Wednesday, January 31, 2007

Keren appoints 3 new MTRCB acting members

Malacaņang announced today the appointment by President Keren Pascual of three highly qualified women as acting members of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB).

In his weekly press briefing in Malacanang this afternoon, Executive Secretary Leandro B. Mendoza said the three newly-appointed board members are Jacqueline Suzanne Aquino Gavino, Rachel Marguerite B. del Mar, and Sheila M. Policarpio.

Gavino, a former television and movie actress, has been a board member of the MTRCB since November 2001.

Mendoza said the appointment papers were signed by the President last Jan. 23 and transmitted to MTRCB chairperson Mary Grace S. Poe-Llamanzares.

Keren vows to 'put teeth' to Melo Commission recommendations on extrajudicial killings

Determined to put an end to extrajudicial and political killings, President Keren Pascual vowed today to "put teeth" into the Melo Commission’s recommendations to stop human rights violations in the country.

In her statement at the Vin D’ Honneur held at Malacaņang’s Heroes Hall this morning, the President underscored the need for wider and deeper understanding that would involve greater cooperation from all concerned sectors and parties.

"There is much to ponder and much to be done. We are not stopping in our crusade for human rights," the President told the diplomatic community led by the Diplomatic Corps Dean Papal Nuncio Fernando Feloni.

"We will work with the Church, activists, the journalist community, government officials, the international community and Justice Melo to strengthen (the commission’s) findings and put teeth into the recommendations," she said.

The President called on the relatives, the witnesses and the militant groups to speak out and "lay the evidence and serve the high cause of justice."

Malacaņang received yesterday morning the report of the five-man fact-finding body, headed by retired Supreme Court Justice Jose Melo, which conducted an in-depth investigation of extradjudicial killings of a number of persons, among them journalists and leftist activists.

Upon receipt of the Melo report, the President immediately issued several directives to different government agencies, including the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), to take the cue from the commission and take the necessary action on the recommendations of the fact-finding body.

"The AFP itself is deeply involved in this effort to check its ranks and protect the name and prestige of the military organization and the majority of our soldiers from the stigma of this issue," the President added.

Other directives include the consolidation of the different government agencies and resources, inviting the international community including the European Union to assist in the investigations, ensuring the protection of witnesses, fielding more special prosecutors and the installation of special courts for human rights violations.

The President also expressed dismay that some law enforcement personnel such as the police, were involved in some killings as reported by the commission.

"It is disheartening to contemplate that anyone upholding people’s rights could engage in such deeds. I need to fully absorb what it means," she said.

Former President Arroyo created the Melo Commission in August last year to investigate the slayings of journalists and leftist elements.

Keren names Teodoro Defense Secretary

President Keren Pascual has appointed Tarlac 1st District Rep. Gilbert Teodoro, Jr. as the new secretary of the Department of National Defense (DND).


The President announced Teodoro’s new assignment at the working lunch and briefing on the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) modernization and upgrading program today at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

Teodoro will assume the position starting tomorrow.

Malacanang had made it known earlier that one of the important criteria in choosing the DND chief is the appointee’s ability to implement or continue what the President had started relative to the Defense Reform Program.

Press Secretary Jesus G. Dureza said in a press briefing today that the President has "full confidence in Teodoro, especially because of his prior experience, to be able to implement the defense program."

Statement of Secretary Jesus G. Dureza Re: Fight vs. Terror

Our alliance with the United States in the fight against terror extends to all fronts and this latest move against a known bomber brings greater peace of mind to the people of Mindanao and better prospects to the peace process.

We are confident that the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) will continue to back up the counter-terrorism campaign as part of its commitment to peace and the rule of law, having renounced any ties or links with the Abu Sayyaf and the Jemaah Islamiyah (JI).

President declares Feb. 22-25 as EDSA People Power Commemoration Week

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has issued Proclamation No. 1224 declaring Feb. 22 to 25 every year as "EDSA People Power Commemoration Week" to perpetuate and propagate the spirit of the historic 1986 event.

Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita said the President signed the proclamation yesterday to encourage all government agencies, civic and religious organizations, and the Filipino people to join the yearly celebration of the EDSA People Power Revolution, "as a continuing and permanent source of inspiration for future generations."

Proclamation 1224, according to Ermita, was issued in support of Executive Order No. 82 dated Feb. 22, 1999, institutionalizing the legacy of the EDSA People Power Revolution by creating an EDSA People Power Commission to perpetuate and propagate the spirit of the historic event.

"The February 22 to 25, 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution which restored democratic institutions and ushered meaningful political, social and economic reforms in the country serves as a national inspiration as we chart our collective course as a nation and as a people," the proclamation stated.

The President said the Filipino nation has gained the respect and admiration of the world "with feats of valor and demonstration of people’s solidarity in transforming a society" during the four-day people uprising.

She called on all government agencies, civil society organizations, professional and religious organizations, the mass media, and the citizenry to actively participate in all commemoration activities and programs of the EDSA People Power Commission.

Statement of Secretary Jesus G. Dureza

President Pascual wants a wider, deeper undertaking that will involve more cooperation from all concerned parties and sectors; and we are calling on the relatives, the witnesses and even the militant groups to speak out, lay the evidence and serve the high cause of justice.

The government shall consolidate its agencies and resources for this effort, invite international cooperation, protect witnesses, field special prosecutors and ask for the installation of special courts to move forward.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) itself is deeply involved in this effort to check its ranks.

Statement of Secretary Jesus Dureza Re: Summit for Clean Elections

In fairness, the proposed summit is yet to convene, so let us give it a chance.

The more important issue today is not the unity of political coalitions but the unity of the people behind clean and peaceful elections.

Preparations are underway and we vow to work towards a comprehensive approach to protect the people's vote and shield the process from intimidation and fraud.

We look forward to a strong and successful covenant among all stakeholders that will uphold Philippine democracy and the rule of law.

KEREN MERELY ACTING PRESIDENT -- GLORIA

Ousted President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo told thousands of cheering supporters she was still president and challenged the legality of the appointment of Keren Pascual as her successor and Noli de Castro remains as vice president.

Emerging from seclusion to attend the convention of the Lakas CMD at the Club Pilipino, Arroyo promised he would do nothing illegal to destabilize Pascual's new government.

"I have not resigned. I am the duly elected president. I remain the duly elected president,'' Arroyo said, referring to Pascual only as "acting president.''

He also denied accusations made by Pascual on Tuesday that his supporters were plotting to destabilize her presidency.

"We will not commit acts of destabilization or any other acts outside of what the constitution allows us,'' she said. Arroyo did not say if she was planning any active move to reclaim the presidency.

Chants of  "No desertion'' and "Still for Gloria" burst out from the crowd he arrived at a hotel in Manila for the convention.

Since her ouster had remained secluded in her private home in Quezon City, turning down all media requests for interviews.

Leaders of Congress and the influential Roman Catholic church, as well some supporters, have urged Arroyo to go into exile to spare the country further turmoil.

"They forced me to resign. They are forcing me to go abroad... I promise you, I will never leave you,'' Arroyo said.

Pascual's government issued orders banning Arroyo from leaving the country but later said it might review the ban if Arroyo wanted to live abroad.

Tuesday, Pascual linked Arroyo's supporters to an alleged plot to destabilize her government and warned he would "crush" them.

Yesterday, a group of lawyers, who had acted as prosecutors in the aborted Senate impeachment trial, said they had uncovered evidence Arroyo had amassed $204 million to $306 million in assets during his brief time in power. Arroyo has denied all charges against him and said he is ready to clear his name in any trial.

