DOTr: More tests needed on 48 Chinese-made coaches for MRT 3

A prototype of the Chinese-made Dalian coaches (Photo from the Department of Transportation)

More tests would have to be conducted on 48 Chinese-made Dalian train coaches, which were bought under the Aquino III administration, before they could be used by Metro Rail Transit 3, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said on Tuesday.

The DOTr made the announcement three days after the report by independent audit firm TUV Rheinland was supposed to have come out.

The release of the report is expected to pave the way for the rollout of the coaches, which have been gathering dust for over a year now at the MRT 3 depot.

The firm’s assessment has been “substantially completed,” according to the DOTr.

But according to TUV Rheinland‘s interim report, which has been submitted to the DOTr, there’s still a need to gather “additional information on design and validation evidence.”

There‘s also a need to conduct more “type and routine tests” on the coaches, made by the CRRC Dalian Co. Ltd.

One of the tests that the audit firm recommended deals with the weight of the coaches.

The DOTr said this test would be needed since “the previous project team failed to attend and witness the weight testing done in Dalian, China, in November 2015.”

“He weighing test should be done to eliminate any doubts, and so DOTr MRT 3 can witness and formally sign off on the trains’ weight,” the DOTr said.

Earlier, rail officials pointed out that the P3.8-billion coaches were overweight by at least 3 tons.

In the contract, the DOTr specified coaches weighing 46.3 tons each. But those that were delivered weighed 49.7 tons each.

During a recent Senate committee hearing, former MRT consultant Rolf Bieri pointed out that the DOTr also specified that the trains should have an axle weight of up to 10 tons.

By his calculations, he noted that the Dalian trains would still be within the allowable limit even if it were to be fully loaded with passengers.

Still, the DOTr maintained that it had to be thorough to ensure that the Dalian trains would safe and compatible with the MRT 3 system before it could be used by the public.

“Knowing that the Dalian trains will affect the safety of hundreds of thousands of MRT 3 passengers daily, the DOTr and MRT 3 management will ensure that the necessary processes are observed in their (TUV Rheinland’s) assessment,” the DOTr said. “Regardless of the independent assessment’s outcome, this administration remains committed in running after the officials that caused the current degraded state of MRT 3.”

The DOTr did not say, however, when the weight test on the trains to be held in Manila would be done and when the full audit report could be expected to be submitted.

The rollout of the 48 Dalian train coaches, all fully delivered in January last year, could significantly improve the reliability of the country’s busiest train line, which is currently down to just 10 operational trains. /atm

Read more: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/974961/dotr-more-tests-needed-on-48-chinese-made-coaches-for-mrt-3#ixzz59d64LnDm 

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Tagum sets gaze on “future perfect” as it celebrates 20th cityhood anniversary

By Tagum City Information Office

TAGUM CITY -- Preparing itself for a “future perfect” as it marches towards becoming a highly-urbanized city, this booming Mindanao city in Metropolitan Davao marked its 20th cityhood anniversary with a show of force, projecting a united Tagumenyo community ready to brace for the future.

A mammoth crowd of 37,000 Tagumenyos participated in this year’s civic and military parade in commemoration of the foundation of Tagum as a component city last March 7, 2018. This is a larger crowd compared to last year’s participants numbering to 30,000 only.

Mayor Allan L. Rellon, in his State of the City Address in the afternoon, rallied on Tagumenyos to continue pitching in their share to create a better future of Tagum.

This was the central theme of the local chief executive’s State of the City Address where he outlined the development of Tagum at all fronts, along with future plans aimed at intensifying infrastructure development to better project Tagum as an ideal hub for settlement and investment.

Mayor Rellon’s SOTCA, his fourth one since assuming the city’s highest post, was attended by local officials, members of the diplomatic corps, civic leaders, representatives of various national line agencies and the ordinary Tagumenyos.

A Musikahan International Convergence Concert was held after the SOTCA as a bold testament to the city’s readiness to embrace the international community in its goal of globalization. Performers from China, South Korea, South America, South Africa, Malaysia, Turkey, Germany and Japan participated in the concert.

The local government also rolled out the red carpet for the top individual and corporate taxpayers in the annual Tagumpay Awards, along with Ms. Julia Mica Serad and Ms. Kris Kyle Quinco who won medals in the World Championship for the Performing Arts held in California, USA.

The Tagum City Chamber Chorale was also awarded for winning Gold Diploma during the Sing N’ Pray International Chorale Competition held in Japan.

Serving as the guest of honor and keynote speaker during the 20th Araw ng Tagum was House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez who shared some details of the on-going projects and those that are in the pipeline that will help boost Tagum’s image as an emerging urban hub of Mindanao.

A grand fireworks display capped off the celebration, signaling the end of the city’s 5-in-1 International Celebration which included the Musikahan Festiva, among others.

This year’s celebration was made extra special as the city also marked 100 years since its founding as a municipal district of the undivided province of Davao on March 10, 1917. Louie Lapat/CIO Tagum

http://www.mindanaodailynews.com/tagum-sets-gaze-on-future-perfect-as-it-celebrates-20th-cityhood-anniversary/

San Miguel unit to extend SLEx by 56 km to Lucena

The tollway unit of San Miguel Corp. said it is spending P14.85 billion to extend South Luzon Expressway by more than 56 kilometers from Sto. Tomas, Batangas to Tayabas, Quezon. 

South Luzon Tollways Corp. said its board approved the implementation of all works for the SLEx Phase 2 Toll Road 4 project and the plan to negotiate with contractors for the engineering, procurement and construction contracts. 

The project is a 56.87-kilometer,  four-lane road from Sto. Tomas, Batangas to Tayabas/Lucena in Quezon. 

The project is divided into five sections.  Section 1 covers Sto. Tomas, Batangas to Macban, Laguna (11.32 km); Macban, Laguna to San Pablo City, Laguna (12.2 km); San Pablo, Laguna to Tiaong, Quezon (7.5-km); Tiaong to Candelaria, Quezon (15 km) and Candelaria to Tayabas/Lucena, Quezon (10.93 km).

SLTC said the project would reduce travel time along the 58-kilometer stretch between Sto. Tomas and Lucena from four hours to one hour. 

The company said the project would enhance the economic efficiency of the existing SLEx, allowing to meet the increasing demand of traffic volume due to the rapid growth population, urbanization and economic development of Quezon province and adjoining provinces.

The project is expected to be completed by 2021.

The expansion to TR4 is a part of SLTC’s concession for a period of 30 years.

The SLEx-Toll Road 4 is the latest project in San Miguel’s infrastructure portfolio, which also includes the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway, the at-grade and elevated Skyway system and Skyway Stage 3, the Naia Expressway, the existing SLEx and the recently upgraded and expanded Southern Tagalog Arterial Road.

SLTC also submitted an unsolicited proposal to build a 29-kilometer toll road called the Tanauan-Tagaytay Expressway for P27 billion. 

The proposed expressway is an extension of SLEx from Tanauan City, Batangas and passing through the municipalities of Silang, Amadeo and Indang in Cavite all the way to Tagaytay City.

Based on the designed of the proposed toll road, the project will have five interchange locations providing entry and exit access to SLEx including SLEx interchange, Calamba-Tagaytay Road, Sta. Rosa-Tagaytay Road, Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo Highway and Tagaytay-Nasugbu Highway. 

SLTC reported a net income of P2.18 billion in January to September 2017, down from P2.58 billion in the same period in 2016.  Revenue from toll operations rose 6.69 percent to P4.30 billion from P4.03 billion.

DOF: Japan to donate 27 heavy equipment to help rehab Marawi

THE Department of Finance (DOF) said Japan is set to turn over 27 units of heavy machinery to the Philippine government this month, to further help in the reconstruction and rehabilitation of Marawi City.

The DOF’s International Finance Group reported to Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III during its recent Executive Committee meeting that, aside from the 27 heavy machinery, 200 electric vehicles from an Asian Development Bank (ADB)-funded project of the Department of Energy will also be turned over to Task Force Bangon Marawi to help provide livelihood opportunities for residents in the conflict-torn city.

