MANILA - A PHILIPPINE official visiting Vietnam with President Benigno Aquino has apologised after posting a disparaging comment on Twitter about the wine served by their hosts, an Aquino aide said on Saturday.
Maria Carmen Mislang, Mr Aquino's speechwriter who holds the rank of assistant secretary, became an instant Internet celebrity in her own country after her controversial posts - since deleted - on the microblogging site.
'The wine sucks @rickycarandang,' Ms Mislang was said to have tweeted on Thursday, in response to an apparent query from her immediate boss, Aquino spokesman Ricky Carandang.
The three are attending an Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit in Vietnam.
Local press reports on Saturday also quoted her as having posted that there were no handsome local men in the host country, and likening crossing a busy Hanoi street to assisted suicide.
Filipinos greeted the comments with anger online, with general agreement on Twitter and social networking site Facebook that she had disrespected her hosts. Presidential spokesman Abigail Valte said in Manila that Mislang has since posted an apology over the comments. -- AFP
Saturday, October 30, 2010
News Update Communist rebels kill 3 Philippine soldiers
BANGUED, Philippines – Police say communist rebels have killed three soldiers and wounded three others in an ambush in the northern Philippines.
Regional police spokesman Superintendent Leon Talleo said the casualties were inflicted when New People's Army guerrillas opened fire on 10 army soldiers aboard a truck passing through Abra province's Licuan-Baay township early Saturday.
He said the rebels later ambushed reinforcements sent on two trucks and an armored personnel carrier, but no more troops were hurt.
The rebels are active in this part of the Philippines. Attacks on troops in remote areas are common.
The government has formed a new negotiating panel to resume talks to end the 41-year-old insurgency.
Regional police spokesman Superintendent Leon Talleo said the casualties were inflicted when New People's Army guerrillas opened fire on 10 army soldiers aboard a truck passing through Abra province's Licuan-Baay township early Saturday.
He said the rebels later ambushed reinforcements sent on two trucks and an armored personnel carrier, but no more troops were hurt.
The rebels are active in this part of the Philippines. Attacks on troops in remote areas are common.
The government has formed a new negotiating panel to resume talks to end the 41-year-old insurgency.
News Update Ombudsman takes credit for RP’s ‘improved’ global corruption rating
The Office of the Ombudsman on Saturday took credit for the minor improvement in the country’s global corruption rating, saying that the improved ranking “mirrors the Ombudsman’s success in its anti-corruption efforts." Assistant Ombudsman Evelyn Baliton said in a statement Saturday that the “marked increase" in conviction rates handled by the Office of the Ombudsman is one of the factors why the country improved its ranking in Transparency International (TI)’s global corruption index. Baliton said that the agency hit its highest conviction rate of 73.42 percent two years ago, which was supposedly a big factor in TI’s assessment of the country’s anti-corruption efforts. The Philippines ranked 134th out of 178 countries in TI’s Corruption Perception Index for this year, with a score of 2.4. The ranking slightly improved from the country’s previous rank of 139th among 180 countries last year, although the Philippines also received the same score of 2.4 in 2009. (See: RP scores minor 'improvement' in corruption index) Baliton likewise said that the “improved" ranking “inspired" the country’s lead anti-corruption agency “to exert more effort in fighting corruption." The Office of the Ombudsman is currently hiring more qualified investigators in the agency to step up its campaign against corruption, she added. Baliton also said that Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez plans to open new regional offices in the country to “move the office closer to the people." At present, three regional offices are already operational: OMB-Luzon located in Calamba, Laguna; OMB-Visayas in Iloilo; and OMB-Mindanao located in Cagayan de Oro City. Baliton said another OMB-Luzon regional office is set to open in Pangasinan next year.
The office's location in Pangasinan is expected to enable it to cover the three regions of Northern Luzon—Ilocos region or Region I, the Cordillera Administrative Region, and Cagayan Valley or Region II—as well as nearby provinces in Central Luzon or Region III.
Ombudsman Gutierrez is currently facing two impeachment complaints for her alleged inaction on graft cases involving former President and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. The House of Representatives’ Committee on Justice has temporarily stopped impeachment proceeding against Gutierrez after the Supreme Court issued an order suspending moves to oust the Ombudsman. (See: House to abide by SC order on Ombudsman impeachment)—JV,
The office's location in Pangasinan is expected to enable it to cover the three regions of Northern Luzon—Ilocos region or Region I, the Cordillera Administrative Region, and Cagayan Valley or Region II—as well as nearby provinces in Central Luzon or Region III.
Ombudsman Gutierrez is currently facing two impeachment complaints for her alleged inaction on graft cases involving former President and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. The House of Representatives’ Committee on Justice has temporarily stopped impeachment proceeding against Gutierrez after the Supreme Court issued an order suspending moves to oust the Ombudsman. (See: House to abide by SC order on Ombudsman impeachment)—JV,
What Happen before 0859 Hrs in Gamu, Isabela.
The typhoon GUSTY winds snapped large trees, causing traffic disruptions along Gamu highway Some trees also hit private houses along Guibang Road. Residents in the area said several parked cars had also been hit by the falling trees.
Many power lamp post was dislodged from the ground by cables that were caught by the falling branches. I heard that the power supply will only resume on Dec that a minus point !
Many power lamp post was dislodged from the ground by cables that were caught by the falling branches. I heard that the power supply will only resume on Dec that a minus point !
News Update Local traders join implementation of gov't salt iodization program
TACLOBAN CITY - The Regional Bantay Asin Task Force (BATF) composed mostly of representatives from government agencies, has asked for the assistance of the local salt traders in improving the implementation of the salt iodization program. With the backing of the Global Alliance for Nutrition (GAIN), a public-private partnership is now underway. This developed following the successful conduct of the first meeting between the two groups last month at the Hotel Alejandro, where the salt traders of this city reacted positively to help in the government efforts to attain standard iodine content in table salt marketed throughout the Eastern Visayas region. Thus, another round of meeting between the two groups is scheduled on November 3 where the BATF members will be trained on the use of the WYD Iodine Checker donated by GAIN, and will be used in monitoring of salt at ports. A survey showed that the iodine status of children and pregnant/lactating women in the region is below optimum. This may be because the salt being shipped to the region is said to be below the 20ppm (highest of 70ppm). At least 12 traders or their representatives attended the said meeting, among them include: Yaokasin Trading, A&J (Bright Marketing), Chin Hong Commercial, Fortune Merchandising, AMON Commercial, Asia Trading, Yapson Trading, Sam's Trading, and Cocomart. James Yap, proprietor-manager of Yapson Trading, voiced out in the said meeting that they (salt traders) thought all along that the salt they were getting here were of the right quality (FDA standard). He expressed his gratitude for the information saying that they (traders) are willing to cooperate with the government for the success of the salt iodization program in Region 8. The Regional Bantay Asin Task Force in Eastern Visayas, which is closely monitoring the salt shipments, is composed of representatives from the Food and Drug Administration, Department of Health, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Education, Philippine National Police, Philippine Ports Authority, the National Nutrition Council, Department of Science and Technology. Department of Trade and Industry, Bureau of Customs, Philippine Information Agency, and the media.
News Update P.5-M mangrove project up in Camiguin
MAMBAJAO, Camiguin Province - A P525,000 mangrove boardwalk project is set to start at the Queobe area of Barangay San Miguel in Mahinog town, Camiguin. This developed after the municipal government of Mahinog and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in the Caraga Region signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) for the construction of the boardwalk project in the said area, which is also one of the tourism destinations of this tourism and agriculture fast-growing province. The MoA was signed by Mahinog Mayor Alex R. Jajalla DENR regional technical director for research Danilo Cacanindin on behalf of the DENR. Mahinog Vice Mayor Rogerio C. Acle was on hand to witness the signing. In that MoA, the P400,000 will come from the DENR, while the P125,000 is the counterpart of Mahinog town, said Municipal Planning and Development Officer Benito C. Paderanga. Mahinog partially developed the area which is now known as Queobe Eco-Park and Training Center with the construction and establishment of amenities including dormitories, training center, cottages, campsite, parking area, flower garden and nursery. The overall objective of the project is to pursue a sustainable ecological tourism development with emphasis on safeguarding and conserving the bio-diversity in the mangrove area.
The project is also aimed at providing a learning environment on mangrove existence specifically on ecological protection and enhancement. The project is expected to create employment opportunities, boost the local economy and generate income for the local government unit (LGU) as well, local officials said. "This wooden boardwalk located near the Benoni Lagoon and port area will provide safe recreational places for people to walk while enjoying the natural ambience and learning the unique characteristics of the mangrove ecosystem," said Jajalla. Queobe eco-park has an excellent vantage point overlooking the mangrove boardwalk, Benoni Lagoon, Benoni Port, including the Mantigue Island. These are all part of a development plan vigorously pursued by the municipal government of Mahinog, with the ultimate goal of optimizing the potential of the area in order to provide employment opportunities and boost the local
The project is also aimed at providing a learning environment on mangrove existence specifically on ecological protection and enhancement. The project is expected to create employment opportunities, boost the local economy and generate income for the local government unit (LGU) as well, local officials said. "This wooden boardwalk located near the Benoni Lagoon and port area will provide safe recreational places for people to walk while enjoying the natural ambience and learning the unique characteristics of the mangrove ecosystem," said Jajalla. Queobe eco-park has an excellent vantage point overlooking the mangrove boardwalk, Benoni Lagoon, Benoni Port, including the Mantigue Island. These are all part of a development plan vigorously pursued by the municipal government of Mahinog, with the ultimate goal of optimizing the potential of the area in order to provide employment opportunities and boost the local
News Update House to probe bus firms' 'deadly' practices
MANILA, Philippines - The House committee on Metro Manila development is set to conduct an inquiry into the bus operators’ illegal practices called “colorum,” “kabit,” and “buntis,” which make traffic gridlocks worse and contribute to deadly accidents in the metropolis.
Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco, committee chairman, filed House Bill 379 to investigate what he called the indiscriminate issuance and misuse of franchises by bus operators.
“While no one disputes that buses are crucial to Metro Manila’s public transport system, debates continue on just how many should be on the road, where, and what time,” Tiangco said. “These have been accompanied by bickering on which government agency or unit should determine such details.”
“The boorish behavior of (drivers of) many public buses—as well as the fact that far too many of them are on the road—aggravate the situation,” he added.
Tiangco said the probe will also review the regulations and procedures of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to determine the loopholes as well as the extent of the accountability of agency officials in issuing franchises.
He also cited infighting and turf wars among concerned agencies as hampering efforts to find a long-term solution to the traffic problem.
He said the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the LTFRB, other government agencies, and a foreign-funded study gave out varying figures on the number of buses plying the streets of the nation’s capital.
Tiangco said a December 2007 report showed that of the 2.34 million vehicles passing through EDSA in Metro Manila on any given day, around 139,227 are public utility buses.
A report funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the “EDSA Bus Route Revalidation Survey” showed there is a 50-percent oversupply of buses during the morning peak period between 6 a.m. to 9 a.m.
While the MMDA’s count of city-bound buses in August 2006 was 3,290, JICA estimates that there are close to 5,000 of such buses regularly plying EDSA. The LTFRB updated count is 3,800, half of which are provincial-based.
Tiangco said there is a substantial difference between the JICA estimate of 5,000 and the LTFRB’s count of 3,800. Further research showed this could be traced to three illegal practices allegedly done by bus operators: the “colorum, kabit and buntis,” he said.
“Colorum,” the most popular, is when a bus company without a franchise fields buses or when a franchised bus company fields buses in unauthorized routes. “Kabit” takes place when a bus firm allows other individuals or companies to piggyback on its government-issued franchise for a fee. “Buntis” occurs when several other buses use the license plate of one bus authorized to use one route.
Tiangco said in view of the fact the MMDA recorded almost 1,488 bus accidents in the first five months of 2009 and an average of 13 bus accidents per day in 2008, there is a need to investigate the need for further regulation of and stricter guidelines for the bus transport industry.
He said official statistics also showed that 80 percent of the buses in Metro Manila figured in traffic accidents in 2006. A significant number of buses also appear not to be roadworthy, Tiangco said.
He also cited the practice of some bus operators to field their smoke-belching buses at night when they would not be apprehended by the authorities. - By Paolo Romero
Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco, committee chairman, filed House Bill 379 to investigate what he called the indiscriminate issuance and misuse of franchises by bus operators.
“While no one disputes that buses are crucial to Metro Manila’s public transport system, debates continue on just how many should be on the road, where, and what time,” Tiangco said. “These have been accompanied by bickering on which government agency or unit should determine such details.”
“The boorish behavior of (drivers of) many public buses—as well as the fact that far too many of them are on the road—aggravate the situation,” he added.
Tiangco said the probe will also review the regulations and procedures of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to determine the loopholes as well as the extent of the accountability of agency officials in issuing franchises.
He also cited infighting and turf wars among concerned agencies as hampering efforts to find a long-term solution to the traffic problem.
He said the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the LTFRB, other government agencies, and a foreign-funded study gave out varying figures on the number of buses plying the streets of the nation’s capital.
Tiangco said a December 2007 report showed that of the 2.34 million vehicles passing through EDSA in Metro Manila on any given day, around 139,227 are public utility buses.
A report funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the “EDSA Bus Route Revalidation Survey” showed there is a 50-percent oversupply of buses during the morning peak period between 6 a.m. to 9 a.m.
While the MMDA’s count of city-bound buses in August 2006 was 3,290, JICA estimates that there are close to 5,000 of such buses regularly plying EDSA. The LTFRB updated count is 3,800, half of which are provincial-based.
Tiangco said there is a substantial difference between the JICA estimate of 5,000 and the LTFRB’s count of 3,800. Further research showed this could be traced to three illegal practices allegedly done by bus operators: the “colorum, kabit and buntis,” he said.
“Colorum,” the most popular, is when a bus company without a franchise fields buses or when a franchised bus company fields buses in unauthorized routes. “Kabit” takes place when a bus firm allows other individuals or companies to piggyback on its government-issued franchise for a fee. “Buntis” occurs when several other buses use the license plate of one bus authorized to use one route.
Tiangco said in view of the fact the MMDA recorded almost 1,488 bus accidents in the first five months of 2009 and an average of 13 bus accidents per day in 2008, there is a need to investigate the need for further regulation of and stricter guidelines for the bus transport industry.
He said official statistics also showed that 80 percent of the buses in Metro Manila figured in traffic accidents in 2006. A significant number of buses also appear not to be roadworthy, Tiangco said.
He also cited the practice of some bus operators to field their smoke-belching buses at night when they would not be apprehended by the authorities. - By Paolo Romero
kopi talk Honesty in public service
PRESIDENT Benigno Aquino III may not be getting the best advice on specific issues confronting his office as some people increasingly point out, but at least during the short four months of his incumbency so far, the record shows a new momentum of change taking shape in the more important business of governance: Honesty in public service. This was revealed the other day at the President's meeting with the Filipino community in Hanoi which said the Philippines has improved its ranking in the Transparency International corruption index. The improvement is slight, all right, from 139th status last year to 134th this year out of 178 countries rated but Aquino is hopeful it will create a momentum towards a more desirable rating for the country - sooner than later. We will continue to do our part in the promotion of good governance, the President stressed. Still, a lot of people are suggesting the President, being a non-lawyer, should employ more assistants versed and educated in the delicate intricacies of the laws - experienced lawyers known for their scholarship and integrity - to provide him the confidence and the political virility he needs to run the country. More than at any other time, such legal support is needed precisely because of his constant skirmishes with the judiciary, particularly with the High Court. Just the other day, for instance, the President mentioned the judiciary anew, as one of the "obstacles needed to be hurdled in the administration's fight against corruption." It is for this that suggestions are being floated around for President Aquino to employ more knowledgeable lawyers in the presidential staff to give coherence to his legal stand on issues. His repeated use of homegrown logic in arguing his position on tangled issues does not encourage public assurance of a leader's brilliance. As has been correctly observed, the media - newspapers, radio, and television - follow public officials' every move, analyzing their utterances and deeds, questioning their every intention, second guessing their decisions, and casting doubt on their intelligence - not to mention their integrity. But just the same, what the people want is simple: Honesty and competence in public service - and we hope President Aquino is right that the momentum for change is pushing the country to better days ahead. (zhern_218@yahoo.com)
News Update World's first fish cemetery gets spruced up
DAGUPAN CITY (PNA) - Just like the many cemeteries in the Philippines today, the first and only known fish cemetery in the country and perhaps the world over, located in Barangay Bonuan Binloc here, is now being spruced up in time for All Soul's Day. At least five workers were mobilized by Paulino Carr, chief of the maintenance section of the National Integrated Fisheries Research and Development Center
(NIFRDC) in Barangay Bonuan Binloc here to prepare the fish cemetery in anticipation of the flood of visitors seeing the tombs of the dead fish this All Souls' Day. The cemetery, located on a 400-square meter lot inside the 24-hectare NIFRDC, is the only known place in the country where various endangered sea mammals which have died lie buried. The place, which could easily qualify for a space in "Ripley's Believe It Or Not," has been in existence since early 1999 and after 11 years, it became the final resting place of 17 different sea mammals, most of them dolphins and whales of different rare species. Believed to be the only one of its kind in the entire world, the fish cemetery is now being visited by conservationists and students, both local and foreign, not only on All Souls' Day but all-year round. Just a stone's throw away from the Asia Fisheries Academy inside the NIFTDC and a few meters south of the RP-Korean Dagupan Fish Processing Complex, the fish cemetery tends to look weird being mixed up in a research facility. But the truth is, it is complimentary to the government-run structure which is doing the work similar to that of the Southeast Asia Fisheries Development Center in Iloilo.
