Journalists urged to fight back amid attacks vs Philippine press

The Philippine press, touted as the freest and liveliest in Asia, is under attack, journalism practitioners said.

Center for Freedom and Media Responsibility executive director Melinda Quintos de Jesus stressed that the dynamism of the Philippine press has been challenged by President Rodrigo Duterte, who has a rocky relationship with journalists and media owners.

“The president has shamed journalists publicly. Various media organizations have seen teams of plainclothes men hanging around their offices. Individual journalists have been trailed, trolled and threatened with sexual assault and crimes against them their families,” De Jesus said during the Jaime V. Ongpin Journalism Seminar on Thursday.

She added that the chief’s executive’s “punishing hand has shown its fist” to media companies such as the Philippine Daily Inquirer, ABS-CBN and Rappler.

Duterte created the Presidential Task Force on Media Security in 2016 to address media killings but has also gone on tirades against journalists and media outlets that have been critical of his policies.

Early in August, Duterte said he is personally against the renewal of franchise of media giant ABS-CBN Corp., which he had accused of swindling him. ABS-CBN’s congressional franchise is due to expire on March 30, 2020.

Last January, the Securities and Exchange Commission revoked the registration of Rappler, in what both local and international organizations called an act against press freedom.

Duterte is defended by bloggers with large followings on social media, who have frequently targeted journalists.

In the 2018 World Press Freedom Index of media watchdog Reporters Without Borders (Reporters Sans Frontières, RSF), the Philippines slipped to 133rd from 127th out of the 180 countries on the list.

RSF also noted that the Philippines is the deadliest country for journalists in Asia after four of five media workers targeted by gunmen were killed in 2017.

Despite the unhealthy conditions that news agencies are facing, journalists cannot just sit down, the CMFR executives said.

“Yes, Philippine journalism is under siege and it needs to rise above itself, to fight back. Courage, principle, ethics, the better way for nation-building are demanded of journalists and would-be journalists,” CMFR board of trustees member Maribel Ongpin said.

“The media must continue their work even while they are watched by those who would rather silence the press,” De Jesus, a veteran journalist, said. — Gaea Katreena Cabico

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2018/08/31/1847513/journalists-urged-fight-back-amid-attacks-vs-philippine-press

TIFFANY and DEBBIE GIBSON live in Manila!

Pop Royalties and 80’s icons Tiffany and Debbie Gibson will perform their HITS back to back for the first time in Manila. September 15 (Saturday), 8PM at the Mall of Asia Arena!

This once in a lifetime concert experience took 30 years to become a reality.

Debates on who is the better singer/performer have been the topic on almost all 80’s and 90’s kids on social media.

Tiffany and Debbie Gibson had a long rumored rivalry during this unforgettable era due to their constant chart battles especially in the latter part of the 80’s.

Tiffany, had a notable cover of “I think we’re alone now” at the age of 16. The debut single became the anthem of teens reaching number 1 on the Pop Singles Chart and her self-titled album reached the peak, selling over 4 million copies. The ballad single “Could’ve been” also rose to the top and some memorable follow ups, “I saw him standing there”, “All this time” and “Radio romance” all became Top 10 hits. Tiffany holds the record for being the youngest female artist to top the billboard charts with a debut album.

Debbie Gibson released her debut album Out of the blue in 1987 and spawned several international hits and was later certified triple Platinum by the RIAA. “Foolish beat” was one of the single in the album that made her the youngest female artist to write, produce and perform a Billboard Hot 100 number one single. The second album “Electric youth” became double platinum and gave Debbie another U.S. number one hit “Lost in your eyes”.

She was the sole songwriter of all of her hits that reached the top 20 of the Hot 100 Charts and was recognized by ASCAP as Songwriter of the Year in 1989.

See them share the stage for the first time in Manila!

Sing along with Tiffany and Debbie Gibson as they perform all the HITS!

September 15. Saturday at the Mall of Asia Arena

VIP P7,420 PATRON P6,890 LOWER BOX P4,770 UPPER BOX P3,710

Tickets available at all SM Tickets outlets and online at www.smtickets.com

For more info: Like @RandomMindsInc on FB @RandomMindsPH on Instagram and Twitter

Duterte hits ABS-CBN anew for alleged 'fake news' on his health

President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday blasted broadcast network ABS-CBN for allegedly spreading false information about his health.

"Bastos 'yang ABS-CBN. Fake news," Duterte said in a mix of Cebuano and English in his speech in Mandaue City.

"ABS-CBN ang nagbandera na malapit na ako mamatay... parang sinasabi na 'I want you or maybe you should die.' Pero sige lang," he added.

Questions about Duterte's health came to fore after Jose Maria Sison, Communist Party of the Philippines founding chairman and National Democratic Front of the Philipppines chief political consultant, claimed in a recent Facebook post that Duterte had lapsed into a coma.

Media outlets then reported on Sison's claim which Duterte refuted by appearing in a Facebook Live video having dinner with a woman and public events last week.

Duterte's fresh tirades against ABS-CBN, whose congressional franchise is due to expire on March 30, 2020, seem to be a turnaround from his conciliatory tone just two weeks ago.

Speaking before during a dinner he hosted on August 14 in Malacañang for the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas, Duterte said he was willing to let go of his beef with ABS-CBN.

The President, however, maintained that he was hurt by the airing of the controversial political ad against him paid for and by Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, a defeated vice presidential bet, in the run up to the May 2016 elections.

ABS-CBN has been a frequent target of Duterte's rants, with the President accusing the network of accepting funds from him without airing his political advertisements. —JST, GMA News

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/666068/duterte-hits-abs-cbn-anew-for-alleged-fake-news-on-his-health/story/?utm_source=GMANews&utm_medium=Facebook&utm_campaign=news

pipirmahin? wala nmn syang sinabi tungkol lang sa balita ng ABS-CBN sa kalusugan niya itong si GMA lng ang nag insert ng tungkol sa franchise ng ABS-CBN

News flash: Updates about FSL BILL on 3rd Reading approved in Senate of the Philippines last August 28, 2018.

The Senate of the Philippines passed on third and final reading a bill declaring “the Filipino Sign Language (FSL) as an official medium of instruction and mode of communications in the country to promote the rights of deaf persons.” With 20 affirmative votes, zero negative votes and no abstention, the Senate approved Senate Bill No. 1455 which would require that “the FSL be taught as a separate subject in the curriculum for deaf learners followed by schools and educational institutions.”

Many thanks to Senators Chiz Escudero, Nancy Binay-Angeles, Bam Aquino and Loren Legarda including all Senators from Senate of the Philippines and also Reps. Antonio Tinio and France Castro including all congressmen & congresswomen from House of Representatives.

