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 Assistant Professor of the Mathematics and Natural Sciences Department, College of Arts Sciences, Holy Name University, Mr. Joeppette J. Hermosilla, has won 2nd place in the Best Paper Competition with his research paper entitled Assessment on the Possible Impact of Marine Seismic Survey on the Local Fisheries of Bohol along the Cebu Strait. There were 42 research paper presenters from the different colleges and universities from the Visayas and Mindanao like the University of Carlos, Cebu City, Silliman University, Dumaguete City, and Xavier University, Ateneo de Cagayan, Cagayan de Oro City to mention a few. Among the research papers presented were on climate change, impact of oil spill, biodiversity, and the population assessment of shells, corals and fishes and some aspects in the biology of these aquatic organisms. The said competition was held during the 40th annual convention of The Federation of Institutions for Marine and Freshwater Sciences (FIMFS) held at the University of Southern Mindanao, Kabacan, Cotabato last October 27-29, 2008.

The Federation of Institutions for Marine and Freshwater Sciences (FIMFS) was organized on November 9-10, 1968 at Xavier university (XU), Cagayan de Oro City when Fr. James A. McKeough, SJ then chairman of the Department of Biology of XU along with the other founding members like Dr.Angel C. Alcala of Siliman University (SU), Dumaguete City, Dr. Paulina Pages of the University of San Carlos (USC), Cebu City, Dean Domiciana K. Villaluz of the College of Fisheries, Mindanao State University (MSU), Marawi City, and DR. Rosalina I. Zamora of the Ateneo de Davao (AdD), Davao City. In 2004, the federation published the first issue of its refereed annual journal, the Journal of Aquatic Sciences.

From the five institutions that formed the group in 1968, FIMFS grew into a 20-member federation by its 40th or Ruby anniversary this year. The paper presentation done by Mr. Joeppette Hermosilla during the 40th annual convention of The Federation of Institutions for Marine and Freshwater Sciences (FIMFS) last October 27, 2008 qualified Holy Name University as the newest member of this federation of universities and colleges whose aim is to promote education and research in the marine sciences.

The study of Mr. Hermosilla was designed to provide a scientifically sound assessment on the possible impacts of the 3D marine seismic survey on the local fishery in the southwestern coast of Bohol fronting the Cebu Strait. It dealt with the monitoring of fish catch by the local fishermen in the municipal waters of Loon, Maribojoc, Cortes, Dauis, Panglao including Tagbilaran City before, during and after the conduct of the seismic survey last June-July of 2007. The study revealed that a decrease in the fish catch during the seismic survey also leads to a significant decrease in income of fishermen particularly in the open water fishery. The study further showed that the seismic survey activities significantly affect the offshore fishery as compared to the inshore fishery in the Cebu Strait particularly when it comes to income obtained from offshore fishing. Lastly, this information is crucial in the formulation and implementation of adaptive management program related to the conduct of seismic survey anywhere in the country on the possible impact of seismic survey in the marine environment. - Bohol Chronicle

By ADAM L. SALIGUMBA

A whopping P50,000 cash incentive is set to be awarded to the barangay adjudged to be Loon's cleanest, greenest and most beautiful as the local government unit of Loon headed by Mayor Lloyd Peter M. Lopez, MD, and Vice Mayor Edwin R, Ladeza began its Search for Loon's Cleanest, Greenest and Most Beautiful Barangays 2008 with the formation of a group that will personally visit and oversee the grading and evaluation of each of the 67 barangays in the municipality.

The second placer in the search will receive a cash incentive of P30,000, while the third placer will get a cash prize of P20,000.

Barangays that will not land in the magic three will get a consolation prize of P3,000 each.

The search is administered through the Clean and Green Project of the LGU which seeks to emphasize the Integrated Solid Waste Management (ISWM) Program of the municipal government, likewise, serving as a response to the Clean and Green Beautification Program of the provincial government initiated by Gov. Erico B. Aumentado.

According to Mayor Lopez, the main goal of the search is to create and develop clean, green and attractive barangays that will be a source of pride to the town.

The search aims also to develop awareness and inculcate in all Loonanons the habit of cleaning their surroundings daily and observe the correct methods in the disposal of their waste and garbage materials.

The cash prizes/incentives will serve as an encouragement to the barangay residents and inspire and motivate them to maintain cleanliness in their homes, plant fruit trees, ornamental plants, vegetables and root crops in frontyard and backyard gardens and contribute to the overall attractiveness of the community.

The evaluators, who are members of the Municipal Integrated Solid Waste Management-Technical Working Group (MISWM-TWG) headed by SB Kag. Ignacio M. Castil, Jr., and Sylvio L. Caresosa, chairman and vice chairman respectively, are divided into four teams tasked to visit the 67 barangays in the municipality which are grouped into eight districts.

The team leaders, composed of Kag. Castil, Kag. Josephat Palma, Kag. Narciso Neri and Loon LnB President Cesar Pedrigal, will only give moral support to the group and will not participate in the actual grading and evaluation.

Team members include Loon MPDC Atty. Rogelio P. Ganados, Loon SKMF president Ivaraxel Ericson, municipal health officer Dr. Tito L. Miranda, municipal engineer Noel S. Castrojo, provincial sanitary inspector Rolando A. Obenza, rural sanitary inspectors Carlos Requillo and Ma. Magdalena Collano, MFARMC chairman Fermin S. Cantones, Pegammalo president Ricardo Lagroma, Loon North Federation of PTCA Presidents president Wilfredo Leornas, MENRO community organizer Jonathan Longjas, Ramel Palomares, Gloria O. Autentico, Pegammalo member Gerardo C. Sablas, and MPIO-designate Adam L. Saligumba.

The categories in the evaluation are the following: Disposal of Waste and Garbage (Ecological Solid Waste Management) - 30 pts.; Disposal of Excess, Saved and Waste Water (Proper Drainage) - 30 pts; Clean-Up of the Barangay - 60 pts; Clean-Up and Beautification of Public Places (Plazas, Health Stations/Centers, Day Care Centers, Basketball Courts) - 50 pts.; Planting of Useful Plants (Fruit Trees, Ornamental, Root Crops, Vegetables, etc.) - 20 pts.; Beautification of the Barangay - 60 pts.; General Clean-Up Activities (Barangay Tabo) -20 pts; and Barangay Information, Education and Communication (IEC) Campaign Activities - 35 pts. The aggregate total is 305 points.

The evaluation started on the third week of October beginning in District 1 and is set to end in December when the announcement of winners and awarding of cash incentives are tentatively scheduled.

MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR No.04
Series of 1998

    Subject: Creation of Foreign-Assisted Projects Office (FAPsO)

    Prefatory Statement
    Memorandum Circulars No.2 and Memorandum Circular No.21, prescribing the guidelines governing the implementation and management of Foreign-Assisted Projects (FAPs), took effect on January 10,1997 and May 21, 1997, respectively. These were issued the streamline the management system and structure of Foreign-Assisted Projects (FAPs) under the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR). With the increasing number of FAPs, the DAR recognizes support system for the implementation and management of FAPs and integrate all FAPs into the mainstream of the DAR structure at all levels. (see FAPsO background and Rationale)

    Background
    Over the last five years, DAR has generated considerable Official Development Assistance (ODA) funds from various foreign funding institutions and donor governments to facilitate effective implementation of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP). As of end of year 1997, about P10 Billion worth of ODA funds, for eleven (11) FAPs, have been generated to partly finance the required support infrastructure and services for agrarian reform communities (ARCs) an complement the limited Agrarian Reform Fund (ARF). To date, DAR is implementing three (3) major loans financed by the World Bank (WB) and the Overseas Economic Cooperation Fund (OECF). In addition, there are eight ( grant-assisted projects funded by various institutions, such as European Unin (EU), the Untied Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the Food and Agriculture Organizations (FA)/Italy, and also funded from bilateral assistance by the Governments of Belgium, Canada, Japan, the Netherlands, and Sweden. These FAPs are under management structure, which is governed by loan contracts, bilateral agreements or financing memorandums between the donor institutions/governments and the Government of the Philippines (GOP). Project Management Offices (PMOs), which have been established by DAR for each of the FAPs, are directly responsible for the implementation, coordination and monitoring of project activities.

    Rationale
    Building on established policy framework for ODA funding, drawing lessons from Department’s experience in the management and implementation of on-going FAPs, and anticipating the approval and implementation of new FAPs in 1998, DAR foresees the need to establish a “one-stop-shop” for all FAPs. The existing DAR set-up for FAPs put in place the appropriate and quite adequate mechanisms to respond to the present requirements of on-going FAPs. However, this set-up is seen to be inadequate and inappropriate as requirements of FAPs are expected to increase and become complex with their implementation now climbing to a momentum. In addition, ODA to support CARP is expected to increase over the next to years. Multilateral agreements with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFADO), and the OECF (Phase II), and bilateral assistance from the Spanish Government, among others, are hoped to forged before the end of the first semester of 1998 and will significantly intensify DAR’s intervention efforts in providing the necessary support infrastructure and services to about 1,000 ARCs nationwide. With these milestones and anticipated increase in FAPs implementation requirements, DAR management support systems for FAPs need to be strengthen and restructured. The creation of the Foreign-Assisted Projects Office is thus deemed necessary.

    The Foreign-Assisted Projects Office
    As a matter of policy, DAR has declared that all FAPs under its authority should form an integral part of its national overall program and functional structure, consistent with its goals, objectives and policies. The creation of the FAPs Office is thus a direct response to the need to synchronize project activities of FAPs with regular activities of the DAR, and enhance coordination and efficient management in the planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of all FAPs under DAR. Basically, the Foreign-Assisted Projects Office shall serve as the “one-stop-shop” which shall oversee the implementation of all FAPs and shall provide technical assistance and administrative support to the Project Management Offices (PMOs) of all FAPs in order to expedite the delivery of essential support services to all the ARCs. It shall also serve as the “contact unit” or “clearing house” within DAR, which would expedite coordination of activities and collaboration of efforts among the donor agencies/governments. PMOs, involved national line agencies, and the DAR management.

