 |
| Enchong Dee |
Saturday, August 19, 2017
Enchong Dee for arena swimwear
Ariana Grande at MOA Arena
Ariana Grande’s “Dangerous Woman” tour finally comes to Manila on Aug. 21 at the Mall of Asia Arena.
The 23-year-old singer is said to be the artist of the moment after showing the world how to bounce back following the Manchester tragedy when she did the tour there.
Her string of hits include “Side To Side,” “Break Free,” “Into You” and “Dangerous Woman.” Ariana is known for her powerful vocals and phenomenal choreography.
The concert is produced by Music Management International (MMI) Live.
• • •
‘Amo’ on TV5
“Amo,” latest work of director Brillante Mendoza, premieres tomorrow on TV5.
Expected to be another masterpiece, “Amo” is a crime miniseries that tackles one of today’s most controversial topics – the Philippine government’s war on drugs.
This 12-episode miniseries is set against the background of the country’s War on Drugs and depicts situations including the rampant vigilantism against suspected illegal drug personalities.
It features the story of Joseph, a high school student peddling crystal meth or “shabu” initially to his fellow gang members and later on to a much bigger market in Metro Manila. “Amo” also shows the controversies revolving around the Philippine National Police in the government’s campaign against drugs.
Vince Rillon heads the cast that also includes Derek Ramsay, Allen Dizon, Felix Roco, Apollo Abraham, Archie Adamos with the special participation of Baron Geisler.
“Amo” airs Sundays at 9:30 p.m.
• • •
GMA Network ups recurring revenues by 6% in H1 2017
Broadcast giant GMA Network Inc. (GMA) remained cautiously optimistic about hitting its year-end target as it capped the first half of the year with recurring revenues of P7.698 billion, ahead by 6 percent over the same period last year.
The Network managed to perform well following an election year, with its consolidated revenues dropping by only 12 percent. Political advocacies and advertisements contributed P1.488 billion to the company’s top line during the first half of 2016.
Without the impact of political advertisements, GMA’s airtime revenue platforms including GMA-7, GMA News TV, Radio, and Regional all posted revenue growths during the period.
On the other hand, the network’s international operations and other businesses, which were not affected by the election placements last year, reflected a 22 percent growth year-on-year.
Aiding the company’s steady financial performance was its efficient cost management, with total operating expenses posting a low single-digit hike of only 3 percent. This, despite the production of more expensive programs aimed at helping maintain the network’s nationwide urban TV ratings dominance.
“We will still try to accomplish our yearend financial target as we have entered the second half of the year. We are very excited about our new programs, particularly on our primetime block, as well as other business opportunities that are expected to unfold within the year,” said GMA Network Chairman and CEO Felipe L. Gozon.
EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) decreased by 29 percent to P2.961 billion while net income after tax for the first half settled at P1.552 billion, a 35 percent decline year-on-year, as explained by the absence of political ads in 2017.
Fortifying the nationwide TV ratings dominance, GMA-7 sealed the first half of the year with an average people audience share of 42.2 percent in NUTAM, besting ABS-CBN’s 35.9 percent based on data from Nielsen TV Audience Measurement.
Majority of the shows in NUTAM’s list of top-rating programs were from GMA. The Kapuso Network bagged the first 13 spots in the list of top programs for the first half led by Pepito Manaloto, Magpakailanman, Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho, Alyas Robin Hood (season 1), Mulawin vs. Ravena, Wowowin, Eat Bulaga, Sunday Pinasaya, 24 Oras, Saksi, Destined to be Yours, My Love from the Star, Meant to Be, I Heart Davao, Hay Bahay, Daig Kayo ng Lola Ko, 24 Oras Weekend, Haplos, Impostora, Legally Blind, Hahamakin ang Lahat and Ika-6 Na Utos.
Similarly, the network once again proved to be the viewers’ preferred channel during special events, with more viewers tuning in to GMA’s specials, “Battle of Brisbane: Pacquiao vs. Horn” match last July 2 and “SONA 2017” last July 24.
