The Truth About APECO

CASIGURAN, Aurora, December 11, 2012-APECO sympathizes with the 120 marchers from Casiguran and their supporters from other towns and provinces. However, they cannot possibly represent 3,000 households affected by APECO’s development, as the area covered by APECO, namely Barangays Cozo, Esteves, Dibet, San Ildefonso, and Culat, only has a total of 1,336 households. Hence, this claim is impossible and without factual basis.

Furthermore, these marchers who claim that their land was taken forcibly from them by APECO are, in fact, informal settlers in a school reservation owned by the Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT). This issue long predates the creation of APECO.

The 105-hectare property in contention was originally designated as a school reservation by virtue of Proclamation No. 723, issued by American Governor-General Frank Murphy on August 21, 1934. The Aurora National Fisheries School was created for this purpose. R.A. No. 7664, which created ASCOT, later mandated the integration of this fisheries school, and all its resources including the school reservation, with ASCOT.

While the ASCOT reservation is located within the boundaries of APECO, it cannot be utilized for anything other than its original purpose. APECO respects and honors this. The informal settlers’ claims of land ownership under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program, and its extension program, is an issue that does not involve APECO.

Nonetheless, APECO has included these informal settlers among its housing beneficiaries under a program undertaken in partnership with the National Housing Authority (NHA).

It is true that there were 28 families displaced by the construction of the airstrip, which is a project of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP). But it must be stressed that the CAAP has duly extended financial assistance, ranging from P55,000 to P154,000, to these families. They have also been included among the APECO-NHA housing beneficiaries.       

On the issue of ancestral domain, APECO has never conducted infrastructure development activities in any of the Dumagat settlement within its coverage. We have already sought the help of the National Commission on the Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) to facilitate Free and Prior Informed Consent (FPIC). APECO recognizes the existence of ancestral domain, and supports the IPs in acquiring their Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT). In fact, the provincial NCIP has commended APECO’s collaboration with the Dumagats and other IPs, such as skills training and livelihood programs.

APECO carries with it the mandate to acquire lands on the condition that it provides just compensation in accordance with law. That is what we have been doing. APECO has never resorted to the right of eminent domain or expropriation to acquire lands. Neither has APECO coerced any one to sell their land nor buy land at an unreasonably low price.

On the contrary, APECO has been buying lands at prices ranging from P240,000 to P300,000 per hectare, almost twice the assessed value. Lands that were brought at P600,000 were well-developed properties. Claims that APECO has been buying land for P45,000 to P60,000 per hectare are simply untrue.

We must emphasize that APECO has no intention to buy lands in the San Ildefonso Peninsula. We give due respect to the rights of existing integrated social forestry (ISFs) beneficiaries in the area.

The issue that APECO has cut 10 hectares of centuries-old mangroves to give way to its port is false and misleading. The port referred to is a RORO port that is not within the boundaries of APECO. This port was built decades ago, and rehabilitated by the Philippine Ports Authority as part of the previous administration’s strong nautical highway program. APECO has nothing to do with this port.

Regarding the supposed lack of consultation on the creation of APECO, all proposed laws are subject to public hearings and long public deliberations. This is the same process gone through by the laws that eventually created and expanded APECO.

We continue to conduct consultations to raise awareness on its development programs among the residents of Casiguran, as well as to seek residents’ proposals on how more effectively APECO can help them. In fact, on March 14, 2012, a municipal-wide assembly was held where 3,000 local residents signed a covenant for peace and development with APECO. This was followed by several barangay assemblies.

Finally, accusations of human rights violations against APECO are merely fabricated. We abhor violence, and have always chosen to avoid confrontation. We continue to talk to certain people claiming properties within APECO even without titles or proof of ownership. Though this has paralyzed important infrastructure projects, such as construction of the road network inside the corporate campus, APECO has chosen not to resort to expropriation or eviction, showing the extent of our restraint. We are there to build; not to destroy.

APECO values the residents of Casiguran. We want to help give a better life to the community through employment and livelihood. We are vindicated by the strong support of the real residents of Casiguran. In fact, legitimate IP leaders, landowners, fisherfolks, and barangay officials held a press conference at the Senate on December 4, 2012 to reiterate their support for APECO. Videos of this press conference can be viewed on APECO’s Web site.

