MORTIFY THE BODY AGAINST

 HIV/AIDS INFECTION

  Editorial      

By Ernesto T. Solidum

The Weekly Kapihan on November 28, 2015 had a lone guest Dr. Cornelio V. Cuachon, Jr. , Provincial Health Officer I. He discussed  the topic “Updates On HIV/AIDS” in connection with the World HIV/AIDS Day celebration on December I. Part of the activities is the conduct of free diagnostic examination and counseling by a team of health practitioners at the lobby of DRSTMH to interested parties.

Dr. Cuachon, in a power point presentation, mentioned that Human Immunology Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) as of 2014 have infected 36.9 million people worldwide, of whom 1.2 million died. The majority are sexually active adults totaling 34.3 million,  17.4 million of them were women.

In the Philippines, the total reported cases from January to September 2015 is 5,901.`The cumulative total is 28,428 from 1984-2015. Of this number, asymptomatic or no outward signs are 5,537 cases. While full blown AIDS are 364. AIDS death for the above period is 191.

For Region 6, there  appears to be rapid progression of diagnosed cases from one new case per day in 2008 to 22 in 2015. The reported mode of transmission is through sexual contact (639 cases for males and 28 for females) and having sex with men (MSM)-338 cases homosexual and 239 bisexual.

From 1986 to September 2015, Aklan had asymptomatic cases of 48 and 14 AIDS. The highest asymptomatic cases are found in Kalibo (17) and Malay (11). However, AIDS incidence was found only in Kalibo with 6 cases. The recorded deaths over the years are 2 in 2013: 3 in 2014, and 7 in 2015.

HIV is a virus disease that destroys the body’s natural defense or immune system leaving a person vulnerable to life-threatening infections. AIDS is a condition wherein the individual’s immune system is already immunocompromised and can no longer fight off infections. An individual may suffer from 2 or more opportunistic infections and would experience a collection of symptoms which could be fatal. HIV has no cure but treatable and preventable. AIDS is the end stage of HIV infection but not all HIV cases lead to AIDS.

There are 4 modes of transmission which are: a) through blood and blood products: b) unprotected sexual intercourse: c) pregnant mother to child transmission: and d) sharing of needles. Contrary to popular belief, HIV is not passed through kissing, shaking hands, using public toilet, mosquito bites, sharing eating utensils, urine, stool, saliva, tears, sweat and other body secretions.

For best advice, a person must submit to HIV antibody test conducted by trained medical personnel of Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital where anti retro viral drugs are available for free. Other centers are Boracay, Malay and Kalibo. DOH has released 300,000 pesos as financial assistance to the Provincial AIDS Council’s campaign for info awareness and prevention. An invaluable ally is NVC Peer Educators who campaign among high school students initially in Balete and Libacao.

There are 5 preventive measures which are: a) A-abstinence, b) B-Be faithful to one’s lifetime partner, c) C- correct use of condom, d) D- don’t share needles and e) E- education and early detection. Dr. Cuachon admits that condom use is limited to 54 percent. Even though the product is available, there is 21 percent user rejection. 

Some 12 deaths happened in Aklan due to AIDS over the past 3 years. While the recent prevalence of HIV/AIDS for the country has reached 20 percent, in Western Visayas, the figure is only 5 percent or 32 cases. Aklans share in the Regional data is very small- one-third (1/3) that of recorded incidents in Iloilo or Negros Occidental. Nevertheless there is a need to be vigilant since there is a danger of HIV/AIDS moving from MSM and commercial sex workers to the general population. There is a dire lack of info among young adults (15-24 years old) with 79.4 percent having no knowledge about HIV/AIDS. As per result of 2013 research done by UP Population Institute in Western Visayas, the glaring misconceptions are: HIV/AIDS is curable, reduced incidence when having sex with 1 uninfected partner (how do you know you’re the only one) and vast majority (71.6 percent) believes they are invincible to the disease.

The worldwide scourge is deeply entwined with morality. The preventive measures are too familiar to ignore but the carnal mind is powerful and one is seduced by its passions. Abstinence is only momentary and short-lived but the best fitting advice is mortification since it involves killing the sexual urge that dominates the individual. Christians are admonished to put to death the deeds of the body in order to live (Romans 8:13). There can be no other way to manage the problem, but by not indulging in sex other than with your spouse./MP 

Sen. Marcos Calls For Intensified Efforts vs. Terrorist Plot To Create ISIS Faction in Southeast Asia

 Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos, Jr. last week urged military and police intelligence officials to step up their efforts to neutralize attempts to form an official faction of the ISIS (Islamic State in Iraq and Syria) in Southeast Asia by Malaysian militants hiding in Southern Philippines.

 Marcos aired the call in the wake of the terror attacks in Paris and reports of the Strait Times saying militants aim to bring together to the fold of ISIS terror groups in Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines including the Jemaah Islamiah and the Abu Sayyaf.

 “We must not allow this to happen; we must keep our guards up. Our authorities should intensify their intelligence gathering efforts to neutralize the activities of these international terrorists,” Marcos said.

Marcos also said our intelligence agencies should enhance their system of cooperation and exchange of information with their counterparts in the region to strengthen the network of defense against terrorist plots.

Likewise, Marcos appealed to the public to cooperate with authorities by providing information on any suspicious activities that

could lead to the capture of the terrorists and avert any sinister plot they are planning to carry on.

He noted that according to intelligence experts, most of the leads that resulted to the capture of terrorists or in preventing terrorist attacks were provided by concerned citizens.

“Without the cooperation of everyone it would be difficult for our authorities to stop terror plots. Who knows, the lives you save may be your own child, wife or relative?” Marcos said.

The report tagged former Universiti Malaya lecturer Dr. Mahmud Ahmad as leading the effort to form a regional ISIS faction in Southeast Asia, assisted by his cohorts Mohd Najib Husen and Muhammad Joraimee Awang Raimee. /MP

RURAL FARM SCHOOLS LAW 

ENSURES FOOD SECURITY

Advocates and practitioners of Rural Farm Schools nationwide pushed for the faster implementation of RA 10618 or the Rural Farm Schools Act following the release of its IRR last August, (2015). Led by the Pilipinas Associations of Rural Families for Education and Development (PARFED), a press conference was held last November 25, 2015 to call for the establishment of at least one rural farm school in every province in the country.

 Cong. Sharon S. Garin of AAMBIS-Owa Partylist attended the press conference to show her support. She also authored the bill, closely monitoring its progress during house committee deliberations.

 “I fully support PARFED’s advocacy of strengthening and establishing rural farm schools nationwide. This is the reason why I authored the Rural Farm School Act. I came from a farming family and as the Chair of Congress’ Special Committee on Food Security, I recognize the special role of small farmers and their families on the issue of food security in the country,” Garin said in her remarks during the event.

