Plebiscite to ratify renaming of Compostela Valley to Davao de Oro set on December 7

By Leslie Ann Aquino

The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has set the plebiscite to ratify the renaming of the province of Compostela Valley as the province of Davao de Oro on December 7.

The poll body set the date of the plebiscite in Resolution No. 10600, promulgated September 11.

This was pursuant to Republic Act No. 11297, the law aiming to rename Compostela Valley as Davao de Oro, dated April 17, with the COMELEC mandated to set the daye and supervise the conduct of the plebiscite.

Based on the resolution, the casting of votes will be held from 7 a.m. until 3 p.m. on the day of the plebiscite.

The counting and canvassing of votes shall then follow with the proclamation of plebiscite results expected at its conclusion.

In the same resolution, the Comelec also prescribed the Calendar of Activities and Periods of certain prohibited acts in connection with the plebiscite.

The Plebiscite Period is from November 7 to December 14. During this period, it will be prohibited to carry or transport firearms and other deadly weapons in public places.

It shall also be prohibited to transfer or detail officers and employees in the civil service; suspend local elective officials; illegal release of prisoners; and organize or maintain strike forces.

The Information and Campaign Period will begin on November 7, and will end on December 5.

Prohibited acts during the period are removing, destroying, obliterating, defacing, tampering or preventing distribution of lawful election propaganda to mention a few.

There were a total of 462,942 registered voters in Compostela Valley in the May 2019 national and local elections.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/09/13/plebiscite-to-ratify-renaming-of-compostela-valley-to-davao-de-oro-set-on-dec-7/

ABS-CBN franchise renewal not yet calendared by House panel, says report

Hindi pa umano inaaksiyunan ng Committee on Legislative Franchises ng House of Representatives ang mga panukalang batas na inihain ng ilang mambabatas na naglalayong mapalawig ang prangkisa ng broadcast giant na ABS-CBN sa susunod na 25 taon.

Sa March 20, 2020 nakatakdang mapaso ang legislative franchise ng Kapamilya network.

Ibig sabihin, hindi na sila maaring mag-broadcast sa radyo man o telebisyon kapag hindi na-renew ang franchise nila.

Ayon sa ulat ng POLITIKO kahapon, September 11, ipinagpaliban ng komite na talakayin ang tungkol sa prangkisa ng ABS-CBN, taliwas sa tatlong iba pang aplikante ng franchise renewal.

Ayon kay Committee on Legislative Franchises chairman, Palawan First District Congressman Franz “Chicoy” Alvarez, ang tatlong iba pang franchise applications ay naaprubahan na ng House panel kaya naisama ito sa agenda.

Nakapasa na rin daw ito sa pangatlong pagbasa noong 17th Congress.

Nakasaad sa Section 48 ng House Rules na pinapayagan nitong mas mabilis aksiyunan ang mga nauna nang panukalang batas na nakapasa sa ikatlong pagbasa sa lumipas na Kongreso.

Hindi raw nakasama sa kalendaryo o agenda ang tungkol sa ABS-CBN franchise renewal kaya hindi pa ito naaaksiyunan ng komite.

Wala raw naka-schedule na hearing ang Committee on Legislative Franchises ngayong 18th Congress dahil abala pa ang mga kongresista sa pagtalakay sa 2020 National Budget.

May halos pitong buwan na lamang mula ngayon upang ma-renew ang prangkisa ng ABS-CBN at makapagpatuloy ito sa pagsasahimpapawid ng kanilang mga programa sa radyo at telebisyon.

MORE LAWMAKERS FILE BILLS TO RENEW ABS-CBN FRANCHISE

Umabot na sa limang panukalang batas ang inihain ng mga mambabatas sa Mababang Kapulungan ng Kongreso na naglalayong mapalawig ang broadcast franchise ng ABS-CBN.

Una na rito ay ang House Bill 676 na inihain ni Nueva Ecija Second District Representative Micaela Violago, na inihain niya sa Committee on Legislative Franchises noong July 24, 2019.

Sumunod dito sina House Deputy Speaker at Pangasinan Third District Representative Rose Marie “Baby” Arenas (House Bill 3521) at Parañaque Second District Congresswoman Myra Joy Tambunting (House Bill 3713).

Bukod sa kanila, naghain na rin si Batangas 6th District Representative and Deputy Speaker Vilma Santos ng HB 4305 na nagnanais ding mapalawig sa susunod na 25 taon ang prangkisa ng ABS-CBN kapag nag-expire na ito sa March 2020.

Ang dating ABS-CBN reporter at ngayon ay Laguna Third District Representative na si Sol Aragones ay naghain ng House Bill 3947, na humihikayat din sa Kongreso na mapalawig ang broadcast franchise ng istasyon.

Sa Senado naman, ang asawa ni Representative Santos-Recto na si Senator Ralph Recto ay naghain ng Senate Bill 981, na may kahalintulad ding layunin sa mga naisumiteng panukala sa Lower Congress.

Bahagi sa nakasaad sa inihaing panukalang batas ni Senator Recto, “ABS-CBN has remained steadfast in its commitment to reach out to as many Filipinos as possible by delivering their quality core programs closer to our countrymen by taking advantage of emerging broadcast technologies.”

THE FRANCHISE RENEWAL SAGA

Natapos ang 17th Congress noong June 11, 2019 nang hindi natalakay ang House Bill 4349 na inihain ni Nueva Ecija Second District Representative Violago dahil ayaw raw aksiyunan ng komite ang panukalang batas hanggang hindi maayos ang gusot sa pagitan ng ABS-CBN at ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte.

Hindi lingid sa kaalaman ng publiko na hayagang sinabi ng Pangulo sa ilan sa kanyang mga talumpati na haharangin niya ang franchise renewal ng network dahil ginantso raw siya nito noong 2016 presidential elections.

Hindi raw kasi inere ng istasyon ang kanyang political ad kahit bayad na ito.

Ngunit, noong December 2017, nabanggit ng Pangulo na maaari siyang makipagkompromiso sa Kapamilya Network kapag tutulong ito sa kanyang kampanya na mabago ang uri ng gobyerno mula Presidential patungo sa pagiging Pederalismo.

Pero nitong nakaraang taon, muling inulit ni Duterte ang kanyang banta laban sa Kapamilya network.

Ang rival network ng ABS-CBN na GMA Network ay noon pang April 2017 naaprubahan ang franchise renewal na tatagal sa susunod na 25 taon.

https://www.pep.ph/news/local/146025/abs-cbn-franchise-renewal-house-panel-a718-20190912

SM to open new mall in Olongapo

SM PRIME Holdings, Inc. will be opening a new mall in Olongapo City this Friday as it continues its provincial expansion.

In a statement issued Wednesday, the listed property developer said SM City Olongapo Central will offer 72,000 square meters of gross floor area. About 85% of its leasable space has already been awarded to tenants.

“Olongapo City remains as one of the fastest growing cities in Central Luzon creating a wonderful synergy on economical and sustainable development,” SM Prime President Jeffrey C. Lim said in a statement.

“SM City Olongapo Central will not only enhance the beauty of this thriving city, and its province, but will also create more jobs and business opportunities to locals who aspire to grow with our company.”

Located along Rizal Avenue in Barangay East Tapinac — considered Olongapo’s primary business district — SM City Olongapo Central will stand four stories tall with shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

The mall will house staple SM brands such as SM Supermarket, The SM Store, Our Home, Watsons, Uniqlo, Surplus, Sport Central, SM Appliance Center, Ace Hardware, BDO Unibank, Inc. and China Banking Corp.

It will also include amenities such as a food hall, cyberzone, wellness zone, six digital cinemas, a convention center, over 700 parking slots, and a sports entertainment venue.

The new mall marks SM Prime’s second project in Zambales after SM City Olongapo Downtown, and its 73rd in the country. This will be added to the company’s total gross floor area of 9.3 million square meters, including its seven malls in China.

SM Prime is scheduled to open three more malls before the year ends, namely SM Center Dagupan, SM City Butuan, and SM Mindpro Citimall. It is set to spend P80 billion in capital expenditures this year — 39% of which are for malls — to pursue its provincial expansion.

The company has also lined up the opening of seven malls in 2020, namely SM City Roxas, SM Calamba Turbina, SM Tanza, SM San Fernando in La Union, SM Laoag, SM Zamboanga, and SM Malolos.