Now provided with a newly-built covered hall at its right entrance that serves as its information cubicle, the cemetery is now actually one of the best known landmarks inside the NFITDC which had been serving as the fish research facility of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) since 1992. Made famous the world over because of the Internet, the fish cemetery is one reason more local and foreign tourists come to Dagupan. Another reason, of course, is for them to have a bite of local delicacies, bangus, crabs, malaga (siganid) and shrimps freshly caught from fishponds and pens that are prepared in mouth-watering culinary delights. The fish cemetery was conceived by Dr. Westly Rosario, chief of the NIFTDC, with the approval of BFAR National Director Malcolm Sarmiento, to become a show window in fish conservation. It was made by BFAR as an instrument to drumbeat its advocacy for the conservation and care of sea mammals that once teemed in the Philippines seas but sadly are now going extinct due to man's unsustainable fishing activities First to be entombed in the fish cemetery was a 1.2-ton and 320 centimeter-long whale that was named "Moby Dick" and seized by the BFAR from fishermen in Malabon, Metro Manila in February, 1999. In the absence of a facility to keep the huge dead animal in Manila, BFAR decided to bring the cadaver to NIFTDC in Dagupan for disposal. The area where "Moby Dick" was buried later became a common grave for other large endangered marine species. Sixteen other sea mammals, from whales to dolphins of different species, were entombed there later, the last of which was a six-foot long spinner dolphin (Stenella longistoris) weighing 60 kilos that died in the waters of Buenlag, Binmaley, Pangasinan on April 3, 2010. Dr. Rosario said the fish cemetery seeks among others, to deliver the message to the people on the strong need to spare the lives of endangered sea mammals for which the Philippine Fisheries Code or Republic Act No. 8550 has extended its protection.
The act prohibits the fishing or taking and trade of rare, threatened and endangered species listed in the Convention on International Trade and Endangered Species (CITES) of Wild Fauna and Flora. Dismayed by the fact that some fishermen catching these creature often butcher these for food or to make lubricants out of their fat so that they can turn these into candles, Rosario said that under the law, poachers of sea mammals could be apprehended and charged and their specimens or catch confiscated. At the same time, he lamented that while live specimens of the mammals are released back to their natural environment in the sea, there is simply no place to dispose of the dead fish. This, he said, was the reason they put up the first cemetery for fish as the fish, like humans, are also due for some respect even if they are already dead.
(NIFRDC) in Barangay Bonuan Binloc here to prepare the fish cemetery in anticipation of the flood of visitors seeing the tombs of the dead fish this All Souls' Day. The cemetery, located on a 400-square meter lot inside the 24-hectare NIFRDC, is the only known place in the country where various endangered sea mammals which have died lie buried. The place, which could easily qualify for a space in "Ripley's Believe It Or Not," has been in existence since early 1999 and after 11 years, it became the final resting place of 17 different sea mammals, most of them dolphins and whales of different rare species. Believed to be the only one of its kind in the entire world, the fish cemetery is now being visited by conservationists and students, both local and foreign, not only on All Souls' Day but all-year round. Just a stone's throw away from the Asia Fisheries Academy inside the NIFTDC and a few meters south of the RP-Korean Dagupan Fish Processing Complex, the fish cemetery tends to look weird being mixed up in a research facility. But the truth is, it is complimentary to the government-run structure which is doing the work similar to that of the Southeast Asia Fisheries Development Center in Iloilo.
Now provided with a newly-built covered hall at its right entrance that serves as its information cubicle, the cemetery is now actually one of the best known landmarks inside the NFITDC which had been serving as the fish research facility of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) since 1992. Made famous the world over because of the Internet, the fish cemetery is one reason more local and foreign tourists come to Dagupan. Another reason, of course, is for them to have a bite of local delicacies, bangus, crabs, malaga (siganid) and shrimps freshly caught from fishponds and pens that are prepared in mouth-watering culinary delights. The fish cemetery was conceived by Dr. Westly Rosario, chief of the NIFTDC, with the approval of BFAR National Director Malcolm Sarmiento, to become a show window in fish conservation. It was made by BFAR as an instrument to drumbeat its advocacy for the conservation and care of sea mammals that once teemed in the Philippines seas but sadly are now going extinct due to man's unsustainable fishing activities First to be entombed in the fish cemetery was a 1.2-ton and 320 centimeter-long whale that was named "Moby Dick" and seized by the BFAR from fishermen in Malabon, Metro Manila in February, 1999. In the absence of a facility to keep the huge dead animal in Manila, BFAR decided to bring the cadaver to NIFTDC in Dagupan for disposal. The area where "Moby Dick" was buried later became a common grave for other large endangered marine species. Sixteen other sea mammals, from whales to dolphins of different species, were entombed there later, the last of which was a six-foot long spinner dolphin (Stenella longistoris) weighing 60 kilos that died in the waters of Buenlag, Binmaley, Pangasinan on April 3, 2010. Dr. Rosario said the fish cemetery seeks among others, to deliver the message to the people on the strong need to spare the lives of endangered sea mammals for which the Philippine Fisheries Code or Republic Act No. 8550 has extended its protection.
The act prohibits the fishing or taking and trade of rare, threatened and endangered species listed in the Convention on International Trade and Endangered Species (CITES) of Wild Fauna and Flora. Dismayed by the fact that some fishermen catching these creature often butcher these for food or to make lubricants out of their fat so that they can turn these into candles, Rosario said that under the law, poachers of sea mammals could be apprehended and charged and their specimens or catch confiscated. At the same time, he lamented that while live specimens of the mammals are released back to their natural environment in the sea, there is simply no place to dispose of the dead fish. This, he said, was the reason they put up the first cemetery for fish as the fish, like humans, are also due for some respect even if they are already dead.
News Update Boarding house fired at; 4 killed
MANILA, Philippines - Four persons, including three teenage students, were killed while two others were critically wounded when unidentified men clad in fatigue uniforms opened fire at a boarding house owned by a militiaman in Cotabato City early yesterday morning.
Military and police reports identified the slain students as Abubakar Mokamad Sangcad, 17; Toto Abdul Salim, 16; and Johanie Andis Edon, 17.
The fourth fatality was fisherman Toktok Taya Pino, 20, a neighbor.
Rushed to the hospital in critical condition were Mucraben Zacaria Abdul, 15, who was shot in the head, and Dalga Datumanong, 14, who was hit by stray bullets.
Reports said the victims were sound asleep when the attackers armed with M-16 and M-14 rifles came looking for militiaman Eddie Sabalsa, owner of the boarding house, at around 1:45 a.m.
Shouting at the top of their voices, the armed men then simultaneously opened fire at the boarding house. - By Jaime Laude
Military and police reports identified the slain students as Abubakar Mokamad Sangcad, 17; Toto Abdul Salim, 16; and Johanie Andis Edon, 17.
The fourth fatality was fisherman Toktok Taya Pino, 20, a neighbor.
Rushed to the hospital in critical condition were Mucraben Zacaria Abdul, 15, who was shot in the head, and Dalga Datumanong, 14, who was hit by stray bullets.
Reports said the victims were sound asleep when the attackers armed with M-16 and M-14 rifles came looking for militiaman Eddie Sabalsa, owner of the boarding house, at around 1:45 a.m.
Shouting at the top of their voices, the armed men then simultaneously opened fire at the boarding house. - By Jaime Laude
News Update Pipeline shutdown may cause fuel shortage, price hike
Metro Manila may suffer a fuel shortage if a major oil pipeline, shut down on Thursday after it sprung a potentially deadly leak, isn’t repaired and reopened within four days, oil companies and the pipeline operator said.
The 40-year old pipeline of the Lopez-owned First Philippine Industrial Corporation (FPIC) shut off its valves after it was pinpointed by geologists as the source of a months-long leak at the basement of a nearby high-rise condominium in Makati City. FPIC owns and operates the country’s sole commercial oil pipeline, which transports 60 percent of Metro Manila’s crude and refined petroleum needs from refineries in Batangas, located some 100 kilometers south of the capital Royal Dutch Shell Plc, Chevron Corp.’s Caltex unit and other oil companies, which are using the pipeline to transport their oil products to their depots in Pandacan, Manila, have pledged to step up deliveries by truck, Energy Secretary Rene Almendras told Bloomberg in a late Friday night interview.
Almendras said the capital has “good" inventories in Manila depots and that the three-day All Saints’ Day weekend will reduce demand.
The exodus to the provinces for All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days, also known locally as Undas, has already begun, spurring the national police to go on full alert to protect thousands of Filipinos who are expected to travel to their hometowns and visit family graves over the weekend.
In a separate interview earlier Friday, the DOE told GMANews.TV that contingency plans have already been drawn up to address the possibility that repair of the major pipeline would be prolonged. (See: DOE, oil firms draw up plans in case of prolonged pipeline shutdown)
DOE director Zenaida Monsada said oil companies have submitted their contingency plans and that the department was coordinating with the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to lift the truck ban for petroleum products.
Oil firms have also proposed the use of barges and tankers to deliver the petroleum products from Batangas to Manila, the Energy Department said.
The DOE is also in talks with other oil companies that will not be affected by pipeline shutdown to provide the market with adequate supply, Monsada said.
“We do not see an immediate [petroleum] shortage for now," she claimed. Price hikes
Oil companies, themselves, however, were less optimistic. Pilipinas Shell Vice President for Communications Roberto S. Kanapi said his company has a stable supply of petroleum products enough for the next two days. Beyond that, however, he said “we have to evaluate it on a daily basis." Kanapi said that his company will resort to transporting oil to Metro Manila supply points using trucks and barges, but that this will raise logistical costs — which will result in more expensive gas prices.
Even the pipeline operator had earlier warned that “there will be a shortage of fuel in Manila for our motorists, commercial users and even our airplanes." FPIC president Leonides Garde, in an interview over dzBB radio on Thursday said that his company will comply with the Makati city order to keep the pipe shut, and was working with authorities to trace the source of the leak, which might take at least a week. Geologists located the source of a gas leak in the FPIC pipeline before dawn on Friday.
This page requires a higher version browser However, geologists said while the defective portion of the pipe can be repaired within the day, they still have to look for other possible defective portions. “The defective part was found 100 meters southeast of West Tower, along South Superhighway. We had been working on this since Thursday night but it is only now that we saw the actual defective portion," Carlo Dayanghirang, one of the geologists working on the pipe since Thursday night, said in an interview on dzBB radio. Dayanghirang said the valve had been closed before they found the defective portion. However, he said they are still not discounting the possibility that there may be other defective portions. FPIC was “not sure when pipeline will be reopened," DOE’s Almendras also said. "Hopefully we will be able to finish that before we reach critical level of fuel," he said. While he was quick to assure the public there would be no price hike in fuel products, “at least for now," he also admitted concerned that the prolonged shutdown of the pipeline may result in a shortage of fuel supply. "As of now wala tayong ganyan (we don’t see something) to that effect," Almendras said in an interview on dzBB radio when asked about a possible oil price hike. (See: DOE: No oil price hike despite shutdown of Makati pipeline) He admitted that the shutdown will definitely affect fuel supplies because a big volume of gas and diesel pass through the pipelines, and that even if all trucks were used to transport oil, Metro Manila consumes so much fuel that the amount transported via tankers may not be enough.
"Maapektuhan po dahil yan ang pinakamabilis at malaking volume ng gasolina at diesel fuel dumadaan sa pipeline na yan," he said. (It will affect supplies because that’s the fastest way, and a huge volume of gasoline and diesel fuel pass through that pipeline.)
"Yan ang contingency pero problema natin sa Metro Manila napakalakas (magkonsumo). Kukulangin ang volume kahit paandarin natin lahat na trak," he added. (Trucking is the contingency but our problem is that Metro Manila has a massive consumption. The volume won’t be enough even if we load all the trucks.)
Why so long?
Authorities discovered a leak at the basement of the West Tower condominium in late July, but it was only on Thursday that excavation work around the area started.
The pipeline was shut down for the third time upon the orders of the Makati City government to determine the source of petroleum leak discovered at the basement of the West Tower Condominium along Osmeña Highway, Barangay Bangkal, Makati City.
FPIC shut down the pipeline on July 12 and resumed its operations on July 15. It again shut down the pipeline on July 21 and resumed operations on July 24.
The excavation was only conducted after the geologists from the University of the Philippines National Institute of Geological Studies (UP-NIGS) discovered a new gas leak in the area, this time along the south-bound service road of Osmeña Highway, just a few meters from West Tower.
The building has since been evacuated, and police, firefighters and medical teams around the area remain on heightened alert.
The FPIC is now drilling to find other possible leaks along its 117-kilometer pipeline.
This page requires a higher version browser DOE cleared the FPIC
On July 29, the Energy Department and the Makati government both cleared the FPIC.
The DOE then said that the pipeline operator had nothing to do with the gas leak at West Tower Condominium in Makati City. http://www.gmanews.tv/story/197325/energy-dept-clears-fpic-in-makati-condo-gas-leak
Almendras said the department agreed with the result of investigation by the Makati government, which cleared the name of FPIC.
Instead, Nelson Morales, city engineer of Makati, ruled that the management of the West Tower Condominium was negligent in allowing water to accumulate in the basement.
FPIC's 117-kilometer pipeline carries gasoline, diesel, kerosene, and aviation fuel from refineries in Batangas to the oil terminal in Pandacan. FPIC operates the largest commercial oil pipeline in the country.
FPIC’s pipeline system consists of two main pipelines, one for the refined petroleum products (the “white" line) and the other for heavier petroleum products (the “black" line).
First Gen Corporation exercises organizational supervision over FPIC, while the company is 60% owned by First Philippine Holdings Corp, in partnership with Shell Petroleum Co., Ltd. (UK) which owns 40%.
It has a 25-year concession until 2017.—DM/JV
The 40-year old pipeline of the Lopez-owned First Philippine Industrial Corporation (FPIC) shut off its valves after it was pinpointed by geologists as the source of a months-long leak at the basement of a nearby high-rise condominium in Makati City. FPIC owns and operates the country’s sole commercial oil pipeline, which transports 60 percent of Metro Manila’s crude and refined petroleum needs from refineries in Batangas, located some 100 kilometers south of the capital Royal Dutch Shell Plc, Chevron Corp.’s Caltex unit and other oil companies, which are using the pipeline to transport their oil products to their depots in Pandacan, Manila, have pledged to step up deliveries by truck, Energy Secretary Rene Almendras told Bloomberg in a late Friday night interview.
Almendras said the capital has “good" inventories in Manila depots and that the three-day All Saints’ Day weekend will reduce demand.
The exodus to the provinces for All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days, also known locally as Undas, has already begun, spurring the national police to go on full alert to protect thousands of Filipinos who are expected to travel to their hometowns and visit family graves over the weekend.
In a separate interview earlier Friday, the DOE told GMANews.TV that contingency plans have already been drawn up to address the possibility that repair of the major pipeline would be prolonged. (See: DOE, oil firms draw up plans in case of prolonged pipeline shutdown)
DOE director Zenaida Monsada said oil companies have submitted their contingency plans and that the department was coordinating with the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to lift the truck ban for petroleum products.
Oil firms have also proposed the use of barges and tankers to deliver the petroleum products from Batangas to Manila, the Energy Department said.
The DOE is also in talks with other oil companies that will not be affected by pipeline shutdown to provide the market with adequate supply, Monsada said.
“We do not see an immediate [petroleum] shortage for now," she claimed. Price hikes
Oil companies, themselves, however, were less optimistic. Pilipinas Shell Vice President for Communications Roberto S. Kanapi said his company has a stable supply of petroleum products enough for the next two days. Beyond that, however, he said “we have to evaluate it on a daily basis." Kanapi said that his company will resort to transporting oil to Metro Manila supply points using trucks and barges, but that this will raise logistical costs — which will result in more expensive gas prices.
Even the pipeline operator had earlier warned that “there will be a shortage of fuel in Manila for our motorists, commercial users and even our airplanes." FPIC president Leonides Garde, in an interview over dzBB radio on Thursday said that his company will comply with the Makati city order to keep the pipe shut, and was working with authorities to trace the source of the leak, which might take at least a week. Geologists located the source of a gas leak in the FPIC pipeline before dawn on Friday.