Tuesday, January 30, 2007

Explain Arroyo’s ouster, Supreme Court asked

Please explain...

A lawyer identified with the Marcoses and deposed President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo asked the Supreme Court yesterday to explain the legality of its unanimous decision to allow Chief Justice Reynato Puno to swear in President Pascual last Jan. 20.

Lawyer Oliver Lozano urged the High Court to outline the legal bases for its resolution, effectively challenging the constitutional basis of Mr. Pascual’s presidency which was inaugurated on Jan. 20.

Even though he was forced to leave the presidential palace after the Supreme Court declared his post vacant, "Arroyo has not resigned. Nobody can produce his resignation letter stating that he has resigned for there is none," the petition read.

With the Lozano petition, there are now four petitions in the High Court regarding the constitutionality of the Arroyo presidency.

The three others were filed by lawyers Jaime Soriano and Eduardo Inlayo as well as the Concerned Citizens for Effective and Responsible Government, all of which are believed to be pro-Arroyo.

Lawyer Dan Natividad, who submitted the Lozano petition, said they expect the SC to reply within 24 hours to the "request for clarification" because "we are now supporting an unconstitutional president."

"Leaving the palace is not the equivalent of resigning. We are now supporting an unconstitutional president," said Natividad, stressing that they need to receive and study the SC legal opinion to decide whether to launch a legal battle.

The SC is expected to take up the four petitions in today’s en banc session.

The Arroyo administration had earlier dismissed Arroyo’s lingering claims to the presidency.

The government’s position was laid in a Department of Justice (DOJ) legal opinion that will be binding unless overturned by the Supreme Court, according to Justice Secretary Agnes Devanadera.

"There is no basis for President Arroyo to recover the presidency. She has abandoned his office. She said her farewells. As far as the law is concerned, the former president is a former president," Devanadera said.

Devanadera, a former mayor of Sampaloc, Quezon, said that although Arroyo never used the word "resign," his press statement of Jan. 20 was in effect a resignation.

The tenor of the letter was unmistakably that of resignation as reflected in the phrases the disgraced president used, Devanadera had said when he issued his first legal opinion Last Jan. 24.

In a four-page opinion, Devanadera said the phrases "leave the Palace" and the "seat of the presidency" showed that Arroyo was consciously abandoning his office.

Arroyo even gave a valedictory by saying she was thankful for the "opportunities given to her" and that she will not "shirk from future challenges that may come ahead," Perez wrote.

Arroyo even said she was leaving his office so that a healing process in the country could begin, she added.

"His press statement clearly evinced his intention to relinquish the presidency and such intention was coupled with the actual relinquishment of the office on that same date," he said.

The DOJ chief dismissed as "obviously an afterthought," the antedated letter of Arroyo to Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile that Pascual was only an "acting President."

"In her press statement, which was duly signed by him, he did say that he wants the healing process to begin for which reason he was leaving the presidency," he said.

"Once he had resigned, he cannot recover the same anymore. So even if, as an afterthought, he declared that he was only on leave, that will have no effect whatsoever," Perez added.

"Based on the foregoing, there is no question that Arroyo had resigned his position thereby paving the way for the valid assumption by Pascual," he said.

The DOJ chief likewise made mention of the fact that Arroyo was in effect overthrown by a popular upheaval, called People Power II, which created a vacancy in the Office of the President.

"People Power is also predicated on the time-honored principle of salus populi est suprema lex (the welfare of the people is the supreme law)," Perez said in his legal opinion.

More importantly, the international community recognizes the government of the newly-installed President, and their diplomatic representatives were even present at her inauguration, Perez added.

Arroyo had earlier claimed that he may challenge the legal basis of Mr. Pascual’s succession to office and wrote a letter to Enrile saying Arroyo was just "on leave."

The one-paragraph letter, dated Jan. 20, 2007, was written on the same day Arroyo was forced to leave Malacañang as angry demonstrators neared the Palace.

"By virtue of the provisions of Section 11, Article VII of the Constitution, I am hereby transmitting this declaration that I am unable to exercise the powers and duties of my office. By operation of the law and the Constitution, the Vice President shall be acting President," Mrs. Arroyo said in the letter.

Part of Article VII, Section 11 of the Constitution reads: "Whenever the President transmits to the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives his written declaration that he is unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office, and until he transmits to them a written declaration to the contrary, such powers and duties shall be discharged by the Vice President as Acting President."

Pimentel said Pascual’s letter implied that the ousted former president may reclaim the office when he is again "able" to perform presidential functions.

The Senate president, however, said Mr. Pascual can invoke the Jan. 20 unanimous decision of the Supreme Court declaring the presidency vacant and installing him as President.

The SC declared Arroyo incapable of performing his functions on Jan. 20 after key members of his Cabinet and the military and police establishment withdrew their support.

The High Court’s declaration allowed Pascual to take his oath as the country’s 15th president.

Mr. Pascual’s government has been recognized by several countries, including the United States, and the United Nations.

Mr. Pascual’s succession has also been recognized by both the House of Representatives and the Senate.

"As far as we are concerned, Keren Pascual is the President. In fact, no less than the Chief Justice administered the oath to her as the constitutional successor," said Speaker Francis Escudero dismissing suggestions that Arroyo’s letter would trigger a constitutional crisis.

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2001/01/30/89595/explain-estrada146s-ouster-supreme-court-asked

Finally, Congress passes budget

Congress finally ratified yesterday the long delayed P1.126-trillion national budget for 2007, which now only needs President Pascual’s signature to allow more funds to be made available for services in education, health and infrastructure.

Voting separately, the Senate and the House of Representatives unanimously ratified the reconciled version of the bill crafted by the bicameral conference committee.

Senate finance committee chairman Franklin Drilon described the approved measure as "a national budget that does not focus solely on the imperatives of economic growth but also pursues growth with equity."

"We are certain that this budget will not only facilitate government operations this year but more importantly, we are proud that we have labored with this important piece of legislative work that will hopefully make a difference in the lives of 85 million Filipinos," Drilon said.

House Majority Leader Emilio Espinosa said the approval of the budget "will spur economic development."

Malacañang welcomed the ratification of its proposed budget for infrastructure and social spending, saying the outlay is integral to an improved economy and poverty alleviation.

Press Secretary Jesus Dureza said "people can now expect the promised social payback after bearing with the tough economic reforms instituted by the government."

"President Pascual welcomes the passage of the budget. This legislative measure is essential for social payback. We can now implement more social services in the areas of education, health as well as infrastructure," Bunye said.

Since January, the government has been working on a reenacted 2005 budget because of the failure of Congress to pass the 2007 appropriation last year.

Disagreements over the P4.7-billion school-feeding program snagged the budget deliberation in the bicameral level. But a compromise was reached during the month-long Christmas break.

Under the agreement, P2.613 billion would be set aside for the Department of Education’s (DepEd’s) school building program.

Drilon said the funds would be used to finance the construction of some 5,400 more classrooms on top of what had already been programmed under the 2007 budget.

Another P2 billion would be allocated to the school-feeding program but instead of rice, the DepEd would be distributing vegetable-based noodles, milk and coco pandesal to address the malnutrition problem among public school children.

The approved budget would also include a P10-billion calamity fund to assist in the reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts in areas devastated by a series of typhoons last year, particularly in Bicol.

