communities.

Thank you very much. Daghang Salamat.


      HON. EDGAR M. CHATTO
Representative, First District of Bohol

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By Ven Arigo
Jim Hancock of World Bank met with Bohol Governor Art Yap to brief him of the Global Environment Facility National Resource Management subproject.

Through the Department of Agriculture's Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP), a grant fund is given by World Bank through the Global Environment Facility (GEF) to strengthen the conservation of marine resource in targeted areas through biodiversity conservation and fisheries resources management.

Provincial Administrator Kathyrin Pioquinto and Ronilita Bunado (PPDO) were also in the meeting.

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By Ven Arigo
WHO WILL BE THE ACTING VICE GOVERNOR?
HOW ABOUT THE CAPITOL BENEFITS, BONUSES?

Acting Gov. Rene Relampagos openly told the DILG that the province would just wait for the agency's designation of the acting vice governor.

Relampagos said in the media interaction he called at the Bohol Capitol this afternoon that he expects the DILG to follow the rule of ranking.

He hinted of the likely designation, therefore, of Senior Board Member Victor Dionisio Balite as the acting vice governor.

Gov. Arthur Yap will be officially back in February next year.

Meanwhile, Relampagos enumerated the benefits/bonuses that capitol employees are bound to receive before yearend---cash gift, 14th month pay, performance bonus, and CNA bonus.

The acting governor convened the capitol Management Executive Board (MEB) yesterday during which meeting they also discussed the granting of the CNA bonus at P25,000.

He would have it hastened at the level of the Local Finance Committee so that the Sangguniang Panlalawigan can urgently allocate the needed fund for granting before yearend.

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By Ven Arigo
MORE JOB OPPORTUNITIES from the Provincial Government under Gov. Arthur Yap and thru the BEPO in partnership with the PESO, POEA, OWWA, TESDA, others.

COME TO THE BIG JOB FAIR at the Bohol Cultural Center on Nov. 30, Saturday, 8am to 4pm!

Target niini ang trabaho sa mga sektor sa construction, engineering, medical, BPO – call center, hotel ug restaurant, sales ug merchandising, manufacturing, retailing, ug general administrative.
Ang aplikante puwedeng morehistro og una sa Bohol Employment Placement Office (BEPO) sa kapitolyo o sa Public Employment Service Office (PESO) sa kalungsoran aron makakuha daan og registration card.
Gikinahanglan ang comprehensive biodata/resume, 2x2 ID picture, diploma/transcript of records/Form 138, TESDA certificate, NBI/Police/Barangay clearances, ug passport para sa overseas job.

* Today's Helpful Tip *
Tala app is a fast and easy way to borrow money, and it's used and trusted by many. Download Tala to join millions of Filipino users today! >>> http://inv.re/9o3vp

By Ven Arigo
FREE WESTERN MOVIES for the Boholanos have been announced by Acting Gov. Rene Relampagos. These will be shown at the Cinema 1, Alturas Mall in Tagbilaran City tomorrow until November 23, Saturday.

Here are the movies:
* Buek (Happy New Year), from Hungary, Nov. 22, 6:30pm
* Tour de France, Nov 23, 11:00am
* Achter De Wolken, from Belgium, Nov. 23, 1pm
* Grube aus Fukushima Greetings from Fukushima), from
  Germany, Nov. 23. 3pm
* Vinterbrodre (Winter brothers), from Denmark, Nov. 23, 5pm

The free European movies are courtesy of the partnership of the Provincial Government of Bohol under Gov. Arthur Yap, European Union, EUNIC Philippines, EU Cultural Institutes, Aturas Mall, and Film Development Council of the Philippines.

Hungarian Amb. Josef Bencse will have the honor to present the opening of the film early night tomorrow, Relampagos told the media in an interaction he called together with Provincial Administrator Kathyrin Fe Pioquinto at the Bohol Capitol this afternoon.

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By Ric V. Obedencio
CA acquits Cubrado
from admin charges

The Court of Appeals has granted the petition of Mayor Cubrado, thereby freeing her from administrative charges filed against her by her political detractors.

"Wherefore, the petition is hereby granted," the decision of the court reads.

It continues, "the decision dated May 26, 2017 and order dated August 30, 2017 of the Office of the Ombudsman in OMB-V-A-16-0006 are reversed and set aside. Accordingly, administrative case No. OMB-V-A-16-0006 is hereby dismissed and petitioner Necitas Cubrado is exonerated from the administrative charge against her for lack of substantial evidence."

The court said that facts showed that Cubrado has no intention to usurp legislative power of the Sangguniang Bayan of Pilar town.

Cubrado, CA pointed out, wrote August 28, 2015 a letter to the SB to "waive the municipal fees of application for households electrification program" to some indigent 95 beneficiaries of the towns.

Consequently, the SB approved thru Resolution No. 56, series of 2016 the request of Cubrado for fees exemption to the aforesaid beneficiaries.

CA concluded "these facts closely show the absence of any interest on her part" to usurp the legislative power of the SB.

"Verily, Cubrado's act (issuing a certification to beneficiaries) cannot be described as serious, important, weighty and momentous so as to warrant her dismissal from service."

When asked if she would immediately assumed back as mayor of Pilar town, Cubrado said in exclusive interview that she'll be waiting for the writ of execution soon.

Earlier this month, the Ombudsman has junked the complaint filed against Cubrado of this town for lack of probable cause.

With the said decision, the Ombudsman reversed its previous decision which found Cubrado guilty of "grave misconduct" for the alleged usurpation of legislative power.

Cubrado was then meted dismissal from public service and with accessory penalty of perpetual disqualification from holding any public office by the Ombudsman.

The case arose from the intention of Cubrado in helping some 90 plus households of the barangays to avail of the energization program of the national government. (rvo)

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Mintal, Davao City

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Thanks to the world wide web. This spot in Candijay is now a tourism attraction.