APECO is for development, and the truth is, this is a development for the people of Aurora, supported by the people of Aurora. We appeal to certain groups with vested interests to stop spreading lies that will only serve to jeopardize the future of Aurora’s people. (Atty. Malcolm I. Sarmiento, President and CEO)

On the efforts of the Philippine Coast Guard, Eastern Mindanao Command and the Department of Labor and Employment in Mindanao

We are pleased to announce the rescue and ongoing medical treatment of three fishermen from capsized boats off the coast of Davao Oriental. According to a report from Secretary of Transportation and Communications Jun Abaya, the fishermen were rescued by a fishing vessel, Lady Gelaine, yesterday and subsequently fetched by a vessel manned by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) that ferried them to Mati City. Peter Madlasi, Dennis Cudilla, and Rene Maulas are now in the provincial hospital of Davao Oriental. The three PCG-manned vessels that comprise a search and rescue task force will refuel at Mati City today and continue operations thereafter.

Meanwhile, the Eastern Mindanao Command led by Lieutenant General Jorge Segovia continues to coordinate inland, maritime, and aerial search and rescue operations. They are also helping immensely with the logistics and movement of relief goods.

More humanitarian efforts are pouring into areas hardest-hit by the recent calamity. Yesterday, Secretary of Labor and Employment Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz ordered the release of an initial Php 5.5 million for emergency employment and livelihood for displaced workers. The bulk of the amount, Php 5 million, will be given for those in Compostela Valley while Php 500,000 is for the Caraga region.

Once again, we call on our countrymen to be of service to those affected by Typhoon Pablo and give generously to organizations helping our brethren in the south.

More To Be Done For Disaster Resilience – Legarda

MANILA, December 11, 2012-Despite praise from the European Union coordinating body for humanitarian aid, Senator Loren Legarda said that there is much more to be done in order for us to become a disaster-resilient country.

“Officials of the European Community Humanitarian Office (ECHO) cited an improvement in the government’s response compared to last year when Tropical Storm Sendong devastated parts of Mindanao. While we note that this is certainly better, it is not our best. The best is to be prepared to lessen the need for response. The best is to have zero casualty,” she said.

Legarda, author of the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010, noted that Davao Oriental, which was awarded the Gawad Kalasag for heading the Best Prepared Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, still suffered immense losses from Pablo.

“It seems that even those who are prepared could not withstand the strength of our natural hazards today. Even communities who already have disaster mitigation programs in place still suffer from the effects of extreme weather events. This is an opportunity for us to re-evaluate our current strategies, and build on them based on recent events,” she stated.

The Senator, also the UN Regional Champion for Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation for Asia-Pacific, expressed deep regret for the deaths and damages brought about by Typhoon Pablo, and urged local government officials to step up to the challenges.

“Climate change adaptation, disaster preparedness and risk reduction constitute the greatest humanitarian challenges of our time. These challenges we can overcome if our programs and mechanisms in place actually address the specific vulnerabilities present in each community in the country,” Legarda concluded.

Legarda at LMP General Assembly

Senator Loren Legarda presents the Redefining Development book, Message of Our Times book, the Disaster Preparedness and First Aid Handbook, and a tree seedling to Paombong, Bulacan Mayor Donato Marcos, National President of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP), after her speech at the LMP General Assembly at the Manila Hotel.

Senator Loren Legarda, Chair of the Senate Committee on Climate Change, talks about the effects of Typhoon Pablo during the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) General Assembly at the Manila Hotel. She stressed that Typhoon Pablo, like Sendong, Ondoy, and many other natural hazards, test the country's resilience and compel everyone, especially those in government, to implement our laws better in order to alleviate the suffering of the people.

Legarda at PCL National Board Meeting

Senator Loren Legarda, Chair of the Senate Committee on Climate Change, imparts her message on effective legislation and good governance in the face of natural hazards at the 4th Quarterly National Executive Officers and National Board Meeting of the Philippine Councilors League (PCL).

Senator Loren Legarda presents the Redefining Development book, Message of Our Times book, the Disaster Preparedness and First Aid Handbook, and a tree seedling to Tagum City Councilor Alan Zulueta (right), National Chairman of the Philippine Councilors League (PCL), and to Quezon City Councilor Bong Suntay, National Vice Chairman of PCL, during the 4th Quarterly National Executive Officers and National Board Meeting of the PCL.

On the approval of the Sin Tax bill in the Bicameral Conference Committee of Congress

MANILA, December 10, 2012-With the approval of the bicameral conference committee, Congress has taken a very important step in approving a reconciled version of the Sin Tax Bill. The reconciled version adheres closely to the administration sponsored bill as it contains only two-tiers for taxes on cigarettes and reflects current prices instead of 1997 rates.