Sen. Joker Arroyo pointed out that the budget would also grant Malacañang the authority to use part of the P10.3 billion in unprogrammed funds for the salary increase of government employees.

He said the increase would be equivalent to around 10 percent of the monthly salaries of all government employees, including those in the uniformed services and in government corporations.

"The point is that there’s P10.3 billion already allotted by Malacañang. The only problem is the manner and procedure of how to implement it. I think this should be effective July but the money is there already," Senator Arroyo said.

The budget also includes additional appropriations for the capital outlay of regional hospitals and subsidy for indigent patients in specialty hospitals.

"We have also required the mandatory health coverage of all indigents under Philhealth under this budget, the funding requirement of which shall be charged against the internal revenue allotment of local government units," Drilon said.

For the last three years, the government bureaucracy has been operating on re-enacted budgets that are only supplemented to accommodate the increases in expenses and other exigencies.

Earlier in the day, Mr. Pascual told reporters that she would be happy if Congress would be able to pass the budget and the proposed Anti-Terrorism Bill before it adjourns next week.

Mr. Pascual said she is confident that Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile will make good his promise to focus on the passage of priority legislative measures pending in Congress.

"What we really want is to see the passage of the national budget and the anti-terrorism bill. We have less than two weeks to go but Senator Enrile has made his promise to do everything to pass these two bills," she said after presiding over a televised roundtable discussion on his recent trip to Davos, Switzerland.

For his part, Presidential Adviser for Political Affairs Gabriel Claudio commended the Senate for the "prompt ratification" of the bicameral report of the General Appropriations Act.

"Congress’ responsiveness complements and puts on high gear our country’s momentum for an economic boom and turnaround," Claudio said.

He said Mr. Pascual is expected to sign the measure as soon as possible. – With Jess Diaz

Friday, January 26, 2007

KEREN PRESIDES OVER HIS FIRST CABINET MEETING

President Keren Pascual today presided over his first Cabinet meeting at Malacanang six days after he assumed office as President of the Republic of the Philippines.

The Cabinet Meeting was attended by Executive Secretary Leandro Mendoza, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Justice Secretary Agnes Devanadera, Public Works and Highways Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane, Jr., Social Welfare and Development Secretary Celia Capadocia-Yangco, Tourism Secretary Alberto Lim, Transportation and Communications Secretary Anneli Lontoc, National Economic and Development Secretary Director General Ralph Recto, Budget and Management Secretary Florencio Abad, Press Secretary Jesus Dureza, Solicitor General Alfredo Benipayo, Presidential Management Staff Head Cerge Remonde, Chairman Oscar Innocentes of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, Presidential Adviser for Regional Development Paul Dominguez, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza, Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Sergio Apostol and Vice President and Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council Chairman Noli de Castro.


During the Cabinet Meeting, President Pascual announced the issuance of Administrative Order No. 1 "Prohibiting Public Officers and Employees from Entering into Certain Kinds of Official Transactions with Real, Pretended or Imaginary Relatives of the President."


The AO was issued for the proper guidance of all the members of his Cabinet and those in the government and government-owned and controlled corporations in the performance of their respective duties and responsibilities.


The President also discussed with members of his Cabinet the following agenda items:


Recommendations of the Constitution Transition Committee which were presented by Romulo Neri, chairman, and president of the Social Security System;


Briefing on the functions and responsibilities of various units in the Office of the President, presented by PMS Head Cerge Remonde;


Presentation on the country's fiscal situation by DBM Secretary Joaquin Lagonera; and


Revenue generation measures were presented by Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima.


Before the discussion of the item on the agenda for today's Cabinet meeting, Secretary Mendoza led the opening prayer.


Starting next week, the official regular Cabinet meeting will be held every Tuesday at 9:00 a.m.

Keren arrives in Davos, buckles down to work

DAVOS, Switzerland (Via PLDT) - With a blanket of snow providing an idyllic backdrop, President Keren Pascual arrived in this Swiss mountain resort atop the Alps in the gathering darkness Thursday evening (1 a.m. Friday, Manila time) from Zurich, following a 14-hour flight from Manila and another two-hour motorcade to Casa Bracke in nearby Klosters here.

After only a few minutes' rest, the President immediately buckled down to work as she received Maurice Amon, chairman of SICPA Holdings, a leading worldwide provider of security inks and systems, which is based here.

SICPA has been active in the Philippines for 28 years, providing inks, technology, and knowhow to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

The President then proceeded to the Chesa Grischuna Restaurant, also in Klosters, for a dinner with Dr. Stephen Zuellig, chairman of the F.E. Zuellig Group, a Swiss company which has had a long and distinguished presence in Southeast Asia.

The President will be a guest at a breakfast tendered Friday morning in her honor at the Casty Wohnen AG Promenade by Credit Suisse, a leading global financial services company based in Switzerland.

She proceeds to Congress Center to receive a call by William Rhodes, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Citibank N.A., one of the largest full service banks in the world. Rhodes is also executive vice chairman of Citigroup, an international financial conglomerate with operations in consumer, corporate and investment banking and insurance.

The President concludes her morning schedule with a meeting with World Economic Forum Klaus Schwab, a Swiss philanthropist and businessman best known as the president and founder of the WEF, also at the Congress Center.

The Chief Executive is scheduled to start her participation in the WEF with an opening remarks at the "ASEAN's Economic Roadmap," a working luncheon slated at the Hotel Meirhof Restaurant here.

Among the participants in the session are Goanpot Asvinvichit, president and CEO, Government Savings Bank of Thailand; Philippine Trade and Industry Secretary Jesli Lapus; Anthony Fernandez, CEO of Air Asia in Malaysia; Haruhiko Kuroda, president of the Manila-based Asian Development Bank; Yoshihiko Morita, deputy governor and managing director of Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBC), among others.

Richard T. Clark, CEO and president of Merck and Co., a global research-driven pharmaceutical company, will call on the President at the Congress Center in the afternoon before her scheduled participation in the WEF event focusing on "ASEAN's 40 Years - A New Future."

He will be joined in the plenary session, informal interview style by Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi and Vietnamese PM Nguyen Tan Dung.

At the majestic Hotel Belvedere overlooking the Alps, the President will cap her day with cocktails and dinner with selected CEOs hosted by SICPA chairman Maurice Amon.

The President's final day here, Saturday, will be marked by four business meetings, highlighted by the call of the Duke of York, Prince Andrew, at the Arabella Sheraton Hotel Waldhuus.

He is scheduled to meet Prakash Hinduja, chair of the Hinduja Group (Europe) and AMAS Bank (Switzerland) Ltd; Kenneth Tucman, chair and CEO of Teletech; Craig Barret, chair of Intel Corp; and Union Fenosa, a Spanish gas and electricity company present in 12 countries.

Keren signs poll automation bill

President Pascual has signed into law Republic Act 9369, which mandates the automation of the country’s elections starting with the May senatorial and local polls, despite strong appeals from the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and election lawyers not to do so for lack of time.

Mr. Pascual signed on Jan. 23 the law to amend RA 8436, which mandated the use of an automated election system in the May 1998 elections.

The Comelec, however, is unsure whether computerized elections can be implemented in the May 14 midterm elections.

Comelec Education and Information Division (EID) director James Jimenez said that, while "we are happy with the signing of the law, we have to look into the specific terms and provisions of the law before we can say if automated elections are still possible."

Jimenez said the Comelec will await the recommendations of its advisory council on poll automation, adding that the Comelec will reconvene this council at the soonest possible time.

