Republic Act No. 8491

Republic of the Philippines

Congress of the Philippines Metro Manila

Tenth Congress

Third Regular Session

Begun and held in Metro Manila, on Monday the twenty-eighth day of July, nineteen hundred and ninety-seven.

REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8491

AN ACT PRESCRIBING THE CODE OF THE NATIONAL FLAG, ANTHEM, MOTTO, COAT-OF-ARMS AND OTHER HERALDIC ITEMS AND DEVICES OF THE PHILIPPINES.

Be it enacted by the Senate and Home of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress assembled:

SECTION 1. Short Title — This act shall be known as the “Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines.”

SECTION 2. Declaration of Policy - Reverence and respect shall at all times be accorded the flag, the anthem and other national symbols which embody the national ideals and traditions and which express the principles of sovereignty and national solidarity. The heraldic items and devices shall seek to manifest the national virtues and to inculcate in the minds and hearts of our people a just pride in their native land, fitting respect and affection for the national flag and anthem, and the proper use of the national motto, coat-of-arms and other heraldic items and devices.

SECTION 3. Definition of Terms — Whenever used in this Act, the term:

a. “Military” shall mean all branches of the Armed Forces of the Philippines including the Philippine National Police, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, and the Bureau of Fire Protection;

b. “Festoon” shall mean to hang in a curved shape between two points as a decoration;

c. “Flag” shall mean the Philippine National Flag, unless stated otherwise;

d. “Fly” shall mean the part of the flag outside the hoist or length;

e. “Symbol” shall mean any conventional sign which reveals man’s achievement and heroism (for orders and decorations), identification, authority and a sign of dignity (for coat-of-arms, logo and insignia);

f. “Half-Mast” shall mean lowering the flag to one-half the distance between the top and bottom of the staff;

g. “Hoist” shall mean the part of the flag nearest the staff or the canvass to which the halyard is attached;

h. “Inclement Weather” shall mean that a typhoon signal is raised in the locality;

i. “National Anthem” shall mean the Philippine National Anthem’

j. “Official Residences” shall mean Malacañang, and other government-owned structures where the President resides, and other structures occupied by the Philippine Consulate or Embassies abroad;

k. “Places of Frivolty” shall mean places of hilarity marked by or providing boisterous merriment or recreation; and

l. “Institute” shall mean the National Historical Institute.

CHAPTER 1

THE NATIONAL FLAG

A. Design of the National Flag

SECTION 4. The flag of the Philippines shall be blue, white and red with an eight-rayed golden-yellow sun and three five-pointed stars, as consecrated and honored by the people.

B. Hoisting and Display of the National Flag

SECTION 5. The flag shall be displayed in all public buildings, official residences public plazas, and institutions of learning everyday throughout the year.

SECTION 6. The flag shall be permanently hoisted, day and night throughout the year, in front of the following; at Malacanang Palace; the Congress of the Philippines building; Supreme Court building; the Rizal Monument in Luneta, Manila; Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite; Barasoain Shrine in Malolos, Bulacan; the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Libingan ngmga Bayani; Mausuleo de los Beteranos dela Revolucion; all International Ports of Entry and all other places as maybe designated by the Institute.

The flag shall be properly illuminated at night.

SECTION 7. The flag shall also be displayed in private buildings and residences or raised in the open flag-staffs in front of said buildings every April 9 (Araw ngKagitingan); May 1 (Labor Day); May 28(National Flag Day) to June 12 (Independence Day); last Sunday of August (National Heroes Day);November 30 (Bonifacio Day); and December 30 (Rizal Day); and on such other days as may be declared by the President and/or local chief executives.

The flag may also be displayed throughout the year in private buildings or offices or raised in the open on flag-staffs in front of private buildings: Provided, that they observe flag-raising ceremonies in accordance with the rules and regulations to be issued by the Office of the President.

SECTION 8. All government agencies and instrumentalities, and local government offices, government-owned corporations  and local government units are enjoined to observe flag day with appropriate ceremonies. Socio-civic groups, non-government organizations and the private sector are exhorted to cooperate in making the celebrations a success.

SECTION 9. The flag shall be flown on merchant ships of Philippine registry of more than one thousand (1000) gross tons and on all naval vessels.

On board naval vessels, the flag shall be displayed on the flagstaff at the stern when the ship is at anchor. The Flag shall be hoisted to the gaff at the aftermast when the ship is at sea.

SECTION 10. The flag, if flown from a flagpole, shall have its blue field on top in time of peace and the red field on top in time of war; if in a hanging position, the blue field shall be to the right (left of the observer) in rime of peace, and the red field to the right (left of the observer) in time of war.

The flagpole staff must be straight and slightly tapering at the top.

SECTION 11. If planted on the ground, the flagpole shall be at a prominent place and shall be of such height as would give the flag commanding position in relation to the buildings in the vicinity.

If attached to a building, the flagpole shall be on top of its roof or anchored on a sill projecting at an angle upward.

If on stage or platform or government office, the flag shall be at the left (facing the stage) or the left of the office upon entering.

SECTION 12. When the Philippine flag is flown with another flag, the flags, if both are national flags, must be flown on separate staffs of the same height and shall be of equal size. The Philippine flag shall be hoisted first and lowered last.

If the other flag is not a national flag, it may be flown in the same lineyard as the Philippine flag but below the latter and it cannot be of greater size than the Philippine flag.

SECTION 13. When displayed with another flag, the Philippine flag shall be on the right of the other flag. If there is a line of other flags, the Philippine flag shall be in the middle of the line.

When carried in a parade with flags, which are not national flags, the Philippine flag shall be in front of the center of the line.

SECTION 14. A flag worn out through wear and tear shall not be thrown away. It shall be solemnly burned to avoid misuse or desecration. The flag shall be replaced immediately when it begins to show signs of wear and tear.

SECTION 15. The flag shall be raised at sunrise and lowered at sunset. It shall be on the mast at the start of official’office hours, shall remain flying throughout the day.

SECTION 16. The flag may be displayed:

a. Inside or outside-a building or on a stationary flagpoles. If the flag is displayed indoors on a flagpole, it shall be placed at the left of the observer as one enters the room;

b. From the top of a flagpole, which shall be at a prominent place or a commanding position in relation to the surrounding buildings;

c. From a staff projecting upward from the window sill, canopy, balcony or facade of a building.

d. In a suspended position from a rope extending from a building to pole erected away from the building;

e. Flat against the wall vertically with the sun and stars on top; and

f. Hanging in a vertical position across a street, with the blue field pointing east, if the road is heading south or north, or pointing north if the road is heading east or west.

The flag shall not be raised when the weather is inclement. If already raised, the flag shall not be lowered.

SECTION 17. The flag shall be hoisted to the top briskly and lowered ceremoniously.

The flag shall never touch anything beneath it, such as the ground, flood, water or other objects.

After being lowered, the flag shall be handled and folded solemnly as part of the ceremony.

C. Conduct of Flag Raising Ceremony

SECTION 18. All government offices and educational institutions shall henceforth observe the flag-raising ceremony every Monday morning and the flag lowering ceremony every Friday afternoon. The ceremony shall be simple and dignified and shall include the playing or singing of the Philippine National Anthem.

SECTION 19. The office of the President upon the recommendation of the Institute shall issue rules and regulations for the proper conduct of the flag ceremony.

SECTION 20. The observance of the flag ceremony in official or civic gatherings shall be simple and dignified and shall include the playing or singing of the anthem in its original Filipino lyrics and march tempo.