After President Duerte sign FSL Bill... then 180-days or 6-months to work for Implementing Rules & Regulations (IRR).

United Nations has 193 countries. World Federation of the Deaf announced that 43 countries had approved Sign Language Law. 19 countries with Sign Language Law without penalties.

Only two Asia countries which recognized Sign Language Law is Japan and Korea.

Many thanks to ALL of you, Deaf & Hearing Advocates of FSL for strong support continuously.

Aktor sa 'Ang Probinsyano' natagpuang patay

SILANG, Cavite - Natagpuang patay si Arnold Corpuz, isang aktor ng teleseryeng "Ang Probinsyano," sa kaniyang bahay sa bayan na ito, Miyerkoles.

Nitong Lunes pa hindi ma-contact ng mga kaanak ang 38-anyos na si Corpuz kaya sapilitan nilang pinasok ang kaniyang tahanan sa Barangay Biga 1.

Tumambad sa grupo ang bangkay ni Corpuz na tadtad ng saksak sa sala. Nakasuot lamang ng underwear at medyas ang biktima.

May nakita namang alak at 3 baso sa balkonahe.

Nawawala ang 2 cellphone at ilang alahas ng biktima, ayon sa pulisya.

Mag-isa lang na nakatira sa bahay ang aktor, pero madalas itong tumanggap ng mga bisita, kuwento ng kaniyang pamilya.

Gumanap si Corpuz bilang alkalde na inambush sa "Ang Probinsyano" na pinagbibidahan ni Coco Martin.

Naging bahagi rin si Corpuz ng mga teleseryeng "Bagani" at "Be Careful With My Heart."

Bukod sa pagiging aktor, pinagkakaabalahan niya ang networking.

Ulat ni Lady Vicencio, ABS-CBN News

http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/08/30/18/aktor-sa-ang-probinsyano-natagpuang-patay

Arroyo: I’m retiring. No plan to run for anything in 2019

Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Wednesday said that she is not planning to seek any government seat in the 2019 midterm elections.

The former president stressed that nothing can stop her from retiring next year.

“I am retiring… I don’t plan to run for anything in 2019,” Arroyo, who is on her last term as representative of Pampanga, said in an interview on CNN Philippines’ The Source.

Arroyo also dismissed speculations that she aims to become prime minister once the proposed shift to a federal form of government pushes through.

She claimed that the position of prime minister was not provided in the draft of the federal charter prepared by the Consultative Committee which is tasked to review the 1987 Constitution.

“Let me tell you, it’s not in the draft that’s submitted by the administration. So, therefore, I have no plans to become prime minister,” she said.

The 71-year-old lawmaker added that she was impressed by some of the young congressmen she’s currently working with.

“I’m confident when they take over the reins of government, they will do a good job. It’s really time for us to retire,” Arroyo said.

“I’m looking forward to my retirement, I look forward to writing my memoirs,” she added.

House passes bill requiring paid 10-day incentive leave for workers

The House of Representatives approved on third and final reading a bill which seeks to require a 10-day yearly incentive leave with pay for employees, in a bid to “boost the workers’ morale, wellness, and productivity.”

With 203 voting in the affirmative, zero in the negative and no abstention, the lower Chamber passed House Bill 6770, which specifically seeks to amend Article 95 of Presidential Decree No. 442, as amended, otherwise known as the Labor Code of the Philippines.

Once enacted into law, every employee who has rendered at least one year of service would be entitled to a yearly service incentive leave of 10 days, from the current five days.

In an earlier statement, Baguio Rep. Mark Go, who principally-authored the bill, said the prevailing law does not require employers to grant sick and vacation leaves.

The current five-day service incentive leave and other incentives are given based on the prerogative of the employers, either by expressed stipulation on the employees’ contract or through a collective bargaining agreement, he added.

However, the provision would not apply to those who are already enjoying such benefit, those enjoying vacation leave with pay of at least 10 days, and those in establishments regularly employing less than 10 employees or in establishments exempted from granting this benefit by the Secretary of Labor and Employment after considering the viability or condition of such establishment.

Go pointed out that the granting of paid leaves is beneficial to the employees and economically advantageous to the employers.

“The granting of such incentive boosts the morale and satisfaction of employees which is manifested in their increased productivity. Leave credits also minimize the risks of health and safety issues among employees which may be even costlier for both employers and employees in the long run,” he said.   /kga

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1026240/house-passes-bill-requiring-paid-10-day-incentive-leave-for-workers

Senate ratifies coco levy fund bill

The Senate ratified on Wednesday the bicameral conference committee report on the bill seeking to establish a trust fund for coconut farmers.

The measure’s consolidated version was approved by the congressional bicameral conference committee on August 1.

Senator Cynthia Villar, the author of the bill, said 3.5 million farmers are expected to benefit from the measure.

The government, according to the senator, would allot P10 billion a year for the trust fund while P5 billion a year would come from the P105 billion coco levy fund, which could last up to 25 years.

Once ratified by both chambers of the Congress, the bill would be transmitted to President Rodrigo Duterte for signature.   /vvp



Read more: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1026239/senate-ratifies-coco-levy-fund-bill#ixzz5PfhMhadU
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House OKs bill to establish ‘Timbangan ng Bayan Centers’ in markets nationwide

The House of Representatives on Wednesday approved on third and final reading a bill that seeks to establish “Timbangan ng Bayan Centers” in all public and private markets nationwide and penalize those who tamper weighing instruments after these are officially sealed.

With 199 affirmative votes, zero negative votes and no abstention, the lower Chamber has approved House Bill 7857 principally authored by Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

Arroyo earlier said the establishment of Timbangan ng Bayan Centers would provide the buying public with an effective means of checking the accuracy of the weight and quantity of the goods they are buying.

The bill specifically seeks to amend Republic Act No. 7394, or the “Consumer Act of the Philippines.”

The proposed measure would insert a new Article 62-A in Chapter 11 of RA 7394 which mandates all local government units (LGUs), through their provincial, city or municipal treasurers, to establish Timbangan ng Bayan Centers in all markets nationwide, public or private, including flea markets or tiangges.

Once enacted into law, instruments for determining weights and measures would be open for and accessible to anyone who needs to verify the accuracy of the quantity and measurement of the products they purchase, according to the bill.

The safekeeping and maintenance of said instruments would also be under the control and supervision of the market supervisor who would likewise be in charge of keeping a record of every product found to be wanting in quantity or substandard in dimension, as well as the establishment where the product was bought, including the name of the proprietor or manager thereof.

The prohibited acts relative to weights and measures provided under Article 64 of RA 7394 would likewise apply to Timbangan ng Bayan instruments.

Further, the bill seeks to amend Section (h) of Article 64 of RA 7394 so that it should be prohibited for any person “to fraudulently alter, tamper, vandalize or destroy any scale, balance, Timbangan ng Bayan, weight or measure after it is officially sealed.”