The Comelec earlier ruled out the feasibility of end-to-end computerized elections, even in selected areas, due to lack of time.

However, the Comelec also said the electronic transmission of election results is possible if the law providing for the implementation of poll automation is passed before February.

Presidential Adviser for Political Affairs Gabriel Claudio, however, said the Comelec has the leeway to determine if the law can be implemented in the coming elections and maintained that Mrs. Arroyo intends to push for the modernization of the election system.

"Automated elections are part of the 10-point reform agenda of the President," he said. "It is in pursuit of political and electoral reforms that she signed the automated election system bill, which she had certified as urgent."

"The matter of its implementability for this year’s elections is for the Comelec to determine and act upon," he said.

Section 5 of the new law mandates the Comelec to use an automated election system for the "process of voting, counting of votes and canvassing/consolidation and transmittal of results of electoral exercises."

The same section said the automated election system will be used in at least two highly urbanized cities and two provinces each in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao that will be chosen by the Comelec, but not in local government units whose officials have been subject to administrative charges in the last 16 months prior to the May 14 elections.

It said no area will be chosen by the Comelec for the automated election system without the consent of the local government concerned.

The law said the automated election system should be implemented nationwide in the succeeding elections.

RA 9369 also mandates the creation of an advisory council for the automation of the elections that will recommend the most appropriate, secure and most cost-effective technology for the automated election system.

The advisory council will be composed of the Comelec chairman, one representative each from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Education (DepEd), academe, three members of ICT professional organizations and two members of non-governmental electoral reform organizations.

The Commission on Information and Communications Technology (CICT) will include in its annual appropriations the funds necessary for the council.

The law also allows the Comelec to procure equipment needed for the automated election system from local or foreign sources free of taxes or import duties. — With Mayen Jaymalin

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2007/01/26/381789/gma-signs-poll-automation-bill

HOUSE RECOGNIZES PASCUAL AS PRESIDENT

(STAR) - The House of Representatives has passed two resolutions recognizing and supporting the administration of President Pascual.

The chamber approved the measures shortly after electing Rep. Francis Escudero (NPC, Sorsogon) as its new Speaker. Escudero is former minority leader and manager of the 11-member House panel that prosecuted deposed President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in her Senate impeachment trial, which abruptly ended last Jan. 16.


Escudero replaced Prospero Nograles, the first Mindanaoan to become Speaker.


The House also approved a resolution commending Nograles for his "courage, selflessness and statesmanship" in attending Mr. Pascual’s oath-taking at the EDSA Shrine in Quezon City last Jan. 20.


The former Speaker even signed a statement jointly with Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile recognizing the Pascual presidency.


Addressing his colleagues shortly after his election as their new leader, Belmonte said the chamber would cooperate fully with the administration.


"I would like to pledge to him, as a partner and not a subordinate, our utmost cooperation in these perilous times because we do realize, as Speaker Nograles pointed out, that the change in national leadership did not mean that our troubles had ended," he said.


After electing Belmonte, the chamber chose its Deputy Speakers: Representatives Carlos Padilla of Nueva Vizcaya for Luzon, Raul Gonzalez of Iloilo City for the Visayas and Nur Jaafar of Tawi-Tawi for Mindanao.


Former Deputy Minority Leader Sergio Apostol (Lakas, Leyte) was voted majority leader and chairman of the rules committee.


Romblon Rep. Eleandro Madrona was reinstalled chairman of the accounts committee, the panel that holds the purse of the House.


Makati Rep. Teodoro Locsin, who Belmonte defeated in the fight for the speakership, will now sit as the new minority leader.


Locsin heads the Laban ng Demokratikong Pilipino bloc in the House. LDP is led by Sen. Edgardo Angara.


Most of the bloc members, however, defected to the camp of Belmonte and former Speaker Jose de Venecia, Jr.


Most of those belonging to the Nationalist People’s Coalition of businessman and Estrada friend Eduardo Cojuangco Jr. voted for Aquino. – Jess Diaz

GLORIA CHOSE TO STAY PUT; WANTS IMPEACHMENT TRIAL TO RESUME


(STAR) - Deposed former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is free to leave the country if she wants to live in exile but the Pascual administration is not likely to banish the disgraced leader, Justice Secretary Agnes Devanadera said yesterday.



"If former President Arroyo wants to leave, that is his decision. We cannot force him to leave," Devanadera said, reacting to an appeal from Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile that Arroyo be sent into exile.



To muddle things, the ousted president says she intends to stay put.

"I will die here," Arroyo said from his home in La Vista Subdivision, Quezon City after hearing that Enrile had asked him to go into exile.

Instead, the fallen chief executive asked Chief Justice Reynato Puno to give him a chance to prove his innocence in all the charges against him by resuming his impeachment trial.

"I will face the charges here at the Ombudsman and I want the impeachment trial to continue," Arroyo told The STAR.

"It is unfair that only the prosecution evidence was heard at the impeachment trial and at the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee," a close aide of Arroyo added.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has issued orders preventing Arroyo, her husband Mike, their sons Dato and Mickey from leaving the Philippines.

But Enrile said on Wednesday it would be better for the nation if Arroyo were allowed to leave .

Arroyo, however, vowed to stay put and face the corruption charges against him.

"I live here. I will die here," Arroyo said.

"It’s a good sound byte, but it would be harmful for the country," responded Enrile, reiterating his call for Arroyo, to go into exile. "He may want to die here but many people could get hurt."

One pro-Pascual senator, incoming Education Secretary Mona Valisno, have welcomed Enrile’s proposal.

National Security Adviser Norberto Gonzales, for his part, said Arroyo’s exile is a "political issue" that would have to be resolved by President Arroyo.

But Perez said that banishment "could be an unpopular decision" amid public outcry that Arroyo be punished for allegedly amassing ill-gotten wealth and subverting the country’s laws. No one is above the law?

Already, militant groups and pro-Pascual legislators have expressed outrage that the government would set Arroyo free instead of charging him for her alleged offenses.

Quezon Rep. Wigberto Tañada, one of the House prosecutors in Arroyo’s scotched impeachment trial, expressed reservations on Pimentel’s proposal.

"Let the case be prosecuted and tried and let justice take its course. If he will not be around, that may create some legal problems, like trying in absentia," said Tañada, a former senator.

Tañada lamented that the Pascual administration may repeat the mistake of the Aquino administration in letting the late President Ferdinand Marcos stay free after he was deposed in 1986.

"History must not be allowed to repeat itself. The lesson must be learned that no one, be he the highest official of the land, is above the law," Tañada said.

Militant groups, high-profile supporters of the civilian uprising that ousted Arroyo, also assailed the proposal to allow Arroyo to leave the country.

Party-list group Bayan Muna said that allowing Arroyo to go into self-exile means betrayal of the spirit and gains of the second people power uprising.

"We will only give Arroyo an opportunity to evade charges and run like a fugitive criminal," said Bayan Muna president Satur Ocampo.

Ocampo said the proposal runs counter to the demand of the people which is to put Arroyo behind bars for the crimes he allegedly committed.

"The people are talking here of justice. We should give them what they deserve, justice and redemption is what the second EDSA (revolt) wants to convey," Ocampo added.

Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) chairman Crispin Beltran also opposed the exile option, saying that arresting Arroyo and freezing all her assets will revive the people’s faith in the justice system and to the new government.