    Responsibilities and Functions

    The Foreign-Assisted Projects Office shall assume the roles and functions of the Project Development and Management Service (PDMS) particularly relating to FAPs management and implementation as prescribed under Memorandum Circulars No.2 and Memorandum Circular No.21. Specifically, the Foreign-Assisted Projects Office shall be responsible in providing the following:

       1. Project Implementation Assistance
             1. Pre-Implementation Assistance (for newly approved FAPs)
                    *
                      Established of the PMO, to include provision of office/physical facilities and recruitment and orientation of key project staff, preparation of terms of reference and scope of services of project consultants/specialists;
                    *
                      Preparation of the initial work plan and budget based on loan agreements or financing memorandums;
                    *
                      Formulation and installation of appropriate management systems and procedures, to include preparation of operations and administrative manuals and implementation procedures; and
                    *
                      Coordination with DARCO units and other national government agencies such as the NEDA, DBM, DFA, DOF, COA, and other concerned agencies, and donor institutions on pre-implementation activities.
             2.
                Implementation Activities (for on-going FAPs):
                Provide technical assistance and administrative support to the PMOs in the:
                    * Preparation and review/approval of annual work plans and budgets;
                    * Implementation of the operations, administrative and financial management systems and procedures;
                    * Extension of staff support to technical review and evaluation missions from donor institutions and DARCO;
                    * Review of physical and financial progress reports;
                    * Conduct of tender and bidding procedures and procurements activities; and
                    * Coordination with DARCO, donor institutions and other national government agencies on the effective and efficient implementation of the project.
             3. Post-Project Operations
                    * Devising of appropriate mechanisms for project turn-over and sustainability;
                    * Assessment of project accomplishment vis-à-vis project objectives/targets;
                    * Closing of financial accounts and preparation of project completion reports;
                    * Preparation of Phase II proposal for the project and the necessary completion reports;
                    * Coordination with concerned Agencies and donor institutions for Phase II approval and implementation.
             4. Project Coordination and Monitoring
                   1. Implementation of a standardized performance assessment and monitoring systems for all FAPs;
                   2. Proper Coordination and integration with offices and units within the DARCO and with the regional and provincial offices on project-related activities including staffing requirements and complementation and/or optimal use of resources;
                   3. Making representations with DBM on budget proposals and fund releases particularly with regards to GOP counterpart funds, with COA on financial audit requirements and fund disbursements, and with donor institutions on project operations and fund utilization;
                   4. Coordination with other government agencies and private entities where the project involves inter-agency and/or tripartite participation;
                   5. Preparation/review/consolidation of progress reports for submission to DAR management, donor institutions, and oversight agencies such as the NEDA, DBM and DOF;
                   6. Information dissemination and promotion of FAPs activities through media;
                   7. Establishment of a database of local and expatriate consultants, NGOs and Pos and other development partners as potential sources of consultants/resource persons;
                   8. Convening of regular Project Managers’ meetings with DAR management and serving as the technical secretariat thereto, including coordination and follow-up courses of action agreed upon during these meetings.
             5. Project Financial Management
                   1. Financial monitoring of all FAPs particularly project funds coursed through DAR;
                   2. Maintenance of FAPs accounts and preparation of consolidated financial reports for submission to DARCO, donor institutions, and oversight agencies;
                   3. Supervision of all FAPs Finance Units, established at the regional and provincial DAR offices;
                   4. Coordination follow-up with DARCO units, donor institutions and oversight agencies particularly the DBM with regard to project budgets, and fund releases;
                   5. Preparation of Statement of Expenditures (SOE) for the use of funds from continuing appropriations;
                   6. Review of audit reports prior to submission to DARCO, donor institutions, and concerned agencies; and
                   7. Review of financial operation manual of each of the Foreign-Assisted Projects (FAPs).

    Management Structure

        There shall be an Executive Director to oversee and manage the operations of the Project Development and Management Service (PDMS) and the Foreign-Assisted Projects Office (FAPsO). Under the supervision of the Assistant Secretary for Support Services, the Executive Director shall be responsible for the overall management supervision of project pre-implementation and implementation of all FAPs and shall represent the DAR Secretary in project Steering Committee (PSC) meetings. In addition, he shall provide policy directions and/or recommendations to the different PSCs and shall see to the smooth flow ODA funds to expedite delivery of support services to the ARCs covered by FAPs.
        The Executive Director shall be supported by a team of specialist/consultants, technical, financial and administrative staff to be tapped from the pool of experts and staff of on-going FAPs on need basis. Support staff shall be seconded from DAR based on required qualifications and relevant work experience.
        The Foreign-Assisted Projects Office shall have two main services to carry out functions and responsibilities;

            * Project Implementation and Management Services, to provide assistance on project pre-implementation, implementation, post-implementation activities, and project coordination and monitoring.
            * Administrative and Finance Services, responsible for overall financial management, programming and disbursement of loan/grant proceeds and provision of administrative services.

        Project Management Office (PMOs) established by DAR for each of the FAPs shall be under the supervision of the Foreign-Assisted Projects Office. The PMOs shall be responsible for the management and implementation of day-to-day operations of the FAPs. They shall secure clearances/endorsements from the Foreign-Assisted Projects Office on all matters pertaining to GOP counterpart funding, loan proceeds, recruitment of key of key personnel, staffing and compensation package, and other relevant administrative and financial matters. They shall be submitting regular reports on their respective program of activities, and physical and financial status/accomplishments to the DAR Secretary through the Foreign-Assisted Projects Office. The FAPs Project Managers/Directors, who are appointed /endorsed for appointment by the DAR Secretary, shall course/refer all major policy and operational matters directly to the Foreign-Assisted Projects Office before referring them to the donor institutions/agencies or national line agencies.
        The management and operational structure of all FAPs shall be mainstreamed into existing DAR regional and provincial structures. As prescribed under MC 21, the DAR Regional Directors shall serve as the Regional Project Manager (RPM) of all FAPs in his region. He shall oversee the activities of the FAPs Unit, which shall be established within the Support Services Division (SSD). Composed of Desk Officer headed by the Chief of SSD, the SSD-FAPs Unit shall serve as the technical arm of the RPM in coordinating and monitoring all FAPs in the region. A Regional FAPs Unit under SSD on matters related to financial management and monitoring and administrative requirements.
        At the provincial level, the Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer (PARO) shall be designated as the Provincial Project Manager (PPM) for all FAPs in the province. A FAPs Unit shall likewise be established within the Beneficiaries Development and Coordination Division (BDCD) manned by Desk Officers directly supervised by the BDCD Chief. Similarly, the BDCB FAPs Unit shall serve as the technical arm of the PPM in coordinating and monitoring all FAPs being executed/implemented by the DAR in the province.
        At the municipal and ARC levels, FAPs implementation shall be carried out through the Municipal Agrarian Reform Officer (MAROs) and the Development Facilitators (DFs), respectively, with the assistance of the FAR/FAO-TSSARRD Farm Systems Development (FSD) Teams which shall form the core of the coordination and implementation structure of projects activities in the ARCs.
        DARCO units, particularly the PDMS, BARBD and FIMAS, and other concerned offices, shall provide technical assistance and support to the Foreign-Assisted Projects Office (FAPs).

How is Cebu today?

Where can we buy delicious "puto maya" in Tagbilaran?

Philippines Map: Best Philippine Map
here are some nice maps of the philippines. please post a philippine map you like.


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philippine map with asian neighbors


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philippine map - regional location

By Engineer Jes Tirol
Bohol Chronicle

THE TALE OF TWO CEMETERIES IN TAGBILARAN CITY: TALOTO AND MASONIC CEMETERY
Proem

November 2 is All Saints' Day. On this day many Filipinos visit the cemetery to pay respect to their departed loved ones.

When Tagbilaran became a town in 1742, the cemetery was located around the Catholic Church. At the start of the 20th century it was transferred to the present site of Lourdes Church or K of C. During the 1930s it was transferred to Maria Clara St. Since the place was always flooded, another cemetery was constructed at Camboktot, Dampas District. During the 1950s the cemetery at Maria Clara St. was abandoned.

In 1912 the Protestants had already their cemetery at Dampas District, the same site as it is today. The Municipal cemetery was at the present site of Bo-oy South Elem.

School until 1953 when it was transferred at Tiptip District. The Victoria Memorial Park was started in 1975.

The Taloto Catholic Cemetery and the Masonic Cemetery were established for special reasons.

Taloto Catholic Cemetery

According to Fr. Escolastico Enciso in his Cosas Notables de Tagbilaran (Notable Events of Tagbilaran) written on 6 August 1890, the barrio of Talotò, Tagbilaran had more population than the Poblacion or town center.

Many rich people lived in Taloto because sea trading was easier to conduct and potable water was more available than the town center. Since the residents had difficulty going to the poblacion for church services, they petitioned the Bishop of Cebu to allow them to have their own chapel. The people were permitted to construct their chapel.

On 4 August 1889, the Parish Priest of Tagbilaran, Fr. Enciso, blessed the chapel advocated to the Holy Cross (Santa Cruz). For twelve (12) consecutive nights, until vesper, a chant was held. The following day the solemn Mass with sermon was held.

There followed a procession by devout inhabitants of Taloto, which they do annually to the Holy Cross.

After the establishment of the chapel in 1889, the people of Talotò requested and were granted permission to construct their own cemetery. The same reason was invoked - that it was inconvenient for the people to go to the poblacion four (4) kilometers away.

Until the present, Talotò requested and were granted permission to construct its own cemetery. The same reason was invoked - that it was inconvenient for the people to go to the poblacion four (4) kilometers away. Until the present, Talotò is the only chapel in Tagbilaran City that has its own cemetery.

Masonic Cemetery

On January 1931, the American Superintendent of Schools in Bohol, Arnold Bartlett, died. He was a Roman Catholic but he was refused burial in the Catholic Cemetery because he was a Freemason.

On January 11, 1931 his brother Masons performed a funeral service for Mr. Bartlett. He was temporarily buried at the Protestant Cemetery before his body could be brought back to the United States.

That event prompted the brethren of Dagohoy Lodge No. 84 to establish their own Masonic Cemetery. The non-Protestant brothers were afraid that they would have nowhere to be buried when their time comes.

During the April 31 Stated Meeting of the Lodge it was decided to appoint a committee to select a suitable site for a cemetery. The committee members were Bros. Anacleto M. Sevilla and Felix N. Maceda with Bro. Emilio Buenaventura Jr. as Technical Adviser.