Shares in SM Prime dropped 0.43% or 15 centavos to close at P34.50 each at the stock exchange on Wednesday. — Arra B. Francia

https://www.bworldonline.com/sm-to-open-new-mall-in-olongapo/

House panel yet to act on ABS-CBN franchise extension

Despite acting swiftly on three legislative franchise applications, the House Committee on Legislative Franchise has yet to touch the proposed extension of broadcast giant ABS-CBN’s franchise.

The House panel has approved the franchise extension of the First United Broadcasting Corp. and applications of Lanao del Norte Electric Cooperative and the Bicol Light and Power Corp. which have been tainted with controversy.

ABS-CBN’s application for a 25-year franchise extension was not calendared for discussion during last year’s hearing.

Owned by the Lopez family, ABS-CBN’s legislative franchise is due to expire by March 30, 2020. Non-renewal of the license to operate will force the network to close shop.

The network will have to cease operating as a broadcast network if Congress fails to act on a franchise extension before the expiration date set by Republic Act 7966, its current legislative license.

Party-list organizations representing electric cooperatives assailed the approval of the BLPC that has threatened the existence of the Camarines Sur III Electric Cooperative.

Palawan Rep. Francis Alvarez, committee chairman, said the three legislative franchise applications were approved by the House panel on the first day they were included in the agenda, pointing out that swift action was in compliance to House rules.

Alvarez explained that under the rules, bills that have been passed on third and final reading but failed to make it into law may be presented for immediate approval if re-filed during the next Congress.

Four renewal bills for the ABS-CBN franchise were first filed during the 17th Congress but were never taken up for public hearing by the legislative franchise panel.

Six bills are currently pending before the House panel. (Ben Rosario)

http://tempo.com.ph/2019/09/11/house-panel-yet-to-act-on-abs-cbn-franchise-extension/

House panel approves budget bill; floor debates to start

The proposed P4.1-trillion national budget for 2020, embodied in the committee report on House Bill No. 4228, was approved by the House Committee on Appropriations during a hearing yesterday afternoon.

This was confirmed by the principal author, Davao City Rep. Isidro Ungab, following a rather surprising executive session by the committee when it was time to tackle the budget bill.

Only panel members take part in an executive session while media practitioners are ushered out of the room.

“This is what happened during the executive session: The first motion was to convert the (budget) briefings into a formal committee hearing. So it was converted…(there were) no objections, the approval was unanimous. After which we approved the committee report,” Ungab, who serves as panel chair, said.

“There (were) no objections, only manifestations. So madali din na-approve namin. After that we finalized the schedule (of the bill sponsorship and floor deliberations),” added the Mindanao solon.

The committee report was the result of the per-agency budget briefings – now committee hearings – conducted by the appropriations panel on the P4.1-trillion National Expenditure Program for 2020 from Aug. 22 to Sept. 6. The House leadership had boasted over the weekend that the hearings were complemented “in record time.”

The NEP serves as the basis for the budget bill or the General Appropriations Bill, which for all intents and purposes is HB No. 4228.

Regarding the executive session, Ungab insisted that it was nothing out of the ordinary. “Actually wala naman tinatago, but that has been the practice even since. Noong ako ay vice chairman pa, 2007 or 2010, ganun na rin ang practice noon.” (Ellson Quismorio)

http://tempo.com.ph/2019/09/09/house-panel-approves-budget-bill-floor-debates-to-start/

House panel approves P4.1-trillion national budget bill for 2020

THE House Committee on Appropriations approved on Monday the committee report on the P4.1-trillion General Appropriations Bill.

House Bill 4228, which seeks to appropriate funds for the operation of the government of the Republic of the Philippines from January 1 to December 31, 2020, will now be transmitted to the plenary for deliberations.

House Committee on Appropriations Chairman Isidro Ungab said GAB is a “faithful” copy of the National Expenditure Program submitted by the Palace.  According to Ungab, no changes or amendments have been made in the NEP.

Ungab said the panel completed in “record time” the hearings on the 2020 budget proposals of all government departments, agencies and offices.

For his part, House Committee on Appropriations Senior Vice Chairman Joey Salceda said the budget bill reflects the national goals—particularly for providing a safe and comfortable life for all, becoming an upper middle-income country by 2022, and securing an “A” credit rating by 2022.

“We want to approve a budget that really serves our people, serves our constituencies, and of course, reflects the values of our country,” Salceda added.

Ungab said the sponsorship and start of floor deliberations on HB 4228 are scheduled on Tuesday.

He added that the House is sticking to its original target date to pass the proposed national budget, which is before the October 4 recess.

The 2020 budget of P4.1 trillion, which is cash-based, is 11.8 percent more than the 2019 budget and will constitute 19.4 percent of the country’s gross domestic product.

Social services will receive the largest chunk of the budget with P1.5 trillion or a 37.2-percent share, followed by economic services, which will receive P1.18 trillion or a 28.9-percent share. Meanwhile, the general public services will receive P734.5 billion; debt burden P451 billion; and defense P195.6 billion.

Fiscal deficit

In the 2020 national budget, the government maintains a manageable deficit of 3.2 percent of GDP to enable a declining debt burden.

For next year, the government will sustain the momentum of rising revenue collection by pursuing the Comprehensive Tax Reform Program (CTRP).

The government revenue collections are expected to reach P3.536 trillion in 2020, a figure that is 12.3 percent higher than this year’s targeted level of P3.1 trillion. This will fund 83.9 percent of programmed disbursements for 2020.

Meanwhile, the total gross borrowings for 2020 amount to P1.4 trillion.  With a borrowing mix policy of 75:25 in favor of domestic sources, P1.047 trillion will be sourced locally and the rest, P353.2 billion, will come from abroad.

Of the total gross borrowings, P677.6 billion will finance the deficit, which is equivalent to 3.2 percent of GDP.

Meanwhile, the top 10 agencies to get the biggest allocations next year are: Department of Education, P673 billion; Department of Public Works and Highways, P534 billion; Department of the Interior and Local Government, P238 billion; Department of Social Welfare and Development, P195 billion; Department of National Defense, P189 billion; Department of Health, P166.5 billion; Department of Transportation, P147 billion; Department of Agriculture, P56.8 billion, the Judiciary, P38.7 billion and Department of Environment and Natural Resources, P26.4 billion.

Priority measures

The 2020 NEP will also finance the implementation of priority measures of the administration.

Among the critical programs are measures to implement new laws and policies that provide economic and social assistance to all Filipinos, and enhance the security of the nation, such as the: full implementation of the Universal Health Care Act, institutionalization of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, smooth transition to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, implementation of the Rice Trade Liberalization Act, creation of the Department for Human Settlements and Urban Development, and National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.

The government said the UHC program is allocated P166.5 billion; and the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) Act, P108.8 billion. Pursuant to the Bangsamoro Organic Law, P70.6 billion is allocated for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

Republic Act 11203, or the Rice Trade Liberalization Act, mandates the creation of the P10-billion Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF).  Following the enactment of RA  11201, or the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Act, the 2020 budget allocates an amount of P641.6 million to support the initial operations of the department.

https://businessmirror.com.ph/2019/09/10/house-panel-approves-p4-1-trillion-national-budget-bill-for-2020/

2020 nat'l budget hurdles House committee level

By Filane Mikee Cervantes

The House committee on appropriations approved on Monday its report on the proposed PHP4.1-trillion national budget for 2020.

In an executive session, the panel approved without amendments the committee report on House Bill 4228, principally authored by Davao City Rep. Isidro Ungab, which seeks to appropriate funds for the operation of the government from January 1 to Dec. 31, 2020.

In an ambush interview, Albay Rep. Joey Salceda, senior vice chair of the appropriations panel, said the 2020 General Appropriations Bill (GAB) is a “faithful” copy of the National Expenditure Program.

Salceda also stressed that the budget bill reflects the national goals, particularly providing a safe and comfortable life for all, becoming an upper-middle income country by 2022, and A- credit rating also by 2022.

“We want to approve a budget that really serves our people, serves our constituencies, and of course, reflects the values of our country,” Salceda added.

Ungab noted that his committee has completed in "record time" the hearings on the 2020 budget proposals of all government departments, agencies and offices.

Previous schedules of the House showed that the annual budget hearings usually ended on the fourth week of September.

