Aguinaldo Shrine Pagsanjan Falls Taal Lake Antipolo Church Lucban Pahiyas Feast

Dispatch for November 25 , 2013 ( Monday ) , 1 PIA Calabarzon PR , 19 Weather Watch,

12 Reg’l. Watch , 1 OFW Watch, PNOY Speech , 21 Online News , 5 Photonews

24-HOUR PUBLIC WEATHER FORECAST

Issued At: 5:00 a.m., 25 November 2013

Valid Beginning: 5:00 a.m. today until 5:00 a.m. tomorrow

Predicted Mean Sea Level Pressure

Analysis for 8 a.m., 25 November

2013

Predicted Mean Sea Level Wind

Analysis for 8 a.m., 25 November

2013

Satellite Image

for 5:30 a.m., 25 November 2013

Synopsis:

Tail-end of a cold front affecting Northern Luzon.

Forecast:

Metro Manila and the regions of Ilocos, Cordillera, Cagayan Valley and Central Luzon will have partly cloudy to

cloudy skies with isolated light rains. The rest of the country will be partly cloudy to cloudy with isolated

rainshowers or thunderstorms.

Moderate to strong winds blowing from the northeast will prevail over Northern Luzon and its coastal waters will be

moderate to rough. Elsewhere, winds will be light to moderate coming from the east to northeast with slight to

moderate seas.

Tropical Cyclone Update

As of today, there is no tropical cyclone existing within the Philippine Area of

Responsibility (PAR).

GALE WARNING GALE WARNING NO. 16

For: Strong to gale force winds associated with the surge of Northeast Monsoon.

Issued at 5:00 a.m. today, 25 November 2013

Strong to gale force winds is expected to affect the northern seaboard of Northern Luzon.

SEABOARD WEATHER WIND FORCE

(KPH)/(KNOTS)

SEA

CONDITION

WAVE

HEIGHTS

(meters)

The northern seaboard of

Northern Luzon

(Batanes, Calayan, Babuyan,

Northern coast of Ilocos

Norte, Northern coast of

Cagayan)

Partly cloudy to

cloudy skies with

isolated rains

(52 - 63) / (28 - 34) Rough to very

rough

3.4 to 4.5

Fishing boats and other small seacrafts are advised not to venture out into the sea while larger sea vessels are

alerted against big waves.

The next update will be issued at 5:00 p.m. today.

1. Weather Watch

Yesterday

PAGASA: This November, comet ISON will pass very close to the bright star Spica and the planet Saturn, both

in the constellation Virgo. These bright objects might help you find the comet. There has been some mention

that Comet ISON could become a daylight object. Comet ISON will appear close to the sun on the sky‟s dome

(only 4.4° north of the sun on November 28). Although the comet will be bright, it‟s likely that only experts who

know how to look near the sun, while blocking the sun‟s glare, will see it.

2. Weather Watch

about an hour ago

DOF Sec. Cesar Purisima on ANC:

Re: Manila relief hub

-Pinapakyaw natin lahat ng canned goods, noodles, 3-in-1 coffee sachets.

-Everyday we buy 1.2 million canned goods, 1.2 million noodles, 1.2 million 3-in-1 coffee, 18,000 sacks. We

need 150,000 packs a day.

-Yesterday we packed 2 million food packs. Each pack contains 6 kilos of rice, 8 canned foods, 8 noodles and 8

3-in-1 sachets.

-Average cost of each pack is P380. So far we have spent P760M.

-Starting next week, we will try to move relief operation centers in typhoon-hit areas like in Catbalogan,

Tacloban and Cebu.

-Based on the FAiTH, we have received $343M cash and non-cash donations in addition to the pledges of WB

and ADB.

-Climate change is a very important topic that the global community has to discuss.

-We would like to congratulate Manny for rising up again. This served as inspiration for typhoon victims.

-We would like to congratulate Manny for rising up again. This served as inspiration for typhoon victims.

-On DSWD repacking of foreign donations: From their explanation, they just want to make sure that what is

given to the victims are the same.

-MV Alfonso Jr. 2 is about to arrive in Tacloban with around 200,000 packs.

-Our big challenge is getting volunteer on weekdays. We need volunteers especially on weekdays, we need

trucks.

-The president of World Bank called the President and promised to give a million dollar in concessional loan.

The ADB also pledges to give us $500 million in concessional loan.

-We are going to organized pledging session this week.

-This is beyond politics.

- There will be Cabinet meeting on Wednesday (to present to PNoy rehab plan).

3. Weather Watch

about an hour ago

PIA-6/ILOILO: The NEDA-6 is now consolidating the data on damages of typhoon Yolanda in Western Visayas

to hasten the rehabilitation and recovery plan of the region.

4. Weather Watch

2 hours ago near Quezon City

DENR Sec. Ramon Paje on DZMM :

Re: Rehabilitasyon sa tinamaan ng bagyong Yolanda

-Kami ang mamamahala doon sa environmental rehab, iyan ay inutos ni PNoy.

-Nakita natin na open na open ang Tacloban sa dagat.

-Ang proposal namin kung pwede „yung mga lugar na tatayuan ng bahay na naalis ang balak namin ibalik ang

beach forest at mga mangrove.

-Sa ngayon sa national greening program namin, marami na kaming natatanim.

-Ang mangrove in five to six years lagpas tao na.

- Ang proposal namin hindi lang ang Tacloban (magtatanim ng mangrove) kundi over the entire eastern

seaboard priority lamang itong Samar at Leyte.

-Na-submit na namin ang proposal noong Friday sa NDRRMC, P360-M (pondo).

5. Weather Watch

3 hours ago

PIA-4B/PALAWAN: Dumating na sa bayan ng Coron ang nasa 120 tons ng relief goods na isinakay sa isang

commercial vessel. Ayon sa PDRRMO, nakatakda itong ipamahagi ngayong araw sa mga pamilyang nasa

Calamianes Group of Island na nasalanta ng bagyong Yolanda.

6. Weather Watch

. 3 hours ago

PIA-8: DSWD Sec. Dinky Soliman leads today's RDRRMC meeting at the Command Center, Leyte Sports

Complex, Tacloban City.

7. Weather Watch

3 hours ago near Quezon City

DZBB: Ayon kay DPWH-Albay District Engr. Rudy Angulo, makakapagtayo na sila ng mga bunkhouse sa

Eastern Samar partikular sa Hernani at Guiuan kung saan 24 na pamilya ang puwedeng tumira na yari mula sa

coco lumber at yero. Inaasahang bago mag-Pasko ay matatapos ang bunkhouses. Dito na muna titira ang mga

biktima ng bagyong Yolanda habang hinahanapan pa ng relocation site ng gobyerno ang mga ito.

8. Weather Watch

4 hours ago near Quezon City

DSWD Sec. Dinky Soliman on DZMM:

-Nasa Tacloban pa rin po ako at mabuti naman.

-As of 6PM ng Nov. 24, ang naipamahagi nating food and rice packs ay umabot na po sa 1,533,003 sa Western

Samar, Biliran, Tacloban at 40 bayan sa Leyte at 14 na bayan sa Eastern Samar na nasalanta ng bagyo.

-Sinisigurado po namin na kami ay nakapagbibigay ng sapat na supply ng food items. Dahil maayos naman na

po ay ibinabagsak na natin sa LGUs at sila na ang nag-di-distribute sa kanilang constituents.

-Para naman sa non-food items tulad ng tents at hygiene kits, idinadaan din sa LGUs. Sila na po ang pumi-pick

up sa ating centers at kung wala naman silang truck ay binibigyan ng nat'l government.

-Tuloy-tuloy po ang relief operations. May cash and food for work program na rin po tayong ipinatutupad.

-Dito sa Tacloban, unti-unti nang nagno-normalize ang sitwasyon. May mga bukas ng bangko, elektrisidad at

maayos na communication lines gayundin sa Palo at iba pang bayan ng Leyte.

-Patuloy ang ugnayan natin sa international organizations, NGOs para naman sa paglilinis dito na bahagi na ng

rehabilitation efforts.

-Ang DOH ay nakikipag-ugnayan sa mga dumating na medical teams dito para mas matutukan ang kalusugan ng

ating mga kababayan na naapektuhan ng bagyo. Namamahagi sila ng mga gamot at anti-tetanus vaccines sa mga

barangay at evacuation centers.

-Nakatutok din po tayo sa psycho-social aspect at hindi lang basta sa kalusugan. Tuloy-tuloy ang stress

debriefing ng ating social workers.

-Magtatayo rin ang DepEd ng tents upang magsilbing pansamantalang classrooms ng mga mag-aaral.

9. Weather Watch

Philippines's photo.

5 hours ago

Mga hakbang sa paggawa ng ligtas na inuming tubig, ayon sa Kagawaran ng Kalusugan: #YolandaPH

Basahin sa govph: http://www.gov.ph/crisis-response/paano-gumawa-ng-ligtas-na-inuming-tubig/

10. Weather Watch

4 hours ago near Quezon City

ABS-CBN: Inaasahang darating na anumang oras ngayon sa Villamor Airbase ang 600 pa na evacuees mula

Tacloban City sakay ng C-130.

DSWD-NCR officer Precy Villa on ABS-CBN:

-Wala pa kaming information kung bakit nade-delay yung pagdating ng C-130.

-Maayos naman ang aming operasyon dito sa Oplan Salubong.

-Kami ang on-top pero lahat ng members ng joint task force ay abala dito.

ABS-CBN: Sa kabila ng pagkaantala ng biyahe patungo at palabas ng Tacloban ay hindi naiinis ang mga Pinoy

at dayuhang pasahero dahil nauunawaan raw nila ang sitwasyon. Sa ngayon ay tuloy-tuloy naman ang pag-alis

ng commercial flights at ng C-130 sa Tacloban Airport.

11. Weather Watch

20 hours ago

DZMM: Bukod sa pag-alay ng tagumpay sa 'Yolanda' victims, nais ni Pacman na maging inspirasyon ang

panalo niya na mistulang pagbangon sa pagsubok.

12. Weather Watch

21 hours ago via mobile

PIA-6/ILOILO: DepEd-6 said that some public schools in northern Iloilo, Capiz, Aklan, and Antique are posed

to resume classes tomorrow, Monday, Nov. 25, two weeks after being ravaged by super typhoon Yolanda. But

students will have to hold classes under tents and tarpaulin-patched roofs donated by the private sector as 90

percent of schools were totally damaged, including books and computers.

13. Weather Watch

22 hours ago

PIA-8: The first meeting that convened focal persons from UN agencies, INGOs, government agencies, media

groups/ practitioners and telecom networks took place at 9 AM at the OSOCC station located at the grandstand.

The meeting was lead by UN OCHA and PIA.

14. Weather Watch

22 hours ago via mobile

PIA-8: Measles and Polio immunization and giving of Vitamin A will be conducted in Tacloban on Tuesday

Novermber 26, 2013. Parents with children 6months to below 5 years old must go to any evacuation center in

Tacloban to have their children immunized.

15. Weather Watch

16. Weather Watch

Yesterday via mobile

#PIA6/AKLAN: The abaca sector suffered a big loss due to Typhoon Yolanda's onslaught. DA Sec. Proceso

Alcala who was in Libacao, Aklan Nov. 23 said the best thing to do before rehabilitating abaca plantations is to

clear the areas first before planting to avoid occurrence of abaca diseases.

17. Weather Watch

Yesterday

NDRRMC 1: 24-NOV-2013-04

Taal Volcano Bulletin

-Seismic network did not detect any volcanic earthquake during the past 24-hour observation period

-Alert level 1 remains in effect over Taal volcano which means hazardous eruption is not imminent.

-The public is reminded that the Main Crater should be strictly off-limits because of sudden explosions may

occur and high concentration of toxic gases may accumulate.

-The northern portion of the Main Crater rim, in the vicinity of Daang Kastila, may also become hazardous when

steam emission along existing fissures suddenly increases.

-The public is also reminded that the entire volcano island is a permanent danger zone and permanent settlement

in the island is strongly not recommended.

18. Weather Watch

Yesterday

DBM Sec. Butch Abad on DZBB:

Re: Post-Yolanda assessment in Tacloban

-Hindi pa po tapos. Magkasama kami ni Sec. Balisacan ng NEDA.

-Ang kailangan nating gawin ay magkaroon sila (typhoon survivors) ng matitirahan, maibalik ang kanilang

hanapbuhay, maisayaos ang daloy ng kuryente at tubig, at maibalik ang ospital at eskwelahan.

-Dapat pang pag-usapan kung kinakailangan pa bang ibalik sa dati yung mga (bahay nila). May isyu of

resettlement pa iyan eh.

-Kailangan din natin ma-assess ang weather mula sa NDRRMC at PAGASA dahil habang tumatagal eh

bumabangis ang mga bagyo.

19. Weather Watch

Yesterday

INQUIRER: President Aquino will certify as urgent a P14.6-billion supplemental budget bill that will realign the pork barrel

of legislators to relief and rehabilitation projects in calamity-stricken areas, according to Senate president Franklin Drilon.

Drilon said Budget Sec. Florencio Abad had told him the President would issue the certification to ensure the bill’s last-

minute passage after the Supreme Court last week struck down pork barrel allocations or PDAF as unconstitutional.

Drilon said the Bureau of the Treasury had issued a certification dated Nov. 21 confirming the availability of the funds.

Weather Watch

November 25 , 2013 ( Monday ) as of 6:00-7:00 AM

CAVITE : Sunny LAGUNA : Sunny BATANGAS : Sunny RIZAL : Fair Weather QUEZON : Fair Weather

PIA Regional Watch

1. PIA Regional Watch

November 22

PIA-4A/LAGUNA: The Rabies Prevention and Advocacy Technical Working Group will be conducting an

orientation on rabies prevention to some 70 heads of barangay health workers and barangay tanod from the

five cities and 25 municipalities in the province on November 27, 2013 at PHO Bldg., Santa Cruz, Laguna.

Provincial Government aims to make Laguna rabies-free by 2015.

2. PIA Regional Watch

November 22

PIA-4A/QUEZON: PhilHealth-4A will be holding a press conference at PhilHealth-4A office, barangay

Bocohan, Lucena City on November 25. This aims to discuss/clarify issues concerning program

implementation and to provide the public with accurate and absolute information regarding PhilHealth

programs/policies.

3. PIA Regional Watch· November 22

PIA-4A/QUEZON: The provincial government of Quezon through provincial gender and development (PGAD) office

will launch 18-day campaign to end violence against women on Nov. 25 at provincial capitol, Lucena City. The

campaign aims to increase support and commitment of duty holders particularly government agencies, media,

private organizations in eliminating violence against women.