 “The creation of Rural Farm Schools in every province would provide opportunity for young students interested in farming to experience firsthand farming operations as a positive move towards strengthening the farming industry,” she added.

 In a recent forum on food security and biotechnology in Congress, expert revealed that the Philippines remain vulnerable to low crop output due to climate change, which leads to price shocks and food insecurity.

 “These rural farm schools would be a good venue for research and development toward better agricultural practices, greater crop output and would be invaluable in the attempt to make our country food secure. Teaching our youth the value of farm work is one of the best investments in making our country food secure in the future,” Garin ended./MP

November 15- 21, 2015

Quotation of the Week

   “A pessimist is a person who, regardless of the present, is disappointed in the future.”

     -anonymous

CEASELESS RECOVERY AND RENEWAL FROM TYPHOON YOLANDA

Singing of the Philippine National Hymn during the Turn  Over Ceremony of the various assistance to the Yolanda victims held in covered court, Dumaguit, New Washington, Aklan lead by Hon. Richard J. Gordon and Mayor Edgar Peralta. 

Photo above shows Hon. Fernandez, Brgy. Captain of Mabilo, New Washingto, Aklan, receiving symbolic key to the core shelter from Hon. Richard J. Gordon and Mr. Patrick Elliot of International Federation of Red Cross.

Gordon talking to the Ati-ati tribe as they welcome him and his group in the KIA.

STOP AGRI PRODUCT IMPORTS, HELP PINOY FARMERS MORE

Sarangani Governor Steve Solon (left) and Senator Bongbong Marcos answering questions on various economic and political issues from both the local and national media during the press briefing at the Sarangani Provincial Capitol.

  Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos, Jr. this week said  the government should abandon its penchant for importing agricultural products and instead provide easy credit facilities to farmers, lead research and development in agriculture, improve the country’s irrigation system which has deteriorated since 1984, and continue  pursuing the construction of more farm-to-market roads in strategic areas.

 Marcos said statistics show that 70 percent of the poor are in the agriculture sector.

“Kaya’t sa palagay ko balikan muna natin ang agrikultura and make public investments not only in funding, infrastructure and in all other ways we can help our farmers.”

  Earlier, reports said the country’s economy grew by 6 percent in the third quarter of the year, the third fastest expansion of economies in Asia in the quarter with China and Vietnam leading respectively.

“Sinasabi nila ang ganda raw ng ating ekonomiya, one of the best in Asia pero hindi nararamdaman ng taong bayan. Ang yumayaman lamang yung mayaman na at yung mga malalaking korporasyon. Kaya’t ang dapat nating tinitingnan ay inclusive growth,” Marcos said in his speech during the celebration of Sarangani Province’s 23rd anniversary.

Marcos emphasized, “Government must institute measures to ensure the benefits of economic growth will be felt by all Filipinos.”

 Marcos lamented that despite the good performance of the country’s economy the poverty rate remains practically unchanged along with the unemployment rate, prompting many Filipinos to seek jobs (outside the Philippines).

“Let us start from the very foundation of our economy—the agricultural sector. I believe that doing so would make our country a better place for all of our people,” Marcos concluded.

On the other hand, Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. virtually turned the tables on President Aquino who has asked him to apologize to the people. Marcos said Mr. Aquino himself should apologize if he thinks he has done something wrong as President of the Philippines.

 Marcos said the people are more interested on issues that directly affect their lives on a daily basis and their future, “People are looking for answers on why the drug problem in the country is getting so bad. Why are the prices of commodities so high? Why can’t I get a job?”

 Marcos asserted, “The people want solutions to the lingering poverty in the country, the lack of jobs and other woes.”/MP

COST IN HOSTING APEC IS WORTH IT

     Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos, Jr. on Friday, November 21, said the cost incurred in terms of money and effort in hosting the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit could be well worth it.

 “If you are going to host a very important international conference like the APEC that we had, you have to make sure you do it properly, and security is a very large part of that equation. So I’m glad that it was done well and it was well organized,” said Marcos in a press briefing in Baguio City.

 He said efforts to ensure the safety of the 21 Heads of State attending the leaders’ meeting, some of them the most powerful Heads of State in the world, could not be considered overkill.

 “You must make sure nothing bad happens to them. Can you imagine, isipin nyo may mangyari habang nandito sila kung papano tayo mapapahiya? No amount of money can buy your reputation back kung may mangyari na ganun,” he stressed.

Marcos also said critics should not be taking potshots at the efforts of the government to promote the country particularly when it’s our time to shine in the world’s stage.

 Among others, the government has been getting flak for reportedly spending P10 billion for the APEC summit.

 “Of course P10 billion is a great deal of money and we will find out where it all went. But if our economic managers, in their meeting with the other government leaders, have made some advantageous trade arrangements with all these other countries, then we can say it’s worth it,” Marcos concluded.

LACK SUPPORT TO INVENTORS 

On the other hand, Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos, Jr. this week urged the government to help the group of Filipina inventor Aisa Mijeno to realize her goal of mass producing salt-water powered LED lamp.

 Marcos said it is sad that the government has yet to provide support for Mijeno’s invention when both US President Barack Obama and Chinese billionaire Jack Ma of Alibaba had recognized the potential of the invention.

 Mijeno, CEO of SALt (Sustainable Alternative Lighting) shared the stage with Obama and Ma at the APEC CEO Summit where Obama moderated a session after his speech on climate change. Mijeno needs funding to mass produce the lamp.

“SALt’s invention has gained international attention and earned various awards. It is puzzling why we have not seen any effort from the government to help bring this product of Filipino ingenuity to the market,” Marcos lamented.

 The LED lamp can provide 8-hours of light powered only by a solution of water and two tablespoons of salt or plain seawater.

 The Senator noted that SALt’s invention which will provide a cheap and dependable source of light in many rural areas of the country where there is still no electricity will also give employment if mass produced here in the country.

 At the very least, Marcos said concerned government agencies should take the initiative of reaching out to Mijeno’s group to inform them of the assistance they could avail of under RA 7459 or the Investors and Inventions Incentives Act.

 Marcos said inventors have been complaining in the past that they experience difficulty in trying to avail of incentives they are entitled to receive under the law, prompting many of them to find support outside the country.

 “We should be the first ones to benefit from the innovative creations of our inventors. Unless we give them adequate support we will always lose out from investors abroad who are always on the lookout for promising new products,” Marcos concluded/MP

AQUINO SIGNS US $2 BILLION LOAN WITH JAPAN

    Pasig Rep. Roman Romulo this week urged the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) to learn from Japan’s experience in the privatization of its Japan National Railways (JNR) to avoid costly and inequitable missteps if government pursues its plan to chop up and privatize the Philippine National Railways.