SECTION 21. During the flag-raising ceremony, the assembly shall stand in formation racing the flag. At the moment the first note of the anthem is heard, everyone in the premises shall come to attention; moving vehicles shall stop. All persons present shall :.ace their right palms over their chests, those with hats shall uncover, while those in military, scouting, security guard, and citizens military training uniforms shall give :.-.£ salute prescribed by their regulations, which salute shall be completed upon the last note of the anthem.

The assembly shall sing the Philippine national anthem, accompanied by a band, r available, and at the first note, the flag shall be raised briskly.

The same procedure shall be observed when the flag is passing in review or in parade.

SECTION 22. During the flag lowering, the flag shall be lowered solemnly and slowly so that the flag shall be down the mast at the sound of the last note of the anthem. Those in the assembly shall observe the same deportment or shall observe the same behavior as for the flag-raising ceremony.

D. Half-Mast

SECTION 23. The flag shall be flown at half-mast as a sign of mourning on all buildings and places where it is displayed, as provided for in this Act, on the day of official announcement of the death of any of the following officials:

a. The President or a former President, for ten (10) days;

b. The Vice-President, the Chief Justice, the President of the Senate, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, for seven (7) days; and

c. Other persons to be determined by the Institute, for any period less than seven (7) days.

The flag shall be flown at half-mast on all the buildings and places where the decedent was holding office, on the day of death until the day of interment of an incumbent member of the Supreme Court, the Cabinet, the Senate or the House of Representatives, and such other persons as may be determined by the Institute.

The flag when flown at half-mast shall be first hoisted to the peak for a moment then lowered to the half-mast position. The flag shall again be raised briskly to the peak before it is lowered for the day.

E. Casket

SECTION 24. The flag may be used to cover the caskets of the honored dead of the military, veterans of previous wars, national artists, and of civilians who have rendered distinguished service to the nation, as maybe determined by the local government unit concerned. In such cases, the flag shall be placed such that the white triangle shall be at the head and the blue portion shall cover the right side of the caskets. The flag shall not be lowered to the grave or allowed to touch the ground, but shall be folded solemnly and handed over to the heirs of the deceased.

F. Pledge to the Flag

SECTION 25. The following shall be the Pledge of Allegiance to the Philippine Flag:

Ako ay Filipino, Buong katapatang nanunumpa sa watawat ng Pilipinas at sa bansang kanyang sinasagisag na may dangal, katarungan at kalayaan Na pinakikilos ng sambayanang Maka-Diyos, Maka-tao, Makakalikasan at Makabansa.

Such pledge shall be recited while standing with the right hand palm open raised shoulder high. Individuals whose faith or religious beliefs prohibit them from making such pledge must nonetheless show full respect when the pledge is being rendered by standing at attention.

G. Flag Days

SECTION 26. The period from May 28 to June 12 of each year is declared as Flag Days, during which period all offices, agencies and instrumentalities of government, business establishments, institutions of learning and private homes are enjoined to display the flag.

H. Specifications of the National Flag

SECTION 27. The flag shall have the following proportions. The width of the flag, 1; the length of the flag, 2; and the sides of the white triangle, 1.

SECTION 28. The technical specifications shall be as follows:

The blue color shall bear Cable No. 80173; the white color, Cable No. 80001 the red color, Cable No. 80108; and the golden yellow, Cable No. 80068.

SECTION 29. In order to establish uniform criteria in the making of our national flag and to guarantee its durability by the use of quality materials, the following standards and procedures shall be observed:

a. All requisitions for the purchase of the Philippine National Flag must be based on strict compliance with the design, color, craftmanship and material requriements of the Government.

b. All submitted samples of flags by accredited suppliers offered for purchase for government use shall be evaluated as to design, color and craftmanship specifications by the Institute, through its Heraldry and Display Section, which shall stamp its approval or disapproval on the canvass reinforcement of the flag sample submitted. The samples shall be sent to the Institute by the requisitioning office, not by the flag supplier; and

c. The Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI) or the Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) shall evaluate the quality of material of all flag samples and certify whether the fabric for the blue, white, red and golden yellow colors, including the canvass submitted, conforms to government requirement as to quality of the material. The samples shall be submitted by the said office to the Institute.

SECTION 30. All deliveries of the flags requisitioned by the government shall be inspected by the requisitioning agency’s internal inspector and by the Commission on Audit (COA) using the flag stamped approved by the Institute as reference.

SECTION 31. In carrying out its responsibilities under Section 4 hereof, the Institute, COA, the ITDI/PTRI shall prepare guidelines to be approved by the Office of the President.

SECTION 32. All government agencies and instrumentalities shall ensure that the requirements under this Act with respect to the standards, requisitions and delivery of the national flag are strictly complied with.

SECTION 33. All departments, agencies, offices, and instrumentalities of the government, government-owned or controlled corporations, local government units, including barangays, shall include in their annual budgets the necessary outlay for the purchase of the national flag.

I. Prohibited Acts

SECTION 34. It shall be prohibited

a. To mutilate, deface, defile, trample, on or cast contempt any act or omission casting dishonor or ridicule upon the flag over its surface;

b. To dip the flag to any person or object by way of compliment or salute;

c. To use the flag:

1. As a drapery, festoon, tablecloth

2. As covering for ceilings, walls, statues or other objects;

3. As a pennant in the hood, side, back and top of motor vehicles;

4. As a staff or whip;

5. For unveiling monuments or statues; and

6. As trademarks or for industrial, commercial or agricultural labels or designs.

d. Display the flag:

1. Under any painting or picture;

2. Horizontally face-up. It shall always be hoisted aloft and be allowed to fall freely;

3. Below any platform; or

4. In discotheques, cockpits, night and day clubs, casinos, gambling joints and places of vice or where frivolity prevails.

e. To wear the flag in whole or in part as a costume or uniform;

f. To add any word, figure, mark, picture, design, drawings, advertisements, or imprint of any nature on the flag;

g. To print, paint or attach representation of the flag on handkerchiefs, napkins, cushions, and other articles of merchandise;

h. To display in public any foreign flag, except in embassies and other diplomatic establishments, and in offices of international organizations.

i. To use, display or be part of any advertisement of infomercial; and

j. To display the flag in front of buildings or offices occupied by aliens.

CHAPTER II

THE NATIONAL ANTHEM

SECTION 35. The National Anthem is entitled Lupang Hinirang.

SECTION 36. The National Anthem shall always be sung in the national language v/ithin or without the country. The following shall be the lyrics of the National Anthem.

Bayang Magiliw, Perlas ng Silanganan

Alab ng Puso sa dibdib mo’y buhay.

Lupang Hinirang, duyan ka ng magiting, sa manlulupig di ka pasisiil

Sa dagat at bundok, sa simoy at sa langit mong bughaw, may dilag ang tula At awit sa paglayang minamahal.

Ang kislap ng watawat mo’y tagumpay na nagniningning; ang bituin at araw niya, kailan pa may di magdidilim

Lupa ng araw, ng luwalhati’t pagsinta, buhay ay langit sa piling mo.

Aming ligaya napag may mang-aapi, ang mamatay nang dahil sa iyo.

SECTION 37. The rendition of the National Anthem, whether played or sung, shall be in accordance with the musical arrangement and composition of Julian Felipe.

SECTION 38. When the National Anthem is played at a public gathering, whether by a band or by singing or both, or reproduced by any means, the attending public shall sing the anthem. The singing must be done with fervor.

