Aguinaldo Shrine Pagsanjan Falls Taal Lake Antipolo Church Lucban Pahiyas Feast

Dispatch for September 13 , 2013 Friday , 3 PIA Calabarzon PRs , 8 Weather Watch,

1 OFW Watch, 12 Reg’l. Watch 1 PNOY Speech , 17 Online News , 5 Photonews

1. Weather Watch

4 hours ago

PAGASA 24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST

Issued at: 5:00AM 13 September 2013

SYNOPSIS: At 4:00 AM today, the Low Pressure Area (LPA) was estimated based on all available data at

270 km East of Casiguran, Aurora (15.8N, 125.0E) embedded along the Monsoon trough affecting Luzon.

FORECAST: Cagayan Valley will experience cloudy skies with moderate to occasionally heavy rains and

thunderstorms which may trigger possible flashfloods and landslides. Metro Manila and the rest of Luzon

will have cloudy skies with light to moderate rainshowers and thunderstorms. Visayas and Mindanao will

be partly cloudy to cloudy with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms.

Light to moderate winds blowing from the west to southwest over Palawan, Visayas and Mindanao and

coming from the northeast to northwest will prevail over the rest of Luzon. The coastal waters throughout

the archipelago will be slight to moderate.

Over METRO MANILA:

Maximum Temperature : 1:50 PM Yesterday --- 29.6ºC

Minimum Temperature : 5:00 AM Yesterday --- 25.0ºC

Maximum Relative Humidity : 5:00 AM Yesterday --- 98 %

Minimum Relative Humidity : 2:00 PM Yesterday --- 72 %

Low Tide Today : 11:48 AM …..…… 0.17 Meter

High Tide Tomorrow: 3:54 AM ..……... 1.14 Meter

Sunrise Today : 5:44 AM

Sunset Today : 5:59 PM

Moonrise Today : 12:35 AM

Moonset Today : 11:20 PM

Illumination Today : 53 %

For more information and queries, log on to www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph or please call at telephone numbers

927-1335 and 927-2877

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2. Weather Watch

5 hours ago

THUNDERSTORM ADVISORY No.1 #VPRSD

5:12AM (13SEP'13)

Thunderstorm affecting over #Bohol (Valencia, Garcia Hernandez, Jagna, Duero, Sierra Bullones) & nearby

areas which may continue for 1-2 hours. All are advised to take precautionary measures against heavy rains,

strong winds, lightning and possible flashfloods. Keep monitoring for updates. PAGASA-DOST Visayas. For more information and queries, log on to www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph or please call at telephone numbers 927-1335 and 927-2877.

3. Weather Watch

13 hours ago

PAGASA weather forecaster Jun Galang on DZBB:

- Ang Ilocos Region at ang mga probinsya ng Mindoro, Marinduque at Romblon ay makakaranas ng maulap

na kalangitan na may katamtaman hanggang sa kung minsan ay malakas na pag-ulan na maaaring magdulot

ng mga pagbaha at pagguho ng lupa.

- Ang Metro Manila at ang natitirang bahagi ng Luzon at kasama na ang Kanlurang Kabisayaan ay mahina

hanggang sa katamtamang pag-ulan ang pwedeng maranasan.

- Ang natitirang bahagi ng Kabisayaan at Mindanao ay mga dagliang pag-ulan at pagkulog-pagkidlat ang

pwedeng maranasan, lalo na sa bandang hapon o gabi.

4. Weather Watch

13 hours ago

GMA: Huling namataan ng PAGASA ang LPA na nasa loob ng PAR sa layong 220 km hilagang-silangan

ng Virac, Catanduanes kung saan nakapaloob ito sa monsoon trough. Isa namang tropical depression na nasa

labas ng PAR ang namataan din sa hilagang-silangan ng bansa pero inaasahang hindi na ito lalapit sa

kalupaan at tutungo na sa Japan. Samantala, magiging bahagyang maulap naman ang panahon sa malaking

bahagi ng Luzon bukas habang mataas naman ang posibilidad ng pag-ulan sa Metro Manila pagdating ng

hapon o gabi. Inaasahan naman ang mahina hanggang sa katamtamang pag-ulan sa Visayas habang hindi

naman masyadong makulimlim sa Mindanao at sakaling umulan man ay hindi ito gaanong kalakasan.

For more information and queries, log on to www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph or please call at

telephone numbers 927-1335 and 927-2877.

5. Weather Watch

14 hours ago

ABS-CBN: May bagong LPA na nabuo sa may 220km northeast ng Virac, Catanduanes na nakapaloob sa

monsoon trough. Ayon sa PAGASA, maliit ang posibilidad na maging bagyo ito at malulusaw sa loob ng 24

na oras. Samantala, asahan ang malakas na ulan sa western section ng Luzon habang maulap na panahon

naman sa natitirang bahagi ng Luzon. Asahan din ang maulap na may konting pag-ulan sa Visayas habang

mahinang pag-ulan naman ang mararanasan sa hapon at gabi sa Mindanao.

6. Weather Watch

17 hours ago

GMA resident meteorologist Nathaniel Cruz on Balita Pilipinas Ngayon:

- Maging handa tayo sa pag-ulan sa bansa. Kaninang 10:00 ng umaga, namataan ng PAGASA ang isang

LPA sa may 270km east ng Virac, Catanduanes.

- Nakapaloob ito sa monsoon trough na nakakapekto sa Luzon at Visayas.

- Base sa datos ng weather central, magiging maulap ang panahon sa malaking bahagi ng bansa.

- Nagkakaroon ngayon ng pag-ulan sa ilang bahagi ng Metro Manila at Southern Luzon.

7. Weather Watch

Yesterday

PIA-3/AURORA: As of 6:00 am today, Pantabangan Reservoir Water Level is at 198.14 meters, below the

Flood Season High Water Level of 216.00 meters, with 24-Hour Water Level Deviation of 0.27 meters. -

Pagasa

Weather Watch

September 13 , 2013 ( Friday ) as of 6:00-7:00 AM

CAVITE : Cloudy and Drizzling LAGUNA : Sunny BATANGAS : Cloudy with Scattered Rainshowers RIZAL : Rainy QUEZON : Fair Weather

PIA Regional Watch

1. PIA Regional Watch

14 hours ago

PIA-4A/BATANGAS: Mula Enero hanggang Setyembre ng taon ay nakapagtala ang lalawigan ng

Batangas ng dalawang kaso ng rabies. Bunsod nito, mas lalong pinaiigting ng lokal na pamahalaan ang

pagbabakuna ng mga aso upang maisulong ang pagiging rabies free ng lalawigan.

2. PIA Regional Watch

14 hours ago

PIA-4A/BATANGAS: Binigyang parangal ng pamahalaang lungsod ng Batangas ang mga pangulo ng

barangay na nakapaglingkod ng tatlong termino sa kanilang nasasakupan. Layon nitong kilalanin at

pahalagahan ang mga kontribusyon ng mga ito sa pagpapaunlad ng komunidad.

3. PIA Regional Watch

14 hours ago

PIA-4A/LAGUNA: "Construction and rehabilitation of drainage canal are the priorities of the

Municipal Planning and Development Office here in Los Baños, especially during rainy season,"said

MPDO Twila T. Torres.

4. PIA Regional Watch

14 hours ago

PIA-4A/QUEZON: Office of Civil Defense (OCD)-4A Regional Director Vicente Tomazar led the

inauguration of disaster operation center in Lucena City. The center will become a venue for relief and

response operations in times of calamity. Dir. Tomazar said that this kind of operation center will

lessen damages and effects of calamity to persons and properties.

5. PIA Regional Watch

14 hours ago

PIA-4A/BATANGAS: Ipinagdiriwang ngayon ang 10th National Pilgrimage to Lipa, National Day of

Prayer for Peace and Sanctification of the Clergy sa Mt. Carmel Church sa lungsod ng Lipa. Ang

naturang aktibidad ay isinusulong upang i-promote ang religious tourism na dinadagsa ng mga turista at

deboto taun-taon.

6. PIA Regional Watch

14 hours ago

PIA-4A/LAGUNA: Out of school youth and adults of Sitio Kapayapaan, Brgy. Canlubang, Calamba City will be

benefited by the recent launching of Education Revolution ER Mobile Computer School which will provide free

basic computer training classes to the community.

7. PIA Regional Watch

14 hours ago

PIA-4A/CAVITE: The Provincial Board commended as heroes on August 26 local groups and civilian volunteers at

the forefront of efforts to save lives when Southwest Monsoon rains battered the province. Vice Governor Jolo

Revilla cited involvement of churches in distributing much needed relief goods to hapless flood victims,

particularly in the towns of Rosario, Noveleta, Kawit and Cavite City.