The bill likewise seeks to amend Article 65 (Penalties) of RA 7394, so that “any person who shall violate the provisions of paragraphs (a) to (f) and paragraph (l) of Article 64 or its implementing rules and regulations shall, upon conviction, be subject to a fine of P50,000 to P300,000  or by imprisonment of one year to five years, or both upon the discretion of the court.”

The present penalty includes fine of P200 to P1,000 or imprisonment of one year,  or both, upon the discretion of the court.   /kga

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1026226/house-oks-bill-to-establish-timbangan-ng-bayan-centers-in-markets-nationwide

Lawmakers approve bill transferring control of four police academic institutions to PNP

The House Committee on Public Order and Safety chaired by Rep. Romeo Acop (2nd District, Antipolo City) today approved the substitute bill to House Bill 3153 authored by Rep. Gary Alejano (Magdalo Party-List) and HB 5787 authored by Rep. Leopoldo Bataoil (2nd District, Pangasinan), which seeks to transfer the administrative supervision and operational control of four police academic institutions from the Philippine Public Safety College (PPSC) to the Philippine National Police (PNP).

These are the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA), National Police Training Institute (NPTI), National Police College (NPC), and National Forensic Science Training Institute (NFSTI).

The transfer of their administrative supervision and control to the PNP shall require the amendment of Sections 24, 66 and 67 of Republic Act No. 6975 or the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Act of 1990, as amended by RA 8851.

PNP Chief Director-General Oscar Albayalde, who attended the hearing, thanked the authors of the proposal and the committee members for approving the bill despite the opposition of PPSC President Ricardo de Leon during the deliberation.

Albayalde said the PNP has earmarked P 390 million in the 2019 national budget to implement the transfer. He urged Congress to support the PNP's funding request during the budget deliberation tomorrow.

The substitute bill provides for a five-year transition period for the transfer of administrative supervision and operational control from the PSSC to the PNP, upon the effectivity of the Act.

The PNPA shall continue to accommodate cadets for the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) for their education and training.

During the transition period, the DILG, in consultation with the PPSC, shall have the authority to create a separate academy for the BJMP and the BFP.

Alejano said the current structure of having multiple offices to administer the training programs within the PNP creates lapses in coordination. In fact, he said studies conducted by the PNP Reform Commission and the United Nations Development Programme revealed that the set up is ineffective and costly.

"The current set up further makes it difficult to develop a system for a well developed plan and budget for training of the PNP," said Alejano.

Moreover, Alejano said the quality of performance of police officers who completed their training in the PPSC marred the reliability and credibility of the PPSC as a training institution.

"The ineffectiveness and inefficiency in the structure and system frequently result in unnecessary cost and waste of resources and efforts because the PNP conducts its own re-orientation and specialization training program, thus duplicating those of the PPSC," said Alejano.

Meanwhile, Bataoil said his bill calls for the transfer of administrative supervision and operational control of the PNPA and NPTI as well as the personnel and all the properties, equipment, funds, among others, to the PNP.

"It will ensure continuous appropriate training and doctrine development for the PNP, with the end in view of instilling the highest sense of police discipline, achieving the highest level of competency for its uniformed personnel and attaining the highest standard of professionalism," said Bataoil.

Aside from Acop, Bataoil, Alejano, other lawmakers who attended the hearing were Reps. Edgar Sarmiento (1st District, Samar), Gus Tambunting (1st District, Paranaque City), Arnolfo Teves, Jr. (3rd District, Negros Oriental), Henry Oaminal (2nd District, Misamis Occidental), Amado Espino, Jr. (5th District, Pangasinan), Rozzano Rufino Biazon (Lone District, Muntinlupa City), and Winston Castelo (2nd District, Quezon City). | Jojo Menorca

Senate passes bill promoting Filipino sign language

Senate Bill 1455 aims to establish FSL as the official language of the deaf community to 'promote their identity, expression, and communication'

The Senate approved on 3rd and final reading the bill seeking to declare Filipino sign language (FSL) as an official medium of instruction and mode of communication in the Philippines.

Senate Bill (SB) 1455, sponsored by Senator Paolo Benigno Aquino IV, aims to make FSL the official language of the deaf community to “promote their identity, expression, and communication.” It was passed with a unanimous 20 votes on Tuesday, August 28.

“The use of sign language in the Philippines dates back to 1596. FSL has since evolved to be an effective visual language that is well-researched, based on Filipino culture and history, and even incorporates indigenous elements,” Aquino said in a statement.

What the bill wants: If the bill becomes law, FSL will be used as the medium of instruction in schools when educating deaf students. A separate subject teaching FSL to deaf learners would also be included in schools’ curriculums.

FSL will also be the official mode of communication used in government transactions involving those who are deaf. This will be facilitated by FSL-trained interpreters who will be posted in government offices.

According to Aquino, the use of FSL in government transactions will significantly help deaf Filipinos have a “fair share” in the country’s justice system, particularly in the courts and police stations.

The proposed bill also will also make FSL an official means of interpretation in broadcast media to deliver news and information “consistently” to the deaf community.

To do this, the proposed measure tasks the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWP), the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP), the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) to create a national standards for interpreting FSL in religious and media.

Why this matters: Senator Nancy Binay, co-sponsor of the bill, said that with FSL recognized as an official mode of communication in the Philippines, Filipinos who are hard of hearing can exercise their right to expression and opinion without prejudice.

“The State should recognize and promote the use of sign languages embodying the specific cultural and linguistic identity of the Filipino deaf,” Binay said.

SB 1455 was co-authored by Senators Francis Escudero, Loren Legarda, Joel Vullanueva and Juan Miguel Zubiri.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/210594-senate-bill-filipino-sign-language-official-mode-communication

Senate OKs Ifugao's Sept. 2 holiday on Yamashita surrender

The Senate approved on third and final reading a bill that would declare Sept. 2 as a special non-working holiday in the province of Ifugao in commemoration of the surrender of Japanese General Tomoyuki Yamashita in the province at the end of World War II.

House Bill No. 5553 was sponsored by Senator Sonny Angara, chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Government, and was approved with 19 affirmative votes, zero negative vote, and no abstention.

Angara said the special non-working holiday in Ifugao aims to mark the surrender of Yamashita, then commander of the Japanese Imperial Army in the Philippines, on Sept. 2, 1945 at Kiangan, Ifugao.

Angara noted that after Yamashita's surrender in Ifugao, the general turned over Camp John Hay in Baguio City to the combined forces of Filipinos and Americans liberating the country.

"For communities to progress, we must also consider honoring and learning from our history and the people who were part of it," Angara said.