As a sign of respect, all persons shall stand at attention and face the Philippine flag, if there is one displayed, and if there is none, they shall face the band or the conductor. At the first note, all persons shall execute a salute by placing their right palms over their left chests. Those in military, scouting, citizen’s military training and security guard uniforms shall give the salute prescribed by their regulations. The salute shall be completed upon the last note of the anthem.

The anthem shall not be played and sung for mere recreation, amusement or entertainment purposes except on the following occasions:

a. International competitions where the Philippines is the host or has a representative;

b. Local competitions;

c. During “signing off” and “signing on” of radio broadcasting and television stations;

d. Before the initial and last screening of films or before the opening of theater performances; and

e. Other occasions as may be allowed by the Institute.

SECTION 39. All officials and employees of the national and local governments, and any agencies or instrumentalities thereof, including government-owned or controlled corporations, privately-owned entities of offices displaying the national flag and government institutions of learning are hereby directed to comply strictly with the rules prescribed for the rendition of the anthem. Failure to observe the rules shall be a ground for administrative discipline.

CHAPTER III

THE NATIONAL MOTTO

SECTION 40. The national Motto shall be “MAKA-DIYOS, MAKA-TAO, MAKAKALIKASAN AT MAKABANSA.”

CHAPTER IV

NATIONAL COAT-OF-ARMS

SECTION 41. The National Coat-of-Arms shall have:

Paleways of two (2) pieces, azure and gules; a chief argent studded with three (3) mullets equidistant from each other; and, in point of honor, ovoid argent over all the sun rayonnant with eight minor lesser rays. Beneath shall be the scroll with the words “REPUBLIKA NG PILIPINAS,” inscribed thereon.

CHAPTER V

THE GREAT SEAL

SECTION 42. The Great Seal shall be circular in form, with the arms as described in the preceding section, but without the scroll and the inscription thereon. Surrounding the whole shall be a double marginal circle within which shall appear the words “Republika ng Pilipinas.” For the purpose of placing The Great Seal, the color of the arms shall not be deemed essential but tincture representation must be used.

The Great Seal shall bear the National Motto.

SECTION 43. The Great Seal shall be affixed to or placed upon all commissions signed by the President and upon such other official documents and papers of the Republic of the Philippines as may be provided by law, or as may be required bv custom and usage. The President shall have custody of the Great Seal.

CHAPTER VI

OFFICIAL SEALS AND OTHER HERALDIC ITEMS AND DEVICES

SECTION 44. Any government entity, including the military, may adopt appropriate coat-of-arms, administrative seals, logo, insignia, badges, patches, banners and initiate awards, citations, orders or decorations, as may be authorized by the Congress or the Office of the President.

SECTION 45. Such hearldic devices and items shall be filed with the Institute for recording and evaluation as to precedence, design, customs and traditions. The institute shall promulgate the corresponding rules and regulations which shall be submitted for approval to the Office of the President or to Congress.

SECTION 46. All government offices including the military are hereby ordered to purchase all heraldic items and devices from manufacturers accredited and authorized by the Institute. Such items and devices shall be subject to inspection by the purchasing agency’s internal inspector and the COA representative using the design and specifications approved by the Office of the President or by the Congress, through the Institute.

SECTION 47. No government official or employee shall accept any orders or decorations from any foreign government without the consent of Congress, and without the prior evaluation and documentation of such order or decoration by the Institute.

CHAPTER VII

PENALTIES

SECTION 48. Failure or refusal to observe the provisions of this Act; and any violation of the corresponding rules and regulations issued by the Office of the President shall, after proper notice and hearing, be penalized by public censure which shall be published at least once in a newspaper of general circulation.

The Department of Education, Culture and Sports and the Commission on Higher Education, upon the recommendation of the Institute and after the proper notice and hearing, shall cause the cancellation of the recognition of permit of any private educational institution which fails or refuses to observe the provisions of this Act for the second time.

SECTION 49. The Department of Education, Culture and Sports (DECS) and the Commission on Higher Education shall ensure that the National Anthem, as adopted by law, shall be committed to memory by all students of both public and private educational institutions, and performed during the flag ceremony conducted in accordance with the rules and regulations issued by the Office of the President. In addition, they shall make available the vocal, piano or band scores of the National Anthem, as adopted by law, to all private and public schools, as well as he general public.

SECTION 50. Any person or judicial entity which violates any of the provisions of this Act shall, upon conviction, be punished by a fine of not less than Five thousand pesos (5,000.00) not more than Twenty thousand pesos (P20,000.00), or by imprisonment for not more than one (1) year, or both such fine and imprisonment, at the discretion of the court: Provided, That for any second and additional offenses, both fine and imprisonment shall always be imposed: Provided, That in case the violation is commited by a juridical person, its President or Chief Executive Officer thereof shall be liable.

CHAPTER VIII

COMMON PROVISION

SECTION 51. The Institute shall issue the necessary-rules and regulations to implement the provisions of this Act within ninety (90) days after effectivity. The Institute shall submit its rules and regulations to the Office of the President and the Congress of the Philippines.

SECTION 52. The Institute shall also be responsible for the strict enforcement of the provision of this Act. It may call upon any government department, agency, office, or government instrumentality, including government corporations and local government units, for such assistance as it may deem necessary for the effective discharge of its functions under this Act.

SECTION 53. Separability Clause— If any provision, or part hereof, is held invalid or unconstitutional, the remeinder of this Act not otherwise affected shall be valid and subisting.

SECTION 54. Repealing Clause - Any law, presidential decree or issuance, executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule and regulation contrary to or inconsistent with the provisions of this Act is hereby repealed, modified, or amended accordingly.

SECTION 55. Effectivity — This Act shall be effective fifteen (15) days from the date of its publication in Official Gazette or in at east two (2) newspapers of general circulation.

Approved:

Composer to star in her film bio

Self-taught Filipino artist and composer Mrs. Violeta Frankland has written over 200 songs, recording them under her own label, Frankland Records.

She has also produced concerts abroad to raise funds for OFWs.

Violeta and her businessman husband Steve have two children, Alex and Sandra.

Incidentally, Mega Crystal International (MCI), is helping her produce a docu-film drama about her life as a self-made, overseas-based entrepreneur. This will be directed by George Vail Kabristante from the script of Roger Parajes.

• • •

SCIONS OF LEGENDARY ARTISTS MAKE UP GENERATION

If the band Generation has been making a buzz of late, it’s because its members are the sons of renowned singers and recording artists of yore.

Bassist Joe and keyboardist Mike Chan are sons of Jose Mari Chan. Rhythm guitarist Ige Gallardo is the son of singer-actress Celeste Legaspi, while singer and guitarist Kowboy Santos is the son of the Queen of Pinoy Rock, Sampaguita.

It’s not actually a new group, having been playing together since 2008.

The band began recording their all-original debut album in 2010, released by Star Records.

• • •

EVERYONE INVITED TO DINGDONG-MARIAN WEDDING?

If Dingdong Dantes was serious in his announcement that everyone is invited to his and Marian Rivera’s planned wedding on Dec. 30, then he did not think of the consequence. It would definitely be pandemonium!

Dingdong had said that they are making the wedding accessible to all if only to show how much they values their fans. We’re sure security and order will be taken care of.