This page requires a higher version browser However, geologists said while the defective portion of the pipe can be repaired within the day, they still have to look for other possible defective portions. “The defective part was found 100 meters southeast of West Tower, along South Superhighway. We had been working on this since Thursday night but it is only now that we saw the actual defective portion," Carlo Dayanghirang, one of the geologists working on the pipe since Thursday night, said in an interview on dzBB radio. Dayanghirang said the valve had been closed before they found the defective portion. However, he said they are still not discounting the possibility that there may be other defective portions. FPIC was “not sure when pipeline will be reopened," DOE’s Almendras also said. "Hopefully we will be able to finish that before we reach critical level of fuel," he said. While he was quick to assure the public there would be no price hike in fuel products, “at least for now," he also admitted concerned that the prolonged shutdown of the pipeline may result in a shortage of fuel supply. "As of now wala tayong ganyan (we don’t see something) to that effect," Almendras said in an interview on dzBB radio when asked about a possible oil price hike. (See: DOE: No oil price hike despite shutdown of Makati pipeline) He admitted that the shutdown will definitely affect fuel supplies because a big volume of gas and diesel pass through the pipelines, and that even if all trucks were used to transport oil, Metro Manila consumes so much fuel that the amount transported via tankers may not be enough.
"Maapektuhan po dahil yan ang pinakamabilis at malaking volume ng gasolina at diesel fuel dumadaan sa pipeline na yan," he said. (It will affect supplies because that’s the fastest way, and a huge volume of gasoline and diesel fuel pass through that pipeline.)
"Yan ang contingency pero problema natin sa Metro Manila napakalakas (magkonsumo). Kukulangin ang volume kahit paandarin natin lahat na trak," he added. (Trucking is the contingency but our problem is that Metro Manila has a massive consumption. The volume won’t be enough even if we load all the trucks.)
Why so long?
Authorities discovered a leak at the basement of the West Tower condominium in late July, but it was only on Thursday that excavation work around the area started.
The pipeline was shut down for the third time upon the orders of the Makati City government to determine the source of petroleum leak discovered at the basement of the West Tower Condominium along Osmeña Highway, Barangay Bangkal, Makati City.
FPIC shut down the pipeline on July 12 and resumed its operations on July 15. It again shut down the pipeline on July 21 and resumed operations on July 24.
The excavation was only conducted after the geologists from the University of the Philippines National Institute of Geological Studies (UP-NIGS) discovered a new gas leak in the area, this time along the south-bound service road of Osmeña Highway, just a few meters from West Tower.
The building has since been evacuated, and police, firefighters and medical teams around the area remain on heightened alert.
The FPIC is now drilling to find other possible leaks along its 117-kilometer pipeline.
This page requires a higher version browser DOE cleared the FPIC
On July 29, the Energy Department and the Makati government both cleared the FPIC.
The DOE then said that the pipeline operator had nothing to do with the gas leak at West Tower Condominium in Makati City. http://www.gmanews.tv/story/197325/energy-dept-clears-fpic-in-makati-condo-gas-leak
Almendras said the department agreed with the result of investigation by the Makati government, which cleared the name of FPIC.
Instead, Nelson Morales, city engineer of Makati, ruled that the management of the West Tower Condominium was negligent in allowing water to accumulate in the basement.
FPIC's 117-kilometer pipeline carries gasoline, diesel, kerosene, and aviation fuel from refineries in Batangas to the oil terminal in Pandacan. FPIC operates the largest commercial oil pipeline in the country.
FPIC’s pipeline system consists of two main pipelines, one for the refined petroleum products (the “white" line) and the other for heavier petroleum products (the “black" line).
First Gen Corporation exercises organizational supervision over FPIC, while the company is 60% owned by First Philippine Holdings Corp, in partnership with Shell Petroleum Co., Ltd. (UK) which owns 40%.
It has a 25-year concession until 2017.—DM/JV
Friday, October 29, 2010
News Update DA: Damage from 'Juan' rises to P11.53B
The estimated damage to agricultural production and farmland infrastructure caused by typhoon “Juan" (international codename “Megi") rose to P11.53 billion, after officials of the Department of Agriculture (DA) updated the tally on Thursday from continuing reports of its field units. The rice sector sustained the largest loss, estimated at P8.93 billion, followed by high value commercial crops (HVCC) at P660 million, and corn at P367.96 million. Damage to fisheries is now estimated at P212.50 million, while livestock sustained losses of P10.62 million. The total cropland affected in the 21 provinces of the four Northern and Central Luzon regions covered an area of 449,553 hectares. The four regions affected were the Cordillera Administrative Region (Ifugao, Apayao, Mt. Province, Benguet, Kalinga, and Abra), Region I (Pangasinan, Ilocos Sur, Ilocos Norte, La Union), Region II (Isabela, Cagayan, Nueva Vizcaya, Quirino and Batanes), and Region III (Nueva Ecija, Zambales, Aurora, Pampanga, Tarlac, Bulacan and Bataan). Pangasinan, Isabela and Nueva Ecija, the biggest provinces, also incurred the biggest magnitudes of damage, with losses estimated at P2.40 billion, P2.09 billion and P1.59 billion, respectively.
Farmers to receive assistance
Nine days after typhoon Juan made its landfall in northeastern Luzon, the DA continued to verify damages estimated by local government units (LGUs) and submitted to the DA regional field units (DA RFUs), in order to come up with validated data that will be used to determine how much assistance the department will provide, under its rehabilitation program, to farmers in hit-hard areas.
The DA, through the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC), will also pay affected farmers whose insured crops were damaged by the super typhoon.
PCIC President Jovy Bernabe said his agency will distribute indemnity checks totaling P161 million to about 17,200 insured rice and corn farmers within 15 to 20 days.
Rice sector largest damages
Damage to the rice sector of the 21 provinces — the hardest-hit sector — included both damages to P8.93-billion worth or 523,013 metric tons (MT) of palay and 425,134 hectares of farmlands. Of the farmlands, 8,997 hectares were completely damaged, while 416,137 hectares were recoverable.
Damaged rice fields covered more than one-fifth, or 22.85 percent, of the country’s total area of rice farms that were supposed to be harvested from October to December — or 425,134 hectares out of 1,860,395 hectares.
Palay losses on the other hand registered at 523,013 MT, or 7.47 percent of the country’s forecast production of 6,997,964 MT.
Corn sector damages
An estimated 18,048 hectares of corn crops in 18 provinces — Abra, Apayao, Ifugao, Kalinga, Mt. Province, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Cagayan, Isabela, Quirino, Aurora, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga and Tarlac — were affected, resulting to a loss of 26,986 MT of corn grain.
The damage to corn fields, on the other hand, covered only 2.80 percent, of the total area of corn farms in the country that were supposed to be harvested from October to December — or 18,048 hectares out of 645,695 hectares.
Corn grain losses on the other hand registered at 26,986 MT, or 1.68 percent of the country’s forecast production of 1,603,758 MT.
A total 6,371 hectares planted to HVCCs was affected, consisting of 5,072 hectares planted to vegetables, 681 hectares to mango and 609 hectares to banana. Lost production amounted to 21,710 MT.
Among HVCCs, the bulk of vegetable losses came from Mt. Province, Benguet, La Union and Pangasinan, while fruit losses were most marked among mango orchards in Pangasinan and among banana orchards in Apayao.
Losses to the livestock and poultry sector were estimated at P10.62 million, from the deaths or loss of livestock (carabao, swine, goat, cattle) and poultry (duck, chicken, turkey, geese) in CAR and Regions I and III.
Fisheries in the 16 provinces of Regions I, II, III and CAR sustained damages of P212.50 million, mainly from lost fishery resources from fishponds and fish cages that were destroyed by the strong winds and rains during the typhoon.
Total damages to infrastructure—farm to market roads and irrigation projects—was placed at P90.10 million, with the bulk of damages coming from affected irrigation facilities and the rest coming from damages to infrastructures for fishery, livestock and DA facilities.—DM/JV
Farmers to receive assistance
Nine days after typhoon Juan made its landfall in northeastern Luzon, the DA continued to verify damages estimated by local government units (LGUs) and submitted to the DA regional field units (DA RFUs), in order to come up with validated data that will be used to determine how much assistance the department will provide, under its rehabilitation program, to farmers in hit-hard areas.
The DA, through the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC), will also pay affected farmers whose insured crops were damaged by the super typhoon.
PCIC President Jovy Bernabe said his agency will distribute indemnity checks totaling P161 million to about 17,200 insured rice and corn farmers within 15 to 20 days.
Rice sector largest damages
Damage to the rice sector of the 21 provinces — the hardest-hit sector — included both damages to P8.93-billion worth or 523,013 metric tons (MT) of palay and 425,134 hectares of farmlands. Of the farmlands, 8,997 hectares were completely damaged, while 416,137 hectares were recoverable.
Damaged rice fields covered more than one-fifth, or 22.85 percent, of the country’s total area of rice farms that were supposed to be harvested from October to December — or 425,134 hectares out of 1,860,395 hectares.
Palay losses on the other hand registered at 523,013 MT, or 7.47 percent of the country’s forecast production of 6,997,964 MT.
Corn sector damages
An estimated 18,048 hectares of corn crops in 18 provinces — Abra, Apayao, Ifugao, Kalinga, Mt. Province, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Cagayan, Isabela, Quirino, Aurora, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga and Tarlac — were affected, resulting to a loss of 26,986 MT of corn grain.
The damage to corn fields, on the other hand, covered only 2.80 percent, of the total area of corn farms in the country that were supposed to be harvested from October to December — or 18,048 hectares out of 645,695 hectares.
Corn grain losses on the other hand registered at 26,986 MT, or 1.68 percent of the country’s forecast production of 1,603,758 MT.
A total 6,371 hectares planted to HVCCs was affected, consisting of 5,072 hectares planted to vegetables, 681 hectares to mango and 609 hectares to banana. Lost production amounted to 21,710 MT.
Among HVCCs, the bulk of vegetable losses came from Mt. Province, Benguet, La Union and Pangasinan, while fruit losses were most marked among mango orchards in Pangasinan and among banana orchards in Apayao.
Losses to the livestock and poultry sector were estimated at P10.62 million, from the deaths or loss of livestock (carabao, swine, goat, cattle) and poultry (duck, chicken, turkey, geese) in CAR and Regions I and III.
Fisheries in the 16 provinces of Regions I, II, III and CAR sustained damages of P212.50 million, mainly from lost fishery resources from fishponds and fish cages that were destroyed by the strong winds and rains during the typhoon.
Total damages to infrastructure—farm to market roads and irrigation projects—was placed at P90.10 million, with the bulk of damages coming from affected irrigation facilities and the rest coming from damages to infrastructures for fishery, livestock and DA facilities.—DM/JV
kopi talk LAppropriate Use of Modern and Accessible Communication Technology
MANILA, Philippines - Advances in information and communication technologies have been put into good use in virtually every field of human endeavor. The widespread use of the mobile phones has allowed people easy access to other individuals. Computers, laptops, and other equipment have enabled people to access relevant information, be it up to date on developments in their field of interest, and linked with others in social networking websites. In the field of agriculture, the mobile phone is soon to be put to good use with the innovation introduced by the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) which develops new rice varieties and crop management techniques. The non-profit organization, which has its headquarters in Los Baños, Laguna, now hopes to harness mobile phones to bring cutting-edge techniques to an ancient system. Recognizing that the use of mobile phones has continually expanded in the Philippines, with some 70 million mobile phone users sending up to 300 million messages a day, IRRI will use text messaging to send precise management advice and fertilizer recommendations to local farmers by Interactive Voice Response (IVR).
Under this system, all the farmer has to do is dial a number on his mobile phone, toll free. An automated voice message will then ask him a series of questions to which he should respond by pressing a number on the phone keypad. After he has answered all the questions, he will receive a text message with recommendations on the amounts, sources, and timing of fertilizer applications for his specific rice paddy. The automated voice recording is available in English and Filipino. This new system will go a long way in providing timely advice which should boost the productivity of rice farmers in the country.
Under this system, all the farmer has to do is dial a number on his mobile phone, toll free. An automated voice message will then ask him a series of questions to which he should respond by pressing a number on the phone keypad. After he has answered all the questions, he will receive a text message with recommendations on the amounts, sources, and timing of fertilizer applications for his specific rice paddy. The automated voice recording is available in English and Filipino. This new system will go a long way in providing timely advice which should boost the productivity of rice farmers in the country.
News Update DFA: Nurse in ventilator accident video is Filipina
he London-based nurse caught on video accidentally turning off her paralyzed patient’s ventilator — thus leaving him seriously brain-damaged — is Filipina, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed Thursday.
In a statement, the DFA said the Philippine Embassy in London is assisting 55-year-old Violeta Aylward, who was caught on a CCTV turning off the life-support system of her British patient in January 2009.
“The Embassy has reached out to the Filipina and conveyed its readiness to assist her. It is also actively monitoring developments of the case," the DFA said.
The DFA said Aylward’s license was suspended in October last year by the Nursing and Midwifery Council, the British government’s regulatory board, and that the nurse is currently awaiting a schedule for a formal hearing of her case.
“The matter has been the subject of investigation by the United Kingdom Crown Prosecution Service, which did not find sufficient basis to file a criminal case against Ms. Aylward," the DFA added.
The video, by the Telegraph on its website on Oct. 25, shows Aylward pressing a button on the patient’s ventilator, which then emitted high-pitched warning sounds indicating that the machine was switched off.
The CCTV was installed by the patient himself, the report said, after he had expressed dissatisfaction with the quality of care he was getting from Ambition 24hours, the agency Aylward worked for.
The report identified the patient as 37-year-old Jamie Merrett, who became paralyzed from the neck down after a 2002 car accident.
The video also shows Aylward attempting to restart the ventilator. Unable to do so, she tried to operate the resuscitation equipment but instead of connecting it to the hole in the patient’s neck, Aylward placed it in his mouth.
With paramedics able to restart the machine only 21 minutes after, Merrett was starved of oxygen and sustained “severe" brain damage, leaving him with a mental capacity of a young child, the Telegraph said.
Prior to the incident, Merret’s family said the patient was able to talk, use a wheelchair and operate a computer using voice-activated technology. A separate report by the Daily Mail described Aylward as a learning disabilities nurse who had no previous training in intensive care and in managing ventilated patients.
Since the incident caused serious brain damage to Merret and diminished his quality of life, the family is now preparing to take legal action.
"His life is completely changed. He doesn't have a life now. He has an existence but it's nowhere near what it was before," Merrett’s sister Karen Reynolds told BBC’s Inside Out.
Ambition 24hours, the agency which supplied Aylward to care for Merrett at his home in Devizes in Wiltshire, has declined to comment on the issue saying an internal investigation is ongoing.
The NHS Wiltshire Primary Care Trust (PCT), the local government’s health institute, said in a statement it is investigating the January 2009 incident.
"We have apologized to the patient and his family for this, and have put in place a series of actions to ensure that such an event will not occur again either for this patient or others," the PCT said in a statement quoted by the Telegraph.
Aylward, a resident of Reading town in Berkshire, has likewise refused to comment.—Jerrie M. Abella/DM/JV
In a statement, the DFA said the Philippine Embassy in London is assisting 55-year-old Violeta Aylward, who was caught on a CCTV turning off the life-support system of her British patient in January 2009.
“The Embassy has reached out to the Filipina and conveyed its readiness to assist her. It is also actively monitoring developments of the case," the DFA said.
The DFA said Aylward’s license was suspended in October last year by the Nursing and Midwifery Council, the British government’s regulatory board, and that the nurse is currently awaiting a schedule for a formal hearing of her case.
“The matter has been the subject of investigation by the United Kingdom Crown Prosecution Service, which did not find sufficient basis to file a criminal case against Ms. Aylward," the DFA added.
The video, by the Telegraph on its website on Oct. 25, shows Aylward pressing a button on the patient’s ventilator, which then emitted high-pitched warning sounds indicating that the machine was switched off.
The CCTV was installed by the patient himself, the report said, after he had expressed dissatisfaction with the quality of care he was getting from Ambition 24hours, the agency Aylward worked for.
The report identified the patient as 37-year-old Jamie Merrett, who became paralyzed from the neck down after a 2002 car accident.
The video also shows Aylward attempting to restart the ventilator. Unable to do so, she tried to operate the resuscitation equipment but instead of connecting it to the hole in the patient’s neck, Aylward placed it in his mouth.
With paramedics able to restart the machine only 21 minutes after, Merrett was starved of oxygen and sustained “severe" brain damage, leaving him with a mental capacity of a young child, the Telegraph said.
Prior to the incident, Merret’s family said the patient was able to talk, use a wheelchair and operate a computer using voice-activated technology. A separate report by the Daily Mail described Aylward as a learning disabilities nurse who had no previous training in intensive care and in managing ventilated patients.
Since the incident caused serious brain damage to Merret and diminished his quality of life, the family is now preparing to take legal action.
"His life is completely changed. He doesn't have a life now. He has an existence but it's nowhere near what it was before," Merrett’s sister Karen Reynolds told BBC’s Inside Out.
Ambition 24hours, the agency which supplied Aylward to care for Merrett at his home in Devizes in Wiltshire, has declined to comment on the issue saying an internal investigation is ongoing.
The NHS Wiltshire Primary Care Trust (PCT), the local government’s health institute, said in a statement it is investigating the January 2009 incident.