4 . PIA Regional Watch November 22 PIA-4A/BATANGAS: Nagsagawa ng isang libreng medical, dental at legal mission ang lokal na

pamahalaan ng Agoncillo na ginanap sa Brgy.Barigon at Brgy. Banyaga. Layon nitong makapagbigay ng ayudang

medikal at legal sa mga mamayan ng dalawang barangay.

5. PIA Regional Watch November 22

PIA-2/ISABELA: The COA 2 conducted a 4-day live out seminar on property & supply mgt system on Nov

19-22 for the accountable officers to have common understanding of the systems, procedures, operational

policies, laws & rules that must be complied with.

6. PIA Regional Watch

November 22

PIA-4A/BATANGAS: May 1,100 armchairs ang ipinagkaloob ng pamahalaang lungsod ng Tanauan sa limang paaralan

dito na kinabibilangan ng Balele Elem.School(370),Tanauan City high school(240),Hanapol Oriental

Elem.school(100),Bernardo Lirio National High School(200) at Bernardo Lirio Central School(200) na pakikinabangan

ng mga mag-aaral sa naturang paaralan.

7. PIA Regional Watch

November 22

PIA-4A/LAGUNA:The National Food Authority-Laguna inaugurates today its "Bigasan Natin 'To" retail outlet at its

office compound in Brgy. San Dionisio, San Pablo City. NFA Prov'l Manager Gondelina U. Alda said that this outlet will

provide the barangay residents and bypassers quality but affordable NFA rice at Pph27.00/kilo.

8. PIA Regional Watch November 22

PIA-4A/BATANGAS: Isang two-storey building ang pinasinayaan at itinurn over sa Balele Elem.School mula sa

pamahalaang lungsod ng Tanauan.Ang programa ay bahagi ng Project THONY o Tangible Heartfelt Opportunities to

Nurture the Youth.

9. PIA Regional Watch November 22

PIA-4A/BATANGAS: Nagsagawa ang Provincial Agricultures Office ng isang pagpupulong at konsultasyon sa mga

Municipal/City Fisheries and Aquatic Resource Management Council na naglalayong malaman ang mga isyung may

kinalaman sa larangan ng pangisdaan sa lalawigan at matukoy ang mga solusyong kailangan dito.

10. PIA Regional Watch 23 hours ago PIA-4A/QUEZON: DTI-Quezon provincial office and the Quezon federation and union of cooperatives jointly conducted a business opportunities forum at Max restaurant, Lucena City last November 19. This was attended by 93 cooperatives of the province and aimed to give them information/ business opportunities on rubber tree production, stingless bee for honeybee production and coco coir production.

11. PIA Regional Watch

November 22

PIA-4A/BATANGAS: Isang jobs fair ang isinasagawa ngayon ng lokal na pamahalaan ng San Jose sa kanilang bulwagan

kung saan may 20 lokal at international companies ang nakilahok upang magbigay n

12. PIA Regional Watch Yesterday PIA-4A/CAVITE: Students (elementary and high school) from Bacoor National High School bagged the overall champion in the just concluded Regional Science Quest competition held in Antipolo City. City government officials congratulated the students and the DepEd officials for the honor and pride they bring to the city and to the province in general.

1. PIA OFW Watch

November 22

PIA-6/ILOILO: OWWA-6 said that 90 percent of OFWs in Western Visayas found to be positive of HIV

leading to AIDS usually do not report and seek medical assistance from OWWA due to stigma and community

unacceptability. Reynold Pigar of OWWA said his office is willing to help them but what the returned OFWs

want are business capital assistance and not medical help.

A. QUEZON

B. CAVITE

C. LAGUNA

D. BATANGAS

E. RIZAL

1. Rizal extends aid to typhoon ravaged provinces in the

Visayas

Wednesday 20th of November 2013

ANTIPOLO CITY, Rizal, Nov 20 (PIA) --The provincial government of Rizal has

approved recently two resolutions extending financial assistance to the provinces of

Leyte and Samar which was hardly hit by Supertyphoon Yolanda.

Rizal Gov. Rebecca Ynares said the Sangguniang Panlalawigan passed two resolutions

authorizing the local chief executive to use part of the provincial government‟s savings

from its subsidy to local government unit (LGU) account for humanitarian assistance

to the devastated provinces.

“The people of Rizal are deeply saddened by the magnitude of destruction and

casualty wrought by super typhoon Yolanda to our Filipino brothers and sisters in

Leyte and nearby provinces recently. We are one with them in their sufferings and I

hope that the country will be united in helping our people rebuild their lives,” Gov.

Ynares remarked.

Gov. Ynares also urged other local chief executives in the province to initiate their

own relief assistance to various LGUs affected by the super typhoon. The Rizal LGUs,

private companies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), other civil society

organizations (CSOs) and the academe, have heeded the call of the governor.

It can be recalled that Rizal suffered a similar fate during the onslaught of storm

Ondoy in 2009 with nonstop rain that submerged the province, destroying billion

pesos worth of properties, infrastructure, and several people perished. “We feel the

pain and the agony of losing homes and loved ones, and we want to give them hope by

extending our helping hands,” Gov. Ynares said.

In a statement posted in social media, Rizal Gov. Ynares appealed to constituents to

forego their Christmas parties and instead, donate the intended budget to the victims of

the syperthyphoon in the Visayas.

Earlier, the Rizal provincial government has also provided financial aid to the

provincial governments of Bohol and Cebu after a magnitude 7.2 earthquake ravaged

the two provinces and to the province of Nueva Ecija which was hit by a recent

typhoon. (Rizal PIO/PIA-Rizal)

- See more at: http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=2261384906852#sthash.or2Rk1eS.dpuf

24 NOVEMBER 2013.

Tacloban folk continue recovery from 'Yolanda'

Mass held for 'Yolanda' fatalities at Tacloban gravesite

President Aquino orders Environment Secretary Ramon Paje to devise a comprehensive environment

program

Department of Labor and Employment beefs up emergency employment program

Palace congratulates Manny Pacquiao on his victory against Brandon Rios

Yolanda survivors cheer Pacquiao win

Department of Health maximizes better public health and nutrition programs for residents in calamity

zones

Aquino government open for enactment of a law against political dynasty

Comelec is all set for special barangay elections for Bohol and Zamboanga City on November 25,

Coloma says

Tacloban-based 'Yolanda' survivors thanks Pacquiao with painted sign

Tacloban folk continue recovery from 'Yolanda'

TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte) Unlike the first days after super typhoon "Yolanda" (Haiyan) hit, more residents came out of their homes Sunday to resume everyday life.

Many went to Mass while others cleaned up their surroundings, even as some prepared to watch the telecast of the boxing match between Filipino hero and Sarangani Rep. Emmanuel "Manny" Pacquiao and Brandon Rios.

President Benigno Aquino III came here last week to personally oversee rehabilitation work and assure residents of

government action to help the recovery.

Last week saw the resumption of many businesses including banks.

Police and military forces also keep watch against criminality.

Tacloban City was a virtual ghost town after Yolanda battered it and other parts of the Visayas last Nov. 8.

Initially, few people went out of their houses in the first few days after Yolanda struck. PND (jl)

TOP

Mass held for 'Yolanda' fatalities at Tacloban gravesite

TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte) A Mass in memory of people who lost their lives from super typhoon "Yolanda" two weeks ago was held at a gravesite here Sunday morning.

Capt. Elmer Basas of the Army's 8th Infantry Division presided over the Mass at a gravesite in Barangay Suhi here.

Members of Task Force Yolanda attended the Mass, where Basas blessed the uninterred remains afterward.

Ruel Pedrosa, a caretaker at the site, said there may be as many as 700 remains at this site, 400 of them not yet buried.

He said many go to the site to see if some of the remains there were those of their relatives

Tacloban was among the areas hit hard by Yolanda, which devastated Visayas and Southern Luzon Nov. 8, and left more than 5,000 dead. PND (jl)

TOP

President Aquino orders Environment Secretary Ramon Paje to devise a comprehensive environment program

President Benigno S. Aquino III has directed Environment Secretary Ramon Paje to devise a comprehensive environment protection program to minimize the impact of storm surges, floodings and calamities following the devastation brought by super-typhoon "Yolanda" (internationally known as Haiyan), Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio B. Coloma Jr. said. "Ang pagbulusok ng alon bunsod ng bagyo o storm surge ay nagdulot ng matinding hagupit sa mga libu-libong mamamayang naninirahan sa baybaying-dagat o coastline ng Tacloban City at sa iba pang mga bayan ng Leyte, Samar, at marami pang lugar," Coloma said in an interview aired over government-run radio station DzRB Radyo ng Bayan on Sunday. "Dahil dito, inatasan ni Pangulong Aquino si DENR Secretary Ramon Paje na maghanda ng komprehensibong programa ng environment protection bilang tugon sa storm surge at mga peligrong dulot ng bagyo, baha, at iba pang kalamidad," he said. The President also directed Paje to impose a rule prohibiting building commercial and residential structures along the seashore. "Bahagi sa kautusan ng Pangulo sa DENR ay ang pagtatakda ng mga ‗no build zone‘ sa baybaying-dagat para matiyak ang paglipat ng mga dating naninirahan doon sa mga ligtas na resettlement area. Hatid ni bagyong ‗Yolanda‘ ang storm surge na tila hindi ganap na napaghandaan dahil sa kakulangan ng pag-unawa at tuwirang karanasan hinggil dito," he said. The Communications Secretary said Yolanda's destruction was no different from what typhoon Sendong (international name Washi) did to the country in late 2011. "Hawig ito sa ating mga nakaraang karanasan nang hinampas ng bagyong ‗Sendong‘ ang mga lungsod ng Iligan at Cagayan de Oro noong Disyembre 2011. Daan-daan ang nasawi dahil nakatira sila sa mga natuyong bahagi ng ilog at inland waterways na minarkahan nang danger zones batay sa siyentipikong geohazard mapping na isinagawa ng Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) ng DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources)," he said. Coloma said typhoon "Pablo" (Bopha) also caused catastrophic damage in the Philippines. Pablo was the strongest tropical cyclone to ever hit the southern Philippine island of Mindanao in December, 2012. "Dahil sa bagyong ‗Pablo‘ na humagupit sa Davao Oriental at Compostela Valley, natutunan natin ang hinggil sa debris flow, ang malakas at mabilis na pagdaloy ng mga malalaking bato o boulder, mula sa kabundukan na nagpalala sa pagguho at paglubog ng mga komunidad na nauna nang tinukoy bilang lugar ng panganib sa landslides batay din sa geohazard mapping," he said. "Kasama rin sa direktiba ng Pangulo sa DENR ang pagpapabalik ng mga mangrove, ang natural na proteksyon sa mga baybaying-dagat. Inihahanda na ang mga mangrove plantation at agarang sisimulan ang pagtatanim dahil mula lima hanggang pitong taon ang pagpapalaki dito," he said. Aquino directed on Thursday to form a task group to hasten the transition of relief efforts into the full-scale rehabilitation and rebuilding of the areas damaged by Yolanda. The task group will focus on five priorities namely , shelter and reconstruction, livelihood and employment, resettlement and psycho-social care, environmental protection, and resource generation and allocation. PND (js)

TOP

Department of Labor and Employment beefs up emergency employment program

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is beefing up its emergency employment program in a bid to alleviate the plight of workers displaced by super typhoon "Yolanda" (internationally known as Haiyan), Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio B. Coloma Jr. said. "Patuloy ang pag-aagapay ng pamahalaan sa pagbabagong-tatag at pagpapanumbalik ng normal na pamumuhay ng ating mga kababayan. Puspusan ang pagpapatupad ng DOLE ng emergency employment program upang bigyan ng pansamantalang pagkakakitaan ang ating mga kababayan,‖ Coloma said in an interview aired over government-run radio station dzRB Radyo ng Bayan on Sunday. The emergency employment program aims at helping disaster-stricken families to rebuild their lives by providing them with better access to sustainable income sources, the Communications Secretary said. "Halos 3,000 residente mula sa 22 barangay sa Tacloban at 70 barangay sa Ormoc ang nakikinabang na sa naturang programa. Kabilang na rin po dito ang mga katulad na programa na cash-for-work o food-for-work na isinasagawa ng DSWD (Department of Social Welfare and Development) at iba pang ahensya tulad ng Department of Agriculture," Coloma said. "Ang mga manggagawa ay tumutulong sa paglilinis ng mga daan, palengke at plaza, pag-aalis ng bara sa mga estero at daluyang-tubig, at pagtatayo ng mga mahahalagang pampublikong gusali at paaralan. Ayon sa DOLE, papalawigin pa ang programa sa iba pang mga bayan at rehiyon sa mga darating na araw," he said. Coloma pointed out that the International Labor Organization (ILO) is helping the government put in place an emergency employment program to help the Filipinos who lost their livelihoods due to the devastation brought by Yolanda. "Nagpapasalamat din tayo sa inaalok na tulong ng ILO na maglalaan ng hanggang sa 300-milyong dolyar para sa cash-for-work program para sa humigit kumulang na 290,000 katao sa mga bayan ng Tacloban, Roxas, Busuanga sa Palawan, Hilagang Cebu, at mga lalawigan ng Negros Occidental at Bohol na nasalanta ng kalamidad," he said. PND (js)

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Palace congratulates Manny Pacquiao on his victory against Brandon Rios

World boxing icon and Filipino people‘s champ Emmanuel ‗Manny‘ Pacquiao bounced back big from his two consecutive defeats after conquering Brandon Rios via a unanimous decision that had Malacañang and the entire Philippines celebrating. Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda welcomed the good news on behalf of the Palace, calling Pacquiao‘s latest victory as a "well of strength" and "inspiration" for the whole country, especially since we are still nursing the devastation wrought by super typhoon "Yolanda" in the Visayas region recently. ―Nagbubunyi ang sambayanang Pilipino sa panibagong tagumpay ni Congressman Manny Pacquiao sa kaniyang pagwawagi ng WBO (World Boxing Organization) International Welterweight Belt kontra kay Brandon Rios,‖ Lacierda said. Thirty-four year-old Pacquiao, who is also a representative of Sarangani province, cruised to a convincing win after 12 rounds of boxing in Macau with all three judges scoring almost every round to his favor.