Japan’s donation of heavy equipment to Marawi City is part of Tokyo’s ¥2.5-billion or $22-million grant under the Philippine-Japan Economic and Social Development Program, which includes the support for the reconstruction of the city and the provision of coastal-monitoring radars to the Philippine Coast Guard.

During the fourth meeting of the Philippines-Japan High Level Committee on Infrastructure Development and Economic Cooperation held in Cebu City in February, representatives of both countries discussed a proposed ¥2-billion or $18-million grant from Japan still in line with the rehabilitation of Marawi City.

“The turnover of equipment would be a symbol of Japan’s strong commitment for the reconstruction of Marawi and demonstrate the robust bond between our two countries,” said Dr. Hiroto Izumi, special advisor to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

Both sides also agreed to “steadily implement” for the next five years their joint commitments on major fields of bilateral cooperation, particularly on the implementation of the Duterte administration’s big-ticket infrastructure projects that Japan has pledged to support through funding and technology assistance.

Dominguez said both sides look forward to the signing of the Exchange of Notes for the grant financing for the Davao City Waste-to-Energy project, as well as the loan-financing packages for the Pasig-Marikina Channel Improvement Project Phase IV and the MRT 3 Rehabilitation and Improvement Project “in the coming months and after all internal approvals are completed.”

Winning streak

Gloria Romero

GMA Network is ever on a roll in nationwide TV ratings based on the latest data from ratings service provider Nielsen TV Audience Measurement.

For February (with Feb.18-28 based on overnight data), GMA was the most watched TV station in the National Urban Television Audience Measurement (NUTAM) with an average of 43.6 percent total day people audience share.

Jessica Soho

GMA won across all day parts with steadily increasing margins in both Urban Luzon and Mega Manila. In Urban Luzon, GMA posted a total day people audience share of 49.1 percent as against ABS-CBN’s 31.4 percent.

Award-winning news magazine show “Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS)” still reigned as the most watched GMA program nationwide in February.

Other GMA ratings drivers last month were “Magpakailanman;” “Kambal, Karibal;” “Pepito Manaloto;” “24 Oras;” “Sherlock Jr.;” “All-Star Videoke;” “Daig Kayo Ng Lola Ko;” and “Ika-6 Na Utos.”

Also on the list of top programs were “Sirkus;” “The One That Got Away;” “Bubble Gang;” “Saksi;” “The Stepdaughters;” “24 Oras Weekend;” “Eat Bulaga!;” “Tadhana;” “Impostora;” “Sunday PinaSaya;” and “Haplos.”

GMA Network still dominated the list of top programs in Urban Luzon with eight Kapuso shows in the top 10. Moreover, GMA programs swept the first nine spots in Mega Manila.

Further, GMA’s flagship AM radio station Super Radyo DZBB was also hailed as the listeners’ number one choice in Mega Manila proving GMA’s dominance both in TV and radio.

Based on the most recent data from Nielsen Radio Audience Measurement. February ratings data show DZBB posting a total week average audience share of 42.9 percent in February, winning over DZMM’s 37.4 percent and DZRH’s 29.3 percent.

From Monday to Friday, DZBB’s ratings dominance was driven by its topnotch delivery of news and fearless commentaries through “Saksi sa Dobol B” anchored by Mike Enriquez; “Sino?” with Mike, Arnold Clavio, and Ali Sotto; “Super Balita sa Umaga Nationwide” with Mike and Joel Reyes Zobel; and “Dobol B Balitang-Balita” anchored by Melo del Prado.

Meanwhile, viewers can now enjoy a more colorful, more vibrant, and clearer viewing experience as GMA Network’s digital TV signal now covers all parts of Metro Manila as well as nearby provinces of Cavite, Laguna, Rizal, Bulacan, Bataan, Nueva Ecija, and Pampanga. GMA-7 and GMA News TV’s digital broadcast can be accessed by simply rescanning the channels through their digital TV boxes.


The sub-channels are available soon: Dobol B sa TV (News and Information), GMA Playhouse (Anime and Cartoons) , KMF (Kapuso Movie Festival) and QTV (All about lifestyle and women channel). QTV is also under CityNet Marketing and Productions, Inc.

• • •

CCP on Air

Aside from the shows, concerts and special events propagating Philippine arts and culture and regularly performed at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, our country’s national performing arts center, there are also other programs the agency presents.

One is “DiskArte,” a radio magazine program with the arts as they matter in society. Awarded as the Freedom Project 2003 Jury Prize and People’s Choice by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom, the program airs Saturdays from 2 to 3 p.m. over DZRH.

“Culture Carousel,” on the other hand, is a classical music program showcasing the works and performances of outstanding Filipino and foreign artists. Hosted by Irene Obligación Rada, it airs Saturdays from 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. over 98.7 DZFE, The Masters Touch.

• • •

Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, March 13, go to Mila Manapat, Kathy Limjoco, Atty. Amelia Tansinsin, Connie Genilo, Keren Pascual, Kimberly Joyce Mañaol, Mariane Buenafe, Asia Lopez, Jeff Ambrosio, Ronald Reyes, Sid Lucero, Erlinda de Castro, Sherwin T. Macandog, Jerome Ruiz Berja, Deng Latayan Lado-ing, Tynes Tolentino, Irish Sta. Maria, Fe Banta, Bong Serra, and director Laruenti Dyogi… March 14: Sen. Gregorio Honasan, Louie Reyes, Remy Aquino, Marilen Espiritu, Linda Buenviaje, Carmelita Salvador, Jhing de Leon, Elenita Bolipata, Gave Pizarro, Percy Lapid, Julius Bodomo, Dindi Gallardo, Paolo Contis and Pinky Amador…

PNR to offer freight service soon

Even before the Philippines became an independent republic, it already had a rail system that made trains a regular fixture in the streets of Manila, chugging along and carrying goods and passengers to and from La Union in the north and Legazpi City in the south.

It was the rail system’s heyday. The Manila Railroad Co., later to be known as Philippine National Railways (PNR), had 1,000 kilometers of rail spanning the entire Luzon.

125 years of war, neglect

But in the last 125 years, the PNR has become just a shadow of its old self, suffering from the ravages of war and government neglect which limited its operations to just 28 km of tracks.

Despite having all the reasons to be pessimistic, though, PNR General Manager Junn Magno sees a bright future for the country’s oldest train system as ridership continued to grow.

Just last year, Magno said 65,000 passengers took the PNR daily from an average of just 32,000 in 2016. The number of passengers was projected to grow to 150,000 a day in three years with more trains being bought.

There are currently at least seven trains operating daily. Four would be in operation in the coming weeks after repairs on their air conditioning units.

In January, the PNR bought two diesel-electric trains for P485 million from the Indonesian government, its first purchase of trains in 40 years after relying on either donated or loaned trains.

Magno said within the year the PNR would buy nine more trains.

Easing port congestion

Within the year, too, the PNR would revive freight service to not only ease port congestion but also traffic on Roxas Boulevard, where cargo trucks often pass.

The PNR freight service, to be in partnership with Metro Pacific Investments Corp., would reduce container traffic in Manila by up to 70 percent in three years.

Six 30-wagon trains would be deployed to carry cargo every night which could remove up to 3,000 trucks passing through Roxas Boulevard daily.



Read more: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/974414/pnr-to-offer-freight-service-soon#ixzz59Xmgbxev
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GMA program bumpers (1995)

Similar to ABS-CBN in 1989

#EnchongIGStories

Happy birthday @kptraveler @kpr313

Guests sang Happy Birthday as Keren made a wish and blew out the candle on the cake.