During the November 14, 1931 Stated Meeting, the committee reported that a lot was purchased for use as a Masonic Cemetery. It was a 2,750 sq.m. lot, located one and one-fourth kilometers from the Provincial Capitol Building along the now J.A. Clarin St. (formerly Washington St.). The purchase price was eighty pesos (P80). It was further reported that efforts where made to purchase the adjoining lots.

During the June 11, 1932 Stated Meeting of the Lodge the committee again reported that the Lodge had successfully purchased the two adjoining lots in barrio Dampas, Tagbilaran for the Masonic Cemetery.

Even though it was already used in 1932, the Masonic Cemetery was not yet properly fenced and delineated. It was during the incumbency of Brother Catalino Castillo as Worshipful Master (He was twice a Vice Mayor of Tagbilaran and many times a Councilor - JBT) when the cemetery was properly laid out. On November 6, 1937 a Special Meeting was held for the dedication of the Masonic Cemetery. It was also made to coincide with the official visitation of the Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Philippines Joseph H. Alley, who took the honor of dedicating the Masonic Cemetery.

Until the present, the existing Masonic Cemetery of the Dagohoy Lodge No. 84 is among the very few Masonic Cemeteries in the Philippines. Buried at this cemetery are deceased members of the fraternity, their wives, children and relatives.

Have you attended a wedding and a funeral in one day?

Have been a victim of pyramiding scam in Bohol?

SUSO NG AUDIENCE DINUNGGOL NI WILLIE REVILLAME
Willie Revillame Caught on Camera

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I think Rica Paralejo is now a born again Christian. She got married to a son of a pastor.

How will you know a food is lutong pinoy?

What was your first impression of Manila?

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What is a Filipina to you?

Filipina Mail Order Bride: Fact or Fiction?

Hot Filipina: when can you say that a filipina is hot?

Dating Filipina: why is it an unforgettable experience?

Common traits of Filipina hearts?

Please post pictures of your favorite Filipina celebrities. Thanks.

Filipina Actress: Who's Your Favorite Filipina Actress

Filipina kisses - what's the difference?

Filipina Heart: What's the Heart of a Filipina?

Please share your thoughts

Filipina Wife: Beauty of Marrying a Filipina Wife

Please share your thoughts.

Benigno "Noynoy" S. Aquino III
15th President of the Republic of the Philippines
Birthdate: February 8, 1960
Term: 2010 - Present
Description: His father is Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. (Vice Governor of Tarlac province) and Mother is Former President Corazon Aquino. His siblings are 5 (Noynoy is the third child and He has four sisters, Maria Elena ("Ballsy"), Aurora Corazon ("Pinky"), Victoria Eliza ("Viel"), and Kristina Bernadette ("Kris"))
more about president Benigno Aquino III
Fifth Philippine Republic Presidents (Under the new "People's Power" Constitution)

GLORIA MACAPAGAL ARROYO
Fourth President of the Fifth Republic of the Philippines and 14th Philippine President
Birthdate: April 5, 1947
Term: 2001 - June 2010
Description: The daughter of the late President Diosdado Macapagal. The second woman to be swept into the Presidency by a peaceful People Power revolution (EDSA II).
more about president gloria macapagal arroyo

JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA
Third President of the Fifth Republic of the Philippines
Birthdate: April 19,1937
Term: 1998 - 2001
Filipino film actor and director, later politician. He resigned after the impeachment trial against him collapsed.

FIDEL VALDEZ RAMOS
Second President of the Fifth Republic of the Philippines
Birthdate: March 18, 1928
Term: June 30, 1992 - June 30, 1998
As head of the State his administration centerpiece program is the Philippines 2000; which aim to uplift the Philippines as a newly industrialized country by the year 2000.

CORAZON COJUANGCO AQUINO
First President of the Fifth Republic of the Philippines and the first woman president of the Philippines.
Birthdate: January 25, 1933
Term: February 25, 1986- June 30, 1992
Political leader and the First Woman President of the Philippines. She succeeded her murdered husband, Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr.(a popular critic of the Marcos administration), as leader of the opposition to President Ferdinand Marcos.

Fourth Philippine Republic Presidents (Martial Law, "The New Republic" & Parliamentary Government)

FERDINAND EDRALIN MARCOS
Sixth and last President of the Third Republic of the Philippines
Birthdate: September 11, 1917, Died- September 28, 1989
Term: December 30, 1965- December 30, 1973
President of the Fourth Republic of the Philippines
Term: June 30, 1981 - February 25,1986
Philippine lawyer and politician who ruled by martial law and was ousted by a peaceful People Power Revolution in 1986.

Third Philippine Republic Presidents
DIOSDADO MACAPAGAL
Fifth President of the Third Republic of the Philippines
Term: December 30, 1961 - December 30, 1965
Poet, politician, lawyer, diplomat, statesman, economist and intellectual, Diosdado Macapagal was born to poverty but rose due to diligence and brilliance.

CARLOS POLESTICO GARCIA
Fourth President of the Third Republic of the Philippines
Birthdate: November 4, 1896, died- June 14, 1971
Term: March 18, 1957- December 30, 1961
Famous for his austerity program and policy. He maintained the strong tradition ties with the United States and sought closer relation with non-communist Asian countries.

RAMON MAGSAYSAY
(Born- August 31, 1907, died- March 17, 1957)
Third President of the Third Republic of the Philippines
(Term: December 30, 1953- March 17, 1957)
Best known for successfully defeating the communist led Hukbalahap (Huk) Movement. Idol of the masses, champion of democracy, and freedom fighter.

ELPIDIO QUIRINO
Second President, Third Republic of the Philippines
Birthdate: November 16, 1890
Died: February 28, 1956
Term: April 17, 1948- November 10, 1953
Political leader and second president of the Independence Republic of the Philippines.

MANUEL ACUÃ'A ROXAS
Birthdate: January 1, 1892, died- April 15, 1948
Last President of the Commonwealth
Term: May 28, 1946- July 4, 1946
First President of the Third Republic of the Philippines
Term: July 4, 1946- April 15, 1948
Political leader and first president of the independence republic of the Philippines.

Second Philippine Republic Presidents (Japanese Occupation)

JOSE LAUREL
President of the Japanese Sponsored Republic
Birthdate: March 9, 1891, died- November 6, 1959
Term: October 14, 1943- August 15, 1945
Became the President of the Philippines during the Japanese occupation of World War II.

Commonwealth of the Philippines (American Period Presidents )

SERGIO OSMEÃ'A
Second President of the Commonwealth
Birthdate: September 9, 1878, died- October 19, 1961
Term: August 1, 1944- May 27, 1946
Filipino statesman, founder of the Nationalist Party (Partido Nacionalista) and President of the Philippines from 1944 to 1946.

MANUEL LUIS QUEZON
First President of the Commonwealth
Birthdate: August 19, 1878, died- August 1, 1944
Term: November 15, 1935- August 1, 1944
Filipino statesman, leader of the independence movement, and first president of the Philippine Commonwealth established under United States tutelage in 1935.

First Philippine Republic President (Revolutionary Government/The Philippines under Spanish colonization)

GENERAL EMILIO FAMY AGUINALDO
President of the First Philippine Republic
Birthdate: March 22, 1869, died- February 6, 1964
Term: 1898- 1901
Filipino leader who fought first against Spain and later against the United States for the Independence of the Philippines.

source: philippinecountry.com/philippine_presidents/

Looking Around the Corner by Robert H. Bloom

“Today, looking ahead is useless. Prior to this moment in our world, ‘looking ahead’ was the time-tested protocol, perhaps essential and potentially valuable when the world told time in seconds, not nanoseconds. Today, it is almost useless, because when you ‘look ahead,’ you will see and learn little or nothing.”

How to Be Effective: Structuring Change, Managing Change, Leading Change by Jonathan L. S. Byrnes

“When I talk to former students, clients, and executives, I’ve found that their biggest concern is being effectiveâ€"going beyond conceiving great new things and actually driving them into practice. [...] Successful change, being effective, involves three things: structuring change, managing change and leading change.

InsideOut Development: Do What You Already Know by Alan Fine

“If knowledge really were all it took to be a high performer, then all any of us would have to do would be to read that book or take that class and we’d all be winning championships. We’d all be incredible managers, great teachers, phenomenal parents and performance.

But we’re not. Why?”

Business Intelligence vs. Human Intuition & Why You Should Welcome The Robot Overlords by Garth Sundem

“In the weird, wild world outside the Petri dish, the correct decision is not always the right decision. There’s disconnect between the robot logic of business intelligence and human intuition of right and wrong.”

Personality Poker: How to Create High-Performing Innovation Teams by Stephen M. Shapiro

“‘Opposites attract,’ or at least that’s the line we’ve all been fed. However, in reality, nothing could be further from the truth. Aside from the physics of magnets, the fact is that opposites actually repel. Human beings strive for commonality, and organizations exist amid striking homogeneityâ€"but why is this a concern?”

BBC News: A Malaysian baby girl has died after being snatched by a monkey which bit her then dropped her from a roof.

The four-day-old was sleeping in the living room of her home in the central Malaysian state of Negri Sembilan when a macaque monkey entered.

The baby had been briefly left alone. Wildlife officials said the monkey had probably been searching for food.

The officials said it was the first case of an attack by wild monkeys on a human in the state.

The child's mother, 26-year-old V Revathy, said she had left her baby to go to the bathroom and the baby's grandfather had gone to get a glass of water.

"We frantically searched all over the house and saw her body covered in blood lying outside the house," the child's grandfather A Valayutham told the Star newspaper.

The baby had serious bite and scratch marks on her ears, neck and head.

The newborn, who had not been named yet, died on her way to hospital.

"She was our bundle of joy and we were looking forward to spending many happy years with her... I just cannot believe she's gone," said V Neru, the baby's father.

State wildlife officials said they had shot the monkey they believed was responsible for the attack.

Assistant wildlife official Mohd Zafifi Ramli told the BBC that macaque monkeys were breeding too fast in Malaysia.

In honor of P-Noy’s 100th day in office

Your low fare leader Cebu Pacific (CEB) marks the 100th day in office of President Benigno Aquino III with an all domestic seat sale as low as P499. This starts now until October 8, 2010 or until seats last, for travel this December 1-31, 2010.