8. PIA Regional Watch

14 hours ago

PIA-4A/LAGUNA: The Provincial Government of Laguna through Laguna Tourism, Culture, Arts and Trade Office

joined the 24th Philippine Travel Mart of the Philippines Tour Operators Association held at the SMX

Convention Center, Mall of Asia recently. The event is a trade exhibition dedicated to the promotion and

marketing of domestic and inbound tourism.

9. PIA Regional Watch

15 hours ago

PIA-4A/CAVITE: Members of various disability organizations in Carmona completed the three-day seminar on

paper-based technology organized by the local government aimed to further improved their techniques and

ensuring the quality of their products for the customers.

10. PIA Regional Watch

15 hours ago

PIA-4A/QUEZON: The SOLCOM-AFP, Quezon PDRRMC along with other government agencies are currently

conducting coordinated rescue demonstration at Dalahican port, Lucena City. Actual rescue demonstration

activities on massive flooding, ship collision, terrorist attack, bombing, hostage taking situation, fire explosions

and mass casualty evacuation are being presented. These are part of the pre-disaster activities in the province.

11. PIA Regional Watch

19 hours ago

PIA-4A/LAGUNA: Out of school youth and adults of Sitio Kapayapaan, Brgy. Canlubang, Calamba City will be

benefited by the recent launching of Education Revolution ER Mobile Computer School which will provide free

basic computer training classes to the community.

12. PIA Regional Watch

20 hours ago

PIA-4A/LAGUNA: The Provincial Government of Laguna through Laguna Tourism, Culture, Arts and Trade Office

joined the 24th Philippine Travel Mart of the Philippine Tour Operators Association held at the SMX Convention

Center, Mall of Asia recently. The event is a trade exhibition dedicated to the promotion and marketing of

domestic and inbound tourism.

1. PIA OFW Watch

16 hours ago

DZBB: Nakatakdang dumating ngayong araw sa NAIA Terminal 1 ang 66 na undocumented Pinoys mula sa Saudi Arabia.

A. QUEZON

1. Tagalog news: Ilang pamilya, benepisaryo ng 'Balik

Pamilya' program ng AFP

BY: CARLO P. GONZAGA

Thursday 12th of September 2013

SAN ANDRES, Quezon, Set. 12 (PIA) -- Ilang pamilya mula sa Barangay Camflora sa

bayang ito ang nakinabang sa programang “Balik Pamilya” ng Armed Forces of the

Philippines (AFP) kamakailan.

Sa pahayag nina Col. Alex C. Capia at Lt. Col. Consolito P. Yecla ng 201st Infantry

Brigade ng AFP, ang “Balik Pamilya” program ay isa sa mga civic projects nila na

naglalayong magkaloob ng serbisyo sa mga mamamayan sa kanayunan na pinaghihinalaang

may problema sa insurgency sa pamamagitan ng pinagsanib na suporta mula sa publiko at

pribadong sektor.

Ang mga pamilyang Guevarra, Beñegas, at Endonilla ang unang mga benipisyaryo ng

programa ay pinagkalooban ng tig-iisang kalabaw ng Rotary Club of Cosmopolitan

Lucena.

Kabilang sa iba pang ahensiyang nagbigay ng suporta ay ang provincial agriculture na

nagbigay ng apat na sakong binhi ng mais at ang Philippine Coconut Authority na

nagbigay ng niyog na binhi.

Ang Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Quezon naman ay nangakong dadalhin ang

kanilang shared service facilities (SSF); habang ang Department of Labor and Employment

(DOLE) Quezon ay nangakong aasikasuhin ang problema sa mga batang manggagawa at

dadalhin ang kanilang integrated livelihood program (DILP) para sa mga benepisaryo.

(CPG, PIA4A)

- See more at:

http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=631378961854#sthash.9QTVkcPH.dpuf

B. CAVITE

1. 4,821 Cavite students attend DOLE’s Career

Guidance Counseling

BY: CARLO P. GONZAGA

Thursday 12th of September 2013

TRECE MARTIRES CITY, Cavite, Sept. 12 (PIA) -- About 4,821 public high

schools graduating students flocked to the recent career information and guidance

counselling and career planning seminar conducted by the Department of Labor and

Employment (DOLE) Cavite.

Myrose Basila of DOLE-Cavite said the activity was initiated by the guidance

counsellors from the seven public high schools that participated in the activity.

These schools are: General Emilio Aguinaldo National High School in Gen.

Aguinaldo (Bailen); Cavite National Science High School in Maragondon; Banay-

Banay National High School in Amadeo; Dasmariñas National High School Main

Campus; Dasmariñas National High School East Campus, Pag-asa National High

School, Dasmariñas City and Kaong National High School in Silang.

Basila said DOLE’s career guidance counselling aims to provide information on

career opportunities available in the labor market, matching the interest of job

seekers to the possible career in a given array of choices and identify the career

fitted to one’s interest.

Aside from Basila, Ricky Martin Velasco, and Vincent Martinez also of DOLE-

CPO shared their expertise as resource persons in the career advocacy. (CPG,

PIA4A with report from Myrose B. Basila, DOLE-Cavite)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=631378963376#sthash.SnEfug7t.dpuf

C. LAGUNA

Tagalog news: Konsultasyon ukol sa

panukalang SLEX extension, isinagawa

sa Laguna BY: CARLO P. GONZAGA

Thursday 12th of September 2013

STA. CRUZ, Laguna, Set. 12 (PIA) -- Nagdaos kamakailan ng konsultasyon ang pamunuan

ng South Luzon Tollway Corp. ukol sa panukalang extension ng Southern Luzon

Expressway (SLEX) Phase 2 na dadaan sa ilang bayan sa Laguna.

Ang konsultasyon na isinagawa sa conference room ng tanggapan ng punong lalawigan ng

Laguna ay naglalayong maipabatid sa pamahalaang panlalawigan ang mga magiging epekto

ng proyekto sa kalikasan, kapaligiran, turismo, at ekonomiya ng lalawigan.

Pinangunahan ni Engr. Allan R. Plete, manager ng safety, health and environment

management ng South Luzon Tollway Corp. ang konsultasyon habang sa bahagi ng

pamahalaang panlalawigan, dumalo ang pinuno ng mga tanggapan ng Provincial

Engineering Office (PEO), Assessor's Office, Provincial Information Office (PIO), Laguna

Tourism, Culture, Arts and Trade Office (LTCATO), Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction

Management Office (PDRRMO), Department of Public Works and High Ways (DPWH),

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), at Provincial Administrator's

Office sa pamumuno ni Atty. Leonardo Ragaza, Jr.

Pinaniniwalaang makatutulong sa pag-unlad ng ekonomiya sa ikatlong distrito ng Laguna

ang extension ng SLEX sapagkat mapapabilis ang biyahe patungo at palabas dito. Sa

pamamagitan ng SLEX extension, hindi na kinakailangan pang dumaan sa Calamba City at

Los Baños na malubha ang kundisyon ng trapiko sa mga bayang ito. Makatutulong din ito

upang mai-angat ang turismo ng mga bayan ng Rizal, Liliw, at Nagcarlan at lunsod ng San

Pablo na pawang mga nasa ikatlong distrito ng Laguna.

Ang SLEX Extension ay may habang 58 kilometro at lapad na 4 na linya, ito ay

magkakahalaga ng may P12 bilyon at babaybay sa mga bayan ng Sto. Tomas, Batangas;

Alaminos, at San Pablo City sa lalawigan ng Laguna; at Tiaong, Candelaria, at Sariaya

patungo sa Lucena City sa lalawigan ng Quezon.

Ang proyektong ito (TR4A) Toll Road 4A Sto. Tomas to Makban at (TR4B) Toll Road 4B

Makban to San Pablo ay inaasahang masisimulan sa 2014 at matatapos sa 2016. (CPG, PIA

4A at ulat mula kay Edgard R. Flores, PIO-Laguna)

- See more at:

http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=631378953536#sthash.gB37mTiy.dpuf

D. BATANGAS

E. RIZAL

12 SEPTEMBER 2013.

1. President Aquino declares September 26 as special non-working day in Naval, Biliran in

celebration of its 153rd Foundation Day

2. President Aquino cites Occupational Health Nurses Association of the Philippines for its

contribution to the country’s campaign for inclusive health programs

3. Palace to Zamboanga hostage-takers: Cooperate or face full force of the law

1. President Aquino declares September 26 as special non-working day in Naval, Biliran in celebration of its 153rd Foundation Day

President Benigno S. Aquino III has declared September 26, which falls on a Thursday, as a special (non-working day) in the municipality of Naval in the province of Biliran in celebration of its 153rd Foundation Day. The Chief Executive issued the declaration through Proclamation No. 645 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on August 22 to give the people of Naval the full opportunity to celebrate and participate in the occasion with appropriate ceremonies. In 1860, Naval, once named Bagasumbol, became an independent parish. Bagasumbol was later renamed Naval. The Naval parish was eventually recognized as an independent town. Naval is the capital municipality of Biliran. PND (js)