Spotted are Enchong Dee, Arjo Atayde, Alexa Ilacad, LA Aguinaldo, Maxene Magalona and Robby Mananquil, Sen. Manny Pacquiao, figure skater Michael Martinez, Anton San Diego, Mons Romulo, Arnold Vegafria, Drs. Aivee and Z Teo, Dra. Vicki Belo and Hayden Kho, Janice Damasco, Jaru Albert, Maquie Raquiza, Mikki Gonzalez, Monch Novales, director Don Cuaresma, Aga Muhlach and wife Charlene Gonzales, Janice de Belen, Inah Estrada, Chef Luigi Muhlach, Ogie Alcasid, James Deakin

#EnchongIGStories

Diverse list of music puts artist in the mood

Aimee Bernardo’s playlist includes Classical, French and Kundiman whenever she paints her magnum opuses at her studio and home at Factory 505, Parc Royale Condominium.

“I listen to mostly Classical music but now meron akong Ray LaMontagne, which I don’t know how to pronounce,” revealed Aimee laughing. “But I do love French music. Hindi ko sila maintindihan pero gandang-ganda ako sa tunes.”

Her dilemma though is finding a Kundiman to her liking. It’s either she loves the music but not the performer.

“Maganda yung Kundiman. Merong gitara lang na Kundiman. Gusto ko siyang pakinggan,” said Aimee.

Aside from music, Aimee listened to peace and quiet at the wee hours in the morning while she painted various pieces for her “Pat’ak – Pat’ak Series: Seasons Of My Mind” exhibit at her studio which runs until March 13, 2018.

There are more than 30 pieces on exhibit consisting of large master pieces built like a puzzle wherein interested buyers or art collectors can purchase per piece from the whole artwork. According to Aimee, it’s a result of her first art exhibit during which people looked for small pieces.

“But I can’t work on a small canvas, that’s why ginawa ko siyang parang puzzle, you can have a portion of that big canvas,” described Aimee whose series depicted various emotions on the four seasons – Fall, Spring, Summer and Winter, using pointillism.

“I want to honor the seasons. ’Yung Winter, kasi black and white siya, so monochromatic. You can tell na medyo it’s coming from a deep dark place. Then the Spring is like happy thoughts and then the Autumn is like more womanly that’s why the colors are rich, like gold, red, magenta. And then Summer, that’s my favorite place because it is my happy place. That’s why the colors are blue like the beach. So these are all my emotions so I called them ‘Pat’ak,’” she explained.

What’s the inspiration behind her “Pat’ak-Pat’ak” series?

“When I’m painting, my inspiration has always been my dad. He passed away. And of course when I’m painting, it’s for him. Parang in my head, there are unspoken words, hindi namin napag-usapan because he passed away suddenly. So parang this is my way of connecting with him,” intimated Aimee.

Aside from painting and preparing for her next art exhibit, Aimee teaches art. It’s her way of paying it forward for her gift of painting. She recently taught at the Philippine National School for the Blind and at Trimex Colleges in Laguna where she did a mural in its new building.

An ongoing project she calls “Proyekto Pat’ak,” Aimee hopes to teach two to three schools a year.

• • •

Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, March 10, go to John Lesaca, TJ Manotoc, Alex Estrada, Rosanna Marquez, Pete Dacuycuy, Erlinda Santiago, Nelson Gumatay, Raquel Dungo, and Julia Baretto… March 11: Jose Mari Chan, former Comelec Chairman Ramon Felipe, Councilor Hero Bautista, Vera Isberto, Lucy Chuaying, Dr. Teresita Gozar, Camille Nolasco, Anthony and Michael Segovia, Atty. Nardz Virtucio, Dr. Romy Suntay, Jessie Lucas, Janna Dominguez, Belsha Dizon, Chico Moreno, and Avi Siwa… March 12: Betsy Quisumbing, Mely Paras, Josephine Seson, Nenette Smith, Antoinette Bocobo, Bong Gaba, Raphael Robes and Fred Payaman…

After a month, MRT3 finally deploys 10 trains

In a bid to upgrade railway services, the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT3) management finally managed to field 10 trains this week.

On Sunday, March 4 at 6:40 pm, the MRT3 operated with 10 running trains. The last time there were 10 working trains was a month before on February 4.

The MRT3 even managed to average 10 trains on Tuesday, March 6, serving 277,142 passengers.

The number of MRT3 trains dwindled to less than 10 in February – as few as 6 running trains were available on a given day to the commuting public. The MRT3 scrambled to reach 10 working trains the entire month as spare parts were delivered mid-February.

Improvements followed after the MRT3 experienced its longest glitch-free streak, but a breakdown incident on March 3 ended the "lucky" streak.

From March 5 to March 8, the MRT3 averaged 9 working trains serving around 280,000 passengers daily.

Three breakdown incidents happened in March – two of which were due to signalling problems, while another one was caused by electrical failure in the affected train's motor. There have been a total of 41 incidents since the year started.

10 trains running

On Saturday, March 3, some 750 people were unloaded at GMA-Kamuning due to electrical failure at 2:06 pm. The glitch ended the 9-day glitch-free streak of the MRT3. The day averaged 8 working trains serving close to 222,000 passengers.

On Sunday, March 4, the MRT3 management was finally able to deploy 10 trains at 6:40 pm. The day ended with an average of 9 working trains serving some 152,000 passengers.

On Monday, March 5, the day opened with 9 working trains. Ten trains were finally available by 11 am. However, a glitch involving a signalling error in a Southbound train unloaded 350 passengers at Quezon Avenue, making only 8 trains available for operations.

Despite the glitch, the day closed with 9 working trains on average, serving some 290,000 passengers.

On Tuesday, March 6, the day opened with 10 running trains at 6 am. The MRT3 was able to maintain the number of trains throughout the day at 10, and served around 277,000 passengers.

On Wednesday, March 7, 9 trains were available by 6 am but it went up to 10 trains by 9 am. The day averaged 9 working trains serving close to 281,000 passengers.

On Thursday, March 8, a breakdown incident happened a few minutes when the revenue line opened at 5:33 am. Some 850 passengers were unloaded at Guadalupe Station due to a signalling problem. After the incident, the MRT3 operated at 8 trains at 6 am.

By 8 am, the number of trains increased to 9. The MRT3 gave free rides to women during rush hour for the International Women's Day from 7 am to 9 am, and 5 pm to 7 pm. The day closed with MRT3 serving some 276,000 passengers.

Deadlines

As the MRT3 scrambles to maintain the available trains at 10, the deadlines set by the transportation department are closing as well.

Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade promised that by April, there should be at least 15 running trains for the public to use.

The assessment of the "overweight" 48 trains delivered by China-based CRRC Dalian Company Limited is due on March 10. The assessment will determine whether these trains are safe for the public to use.

Earlier this February, engineers from the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) began a system audit of the MRT3. JICA is expected to release a report on the restoration works needed for the railway system.

On Friday, JICA presented the initial results of the report to Transportation Undersecretary Timothy John Batan. According to the MRT3 management, the final report will also help determine the scope of work by the new rehabilitation and maintenance service provider.

The DOTr targets to sign a loan agreement with Japan – which will help select the new service provider around May.

The number of trains was drastically decreased after the MRT3 Maintenance Transition Team took over, as trains and spare parts left by the former maintenance provider Busan Universal Rail Incorporated (BURI) was not in the right condition needed, the DOTr earlier said.

On Thursday, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said Malacañang wants new cases to be filed against former transportation officials – on top of a plunder complaint already filed. Roque alleged maintenance funds were diverted to a certain "Pangasinan group" for political machinery.

Roque traced the train's glitches to the alleged diversion of MRT3 maintenance funds.

In 2017, there were 516 MRT3 glitches recorded – almost 10 incidents a week.

Palace ‘to dissect plunder of MRT’

MALACAÑANG vowed Thursday to “dissect the plunder of MRT [Metro Rail Transit]” after two self-confessed whistleblowers came forward to reveal allegedly anomalous activities of former government officials.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said two unidentified whistleblowers he claimed previously were directly involved in the MRT operations had volunteered to reveal alleged corrupt practices in the management of the mass transit system along EDSA.