Because 100 days is worth celebrating, avail of P499 ‘Go Lite’ seats from Manila and get ready to party in Bacolod, Boracay, Calbayog, Catarman, Cauayan, Cebu, Coron, Dumaguete, Iloilo, Kalibo, Laoag, Legazpi, Naga, Puerto Princesa, Roxas, San Jose, Tacloban, Tagbilaran, Tuguegarao, and Virac.

The same P499 ‘Go Lite’ seat sale fare is available for flights from Cebu to Bacolod, Boracay, Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Clark, Davao, Dipolog, Dumaguete, General Santos, Iloilo, Legazpi, Ozamiz, Pagadian, Puerto Princesa, Siargao, Surigao, Tacloban and Zamboanga.

CEB also offers P499 ‘Go Lite’ seats from Davao to Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo and Zamboanga.

Meanwhile, seats from Manila to Mindanao (Cagayan de Oro, Davao, Zamboanga, Butuan, Cotabato, Dipolog, General Santos, Ozamiz and Pagadian) are available for the ‘Go Lite’ seat sale fare of P999.

December is a popular time for visiting family and friends, doing business and going on vacations so grab your P499 seats by visiting www.cebupacificair.com now!

Those without credit cards can still book online and pay via payment centers and CEB partner banks. Play our first online game, "Catch & Fly" and check out the many ways you can pay for your flight bookings. Play the difficult level and get a chance to win a round-trip ticket to any domestic destination.

Do You Buy Philippine Lotto Tickets?

A dead baby contained in a red plastic orinola (chamber pot) was found floating on the Marikina River last Monday.

Resident Conrado Cruz found the chamberpot near the riverbank in Barangay Barangka in Marikina.

“When I opened it, I thought (the baby) was a chicken because it was white,” he said in Filipino.

Cruz said the baby girl appeared to be newly born, and that the mother could be living near the area.

The chamber pot was sealed with packing tape, he added.

Marikina police investigators said the baby’s body was still warm and soft.

Police are determining whether the baby was aborted or if she died of natural causes.

The baby’s body was turned over to the Crime Laboratory of the Philippine National Police for examination.
source: Philippine Star

I hope the catholic bishops would be more vocal and aggressive regarding heinous crimes like this one. Too much brouhaha over RH bill when in fact there are other more pressing concerns like sexual child abuses committed by priests.

Standings after nine rounds:
16 points -â€" Ukraine
15 -â€" Russia-1, France
14 â€" Israel, China, United States
13 -â€" Georgia, Poland, Spain, Armenia, Hungary, Czech Republic, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Serbia, Italy.
12 -â€" Russia-2, Greece, Cuba, England, Russia-3, Netherlands, Chile, Colombia, Estonia, Egypt
11 -â€" Croatia, Vietnam, Norway, Bulgaria, Slovakia, Austria, Germany, India, Brazil, Slovenia, Philippines, Kazakhstan, Russia-4, Montenegro, Switzerland, Sweden, Kyrgyzstan, Argentina, Denmark, Canada, Qatar.

KHANTY-MANSIYSK, Russia, Oct.1 (PNA) -â€" The Philippines fashioned out a vengeful 4-0 rout of former Russian republic Turkmenistan in the crucial ninth round of the 39th World Chess Olympiad with GM Wesley So again leading the way with another resounding victory with the black pieces.

A day after holding former world champion GM Veselin Topalov of Bulgaria to a draw in the eighth round, So left nothing to chance to cut down GM Mesgen Amanov in 48 moves of the Gruenfeld and lead the 37thâ€"seeded Filipinos to a morale-boosting triumph with only two rounds left in this prestigious tournament dubbed as the “Olympics’ of chess.

GMs Darwin Laylo and Eugene Torre and IM Richard Bitoon also swept their respective matches against the lower-rated and less-experienced Turks to cap the Filipinos’ second shutout victory since a 4-0 win over Korea in the first round.

Laylo, who took the place of GM John Paul Gomez on board two, trounced IM Meylis Annaberdiev (ELO 2465) in 52 moves of English opening to level his record to 3-1-3 win-draw-loss for 3.5 points.

Torre whipped FM Kasat Atabayev (ELO 2318) in 58 moves of the Owen’s defense and raised his personal record to 89 wins, 14 draws and 39 losses in record 243 games in 20 Olympiad appearances spanning 40 years from 1970 to 2010.

The 58-year-old Torre, who became Asia’s first GM in the 1974 Nice Olympiad, also broke a tie with GM Miguel Najdorf of Argentina for second most points in Olympiad history. The Filipino now has 146 points, one point ahead of Najdorf (145 points) for second all-time but way behind GM Lajos Portisch (176.5 points) of Hungary.

Bitoon crushed FM Yusup Atabayev (ELO 2313) in 41 moves of the English to remain as the Filipinos’ leading scorer with 5.5 points on four wins, three draws and one loss in eight games

Overall, the Filipinos are now tied for 27th to 47th places with 11 points on five wins, one draw and three losses in this tough, 11-round tournament being held in this oil-producing region in Ugra Valley in Western Siberia.

Ukraine defeated Azerbaijan, 2.5-1.5, despite the loss of GM Vassily Ivanchuk to GM Shakhriyar Mamedyarov to keep a one-point lead over top seed Russia-1 and France with only two rounds left.

GM Pavel Eljanov outdueled GM Rauf Mamedov while Zahar Efimenko bested GM Eltaj Safarli to clinch the win for the second-seeded Ukrainians.

Russia- 1 beat defending champion Armenia, 2.5-1.5, in another battle of heavyweights with GM Peter Svidler providing the decisive win over GM Gabriel Sargissian, France edged Georgia, 2.5-1.5, on victory by GM Sebastian Feller over GM Tamaz Gelashvili on board four.

Israel toppled Hungary, 2.5-1.5, China humbled Cuba, 2.5-1.5 and the United States downed Bulgaria, 2.5-1.5, to share fourth to sixth places with 14 points.

Based on official tiebreaks, the Filipinos are in 37th place, exactly the same seeding they have in this two-week long competition which attracted a total of 741 players from 145 countries including 242 GMs and 123 IMs.

The Filipinos get another chance to improve their rankings when they meet No. 26 seed Argentina in the 10th and penultimate round late Friday (Manila time).

Led by GMs Diego Flores (ELO 2615) and Ruben Felgaer (ELO 2597), the all-GM Argentina whipped Lithuania, 3-1, in the ninth round.

It will be So against Flores, GM John Paul Gomez against Felgaer, Torre against GM Fernando Peralta (ELO 2572) and Bitoon against GM Pablo Lafuente (ELO 2565).

In the women’s division, the Philippines completed a twin kill by humbling Bolivia, 3.5-.5 despite resting top board player Cheradee Chardine Camacho for the first time in nine rounds.

Catherine Perena dumped WIM Daniela Cordero, Rulp Ylem Jose outclassed WFM Raisa Luna and Jedara Docena overpowered Gabriela Solis.

Shercila Cua failed to complete a sweep when she settled for a board two draw with Eugenia Ramirez.

The win propelled the 52nd-seeded Filipinas to a share of 34th to 52nd places with 10 points on four wins, two draws and three losses.

In the 10th round, the Cesar Caturla-coached Filipinas will meet Southeast Asian rival Indonesia.

Camacho will play top board anew against close friend WGM Irine Kharisma Sukandar.

Perena battles Vina Lestari, Jose meets Citra Dewi and Docena faces Monica Sihite.

Top seed Russia-1 edged Serbia, 2.5-1.5, to virtually capture the title with a perfect score of 18 points on nine wins in nine matches.

Five countries â€" China, Ukraine, Georgia, India and Bulgaria â€" shared second to sixth places with 14 points.

China outplayed Hungary, 3-1, Ukraine humbled Croatia, 3.5-.5, Georgia downed Russia-2, 2.5-1.5, India nipped Cuba, 2.5-1.5; and Bulgaria overwhelmed Romania, 3-1. (PNA)
vcs/LOR/pr

Indonesian authorities have repatriated the 54 Filipino fishermen whom they arrested for fishing in Indonesian waters, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said on Saturday.

Reports reaching the office of Admiral Wilfredo Tamayo, PCG commandant, show that 54 fishermen, who were repatriated from Bitung, Indonesia, were turned over to Coast Guard Station General Santos.

The fishermen were repatriated by Indonesian authorities on board F/B KM Rimar Jaya 206 recently.

Initial investigation showed the fishermen were crew members of F/B Jayvee, F/B Jef-Jef and F/B TP -1011.

They were apprehended by the Indonesian authorities on different occasions for fishing in Indonesian waters without registration from the said country except Romeo Luques.

Luques, of Kiamba, Sarangani Province, was reportedly separated from his mother vessel F/B Mark Rose on June 22, 2010 while fishing at Moro Gulf onboard his service boat which drifted towards Indonesian waters due to strong winds and big waves.

At 11:30 a.m. Saturday, the fishermen who are in all good physical condition were turned over by Coast Guard Station General Santos to Department of Social Welfare and Development â€"General Santos City for proper disposition. (PNA)

The Social Security System (SSS) offered for sale at attractive terms 660 acquired properties in a three-day Housing Fair that started on Friday, a top official said.

SSS president and chief executive officer Emilio de Quiros Jr. said the agency will accept an affordable five percent downpayment for SSS’ houses and lots, some for as low as P90,000, during the Housing Fair 2010 at SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City.

"We urge everyone to drop by the Housing Fair at Megatrade Hall 2 in SM Megamall this weekend," De Quiros said. "The event allows buyers to purchase acquired properties through negotiated sale instead of tedious bidding process."

SSS offers low annual interest rates of six percent for houses and lots worth P500,000 and below, and nine percent for properties worth more. It also grants a 10 percent discount to buyers who pay in full.

The SSS assets include foreclosed properties and those offered as payment through dacion en pago. In case two or more buyers are interested in the same property, the SSS will sell to the first person who pays the downpayment.

De Quiros said the SSS offers a maximum payment term of 10 years and buyers can pay until age 70 in cash or through managers or post-dated checks.

"I’m glad that through the Housing Fair program, SSS is able to make it easier for Filipino families to achieve their dream of owning a home," he said.