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2. President Aquino cites Occupational Health Nurses Association of the Philippines for its contribution to the country’s campaign for inclusive health programs

President Benigno S. Aquino III cited the Occupational Health Nurses Association of the Philippines Inc. (OHNAP) for its contribution in advancing the diverse components of medical care and bolstering the country's campaign for inclusive health programs. "Our nation now forges ahead in its momentum of progress. The reforms we have aspired for are in full swing; the future we envisioned is now within our reach," the Chief Executive said in his message to OHNAP on the occasion of its 63rd Founding Anniversary and the 44th Annual Convention. Founded in 1950, OHNAP is a non-stock, non-profit professional organization of nurses working in the industrial, agricultural, commercial, educational, service (hotel & restaurant), government and non government institutions. "May this gathering help us sustain our trajectory of growth, as it renews our professionals‘ commitment to integrity, excellence, and capacity-building. Your members appreciate our industries from distinct vantages; let this occasion galvanize them to unite as one organization, advancing the diverse components of medical care and bolstering our campaign for inclusive health programs," the President said. The President hopes that the association will be able to provide more initiatives that steer our countrymen towards rejuvenation and wellness. "In this time of resurgence, our country needs the continued dedication and resolve of its people; let us remain persistent in driving our empowerment as agents of revitalization," he said. PND (js)

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3. Palace to Zamboanga hostage-takers: Cooperate or face full force of the law

The government issued an ultimatum to the alleged members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) holding many hostages in Zamboanga City saying the government is ready to use the full force of the law to end the ongoing standoff and armed men must cooperate immediately.

In a statement on Thursday, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said that the government is prepared to exercise its resolve by using force.

―While the government is exhausting all avenues for a peaceful resolution to the situation, let it be clear to those defying us that they should not entertain the illusion that the state will hesitate to use its forces to protect our people,‖ Lacierda said.

―Instead, it is time for you to cooperate to resolve this situation peacefully at the soonest possible time,‖ he added.

The government, through its security forces, is always ready to repel any similar attacks as new violence erupted in Basilan, which was contained by the military.

Lacierda said around 150 members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), and the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) took advantage of the ongoing crisis in Zamboanga City and tried to attack Lamitan City but was halted by the military.

After a two hour firefight, the BIFF and the ASG withdrew and the armed forces is currently conducting hot pursuit operations.

Lacierda also assured the people of Zamboanga City that the government is working to protect their welfare and that basic needs are being sent to the conflict area. The Palace has also asked the Bangko Sentral ng Pilpinas (BSP) to ensure sufficient supplies of currency.

The Palace official also asked the cooperation of the people of Zamboanga City by not inflaming the present situation and by refraining from misinforming other people through misleading text messages. Instead, Lacierda asked them to listen to legitimate updates from the government.

The local government of Zamboanga City has performed well in handling the situation, Lacierda said, as he appealed to local officials not to politicize the ongoing crisis.

These groups have been opposing the peace process in Mindanao and wanting to create chaos to derail the signing of the final peace pact.

Prior to the hostage crisis in Zamboanga City, some groups launched bombing attacks in Cagayan de Oro City and other areas in Mindanao. PND (as)

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12 SEPTEMBER 2013.

12 SEPTYEMBRE 2013

1. Idineklara ng Pangulong Aquino na pista opisyal ang Setyembre 26 sa Naval, Biliran para ipagdiwang ang ika-153 Taon ng Pagkatatag nito

2. Halaga ng Occupational Health Nurses Association sa programang pangkalusugan ng bansa, kinilala ng Pangulong Aquino

3. Makipagtulungan o panagutan sa batas ang inyong ginagawa! Ito ang babala ng Palasyo sa mga hostage-takers sa Zamboanga

1. Idineklara ng Pangulong Aquino na pista opisyal ang Setyembre 26 sa Naval, Biliran para ipagdiwang ang ika-153 Taon ng Pagkatatag nito

Idineklara ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III na pista opisyal ang Setyembre 26, na natapat sa araw ng Huwebes para sa bayan ng Naval sa lalawigan ng Biliran alang-alang sa ika-153 Taon ng Pagkatatag ng nasabing bayan. Ang deklarasyon ay ginawa ng Pangulo sa pamamagitan ng Proklamasyon Blg. 645 na nilagdaan ni Kalihim Tagapagpaganap Paquito N. Ochoa, Jr. noong Agosto 22 upang bigyan ng lahat ng pagkakataon ang mga mamamayan ng Naval na ipagdiwang at lahukan ang mga seremonyang gaganapin kaugnay ng anibersaryo. Ang bayan ng Naval ay dating kilala bilang Bagasumbol, subali‘t noong 1860 ay ginawa na itong nagsasariling parokya. Hindi naglaon, ang Bagasumbol ay pinangalanang Naval. Ang parokya ng Naval ay kinilala bilang isa nang bayan at ginawang kapitolyo ng lalawigan ng Biliran. PND (js/zaf)

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2. Halaga ng Occupational Health Nurses Association sa programang pangkalusugan ng bansa, kinilala ng Pangulong Aquino

Kinilala ng Pangulong Benigno S Aquino III ang mahalagang ambag ng Occupational Health Nurses Association of the Philippines Inc. (OHNAP) sa mahalagang nagawa nito sa pagsusulong ng pangangalagang pangkalusugan at sa kampanya para sa malawakang programa ukol sa kalusugan. ―Ang bansa natin ay patuloy sa pagtahak patungo sa kasaganaan. Ang mga repormang pinangarap natin ay puspusan nang ginagawa. Ang magandang kinabukasang pangarap natin ay abot-kamay na lamang,‖ sabi ng Pangulo sa mensahe sa OHNAP kaugnay ng ika-63 Taon ng Pagkatatag nito at sa gaganaping Ika-44 na Taunang Kapulungan. Itinatag noong 1950, ang OHNAP ay kapisanang non-stock, non-profit professional na binubuo ng mga nars na nagtatrabaho sa industriya, pagsasaka, komersiyal, edukasyon, otel at restawran, at pamahalaan at non-government institutions. Ang kapulungang ito sana ay makatulong sa ating sinisikap na pagsulong kaalinsabay ng pagbabagong panata ng ating mga propesyonal ukol sa karangalan, kahusayan at kakayahan. Ang pagtitipong ito sana ay lalong magpatibay ng inyong pagkakaisa bilang samahan ukol sa pagsusulong ng iba-ibang larangan ng pangangalagang pangkalusugan at sa pagpapalakas pa ng ating kampanya sa pagsasagawa ng mga programang pangkalusugan,‖ wika pa ng Pangulong Aquino sa kalatas ng pagbati sa OHNAP. Idinugtong ng Pangulo na inaasahan niyang ang samahan ay makapagbibigay ng ibayong pagsisikap na magpapakilos sa ating mga kababayan tungo sa pagbabagong sigla at pambihirang kahusayan. ―Sa panahong ito ng pagbabago, kailangan ng ating bansa ang patuloy na katapatan at paninindigan ng ating mga mamamayan. Manatili sana tayong matatag ang paninindigan sa pagpapakilos ng kakayahan natin bilang mga ahente ng pagbabagong lakas,‖ sabi pa ng Pangulo. PND (js/zaf)

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3. Makipagtulungan o panagutan sa batas ang inyong ginagawa! Ito ang babala ng Palasyo sa mga hostage-takers sa Zamboanga