Ungab said the sponsorship and start of floor deliberations on HB 4228 are scheduled on Tuesday.

He added that the House is sticking to its original target date to pass the proposed national budget, which is before the October 4 recess.

The PHP4.1-trillion budget for 2020 is 12 percent more than this year’s PHP3.7-trillion expenditure program.

With the theme “Continuing the Journey to a More Peaceful and Progressive Philippines", the 2020 budget will fund projects and programs that will continue the journey towards a more peaceful and progressive Philippines.

The Department of Budget and Management said the 2020 budget will continue to support inclusive growth strategies, aimed at accelerating investments in public infrastructure, improving anti-poverty programs, and intensifying employment generation.

The spending priorities are infrastructure development, food security, human capital development, and peace and national security.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1079955

Olivarez Plaza Los Banos UPDATE

Titan 22 will open here, plus Popeyes (dine-in and takeout store)

Sto. Tomas is Batangas’ newest city

SAN PEDRO CITY, Philippines — Sto. Tomas is officially the newest component city in Batangas province, following a plebiscite that ratified the conversion of the previously first-class municipality.

Official results from the Commission on Elections showed that 22,858 voted “yes,” while 431 voted “no.”

About 22 percent of Sto. Tomas’ voters population went out to cast their votes on Saturday.

In October 2018, President Rodrigo Duterte signed Republic Act 11086 for the conversion of Sto. Tomas into a component city.

An industrial zone on the boundary of Laguna and Batangas provinces, Sto. Tomas has population of 179,844, an income of P911,407,830, and a land area of 10,032.38 has.

City information officer Gerard Laresma, in a phone interview on Sunday, said they were  pleased with the plebiscite results. Initially, he said, Sto. Tomas’ cityhood would allow for it to take over the management and upkeep of all provincial roads and increase its revenue from real property taxes.

Aside from Sto. Tomas, the three other cities in the Batangas are Lipa, Tanauan, and Batangas.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1162224/sto-tomas-is-batangas-newest-city

luke jickain, marvin wijangco

Luke Jickain

Marvin Wijangco

SM Daet update

final render and confirmed tenants list,. anyone?

• Titan 22
• DC Shoes
• Popeyes
• SM Food Court
• SM Supermarket
• The SM Store
• SM Appliance Center
• SM Cinema
• Bench
• Bench Body
• Human

GMA, ABS-CBN claim ratings leadership

By Miguel R. Camus

Broadcast giant GMA Network Inc. claimed a lead in urban ratings for August 2019 while ABS-CBN Corp. said it was No. 1 across the country, separate statements from both companies showed.

GMA Network, which uses data from Nielsen TV Audience Measurement, was slightly ahead in Urban Luzon with an audience share of 31.8 percent against 31.7 percent for ABS-CBN. In Mega Manila, which includes Metro Manila and nearby provinces, GMA recorded a share of 32.4 percent versus ABS-CBN’s 29.1 percent.

Cementing its spot as the highest-rating show in Urban Luzon's top programs list was Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS). The award-winning magazine program likewise ranked number one in National Urban Philippines.

Joining KMJS as the Network’s ratings drivers for the month were 24 Oras, Sahaya, Magpakailanman, Studio 7, Daddy's Gurl, Pepito Manaloto, Daig Kayo ng Lola Ko, StarStruck and The Better Woman.

Completing the list of most-watched Kapuso shows were Love You Two, Bubble Gang, Saksi, Amazing Earth, The Boobay and Tekla Show, Eat Bulaga, 24 Oras Weekend, Hanggang sa Dulo ng Buhay Ko, Tadhana, Bihag, Prima Donnas, Dahil sa Pag-ibig, Wish Ko Lang and Imbestigador.

For its part, ABS-CBN, which uses ratings data from Kantar Media, claimed a nationwide audience share of 45 percent versus GMA’s 31 percent.

Broken down into areas, ABS-CBN said it had an audience share of 41 percent in Metro Manila compared to GMA’s 25 percent. For Mega Manila, ABS-CBN ranked 36 percent versus GMA’s 31 percent. It was also ahead in Total Luzon with 41 percent versus 34 percent for GMA.

ABS-CBN kept its historical ratings advantage in Total Visayas at 55 percent against GMA’s 24 percent and in Total Mindanao, with 52 percent versus 28 percent for GMA.

Nine ABS-CBN shows occupied the top 10 most-watched programs in August with FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano keeping its number 1 spot with 35.8 percent ratings.

ABS-CBN also claimed lead in the noontime segment with its It’s Showtime which, ABS-CBN said, had regained the top slot from Eat Bulaga, which airs on GMA.

ABS-CBN said It’s Showtime had an audience share of 33.7 percent against Eat Bulaga’s 32.6 percent.

Returning reality-talent show The Voice Kids, The General's Daughter, the recently concluded drama series Sino ang Maysala?: Mea Culpa and Hiwaga ng Kambat, Maalaala Mo Kaya, the recently-concluded Pinoy Big Brother: Otso, the returning I Can See Your Voice, Gandang Gabi Vice, Tonight with Boy Abunda, Bandila, TV Patrol, Home Sweetie Home: Extra Sweet, Rated K, Nang Ngumiti ang Langit, Kadenang Ginto, Ipaglaban Mo, S.O.C.O.: Scene of the Crime Operatives, Kuha Mo, Los Bastardos, Minute to Win It: Last Man Standing and new drama series The Killer Bride were also part of the top 10, data showed.

Both companies said ratings were driven by the top entertainment and news programs. Ratings are a closely followed measure by TV advertisers.

GMA said Nielsen TV Audience Measurement had 32 clients/subscribers consisting of local TV networks,regional clients; blocktimers, and media, consulting and digital agencies.

Kantar is a multinational market research group that specializes in audience measurement in more than 80 countries, has 26 TV networks, ad agencies, and pan-regional networks subscribing to its ratings services.

Apart from television, ABS-CBN has been diversifying to new initiatives such as digital television and internet TV.

Since 2015, it has sold over eight million digital TV boxes via its ABS-CBN TVplus product and it recently rolled out a mobile counterpart called ABS-CBN TVPlus Go. Moreover, its TV show and movie streaming app iWant has about 1.5 million active users per month.

https://business.inquirer.net/278182/gma-abs-cbn-claim-ratings-leadership

ABS-CBN maintains ratings lead in August

ABS-CBN Corp. maintained its majority hold of the national television audience for the month of August, while rival GMA Network, Inc. claimed the lead in Urban Luzon, citing different ratings providers.

The Lopez-led media firm said in a statement yesterday it tallied a 45% audience share in national television ratings last month, besting GMA which had 31%, based on data from Kantar Media which evaluated 2,610 urban and rural households.

ABS-CBN also claimed dominance in Metro Manila, saying it recorded a television audience rating of 41% against GMA’s 25%, and in Mega Manila where it had a rating of 36% versus GMA’s 31%.

In terms of island group, ABS-CBN said it topped all regions, with a 41% audience share in Total Luzon against GMA’s 34%; a share of 55% in Total Visayas versus GMA’s 24%; and 52% in Total Mindanao beating GMA’s 28%.

Nine ABS-CBN shows occupied the top 10 most-watched programs in August with “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano” keeping its number 1 spot with 35.8 percent ratings.

ABS-CBN also claimed lead in the noontime segment with its “It’s Showtime” which, ABS-CBN said, had regained the top slot from “Eat Bulaga,” which airs on GMA.

ABS-CBN said “It’s Showtime” had an audience share of 34.2 percent against “Eat Bulaga”’s 31.2 percent.

Returning reality-talent show “The Voice Kids,” “The General's Daughter,” the recently concluded drama series “Sino ang Maysala?: Mea Culpa” and “Hiwaga ng Kambat,” “Maalaala Mo Kaya,” the recently-concluded “Pinoy Big Brother: Otso,” the returning “I Can See Your Voice,” “Gandang Gabi Vice,” “Tonight with Boy Abunda,” “Bandila,” “TV Patrol,” “Home Sweetie Home: Extra Sweet,” “Rated K,” “Nang Ngumiti ang Langit,” “Kadenang Ginto,” “Los Bastardos,” “Minute to Win It: Last Man Standing” and new drama series “The Killer Bride” were also part of the top 10, data showed.