―Sa loob ng 12 rounds, nagpakita ng hindi matatawarang bilis at lakas ang ating pambansang kamao upang magapi ang kaniyang kalaban, at muling makamit ang tagumpay sa loob ng ring,‖ Lacierda added in his statement. ―Ang pagwawagi ni Manny sa labang ito ay nagsisilbing bukal ng lakas at inspirasyon ng buong sambayanan matapos hagupitin ng bagyong Yolanda ang malaking bahagi ng Kabisayaan. Nawa‘y hindi magbago ang prinsipyong gumagabay sa kanyang bawat laban: na bawat suntok na kaniyang binibitawan ay suntok para sa dangal ng ating lahi,‖ he concluded. PND (hdc)

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Yolanda survivors cheer Pacquiao win

TACLOBAN CITY) Survivors of super typhoon "Yolanda" (Haiyan) here raised their voices in triumph after boxing icon and Sarangani Rep. Emmanuel "Manny" Pacquiao triumphed over Brandon Rios in Macau. Many of the survivors here trooped to the city convention center where the bout was shown. The center is a short walk from a tent city housing many of the survivors. They brought out Philippine flags that they raised when Pacquiao would score a punch on his younger opponent. Pacquiao had dedicated his fight to the victims of Yolanda, which left 5,000 dead after battering Visayas and Southern Luzon last Nov. 8. But some still want Pacquiao to personally visit them and bring help.

"Sana matulungan kami sa Tacloban ... Sana pumunta siya rito sa Tacloban (We hope he can help us here, we hope he can come here)," said Jun Jun Mabini, who was nevertheless happy with the win. Earlier, residents of this city went to City Hall and the RTR Plaza to watch the airing of the bout. Many brought umbrellas to protect themselves from the heat, and patiently sat at the venue to wait for the telecast of the fight to start. PND (jl)

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Department of Health maximizes better public health and nutrition programs for residents in calamity zones

The Department of Health (DOH) is maximizing its efforts to provide the residents, including women and children, in calamity zones with better public health and nutrition programs following the devastation brought by super typhoon "Yolanda" (internationally known as Haiyan), Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio B. Coloma Jr. said. "Tinututukan nang husto ng Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) at DOH ang kapakanan ng mga ina, sanggol, at mga bata. Handa ang mga pasilidad ng DOH sa pagtulong at pagkalinga sa tinatayang 800,000 mga inang nagdadalang-tao, malapit nang manganak, o bagong panganak pa lamang," Coloma said in an interview aired over government-run radio station DzRB Radyo ng Bayan on Sunday. The DOH deployed several medical teams to provide emergency and basic medical and surgical services to affected areas in Eastern Visayas. "May sapat na OB o obstetrics kits para sa panganganak. May sapat ding bilang ng mga komadrona o midwives na handang tumulong sa panganganak," the Communications Secretary said. "Dahil sa bagong ipinalabas ng Tanggapan ng Pangulo na Memorandum Circular 61, pansamantalang pinapangasiwaan ngayon ng DOH ang mga health and sanitation facilities sa mga lungsod at bayan sa sona ng kalamidad, habang abala ang mga alkalde at mga LGU sa mga programa ng post-typhoon relief and rehabilitation," he said. The DOH also started to focus more on public health as threats of epidemics loom in vulnerable communities. "Prayoridad ngayon ng DOH ang pagbakuna laban sa tigdas o measles, polio, at tetanus. Hinggil naman sa pagtawag pansin ni Ms. Valerie Amos ng UN (United Nations) sa panganib ng malnutrisyon na maaaring hinaharap ng hanggang sa 1.5 milyong kabataan o children sa sona ng kalamidad, may sapat pong imprastrakturang itinatag ang DSWD sa pamamagitan ng National Nutrition Council nito kaagapay ang DOH sa aspeto ng micronutrition o pamamahagi ng mga bitamina," he said. (js)

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Aquino government open for enactment of a law against political dynasty

The Aquino government is open for the enactment of a law against political dynasties saying it is consistent with the 1987 Constitution of the Philippines, Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio B. Coloma Jr. said. "Ito po ay isang reporma na matagal nang hinihintay sa ating bansa dahil ito ay bunsod pa noong EDSA People Power Revolution na siyang naging batayan ng 1987 Constitution na kung saan naman unang nailagay ang prinsipyo ng anti-dynasty," Coloma said in an interview aired over government-run radio station DzRB Radyo ng Bayan on Sunday. Article II Section 26 of the 1987 Constitution states that "The State shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service, and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law." "Kaya malinaw naman po ang batayan niyan, ito ay kasama sa mga reporma ng EDSA People Power na nakalagay sa 1987 Constitution," the Communications Secretary said. "Kaya lang po, kailangan ding marinig natin ang tinig ng mga mambabatas na siya namang hinalal din ng ating mga mamamayan para makita ‗yung magiging final na hugis nitong anti-dynasty bill," Coloma said. Third District Pampanga Representative Oscar Rodriguez, chairman of the House Committee on Good Government, filed House Bill 2911 which provides for an anti-dynasty law in the country. The bill is seeking to equalize access to opportunities in public office by banning the practice of political families that alternately field its members to various elective post to maintain control of local or national government positions. PND (js)

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Comelec is all set for special barangay elections for Bohol and Zamboanga City on November 25, Coloma says

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is all set for the special barangay elections for Bohol province and Zamboanga City on November 25, Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio B. Coloma Jr. said. "Sa amin pong mga natanggap na ulat ay sapat ang kahandaan ng ating Commission on Elections sa pagsasagawa ng special elections sa Bohol at Zamboanga," Coloma said in an interview aired over government-run radio station dzRB Radyo ng Bayan on Sunday. The barangay elections was held on October 28 throughout the country except in Bohol province and Zamboanga City. The poll body suspended the barangay polls in Bohol, which was devastated by a magnitude 7.2 earthquake. The Comelec also suspended elections in Zamboanga City due to the standoff between the military and the Moro National Liberation Front rebels. "Umaasa po tayo na magiging maayos ang kaganapang ‗yan at pipili ang mga mamamayan ng mga kwalipikado at mahuhusay na pinuno para po mapabilis ang rehabilitasyon ng kanilang mga lugar," the Communications Secretary

said. The Comelec set the special elections in the two areas on Nov. 25 as Republic Act 9164 specifies that the term of the incumbent barangay officials must end on November 30. PND (js)

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Tacloban-based 'Yolanda' survivors thanks Pacquiao with painted sign

TACLOBAN CITY) What better way to thank boxing icon and Sarangani Rep. Emmanuel "Manny" Pacquiao for giving them a timely morale boost than with a big thank-you?

Residents of Real Street here on Sunday afternoon painted a huge sign thanking Pacquiao for his win over Brandon Rios.

"Mabuhay! Manny Pacquiao Pambansang Kamao, (from) Yolanda survivors," read the sign.

Residents said the sign will be displayed on the street.

Hours earlier, Pacquiao outclassed Rios in a match the Filipino boxing hero had dedicated to the victims of super typhoon Yolanda.

Tacloban residents were hit hard by Yolanda, which left more than 5,000 dead after it lashed Visayas and Southern Luzon. PND (jl)

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23 NOVEMBER 2013.

Task Force Yolanda tries cheering Yolanda-hit Tacloban City with Christmas carols

For boy swept by Yolanda's floods, tearful reunion ends 2-week search for kin

Palace says it won’t be part of any delay in Maguindanao massacre case trial

Aquino thanks world leaders for support after typhoon Yolanda’s onslaught

Leyte governor thankful for $24K addition from Pau Gasol to Yolanda relief fund

Red Cross ship arrives to give more aid to Yolanda-affected residents of Samar

Task Force Yolanda tries cheering Yolanda-hit Tacloban City with Christmas carols

(TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte) Hoping to lift the spirits of residents here following the destruction caused by Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), officials have started playing Christmas tunes in some areas here. Brig. Gen. Jet Velarmino, head of Task Force Yolanda, said they started going around some areas Friday, playing carols using a portable sound system. "Perhaps baka makatulong (We hope to lift their spirits by playing Christmas songs)," Velarmino said Saturday. Tacloban City is one of the areas hit hard by Yolanda, which as of Saturday morning had left more than 5,000 dead. The extent of Yolanda's destruction had triggered an outpouring of support for the Philippines from the international community. For his part, Task Force Yolanda deputy commander Col. Emmanuel Cacdac said the initial feedback was that the carols "elicited a lot of smiles." Meanwhile, Velarmino said residents here are now rebuilding their homes. PND (jl)

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For boy swept by Yolanda's floods, tearful reunion ends 2-week search for kin

(TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte) For a seven-year-old boy swept away by super typhoon "Yolanda's" floods, tearful reunion with his lolo on Saturday finally ended a two-week search for his relatives. Seven-year-old Miguel was reunited with his grandfather Numeriano Berenguer, 59, at Task Force Yolanda headquarters here. "Nagpapasalamat ako sa mga kumupkop kay Miguel," Mang Numeriano said. Brig. Gen. Jet Velarmino, head of Task Force Yolanda, said Miguel was swept away by floodwaters when a storm surge hit their house in Barangay San Jose here last Nov. 8. Yolanda pounded parts of Visayas and Southern Luzon, leaving behind at least 5,000 dead. Velarmino said Miguel kept afloat by hanging on to a coconut tree trunk. The boy was rescued by Philippine Air Force Tactical Operations Group 8 Col. Fermin Carangan, who himself was also trying to keep afloat at the time after his office was also hit by the storm surge. The waters swept Carangan and Miguel to Basey in Samar province, another area hit by Yolanda.

But Miguel's ordeal is not quite over, as a search is still ongoing for three more relatives, including his five-year-old sibling. PND (jl)

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Palace says it won‟t be part of any delay in Maguindanao massacre case trial

Malacanang made an assurance that it is committed to making sure that there is no delay in the ongoing trial of the Maguindanao massacre case and that it won‘t be part of any delay. ―The commitment on the Executive is just to continue making sure that there is no delay and that we are not part of the delay,‖ Deputy Presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a radio interview over dzRB Radyo ng Bayan on Saturday. Valte said the Palace shares the public view of having a speedy resolution of the case. But ensuring a successful litigation does not solely rely on the hand of the executive branch since the case is already in court, she said. The President‘s instruction on government prosecutors is to make sure there are no delays in resolving the case, she said, adding the government will fight the attempts of the defense to delay the trial. Asked to comment on the statement of Judge Jocelyn Solis who said that by 2016 the court could come up with a verdict on the Maguindanao case, Valte said the Palace respects the court and like the Filipino public, it hopes for immediate resolution of the case. But the Palace also acknowledged the stumbling blocks that the trial may face, considering the very complex nature of the case. She said the pace may be affected by the huge number of witnesses, and the number of respondents, and also the number of testimonies being heard. Rights advocates and the media commemorate the infamous Maguindanao massacre in its 4th year anniversary today. On Nov. 23, 2009, 58 people were slaughtered in the country‘s worst election-related violence allegedly committed by the Ampatuan clan in Mindanao. Although 104 people have been arraigned including eight principal accused from the Ampatuan family, at least 88 of their coaccused remain at large. PND (as)

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Aquino thanks world leaders for support after

typhoon Yolanda‟s onslaught

President Benigno S. Aquino expressed his gratitude to several world leaders in a telephone conversation Friday for the support they extended to the Philippines following the devastation of Typhoon Yolanda two weeks ago. Among the world leaders the President has spoken with were Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto, Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and World Bank President Jim Yong Kim, Deputy Presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a radio interview Saturday. The President as well as the Filipino people are very thankful for all the expressions of solidarity that the country‘s neighbors have extended, Valte told dzRB Radyo ng Bayan. ―Nagpapasalamat po ang Pangulo para sa lahat ng pagtulong na ipinadala sa atin ng mga bansang ito,‖ she said. Valte said the President is glad receiving assurances from other countries that in case the Philippines needs additional assistance these countries are ready to offer help. Even during the calls that the President received from British Prime Minister David Cameron as well as US President Barack Obama, those leaders extended a message of hope, according to Valte. ―The President did mention that it matters because… It‘s important for us as a people at this time to know that our neighbors are here and that our neighbors are helping us and that there will be other nations who will be rooting for our recovery,‖ she said. Valte also mentioned the emergency loan that the World Bank has offered the Philippines amounting to close to $1 billion for the country‘s reconstruction initiative. The World Bank announced earlier this week a loan offer of $500 million and the additional $480 million that it called the National Community Driven Development Project, Valte said. There is already a group from the World Bank helping Filipino officials put together a rehabilitation plan. They are also giving their own inputs and have discussed some of the details of the emergency loan that the World Bank has announced earlier this week, Valte added. World Bank‘s disaster specialists are also helping Philippine authorities assess the damage of Typhoon Yolanda and determine the areas that need immediate recovery and reconstruction support, she said. The country can benefit from the group‘s vast experience in post disaster work after having extensive works in disaster areas in Turkey, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Haiti, Valte said. PND (as)

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Leyte governor thankful for $24K addition from Pau Gasol to Yolanda relief fund

(TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte) Governor Leopoldo Dominico Petilla on Saturday expressed gratitude for a $24,000 addition to relief funds for Super Typhoon "Yolanda" from Los Angeles Lakers superstar Pau Gasol.

Petilla said his province, which was hit hard by Yolanda, appreciates any contribution for help, no matter how small it may seem. "Kahit kaliit, malaki na sa amin yan. Anything kahit maliit, it's very big para sa amin (Even if some may not consider it big, to us it would be a big deal)," Petilla said after a meeting with ranking government officials including Secretaries Florencio Abad (budget) and Corazon Soliman (social welfare) here. The meeting had sought to assess the damage to the province brought by Yolanda, which has so far left at least 5,000 dead. On Saturday, Gasol scored 24 points to lead the Lakers to a 102-97 win over the Golden State Warriors. Gasol had tweeted he would pledge $1,000 for every point he would score in the game against the Warriors. He also urged people to pledge any amount to the relief fund. PND (jl)

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Red Cross ship arrives to give more aid to Yolanda-affected residents of Samar

(TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte) Residents in Samar affected by super typhoon "Yolanda" may get more help for their health needs, with the arrival Saturday of a vessel of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). ICRC spokesperson Atishay Abbhi said the vessel brought with it basic health care facilities, including a surgical unit and water tank. "We have ICRC teams proceeding to Basey and Guiuan in Samar," Abbhi said. Yolanda had devastated parts of Visayas and Southern Luzon last Nov. 8, and left more than 5,000 dead in its wake. Abbhi said the ICRC teams are working with teams from the Philippine Red Cross. The said the vessel has a surgical unit heading for Samar, as well as materials for restoring water service to Basey also in Samar. "We have a team proceeding to Basey to help restore the water networks," he said. PND (jl)

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22 NOVEMBER 2013.