Under the bill, the provincial government of Ifugao, the municipal government of Kiangan, along with the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), and the Military Shrines Service (MSS) are tasked to "lead appropriate and meaningful commemorative programs and activities" in relation to the event.

Such activities, according to the bill, will "give significance and honor to the heroes and heroines, who contributed to the Philippines’ liberation from the Japanese forces."

Yamashita, who surrendered his forces several weeks after the announcement of Japan's surrender on Aug. 15, 1945, was later found guilty of war crimes and sentenced to death in 1946.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1046228

Filipino Sign Language bill hurdles final reading in Senate

A bill declaring the Filipino Sign Language (FSL) as an official medium of instruction and mode of communication has been approved by the Senate in the third and final reading on Tuesday.

“Let’s establish the official language for the deaf, the Filipino Sign Language, to promote the right of the deaf community in the Philippines to their identity, expression, and communication,” Senator Bam Aquino, sponsor of Senate Bill No. 1455 or the FSL bill.

“The use of sign language in the Philippines dates back to 1596. FSL has since evolved to be an effective visual language that is well-researched, based on Filipino culture and history, and even incorporates indigenous elements,” he added.

“This would be particularly helpful in our courts and police stations so that deaf Filipinos have a fair share in our justice system,” Aquino said.

According to Senator Nancy Binay, who co-sponsored the proposal, there is a need to adopt standards that would guide Filipinos who are deaf and those who have a hard time hearing.

“The State should recognize and promote the use of sign languages embodying the specific cultural and linguistic identity of the Filipino deaf,” Binay said.

Once the bill is enacted, Filipinos with hearing problems would have avenues to express their views and opinions without being hindered by their condition.

FSL would be used to teach deaf Filipinos, as a separate subject in educational institutions for deaf learners.

The measure — co-authored by Senators Francis Escudero, Loren Legarda, Joel Villanueva and Juan Miguel Zubiri —  will allow the government to employ FSL-trained interpreters who will communicate with the deaf in government transactions.

Aquino said with the FSL bill, those with hearing problems will understand what is being discussed, through interpretation in television programs.

The bill will require the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF), the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP), the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) and other stakeholders to create a national system of standards and accreditation for FSL interpretation in the religious and media.   /vvp

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1025748/filipino-sign-language-bill-hurdles-final-reading-in-senate

Residents urged to register, vote in Bangsamoro plebiscite

By Ali Macabalang

COTABATO CITY – Qualified voters in areas proposed for coverage by the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) should register in nearest Commission Election (Comelec) offices to vote in a plebiscite that will be called to ratify the organic law of the new region.

Ghazali Jaafar, chairman of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) that crafted the draft of RA 11054, issued the appeal in an interview by The Manila Bulletin over the weekend.

“Every residents of voting age should register to be able to help build the basic foundation of the Bangsamoro entity,” said Jaafar, who is also first vice chairman of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

Jaafar said speakers from the MILF and the government, as well as concerned volunteer groups, have already prepared for field information campaign to persuade residents to register and enlighten them on the provisions of RA 11054.

RA 11054, which the 17th Congress passed in early July and was by signed President Duterte into law on July 27, seeks the creation of BSARMM in replacement of the 28-year old Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

ARMM covers Maguindanao, Lanao de Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi provinces and the cities of Marawi and Lamitan.

It also seeks the conduct of a plebiscite within 150 days upon its enactment for voters in the proposed Bangsamoro territory to decide whether or not they want to be included in the new entity.

Elected top officials in Lanao del Sur and Marawi City as well as Maguindanao have recently expressed support for the ratification of the new law in their respective domains.

Cotabato City Mayor Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi has earlier sounded off resentment in the inclusion of her turf in BARMM, citing the fiscal capacity of the city to operate on its own.

In an earlier interview, Jaafar said elected officials in areas to be covered by BARM should allow their residents to “decide freely” come plebiscite day.

He warned all sectors that either opposed to or adamant about the proposed BARMM not to resort to electoral frauds for their “own vested interests.”

He said the MILF and majority of the “common people” consider the proposed BARMM as the “last card” in putting an end to decades of armed conflict in Southern Philippines.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/08/28/residents-urged-to-register-vote-in-bangsamoro-plebiscite/

New bill seeks to penalize use of sidewalks for commercial, personal use

MAGDALO partylist Rep. Gary Alejano has proposed to penalize the use of sidewalks for commercial and personal purposes.

He said adequate sidewalk areas must be maintained to allow safe pedestrian passage and for the safety and convenience of wheelchairs, strollers, and similar instruments.

“The country’s sidewalks have become so crowded with stores and stalls selling food or rendering various kinds of services, so much that pedestrians have no choice but to walk roadside, exposed to all kinds of road hazards. The end result is the exacerbation of the already dismal traffic situation and the overcrowding of roads, ” Alejano said.

He filed House Bill 8017 seeking to clear sidewalks from unauthorized commercial or personal use in order to facilitate the smooth passage of persons as well as to clear all obstructions to traffic and vehicular flow.

“As such, this bill aims to penalize the use of public roads and sidewalks for commercial and personal purposes,” the former Marine captain said.

HB 8017 or the proposed “Unobstructed Sidewalks Act” prohibits the use of streets, sidewalks, avenues, alleys, bridges, parks, and other public spaces for commercial and personal purposes.

Prohibited acts, under the bill, include vending or selling food, magazines, newspapers, cigarettes, brooms, watches or jewelries, shoes, and other items; conduct of shoe-shine occupation; washing clothes, hanging clothes and bathing; vehicle parking or repair; use of sidewalk for storage of construction materials for sale; house or stall/store extension; and installation of permanent or picket fence.

Violators of the proposed Act shall pay a fine ranging from P10,000 to P30,000 or face a penalty of six months to one year-imprisonment.

Officials of the local government units (LGUs) who fail to implement the proposed Act will be held administratively liable, Alejano warned.

Erring mayor, barangay chairperson or any designated local officer shall also be penalized by a fine ranging from P100,000 to P500,000, HB 8017 provides.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/08/27/new-bill-seeks-to-penalize-use-of-sidewalks-for-commercial-personal-use/

Duterte backs proposed renaming of Mactan airport

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte said Monday, August 27, that he is amenable to the proposal of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) to rename Mactan-Cebu International Airport to Lapu-Lapu Airport.

During the commemoration of the National Heroes' Day in Taguig City, Duterte said it "deeply pains" him that Mactan valiant chieftain Lapu-Lapu did not get the proper recognition, reiterating that the country's hero was even demoted to a fish name.

"As a footnote, just a vignette of life, Lapu-Lapu was the first Filipino to kill a foreigner who invaded our country," the President said.