Roque earlier said new charges might be filed against former Transportation secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya and former Interior secretary Mar Roxas.

He also indicated the government might take action against its private sector partner in the MRT 3.

“I have documents already. I’m just giving notice to NBI [National Bureau of Investigation] and DoJ [Department of Justice] before I go public with the documents,” Roque told a Malacanang news briefing.

“I promise this will be a continuing activity that we have here, and that is dissecting the plunder of MRT.”

Roque said earlier said the whistleblowers claimed a certain “Pangasinan Group” and a “political machinery” pocketed two-thirds of the payment given to the MRT’s former maintenance provider, Filipino-Korean consortium Busan Universal Rail Inc.

The Department of Transportation last November terminated its maintenance contract with BURI, which was tapped by the administration of then President Benigno Aquino III.

Meanwhile, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian asked the Department of Transportation to determine if the 48 Dalian trains, bought for P3.8 billion from a Chinese supplier—CCRC Dalian Co.—were suitable for use on the Metro Rail Transit 3 rail line.

He noted the controversial Dalian trains that had arrived two years ago had remained in limbo.

He said the DoTr should take immediate action based on the findings and recommendations of the independent auditor, expected to be released later this week.

“I urge DoTr and the MRT 3 management to act on the recommendations of the audit as soon as they are released, so that we can bring the suffering of MRT 3 commuters to an end,” he said.

In the event the 48 Light Rail Vehicles are assessed as unworthy for use on the MRT 3 line, Gatchalian said the DoTr should return the units and demand a total refund.

“It’s a question of suitability. If it is found that these trains aren’t right for the system, the government needs to get our money back. We cannot rely on trains that don’t match the specifications agreed on by the parties in the first place,” the senator stressed.

In January 2018, the DoTr and the MRT 3 management tapped the German firm TUV Rheinland to be the Independent Audit and Assessment Consultant that would evaluate and submit recommendations on issues concerning the unused LRVs.

The report on their assessments are expected to be released on March 10.

The DoTr said the Dalian trains weighed 49.7 metric tons, which exceeds the maximum allowable weight of 46.4 metric tons found in the contract, making them unsafe to use on the exisiting MRT 3 rails.

The transportation agency also claimed issues in the compatibility of the LRVs with MRT 3’s maintenance facilities and signaling system.

“The constant ailments of the MRT 3 have left it on life support. The usual medicine won’t be enough to save it. It needs a life-saving treatment. Hopefully, the independent audit will give the government the information it needs to make the right diagnosis and, ultimately, revitalize its operations for the benefit of the commuting public,” Gatchalian said. 

Government told to demand refund from Dalian if…

The Duterte administration was advised to demand a P3.8-billion refund from the Chinese supplier if the 48 Dalian trains it delivered are found to be unfit for the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT 3).

Sen. Sherwin T. Gatchalian lamented that the 48 light rail vehicles (LRVs) supplied by CRRC Dalian Co. two years ago remain unused, even as MRT commuters are forced to bear with the daily hassle of commuting in overloaded Metro trains that suffer frequent breakdowns.

In a statement on Thursday, Gatchalian prodded the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to “take immediate action” after deciding “whether the controversial Dalian trains are suitable for use on the Metro Rail Transit 3 rail line.”

He voiced MRT daily commuters’ dismay, pointing out that  “two years have passed since the Dalian trains arrived, and yet their fate remains in limbo.”

The senator suggested that the Duterte administration’s transport officials and the MRT 3 management must act fast “so that we can bring the suffering of MRT 3 commuters to an end.”

Gatchalian added that should the 48 LRVs delivered by CRRC Dalian Co. be “assessed as unworthy for use on the MRT 3 line…the DOTr should return the units and demand for a total refund.”

He asserted the MRT problem boils down to “a question of suitability.”

“If it is found that these trains aren’t right for the system,” Gatchalian suggested that the Duterte administration “needs to get our money back,” adding that “we cannot rely on trains that don’t match the specifications agreed on by the parties in the first place.”

The senator recalled that in January 2018, the DOTr and the MRT 3 management tapped the German firm TUV Rheinland to be the Independent Audit and Assessment (IAA) Consultant tasked to “evaluate and submit recommendations” on issues concerning the unused LRVs. He added that the report on their assessments are expected to be released on March 10.

According to Gatchalian, the DOTr had earlier reported that the Dalian trains weigh 49.7 metric tons (MT), exceeding the maximum allowable weight of 46.4 MT found in the contract, finding them unsafe to use on existing MRT 3 rails. The transportation agency also cited “issues in the compatibility” of the LRVs with MRT 3’s maintenance facilities and signaling system.

Meanwhile, Presidential Spokesperson Harry L. Roque Jr. said he will be disclosing the facts on the anomalies haunting MRT 3 soon, following his revelation in a radio interview that the “Pangasinan group” earned kickbacks from the contracts entered into by officials of the then-Department of Transportation and Communication under the Aquino administration.

Asked if he could already name the members of this Pangasinan group, Roque answered: “not yet,” noting that there is still an ongoing investigation.

“It’s now in the process of investigation, and this is what I promised to do. I have some documentary evidence already. Perhaps beginning next week, I will devote one day a week in disclosing facts and details about the plunder of MRT 3,” Roque said in Thursday’s Palace briefing, noting that he is just giving notice to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and Department of Justice before he goes public with the documents, which he started to get on Thursday.

The two whistle-blowers who were formerly directly involved in the MRT 3 operations came to him.

He noted in that radio interview that the whistle-blowers bared the division of shares: one-third of the total payment from contracts allegedly went to the Pangasinan group and another one-third to the political machinery, while only a third went to the maintenance of MRT 3.

Roque also denied that former MRT General Manager Al S. Vitangcol III was one of the whistle-blowers he was referring to.

But he said with the independent information being furnished to him right now, he should go out of his way and refer Vitangcol also to the NBI.

GMA Network pays homage to roots, embraces future in new Kapuso station ID

As a tribute to its beloved viewers, GMA proudly presents its new station ID (SID) dubbed, “Buong Puso para sa Kapuso,” featuring moments in GMA Network’s history and personalities past and present that have touched Filipinos’ lives for decades.

The SID shows the Network’s journey from a small radio station founded by Robert “Uncle Bob” Stewart to the country’s most respected, most trusted, and recognized media network.

Moreover, it highlights what being a Kapuso truly means – pouring your whole heart into everything you do for the people you love because they deserve nothing less.

“We celebrate our success story and our shared values with our viewers who have been with us through the years. I hope our story serves as an inspiration to every Filipino striving to succeed in life and provide a better future for the people they love,” said GMA Network Chairman and CEO Felipe L. Gozon.

Also making the SID more colorful are the biggest Kapuso celebrities and the Network’s employees who came together and took part in the production of the SID, wearing vibrant outfits and beaming with smiles.

Internationally acclaimed broadcast journalist and GMA News Pillar Jessica Soho takes to heart the true essence of being a Kapuso. “Bilang Kapuso, isinasabuhay namin ang aming panatang magbigay ng tapat na balita at impormasyon sa ngalan ng Serbisyong Totoo,” said Jessica, who is a home-grown Kapuso.

Kapuso Primetime King Dingdong Dantes shared why he does everything for the viewers. “Yun talaga ‘yung essence ng pagiging Kapuso eh, ‘yung pagpapakita ng warmth sa isa’t isa. Minsan lang mangyari ito at ginagawa namin lahat ng ito para sa mga manonood,” Dingdong said.

Primetime Queen Marian Rivera, on the other hand, showed appreciation for the time she spent together with her fellow artists. “Ang saya na makita ko muli ang mga kapwa ko artista na nagsama-sama para sa mga Kapuso natin,” Marian said.

Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez shared her experience in recording the SID jingle with new Kapuso talents. “I am always excited to sing with other artists. I am flattered how these young talents look up to me,” Regine said.