The Housing Fair carries the theme "Gaganda ang Buhay sa Sariling Bahay." It features properties of various government agencies such as the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council, National Housing Authority, Home Development Mutual Fund, Government Service Insurance System, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas and SSS. (PNA)

By Priam F. Nepomuceno

MANILA, Oct. 4 (PNA) - Banco De Oro Unibank, Inc. (BDO) named San Francisco-based Wells Fargo & Company as its newest remittance network member.

Wells Fargo is known for its ExpressSend money transfer service while BDO has BDO Remit as its remittance service brand.

With the team-up, Wells Fargo account holders can now send remittances to beneficiaries in the Philippines through a credit to BDO account (in pesos) or via cash pick up anywhere at BDO's nearly 2,700 remittance pick up locations all over the country.

If the sender chooses to credit the amount to a BDO account, the money will be credited within one hour or less and the recipient can already withdraw the remittance using the BDO ATM debit card at over 7,000 BDO, Megalink, Expressnet and Bancnet ATMs nationwide, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Beneficiaries also have the option to pick up the remittance at any BDO payout locations, which include the BDO branches, YES Currency Exchange (formerly SM Forex Counter), SM Business Services, Global Pinoy Center, Savemore and rural bank partners all over the Philippines.

"BDO is the country's top remittance bank and Wells Fargo is likewise a very solid player in this arena. We certainly formed a formidable partnership, one that is designed to benefit our clients with even faster, secured and reliable service," BDO senior vice president and head for international remittance operations Jonathan Diokno said.

Wells Fargo's global remittance services executive vice president Daniel Ayala said that Wells Fargo understand how important remittances are to the Philippines.

"By helping our Filipino customers reach more locations throughout the country, we hope we can help them stimulate the economy of their homeland by supporting their family and friends," he said.

"Wells Fargo's strong reputation in the banking industry conveys a fast and secured way of sending money to the Philippines. Its network concentrates on community based financial services, which can tap more Filipinos and Americans alike in using their facilities when sending money. Through Wells Fargo's strength, diversity and nationwide coverage, our target is to push the remittance business from states that have significant Filipino population down to the smaller Filipino communities in the US," Diokno said.

Wells Fargo took the 19th spot on Fortune 2009 rankings of America's largest corporations. Since its merger with Wachovia bank, it now has more than 10,000 banking stores, 12,000 Wells Fargo and Wachovia ATMs, and the Internet (wellsfargo.com and wachovia.com) across North America and internationally.

Wells Fargo serves one in three households in America. With its wide network coverage, Filipinos can send remittances over the counter, online banking and even phone banking.

BDO, meanwhile, was recently recognized as the Top Commercial Bank on Overseas Filipinos Remittances for 2009 by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

The bank, which bagged the same award in the previous year, attributed its solid performance on its strong market presence and steady expansion of remittance partners worldwide.

Constant efforts to strengthen its international presence have resulted to established connections with thousands of combined remittance offices, partners and agent locations in Asia, Middle East, North America and Europe allowing to serve more Filipinos. (PNA)

The Business in Development (BiD) Challenge Philippines for 2010 is now accepting proposals from enterprising individuals to submit their innovative and viable business plans for financing.

The contest is aimed at helping reduce poverty in the country. Deadline is on October 30, 2010.

Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP) executive director Rafael Cojuangco Lopa is calling on entrepreneurs, particularly those from outside Metro Manila to submit their business plans through the BiD website: www.bidnetwork.org.

In 2009, winning entries included an invention for insect repellant made from lemon grass or citronella oil that wards off dengue-carrying mosquitoes, bicycles made out of strong bamboo, world-class toy blocks made from eco-friendly wood, among others.

Last year’s competition attracted over 80 entries nationwide. Previous entries such as organic corn coffee from the Sumilao farmers of Bukidnon in 2008 and the aromatic droppings of civet cats in the Cordillera mountains (including Coffee Alamid in 2007 and Hagiyo Brew in 2008) were highly successful.

“Participants can receive personal and professional coaching to develop a solid, bankable, and complete business plan, as well as get exposure to a network of local and international financiers, investors, and other business contacts,” Lopa said.

The competition will have 10 winners who will receive start-up capital from a P1-million prize money pool. The top two winners will be sent overseas to join the International BiD competition.

Furthermore, participants should have business financing needs equivalent to between US$ 10,000 and US$ 1 million to qualify in the competition, and their respective businesses aiming to be profitable within the next three years, with growth potential in employees and sales of more than 30 percent per annum.

Two years ago, the BiD Philippines 2008 winner and the country’s main entry to the BiD International competition in the Netherlands won the grand prize.

Rags2Riches, through Rev. Xavier Alpasa of the Society of Jesus, was the international-winning social enterprise that transformed scrap fabric into bags from the designs of renowned Filipino designers Rajo Laurel and Amina Aranaz, with women weavers from the Payatas dumpsite in Quezon City actually producing these bags.

Past local BiD winners and Philippine entries that won internationally included Baycrafts in 2009 in the category of women in business retail challenge, and South Sea Exclusives in 2007 as the overall third-prize winner, with the Pineapple Industry for Youth and Society (Pinyas) winning the student category in 2006.

Baycrafts has produced and sold costume jewelry made from both indigenous and synthetic materials such as pearls, wood, fiber, seeds, crystals, and glass, with a complete line of jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, earrings, hair ornaments, rings, and anklets, among others.

South Sea Exclusives, an aquaculture company catering to the export market, has specialized in producing sustainable-bred spiny lobsters in Palawan, while Pinyas has helped pineapple farmers in Camarines Norte, Bicol in producing dehydrated or dried Formosa pineapples.

Before organizing the BiD competition in the Philippines in 2007, PBSP first handled promotions for the competition in 2006. Prior to that, all entries were submitted directly to the Netherlands, as no local competitions were held for submissions for 2005 or earlier. (PNA)

Around 5,000 students from China will be coming here to study English language at the Tarlac State University here, City Mayor Ace Manalang disclosed during his meeting with the Liga ng mga Barangay members over the weekend.

Manalang said the Chinese government has chose this city among other places in the country as "the best place for their students to stay, just to learn foreign tongue, expecting that they would be safe here even for a short period of time."

The Chinese students are expected to come this November and stay in the city until they finish their short-term course by January 2011.

He said while in the city, the Chinese students will try this city’s delicacies and would prefer to eat Filipino food rather than other menus in more than 90 days of their staying here.

Manalang said having visitors from other country like China will boosts local tourism industry thus, "making them safe, comfortable and happy while they are here would be their word of mouth when going back to their own place."

The students would be accommodated at the Lucinda Hotel, TSU compound for their board and lodging.

He also said this would be the Tarlaquenos' chance to show their hospitality, kindness and honesty and to prove that this province is not just a simple stop-over place but one of the best tourist destinations in the Philippines.

According to the mayor, he already ordered city police chief Supt. Arnel Ramos to create a task force to be detailed as police tourist guide to ensure the safety of the Chinese students.(PNA)

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Ritchie Garcia assured on Monday that the 248 Filipino athletes will be properly equipped when they compete in the 16th Asian Games in Guangzhou, China from Nov. 12 to 27 this year.

The veteran sports official said the PSC spent close to P10 million for the acquisition of sports equipment, adding “it will be delivered by the end of this month.”

”These equipment will be used not only in the Guangzhou Games but also in future international tournaments,” Garcia said in a press briefing.

The P10 million is on top of the P30 million allotted by the PSC for the country’s preparation and actual participation to the Asian Games.

Garcia said that each of the Asiad-bound athletes would also receive additional P10,500 per month for their food allowance and other nutritional needs in preparation for the prestigious sports competition.

Meanwhile, Garcia declined to speculate on how many medals the RP delegation would bring home.

”I’ll be in Guangzhou but only as a representative of the government. We’re just supporting cast here,” Garcia said.

Earlier, RP chief of Mission Joey Romasanta said the Philippine team would surpass the country’s four gold, six silver and nine bronze medals it won in the 2006 Doha Asian Games. (PNA)

Major British firm B/E Aerospace has chosen the Philippines as the site of its galley manufacturing facility, from which more than 300 new jobs for Filipinos would be created, British Ambassador to Manila Stephen Lillie announced on Monday.

Out of an initial list of 32 countries, B/E Aerospace, Inc and its Leighton-Buzzard division, B/E Aerospace UK Ltd., chose the Philippines for a multi-billion-dollar contract to manufacture galleys for the Airbus A350XWB, one of the new generations of wide-bodied aircraft, according to Lillie.

Completed galley units will be shipped to Marseilles and then onwards to Toulouse, where the Airbus A350 will be assembled.

"The first phase of the investment is worth over US$ 30 million. This is good news for the Philippines, particularly since the investment will create more than 300 new jobs locally," said Lillie.

B/E Aerospace is the leading provider of aircraft interior products and solutions and the world’s leading distributor of aerospace fasteners and consumables for the commercial, business jet and military markets.

"I welcome this major manufacturing investment, and I am delighted that the British Embassy Trade & Investment team were able to assist a top-quality UK company like B/E Aerospace in identifying options for locating in the Philippines. I hope this will go to show that the Philippines offers opportunities for business success, not only in the service sector but in manufacturing also," said Lillie."

"We hope the new Philippine Administration will take pro-active measures to create a more attractive investment climate for the Philippines, so that there will be even more projects like this," he added.

The UK Government has been looking towards Asia for trade and investment opportunities, recognizing the region’s emerging markets as the driving force of global recovery.

Early this year, Ambassador Lillie went to the UK to promote the Philippines to British companies in London, and, this November, UK Trade and Investment Director Derek Page will be meeting British companies in Bristol, Newcastle and Hinckley.

With the assistance of UK Trade and Investment’s commercial services, B/E Aerospace conducted extensive market research on several countries. The UK Trade and Investment team at the British Embassy Manila were able to help the UK company’s decision to set up their manufacturing facility in the Philippines.

UK Trade & Investment is the government organization that helps UK-based companies succeed in the global economy and assists overseas companies to bring their high-quality investment to the UK.

B/E Aerospace is the world’s leading manufacturer of aircraft cabin interior products and the world’s leading distributor of aerospace fasteners and consumables.