This is a significant reform that raises revenues for government’s healthcare programs which will expand and strengthen social safety nets for millions of Filipinos. It also levels the playing field for the tobacco industry by providing a more equitable taxation regime for all industry players.

We commend the leadership of Senator Franklin M. Drilon, Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Jr., Majority Floor Leader Neptali Gonzales II, and Representative Isidro Ungab, for their unwavering leadership on this bill. Their commitment to the passage of this crucial reform was strengthened by the constant support of the President who certified the bill as urgent, as well as the countless advocates in the bureaucracy and civil society.

We look forward to the ratification of this bill, which the President is gladly looking forward to sign into law.

Legarda Hails Approval on Final Reading of Bill Seeking Funds for Nat'l TV

MANILA, December 10, 2012-Senator Loren Legarda hailed the approval on third reading of Senate Bill 3316 or the proposed "Act Revitalizing the People's Television Network, Incorporated" which will amend the People's Television (PTV) Charter.

Legarda, a former broadcast journalist, said that there is a dire need to amend the charter because the PTV4 has no allocation from the government and is not allowed to receive commercial revenues.

"We need to resuscitate our national television because it has a great potential, not for propaganda, but for information dissemination of the advocacies of our various departments of government. They have a ten-year-old charter which would not allow them to sell commercial spots for revenues and they are presently seeking the amendment of that charter to allow them to sell commercial spots for their viability," she said.

Senate Bill No. 3316 seeks to amend the PTV Charter to allow the network to generate funds from advertising and airtime sales and the same shall be utilized by PTV solely for its operations and capital expenditure. The network shall also be allowed to adopt other measures that will help restore the viability of the network operations.

"The passage of this measure is very important as it addresses the urgent need to regenerate and improve the information mechanisms of government," Legarda concluded.

Legarda Hails Approval on Final Reading of Bill Seeking Funds for Nat'l TV

MANILA, December 10, 2012-Senator Loren Legarda hailed the approval on third reading of Senate Bill 3316 or the proposed "Act Revitalizing the People's Television Network, Incorporated" which will amend the People's Television (PTV) Charter.

Legarda, a former broadcast journalist, said that there is a dire need to amend the charter because the PTV4 has no allocation from the government and is not allowed to receive commercial revenues.

"We need to resuscitate our national television because it has a great potential, not for propaganda, but for information dissemination of the advocacies of our various departments of government. They have a ten-year-old charter which would not allow them to sell commercial spots for revenues and they are presently seeking the amendment of that charter to allow them to sell commercial spots for their viability," she said.

Senate Bill No. 3316 seeks to amend the PTV Charter to allow the network to generate funds from advertising and airtime sales and the same shall be utilized by PTV solely for its operations and capital expenditure. The network shall also be allowed to adopt other measures that will help restore the viability of the network operations.

"The passage of this measure is very important as it addresses the urgent need to regenerate and improve the information mechanisms of government," Legarda concluded.

On the call for private helicopters to aid relief operations in Mindanao

MANILA, December 10, 2012-General Jorge Segovia of the Eastern Mindanao Command has been tasked by the President to be Ground Commander of the Search and Rescue operations in the hardest-hit areas in the wake of Typhoon Pablo. Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development is taking the lead for relief operations. As such, Secretary of National Defense Voltaire Gazmin asks the private sector to augment government efforts in delivering relief to these provinces. In keeping with the tradition of private sector involvement in humanitarian efforts following calamities, we call on companies and individuals to coordinate with the Eastern Mindanao Command for the use of private helicopters to transport much-needed relief goods and resources to afflicted provinces at the soonest possible time. The Eastern Mindanao Command may be contacted via 09176201980.

General Segovia and the troops under his command have tirelessly worked for the betterment of our countrymen in Mindanao in the wake of this calamity. Theirs is an example of heroism that we call on others to emulate. The work continues and hope remains strong as we relieve, rebuild, and restore stricken communities in the south. With the civilian and uniformed services of the government and the private sector working together as one, we shall overcome.

On the DOTC and DILG response in the wake of Typhoon Pablo

MANILA, December 10, 2012-Two Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessels have been deployed to conduct search and rescue as well as relief operations in the province of Davao Oriental. The SARV-3504 has successfully completed its second trip which transported relief goods and response personnel to the Municipality of Banganga and ferried 42 residents of the Municipality of Banganga to Mati City, the provincial capital. It is now on standby for a third trip. Another vessel, the SARV-003, is now moored at Sasa Wharf in Davao City. It will be deployed to augment SARV-3504 after refueling.