Romulo made the call following the signing of an agreement by President Benigno S. Aquino III and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to build the $2-billion North Commuter Railway from Tutuban, Manila to Malolos, Bulacan. The project which intends to “address the congestion challenges posed by urbanization” is said to be the largest loan package given by Japan to a development partner.

Romulo pointed out that the North Commuter Railway is actually the “infamously corrupted NorthRail that was carved out of the PNR North Line from Tutuban to Dagupan.”

He said that its viability as an independent operation from the PNR has not been publicly validated.

Obviously, the plan of the DOTC is to chop up the Philippine National Railways with its North Line spun off and developed with the Japanese loans while the PNR South Line, from Tutuban all the way to Legaspi  shall be sold off to private entities. The South line includes the immediately profitable Tutuban to Calamba operation and valuable PNR real estate.

The government is expected to proceed on Dec. 1 with the submission of qualification documents by interested bidders for the South Railway Project. It is one of the biggest government PPP projects and involves the rehabilitation of the 653 kilometers long railway from Tutuban to Legazpi then possibly to Matnog, Sorsogon.

“The Japanese when they privatized the JNR, carefully studied  the economic viability of the rail coverage of the planned separate railway operations arising from the privatization,” Romulo said.

“While the Japan National Railways was broken up and privatized into 7 railway companies, each new rail operation was organized on the basis of ascertained viability of the area covered,” he noted.

  “Let it not be said that we did not speak out on this very important matter, I urged the DOTC to conduct an immediate, thorough and transparent study to ensure that the projects will provide long-term and maximum benefits for our people, Let us not repeat the negative experiences we had in the MRT public-private partnership misadventure.” Romulo said/MP

RO MANGINGISDA AG RO MAISOT NGA ISDA

 Sugilanon Ni Tita Linda

Ni Tita Linda Belayro

   Pila eon nga adlaw ro nag taliwan nga owa it dakop ro mangingisda.  Pang ap-at eon nga adlaw makaron. Agahon pa si Undoy hay nag halin sa anda ag  sa bilog nga sang-adlaw owa it pahuway nga itsa it lambat, ogaling owa gihapon imaw it hadakpang isda.

“Siin baea tanan ro mga isda naga panago? Indi ako mag pati nga owa gid it maskin sambilog nga ibis nga habilin”. Hambae ko pobreng mangingisdang Undoy. Nagdesider imaw nga mauli eon lang ogaling nag ta-o pa imaw it katapusan nga tsansa. Initsa nana ro anang lambat ag mag poepanihoe. Sa anang paghunos ko lambat, may hakita imaw nga maisot nga isda nga naga pisik-pisik. Nalipay imaw ko una, apang pagkakita nana ko maisot nga ibis, tinukob  imaw it kaeo-oy.

“Mahimo eon konta nga daehon ko sa baeay rondayang ibis, ogaling ano ro akong mabo-oe kara ay maniwang manlang ag maisot pa. Habatian nana nga nag hambae rong isda.

“Ma-eo-oy ka, amo. Ibalik mo ako sa dagat. Basi kon gina-usoy ako makaron ko akong inang isda. Hueata eon lang nga ako magbahoe agod mapuslan mo ako”. Sa kakibot ni Undoy, initsa nana rong isda sa tubi. Dayon nana uli sa andang baeay.

Nagtaliwan ro pilang adlaw, halipatan eon nana ratong isda. Masakit ro anang unga ag owa sanda it pangbayad sa duktor. Hapilitan si Undoy nga magpangisda. Sa una nana nga pag itsa pa-eang hay abo nga isda ro anang hadakpan. Sa mga isda ngaron hay may nag hambae kana.

“Abo guid nga saeamat ay owa mo ako gin daea sa inyo. Pag-uli ko sa among pamilya, gin sugid ko kanda ro imong ka-eo-oy kakon, busa iya kami naga baeos kimo.” Hambae ko isda nga makaron hay nagbahoe eon.

“Pasensyaha gid ninyo ako ay may masakit ro akong unga. Bo-ot namon nga daehon sa duktor ogaling owa kami it kwarta.” Sabat man ni Undoy mangingisda.

Mangan-angan tumunga rong isdang mabahoe, ro tatay ko isda. May angkit nga perlas sa anang bibig. Gin tao nana  kay Undoy. Nagpasaeamat imaw.

Halin kato owa eon si Undoy naga adto sa baybay. Ro kabakeanan ko perlas hay andang gin negosyo ag naka patindog pa sanda it baeay./MP

TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY IN MOVE, AKLAN

  Editorial   

  By Ernesto T. Solidum

The weekly Kapihan at NVC Carmen Hotel on November 21, 2015 discussed the topic, “International Men’s Day” celebration. The guests are all from Men Opposed to Violence Against Women and Children Everywhere (MOVE), Aklan namely: Franklin Quimpo-founding president, Ameliti-Mutuc Farales, and Paul Abriam Pelayo. 

Mr. Quimpo said that MOVE, Aklan  is currently celebrating its 16th year when the International Men’s Day was founded.  The observance falls on November 19 and celebrated in 60 countries worldwide. The theme this year’s celebration is: “Make a Difference for Men and Boys”. The concept and advocacy are very similar to MOVE, Aklan like promoting gender equality, positive role model of men in family and community.  We will have a commemorative program on Wednesday, November 25, at 8:00 o’clock in the morning to be held at the Provincial Capitol grounds where participants will wear orange uniform, a UN color to symbolize termination of violence against women and children, Franklin Quimpo stressed.

MOVE, Aklan is now on its 8th year since its registration in 2007 averred Mr. Farales. The legal basis is RA 9262 or Anti-violence against Women and Children Act which is also the foundation of Gender Advocacy for Development (GAD). This convergence is jointly celebrated annually from November 25 to December 18. We have community-based chapters in Kalibo, Malinao, Nabas as well as government-based officers as provincial government, PNP and DILG. Our active membership has reached 600 Nation-wide.

Those who volunteer to join must be of legal age, persons of strong moral conviction willing to use his talents and energy toward uplifting the status of women and children, and determined to renounce all forms of violence such as physical, financial and emotional. Recently, we were invited to launch MOVE, Capiz chapter and organize NVC MOVE, Juniors.

We acknowledged the able leadership of our Honorary Chairman Gov. Joeben T. Miraflores who is providing regularly 5 percent annual subsidy to program and projects of MOVE, Aklan and GAD that resulted to winning national recognition for MOVE, Aklan as an outstanding NGO last year and License hub, confided the Chief, Human Resource Management of DAR.