"We have apologized to the patient and his family for this, and have put in place a series of actions to ensure that such an event will not occur again either for this patient or others," the PCT said in a statement quoted by the Telegraph.
Aylward, a resident of Reading town in Berkshire, has likewise refused to comment.—Jerrie M. Abella/DM/JV
News Update RP lifts ban on deployment of au pairs in Europe
he country’s overseas employment authority has lifted the 13-year ban on the recruitment and deployment of au pairs (domestic assistants) to selected European countries.
The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) lifted the ban after its governing board issued guidelines for the recruitment and protection of au pairs, the agency announced in a release posted on its site on Oct. 27.
In 1997, the Department of Foreign Affairs banned the deployment of Filipino au pairs to Europe, following a surge in cases of unfair compensation, excessive working hours, discrimination, sexual assault and other forms of maltreatment.
An au pair is a domestic assistant working for a host family for a fixed number of hours, and in a manner where he or she is supposed to be treated as part of the family.
The title comes from a French word which means “on par" or “equal to," to denote “living on an equal basis in a reciprocal, caring relationship with the host family and the children," the POEA said.
An au pair should thus not be treated as a servant, and should only take on light tasks, such as bringing the children to and from school, cooking, cleaning and babysitting.
POEA administrator Jennifer Manalili said the governing board has issued three separate resolutions allowing the deployment of au pairs to Switzerland, Norway and Denmark, after these countries guaranteed protection for them and agreed to observe the deployment requirements set by the Philippine government.
Under the guidelines, a Filipino au pair should be between 18 and 30 years old, unmarried and without any children, and should placed under a cultural exchange agreement with the host family for a maximum stay of two years, during which the worker shall undergo cultural and language training.
The au pair should also be enrolled in a school to learn the language of the host country, should live with the host family and be treated on an equal basis with other family members.
“The Filipino au pair should be given pocket money, and should share in child care or light household chores and other responsibilities previously agreed upon in a contract between the au pair and the host family," Manalili stressed.
Employers are also obliged to pay the cost of hiring a Filipino au pair, which includes visa fees, airfare, POEA processing fees, contribution for membership to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, and the costs of training, if such training is required by the employer.
For their part, au pairs are required to pay for their passports, NBI clearances, birth certificates, medical tests, Philhealth insurance, and other personal documents.
Manalili said the deployment of au pairs to Switzerland should only be through recruitment entities authorized by the Swiss Federal Office of Migration.
Filipino au pairs bound for Norway and Denmark will meanwhile be documented by the POEA as name hires, or overseas workers, who did not go through agencies.—DM/JV
The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) lifted the ban after its governing board issued guidelines for the recruitment and protection of au pairs, the agency announced in a release posted on its site on Oct. 27.
In 1997, the Department of Foreign Affairs banned the deployment of Filipino au pairs to Europe, following a surge in cases of unfair compensation, excessive working hours, discrimination, sexual assault and other forms of maltreatment.
An au pair is a domestic assistant working for a host family for a fixed number of hours, and in a manner where he or she is supposed to be treated as part of the family.
The title comes from a French word which means “on par" or “equal to," to denote “living on an equal basis in a reciprocal, caring relationship with the host family and the children," the POEA said.
An au pair should thus not be treated as a servant, and should only take on light tasks, such as bringing the children to and from school, cooking, cleaning and babysitting.
POEA administrator Jennifer Manalili said the governing board has issued three separate resolutions allowing the deployment of au pairs to Switzerland, Norway and Denmark, after these countries guaranteed protection for them and agreed to observe the deployment requirements set by the Philippine government.
Under the guidelines, a Filipino au pair should be between 18 and 30 years old, unmarried and without any children, and should placed under a cultural exchange agreement with the host family for a maximum stay of two years, during which the worker shall undergo cultural and language training.
The au pair should also be enrolled in a school to learn the language of the host country, should live with the host family and be treated on an equal basis with other family members.
“The Filipino au pair should be given pocket money, and should share in child care or light household chores and other responsibilities previously agreed upon in a contract between the au pair and the host family," Manalili stressed.
Employers are also obliged to pay the cost of hiring a Filipino au pair, which includes visa fees, airfare, POEA processing fees, contribution for membership to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, and the costs of training, if such training is required by the employer.
For their part, au pairs are required to pay for their passports, NBI clearances, birth certificates, medical tests, Philhealth insurance, and other personal documents.
Manalili said the deployment of au pairs to Switzerland should only be through recruitment entities authorized by the Swiss Federal Office of Migration.
Filipino au pairs bound for Norway and Denmark will meanwhile be documented by the POEA as name hires, or overseas workers, who did not go through agencies.—DM/JV
News Update Half million tonnes of rice destroyed
A farmer winnowing rice using a handwoven basket. Typhoon Megi destroyed nearly half a million tonnes of rice in the Philippines. -- PHOTO: AFP
MANILA - THIS month's Typhoon Megi destroyed nearly half a million tonnes of rice in the Philippines, the world's largest importer of the grain said on Thursday.
The data is equivalent to 2.69 per cent of the country's 2010 output target of 17.4 million tonnes of unmilled rice, but the agriculture department stressed there were no immediate plans to revise import targets for 2011.
'A total of 404,827 hectares (999.92 million acres) of rice lands were affected resulting in the loss of some 468,546 metric tons of (unmilled rice) worth eight billion pesos (S$241.2 million),' it said in a statement.
Megi, the strongest typhoon to hit the country in four years, struck the country's farming regions in the north on October 18, killing 36 people.
The Philippines earlier set a rice production target this year of 17.2 million tonnes and imports of 1.5 million tonnes.
Angelito Banayo, head of the government's grain trading arm the National Food Authority, has allayed fears that the damage will require the outfit to import a higher volume of rice next year, the statement said. -- AFP
Thursday, October 28, 2010
News Update Manila seeks talks with rebels
MANILA - THE Philippine government announced a new team of negotiators on Thursday for peace talks with communist guerrillas, saying that ending one of Asia's longest and bloodiest Marxist insurgencies will be tough but possible.
Norway has agreed to continue brokering the talks between the Philippines and the Maoist rebels. Government negotiators will try to break a six-year impasse and seek informal meetings with the rebels this year, said Alex Padilla, a prominent human rights lawyer who was appointed chief government negotiator.
Presidential peace process adviser Teresita Deles said the creation of the five-member negotiating panel headed by Padilla was a major step in government efforts to tame the 41-year rebellion.
She added that 'the journey to peace will not be easy.' More than 120,000 combatants and civilians have died in the rural-based rebellion that has afflicted nearly all of the Philippines' 81 provinces. It is considered to be the impoverished Southeast Asian nation's most serious security threat and a major obstacle to economic development. The Philippines also has been grappling with Muslim rebels and al-Qaida-linked militants in its volatile south.
Peace talks brokered by Norway have been suspended since 2004 after the rebels accused the Manila government of instigating their inclusion on US and European terrorist lists. The rebels also are demanding the release of several left-wing activists and guerrillas.
Mr Padilla said the government will study how to deal with the rebel inclusion in US and EU terrorist blacklists, but added that this was a sovereign decision of those countries. -- AP
Norway has agreed to continue brokering the talks between the Philippines and the Maoist rebels. Government negotiators will try to break a six-year impasse and seek informal meetings with the rebels this year, said Alex Padilla, a prominent human rights lawyer who was appointed chief government negotiator.
Presidential peace process adviser Teresita Deles said the creation of the five-member negotiating panel headed by Padilla was a major step in government efforts to tame the 41-year rebellion.
She added that 'the journey to peace will not be easy.' More than 120,000 combatants and civilians have died in the rural-based rebellion that has afflicted nearly all of the Philippines' 81 provinces. It is considered to be the impoverished Southeast Asian nation's most serious security threat and a major obstacle to economic development. The Philippines also has been grappling with Muslim rebels and al-Qaida-linked militants in its volatile south.
Peace talks brokered by Norway have been suspended since 2004 after the rebels accused the Manila government of instigating their inclusion on US and European terrorist lists. The rebels also are demanding the release of several left-wing activists and guerrillas.
Mr Padilla said the government will study how to deal with the rebel inclusion in US and EU terrorist blacklists, but added that this was a sovereign decision of those countries. -- AP
News Update Philippine bus bomb kills 9
Philippine policemen remove one of the dead bodies from a passenger bus after a bomb exploded as it traveled along Matalam town. -- PHOTO: AFP
COTABATO (Philippines) - NINE people were killed on Thursday when a bomb exploded aboard a packed passenger bus in the troubled southern Philippines, authorities said.
The military and police said Muslim militants or bandits who are known to operate on the southern island of Mindanao could have been behind the attack, with extortion a possible motive. 'The bus company has long been receiving extortion letters from armed groups operating in the region,' regional military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Randolph Cabangbang said.
The bomb was apparently hidden inside a bag placed in a luggage compartment at the back of the bus, and exploded just after a group of men who were suspected to have planted it got off the vehicle, Cabangdang said.
Bus driver Arlan Tadeo, 38, who was unharmed in the incident, said there were 60 passengers on board when the explosion occurred. 'I saw in the rear-view mirror shattered blood-stained windows,' he said.
Mr Tadeo said parked the bus at the roadside and looked in the mirror again, to see headless bodies and passengers raising their bloody arms as they screamed for help. He added that police and military forces arrived in about 10 minutes and organised local residents to help take the victims to hospitals.
The bomb went off on a highway just outside Matalam town in a lightly populated farming area, largely planted with sugar cane. 'Eight people died on the spot,' said Matalam police chief Inspector Donald Cabigas, adding another one passed away in the hospital. Nine other people were injured, four of them critically, Insp Cabangbang added. -- AFP
News Update Robredo cites cops for ‘quick resolution’ to Cotabato bus blast
Six officers from the North Cotabato Provincial Police Office received commendation today from Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jesse Robredo, for the quick resolution to the Rural Transit bus bombing that killed 11 people last week. Two suspects, identified as Ibrahim Macasulay Alimanan, alias Torex, and Allamin Samal, alias Shiang, were arrested by the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Cotabato City on Saturday. (See related story: Criminal complaint filed vs 2 suspects in Cotabato bus blast.) Complaints of multiple murders, multiple frustrated murders, and multiple attempted murders have been filed against Torex and Shiang. The awarded police officers were led by Supt. Alex Tagum, who heads the Investigation Task Group Rural Transit. The other awardees are:Supt. Joseph Semillano, chief of the Kabacan police; Chief Insp. Bernouli Abalos; Insp. Roni Cordero, deputy head of the intelligence office of the Cotabato PNP; Insp. Joan Resureccion, commander of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team; and Insp. Baltazar Corpuz, action officer of the Cotabato PNP.Robredo told the officers during the awarding ceremony that he was impressed at how quickly the police and intelligence units in North Cotabato resolved the case. Within 24 hours of the bombing on Thursday last week, the police already had a lead in their investigation. After 48 hours, arrests were made. Witnesses key to the case
The statement of the bus driver was vital in resolving the case, said Sr. Supt. Cornelio Salinas, chief of the Cotabato Provincial Police Office. The driver was able to identify one of the suspects after he was shown photos of “police characters" and wanted persons in North Cotabato, explained Salinas. The suspect turned out to be a 15-year-old boy residing at Barangay Arakan in Matalam, North Cotabato, who had a police record of an arrest last June 23 for motorcycle theft. He voluntarily yielded to authorities, and admitted to his participation in the crime, according to the local police. The boy said that on the morning of October 21, he met Torex and Shiang, who gave him a bag and told him to leave it inside a red bus bound for Tacurong City. He didn’t know a bomb was inside the bag, said the boy, who will be made a witness in the case. The bomb exploded minutes after the boy disembarked at the Poblacion of Matalam, killing eight people on the spot. Three more people died while being treated at a hospital. At least seven of over 20 injured passengers remain in critical condition, said Cotabato Governor Lala Talinio-Mendoza. One of them, identified as Guinaid Adam, a former manager of the People’s Transport Community, is reportedly under tight security at the Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City. However, Adam is not in the list of suspects charged with the bombing, said Salinas. “If Adam was placed under heavy security, another unit, maybe, is after him. But he was not part of the bus bombing, according to our investigations," said Salinas At the moment, the 15-year old suspect-turned-witness has not been included in the list, either. Provincial prosecutor Jose Agerico de Guzman has yet to decide whether or not to include the boy in the charge sheet. The Cotabato Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office has not yet determined whether the boy acted with “discernment," or knowledge of the gravity of the crime he committed, said Sr. Insp. Joyce Birrey, North Cotabato PNP spokesperson. The Comprehensive Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act (RA 9344) states that “if a child above 15 years but below 18 acted with discernment, such a child shall be subjected to the appropriate court proceedings."
MILF: 'They are fall guys'
For its part, however, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front claimed that some of the suspects arrested and charged for last week's deadly bus bombing had nothing to do with the blast, and were just fall guys. (See: MILF: 'Suspects' in bus bombing are fall guys)
In an article posted on the MILF website on Wednesday, an MILF political officer based in Kidapawan City also accused the police and military of allegedly torturing the suspects into admitting their role in the incident.—Malu Cadeliña Manar/LRS/JV
The statement of the bus driver was vital in resolving the case, said Sr. Supt. Cornelio Salinas, chief of the Cotabato Provincial Police Office. The driver was able to identify one of the suspects after he was shown photos of “police characters" and wanted persons in North Cotabato, explained Salinas. The suspect turned out to be a 15-year-old boy residing at Barangay Arakan in Matalam, North Cotabato, who had a police record of an arrest last June 23 for motorcycle theft. He voluntarily yielded to authorities, and admitted to his participation in the crime, according to the local police. The boy said that on the morning of October 21, he met Torex and Shiang, who gave him a bag and told him to leave it inside a red bus bound for Tacurong City. He didn’t know a bomb was inside the bag, said the boy, who will be made a witness in the case. The bomb exploded minutes after the boy disembarked at the Poblacion of Matalam, killing eight people on the spot. Three more people died while being treated at a hospital. At least seven of over 20 injured passengers remain in critical condition, said Cotabato Governor Lala Talinio-Mendoza. One of them, identified as Guinaid Adam, a former manager of the People’s Transport Community, is reportedly under tight security at the Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City. However, Adam is not in the list of suspects charged with the bombing, said Salinas. “If Adam was placed under heavy security, another unit, maybe, is after him. But he was not part of the bus bombing, according to our investigations," said Salinas At the moment, the 15-year old suspect-turned-witness has not been included in the list, either. Provincial prosecutor Jose Agerico de Guzman has yet to decide whether or not to include the boy in the charge sheet. The Cotabato Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office has not yet determined whether the boy acted with “discernment," or knowledge of the gravity of the crime he committed, said Sr. Insp. Joyce Birrey, North Cotabato PNP spokesperson. The Comprehensive Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act (RA 9344) states that “if a child above 15 years but below 18 acted with discernment, such a child shall be subjected to the appropriate court proceedings."
MILF: 'They are fall guys'
For its part, however, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front claimed that some of the suspects arrested and charged for last week's deadly bus bombing had nothing to do with the blast, and were just fall guys. (See: MILF: 'Suspects' in bus bombing are fall guys)
In an article posted on the MILF website on Wednesday, an MILF political officer based in Kidapawan City also accused the police and military of allegedly torturing the suspects into admitting their role in the incident.—Malu Cadeliña Manar/LRS/JV
News Update Gov't Allocates P50 M for Rehab of Drain Tunnel
BAGUIO CITY - The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) approved the allocation of at least P50 million for the widening of the mouth of the tunnel and narrow portions of the City Camp lagoon drain tunnel to put an end to the perennial flooding during heavy rains and natural calamities which affect hundreds of residents living within the surroundings of the bowl-shaped lagoon. During the recent onslaught of super typhoon "Juan," hundreds of residents living within the mouth of the City Camp lagoon were evacuated by the city government after the same place was again flooded because of the huge volume of garbage being dumped by the residents in the tributaries which usually clog the lagoon's mouth. Ireneo Gallato, district engineer of the DPWH's Baguio City District Engineering office, informed affected village chieftains and concerned local officials that the agency plans to release 50 percent of the funds later this year while the remaining 50 percent will be released next year to implement the rehabilitation of the tunnel.
Because of the support extended by the national government to abate flooding in the heavily populated area through the initiative of Baguio Rep. Bernardo M. Vergara, Mayor Mauricio G. Domogan disclosed that the city government and the DPWH will be consulting the affected residents in the villages of City Camp proper, City Camp Central, Lower Rock Quarry, and Bakakeng Central, particularly the Crystal Cave area, to thresh out issues relative to the long standing opposition among them to conduct calibrated blasting within the tunnel to widen its narrow portions so that water will freely flow to its exit in the Asin River.
Part of the long-term project is for the construction of a state-of-the-art water impounding plant where collected water will be treated and be supplied to the host communities to boost their supply for potable water. According to Gallato, blasting of the narrow portions of the 3.8-kilometer tunnel has been a long time plan by both the city government and the DPWH as a permanent solution to the perennial lagoon flooding but the same failed to materialize because of stiff opposition from some groups of residents due to its alleged serious negative effects to the stability of structures in the affected areas. A previous feasibility study conducted by experts recommended the conduct of calibrated blasting to widen the narrow portions of the tunnel so that water will be able to freely flow even during heavy downpours and typhoons.