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Rene: Suspension deprives the Boholanos
of a competent leader for 90 days
By Ven Arigo

"Kon atong balansehon, ang mga Bol-anon maoy naalkanse" sa mandatory preventive suspension ni Gov. Arthur Yap, matud ni Acting Gov. Rene Relampagos ngadto sa media sa Bohol.

Relampagos also told the national media in a separate interview that "it is the Boholano people who are deprived for 90 days of the services of a competent leader."

Yap's preventive suspension is good for three months and will automatically expire on its 90th day sometime in February next year.

"I tell you, he (Yap) will not stop working. I know him. He will keep working for the Boholanos," Relampagos said further to the press people.

Relampagos was joined in the Bohol media interaction at the new Capitol yesterday by Provincial Administrator Kathyrin Fe Pioquinto.

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"Local, Overseas Jobs Fair"
sa Nob 30, parehistro daan

TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, November 19 (PIA)—Nangita ka pa ba gihapon og trabaho nga kasudlan?

Kon duna kay katakus sa mga gimbuhaton sa konstraksyon, engineering, medical, Business Process outsourcing (BPO) o Call Center, Hotel and Restaurant services, Sales ug Merchandising, Manufacturing, Retailing, ug General Administrative support, andama na ang imong mga papeles.

Apan, kinahanglan ka una nga magpalista aron naa na dayon sa inyong tagsa-tagsa sa Public Employment Service Offices (PESO) sa lungsod aron makakuha ka na  sa documento nga gitawag og registration cards nga maoy passes sa Jobs Fair.

Pangandami usab ang panahon nga ma-interview ug ikahibalag ang mga employer.

Matud sa BEPO, moanhi dinhi sa Bohol ang mga employer atul sa usa  ka adlaw nga Local ug Overseas nga Jobs Fair sa Nobyembre 30, 2019 didto sa Bohol Cultural Center.

Ang Jobs Fair nga magsugod sa alas 8:00 ngadto sa alas 5:00 sa hapon, matud pa ni Vilma Yorong, hepe sa Bohol Employment and Placement Office (BEPO),   

Hinuon, dugang sa pahibalo sa BEPO, kinahanglan nga ang mga aplikante nga mo-adto didto sa Nobyembre 30, nalista na nga daan sa BEPO, o sa Public Employment Service Offices (PESO) sa kalungsuran, aron makadala na sa registration cards nga gikinahanglan sa Jobs Fair. 

Unya, sa adlaw sa Jobs Fair, mas maayo nga magbitbit na ang aplikante sa iyang Comprehensive Resume' o Biodata, 2x2 ID Photos, Diploma o Transcript of Records / Form 138 kon high school garduates, TESDA Certificates, Training and Employment Certificates, NBI, Police Clearance, Barangay Clearance, ug inandam nga Passport ilabni na kon ang pangaplayan, alang sa gawas sa nasud. (rahc/PIA-7/Bohol)

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Feature Story

"Emmanuel "Doy" Comendador"
Running from painful childhood:
A duathlete's commending tale

As a young kid, he has dreamt of getting a new pair of shoes.

Poverty and an unstable childhood kept him from getting that.

Today, as Boholanos are clasping their palms praying for luck to a local swimming sensation making ripples in the Philippine swimming circles, another Boholano contribution to the national pool of athletes for the upcoming ASEAN Games, still runs with an old pair he bought at an ukay-ukay rummage.

Unknown to most, unlike most Philippine Team athletes who bask on national television, this Boholano from Cambangay Norte, San Miguel Bohol remains humbly hidden from the cameras in the country.

But somewhere in Asian races, as he silently traverses the trails and roadways of Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, he gets occasional media attention, in his trail battered shoes even climbing a dais.

Shoes are secondary. Toning his muscles to get him to the podium is the motive and this can only be through painful training, dedication and discipline that has put a Tagbilaran swimmer into the same national team for the ASEAN Games.

Boholano duathlete Emmanuel "Doy" Comendador literally crawled his way through hard work, discipline, mental toughness and perseverance to be picked part of the Philippine Duathlon Team for the ASEAN Games to open next week.   

The achievement, for Comendador, 31 years old, was never walk in the park.

In fact to him, it was through biking, and running, and biking and running in a vicious training that would literally burn-out the mentally weak, that kept him focused: shoes, immaterial.   

Born to a poor family and too weakened by the hardships of a child fending off his way to a future that has nothing to do with what he was born into, leaving a painful hungry childhood in Limasawa Island, Southern Leyte was Doy's first long run.

His decision to swing to sports as a way of forgetting his past and building a strong resolve to mold a full-toned body from an emaciated spirit was his first plan to voluntarily escape his past.   

That resolve pushed him to go past the edges of pain and sacrifice, let him inch his way to join a Leyte bike group. From then on, he cranked up more muscle straining and hurting revolutions in his pedals than almost everyone in his group.

"I had a painful past I wouldn't want to talk about. What is more painful than that?" he timidly asked, when posed with what his most painful training regimen was like.

"All training is painful, because our coaches know how to squeeze out the best in us. Believe me, it is not easy and is far from painless, he said, severely sun-blasted face and bulging veins in his hand witness to the hard training showing even in the dimly lit café.

Sharing how he disregarded the weird looks of other athletes when they see his old sneakers, he said "I couldn't buy one, so I have to use this old pair." 

Already a strong biker when he left Leyte, Doy decided to live with an aunt in San Miguel. Since then, he considered himself an adopted Boholano and has since used Bohol as his home address.

While in Bohol, he banked on his bike riding speed in Tagbilaran, knowing that there is far better chance here than in San Miguel.

But with very few bikers then in Tagbilaran, he decided to shift to running where there was prize money to sustain him.

Starting a cross training for running in 2014 in Bohol, Doy, who has logged long hours on a bike, became a sensation.