Despite woes, Tacloban to cheer on Pacquiao on Sunday

DSWD: More than 1M food packs given to 'Yolanda' victims

Post-'Yolanda' cleanup in Tacloban now more than halfway done

Aquino forms task group to handle full-scale rehabilitation and rebuilding of typhoon ‘Yolanda’-damaged

areas

National Economic and Development Authority approves seven projects amounting to P184.2 billion to

boost economy, Palace says

Aquino government reiterates its commitment to hasten the delivery of justice for Maguindanao massacre,

Palace says

Despite woes, Tacloban to cheer on Pacquiao on Sunday

(TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte) As they continue to pick up the pieces from super typhoon "Yolanda" (Haiyan), residents of this city are ready to give Filipino boxing icon and Sarangani Rep. Emmanuel "Manny" Pacquiao their full support this Sunday. City administrator John Tecson Lim said they are excited to watch Pacquiao's bout with Brandon Rios, which will be shown in some public venues. "We're just excited," he said, adding Pacquiao's bout means a lot to residents of this city, one of the areas hit hardest by Yolanda. Lim said a Pacquiao victory would mean so much to the city. Pacquiao had dedicated his upcoming fight to victims of Yolanda. "We will be cheering him on," he said. When asked how much Pacquiao's victory would mean to people here, he said, "Malaking malaki (It's a big deal)."

Earlier, he told an inter-agency committee meeting the city government is working with a television network to set up "monitoring stations" to show the fight. As of Friday morning, he said they have decided on an area near City Hall as one of the public showing venues. Other potential sites are still being studied, with officials factoring in public safety. PND (jl)

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DSWD: More than 1M food packs given to 'Yolanda' victims

(TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte) Authorities have breached the one-million mark in terms of food packs distributed to families affected by super typhoon "Yolanda" (Haiyan). Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Corazon Soliman said the one millionth pack was given to a family in Tolosa, Leyte. Soliman said that as of 6 p.m. Thursday, the DSWD had distributed 1,136,565 food packs. Also, she said the DSWD had distributed 216,389 one-liter bottles of water. For now, she said the agency plans to open another repacking facility in Catbalogan in Samar, to improve efficiency in delivering basic services. She added the delivery of food packs will continue for the affected families. PND (jl)

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Post-'Yolanda' cleanup in Tacloban now more than halfway done

(TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte) The work to clear this city of debris brought by super typhoon "Yolanda" (Haiyan) is finally more than halfway done. City administrator John Tecson Lim told an inter-agency meeting here Friday that the clearing operations were 50.23 percent complete as of 10 p.m. Thursday. Tacloban City is one of the areas hit hardest by Yolanda, one of the most powerful cyclones in recent history, and

which has left more than 4,000 dead. But in past days, it has gradually resumed daily activities, with businesses reopening and banks resuming transactions. On Friday, the Department of Trade and Industry opened a "Diskwento Caravan" for residents to buy basic goods at lower prices. Meanwhile, the Bureau of Fire Protection said it continues flushing operations in up to 30 villages and in evacuation centers. It said some 10 to 12 fire trucks are used for the daily operations, using about 100,000 liters a day. PND (jl)

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Aquino forms task group to handle full-scale rehabilitation and rebuilding of typhoon „Yolanda‟-damaged areas

President Benigno S. Aquino III directed the Cabinet on Thursday to hasten the transition of relief efforts into the full-scale rehabilitation and rebuilding of the areas damaged by of super typhoon ―Yolanda‖ (internationally known as Haiyan), Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio B. Coloma Jr. said. Coloma said during the press briefing in Malacanang on Friday that the Chief Executive has formed a task group that will present a comprehensive rehabilitation program to be tackled by the Cabinet not later than Wednesday, November 27. The Communications Secretary said the President designated Energy Secretary Carlos Jericho Petilla, who was Governor of Leyte before he was appointed to the Cabinet early this year, as task group coordinator. The President also designated Public Works and Highways Secretary Secretary Rogelio Singson, Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala, Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo, Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Director General Joel Villanueva, Social Welfare Secretary Corazon Soliman, Environment Secretary Ramon Paje, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Budget Secretary Florencio Abad, and Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario as members of the task group. The task group will focus on five priorities namely shelter and reconstruction; livelihood and employment; resettlement and psycho-social care; environmental protection and resource generation and allocation. Singson will handle shelter and reconstruction while Alcala, Domingo, Baldoz, and Villanueva will supervise the livelihood and employment. Soliman, on the other hand, will take charge of resettlement and psycho-social care, Paje will take care of environmental protection and Purisima, Abad and del Rosario will handle resource generation and allocation. "Local government involvement is a key component of the rehabilitation program and this will be coordinated by Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas adding that the President also called on the active participation of all governors, mayors, and local officials.‖ Coloma said President Aquino instructed Governor Aurelio ―Boy‖ Umali, president of the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP) to mobilize the active participation of the Leagues of Provinces, Cities, and Municipalities and the Liga ng mga Barangay in concerted efforts to fully engage the citizenry at the grassroots level. "In line with the mandate of RA 10121 (Philippine Disaster Management Act), the task group will be guided by the

conduct of a post-disaster needs assessment and this inter-agency effort will be supervised by Cabinet Secretary Jose Rene Almendras," Coloma said. "Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan is tasked with planning coordination. NEDA will synthesize and integrate all proposed programs and projects for submission to the President and the Cabinet. The rehabilitation task group will be supported by the Cabinet clusters on economic development, poverty reduction and social welfare, climate mitigation," he said. According to Coloma, the President emphasized to the Cabinet that a fine-tuned plan responsive to specific needs at the community level is necessary. President Aquino said it is also important to enable the people to attain greater self-reliance while participating in the rebuilding of their communities. The rehabilitation program also includes the ―adopt-a-town‖ concept initiated by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority and Metro Manila mayors in partnership with mayors in Leyte, Samar, and other calamity areas. "Moreover, the adopt-a-family concept will also be fleshed out such that beyond the LGU level, communities and families in Metro Manila and other regions may extend support and assistance to families in the calamity zones," Coloma said. PND (js)

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National Economic and Development Authority approves seven projects amounting to P184.2 billion to boost economy, Palace says

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) is banking on seven infrastructure, transportation and health projects amounting to P184.2 billion to drive the country's economy, Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio B. Coloma Jr. said. Coloma said during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Friday that the NEDA Board approved on Thursday seven projects, six of them to be implemented through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) program. The projects aim to build and rehabilitate vital infrastructure such as airports, light rail transits, hospital and others to improve the delivery of basic services and movement of trade. First of these projects is the P64.9 billion LRT Line 1 South Extension Project that involves the extension of the existing LRT Line 1 South. "Next is the MRT 7 Project, total cost P62.7 billion. The project involves the construction of 22.8 kilometer rail system from North Avenue up to the proposed intermodal transportation terminal in San Jose del Monte Bulacan," Coloma said. "Third is the LRT Line 1 North Extension Program/Common Station (P1.4 billion). The project involves the provision of a common station among LRT 1, MRT 3, and MRT 7, as well as road-based transportation systems. This is a locally funded project," the Communications Secretary said. The fourth project is the Mactan-Cebu International Airport New Passenger Terminal Project which is estimated to cost a total of P17.5 billion, Coloma said. "Next is the Development Transportation System at FTI and PRA --- PRA is the Philippine Reclamation Authority area; FTI will be the SLEX Terminal at the FTI property in Taguig --- to serve passengers traveling to and from Laguna and Batangas and the South Coastal Road Terminal will be at the PRA property beside Asia World Uniwide along the Manila-Cavite Expressway in Parañaque City to serve passengers traveling to and from Cavite," Coloma said.

Coloma said the NEDA Board also approved the P5.6 billion Modernization of the Philippine Orthopedic Center. This project involves construction of a 700-bed capacity tertiary orthopedic hospital within the National Kidney and Transplant Institute Complex along East Avenue, Quezon City. "The next project was proposed by the MWSS (Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System), this is the Bulacan Bulk Water Supply Project with a total cost of P24.4 billion to ensure potable water supply to Bulacan province," he said. PND (js)

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Aquino government reiterates its commitment to hasten the delivery of justice for Maguindanao massacre, Palace says

The Aquino government reiterated its commitment for institutional reforms to hasten the delivery of justice for those who lost their lives in the ―2009 Maguindanao massacre,‖ Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio B. Coloma Jr. said. "We join the Filipino people in affirming our solidarity with the families of those who lost their lives in the Maguindanao massacre on Nov. 23, 2009. We are determined to erase the stigma of the culture of impunity that led to this heinous crime," Coloma said during the regular press briefing in Malacanang on Friday. Fifty-eight people, including 32 media practitioners, died in the incident which is said to be the Philippines' worst political massacre. The media practitioners were part of a convoy led by Genalyn Mangudadatu, the wife of then Buluan vice mayor and now Maguindanao Governor Esmael Mangudadatu. "The Philippine National Police has been directed to intensify efforts to arrest some 88 suspects still at large," Coloma said The Department of Justice is undertaking a continuing effort to strengthen its investigative and prosecutorial arms, Coloma said. "We join the advocates for institutional reforms including amendments to the Rules of Court that will hasten the delivery of justice. We will work with Congress to prioritize action on the enactment of the proposed whistleblower bill and amendments to strengthen the witness protection law," he said. A total of 197 people, including members of the Ampatuan clan, were initially charged for the incident. PND (js)

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ARCHIVE 2013

22 NOBYEMBRE 2013

Umabot na sa isang milyon na food packs ang naipamahagi ng pamahalaan sa mga biktima ng bagyong 'yolanda'

Sa kabila ng dalamhati, ipagbubunyi ng Tacloban si Pacquiao sa Linggo

Nangangalahati na ang paglilinis at paghahawan sa Lungsod ng Tacloban

Nilikha ni Aquino ang “task group” na mamamahala sa lubusang rehabilitasyon at pagbabagong tatag ng mga winasak ni Yolanda

Upang mapasigla ang ekonomya, pinagtibay ng NEDA ang pitong proyektong aabot sa P184.2 bilyon ang halaga

Inulit ng gobyernong Aquino ang paninindigang pabilisin ang paglalapat ng katarungan sa “Maguindanao massacre”

Umabot na sa isang milyon na food packs ang naipamahagi ng pamahalaan sa mga biktima ng bagyong 'yolanda'

(LUNGSOD NG TACLOBAN, Leyte) Umabot na sa 1,136,565 food packs ang naipamahagi ng pamahalaan sa mga pamilyang sinalanta ng napakalakas na bagyong "Yolanda." Ang ikaisang milyong food pack ay iniabot ni Kalihim Corazon Soliman ng Kagalingang Panlipunan at Kaunlaran (DSWD) sa isang pamilya sa bayan ng Tolosa, Leyte. Sinabi ni Kalihim Soliman na hanggang ika-6:00 ng hapon ng Huwebes, kabuuan nang 1,136,565 food packs ang naipamigay nila sa mga biktima ng bagyong Yolanda. Bukod sa pagkain, ang DSWD ay nakapagbigay ng 216,369 tig-isang litrong boteng tubig. Inihayag ni Soliman na balak ng tanggapan nila na magbukas ng isang repacking facility sa Catbalogan, Samar upang maging higit na mabilis ang pamamahagi ng mga pangunahing serbisyo ng pamahalaan. Idinagdag niya na patuloy pa ring bibigyan ng food packs ang mga pamilyang malubhang sinalanta ng napakalakas na bagyong dumaan sa Kabisayaan at bahagi ng Luzon sa loob ng maraming taon. PND (jl/zaf)

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Sa kabila ng dalamhati, ipagbubunyi ng Tacloban si Pacquiao sa Linggo

(LUNGSOD NG TACLOBAN, Leyte) Habang patuloy silang nagsisikap na makabangon mula sa walang katulad na pinsalang iniwan ng napakalakas na bagyong "Yolanda," nakahanda nang ipagbunyi ng lungsod na ito ang boxing icon at Kinatawan Emmanuel ―Manny‖ Pacquiao ng Sarangani sa darating na Linggo. Sinabi ni City administrator John Tecson Lim na sabik na silang mapanood ang laban ni Pacquiao kay Brandon Rios sa pamamagitan ng telebisyon na ilalagay sa iba-ibang dako ng lungsod na ito. ―Sabik na kaming mapanood ang laban ni Pacquiao na napakahalaga sa mga mamamayan ng lungsod na itong malubhang sinalanta ni Yolanda,‖ wika ni Lim. Ang tagumpay ni Pacquiao ay napakahalaga sa lungsod na ito na pinag-alayan ni Pacquiao ng kanyang laban. ―Panonoorin at ipagbubunyi namin siya. Malaking-malaki ang kahulugan ng tagumpay ni Pacquiao para sa mga mamamayan dito,‖ dugtong pa ni Lim. Sinabi pa ni Lim na sa pulong ng inter-agency committee rito na nakikipag-ugnayan ang pamahalaang lungsod sa isang television network para maglagay ng mga telebisyon upang mapanood ng mga tao ang laban ni Pacquiao. Biyernes ng umaga nang ipasiya nilang isang pook na hindi kalayuan sa City Hall ang gagawing isa sa mga lugar para mapanood ng mga tao ang nabanggit na laban ni Pacquiao. Pinag-aaralan pa, sabi ng City Administrator, kung saan ilalalagay ang ibang panooran dahil isinasaalang-alang ng mga pinuno ang kaligtasang pambayan. PND (jl/zaf)

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Nangangalahati na ang paglilinis at paghahawan sa Lungsod ng Tacloban

(LUNGSOD NG TACLOBAN, Leyte) Nangangalahati na ang paglilinis at paghahawan sa mga gumuhong mga bahay at gusali, gayundin ang nagbagsakang mga punungkahoy at nilipad na bubungan dahil sa napakalakas na hanging dala ng bagyong "Yolanda" na naging dahilan din ng paghampas ng sunud-sunod na nagtataasang alon mula sa karagatan. Hanggang ika-10:00 ng gabi ng Huwebes, mahigit nang kalahati (50.23 porsiyento na) ang nalinis na, sang-ayon sa ulat ni John Tecson Lim, City Administrator ng lungsod na ito sa pulong ng inter-agency rito. Ang lungsod na ito ang isa sa pinakamalubhang sinalanta ng bagyong Yolanda, na mahigit nang 4,000 ang iniwang patay. Sa nakalipas na mga araw, nagbukas na ang mga bahay-kalakal, tindahan at mga banko at nagsimula nang maging normal ang kalagayan. Biyernes, Nobyembre 22, binuksan ng Kagawaran ngy Kalakal at Industriya ang ―Diskwento Caravan‖ upang ang mga mamamayan dito ay makabili ng mga pangunahing kailangan sa higit na mababang halaga. Samantala, patuloy naman ang Bureau of Fire Protection sa pagbobomba ng tubig sa 30 baranggay at mga evacuation centers. Sinabi ni Lim na 10 hanggang 12 trak ng bumbero ang ginagamit araw-araw sa paglilinis na ginagamitan ng 100,000 litrong tubig isang araw. PND (jl/zaf)