• • •

TIDBITS: Happy b-day greetings today, Aug. 21, go to Sen. Lito Lapid, Jeanne Margaret Goulbourn, Hector Villanueva, Nina Teves, Charlie Uy, Eva Gonzalez, Francis Zamora, Noemi B. Reyes, George del Rosario, Mayor Manny Ilumba, Mutya C. Laxa, Chit Picache Vizconde, Carmelita “Baby” Millado, Jay Valenciano-Glorioso, Carol Yap, Pinky, and Miguel Mendoza… Happy wedding anniversary to Col. and Mrs. Clemente Lobusta… Aug. 22: Asia’s Queen of Song Pilita Corrales, Chito Ponce Enrile, Carolyn Masibay, Jun Guevara, Bea Michelle, Fely R. Sanchez, Maura Baldoza, Lea Salterio, Rosbel Q. Bunag, Efren Mercado, Aida Lecitona, Allen Singson, Angelu de Leon and Jean Garcia…

GMA Network Station Notice (new, 2014)

This is GMA Network, Inc., DZBB-TV Channel 7.

A commercial TV station with 100,000-watt transmitting power authorized under temporary permit no. BSD-0723-2013, issued by the National Telecommunications Commission valid until December 31, 2016.

GMA Studios are located at the GMA Complex, Edsa corner Timog Avenue, Barangay South Triangle, Diliman, Quezon City, Metro Manila, Republic of the Philippines.

The GMA transmitter station is located at Charles Conard Street, Brgy. Culiat, Tandang Sora, Quezon City.

GMA Engineering is headed by Gilberto R. Duavit, Junior.

GMA Transmission Personnel is composed of Electronics Engineers, Technicians and First Class Radio Operations with License issued by Professional Regulations Commission and the National Telecommunications Commission.

• Elvis B. Ancheta -- Electronics Engineer Number 3575
• Erwin R. Timbre -- Electronics Engineer Number 3650
• Harold Kim D. Magarra -- Electronics Engineer Number 16782
• Jonathan G. Salvo -- Electronics Engineer Number 19705
• Joel M. Agu -- Electronics Engineer Number 40727
• Louie O. Siapengco -- Electronics Engineer Number 15586
• Rodrigo P. Cuizon, Junior -- Electronics Engineer Number 31687
• Ralph T. Palma -- Electronics Engineer Number 29315
• Reykel M. Espiritu -- Electronics Technician Number 305
• Rafael A. Racelis -- 94-1PNCR-11977
• Remegio A. Apostol, Junior -- 93-1PNCR-5564
• Inocencio Robert D. Maniago -- 95-1PNCR-15029
• Arnel V. Aricheta -- 93-1PNCR-6617
• Charlie F. Perez -- 06-1PHN-23257 
• Gregorio A. de Afria, Junior -- 06-1PNCR-23325 
• Peter M. Basallote -- 06-1PNCR-23273 
• Gerard Lorenzo V. Sandangon -- 06-1PV-23313 
• Nathaniel F. Santiago -- 11-1PHN-24621 
• Arnold G. Cabran -- 11-1PHN-24625
• Alan S. Mangubat -- 97-1PXI-20349
• Chito G. Narboada -- 95-1PVII-13315

All programs telecast on this station have been approved by the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB), seen via satellite in over 50 stations nationwide!

LUZON:

GMA-7 - Manila

TV-7 - Batanes

TV-5 - Ilocos Norte

TV-38 - Ilocos Sur

TV-7 - Abra

TV-7 - Tuguegerao

TV-13 - Aparri

TV-5 - Mountain Province

TV-7 - Isabela

TV-10 - Benguet

TV-5 - Baler

TV-10 - Olongapo

TV-12 - Batangas

TV-44 - Jalajala, Rizal

TV-13 - Occidental Mindoro

TV-12 - Puerto Princesa, Palawan

TV-6 - Brooke's Point, Palawan

TV-8 - Coron, Palawan

TV-7 - Romblon

TV-7 - Masbate

TV-7 - Naga

TV-12 - Legazpi

TV-13 - Catanduanes

TV-2 - Sorsogon

VISAYAS:

TV-5 - Calbayog

TV-8 - Borongan

TV-10 - Tacloban

TV-12 - Ormoc

TV-2- Kalibo

TV-5 - Roxas

TV-6 - Iloilo

TV-13 - Bacolod

TV-30 - Murcia, Negros Occidental

TV-7 - Cebu

TV-11 - Bohol

TV-5 - Dumaguete

TV-10 - Sipalay

MINDANAO:

TV-35 - Cagayan De Oro

TV-12 - Bukidnon

TV-4 - Dipolog

TV-5 - Ozamis

TV-3 - Pagadian

TV-11 - Iligan

TV-10 - Surigao

TV-2 - Tandag

TV-5 - Davao

TV-8 - General Santos

TV-9 - Zamboanga

TV-12 - Cotabato

TV-12 - Jolo

This is GMA, the Philippines Largest Network! Now Signing On / Off.

Traffic Re-Routing Plan for October 25, 2014 (Papal Visit and 36th Anniversary Celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide)

On October 25, 2014, Roxas Boulevard (from Buendia Avenue to Anda Circle) and President Quirino Avenue (from Taft Avenue to Roxas Boulevard) will be closed to vehicular traffic from 7:00 A.M. to 9:00 P.M. Motorists are advised to take the following alternate routes:

1. Northbound vehicles using Roxas Boulevard from Buendia Avenue to Bonifacio Drive are advised to take A. Mabini, Taft Avenue or South Super Highway routes.
2. Southbound vehicles traversing Roxas Boulevard are advised to take Taft Avenue or South Superhighway.
3. South Harbor-bound vehicles will have to wait 30 minutes due to the closure of vehicular traffic along Aduana, Intramuros or take Jones Bridge - C.M. Recto and Bonifacio Drive route towards Aduana.
4. Luneta-bound vehicles are only up to P. Burgos-Taft-Avenue-T.M. Kalaw intersections/junctions.

On the same day (October 25), General Luna Street (from Aduana to P. Burgos) will be closed to vehicular traffic from 11:30 A.M. to 2:30 P.M. and motorists are advised to take other parallel streets or take Aduana-P. Burgos-Taft Avenue

For Pontiff's visit, JIL anniversary celebration: MMDA sets up mobile command post

Three mobile command posts have been set at the PhilTrade Center in Roxas Boulevard, Plaza Dilao in Intramuros and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Headquarters in Makati City to respond to any traffic-related, sanitation or health incidents which may occur during the five-day visit of Pope Francis and the annual anniversary celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide.
This was disclosed by MMDA Chairman Atty. Francis Tolentino who said the mobile command posts are in direct contact with the MMDA 24-Hour Response Center had also been set up to receive calls fro assistance from the public, motorists and from the Catechetical sites that house millions of participants of the JIL Anniversary Celebration.
Tolentino said 50 traffic enforcers have been assigned at the three command posts ready to augment the traffic management personnel deployed in the critical areas in the Metropolis. Each command post, he added, has medical personnel, two motorcycle units, four garbage compactors, two wreckers and one utility vehicle manned by personnel on a 24-hour shift.

Traffic Re-Routing Plan for October 24, 2014 "Papal Visit 2014 and 36th Anniversary Celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide"

Between 7:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M., President Quirino Avenue and A. Lacson from Taft Avenue to Dapitan will be closed to vehicular traffic. Motorists are advised to take the following alternative routes:

1. Vehicles along Taft Avenue going to Roxas Boulevard are advised to take either San Andres and Vito Cruz Streets.
2. From 7:30 A.M. to 2:30 P.M., northbound vehicles along President Quirino Avenue going to A. Lacson (Governor Forbes) are advised to take San Andres Street or Vito Cruz Street, then northwards at Taft Avenue and take Rizal Avenue or Quezon Boulevard to their areas of destination.
3. Southbound vehicles using the A. Lacson (Governor Forbes) - President Quirino Avenue towards the Taft Avenue way, are advised to take the Quezon Boulevard - Taft Avenue Route.