"But sadly -- he was a Visayan, I think he was a Moro, still in the Visayas -- history forgot him. He was the first hero and designated a certain species of fish and called it “lapu-lapu.” That is why it pains me deeply to see lapu-lapu being eaten every day, escabeche, fried, and all sorts of recipe," he added.

Duterte made the remark after NHCP chair suggested to change the name of Mactan-Cebu International Airport to Lapu-Lapu Airport.

Prior to the President's keynote speech, NHCP chair Rene Escalante proposed the renaming of the airport in Cebu, in an effort to "popularize and immortalize" Lapu-Lapu's name in the country and all over the world as well.

"In close coordination with local government units and legislators, the NHCP will support the renaming of Mactan International Airport into Lapu-Lapu Airport so his name will be popularized and immortalized here and abroad," Escalante said.

"We will also propose the creation of a national monument and park for Lapu-Lapu in Cebu," he added.

On April 27,1521, Lapu-Lapu led the tribal men who fought and won against Spanish invaders led by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan.

Escalante bewailed that despite Lapu-Lapu's efforts to defend the country from foreign rule, the Mactan valiant chieftain was one of the heroes who are "least appreciated and studied."

"He (Lapu-Lapu) remains among the least appreciated and studied heroes of the country. In fact, most of our textbooks nowadays have more pages about Magellan the loser than Lapu-Lapu the winner," Escalante said.

"With this in mind, the NHCP considers the celebration of the fifth centenary of the circumnavigation in the world in 1521 as the perfect opportunity to bring Lapu-Lapu in the limelight. On the part of NHCP, we shall follow the impetus of conducting historical studies and conferences on Lapu-Lapu," he added.

In a chance interview after the event, Duterte expressed support to Escalante's proposal.

"Yes," Duterte said, when asked if he is willing to rename Mactan-Cebu International Airport to Lapu-Lapu Airport.

"Why you...? Alam mo (You know), Magellan was the first invader to set foot here in the Philippines. It was Lapu-Lapu who fought him. Why is he (Magellan) more honored in this country?" he added. (SunStar Philippines)

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1760102/Manila/Local-News/Duterte-backs-proposed-renaming-of-Mactan-airport

“The Hows of Us: How to Love and Unlove”

The book “The Hows of Us: How to Love and Unlove” is being released by ABS-CBN Publishing and Star Cinema to coincide with the opening on Aug. 29 of the movie “The Hows of Us,” topbilled by the popular loveteam of Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo. Fans, who were titillated by Daniel’s admission that they’ve been an “official twosome” since five years ago, will certainly welcome the book as an apt “companion piece” to the movie directed by Cathy Garcia-Molina.

The book takes off from the plot of the movie and goes in-depth in the unsaid thoughts and feelings of a couple, Primo (Padilla) and George (Bernardo). What did they feel when they first saw each other? How did they fight for their love during the tough times? How did they cope when it’s time to give up?

Aside from Primo and George’s own stories of loving and unloving, fans also shared their stories through social media. Choosing to be featured in the book are the most moving stories and the most inspiring pieces of advice.

About the movie, KathNiel said the story is perfect for their growing maturity as artists. “As we grow older, naghahanap kami ng may laman na istorya, at ibang-iba itong movie na ito sa lahat ng nagawa na namin. Its worth watching by everyone, even the young kids,” Daniel said. From Kathryn, “hindi naman kami pinipilit na tumanda, tama lang sa edad namin ang roles namin sa ‘The Hows of us.”

* * *

Tidbits: Happy birthday greetings today, Aug. 27, go to erswhile “Movie Queen” Amalia Fuentes, Sen. Leila de Lima, Ogie Alcasid, Ben Chan, Liceria Soriano, Benjie Lim, Dra. Marilyn Marzan-Olalo, Marilou Lao, John Edgar Lara, Tessie C. Castro, John Delmer Go, Andrew Bryan Sapigao, Dr. Jose Benedicto, Jillianne Mohammad and Pokwang… Aug. 28: Ofie Jacomina, Mary Grace Santos, Miles Yulo, Rita Dee, Arnel Anasco, Mona Gonzalez, Patricia Culala, Domini Torrevillas, Luna Inocian, Frederick Miguel Lopez, Catherine Ong, Karleen Cabanes, Peaccy Nicole Roces, JC Paraon Diaz, Chinee Ocampo, Julio Veloso, Jover Laurio, Bore Sec, Janina Reyes-Firme, BJ Guerrero Nicolas, Monch Novales and Max Collins… Aug. 29: Jamie Rivera, Oskar Atendido, Jeric Mariano, Prof. Candida Agcaoili, Dr. Nellie Yu, Nita Trofeo, Teresa Arnaiz, Shelby Payne and Richard Suaco-Ante… Aug. 30: Ariel Inton, Carlos Palanca III, Edgar Mortiz, Anna Marie Baradi, Ed Sy, Andrea Ruth Robinson, Albert M. Gerilla, Priscilla Valdecanas, Jericho Ejercito, and Manny Garcia…

INC telecommunications franchise gets House OK

THE House of Representatives recently passed on third and final reading a bill extending the telecommunications franchise of Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) by another 25 years.

With 224 affirmative votes and zero negative, House Bill 7753 will allow the INC to continue operating its private telecommunications or electronic communications services in the Philippines as well as with other countries.

The measure has been transmitted to the Senate.

In a statement, San Jose Del Monte City Rep. Florida P. Robes, principal author, said the INC as an “ever-expanding religious organization… needs to use and maintain a private telecommunications network to serve its proselytization.”

“Immediate accessibility to pastoral guidance and counselling on a regular basis is a must for such an organization conscious about direct implementation of religious instructions to its locale officers and members,” she added.

Under the measure, the INC will be required to secure a Certificate Public Convenience and Necessity and other necessary permits from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC).

The NTC has the authority to regulate the construction and operations of the INC’s telecommunications system.

The franchise to establish a radio stations for private telecommunication was first granted to the Iglesia ni Cristo through Republic Act (RA) 4339 in 1965. Its franchise was extended for another 25 years from 1994 through RA 7225.

Under the measure, the INC will be required to apply for the renewal or extension of its franchise five years before its expiration. Further, the franchise shall be deemed ipso facto in the event the grantee fails to operate continuously for two years. — C.A. Tadalan

http://www.bworldonline.com/inc-telecommunications-franchise-gets-house-ok/

Mountain Province leaders say Cordillera autonomy would strengthen infra dev’t

OFFICIALS OF Mountain Province, expressing full support for the passage of the bill creating the Autonomous Region of the Cordillera (ARC), said autonomy would strengthen infrastructure development in the region given its distinctive terrain.

Provincial Administrator Amador P. Batay-an, in a statement released by the Regional Development Council, cited that standards set by the national government through the national line agencies’ central offices for national roads and school buildings are not suitable for the kind of topography the Cordillera has.