Nakahanda ang gobyerno na gamitin ang lakas ng batas upang wakasan ang nagaganap na standoff kapag hindi pa tinapos ng mga sandatahang kasapi umano ng Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) na bumihag ng maraming taga-Lungsod ng Zamboanga ang ligalig na nilikha sa nasabing lungsod. Ito ang naging pahayag ng Tagapagsalita ng Pangulo Edwin Lacierda Huwebes at binigyang diin na handa ang pamahalaan na gumamit ng lakas upang mawakasan ang kaguluhang ito. ―Habang sinisikap ng pamahalaan na malutas sa mapayapang paraan ang pangyayaring ito, ibig naming linawin sa mga nanliligalig na ito na huwag nilang isiping ang pamahalaan ay mag-aatubiling gamitin ang kapangyarihan at lakas para sa kaligtasan ng ating mga kababayan,‖ sabi ni Lacierda. ―Sa halip, oras na para kayo tumulong na malutas nang mapayapa ang bagay na ito sa pinakamadaling panahon,‖ dugtong pa ni Lacierda. Ang pamahalaan sa pamamagitan ng mga alagad ng batas ay nakahandang lagi na sugpuin ang ano mang uri ng pagsalakay na tulad nito sa liwanag ng mga bagong karahasang naganap sa Basilan na nasugpo na ng militar. Ayon kay Lacierda, sinamantala naman ng may 150 tauhan ng Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) at Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) ang gulo sa Lungsod ng Zamboanga kaya nagtangkang sumalakay sa lungsod ng Lamitan, subali‘t nasugpo sila ng militar. Pagkatapos ng dalawang oras na sagupaan, umatras ang mga tauhan ng BIFF at ASG na ngayon ay tinutugis na ng mga tauhan ng Sandatahang Lakas. Tiniyak ni Lacierda sa mga mamamayan ng Lungsod ng Zamboanga na pinangangalagaan ng pamahalaan ang kapakanan ng taong bayan at nagpapadala ng mga pangunahing pangangailangan ng mga tao sa pook na may kaguluhan. Hiningi rin ng Palasyo sa Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) na tiyaking may sapat na salapi sa naturang pook. Hiningi naman ni Lacierda ang tulong ng mga taga-Lungsod ng Zamboanga na huwag nang pag-alabin pa ang kasalukuyang kalagayan at iwasan ang misimpormasyon sa pamamagitan ng mga text messages na salat sa katotohanan. Sa halip, sabi ni Lacierda, makinig sa mga tunay na balita at patalastas buhat sa pamahalaan. Idinugtong ni Lacierda na wasto ang ginawang hakbang ng lokal na pamahalaan ng Lungsod ng Zamboanga tungkol sa pangyayaring nasabi. Gayunman, nanawagan din si Lacierda sa mga lokal na pinuno na huwag nang bahiran ng pulitika ang krisis na ito. Ang grupong ito ang tumututol sa prosesong pangkapayapaan sa Mindanao at ang nais ay lumikha ng ligalig at nang hindi matuloy ang paglagda sa final peace pact. Bago naganap ang hostage crisis sa Lungsod ng Zamboanga, ilang grupo ang naglunsad ng pambobomba sa Lungsod ng Cagayan de Oro at iba pang dako ng Mindanao. PND (as/zaf)

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President Benigno S. Aquino III's Speech at the 7th ASEAN Navy Chiefs' Meeting (ANCM) Raffles and Fairmont Makati, One Raffles Drive, Makati City

10 Sept. 2013 I know that even before the era of colonialism, our peoples had already been brought together by the sea. During that

time, our ancestors sowed the very first seeds of the relations we now enjoy—through trade and the exchange of goodwill. The extent of our precolonial relations may surprise some. For example, I am told that on the eve of the European conquest of the Philippines, the Thai had already established an embassy-of-sorts in Cebu, a province in the southern part of our country. Truly, even from the early years of our civilizations, our peoples have looked at the waters that surround us and seen nautical highways to cooperation and friendship. Today, I am honored to be here with all of you in this meeting, which aims to continue that tradition. After the conquest and subsequent reclamation of countries in the region—after the upheavals and the wars that have shaped the landscape of history—once again we find ourselves together, seeking ways to expand and strengthen our partnerships. Our present times demand it. Our respective nations entered the modern era as independent states, and we are all well aware of the challenges that come with it—and of the work that must be done to meet those challenges. Our respective nations have all strived to uphold our individual sovereignty, while at the same time fostering a strong sense of regional solidarity—one that favors consensus and collaboration instead of discord, aggression, and imposition. And it is in meetings like this where we can make progress on that front—where we can truly solidify our ties and protect our common seas. The end in sight: Freedom of navigation, the safety of commercial vessels, and the security of their civilian passengers, all of which are especially important given the ASEAN Economic Community, which we intend to establish by 2015. This is precisely what all of us here want to ensure; and it gives me great optimism that all of you are here to talk and listen to each other about how we can better pursue these goals. I trust that this meeting will lead to the mutual enrichment of our navies—to the sharing of vital lessons in accomplishing missions—whether these be maritime patrols, search and rescue operations, or the interdiction of pirates and other security threats—all towards the creation of an ASEAN environment more secure than ever before. While the stories of cooperation between our peoples through the centuries already fill the pages of our history books, I am hopeful that, together, through meetings such as this, we can extend those narratives and write even more chapters about how we have worked together to sustain a peaceful and prosperous ASEAN region. Perhaps I can leave you with one thought: Communication leads to cooperation, which enhances stability for the region leading to prosperity for all. Thank you, and may you all have a fruitful meeting.

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ONLINE NEWS

12 SEPTEMBER 2013

1. DBM vows compliance with High Court TRO on PDAF, Malampaya releases

2. Secretary Soliman still in Zamboanga, orders repacking of more relief goods

3. Philippines signs amended Tax Treaty with Germany

4. NSCB conducts 2nd Statistical Appreciation Seminar Series for Media Practitioners

5. Roxas - Primary mission is to save lives

6. DPWH Region 8 prepares for emergencies

7. GPH, MILF resume talks; condemn violence by Misuari-led MNLF forces

8. Remarks of Secretary of Foreign Affairs Albert F. Del Rosario on the Occasion of the 3rd High Level Public-Private

9. Vigan Mayor talks about Sustainable Conservation Management in UNESCO

10. DAR bares landholdings acquired, set for distribution

11. VP Binay asks Congress: Remove P200M OVP local projects fund

12. Procurement timelines of PPP Project

13. Ph and South Korea ink US$20.631 million loan for Samar Pacific Coastal Road Project

14. CA junks Surigao RTC Injunction against DENR-MGB, PMO

15. Attention Travelers - No need for printed or hard copies of tickets at airports

1. DBM vows compliance with High Court TRO on PDAF, Malampaya releases

Source: http://www.dbm.gov.ph

Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Florencio B. Abad today confirmed that the agency will comply with Supreme Court‘s decision to issue a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) against releases from all remaining Priority Development Assistance Funds (PDAF) under the 2013 General Appropriations Act, as well as

releases from Malampaya Funds that will be used ―for such other purposes as may be hereafter directed by the President‖ under Section 8 of Presidential Decree No. 910. The TRO, however, does not cover Malampaya Fund releases for ―financ[ing] energy resource development and exploitation programs and projects of the government,‖ as outlined in the same provision. ―We are prepared to fully comply with and support the TRO issued by the High Court on the remaining PDAF releases under the 2013 budget, especially as this agrees with the President‘s instruction to suspend all releases from this fund while the current investigation on the Napoles controversy is still being conducted. We will likewise comply with the Supreme Court‘s order to hold off on all Malampaya Fund releases for non-energy related projects until the TRO has been effectively lifted,‖ Abad said. A total of P14.7 billion of the P24.7-billion Priority Development Assistance Fund for 2013 has not been released since President Benigno S. Aquino III instructed the suspension of all PDAF releases, in view of the ongoing investigation on the alleged Napoles scam. The figure covers unreleased allocations from both the first and second tranches of the PDAF. The Budget chief likewise emphasized that the Aquino administration has not released allocations under the Malampaya fund to support projects unrelated to energy development or exploitation. ―Under the Aquino administration, all Malampaya Fund releases were channeled to projects for energy resource development–including those that secure and protect our potential energy sources–exactly as the fund was designed for,‖ Abad said. Only P335.1 million has so far been released from the Malampaya Fund in 2013 as of August 16. The release was made to the Department of National Defense (DND) to support the protection and security requirements of the Malampaya Gas-to-Power Project. ―As the inquiry on the PDAF scam continues, we welcome every course of action that will facilitate the progress of the investigation, so that those who are accountable for these fund irregularities will be prosecuted in due course. At the same time, the DBM under the Aquino administration will continue its pursuit of greater transparency and accountability in the management of public funds, particularly those that have proven vulnerable to misuse and corruption,‖ Abad said.

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2. Secretary Soliman still in Zamboanga, orders repacking of more relief goods

Source: http://www.dswd.gov.ph

Social Welfare and Development Secretary Dinky Soliman who is still in Zamboanga City today to check on the situation of the evacuees said that repacking of more relief goods at the DSWD Region IX compound is on-going to address the increasing need for food assistance as more families are being displaced by the on-going clash between the military and the Moro National Liberation Front. Secretary Soliman said that as of 10 am today, 3,494 families composed of 16,118 persons have been affected by the incident. Of this number, 3,181 families with 14,859 persons are still staying in the 13 evacuation centers around the city. As of press time, estimated total cost of assistance to displaced families is P3.5 million from the combined resources of the DSWD with P1.2 million, Zamboanga City LGU with P1.0 million, and Civil Society Organizations P1.3 million. Secretary Soliman added that the World Food Programme (WFP) donated 800 boxes of high energy biscuits for children and senior-evacuees. Likewise, Air 21 donated 20 units of portalets. Airlifting of the biscuits and the portalets started last night, and will be completed today. DSWD Region IX social workers continue to assist the local social workers in managing the evacuation centers and the three kitchen soups. Children-evacuees also continue to be provided with play therapy The DSWD also deployed a social worker to attend to the needs of the four children and an adult who was rescued. Secretary Soliman will still be in Zamboanga City until tomorrow to ensure that the needs of the affected families are addressed.