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Nilikha ni Aquino ang “task group” na mamamahala sa lubusang rehabilitasyon at pagbabagong tatag ng mga winasak ni Yolanda

Nilikha ng Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III ang isang ―task force‖ na inatasan nya na gumawa ng programa tungo sa malawakang rehabilitasyon ng mga pook na pininsala ng napakalakas na bagyong ―Yolanda‖ upang iharap sa Gabinete para matalakay nang hindi lalampas ang Miyerkoles, Nobyembre 27. Inihayag ito ni Kalihim Herminio B. Coloma, Jr. ng Presidential Communications Operations Office sa pulong balitaan sa Malacanang Biyernes kaugnay ng pulong ng Gabinete Huwebes sa hangaring puspusang magawa ang rehabilitasyon at pagbabagong tatag sa mga pook na malubhang sinalanta ng bagyong Yolanda. Sinabi ni Kalihim Coloma na itinalaga ng Pangulo si Kalihim Carlos Jericho Petilla bilang tagapag-ugnay ng ―task force.‖ Si Petilla ay Gobernador ng Leyte bago nahirang sa Gabinete noong unang mga buwan ng taong kasalukuyan. Itinalaga rin ng Pangulo na mga kagawad ng ―task group‖ sina Kalihim Rogelio Singson ng Pagawaing Bayan at Pambansang Lansangan, Kalihim Proceso Alcala ng Pagsasaka, Kalihim Gregory Domingo ng Kalakal at Industriya, Kalihim Rosalinda Baldoz ng Paggawa, Kalihim Corazon Soliman ng Kagalingang Panlipunan at Kaunlaran, Kalihim Ramon Paje ng Kapaligiran, Kalihim Cesar Purisima ng Pananalapi, Kalihim Albert del Rosario ng Ugnayang Panlabas at Direktor Heneral Joel Villanueva ng Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). Pagtutuunan ng pansin ng ―task group‖ ang limang dapat na unahin na: matutuluyan at rekostraksiyon; kabuhayan at hanapbuhay; malilipatan at psycho-social care; pangangalaga sa kapaligiran at paglikom ng pondo at alokasyon. Si Singson ang mamamahala tutuluyan at rekostruksiyon habang si Alcala,Domingo, Baldoz at Villanueva ang mangangasiwa sa kabuhayan at hanapbuhay. Ipauubaya kay Soliman ang paglilipat at psycho-care, si Paje sa panangalaga sa kapaligiran at sina Purisima, Abad at Del Rosario sa paghanap ng magugugol at alokasyon. Malaking papel din ang gagampanan ng lokal na pamahalaan sa programa ng rehabilitasyon at tagapag-ugnay naman si Kalihim Manuel Roxas ng Interyor at Lokal na Pamahalaan. Hiniling ng Pangulo sa mga gobernador, mga alkalde at iba pang lokal na pinuno na tumulong nang puspusan sa programang ito. Pinagbilinan ng Pangulo si Gobernador Aurelio ―Boy‖ Umali, pangulo ng Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP) na pakilusin ang Leagues of Provinces, Cities and Municipalities at Liga ng mga Barangay upang makatulong ang lahat, pati karaniwang mamamayan. Idinugtong ni Coloma na pag-alinsunod sa RA10121 (Philippine Disaster Management Act) na si Kalihim ng Gabinete Jose Rene Almendras ang mamamahala sa ―task force‖ sa pagsasagawa ng post-disaster needs assessment.

Ayon kay Coloma, si Economic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan ang mag-uugnay ng mga planong gagawin at mag-aayos ng mga panukalang programa at proyekto para iharap sa Pangulo at sa Gabinete. Kabilang din sa programang rehabilitasyon ang ―adopt-a-town‖ na inilunsad ng Metropolitan Manila Development Authority at mga Alkalde ng Kalakhang Maynila sa pakikibalikat sa mga alkalde ng Leyte, Samar at iba pang pook na sinalanta ng kalamidad. Ang adopt-a-family concept, sabi ni Coloma ay tulong sa mga pamilya sa pook ng kalamidad. PND(js/zaf)

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Upang mapasigla ang ekonomya, pinagtibay ng NEDA ang pitong proyektong aabot sa P184.2 bilyon ang halaga

Pitong mahalagang proyekto sa imprastraktura, trasportasyon at kalusugan na nagkakahalaga ng P184.2 bilyon na inaasahang magpapaunlad ng ekonomya ang pinagtibay ng National Economic and Development Authority. Ito ang sinabi ni Kalihim Herminio B. Coloma, Jr. ng Presidential Communications Operations Office sa pulong balitaan sa Malacanang Biyernes. Ayon kay Coloma, pinagtibay ng NEDA ang pitong proyektong ito Huwebes na ang anim ay ipatutupad sa pamamagitan ng programang Public-Private Partnership upang maayos at gumawa ng mga imprastrakturang tulad ng paliparan, mga ospital, light rail transits at iba pang magpapahusay ng paghahatid ng mga pangunahing serbisyo at galaw ng komersiyo. Uunahin sa mga proyektong ito ang P64.9 bilyong LRT Line 1 South Extension Project para habaan ang biyahe ng ngayon ay LRT Line 1 South. ―Kasunod nito ang P62.7 bilyong MRT 7 Project na 22.8 kilometrong riles mula sa North Avenue hanggang sa panukalang intermodal transportation terminal sa San Jose del Monte sa Bulacan,‖ wika ni Coloma. Sinabi ng Kalihim na pangatlo ang LRT 1 North Extension Program/Common Station na P1.4 bilyon ang halaga at magkakaroon ng common station ang LRT 1, MRT 3 at MRT 7, gayundin ang mga trasportasyong road based. Idinagdag ni Coloma na pondong lokal ang gagamitin para dito. ―Pang-apat na proyekto ang Mactan-Cebu International Airport New Passenger Terminal Project na tinatayang kabuuang P17.5 bilyon ang halaga,‖ sabi ni Coloma. ―Ang susunod ay ang Development Transportation System sa FTI at Philippine Reclamation Area. Ang FTI ang magiging SLEX Terminal sa lupain ng FTI sa Taguig para sa mga pasaherong galing sa Laguna at Batangas habang ang South Coastal Road Terminal naman ay itatayo sa lupain ng PRA sa tabi ng Asia World Uniwide sa Manila-Cavite Expressway sa Lungsod ng Paranaque para sa mga pasahero papunta at galing sa Cavite,‖ wika ni Coloma. Pinagtibay rin ng NEDA, ayon kay Coloma, ang P5.6 bilyong modernisasyon ng Philippine Orthopedic Center na gagawing 700-bed capacity tertiary orthopedic hospital sa bakuran ng National Kidney and Transplant Institute Complex East Avenue, Lungsod ng Quezon. ―Ang susunod na proyekto ng Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System para sa Bulacan Bulk Water Supply Project na P24.2 bilyon ang kabuuang halaga para matiyak ang malinis na tubig para sa Bulacan,‖ ayon kay Coloma. PND (js/zaf)

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Inulit ng gobyernong Aquino ang paninindigang pabilisin ang paglalapat ng katarungan sa “Maguindanao massacre”

Inulit ng gobyernong Aquino ang paninindigan nito sa repormang istitusyonal para mabilis na maigawad ang katarungan sa mga nasawi sa ―2000 Maguindanao massacre,‖ ayon kay Kalihim Herminio B. Coloma, Jr. ng Presidential Communications Operations Office, ―Kasama kami ng sambayanang Pilipino sa pakikiisa sa mga pamilya ng mga nagbuwis ng buhay sa Maguindanao massacre noong Nobyembre 23, 2000. Matatag ang aming paninindigang burahin ang tatak ng kultura ng kawalang puso na humantong sa karumal-dumal na krimeng ito,‖ sabi ni Coloma sa pulong-balitaan sa Malacanang Biyernes. Limampu‘t walo katao, kabilang ang 32 tauhan ng media ang nasawi sa kabuktutang ito na siyang pinakamalupit na political massacre sa Pilipinas. Ang mga kinatawan ng media ay kasama sa komboy na pinangunahan ni Genalyn Mangudadatu, maybahay ng noon ay Bise Alkalde ng Buluan at ngayon ay Gobernador Esmael Mangudadatu ng Maguindanao. ―Inatasan na ang Pambansang Pulisya na pag-ibayuhin ang pagsisikap para madakip na ang may 88 pinaghihinalaang nakawawala pa,‖ wika ni Coloma. Idinugtong ni Coloma na ang Kagawaran ng Katarungan ang patuloy na nagsasagawa ng pagsisiyasat at pag-uusig sa usaping ito. ―Kaisa kami ng mga nagsusulong ng mga repormang istitusyonal, kabilang ang susog sa Rules of Court upang mapabilis ang paglalapat ng katarungan. Makikipagtulungan kami sa Kongreso para unahin ang kailangang hakbang sa pagpapatibay ng whistleblower bill at sa mga susog para palakasin pa ang witness protection law,‖ dagdag ni Coloma. Kabuuang 197 katao, kasama ang mga kaanak ng angkang Ampatuan ang naipagharap na ng sakdal tungkol sa karumal-dumal na krimeng ito. PND (js/zaf)

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ONLINE NEWS

23 NOVEMBER 2013

DSWD welcomes volunteers‟ feedbacks, calls for greater understanding

PHL attends ASEM High Level Meeting on Disaster Prevention and Relief in response to Climate Change

DOE commits to restore power in Yolanda-hit areas by December 24

DTI reminds public: keep safe during the holidays, buy only lights with ICCs

Ombudsman orders Napoles, et al. to answer PDAF charges

Yolanda-hit Region VIII to get P3.1-B in IRA shares; Abad: Internal Revenue Allotment for region to boost LGU

DOTC: 7 major transport projects get green light from NEDA

Business confidence continues to rise in Q4 2013 on stronger domestic demand

NEDA board approves 7 Infra, health projects

TBs, RBs and Coop banks loan quality improves in Q2

Couple conducts storytelling for kids in evacuation centers

Secretary Soliman appeals to Luzon LGUs to support „Yolanda‟ victims

PRC warns public, conducts investigations

In Region 6, Baldoz approves P5.036-M in emergency employment for 1,212 Typhoon Yolanda Victims

Iloilo ready to take IT-BPM to the next level

Metro congressmen vows support for Yolanda survivors

DOE urges energy efficiency in Luzon, visayas after Yolanda

Philippines leads Asia-Europe greater cooperation

DFA celebrates United Nations week

Coastal forest restoration eyed for storm-hit areas in Eastern Visayas

Schedule of registration for passers of the October 2013 Criminologists Licensure Exam

DSWD welcomes volunteers‟ feedbacks, calls for greater understanding

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

Amid various issues raised on the ongoing government disaster operations, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is calling for greater patience and understanding from various sectors in these trying times. ―We recognize that efficiency is hampered due to stressful situations, but we are exerting our best efforts to respond to the whole process of addressing the needs of our typhoon-affected countrymen,‖ the Department said. It added that volunteer efforts and comments are welcome as long as these will facilitate and enhance existing disaster efforts. ―Let us all work together to search and implement solutions for the benefit of the victims,‖ it said. Facebook post The DSWD cited the Facebook post of a volunteer detailing his observations when he and his friends went to the relief hub in Tacloban City. In his post, he raised a number of issues particularly on the relief goods that are ―stocked for a long period of time,‖ on the handling of relief goods, on making the volunteers wait for their turn to repack, and on the Food-for-Work (FFW) Program, among others. The Department is thankful that issues such as these are brought to its attention. It assured the public that lessons are learned and improvements are made along the way. Clarifications The DSWD explained that to date, more than 1.2 million family food packs have already been distributed to victims of Typhoon Yolanda in Eastern Visayas alone since November 8. ―That would translate to approximately 82,000 packs a day distributed in all the 40 towns of Leyte, 15 municipalities of Eastern Samar including Guiuan, and the 138 barangays of Tacloban City,‖ the Department expounded. This means food packs do not stay stacked inside the hubs for too long. They get sent out as soon as vehicles to be used for distribution are ready to be dispatched again. The Department also explained that a shifting schedules are followed in all repacking hubs. The volunteers, whose number has already reached the thousands, are not allowed to go inside the hub all at the same time to maintain order and maximize productivity in the centers. On the claim that bottled water were on the floor and rice were spilled from the sacks, the Department said that there were a few plastic bags of relief goods that were accidentally torn as a result of handling. The bottles of water that were on the floor were being readied for repacking in sacks. These were not packed when

they were donated. The goods were piled outside the warehouse for easier loading to trucks and vans. The Department also explained that plastic bags were really a problem since there was no supply in the city as all establishments are closed. It added that the only plastic bag available can only fit three kilograms of rice instead of six. Thus, DSWD personnel would still order the items from Cebu and Manila. The FFW, which is an intervention for disaster victims where they are given food packs in exchange for doing community work such as repacking during relief operations, is exclusively for adults. ―The FFW is a one way to facilitate the recovery of the victims from their trauma. Keeping them busy is one way of helping them cope with their traumatic experience and would give them a semblance of normalcy as they are already somehow earning,‖ it said. On top of the goods that they receive under the FFW, they still continue to receive food packs from the DSWD under the regular distribution cycle.