Meanwhile, three patrol boats of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources manned by PCG personnel have been organized as a Task Force for the search and rescue of fishermen at sea. The MCS-3009 is already conducting operations in the area while two more vessels (MCS-2004 and MCS-3005) will be dispatched from the port of Mati tonight to augment the effort. According to a report by Transportation and Communications Secretary Jun Abaya, 20 fishermen have been rescued, five bodies were recovered, and 310 remain unaccounted for.

In support of the DOTC-PCG efforts, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has been continuously assessing the situation in Regions 11, 13 and 7 to facilitate the delivery of national government assistance. Upon the directive of Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Mar Roxas, the local government unit (LGU) of Mati is facilitating the release of its calamity fund for the hiring of all available large, local fishing boats for the immediate transfer of goods from Mati City to affected areas in Davao Oriental.

The Philippine National Police regional offices in Mindanao are also on full alert status and its investigation units have been mobilized to assist LGUs and the Department of Trade and Industry to monitor market conditions for price control violations and unfair trade practices.

It will also be remembered that as early as December 2, the DILG had already ordered the reactivation of Local Disaster Risk Response and Management Councils in preparation for the impact of Typhoon Pablo particularly in the following regions: NCR, 4A, 4B, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and ARMM.

To further complement relief operations, the Department of Social Welfare and Development will construct today 63 bunkhouses in the hardest hit Municipalities of Banganga, Boston, and Cateel in Davao Oriental and New Bataan in Compostela Valley. Each bunkhouse will provide shelter for 10 families as rehabilitation efforts begin in their towns.

In addition, we welcome the efforts of TV5 and Mr. Pangilinan for a telethon this evening to raise 100 million pesos for the victims of Typhoon Pablo. Likewise, we urge the public to support the private sector initiatives of ABS-CBN’s Sagip Kapamilya and GMA’s Kapuso Foundation.

Both the national government and the private sector are at the forefront of humanitarian efforts in areas affected by this recent calamity. We call on all Filipinos to continue being of service to our countrymen most in need, knowing fully well that together we will persist and we shall overcome these difficult times.

“AT LEAST A DECADE OF 6-8 PERCENT GROWTH” NEEDED TO ERADICATE POVERTY -- KIKO

MANILA, December 10, 2012-Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan says that as the government continues to rally support for its good governance and fiscal measures, buoyed by the news of 7.1% growth in the third quarter of 2012, it must address the need for "inclusive and sustainable" growth.

“While there is cause for us to be thankful for the 7.1% growth experienced in the third quarter, we must be mindful that we have been there before. More than simply reaching such growth rates from time to time is the question of sustaining it.”

The Philippine government recently celebrated news that the Philippine economy was the second-fastest growing in Asia next only to China, which grew by 7.7% in the third quarter of 2012. Growth was fueled by “the robust performances of transport, storage and communication, financial intermediation and real estate.” The business process outsourcing (BPO), manufacturing, construction, and agriculture industries also contributed largely to this growth, coupled with higher remittances from overseas Filipinos and increased domestic consumption.

Pangilinan points out that the country needs “at least a decade of six to eight percent growth to truly eradicate poverty.”

“To do this we must create jobs here at home and increase incomes of the poorest of the poor in key sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and infrastructure. Only then can we ensure growth that is both inclusive and sustainable,” the lawmaker stresses.

Pangilinan is the chairman of the Senate Committees on Agriculture and Food, and Social Justice, Welfare, and Development, and has been advocating for increased investments in agriculture and social safety nets for farmers, fisherfolk, and marginalized workers in order to increase incomes and improve the overall quality of life for millions of Filipinos.

KIKO THROWS SUPPORT BEHIND CJ SERENO's AO 175

MANILA, December 9, 2012-Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan throws his support behind Chief Justice Ma. Lourdes Sereno's order to reopen a Regional Court Office in the Visayas amid several controversies surrounding it. Pangilinan adds that the Chief Justice is merely implementing measures to ensure the speedy resolutions of cases.

“We support Chief Justice Ma. Lourdes Sereno's efforts at decentralization, which I believe is the issue behind the latest controversy regarding the Administrative Order No.175-2012, or the reopening of the Regional Court Administration Office in Cebu City in Region 7. Decentralization is key if we are to speed up the resolution of cases as mandated by Constitution itself. The concentration of powers in the national office has adversely affected the efficiency of our courts.”

“My sources in the judiciary have lamented that even the purchase of certain supplies and materials for the regional trial courts all throughout the country need approval in Manila,” adds Pangilinan, who is himself a lawyer and a former chair of the Senate Committee on Justice.