• • •
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 Moto, 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…Aug. 21: 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…Belated b-day greetings to Edgar Reyes, Linda Gaerlan and Bench Torres of Makati City and Jason Balaoing of Pasig (Aug. 16) and Abby Rebong, Mike David, Jean Gaecerro and Angeline del Carmen (Aug. 17)…
The 23-year-old singer is said to be the artist of the moment after showing the world how to bounce back following the Manchester tragedy when she did the tour there.
Her string of hits include “Side To Side,” “Break Free,” “Into You” and “Dangerous Woman.” Ariana is known for her powerful vocals and phenomenal choreography.
The concert is produced by Music Management International (MMI) Live.
• • •
‘Amo’ on TV5
“Amo,” latest work of director Brillante Mendoza, premieres tomorrow on TV5.
Expected to be another masterpiece, “Amo” is a crime miniseries that tackles one of today’s most controversial topics – the Philippine government’s war on drugs.
This 12-episode miniseries is set against the background of the country’s War on Drugs and depicts situations including the rampant vigilantism against suspected illegal drug personalities.
It features the story of Joseph, a high school student peddling crystal meth or “shabu” initially to his fellow gang members and later on to a much bigger market in Metro Manila. “Amo” also shows the controversies revolving around the Philippine National Police in the government’s campaign against drugs.
Vince Rillon heads the cast that also includes Derek Ramsay, Allen Dizon, Felix Roco, Apollo Abraham, Archie Adamos with the special participation of Baron Geisler.
“Amo” airs Sundays at 9:30 p.m.
• • •
GMA Network ups recurring revenues by 6% in H1 2017
Broadcast giant GMA Network Inc. (GMA) remained cautiously optimistic about hitting its year-end target as it capped the first half of the year with recurring revenues of P7.698 billion, ahead by 6 percent over the same period last year.
The Network managed to perform well following an election year, with its consolidated revenues dropping by only 12 percent. Political advocacies and advertisements contributed P1.488 billion to the company’s top line during the first half of 2016.
Without the impact of political advertisements, GMA’s airtime revenue platforms including GMA-7, GMA News TV, Radio, and Regional all posted revenue growths during the period.
On the other hand, the network’s international operations and other businesses, which were not affected by the election placements last year, reflected a 22 percent growth year-on-year.
Aiding the company’s steady financial performance was its efficient cost management, with total operating expenses posting a low single-digit hike of only 3 percent. This, despite the production of more expensive programs aimed at helping maintain the network’s nationwide urban TV ratings dominance.
“We will still try to accomplish our yearend financial target as we have entered the second half of the year. We are very excited about our new programs, particularly on our primetime block, as well as other business opportunities that are expected to unfold within the year,” said GMA Network Chairman and CEO Felipe L. Gozon.
EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) decreased by 29 percent to P2.961 billion while net income after tax for the first half settled at P1.552 billion, a 35 percent decline year-on-year, as explained by the absence of political ads in 2017.
Fortifying the nationwide TV ratings dominance, GMA-7 sealed the first half of the year with an average people audience share of 42.2 percent in NUTAM, besting ABS-CBN’s 35.9 percent based on data from Nielsen TV Audience Measurement.
Majority of the shows in NUTAM’s list of top-rating programs were from GMA. The Kapuso Network bagged the first 13 spots in the list of top programs for the first half led by Pepito Manaloto, Magpakailanman, Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho, Alyas Robin Hood (season 1), Mulawin vs. Ravena, Wowowin, Eat Bulaga, Sunday Pinasaya, 24 Oras, Saksi, Destined to be Yours, My Love from the Star, Meant to Be, I Heart Davao, Hay Bahay, Daig Kayo ng Lola Ko, 24 Oras Weekend, Haplos, Impostora, Legally Blind, Hahamakin ang Lahat and Ika-6 Na Utos.