Mr. Pelayo stated that the logic of using men to convince other men of MOVE’s advocacy is plain and simple. One cannot be irked or displeased when men talk it out between and among themselves than women. The machochismo or false chivalry is too powerful to be ignored. In this way by ruffling no feathers we win more converts to our cause.

Our 6th Congress had two approved Resolutions: a) commending the DILG for recognizing all MOVE, Aklan chapters, and b) Civil Service Commission (CSC) for enjoining all government employees and their families to support the nation-wide campaign to end violence, Mr. Pelayo concluded.

Move, Aklan is basically a referral organization working in coordination with appropriate government agencies like PNP, DOJ-Prosecutors’ Office, DENR, Office of the Provincial Agriculturist and DSWD. Its army of young volunteers though dedicated and capable could hardly make a dent in the wave of violence committed in our midset. The PNP crime statistics has this latest data: 1.9 million loose firearms in the country, 145 robberies everyday, 457 victimized by thieves, 28 women being raped everyday and 27 killings every day. Ironically, we have 9 laws covering the protection and welfare of women and children against all forms of violence. Yet the statutes are not properly enforced by authorities.

It appears that MOVE, Aklan has not benefitted so much from holding annual congresses. Invited speakers from coordinating agencies such as PNP, DOJ and DSWD usually report on current problems related to crimes against women and children and their corporate action. Data presented could be prepared that will include: Program, activities, description, objective(s), person or agency responsible, time frame and budget. These documents must be presented during executive meetings called for the purpose and approved for implementation. It must be remembered that an organization though non- profits must be transparent and accountable.

Confirmed reports show that 1st class municipalities like Kalibo and Malay lead in the number of crimes perpetuated against women and children. Obviously,the tourism boom and the  preponderance of beer joints, pub, bar, videoke bar, disco bar, saloon bar and massage parlors especially in Boracay are mainly responsible for crimes upsurge. This knowledge can be a tool to design the best strategy to minimize if not totally prevent crimes against the fair sex and children./MP

MEDIA IN CONFLICT MANAGEMENT

Entrepreneurial Farmer

by Ambrosio R. Villorente

Media in conflict management appears very simple topic to discuss. However, the topic is interesting and very useful in our everyday life. Media is information channel and interpreter of issues in political, cultural, social and economic issues.

As discussed in a recent seminar among students of the Northwestern Visayan Colleges in Kalibo, Mr. Angelo B. Palmones demonstrated to the students the need in our daily life “Conflict Management”. Mr. Palmones is the Assistant Vice President for News and Current Affairs, Manila Broadcasting Company – DZRH. He is also president of AGHAM, Inc.

It is very important that members of the media or press must know and appreciate the importance of conflict management as: media shapes stories that the members cover, journalists have opinions and beliefs; media owners like radio/TV and newspapers have economic interests, and they want to sell their stories, and programs to the public. Most of the time, media covers conflict and they tend sometimes to distort realities. They lead people to think that conflict is pervasive and peace is abnormal.

Media responds to more imminent problems such as the weather, traffic and natural disaster among others. As a watchdog, media gives feedback to the public on local problems like the traffic problem in Metro Manila . Media brings hidden stories out into the public view like the “Tanim Bala” in the NAIA. 

Media sets agenda, filters issues and maintains balance of views. These are done by presenting the views of all sides.

 It is hard to believe, but media is a policy maker. A media outfit such as radio/TV stations and newspapers must establish and maintain credibility in order to earn the respect of policy makers. Opinions and recommendations of members of the press who had earned good reputation and with high credibility can easily influence policy and decision makers to accept their recommendations.  Media can also be a tool of policy makers like government officials and business leaders to get across their message. 

In foreign policy of a country, media can serve as a diplomat who sends messages back and forth between and among all sides of a conflict like the conflict in the Philippine sea. Media helps break diplomatic deadlock and assists in the promotion and mobilization of public support for agreement. It helps build confidence between the parties, as it bridges the gap between and among them.

SUPPORT FOR FARMERS

The government should provide all available assistance to farmers affected by typhoon Lando to enable them to rebuild their lives as soon as possible, Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos strongly suggested. 

“Assistance to the victims should not end with just the distribution of relief goods. We should give adequate support to our farmers so they can resume planting and return to normal as soon as possible,” Marcos added. This suggestion is worthy of consideration and approval. 

 The government should provide cheap credit facilities to the affected farmers like the Sikat Saka program of the Department of Agriculture (DA).

 Other credit facilities available include the Agro-Industry Modernization Credit and Financing Program, Agri-Microfinance Program, and the Cooperative Banks Agri-Lending Program of the Agricultural Credit Policy Council.

 “But as much as possible the process should be simplified so the farmers could avail of the loans as soon as possible,” Marcos suggested. Forget the voluminous supporting documents. The farmers’ crops must be covered with insurance under the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation to ensure they can rise again from the devastation of typhoon Lando.

 The DA should field its technicians to help farmers determine the best use of lands submerged in floods and covered with thick mud. It must also provide seeds to farmer affected by the typhoon. 

BONIFACIODAY2015 

Some 152 years after the birth of Andres Bonifacio, the founder of the revolutionary movement Katipunan, exploitative conditions in vast haciendas and plantations remain in the Philippines.

 The national agriworkers federation Unyon ng mga Manggagawa sa Agrikultura (UMA) said that farm and agricultural workers continue to slave away to produce cash crops for the interests of foreign enterprises and the local landowning elite – the same cycle of oppression that Bonifacio and the Katipunan sought to change.   

    “Land reform and the emancipation of farmers and the people were the main aims of the Philippine Revolution of 1896. Up to this day, however, brutal oppression in these types of landholdings persists and continues  to cause misery to farmers and agricultural workers,” said Ranmil Echanis, UMA Secretary General. 

The hacienda system was introduced by Spanish colonialists in the 19th century to pro 

duce crops for export.  This system was further encouraged by the colonial regime of US imperialism which maintained and depended on feudalism as its social base.

 “US Imperialism enlisted the loyal support of the local elite who allowed themselves to be tamed by the US for local political leadership.  This became necessary for the US to ensure the continuous supply of raw materials such as sugar, hemp, coconut and other agricultural products from its new colony. This also favored the interests of the local ruling elite who were either landlords themselves or compradors.” 

“The loyal adherence of the local landowning elite and big comprador bourgeoisie to impositions of imperialism make up the semi-feudal economy which plagues the country up to the present,” said Echanis. Spanish-era haciendas like Hacienda Luisita and plantations established during the American colonial period like Del Monte Foods, Inc. are still in existence and continue to operate.