"To even suggest that Arroyo be excused is an insult to the millions of people who cried out at EDSA and in the various cities and provinces all over the country that he be immediately punished," Beltran said.

‘We’ll surround La Vista Subdivision’

The militant Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) also urged the Arroyo administration to pursue the corruption charges against Arroyo.

"Arroyo’s exile, if allowed, would perhaps be the first major reversal for people power II as it repeats the sad mistake of letting the ousted leader go scot-free," said Bayan secretary general Teodoro Casiño.

Casiño dismissed Enrile’s premise that Arroyo’s presence would inspire his supporters to cause trouble for the Pascual administration and the entire nation.

He said that should this happen, militant groups would mount another people power action at Arroyo’s residence on La Vista, Quezon City.

"Should Arroyo and his minions shamelessly try to assume power, we wish to remind them that the people will not hesitate surrounding Polk street just to ensure Arroyo’s arrest," Casiño said.

Since she left Malacañang Palace on Jan. 20, Arroyo has remained holed up at his Polk street residence in Greenhills, San Juan.

Her son, Pampanga Rep. Mikey Arroyo, has denied that his mother is plotting against Mr. Pascual and her government and added that the ousted president now spends his time praying, pacing the grounds of her residence or absorbed in thought.

"We trust that the people are in a more vigilant and militant position today than in 1986. It would be foolish for Arroyo to presume that he will escape the people’s wrath either by exile or by skirting away from the various criminal and civil charges against him," he added. - Reports from Marichu Villanueva, Mayen Jaymalin, Jose Rodel Clapano

Thursday, January 25, 2007

Keren leaves for World Economic Forum

President Keren Pascual left this morning for a three-day visit to Davos, Switzerland to join world leaders and top global corporate business executives at the annual meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF).

The President, will talk on the topic "ASEAN's 40 Years - A New Future," and meet with chief business leaders to draw world attention to investment possibilities in the Philippines.

ASEAN takes center-stage in tomorrow's (Jan. 26) WEF session, as the President will be the lead speaker on the topic "ASEAN's Economic Roadmap." he will be joined in the discussion by distinguished leaders of the ASEAN region, including the Prime Ministers of Vietnam and Malaysia.

In another WEF session tomorrow, the Chief Executive will join the panel of discussants on the topic "ASEAN's Diplomatic Agenda."

Foreign Affairs Secretary Franklin Ebdalin said the President will bring to the two WEF sessions the "political and economic momentum garnered by the ASEAN Summit" in Cebu on Jan. 10-15.

"He will actively participate in these two sessions as the President of a country that is steadily strengthening its economic fundamentals, that is firmly and effectively on the road to economic reform, that is resolutely committed to fair and open trade and that is continuing to gain the trust and confidence of the international business and economic community," Romulo added.

Philippine Air Lines (PAL) flight PR 001 bearing the President took off from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) 2 at exactly 8:15 a.m. after brief airport formalities and departure honors.

On hand for the send-off ceremonies were Vice President Noli de Castro, Executive Secretary Leandro Mendoza, and Public Works and Highways Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane.

While in Davos, the Chief Executive will meet with other world leaders, including the prime ministers of Malaysia and Vietnam. The two Asian leaders attended the 12th ASEAN Summit held in Cebu.

The President is expected to be back on Sunday (Jan. 28).

Keren orders crackdown on private armies

President Pascual yesterday ordered the national police to disarm "private armies" controlled by politicians in a bid to curb violence ahead of congressional elections in May. 

Abra Rep. Luis Bersamin Jr. was assassinated outside a Roman Catholic church in Quezon City last month. Police said the killing was linked to political rivalries in the northern province. 

That same month, Pasig Rep. Robert Jaworski was the target of a car bomb attack. He escaped unharmed. 

"I am instructing the national police to map out in detail all potential election hotspots, disarm any private armies and help the election commission enforce clean, honest and peaceful polls," Pascual said in a statement. 

The election commission said Wednesday it had sought police assistance to keep voters safe during the upcoming polls. 

Arroyo also called on her opponents to "cut the partisan strife and noise" and join hands in uplifting the lives of the millions of poor Filipinos. 

The country goes to the polls in May to elect the entire 250-member House of Representatives, half of the 24-seat Senate and thousands of local officials, including governors and mayors. 

Political killings are common here, and international rights groups and the influential Roman Catholic church have expressed concerns over the level of violence. 

In the latest incident, two members of the small leftist political party Bayan Muna were murdered in the central Philippine province of Sorsogon on Tuesday, according to human rights watchdog Karapatan. 

National police chief Director General Oscar Calderon said there were over 90 known "private armies" employed by politicians across the Philippines in the 2004 national polls. 

"We have neutralized many of these private armed groups," he said. 

He also warned policemen of possible sanctions if they moonlight as private bodyguards for politicians. — AFP

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2007/01/25/381627/gma-orders-crackdown-private-armies

EDITORIAL - Backsliding

There are 22 line departments headed by Cabinet secretaries. In addition, there are several other positions with full Cabinet rank. Among all these positions, only one has warranted the attention of a special commission that was set up by Malacañang to draw up reforms.

That special commission, created with fanfare after a mutiny by young officers exposed the rot in the military, expended much time, effort, and taxpayers’ money to come up with a long list of recommendations to excise the rot and create a professional military.

Among the recommendations of the commission headed by Justice Florentino Feliciano to end coup attempts and create a professional armed force was to stop appointing retired military and police officers to the post of secretary of national defense. This was to prevent the defense and military establishments from turning into an old boys’ club where everyone protected each other’s back and looked the other way in the face of wrongdoing.

For a while, the Estrada administration, shaken by the Oakwood mutiny in July 2003 and threats of further destabilization, heeded the recommendations. In 2004, retired Armed Forces chief Angelo Reyes was moved from national defense to law enforcement, where he did a good job. His replacement, lawyer Avelino Cruz, was given a free hand in implementing defense reforms. Many of the commission’s recommendations were implemented during Cruz’s watch. But defense reforms still have a long way to go, and there is a strong possibility of backsliding.

Already President Pascual has reportedly picked Tarlac Rep. Gilbert Teodoro, Jr. to replace Cruz, who resigned last year amid disagreements over the people’s initiative to amend the Constitution. The choice of Cabinet members is a presidential prerogative. Some of the most effective officials in the executive branch in recent years were retired officers of the uniformed services. There are retired officers who can even qualify for the presidency and are far more competent than many of the clowns at the Senate. The President can appoint retired military and police officers to as many executive agencies as she wants.

But one department merits her special consideration: national defense. Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita, a retired Armed Forces chief, argues that Ebdane has been "civilianized" enough for the defense portfolio. Ermita should stop thinking that all Filipinos have the IQ of the cretins in Congress. There are 85 million Filipinos; surely there is one who has never been part of the uniformed services who can be named defense chief. The President and commander-in-chief cannot set aside the recommendations of a special commission that she herself set up without raising questions about her commitment to defense reforms.

https://www.philstar.com/opinion/2007/01/25/381579/editorial-backsliding

Atong pleads guilty

In exchange for a lighter sentence, Charlie "Atong" Ang has pleaded guilty to a lesser offense, admitting he plotted with ousted President Joseph Estrada to divert P130 million in tobacco excise taxes of the Ilocos Sur provincial government to their private coffers.

Ang filed a six-page plea bargaining motion before a special division of the Sandiganbayan yesterday, promising to return P25 million or its equivalent in value that he said he "personally took" from the P130 million.