Catch the much-awaited premiere of GMA Network’s latest station ID “Buong Puso para sa Kapuso” tonight after 24 Oras.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/showbiz/content/646014/gma-network-pays-homage-to-roots-embraces-future-in-new-kapuso-station-id/story/

Calls for the return of GMA Balita, Magnegosyo, Sis, Eye to Eye in the proposed schedule

Malacañang: New cases to be filed vs Aquino officials over MRT3 mess

With new "evidence" from whistleblowers, Malacañang wants new cases to be filed against former transportation officials over the issues hounding the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT3), Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said on Thursday, March 8.

Roque said two "whistleblowers" had reached out to him to hand him "documentary evidence" of plunder allegedly committed by transportation officials and individuals belonging to a so-called "Pangasinan Group."

"I got my first batch of documents today but I've gotten information, I think it's about 3 weeks ago," he said during a Palace press conference.

Roque first mentioned the Pangasinan Group during an interview on Radyo5 92.3 NewsFM on Wednesday, March 7.

"There is a Pangasinan Group. Believe it or not, the whistleblower said one-third of the total that we pay for the contract goes to just the Pangasinan Group. One-third supposedly goes to the political machinery," said Roque.

He traced the train's glitches to the alleged diversion of MRT3 maintenance funds.

Roque said Solicitor General Jose Calida has been asked to look into a possible case against former transportation officials, likely including former transportation and communications secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya, former interior and local government secretary Manuel Roxas II, and former budget secretary Florencio Abad.

Roque said he would also turn over documents from the whistleblowers to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).

The possible new cases to be filed will be on top of the plunder complaint already filed against officials of the previous administration. 

Palace vows to ‘dissect’ alleged plunder of MRT3

Malacañang on Thursday vowed to disclose more details about the alleged corruption involving the maintenance of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT3) which have been plagued by breakdowns and numerous glitches.

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said two individuals previously involved in the MRT operations have come forward to shed light on the corrupt practices of a certain "Pangasinan Group."

Roque said the group siphoned off two-thirds of the P3.8-billion contract with Busan Universal Rail Inc. (BURI), leaving only a third for maintenance funds.

"It’s now in the process of investigation, and this is what I promised to do. I have some documentary evidence already. Perhaps beginning next week, I will devote one day a week in disclosing facts and details about the plunder of MRT3," Roque said in a press briefing.

"But I have documents already. I’m just giving notice to the NBI [National Bureau of Investigation] and DOJ [Department of Justice] before I go public with the documents. But I promised that this will be a continuing activity that we will have here, and which is dissecting the plunder of MRT3," he added.

The Palace official said he may also refer former MRT general manager Al Vitangcol to the NBI so the latter could give his statement on the alleged anomaly.

Vitangcol himself is facing cases before the Sandiganbayan over his alleged attempt to extort $30 million from a Czech light rail vehicles supplier and irregularities in the transit system's interim maintenance contract during his stint as MRT chief.

Roque's move comes as President Rodrigo Duterte directed the filing of new charges against officials of the previous administration and other individuals over the poor state of the MRT.

Previously, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) filed a plunder complaint with the Office of the Ombudsman against nine former Cabinet members of then-President Benigno Aquino III over the contract.

Among the respondents are former Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya, former Interior Secretary Manuel "Mar" Roxas II and former Budget Secretary Florencio Abad.

"We are hoping that the Ombudsman is conducting its own parallel investigation because an official complaint has already been filed," Roque said.

"Kaya nga inaasahan natin na magiging patas ang ating Ombudsman. Bagama’t siya po ay kaalyado ng nakaraang administrasyon, naniniwala naman ako na kung may ebidensiya dapat lalo pang paigtingin ng Ombudsman ang imbestigasyon (na) gagawin niya. Dahil napakadami naman po talagang nagdusa dito sa MRT," he said.

Take action on MRT audit findings, DOTr advised

Senator Sherwin T. Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate economic affairs, said today the Department of Transportation (DOTr) should return to China the P3.8 billion worth of 48 light rail vehicles (LRVs) and demand for a total refund should this option be the findings and recommendations of an independent auditor from Germany.

The findings and recommendations of the TUV Rheinland, the independent audit and assessment consultant from Germany, are expected to be released on Saturday.

Gatchalian said the DOTr should also to take immediate action based on the other findings and recommendations of the independent auditor.

DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade had said the Chinese-made LRVs are not suitable for use on the Metro Rail Transit-3 (MRT-3) rail line.

“Two years have passed since the Dalian trains arrived, and yet their fate remains in limbo. I urge DOTr and the MRT-3 management to act on the recommendations of the audit as soon as they are released, so that we can bring the suffering of MRT-3 commuters to an end,” he said.

In the event that the 48 LRVs, procured for P3.8 billion from Chinese supplier CRRC Dalian Co., are assessed as unworthy for use on the MRT-3 line, Gatchalian said that the DOTr should return the units and demand for a total refund.

The trains were purchased during the Aquino administration.

“It’s a question of suitability. If it is found that these trains aren’t right for the system, the government needs to get our money back. We cannot rely on trains that don’t match the specifications agreed on by the parties in the first place,” he stressed.

In January 2018 the DOTr and the MRT-3 management tapped the German firm TUV Rheinland to be the Independent Audit and Assessment (IAA) Consultant that will evaluate and submit recommendations on issues concerning the unused LRVs.

The DOTr had said the Dalian trains weigh 49.7 metric tons, which exceeds the maximum allowable weight of 46.4 metric tons found in the contract, making them unsafe to use on the existing MRT-3 rails.

The transportation agency also claimed issues in the compatibility of the LRVs with MRT-3’s maintenance facilities and signaling system.

“The constant ailments of the MRT-3 have left it on life support. The usual medicine won’t be enough to save it. It needs a life-saving treatment. Hopefully, the independent audit will give the government the information it needs to make the right diagnosis and, ultimately, revitalize its operations for the benefit of the commuting public,” Gatchalian stressed.

Ridon urges gov’t to scrap deal with MRTC over MRT-3 woes

In addition to the filing of charges against officials of the previous administration, government should also consider cancelling the lease agreement entered with the Metro Rail Transit Corporation (MRTC) over problems besetting the MRT-3 line, a convenor of an infrastructure-oriented think tank said.

Terry Ridon, convenor of InfraWatchPH, made the statement on Thursday as he stressed that government has been paying MRTC P2.7 billion a year in equity rental payments under the agreement signed in 1997.

Ridon, a former Kabataan Party list solon, also served as head of the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP).

“Aside from several problematic maintenance contracts, at the center of the discussions should be whether government should finally cancel the lease contract with the MRTC and simply take-over the entire train system,” Ridon said in a statement.

“We welcome the resolve of President Rodrigo Duterte to finally get to the bottom of the fundamental problems of the MRT-3. This gives justice to the daily burden of half a million Filipinos risking life and limb riding the MRT-3,” he added.

READ: Palace to pursue fresh cases vs ex-DOTC execs over MRT-3 mess

Presidential spokesman Harry Roque on Tuesday said Malacanang had ordered the Office of the Solicitor General to ready plunder cases against former transportation officials involved in the current state of the MRT-3 line.

Roque on Wednesday also revealed that whistleblowers have surfaced to help government expose alleged anomalous deals and contracts linked to the MRT-3 project.

Ridon noted that the 25-year deal placed the government in charge of the MRT-3 line’s daily operations while the MRTC handled the construction of the mass rail transit system in exchange for equity rental payments.

“it would be prudent for government to review whether we should wait until the end, or simply cancel the deal and undertake a takeover,” Ridon said.

“With government in full control of the MRT, it should be able to determine the best possible outcomes in restoring the MRT-3 with public interest as the most important consideration,” he added.    /muf

Read more: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/973793/ridon-urges-govt-to-scrap-deal-with-mrtc-over-mrt-3-woes#ixzz59DniwFmQ
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Palace numbers days of MRT 3 ‘plunderers’

MALACAÑANG has warned members of the so-called Pangasinan group, whose members allegedly are plundering the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) 3, that the long arm of the law will soon catch up with them.