But GMA challenged the ratings in a separate statement, saying it kept a 31.8% total day people audience share in Urban Luzon for August, besting its rival ABS-CBN which had a 31.7% share.

GMA based its report from findings of Nielsen TV Audience Measurement last month, where the ratings from Aug. 25 to 31 were based on overnight data.

On ratings based on time slot, ABS-CBN again claimed the lead across-the-board. It reported a 48% rating during primetime against GMA’s 31%; 39% in the morning slot versus GMA’s 29%; 46% in noontime versus GMA’s 32%; and 47% in the afternoon to beat GMA’s 33%.

GMA, citing Nielsen, however said it was the dominant network in the afternoon block with a 33.3% rating against ABS-CBN’s 32.2%, and in the evening block with a 33.9% rating versus ABS-CBN’s 33.4%.

Cementing its spot as the highest-rating show in Urban Luzon's top programs list was Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS). The award-winning magazine program likewise ranked number one in National Urban Philippines.

Joining KMJS as the Network’s ratings drivers for the month were “24 Oras,” “Sahaya,” “Magpakailanman,” “Studio 7,” “Daddy's Gurl,” “Pepito Manaloto,” “Daig Kayo ng Lola Ko,” “StarStruck” and “The Better Woman.”

Completing the list of most-watched Kapuso shows were “Love You Two,” “Bubble Gang,” “Saksi,” “Amazing Earth,” “The Boobay and Tekla Show,” “Eat Bulaga,” “24 Oras Weekend,” “Hanggang sa Dulo ng Buhay Ko,” “Tadhana,” “Bihag,” “Prima Donnas,” “Dahil sa Pag-ibig,” “Wish Ko Lang” and “Imbestigador.”

Both companies posted an increase in earnings in the first semester, with ABS-CBN reporting an 83% jump in attributable net income to P1.55 billion, and GMA saying its attributable earnings rose 10% to P1.34 billion. — Denise A. Valdez

https://www.bworldonline.com/abs-cbn-maintains-ratings-lead-in-august/

Battle of networks: GMA, ABS-CBN both claiming leadership in ratings war

RIVAL broadcasters GMA Network Inc. and ABS-CBN Corp. claimed separately on Tuesday that they led the ratings war in different areas, with the latter asserting dominance across the Philippines, while the former claimed dominance in its bailiwick areas in the Greater Manila Area.

Citing data from Neilsen TV Audience Measurement, the Gozon-led network said it beat its main competitor by a hairline difference with a 31.8-percent average audience share in Urban Luzon versus its rival’s 31.7-percent share.

In Mega Manila, it scored an average of 32.4 percent, a 3.3-point difference versus the Lopez-led network’s 29.1 percent.

Urban Luzon accounts for 72 percent of all all urban TV viewers in the country, while Mega Manila represents 60 percent of all urban households in the Philippines.

GMA, likewise, led the afternoon block at 33.3 percent versus its competitor’s 32.2 percent; and the evening block, where it recorded an average audience share of 33.9 percent versus the competitor’s 33.4 percent.

Cementing its spot as the highest-rating show in Urban Luzon's top programs list was Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS). The award-winning magazine program likewise ranked number one in National Urban Philippines.

Joining KMJS as the Network's ratings drivers for the month were 24 Oras, Sahaya, Magpakailanman, Studio 7, Daddy's Gurl, Pepito Manaloto, Daig Kayo ng Lola Ko, StarStruck and The Better Woman.

Completing the list of most-watched Kapuso shows were Love You Two, Bubble Gang, Saksi, Amazing Earth, The Boobay and Tekla Show, Unang Hirit, Mars Pa More, Eat Bulaga, 24 Oras Weekend, Hanggang sa Dulo ng Buhay Ko, Tadhana, Bihag, Prima Donnas, Dahil sa Pag-ibig, Wowowin, Wish Ko Lang and Imbestigador.

In a separate statement, ABS-CBN said it continued to be the No. 1 network in the country with an average national audience share of 45 percent versus GMA’s 31-percent share in August, citing data from Kantar Media.

The Lopez-led entertainment and multimedia conglomerate also claimed leadership in Metro Manila and Mega Manila, where it scored an average audience share of 41 percent and 36 percent, respectively, against GMA’s 25 percent and 31-percent share.

ABS-CBN also attracted more viewers than GMA in other areas. It won the ratings game in Total Luzon with an average total-day audience share of 41 percent, versus GMA’s 34 percent; in Total Visayas with 55 percent versus GMA’s 24 percent; and in Total Mindanao with 52 percent, versus GMA’s 28 percent.

ABS-CBN also claimed it fared better against GMA in all time blocks. In the morning block it scored an average share of 39 percent versus its rival’s 29 percent; while maintaining its lead in the noontime block at 46 percent versus the competition’s 32 percent, and the afternoon block at 47 percent versus its rival’s 33 percent.

It also sustained a 48-percent share in the prime-time block versus GMA’s 31-percent share.

Nine ABS-CBN shows occupied the top 10 most-watched programs in August with “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano” keeping its number 1 spot with 35.8 percent ratings.

ABS-CBN also claimed the lead in the noontime segment with It’s Showtime which, ABS-CBN said, had regained the top slot from Eat Bulaga, which airs on GMA.

ABS-CBN said It’s Showtime had an audience share of 34.2 percent against Eat Bulaga’s 31.2 percent.

Eat Bulaga, a long-running show, saw its ratings in 2019 bolstered to new records due to the popular segments Juan for All, All for Juan, Kalyeserye, Little Miss Philippines, That’s My Boy, Feeling Pogi, and Rush 4 Win Philippines: Slippery Stairs.

New reality-talent show The Voice Kids, The General's Daughter, the recently concluded drama series Sino ang Maysala?: Mea Culpa and Hiwaga ng Kambat, Maalaala Mo Kaya, the recently-concluded Pinoy Big Brother: Otso, new reality show I Can See Your Voice, Gandang Gabi Vice, Tonight with Boy Abunda, Bandila, TV Patrol, Home Sweetie Home: Extra Sweet, Rated K, Umagang Kay Ganda, Magandang Buhay, Nang Ngumiti ang Langit, Kadenang Ginto, SOCO, Kuha Mo, Los Bastardos and new drama series The Killer Bride were also part of the top 10, data showed.

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.

GMA bases its claims to leadership from Nielsen data, which has a nationwide sample size of 3,500 urban and rural homes.

The Lopez-led network sources its data from Kantar Media, which uses a nationwide panel size of 2,610 urban and rural homes that represent 100 percent of the total Philippine TV viewing population.

https://businessmirror.com.ph/2019/09/04/battle-of-networks-gma-abs-cbn-both-claiming-leadership-in-ratings-war/

GMA Network sustains TV ratings lead in August

GMA Network continued to stay ahead of competition in its bailiwick areas of Urban Luzon and Mega Manila according to the latest data from ratings service provider Nielsen TV Audience Measurement.

In Urban Luzon, which accounts for 72 percent of all urban TV viewers in the country, GMA registered an average of 31.8 percent total day people audience share, which was still higher than ABS-CBN's 31.7 percent for the month of August (with August 25 to 31 based on overnight data).

The Kapuso Network led in the afternoon block with 33.3 percent people audience share, while rival network got 32.2 percent.

GMA also kept its upper hand in the evening block with 33.9 percent versus ABS-CBN's 33.4 percent.

Cementing its spot as the highest-rating show in Urban Luzon's top programs list was Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS). The award-winning magazine program likewise ranked number one in National Urban Philippines.

Joining KMJS as the Network's ratings drivers for the month were 24 Oras, Sahaya, Magpakailanman, Studio 7, Daddy's Gurl, Pepito Manaloto, Daig Kayo ng Lola Ko, StarStruck, and The Better Woman.

Completing the list of most-watched Kapuso shows were Love You Two, Bubble Gang, Saksi, Amazing Earth, The Boobay and Tekla Show, Eat Bulaga, 24 Oras Weekend, Hanggang sa Dulo ng Buhay Ko, Tadhana, Bihag, Prima Donnas, Dahil sa Pag-ibig, Wish Ko Lang and Imbestigador.

With official data from August 1 to 24, GMA Network similarly won in Mega Manila which accounts for 60 percent of all urban viewers in the country. The Kapuso Network tallied an average total day people audience share of 32.4 percent outscoring ABS-CBN's 29.1 percent. GMA also bagged 15 out of the top 30 shows in Mega Manila's top programs list.