 These landholdings are part of the millions of hectares of agricultural land that are tied down to onerous contracts between supposed land reform beneficiaries and giant agribusiness firms. The government’s failed agrarian reform program CARP works perfectly for the interest of giant companies as it encourages agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) to become out growers or to lease their lands with onerous contracts or agribusiness venture arrangements.

 “Instead of sincerely providing land to the tiller, the government is still targeting expansion of plantations,” added Echanis.  “Plantations have bred many forms of precarious employment victimizing agricultural workers enduring hard labor and exposure to harmful chemicals while being paid only slave-like wages.”

In Mindanao alone, these include the following:  256,360 hectares for sugarcane; 150,000 hectares for cacao by 2020; 116,000 hectares for rubber; 87,903 hectares for coffee plantation; and almost one (1) million hectares of oil palm plantations by 2030.  The multinational fruit giant Dole Philippines plans to expand to at least 12,000 hectares of land for its pineapple plantation; and Unifrutti, which recently invested P3.7 billion for an expansion of 2,600 hectares of land for Cavendish banana plantation in Moro areas such as Maguindanao.

 Foreign plunder continues to result in dispossession and displacement of numerous lumad, Moro and peasant communities. “The guardia civil of yesteryears are now replaced by the state and private security forces who brazenly violate the rights of the people,” said Echanis.

 “Bonifacio, the hero of the ‘anakpawis’ or toiling masses, continues to inspire farmers and agricultural workers to organize themselves and fight for genuine land reform and national sovereignty, ” ended Echanis.

 In Congress, UMA supports the passage of the Genuine Agrarian Reform Bill (GARB) or House Bill 252 filed by Anakpawis Partylist./MP

NEGROS OCCIDENTAL HOSTS12TH NATIONAL ORGANIC AGRICULTURE CONGRESS

The Province of Negros Occidental, tagged as the country’s organic farming capital, plays host to the 12th National Organic Agriculture Congress (NOAC) on November 25 to 27 at SMx Convention Center, Bacolod City.

Around 1,800 organic agriculture farmers, traders, processors, academe members, researchers, local government units and advocates will convene in this year’s NOAC on the theme “Halin Talamnan, Tubtub Kalan-an” (Farm to Table). The congress will be simultaneously conducted with the 10th Negros Island Organic Farmers’ Festival (NIOFF) on November 25 to 29.

The congress will commence at the Negros Occidental Provincial Capitol Grounds with the opening ceremony of the NIOFF and a foot parade going to Bacolod- SM City.

Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Proceso J. Alcala, Senator Cynthia A. Villar, Undersecretaries Bernadette Romulo-Puyat and Atty. Emerson U. Palad will grace the congress. Mr. Andre Leu, president of International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movement (IFOAM) will be the keynote speaker.

Series of breakout and plenary sessions will be conducted from the first up to the second day. Participants will be divided into three groups for the breakout sessions for beginners, research and marketing with topics ranging from organic farming technologies to retailing and distribution of organic products and farm to table processing.

Sec. Alcala will lead the granting of citations and cash prizes to the winners of the eight categories in the 2015 search for Outstanding Agricultural Achievers to wit: Agricultural Extension Worker,   City/Municipal, Provincial, City/Municipal Focal Person, Provincial Focal Person, Organic Farming Family, Farmers’ Group and Small Individual Farmer categories. The municipality of Tugbungan, Iloilo is chosen as the outstanding organic municipality and will receive a cash grant of P1, 000,000.00 to further augment their town’s initia-tives and projects in support to organic agriculture.

Some 20 organic farmers associations, distributers and retailers will participate in the three-day Organic Agriculture Trade Fair and Exhibits at the 3rd floor of SM City.

Participants from different regions will tour to several established organic farms in Negros Occidental like the Rapha Valley in Salvador Benedicto, Peñalosa Farms in Victorias City, Buro- Buro Spring Farm in Talisay City, among others on November 27./MP

 NEED FOR NEW CITY CENTERS

 TO REDISTRIBUTE WEALTH

  Sen. Francis “Chiz” said the government needs  to build new city centers across the Philippines to create more employment opportunities outside the National Capital Region (NCR) and ease congestion in the metropolis.

 Along with the creation of suburban cities, Escudero said the government should also pour in money to provide an efficient train system that will connect urban centers and increase people’s mobility.

  “We have to start planning to integrate Metro Manila to potential urban centers in the country via an efficient train system connecting the metropolis to Bulacan, Pampanga up to Ilocos Norte in the north, and then Laguna, Batangas, down to Matnog, Sorsogon in the south,” said Escudero. 

  The same way can be done to connect provinces to Metro Cebu in the Visayas and to Bacolod City in Mindanao, which have enormous potential as new suburban cities, he added.

  Dispersing the city center away from mega Manila is also envisioned to provide a long-term solution to the chronic traffic congestion in the NCR with focus on the construction of railway network since it is the most efficient and most economical mode of transportation.

  According to Escudero, the government can capitalize on the expansion of the business process outsourcing (BPO) industry to create what is dubbed as the “next wave cities” outside Metro Manila.

In 2012, the Department of Science and Technology-Information and Communications Technology Office (DOST-ICTO) together with the IT-Business Process Association of the Philippines (iBPAP) identified potential sites of ICT hubs beyond the metropolis based on “worker supply, telecom infrastructure and other factors necessary to sustain a local BPO industry.”

The program, which was put in place after the Philippines edged out India as the world’s largest exporter of voice-driven BPO, found Metro Manila, Metro Cebu, Metro Clark and Bacolod City as four major hubs for IT-Business Process Management services.  

  It also identified Baguio City, Davao City, Dumaguete City, Iloilo City, Lipa City, Metro Bulacan (Baliuag, Calumpit, 

  Malolos City, Marilao and Meycauayan City), Metro Cavite (Bacoor City, Dasmariñas City and Imus City), Metro Laguna (Calamba City, Los Baños and Sta. Rosa City), Metro

Naga (Naga City and Pili) and Metro Rizal (Antipolo City, Cainta and Taytay) as the “next wave cities.”

“The government can use the list as a guide to create new city centers all over the country. The idea is that Metro Manila would be like an old town surrounded by suburban centers all over the country,” said Escudero, who is leading all pre-election surveys for vice president.

  To realize this, he said the government must put in place the necessary infrastructure that would translate to more opportunities outside mega Manila. “We should start putting together the blueprint for this. Our people outside mega cities deserve to experience genuine inclusive growth. They should not be left behind.”

Considered as a sunshine industry in the country, BPO is projected to create 1.3 million jobs and raise $25 billion in revenue for the Philippines by 2016.  

  “We should capitalize on the opportunities provided by the booming BPO industry to create new urban centers in the country. Doing so will not only help redistribute business investments but also decongest our main urban center that is Metro Manila,” Escudero said.