“The main reason why the province cannot or could hardly avail of certain assistance is that existing road systems cannot meet the width criteria set by some road programs or projects. In cases also of school buildings, the DPWH (Department of Public Works and Highways) is having problems with lack of bidders as the projects’ costs are for infrastructures meant to be built in the lowlands and not for the kind of terrain Mountain Province has,” said Mr. Batay-an, who is also chair of the Provincial Taskforce on Autonomy and Federalism.

Under the proposed ARC, contained in House Bill 5343, the region would have more independence in terms of drafting guidelines and implementing policies on infrastructure development.

“We fervently wish that autonomy be established first in the Cordillera because whether we will be federated or not, as long as we have become the Autonomous Region of the Cordillera, it will still be very good for our region,” Mr. Batay-an said.

"Meteor Garden" is back!

the Meteor Garden series (Meteor Garden, Meteor Rain and Meteor Garden 2)- the first daily Chinese drama-comedy and the first daily Asian drama that set the trend of Asian dramas and Asian drama-comedies on Philippine TV. It was aired last May 12, 2003 on Channel 2, the network's main channel.

Now, the show is now re-aired at 3:15 P.M. as part of the ABS-CBN Kapamilya Gold block, while 8:00 PM on Jeepney TV (channel 9 on SkyCable). The digitally restored and remastered version has dropping the Chinese subtitles and the format was in 16:9 1080p HDTV. The voice dubber is Benjie Dorango as Dao Ming Si, portrayed by Jerry Yan.

The opening theme song is "Can't Help Falling in Love with You" by Harlem Yu, while the ending theme songs are "The Love You Want" by Penny Dai and "Meteor Rain" by F4. The three music videos were aired with Tagalog subtitles.

It returned last Aug. 20, 2018 at 5:45 pm replacing The Blood Sisters.

Theme Song
Opening Theme: "Can't Help Falling in Love with You" by Harlem Yu

情非得已

作詞：張國祥
作曲：湯小康
編曲：Jamie Wilson

難以忘記初次見你 一雙迷人的眼睛
在我腦海裡 你的身影 揮散不去
握你的雙手感覺你的溫柔 真的有點透不過氣
你的天真 我想珍惜 看到你受委屈 我會傷心

只怕我自己會愛上你 不敢讓自己靠得太近
怕我沒什麼能夠給你 愛你也需要很大的勇氣
只怕我自己會愛上你 也許有天會情不自禁
想念只讓自己苦了自己 愛上你是我情非得已

難以忘記初次見你 一雙迷人的眼睛
在我腦海裡 你的身影 揮散不去
握你的雙手感覺你的溫柔 真的有點透不過氣
你的天真 我想珍惜 看到你受委屈 我會傷心

只怕我自己會愛上你 不敢讓自己靠得太近
怕我沒什麼能夠給你 愛你也需要很大的勇氣
只怕我自己會愛上你 也許有天會情不自禁
想念只讓自己苦了自己 愛上你是我情非得已

什麼原因 我竟然又會遇見你
我真的真的不願意 就這樣陷入愛的陷阱

只怕我自己會愛上你 不敢讓自己靠得太近
怕我沒什麼能夠給你 愛你也需要很大的勇氣
只怕我自己會愛上你 也許有天會情不自禁
想念只讓自己苦了自己 愛上你是我情非得已

愛上你是我情非得已

English Version "Can't Help Falling in Love with You"

Authors: Zhang Guoxiang
Composer: Tang Xiaokang
Arranger : Jamie Wilson

Hard to forget the first time you see a pair of charming eyes
In my mind, your shadow haunting
You hold your hands feel really gentle little breathless
I want to cherish your innocence wronged , I will be sad to see you

I'm afraid I 'll fall in love with you afraid to let yourself get too close
Afraid I have nothing to give you love and you need a lot of courage
I'm afraid I 'll fall in love with you maybe one day will not help
Just let yourself miss his suffering love you are my last resort

Hard to forget the first time you see a pair of charming eyes
In my mind, your shadow haunting
You hold your hands feel really gentle little breathless
I want to cherish your innocence wronged , I will be sad to see you

I'm afraid I 'll fall in love with you afraid to let yourself get too close
Afraid I have nothing to give you love and you need a lot of courage
I'm afraid I 'll fall in love with you maybe one day will not help
Just let yourself miss his suffering love you are my last resort

What reason would I actually met you
So I really, really do not want to fall into the trap of love

I'm afraid I 'll fall in love with you afraid to let yourself get too close
Afraid I have nothing to give you love and you need a lot of courage
I'm afraid I 'll fall in love with you maybe one day will not help
Just let yourself miss his suffering love you are my last resort

I love you is a last resort
Closing Theme Song:  "The Love You Want" by Penny Dai

你要的愛(戴佩妮)

作詞：戴佩妮
作曲：戴佩妮

雖然經常夢見你 還是毫無頭緒
外面正在下著雨 今天是星期幾
But I don't know 你去那裡

雖然不曾懷疑你 還是忐忑不定
誰是你的那個唯一 原諒我懷疑自己

我明白 我要的愛 會把我寵壞
像一個小孩 只懂在你懷裡壞

你要的愛 不只是依賴
要像個大男孩 風吹又日曬 生活自由自在
雖然不曾懷疑你 還是忐忑不定

誰是你的那個唯一 原諒我懷疑自己

我明白 我要的愛 會把我寵壞
像一個小孩 只懂在你懷裡壞

你要的愛 不只是依賴
要像個大男孩 風吹又日曬 生活自由自在

我明白 我要的愛 會把我寵壞
像一個小孩 只懂在你懷裡壞

你要的愛 不只是依賴
要像個大男孩 風吹又日曬 生活自由自在

English Version
You have to love (Penny Tai)

Lyrics: Penny Dai
Composer: Penny Tai

Although often dreamed you still have no idea
Today is raining outside of the week
But I don't know you go there

Although never doubted you still disturbed uncertain
Who are you to forgive me suspect that the only

I know I would love to spoil me
Like a child in your arms only know how bad

You have to love not just rely on
To the wind and the sun like a big boy living freely
Although never doubted you still disturbed uncertain

Who are you to forgive me suspect that the only

I know I would love to spoil me
Like a child in your arms only know how bad

You have to love not just rely on
To the wind and the sun like a big boy living freely

I know I would love to spoil me
Like a child in your arms only know how bad

You have to love not just rely on
To the wind and the sun like a big boy living freely