Pangilinan also chides those who stir up controversies regarding AO175-2012, saying that the creation of regional court offices was part of judicial reforms implemented by former Chief Justice Hilario Davide, Jr., and that Chief Justice Sereno is merely following up on what Davide had started. The lawmaker also points out that it was former Chief Justice Renato Corona who suspended the decentralization of courts during his helm.

“I cannot help but ask if this controversy stems from the OCA refusing to give up the powers it had enjoyed under former Chief Justice Renato Corona. Former Chief Justices Hilario Davide. Jr. and Reynato Puno both implemented the decentralization. Why was it right then and wrong now?”

Giant Christmas Tree Sparkles in the Capitol with the two stars of “Going Bulilit” of ABS-CBN

Aurorans and visitors were treated to a holiday delight last Friday, December 7, 2012, as a giant Christmas tree was lit up in the Capitol Compound of Brgy. Suklayin, Baler, Aurora. The huge tree shined and glimmered with sparkly lights and bulbs including the different offices of Capitol. Aurora Governor Bellaflor Angara-Castillo, Jollibee Mascot and the two of children's favorite stars of “Going Bulilit” of ABS CBN, Veyda Inoval and Jelo Echalace were in attendance that added to the festive moods of the Aurorans. Christmas is a yearly tradition in the province and one of the most celebrated holidays in the world. (Jason de Asis)

Legarda Stresses Importance of Geo-Hazard Maps in Averting Disasters

MANILA, December 8, 2012-Senator Loren Legarda today stressed on the importance of disseminating, using, heeding and updating geo-hazard maps to avoid exposing communities to disasters.

Legarda, Chair of the Senate Committee on Climate Change, made the call following reports that geo-hazard maps were ignored in some areas, thus resulting to a large number of casualties.

“Geo-hazard maps will tell us where it is unsafe to build homes. It is only logical not to build subdivisions in flood-prone areas or construct buildings along a fault line. We must use these maps to avoid exposing our homes and our people to disaster risks,” she said.

In the geo-hazard map, many parts of Compostela Valley are shaded in red, which means these areas are highly susceptible to landslides.

“It is important that we have these geo-hazard maps, and that these maps should be applied, not only to the regional and provincial level, but also to the local municipalities. Maybe it would even be prudent to ensure that citizens are aware of the vulnerabilities of the communities they live in. It is their right to know the risks present so that they can decide to move to safer places, which should be supported by the local government. In fact, LGUs should already be relocating to safer ground those families and communities in high-risk areas,” the Senator stressed.

“We knew about Typhoon Pablo and we were warned. It is a matter of making our laws work and implementing the disaster mitigation plans and programs on the ground. We also have to update the geo-hazard maps and integrate risk information in development planning, increase investments in improving critical infrastructure, and institutionalize effective and efficient early warning systems that will allow people at risk to respond immediately, therefore averting deaths in disasters,” Legarda concluded.

Armed Robbers carted away P550,000 from Baler Cebuana Lhuiller Courier

BALER, Aurora, December 7, 2012-An employee of Cebuana Lhuiller was robbed of P550,000.00 by two (2) armed men riding along Bonifacio St., Brgy. 2 Poblacion, here, Yesterday afternoon.

He was to deliver the money to Cebuana Lhuiller in BG Plaza when he was robbed in a broad day light.

Deputy Chief of Police Police Inspector Maynard D. Pascual said that the victim who was identified as Christian Camaya Y’ Ignacio, 27 years old, married and a native of Brgy. Bangad, Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija, was riding in a black RUSI 125 tricycle, without plate number, bearing MTOP body number 1952 being driven by Joel Sagun (SUKTODA) at about 1:30pm when he was intercepted by the robbers, who were also on motorcycle.

Police report stated that one of the robbers pointed a gun to the victim and the tricycle driver, took the money hidden in his clothing and shot him in his leg before the suspects sped off to south direction.

Responding personnel of Baler PNP recovered from the victim one empty shell of cal. 45.

Authorities were investigating the case and said that the robbers were between 30 to 40 years old. (Jason de Asis)

National Youth Commission launches the Mindanao Week of Peace

This summary is not available. Please click here to view the post.

After Pablo, Legarda Says: Much Remains to be Done

MANILA, December 7, 2012-In the wake of Typhoon Pablo, Senator Loren Legarda said that much remains to be done in order to reduce disaster risks in the country and achieve sustainable development.