Because of the support extended by the national government to abate flooding in the heavily populated area through the initiative of Baguio Rep. Bernardo M. Vergara, Mayor Mauricio G. Domogan disclosed that the city government and the DPWH will be consulting the affected residents in the villages of City Camp proper, City Camp Central, Lower Rock Quarry, and Bakakeng Central, particularly the Crystal Cave area, to thresh out issues relative to the long standing opposition among them to conduct calibrated blasting within the tunnel to widen its narrow portions so that water will freely flow to its exit in the Asin River.
Part of the long-term project is for the construction of a state-of-the-art water impounding plant where collected water will be treated and be supplied to the host communities to boost their supply for potable water. According to Gallato, blasting of the narrow portions of the 3.8-kilometer tunnel has been a long time plan by both the city government and the DPWH as a permanent solution to the perennial lagoon flooding but the same failed to materialize because of stiff opposition from some groups of residents due to its alleged serious negative effects to the stability of structures in the affected areas. A previous feasibility study conducted by experts recommended the conduct of calibrated blasting to widen the narrow portions of the tunnel so that water will be able to freely flow even during heavy downpours and typhoons.
News Update DoLE Holds Luzon-Wide Consultations
VIGAN CITY - A Luzon-wide consultations in preparation for the multi-sectoral national summit on labor and employment was successfully held at the Clark Special Economic Zone in Angeles City, Pampanga last week, according to the Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) office here. This developed after representatives from the Regional Development Councils (RDCs), Regional Coordinating Councils (RCCs), Regional Tripartite Industrial Peace Councils (RTIPCs), youth sector, and civil society from Luzon's eight regions attended the two-day conference slated last October 21 and 22.
The participants represented the National Capital Region (NCR), Regions 1, 2, 3, 4-A, 4-B, 5, and the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). While the island-wide consultation in Mindanao was held from October 26 to 27, and the Visayas consultation will be conducted from October 28 to 29. DoLE Region 1 Director Henry John Jalbuena said that the consultation was a preparatory for the multi-partite National Summit on Labor and Employment on December 1 in Manila. The summit, which carries the theme "Developing our human resources, promoting full and productive employment and ensuring social protection for all," aims to convene DoLE's multipartite national and regional stakeholders towards the formulation, validation, and presentation of the Labor and Employment Agenda as an input to the Medium-Term Philippine Development Plan for 2011 to 2016. (Freddie G. Lazaro)
The participants represented the National Capital Region (NCR), Regions 1, 2, 3, 4-A, 4-B, 5, and the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). While the island-wide consultation in Mindanao was held from October 26 to 27, and the Visayas consultation will be conducted from October 28 to 29. DoLE Region 1 Director Henry John Jalbuena said that the consultation was a preparatory for the multi-partite National Summit on Labor and Employment on December 1 in Manila. The summit, which carries the theme "Developing our human resources, promoting full and productive employment and ensuring social protection for all," aims to convene DoLE's multipartite national and regional stakeholders towards the formulation, validation, and presentation of the Labor and Employment Agenda as an input to the Medium-Term Philippine Development Plan for 2011 to 2016. (Freddie G. Lazaro)
News Update 200-MW Coal-Fired Plant Up in Sarangani
GENERAL SANTOS CITY - The construction of the $450 million coalfired power plant in the coastal town of Maasim in Sarangani is set to start early next year, a top official of Conal Holdings Corporation said. "We're now moving into the detailed design and engineering phase of the project. We've set the construction phase to begin early next year because we can't anymore delay the project.
The power outlook for Mindanao is not good if no new power generation facility will go on stream," Conal Holdings vice president Joseph Nocos said in a press briefing here. Nocos said they are presently finalizing the processing of various government requirements that will allow them to start the construction of the 200-megawatt (MW) coal-fired power plant project in Maasim. The plan, when operational, is expected to help ease Mindanao's lingering power deficit by the year 2014. According to Nocos, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources has recently issued an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) to Conal Holdings - of Alcantara group, and Thailand's largest power producer Electricity Generating Public Co. The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) said that Mindanao's power capacity stands at 1,331-MW and estimated a conservative annual demand growth of three percent. Nocos said "the power shortage will most likely be felt in 2011 and it will become worse if no new power generation facilities will rise until 2014." He also warned consumers to brace for a double whammy - higher power rates that are "reflective of the true cost of power in Mindanao" and power supply lack with no new power generation facility on stream by then.
Currently, the South Cotabato Electric Cooperative II (Socoteco II) charges less than P6 per kilowatthour to its consumers in the city, the whole of Sarangani province, and parts of South Cotabato. Nocos said the higher power rates would take a toll on consumers with the privatization of National Power Corporation's power plants as required by Republic Act 9136 or the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 (EPIRA). Adding that once the NPC privatizes its Agus and Pulangi hydropower plants, it will lead to some increase in power costs as the investors will have to recover their investments, he explained. Already, more than half of Mindanao's power requirement comes from the hydropower plants, thus consumers in the area enjoy lower power rates compared to those in Luzon and the Visayas. Meanwhile, Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Luwalhati Antonino said the government has not arrived on a firm decision to sell the hydropower plants to the private sector. She cited the proposal of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry against the privatization of the hydropower plants as reason for the non-committal in having the facilities under private hands. Antonino said that Congress is still studying the proposal to amend the EPIRA over fears raised by the business sector. Nocos said that once their coalfired power plant goes on stream, consumers in the service area of Socoteco II will enjoy at least a peso of reduction as the company will directly connect to the transmission facilities of the cooperative.
The power outlook for Mindanao is not good if no new power generation facility will go on stream," Conal Holdings vice president Joseph Nocos said in a press briefing here. Nocos said they are presently finalizing the processing of various government requirements that will allow them to start the construction of the 200-megawatt (MW) coal-fired power plant project in Maasim. The plan, when operational, is expected to help ease Mindanao's lingering power deficit by the year 2014. According to Nocos, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources has recently issued an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) to Conal Holdings - of Alcantara group, and Thailand's largest power producer Electricity Generating Public Co. The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) said that Mindanao's power capacity stands at 1,331-MW and estimated a conservative annual demand growth of three percent. Nocos said "the power shortage will most likely be felt in 2011 and it will become worse if no new power generation facilities will rise until 2014." He also warned consumers to brace for a double whammy - higher power rates that are "reflective of the true cost of power in Mindanao" and power supply lack with no new power generation facility on stream by then.
Currently, the South Cotabato Electric Cooperative II (Socoteco II) charges less than P6 per kilowatthour to its consumers in the city, the whole of Sarangani province, and parts of South Cotabato. Nocos said the higher power rates would take a toll on consumers with the privatization of National Power Corporation's power plants as required by Republic Act 9136 or the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 (EPIRA). Adding that once the NPC privatizes its Agus and Pulangi hydropower plants, it will lead to some increase in power costs as the investors will have to recover their investments, he explained. Already, more than half of Mindanao's power requirement comes from the hydropower plants, thus consumers in the area enjoy lower power rates compared to those in Luzon and the Visayas. Meanwhile, Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Luwalhati Antonino said the government has not arrived on a firm decision to sell the hydropower plants to the private sector. She cited the proposal of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry against the privatization of the hydropower plants as reason for the non-committal in having the facilities under private hands. Antonino said that Congress is still studying the proposal to amend the EPIRA over fears raised by the business sector. Nocos said that once their coalfired power plant goes on stream, consumers in the service area of Socoteco II will enjoy at least a peso of reduction as the company will directly connect to the transmission facilities of the cooperative.
News Update Gov't Promotes Agri-Pinoy Program
DAVAO CITY (PNA) - The Region 11 office here of the Department of Agriculture (DA 11) recently conducted a five-day information caravan in five areas in the Davao Region to promote the Aquino administration's Agri-Pinoy Program. Enya Celoso, DA's focal person of the program, said Agri-Pinoy aims to promote active participation not only among local government unit (LGU) officials but also among farmers, non-government organizations (NGOs), and private sectors for agricultural development. Celoso said the first leg of the information sorties was held here with its slogan, "Bridging the gap, touching the heart."
He said the program is based on the principles of sustainable agriculture, natural resource-based management, food security, and local development, among others. On the same occasion, Regional Rice Seed Coordinator Rose Mediano disclosed that under the Agri-Pinoy Grains Program, rice seed subsidy has been abolished throughout the Davao Region. "However, government intervention in terms of restoration and rehabilitation of communal irrigation systems have been expanded," Mediano said. He said organic fertilizer assistance in the form of establishment of composting facilities and seed storage facilities will also be put in place, among other interventions. "On research and development, Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) in partnership with the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and other plant breeding institutions, will continue the development of new as well as improvement of existing rice varieties and other productivity enhancing technologies adaptable to climate change and emerging pests and diseases including trials on upland technologies and seed production which are location-specific," Mediano said. In response, City Agriculturist Leo Avila said the launching of the Agri-Pinoy program is very timely and is in line with one of the city's major agricultural thrusts which are developing its indigenous upland rice varieties.
"At present, we have gathered more than 40 varieties of upland rice from one of the Indigenous Peoples' groups in Marilog district, and with the help of DA (Department of Agriculture), we can now go ahead with our plan of conducting studies to determine the adaptability of these varieties in other up-land areas of the city, Avila said. Aside from the city and municipal agriculturists, the information briefing was also attended by the city planning officers and representatives from the congressional offices. The information drive which was conducted here is also conducted in Digos City in Davao del Sur, Nabunturan in Compostela Valley Province, Tagum City in Davao del Norte, and Mati in Davao Oriental.
He said the program is based on the principles of sustainable agriculture, natural resource-based management, food security, and local development, among others. On the same occasion, Regional Rice Seed Coordinator Rose Mediano disclosed that under the Agri-Pinoy Grains Program, rice seed subsidy has been abolished throughout the Davao Region. "However, government intervention in terms of restoration and rehabilitation of communal irrigation systems have been expanded," Mediano said. He said organic fertilizer assistance in the form of establishment of composting facilities and seed storage facilities will also be put in place, among other interventions. "On research and development, Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) in partnership with the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and other plant breeding institutions, will continue the development of new as well as improvement of existing rice varieties and other productivity enhancing technologies adaptable to climate change and emerging pests and diseases including trials on upland technologies and seed production which are location-specific," Mediano said. In response, City Agriculturist Leo Avila said the launching of the Agri-Pinoy program is very timely and is in line with one of the city's major agricultural thrusts which are developing its indigenous upland rice varieties.
"At present, we have gathered more than 40 varieties of upland rice from one of the Indigenous Peoples' groups in Marilog district, and with the help of DA (Department of Agriculture), we can now go ahead with our plan of conducting studies to determine the adaptability of these varieties in other up-land areas of the city, Avila said. Aside from the city and municipal agriculturists, the information briefing was also attended by the city planning officers and representatives from the congressional offices. The information drive which was conducted here is also conducted in Digos City in Davao del Sur, Nabunturan in Compostela Valley Province, Tagum City in Davao del Norte, and Mati in Davao Oriental.
News Update Support for Bicol's 'Pili' Industry Sought
MANILA, Philippines - A study conducted by a team of biotechnologists Wednesday urged the Aquino government to support the pili industry based in Bicol and improve the tree as a source of resin but also of oil and other micronutrients.
The 56-page study said that pili growers have been at the mercy of middlemen who purchase the nuts before they are ready for harvest and hold on to the product from nine to 12 months to maximize their profits.
One industry player said the farmers are compelled to sell their produce immediately to gain liquidity while the traders dry the nuts, store them and sell them when the market supply is low.
This is the reason, the study showed, that middlemen have a high 75 percent return on investment (ROI) while processors net between 20 percent and 30 percent.
In this equation, the farmers get the low end of the bargain even as some of them sell the pili trees to gain higher income. Pili trees are a source of premium wood for making furniture.
"A real incentive the government could offer is a low-interest financial subsidy program designed to help the average farmer weather lean months without compelling them to commit an entire harvest in exchange for immediate access to cash. This subsidy program (a credit system) would allow farmers to directly control production and distribution as well as maximize their financial benefit by giving them direct access to local and international buyers. This subsidy system would also enhance a competitive environment that is conducive to economic growth as it will relatively increase the velocity of cash at every layer of the economic value chain," the study suggested.
The team that undertook the study was surprised to find out the low buying price of pili (scientific name, Canarium ovatum, while thee other variety is C. luzonicum) even as the seasonal tree had been known as the source of Manila elemi, a resin used for sealing traditional boats, and demand for its essential oil in Europe, the United States and Japan had been rising since the 1950s.
"Despite the recorded growth in the production of Pili from 1990 through 2008 the industry, as a whole remains risk-averse, conflict-ridden and growth-stagnant," it added.
Moreover, the study found out that pili farmers are generally poor and could not expand their area of cultivation since "vast tracts of land most suitable for the production of pili are constantly being converted to serve the recreational, residential, commercial, or even agricultural needs of the region," it added.
"Pili possesses the characteristics to become among our country's most valuable export commodity. Categorically, pili nuts can compete with cashew, almond and macadamia in terms of texture, taste, and extracted micronutrient yield. The Pili nut can be further processed into a variety of already known confectionaries, baked products and other delicacies...The nut has a high percentage of oil content ranging from 65 to 73 percent. Studies have shown that this oil is equal, if not superior, to olive oil in terms of taste, fatty acid composition and nutrient content. In fact, oil from Pili nut has 11.5 to 14 percent protein, comparable to the protein content of soybean," the study said.
The 56-page study said that pili growers have been at the mercy of middlemen who purchase the nuts before they are ready for harvest and hold on to the product from nine to 12 months to maximize their profits.
One industry player said the farmers are compelled to sell their produce immediately to gain liquidity while the traders dry the nuts, store them and sell them when the market supply is low.
This is the reason, the study showed, that middlemen have a high 75 percent return on investment (ROI) while processors net between 20 percent and 30 percent.
In this equation, the farmers get the low end of the bargain even as some of them sell the pili trees to gain higher income. Pili trees are a source of premium wood for making furniture.
"A real incentive the government could offer is a low-interest financial subsidy program designed to help the average farmer weather lean months without compelling them to commit an entire harvest in exchange for immediate access to cash. This subsidy program (a credit system) would allow farmers to directly control production and distribution as well as maximize their financial benefit by giving them direct access to local and international buyers. This subsidy system would also enhance a competitive environment that is conducive to economic growth as it will relatively increase the velocity of cash at every layer of the economic value chain," the study suggested.
The team that undertook the study was surprised to find out the low buying price of pili (scientific name, Canarium ovatum, while thee other variety is C. luzonicum) even as the seasonal tree had been known as the source of Manila elemi, a resin used for sealing traditional boats, and demand for its essential oil in Europe, the United States and Japan had been rising since the 1950s.
"Despite the recorded growth in the production of Pili from 1990 through 2008 the industry, as a whole remains risk-averse, conflict-ridden and growth-stagnant," it added.
Moreover, the study found out that pili farmers are generally poor and could not expand their area of cultivation since "vast tracts of land most suitable for the production of pili are constantly being converted to serve the recreational, residential, commercial, or even agricultural needs of the region," it added.
"Pili possesses the characteristics to become among our country's most valuable export commodity. Categorically, pili nuts can compete with cashew, almond and macadamia in terms of texture, taste, and extracted micronutrient yield. The Pili nut can be further processed into a variety of already known confectionaries, baked products and other delicacies...The nut has a high percentage of oil content ranging from 65 to 73 percent. Studies have shown that this oil is equal, if not superior, to olive oil in terms of taste, fatty acid composition and nutrient content. In fact, oil from Pili nut has 11.5 to 14 percent protein, comparable to the protein content of soybean," the study said.
News Update Andal Jr, men beat up victims first before shooting them - witness
Before they were mercilessly shot to death, victims of the November 23 massacre in Maguindanao province were beaten up first by prime suspect Andal Ampatuan Jr. and his men using the butts of their firearms, a witness told a hearing on Wednesday.
Former Police Inspector Rex Ariel Diongon, a co-accused in the case who turned state witness, was at the checkpoint at Sitio Malatin in Barangay Salman in Ampatuan town where the victims, who were in a convoy, were stopped by the suspects. At that time, he was head of the local police's Regional Mobile Group.
The convoy was composed of relatives and supporters of now Maguindanao governor Esmael “Toto" Mangudadatu, and several journalists. They were on their way to Shariff Aguak to file Mangudadatu’s certificate of candidacy (COC) for the May 10, 2010 elections.
Diongon, the prosecution's fourth witness, told Quezon City Judge Jocelyn Solis-Reyes of the Regional Trial Court Branch 221 that Andal Jr. wanted to prevent Mangudadatu, member of a rival clan, from filing his COC.
"Bring them to me"
"Maaaring hindi si Toto ang magfa-file. Baka may third party. Ang gusto ko, kahit sino ang magdadala ng COC ay maharang at dalhin sa akin," Diongon quoted Andal Jr., then mayor of Datu Unsay town, as telling him in Filipino.