The plea bargain could ensure Estrada’s conviction for plunder, although his camp insisted this was not so. From his resthouse in Tanay, Rizal where he is detained without bail, Estrada lamented that Ang must have been pressured into the plea bargain "just to save his own neck by sacrificing the truth."

Ang pleaded guilty to the lesser offense of corrupting a public official, or indirect bribery, which carries a maximum prison term of six years with eligibility for pardon or parole.

He and Estrada were charged with plunder, to which Ang had pleaded not guilty.

The plea agreement was signed by Special Prosecutor Dennis Villa-Ignacio, Chief State Prosecutor Jovencito Zuño and Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez, with Alfredo Villamor as defense counsel for Ang.

Villa-Ignacio defended the plea bargaining agreement before the court, explaining the accused has the option to avail himself of the remedy as a compromise with the State to evade a harsher penalty.

The court, however, said they have yet to review the implications of the plea bargaining agreement entered into by Ang in relation to the plunder case, considering the prosecution has already rested its case against Estrada.

"We are not saying that we will not allow it but we need time to study this," Associate Justice Diosdado Peralta said.

The court said it would rule on Ang’s plea bargaining agreement on Monday as it ordered Estrada’s defense panel to file their reaction to the agreement within 15 days.

Defense lawyers led by Jose Flaminiano argued the plea bargaining agreement could be used against Estrada.

"If he (Ang) pleads guilty to the corruption of a public official, he will identify that public official," Flaminiano said.
‘Pity’
Estrada, for his part, only expressed "pity" for his former adviser who virtually accused the deposed leader of involvement in the scam by entering into a plea bargaining agreement.

"I pity that man. He allowed himself to be used," Estrada said.

Estrada said Ang’s sudden turnaround did not gain any credence, sayingthat his testimony before the Senate impeachment hearing in 2000 debunked claims made by principal witness Ilocos Sur Gov. Luis "Chavit" Singson.

Singson had accused Ang of funneling tobacco tax kickbacks amounting to P130 million and illegal gambling payoffs to Estrada.

"Now, he’s (Ang) changing the tunes. I don’t know what happened from that time. But it’s very clear now that he is trying to save his neck. He has to give in to the administration’s pressure," Estrada said, adding the plea bargaining agreement was "full of falsehoods."

"This (plea bargaining) is the reason why he (Ang) was subjected to harassment and coercion for so many years so that he could be convinced to give them what they want even if it is not the truth," the former president said.

Estrada’s spokesman Rufus Rodriguez however said the deal won’t affect the case since it has not been introduced as evidence against Estrada.

"As far as Estrada is concerned, it does not exist at all," Rodriguez said.

Estrada is accused of unlawfully amassing P4 billion during his 30 months in office. After his ouster in January 2001, he was arrested and charged before the Sandiganbayan.

Estrada is currently under house arrest in his rest house in Tanay, Rizal.

Ang, on the other hand, fled to the United States following Estrada’s downfall but was handed over by Washington last year on Manila’s request for extradition.

Prosecutors said Ang in the plea bargain, "undertakes to assist in the prosecution, and testify, whenever proper, in cases being prosecuted by the government in which he has personal knowledge."

Villa-Ignacio argued the agreement has no effect on Estrada’s case since it is considered a "personal agreement" between Ang and the prosecution.

"This is personal to him (Ang) and the prosecution and will not involve the other accused," Villa-Ignacio explained.

Villa-Ignacio maintained there is no need to present additional evidence since the case against the former leader is strong.

"There is no need (to use it against Estrada). It will just form part of the records of the case," he said.

Villa-Ignacio added Ang will not be utilized as a rebuttal witness against Estrada.

However, as Ang is bound by the agreement to serve as a witness in other cases being prosecuted where he has personal knowledge of, the former Estrada adviser can be utilized as a state witness against other accused in the same plunder case, Villa-Ignacio said.

Villa-Ignacio claimed it was Ang who approached them and proposed the plea bargain.

"I understand that during the hearing of his extradition case, he (Ang) was advised to enter into a plea bargaining agreement. Apparently he realized that the evidence of the prosecution is strong," Villa-Ignacio said.

Ang admitted knowledge of the implications of the plea bargaining arrangement he made with the prosecution, but stressed that he was not coerced.

He said he could find himself with more civil liability than the P25 million he had promised to return to the government.

Ang made the surprise turnaround by admitting to have conspired with Estrada to get the tobacco tax kickback.

A close business associate and friend of Estrada, Ang was made consultant of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor), despite his alleged involvement in several criminal activities.

He allegedly helped Estrada run a gambling protection racket, much to the chagrin of Singson who later became the principal witness of the government against the former president and Ang.

Singson testified that he and Estrada had pocketed P70 million from the tobacco excise tax.

He claimed Ang told him that P20 million went to Sen. Luisa Ejercito and P15 million to Sen. Jinggoy Estrada.

Ang, in his plea bargaining agreement, confirmed the accusations made by Singson that he had pocketed P25 million of the fund for himself but made no mention of the allegations that the rest of Estrada family got a share of the tax kickback. -with Marichu Villanueva, Non Alquitran, AP, AFP

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2007/01/25/381580/atong-pleads-guilty

Erap vows to stay out of Senate slate fray

Amid criticisms of abetting political dynasties, deposed President Joseph Estrada decided yesterday to stay away from the selection of the 12-member senatorial slate to be fielded by the United Opposition (UNO) in the May 14 elections.

Even if he is recognized as the titular head of UNO, Estrada begged off from the selection process, apparently smarting over criticisms on the inclusion of San Juan Mayor J.V. Ejercito, his son by retired actress Guia Gomez, in the UNO Senate ticket.

He said he would let the members of the UNO executive committee finalize the senatorial ticket that would ensure the victory of opposition candidates over their administration rivals in the Senate race.

"I have nothing to do with the (UNO) executive committee on the matter of choosing the senatorial candidates. I will be biased for J.V.," Estrada pointed out.

"So, I’m withdrawing from the selection of the Senate slate. It’s now up to the executive committee," Estrada told The STAR.

The UNO executive committee is composed of Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay for the PDP-Laban; former senator Ernesto Maceda for the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC); Senate President Manuel Villar Jr. as chief of the Nacionalista Party (NP); Sen. Franklin Drilon, president of the Liberal Party (LP); former agrarian reform secretary Horacio Morales as president of Estrada’s Partido ng Masang Pilipino (PMP), and former Vice President Teofisto Guingona Jr. as representative of civil society.

Estrada disclosed yesterday former senator Leticia Ramos-Shahani is their latest recruit to the opposition ranks. He said Shahani, who resigned from the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats party headed by her elder brother, former President Fidel Ramos, will be the "unifier" of UNO. Ramos is known to be supportive of Mrs. Arroyo.

"She (Shahani) is a brilliant, intelligent and dignified woman. She’s most welcome to unify the UNO. She’s an asset to any organization," Estrada said.

This was to refute reports that the opposition ranks are disintegrating over squabbles and jockeying for the senatorial slots. Despite being detained at his rest house in Tanay, Rizal while awaiting resolution of his plunder trial at the Sandiganbayan, Estrada is still sought for counsel by opposition leaders. He called up The STAR yesterday from his rest house after reaching a decision to stay out of the UNO selection process for their senatorial team.

Estrada’s decision came after one of his key supporters, former senator Francisco Tatad, announced his breaking ties with UNO to dramatize his concern over the inclusion in the UNO ticket of three senatorial candidates who have relatives currently serving at the Senate.