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PHL attends ASEM High Level Meeting on Disaster Prevention and Relief in response to Climate Change

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

22 November 2013 –Assistant Secretary for European Affairs Maria Zeneida Angara Collinson called for a special focus on the agricultural sector in managing disaster risks in the ASEM High Level Meeting on Disaster Prevention and Relief in Response to Climate Change held from November 18 to 19 in Hanoi, Viet Nam. Convened more than a week after super typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) struck the Philippines, meeting participants observed a minute of silence in honor of the victims affected by the calamity. ASEM2Themed, ―Strengthening Asia-Europe Cooperation for Disaster Risk Reduction and Sustainable Development‖, the meeting noted that climate change has impacted negatively on sustainable development as seen in the extent of destruction and frequency of disasters in recent years. Participants acknowledged the need to strengthen collaboration and investment in disaster risk reduction and management. Assistant Secretary Angara Collinson, who delivered the closing remarks of the conference, urged the participants ―not to lose momentum but rather, galvanize ourselves to find solutions, systems, innovation and technology to diminish the scourge of disasters, to preserve what we have painstakingly built, indeed, to protect our very lives.‖ The Conference adopted several recommendations for disaster risk prevention and response, including the Philippine proposal to mainstream disaster risk reduction in the policies and planning for the agricultural sector citing grave consequences on the poor and vulnerable agriculture-based communities. The Conference welcomed the Philippines‘ hosting of the ASEM Conference on Technology and Innovation for Disaster Risk Reduction and Management and Climate Change Adaptation in September 2014. The Manila Conference next year will build on the proposals made in Hanoi and will follow it through with concrete actions.

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DOE commits to restore power in Yolanda-hit areas by December 24

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

(Taguig City) The Department of Energy (DOE), alongside its attached agencies, continuously coordinates and addresses the status of the energy facilities amid the massive effect of Super Typhoon Yolanda in the central Philippines to restore power by 24 December 2013. In a meeting earlier today, Energy Secretary Carlos Jericho Petilla, together with the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) and the National Electrification Administration (NEA), drew out all necessary measures to speed up the mobilization of the rehabilitation efforts in the affected areas, such as technical people, construction materials and equipments, among others. Sec. Petilla also made a request to the agencies that ―if technical people of electric cooperatives are available and can help the people of NGCP or the other way around for NEA, they can do so,‖ in order to quicken the repairs of the transmission facilities. NGCP reported that there were a total of 1,959 transmission facilities that were damaged including backbone transmission lines, steel poles, and a converter station. To speed up the repairs, NGCP said it has been installing Emergency Restoration Systems (ERS) in order to replace the transmission lines along with the continuous rehabilitation of the damaged facilities. ERS is a temporary transmission pole that can last up to 10 years. Permanent poles will be erected as soon as the power situation in the affected areas stabilizes. Also critical for bringing back the power in the Visayas is the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the high-voltage direct current (HVDC) converter station and the Ormoc-Cabacungan 350kv HVDC line which is targeted to be back online by 20 December 2013. The HVDC interconnects the Luzon and the Visayas grids. On the side of the distribution facilities, NEA reported that there are 17 electric cooperatives (EC) affected by the typhoon. These ECs respectively serve the islands of Northern Palawan, Bantayan and Camotes in Cebu and the provinces of Antique, Aklan, Biliran, Bohol, Capiz, Iloilo, Eastern Samar, Samar, and Leyte. As of November 21, several towns are already energized in the provinces of Aklan (5), Antique (13), Bohol (7), Capiz (1), Leyte (2) and Iloilo (29), Camotes Island, Cebu (2), and in the franchise area of Busuanga Electric Cooperative in Palawan (2). Target completion of all restoration efforts in the said areas is on 09 December 2013. The DOE emphasizes that generation, transmission, and distribution facilities must be all together operational for power situation in the affected areas to normalize. Likewise, the DOE continues to appeal to Luzon and Visayas power consumers to exercise energy efficiency and conservation to be able to provide ample supply of power in Visayas via the HVDC line.

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DTI reminds public: keep safe during the holidays, buy only lights with ICCs

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

Filipinos just love Christmas so much so that the Philippines distinguishes itself to have the longest, brightest, most colourful, most joyous celebration of Christmas in the world. The Christmas season is much anticipated such that many homes come all aglow with multi-colored lights and ornaments as soon as the calendar ushers in the ―ber‖ months. It is a tradition that makes us unique as a people and as a nation. It is one reason we tell the world, ―It is more fun in the Philippines.‖ Hence, as the countdown for Christmas continues by the day, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) issues this reminder once again to the public: Buy only DTI-certified Christmas lights for your safety. Only brands of imported Christmas lights which pass the rigorous tests for quality set by the DTI‘s Bureau of Product

Standards are issued import commodity clearance (ICC). Look for this sticker when shopping for a new set of Christmas lights, the DTI urges the public. Watch out for the fakes from the genuine stickers as shown below: Better be safe than sorry is an old adage but remains to be an apt reminder for everyone. Always go for quality because the extra money you pay for the DTI-certified lights is always well-spent money. Remember, no investment you make is wiser than those which ensures safety for those whom you hold dearly - your home and your family. So during this Christmas season, let us keep the tradition alive and going. And let‘s make it safer too by decking your home not only with gold and silver and holly but also with strings of light that bears a valid ICC.

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Ombudsman orders Napoles, et al. to answer PDAF charges

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

The Office of the Ombudsman Special Panel of Investigators (Ombudsman Panel) – which is conducting the preliminary investigation/administrative adjudication of the respondents in the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) scam – directed Janet Lim Napoles, Senators Ramon ―Bong‖ Revilla Jr., Jose ―Jinggoy‖ Estrada, Juan Ponce Enrile, and their co-respondents to file their Counter-Affidavits and other controverting evidence within ten (10) days from receipt of the Order. The Ombudsman Panel issued separate Orders dated November 19, 2013 after having evaluated the case and found ―enough basis to proceed with the preliminary investigation‖ of the three (3) separate complaints filed by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) against Senators Revilla, Estrada, Enrile and their respective sets of respondents-public employees and non-governmental organization (NGO) officers. Copies of the NBI complaints were attached to the Orders which have been scheduled to be individually served on the numerous respondents since yesterday, starting with the NBI complaint against Senator Enrile, et al. The Ombudsman Panel is poised to issue the next round of ―Orders to File Counter-Affidavits‖ in relation to the five (5) NBI complaints against certain members of the House of Representatives, as well as the related complaints recently filed by the Field Investigation Office (FIO) which were consolidated and assigned to the same Ombudsman Panel. ―Failure to file their Counter-Affidavit(s)/evidence, with proof of service thereof to complainants, within the aforesaid period shall be deemed a waiver of respondents‘ right to submit controverting evidence and the preliminary investigation shall proceed accordingly,‖ the Order reads. In an ambush interview after this morning‘s budget hearing at the Senate, Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales denied the existence of an ―eight-page report‖ purportedly submitted to her, allegedly tagging ―Senate Minority Leader Juan Ponce Enrile as the mastermind of the alleged P10-billion pork barrel scam–not businesswoman Janet Lim-Napoles,‖ as one national daily reported today.

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Yolanda-hit Region VIII to get P3.1-B in IRA shares; Abad: Internal Revenue Allotment for region to boost LGU

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

In line with the Administration‘s efforts to speed up relief and rehabilitation activities in Yolanda-stricken areas, Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Florencio ―Butch‖ Abad today said that local government units (LGUs) in Region VIII will receive their Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) shares for December—all totalling P1.57 billion—by the end of the month. This comes in the heels of an earlier P1.57-billion release to the region for its IRA share in November, bringing total IRA releases this month to Region VIII to P3.14 billion.

Region VIII, also known as Eastern Visayas, is composed of the major islands of Samar and Leyte. The region includes the cities and provinces of Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, Southern Leyte, Tacloban City, and Biliran. ―The extraordinary tragedy that Yolanda left in her wake has put many of our affected LGUs in a very difficult position, especially with respect to restoring the delivery of key goods and services to their constituents. We are therefore facilitating the early release of funds representing the December IRA shares of Region VIII, which took the brunt of Yolanda‘s force. At the same time, the DBM continues to work with other agencies on ensuring the continuous provision of quick assistance and relief operations to LGUs affected by the typhoon,‖ Abad said. Abad said that for November, a total of P3.84 billion has already been released to Regions VI, VII—with releases of P1.79 billion and P2.05 billion, respectively—representing the regions‘ IRA share for this month. The funds will be used to deliver basic social services, which includes support for relief, rehabilitation, and reconstruction efforts in the regions‘ 16 provinces, 39 cities, 369 municipalities, and 11, 441 barangays. ―Our DBM Regional Offices (DBM-ROs) are working ‘round the clock to facilitate the swift release of IRA shares to other regions affected by Yolanda, despite present difficulties in communications and operations in the area. However, we can guarantee that enough funds will be made available to our local governments so they can strengthen their respective post-calamity activities and ensure that basic services and goods are still being provided to their constituents,‖ the Budget chief added. The recent IRA releases to Yolanda-affected regions are on top of the P25.3 billion in government savings (P12.58 billion), the President‘s Social Fund (P6.4 billion), Quick Relief Funds (P4.19 billion), Calamity Funds (P1.28 billion), and Contingency Funds (P824 million) that are still available for mobilizing disaster relief efforts in typhoon-stricken regions.

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DOTC: 7 major transport projects get green light from NEDA

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

Manila, Philippines – Various approvals for 7 major transportation projects were given the nod by the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Board today, 21 November 2013, including the implementation of the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) 7 project, and the bid out of the Light Rail Transit (LRT)-MRT Common Station and two (2) Integrated Transport System terminals. Also approved were the proposed improvements to the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) PPP project, the revisions to certain economic terms of the LRT-1 Cavite Extension (Cavex) PPP project, the acquisition of an 82-meter Vessel for the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and minor changes to the Puerto Princesa Airport Development Project. With these developments, bidding for the MCIA PPP project can push through on 28 November 2013. This will be the first airport PPP project bid out by the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC), and has seven (7) pre-qualified bidders. The LRT-1 Cavex project was approved, but is subject to certain modifications in the proposed changes to the concession agreement, which the transport agency will first incorporate before tendering the project anew. The MRT-7 project has likewise been allowed to proceed, which allows the Department of Finance (DOF) to already issue the required performance undertaking in favor of the proponent. The DOTC will also now begin working on the Common Station project, which will connect the LRT-1, MRT-3, and future MRT-7 lines in the EDSA-North Avenue area.

Meanwhile, 2 ITS terminals in the south of Metro Manila – one along the South Luzon Expressway and another along Coastal Road – may be bid out as PPPs. These will provide modern and efficient intermodal transport hubs where commuters from the provinces south of Metro Manila can conveniently transfer to in-city buses, rapid transit rail lines, or take other forms of urban transport such as taxis. Finally, minor changes to the scope of the Puerto Princesa Airport Development project have also been approved, such as a larger passenger terminal building and an expanded apron to accommodate more aircraft. The PCG will also acquire an 82-Meter Vessel, to boost its search and rescue capabilities.

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Business confidence continues to rise in Q4 2013 on stronger domestic demand

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

Overall Business Outlook on the Macroeconomy Despite the recent looming concerns over the pork barrel issue, US government shutdown last October and the impact of natural calamities, the business outlook for the Philippines is on course to remain positive for the final quarter of the year. The overall confidence index (CI) rose to 52.3 percent from 42.8 percent in Q3 2013. The stronger reading suggests that more businesses are optimistic about the country‘s economic prospects compared to that of the previous quarter. Respondents cited the following factors for their more optimistic outlook: expected increase in consumer demand during the Christmas and main palay harvest seasons; more orders and projects leading to higher volume of production; expansion of businesses and new product lines; and continued demand for construction projects (public and private) augmented by rehabilitation efforts from the recent earthquake in Bohol. The favorable macroeconomic conditions in the country, particularly low inflation and interest rates, a strong peso, higher foreign investment inflows and the steady stream of overseas Filipinos‘ (OFs) remittances also boosted business confidence in the current quarter. For the next quarter (Q1 2014), business outlook turned less optimistic, with the next quarter CI declining to 40.7 percent from an all-time high of 60 percent registered in the last survey. This means that the optimists continued to outnumber the pessimists for the next quarter but the number of respondents with favorable views declined relative to those who said otherwise. Respondents attributed their less sanguine outlook to the seasonal slack in demand after the holiday season and the political noise brought about by the pork barrel issue. Uncertainties in the global economy, particularly emanating from the US as well as Euro markets contributed to respondents‘ lower optimism. Outlook by Trading Activity Importers and dual-activity firms were more bullish in Q4 2013 on account of the expected increase in consumer demand during the Christmas season, continuous business expansion and new product launches as well as stable macroeconomic conditions. However, both importers and dual-activity firms turned less optimistic for Q1 2014 due to the usual slack in demand after the holidays. Meanwhile, exporters‘ sentiments were steady in Q4 2013, but turned more upbeat for Q1 2014 given the seasonal increase in production (e.g., automotive parts, electronics, and agricultural produce such as abaca and bananas). Sectoral Outlook Across sectors, the outlook of businesses was broadly upbeat in Q4 2013. The wholesale and retail trade sector was the most bullish, with the confidence index reaching a record-high at 59.4 percent since the start of the nationwide survey in Q4 2006. Respondents‘ views were driven by expectations of generally more robust demand during the Christmas season; the favorable business environment; steady inflows of OF remittances; business expansion and

product improvement that are expected to boost sales in the fourth quarter. Among the services sub-sectors, hotels and restaurants posted a record-high confidence index since Q1 2008 in anticipation of brisker business during the holiday season while financial services remained buoyant with the increase in demand for credit by Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and Business Process Outsourcing (BPOs). Construction firms‘ outlook edged higher as respondent firms continued to expect the acceleration of construction activities in the last quarter of the year. However, the outlook of industry firms was less sanguine. In particular, mining and quarrying firms cited volatile metal prices in the global market while agriculture, forestry and fishing firms mentioned the impact of past typhoons and the end of the fishing season as reasons for the decline in their outlook. For the next quarter (Q1 2014), business confidence turned less optimistic across sectors. Business Confidence on Own Operations With respect to the outlook on their own operations during the current quarter, businesses across sectors were less optimistic due largely to the anticipated lower volume of business activity in the next quarter. Access to Credit and Financial Conditions Firms were of the view that their liquidity requirements could be met through available credit as more respondents continued to report easy access to credit compared to those that said otherwise. Meanwhile, firms that expected tighter financial conditions continued to outnumber those that said otherwise but the number that said so declined relative to that in the previous quarter. Expansion Plans and Average Capacity Utilization The percentage of industry firms with expansion plans declined to 30.5 percent (from 32.1 percent). Meanwhile, the average capacity utilization for the current quarter remained broadly steady. Expectations on Key Economic Indicators Respondents who expected inflation to go up continued to outnumber those that held the opposite view in the current and next quarters but the number that said so declined compared to the previous quarter. Businesses expected that the rate of increase in commodity prices are likely to remain well anchored at 2.9 percent in Q4 2013 and 3 percent in Q1 2014 (lower than 3.2 percent and 3.3 percent, respectively, in the previous quarter‘s survey results). More respondents expected the peso to appreciate in Q4 2013 and Q1 2014. Meanwhile, interest rates were expected to decline in the current quarter as respondents that expected lower interest rates continued to outnumber those that said otherwise. For the next quarter, more respondents expected interest rates to increase. About the Survey The Q4 2013 BES was conducted during the period 1 October - 11 November 2013. There were 1,550 firms surveyed nationwide. Respondents were drawn from the Securities and Exchange Commission‘s Top 7,000 Corporations in 2010, consisting of: 603 companies in NCR and 947 firms in AONCR, covering all 17 regions nationwide. The survey response rate for this quarter was steady at 83.1 percent (from 83.4 percent in the previous quarter). The response rate was lower for NCR at 80.4 percent (from 82.2 percent in the previous quarter) but higher for AONCR at 84.8 percent (from 84.1 percent in Q3 2013).