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3. Philippines signs amended Tax Treaty with Germany

Source: http://www.dof.gov.ph

The Philippines and Germany recently signed a renegotiated version of the Double Taxation Agreement between the two countries, otherwise known as the Agreement for the Avoidance of Double Taxation with respect to Taxes on Income and Capital, in Berlin, Germany on 9 September 2013.

The Philippines was represented by Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima while Germany was represented by Ambassador Martin Ney, the Legal Adviser to the German Foreign Ministry. Purisima hailed the signing of the renegotiated agreement as a fruitful development in the Philippines‘ efforts to seek international cooperation in tax administration. ―We are honored and pleased to sign this latest set of amendments to our Double Taxation agreement with Germany. By signing this, we also renewed the commitment between both of our countries to promote tax transparency as an international priority, and to help each other fight tax evasion in our respective jurisdictions,‖ Purisima said. Double Taxation agreements are meant to promote international trade and investment by ensuring that entities are not subject to double application of certain types of tax between two contracting states, as this would be detrimental to foreign business activity. The sharing of tax information afforded by a Double Taxation agreement enhances the ability of tax administrators to monitor fiscal performance and revenue collections. Among the amendments to the Philippines-Germany DTA are the lowering of certain preferential rates, as summarized below: Dividends · Lowered preferential tax rate on dividends to 5% if beneficial owner is a company which owns at least 70 percent of stockholdings of paying company, from previous 10% under the old DTA Interest · Lowered tax on interest to rate of 10 per cent unless otherwise exempt instead of 15 per cent rate in all other cases under the old DTA · Interest in connection with sale on credit of a commercial/scientific equipment and of an enterprise to enterprise sale on credit, if the recipient is also the beneficial owner thereof, is now taxable only in the residence State, and not anymore taxed in the source state at 10 per cent Royalties · Lowered tax rate to 10 per cent regardless of the type of royalty

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4. NSCB conducts 2nd Statistical Appreciation Seminar Series for Media Practitioners

Source: http://www.nscb.gov.ph

The National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) will host a one-day Statistical Appreciation Seminar for Media Practitioners on September 21, 2013 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the NSCB Operations Room, 5th Floor, Midland Buendia, 403 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City. This is part of a series of free seminars which the NSCB will conduct to maintain its strategic partnership with the media in publicizing and popularizing statistics. The media has continuously helped the NSCB in nurturing statistical culture in the country and has encouraged usage of statistics by the public through efficient dissemination of statistical information using their channels. Despite this well-established partnership, information asymmetries still persist because statisticians‘ language is numbers while journalists‘ language is words. The initial series for this year will focus on two NSCB-generated indicators and products: the National Accounts of the Philippines and Official Poverty Statistics. The lectures will be conducted by NSCB‘s sector specialists including Secretary General Jose Ramon G. Albert, Assistant Secretary General Lina V. Castro, National Statistical Information Center Director Candido J. Astrologo, Economic Statistics Office Director Raymundo J. Talento, and Social Statistics Office Director Jessamyn O. Encarnacion. These free seminars for media practitioners will assist seminar participants in carrying out their roles as communicators of official statistics. Through this effort, the NSCB also hopes to enhance its understanding and awareness of the media‘s needs, insights and perspectives on statistics. The event is open to all journalists from print, broadcast, and online media organizations whose beats are in the area of business, economics and related fields. Interested participants are encouraged to preregister with Mr. Precious Jose E. Baroy at telephone numbered 890-8456 or email info@nscb.gov.ph.

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5. Roxas - Primary mission is to save lives

Source: http://www.dilg.gov.ph

Manila, Philippines Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas today stressed that the primary mission of government forces still stationed in Zamboanga City is to secure the safe release of hostages who are being used as ―human shield‖ of armed men believed to be rogue elements of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF). ―Malinaw ang pangunahing misyon ng pamahalaan ngayon: gawin ang lahat ng paraan para hikayatin ang armadong grupo ng MNLF na palayain ang lahat ng mga residenteng bihag nila at ginagawang ‗human shield‘ laban sa operasyon ng militar at pulis,‖ Roxas said. ―Hindi titigil ang operasyon ng pamahalaan hangga‘t may natitirang residente na hawak ng armadong grupong ito,‖ he added. The DILG Secretary disclosed that the local crisis management committee has received feelers from several individuals offering help in negotiating for the release of the hostages. ―Maraming natatanggap na feelers ang ating local crisis management committee at sinabi naman ng ating mga opisyal na bukas sila sa pakikipag-usap. Ang kailangan lang alamin, may kontak ba talaga ang mga feelers na ito sa mga lider ng armadong grupo at may authority ba sila para makipag-usap?‖ he said. Roxas maintained that the government would demand the unconditional release of all hostages in case the leaders of the armed group pushes agree to talk with the local crisis management committee. ―Malinaw ang posisyon ng pamahalaan: gusto nating palayain ang lahat ng mga bihag at mailigtas sa kapahamakan ang mamamayan ng Zamboanga City,‖ he pointed out. At present, Roxas said government officials are working with local executives and community leaders to ensure the evacuation to safer grounds of city residents who are caught in the crossfire between security forces and MNLF rebels. ―Nagtulong-tulong ang lahat sa komunidad para mailikas sa ligtas na lugar ang maraming bilang ng mamamayan na direktang apektado ng paglusob ng armadong grupo ng MNLF,‖ he pointed out. City officials, he said, are in close coordination with field personnel of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Department of Health (DOH) to make sure that the evacuated residents are protected and well taken care of. ―Binibigyan natin sila (evacuees) ng lugar na matutulugan, sapat na pagkain, at gamot para sa mga may karamdaman. Tiniyak din ng pamahalaan na may sapat na puwersa para pangalagaan ang kanilang seguridad laban sa anumang banta ng karahasan,‖ the DILG chief said. Roxas and Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin are still in Zamboanga City to monitor the city government‘s response to the ongoing crisis. Roxas explained that government forces are now focusing on ―saving as many lives as possible‖ after they successfully thwarted the attempt of MNLF rebels to take over vital installations in Zamboanga City. ―Matagumpay na nanindigan ang puwersa ng pamahalaan para ipagtanggol ang Zamboanga City laban sa armadong grupo ng MNLF na nagtangkang sakupin ang sentro ng pamamahala sa lungsod (City Hall) at maghasik ng karahasan sa mamamayan,‖ the DILG chief pointed out. ―Maagap ring umaksiyon ang lokal na pamahalaan, katulong ang AFP at PNP, para pigilan ang paglusob ng MNLF sa sentro ng kalakalan sa siyudad. Dahil dito, napigilan ang masamang balak ng MNLF na ipailalim sa kanilang kontrol ang mahahalagang instalasyon ng pamahalaan at komersiyo sa loob ng Zamboanga City,‖ he added. Roxas noted that the military and police are working hand-in-hand to flush out the remaining armed groups who are still sowing terror in four of the 98 barangays in Zamboanga City. ―Sisiguruhin ng militar at pulis na mapapaalis ang mga armadong grupo sa natitirang apat na barangay na ginagalawan nila. Aarestuhin ang sinumang armado na maghahasik ng takot sa mga lugar na ito. Hahalughugin ang bawat bahay at titiyakin na ligtas sa kapahamakan ang bawat pamilyang nakatira rito,‖ he stressed. Roxas said the government would also see to it that all those responsible for the foiled siege on Zamboanga would be meted punishment in accordance with the law. ―Papanagutin din sa batas ang lahat ng may kaugnayan sa pagkamatay at pagkasugat ng mga taong naipit sa kaguluhan. Walang lugar na pagtataguan ang mga kriminal na ito. Tutugisin natin sila kahit saan sila magsuot,‖ he said.