(It’s possible that Toto will not file the papers himself, but whoever will do it for him, I want them picked up and brought to me.)
Diongon said after getting instruction from Andal Jr. in a meeting on November 19, he and his men, all clad in police camouflage uniform, trooped to Sito Malatin and set up a checkpoint. They were armed with high-powered firearms, including six M14 rifles, four M16 rifles, and one Garand rifle. He said most of the weapons were issued by Andal Sr., patriarch of the Ampatuan clan.
He said they manned the checkpoint from November 19 until November 23. During which, they ate food bought using money handed to them by Andal Jr.
D-Day
Diongon said on November 23, Andal Jr. and his private army arrived at the checkpoint on board 15 vehicles. When the victims’ convoy arrived, they were stopped and Andal Jr. allegedly ordered the passengers to get out of their vehicles.
"Nakita niya ang isa sa mga lalaki at tinusuk-tusok siya ng baril niya (He poked one of the guys with his firearm)," Diongon said, referring to Andal Jr.
The state witness said he recognized the victim as Andres Teodoro, a local journalist, who would eventually be killed along with 31 other media practitioners -- the most number of journalists killed in the Philippines in a single day.
Diongon said he knew who Teodoro was because the latter used to cover police operations in the province.
While being hit by Andal Jr. using an M16 rifle, Teodoro was allegedly shouting and begging at the same time: "Datu, huwag ako. Tauhan ako ni RG (Datu, don’t hurt me. I’m a supporter of RG)."
Diongon said RG stood for "regional governor," who at that time was Andal Sr. He said the younger Ampatuan continued beating Teodoro despite the pleas before proceeding to the other members of the ill-fated convoy.
Follow the leader
Diongon said Andal Jr.'s men then joined in mauling the victims using their firearms. He said he pitied one of the victims and told him to board the vehicle. The convoy was later brought to a hilly portion in Ampatuan town where they were shot.
The prosecution's second witness, Norodin Mauyag, in an earlier hearing told the court he saw Andal Jr. order the victims to lie face down on the ground. Like Diongon, he also claimed to have seen Andal Jr. fire a shot on the ground near a female victim.
But Mauyag did not mention anything about the prime suspect and his men beating up the victims with their firearms. – KBK
Former Police Inspector Rex Ariel Diongon, a co-accused in the case who turned state witness, was at the checkpoint at Sitio Malatin in Barangay Salman in Ampatuan town where the victims, who were in a convoy, were stopped by the suspects. At that time, he was head of the local police's Regional Mobile Group.
The convoy was composed of relatives and supporters of now Maguindanao governor Esmael “Toto" Mangudadatu, and several journalists. They were on their way to Shariff Aguak to file Mangudadatu’s certificate of candidacy (COC) for the May 10, 2010 elections.
Diongon, the prosecution's fourth witness, told Quezon City Judge Jocelyn Solis-Reyes of the Regional Trial Court Branch 221 that Andal Jr. wanted to prevent Mangudadatu, member of a rival clan, from filing his COC.
"Bring them to me"
"Maaaring hindi si Toto ang magfa-file. Baka may third party. Ang gusto ko, kahit sino ang magdadala ng COC ay maharang at dalhin sa akin," Diongon quoted Andal Jr., then mayor of Datu Unsay town, as telling him in Filipino.
(It’s possible that Toto will not file the papers himself, but whoever will do it for him, I want them picked up and brought to me.)
Diongon said after getting instruction from Andal Jr. in a meeting on November 19, he and his men, all clad in police camouflage uniform, trooped to Sito Malatin and set up a checkpoint. They were armed with high-powered firearms, including six M14 rifles, four M16 rifles, and one Garand rifle. He said most of the weapons were issued by Andal Sr., patriarch of the Ampatuan clan.
He said they manned the checkpoint from November 19 until November 23. During which, they ate food bought using money handed to them by Andal Jr.
D-Day
Diongon said on November 23, Andal Jr. and his private army arrived at the checkpoint on board 15 vehicles. When the victims’ convoy arrived, they were stopped and Andal Jr. allegedly ordered the passengers to get out of their vehicles.
"Nakita niya ang isa sa mga lalaki at tinusuk-tusok siya ng baril niya (He poked one of the guys with his firearm)," Diongon said, referring to Andal Jr.
The state witness said he recognized the victim as Andres Teodoro, a local journalist, who would eventually be killed along with 31 other media practitioners -- the most number of journalists killed in the Philippines in a single day.
Diongon said he knew who Teodoro was because the latter used to cover police operations in the province.
While being hit by Andal Jr. using an M16 rifle, Teodoro was allegedly shouting and begging at the same time: "Datu, huwag ako. Tauhan ako ni RG (Datu, don’t hurt me. I’m a supporter of RG)."
Diongon said RG stood for "regional governor," who at that time was Andal Sr. He said the younger Ampatuan continued beating Teodoro despite the pleas before proceeding to the other members of the ill-fated convoy.
Follow the leader
Diongon said Andal Jr.'s men then joined in mauling the victims using their firearms. He said he pitied one of the victims and told him to board the vehicle. The convoy was later brought to a hilly portion in Ampatuan town where they were shot.
The prosecution's second witness, Norodin Mauyag, in an earlier hearing told the court he saw Andal Jr. order the victims to lie face down on the ground. Like Diongon, he also claimed to have seen Andal Jr. fire a shot on the ground near a female victim.
But Mauyag did not mention anything about the prime suspect and his men beating up the victims with their firearms. – KBK
News Update Palace pleased with minor lift in RP’s global corruption rating
Malacañang is pleased by the Philippines' minor improvement in Transparency International's global corruption index even though the country remains in the "highly corrupt" category, a Palace spokesman said Wednesday.
"We are happy that we have improved and four months is a good indication that apparently, Transparency International is recognizing our efforts," said presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda in a press briefing.
The Philippines ranked 134th out of 178 countries in Transparency International's Corruption Perception Index for 2010, with a score of 2.4. It was also ranked 26th out of 33 countries in the Asia-Pacific region.
This is an improvement of five places from the country’s previous rank of 139th among 180 countries in TI's CPI for 2009, although the Philippines' score last year was also 2.4.
Lacierda said the improvement of the Philippines' rating shows that President Benigno Aquino III's commitment to stamp out corruption is gradually taking effect.
"We’re just four months old, and the fact that we improved in the ranking says something about our determination to promote good governance. We’ll continue to do our part in the promotion of good governance," Lacierda said.
Aquino, whose electoral campaign was anchored on the "Kung Walang Corrupt, Walang Mahirap" (No corruption means no poverty) slogan, assumed the presidency on June 30.
Lacierda said Aquino's efforts at good governance is not limited to the creation of the Truth Commission that will investigate corruption scandals during the administration of former president Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.
Lacierda said seeking the prosecution of corrupt officials is only one of Aquino’s efforts to fight corruption in the country.
"It’s more of the fact that President Aquino is leading by example. The fact that he is known as a man who is not tainted with corruption speaks for itself, and we intend to do that in our ways to promote good governance," said the Palace spokesman.
Also in the list of "highly corrupt" countries in the index with the Philippines were the following countries: In Asia-Pacific: Indonesia, Solomon Islands, Mongolia, Vietnam, Lebanon, Timor-Leste, Syria, Bangladesh, Maldives, Pakistan, Iran, Libya, Nepal, Yemen, Cambodia, Laos, Papua New Guinea;
In Africa: Algeria, Senegal, Benin, Gabon, Ethiopia, Mali, Mozambique, Tanzania, Eritrea, Madagascar, Niger, Uganda, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Togo, Zimbabwe, Mauritania, Cameroon, Cote d'Ivoire, Central African Republic, Comoros, Congo-Brazzaville, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Congo, Guinea;
In Latin America: Argentina, Bolivia, Guyana, Ecuador, Nicaragua, Honduras, Haiti, Paraguay, Venezuela;
In Europe including the old Soviet Union: Moldova, Kosovo, Kazakhstan, Armenia, Belarus, Azerbaijan, Ukraine, Russia, Tajikistan, Kyrgyztan.Denmark topped the 2010 CPI with a score of 9.3, while the bottom place was occupied by Somalia with a score of 1.1.
The rest of the top 10 included New Zealand (9.3), Singapore (9.3), Finland (9.2), Sweden (9.2), Canada (8.9), Netherlands (8.8), Australia (8.7), Switzerland (8.7), and Norway (8.6).—JV
"We are happy that we have improved and four months is a good indication that apparently, Transparency International is recognizing our efforts," said presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda in a press briefing.
The Philippines ranked 134th out of 178 countries in Transparency International's Corruption Perception Index for 2010, with a score of 2.4. It was also ranked 26th out of 33 countries in the Asia-Pacific region.
This is an improvement of five places from the country’s previous rank of 139th among 180 countries in TI's CPI for 2009, although the Philippines' score last year was also 2.4.
Lacierda said the improvement of the Philippines' rating shows that President Benigno Aquino III's commitment to stamp out corruption is gradually taking effect.
"We’re just four months old, and the fact that we improved in the ranking says something about our determination to promote good governance. We’ll continue to do our part in the promotion of good governance," Lacierda said.
Aquino, whose electoral campaign was anchored on the "Kung Walang Corrupt, Walang Mahirap" (No corruption means no poverty) slogan, assumed the presidency on June 30.
Lacierda said Aquino's efforts at good governance is not limited to the creation of the Truth Commission that will investigate corruption scandals during the administration of former president Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.
Lacierda said seeking the prosecution of corrupt officials is only one of Aquino’s efforts to fight corruption in the country.
"It’s more of the fact that President Aquino is leading by example. The fact that he is known as a man who is not tainted with corruption speaks for itself, and we intend to do that in our ways to promote good governance," said the Palace spokesman.
Also in the list of "highly corrupt" countries in the index with the Philippines were the following countries: In Asia-Pacific: Indonesia, Solomon Islands, Mongolia, Vietnam, Lebanon, Timor-Leste, Syria, Bangladesh, Maldives, Pakistan, Iran, Libya, Nepal, Yemen, Cambodia, Laos, Papua New Guinea;
In Africa: Algeria, Senegal, Benin, Gabon, Ethiopia, Mali, Mozambique, Tanzania, Eritrea, Madagascar, Niger, Uganda, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Togo, Zimbabwe, Mauritania, Cameroon, Cote d'Ivoire, Central African Republic, Comoros, Congo-Brazzaville, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Congo, Guinea;
In Latin America: Argentina, Bolivia, Guyana, Ecuador, Nicaragua, Honduras, Haiti, Paraguay, Venezuela;
In Europe including the old Soviet Union: Moldova, Kosovo, Kazakhstan, Armenia, Belarus, Azerbaijan, Ukraine, Russia, Tajikistan, Kyrgyztan.Denmark topped the 2010 CPI with a score of 9.3, while the bottom place was occupied by Somalia with a score of 1.1.
The rest of the top 10 included New Zealand (9.3), Singapore (9.3), Finland (9.2), Sweden (9.2), Canada (8.9), Netherlands (8.8), Australia (8.7), Switzerland (8.7), and Norway (8.6).—JV
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
kopi talk Straight Path for Barangay Execs
PRESIDENT Benigno Aquino III calls on new barangay leaders to support and follow his "straight path" policy. Yes, in governance and public service, a straight line is the shortest distance to progress. *** Barangays are "the first unit of government that provides service to our people," stresses P-Noy. If newly elected barangay officials would only perform well, our country would become better. *** The newly elected barangay officials nationwide number more than 600, 0000. Congrats! Verily, serve as agents of change and pillars of progress! *** The current breed of barangay officials, from chairmen to kagawads to Sangguinan Pangkabataan are generally more educated, younger, less traditional and more progressive says DILG Sec Jese Robredo.
Okay, let them give their best and serve well. And let no one be called "Komisyoner". *** The new barangay officials were elected on a regular holiday covered by "no work, no pay" policy. Let the "no work, no pay policy" apply to them, too, during their term. *** As barangay leaders exercise more powers, they should also be more accountable to the people, adds Robredo. Yes to greater role, yes to greater accountability to the people. *** VP Jejomar Binay, serving as presidential adviser, also calls for the greater involvement of barangay and local officials in helping OFWs, especially those coming from their respective communities. Yes, help Makabagong Bayani whenever they get in trouble. *** Retired Archbishop Oscar Cruz says the President should be given "more time and space to meet and know women, one of whom he might actually choose as the First Lady of the Philippines." Short of saying let P-Noy have children- and create his own barangay, too. He-he. *** Church leaders and the faithful pray the "Oratio Imperata" for the country's deliverance from more calamities. Yes, Lord, spare us from super typhoons, bad luck, bad leaders and all...
Okay, let them give their best and serve well. And let no one be called "Komisyoner". *** The new barangay officials were elected on a regular holiday covered by "no work, no pay" policy. Let the "no work, no pay policy" apply to them, too, during their term. *** As barangay leaders exercise more powers, they should also be more accountable to the people, adds Robredo. Yes to greater role, yes to greater accountability to the people. *** VP Jejomar Binay, serving as presidential adviser, also calls for the greater involvement of barangay and local officials in helping OFWs, especially those coming from their respective communities. Yes, help Makabagong Bayani whenever they get in trouble. *** Retired Archbishop Oscar Cruz says the President should be given "more time and space to meet and know women, one of whom he might actually choose as the First Lady of the Philippines." Short of saying let P-Noy have children- and create his own barangay, too. He-he. *** Church leaders and the faithful pray the "Oratio Imperata" for the country's deliverance from more calamities. Yes, Lord, spare us from super typhoons, bad luck, bad leaders and all...
kopi talk Barangay Election 2010
MANILA, Philippines - I have always been a great believer in the concept of participation and subsidiarity. The latter means that the larger unit of government should not do what the smallest unit (which is the village or barangay) is able to perform. The latter should be given the support and encouragement that would make it feel truly empowered. After all, the barangay is closest to the citizens and can more effectively respond to problems such as peace and order, environment, and even livelihood training of its citizenry. It also provides medical and dental services to the needy. We know of some barangays with exemplary leaders that have been able to respond to most of the needs of the residents. I live in an area where the barangay council had functioned satisfactorily over the years. We have been fortunate to have had hard-working barangay chairpersons and a competent set of kagawads.
As of this writing, the polls have just closed, although voting in some 1,700 barangays had been postponed for the following day (Tuesday) because of delays in the arrival of election paraphernalia.
But the reports from the field thus far have not been encouraging. Comelec says that voting has been smooth in 96% of the barangays. Which is quite true as the turnout is much less than it was during the May election. There were only 60 who had voted ahead of me when I arrived at the polling place at 10:30 am. But I did note that the voters' list had been juggled as the list was different - with my name appearing as No. 98. I did not see evidence of vote buying which, I understand, was rampant, especially in the SK election. There were several flying voters apprehended in Metro Manila, ballot snatching in Abra, and at least 47 incidents of violence throughout the country. PNP Director Benjie Belarmino who was interviewed on ANC's Rundown said the election this year was peaceful compared to 2007 when the incidence of violence was much higher. However, he noted that violence occurred in places that were not identified as "hot spots."
President Aquino has expressed dismay over the conduct of the election. Atty. Calleja, legal counsel of the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting, likewise expressed the Council's disappointment over Comelec's inadequate preparation. The National Printing Office's printing machines were old, thus resulting in printing errors. Part of the delay was, therefore, due to the re-printing of ballots and other election materials. Even the paper used was of low quality. Road hitches and shipping problems were blamed for the delays in arrival of materials, especially in the Bicol provinces. Comelec Legal Director Rafanan noted the lessons learned in this election, among them the need to computerize voters' list and the use of biometrics Perhaps the one positive outcome that it resulted in was considerable government savings (P63 million) from the P93-million budget allocated for forwarding costs of election paraphernalia. Could this perhaps be due to transparency in the bidding process?
In this 2010 Barangay and Sanguniang Kabataan elections, 42,025 barangay chairmen and 294,175.kagawads and similar numbers of SK chairmen and kagawads will be selected. However, some 4,000 multi-timers will be disqualified and may even face legal suits and sanctions.
Commenting on the interest and number of candidates, Comelec Commissioner Velasco said that this was perhaps due to the provision of benefits, honorariums, and IRA which had encouraged more people to run for barangay positions.
After the dust had settled and the elected officials shall have assumed office, we hope that Comelec will be able to come up with a fairly plausible assessment that will satisfy the public. It still has to answer questions on the Automated Election System. We do not know if it is still suffering from fatigue, but this certainly is no excuse for not performing up to par during this last election. I think many like me would like to see reforms put in place to make the barangay structure more responsive and accountable. This of course must start with the electoral system. My e-mail is florangel.braid@gmail.com
As of this writing, the polls have just closed, although voting in some 1,700 barangays had been postponed for the following day (Tuesday) because of delays in the arrival of election paraphernalia.