Similarly, the network once again proved to be the viewers’ preferred channel during special events, with more viewers tuning in to GMA’s specials, “Battle of Brisbane: Pacquiao vs. Horn” match last July 2 and “SONA 2017” last July 24.
• • •
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 Moto, 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…Aug. 21: 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…Belated b-day greetings to Edgar Reyes, Linda Gaerlan and Bench Torres of Makati City and Jason Balaoing of Pasig (Aug. 16) and Abby Rebong, Mike David, Jean Gaecerro and Angeline del Carmen (Aug. 17)…
Friday, August 18, 2017
Duterte's ace against ABS-CBN, the Philippines' biggest network
President Rodrigo Duterte's plan to unblock ABS-CBN's franchise is a threat to press freedom, experts tell Rappler
It was close to midnight.
On September 22, 1972, soldiers seized and padlocked the broadcast center of ABS-CBN, a leading TV network in the Philippines, upon the orders of dictator Ferdinand Marcos.
Just a day earlier, Marcos had declared martial law across the Philippines. His first letter of instruction? To close all radio and TV stations in the country. Dictators, after all, abhor a free press.
Months after ABS-CBN was closed, then ABS-CBN president Eugenio Lopez Jr was also arrested on November 27, 1972, for alleged plots to kill Marcos.
ABS-CBN would reopen only on September 14, 1986 after a popular rebellion toppled Marcos and brought to power Corazon Aquino, the widow of slain opposition senator Benigno Aquino Jr.
Rising from the ashes of martial law, ABS-CBN would later become the Philippines' biggest TV network.
So influential is ABS-CBN now that its most popular anchor, Noli de Castro, was even elected Philippine vice president on June 30, 2004. Its other personalities, too, have become senators, congressmen, and mayors.
To close ABS-CBN again, therefore, has become unthinkable. Until Mrs Aquino's son, former president Benigno Aquino III, was replaced by a man called "The Punisher", who idolizes, and in fact gave a hero's burial to, Marcos.
Today, more than 4 decades after Marcos declared martial law, President Rodrigo Duterte also wants ABS-CBN closed.
The difference is that unlike Marcos, Duterte does not need to declare martial law nationwide to stop this TV network.
A former prosecutor who knows the workings of Philippine law, he only needs to wait until March 30, 2020, when the franchise of ABS-CBN expires.
By then, the Philippines' biggest TV network will no longer have the right to air its shows.
Duterte said he will block the renewal of ABS-CBN's franchise after the network allegedly refused to air his political ads for the 2016 elections.
Experts told Rappler that Duterte's warning against ABS-CBN is a threat to press freedom.
This comes as Duterte warns other media outlets, such as the Philippine Daily Inquirer, of "karma" for supposedly writing unfairly about him. (READ: Duterte's target: The Philippine Daily Inquirer)
In the backdrop, too, is the rise of state propaganda boosted by trolls and fake news.
Due to 'scarcity of airwaves'
The requirement to get a franchise for broadcast media is Duterte's invention.
Under the Radio Control Act of 1931, the government requires each broadcast station to secure a franchise from Congress. No station can use the airwaves without this document.
Section 11, Article XII of the 1987 Constitution also states: "Neither shall any such franchise or right be granted except under the condition that it shall be subject to amendment, alteration, or repeal by the Congress when the common good so requires."
The Supreme Court (SC) explained in an April 2009 ruling: "The key basis for regulation is rooted in empiricism that broadcast frequencies are a scarce resource whose use could be regulated and rationalized only by the government."
The SC also said that because of "the scarcity of the airwaves," the government "may impose regulations to see to it that broadcasters promote the public good deemed important by the State, and to withdraw that privilege from those who fall short of the standards set in favor of other worthy applicants."
In the current set-up, each franchise comes in the form of a law, which is passed by Congress and signed by the President.
House Bill 4349 seeks to renew ABS-CBN Corporation's franchise, which will expire on March 30, 2020 – a little less than 3 years from now. This bill is pending in Congress, which has a "supermajority" formed by Duterte's allies.