“Typhoon Pablo unveils the vulnerability of affected communities to natural hazards and extreme weather events. This vulnerability is brought about mostly by poverty and environmental degradation, among other drivers of risk,” she explained.

The latest typhoon to hit the country entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) Sunday night, and ravaged 26 provinces, mostly in Mindanao. Typhoon Pablo resulted in the deaths of 418 people, with hundreds still missing.

Legarda, Chair of the Senate Committee on Climate Change and UN Regional Champion for Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation for Asia-Pacific, remarked that for the country to achieve inclusive and sustainable growth, building the resilience of Mindanao to disasters is crucial.

“We cannot afford recurring disaster losses from typhoons such as Pablo and Sendong in Mindanao. In December 2011, heavy rains brought by Typhoon Sendong caused the overflow of the Cagayan de Oro River. Whole villages were swept away, and left more than a thousand dead. The proper dissemination of geo-hazard maps to our LGUs, as well as the proper implementation of these, should be done,” she said.

“While today our work will be on rebuilding the communities affected by Pablo, we must ensure that we are not rebuilding the risks. Furthermore, communities that were not hit by the typhoon should now be scaling-up their disaster preparedness mechanisms to ensure that in the event a natural hazard occurs, they are ready. In building back better, we need to invest in making communities more disaster-resilient,” Legarda stressed.

The Senator outlined tools for disaster prevention, which include: cleaning of esteros, canals, and other waterways for  the free flow of water; preventing the cutting of trees especially in balding mountains and protected areas; abating mining in vulnerable areas; reminding the citizenry that rivers and other bodies of water are not garbage disposal bins; recycling; using geo-hazard maps as guide to determine the safe areas for residences and other infrastructure; regular inspection of public buildings and facilities for structural integrity; and establishing a clear and effective early warning and response system.

YOUTH AWARD GIVES OUT ITS 100TH RECOGNITION

MANILA, December 6, 2012-In 2002, youth organizations from all over the Philippines were given a chance to be part of a selection of the most dynamic groups of young individuals yearning to effect positive change in their communities. This year will mark the 10th batch of winners of the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations (TAYO) who will receive their trophies at an

  awarding ceremony with President Benigno S. Aquino III on December 6 at the Heroes Hall in Malacañang, completing its first hundred awardees.

"We once again thank our TAYO winners for being the shining light amidst the darkness of the world. Thank you for being the break of dawn that signifies the start of a new, changed day. Thank you for showing us with your work that indeed, we have every reason to be helpful; that in fact, genuine change is now before us, is now happening, is now becoming a reality," said Sen. Kiko Pangilinan, who is recognized as the person who thought of recognizing outstanding youth organizations.

TAYO Awards Foundation President Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV said, “When Sen. Kiko Pangilinan and the National Youth Commission started TAYO in 2002, we thought that we would soon run out of organizations and the youth will continue coming up with the same projects as before. But we are continuously surprised with the variety of projects and the number of organizations and their locations. It seems that in every corner of the country, and for every issue that our countrymen have faced, there is a youth organization working to alleviate the problem.”

Asec. Georgina Nava, the Chairperson of the TAYO 10 National Organizing Committee, surmised that "Based on the project entries that we went through during the national judging the other day, we witness the growth of agriculture and social entrepreneurship-related projects. We now see that whenever our youth sees one problem in their community, they are able to come up with various innovative solutions that respond to the situation. Talagang magaling at likas na malikhain ang mga kabataang Pilipino!“

NYC Chairman Leon G. Flores III adds, “I hope that with a hundred organizations all over the country as walking best practices, our youth get more encouraged to become socially aware and join organizations and participate in activities that aid in nation-building”.

The 10th batch of TAYO awardees come from diverse backgrounds, offering alternative approaches to seemingly similar problems. First up is the problem of the lack of electricity in remote areas. One Million Lights Philippines tied up with an international organization to access thousands of solar lamps which they were then able to distribute to needy communities all over the country. On the other hand, RMTU – Electrical Engineering Society saw the same problem in a village in Zambales, provided a solar power charging station and solar lamps to Aeta families and are now looking into providing a more sustainable renewable power source in the area.

To respond to the needs of their communities to recycle trash and generate income, two organizations made similar projects, using discarded tarpaulins to make bags. I CAN Make a Difference provided differently-abled young Zamboanguenos a way to earn a living, while the Cebuano Youth Ambassadors gave out of work moms in the slum areas the ability to provide extra income to provide for their families’ needs.