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NEDA board approves 7 Infra, health projects

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

The NEDA Board today approved seven (7) projects: three (3) rail projects, one (1) airport project, one (1) transport terminal, one (1) health facility and one (1) water supply project. Six (6) of these projects will be implemented through

public-private partnership (PPP). Of the seven projects, only the LRT Line 1 North Extension Project - Common Station is locally funded and not financed through PPP. Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan said: ―The rail projects will connect the train systems and make it convenient for passengers to transfer from one train to another. This will also help reduce passengers‘ travel time.‖ ―The Mactan-Cebu International project will enhance the operational efficiency of the airport and will also provide convenience for airport passengers.‖ ―The transport terminal project will make various modes of transportation accessible to people coming from nearby provinces to commute to and from Metro Manila. It will also ease traffic along EDSA.‖ ―The water supply project will address supply gap in Bulacan and environmental problems including subsidence and salt water intrusion.‖ The total cost and scope of the projects are the following: Proponent: Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) 1. LRT Line 1 South Extension Project Total Cost – PhP64.9 billion Scope – The project involves the extension of the existing LRT Line 1 South. Currently, Line 1 covers 21 stations from Roosevelt Avenue to Monumento (north link) to Baclaran. The total length of service line is 20.7 kilometers. The extension project extends this service line by 11.7 kilometers covering 10 more stations and will pass through Paranaque and Las Pinas up to Bacoor, Cavite. ―The project will be implemented through Public Private Partnership (PPP), where on one hand, the private sector shall undertake civil works and electro mechanical works. On the other hand, the government shall provide the rolling stock and depot through official development assistance from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA),‖ said Balisacan. 2. MRT 7 Project Total Cost – PhP62.7 billion Scope – The project involves the construction of a 22.8-kilometer rail system from North Avenue station in EDSA Quezon City, passing through Commonwealth Avenue, Regalado Avenue and Quirino Highway up to the proposed Intermodal Transportation Terminal (ITT) in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan. This project will cover 14 stations. ―This project will be implemented under an unsolicited Build-Gradually Transfer-Operate and Maintain (BGTOM) arrangement between the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) and the Universal LRT Corporation Limited (ULC),‖ Balisacan said. 3. LRT Line 1 North Extension Project – Common Station Total Cost – PhP1.4 billion Scope – The project involves the provision of a common station among LRT 1, MRT 3 and MRT 7, as well as road-based transportation systems. Head to head platforms for LRT 1 and MRT 3 with a 147.4-meter elevated walkalator to MRT 7 at North Avenue will be constructed. This is a locally funded project.

4. Mactan-Cebu International Airport New Passenger Terminal Project Total Cost – PhP17.5 billion Scope – The project involves the construction of new passenger terminal, renovation of existing terminal, operation and maintenance of both the new and the existing passenger terminals during the entire concession period, and relocation of Philippine Air Force facilities. 5. Development of Transportation System at FTI and PRA under PPP Total Cost – PhP7.7 billion (with cost of land) ; PhP6.1 billion (without cost of land) Scope – Development of two mass transportation terminals at the Southern outskirts of Metro Manila to be located at the following: o South – SLEX Terminal at FTI Property in FTI Compound, Taguig City to serve passengers travelling to and from Laguna and Batangas o South – Coastal Road Terminal at PRA Property beside Asiaworld/Uniwide along Manila-Cavite Expressway (R-1) Expressway in Paranaque City to serve passengers travelling to and from Cavite. Proponent: Department of Health (DOH) 1. Modernization of the Philippine Orthopedic Center Total Cost – PhP 5.6 billion Scope – 700-bed super specialty tertiary orthopedic hospital Proponent: Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) 1. Bulacan Bulk Water Supply Project Total Cost – PhP24.4 billion Scope – potable water supply to Bulacan

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TBs, RBs and Coop banks loan quality improves in Q2

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

The combined non-performing loans (NPLs) of thrift, rural and cooperative banks represented 7.32 percent of their total loan portfolio (TLP) of Php 597.57 billion at the end of second quarter this year. The gross NPL slightly improved from the 7.77 percent in March 2013 as the banks‘ NPLs declined by less than one percent amid a five percent quarter-on-quarter rise in TLP. The banks‘ loan loss reserves (LLR) for the soured loans, meanwhile, stood at 68.26 percent of NPLs in end-June from the 66.52 percent figure posted in March 2013. Provisioning for NPLs is a prudential measure for mitigating potential credit losses.

Thrift, rural and cooperative bank loans represented 10.76 percent, 2.74 percent and 0.22 percent, respectively, of the Philippine banking system‘s TLP amounting to Php 4.36 trillion in June this year. Thrift banks‘ (TBs) posted a 5.94 percent gross NPL ratio in June, lower than the 6.13 percent registered in March this year. The drop in gross NPL ratio was matched by a rise in TBs‘ LLR, which grew to 72.28 in June from 70.43 percent last quarter. Rural banks‘ (RBs) gross NPL ratio, meanwhile, stood at 12.36 percent in June, higher than the 11.83 percent posted a year ago. RBs‘ LLR for soured loans, however, decreased to 59.65 percent in June from 61.54 percent three months ago. Cooperative banks‘ gross NPL ratio dropped to 12.38 in June from 28.46 percent in March this year, while their loan loss provisioning increased to 81.26 percent of NPLs from 55.63 percent during the same period. The monitoring of banks‘ loan quality is part of measures to ensure that financial intermediaries continue to adhere to high credit standards. This is essential to maintaining financial stability, which is a primary objective of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.

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Couple conducts storytelling for kids in evacuation centers

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

Cebu City – While various agencies and volunteers are busy assisting in the relief operations and ensuring that victims of Typhoon Yolanda meet their daily food needs, couple Joey and Lorna Eguia of Books in Bags chose to help children meet their continuing need for learning. For two weeks now, the couple has been holding storytelling and reading sessions for children at evacuation centers managed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Central Visayas. When news broke out that ‗Yolanda‘ will also hit Cebu, preemptive evacuations were made particularly in high-risk areas in the province. Couple Joey and Lorna joined the evacuation at IBC, Banawa, Cebu City. ―We have been inside the evacuation center a night before ‗Yolanda‘ entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR),‖ the couple said. Knowing that there would be nothing much to do at the evacuation center, they brought along with them books to read together with the children. At the height of ‗Yolanda,‘ the couple gathered the children in one corner where they taught them how to do origami while waiting for the typhoon to pass. ―Reading is both professional and personal to me. We hope that through our Story and Play Therapy (Sessions), we would help hasten the healing of children, inspire them more to read, and eventually transform their lives,‖ said Lorna. A teacher and a librarian by profession, Lorna was able to encourage her students to join her advocacy and be storytellers. Currently, she has 20 volunteers who join her in every play therapy session. ―I have been doing this even before the tragedy and it compels me to do more upon seeing that the kids are happy

listening to meaningful stories,‖ Lorna added. For grade six pupil Roman Gonzales, the activity is interesting because he gets to listen to different stories. ―Importante nga ang bata maaram bumasa ug sumurat. (It is important for children to know how to read and write),‖ shared Roman whose family is at the evacuation center. His favorite subject is English and dreams to become a teacher someday. ―Karuyag ko maging Teacher para makatulong ha mga bata nga diri nakakapag-aral, (I want to become a teacher so that I can help children who cannot go to school.),‖ Roman said. Aside from the kids, Eguia‘s group also caters to youth and mothers encouraging them to share their life stories and dreams. The couple also introduced a new strategy through Bibliotherapy. Bibliotherapy generally refers to the use of literature to help people cope with emotional problems, mental illness or changes in their lives, or to produce affective change and promote personality growth and development. ―Part of rebuilding is knowing and tracing back your history, and history is found in books,‖ Lorna emphasized. In coordination with the DSWD, Books in Bags will set a regular visit to different evacuation centers in the region as part of the psycho-social intervention for the evacuees.

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Secretary Soliman appeals to Luzon LGUs to support „Yolanda‟ victims

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

―We appeal to our local government units in Metro Manila and nearby provinces in Luzon to join us in continuously helping the affected families of Typhoon Yolanda as they temporarily leave Eastern Visayas,‖ Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman said. With the great impact of Typhoon Yolanda in Eastern Visayas, many of the affected families already decided to leave their hometown to safer places. At present, the exodus of evacuees to Metro Manila and other provinces continues. ―Let us all welcome our brothers and sisters who are continuously arriving from typhoon-affected areas. They need to move out to help them recover from their trauma and losses. Their desire to flee from their hometown is a natural reaction of survival and self-preservation,‖ Secretary Soliman added. Pasay City is one of the LGUs which has given support to the evacuees. It established a tent city in coordination with the DSWD as temporary shelter for them. Likewise, the Municipality of Rosario, Cavite expressed its willingness to adopt some families in their area. ―We seek the understanding of the local government units as they are also called upon to extend public service to the evacuees,‖ the Secretary said. The Secretary added that the national government is aware that assisting the evacuees will surely impact their daily operations.

‗This is why we are asking for their cooperation and understanding,‖ she said. She emphasized that ―no disaster can dampen the Filipino values of hospitality and strength of character, for which we are internationally known for. Sama-sama, kakayanin natin ito (Together, we can surpass this).‖

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PRC warns public, conducts investigations

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

Two PH stem cell therapy associations operate without PRC endorsements PRC warns public, conducts investigations The Department of Labor and Employment yesterday warned the public on the use of Stem Cell Therapy (SCT) for medical and aesthetic purpose, following a recent report which revealed that certain SCT associations in the country have been operating without the requisite endorsement from the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and the Professional Regulatory Board of Medicine (PRBOM). In an inquiry made by the PRC to the Securities Exchange Commission (SEC), it found out that the Philippine Society for Stem Cell Medicine, Inc. (PSSCM) and the Philippine Stem Cell Society (PSCS) have falsified, if not failed, to submit such documentary requirements that legally consummates its SEC registration. ―The PRC and the PRBOM constitute the regulatory body for the practice of medicine in the country. In essence, the competencies of specialists, practice of SCT, and the consequent SEC registration of SCT-related associations fall under their control and authority,‖ Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz said. ―Failure to acquire such approval from these regulatory bodies,‖ she added, ―only means that they did not pass the scrutiny and monitoring procedures of its Institutional Review Boards or Ethics Committees.‖ Ferdinand Sales, Acting Director of the SEC-Company Registration and Monitoring Department, said ―the Commission is already conducting an investigation and has instructed the Board of Trustees of the PSSCM to file their answer; otherwise, we shall be constrained to proceed with the revocation of corporate registration on the ground of fraud in procuring its certificate of incorporation.‖ As to PSCS, which failed to submit a PRC endorsement, Sales said the Commission will initiate the proper proceedings, adding that: ―To avoid similar incidents in the future, we shall no longer accept endorsements to be hand carried by registrant corporations. We shall strictly implement the policy that said documents should be mailed officially from your [PRC] end.‖ Citing the Second Position Paper of the Professional Regulatory Board of Medicine on Stem Cell Therapy and related concerns, PRC Chair Teresita Manzala said the government is wary on the growing number of unscrupulous physicians misrepresenting themselves as experts in this field. ―We are concerned about reports that many doctors get the term ―fellow, Philippine Society for Stem Cell Medicine‖ appended to their names only have to bring 10 patients for treatment, buy the machine, and pay a certain amount to get their fellowship,‖ Manzala said, adding: ―Physicians should avoid adopting an ―innovative procedure‖ mainly on the basis of commercial promotions and marketing when the value or benefit of the procedure has not been proven. Objectivity and integrity should always be maintained. This is what professionalism and ethics in the practice of medicine dictate.‖

The PRC, on this note, strongly called on public to help expose similar incidents to their attention by calling telephone numbers, (632) 310-0026 or (632) 735-4476, or visiting their main office at P. Paredes St. corner Morayta St., Sampaloc, Manila.