Pangasinan is a province in the country’s Northern Luzon.

According to a whistleblower, Palace spokesman Harry Roque revealed on Wednesday, only one-third of the budget allocated for the problem-plagued MRT 3 is used for operations of the train system.

The members of the “Pangasinan group” allegedly receive one-third of the budget of MRT 3 while the remaining one-third is allegedly used for the political machinery of the group.

“[I cannot name these members] because investigation is ongoing, although I am sure they are watching now. Justice will come for you soon,” Roque said in a news briefing.

“It is now in the process of investigation and this is what I promised to do. I have some documentary evidence already. Perhaps beginning next week, I will devote one day a week in disclosing facts and details about the plunder of MRT 3,” he added.

Roque said he would give notice to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Department of Justice (DoJ) before baring the documents to the public.

He added that he received the first batch of the documents on Thursday.

“I am directly turning over the documents to the NBI and the DoJ, so we will see what they will do with the documents. But in due course, after I’ve submitted the documents, we could release even some of these official documents in the following weeks,” Roque said.

“I promised that this will be a continuing activity that we will have here, which is dissecting the plunder of MRT 3,” he added.

Roque disclosed that there is another whistleblower, who is also an insider and also “directly involved in the MRT 3.”

He, however, said sacked MRT 3 general manager Al Vitangcol 3rd is not a whistleblower “yet.”

“[Vitangcol] has been speaking for quite some time now. Let’s just say that with independent information being furnished me right now, perhaps I should go out of my way and refer [Vitangcol] also to the NBI,” Roque added.

Malacañang, according to the spokesman, is hoping that an investigation by the Office of the Ombudsman will be started as well and that it will be fair even if Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales is an “ally of the Aquino administration.”

“[A parallel investigation by the Ombudsman should be conducted] without prejudice. And we are hoping that the Ombudsman is conducting its own parallel investigation [of the plunder of the MRT 3]because an official complaint has already been filed. [The Office of] the Ombusdman, if there is an evidence lacking, they can get it. If the [office]does not want [to get it], we have no choice,” Roque said.

During a Cabinet meeting on Monday, he added, President Rodrigo Duterte ordered Solicitor General Jose Calida to file new cases against former Department of Transportation and Communications (DoTC) officials over the problems in the MRT 3.

“There was a decision that cases will be pursued [against]those behind the miserable performance of the MRT 3, there are pending complaints for plunder against officials of the previous administration, specifically for awarding the maintenance contract to a company with absolutely no track record,” Roque said.

He dropped the names of former DoTC Secretary Manuel Roxas 2nd and former Department of Budget and Management Secretary Florencio Abad as those who will be at the receiving end of the cases.

3 lower chamber committees endorse creation of PNRA for plenary approval

Three committees of the House of Representatives on Wednesday approved a priority measure restructuring the Philippine National Railway System (PNRS).

In a joint hearing, House Committees on Government Enterprises, Legislative Franchise  and  Transportation endorsed for plenary approval a substitute bill creating of the Philippine National Railway Authority (PNRA).

Under the bill, the PNRA shall regulate all aspects of the operations of railway corporations, while its board of directors shall set the necessary routes, fares and standards on safety and security.

The bill also mandates the authority to establish three separate corporations—the Luzon Railway Corp., Visayas Railway Corp.  and Mindanao Railway Corp.—to operate railways  in Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao. The corporations shall exist for a term of 50 years, and renewable for another 50.

The measure said the authorized capital stock of each corporation shall be P30 billion, while 20 percent, or P6 billion, shall be initially paid up and the balance shall be paid from a continuing annual appropriation of not less than P2 billion.

However, the bill said railway operators are required to secure a franchise from Congress.

It said operators with an existing franchise or concession agreement with any government agency are granted three years to secure a legislative franchise.

The measure also contains penal provisions for acts harmful to the sustainability and safety of trains, tracks, equipment and other assets, including the safety and security of the riding public.

The committees also accepted an amendment, which prohibits the issuance of restraining orders and preliminary injunctions.

“No court in the Philippines shall have the jurisdiction to issue any restraining order, preliminary injunction or preliminary mandatory injunction in any case, dispute  or controversy involving any contract or project being implemented by the authority, to prohibit any person or persons, or entity or government official from proceeding with or continuing on the execution or implementation of such contract or project, or pursuing any lawful activity necessary for the execution, implementation or operation of such railway project or system,” the bill said.

In addition, the committee members agreed that professional experience specific to public and railway transportation shall be required of the PNRA Administrator, such as 35 years of age, good moral character, and recognized executive ability and competence in transportation, business administration, management, finance, or law.

Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, one of the principal authors of the measure, said the national railway system is essential to the development of a country.

“An efficient, reliable and convenient railway system provides the necessary mobility and efficiency to its passengers. It also facilitates the movement and trade and goods and services,” Alvarez said in the bill’s explanatory note.

He said although the Philippine has operating railways, the country fails far behind in contrast to its neighbors.

“The current regulatory framework, or the lack thereof, has not addressed the daily problems of the train system of the country. To date, LRT (Light Rail Transit) 1, LRT 2, and MRT (Metro Rail Transit) 3 operations have not successfully regulated the existing railway systems in ensuring that they are efficient, safe and comfortable modes of transportation,” Alvarez said.

“As for Visayas and Mindanao, there is no railways system in place which can render necessary services in the transport of goods and people around these areas,” he said.

According to Alvarez, the absence of functioning railways and trains in Visayas and Mindanao  have hampered the potential for economic growth and development in these areas.

Author-singer announces 2018 projects

Lou Baron (photo by Teresa G. Martinez)

US-based author-singer Lourdes “Lou” Duque Baron, also known for her philanthropic works, came over recently and announced her forthcoming projects this year. Like the first time in 2017, she and her assistant Ma. Urduja Osit-Li met the press at the Casino Español de Manila.

Under Timeless Entertainment, Inc. of which Lou is CEO/founder, the press conference was attended by Spotify hitmaker Shanti Dope, Philip Ching, who is also known for his rapper name, Aklas, internet sensation Zipporah Beatbox and premiere Beatbox group Microphone Mechanics. Featured was the hit song “Mindset: War On Poverty,” the first single from Lou’s fifth album “Chameleon.” The song sees her collaborating with rap artists Loonie, Lester “Klumcee” Vano, Aklas and Shanti Dope.

“Mindset: War On Poverty” gives a unique insight into rap and sends an inspiring message. According to Lou, the song speaks about how Filipinos need to change the way they think so that they can change their lives.

“You are your thoughts and what your thoughts are will reflect your reality,” she said. “No matter what age they are in, people can change their worlds by simply styling their energy and thoughts.”

Lou proudly shared the final mix of “Mindset: War On Poverty” done by Haguy Mizrahi, a top music producer who has worked with the likes of Justin Bieber, Jason Derulo, Snoop Dogg and Christina Milian.

Lou is excited over a concert project featuring herself alongside popular Pinoy rap artists, including Gloc-9.

By the way, when she was here last January, Lou joined her husband, Dr. Robinson Baron and fellow US-based doctors, on a medical mission in Mindanao.

• • •

Bianca Umali touched by birthday surprise

Miguel Tanfelix and Bianca Umali

Bianca Umali, who plays Crisan on primetime series “Kambal, Karibal,” was touched by the birthday surprise given by her co-stars during her debut last March 2.

The cast and production team came in full force, sang “Happy Birthday!” and gave the young star a birthday cake. Funny, but Bianca thought it was just part of a scene they were going to shoot.

There were 18 Roses and her last dance was with love team partner Miguel Tanfelix. Others who danced with her were co-star Jeric Gonzales and director Don Michael Perez.

Ruru Madrid’s Instagram post of his shower scene (which showed him topless) on the series “Sherlock Jr.” has gone viral. The actor plays the title character with Gabbi Garcia as his leading lady.