His long rides and improved spinning cadence on road bikes and off-road mountain bikes worked on his glutes, quadriceps and hamstring, while his calves gradually trimmed from running regimen.

Having worked on both disciplines, Doy became a fixture in Bohol runs, and occasionally on road races, capping on his podium finishes, while getting adopted into a legendary local bike group Paseo de Loon was his biggest break.

"Salamat nila ni Sir Mar, Sir Loquellano, sir Peeps, Sir Dave ug uban nga mga Paseo de Loon athletes pareha ni Sir Echoy, nakakita ko og bag-ong pamilya. Silay nagtabang nako nga makapangita og gamit para makadula."

"Joining the team got me into more races, winning most.

There, I strengthened further my training, he humbly confessed. "I would never have won in these races, if I raced alone."

But while racing has been in his blood, the young phenomenal runner started to swing back to a run-bike-run training regimen, while securing his future by pleading his sponsored team if he could pursue college.

He asked his team if he could take up Marine Engineering at the local Philippine Maritime Institute (PMI) while representing the school in races. When the team was more than willing to support him, he run further and swung off to Paseo during his lean days where there are no races in school, Richard Acero, another athlete where Comendador homed in Tagbilaran volunteered the information.

Comendador said he felt like he was family with the Aceros, and it helped him immensely, adjusting his running shades as the café filled with light banter from patrons.

Comendador, who stepped into the café after completing a short afternoon bike spin, for the late afternoon interview, came in full bike gear: lime yellow Navy Standard Insurance jersey, a seemingly overused bike helmet and his favorite battered running shoes.

Sitting now with a girlfriend who also runs marathons, Doy said his break came in the eighth qualifying leg of the 37th National Milo Marathon eliminations in 2013 in Bohol.

Then a graduating Marine Engineering student at PMI, despite lack of training as he was busy preparing for the closing exercises, the phenomenal biker and amateur runner still bested 6,153 athletes and carved for himself a name winning the 21 K half marathon. This catapulted him into the National Finals.

With free travel and accommodations, he went to Manila and competed in his first Milo marathon performance, placing among the top finishers.

The following years, Comendador would win the 2014 and 2015 Milo Marathon qualifiers and placed top among national finalists.

This got the attention of national coaches who invited him to train with them.

Running under Philippine Navy in national races, Doy continued with zealous training and pious respect for the coaches which he never had the luxury in his races.

Running races while on training with the national team did not obtain for him the perks of a full-time athlete. He has to look for sponsors to help defray the costs while in Manila.

Enter, Standard Insurance, who picked him to carry their banner in his race jerseys.

The sponsorship also allowed him to survive in Manila, although not well. Scrimping on a tight budget was nothing new to him. If for his dream, Comendador knew he had to persevere.

In 2015, at the Philippine Duathlon National Championships, Elite Men Category, he finished 5th and so was his finish in the 2016 National Duathlon Championships five months later.

Shifting to triathlon, Comendador competed in the 2016 Subic Bay NTT ASTC Triathlon Asian Cup and placed 11th but was the third Filipino to the top with John Chicano and Mark Hosana competing against a full roster of Asia's elite triathletes.

By March of 2017, Doy took his first international podium at the 2017 Putrajaya ASTC Powerman Middle Distance Duathlon Asian Championships when he placed third against a Dutch and an Australian. Here, he also picked his first Asian championship honor.

In March of 2018, Comendador again placed fourth at the Putrajaya ASTC Powerman Middle Distance Duathlon Asian Championships, this time with another Filipino John Chicano placing third after the Dutch and an Aussie.

This year, he competed again in the 2019 Putrajaya ASTC Powerman Middle Distance Duathlon Asian Championships for Elite Men and dropped in finish ranking to 8th but was among the three Asians in the top.

In fact, among those on the top were himself, and two more Filipinos, and an Iranian.

Now competing against Asians, the self-appointed Boholano athlete said he has seen a near perfect moment to strike a gold medal in the ASEAN Games, After all, he has proven to Asian duathletes that he is somebody they can be running after.

As a member of the Philippine Team now, Doy still wears old running shoes, which he said he bought at an ukay-ukay, while his competitors sport the newest models from the greatest brands.

Asked if this bothers him, he said he dreams of a new pair but his allowance would not allow him that.

"I tried the new Nike when a friend runner let me try it. It was comfortable as it was designed to fit a runner's foot profile, but I just can not afford that, so I have to be realistic and run in my old pairs. As long as it does not give up on me, like I have never given up on my dream, there is still that huge chance I'd get a gold. Would that not be a bigger shoes to fill by other Filipino athletes after me?" he asked speaking in Cebuano. 

Whether one talks about his old shoes and the resolve to bring honor to Bohol and the Philippines, this guy has just shred a tale worth commending.

That can happen, when the country would well be this guy's comendador. (rahc/PIA-7/Bohol)

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Bohol elite bikers rule
BtB Epic Challenge '19

TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, November 22, (PIA)—Rampaging the trails at 2.84 kilometers per minute, Bohol's elite tandem of Paseo de Loon's Nicho Lumay and Adelino Buligan (01-A/B) zipped through the downhill section to Punta Cruz Watchtower and finished the grueling 100 kilometers in fashionable 4:44:52.47 to be hailed Kings of Bike Ta Bai's Bohol Epic Challenge 2019, November 17, 2019.

What most thought as a downer for those who finished the grueling 85 kilometer challenge that featured an almost impossible climb 70% into the race, this year's 100 kilometer self-sufficiency challenge that feature killer long climbs, technical downhill sections and crazy tunnels including a hanging bridge crossing, only 418 of the region's amateur to professional downhill maniacs on extreme cross-country or downhill mountain bikes, and nosey amateurs finished.