The bill requires ABS-CBN to provide free public service time -- equivalent of 10% of all its ad time -- to the government to relay important public announcements and warnings.
The network is also required to make closed captioning available for its programs.
“The franchise shall be subject to amendment, alteration, or repeal by the Congress of the Philippines when the public interest requires and shall not be interpreted as an exclusive grant of the privileges herein provided for,” HB04349 read.
“The grantee, its successors or assignee's shall comply with the applicable labor standards under existing labor laws, rules and regulations and such other issuance as may be promulgated by the Department of Labor and Employment, taking into consideration the nature and peculiarities of the broadcast industry,” the law added.
In a statement in June 2016, ABS-CBN explained that it tried to renew its franchise as early as September 2014 and underwent "the normal legislative process."
The network, however, withdrew the application "due to time constraints." It chose to seek the renewal in the 17th Congress, under a new president.
In an interview quoted by the Inquirer on June 11, 2016, an anonymous lawmaker said ABS-CBN sought its franchise renewal in September 2014 "because it did not want to risk having to go through the process under an unfriendly administration."
The Inquirer source said ABS-CBN's application "faced strong opposition from cable operators" back then. The source added that Aquino's allies in the House "felt the criticisms against the President were too personal and offensive and went to the point of nitpicking."
In contrast, ABS-CBN's closest rival, GMA Network, can now heave a sigh of relief. On April 21, Duterte signed Republic Act 10925 renewing GMA Network's franchise for another 25 years.
Duterte warns of 'karma'
In an interview with reporters on April 27, Duterte explained that TV networks can get a government franchise "only if" they "adhere" to journalistic standards.
"If you operate ABS-CBN tapos manloloko lang kayo ng tao, mag-swindling kayo, I have to stop you," he said. (If you operate ABS-CBN then you just fool people and commit swindling, I have to stop you.)
In a speech a month later, on May 19, Duterte told ABS-CBN: "Press freedom? Press freedom, kayo 'yung number one magnanakaw, ayaw 'nyo isauli 'yung propriedad, press freedom?"
(Press freedom? Press freedom, but you're the number one thieves, and you don't want to return what's ours, then you say press freedom?)
"How about our freedom? We have our freedom of expression, to express our anger, and that is also my constitutional right. You are bullshit," Duterte said.
"You want to know my sentiments? Fuck you," Duterte added, as he flashed the dirty finger.
Rappler sought ABS-CBN for comment but has not received a reply as of posting time.
In its statement in June 2016, ABS-CBN said that "claims that the franchise will be extended are purely speculative."
"For the franchise renewal, we believe that our government will uphold the ideals of democracy, including the rights to freedom of speech and expression," ABS-CBN said.
Brave words communicated to the network's advertisers, followers, supporters and its public. Internally, it is not difficult to imagine top management feeling anxious and distressed about the thought the network's franchise – its very own lifeblood.
Threat to press freedom
Experts said that Duterte's warning to ABS-CBN endangers press freedom, a hallmark of democracy as the media is a watchdog of government.
"Any threat to any media organization is a threat to press freedom," veteran journalist Vergel Santos told Rappler.
"The only reason President Duterte wants ABS-CBN out of business is a whimsical one: it dislikes ABS-CBN journalism. With Congress overwhelmingly, obsequiously pledged to the President, in any case, it is only expected to go along with him," Santos said.
Santos said that "collusion defines the relationship" today between executive and legislative branches of government.
Santos, former publisher of BusinessWorld, also answered a question on whether Duterte's threat will affect the way ABS-CBN reporters and editors do their jobs.
He said: "In fact, I have observed that the news media, not only ABS-CBN, have, to varying extents, become intimidated by Duterte from the start; indeed, some practitioners have told me that. But I imagine ABS-CBN more intimidated than others."