But the reports from the field thus far have not been encouraging. Comelec says that voting has been smooth in 96% of the barangays. Which is quite true as the turnout is much less than it was during the May election. There were only 60 who had voted ahead of me when I arrived at the polling place at 10:30 am. But I did note that the voters' list had been juggled as the list was different - with my name appearing as No. 98. I did not see evidence of vote buying which, I understand, was rampant, especially in the SK election. There were several flying voters apprehended in Metro Manila, ballot snatching in Abra, and at least 47 incidents of violence throughout the country. PNP Director Benjie Belarmino who was interviewed on ANC's Rundown said the election this year was peaceful compared to 2007 when the incidence of violence was much higher. However, he noted that violence occurred in places that were not identified as "hot spots."
President Aquino has expressed dismay over the conduct of the election. Atty. Calleja, legal counsel of the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting, likewise expressed the Council's disappointment over Comelec's inadequate preparation. The National Printing Office's printing machines were old, thus resulting in printing errors. Part of the delay was, therefore, due to the re-printing of ballots and other election materials. Even the paper used was of low quality. Road hitches and shipping problems were blamed for the delays in arrival of materials, especially in the Bicol provinces. Comelec Legal Director Rafanan noted the lessons learned in this election, among them the need to computerize voters' list and the use of biometrics Perhaps the one positive outcome that it resulted in was considerable government savings (P63 million) from the P93-million budget allocated for forwarding costs of election paraphernalia. Could this perhaps be due to transparency in the bidding process?
In this 2010 Barangay and Sanguniang Kabataan elections, 42,025 barangay chairmen and 294,175.kagawads and similar numbers of SK chairmen and kagawads will be selected. However, some 4,000 multi-timers will be disqualified and may even face legal suits and sanctions.
Commenting on the interest and number of candidates, Comelec Commissioner Velasco said that this was perhaps due to the provision of benefits, honorariums, and IRA which had encouraged more people to run for barangay positions.
After the dust had settled and the elected officials shall have assumed office, we hope that Comelec will be able to come up with a fairly plausible assessment that will satisfy the public. It still has to answer questions on the Automated Election System. We do not know if it is still suffering from fatigue, but this certainly is no excuse for not performing up to par during this last election. I think many like me would like to see reforms put in place to make the barangay structure more responsive and accountable. This of course must start with the electoral system. My e-mail is florangel.braid@gmail.com
News Update Once again, Manila court defers arraignment of Mendoza’s brother
The Manila Metropolitan Trial Court (MMTC) again postponed the arraignment of the brother of slain hostage taker former Senior Inspector Rolando Mendoza. MMTC Branch 11 Judge Ernest Louie Miguel reset the arraignment and preliminary conference of Manila Police District (MPD) Senior Police Officer 2 Gregorio Mendoza, which was scheduled on Tuesday, after Mendoza’s lawyer filed a motion for reconsideration. The arraignment was postponed to Dec. 2. An earlier arraignment, scheduled for Sept. 3 was rescheduled to Oct. 26. SPO2 Mendoza is being charged for being an accomplice of his brother in the Aug. 23 Manila hostage crisis. On that day the older Mendoza, disgruntled over his dismissal from police service for alleged extortion, had commandeered a tourist bus from Intramuros and held hostage 21 Hong Kong tourists and four Filipinos to push for his demand that he be reinstated. The drama, which played out for 11 hours at the Quirino grandstand in Luneta Park, ended with the gunman opening fire while police struggled to take him down and rescue the hostages.
Mendoza and eight Hong Kong tourists were killed and several others were injured in the ensuing carnage.
In the aftermath of the botched hostage rescue, the government created the Incident Investigation and Review Committee (IIRC) to investigate the fiasco and make recommendations, and on Sept. 17, it released its report. On Oct. 11, after Malacañang’s legal team reviewed the IIRC report, President Benigno Aquino III ordered the filing of administrative charges against the Manila mayor and some police officers, but spared top police and security officials including Interior Undersecretary Rico Puno and retired Philippine National Police chief Jesus Verzosa from criminal prosecution.
At the same time, Aquino ordered the filing of criminal charges against SPO2 Mendoza for allegedly aiding his hostage-taker brother. Faulted for being a brother “My only fault is that I am the brother of the hostage taker," SPO2 Mendoza when he appeared at the sala of Judge Miguel.
He said he could not believe that the government is still after him despite the fact that it was his slain brother who held tourists hostage. SP02 Mendoza maintained that he was innocent of serious disobedience charges filed by the Manila Police District (MPD). “I did not do anything wrong. I guess they can only fault me for the fact that (Rolando) Mendoza was my brother," he told reporters. Miguel had to postpone the arraignment after Mendoza’s counsel filed a motion for reconsideration on the judge's order, which junked the accused motion to quash. The prosecution panel, for its part, told the court that they would just adapt the previous comment they had submitted against the defense's motion.
In mid-October, the younger Mendoza had accused the head of the crisis committee in charge of the hostage taking, Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim, of ordering his liquidation, saying that it was this fact triggered his brother’s rage and the bloodbath.
Echoing the conclusion of the IIRC based on the testimony of another police official, Mendoza asserted that Lim had ordered Manila police to take him (the younger Mendoza) to “Tondo," which he claimed in police jargon meant that he was going to be summarily executed.—DM/JV
Mendoza and eight Hong Kong tourists were killed and several others were injured in the ensuing carnage.
In the aftermath of the botched hostage rescue, the government created the Incident Investigation and Review Committee (IIRC) to investigate the fiasco and make recommendations, and on Sept. 17, it released its report. On Oct. 11, after Malacañang’s legal team reviewed the IIRC report, President Benigno Aquino III ordered the filing of administrative charges against the Manila mayor and some police officers, but spared top police and security officials including Interior Undersecretary Rico Puno and retired Philippine National Police chief Jesus Verzosa from criminal prosecution.
At the same time, Aquino ordered the filing of criminal charges against SPO2 Mendoza for allegedly aiding his hostage-taker brother. Faulted for being a brother “My only fault is that I am the brother of the hostage taker," SPO2 Mendoza when he appeared at the sala of Judge Miguel.
He said he could not believe that the government is still after him despite the fact that it was his slain brother who held tourists hostage. SP02 Mendoza maintained that he was innocent of serious disobedience charges filed by the Manila Police District (MPD). “I did not do anything wrong. I guess they can only fault me for the fact that (Rolando) Mendoza was my brother," he told reporters. Miguel had to postpone the arraignment after Mendoza’s counsel filed a motion for reconsideration on the judge's order, which junked the accused motion to quash. The prosecution panel, for its part, told the court that they would just adapt the previous comment they had submitted against the defense's motion.
In mid-October, the younger Mendoza had accused the head of the crisis committee in charge of the hostage taking, Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim, of ordering his liquidation, saying that it was this fact triggered his brother’s rage and the bloodbath.
Echoing the conclusion of the IIRC based on the testimony of another police official, Mendoza asserted that Lim had ordered Manila police to take him (the younger Mendoza) to “Tondo," which he claimed in police jargon meant that he was going to be summarily executed.—DM/JV
News Update 90% of barangays that cancelled polls resume voting today, says DepEd
MANILA, Philippines – Ninety percent of the 2,023 villages which postponed the barangays and Sangguniang Kabataan elections yesterday pushed through with the voting today, the Department of Education said.
But DepEd Undersecretary Alberto Muyot said that voting in some areas will have to resume tomorrow.
"We hope for the arrival of all election materials today," Muyot said during the press briefing this morning at the DepEd command center in Pasig City.
Based on DepEd’s figures, a total of 19 barangays in Dagupan City have rescheduled the elections tomorrow.
Muyot also reported that the casualty on election-related incidents has remained one — a public school teacher who died after getting hit by a truck in Ilocos Norte.
Muyot added that the department is satisfied with the conduct of the elections, which he described as "generally peaceful and orderly." - By Dennis Carcamo
But DepEd Undersecretary Alberto Muyot said that voting in some areas will have to resume tomorrow.
"We hope for the arrival of all election materials today," Muyot said during the press briefing this morning at the DepEd command center in Pasig City.
Based on DepEd’s figures, a total of 19 barangays in Dagupan City have rescheduled the elections tomorrow.
Muyot also reported that the casualty on election-related incidents has remained one — a public school teacher who died after getting hit by a truck in Ilocos Norte.
Muyot added that the department is satisfied with the conduct of the elections, which he described as "generally peaceful and orderly." - By Dennis Carcamo
News Update Cops nab another massacre suspect with P300k bounty
Another suspect in the massacre of 57 people in Ampatuan town in November 23 was arrested in Maguindanao province on Monday afternoon, according to the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) police.
Chief Superintendent Benito Estipona, deputy chief for operations of the ARMM police's Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, identified the suspect as Datu Jimmy Ampatuan.
He was arrested by joint elements of the regional police and the Army’s 46th Infantry Battalion at Barangay Banaba in Datu Abdullah Sangki town at 5:20 p.m. Monday.
Datu Jimmy, who carries a bounty of P300,000, was apprehended by virtue of warrant of arrest issued by Judge Jocelyn Solis-Reyes of the Quezon City Regional Trial Court (QC-RTC) Branch 221.
The arrested suspect is currently in the custody of the regional police, and is set to be turned over to the QC-RTC.
Datu Jimmy and 195 other suspects, mostly members and armed followers of the powerful Ampatuan clan, are facing 57 counts of murder for the gruesome mass killing last year in Datu Unsay town, allegedly led by former mayor Andal Ampatuan Jr.
Of the 196 accused individuals, 76 have already been arrested and detained at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City and at the Custodial Center at Camp Crame in Quezon City. The remaining accused remain at large. Of those arrested, 15 are under trial and have all pleaded not guilty to all charges.—Mark D. Merueñas/JV,
Chief Superintendent Benito Estipona, deputy chief for operations of the ARMM police's Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, identified the suspect as Datu Jimmy Ampatuan.
He was arrested by joint elements of the regional police and the Army’s 46th Infantry Battalion at Barangay Banaba in Datu Abdullah Sangki town at 5:20 p.m. Monday.
Datu Jimmy, who carries a bounty of P300,000, was apprehended by virtue of warrant of arrest issued by Judge Jocelyn Solis-Reyes of the Quezon City Regional Trial Court (QC-RTC) Branch 221.
The arrested suspect is currently in the custody of the regional police, and is set to be turned over to the QC-RTC.
Datu Jimmy and 195 other suspects, mostly members and armed followers of the powerful Ampatuan clan, are facing 57 counts of murder for the gruesome mass killing last year in Datu Unsay town, allegedly led by former mayor Andal Ampatuan Jr.
Of the 196 accused individuals, 76 have already been arrested and detained at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City and at the Custodial Center at Camp Crame in Quezon City. The remaining accused remain at large. Of those arrested, 15 are under trial and have all pleaded not guilty to all charges.—Mark D. Merueñas/JV,
News Update Philippine business supports birth control despite church
MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines' main business groups on Tuesday declared their support for President Benigno Aquino III's plan to promote birth control, despite strong opposition from the powerful Catholic church.
The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry and four other major business organizations issued a joint statement following threats by bishops to mount protests against Aquino's population policy.
"We strongly believe government must encourage responsible parenthood and promote family planning as a direct strategy for poverty reduction and maternal and child healthcare," the statement said.
Although the statement did not mention Aquino, it said artificial contraceptives must be made available to the poor, a policy Aquino has supported.
"We believe such a focused policy of family planning must provide lowest-cost access for the very poor to the services and materials to implement their free and informed choice," it said.
The business groups also said that it was individuals, rather than outside parties, that should decide whether to use birth control devices.
It said that "various parties and interested sectors" -- an apparent reference to the church -- should only provide guidance and advice.
The business groups also stressed their opposition to abortion, which is illegal in the Philippines.
Aquino has previously stated that he supports a reproductive health bill in Congress that calls for state funding of contraceptives.
His position has drawn the fire of the Catholic church, which counts more than 80 percent of Filipinos as followers.
Some bishops have warned that Aquino could be excommunicated for backing the bill and have warned of civil disobedience to stop the passage of the bill.
In an attempt to ease tensions, Aquino has met bishops and tried to downplay the row with the church.
The Catholic church opposes artificial contraceptives and has in the past campaigned against public officials supporting them.
The bishops are often seen as providing moral guidance from the pulpit and remain politically influential as well.
Aquino's position has been welcomed by birth control advocates, who have pressed the need to stem the country's growth rate, which is among the world's highest.
The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry and four other major business organizations issued a joint statement following threats by bishops to mount protests against Aquino's population policy.
"We strongly believe government must encourage responsible parenthood and promote family planning as a direct strategy for poverty reduction and maternal and child healthcare," the statement said.
Although the statement did not mention Aquino, it said artificial contraceptives must be made available to the poor, a policy Aquino has supported.
"We believe such a focused policy of family planning must provide lowest-cost access for the very poor to the services and materials to implement their free and informed choice," it said.
The business groups also said that it was individuals, rather than outside parties, that should decide whether to use birth control devices.
It said that "various parties and interested sectors" -- an apparent reference to the church -- should only provide guidance and advice.
The business groups also stressed their opposition to abortion, which is illegal in the Philippines.
Aquino has previously stated that he supports a reproductive health bill in Congress that calls for state funding of contraceptives.
His position has drawn the fire of the Catholic church, which counts more than 80 percent of Filipinos as followers.
Some bishops have warned that Aquino could be excommunicated for backing the bill and have warned of civil disobedience to stop the passage of the bill.
In an attempt to ease tensions, Aquino has met bishops and tried to downplay the row with the church.
The Catholic church opposes artificial contraceptives and has in the past campaigned against public officials supporting them.
The bishops are often seen as providing moral guidance from the pulpit and remain politically influential as well.
Aquino's position has been welcomed by birth control advocates, who have pressed the need to stem the country's growth rate, which is among the world's highest.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
News Update 'Bets now more creative in vote-buying'
MANILA, Philippines - Though Metro Manila police said yesterday’s barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections were generally peaceful and there was a large voter turnout, a poll watchdog said some of the candidates devised ingenious ways to buy votes.
“They (those engaged in vote-buying) have become more creative. Before it was just money, now they give other items such as groceries and distilled water,” said Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) chairperson Henrietta de Villa.
She said the label on a bottle of distilled water bears an image of the candidate, and it is a “subtle” reminder to vote for this candidate.
There were also reports that some candidates were distributing rice, health cards and scholarship grants before and during election day.
Meanwhile, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Manila said yesterday that the police is verifying reports that a candidate for barangay chairman allegedly handed out money to senior citizens in Tondo.
Comelec Manila District 1 head Jovencio Balanquit said he has asked the Philippine National Police (PNP) to check the report.
“It was a good thing that this was exposed” so that the authorities would be alerted, he said.
De Villa said it was possible that some local government officials, such as the mayor, might be extending assistance to barangay and SK candidates since they would be utilizing them during the 2013 local elections.
Balanquit said that in one elementary school in Manila’s District 3, one of the watchers padlocked the ballot box and the authorities had to force it open.
Large turnout
The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), based in Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City, said yesterday they monitored a large turnout of voters in the Muslim communities of Signal Village, Maharlika Village, Upper and Western Bicutan.
NCRPO spokesman Senior Superintendent Dionardo Carlos said that as of 2 p.m. yesterday, the areas remained peaceful.
The NCRPO deployed 17 senior police officers to assist the local chiefs of police in securing the electoral exercise.
NCRPO director Chief Superintendent Nicanor Bartolome and PNP chief Director General Raul Bacalzo made rounds of polling centers in Metro Manila to ensure the security and safety of all voters, candidates, their supporters, volunteers, and public servants managing the elections.
Bartolome said voters were lined up at Ramon Magsaysay High School in Cubao, Quezon City as early as 6 a.m.
Bacalzo and Bartolome visited the polling precincts in Xavier School in Greenhills, San Juan City at 9:40 a.m. By mid-day, the NCRPO chief visited the police personnel detailed at the Commonwealth Elementary School together with Quezon City Police District director Chief Superintendent Benjardi Mantele.
Bartolome expressed his satisfaction in the performance of the police personnel manning the Joint Security Assistance Desks. - By Evelyn Macairan and Non Alquitran (Philstar News Service, www.philstar.com)
“They (those engaged in vote-buying) have become more creative. Before it was just money, now they give other items such as groceries and distilled water,” said Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) chairperson Henrietta de Villa.
She said the label on a bottle of distilled water bears an image of the candidate, and it is a “subtle” reminder to vote for this candidate.
There were also reports that some candidates were distributing rice, health cards and scholarship grants before and during election day.
Meanwhile, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Manila said yesterday that the police is verifying reports that a candidate for barangay chairman allegedly handed out money to senior citizens in Tondo.
Comelec Manila District 1 head Jovencio Balanquit said he has asked the Philippine National Police (PNP) to check the report.
“It was a good thing that this was exposed” so that the authorities would be alerted, he said.
De Villa said it was possible that some local government officials, such as the mayor, might be extending assistance to barangay and SK candidates since they would be utilizing them during the 2013 local elections.
Balanquit said that in one elementary school in Manila’s District 3, one of the watchers padlocked the ballot box and the authorities had to force it open.
Large turnout
The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), based in Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City, said yesterday they monitored a large turnout of voters in the Muslim communities of Signal Village, Maharlika Village, Upper and Western Bicutan.