It designs, develops and manufactures a broad range of products for both commercial aircraft and business jets. Its manufactured products also include aircraft cabin seating, lighting, oxygen, and food and beverage preparation and storage equipment. The company also provides cabin interior design, reconfiguration and passenger-to-freighter conversion services.

Products for the existing aircraft fleet -- the aftermarket -- generate about 50 percent of sales.

B/E Aerospace sells and supports its products through its own global direct sales and product support organization. (PNA)

Internet accelerators have been designed to speed up the process of downloading images and media over a dialup connection. Web accelerators accomplish this with a compression technology. The web accelerator will actually compress all files and data, which means that your websites will now load a faster rate.

read more at: http://www.getthebestinfo.com/Article/Boost-Your-Internet-Connection-Speed-With-An-Internet-Accelerator/82656

The iPhone, developed by the US based Apple Inc. is not just a mobile phone; it also is a music player, internet device, digital camera and a video player. For its astonishing features and amazing looks, the iPhone was named as the "Invention of the Year" in 2007 by the Time magazine. In a nutshell, specifications of the Apple iPhone are as below:

read more at: http://www.inform.websiteuniversity.org/Article/Apple-iPhone-----price-is-high-but-the-gadget-is-worth-possessing/84290

BT Broadband is another of the three main providers of broadband services in the United Kingdom, which also provides affordable access to the Internet that does not tie up your phone line. The company says on its web site that nearly 99 percent of the country is broadband available to it. With very low prices and the quality of its services helping to rally a solid reputation BT Broadband will probably continue to be one of the top three providers of broadband services from the United Kingdom over the years.

read more at: http://www.getthebestinfo.com/Article/Top-3-UK-broadband-providers/109004

By Michelle Remo
Philippine Daily Inquirer

MANILA, Philippines â€"The peso fell by 9 centavos on Tuesday as some investors engaged in profit-taking, as others expected the central bank to intervene in the foreign exchange market to temper the sharp rise seen on Monday.

The local currency closed at 43.76 against the US dollar on Tuesday compared with the 43.67 registered on Monday.

Intraday high reached 43.68:$1, while intraday low settled at 43.88:$1. Volume of trade dropped to $1.24 billion from $1.33 billion previously.

Traders said the fall of the peso on Tuesday was partly on account of profit-taking by currency holders, who sold the peso's they held after gaining from the local currency's rise the previous days.

Market players also said the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas was also expected to temper the rise of the peso, and such an outlook encouraged some to dispose of their peso holdings.

Nonetheless, they said, the peso was still expected to remain strong throughout the year relative to its value in 2009, when it averaged in the 45-to-a-dollar territory and was hovering in the 47:$1 towards the end of 2009.

By Dave Lee  BBC World Service

American journalist Jake Adelstein Jake Adelstein's work took him inside Tokyo's seedy - and dangerous - sex industry

"Erase the story… or we'll erase you. And maybe your family. But we'll do them first so you learn your lesson before you die."

It was the warning that ended it all.

Twelve years of reporting on the terrifying world of the yakuza - the Japanese mafia - and Jake Adelstein's luck had finally run out.

He had been working on a story which involved one of Japan's most feared and violent mobsters, and as he sat before a softly spoken enforcer from the notorious Goto-gumi gang, he decided no story was worth his family.

full story: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-pacific-11446716

At least eight al-Qaeda militants - some of whom were German nationals - have been killed in a drone attack in Pakistan, officials have told the BBC.

The suspected US drone fired two missiles at a house owned by a local tribesman in the Pakistani region of North Waziristan, the officials said.

At least three of the dead were said to be German - of Arab or Turkish origin.

In recent weeks, security sources have spoken of a Pakistan-linked al-Qaeda plot to attack European cities.

US media outlets reported that the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) had ramped up missile strikes from its unmanned drones, targeting militants who are believed to have inspired the alleged plot.

In Pakistan, the US has carried out 26 drone strikes in the past month - the highest monthly total for the past six years.

The suspected plot has led several countries to issue travel warnings to their citizens, saying they should be vigilant while travelling in Europe.

Although there has been no official comment on the latest drone strike, there have been lingering concerns over German nationals in the tribal areas.

Samsung Electronics Co., the world's No. 2 mobile handset maker, said Tuesday it will launch its flagship smartphone and tablet PC in Japan before December in a move to challenge the popularity of Apple Inc.'s products there.

NTT Docomo Inc., Japan's largest mobile operator, will release the Galaxy S at the end of this month and the Galaxy Tab, Samsung's first tablet PC, at the end of November, Samsung said in a statement.

Both models will run on the most up-to-date version of the Android operating system, Android 2.2, Samsung said. They will carry Docomo customer mail service along with a Japanese magazine viewer and a road navigator.

Samsung and Docomo held a joint press conference in Tokyo, the first such combined event, to announce the launch of the South Korean company's products, Samsung said.

The Japanese mobile carrier's move to introduce Samsung's products is expected to counter its rival Softbank Corp., the third-largest wireless carrier, which is the sole provider of Apple Inc.'s iPhone in the country.

More than 70 percent of Japan's mobile market is dominated by local brands, such as Sharp Corp. and Panasonic Corp., but the iPhone has enjoyed booming demand there and has become the most popular smartphone model since its debut in 2008.

According to Tokyo-based MM Research Institute Ltd., the iPhone accounted for 72 percent of smartphones sold in Japan in 2009. (PNA/Yonhap)

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on Tuesday said the drop in the country’s inflation rate in September should be accompanied by measures to increase the domestic economy’s absorptive capacity and ensure its continued expansion.

Rate of price increases dropped to 3.5 percent in the ninth month this year from last August’s four percent and is below the lower end of the central bank forecast for the month of a range between 3.6-4.5 percent.

BSP Governor Amando Tetangco Jr., in a phone message to reporters, attributed this to the slower price adjustments across all commodity groups.

He said this development brings the full year average inflation for this year at the lower end of the central bank’s 3.5-4.5 percent inflation target for this year and “supports a manageable medium term inflation outlook.”

“Barring any unforeseen adverse price shocks, including volatility of international commodity prices, the BSP’s current stance appears appropriate,” he said.

Central bank’s policy-making Monetary Board (MB) decided to hold for the 10th consecutive rate setting BSP’s policy rates at record-low last August. These were kept low since July 2009.

To date, BSP’s overnight borrowing or reverse repurchase rate is at four percent while the overnight lending or repurchase rate is at six percent.

Tetangco, however, pointed out that “there continues to be a need to push for measures to improve absorptive capacity and to draw investments into employment generating projects.”

“This will ensure that the current monetary policy stance indeed translates into real economic growth that is sustainable,” he added. (PNA)

President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino III assurred government's continuing action against corruption to help alleviate the plight of public school teachers nationwide.

Such action is needed so more government funds can be used instead to provide such teachers with the training, benefits, tools and facilities for further enhancing their performance at work, he noted.

"I won't be blind to problems we must address," he said Tuesday in Pasig City during a program marking World Teachers Day (WTD).

President Aquino believes government must extend as much assistance to public school teachers as possible since their work is vital to nation-building.

"Shaping children's minds is a big task," he said.

Aside from their school duties, he said teachers also act as parents who advise students on how to cope with their problems.

He acknowledged low pay and lack of logistics support for the teachers at present make their task more difficult.

President Aquino lauded the teachers for persevering to educate the youth despite such difficulty.

"Your sacrifice and dedication to work is incomparable," he said.

He is pleased about celebration of WTD, convinced this helps highlight teachers' role in moving the country forward.

"It's a small recognition of teachers' contribution to society," he said.

Earlier, Malacanang proposed for Department of Education (DepEd) next year a budget of P207.3 billion.

This amount represents 12.6 percent or the biggest chunk of Malacanang's total P1.6 trillion proposed 2011 budget.

The proposed budget is also 18.4 percent higher than the P175 billion DepEd budget for this year.

Such increase is the highest for DepEd in over a decade, Malacanang noted.

Malacanang said the proposed hike in DepEd's 2011 budget includes provisions for constructing 13,147 additional classrooms and creating 10,000 teaching positions in government. (PNA)
V3/CJT/utb

Australian behavioral scientists on Tuesday ruled out the theory that happiness is linked solely to genetics, in a study viewed as a breakthrough in psychological research.

The results of a 25-year study on 60,000 Germans showed long-term happiness is determined by lifestyle decisions including choice of partner, employment and religion.

According to ABC News, study leader and Associate Professor at the University of Melbourne of Australia, Bruce Headey, said the study turns the long-term notion of happiness being linked to personality on its head.

"Happiness isn't just a matter of heredity, it isn't just in the genes," he said.

"Genes might be about 50 percent of the story but the rest depends on lifestyle choices - choices relating to your partner and also relating to your work life."

The study will be published in the official journal of the United States National Academy of Sciences, and is based on data from the German Socio-Economic Panel, conducted by scientists partly from Australia.

It analyzed responses from a national representative sample of people aged 16 and over who answered questions every year from 1984 to 2008.

On relationships, the findings reveal that individuals with neurotic partners are significantly less happy than those with more emotionally stable partners.

"People who select or happen to be selected by partners with relatively benign personalities, with low levels of neuroticism, and who are reasonably extroverted and outgoing, they tend to be happier than average, and happier than they would just on the basis of their own personality traits," Professor Headey told ABC News.

The study discovered people who prioritized their relationship with their partner and children were happier than those were interested in career or material success, as were those with altruistic goals such as helping people or being involved in social or political activities.

Working shorter hours did not necessarily lead to happiness, but working a lot more or less than they wanted made people very unhappy.

"Other things that matter are social activities, getting involved in social and community things with friends in an active kind of way," Professor Headey said.

He said a link between religion and happiness is also evident.

"Religion seems to work for people - people who regularly attended church or mosque were a bit happier on average than people who were non-religious or non-attenders," he said.

"So having some kind of belief system that gives you a sense of meaning or purpose is important for happiness."

Professor Headey said the findings are the first of their kind on such a large scale.

"In terms of what we research in terms of this empirical work on the determinants of life's satisfaction it is I think something of a breakthrough," he said.

"People want to be happy, they want to know what they can do to make a difference and this gives some indication of the kinds of choices that matter.