Also on the same day from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Espana fronting UST from P. Noval to A. Lacson will be closed to Public Utility Vehicles. Only Northbound PUJ's and PUB's are advised to take P. Paredes Street towards Sergio Loyola. Southbound PUJ's and PUB's will be re-routed to Don Castillas, Don Quijote and Maria Cristina Streets enroute to the Laong-Laan-Andalucia-Quezon Boulevard route.

Traffic Re-Routing Plan for the Papal Visit (October 23, 2014)

Closure of north-bound lane of Taft Avenue (between Vito Cruz and President Quirino Avenue) shall start at 3:00 P.M. of Thursday, October 23, 2014 and lasts until about 11:00 A.M. of October 27, 2014,
The existing southbound lane shall be open for use of northbound vehicles. Southbound traffic along Taft Avenue from Manila shall turn right to Remedios or San Andres, turn left to M. Adriatico and finally turn left at Vito Cruz and re-take Taft Avenue going south.

During the arrival of the Pope, closure of Old MIA Road (between Nayong Pilipino and Roxas Boulevard); Roxas Boulevard (between Seasaide Drive and President Quirino); and President Quirino (between Roxas Boulevard to Taft Avenue) shall take effect on October 23, 2014 from 3:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. When the Pope leaves on October 27, 2014, the same roads/route shall be closed from 8:00 A.M. to 10:00 A.M.

Affected vehicles may take the following routes:

1. Northbound traffic from Cavite City using Roxas Boulevard in going to Baclaran will be rerouted to Victor Medina/Kabihasnan Street towards their destination. Those going to Manila may take Dr. A. Santos (Sucat Road) - South Luzon Expressway - South Superhighway route.
2. Southbound vehicles along Roxas Boulevard coming from Luneta will be rerouted to Pedro Gil Street enroute to Taft Avenue or South Super Highway.
3. All vehicles going to Roxas Boulevard coming from: a) President Quirino Avenue, b) Buendia Avenue, c) EDSA, d) Airport Road; and e) Old MIA Road are advised during the aforecited time slots and dates to take the South Superhighway or Taft Avenue route.

Ordinary motorists, participants or devotees during the Papal Visit may help decongest heavy traffic areas or ask any form of assistance from the 

• OFFICE OF THE CHAIRMAN HON. FRANCIS N. TOLENTINO - 882-4154 to 74 loc. 205; 207
• OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY CHAIRMAN Usec. ALEX RAMON Q. CABANILLA - 882-4154 loc. 282
• TRAFFIC ENGINEERING CENTER Dir. Noemie T. Recio Director III - 882-0858

Another Filipina makes the country proud

Filipina beauty Joyce Peñas Pilarsky was recently crowned Classic Mrs. Asia International Global 2014. She is the first Pinay to win the title, besting 14 other finalists in the competition held in Kuala Lumpur.

In a press conference held at Roma Salon at Manila Hotel, Joyce shared, “It has been my dream to become an international beauty queen and praise God, it happened!”

JOYCE PEñAS PILARSKY

Winning titles and awards is not new to Joyce, who is also a fashion designer. In 2000, she was named Mrs. Philippines-Germany, and in 2013, she was chosen as Magnificent Women Icon Philippines.

Other honors she’s receieved are the Asian Achiever award as Outstanding Fashion Icon from the Asia Pacific Council; the 2014 Dangal ng Bayan award; and the 2014 Seal of Excellence award.

Joyce’s ultimate dream is to establish an international fashion brand with Angelina Jolie as signature model. Local celebrities who’ve worn Joyce’s clothes include Solenn Heusaff, Mikee Cojuangco-Jaworski and Miss World Megan Young.

WHAT’S IN A KISS – BETWEEN FRIENDS, THAT IS

Her kissing scene with Matteo Guidecelli in Regal Entertainment’s “Somebody to Love,” opening tomorrow, Aug. 20, is no big deal for Isabelle Daza. After all, she considers the actor a “good friend.”

Matteo and Isabelle have known each other for some time now because of their mutual love for triathlon. Isabelle, however, missed the recent one in Cebu because of her hectic schedule. She is in three GMA-7 shows – “Eat Bulaga,” “Taste Buds” and “Niño.”

More, she is also doing three movies: “Mara,” “Kubot” and the sequel to “Aswang Chronicles.”

The increasingly busy Isabelle received the Best New Film Actress award from the PMPC last year for her performance in “It Takes a Man and a Woman.”

• • •

US Ambassador H. E. Philip Goldberg (center), Marriott Manila Executive Chef Meik Brammer, Chef John Havens, Marriott Manila Director of F&B Brendan Mahoney and Marriott Manila Hotel Manager Anna Vergara leading the toast at last month’s opening of the hotel’s month-long food festival ‘All-American All Good.’ Celebrities Giselle Tongi-Walters, Phoemela Baranda and JC Tiuseco graced the occasion.

• • •

TIDBITS: Happy b-day greetings today, Aug. 19, go to Regal matriarch Lily Y. Monteverde a.k.a. Mother Lily, former Minister Conrado Estrella, beauty queen-turned-actress Maribel Lopez, Randy Ortiz, Tonton Young, Manny Mogato, Louie Panganiban, Nancy Harel, Celine “Nene” Africa. Manuel Bediones, Dulce Palma Friedman of California, AJ Siytangco, Dr. Luz Torres-Reyes, Manuel Ablan, Ernie Duque, Atty. Mar Santiago, Lanie Q. Dollente, Elizabeth Diaz, Rommel Mendoza, Letlet Veloso, Let del Rosario, Henry F. Manuel Canta Tanael of Anda, Pangasinan, Taiwan-based Loida Lagana-Huang, Henry G. Babiera, Merlita V. Macahindog, Iwa Motto, and Ella Guevarra… Aug. 20: Chief Justice Emilio Gancayco, Consul Fortune Ledesma, Bro. Mike Velarde, Phillip Salvador, Manuel Collantes, Noel Trinidad, Tanya Montenegro, Christine Gatchalian, Cheloy Ignacio, director-comedian Manny Castaneda, Helen A. dela Virgen, Trinidad Gomez, Jaime Piconell, Pocholo Capule, Claire Miranda, Rudy Fontanilla, Vincent del Rosario, Atty. Jose Villanueva, MB’s Bob Jess B. Castillo Jr., and Alex Datu…

The Pope in Manila: Arrival of the Pope at the Old Manila International Airport.

15 hours and 15 minutes ride boarding the Alitalia from Rome, Italy to Manila, Philippines. Pope Francis the First, accompanied by Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal G. Tagle on a flight and lasted up to 4:15 P.M. of Thursday, October 23, 2014.

Red Carpet Parade at the Old Manila International Airport.

The program proper when President Benigno S. Aquino III and Vice-President Jejomar C. Binay was at the Old MIA together with the city mayors of Metro Manila, CaLaBaRzon, MiMaRoPa, Bicol, Western, Central and Eastern Visayas.

The program proper as it follows Papal Anthem followed by Philippine National Anthem to played. Welcome Remarks by the Pope

TV Newscast Openings and Title Cards

TV Patrol (ABS-CBN):

1987-1988

• "Narito na ang mga maiinit na balita mula sa TV Patrol!"

1988-1994

• "Mga maiinit na balita at sasainyo sa TV Patrol!"

1994-1995

• (Pulstar by Vangelis plays) "Narito na ang mga nagbabagang balita sa TV Patrol!"
• Noli de Castro says "Magandang Gabi, Bayan!"