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6. DPWH Region 8 prepares for emergencies

Source: http://www.dpwh.gov.ph

Learning from past experiences faced by Eastern Visayas Region during the rainy season, the Department of Public Works and Highways reactivates its ―Oplan Quick Response Team‖ in all field offices of DPWH Region 8. DPWH Region 8 Director Rolando M. Asis said that in line with the culture of preparedness set by Secretary Rogelio L. Singson, all the assigned 13 District Engineers at Eastern Visayas were directed to reactive respective quick response team immediately upon forecast by the Weather Bureau of moderate to heavy rainfall. ―Preparedness is the government‘s main way of reducing the impact of disasters which should be given high priority‖ said Asis. The DPWH Region 8 Quick Response Team will focus on monitoring flood-prone areas and to undertake clearing of roads from debris, and emergency opening of damaged roads due to slips/slides to at least one lane for regular traffic to pass. With its geographic jurisdiction, the District Engineering Offices in Maasin City, Southern Leyte (Southern Leyte District Engineering Office); Baybay City (Leyte 5th District Engineering Office); Catarman, Northern Samar (Northern Samar 1st District Engineering Office); Tacloban City (Tacloban City District Engineering Office); and Leyte First District Engineering Office were specifically instructed by Asis to provide light and heavy equipment such as dump trucks, payloaders and excavators needed for emergency clearing. Secretary Singson formulated a disaster preparedness and response mechanism during typhoons and other calamities under Department Order 38 which direct all the 16 DPWH Regional Directors to submit every six (6) hours to the Office of the Secretary copy furnished the Bureau of Maintenance, their situational reports during calamities on major/secondary national roads and bridges within their respective areas of jurisdiction. Reports on damage are categorized into three (3): Priority I – involves immediate rehabilitation of collapsed bridges, cut road sections, breached seawalls and dikes to quickly restore mobility and ensure the safety of the affected areas; Priority II – involves ordinary repair works such as patching potholes, resurfacing of washed-out roads and slightly destroyed flood control structures; and Priority III – involves minor repair work and/or improvement to prevent further deterioration such as repair of road section. Secretary Singson also directed the setting up of system per district level where road sections prone to damage caused by calamities are identified and then assigned permanent inspectors who are capable of assessing damage and estimating with a high degree of accuracy the cost of restoration work. A yearly average of 20 tropical storms enters the Philippine Area of Responsibility and among the hazard due to this low pressure system are strong winds with heavy rainfall that can cause widespread flooding/flashfloods, storm surges, landslides and mudflows.

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7. GPH, MILF resume talks; condemn violence by Misuari-led MNLF forces

Source: http://www.opapp.gov.ph

Kuala Lumpur – A day after the violent attacks by elements of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) associated with Nur Misuari in Zamboanga City, the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) resumed peace negotiations on Tuesday with a shared commitment to ―pursue the peace process to its just and rightful conclusion.‖ ―We open our 40th Formal Exploratory round of talks today with firm resolve that as we seek to hurdle the difficulties we are facing in the negotiations, we will also overcome the security challenges confronting us in various parts of Mindanao today,‖ GPH peace panel chair Miriam Coronel-Ferrer said in her statement during the opening of the 10-day formal exploratory talks in this Malaysian capital. On Monday, around 400 MNLF forces attacked communities in Zamboanga City, where six people died, scores wounded, and dozens taken hostage. The Misuari-led group recently declared independence and faulted the government for not including the MNLF in the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) signed by the GPH and MILF in October 2012. Coronel-Ferrer said that ―there are groups and leaders who are waiting for this process to fail,‖ but the government and the MILF will work together to succeed in forging and implementing a comprehensive peace pact that is inclusive of the interest and welfare of all in the Bangsamoro. ―We cannot allow this process to fail,‖ she added. ―We have to show to one and all that through reason and compassion, through dialogue and cooperation, we can create the process and the institutions that will enable one and all, exercising their free will but refraining from the use of all forms of violence, to rebuild their societies and polities.‖ The agenda in this round of talks is to complete the two remaining annexes on power sharing and normalization. Two annexes have already been signed this year, namely the Annex on Transitional Arrangements on Modalities, signed in February, and the Annex on Revenue Generation and Wealth Sharing, signed in July. These four annexes, together with the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro, will comprise the comprehensive agreement which the parties aim to sign within the year. ―We know that the fire fights are exposing the GPH-MILF talks to criticism. But our response is simple. Will aborting this negotiation make other groups happy and stop their violent acts? Will preventing ourselves from finishing our work enable peace to prevail? Not at all. The opposite in fact may be truer,‖ Coronel-Ferrer stated. Even with previous strings of violence, both peace panels expressed shared resolve to not allow spoilers to derail the peace process. MILF panel chair Mohagher Iqbal reiterated on the need to fast track the peace negotiations. ―The longer the peace

negotiations drag on, the better they believe it is good for them. They may really feast on our perceived failures. However, the noises they are creating nowadays do not mean they are getting stronger. Their very nature and the message that they are exposing is not appealing or attractive to the vast majority of the people especially their view that their civilian casualties are given in war.‖ ―Therefore, the best way to deprive them of any opportunity to put into play their anarchist agenda at the expense of the peace talks is for the parties to conclude their negotiation and without delay sign the comprehensive peace agreement. There can be no other antidote to these rumblings except through this way,‖ he stated. Joint statement In a joint statement, the parties ―condemned in the strongest terms the violence‖ staged by Misuari‘s group. ―The perpetrators must be stopped and held accountable for their acts,‖ the statement said. ―The parties remain committed to pursuing the peace process to its just and rightful conclusion, in the belief that it is through partnership that institutions reflective of the true needs and aspirations of the Bangsamoro and other peoples of Mindanao shall be installed,‖ it added. The joint statement stressed that the government will adhere to its previous commitments, while the MILF, ―encourage their Moro brothers and sisters in the MNLF to work together so that the Moro struggle will benefit all.‖ Both sides also agreed ―to ensure continuity of the peaceful option so that the peoples of Mindanao can live in unity and prosperity.‖ ―The Parties extend their heartfelt sympathy to and solidarity with the people of Zamboanga City and other areas affected by such violence.‖

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8. Remarks of Secretary of Foreign Affairs Albert F. Del Rosario on the Occasion of the 3rd High Level Public-Private

Source: https://www.dfa.gov.ph

Before I begin, I would like to thank the Government of the United Arab Emirates for their hospitality and their dedication in tackling this issue of maritime piracy. As this is the third conference of its kind, I am pleased to see how awareness of our concerns is growing, and that the international community has taken many steps towards the eradication of maritime piracy. The Federal Government of Somalia also deserves to be congratulated, as it has accepted assistance from the international community and has been successful in reducing the incidences of piracy in the high-risk area emanating from its coast. Peace and development in Somalia is ultimately the long-term solution to ending piracy, and we hope that the successes of Somalia be sustained as we look forward to a future where piracy would no longer be a major concern. Maritime piracy is a serious issue for the Philippines being the world‘s largest supplier of seafarers since 1987 and as a flag-state registry for ocean-going vessels. The Philippines is the vessel-manning capital of the world, supplying one-fourth of the total seafarers, so that there is a high probability that a Filipino seafarer is victimized during a piracy incident. Since 2006, about 826 Filipinos had been held for ransom by Somali pirates. With the decline in piracy off the coast of Somalia, only 5 Filipino seafarers are currently held in captivity. There are 118 Philippine-registered ocean-going ships, 90 per cent of which pass through the high-risk area near the Somali coast. The Philippine Government, through the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration, has required that all seafarers undertake piracy awareness seminars before their deployment. MARINA, as the flag-state administration for Philippine-flagged vessels, has come out with rules regarding the employment of privately contracted armed service personnel to help guard Philippine ships in the high-risk zone. The Philippines has also contributed the services of a Naval Liaison Officer for the Combined Maritime Forces stationed in Bahrain, which has a mission to patrol the high-risk area. At present the Philippines has a bilateral counter-piracy training agreement with the United States for seafarers, which has been expanded to include counter-piracy training for ASEAN and East Asian seafarers. The East Asia Seafarers Training (EAST) is tentatively scheduled for September 2013 in Manila. I would also like to express the Philippines‘ continued support for international efforts aimed at preventing and suppressing piracy and armed robbery against ships in the Gulf of Aden and off the coast of Somalia. The Combined Maritime Forces – EUNAVFOR, NATO, AMISOM, and other international forces – have all contributed to a better security environment that has reduced incidences of piracy to an all-time low. Along with this, the Philippines hopes

for the successful implementation of the Djibouti Code of Conduct on the Suppression of Piracy in Somalia. Even with all the efforts of the international community thus far, we cannot afford to be complacent. Complacency with piracy comes at a high cost. After all, international shipping lanes are the lifeline of global trade, and as previously stated, the World Bank estimates the economic impact of piracy at US$18 billion a year. However, ships and goods are not the only assets of value at risk to piracy. Another valuable asset that traverses the seas is the seafarers. Even as international shipping is increasingly becoming automated, there is very much a human component in its operations. The navigation, maintenance, and efficiency of a ship have always been in human hands, and will continue to be for the foreseeable future. There are people in these ships. These people have hopes and dreams. They have families. Most importantly, they have rights. And when they become victims of piracy, all these are jeopardized. The Philippines, as a member of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council, has implemented a variety of best practices in order to mitigate the impact of piracy on its direct victims, the seafarers. As mentioned earlier, we have authorized Philippine-flagged ships to privately contract armed service personnel, giving them the option to literally combat piracy. This, of course, is an extreme option, and we have emphasized the risks of exercising this option. Every Filipino seafarer is given a comprehensive orientation on what to do in the event of a pirate attack. We also take great care in ensuring that families of victims get all the information and counseling that they need. Once seafarers are rescued, we conduct debriefing sessions to understand more about the pirates and their methods. We also assist them in getting their lives back together through post-traumatic counseling and other services. But despite these efforts, we can only be as effective in our ability to coordinate with ship owners. We therefore urge ship owners to be more open to sharing information on the status of captive seafarers. A little information will go a long way in helping families of victims maintain their resolve and in keeping their hopes alive. We have yet to address cases wherein a ship owner abandons the ship, leaving its crew to an uncertain fate. We call on ship owners to refrain from resorting to this course of action, as this also constitutes the abandonment of lives as it is an abandonment of property. We still have a long way to go in our campaign against piracy. There is still much to be done, and the Philippine Government shall continue to engage and coordinate with the International Maritime Organization, the United Nations, relevant government institutions, ad-hoc groups such as the Contact Group on Piracy in the Coast of Somalia, and shipping and manning agencies in the Philippines to explore options and determine the best course of action to protect seafarers, ships, and address the problem of piracy worldwide. In closing, I wish to again congratulate the Government of the United Arab Emirates for organizing this conference which has provided us a forum to exchange views on this important issue that is besetting the global maritime industry. I hope that this conference will help guide us in our search for more effective solutions to eradicate piracy in the high seas. Thank you.