A race where majority of the mountain bikes sport the formidable single to double cranks and cassettes that go from 10-42 or 10-51 which is a less painful way to scale up the steep technical climbs that decorate the entire race route, this year's Epic race attracted bikers from as far as Mindanao, Cebu and Leyte who have had logged kilometers upon kilometers of daunting uphill grinds.

The race which opened to mini epic distance of 50 kilometers, also put up open elite, 30-39 age group, 40-49, 50 and above and all women open however generously put up 8 checkpoints with excellent hydration stations and documentation support including drones and closed circuit television cameras, especially on technical sections.

Due to the long route which is impossible to put up enough marshals, we figured a tandem as team would have a better chance of surviving together than going solo and singularly face the daunting issue of possible mechanical problems or accidental crashes, revealed Gerry Marmito, Bike ta Bai race organizer.

They may separate but they have to be within visual distance, one can not pass a checkpoint without his tandem, he added.

And as minimum requirement in self-sufficiency, each biker must have enough trail food, spare tubes, tire levers, basic hex tool, air pump, trail lights, spare chain, missing link, and compulsory safety gears  including helmet, sufficiently charged cellphones and spare batteries to be let out into the race.

With registrations closed a month before the race, race participants who were able to read the tracks realized they have eaten too much of the slice and 52 pairs downgraded their entries from full distance to mini-epic, upon seeing the race route.

But even then, Boholano cross country mountain bikers used their familiarity of the tracks to their advantage and crawled through the technical climbs while they ripped and shredded the downhill sections, leaving dust for those who have no luxury of getting intimate with the route.

Twelve minutes after Lumay-Buligan tandem crossed the finish line, team mate from Paseo de Loon and KaSikad Sagbayan team with Deven Valderoza and Archie Enad (02A/B) crossed the line in fashion at 4:56.36 since the mass start.

In their tail were the tandem from Dumaguete Union of Trail Trackers (DUOTT) Gobert V Austria and Mc Augustine Barnagua survived the race in 4:58:06 as Cebu's Jessiedel Arnado and Christian Cabonita (34A/B) in close pursuit finished at 4:59:48.

Cebu's mountain bike king Dongkey Sanchez and Mark Jorice Zabate of Team PSK finished fifth at 5:12:07 in the elite open category, where 78 bikers finished the race.

In the mini epic distance where 102 pairs finished the full 50 kilometers, Ernesto Garcia and Neil Arado of team Bohol Bike Kings (201A/B) crossed the finish line 3:18:15 after the gun start to claim the championship in their category.

Placing second is the tandem of Leonard Quijada and Paul Karlo Cericos of SBR Laspag Boys (214A/B) at 3:30:56.

Third in the category were Gino Aranas and Alger Sancija of Team CFB (207A/B) who crossed the line 4:05:15 into the race.

4th Place went to Wilfredo Gitaruelas / Vicente Layar of FilGen 1 (201A/B) at 4:19:34 and 5th were William Tan Jr. Henry Almario of CFB resurgent at 4:31:15.   

30-39 Age Group
Champion: 335A/B Kirk Jed Geolagon and Jeffry Silvano of Cebu Kasikad who crossed the finish line at 5:11:02, 2nd (314A/B) Benjamin Ramirez/Jong Sajulga (Trek) at 5:28:52, 3rd 348A/B Alexander Diaz/James Kho of Cebu Cycling (5:32:24) 4th 315A/B Rolan Sedon/ Redan Cantilla or Team ORGA at 5:40)3 while 5th were John Villaruel/Sammy Moreno (323A/B) of Dan's Trek at 5:52:00.

40-49 Age Group
Champion: Butchie Zamora / Roger Torreon (437A/B) of Tri Bohol (5:56:04); 2nd 435A/B Milo Melon/Lino Olaivar of Paseo de Loon (6:24:18); 3rd Jerson Maquilan/Nick Malon (425A/B) of Tayud Cycling (6:24:30), 4th Edil Batiancila / Freddie Perez (430 A/B) of Team Atbog and 5th 453A/B Jowie Natak and Walter Arcon of Team Usapay (653:33).

50 and above Age Group
Champion 509A/B Jay Eusebio/Totong Parojinog of MTB Negros (6:26:31); 2nd 510A/B Josenilo Dayday/Daniel Arcipe of Team Malapascua (6:43:25); 3rd 508A/B Simon Hulleza / Renato Fuentes of MTB Negros (6:57:40), 4th 501A/B Nestor Morgado / Nilo Limpahan of BTEX (7:02:22) and 5th 513A/B Alexis Migriño and Roger Libotlibot of Tayud Cycling (7:20:49).

All Women Open
Champion 603 A/B Almira Amoy of Team CFB and Charmaine Tanseco of Sikwatestas at 9:49:57 while 2nd was 601A/B Jwyn Muyco / Olive Salve of Team Tortilla Riders at 10:32:16. (rahc/PIA-7/Bohol)

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DOE-VFO Partners with LGU-Iloilo and Iloilo PNP against Downstream Oil Industry Illegal Activities

ILOILO CITY – The Department of Energy – Visayas Field Office (DOE-VFO), in partnership with the Iloilo Sangguniang Panlalawigan (ISP), Iloilo Provincial Police Office (IPPO), and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) intensifies the government's crackdown on illegal traders' activities on petroleum products. These include the illegal retailing and refilling of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) into unregistered and/or non-compliant containers.

Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi stressed, "The Department is closely working with LGUs and other law enforcement agencies to strengthen the DOE's campaign against unsafe practices. The safety of our people would always remain paramount, especially given the danger to human life posed by the illegal sale of petroleum products."

Recently, the IPPO and BFP arrested two individuals at a checkpoint in Guimbal for transporting a total of 1, 055 single-use canisters, illegally refilled with LPG and without the necessary Conveyance Certificate from the BFP. The DOE-VFO advised the Philippine National Police (PNP) to file criminal cases against the suspects for violating Batas Pambansa 33, otherwise known as "An Act Defining And Penalizing Certain Prohibiting Acts Inimical To The Public Interest And National Security Involving Petroleum And/Or Petroleum Products, Prescribing Penalties Therefor And For Other Purposes".