F4 

流星雨
作詞：鄔裕康
作曲：平井堅

周渝民：

溫柔的星空

應該讓你感動

我在你身後

為你佈置一片天空
言承旭：

不准你難過

替你擺平寂寞

夢想的重量

全部都交給我
吳建豪：

牽你手

跟著我走

風再大又怎樣

你有了我

再也不會迷路方向
全體：

陪你去看流星雨落在這地球上

讓你的淚落在我肩膀
要你相信我的愛只肯為你勇敢

你會看見幸福的所在

言承旭：
傷感若太多
心丟給我保護
疲倦的煙火
我會替你都趕走
周渝民：
燦爛的言語
只能點綴感情
如果我沉默
因為我真的愛你
朱孝天：

牽你手

跟著我走

風再大又怎樣

你有了我

再也不會迷路方向
全體：

陪你去看流星雨落在這地球上

讓你的淚落在我肩膀
要你相信我的愛只肯為你勇敢

你會看見幸福的所在

吳建豪：

雨和雲漸漸散開

灑下一片溫暖

我要分享你眼中的淚光
全體：

陪你去看流星雨落在這地球上

讓你的淚落在我肩膀
要你相信我的愛只肯為你勇敢

你會看見幸福的所在
陪你去看流星雨落在這地球上

讓你的淚落在我肩膀
要你相信我的愛只肯為你勇敢

你會看見幸福的所在
吳建豪：

你會看見

幸福的所在

F4 "Meteor Shower"

Authors: WU Hiroyasu

Composer: Ken Hirai

Vic :

Gentle Star should let you touched me as you arranged the sky behind you

Jerry :
You are not allowed to be sad for you to settle all the weight of loneliness dream to me

Vanness Wu :
follow me hold your hand and then a big wind and how you have never lost my direction

Plenary :
accompany you to see the meteor rain falls on this earth to make your tear drops on my shoulder

I want you to believe that love is only willing to brave for you where you will see happiness

Jerry :
Sad if too tired to protect my heart threw fireworks are off , I will for you

Vic :
brilliant speech only embellishment feelings if I was silent because I really love you

Ken :
Follow me hold your hand and then a big wind and how you have never lost my direction

Plenary : 

accompany you to see the meteor rain falls on this earth to make your tear drops on my shoulder

I want you to believe that love is only willing to brave for you where you will see happiness

Vanness Wu : 

Rain and clouds gradually disperse shed I want to share a warm tears in your eyes

Plenary :
accompany you to see the meteor rain falls on this earth to make your tear drops on my shoulder

I want you to believe that love is only willing to brave for you where you will see happiness

Accompany you to see the meteor rain falls on this earth to make your tear drops on my shoulder

I want you to believe that love is only willing to brave for you where you will see happiness

Vanness Wu :
You will see where happiness lies

絕不能失去你

作詞：李焯雄
作曲：湯小康
編曲：Kenn C

(言)沒有你　我會是誰　心停在哪裡都不對　拿今天擦掉昨天　空白一片
(周)哪一天在哪一天　可以繼續未完情節　在這交叉點　誰陪在你身邊
(朱)就算全世界都要把你否定　也不能讓我放棄你
(吳)就算我們的過去都沒有了證明 (吳+朱)我依然守護你
(合唱)Oh Baby Baby Baby MY Baby Baby 我絕不能失去你
(合唱)你手心　你聲音　還佔領我的心　怎能忘記　想你就像是呼吸
(合唱)Oh Baby Baby My Baby Baby 我絕不能失去你
(合唱)不管你在哪裡　我一定會找到你
(言)有一天　會有一天　用流星雨見證誓言
(周)你將會發現永遠　並不遙遠

(吳)就算全世界都要把你否定　也不能讓我放棄你
(吳+朱)就算我們的過去都沒有了證明　我依然守護你
(合唱)Oh Baby Baby Baby MY Baby Baby我絕不能失去你
(合唱)你手心　你聲音　還佔領我的心　怎能忘記　想你就像是呼吸
(合唱)Oh Baby Baby My Baby Baby 我絕不能失去你
(合唱)不管你在哪裡　我一定會找到你

(合唱)Oh Baby Baby My Baby Baby 我絕不能失去你
(合唱)你手心你聲音　還佔領我的心　怎能忘記　想你就像是呼吸
(合唱)Oh Baby Baby My Baby Baby　我絕不能失去你
(合唱)不管你　在那裡　我一定會找到你
(合唱)不管你　在哪裡　我一定會 (吳)找到你

CAN'T LOSE YOU
F4

(Jerry)
Without you, who am I?
Wherever my heart stops it doesn't seem right

(Vic)
On which day? Whereabouts can we carry on the unfinished love
At the cross roads, who is beside you?

(Ken)
Even if the world denies you
It won't make me give you up

(Vanness)
Even if our past has nothing to prove it

(Vanness & Ken)
I will stay by you

(All)
Oh Baby baby baby, my baby baby
I definitely can't lose you.
Your hand your voice still taking up my heart
How can I forget thinking about you is like breathing?
Oh Baby baby, my baby baby
I definitely can't lose you
Don't care where you are
I definitely will be able to find you

(Jerry)
One day there will be a day using meteor rain to prove our promises

(Vic)
You will find out forever isn't far

(Vanness)
Even if the whole world denies you
It can't make me give you up

(Vanness & Ken)
Even if our past has nothing to prove it
I will stay by you

(All) Oh Baby baby baby, My Baby baby
I definitely can't lose you
Your hand your voice still taking up my heart
How can I forget thinking about you is like breathing?
Oh baby baby, my baby baby
I definitely can't lose you
Don't care where you are

I will be able to find you

House approves bill extending Iglesia ni Cristo telecom franchise for 25 years

The House of Representatives unanimously approved on third and final reading House Bill 7753, which seeks to extend for another 25 years the franchise granted to the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church of Christ), under Republic No. 4339, as amended by RA 7225, to install, maintain and operate private telecommunications or electronic communications services throughout the Philippines and between the Philippines and other countries and territories.

The bill principally authored by Rep. Florida Robes (Lone District, San Jose Del Monte City) got the nod of all 224 House Members who were present during the voting. The bill has been transmitted to the Senate for action.

Robes said the maintenance of private telecommunications networks is an acceptable practice among large organizations for their efficient interconnection over extended geographical areas. The need for privacy and exclusivity for transmission and exchange of information is served by this, she said.

Robes said the Iglesia ni Cristo, being an ever-expanding religious organization, that disseminates uniform bi-weekly preaching in all its regular religious congregations nationwide, and even worldwide, needs to use and maintain a private telecommunications network to serve its proselytization.

“Immediate accessibility to pastoral guidance and counselling on a regular basis is a must for such an organization conscious about direct implementation of religious instructions to its locale officers and members,” said Robes.