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9. Vigan Mayor talks about Sustainable Conservation Management in UNESCO

Source: https://www.dfa.gov.ph

12 September 2013 - Mayor Eva Marie S. Medina gave a talk on the sustainable conservation management model of the City of Vigan at the Salon des Délegués in UNESCO Miollis on September 09. Organized jointly by the Philippine Permanent Delegation to United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the UNESCO National Commission of the Philippines, the lecture was part of the country‘s efforts to share the country‘s experiences and expertise in world heritage management. In her opening remarks, Philippine Ambassador Cristina G. Ortega said that the Philippines would welcome the opportunity to serve the greater community and that it is for this reason the country has put forward its candidature for a seat in the World Heritage Committee this year. During her talk, Mayor Medina said, ―It is definitely a very difficult situation to be in – choosing between centuries old heritage against the needs of the present. The Vigan experience however demonstrates that heritage conservation can be pursued hand in hand with the economic development of a heritage site.‖ In attendance during the lecture were numerous Ambassadors and Permanent Delegates of UNESCO Member States. Several attendees to the event commented that the lecture was very informative and that other world heritage sites, especially in developing countries, can learn from Vigan‘s experience. The Historic City of Vigan is one of five World Heritage sites found in the Philippines. In 2012, it was selected as a Model of Best Practices in World Heritage Site Management by the World Heritage Center. This distinction was officially announced during the 40th anniversary celebrations of the World Heritage Convention held last November 2012 in Kyoto, Japan. Selected among 28 other candidates, the City of Vigan was recognized by the World Heritage

Center because of the pivotal role played by the local government and local communities in heritage conservation.

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10. DAR bares landholdings acquired, set for distribution

Source: http://www.dar.gov.ph

A TOTAL of 3,635 landholdings has been covered under the land acquisition and distribution subcomponent of an amended land-reform law, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) said. Agrarian Reform Undersecretary for Legal Affairs Anthony Parungao said the landholdings acquired during the first half of the year cover a total area of 61,884 hectares. This is about only 7 percent of the remaining land acquisition and distribution (LAD) balance to be acquired by the DAR at 879,526 hectares as of January 1, 2013. At this rate, only about 185,652 would be under LAD by June next year, the deadline set for the DAR subcomponent of the Land Tenure Improvement component under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program Extension with Reforms (CARPer). According to the DAR, LAD ―involves the redistribution of government and private agricultural lands to landless farmers and farmworkers.‖ Parungao, nonetheless, claims the first-half figures are the ―highest in 12 years‖ for the DAR. Of the total LAD balance at approximately 821,662 hectares as of end-June, about 694,181 hectares are to be distributed to qualified beneficiaries, while an estimated 175,000 hectares are retention areas. A retention area is an estimated area that corresponds to the total of the areas to be retained by each land owner of the lands to be acquired and distributed by the government under the law. Under Republic Act 9700, a landowner is allowed to retain a maximum of five hectares of land covered by CARPer. These landholdings covered under LAD are in various stages. Once a land has been acquired by the government under CARPer, the DAR needs to identify qualified beneficiaries, validate the list of qualified beneficiaries, conduct land survey and land valuation, complete the claims folder, until actual certificate of land ownership award (CLOA), the proof of ownership of the land covered by the program, are awarded. Parungao said that the DAR will continue to acquire and distribute lands beyond June 2014. ―It is incorrect to use June 2014 as deadline. Our position is that we can proceed with LAD even beyond the said date for lands where notice of coverage have already been served,‖ he said citing Section 30 of RA 9700. ―Our legal position has been sustained by the Department of Justice through its legal opinions No. 59, s 2011 and 60 s, 2011 issued early and mid July this year, respectively,‖ he added. The DOJ opinions, he said, gives the DAR the ―green light‖ to proceed with LAD and continue implementing the two other major programs under CARPer, namely Agrarian Justice Delivery and Program Beneficiaries Development (PBD) According to Parungao, LAD targets for the next four years are 160,000 hectares for 2013, 240,000 has. for 2014, 180,000 has. for 2015, and 112,000 has. for 2016. Parungao said that only 30 percent or 17,732 land holdings of the remaining 59,522 land holdings needs to be issued notice of coverage. In terms of area, the 30 percent balance for NOCs is estimated at 153,132 hectares out of the 499,138 hectares. ―The total landholdings with notice of coverage are now 41,790 covering 346,006 hectares. This excludes those with notice of coverage but already accomplished,‖ he said.

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11. VP Binay asks Congress: Remove P200M OVP local projects fund

Source: http://ovp.gov.ph

Vice President Jejomar C. Binay today asked Congress to remove the P200 million local projects fund from the 2014 budget of the Office of the Vice President.

The Vice President said he made the decision to end speculation and politicking on the true nature of the fund. He said he hopes that this would assure our people that government officials are sensitive to their sentiments and are committed to serve with transparency and accountability. Binay made the request in a statement read by Usec. Benjamin Martinez Jr., Chief of Staff of the OVP, during the Senate hearing for the OVP‘s 2014 budget. ―Batid ko na may mga proyektong maapektuhan ng desisyon kong ito, katulad ng mga college scholarships sa mga mahihirap na estudyante, ang pagbibigay ng gamot at tulong sa mga nangangailangan nating mga kababayan at ang pagtatayo ng gusali para sa senior citizens,‖ Binay said. ―Alam ko na ito ay maiintindihan ng ating mga kababayan,‖ he added. Binay said that since he assumed office, the locally-funded projects of the OVP have all passed the scrutiny of the Commission on Audit (COA). ―Hindi lamang pasado ito sa COA, kundi pinapurihan pa kami, bilang pagkilala sa hayag at masinop na paggamit ng aking tanggapan sa nasabing pondo, at ang benepisyo na natatamasa ng ating mga kababayan,‖ Binay said. ―Nagdesisyon ako kahit hindi pa man sinasabi ng kinauukulan kung ano ang katangian ng pondong ito, para maiwasan ang ispekulasyon at pamumulitika sa usaping ito. Umaasa ako na sa desisyong ito, muli nating maipararating sa ating mga kababayan na tayong mga nasa gobyerno ay laging nakikinig sa kanila at handang maglingkod ng tapat, hayag at may pananagutan,‖ he added. With the removal of the P200 million, the OVP‘s budget is down to P217 million from the original P417 million Binay‘s office was requesting. The Vice President previously allocated part of the OVP‘s P200-million fund for the construction or repair of senior citizens‘ center nationwide. From 2011 to 2012, the OVP bankrolled the construction or repair of 500 senior citizens‘ centers. Around 200 more are expected to be built this year. Part of the fund was also used for the Vice President‘s scholarship grant-in-aid program. The OVP currently has 1,160 scholars in state colleges and universities nationwide and an additional 180 beneficiaries from AMA Computer University/ACLAC/ABE, St.Jude College & Medical Center, Manila Central University, Manila Business College and University of Batangas. A June 19 report of the COA lauded the OVP‘s social services programs including providing medical, dental, burial, and transportation assistance to some 31,691 indigent beneficiaries nationwide. In the report, state auditors likewise lauded Binay‘s grant-in-aid scholarship program and credited the Vice President for distributing school bags and school supplies to 15,975 beneficiaries as educational support. Moreover, COA hailed the OVP‘s accounting unit for being awarded as one of the most outstanding accounting offices among national government agencies in 2011 and 2012. The OVP‘s P200 million fund for locally-funded projects was given starting 2011 and originally came from the unused Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) of then Sen. Benigno Aquino III. In 2012 and 2013 the amount was integrated into the OVP‘s regular budget.