  A study by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and Japan International Cooperation Agency in 2012 said the traffic problem in Metro Manila costs the country as much as P2.4 billion a day due to the lost productivity and potential income of people stuck in congested roads.

 The amount will balloon to P6 billion a day by year 2030 if nothing is done to solve the problem, the NEDA said./MP

November 8-14, 2015

Quotation of the Week

   

“Power intoxicate men. When a man is intoxicated by alcohol, he can recover, but when intoxicated by power, he seldom recovers.

  -James F. Byrnes

PCIC REACHING OUT TO SMALL FARMERS

 The Weekly Kapihan on November 14, 2015 at NVC Carmen Hotel had guests from Philippine Insurance Corporation (PCIC) and Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA). From PCIC are Charlito Brillieta, Reg’1. Director, Region 6, Ronilo Calar, Prov’1 Coordinator, PCIC, and Ms. Salome David, Asst. Prov’1 Agriculturist.

Dir. Brillieta in a power point presentation discussed the mandate of PCIC to support the government food production program by providing crops insurance coverage against force majeure events such as typhoons, floods and pest/diseases outbreak.  The legal basis is PD 467 and RA 8175 approved on December 29, 1995.

PCIC has a comprehensive insurance coverage of crops (rice, corn, high value crops like abaca, mango), poultry, large cattle, goats, swine, fisheries and other aquaculture projects. An important feature is extending coverage to composite buildings, farm machineries and equipment and pump boats. The PCIC caters to small farmers cultivating less than 7 hectars  who may either be beneficiaries of Sikat Saka under Land Bank of the Philippines, ARB-DAR or self-financed. Standard premium payment for self enhanced rice farmers is 5.94 percent of total production cost.

Fortunately, insurance premium payment for farmers in Aklan this year under the Registry for Basic System in Agriculture (RBSA) in the amount of 16 million pesos has been approved thereby benefitting 3,947 farmers said Dir. Brillieta.

“Recently, we paid 1.7 million pesos for 420.0 ha. rice farms damaged by drought in Balete. Abaca farmers in Libacao who suffered from Typhoon Yolanda were given 3.0 million pesos for crop damages,” Brillieta reported

Mr. Calar said that prospective farmer applicants must contact their Municipal Agricultural Officers (MAO’s) for assistance. Necessarily they must be members of Irrigators’ Association and applying package of technology (POT) recommended by DA. We have increased our Staff to four considering the need to promote the best interest of farmers and fisher folks.

Our Production Technologists (PT’s) and Farm Technicians (FT’s) are deputized as Insurance Underwriters. PCIC has given 3 million pesos facility to Office of Provincial Agriculturist for crop insurance, said Ms. David.

The rationale behind the creation of PCIC is very laudable considering the frequent disasters associated with climate change. An average of 22 typhoons visit the Philippines each year.  Not to be taken lightly are the El Nino and La Nina phenomenons. Dir. Brillieta averred that the budget for Western Visayas under RBSA is 139 million pesos as subsidy to farmers until 2016. Yet only a small fraction is actually utilized due to moderate El Nino that hit the first half of this year. For instance Aklan rice hybrid target of 1,602 has. resulted to only 300 has. planted.

Dr. Allen S. Quimpo, Director Institute of Public Policy Studies, NVC expressed regret over the governments’ dole out mentality. He believes that whether big or small, farmers must be responsible and accountable to pay whatever expenses incurred in the pursuit of his business.

Asst. Prov’1 Agriculturist David mentioned that the current tourism infra development (KIA runway expansion and Kalibo Circumferential Road) has largely reduced the irrigated rice area by 1,000 has. It should be recalled that Aklan has a total irrigated area of 6, 712 has. out of a total 17,120 has. devoted  for  agriculture. Aggravating this condition is unbridled land conversion from agricultural to residential, commer 

cial and industrial uses. 

Presently, Sikat Saka program extends production loan to rice farmers at maximum of 42,000 pesos/ha. for hybrid and 37,000 pesos for inbred. Even if insurance cover is free, the actual amount to be indemnified by PCIC depends on whether the calamity occurred during vegetative stage (where the crop could somehow recover), reproductive and ripening see page 3 

(where damage could be 50-100 percent). The post production losses such as seed germination and discoloration which vary from 9-26 percent is not included. The loan is secured by collateral and could be foreclosed in case of default. Altogether this calculated risk is not for small farmers. Here a single misstep can cause hunger and poverty not only to the farmer himself but his entire family. Indeed this is a dilemma faced by many farmers. The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) data show that two- thirds of the farmers and fisher folks are living below the poverty threshold./MP   

Entrepreneurial Farmer

by Ambrosio R. Villorente

2 years after yolanda

    After Two (2) years on the ground, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Aklan Chapter has done so much and its works still continues.

PRC Aklan provided food items to 14,750 families while 19,217 families received non-food items like plastic mats, blankets, mosquito nets, jerry cans, tarpaulins, tents, kitchen sets, hygiene kits and shelter repair kits.

   PRC Aklan constructed core shelters in Balete - 2,331; Banga - 1,345; Lezo - 150; Libacao - 1,234; Madalag  - 1,535; and New Washington - 2,290. Moreover, it constructed six (6) health facilities: four (4) in Balete, and Two (2) in Madalag. In education, PRC Aklan put up three (3) classrooms in Balete; eight (8) in Libacao, and seven (7) in Madalag. 

    Furthermore, PRC  Aklan, to start a livelihood project, provided cash of 20,000 pesos per family in Altavas - 1,066; Balete - 1, 674; Banga - 1,634; Libacao - 669; Madalag -  1, 240; and New Washington - 449. PRC also provided skills trainings to 86 individuals, six (6) of whom are already gainfully employed. Some 4,138 individuals were trained in Disaster Risk Reduction 

All these completed projects were turned over to the recipients in a Turn Over Ceremonies held in Dumaguit, New Washington, Aklan on Thursday morning, November 12. The ceremony was presided by Hon. Richard J. Gordon, PRC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer with New Washington Mayor Edgar Peralta.

    In the afternoon of the same day, a simple program was held in ABL Sports Complex, Capitol Site, Kalibo, Aklan. The program was attended by representatives from Aklan, Antique, and

Capiz.

   During the program, the Livelihood Recovery Program, Skills Training and Enterprise Development, Graduation and Community Managed Livelihood Project were discussed, and the MOA Signing was held.   

     Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino, PRC Aklan chapter chairman, BOD welcomed the guests, visitors and participants. Mr. Dennis Saneo discussed the Livelihood Recovery Program.