FULL STORY: http://bit.ly/doe-vfo-partners-lgu-iloilo-and-iloilo-pnp-against-downstream-oil-industry-illegal.

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By Ven Arigo
PAMAHAYAG NI GOB. ART YAP
'Wa ko mahadlok sa suspension kay inosente ko'

Ang akong reaction sa suspension is---wala ko mahadlok sa suspension tungod kay kahibawo ko nga inosente ko. Bisan pa ang mga abogado sa goberno kahibawo pod sila.

Mao nga ang Office sa Solicitor General, ang abogado sa goberno, nagduso ug manifestation sa Supreme Court, ug bisan pa sa Sandiganbayan. Kahibawo sila nga they would not hold me liable. Kay nakita nila nga isip Secretary sa Agriculture kaniadto, dili ako ang naggama sa programa, ang nagdisenyo sa programa, ang namili sa mga NGO partners. Ang mga papeles niagi ra nako maong nakahibaw pod sila.

Wa ko mahadlok sa suspension. 

The suspension is part of the mandatory provision of the law. So, ako, isip usa ka elected public official, mosunod ra ko sa balaod nato. Pero dili buot ipasabot nga bisan pa og na-suspend ko mandatorily, ubos sa balaod, dili man buot ipasabot nga guilty ko.

Kahibawo ko nga inosente ko.

Ang hangyo nako nga sayo-sayo, kon puwede, nga modesisyon na ang Supreme Court ug ang Sandiganbayan, and to please exonerate me and find me innocent. The government lawyer (Solicitor General) finds me innocent. 

Dayon gihapon ang mga meeting kay daghan man ang mga tawo nga gustong makigkita nako. Makigpulong ko sa mga tawo nga gustong makigkita nako, and daghan na man sa mga proyekto nako isip gobernador karon nga ako nang nasugdan,

Mao nga matagaan na kog mga kahigayonan nga mobisita, mosuroy sa kabaranggayan para akong makit-an ang estado, ang implementasyon sa atong programa.

Ang atong programa sa Bohol nga modernization sa mga hospital giapil na nato sa budget. Ang atong pagpalit sa mga road equipment ako nang giapil sa budget. Ang atong gprograma sa tubig nagsugod na.

Sa December 9, moanhi diri sa Bohol si Sec. William Dar para i-launch ang soil and water testing facility nga akong gipangayo sa Department of Agriculture.

Then ang atong programa sa mga food assistance, tungod sa panahon sa habagat, napahuman na nato. Ang tabang nato sa mag-uuma on-going na man karon, paghatag og mga binhi ug mga sure-aid programs nga gikan sa Department of Agriculture ug Landbank of the Philippines.

Ang atong tourism programs daghan. Na-meet na nato ang mga hotel owners, ang mga transportation owners, giayonan nila ang mga programa. Ang atong culture-based tourism nagsugod na pod.

Ang atong Belen ug Daygon Contest, judging niini is from December 1 to 15. So, dayon na man ang atong mga programa.

Mao nga karon gamiton nako ang kahigayonan nga mosuroy, makigkita sa mga lideres, ang atong  mga tawo sa kabaranggayan.  Ako moduol nila para makit-an nako ang mga impact sa mga projects.

Akong i-report ni Acting Gov. Rene Relampagos kon naay panginahanglan nga atong i-amendar ug atong i-modify sa mga proyekto. Atong ipahibaw nila aron nga maaksyonan ni Acting Gov. Rene Relampagos. 

Daghang salamat

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By Ven C. Arigo
Yap openly accepts, graciously submits
to 3-month preventive suspencion

Bohol Gov. Art Yap has openly accepted and graciously submitted himself to mandatory suspension for three months.

This is without prejudice to the legal rights and remedies he is entitled to.

Provincial Administrator Kathyrin Fe Pioquinto received on his behalf the Sandiganbayan order as served through the DILG yesterday afternoon.

Preventive suspension does not mean someone is guilty of an allegation---much less a punishment because it is also not.

It is rather mandated by law to avoid a government official and a public figure to use his office to influence over the process of the hearing or trial of the case as alleged.

Dunggon ug husayon pa ang kaso.

Daghan na sa Bohol ang mga opisyal ug politiko who were preventively suspended, but the complaints against them just got dismissed in the ultimate.

The suspension order will expire and Yap will be back to official function in February next year.

Meantime, magpadayon siya'g monitor sa mga programa, proyekto ug kalihyukan sa probinsiya isip pinili nga gobernador---ug morespeto sa mga imbitasyon isip guest samtang mas hugot nga makiglambigit sa katawhan.

UNSA MAN GUD NING KASOHA?

Ang kaso kalabot sa PDAF ni Mindanao Cong. Marina Clarete kaniadto sa kalihim pa's Yap sa agrikultura.

Dunay programa si Clarete kalabot sa agrikultura nga gusto niyang pondohan aron mapatuman pinaagi sa agri-business bureau sa Department of Agriculture or DA.

As DA secretary then, Yap was required by law to transfer the fund to the proper agency as requested to implement the program funded or supported by the congresswoman.

Nahitabo nga gipangkwestyon ang paggamit sa PDAF kay dunay poy mga sakop sa Kongreso, apil gani ang mga Senador, nga nga giingong niabuso niini.

Kini napunta sa Ombudsman, ug ang complaint kalabot sa kang Clarete giduso gyod ngadto sa Sandiganbayan.

Ang abogado sa goberno sa Pilipinas mao ang Solicitor General.

Apan ang Solicitor General nipabor kang Yap sa dihang gikwestyon ni Yap ang gibuhat sa Ombudsman.