1995-1997

• "Narito na ang mga Nagbabagang Balita mula sa ABS-CBN News and Public Affairs, Ihahatid sa inyo nina Noli de Castro, Mel Tiangco, Frank Evangelista at Christine Bersola sa Pinakalatest, Nanguuna, Via Sattelite at Tunay na Pambansang Newscast... TV Patrol!"
• (ABS-CBN News Theme by Ryan Cayabyab plays) Noli de Castro says "Magandang Gabi, Bayan!"

1997-2001

• (Allegro by Gari Media group plays) "Mula sa ABS-CBN News Center, narito si Kabayan Noli de Castro!"
• Noli de Castro says "Magandang Gabi, Bayan!"

March 12, 2001-April 16, 2003

• "Live mula sa A-B-S-C-B-N News Headquarters, ito ang TV Patrol!"
• Luzon, Visayas at Mindanao, handa na ba kayo sa isang oras na nagbabagang balita! Ako si Korina Sanchez, ako po naman si Aljo Bendijo, ako po naman si Henry Omaga Diaz!

April 21, 2003-November 19, 2004

• Live! Mula sa A-B-S-C-B-N News Headquarters, Julius Babao, Korina Sanchez, Kasama ang mga Patrol ng Bayan, Bantay ng Mamamayan! Ito ang T-V Patrol!
• Korina Sanchez says: "Magandang Gabi, Pilipinas!"

November 22, 2004-2005

• Live! Mula sa ABS-CBN News Center Manila, Ito ang TV Patrol World!
• Magandang Gabi Pilipinas, ako si Julius Babao! Ako po naman si Karen Davila! Ako si Ted Failon! Kami ang inyong mga Patrol ng Pilipino, nagbabalita at naglilingkod sa inyo, saan man sa mundo!

2005-June 2, 2006

• Live! Mula sa ABS-CBN News Center Manila, Ito ang TV Patrol World!
• Magandang Gabi Pilipinas! Kami ang inyong mga Patrol ng Pilipino, nagbabalita at naglilingkod sa inyo, saan man sa mundo!

June 5, 2006-June 29, 2010

• Live! Mula sa ABS-CBN News Center Manila, Ito ang TV Patrol World!
• (Julius Babao) Magandang Gabi Pilipinas! (Karen Davila) Kami ang inyong mga Patrol ng Pilipino, (Ted Failon) nagbabalita at naglilingkod sa inyo, saan man sa mundo!

‘Peksman’ album a fairytale-come-true for Hannah Nolasco

     For 16-year-old rising star Hannah Nolasco, getting to record an album is like a fairytale-come-true.

Hannah exemplifies the typical teenage Filipina. But what sets her apart from her peers is her being a free spirit. She also has the gift of being able to narrate her personal experiences through songs.

She shares, “I want to capture the moments to remember what I am going through.” Hannah describes her music as fun and youthful. “My music will always reflect what I believe in.”

Just like any father, Col. Ricardo L. Nolasco Jr. PAF (Ret), is quite supportive of her daughter. He explains, “The album is my humble way of bringing Hannah closer to the realization of her dreams.”

With the prayers and support of her Lola Josie, her Tita Jackie and well-meaning friends from the media, “Peksman,” was successfully completed in no time.

Hannah, a fourth year high school student from San Beda Alabang, will launch “Peksman” on Aug. 17 at the Hard Rock Café as part of the advance celebration of her birthday on Aug. 19.

• • •

‘A LOVE TO LAST A LIFETIME’

For its 8th anniversary, Outbox Media Production (OBM) Agency and partners will present a concert to help rebuild Tacloban communities.

The concert, billed “A Love to Last a Lifetime,” is a plated dinner affair topbilled by multi-awarded singer-composer Jose Mari Chan, Ate Gay and the Baihana trio.

“Passion. Dedication. Diversity. Through the years, these three words continue to sum up what the OBM team is committed to. This concert is another proof of that. It will be a night of great music, delicious food, and a good cause,” says Rossel Taberna of OBM.

Angelus

(3 times daily, 6:00 a.m., 12 noon, 6:00 p.m. and right before Radio Station Sign-off)
V. The angel of the Lord declared unto Mary,
R. And she conceived by the Holy Spirit.

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you, blessed are you among women and blessed is the fruit of your womb Jesus. Holy Mary, mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

V. Behold the Handmaid of the Lord,
R. Be it done unto me according to you word.

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you, blessed are you among women and blessed is the fruit of your womb Jesus. Holy Mary, mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

V. And the Word was made flesh,
R. And dwelt among us.

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you, blessed are you among women and blessed is the fruit of your womb Jesus. Holy Mary, mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

V. Pray for us, O holy Mary, Mother of God,
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Let us pray: Pour forth, we beseech you, O Lord, your grace into our hearts; that we, to whom the Incarnation of Christ your Son was made known by the message of an angel, may by His Passion and Cross be brought to the glory of His Resurrection. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.

Station Notice

The Station Notice Signing-On/Signing-Off video is before the 1998 Philippine Centennial National Anthem Music Video by Knowledge Channel from November 1999 to July 7, 2012 (before sign-on) and PTV-4 from July 1998 to June 12, 2003 (before sign-on) and it used by Jeepney TV (2012-present, before sign-on at 6:00 am), Lifestyle Network (1999-present, before sign-on at 6:00 am)






Sa ngayon, kung nag sign-on sa mga Channels: ABS-CBN, PTV-4, TV5, RPN-9 & IBC-13 lang ay nauuna yung mga kanilang Station Notice of the Sign-on messages bago ang Lupang Hinirang (aired on ABC-5 from 1998), mga Sign-on Prayers nila & kanilang mga Station ID.






ANNOUNCEMENT:ALL PROGRAMS, COMMENTS AND SUGGESTIONS, PLEASE WRITE TO THE PRECEDING OFFICES OF THE NATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION, VIBAL BUILDING, EDSA, QUEZON CITY OR THE REGIONAL OFFICES OF THE KAPISANAN NG MGA BROADKASTER NG PILIPINAS.


ABS-CBN Station Notices Sign-on/Sign-off Voice by Peter Musngi


PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENT:

All programs, comments and suggestions, please write to the preceding programs of the National Telecommunications Commission, Vibal Building, Edsa, Quezon City, or the regional offices of the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas.

1987-1995

PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENT:

All programs, comments and suggestions, please write to the preceding programs of the National Telecommunications Commission, Vibal Building, Edsa, Quezon City, or the regional offices of the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas.

This is ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation, Channel 2.

A commercial television station, transmitting on a 40-kilowatt transmitter output with with permit number (Number of Licensed) authorizing this station Operate until (Date).

Channel 2 studios and transmitter are located at the ABS-CBN Building on Sgt. Esguerra Avenue, Republic of the Philippines.

Channel 2 Engineering is headed by the following personel duly license by the National Telecommunications Commission:


This is ABS-CBN Channel 2 is now SIGNING ON/OFF.

2010-present

This is ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation, Channel 2.

A Commercial Television Station transmitting on 346.2 Kilowatt Effective Radiation Power With Permit Number (Number of Licensed) Authorizing this station Operate until (Date).


Channel 2 Studios and Transmitter are Located at the ABS-CBN Broadcast Center Sgt. Esguerra Ave. Diliman Quezon City.

Channel 2 Operates Under the Supervision of the following Electronics and Communications Engineers duly licensed by the Professional Regulation Commission:
Lists of Names of ABS-CBN Engineering Department
This Is ABS-CBN Channel 2 Now Signing On/Off.