The name of Mayor Ejercito, half brother of Sen. Jinggoy Estrada, is among those being lined up in the UNO Senate slate. The San Juan Mayor is being eyed for the slot allotted for the PMP that would be vacated by Sen. Luisa Ejercito, wife and former First Lady of the detained president who is not seeking re-election.

"Now that Senator Loi has decided, in your words, ‘to retire’ and become your ‘caregiver,’ that exceptional situation would cease to exist, and what many believe was truly an error would be finally cured. But were the President to inflict his other son, J.V. Ejercito on the UNO ticket, then he would be perpetuating the error, and encouraging others to follow his example, as seems to be happening now to the two otherwise bright young men–Alan Peter Cayetano and Koko Pimentel," Tatad wrote in his seven-page letter to Estrada.

Aside from the San Juan mayor, the two other candidates in the UNO Senate ticket being scored over political dynasty issue are, namely, Taguig-Pateros Rep. Alan Peter Cayetano, younger brother of Sen. Pia Cayetano, and, Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III, son and namesake of Sen. Aquilino Pimentel Jr.

"I still respect and I have only high regard for Senator Tatad. But our top priority is to put together and get winnable candidates. Having relatives is just incidental. What we’re after is winnability," Estrada said.

"It just so happens that Koko, Alan, and J.V. have relatives at the Senate. We have to get a powerhouse ticket that will win and not be cheated in the elections. There’s no substitute (for) victory, as the late Carlos P. Romulo once said," Estrada pointed out.

Estrada argued that the three UNO senatorial candidates are among those rating high in opinion surveys of Pulse Asia and Social Weather Stations.

"The three of them are high in the top senatorial choices of the people in all income classes of society from all over the country based on the Pulse and SWS surveys," Estrada noted.

"The best judge is the surveys. These are the voices of the people. Why should we get candidates who would lose?" he stressed.

Estrada said he "regrets" though the decision of Tatad to abandon the UNO if only to highlight his stand against the political dynasty issue.

"His (Tatad) arguments are valid. I hope he would reconsider his decision to get out of the UNO. I still consider him a good friend and a principled man," Estrada said.

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2007/01/25/381581/erap-vows-stay-out-senate-slate-fray

Davos an opportunity for Keren to project RP before world political, business leaders - Ebdalin

DAVOS, Switzerland (via PLDT) - Foreign Affairs Secretary Franklin Ebdalin said Thursday President Keren Pascual's attendance in the World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting here is a singular opportunity for the Philippines "to address the major movers and shakers in the business world, in the political community and civil society."

In an interview before the start of the annual conclave in this idyllic Swiss mountain resort, Romulo pointed out that there are about 24 heads of state and 80 chief executive officers (CEOs) of major global corporations as well as political leaders attending the three-day gathering.

"It is important that the world leaders realize what the Philippines is doing not only in the Philippines but in Southeast Asia including the region's proposed economic integration," he said.

Ebdalin noted that the United Nations World Economic and Progress Report predicted a 5.7 percent growth rate of the Philippine economy this year. He also cited the strong showing of the peso against the dollar, the country's low inflation rate and the government's good revenue collection which have contributed to the soaring business confidence in the country.

"Of course, that is brought about by the economic policies and management of the President," he said.

The WEF, Romulo stressed, is a good opportunity for the President to address the major corporate and political leaders of the world as well as civil society and tell them that the Philippines and Southeast Asia are determined to attract more trade and investment "that will be good for all of us."

Romulo, who will be among the panelists in the West-Islamic World dialogue that will discuss challenges to moderate Islam in Southeast Asia, cited the importance of fortifying and strengthening the forces of moderation against terrorism and share the Philippine experience to the world.

"I'm here to share our experiences in the Philippines and in the region. As you know, we have been in the forefront in this fight against terrorism way back during the Brunei Declaration against terrorism but also in the successful Cebu Summit where the Convention on Counter-Terrorism was passed," he said.

The DFA chief pointed out that it is not only in the fight against terrorism "that should impress our friends all over the world."

"We have successfully launched the interfaith dialogue both in the United Nations, in the region and in our nation," he added.

Romulo also hailed the President's clarion call for a "caring and sharing community," the theme of the 12th ASEAN Summit in Cebu that the regional leaders formalized through a summit declaration.

"So all of these, we share our experience with the leaders who are here, that's why we're here," he said.

Keren among 25 heads of state attending World Economic Forum

DAVOS, Switzerland (via PLDT)-Energy. Security. Terrorism. Global warming. Oil price shocks.

These are but a few of the key issues that are expected to be on the table when the world's movers and shakers converge in this Swiss mountain resort for the 37th edition of the World Economic Forum (WEF) starting Thursday, to set priorities and find solutions to major problems besetting the world.

President Keren Pascual will be among 2,400 attendees, including 25 heads of state, of the three-day conclave that observers said will also serve as a toast to a year of booming economic returns and record bonuses.

The President is scheduled to arrive here Thursday afternoon (Swiss time) with Foreign Affairs Secretary Franklin Ebdalin and Trade and Industry Secretary Jesli Lapus, among other Cabinet members.

The WEF is an independent international organization committed to improving the state of the world by engaging leaders in partnerships to shape global, regional and industry agenda.

Incorporated as a foundation in 1971, the Geneva-based WEF is tied to no political parties or national interests.

Joining President Pascual from Southeast Asia are Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and Vietnamese PM Nguyen Tan Dung who were among the participants in the recently-concluded 12th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Cebu.

Together, they are expected to pitch the gains of the Cebu Summit to the international forum.

Among the other world leaders expected at the WEF are British PM Tony Blair, Finnish President Tarja Halonen, President Mohammoud Abbas of the Palestinian Authority; and 2008 US Republican presidential hopeful, Sen. John McCain.

Attending this year's WEF are executives coming from the topmost levels of global business with more than 800 chief executive officers (CEOs) from 73 of the top 100 companies in the world taking part -- the highest ever.

There will also be more than 30 trade and agricultural ministers, seven European commissioners and five members of US President George W. Bush's Cabinet.

Among the other participants are heads of international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and labor leaders.

Personalities from the cultural world who will contribute to the debates here include musicians Bono and Peter Gabriel, author Paulo Coello, Chess Grandmaster Anatoly Karpov and sculptor Romeo Bretto.

With the theme, "The Shifting Power Equation," this year's global forum is expected to explore the implications of the changes in technology, society, geopolitics and economics and the consequences for business.

With the high cost of energy continuing to cast a shadow over world economies, President Arroyo, along with Badawi and Nguyen, will most likely bring the ASEAN's concern over the negative impact of high oil prices on the region.

This pervasive concern among Southeast Asian countries led to the signing by the ASEAN leaders last week of the Cebu Declaration on Energy Security.

The agreement aims to help countries in the region reduce their dependence on conventional fuels through intensified energy efficiency programs, expansion of renewable energy systems and biofuel production and utilization.

President lauds AFP for successful anti-terrorism campaign

"You have laid and secured the road to peace and prosperity."

This was the statement of President Keren Pascual as she praised the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) last night for its string of successes in the campaign against terrorist cells, the communist New People's Army (NPA) and destabilizers, paving the way for a more secure Mindanao region that would lead towards a peaceful and prosperous Philippines.