Kay dunay duha ka susamang kaso involving two other congressmen---kanhi Bukidnon Rep. Candido Pancrud ug kanhi La Union Rep. Thomas Dumpit---nga gipaagi gihapon sa DA apan kini pulos na-dismiss.

So, nganong ang kaso involving Clarete's fund wa man pod ibasura?

ABOGADO SA NASUD MIDAPIG KANG YAP

Sa iyang manifestation sa Korte Suprema, ang solicitor general, nga maoy abogado sa kagamhanan sa Pilipinas, nagpadayag na nuon sa iyang pagpabor sa katarungan sa kanhi kalihim sa DA.

Nidapig ang Solicitor General ngadto kang Yap sa kaso sa implementasyon sa PDAF kay wa siyay kalambigitan niini.

Sa Korte Suprema, nagkanayon ang Solicitor General nga grabe ang abuso sa diskresyon sa Ombudsman.

Kini ilabina sa pag-ingon sa Ombudsman nga adunay panagkunsabo ug posibleng kaso batok kang Yap isip kalihim sa agrikultura kaniadto.

Niawhag ang Solicitor General sa Korte Suprema sa pagbaliwa sa resolusyon sa Ombudsman nga giduso ngadto sa Sandiganbayan.

Gisaway niini ang aksyon sa Ombudsman nga nakalapas pag-ayo sa balaod sa ebidensiya.

Kay gikas-a ma'g han-ok sa Ombudsman sa tanang implementing agencies ug kang Yap ang pagdeterminar sa accountability / liability o pagpanubag.

Matud sa Solicitor General, way usang ebidensiya nga nagpakita og partisipasyon ni Yap sa pagpatuman sa kontrata sa PDAF.

BUGTONG PARTISIPASYON

Ang bugtong partisipasyon ni Yap isip kalihim sa DA kaniadto mao ang pagtuman sa gisitar sa balaod.

Ang balaod nag-require kaniya isip DA secretary sa pag-transfer ngadto sa tukmang ahensiya sa pondo sa kongresista nga gisuporta sa programa's agrikultura.

Dili si Yap ang nag-implimintar.

Iyang gisang-at ang petisyon sa certiorari sa Korte Suprema sa hinungdan nga grabe ang pag-abuso sa diskresyon nga nahimo sa Ombudsman.

Ang iyang pagbalhin sa alokasyon sa PDAF sa magbabalaod  ngadto sa buhatan nga maoy nagpatuman sa proyekto dili makonsiderar nga pangawkaw.

Malaumon si Yap nga ibasura ra ang sumbong sa sandiganbayan.

KANIADTO PANG GIHUWAT

Kaniadto pang gidahom ug gipaabot daan ni Yap ang pag-isyo og preventive suspension sa Sandiganbayan nunot sa Seksyon 13 sa Akta Republika 3019.

Gani iya na kining gisulti sa media kaniadto kay nasayud siya nga kini kabahin sa proseso kon ang complaint iduso ngadto sa Sandiganbayan gikan sa Ombudsman.

Ang balaod nagmando sa korte sa pagsuspendir ni bisan kinsang opisyal sa goberno nga gisang-atan og balidong inpormasyon ngadto sa Sandiganbayan.

Matud niya, kaay maoy gilatid sa balaod, iyang gitamud ang mando sa Sandiganbayan---nga gipatuman sugod kagahapon pinaagi sa DILG.

ATONG USBON: WA KINI MAGPASABOT
NGA SAD-AN UG GISILOTAN

Preventive suspension does not mean someone is guilty of an allegation---much less a punishment because it is, in fact, also not. It is rather mandated by law to avoid a government official and a public figure to use his office to influence over the process of the hearing or trial of the case as alleged.

Daghan na sa Bohol ang mga opisyal ug politiko who were preventively suspended, but the complaints against them just got dismissed in the ultimate.

Still, they had to serve the preventive suspension because the law says so.

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By Brigada News Davao
CONSTRUCTION WORKER, NAPILDI SA SUMBAGAY, NANUNGGAB

Paslak presohan ang usa ka construction worker human kini manunggab ning nilabayng adlaw sa Sitio Balon, Brgy Tigattos, Buhangin District Davao City.
Naila sa Buhangin Police Station ang suspek sa panglan niini nga Reynaldo Cardama Saludar, 20-anyos nga lalaki, ug residente sa nasangpit nga lugar.
Subay sa report sa kapolisan nga nag-inom matud pa ang suspek ug ang biktima nga si Hermes Almedora Jr., usa pud ka construction worker, sadihang naglalis kini ug didto na nagsugod ang pagsumbagay sa duha. Wala matud pa makabalos ang suspek sa ilang pagsumpaki ug niuli kini sa ilang panimalay ug nagkuha ug kutsilyo. Nagpabilin matud pa ang biktima sa nasangpit nga lugar ug gibalikan kini sa suspek nga naa nay dalang kutsilyo ug didto na nahitabo ang pagpanunggab.
Daling naka responde ang mga otoridad ug gidala matud pa ang biktima sa balay tambalanan nga nakakuha ug samad dinunggaban sa iyahang tiil ug kamot.
Nakaikyas matud pa ang suspek apan pila lang ka oras ang milabay dali matud pa kining nadakpan sa gipahigayon nga manhunt operation.
Sa pagkakaron anaa na sa kustodiya sa Davao City Police Office ang suspek ug andam na pasakaan sa tukmang kaso samtang ang biktima anaa pa gihapon sa balay tambalanan.

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The Story of Psalm 23

We do not know when David wrote Psalm 23. Perhaps it was when his son Absalom tried to become king. David ran away. He went down to the River Jordan. He crossed it by the ford that we call Jabbok. He went on into a land that we call Gilead. There he met Barzillai. Barzillai was a shepherd. He kept sheep. Sheep are animals about 1 metre high. They give wool for making clothes, milk and meat for food. Barzillai gave David food and shelter. Shelter means a place to hide from the weather. All this made David think. God was like a shepherd. God was like a guide. God was a good friend. David put these ideas into Psalm 23. Many people know this psalm better than they know than any other psalm. It has given help to millions of people. This is because Jesus said that he was the shepherd in the psalm. If we believe in Jesus, we become one of his sheep. We can say, "The LORD is MY shepherd."