"The attitude, at any rate, constitutes a surrender of a measure of press freedom and a betrayal, to the same extent, of the public interest. And, with an adversary like Duterte, the situation can only get worse: the more the press is seen by him to be intimidated, the more he tries to intimidate it," Santos said.
Like Santos, journalism professor Danilo Arao said Duterte's warning to unblock ABS-CBN's franchise is "a threat to press freedom."
On one hand, Arao said ABS-CBN needs to explain what happened to Duterte's political ad.
ABS-CBN, after all, is "far from perfect." For one, it "has its own business interests to protect."
On the other hand, Arao told Rappler, "To cease the operations of a news media organization on the basis of the failure to air a particular advertisement is, I think, a bit too much."
"I think the punishment doesn't fit the crime," said Arao, who teaches journalism at the University of the Philippines.
Arao said Duterte's threat to ABS-CBN "is a reflection of Duterte's attitude toward the media, that the media would have to toe the line so that it would not be threatened in any way."
On how ABS-CBN reporters and editors might deal with Duterte's threat, Arao said: "It is possible that some of its gatekeepers would exercise restraint in criticizing the President or some reporters themselves would resort to self-censorship in framing Duterte or his policies."
Arao explained why press freedom matters not only for media practitioners.
"Press freedom is a cornerstone of democracy. You cannot have a functioning democracy if you do not have a vibrant free press," the journalism professor said.
An adversarial press, he said, serves "as a check and balance to the abuses or misuse of power."
Franchising process 'too political'
The Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility (CMFR) also weighed in on this issue in June 2016.
The CMFR said: "No broadcaster or media entity should have to go through what ABS-CBN is supposedly going through. This then begs the question: Why should a media outfit’s continued operation need congressional approval?"
Santos said he sees "why the media should be subject to franchising at all."
"Franchising itself constitutes curtailment of press freedom, therefore, in that sense, constitutional," Santos said.
He explained that "as the franchising authority, Congress, in the media's case, is assigned a mere function to perform, not any power to wield."
He said Congress acts like "an arranger," whose role "is limited basically to assigning places in a public domain for purposes of keeping order. He said that this is "not unlike directing air traffic in the case of an airport tower."
"If at one time that domain seemed limited, it was only because communications technology had not yet advanced enough to disprove that notion," Santos said.
"But it has since done so, thus rendering franchising anachronistic for the media, a profession and trade whose freedom is singularly and explicitly guaranteed in the Constitution," he added.
Arao, on the other hand, said franchising is needed due to "very, very limited frequencies" and "very, very limited airwaves" available.
He said the role of franchising, however, should not belong to Congress. "For Congress to be the final arbiter of it, I think, is too political for comfort," Arao said.
"We don't want these media organizations to be at the mercy of the legislative branch of government," he added.
He pointed out that sometimes there's a tendency for the legislative branch to be "the rubber stamp of the executive." The process of issuing franchises, he said, "has become so political."
Arao suggested forming an independent commission for media franchising.
This commission "would be manned by responsible media practitioners and journalists, and perhaps concerned citizens, who would be the ones to decide on franchise applications."
The CMFR pointed out that in the US, for example, applying to operate a broadcast station "is relatively easier."
In the US, "only the independent Federal Communications Commission is responsible for granting operation permits and renewing licenses," the CMFR said. "Applications are paperless and accomplished online."
For Arao, franchising should be part of media's "self-regulatory mechanism."
"We have to bring it back to the people and to the media practitioners so that we can strengthen self-regulation this way," he said.
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/in-depth/179107-duterte-abs-cbn-franchise-congress-press-freedom
It was close to midnight.
On September 22, 1972, soldiers seized and padlocked the broadcast center of ABS-CBN, a leading TV network in the Philippines, upon the orders of dictator Ferdinand Marcos.
Just a day earlier, Marcos had declared martial law across the Philippines. His first letter of instruction? To close all radio and TV stations in the country. Dictators, after all, abhor a free press.
Months after ABS-CBN was closed, then ABS-CBN president Eugenio Lopez Jr was also arrested on November 27, 1972, for alleged plots to kill Marcos.