Other organizations saw the need to maintain the livelihood opportunities of people in their area. Monte Verde 4-H Club from Zamboanga City helps young farmers and their families improve their earnings not only through agricultural training for better yields, but processing their crops for better earnings. The CBA-Kalipunan Marketing Junior Executives aims to encourage organic farmers in Benguet by providing them with greenhouses, ensuring that their produce earns them enough money to make a living. On another hand, the University of Luzon Students in Free Enterprise provided fisherfolk in Pangasinan a chance to regain lost income from environmental degradation through the technology of Aquaphonics, which allow them to form fish condominiums that can also support crops like mushrooms.

The remaining three organizations focused on improving the way of life of the people around them. Angat Kabataan caused the awakening of hope and renewal of cooperation from various sectors in their town in Rizal by cleaning up and revitalizing a dead creek. Dire Husi Initiatives from Cagayan de Oro not only encouraged street children to stay away from vices, but also to go back to school, earn a living though learning a trade, and turn their lives around through a common ground, art education. The La Salle Debate Society put the Philippines on the map of the international debating scene by organizing the World Debates Championship, the largest academic gathering of students in the world, amassing not only income from tourism but fostering friendships and encouraging local support in the field of debate.

Other organizations who joined this year are: the Mu Sigma Phi Sorority and Phi Kappa Mu Fraternity, both from the UP Manila College of Medicine; Tingug-CDO; Students in Free Enterprise – Sultan Kudarat State University; Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers – Student Chapter of West Negros University; Hayag Youth Organization; Development Communication Society of Benguet State University; English Society of Aklan State University; Kythe Ateneo; and JBLFMU Molo Community Extension Service Society.

Presented by Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines, TAYO Year 10 is organized by the TAYO Awards Foundation, Office of Senator Kiko Pangilinan and the National Youth Commission. It is supported by the Philippine Council of Young Leaders in Governance (PCYLG) and sponsored by Cebu Pacific, Jollibee, SMART, Cemex, Lenovo and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).

JINGGOY CHALLENGES LMP: BRING BENEFITS OF ECONOMIC GROWTH TO RURAL, POOR COMMUNITIES

MANILA, December 6, 2012-“Make sure that the economic growth we have posted will trickle down to the countryside, to the far-flung communities and municipalities.”

LMP ASSEMBLY. Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada delivers a solidarity message during the 2012 General Assembly of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) with the theme “Layunin ang Matuwid na Pamahalaan at Pagkakaisa, 2012 and beyond.” Sen. Estrada, former LMP President, cites how the anti-corruption efforts of the Aquino administration have positively affected the national economy. He also urges the local government officials to sustain the momentum in order to bring the benefits of impressive economic growth to poor and marginalized communities. 

 

Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada issued this challenge to the officials and members of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) during the closing ceremonies and fellowship night last Wednesday evening.

 

The theme for this year’s general assembly is “LMP: Layunin ang Matuwid na Pamahalaan at Pagkakaisa, 2012 and Beyond.”

 

“The challenge for us, not only for the incumbent administration but more importantly for our local government units, is how to bring the blessings of growth to reach the poor, the marginalized, the disadvantaged who reside in our communities,” Sen. Estrada said in a speech.

 

Sen. Estrada served as the National President of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines from 1998 to 2001, during his final tenure as Mayor of San Juan City.

 

Recently, government officials have announced an impressive growth rate in our country’s gross domestic product or GDP during the third quarter of this year.

 

“The growth is reported to have reached about 7 percent, which I consider as remarkably high because it is higher than our past economic performance and relatively comparable with the record posted by our neighboring countries,” Jinggoy asserted.

 

Sen. Estrada attributed this as a result of collective effort with the present administration to rebuild and reform our society from the excesses of the previous regime.

 

“Ang buong sambayanang Pilipino ay nakulong sa selda ng kahirapan. Ikinulong sila sa kadena ng kahirapan samantalang ang pondo ng bayan ay winawaldas. Iyong mga magbubukid na dapat tulungan, ang pera dapat para sa saka nila, ninanakaw pa. Kaya iyong mga anomalya noon parang pyramiding scam din,” Sen. Estrada lamented.

 

Moreover, the lawmaker urged the local officials to be at the forefront and center of activities which engage people to become active participants and partners into achieving, and not just beneficiaries of, development and growth.

 

Lastly, Sen. Estrada urged the local legislature and councils to pass and enact laws that will be pro-poor, will bring livelihood opportunities and will protect them against exploitation and oppression.

Legarda Enjoins Filipinos in a Day of Prayer, Mourning and Awakening in the Wake of Typhoon Pablo

MANILA, December 6, 2012-Senator Loren Legarda today expressed sympathy for the victims and families affected by Typhoon Pablo and enjoined Filipinos in a day of prayer, mourning and awakening.