"So we don't have to be stuck with the idea that happiness is set, like disease or height or genes." (PNA/Xinhua)

By Mediatrix P. Cristobal

The Flight Attendants’ and Stewards’ Association of the Philippines (FASAP) vowed to finally hold its labor strike by the end of the month or early November as its last conciliation meeting with Philippine Airlines (PAL) management collapsed on Tuesday.

Both the union and the PAL management failed to reach agreement in the last five meetings, including on Tuesday, before the National Mediation and Conciliation Board (NCMB).

The union said it would proceed with its planned labor strike next month as mediation talks with Philippine Airlines failed anew.

"It will likely happen last week of October or the first week of November after we hold strike vote next week," Bob Anduiza, Fasap spokesperson said.

The union threatened to finally go on strike as it claimed that PAL remained adamant on changing labor policies, including higher retirement age and gender discrimination.

The cabin crew said they would continue with their planned strike even after PAL revealed the amount of compensation receive by employees.

The actual gross monthly pay of a PAL cabin crew ranges from P33,000 to P75,000, inclusive of productivity pay and other allowances, PAL spokesperson Cielo Villaluna said.

"A domestic crew earns between P34,619 to P37,619 per month, including productivity pay, transportation allowance and rice allocation. An international cabin attendant receives P50,741 to P60,136, while a flight purser gets P67,880 to P73,570," Villaluna said.

She said that while the salary range may be modest compared to the pay scale of giant carriers abroad, this was no small amount by Philippine standards. Hence, claims that PAL cabin crew are overworked and underpaid are not true, she said.

Villaluna said the total pay is composed of the basic salary plus the following: Per diem: when staying overnight at an international destination (US$ 45-US$ 70); when on a technical stop (US$ 100); for every regional turnaround flight (US$ 20); for every domestic flight (P185) additional pay for every hour in excess of their tour of duty (US$ 50 + US$ 20 for international flights, P1,250 per hour for domestic) first-class hotel accommodation at domestic and international stations;

Transportation allowance (or free pick-up from/to residence); free meals in flight and on ground; crew shuttle to/from airport; thermal clothing allowance (twice a year); shoe allowance â€" P1,200 for male, P800 for female (twice a year); uniform allowance â€" from P11,022 to P16,376 (every 18 months); suitcase â€" costs from P1,563 to P3,647 (replaced every 2 years); complete medical and dental coverage for cabin crew and their qualified dependents;

13th and 14th month pay; unused days off converted to cash; unused sick leave converted to cash; perfect attendance award â€" equivalent to one month pay + per diem; and retirement benefits â€" 1.5 month for every year of service.

After the conciliation meeting collapses, PAL now seeks the arbitration by Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz.

Villaluna said the submission of the case for arbitration could lead to Baldoz taking jurisdiction over the case to prevent a strike.

She said the management is now preparing contingency measures.

PAL earlier offered P80-million in additional salary plus P25 million in rice allowance (total of P105 million), change in retirement age to 45 (from 40) and increase in the cabin crew's maternity benefits, which were rejected by FASAP, who insisted on their original positions before unilaterally declaring a deadlock in the negotiations.(PNA)

Motorcycle-riding gunmen killed a regional trial court judge in the northern Philippines on Monday, prompting calls to exempt judges from a current gun ban.

Judge Reynaldo Lacasandile was waiting for a ride to go to work when one of two men on a motorcycle shot him twice with a pistol in Vigan province's Tagudin township. He died while being brought to a hospital, police said, adding the attack could be work-related.

It was the second fatal attack on a judge this year. A judge was shot to death in northern Cagayan province last May. Two other justices survived separate grenade and bomb attacks in April.

The Philippine Judges Association condemned Lacasandile's killing and asked the police to track down and punish the gunmen. It said judges facing threats should be exempted by the Commission on Elections from a gun ban ahead of nationwide village elections on Oct. 25.

While some judges facing threats should be allowed to bear arms, Supreme Court Chief Justice Renato Corona said he opposes the wholesale arming of judges.

"It's not good for the judiciary's image if all our judges will go around with .45 pistols or M16 rifles," Corona told reporters. "We will be like in the Wild, Wild West." - Associated Press

The union of flight stewards and attendants of Philippine Airlines (PAL), the country’s largest airline, on Monday criticized Cebu Pacific Air (CEB) for having lady flight attendants dance while giving out pre-flight safety instructions, branding the gimmick as “sexist and gender-insensitive".

In a statement, the Flight Attendants and Stewards Association of the Philippines (FASAP) said it is “deeply perturbed" by the video spreading on the Internet of flight attendants dancing to catchy songs while doing the pre-flight seatbelt and life vest demonstration.

“While it may look like a harmless publicity stunt to attract passengers at first glance, in the long run the stereotyping of flight attendants as entertainers will surely have a negative and sexist impact in the minds of the public, at the expense of the unwitting female-dancer-flight attendants," said FASAP, the union claiming it has some 1,600 members.

The group said the video, showing the lady attendants dancing to Lady Gaga’s “Just Dance" and Katy Perry’s “California Gurls", has been eliciting sexist comments on YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter.

As of Monday, or just four days after it was uploaded on YouTube, the video has breached five million views with some 10,000 comments some of which made references to the “beautiful ladies" and asked why the they did not “strip" at the end of the clip. The practice is discriminatory and unacceptable, according to FASAP, saying airlines in other countries have scrapped similar gimmicks in the past decades.

“This gender insensitive packaging is a throwback to the unenlightened past during the 50s and 60s when “stewardesses" were made to wear hot pants and mini-skirts to appeal to the dominantly male business travelers," the group said in the statement.

“Flight attendants are safety professionals and to require them to dance in front of passengers is demeaning and undignified… Flight attendants are not entertainers, they are safety professionals," FASAP added.

FASAP is thus urging Cebu Pacific to reconsider its recent gimmick “for the sake of gender sensitivity and professionalism".

The group earlier filed cases against PAL, alleging gender discrimination for its “absurd" grooming standards, forced retirement policy for 40-year-old attendants, and refusal to employ “older" women and pregnant flight attendants. - GMANews.tv

By Bohol Chronicle

Ombudsman Visayas ordered a two-month suspension without pay on former Carmen mayor Manuel R. Molina and municipal treasurer Fulgencio V. Paña following administrative and criminal cases filed at the Cebu office.

The decision came five months after Molina was defeated in the May polls.

With the authority of the Ombudsman Visayas' consolidated decision, the regional director of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has been directed "to implement the aforesaid penalty … within five days from receipt thereof".

The decision was drawn out after the Ombudsman Visayas found the respondents to have "engaged in a conspiracy" as stated in a consolidated resolution.

In the resolution, the ombudsman cited Paragraph 2 (a) of Article 213 of the Revised Penal Code which refers to "illegal exaction", elaborating that "being a malhum prohibitum, no fraud or intent to defraud should be required since the mere voluntary performance of the acts enumerated therein would suffice. No damage is necessary as the mere act of demanding or collecting sums or objects different from or larger than those provided by law consummates the crime".
         
It was Raquel O. Rejas, through her counsel, Atty. Lord Marapao IV who filed a complaint at the Ombudsman Visayas as Rejas alleged "that for the year 2009, respondents added the amount of P300 for the payment of a business plate, which was collected during the renewal and issuance of mayor's permit, business license and the like.

The incident referred to was during the incumbency of former mayor Molina.

In a check made by the complainant it was disclosed that no ordinance was ever enacted or approved authorizing such collection as can be gleaned from a certification dated February 27, 2009 issued by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.

At this juncture, the respondents published an announcement admitting an error on the collection of the business plate fee and ordered the refund of the P300 to those who have paid the same.

In her comments and observation dated Oct. 22, 2009, State Auditor II Pablita C. Abellana confirmed that the Office of the Municipal Treasurer of Carmen collected business plates as additional taxes without authority or approved ordinance, in violation of Sections 129, 132 and 305 of R.A. 7160.

Abellana stated further that "in March 2009, management drew a cash advance of P110,700 for the refund of the taxes received. However, only P107,100 at P300 per taxpayer was paid."

At the height of the complaint, both respondents denied the allegations.

Molina grounded the argument that "the collection of taxes is not one of his functions" and pointed the same to the respondent municipal treasurer.

Paña argued that "his job was only to process applications of a mayor's business permit and to collect through his revenue collectors the usual fees and charges, afterwards the applications are forwarded to the office of the mayor", and averred further that "it is beyond him to question the wisdom or rationale of the mayor."

In its consolidated decision, the ombudsman pointed out that "it appears that a local version of renvoi is happening between the respondents wherein both of them is trying to toss the blame on each other as far as the collection of additional P300 as payment for the so called business plates from taxpayers of the municipality…The records will however show otherwise".

By the Bohol Chronicle

Majority of the Boholanos favor natural birth control, as compared to the various artificial methods in controlling the population boom in the country.

Fifty-two percent (52%) of the respondents during a radio survey strongly voiced out their views that natural birth control is the rightful way to arrest the continued increase in population, citing that doing so is a manifestation of "one's respect and reverence to God given gift of life ."

Of those who favored natural birth control, a significant 89% said that they consider it a serious sin against the Creator if man "disrupts what is already planned in the palm of His hands."

The views of well meaning Boholanos were recorded in the top-rated weekly survey slot, "Radyo Merkado" over dyRD yesterday, a day after Bishop Nereo Odchimar, president of the Catholic Bishop's Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) denied having threatened Pres. Aquino with ex-communication should he push for the use of artificial contraceptives to curb the population growth.

Some of the respondents cited that promoting artificial birth control is identical to allowing immorality in society wherein "sex becomes like a commodity anyone can buy and enjoy."

This prevalent use of artificial birth control methods promotes "unfaithfulness in the family," a respondent said which usually results to broken homes.

The pro-life respondents rallied the cross-section of the community to support the stand of the Church in promoting natural birth control while they admitted as alarming the rapid increase in the country's population.
         

Of the 105 respondents, 16 percent (16%) aired their support for both natural and artificial birth control citing that majority of the Filipinos are exposed to the risk of adding to the population because of the "luxury of time and idleness" of people especially in the rural areas. They said that "for lack of better and productive things to do, people will indulge in sex, thus they need support in some form of birth control."

"Natural control is the method advocated by the Church," they cited, but added that "leaving the millions of Filipinos to the natural way alone will risk many of them to having unwanted births.