ABS-CBN would reopen only on September 14, 1986 after a popular rebellion toppled Marcos and brought to power Corazon Aquino, the widow of slain opposition senator Benigno Aquino Jr.
Rising from the ashes of martial law, ABS-CBN would later become the Philippines' biggest TV network.
So influential is ABS-CBN now that its most popular anchor, Noli de Castro, was even elected Philippine vice president on June 30, 2004. Its other personalities, too, have become senators, congressmen, and mayors.
To close ABS-CBN again, therefore, has become unthinkable. Until Mrs Aquino's son, former president Benigno Aquino III, was replaced by a man called "The Punisher", who idolizes, and in fact gave a hero's burial to, Marcos.
Today, more than 4 decades after Marcos declared martial law, President Rodrigo Duterte also wants ABS-CBN closed.
The difference is that unlike Marcos, Duterte does not need to declare martial law nationwide to stop this TV network.
A former prosecutor who knows the workings of Philippine law, he only needs to wait until March 30, 2020, when the franchise of ABS-CBN expires.
By then, the Philippines' biggest TV network will no longer have the right to air its shows.
Duterte said he will block the renewal of ABS-CBN's franchise after the network allegedly refused to air his political ads for the 2016 elections.
Experts told Rappler that Duterte's warning against ABS-CBN is a threat to press freedom.
This comes as Duterte warns other media outlets, such as the Philippine Daily Inquirer, of "karma" for supposedly writing unfairly about him. (READ: Duterte's target: The Philippine Daily Inquirer)
In the backdrop, too, is the rise of state propaganda boosted by trolls and fake news.
Due to 'scarcity of airwaves'
The requirement to get a franchise for broadcast media is Duterte's invention.
Under the Radio Control Act of 1931, the government requires each broadcast station to secure a franchise from Congress. No station can use the airwaves without this document.
Section 11, Article XII of the 1987 Constitution also states: "Neither shall any such franchise or right be granted except under the condition that it shall be subject to amendment, alteration, or repeal by the Congress when the common good so requires."
The Supreme Court (SC) explained in an April 2009 ruling: "The key basis for regulation is rooted in empiricism that broadcast frequencies are a scarce resource whose use could be regulated and rationalized only by the government."
The SC also said that because of "the scarcity of the airwaves," the government "may impose regulations to see to it that broadcasters promote the public good deemed important by the State, and to withdraw that privilege from those who fall short of the standards set in favor of other worthy applicants."
In the current set-up, each franchise comes in the form of a law, which is passed by Congress and signed by the President.
House Bill 4349 seeks to renew ABS-CBN Corporation's franchise, which will expire on March 30, 2020 – a little less than 3 years from now. This bill is pending in Congress, which has a "supermajority" formed by Duterte's allies.
The bill requires ABS-CBN to provide free public service time -- equivalent of 10% of all its ad time -- to the government to relay important public announcements and warnings.
The network is also required to make closed captioning available for its programs.
“The franchise shall be subject to amendment, alteration, or repeal by the Congress of the Philippines when the public interest requires and shall not be interpreted as an exclusive grant of the privileges herein provided for,” HB04349 read.
“The grantee, its successors or assignee's shall comply with the applicable labor standards under existing labor laws, rules and regulations and such other issuance as may be promulgated by the Department of Labor and Employment, taking into consideration the nature and peculiarities of the broadcast industry,” the law added.
In a statement in June 2016, ABS-CBN explained that it tried to renew its franchise as early as September 2014 and underwent "the normal legislative process."
The network, however, withdrew the application "due to time constraints." It chose to seek the renewal in the 17th Congress, under a new president.
In an interview quoted by the Inquirer on June 11, 2016, an anonymous lawmaker said ABS-CBN sought its franchise renewal in September 2014 "because it did not want to risk having to go through the process under an unfriendly administration."