NCRPO spokesman Senior Superintendent Dionardo Carlos said that as of 2 p.m. yesterday, the areas remained peaceful.
The NCRPO deployed 17 senior police officers to assist the local chiefs of police in securing the electoral exercise.
NCRPO director Chief Superintendent Nicanor Bartolome and PNP chief Director General Raul Bacalzo made rounds of polling centers in Metro Manila to ensure the security and safety of all voters, candidates, their supporters, volunteers, and public servants managing the elections.
Bartolome said voters were lined up at Ramon Magsaysay High School in Cubao, Quezon City as early as 6 a.m.
Bacalzo and Bartolome visited the polling precincts in Xavier School in Greenhills, San Juan City at 9:40 a.m. By mid-day, the NCRPO chief visited the police personnel detailed at the Commonwealth Elementary School together with Quezon City Police District director Chief Superintendent Benjardi Mantele.
Bartolome expressed his satisfaction in the performance of the police personnel manning the Joint Security Assistance Desks. - By Evelyn Macairan and Non Alquitran (Philstar News Service, www.philstar.com)
News Update EU Drive Benefits Sardine Canneries
ZAMBOANGA CITY - The European Union-Trade Related Assistance (EU-TRA) have chosen this city as one of the four venues for its intensified campaign on fishery good hygiene practices and sanitation. This was announced by officials of the EU-TRA at the culmination of their two-day campaign and information drive held at the Mega Fishing Corporation Compound aimed to help realize the agency's vision to ensure fair, free, and safe trade of fishery products in this part of the country. City Mayor Celso L. Lobregat thanked the EUTRA for choosing this city as one of the four venues for its intensified campaign. Lobregat said that there are about nine factories of canned sardines which will directly benefit from various opportunities given by the EU-TRA. EU-accredited companies should maintain the proper practices of hygiene and sanitation from catching fish in sea to boarding of fishery products to fishing vessels, and to the fish landing port. Compliance is strictly monitored by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, according to Director Ahadulla Sajili of BFAR in this city. (Nonoy Lacson) Cotabato scribes get army escorts COTABATO CITY - Amid expressed threats from unknown quarters, journalists in this city have been offered security escorts by the military-backed Task Group HOPE for their freewheeling coverage of Monday's elections in villages under the jurisdiction of the Army's 6th Infantry Division (ID). Task Group HOPE (honest, orderly, and peaceful elections), chaired by 6th ID Deputy Division Commander Brig. Gen. Ariel Bernardo, arranged with the Bureau of Public Information (BPI) of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) in the provision of security escorts for journalists worried of their safety in the coverage of Monday's electoral exercises. "Arrangements for the provision of escorts have been made with the BPI.
Please convey the information to concerned journalists," Col. Prudencio Asto, 6th ID public affairs chief, told the Manila Bulletin in a text message Sunday night. Asto and BPI officials have not given names of media practitioners who availed of Army troop-escorts, saying only that the Task Group HOPE "meant business" in helping secure the peaceful conduct of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections and the coverage of journalists. (Ali Macabalang) Zamboanga LTO posts hike in collection
Please convey the information to concerned journalists," Col. Prudencio Asto, 6th ID public affairs chief, told the Manila Bulletin in a text message Sunday night. Asto and BPI officials have not given names of media practitioners who availed of Army troop-escorts, saying only that the Task Group HOPE "meant business" in helping secure the peaceful conduct of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections and the coverage of journalists. (Ali Macabalang) Zamboanga LTO posts hike in collection
News Update World-Class Passenger Terminals Eyed for Iloilo
ILOILO CITY (PNA) - Iloilo Provincial Governor Arthur Defensor, Sr. is looking forward to the establishment of world-class passenger terminal facilities in the city and province of Iloilo. To initiate this move, Defensor has urged the city government here to repair existing terminals, especially those which serve passengers leaving for various towns beyond Iloilo City. He said that terminals should be at par with world standards since many tourists are starting to frequent the countryside. He said that in his foreign trips, he noticed that terminals in other countries are being maintained properly. Defensor said that in turn, passengers and commuters heading to Iloilo City to work and study daily suffer from the very poor condition of jeepney and bus terminals. He pointed out that the structures in these terminals have been left behind in terms of facilities and operations. The Governor also advised new Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog to also check out for himself the existing terminals, as well as the traffic laws governing jeepney routes. He also said that he is very willing to sit down with the "young" mayor in order to make sure that future terminal projects are at par with passenger terminals abroad. Defensor also reminded Mabilog that most of the workers in the city are from the out-of-town, and that they have been utilizing the services of these terminals on a daily basis for a long time already.
He pointed out that the city cannot live without its workforce, many of which come from out-of-town. Most of said workforce crowd the terminals especially early in the morning and when heading to home after work. Earlier, the Iloilo City Mayor said that he wanted the city to check the effects of the terminals to the volume of traffic in the city as well as on how to improve their services. He also noted the need to make bigger terminals in the future so as to accommodate the rising volume of commuters.
He pointed out that the city cannot live without its workforce, many of which come from out-of-town. Most of said workforce crowd the terminals especially early in the morning and when heading to home after work. Earlier, the Iloilo City Mayor said that he wanted the city to check the effects of the terminals to the volume of traffic in the city as well as on how to improve their services. He also noted the need to make bigger terminals in the future so as to accommodate the rising volume of commuters.
News Update P92 M Set Aside for 20 Barangay Development Projects in Baguio
BAGUIO CITY - At least P92 million has been earmarked by the city government and approved by the city development council for 20 projects outlined in the city's annual investment plan to boost development in 128 barangays. Out of the total fund of P92.22 million, two-thirds or P62.22 million would be for 20 major city infrastructure projects and the remaining P30 million will be equitably distributed for various barangay projects. Mayor Mauricio G. Domogan suggested barangays where the major projects will be implemented will no longer be given allocation for additional projects out of the P30 million allotment for identified grassroots level projects so that all barangays will be able to receive a slice of the pie.
The city development council is empowered by the Local Government Code of the Philippines to prioritize barangay projects in coordination with the city planning and development office. Domogan said proposed barangay projects which will not be funded by the city government will be subsequently submitted to Rep. Bernardo M. Vergara for funding out of his Priority Development Assistance (PDAF). Funds could also be sources from other congressional initiatives so that there will be an equitable distribution of projects for the benefit of local residents, especially those living in the barangays where the projects will be implemented. The identified city projects will focus on solid waste management, parks and roads development, rehabilitation of Block Iv of the Baguio City public market and fencing of the city's mixed land use site at barangay Sto. Tomas Apugan barangay which was earlier pinpointed as the city's permanent site for the put up of an engineered sanitary landfill. Based on the itemized projects, the CDC allocated P12.62 million for the market project that will follow the ongoing upgrading of Block III which was cleared of shanties earlier this year, and P5 million for the fencing of the Sto. Tomas property, which will serve as the site for the city's engineered sanitary landfill. For the city's solid waste management program, the CDC approved P10 million budget for the benching and stabilization as post-closure maintenance of the Irisan open dumpsite and another P10 million to improve the materials recovery facility inside. (Dexter A. See)
The city development council is empowered by the Local Government Code of the Philippines to prioritize barangay projects in coordination with the city planning and development office. Domogan said proposed barangay projects which will not be funded by the city government will be subsequently submitted to Rep. Bernardo M. Vergara for funding out of his Priority Development Assistance (PDAF). Funds could also be sources from other congressional initiatives so that there will be an equitable distribution of projects for the benefit of local residents, especially those living in the barangays where the projects will be implemented. The identified city projects will focus on solid waste management, parks and roads development, rehabilitation of Block Iv of the Baguio City public market and fencing of the city's mixed land use site at barangay Sto. Tomas Apugan barangay which was earlier pinpointed as the city's permanent site for the put up of an engineered sanitary landfill. Based on the itemized projects, the CDC allocated P12.62 million for the market project that will follow the ongoing upgrading of Block III which was cleared of shanties earlier this year, and P5 million for the fencing of the Sto. Tomas property, which will serve as the site for the city's engineered sanitary landfill. For the city's solid waste management program, the CDC approved P10 million budget for the benching and stabilization as post-closure maintenance of the Irisan open dumpsite and another P10 million to improve the materials recovery facility inside. (Dexter A. See)
News Update Philippines militiaman kills 6 colleagues
MANILA, Philippines – Army officials say a government militiaman went into a violent rage in the southern Philippines, killing six of his colleagues before he was fatally shot by pursuing troops.
Maj. Gen Romeo Lustestica said Olegario Vocal Jr. opened fire with his M-14 rifle Sunday night for still-unknown reasons, killing five militiamen watching television in their detachment in Zamboanga Sibugay's Ipil township. He twice shot at his father, also a militiaman, but missed.
Pursuing troops caught up with Vocal early Monday near the detachment. He shot it out with them, wounding another militiaman who later died in hospital. Vocal was killed in the shootout.
Lustestica said it was not clear what prompted the attack, but said Vocal's family has a history of mental illness.
Maj. Gen Romeo Lustestica said Olegario Vocal Jr. opened fire with his M-14 rifle Sunday night for still-unknown reasons, killing five militiamen watching television in their detachment in Zamboanga Sibugay's Ipil township. He twice shot at his father, also a militiaman, but missed.
Pursuing troops caught up with Vocal early Monday near the detachment. He shot it out with them, wounding another militiaman who later died in hospital. Vocal was killed in the shootout.
Lustestica said it was not clear what prompted the attack, but said Vocal's family has a history of mental illness.
News Update 6 CAFGUs killed in amok attack
ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – At least six members of the government militia were killed when their comrade ran amuck Sunday night in a detachment in Ipil town, Zamboanga Sibugay, a military official said.
The suspect was subsequently killed as he engaged pursuing Army troops in Barangay Palid yesterday morning, according to Col. Santiago Baluyot, commanding officer of the Army’s 102nd Brigade based in Ipil town.
The slain victims were identified as Nilo Rodas and his brother Narciso, Ike Horia, Edgar Sebila and Salvador Belino, all members of the Citizen Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) Special Active Auxiliary while the slain suspect, their comrade was identified as Oligario Bucal Jr.
Baluyot said investigation showed that the suspect reportedly took the issued M14 rifle of his father and strafed his fellow militia force members who were detailed at the detachment near the wharf in Barangay Palid about 7:30 p.m. Sunday night.
Baluyot said responding military troops tried to persuade the suspect to surrender but instead fired on the soldiers prompting the troops to engage and killed the suspect about 6:30 a.m. yesterday.
“The troops tried to convince the suspect but engaged our soldiers who were prompted to engage and neutralize him,” Baluyot said.
Police investigation revealed that the suspect has not eaten for two days before attacking his comrades who were preparing for election duty yesterday.
“The incident is isolated and not election related,” Baluyot added.
– With Alexis Romero - By Roel Pareño
The suspect was subsequently killed as he engaged pursuing Army troops in Barangay Palid yesterday morning, according to Col. Santiago Baluyot, commanding officer of the Army’s 102nd Brigade based in Ipil town.
The slain victims were identified as Nilo Rodas and his brother Narciso, Ike Horia, Edgar Sebila and Salvador Belino, all members of the Citizen Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) Special Active Auxiliary while the slain suspect, their comrade was identified as Oligario Bucal Jr.
Baluyot said investigation showed that the suspect reportedly took the issued M14 rifle of his father and strafed his fellow militia force members who were detailed at the detachment near the wharf in Barangay Palid about 7:30 p.m. Sunday night.
Baluyot said responding military troops tried to persuade the suspect to surrender but instead fired on the soldiers prompting the troops to engage and killed the suspect about 6:30 a.m. yesterday.
“The troops tried to convince the suspect but engaged our soldiers who were prompted to engage and neutralize him,” Baluyot said.
Police investigation revealed that the suspect has not eaten for two days before attacking his comrades who were preparing for election duty yesterday.
“The incident is isolated and not election related,” Baluyot added.
– With Alexis Romero - By Roel Pareño
News Update Church calls for alternatives to 'death penalty'
s the Philippines hosts an international meet on prison reforms, the Catholic Church has reaffirmed its stand against the death penalty and issued the call for alternatives to the country's "punitive criminal justice system."
The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) said the country has to adopt more "restorative" rather than "punitive" measures against prisoners.
Rodolfo Diamante, executive secretary of the CBCP Episcopal Commission on Prison Pastoral Care (ECPPC), said the government has to pass legislation that would enhance the dignity of the prisoners.
The ECPPC heads the meet of the International Commission of Catholic Prison Pastoral Care from October 25 to 29 in Cavite to discuss ways to “encourage a greater awareness of the prison pastoral care among the faithful and society."
According to a news report on the CBCP website, the ECPPC also spearheaded the 23rd Prison Awareness Week, with the theme “Towards Justice That Moves Beyond Punishment," from October 19 to 24.
“We stand by our belief that the deprivation of the right to life will not gain justice for all," Diamante said in a statement.
“History has proven that rendering the death penalty as a means to obtain justice simply does the opposite — the death penalty will only lead to the wider spread and longer persistence of injustice in the country," he noted.
Diamante said the Philippine justice system was "replete with human errors," and that “the death penalty has not deterred criminality."
“Instead, it has even spurred more injustice by killing the innocent — those wrongly accused and without proper defense," he added.
“These people have been deprived of the opportunity to reform and restore the injury they caused others," Diamante said in a statement posted on the CBCP website.
Restorative justice
Diamante reiterated the church’s call for the country’s justice system to transcend from being merely “punitive" to being “restorative".
“While our justice system seeks to punish the wrongdoer, it should move beyond punishment and seek healing of all people involved — the victim, the offender and the society we all live in," he said.
He also called on prison reform advocates to join the Catholic church in recommending alternative ways of keeping peace in the community and creating an enabling environment to prevent criminality.
The Philippines banned the death penalty for all crimes in the 1987 Constitution. However an outbreak of kidnappings, killings and coup de etat in the 1980s prompted lawmakers to restore capital punishment.
In late June 2006, former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo signed a law repealing the death penalty, sparing the lives of an estimated 1,200 people on death row.
However, the recent spate of violence, mostly in Mindanao, has prompted calls — many from prominent figures — for the death penalty to be reimposed.
Bukidnon Sen. Juan Miguel Zubiri recently reiterated his call for the reimposition of the death penalty following the recent acts of violence recorded in Mindanao.
Zubiri said the perpetrators of the bombing as well as the rape of a nurse in Maguindanao should be meted the death penalty.
Studies by the Amnesty International in 1999 showed that almost 90 percent of Filipinos believe that the death penalty is a deterrent to crime, although that figure is believed to have been halved by anti-death penalty information campaigns. - DM, VV
The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) said the country has to adopt more "restorative" rather than "punitive" measures against prisoners.
Rodolfo Diamante, executive secretary of the CBCP Episcopal Commission on Prison Pastoral Care (ECPPC), said the government has to pass legislation that would enhance the dignity of the prisoners.
The ECPPC heads the meet of the International Commission of Catholic Prison Pastoral Care from October 25 to 29 in Cavite to discuss ways to “encourage a greater awareness of the prison pastoral care among the faithful and society."
According to a news report on the CBCP website, the ECPPC also spearheaded the 23rd Prison Awareness Week, with the theme “Towards Justice That Moves Beyond Punishment," from October 19 to 24.
“We stand by our belief that the deprivation of the right to life will not gain justice for all," Diamante said in a statement.
“History has proven that rendering the death penalty as a means to obtain justice simply does the opposite — the death penalty will only lead to the wider spread and longer persistence of injustice in the country," he noted.
Diamante said the Philippine justice system was "replete with human errors," and that “the death penalty has not deterred criminality."
“Instead, it has even spurred more injustice by killing the innocent — those wrongly accused and without proper defense," he added.
“These people have been deprived of the opportunity to reform and restore the injury they caused others," Diamante said in a statement posted on the CBCP website.
Restorative justice
Diamante reiterated the church’s call for the country’s justice system to transcend from being merely “punitive" to being “restorative".
“While our justice system seeks to punish the wrongdoer, it should move beyond punishment and seek healing of all people involved — the victim, the offender and the society we all live in," he said.
He also called on prison reform advocates to join the Catholic church in recommending alternative ways of keeping peace in the community and creating an enabling environment to prevent criminality.
The Philippines banned the death penalty for all crimes in the 1987 Constitution. However an outbreak of kidnappings, killings and coup de etat in the 1980s prompted lawmakers to restore capital punishment.
In late June 2006, former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo signed a law repealing the death penalty, sparing the lives of an estimated 1,200 people on death row.
However, the recent spate of violence, mostly in Mindanao, has prompted calls — many from prominent figures — for the death penalty to be reimposed.
Bukidnon Sen. Juan Miguel Zubiri recently reiterated his call for the reimposition of the death penalty following the recent acts of violence recorded in Mindanao.
Zubiri said the perpetrators of the bombing as well as the rape of a nurse in Maguindanao should be meted the death penalty.
Studies by the Amnesty International in 1999 showed that almost 90 percent of Filipinos believe that the death penalty is a deterrent to crime, although that figure is believed to have been halved by anti-death penalty information campaigns. - DM, VV
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