TV5 Station Notices Sign-on/Sign-off Voice overed by Michael Knight
This is TV5, DWET-TV
TV5 is a commercial broadcast station, authorized by the National Telecommunications Commission with licensed number (Number of Licensed) to expire on (Date).
TV5 transmitter and studio complex are located at the 762 Quirino Highway, San Bartolome, Novaliches, Quezon City.
TV5 is authorize to operate from 4:00 am to 1:00 am with the power of 60 kilowatts.
TV5 Engineering is headed by following Professional Electronics Engineers:
TV5 transmitter is operated and maintain by the following Electronics and Communications Engineers and Technicians, and First Class Radio and Telephone Operators, duly licensed by the Professional Regulation Commission and the National Telecommunications Commission:
Lists of Names of TV5 Engineering Department
Ladies and Gentlemen, this is TV5, DWET-TV is now signing off.

GMA and IBC Station Notices Sign-on/Sign-off Voice overed by Al Torres


This is GMA, DZBB-TV Channel 7.A commercial TV Station with 100,000-Kilowatt transmitting power authorized under temporary Licensed No. (Number of Licensed) issued by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) valid until (Date)






GMA Studios and Office are located at GMA EDSA TV Complex, EDSA corner Timog Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City, GMA Broadway Studios, Broadway Centrum, Aurora Boulevard, New Manila, Quezon City and GMA Sagittarius Building, 111 H.V. Dela Costa Street, Salcedo Village, Makati City.

GMA Transmitter is located at Tandang Sora, Barangay Culiat, Quezon City

Lists of Names of GMA 7 Engineering Department
All programs and commercial materials telecasted on this channel have been approved by the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board.

Lists of GMA Network's Stations Nationwide

This is GMA, the Philippines Largest Network! Now signing on/off.

This is DZTV Channel 13, owned and operated by the Intercontinental Broadcasting Corporation. Authorized by the National Telecommunication Commission with temporary permit number (Number of Licensed)

IBC 13 operates daily from 6:30 am to 2:00 am with the power of 50,000 watts.

IBC 13 studios are located at Broadcast City, Capitol Hills, Old Balara, Diliman, Quezon City and transmitter are located at Roosevelt Avenue, San Francisco del Monte, Quezon City.

IBC Channel 13 is maintain and operated by the following personnel, duly license by the National Telecommunications Commission.

Lists of Names of IBC 13 Engineering Department

IBC Provincial TV Stations Personnel

Lists of Names of IBC 13 Provincial Engineering Department

All programs and commercial materials shown on this channel have been approved by the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board.

PNoy appeals to Tagle: Call off rally

'CALL OFF the rally.''
President Benigno Aquino III yesterday made the appeal to Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal G. Tagle, saying the protest rally scheduled for Friday was scaring investors and giving the country a bad image abroad.
''I'm appealing to them to call off the rally,'' the President said. ''If they care for the people's welfare, they should stop the rally,'' he said.
Mr. Estrada made the last-ditch attempt to stop the Aug. 23 and Oct. 19 rally after expressing willingness to hold a reconciliatory meeting with Sin, whom he lambasted in his radio program last Saturday for allegedly writing lies in a pastoral letter.
But Mr. Estrada said he would not call Sin and Aquino to a meeting to personally make the appeal, saying he might be accused of trying to suppress the freedom of assembly.
In successive interviews with three radio stations while he was still in Brunei, the President blamed the organizers of the rally against Charter change, the perceived return of Marcos cronies and threats to press freedom for the peso and stock market's fall.
But opposition senators said the collapse on Tuesday of the peso to a nine-month low of 39.62 against the dollar and of the stock exchange index to a four-month low of 2,087 points was the fault of Mr. Aquino who is pushing for Charter change.
Political jitters continued to weigh down heavily on the peso, which dropped to 39.78 before closing at 39.61 to the dollar yesterday.
Shares recouped yesterday some of the previous day's losses on bargain-hunting by local institutions. The 33-share main index finished 17.96 points higher at 2,105.09 in choppy trading.
A high-ranking government economic manager yesterday estimated that some $2 billion worth of portfolio or ''hot'' money had fled the country since the debates over Charter change began.
The President disclosed that he was even seeking God's help so that the protest rally would be called off.
''I pray that the protest rally will not push through because it will have a big impact on the economy. Foreign investors are getting scared and may continue to leave the country because of the political instability,'' he said in dzBB.

Dialogue Before he left Brunei for Manila, the President said he was open to discuss Charter change with Sin either before or after the Aug. 20 rally.
''There's nothing definite yet. It is just tentative. Personally, I'm willing to meet anybody as long as it would benefit the people,'' he said in an ambush interview after his news conference where he cited the fruits of his state visit.
''I don't mind whether (it is held) before or after the rally. It is up to them,'' the President said.
Earlier, presidential spokesperson Fernando Barican said representatives of the President and Sin were ''directly or indirectly'' in touch with each other.
''There's no schedule between the President and the cardinal tomorrow but the lines of communication are there and I think that both could schedule a meeting down the road. I suppose there will be a meeting,'' Barican said.
In the radio interviews, the President said he was saddened by the fall of the stock market and the peso after working hard to boost them. ''We really worked hard to double the stock market and we achieved it,'' he said.
The President said the rally was negating the economic gains of his administration.
''The economic indicators were all positive. Now they are sowing chaos. We are returning to the past with its weak economy,'' he said.
Mr. Estrada said Aquino should particularly realize the negative effects of the rally as she had experienced seven coup attempts during her term.

Like a coup d'etat Finance Secretary Cesar V. Purisima, interviewed by ANC television, compared the effect of the planned Church protest to the right-wing military coup attempts which plagued the Aquino administration.
''Because of the continuous threats of coup, coup, coup, our economy was affected, especially the stock market and the peso,'' Espiritu said.
''That is the situation that is happening now because this is a mass action which we cannot suppress. But we can feel that it is affecting our economy,'' he said.
The President said there was no reason to hold the rally because his proposal to amend the Constitution had remained just that, a proposal.
''What I am pushing is just a proposal. It has yet to be discussed and submitted to a preparatory commission. Then it will be brought to Congress for debates. And lastly, the people will decide. So, there's no reason for them to hold the rally and to show other countries that we are quarreling,'' the President said.
''Pati po iyang constituent assembly na sinasabi ko ay baka hindi na po kakailanganin iyan. Pinag-aaralan po ng ating mga mambabatas, sina Senator Drilon, baka hindi na kailangan ng constituent assembly kung hindi three-fourths na boto na lang ng both houses and kakailanganin para ma-amendahan ang ating Saligang Batas,'' the President said.
The President was referring to a proposal made by Drilon during last Saturday's ''Jeep ni Erap.'' Drilon said it might not be necessary for the Senate and the House to sit together as a constituent assembly. He said that based on a comparison of the 1935 and 1987 Constitutions, the Senate and the House can pass amendments in separate sessions. This, however, means that Congress would still make the amendments to the Charter.