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12. Procurement timelines of PPP Project

Source: http://ppp.gov.ph

Projects Release of

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Period from Issuance

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Construction Start

Date

Project Status as of

September 2013

Daang Hari-SLEX Link

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PPP for School

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Phase 1 January 8, 2012 14 months

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NAIA Expressway Phase 2 July 2012 14 months Awarded; Detailed

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Modernization of the

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November 18,

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Submitted bid for ICC

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December 21,

2012 9 months *

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Automatic Fare Collection

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MCIA Passenger Terminal

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2012 9 months * For bid submission

Cavite-Laguna Expressway April 9, 2013 (Re-

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LRT 1 Cavite Extension

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Rehabilitation and O&M

of AHEPP Turbines 4 & 5 December12, 2012 n/a For re-issuance of ITPB

* From release of Invitation to Prequalify and Bid (ITPB) to current project status

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13. Ph and South Korea ink US$20.631 million loan for Samar Pacific Coastal Road Project

Source: http://www.dof.gov.ph

The Governments of the Republic of the Philippines and Republic of Korea signed on 19 August 2013 a loan agreement to support the implementation of the Samar Pacific Coastal Road Project of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). Finance Secretary Cesar V. Purisima signed the Loan Agreement on behalf of the Philippine Government while Export-Import Bank of Korea (KEXIM) Chairman and President Yong Hwan Kim signed on behalf of the Republic of Korea. Under the loan agreement, the Republic of Korea, through KEXIM will provide an ODA loan under the Economic Development Cooperation Fund amounting to US$20.631 million to finance the construction of 14 kilometers of roads and 220 lineal meters of bridges that will traverse the coastal towns from San Policarpio to Palapag, Samar. As approved by the NEDA Board, the linking of the so-called ―Pacific towns‖ will complement and eventually establish a circumferential road loop for Samar Island, which is envisaged to enhance the development of potential agricultural lands and fishing grounds of the province and facilitate the movement of goods and services. ―We are grateful to the Korean Government, through KEXIM, for extending a highly concessional financing for this Project. Aligned with President Aquino‘s vision of people-oriented infrastructure investment, the Samar Pacific Coastal Road Project will propel the development of the industries in Northern and Eastern Samar and accelerate the poverty alleviation efforts in the region,‖ Purisima said. The Korean Government is supporting various priority development projects of the Aquino Administration, including the Jalaur River Multipurpose Project Stage II in Iloilo Province and the Puerto Princesa Airport Development Project. KEXIM also financed the construction and development of the Laguindingan Airport in Misamis Oriental, which was inaugurated last June 12, 2013.

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14. CA junks Surigao RTC Injunction against DENR-MGB, PMO

Source: http://www.dof.gov.ph

On September 5, 2013, the 23rd Division of the Court of Appeals issued a 60-day Temporary Restraining Order stopping RTC Surigao City, Branch 29 Judge Victor A. Canoy from implementing and enforcing his Order dated June 14, 2013 and Writ of Preliminary Injunction dated June 17, 2013 in Civil Case No. 7692 against the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) and Privatization and Management Office (PMO). The Surigao Mineral Reservation, located primarily on Nonoc Island, Surigao, has been found to be among the largest nickel deposits in the world, estimated to contain 150 million dry metric tons of ore reserves with valuation of at least US$ 15 Billion.Shuley Mines, Inc. (SHULEY) has been operating in the mineral reservation since 2009. Average shipments out of the reservation is estimated at between USD 1million to USD 2million per shipment. Judge Canoy had ordered the DENR, MGB and PMO not to implement MGB‘s suspension order against SHULEY conducting mining and shipping operations, including the extraction and shipment of nickel ores out of Nonoc Island, and ordered MGB to issue and release ore transport permits and mineral ore export permits to SHULEY, as well as

grant SHULEY‘s future applications for such OTPs and MOEPs, despite the expiration of SHULEY‘s Mines Operating Agreement (MOA) with Mineral Production Sharing Agreement (MPSA) holder Pacific Nickel Philippines, Inc. (PNPI) on April 27, 2013. Judge Canoy is also presiding in an indirect contempt case filed by SHULEY against MGB Director Jasareno in relation to the latter‘s stoppage orders. On August 28, 2013, Judge Canoy had issued a warrant of arrest against Director Jasareno ostensibly to ensure the latter‘s attendance at a hearing scheduled on 12 September 2013. The Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) questioned Judge Canoy‘s issuances before the CA through a petition for certiorari wherein it pointed out that, despite the expiration of the MOA, SHULEY continues to unlawfully extract the mineral ores owned by the State, to the prejudice of the State since the nickel ores being illegally extracted are valued in the amount of more than PhP150 million. The CA ruled that all the requirements for the issuance of a TRO are present: (1) the government‘s clear and unmistakeable right to be protected, (2) a material and substantial invasion of such right, (c) the urgent need for the injunctive writ to prevent irreparable injury to the government since mineral resources are irreplaceable, and (d) the lack of any other ordinary, speedy and adequate remedy to prevent the infliction of such irreparable injury. The Constitution reserves to the State the ownership of all minerals that may be found in public and private lands, and as emphasized by the CA, the extraction of mineral resources is a distinct privilege granted only to a few. SHULEY‘s authority to continue its mining operations is doubtful, and there exists an urgent and paramount necessity warranting the issuance of an injunctive writ against Judge Canoy‘s Order and Writ of Preliminary Injunction. The CA deemed it sensible and judicious to issue the TRO to prevent the irreparable damage caused by the continuing extraction of the State‘s mineral resources.

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15. Attention Travelers - No need for printed or hard copies of tickets at airports

Source: http://www.doj.gov.ph

The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced today that effective immediately, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) shall no longer require the presentation of printed or hard copy of onward or return tickets for passengers at the international ports of entry and exit. Electronic tickets may be used through mobile devices such as smart phones, tablets. ―This is another simple step to improve access to basic government services," said Secretary Leila M. De Lima of the DOJ. "We shall continue to work with all stakeholders to inject common sense and process logic into our systems," she said. The new policy is embodied in Operations Order No. SBM-2013-003 entitled "Removing the Requirement of Presentation of the Printed Hard Copy of Return and/or Onward Passage Ticket" dated last 12 August 2013 a copy of which may be downloaded at www.immigration.gov.ph. "Competition reforms begin with the understanding that the users and consumers are at the heart of any government work," said DOJ Assistant Secretary Geronimo L. Sy.

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Last Updated: 10 SEPTEMBER 2013

Google+ Photo Releases of PNoy

Please click on thumbnails to magnify

President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 7th ASEAN Navy Chiefs Meeting (ANCM) at the

Ballroom 2, Raffles and Fairmont Hotel in Makati Avenue, Makati City on Tuesday

(September 10). Its has for its theme: “Partnership for Peace and Prosperity” to highlight the

need for strengthened cooperation among the ASEAN Navies for peace, stability and progress

in the ASEAN region. (Photo by: Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III graces the 7th ASEAN Navy Chiefs Meeting (ANCM) at the

Ballroom 2, Raffles and Fairmont Hotel in Makati Avenue, Makati City on Tuesday

(September 10). Its has for its theme: “Partnership for Peace and Prosperity” to highlight the

need for strengthened cooperation among the ASEAN Navies for peace, stability and progress

in the ASEAN region. In photo is Philippine Navy (PN) Flag Officer-in-Command (FOIC)

VADM Jose Luis Alano. (Photo by: Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the 7th

ASEAN Navy Chiefs

Meeting (ANCM) at the Ballroom 2, Raffles and Fairmont Hotel in Makati Avenue, Makati

City on Tuesday (September 10). Its has for its theme: “Partnership for Peace and Prosperity”

to highlight the need for strengthened cooperation among the ASEAN Navies for peace,

stability and progress in the ASEAN region. In photo are Naval Chief Chaplain Col. Tirso

Dolina, Defense Undersecretary Honorio Escueta, Philippine Navy (PN) Flag Officer-in-

Command (FOIC) VADM Jose Luis Alano and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)

Deputy Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Gregorio Macapagal. (Photo by: Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang

Photo Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III answers questions during the press briefing after gracing the

7th ASEAN Navy Chiefs Meeting (ANCM) at the Ballroom 2, Raffles and Fairmont Hotel in

Makati Avenue, Makati City on Tuesday (September 10). Its has for its theme: “Partnership

for Peace and Prosperity” to highlight the need for strengthened cooperation among the

ASEAN Navies for peace, stability and progress in the ASEAN region. (Photo by: Ryan Lim /

Malacañang Photo Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III converses with Philippine Navy (PN) Flag Officer-in-

Command (FOIC) VADM Jose Luis Alano during the 7th

ASEAN Navy Chiefs Meeting

(ANCM) at the Ballroom 2of the Raffles and Fairmont Hotel in Makati Avenue, Makati City

on Tuesday (September 10). Its has for its theme: “Partnership for Peace and Prosperity” to

highlight the need for strengthened cooperation among the ASEAN Navies for peace, stability

and progress in the ASEAN region. In photo is Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Deputy

Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Gregorio Macapagal. (Photo by: Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo

Bureau)

Thank You and God Bless !!!!