“I deeply commiserate with the families who have lost their loved ones due to Typhoon Pablo. This tragedy should bring us together in offering prayers for the victims and all those affected. More importantly, this disaster should serve as another lesson to us. The cold statistics on the dead and missing should bring us to the realization that we still need to do more to save our communities from the painful experience of losing to disasters,” said Legarda, Chair of the Senate Committee on Climate Change.

Latest statistics from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) revealed that at least 325 individuals died, while 379 others remained missing due to Typhoon Pablo. It has also affected more than 48,000 families in 25 provinces in the country.

However, Legarda noted an observation by the United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (UNISDR) that the death toll could have been much worse if not for the improved early warning systems in place.

“While we are saddened by the tragedy, we remain hopeful because the UNISDR recognized our improved disaster preparedness, particularly in early warning. But this should not make us complacent because one death is one too many. We should always aspire for zero casualty. In this particular experience, the need for valuable information regarding the risks in our communities was highlighted. We must provide every municipality with geo-hazard maps and make sure that these are followed to avoid exposing our homes and our people to disaster risks,” she stressed.

“As we move to relief, recovery and reconstruction, we must bear in mind that it will not be enough to build people’s lives and communities to where they were before the disaster – we need to rebuild communities with the confidence that we are not rebuilding the risks again; we need to ensure that reconstruction of homes and infrastructure will be in safer ground following sound construction standards; we need to soon re-start and create livelihoods; and restore normalcy in people’s lives with a stronger sense of hope and confidence for the future,” Legarda concluded.

On the relief operations in the wake of Typhoon Pablo

MANILA, December 6, 2012-As part of government’s relief operations, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is calling for donations in the form of dry goods. Here is a listing of the dry goods needed in the evacuation centers:

• Banig (woven mats)
• Children’s clothing
• Blankets
• Plastic sheets
• Flash lights
• Batteries

Tarpaulins are also needed for use as temporary roofing in the sites as well as generator sets to provide power to the centers. In Metro Manila, these goods and donations may be delivered to the DSWD-National Resource Operations Center located along Chapel Road in Pasay City with telephone number (02) 8528081.

A listing of donation drop-off centers for the rest of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao will be posted momentarily. Please visit the Crisis Response Page for Typhoon Pablo (http://www.gov.ph/crisis/typhoon-pablo/), the Official Gazette Facebook page at (https://www.facebook.com/govph), and follow @govph, @ndrrmc_opcen, and @dswdserves.

Social media coordination of relief efforts is being spearheaded and promoted by the Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office. On Twitter, we enjoin netizens to use the hashtag #reliefPH to amplify information on what is needed by our countrymen in the wake of Typhoon Pablo. For additional information, please tweet or message @dswdserves. 

Filipino solidarity is at its most potent amidst testing times. We call on our countrymen to give generously for the relief and well-being of our brethren in the Visayas and Mindanao who, themselves, generously came to the aid of Metro Manila and Luzon in previous calamities.

On the relief operations in the wake of Typhoon Pablo

MANILA, December 6, 2012-As part of government’s relief operations, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is calling for donations in the form of dry goods. Here is a listing of the dry goods needed in the evacuation centers:

• Banig (woven mats)
• Children’s clothing
• Blankets
• Plastic sheets
• Flash lights
• Batteries

Tarpaulins are also needed for use as temporary roofing in the sites as well as generator sets to provide power to the centers. In Metro Manila, these goods and donations may be delivered to the DSWD-National Resource Operations Center located along Chapel Road in Pasay City with telephone number (02) 8528081.

A listing of donation drop-off centers for the rest of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao will be posted momentarily. Please visit the Crisis Response Page for Typhoon Pablo (http://www.gov.ph/crisis/typhoon-pablo/), the Official Gazette Facebook page at (https://www.facebook.com/govph), and follow @govph, @ndrrmc_opcen, and @dswdserves.

Social media coordination of relief efforts is being spearheaded and promoted by the Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office. On Twitter, we enjoin netizens to use the hashtag #reliefPH to amplify information on what is needed by our countrymen in the wake of Typhoon Pablo. For additional information, please tweet or message @dswdserves. 

Filipino solidarity is at its most potent amidst testing times. We call on our countrymen to give generously for the relief and well-being of our brethren in the Visayas and Mindanao who, themselves, generously came to the aid of Metro Manila and Luzon in previous calamities.