The Inquirer source said ABS-CBN's application "faced strong opposition from cable operators" back then. The source added that Aquino's allies in the House "felt the criticisms against the President were too personal and offensive and went to the point of nitpicking."
In contrast, ABS-CBN's closest rival, GMA Network, can now heave a sigh of relief. On April 21, Duterte signed Republic Act 10925 renewing GMA Network's franchise for another 25 years.
Duterte warns of 'karma'
In an interview with reporters on April 27, Duterte explained that TV networks can get a government franchise "only if" they "adhere" to journalistic standards.
"If you operate ABS-CBN tapos manloloko lang kayo ng tao, mag-swindling kayo, I have to stop you," he said. (If you operate ABS-CBN then you just fool people and commit swindling, I have to stop you.)
In a speech a month later, on May 19, Duterte told ABS-CBN: "Press freedom? Press freedom, kayo 'yung number one magnanakaw, ayaw 'nyo isauli 'yung propriedad, press freedom?"
(Press freedom? Press freedom, but you're the number one thieves, and you don't want to return what's ours, then you say press freedom?)
"How about our freedom? We have our freedom of expression, to express our anger, and that is also my constitutional right. You are bullshit," Duterte said.
"You want to know my sentiments? Fuck you," Duterte added, as he flashed the dirty finger.
Rappler sought ABS-CBN for comment but has not received a reply as of posting time.
In its statement in June 2016, ABS-CBN said that "claims that the franchise will be extended are purely speculative."
"For the franchise renewal, we believe that our government will uphold the ideals of democracy, including the rights to freedom of speech and expression," ABS-CBN said.
Brave words communicated to the network's advertisers, followers, supporters and its public. Internally, it is not difficult to imagine top management feeling anxious and distressed about the thought the network's franchise – its very own lifeblood.
Threat to press freedom
Experts said that Duterte's warning to ABS-CBN endangers press freedom, a hallmark of democracy as the media is a watchdog of government.
"Any threat to any media organization is a threat to press freedom," veteran journalist Vergel Santos told Rappler.
"The only reason President Duterte wants ABS-CBN out of business is a whimsical one: it dislikes ABS-CBN journalism. With Congress overwhelmingly, obsequiously pledged to the President, in any case, it is only expected to go along with him," Santos said.
Santos said that "collusion defines the relationship" today between executive and legislative branches of government.
Santos, former publisher of BusinessWorld, also answered a question on whether Duterte's threat will affect the way ABS-CBN reporters and editors do their jobs.
He said: "In fact, I have observed that the news media, not only ABS-CBN, have, to varying extents, become intimidated by Duterte from the start; indeed, some practitioners have told me that. But I imagine ABS-CBN more intimidated than others."
"The attitude, at any rate, constitutes a surrender of a measure of press freedom and a betrayal, to the same extent, of the public interest. And, with an adversary like Duterte, the situation can only get worse: the more the press is seen by him to be intimidated, the more he tries to intimidate it," Santos said.
Like Santos, journalism professor Danilo Arao said Duterte's warning to unblock ABS-CBN's franchise is "a threat to press freedom."
On one hand, Arao said ABS-CBN needs to explain what happened to Duterte's political ad.
ABS-CBN, after all, is "far from perfect." For one, it "has its own business interests to protect."
On the other hand, Arao told Rappler, "To cease the operations of a news media organization on the basis of the failure to air a particular advertisement is, I think, a bit too much."
"I think the punishment doesn't fit the crime," said Arao, who teaches journalism at the University of the Philippines.
Arao said Duterte's threat to ABS-CBN "is a reflection of Duterte's attitude toward the media, that the media would have to toe the line so that it would not be threatened in any way."
On how ABS-CBN reporters and editors might deal with Duterte's threat, Arao said: "It is possible that some of its gatekeepers would exercise restraint in criticizing the President or some reporters themselves would resort to self-censorship in framing Duterte or his policies."
Arao explained why press freedom matters not only for media practitioners.