Meanwhile, 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. August ratings data show DZBB posting a total week average audience share of 35.5 percent, winning over DZMM’s 31.7 percent and DZRH’s 20 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; Kay Susan Tayo! with Susan Enriquez, Super Balita sa Umaga Nationwide with Mike and Joel Reyes Zobel; and Dobol B Balitang-Balita anchored by Melo del Prado.

Meanwhile, DZBB also kept listeners tuned to its weekend line-up through its public service program “MMDA sa GMA” hosted by Orly Trinidad in partnership with MMDA; “Super Balita sa Umaga Saturday and Sunday Edition” with Sam Nielsen and Cecil Villarosa; “Super Radyo Nationwide” with Francis Flores, “Buena Manong Balita” presented by Rowena Salvacion, “Boses ng Balita” with Benjie Alejandro, “I M Ready sa Dobol B” with Nathaniel Cruz and “Ladies Room” with Norilyn Temblor and Tootie.

Nielsen TV Audience Measurement's client pool covers a total of 32 clients/subscribers consisting of 6 local TV networks including ABS-CBN, TV5, Aksyon TV and CNN Philippines, among others; 3 regional clients; 2 blocktimers; and 21 agencies (17 media agencies, 3 consulting agencies, and 1 digital agency).

https://www.gmanetwork.com/entertainment/showbiznews/news/54292/gma-network-sustains-tv-ratings-lead-in-august/story

ABS-CBN dominates nationwide TV ratings in August

ABS-CBN continued to dominate national TV ratings in August after hitting an audience share of 45 percent compared to rival GMA Network's 31 percent, according to data from global audience measurement provider Kantar Media released Tuesday.

ABS-CBN led in the urban and rural areas with a rating of 41 percent against GMA's 25 percent in Metro Manila, 36 percent over GMA's 31 percent in Mega Manila, 41 percent versus GMA's 34 percent in total Luzon, 55 percent over GMA's 24 percent in total Visayas and 52 percent over GMA's 28 percent in total Mindanao.

The leading TV network also won in all time blocks, sustaining its primetime lead (6 p.m. to 12 a.m.) with an average audience share of 48 percent versus GMA's 31 percent, in the morning block (6 a.m. to 12 p.m.) with 39 percent over GMA's 29 percent, in the noontime block (12 p.m. to 3 p.m.) with 46 percent over GMA's 32 percent and in the afternoon block (3 p.m. to 6 p.m.) with 47 percent compared to GMA's 33 percent, it said.

Nine ABS-CBN shows occupied the top 10 most-watched programs in August with “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano” keeping its number 1 spot with 35.8 percent ratings.

ABS-CBN also claimed lead in the noontime segment with its “It’s Showtime” which, ABS-CBN said, had regained the top slot from “Eat Bulaga,” which airs on GMA.

ABS-CBN said “It’s Showtime” had an audience share of 34.2 percent against “Eat Bulaga”’s 31.2 percent.

"The Voice Kids,” “The General's Daughter,” “Sino ang Maysala?: Mea Culpa,” “Hiwaga ng Kambat,” “Maalaala Mo Kaya,” the recently-concluded “Pinoy Big Brother: Otso,” “I Can See Your Voice,” “Gandang Gabi Vice,” “Tonight with Boy Abunda,” “Bandila,” “TV Patrol,” “Home Sweetie Home: Extra Sweet,” “Rated K,” “Nang Ngumiti ang Langit,” “Kadenang Ginto,” “Los Bastardos” and “The Killer Bride” were also part of the top 10, data showed.

Kantar Media uses a nationwide panel size of 2,610 urban and rural homes representing 100 percent of the total Philippine TV viewing population.

Aside from radio and television, ABS-CBN has also become the leader in the local music, film, cable TV, and publishing industries and is also the pioneer of digital television in the country.

In July this year, ABS-CBN TVplus sales rose to 8 million boxes from its launch in 2015. It continues to give Filipinos a premium TV watching experience by adding 5 new channels to its current line-up, namely the Asianovela Channel, Movie Central, MYX, Jeepney TV, and O Shopping in Metro Manila, Rizal, Cavite, Laguna, and Metro Cebu.

In June, the company launched the mobile version of ABS-CBN TVplus in the form of a dongle, the ABS-CBN TVplus Go, giving mobile Filipinos the chance to watch shows available on networks broadcasting in digital anytime, anywhere. The mobile device was rolled out nationwide in the last week of August.

It launched its new streaming service, iWant, which became the most in-demand app for Filipino iOS and Android users as it reached more than one million mobile app downloads on the first day of its official drop (November 17, 2018), as users scrambled to experience the platform’s original films and series, and its diverse library of content.

ABS-CBN, home to the Philippines’ top-rating TV programs, box-office films, and best-selling books and music, is rapidly transitioning into an agile digital company with the biggest online presence among all Filipino media companies, and a growing list of digital properties.

News.abs-cbn.com is the official website of ABS-CBN News.

https://news.abs-cbn.com/business/09/03/19/abs-cbn-dominates-nationwide-tv-ratings-in-august

a new SM City Pampanga logo to be adopted

SM City Pampanga has a new logo, similar to sister SM City North EDSA.

It was on April 22, 2019, an earthquake almost made the logo fall down.

It would be released just in time for the mall's 19th anniversary in November.

With the changes, it changed the hours of operation from 10am to 10pm everyday

Cayetano sorts out 'issues' over 2020 nat'l budget bill

By Filane Mikee Cervantes

House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano on Monday said the issues among lawmakers over the proposed PHP4.1-trillion national budget for 2020 have been "sorted out".

Cayetano said the lawmakers threshed out any misunderstandings and confusion that have arisen during the budget deliberations following a meeting with House leaders and vice-chairs of the appropriations committee chaired by Davao City Rep. Isidro Ungab.

Cayetano committed to approve the 2020 General Appropriations Bill (GAB) before Congress goes on recess on the first week of October, assuring that its passage will be "transparent" and "pork-free."

"We assure the public that the budget will be scrutinized but will not be delayed and will be transparent. Pork and parking have no place in the 2020 budget, Cayetano said.

Earlier in the day, Ungab objected to House Deputy Speaker Luis Raymund Villafuerte's withdrawal of the GAB from the plenary last week, saying it would "derail" the approval of the 2020 national budget.

Ungab said it is "established procedure" to prepare the GAB immediately after submission by the executive department, noting that the printing of the bill at the APO Production Unit and the National Economic and Development Authority is “almost finished".

"Your proposal to withdraw and amend the General Appropriations Bill for FY 2020 will definitely derail the schedule and approval of the budget. The staff are now all busy preparing for the plenary and pre-plenary deliberations, gathering data and reports requested by members of the House related to the budget," Ungab said.

"To prepare another set of General Appropriations Bill will require enormous time, efforts and resources that will surely affect or delay the passage of the 2020 Budget," he added.

Ungab noted that the last day of the briefings of the proposed 2020 budget is on Sept. 6, and the preparation of the committee report will be on September 10.

Plenary deliberations are also scheduled to start on Sept. 12 until Oct. 4, which is the planned approval of the GAB on third and final reading.

"We prepared this schedule of activities in order to approve the 2020 budget on time before our break on October 5," he said.

Ungab said any alteration of the National Expenditure Program (NEP), which is the version of the revised GAB, will "surely raise doubts on our proceedings" and the House will be questioned on why it will alter the proposed budget prepared by the Executive Department.

"The GAB which is prepared by the Committee Secretariat is a faithful copy of the NEP," Ungab said.

In a statement on Sunday, Villafuerte said the move to withdraw HB 4228 was a "procedural matter" since budget deliberations have yet to be completed at the time when the bill was filed on first reading.

He said the "premature filing" of the budget bill goes against the commitment of the House leadership to tackle the 2020 GAB in timely fashion and full transparency from the committee to the plenary stages.

"Legislative process must not be done with undue haste or making a mockery of the House's constitutional power of the purse," Villafuerte said. (PNA)

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1079346

Phil ID System on track on registering Pinoys by mid-2022

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) has assured the public that they are on the course of its strategic blueprint for the implementation of the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys).