What Psalm 23 means

Verses 1–2: God is like a shepherd. In Israel, sheep followed their shepherd. The man that wrote Psalm 23 said:

he makes me to lie down in green fields: these were fields where the grass was new. Grass is a plant that grows in fields. Cows and sheep eat grass. Green fields means that the sheep would find plenty to eat. And they would sleep easily.
he leads me to waters where I can rest: this was the best water. It was probably a well, not a river.
The shepherd leads the sheep to all that they need: food, rest and water. Jesus leads his people to all that they need. Remember - what we NEED is not always what we WANT.

Verses 3–4: God is like a guide. We do not know who led David to Barzillai. There was a guide. Just as the old shepherd Barzillai made David think about God, so the guide made David think about God. Some Christians think verses 3 and 4 are also about the shepherd and his sheep. Others think that it is about a guide. That guide led David through the wild places to where Barzillai lived. The two ideas are true. GOD IS LIKE A GUIDE. GOD IS ALSO LIKE A SHEPHERD. The valley of the River Jabbok was very dark. But with God as guide and shepherd, David was safe. God brought David through the shadow of death. He will do the same for us - if we believe in Jesus. We must all die. It is a great help to know that:

Jesus died and God raised him from the dead
if we believe in Jesus God will raise us from the dead
Verses 5–6: God is like a friend. Psalm 23:1-4 is about life on earth. Psalm 23:5-6 is about life in heaven. Heaven is the home of God. People that believe in Jesus go there. They go there after they die. In the psalm, Barzillai made a great dinner for David. He poured oil, from plants, on David's head. This was usual in those days. He gave David wine to drink. You can make wine from a fruit that we call the grape. It made David feel very happy. But it also made David think this: I WILL ALWAYS LIVE WITH GOD. It is the same for us. If we believe in Jesus we can say, "I will always live in the house of the LORD." The house of the LORD is in heaven.

Something to do

The Bible is in 2 parts. The Old Testament is the first part. It tells us about the time before Jesus came to the earth. The New Testament tells us what happened after he came to the earth. Below are some words from the Bible. Which bit of Psalm 23 do they make you think about?

1. Genesis 48:15 "God has been my shepherd all my life." Jacob said those words just before he died.

2. Samuel 17:20 "They brought honey and butter and meat and cheese for David, and for the people that were with him, to eat. They said, 'They are hungry'." People said those words when David came to Barzillai.

3. Psalm 80:1 Listen, Shepherd of Israel. You led Joseph like a group of sheep. (Joseph is another name for Israel.)

4. Micah 7:14 Feed your sheep with your rod.

5. Luke 15:4-6 Jesus said, "You may have 100 sheep and you lose one. What will you do? You will leave 99 sheep where they are. You will go from the wild country where they are. You will look for the lost one. When you find it, you will be very happy. You will carry it on your shoulders. You will be very happy. You will take it home."

6. John 10:11 Jesus said, "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd will die for the sheep."

7. John 10:27 Jesus said, "My sheep follow me".

8. Jeremiah 2:6 Where is the LORD? He brought us from Egypt. He led us through the wild country. He led us through the shadow of death.

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Posted by DOE
TASK FORCE ON ENERGY RESILIENCY UPDATE NO. 1: TS RAMON AND TD SARAH

With Tropical Storm Ramon expected to weaken into a Low Pressure Area in the next 24 hours, the entire energy family remains on full alert, as Tropical Depression Sarah has been forecasted to turn into a tropical storm within the next several hours.

In this regard, the Department of Energy (DOE) is closely coordinating with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Operations Center, as well as all the members of the energy family for weather updates, and information on the status of energy facilities and systems, or any other emerging problem that may affect energy supply in concerned areas.

A. POWER GENERATION

As of 10:00 AM today, the National Power Corporation has reported the following status of operations:

• Basco – normal operations
• Sabtang – operational; damage on two current transformers at switchyard
• Itbayat – operations from 5PM-12MN due to limited fuel
• Kabugao – normal operations
• Calayan and Camiguin Mini Grids – cannot be reached so of this writing
• Maconacon and Palawan – normal operations
• Casiguran – operational with line fault

B. TRANSMISSION

The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) already implemented the necessary preparations and precautions to minimize the impact on transmission operations and facilities, and is continuing to ensure the reliability of communications equipment, the availability of necessary hardware materials and supplies for the repair of damages to facilities, as well as the positioning of line crews in strategic areas to facilitate immediate restoration work.

As of 1:00PM today, the NGCP has reported the following transmission lines to be unavailable:

• Alcala-Magapit 69kV Line
Customer affected: CAGELCO II
Date and Time out: 20 November, 4:05AM

• Magapit-Camalaniugan 69kV Line
Customer affected: CAGELCO II
Date and Time Out: 20 November, 3:31AM

• Magapit-Sta. Ana 69kV Line
Customer affected: CAGELCO II
Date and Time Out: 20 November, 3:52AM

The NGCP has already undertaken inspection and line restoration activities in the affected areas, and will be in full swing as soon as the weather allows.

It is further noted that loss of power may be caused by affected transmission facilities of the NGCP or distribution facilities of electric cooperatives.

C. DISTRIBUTION

The National Electrification Administration (NEA) has advised all concerned electric cooperatives to take all appropriate contingency measures to mitigate the impact of potential threats to their respectively electric services to consumers; activate the Emergency Restoration Organization, when needed to immediately implement emergency restoration plans; and continuously monitor weather conditions.