Vice Gov. Billie V. Colizo-Quimpo delivered a message in behalf of Gov. Miraflores who was not able to attend the affair.  Mr. Karl  Isomaa, head of Philippine Delegation, International Federation of Red Cross also gave a message. Skills Training Beneficiaries from Aklan – Simon Sisno and Ma. Elie Abegale Cortes;  Cyferian B. Elenon – Anteque; and Capiz - Gladys B. Dichoa  gave their respective messages.

    Hon. Plaridel M. Morania introduced the guest speaker, PRC Chairman and CEO, Hon. Richard J. Gordon.

    The beneficiaries of the CMLP also gave their respective messages before the program ended who are from Brgy. Magubilan, Panay, Capiz; Brgy. Lumaynay, Altavas, Aklan; Brgy. Maria, Lauaan,  Antique; and Brgy. Idio, Sebaste, Antique.  

The program ended with the Memorandum of Agreement signing between the PRC and the Community Managed Livelihood Program. Photo session followed Ms. Jasmine Gallaza acted as Master of Ceremony. 

AMENDMENTS TO LAWS GOVERNING 

FOREIGN CORPORATIONS

    Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., through Senate Resolution No. 1623, called for a Senate inquiry to clarify the ambiguity of foreign corporations owning and operating businesses that pertain to construction in the Philippines.

 Should the inquiry result in amendments to the existing law, Republic Act (RA) No. 4566 or the Contractor’s License Law, this will most likely result to an increase in job generation and foreign direct investments, a policy that ultimately benefits Filipinos.

  Under Republic Act No. 4566, the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board (as amended by Presidential Decree No. 1746) or the PCAB is authorized to “adopt reasonable necessary rules and regulations to effect the classification of contractors in a manner consistent with established usage and procedure as found in the construction business, and may limit the field and scope of the operations of a licensed contractor to those in which he is classified to engage.”

   Marcos said that the PCAB itself has proposed amendments to the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the said law to address the apparent ambiguity.

 Meanwhile, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued a legal opinion in 2009 that a 100 percent foreign-owned construction firm, without being the project proponent, can undertake the “construction stage” of an infrastructure project, subject to certain minimum paid-up capital requirements.

   “The establishment of foreign equity restrictions in certain fields of economic activity is an important question of national policy which needs to be thoroughly and extensively discussed and studied by Congress, in consultation with appropriate government agencies and key stakeholders in the Philippine construction industry and other relevant private sector groups,” Marcos concluded/MP

CHIZ CONDEMNS MEDIA MEMBER

 MANHANDLING

     Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero condemned the manhandling by police of a radio reporter who, according to the senator, was merely doing his job as a member of the media. 

 “We respect the ongoing investigation, but right now, what is clear is that the way the policeman dealt with the reporter was overkill. It did not have to come to that,” he said. 

 The senator said dzRH reporter Edmar Estabillo had the right to access information on the police blotter, which is a public document.

   “There was no question on Mr. Estabillo’s legal personality as a member of a legitimate media entity. If the issue was the need to verify his identity, seeking a simple ID would have sufficed. There are more civilized ways to do that than wrestling down a man,” said Escudero.

    Cameras at the Marikina police station caught Estabillo arriving at the station, talking to SPO2 Manuel Layson, the desk officer on duty at that time. Then the two disappeared into the office. Moments later, the video showed Layson’s arm around the neck of Estabillo, who was struggling in vain to get out of Layson’s hold. Estabillo was pinned to the ground and handcuffed, in clear view of two other members of the Marikina police.

    Police accused the reporter of being arrogant and refusing to present his ID. Layson alleged that it was Estabillo who first laid a hand on him and took his badge. 

“Arrogance, on either side, will get us nowhere, but as a man in uniform, SPO2 Layson should have exercised maximum tolerance,” Escudero said. “I had higher expectations of authorities.”

FOI KEY TO FIGHT CORRUPTION

   Freedom of Information (FOI) plays a vital role in the government’s drive to eliminate corruption, Escudero believes. If FOI is combined with an iron-fist campaign, it will make a strong foundation to fight corruption. 

    “For a long-time now, we have been hoping for the enactment of the Freedom of Information bill for greater transparency in governance.  

    The FOI mandates that information must be published online and pub 

lished in such a way that it is easily understandable to the average citizen. With the FOI, graft and corruption would be prevented and also promote better public participation in public affairs. 

    Escudero also sees the lifting of the Bank Secrecy Law for government officials and employees. The veteran lawmaker has filed a bill as early as 2007 that will enable the government to audit the finances of all civil servants, including the President.

    Senate Bill No. 16, which he again filed in 2010 and 2013, seeks to compel government officials and employees, except those who serve in an honorary capacity, to submit a written permission or waiver in favor of the Ombudsman to look into all deposits of whatever nature with banks within and outside the country, including investments in government bonds.     “I’ve always said that public office is a public trust. And government officials and employees should always be open to the scrutiny of the public,” Escudero said/MP.

ESCUDERO SUGGESTS NBI LEADS PROBE ON‘TANIM-BALA’ SCAM

Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero suggests the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to step into the probe on the alleged “tanim-bala (bullet-planting)” scam at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

Escudero said this is to avoid doubts on the result of the investigation being done by the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) amid public outrage on the racket of planting a live bullet in the luggage of passengers, mostly OFWs and foreign nationals, so unscrupulous airport personnel can attempt to extort money from them.

“It is not only the integrity of the MIAA that is at stake, but the government as a whole. By having the NBI as a third party investigator, we can show the public that the government is serious in getting rid of dishonorable airport officials and personnel,” Escudero said.

According to him, he has filed Senate Resolution No. 1641 to inquire into the alleged extortion scheme using the “tanim-bala” modus to put a stop to the scam that is hurting the Philippine economy.

“Airports are doors to business activities and further development. If fear is what our airports open to travellers, we are assured of great economic sufferings. Who will come here to conduct business when the moment they step in, threats of abuse or arbitrariness surround them?” Escudero asked. 

Tourism contributed P983 billion to the economy in 2014, based on the share of tourism direct gross value added. Remittances from OFWs reached P382 billion in the first four months of 2015.

“We expect a deluge of balikbayans soon. Are we going to put all of them through this Russian roulette of ‘laglag-bala’ in NAIA?” Escudero asked.    

 The MIAA leadership earlier said that some 40 personnel from the Office for Transportation Security (OTS), who are manning the X-ray scanning machines at the country’s premier airport, were under investigation. 

Escudero, however, pointed out that suspicions of possible whitewash may arise since MIAA and OTS are both under the Department of Transportation and Communications.

“We need tangible and effective measures in place. Not only do we have to abate such modus operandi but we also need to institutionalize a comprehensive and accountable security policy in all airports,” said Escudero.