PhilSys, the foundational identification system that aims to provide a valid proof of identity for all citizens and resident aliens as a means of simplifying public and private transactions, was signed into law by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on August 2018 in line with the government’s drive to curtail bureaucratic red tape.

“We are on track to have the system fully operational and to start the mass registration by mid-2020, and complete the enrollment of the population by mid-2022,” Undersecretary Dennis S. Mapa, National Statistician and Civil Registrar, said.

This year, the PSA has finished procuring the registration kits - one of the five (5) major procurement blocks of the program.

In the pipeline for PhilSys are the procurement of the Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS), System Integrator (SI), and registration centers. For card production, the PSA is in partnership with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

Pilot test registration, mass registration

On September 2, the pilot test registration involving a small number of individuals from the National Capital Region (NCR) has started.

This includes select Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) beneficiaries and employees of PSA and National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).

“The PSA sees the utmost importance for the PhilSys to first undergo a series of pilot testing before finally launching it to the public. We want to ensure that the processes are efficient, the systems are fully functional, and all information within the system are secure,” Mapa added.

The pilot test registration will run from September 2019 until June 2020. The first part will involve biometric and demographic capturing processes.

Once the system is stable, operations will expand to cover select groups from nearby regions, Regions III and IV-A, based on different geographical typologies.

Set to begin on May 2020, the PSA will extend the pilot registration process to test the end-to-end system which essentially involves deduplication, generation of unique PhilSys Numbers (PSN), and card printing and issuance.

Registration will be scaled-up and open to the public by July 2020. Overseas Filipinos are targeted to be registered in 2021.

Data privacy, security

“We, at the PSA and our partners in PhilSys, take very seriously the responsibility to ensure the security and integrity of the personal data of Filipinos. Given that the PhilSys as a highly technical and complex program, we are pushing with multiple pilot testing to continuously improve the system and level up its security features before launching it to the public,” Mapa said.

The Data Privacy Act of 2012 and the PhilSys Act have strict controls over what circumstances the data in the PhilSys registry can be accessed and shared.

Furthermore, the Privacy-by-Design features ensure that PSN-holders have full control over the access and use of their personal data.

A Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) will also be conducted this year to identify potential exposures with the privacy of personal information to which data privacy and security frameworks and standards will be anchored. Part of this will be the Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT) to test the integrity of the system.

The PhilSys Data Privacy Manual, as well as the Data Governance Framework, will further outline the privacy and data protection protocols and standards that will govern PhilSys operations.

Further, the PSA has designated Data Privacy Officers - one for the PSA and one solely for the PhilSys.

The National Privacy Commission (NPC) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), who have the mandate and capability to secure and protect the data of the Philippine Government, have oversight of the program as part of the PhilSys Policy and Coordination Council (PSPCC).

Benefits, uses

The aim of the PhilSys is to provide a valid proof of identity for all Filipinos and resident aliens, which will make access to government and private sector services simpler, quicker, and faster and eliminate the need to provide most other forms of identification when transacting.

This will support government initiatives in boosting social protection and financial inclusion and accelerating the Philippines’ shift towards an inclusive and trusted digital economy.

In particular, the PSA identified priority use case agencies whose existing systems will be synchronized to PhilSys.

Deemed as the use cases with the most significant impact in relation to social protection and financial inclusion, these agencies are DSWD, PhilHealth, Social Security System (SSS), Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), and BSP.

The PhilID, however, does not and will not replace existing government identification cards that serve a purpose beyond identity authentication, such as the driving license (for driving), passport (for travel), and UMID (for social security transactions), etc.

It will be used for application for eligibility, services, and access to (1) social welfare and benefits granted by the government; (2) passports, driver’s license, (3) tax-related transactions, (4) admission in schools and government hospitals, (5) opening of bank accounts, (6) registration and voting purposes, (7) transactions for employment purposes, (8) cardholder’s criminal records and clearances. (PR)

About Philippine ID System (PhilSys)

For the latest updates on PhilSys, visit psa.gov.ph/philsys and like and follow the official Facebook page at facebook.com/PSAPhilSysOfficial.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1079340

Popeyes Philippines: expansion outside Metro Manila

Popeyes will expand outside Metro Manila (inside malls), due to the introduction of 24-hours stand-alone stores with delivery and drive-thru services and self-ordering kiosks.

During opening of new branch, a freebie - Zesto Juice Drink (any variant, 200ml) or Yakult part of any meal.

They would expand more branches to:

1. Ilocos Norte
2. Ilocos Sur
3. La Union
4. Pangasinan
5. Abra
6. Apayao
7. Baguio City
8. Benguet
9. Ifugao
10. Kalinga
11. Mountain Province
12. Cagayan
13. Isabela
14. Nueva Vizcaya
15. Quirino
16. Angeles
17. Aurora
18. Bataan
19. Bulacan
20. Cabanatuan
21. Mabalacat
22. Malolos
23. Meycauayan
24. Nueva Ecija
25. Olongapo
26. Pampanga
27. San Fernando
28. San Jose del Monte
29. Tarlac
30. Tarlac City
31. Zambales
32. Antipolo
33. Bacoor
34. Batangas
35. Batangas City
36. Biñan
37. Cabuyao
38. Cainta
39. Calamba
40. Cavite
41. Dasmariñas
42. General Trias
43. Imus
44. Laguna
45. Lipa
46. Lucena
47. Lucena City
48. Quezon
49. Rizal
50. San Pablo
51. San Pedro
52. Santa Rosa
53. Marinduque
54. Occidental Mindoro
55. Oriental Mindoro
56. Palawan
57. Romblon
58. Albay
59. Camarines Norte
60. Camarines Sur
61. Catanduanes
62. Masbate
63. Sorsogon
64. Aklan
65. Antique
66. Bacolod City
67. Capiz
68. Guimaras
69. Iloilo City
70. Iloilo
71. Negros Occidental
72. Bohol
73. Cebu City
74. Cebu
75. Lapu-Lapu City
76. Mandaue City
77. Negros Oriental
78. Siquijor
79. Biliran
80. Eastern Samar
81. Leyte
82. Northern Samar
83. Southern Leyte
84. Samar
85. Zamboanga City
86. Zamboanga del Norte
87. Zamboanga del Sur
88. Zamboanga Sibugay
89. Bukidnon
90. Cagayan de Oro City
91. Camiguin
92. Misamis Occidental
93. Misamis Oriental
94. Iligan City
95. Lanao del Norte
96. Compostela Valley
97. Davao City
98. Davao del Norte
99. Davao del Sur
100. Davao Occidental
101. Davao Oriental
102. Cotabato City
103. Cotabato
104. General Santos City
105. Sarangani
106. South Cotabato
107. Sultan Kudarat
108. Agusan del Norte
109. Agusan del Sur
110. Butuan City
111. Dinagat Islands
112. Surigao del Norte
113. Surigao del Sur
114. Basilan
115. Lanao del Sur
116. Maguindanao
117. Sulu
118. Tawi-Tawi

Excerpt: LIKE, YOU KNOW, IT'S BUWAN NG WIKA KASE

Setyembre na bukas makalawa. Makikinig na tayo sa mga mapandustang kanta ni Jose Mari Chan: “Whenever I see girls and boys selling lanterns on the street...”

Bukod sa Christmas in our Hearts, sabay buka ng bibig habang sinasabayan ang kumpas ni titser at pag-awit ng “🎤 Ang Pasko ay sumapit tayo ay mangagsiawit ng magagandang himig dahil sa Diyos ay pag-ibig nang si Kristo'y isilang may tatlong haring nagsidalaw at ang bawa't isa ay nagsipaghandog ng tanging alay. Bagong Taon ay magbagong-buhay nang lumigaya ang ating bayan tayo'y magsikap upang makamtan natin ang kasaganaan. Tayo'y mangagsiawit habang ang mundo'y tahimik ang araw ay sumapit ng sanggol na dulot ng langit. Tayo ay magmahalan ating sundin ang gintong aral at magbuhat ngayon kahit hindi Pasko ay magbigayan.”