As of 3:00PM yesterday (19 November), the NEA has reported the following status of operations:

•INEC (Ilocos) – normal operations
•ISECO (Ilocos Sur) – normal operations
•LUELCO (La Union) – normal operations
•PANELCO I and III (Pangasinan) – normal operations
•CENPELCO (Central Pangasinan) - normal operations
•BATANELCO (Batanes) – normal operations
•CAGELCO I (Cagayan) – experienced power interruption; on going restoration
Cause of interruption: NGCP trip off clustered tree on Piat 69kV line, auto trip F11 and F51
Power Time Out: 2:43PM
•CAGELCO II (Cagayan) – experienced power interruption; on going restoration
Cause of interruption: NGCP Tuguegarao-Magapit 69kV lines tripped
Power Time Out: 4:08PM
•ISELCO (Isabela) – normal operations
•ISELCO II (Isabela) – normal operations
•ABRECO (Abra) – normal operations
•BENECO (Benguet) – normal operations
•IFELCO (Ifugao) – normal operations
•KAELCO (Kalinga Apayao) – normal operations
•MOPRECO (Mountain Province) – normal operations
Experienced Power Interruption
Power Time Out: 10:00AM
Power Restored: 1:00PM
•AURELCO (Aurora) – normal operations

The energy family continues to assure the public that it will be informed of further developments on the matter.

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MANILA -- The House of Representatives approved on Tuesday on second reading the proposed Relief Goods Free Transportation Act that seeks to facilitate the quick delivery of relief goods and donations to calamity-stricken areas.

HB 5070 aims to bring immediate relief to victims of natural or man-made disasters when government resources are not available or are insufficient to address the needs of the emergency.

It mandates the Logistics Cluster of the Office of Civil Defense, in coordination with the Philippine Postal Corporation (PPC) and all freight companies, common carriers, private carriers, freight forwarders, other companies providing logistic services in the Philippines to provide free freight services to duly registered relief organizations in the transportation of emergency relief goods and donated articles to areas declared to be in a state of calamity.

These common carriers, freight forwarders and other entities are mandated to deliver goods and services free of charge to areas where they operate.

If the calamity-hit area is not accessible, the relief goods shall be delivered to the nearest local government unit and shall be consigned to the concerned local chief executive.

HB 5070 also mandates that certain shipping auxiliary cost, such as those for arrastre services, pilotage and other port charges that are routinely passed on to customers shall be borne by the concerned arrastre, pilotage and port authorities, provided, that container van costs, turnaround time and volume of cargo being shipped for free shall be considered to minimize the loss of profits of the private sector.

The measure also directs the Law and Order Cluster of the National Disaster Risk Reduction Council to provide security and traffic management assistance to facilitate the speedy movement of people, goods and equipment to the affected population and responding agencies. (PNA)

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MANILA – A group advocating children's rights and welfare has called for the protection of children, who are facing discrimination and social exclusion due to poverty and gender identity, in observance of the World Children's Day on Wednesday.

The Save the Children Philippines (SCP) reported that children with disabilities, as well as teenagers who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) and young teens diagnosed with HIV, continue to face discrimination in schools and communities.

"Rights are denied to children based on many intersecting factors, including economic situation, their gender, their ethnicity or disability," SCP chief executive officer Albert Muyot said in a statement.

To date, the group implements programs to push for rights of children with disabilities to have access to regular classes through partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd).

Its Global Fund HIV/AIDS project also helps provide vulnerable people to get HIV tests and treatment in 38 high prevalence sites in nine regions in the country, targeting teenagers aged 14 to 19 years old.

In his statement, Muyot also expressed support for the enactment of the Inclusive Education bill which would provide for the implementation of concrete programs and allocate budget to support education of children with disabilities especially those from deprived families and children living in remote provinces.

Citing government figures, SCP said there are an estimated 1.3 million children with disabilities in the Philippines and most of them do not have access to education due to poverty.

"We call on our partners in the government to use full extent of authority and resources to fulfill children's rights to be healthy, educated and protected from all forms of violence in all settings," Muyot said.

November 20 marks World Children's Day and the 30th year of ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Save the Children founder Eglantyne Jebb wrote the Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1923 and was adopted by the League of Nations, the forerunner of the United Nations.

The document became the basis of the UN Convention of the Rights of the Child. (PNA)

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MANILA -- The Senate on Wednesday approved on second reading the measure extending the availability of the funds for maintenance and other operating expenses (MOOE) and capital outlays (CO) under the 2019 budget until Dec. 31, 2020.

Senate Bill 1153, which amends Section 65 of the Republic Act 11260, or the General Appropriations Act of 2019, was approved in plenary following Senator Sonny Angara's sponsorship of the measure.

In his sponsorship speech, Angara said the approval of the measure is necessary as all appropriations that were not released, obligated or paid by the end of Dec. 31, 2019 shall lapse and revert to the national Treasury, as provided under RA 11260 and Executive Order No. 91 on the implementation of the cash budgeting system.

"In other words, without the approval of this measure, precious funds might not be spent and our people will experience even more delays in the projects and social services promised to them," he said.

The chair of the Senate Committee on Finance said extending the validity of these funds would enable government agencies to implement their projects and provide their services to the people.

"Through this measure, we would be extending a big helping hand to the Executive branch which has had to operate in the first few months of this year on a reenacted budget, and the rest (of the year) under pressure to spend up to PHP3.687 trillion of total available appropriations in a span of approximately seven to eight months amidst an election ban on government projects this year," he said.

"The Senate is not oblivious to the travails of the Executive branch and we must help them. We must act to see to it that the national budget we had approved for 2019 benefits our people in terms of better services and more efficient public spending. I hope we act on this measure the soonest," Angara said.

The House of Representatives earlier passed on final reading its own version of the measure.

House Bill 5437 was approved Monday with 192 affirmative votes, with no negative votes or abstention. (PNA)

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