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In Region 6, Baldoz approves P5.036-M in emergency employment for 1,212 Typhoon Yolanda Victims

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

With the primary intention of alleviating the plight of Western Visayas workers displaced by Typhoon Yolanda, Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz has allocated P5,036,000 million for the emergency employment of 1,212 workers who were severely affected when the super typhoon hit the region last 8 November 2013. DOLE Regional Office No. VI Director Ponciano Ligutom Jr. said the emergency employment funds were realigned from existing unutilized programs of the regional office. ―We needed to defer some projects in order to raise additional funds to provide bridging income to workers who desperately need help,‖ Ligutom explained. The funds will be equitably distributed among the provinces in the region but will prioritize towns and barangays which suffered extensive damages, such as Iloilo and Capiz. They will be employed by the local government units (LGUs) for an average of 15-days work at the minimum rate of P277 per day to work in rehabilitation projects such as clearing of sewerage systems, rebuilding of government buildings and schools, and cleaning of plazas and markets, among others. Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council VI placed the amount of damage on the region‘s crops, livestock, and fisheries at P1,985,743,649.11 affecting 556,377 families in 2,941 barangays. On the other hand, the Department of Agriculture Region VI disclosed that the aggregate number of affected farmers sum up to 3,861. ―This is the most critical time for our workers who have lost their livelihood. They need employment to earn income. The number of days that we can give them to work may be limited but the income that they will earn will definitely help buy food and other basic necessities for their families,‖ Ligutom said Driven by the need to expand the emergency employment program to be able to enrol more displaced workers, Ligutom said that the regional office has already requested the amount of P18,078,405 as additional program fund to be able to support the employment of 4,351 more workers. ―If granted, the additional fund will benefit 4,351 workers, increasing the number of emergency employment beneficiaries from 1,212 to 5,563 workers,‖ Ligutom said. "Our aim in implementing emergency employment and livelihood programs is to enable disaster-stricken families to rebuild their lives, with better access to social protection and sustainable income sources," Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz said. End/rhev With reporting from Amalia N. Judicpa, LCO, DOLE Region VI

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Iloilo ready to take IT-BPM to the next level

Source: http://icto.dost.gov.ph

Iloilo, despite being hit hard by super typhoon Yolanda, is all set to bring the Information Technology – Business Process Management (IT-BPM) industry in the province to the same level as that of Bacolod and Cebu. This was revealed at the 8th leg of the Next Wave Cities Road show held in the Iloilo City this week. The event was organized by the Iloilo Federation for Information Technology (IFIT) and the DOST- ICT Office supported by IT-BPM Industry associations. It was attended by more than three hundred students, local industry stakeholders and members of the local community. Iloilo currently employs 9,000 workers in eight (IT-BPM) companies located in the province. It is currently in the top 10 next wave cities, together with the likes of Baguio, Davao, Metro Laguna, Dumaguete and Naga. According to Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick E. Mabilog ―As one of the leading next wave cities in the country, and a leading IT-BPM destination, Iloilo city prides itself in having the right ecosystem required to support the industry such

as stable energy and power facilities, an army of skilled human resource, IT-BPM-ready real estate and robust telecommunications infrastructure.‖ Jess Palmares, President of IFIT said that; ― Northern Iloilo was badly affected by the last typhoon but with our resilience I know we can recover. Everything is in place for Iloilo City. Development has occurred in several areas by developers such as Gaisano, Megaworld and Ayala. We have also continued to develop manpower capability in the province supported by educational institutions, DOLE and TESDA. We are ready to take Iloilo to the next level and become an IT-BPM Center of Excellence like our neighbors Bacolod and Cebu.‖ The Iloilo Next wave cities leg was well supported by the Industry and coincided with the Animation Council of the Philippines (ACPI)‘ Animahenasyon festival which was held in West Visayas State University, also in Iloilo city. IT Business Process Association of the Philippines President Jo Mari Mercado commented that; ―Iloilo has developed a good eco system to attract multinationals and BPOs, the next step is now for Iloilo to develop its local ICT industry, that is why we have brought resource persons from ACPI, the Contact Center Association of the Philippines (CCAP), Game Developers Association of the Philippines (GDAP), Philippine Software Industry Asociation (PSIA), and Healthcare Information Management Outsourcing Association of the Philippines (HIMOAP) to motivate students to take up IT related courses and capacity development programs supported by the industry to support the human resource requirements of the IT-BPM industry of Iloilo. About DOST-ICT Office – The Information and Communications Technology Office of the Department of Science and Technology is the Philippine Government‘s lead agency on ICT related matters. Its primary thrusts are in the ICT Industry Development, eGovernment, ICT policy development, Internet for all and Cybersecurity.

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Metro congressmen vows support for Yolanda survivors

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

In support of the government‘s ―Yolanda‖ disaster response in the Visayas, Metro Manila members of House of Representatives have committed to help survivors of the supertyphoon who have fled the Visayas to seek refuge in Metro Manila. Quezon City 2ndDistrict Rep. Winston ―Winnie‖ Castelo, chairman of the House committee on Metro Manila development said allied lawmakers like Rep. Jorge ―Bolet‖ Banal (3rd District, Quezon City), Rep. Alfred Vargas (5thDistrict, QC), Rep. Christopher ―Kit‖ Belmonte (6thDistrict, Quezon City), Rep. Sandy Ocampo (6thDistrict, Manila), Rep. Edwin Olivarez (1stDistrict Paranaque) have committed help and support behind the ―Lakbayanihan‖ initiative of the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP). ―Lakbayanihan‖ is ULAP‘s response to the call of Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Mar Roxas for LGU support to maximize the government‘s ―Yolanda‖ disaster response in the Visayas. Roxas, vice chairman of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) earlier appealed to the private sector and local governments to support the government‘s ―Yolanda‖ disaster response.He said because of the scale of the devastation wrought by the supertyphoon, the national government will be needing all the help it can get to address the situation. Metro Manila lawmakeers have launched ―Oplan Yakap‖ and ―Oplan Hatid‖ as part of Lakbayanihan to complement the on-going relief efforts in the typhoon-affected areas in the Visayas. Many are still fleeing Visayas to seek refuge in Metro Manila after totally losing their homes and livelihood after the typhoon.

Oplan Yakap aims to adopt ―Yolanda‖ survivors with no place to stay in Metro Manila while ―Oplay Hatid‖ aims to provide free transportation or ride for the survivors to reach their family members in various locations in Metro Manila. Castelo said that under Oplan Yakap, members of the House of Representatives are asked to adopt Yolanda survivors, providing them temporary shelters, food, water, clothing. So far, under ―Oplan Hatid‖, Castelo said that 1,200 families have been brought safely to their families in different locations. He also said that he had also arranged to reserve the Sinag Tala covered court in Barangay Batasan Hills, Quezon City in coordination with Barangay Captain John ―Jojo‖ Abad for the temporary shelter of ―Yolanda survivors‖ with no families to go to but nevertheless decided to seek refuge in Metro Manila to start a new. ―Nakahanda na ang temporary shelter para sa ating mga kababayan mula sa Visayas,‖ he said. Pasay City lone Rep. Rep. Imelda Calixto along with Pasay City Mayor Antonio Calixto on Tuesday launched the ―tent city‖ at Villamor Air Base Elementary School to provide temporary shelter to ―Yolanda‖ survivors from the Visayas who sought refuge even if they have no families in Metro Manila.

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DOE urges energy efficiency in Luzon, visayas after Yolanda

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

(Taguig City) Energy Secretary Carlos Jericho L. Petilla urges consumers in Luzon as well as in the Visayas to exercise energy efficiency and conservation to be able to provide ample supply of power in Visayas after Super Typhoon Yolanda caused major damages to its energy facilities. Since 8 November 2013, the Visayas grid lost an average of 500-MW with the non-operation of the Unified Leyte Geothermal Power Plant. Luzon is expected to share power to the Visayas through the Ormoc-Cabacungan 350kV High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) Line, which interconnects the two grids. On this note, Sec. Petilla appeals to power consumers especially in Luzon to practice energy efficiency measures amidst the boost in energy demand and consumption during the holiday season. ―Not only will you save on electricity, you are also saving your fellow Filipinos in the Visayas,‖ Secretary Petilla said, adding that ―any reduction in demand in Luzon will mean added available capacity to supply the Visayas grid.‖ The DOE likewise calls on large power-consuming establishments to reduce electric consumption by executing energy-efficient methods such as lessening the use of air-conditioning and unplugging unnecessary electrical equipment. Meanwhile, household consumers can contribute to the energy efficiency and conservation efforts, simply by unplugging electrical appliances, turning off the lights when not in use, use of energy efficient technologies, and to cut down use of holiday lights and energy-consuming decors. The DOE is continuously coordinating with the National Electrification Administration, National Grid Corp. of the Philippines, power generation companies, and distribution utilities to ensure restoration of power supply to major parts of the Visayas before the target date of 24 December 2013.

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Philippines leads Asia-Europe greater cooperation

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

21 November 2013 - Philippine Sensor Foreign Affairs Adviser and Ambassador Rosario G. Manalo, in her capacity as Governor for the Philippines, led the 51-strong member Asia Europe Foundation (ASEF) during its 30th Board of Governors meeting at the Orchard Hotel Singapore where various issues were discussed including membership enlargement and strengthening partnerships toward greater mutual understanding between Asia and Europe. The Governors from the two regions' member states and the European Union underlined the immense strides ASEF has made since its birth in 1997, reaching out to a wider audience in both regions and facilitating cooperation between their governments. ―ASEF has substantially contributed to the development of the ASEM process (Asia Europe Meeting) particularly in enhancing civil society participation and people-to-people exchanges between these two regions. This significant role of ASEF was recognized in the recently held 11th Foreign Ministers Meeting in New Delhi, India‖, remarked Ambassador Manalo who chaired the ASEF Board of Governors meeting. She was elected unanimously last year as Chair of the Board of Governors and holds the distinct honor of being the first female Chair from Asia. In her welcome remarks, Ambassador Manalo challenged the Governors, comprised of high-level officials and Ambassadors from Asia and Europe, to further strengthen ASEF‘s role in fostering partnerships between and within these two regions aimed to bring them even closer together. The Philippine official also thanked the Asian and European governments and NGOs who extended humanitarian assistance to the victims of typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan). Prior to the Governors' meeting, Ambassador Manalo chaired the Executive Committee meeting and participated in the Financial and Audit Committee discussions whose recommendations were endorsed to the Board of Governors. ASEF advances mutual understanding and collaboration between the people of Asia and Europe by acting as an interface between civil society on one hand, and Asian and European governments on the other, thus contributing to the ASEM process. ASEF was established in February 1997 by ASEM partners and remains to this day the only established institution of ASEM. Although based in Singapore, ASEF operates in all ASEM countries. ASEF is funded by contributions from member states. Since its inception, ASEF has initiated various sectoral and thematic projects participated in by over 17,000 individuals and experts from Asia and Europe.

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DFA celebrates United Nations week

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

21 November 2013 - The Department of Foreign Affairs hosted a wreath-laying ceremony at the tomb of Gen. Carlos P. Romulo, former Secretary of Foreign Affairs at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City. The ceremony was held in honor of Gen. Romulo, one of the founding fathers of the United Nations and long-time Secretary of Foreign Affairs from 1950 to 1952 and 1969 to 1984, who dedicated his iife to diplomacy and the peaceful settlement of disputes. The event was hosted by the Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario and was attended by Dr. Beth Day Romuio (wife of the Gen. Romulo), Roberto R. Romulo (son of Gen. Romulo and former SFA), Ms. Luisa Carvalho

(United Nations Resident Coordinator), Judge Aurora Recina (President of UN Association of the Philippines), members of the Romulo Family, DFA Undersecretaries and Assistant Secretaries, members of the Diplomatic Corps, and the UN Country Team.

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Coastal forest restoration eyed for storm-hit areas in Eastern Visayas

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

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is looking at restoring mangrove and beach forests in some 380 kilometers of coastline in Eastern Visayas, including Leyte and all other portions ravaged by Super Typhoon Yolanda, to protect these communities against the devastating effects of future storms. DENR Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje said the tragedy caused by Yolanda underscores the need to revive the region‘s degraded coastal forests to make its coastlines less vulnerable to extreme weather events. Paje said that a massive tree-planting activity under the government‘s National Greening Program (NGP) may take place in coastal areas in Tacloban City and Dulag town in Leyte; municipalities of Guiuan, Llorente and Balangiga in Eastern Samar; and the town of Basey in Samar to provide livelihood to residents and allow them to take part in building a ―green wall‖ against storm surges. ―By reviving the coastal forests in these areas, we seize this golden opportunity to begin the journey of our people in Eastern Visayas from victims to victors on the right footing,‖ Paje said, adding that Yolanda ―has practically seized the nation‘s attention to the increasingly important role of mangrove and beach forest belts.‖ The environment chief said the department is also looking at the ―reversion of abandoned government-leased ponds to mangroves‖ in order to boost coastal protection, food resources and livelihood opportunities for coastal communities. ―The best way to protect the city from storm surge is through mangrove reforestation under the NGP,‖ Paje stressed. Relative to this, he said that the NGP implementation in Eastern Visayas may have to be ―reconfigured‖ to give more priority to ―coastal intervention‖ over reforestation in upland communities. At the same time, Paje pointed out that keeping the affected shorelines off-limits to informal settlers is a ―key‖ to such undertaking. He said the department will soon conduct ground validation to pinpoint what areas are viable for mangrove rehabilitation and those for beach forest within the 20-meter easement zone along the shoreline as provided for in the Philippine Forestry Code.

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Schedule of registration for passers of the October 2013 Criminologists Licensure Exam

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

Manila, November 22, 2013 --- The Professional Regulation Commission hereby informs all those who passed the October 2013 Criminologists Licensure Exam in Manila of the schedule of their initial registration at the PRC Auditorium, 5th Floor, Annex Building:

NOVEM

BER 25

AALA, DONGIE

M.

DUYUCON, RUFINO A.

(Monday) -

NOVEM

BER 26

(Tuesday)

EBAÑEZ,

EUGINE

-

NUÑEZ, RODRIGO

JACINTO B.

NOVEM

BER 27

(Wednesd

ay)

OBEJAS, MEL

JOHN D.

-

ZULUETA, JAYSON S.

Registrants are advised to download the Oath Forms HERE and to bring their duly accomplished Oath Forms during their schedule for registration. Registrants are also advised to strictly observe the schedule for initial registration to avoid any inconvenience.

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Last Updated: 21 NOVEMBER 2013 Google+ Photo Releases of PNoy

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President Benigno S. Aquino III presides over the National Economic and Development

Authority (NEDA) Board Meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan

Palace on Thursday (November 21). Also in photo are Presidential Communications

Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio “Sonny” Coloma, Jr., Science and

Technology Secretary Mario Montejo, Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez, Jr., Defense

Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Secretary to the Cabinet Jose Rene Almendras, Executive

Secretary Paquito Ochoa, Jr., Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Socio-Economic Planning

Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson and

Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo. (Photo by Benhur Arcayan / Malacañang

Photo Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III presides over the National Economic and Development

Authority (NEDA) Board Meeting at the Aguinaldo State Dining Room of the Malacañan

Palace on Thursday (November 21). Also in photo are Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin,

Secretary to the Cabinet Jose Rene Almendras, Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, Jr. and

Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

President Benigno S. Aquino III leads his official family in prayer before presiding over the

National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board Meeting at the Aguinaldo

State Dining Room of the Malacañan Palace on Thursday (November 21). Also in photo are

Science and Technology Secretary Mario Montejo, Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez, Jr.,

Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Secretary to the Cabinet Jose Rene Almendras,

Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, Jr., Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima and Environment

and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon Jesus Paje. (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang

Photo Bureau)

US MARINE TROOPS— US marine troop volunteers conduct the cleaning operations at

the Tacloban City airport as part of their support for the victims of typhoon Yolanda,

Wednesday .(Courtesy by MARCELINO PASCUA)

Philippines Airforce helicopter (HUE) airlifts the relief goods as part of their continuing

efforts to bring the relief goods to remote areas in the province of Samar and Leyte affected

by typhoon Yolanda. (Courtesy of MARC

Thank You and God Bless !!!!