"That's the reason why we favor both natural and artificial birth control," a respondent explained.

The remaining thirty-two percent (32%) who favored artificial birth control cited the Filipinos being often "irresponsible" when it comes to sex education. Because of this large sector, it becomes "necessary to promote artificial birth control, citing particularly the use of condoms.

Some of the respondents who favored artificial control cited the practice abroad wherein even parents are much too liberal as to remind their children to bring condoms when they go out to parties with their girlfriends.

"It's a practical way to react to a given situation," a vocal respondent said over the airlanes.

For his part, Bishop Leonardo Medroso said the Church needs to be more dynamic and pro-active in its campaign for natural birth control as against the heavily commercialized drive for artificial birth control.

"The Church is not relaxing on its stand against the Reproductive Health bill," the bishop assured.

CBCP CANNOT EXCOMMUNICATE

The CBCP has no vested power to excommunicate parishioners under the flock.

This was the categorical statement issued by Bishop Leonardo Medroso who clarified that the bishops have not issued any stand nor reaction regarding the pronouncement of Pres. Aquino that he favors voluntary family planning, birth spacing and contraceptive use .

Medroso said that it is only the Pope and the bishop in a particular diocese who can excommunicate, but not any organization such as the CBCP.

Asked if an act of endorsing the use of condoms be a ground for excommunication, the church leader said "it's not." even as he stated that condom use which is one of the artificial birth control methods is opposed by the church.

"An abortion is a ground for excommunication," Medroso cited. President Aquino likewise condemns the practice of abortion.

MISCOMMUNICATION

Bishop Odchimar said the highest Church body in the country had "not contemplated to excommunicate the President" even as he mentioned in an interview with Radio Veritas the "possibility of Mr. Aquino facing excommunication." His remarks were only carried in the national media but also reported in the Catholic news service UCAN, a website featuring news about the Catholic Church.

Odchimar said the Church wanted to address the reproductive health issues through a dialogue and not confrontation.

He said the threat of excommunication at this point can hardly be considered to be in line with mode of dialogue, the CBCP president said last Friday.

A radio survey conducted by "Radyo Merkado" over dyRD yesterday showed 81% against such move to excommunicate the President while 19% favored such move in the event that Pres. Aquino makes bolder steps to support the use of artificial methods of birth control.

First Love Never Dies: Have You Experienced It?

Though they are still looking for ways on how to further improve their defensive rotation, Philippine Patriots coach Louie Alas has nevertheless declared their readiness to defend their crown in the AirAsia ASEAN Basketball League (ABL) Season 2 which unfurls Saturday in Bangkok, Thailand.

“I’m not yet impressed with our defense, we need to put more teeth to be more competitive,” said Alas. “Still, we’re ready to defend our title. Everybody is excited.”

One of Alas’ concerns is Donald Little who, he said, should be more aggressive at the post to somehow lessen the scoring burden for fellow import Anthony Johnson.

Johnson, a former Sta. Lucia import in the PBA, is expected to be the team’s go-to-guy since he is capable of shooting from afar and penetrating the middle.

“He (Little) should be more aggressive,” said Alas. “We have no problem offensive-wise since my medium-sized players can shoot from the outside.”

Even RP Patriots co-team owner Mikee Romero of Harbour Centre is aware of Alas’ dilemma but he expressed confidence the coaching staff can work on it.

“We have to be a good defensive and running team, that was our formula in winning the title last year,” said Romero, who co-owns the team with businessman Tony Boy Cojuangco. “For us to keep our title, we have to stay that way, fast and furious.”

While the tournament opens Saturday in Bangkok -â€" featuring the game between the Thailand Slammers and Kuala Lumpur Dragons -â€" the Patriots start their title-retention bid against the Brunei Barracudas tomorrow at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.

The Patriots are practically a new squad since only three from last year’s team â€"- JP Alcaraz, Warren Ybanez and Erwin Sta. Maria -â€" were retained. The rest are new but they’re all effective role players.

Veteran Allan Salangsang, Chito Jaime, Junjun Cabatu, and Harold Sta. Maria play the 3 and 4 positions but Alas stressed they can pose as an offensive threat to their rivals since they are capable of shooting threes.

Also in the team are shooting guard Benedict Fernandez, Orly Daroya, Egay Billiones, Alex Crisano, Parri Llagas and Kelvin Gregorio. (PNA)

Newly-crowned Inter-Scholastic Athletic Association (ISSA) champion Lyceum of the Philippines survived Royale Business Club, 82-76, while EJM Pawnshop humbled Philippine Air Force, 94-78, to barge into the win column in the 2010 MBL Invitational Basketball championship at the Lyceum gym in Intramuros, Manila.

Lyceum rode on the game-long briliance of Allen Difuntorum and Reggie Rimando to stave off repeated comebacks by Royale BC and clinch their first win in two matches in this nine-team, two-and-a-half-month long tournament supported by Smart Communications, Dickies Underwear and PRC Managerial Services.

Difuntorum scattered 18 points, including five three-point shots that helped the Intramuros-based Pirates of coach Bonnie Tan and athletics consultant Herc Callanta to secure the win.

Rimando, who was voted as Most Valuable Player (MVP) in the ISAA, contributed 15 points and 10 rebounds for Lyceum, which is being supported by Ocean Fresh, Showa and UCM Car Airconditioning.

Allan Santos and Fritz Gerald Ong added 10 points each for the Pirates.

Leemore Boliver and Toti Bandaying combined for 42 points for Royale BC of manager Bong Paggabao and coach Ferdie Orna.

Boliver finished with 22 points, while Bandaying added 20 points for Royal BC, which debuted with an 86-60 win over Air Force.

Equally impressive was EJM Pawnshop, which drew big numbers from Yurick Florino, Mark Marcos and Wowyn Escosio to snap a two-game losing skid.

Florino scored a team-high 14 points, Marcos added 13 and Escosio had 11 points for EJM of manager Edwin J. Malibiran and coach Andy de Guzman.

Roland Pascual paced Air Force with 17 points, followed by former University of the East standout Alvin Zuniga with 15 points and Ryan Tongio with 10 points.

The FBI says it has cracked a major international cyber crime network after more than 90 suspected members of the ring were arrested in the US.

The suspects worked as so-called mules for fraudsters based in Eastern Europe who hacked into US computers to steal around $70m.

More people were detained in Ukraine and the UK, local police said.

The FBI said the arrests were part of "one of the largest cyber criminal cases we have ever investigated".

Most of those arrested in the US were charged with conspiracy to commit bank fraud and money laundering, a US Attorney said.

They are suspected of acting as go-betweens or mules by providing bank accounts for an elaborate cyber crime scheme.

Hackers in Eastern Europe would use spam email to infect computers of small businesses and individuals in the US with a virus known as Zeus, the FBI said in a statement.

The unnamed hackers were then able to to access users' online passwords and bank account details and used them to transfer money to the bank accounts provided by the go-betweens in the US.

The crime ring attempted to steal around $220m, the FBI added.

The arrests were the result of an international operation that kicked off in Omaha in May 2009 when FBI agents noticed a row of suspicious bank transactions.

Law enforcement agencies in the US, Ukraine, the Netherlands and the UK were also involved in the investigation.

Police in the UK arrested 19 people suspected members of the ring.

By David McCasland, Our Daily Bread

Many churches celebrate the first Sunday in October as World Communion Sunday. It is a time to observe the Lord’s Supper with a special awareness of celebrating together with our brothers and sisters in Christ around the globe. On this day, being with a community of believers has become very meaningful to me.

One year, however, I found myself in an airport with a long flight ahead and no opportunity to attend church on that day. Sitting alone, I read the Gospel accounts of the Last Supper, along with the passages describing Jesus’ arrest and crucifixion. Then from 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, I pondered the words so often read at communion services: “The Lord Jesus on the same night in which He was betrayed took bread . . .” (v.23). With some common elements to represent the bread and the cup, I observed the Lord’s death for us, feeling a deep kinship with those followers of Christ in many places who are unable or forbidden to gather with others in worship.

Whatever your location and circumstances today, may you find joy and strength in remembering the Lord’s sacrifice on the cross. “For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes” (v.26).

By Dave Branon, Our Daily Bread

Remember when phones were for making phone calls? With the advent of the smart phone, what was once a way to talk to someone has become a storehouse of data. Add cell-phone applications (computer programs) to that, and you can read sports reports, play games, plan trips, find an apartmentâ€"or any of well over 100,000 other tasks available with an “app.”

That’s pretty amazing, but the “apps” for phones are nothing compared with the kind of “apps” Scripture gives us. The “applications” of the Bible are direct notes from God telling us how to apply the truth of His Word to all of life.

Take Philippians 2, for instance: The unity app (2:2), the humility app (2:3), the no-grumbling app (2:14), the shine-as-lights app (2:15). Or look at the apps of Ephesians 5: The imitate-God app (5:1), the walk-in-love app (5:2), the purity app (5:3), the tongue app (5:4). And the book of Proverbs? It’s teeming with applications.

You don’t have to wait for someone to offer these on the Internet. Just open the Bible and see the hundreds of ways to apply Scripture in your life. Got a question about the Christian life? Search the Bible. The answers are there, waiting to be discovered.

By Marvin Williams, Our Daily Bread

Because I am not a “fix it” kind of guy, I had to call a friend who is a great handyman to make some repairs in my home recently. He came over, and I gave him my list. But to my surprise, he told me I would be doing the repairs myself! He modeled for me how to do it, instructed me along the way, and stayed with me. I followed his example and successfully made the repairs. This modeling seems close to what Jesus did when He called His first disciples.

When Jesus called those men to follow Him, He wanted them to be with Him and to teach the good news of the kingdom of God (Mark 1:14,39; 6:12). The first job would require being under the immediate super-vision of Jesusâ€"learning His words and interpretation of the Scriptures and watching His behavior. For the second task, Jesus sent them out to preach (Mark 3:14-15)â€"saying what He said and doing what He did. As they carried out these tasks, they were to be dependent on Jesus.

Today, Jesus is still calling His followers to this simple, yet powerful process of discipleshipâ€"being with Him, following His instructions, and living His example. Are you one who is dependent on Him as you’re following Him today?