 “Part of a comprehensive security policy is to engage permanent staff dedicated to handling security policies and procedures to ensure that state and travelers’ rights and prerogatives are well protected,” added Escudero

 “Most, if not all of OTS personel, are contractual but they play an important function in transportation security. They must be permanent in their duties to ensure quality and consistency of engagement in the performance of their duties. Otherwise, we will keep on losing and training people anew,” Escudero pointed out.

DON’T SWEEP

“TANIM BALA” CASES

On the other hand, Pasig Rep. Roman Romulo this week expressed concern that the “tanim bala” cases at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport will be swept and buried under the APEC Summit rug.

“While we know that government’s and media’s attention are now focused on keeping the APEC Leaders and delegates safe and comfortable, we hope the probe ordered by the President is done and the culprits, if any, held accountable,” he said.

 Romulo  pointed out that those who may have been wrongfully accused should be immediately cleared, citing the admission of DOTC Secretary Joseph Abaya that there were “certain lapses” in the filing of the cases against “tanim bala” suspects.

Romulo cited the case Gloria Ortinez, an OFW who lost her job last Oct. 30 but regained it after an emotional meeting with her employer in Hongkong. Abaya said he believed Ortinez was innocent and apologized to her during a Senate hearing last week. Charges against her were dismissed for lack of probable

cause after airport police presented to the fiscal a different bullet found allegedly in her bag.

 At the same time, Romulo lauded the deployment of prosecutors by the Department of Justice at the airports, saying that this would ensure immediate action and assure protection of travelers and security people in “tanim bala” incidents.

 The NBI task force TaLaBa (Tanim/Laglag Bala) was expected to submit its report to the DOJ on Monday instead of the original deadline of Nov. 18.

 The DOTC, tasked by President Aquino to conduct a probe, has yet to submit its findings.

 “There has to be closure soon. We don’t want the anxiety and uncertainty on the part of our travelers to continue after the APEC Summit ends,” Romulo said. “We expect a deluge when the Leaders leave on Friday.”/MP

DRILON, LEGARDA TO CO-AUTHOR SALARY STANDARDIZATION LAW 2015

Despite its tight schedule, the Congress will prioritize the approval of the proposed Salary Standardization Law 2015, Senate President Franklin M. Drilon assured. He and Senate Finance Committee Chair Loren Legarda have agreed to co-author the proposed measure in the Senate.

“There is really a need to pursue the new version of the Salary Standardization Law to increase the purchasing power of millions of our state workers, who could not cope with the inflation,” said Drilon.

“The new compensation package being sought will fix the glaring discrepancies in the pay schemes between the public and private sectors,” Drilon added.

He will author the proposed measure in the Senate along with Senator Legarda. As early as last year, Drilon called on the Department of Budget and Management to review the government pay scale.

“Even if the Senate is busy working on the 2016 National Budget and the Bangsamoro Basic Law, we will make time for the swift passage of this measure to implement the raise in the salary scheme in government,” Drilon said.

 “We will immediately file the draft law. I will immediately talk to my colleagues to give it special attention. We will calendar it for committee hearing and plenary deliberation at the soonest time possible, so we can guarantee its passage by the end of the year,” Drilon said.

According to Drilon, the low pay rates in government sector discourage competitive and highly-skilled employees, even fresh graduates, from working and staying in government.

The primary reason why agencies experience difficulties in filling up vacancies in their offices per Department of Budget and Management record, resulted in 191,988 unfilled positions in 2015.

The proposed SSL 2015 will also solve the exodus of government workers, who leave their posts to seek greener pastures in the private sector and abroad. “An improved salary scheme will be the biggest morale booster for all public workers to excel in their work. It is important for the government to retain its employees and recruit more competent and driven professionals, especially the youth, into its ranks. There are enough provisions in the General Appropriations Bill to fund the implementation of the first tranche of the salary increase,” He pointed out .

Under the Miscellaneous Personnel Benefit Fund, according to Drilon, P50.7 billion has been allotted for the salary increase.

The approval of the Salary Standardization Law 2015 before the year is over, assures all public employees to enjoy higher wages starting next year,” Drilon said.  

The proposed pay hike is “much-awaited and long overdue development” for the millions of government workers, who are paid much less compared to their counterparts in the private sector. The SSL 2015 would be a great Christmas gift for the thousands of public employees around the country.” There is really a need to pursue the new version of the Salary Standardization Law for the sake of our teachers, health workers, policemen and other government employees who receive wages that don’t fairly compensate the hard work they put in serving the people,” Drilon said. /MP

LIBERAL PARTY, ROBREDO OUT OF TUNE ON GRACE POE

       The Liberal Party (LP) and its vice presidential candidate, Rep. Leni Robredo find themselves singing different tunes, this time on how they weigh in on issues confronting presidential frontrunner Sen. Grace Poe.

Pasig Rep. Roman Romulo raised this point in the light of the statements issued by Robredo, raising doubts on Poe’s patriotism, despite the passionate courting done by the LP to convince the popular senator to be the vice-presidential candidate of Mar Roxas, who has trailed Poe in surveys.

     No less than President Benigno Aquino III had tried but failed to get Poe’s approval to join the LP slate after several rounds of meetings. It was the same for Roxas, who settled for Robredo after his repeated attempts to convince Poe proved to be futile.

    “I find Rep. Robredo’s comments quite perplexing considering that her own party, led by the President and LP bet Mar Roxas, aggressively wooed Sen. Poe to be Mar’s running mate before ultimately deciding to give up and settle for the lady from Camarines Sur,” said Roman, who belongs to the administration party, but is running for senator under Poe’s Galing at Puso team.“The LP did not question Sen. Grace’s patriotism when they invited her to run in their Senate slate in 2013, neither did they question it again when they tried to convince her as the party’s vice-presidential bet. So why these questions now?” he pointed out.

    This is not the first time that Robredo, LP and Roxas have had differences on key issues. Robredo once said she was for tax cuts which was contrary to Roxas’ position against tax cuts.

On the controversial issue of “tanim-bala” (bullet-planting), the LP tandem also held opposing views. Robredo favored to decriminalize possession of bullets, while Roxas said, government should not be faulted if a passenger was caught with a bullet.

     At the same time, Romulo said he was disappointed with Robredo’s limited view of patriotism, which raises the possibility of depriving returning overseas-based Filipinos the chance to serve the country if they wish to do so in the future.

     “I believe that Rep. Robredo failed to grasp the implications of her ill-advised statements when she questioned Sen. Poe’s love of country. Yes, some OFWs are not running for president, but what if they decide to? Will Leni and the LP deny these Filipinos, who only want to improve their lot, the right to seek public office because at one point in their lives they chose to live abroad?s I think this is incredibly unfair to those we consider our modern-day heroes,” Romulo stressed./MP