The bill seeks to extend for another 25 years the franchise granted to the INC. This shall amend RA 443, as amended by RA 7225 which extended the INC’s franchise to construct, install, establish and operate radio stations for private telecommunications to another 25 years from February 10, 1994.

The INC shall be bestowed the right to construct, establish, install, maintain, lease, purchase, and operate the corresponding transmitting and receiving stations, satellites, lines, systems, networks, international gateways, local exchanges, and platforms as it may consider necessary, convenient or reasonable.

The term telecommunications shall include “electronic communications” which shall refer to services that are principally conveyed by means of an electronic communications network of signals.

The grantee, which is the INC, shall secure from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) and the appropriate permits and licenses for the construction, installation, and operation of its telecommunications systems or facilities.

The NTC shall have the authority to regulate the construction and operations of the INC’s telecommunications system. The grantee shall not use any frequency in the radio spectrum without authorization from the NTC.

Moreover, the grantee shall seek prior approval from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the local government unit (LGU) concerned, to excavate or lay conduits in any of the public places, roads, highways, streets, lanes, alleys, avenues, sidewalks, or bridges of cities, provinces, or municipalities.

The grantee shall conform to the ethics of honest enterprise and not use its stations for the dissemination of deliberately false information, or wilful misrepresentation, or assist in subversive or treasonable acts.

Likewise, the grantee shall improve and extend its services in areas not yet served, and in hazard- and typhoon-prone areas that shall be determined by the National Disaster Risk and Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC) in coordination with the NTC.

The franchise shall be extended and in effect for a period of 25 years from the date of effectivity of the Act, unless sooner cancelled or revoked. The franchise shall be deemed ipso facto in the event the grantee fails to operate continuously for two years.

The grantee shall submit an annual report to the Congress of the Philippines, through the House of Representatives Committee on Legislative Franchises and the Senate Committee on Public Services, on its compliance with the terms and conditions of the franchise on or before April 30 of every year during the term of its franchise.

Other authors of the bill are Reps. Manuel Jose Dalipe (2nd District, Zamboanga City), Franz Alvarez (1st District, Palawan), Aileen Radaza (Lone District, Lapu-Lapu City), Jose Tejada (3rd District, North Cotabato), Anna Katrina Enverga (1st District, Quezon), Jorge Banal (3rd District, Quezon City), and Baby Aline Vargas-Alfonso (2nd District, Cagayan), among others. | Rowena B. Bundang

SGMA shows how Clark International Airport is the better alternative to NAIA

Former President and now Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo today reiterated her stand on making the Clark International Airport (CIA) in Pampanga the alternative to decongest the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

Speaker Arroyo gave the media an impromptu tour today on the ongoing expansion of the CIA in response to queries if she would push for CIA as an alternative to NAIA in the light of the Xiamen incident.

"Actually I have been for it and it’s not because of any specific knee jerk reaction to any event. That's why after our lunch I want to invite the media to go to the ongoing construction of the Clark airport," she said in an ambush interview after she distributed relief goods to more than 600 Aeta families in upland Sitio Pasbul in Brgy. Camias, Porac in Pampanga.

She then invited the media to visit the ongoing expansion of CIA and asked project managers to hold a briefing on the construction of the second terminal.

The terminal will increase the current 2.5 million passengers per year capacity of the current terminal to 10 to 12 million passengers per year. It will be operational by June 2020.

Alex Cauguiran, President of CIA, said the210-hectare CIA is the better alternative to NAIA because it can accommodate up to three runways and 80 million passengers a year.

Cauguiran said aside from decongesting NAIA, the expansion of the Clark airport is part of a bigger development plan for North and Central Luzon as the new terminal will complement other infrastructure projects in the area which include the Manila-Clark Railway, Subic-Clark Cargo Railway, and the New Clark City. It is the first hybrid project of the Build, build, build infrastructure program of the Duterte administration.

Inquirer Lifestyle Series: Fitness Fashion 10th Anniversary: Robi Domingo and Enchong Dee

So how about them adidas Ateneo team wear? 

I like the blue hoodie -- its fabric, color, and white stripe. 

The windbreaker is fine. 

The tees I don't. Especially the one that says: 

"1987. 1988. 2002. 2008. Bring the pride back." 

Now why the hell is that so? It's as if we lost our pride even if we weren't winning. And after this season, unless we win then that shirt is off to used clothing stores or rags.

- From "Wear your colors" by Rick Olivares, August 5, 2008

Nowadays that former Gigger Boys members Robi Domingo and Enchong Dee met together in Your Song Presents "Boystown" in 2009, Bench Uncut denim and underwear show at Araneta Coliseum in July 2010 and Pinoy Big Brother: 737 in 2015.

The two of them that Robi loves Gold's Gym, while Enchong loves Bodyworx Spa and Fitness Club.

To recall, Mr. Dee would wear Jins MCF-15S-126 Optical Eyeglass, 2009 Adidas DLSU hoodie (green), 2011 Nike exclusive De La Salle Dri-Fit tee (white), the BENCH/ body brief, belt (blue) and OJ pant (black) and DC Men's At-3 Mid Shoe, Royal Blue/Armor would be exhibited at BENCH/ stores nationwide because he was in Bench Uncut also got wild cheers from the audience and he shows his athletic side with these dance moves, and doing workouts at Bodyworx Spa & Fitness Club instead of Anytime Fitness Dona Hemady before doing a photo shoot at BENCH/ Tower.

Jins MCF-15S-126

2009 Adidas DLSU hoodie (green)

2011 Nike exclusive De La Salle tee (white)

BENCH/ BODY brief

BENCH/ OJ pant (black), belt (blue) and brief

DC Men's At-3 Mid Shoe,Royal Blue/Armor

"When Enchong Dee made his entrance at this year’s Bench Universe show, he owned the night in no less than an aerial canoe, looking every bit the gladiator with his toned body and feisty stance." (Metro, November 2012)

While for Domingo, the former Pinoy Big Brother: Teen Edition Plus second big placer and Ateneo de Manila University graduate who wears JINS Airframe U377 (Faded Charcoal), 2008 adidas Ateneo Sesquicentennial jacket (Blue/White), GetBlued Designs “We Fight for the Blue and the White” Tee (Blue) and BENCH/ Furne One’s Far East collection men’s costume white sando and denim pant and  appeared in the said show when he ripped his sando in the Furne One's Far East segment.

A Twitter user who said "Nakakatawa yung ginawa ni Robi Domingo sa Bench Uncut."

JINS Airframe U377 (Faded Charcoal)

2008 adidas Ateneo Sesquicentennial jacket (Blue/White)

GetBlued Designs “We Fight for the Blue and the White” Tee (Blue)

In addition, the 2008 adidas Ateneo teamwear tees (blue with three white stripes) with the words "1987. 1988. 2002. 2008. Bring the pride back" would be included.