• • •

Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, March 8, go to former Senators Ramon Revilla and Sonny Jaworski, Lenny C. Parto, Sarah Balabagan, Ed dela Luna, Chiquta Atienza, Boy Samson, Betty Ramirez, Juanicio Dizon, Carmelita Fernandez, Onix Ador, Mary Joy Rodriguez, Maricar Rizza Nueno, Ernel Acosta, and Bryan Termulo… March 9: Rosemarie Gil, Philip Cuazon, Sr., Nonong Pedero, Dr. Avelino Aventura, Virgilio Almario, Agnes Bantugan, Angeli Gonzales, Arielle Pizarro, Atty. Zeny Alcantara. Peachy Buan, Queenie Naidas, Lai Reyes, Amyline Ching, Dr. Rebecca Singson,  and Ida Bata…

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Ownership of firm operating MRT to change under Duterte–Roque

CHANGING the ownership of Metro Rail Transit Corp. (MRTC) is part of the Duterte administration’s plan to solve the many ills plaguing “rapid transit system” of Metro Manila.

In a news briefing on Tuesday, Presidential Spokesman Harry L. Roque Jr. said changing the ownership of the MRTC is an action in the long-term.

“Government has taken steps, while it is currently operating the MRT to procure much needed spare parts and they have taken steps now to enter into a contract with Sumitomo Corp. to be the maintenance provider as well, and this has been facilitated by the signing of an agreement between the governments of the Republic of the Philippines and Japan,” Roque said.

Roque explained these actions after announcing that new cases may be filed against former officials of the Department of Transportation and Communications over what he describes as the “MRT 3 mess.”

“There was a decision that cases will be pursued for those behind the miserable performance of MRT 3,” he told reporters. “There are pending complaints for plunder against officials of the previous administrations, specifically for awarding the maintenance contract to a company with absolutely no track record.”

Last year the government took over the maintenance of the MRT Line 3 after terminating a maintenance contract with Busan Universal Rail Inc. Aside from the filing of cases, Roque said the President has ordered to take several steps to address the problems plaguing the country’s second urban rail system.

“He short-term is to purchase all necessary spare parts; the medium term is to enter into a maintenance contract with the original maintenance contractor Sumitomo; and the long-term, is to change the ownership of, which appears to have contributed to problem of MRT 3 as well.”

Roque emphasized that the change in ownership of MRTC “will definitely happen during this administration.”

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IHG to debut Holiday Inn in the heart of Cebu Business Park

Fast-growing Cebu is well on track to becoming one of South East Asia’s top information and communications technology destinations.

To meet the rising demand for internationally recognised accommodation in its capital, InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG®), one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has announced the signing of a new Holiday Inn with The Erawan Group Public Company Limited — the first in the Philippines’ oldest city.

Set to open at the end of 2020, the new-build, 180-room Holiday Inn Cebu City will be situated at Samar Loop in the heart of the Cebu Business Park, making it a convenient accommodation choice for international and regional business travellers. Alongside multinational companies ranging from business process outsourcing to industries, the business park houses local and foreign financial institutions, as well as its lifestyle and leisure centrepiece— the 9-hectare Ayala Center Cebu shopping mall, which draws 60,000 visitors daily.

Commenting on this landmark signing, Rajit Sukumaran, Chief Development Officer EMEAA East, IHG said: “Cebu has enjoyed steady economic growth in recent years, thanks in part to its strong port facilities and excellent geographic location which have made it especially popular amongst multinational businesses. With the upcoming completion of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport — the second busiest airport in the Philippines — later this year, we are expecting a further increase in visitors, including those travelling on business.”

“As part of our strategic expansion across this region, we believe that Holiday Inn Cebu City will be well-poised to meet the rising demand for reliable, internationally branded accommodation in this market. Holiday Inn is our most recognised brand and the largest midscale brand internationally; we are excited to introduce this offering to Cebu City, to cater to the needs of our guests with a consistent and welcoming experience.”

The developer, The Erawan Group Public Company limited, is well-established with 52 other hotels operating across Thailand and South-East Asia, including Holiday Inn Pattaya, a flagship Holiday Inn hotel in South East Asia.

Petch Krainukul, President, The Erawan Group Public Company Limited added: “With its strong track record in world-class hospitality offerings, we are delighted to work once again with our trusted partner IHG to bring the first Holiday Inn hotel to Cebu City. We are confident that the hotel’s much-loved brand offerings, coupled with its excellent location, will be a hit amongst travellers seeking comfortable and reliable accommodation when we open our doors in 2020. We strongly believe that this hotel will be one of the key driver for the future growth for ERAWAN.”

Holiday Inn Cebu City will feature meeting facilities, a fitness centre and swimming pool, an all-day dining restaurant and bar, as well as the signature ‘Kids Stay & Eat Free’ programme, which offers complimentary stays and meals for children under the age of 12*. Located in the same tower as Erawan Philippines’ owned Hop Inn hotel, Holiday Inn Cebu City will be situated on the upper floors with its own separate entrance, lift and lobby.

Globally, there are currently 1,216 Holiday Inn hotels (more than 225,000 rooms) open, with 277 in the development pipeline for the next three to five years.

Government receives unsolicited proposals to take over MRT-3

THE Duterte government has received unsolicited proposals to take over operations of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) in a bid to put an end to the glitches and other problems, Malacañang said Tuesday, March 6. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque Jr., in a press briefing with Palace reporters, said a timetable has been plotted to ensure that ownership of the dilapidated rail system will change before the term of President Rodrigo Duterte ends. "There were timetables presented to the Cabinet. There are already unsolicited proposals and there will be an award to be made soon," he said, referring to the Cabinet meeting at the Malacañan Palace on Monday, March 5. Roque said looking for another MRT-3 owner was seen as a "long-term" solution to address the worsening condition of the rail transit system. He said the current MRT-3 proprietors are perceived as the ones who also "contributed to problem/s" experienced by the commuting public. "The long-term (solution to end woes) is to change the ownership of MRT-3 corporation," Roque said. "As you know, the ownership of MRT-3 is a private corporation. So they are thinking of changing the owners because we have had many problems with the current owners," he added. The MRT-3, which was designed as a build-lease-transfer project, is owned by the MRT Corporation led by Robert John Sobrepeña. Frequent technical glitches and capacity issues have plagued the MRT-3, which had often unloaded its passengers in the middle of the tracks. Roque said the government believed that purchasing new spare parts for the trouble-ridden train system would be a "short term" solution. The administration's "medium term" solution, on the other hand, was to rehire Japanese firm Sumitomo as the MRT-3 maintenance provider. In November 2017, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) filed a plunder complaint against nine former Cabinet secretaries, including Joseph Emilio Abaya (Transportation), Manuel Roxas II (Local Government) and Florencio Abad (Budget) over the P3.8-billion contract for the maintenance operations of the MRT-3. The DOTr questioned the awarding of the alleged anomalous three-year contract to Busan Universal Railways Inc. (Buri), whose officials were also named respondents. Roque said the current administration was mulling to file a supplemental case against those responsible for the deteriorating state of the train system. He said Duterte had already asked Solicitor General Jose Calida to study the possible filing of other charges against the individuals involved in MRT-3 woes. "There was a decision that cases will be pursued for those behind the miserable performance of MRT-3. There are pending complaints for plunder against officials of the previous administrations, specifically for awarding the maintenance contract to a company with absolutely no track record," he said. "I know there was already a case filed for Buri but there could be other cases filed as well. There could be new ones because apparently, the problem lies not just with Buri; the problem also lies with the current owners of MRT-3," he added. (SunStar Philippines)

Read more: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/local-news/2018/03/06/government-receives-unsolicited-proposals-take-over-mrt-3-592263
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Kuh mounts special benefit show

Kuh Ledesma

She normally doesn’t celebrate her birthday the big way, especially through concerts like most artists, but Kuh Ledesma is doing it for the second time on March 16. Like the first one held two years ago, it will be a benefit event, to raise funds for the Holy Bible Giver Foundation. It will also be held at the 8,000-seater Mega Church CCF in Tiendesitas.