Opposition leaders: Erap to blame In the Senate, Sen. Sonia Roco said the fall of the peso and the stock market was ''the fault of the administration, of President Aquino and of the (Department of) Finance.''
''The market forces fear instability because of the inability of Philippine (political) and (finance) leaders to see that the people are against constitutional change. Let them listen to the people,'' Roco said in Filipino.
He said big businessmen were also at fault for condoning the President's wish for Charter change.
''They have a full-page advertisement saying we must sell land to foreigners. They keep insisting on it despite knowing that 87 percent of the people are opposed to Cha-cha,'' Roco said.
The stock market and peso's fall indicated lack of confidence in the administration, said Senate Minority Leader Teofisto Guingona.
He said Mr. Estrada's proposal to amend the Charter was dividing the people. ''When there is division, there is controversy, there is instability. All those are factors that lead to the stock situation.''
Sen. John Osmeña, however, said other issues must be considered in assessing the situation.
''Blaming the whole thing on Cha-cha is not exactly correct,'' he said. ''The plunge is a region-wide phenomenon that has affected even New York. It is the world environment.''
Osmeña also noted that the Bangko Sentral's decision to raise interest rates could have also caused the weakening of stock prices.
''This can also be credited for the shift of investment from the stock exchange to Treasury bills,'' he said.
His cousin, Sen. Sergio Osmeña III agreed and called for a dialogue between the President and anti-Cha-cha proponents to resolve their differences.
''The major parties have to come to the bargaining table and say, 'alright, let's see what is acceptable to the majority of the Filipino people' because what is acceptable is what will work. What is not acceptable is what is happening now,'' he said.
For his part, Barican said moves to amend the Charter did not cause the peso plunge.
''Let's look at the regional strength of the dollar and let's not ascribe this to the domestic situation. This is like saying that the baht devalued because there's going to be a rally on Friday,'' he added.
Barican said the economic situation should be looked at in the context of economic fundamentals.
He said the economic problems would be temporary because the rally would be peaceful.
''I think basically the peso will move up and down based on a lot of circumstances, including conceivably some concerns but those concerns would disappear after the rally because I'm certain that rally would be peaceful,'' he said.
Barican also noted that when the stock market fell on Tuesday by 88 points, it was also the day that PLDT announced that its profits for the first semester had dropped 64 percent.

''And so there was a drop in PLDT's values. So the drop in the market is not simply over local concerns but also on market fundamentals,'' he said. With a report from Doris C. Dumlao

Speech of former Philippine President Corazon C. Aquino (Prayer Rally at the EDSA Shrine, Nov. 4, 2006)

Speech of former Philippine President Corazon C. Aquino
Prayer Rally at the EDSA Shrine
Nov. 4, 2006


THIS is not the first time that His Eminence, Gaudencio Cardinal B. Rosales, you and I have met at this shrine---a shrine to freedom and to God's protection over his people.

I also know that it will not be the last---because, if we keep the failth with God and with one another---we will meet here again, in thanksgiving, to mark the triumph of the good and the just.

Nagtipon-tipon tayo dito upang manalangin sa Panginoon---ngunit hindi lamng para sa ating mga sarili.

We pray for peace, for courage, and for wisdom. We also pray that Almight God bestow these blessings not only on those assembled here at EDSA, but more so on the man who caused all these problems on our people.

Of course, I speak of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo--- who now needs all the humility, composure, courage, and since with faith in God nothing is impossible, the wisdom to help him make the most momentous decision of his life.

We gather, not in anger, but in charity, not out of desperation but because of hope. We are here to build, not destroy our nation, and to save, rather than ruin the presidency.

Tayong mga nandito sa EDSA ay hindi naparito para guluhin o sirain ang Panguluan, kundi upang ibalik ito sa landas ng katwiran.

You and I have embarked on a course of action that bears the gravest consequences for all our countrymen. In the past three weeks, we have asked the President---our elected leader---to step down from office.

Today we pray that he will make the prudent choice , and that he will find the charity in his heart to spare the nation the prolonged and divisive agony of impeachment.

Five days ago, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo went on national television to announce that he was taking steps to correct some of the worst instances of cronyism under his regime, and that he wanted a reconciliatory dialogue between himself and his most prominent critics.

A laudable gesture, but again, it was all too little, too late. In fact, it was a painful admission of how badly his administration has served the people.

Sadly it was a poor attempt to address the issues of the day, while still side-stepping the most tangible concern of our people: his unwillingness to come clean and tell the truth.

Paano tayo maniniwala at magtitiwala sa isang Pangulong hindi man lang makatugon sa mga napakalalang paratang sa kanyang pagkatao? At sa halip na katotohanan, ang iniharap niya sa atin ay ang panakot ng karahasan.

We deserved and always deserve the truth. Instead, the President chose to confront us, with a badly orchestrated, poorly produced, ill-advised thinly veiled threat of force.

We now ask our brothers and sisters in the Armed Forces and the PNP to recognie that the right of citizens to peaceful protest is enshrined in the Constitution. Be one with us, as you were in EDSA, and protect your people from those who would use you for their own selfish ends.

Nananawagan kami sa aitng mga kapatid sa militar at pulisya. Ipagtanggol ninyo kami ---tulad nang ginawa ninyo sa EDSA--sa mga tunay na kaaway ng taumbayan.

Mr. President, you were not here with us at the EDSA revolution. Yet you now cloak yourself with the Constitution that EDSA made possible, the very same constitution which only last year, you unsucessfully, through the efforts of the same people gathered here, tried to subvert.

I say, let that Constitution prevail above all else, and let him have his day in court. This will take time, and the gravity of the process should warrant that due diligence be given. But should our economy and our government be held hostage by this arduous, though necessary process?

The President must accept that the greatest threat to our economy and to our national security today is his compromised and ineffectual leadership.

Mrs. President, our economy's recovery and our society's healing can begin now, if you yield to selflessness and voluntarily resign.

Mrs. President, kayo ang pinagmulan ng ating paghihirap ngayon, kayo ang nagkamali, kayo ang problema!

You must display your willingness to face the truth and the consequences of your actions. We Filipinos are a forgiving people, you can still repent---after yielding your job to someone who will do it better.

Mrs. President, take it from me: there is life after Malacanang. History may treat you more kindly if you go peacefully and you go now!

Ngayon ka na magbitiw, Mrs. President. Even the best actor knows when it's time to take his final bow!

Whatever happens, the task of nation building will go on after Gloria. We must continue to seek new ways of people empowerment, of lifting the Filipinos from material and moral poverty.

We pray for those who would take over the reins of government, that they may always hold themselves accountable to God and to the people. Responsible citizenship and accountable leadership go hand in hand in true nation building.

May mga nagsasabing ang mga Pilipino daw ay hindi na natuto. Sa pagtitipon natin muli dito sa EDSA, pinapatunayan natin sa buong mundo---natuto na tayo. Hindi na natin ipagkakatiwala ang pamumuno ng pamahalaan sa nagnanais lamang na yumayaman mula sa dugo't pawis ng sambayanan. Hindi na tayo muling papayag na nakawin ang kinabukasan ng ating bayan.

We pray to God that He grant us a quick, peaceful, and just resolution to our current national crisis. We pray for strength and vigilance to carry on our fight and above all else that goodness and justice will triumph, and once again, the best Filipinos---and the best in the Filipino will prevail.

Allow me now to pay tribute to a man whose spiritual leadership, courage, and strength in his moral convictions has consistently paved the way for each one of us to follow the right path. In a nation of many voices, his has stood out because he has always been able to galvanize his flock to action. Without him, the democracy borne out of the EDSA people power revolution would not have been possible. And because of him, we proudly are united today. A man of God, a man we Filipinos proudly uphold as our symbol of freedom, let us now render our gratitude with thunderous applause, as we thank God for blessing us with a great Filipino like Cardinal Sin.

Magtiwala tayo sa Maykapal na mananaig ang kabutihan, at muling babangon ang sambayanang Pilipino.

Maraming salamat po at mabuhay tayong lahat.