“🎤Sa maybahay ang aming bati Merry Christmas na maluwalhati ang pag-ibig pag siyang naghari araw-araw ay magiging Paskong lagi ang sanhi po ng pagparito hihingi po ng aginaldo kung sakali't kami'y perhuwisyo pasensya na kayo pagka't kami'y namamasko 🎵”

“🎤Pasko na naman O kay tulin ng araw Paskong nagdaan tila ba kung kailan lang ngayon ay Pasko, dapat pasalamatan ngayon ay Pasko, tayo ay mag-awitan! Pasko (Pasko), Pasko (Pasko) Pasko na namang muli tanging araw nating pinakamimithi Pasko (Pasko), Pasko (Pasko) Pasko na namang muli ang pag-ibig, naghahari 🎵”



“🎤O bakit kaya tuwing pasko ay dumarating na ang bawat isas para bang namomroblema 'di mo alam ang regalong ibibigay ngayong kay hirap na nitong ating buhay meron pa kayang karoling at noche Buena kung tayo naman ay kapos at wala nang pera nakakahiya kung muling pagtaguan mo Ang yong mga inaanak sa araw ng Pasko. Ngunit kahit na anong mangyari ang pag-ibig sanay mag-hari sapat nang si Hesus ang kasama mo tuloy na tuloy pa rin ang pasko! Mabuti pa nga ang pasko nuong isang taon sa ating hapag mayroong keso de bolat hamon baka sa gipit happy new year mapo-postpone at ang hamon ay mauuwi sa bagoong! Ngunit kahit na anong mangyari ang pag-ibig sanay mag-hari sapat nang si Hesus ang kasama mo tuloy na tuloy pa rin ang pasko 🎵”



“🎤Oh oh oh ooh, oh oh oh ooh oh oh oh oh oooh oh oh oh ooh, oh oh oh ooh oh oh oh oh oooh sabay sa pagdating ng hanging malamig lalong umiinit ang ating pag-ibig bawat regalong ibinibigay hatid ang sayang walang kapantay! Oh oh oh ooh, oh oh oh ooh oh oh oh oh oooh! sa himig ng mga nangangaroling sumasabay ang tibok ng puso natin ang pagkislap ng ilaw na makulay nagbibigay saya sa ating buhay! Ang sarap talaga kapag kapaskuhan damang dama mo ang pagmamahalan ang tanging wish ko para sa'kin para sayo sana maGMAhalan tayo ngayong pasko! Oh oh oh ooh, oh oh oh ooh oh oh oh ooh, oh oooh oh oh oh ooh, oh oh oh ooh oh oh oh ooh, oh ooh! Mas masarap ang handaang pagsasaluhan kung panulak ay malakas na tawanan ang pagbati ay lalong tumatamis kapag may kasamang hug at kiss!🎵”

“🎤Ang sarap talaga kapag kapaskuhan damang dama mo ang pagmamahalan ang tanging wish ko para sa'kin para sa'yo sana maGMAhalan tayo ngayong pasko🎵”

“🎤Ito ang ating pinakahihintay na panahon gawin nating pasko ang buong taon ang sarap talaga kapag kapaskuhan damang dama mo ang pagmamahalan ang tanging wish ko para sa'kin para sa'yo sana maGMAhalan tayo ngayong pasko!🎵”

“🎤Oh oh oh ooh, oh oh oh ooh oh oh oh oh ooohhh! (Ang sarap talaga) kapag kapaskuhan damang dama mo ang pagmamahalan ang tanging wish ko para sa'kin para sa'yo sana maGMAhalan tayo ngayong pasko!

Recto bill seeks renewal of ABS-CBN franchise for another 25 years

A bill renewing the franchise granted to ABS-CBN Corp. for another 25 years has been filed at the Senate.

Senate Bill No. 981, filed last Wednesday, was initiated by Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto.

ABS-CBN’s franchise is set to expire on March 30, 2020.

In the bill, Recto recognized ABS-CBN as the country’s largest entertainment and media conglomerate in terms of revenue, operating income, net income, assets, equity, market capitalization, and number of employees.

“Despite the growing popularity of social media, television still remains as a preferred mass medium in our provinces and other far-flung areas,” the bill read.

“ABS-CBN has remained steadfast in its commitment to reach out to as many Filipinos as possible by delivering their quality core programs closer to our countrymen by taking advantage of emerging broadcast technologies,” it added.

A similar measure had been filed at the House of Representatives but remains pending since 2016.

The measure was revived in the lower chamber when the 18th Congress opened last July.

This, despite repeated pronouncements from President Rodrigo Duterte that he would block the renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise, accusing it of not airing his campaign ad that was already paid for during the 2016 presidential election.

“Kalakas ng loob… mukhang marami kami sila Chiz Escudero, tanggap nang tanggap. Niloko ninyo kami, marami hindi lang ako kaya kayo hindi ko kayo palusutin,” Duterte said in a speech in Novemberlast year.

“‘Yung franchise ninyo matatapos na, but let me ask you [the] questions first, kasi ako talagang mag-object na ma-renew kayo,”the President added.  /muf

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1159154/recto-bill-seeks-renewal-of-abs-cbn-franchise-for-another-25-years

Plebiscite for Sto. Tomas, Batangas cityhood set

A plebiscite to ratify the cityhood of Sto. Tomas, Batangas will be held on Sept. 7, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has announced.

Republic Act 11086 mandates the poll body to set the date and supervise the plebiscite to convert Sto. Tomas into a component city.

The voter registration in Sto. Tomas will be suspended from Sept. 4 to 11 to give way to the political exercise. It will resume on Sept. 12.

Under Comelec Resolution 10586, personnel of certain departments in the executive branch, government-owned and controlled corporations and financial institutions will be deputized for the plebiscite.

The Departments of Education, Finance, Energy, Budget and Management and Transportation; Philippine Postal Service Corp., National Telecommunication Commission, Civil Service Commisssion and Commission on Audit shall be at the “disposal” of the Comelec to ensure the smooth and orderly conduct of the plebiscite.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2019/08/30/1947487/plebiscite-sto-tomas-batangas-cityhood-set

Voter registration suspended in Batangas town for plebiscite

By Ferdinand Patinio

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has suspended for a week the voter registration in Sto. Tomas, Batangas to give way to the events prior to a plebiscite for its cityhood on September 7.

Comelec Resolution No. 10559 released on Wednesday, stated that the listing activities in connection with the May 2020 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) will be put on hold from September 4 to 11.

The registration is set to resume on September 12.

The nationwide registration of voters for village and youth polls started on August 1 and will end on September 30.

On the other hand, pursuant to Republic Act No. 11086, the poll body is mandated to set the date and supervise the conduct of the plebiscite converting the present municipality of Santo Tomas into a component city of Batangas.

On the said date, voters will write the word “Yes” or “Oo” on the official ballot if they vote for the approval of the ratification of R.A. No. 11086, which converts the municipality into a city.

Those who will vote for its rejection will write the word “No” or “Hindi”.

All qualified and duly registered voters of the town may cast their votes from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

An express lane will be provided for pregnant voters, Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and senior citizens.

Illiterates and members of the marginalized sector, who cannot, by themselves, accomplish the ballots may be assisted by qualified persons subject to guidelines set forth in the plebiscite.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1078888

Santa Rosa in Laguna gets own legislative district

The city of Santa Rosa in the province of Laguna now has its own legislative district under a new law signed by President Rodrigo R. Duterte.

Under Republic Act No. 11395, Santa Rosa, which is currently in the first legislative district of Laguna, will now constitute its own legislative district.

"The City of Santa Rosa is hereby separated from the First Legislative District of the Province of Laguna to constitute the Lone Legislative District of the City of Santa Rosa, which shall commence in the next national and local elections after the effectivity of this Act," the law read.

Currently, San Pedro City is the only city, which remains part of Laguna’s first district.

Santa Rosa City is Laguna’s third legislative district since 2016 after the cities of Biñan and Calamba.

Rep. Danilo Ramon Fernandez, the incumbent representative of the first legislative district of Laguna, will continue to represent the said district until the first representative for Santa Rosa is elected.

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) will be tasked to issue the necessary rules and regulations to implement the provisions of this act within 60 days from the effectivity of the act.

Duterte signed the act constituting the lone legislative district of Santa Rosa on Aug. 22 but a copy of the document was released to the media only on Wednesday (Aug. 28).

Santa Rosa City currently has a population of over 353,767.

A total of 213,913 registered voters in Santa Rosa City participated in the 2019 midterm elections. (PNA)

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1078974

Duterte signs law creating lone district of Sta. Rosa City, Laguna

President Duterte has signed Republic Act No. 11395 paving the way for the creation of the lone legislative district of Sta. Rosa City, Laguna.