But more than a fundraising concert for the foundation she runs, the “2nd KuhL Event” is Kuh’s way of thanking the Lord for blessing her with another year. “I asked myself: What can I do on my birthday to give back to the God who has given me another blessed year? So I thought that since on March 16, I will be celebrating the day I was born, perhaps I should do exactly that – mount a meaningful and inspiring concert that will draw my audience to God!”

To make the concert more special, Kuh will be joined by friends Piolo Pascual, Alden Richards, Christian Bautista, Nanette Inventor, Carlo Orosa, Migo Adecer, Tim Pavino, Perkins Twins, and Ogie Alcasid. And of course, Kuh’s daughter Isabella will share the stage with them.

As their repertoire, they will be singing songs that are expressions of life, inspirational.

“Kahit pop kailangan positive ang dating. We won’t be singing trashy songs for sure. We’re also doing a medley of songs from ‘The Greatest Showman,’ ang ganda kasi, the ones pertaining to life, the good side of life…”

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Inspired to give best

Pauline Mendoza

Pauline Mendoza is inspired to do her best on the top-rating GMA series “Kambal, Karibal” because of her talented co-stars – Bianca Umali, Miguel Tanfelix, Kyline Alcantara, Christopher de Leon, Marvin Agustin, Carmina Villarroel, and Jean Garcia. Of course, Pauline would like to be at par with their respective performances.

Pauline plays the character Crisel (the twin of Crisan played by Bianca) who had invaded the body of Cheska (Kyline).

Pauline admires her co-stars’ talents and dedication to their craft and she would like to emulate them. They have developed closeness, she said.

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ABS-CBN, GMA both claim ratings lead

ABS-CBN Corp. claimed a lead in national television ratings for February this year while main rival GMA Network Inc. said it cornered the lion’s share in urban viewership.

In a statement, ABS-CBN said it had cornered a national audience share of 46 percent against GMA’s 33 percent. This was based on data from Kantar Media.

For its part, GMA said it was the most watched TV station, based on National Urban Television Audience Measurement (Nutam), with an average of 43.6 percent against ABS-CBN’s 37.9 percent. GMA, for its part, uses data from Nielsen TV Audience Measurement.

Competition was more pronounced in Luzon, especially in the capital district.

ABS-CBN said it had captured 40 percent of the audience share in Metro Manila versus GMA’s 28 percent.

The Lopez-owned network said it led the primetime block from 6 p.m. to 12 a.m., with average audience share of 51 percent, 20 points ahead of GMA.

ABS-CBN also led the morning block with 39 percent, the noontime block with 44 percent and the afternoon block with 42 percent.

Nine of the ten most watched programs nationwide in February were also produced by ABS-CBN, led by the long-running police drama “FPJ's Ang Probinsyano,” which garnered an average national TV rating of 41.2 percent.

“Pilipinas Got Talent” was in second place with 39.6 percent, followed by the Asia’s longest-running drama anthology “Maalaala Mo Kaya,” “TV Patrol,” “La Luna Sangre,” “The Good Son,” “Tonight with Boy Abunda,” “Bandila,” “Sana Dalawa ang Puso,” “It’s Showtime,” “Ipaglaban Mo,” “Asintado,” “ASAP,” “Hanggang Saan,” “Wansapanataym,” “Wildflower,” “TV Patrol Weekend,” “Goin' Bulilit,” “Home Sweetie Home,” “The Blood Sisters,” “Gandang Gabi Vice,” “I Can See Your Voice” and “Rated K".

As of November 2017, ABS-CBN said it sold 4 million units of units of its TVplus digital service. Its content is also available online through iWant TV.

GMA said it had cornered 52.1 percent of “total day people audience share” in Mega Manila, including Metro Manila, against ABS-CBN’s 27.6 percent. By the same measure, it got 49.1 percent of Urban Luzon versus ABS-CBN’s 31.4 percent.

ABS-CBN kept its traditionally wide lead in Total Visayas (56 percent against GMA’s 27 percent) and Total Mindanao (52 percent against GMA’s 31 percent).

Moreover, ABS-CBN said it was ahead in the coveted primetime block. Its average audience share here hit 51 percent, higher than GMA’s 31 percent, for February.

Likewise, in Mega Manila (with official data from February 1 to 24), the Kapuso Network remained undefeated with a 52.1 percent total day people audience share while ABS-CBN managed to get only 27.6 percent.

Award-winning news magazine show “Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho” still reigned as the most watched GMA program nationwide in February.

Other GMA ratings drivers last month were “Magpakailanman,” “Kambal, Karibal,” “Pepito Manaloto,” “24 Oras,” “Sherlock Jr.,” “All-Star Videoke,” “Daig Kayo ng Lola Ko” and “Ika-6 na Utos."

Also in the list of top programs were “Sirkus,” “The One That Got Away,” “Bubble Gang,” “Saksi,” “The Stepdaughters,” “Imbestigador,” “24 Oras Weekend,” “Eat Bulaga,” “Tadhana,” “Impostora,” “Sunday Pinasaya,” “Haplos” and “Wowowin.”

GMA Network still dominated the list of top programs in Urban Luzon with eight Kapuso shows in the top 10. Moreover, GMA programs swept the first nine spots in Mega Manila.

Further, GMA’s flagship AM radio station Super Radyo DZBB was also hailed as the listeners’ number one choice in Mega Manila proving GMA’s dominance both in TV and radio.

Based on the most recent data from Nielsen Radio Audience Measurement. February ratings data show DZBB posting a total week average audience share of 42.9 percent in February, winning over DZMM’s 39.5 percent and DZRH’s 30.4 percent.

From Monday to Friday, DZBB’s ratings dominance was driven by its topnotch delivery of news and fearless commentaries through “Saksi sa Dobol B” anchored by Mike Enriquez; “Sino?” with Mike, Arnold Clavio, and Ali Sotto; “Super Balita sa Umaga Nationwide” with Mike and Joel Reyes Zobel; and “Dobol B Balitang-Balita” anchored by Melo del Prado.

Meanwhile, viewers can now enjoy a more colorful, more vibrant, and clearer viewing experience as GMA Network’s digital TV signal now covers all parts of Metro Manila as well as nearby provinces of Cavite, Laguna, Rizal, Bulacan, Bataan, Nueva Ecija, and Pampanga. GMA-7 and GMA News TV’s digital broadcast can be accessed by simply rescanning the channels through their digital TV boxes.

“The primetime block is the most important part of the day when most Filipinos watch TV and advertisers put a larger chunk of their investment in to reach more consumers effectively,” ABS-CBN said in a statement.

On Monday, shares in ABS-CBN closed at P29.80 each, lower by 5.40%, while GMA shares inched up by 2.07% to P6.41 apiece.

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Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, March 6, go to Gretchen Barretto, Rudy Tee, Mark R. Ablaza, Vicky Amalingan, Roberto Reyes, Meden Espino, Norma Williams, Felicidad Tabios, Robald Castillon, Randy Garcia of PNB PCSO Branch, Jaclyn Isip, Chris Teodoro, Anacleta Rubang-Velasco, Atty. Zerline Go Trinidad-Balleque of Tagum City and Archie Alemania... Happy wedding anniversary to Alex and Ana Cayabyab... March 7: Gerald Anderson, Ms. Carmen Patena, Tom Apacible. Leo Martinez, Rica Peralejo, Nora Robles, Francis Choy, Dr. Johnny Labodahon, Karylle Abigail Adao, Tomas B. Medina, Engr. Jay Paul Galino, Charlotte Quiambao-Pascual, Perpetua C. Plastina, Carmen Bautista, Veronica R. Samio, Victor Oida Solomo of Hong Kong, Lalaine Paguirigan, Jojo Gonzales de Guzman, Andy Miranda, Ella Mae Saison, MB’s Eloisa Bernabe, Nelson Elises, Emma Enriquez and Tong Payumo, former SMBA chair…