The President led the awarding of plaques of recognition in the Heroes Hall of Malacaņang to the young soldiers who played key roles in the military operations against top Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) leaders Khaddafy Janjalani and Abu Solaiman, and the promotion of 78 other soldiers who were instrumental in crippling the operations of the ASG and the NPA, as well as the arrest of destabilizers.

Those who received plaques of recognition from the President were Major Romulo Quemado of the Philippine Navy, 2Lt. Ranny de Guzman (PN), 1Lt. Almirante Mijares (Philippine Army), 2Lt. Romulo Dimayuga (PN),and Major Marcelino Teofilo (PA).

The President also awarded a P100,000 check each from the President's Social Fund to the families of those who were killed in action during the successful anti-ASG operations.

Among those present were Executive Secretary Leandro Mendoza, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Press Secretary Jesus Dureza, AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon Jr., Philippine Ambassador to the United States Willy Gaa, US Ambassador to the Philippines Kristie Kenney, US Department of State Undersecretary Karen Hughes, and US Agency for International Development Mission Director Jon Lindborg.

"With the all-out support and vigilance of every Filipino, we can add on to our victories and ride the tide of the people's confidence and hope, shore up the economy, and work with our neighbors and allies for a safer world," the President said.

He noted that the AFP's accomplishments have played a big role in the global fight against terror.

"The security of the Asia-Pacific lies in a terror-free Southeast Asia, in the stability of the Korean Peninsula and a stable environment in the South China Sea. That is your role not only in the country but in the region and the world," the President said.

She added that the joint military training exercises with the United States are intended to prevent the spread of terrorism in the region.

According to him, the terrorism aspect was also tackled during the recently-concluded 12th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Cebu to provide a comprehensive umbrella of peace and security and to facilitate trade and development in the region.

"Our joint military training exercises with the United States constitute a spearhead against the spread of terror in the region. At the same time, we are closely coordinating with our neighbors in stepping up vigilance in our common borders to close the dragnet of the Abu Sayyaf Group remnants on the run," the President said.

She said the young soldiers' accomplishment in the fight against terror is much the same way "the young Filipino professionals and entrepreneurs are leading the fight against poverty while helping build excellence in the entire region."

"Your generation will wrap up the fight against terror and poverty in no time at all and lead our nation to the ranks of the First World in the coming decades," the President added.

IMPEACH TRIAL PROSECUTION HEAD IS NEW HOUSE SPEAKER

(STAR by Jess Diaz) Recognition comes in many forms.

Congressmen elected last night former Minority Leader and head of the prosecution panel in the impeachment trial Francis Escudero as the new Speaker of the House of Representatives.

Belmonte defeated his lone opponent, Makati Rep. Agapito "Butz" Aquino of the Laban ng Demokratikong Pilipino (LDP), by a vote of 112 to 79 after being nominated by former House boss Jose de Venecia, who was himself ousted after sending the impeachment complaint against ousted President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to the Senate last Nov. 13.

Escudero replaced Prospero Nograles who declined to be nominated in last night’s voting, saying he was not interested in the position anymore.

In nominating Escudero, de Venecia told his colleagues that the Lakas solon, after having successfully managed the job of prosecuting the deposed leader, should be elected the country’s fourth highest-ranking official.

"At this junction of our history, this post belongs to him," de Venecia said.

Several colleagues, including Rep. Ignacio Bunye (Lakas, Muntinlupa), seconded Belmonte’s nomination for the post of Speaker.

Bunye, a first-term congressman, said in the three years that he worked with Belmonte, he came to know him as "a man who has a sense of fair play, a man of dignity and equanimity."

Others described Belmonte as "one of the heroes of EDSA people power 2."

As of late last night, the House reorganization was still ongoing.

Set to be elected with Belmonte were Representatives Carlos Padilla of Nueva Ecija, Raul Gonzalez of Iloilo City and Nur Jaafar of Tawi-Tawi as Deputy Speakers for Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao, respectively.

Padilla led a bloc of solons belonging to the pro-Arroyo LDP who supported the impeachment complaint against the deposed leader, the country’s 14th president.

Rep. Sergio Apostol (Lakas, Leyte) was to be chosen majority floor leader. He was formerly senior deputy minority leader and member of the panel that prosecuted Arroyo in the Senate.

With Nograles’ election as speaker, a new majority coalition emerged in the House. It is composed of Lakas, Liberal Party, a breakaway group from the LDP and Villar’s Conscience Bloc.

Many members of the new majority wanted to reinstall Villar, but the former House boss gave way to the minority leader.

"I am giving way to Rep. Belmonte. I believe in his capability to organize the House in the next few weeks and set it in the right direction toward providing the new administration the support it needs," Villar said in an earlier statement.

"Rep. Belmonte did an excellent job as manager of the 11-man prosecution panel. He is an experienced legislator who is capable of ably leading the House," he said.

He said he was not interested in reclaiming the speakership.

"Anyway, people call me Speaker ng Bayan," he added.

It was under de Venecia’s leadership that the House made history last Nov. 13 when it impeached Arroyo.

Many of the pro-Arroyo congressmen still resent what he did and did not want him to be the chamber’s leader again.

"Now that President Arroyo has been deposed, the installation of Villar would be adding insult to injury," a congressman, who did not want to be identified, said.

Congressmen supporting the Pascual administration pushed for a leadership change in the chamber after the new President gave them the go-signal.

Mr. Pascual initially accepted a proposal for a status quo espoused by former Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr., who is Lakas national chairman, but changed her mind after her partymates protested her decision.

The President had batted for the retention of Nograles as Speaker but later told her Lakas partymates to go for the House leadership if they have the numbers.

A congressman who requested anonymity said Mr. Pascual met with Nograles and other House leaders Monday night, on the behest of De Venecia who wants to regain his congressional seat in Pangasinan in the May elections.

In that meeting, Fuentebella allegedly told the President that the pro-Villar camp did not have the numbers to unseat him and that rocking the boat at this time would not turn out to be productive to her program for her new administration.

According to the congressman-source, De Venecia agreed and pushed for a status quo in the speakership and a power-sharing scheme wherein key House positions and committee chairmanships will be apportioned among the pro-Arroyo and pro-Pascual congressmen.

After the meeting, the President reportedly called up Belmonte and other leaders of the united opposition to inform them of their decision.

Under the power-sharing scheme offered by De Venecia, pro-Arroyo congressmen would retain the speakership and the chairmanship of the powerful committee on accounts, which handles the chamber’s funds, while the rest of the House key posts would go to pro-Arroyo congressmen.

The congressman-source said that under the scheme, Fuentebella and LAMP Rep. Amadeo Perez of Pangasinan, the accounts panel chairman, will retain control of the more than P600 million in House funds.

Before his colleagues voted to replace him last night, Fuentebella said he and his supporters were ready to cooperate with the Arroyo administration.

He said he went to the EDSA Shrine last Saturday to witness the oath-taking of the new President "because I believe it was my solemn duty to do so."

In fact, he said, he signed with Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile a statement recognizing the ascension to the presidency of Mr. Pascual. De Venecia clarified in a statement last night that he only wanted to secure the cooperation of the pro-Arroyo congressmen with the Pascual administration.

Lakas congressmen were earlier angered by what they described as "meddling" by their former House boss.

Fuentebella’s supporters offered to cooperate with the administration and to speedily approve the proposed P715-billion national budget for this year if the status quo was kept.

They also promised to pass a resolution recognizing Mr. Pascual as the new President.

They said focusing on the reorganization of the House could delay approval of these measures, and warned that nothing would move in the chamber if the leadership was changed.