The new law separates the city of Sta. Rosa from the first legislative district of Laguna to constitute the lone legislative district of Sta. Rosa City.

The new district will commence in the next national and local elections following the effectivity of the new law.

Under the law, the incumbent Laguna first district representative will continue to represent such district until a new representative of lone district of Sta. Rosa is elected.

The Commission on Elections has been directed to issue the rules and regulations to implement RA 11395 within 60 days from the effectivity of the law.

The law, signed by the President last Aug. 22, will take effect 15 days after publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper.

Laguna Rep. Arlene Arcillas had earlier filed a bill separating Sta. Rosa City from Laguna amid the growing population of the city.

Sta. Rosa reportedly has a population of 353,767 as of the 2015 government census and is home to several subdivisions and residential and commercial communities, automotive plants, and the Enchanted Kingdom theme park. (Genalyn Kabiling)

http://tempo.com.ph/2019/08/28/duterte-signs-law-creating-lone-district-of-sta-rosa-city-laguna/

Santa Rosa City gets own legislative district

Santa Rosa City in the province of Laguna now has its own legislative district.

President Rodrigo Duterte has signed Republic Act No. 11395, which will constitute a new lone legislative district for the first-class city. RA 11395 was signed August 22, but a copy of which was only released by Malacañang on Wednesday.

Currently, Laguna is represented in the House of Representatives through its first, second, third, and fourth districts. The cities of Biñan and Calamba have their respective legislative districts.

The new law will leave San Pedro City as the only remaining part of the Laguna’s first district.

The incumbent congressman for the 1st District of Laguna, Rep. Dan Fernandez, will continue to represent the said district until the new representative of the Lone District of the City of Santa Rosa has been elected.

The changes will commence in the next national and local elections, after the effectivity of the law. /kga

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1158552/santa-rosa-city-gets-own-legislative-district

Duterte signs law creating lone legislative district of Santa Rosa City in Laguna

By VIRGIL LOPEZ, GMA News

Santa Rosa City in Laguna will soon have its own representative in Congress.

Signed by President Rodrigo Duterte on August 22, Republic Act 11395 creates a new legislative district by separating the city of Santa Rosa from the first legislative district of the province of Laguna.

The law provides that the incumbent representative of the first legislative district of Laguna will continue to represent such district until the new representative of the lone district of the city of Santa Rosa shall have been elected and qualified.

The Commission on Elections has 60 days to issue the implementing rules and regulations of the new measure.

Santa Rosa hosts several manufacturing and industrial companies in the areas of electronics and semi­conductors, automotive and automotive parts, metal, packaging, food processing, and the business process outsourcing.  —KBK, GMA News

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/regions/706068/duterte-signs-law-creating-lone-legislative-district-of-santa-rosa-city-in-laguna/story/

Sta. Rosa City in Laguna gets own legislative district

President Rodrigo Duterte has signed into law a measure creating a separate legislative district for Sta. Rosa City.

The city, currently part of the first district of Laguna, will constitute the lone legislative district of the City of Sta. Rosa under Republic Act No. 11395 signed on Aug. 22.

This leaves San Pedro City as the only remaining part of the province's first district, currently represented by Dan Fernandez at the House of Representatives.

The incumbent representative of the first district of Laguna will continue to represent the district until a representative of the lone district of Sta. Rosa City is elected.

The change takes effect in the next national and local elections.

Sta. Rosa City has a population of nearly 353,767 according to the 2015 census.

(Update) This year under the 18th congress, the President will certify as urgent the bills reconstituting Malabon, Navotas, San Juan, Mandaluyong, Pasig, Las Pinas and Muntinlupa in Metro Manila, San Jose del Monte in Bulacan and Bacoor in Cavite and provinces of Bataan from two to three districts, Bulacan and Nueva Ecija from four to five districts, Rizal from two to four districts, Cagayan from three to four districts, Laguna from four to five districts, Nueva Vizcaya, Aurora, Antique, Eastern Samar, Davao Occidental and Sarangani from one to two districts, converting the municipality of Pateros into a city and creating the lone legislative districts of Malolos City from the first district of the province of Bulacan and Cabuyao City in Laguna into laws.

Cavite Rep. Strike B. Revilla introduced House Bill No. 0___ or An Act Creating A New Legislative District in the City of Bacoor Amending Republic Act No. 10160, Entitled ‘An Act Converting the Municipality of Bacoor in the Province of Cavite into a Component City to Be Known as the City of Bacoor’ And Providing Funds Therefor,’ that that amends the law covering the conversion of Bacoor from a municipality to a city.

Under the amended law, the 73 barangays have been divided into two legislative districts.

Barangays of Alima, Aniban I, Aniban II, Aniban III, Aniban IV, Aniban V, Banalo, Camposanto, Daang-Bukid, Digman, Dulong-Bayan, Kaingin, Habay I, Habay II, Ligas I, Ligas II, Ligas III, Mabolo I, Mabolo II, Mabolo III, Maliksi I, Maliksi II, Maliksi III, Niog I, Niog II, Niog III, Panapaan I, Panapaan II, Panapaan III, Panapaan IV, Panapaan V, Panapaan VI, Panapaan VII, Panapaan VIII, Real I, Real II, Salinas I, Salinas II, Salinas III, Salinas IV, San Nicolas I, San Nicolas II, San Nicolas III, Sineguelasan, Tabing-Dagat, Talaba I, Talaba II, Talaba III, Talaba IV, Talaba V, Talaba VI, Talaba VII, Zapote I, Zapote II, Zapote III, Zapote IV and Zapote V fall under District 1 while Bayanan, Mambog I, Mambog II, Mambog III, Mambog IV, Mambog V, Molino I, Molino II, Molino III, Molino IV, Molino V, Molino VI, Molino VII, Queens Row Central, Queens Row East and Queens Row West form part of the second legislative district.

House Members remain hard at work even during the month-long recess as the technical working group (TWG) of the House Committee on Local Government convened to create the province of Western Maguindanao.

These measures include House Bill No. (HB) 4840 authored by Datu Ronnie Sinsuat, Sr. (1st District, Maguindanao) and HB 3405 by Esmael Mangdadatu (2nd District, Maguindanao).

The TWG, headed by Committee Vice Chairperson Rep. Eddiebong Plaza, approved proposals to create the province of Western Maguindanao from the province of Maguindanao

The TWG of the Committee on Local Government undertakes to continue working during the Congressional recess to consolidate the several bills filed. The approved bills will then be presented to the Chairperson Villanueva when session resumes month.

https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/08/28/19/sta-rosa-city-in-laguna-gets-own-legislative-district

Martin, Arnel, Christian takot masalaula ang Pambansang Awit

Aminado si National Historical Commission chairman Rene Escalante na naging malaking isyu noon ang pag-awit nina Arnel Pineda, Martin Nievera at Christian Bautista ng National Anthem sa boxing bouts nina Manny Pacquiao at Gerry Peñalosa.

Si Christian ay napulaan dahil nakalimutan nito ang ilang linya ng Pambansang Awit noong Peñalosa-Bernabe fight samantalang sina Martin at Arnel ay nakuwestiyon sa kanilang na­ging bersyon ng pagbirit ng “Lupang Hinirang” noong naging opponent ni Pacman sina Hatton at Clottey.

May ilang kampo rin noon na gustong kasuhan ang dalawa dahil sa umano’y pagsalaula sa Pambansang Awit.

Hindi raw puwedeng i-invoke ang creative freedom dahil may sariling guidelines na sinusunod ang kanilang komisyon sa tamang pag-awit nito.

Meanwhile, nag-launch na ang Ayala Foundation ng kanilang bagong National Anthem video na mapapanood sa lahat ng Ayala Mall cinemas.

Ayon kay Ruel Maranan, Ayala Foundation president, layunin daw nilang para­ngalan ang common tao na patuloy na naglilingkod sa kanilang mga kababayan sa abot ng kanilang makakaya kaya ang mga ito ang bida sa video.

Pahayag naman ni John Phillip Orbeta, Ayala Corporation group head for corporate resources, ang kanilang bagong proyekto ay kasama sa kanilang “Maging Magiting” campaign. (Archie Liao)

https://tonite.abante.com.ph/martin-arnel-christian-takot-masalaula-ang-pambansang-awit.htm