"Press freedom is a cornerstone of democracy. You cannot have a functioning democracy if you do not have a vibrant free press," the journalism professor said.
An adversarial press, he said, serves "as a check and balance to the abuses or misuse of power."
Franchising process 'too political'
The Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility (CMFR) also weighed in on this issue in June 2016.
The CMFR said: "No broadcaster or media entity should have to go through what ABS-CBN is supposedly going through. This then begs the question: Why should a media outfit’s continued operation need congressional approval?"
Santos said he sees "why the media should be subject to franchising at all."
"Franchising itself constitutes curtailment of press freedom, therefore, in that sense, constitutional," Santos said.
He explained that "as the franchising authority, Congress, in the media's case, is assigned a mere function to perform, not any power to wield."
He said Congress acts like "an arranger," whose role "is limited basically to assigning places in a public domain for purposes of keeping order. He said that this is "not unlike directing air traffic in the case of an airport tower."
"If at one time that domain seemed limited, it was only because communications technology had not yet advanced enough to disprove that notion," Santos said.
"But it has since done so, thus rendering franchising anachronistic for the media, a profession and trade whose freedom is singularly and explicitly guaranteed in the Constitution," he added.
Arao, on the other hand, said franchising is needed due to "very, very limited frequencies" and "very, very limited airwaves" available.
He said the role of franchising, however, should not belong to Congress. "For Congress to be the final arbiter of it, I think, is too political for comfort," Arao said.
"We don't want these media organizations to be at the mercy of the legislative branch of government," he added.
He pointed out that sometimes there's a tendency for the legislative branch to be "the rubber stamp of the executive." The process of issuing franchises, he said, "has become so political."
Arao suggested forming an independent commission for media franchising.
This commission "would be manned by responsible media practitioners and journalists, and perhaps concerned citizens, who would be the ones to decide on franchise applications."
The CMFR pointed out that in the US, for example, applying to operate a broadcast station "is relatively easier."
In the US, "only the independent Federal Communications Commission is responsible for granting operation permits and renewing licenses," the CMFR said. "Applications are paperless and accomplished online."
For Arao, franchising should be part of media's "self-regulatory mechanism."
"We have to bring it back to the people and to the media practitioners so that we can strengthen self-regulation this way," he said.
https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/in-depth/179107-duterte-abs-cbn-franchise-congress-press-freedom
Bench Universe: The 2012 Denim & Underwear Show
25 Years In The Making: Bench Universe - The 2012 Denim & Underwear Show.
Celebrating the brand's 25 years on the top: The 2012 Denim & Underwear show will now run for 2 nights! Featuring your favorite Benchsetters. Happening on September 13 & 14, 2012 at the Mall Of Asia Arena.
Featuring Lucy Torres-Gomez, Georgina Wilson, Borgy Manotoc, Isabelle Daza, Pancho Magno, John Spainhour, Carla Abellana, Jake Cuenca, Rocco Nacino, Kathryn Bernardo, Lovi Poe, Steven Silva, Sam Concepcion, Shaina Magdayao, Jessy Mendiola, Bela Padilla, Enzo Pineda, Benjamin Alves, Dingdong Dantes, Joseph Marco, Enchong Dee, Julia Montes, Kim Chiu, Melai Cantiveros, Paulo Avelino, Sarah Lahbati, Aljur Abrenica, Karylle, Diether Ocampo and Richard Gomez.
To recall, when Robi Domingo is no longer a endorser of this clothing line. This is the truth that he did not miss any annual BENCH and BENCH/Body campaign such as summer, back-to-school and holiday and biennial denim and underwear shows. Sources to newspapers and tabloids when the Pinoy Big Brother: Teen Edition Plus runner up and Ateneo de Manila University graduate is no longer renewing his contract with Bench.
He was also took part in "Uncut: A Bold Look at the Future" Denim and Underwear Show at the Araneta Coliseum when he tore his sando in the Furne One's Far East segment.
A Twitter user who said "Nakakatawa yung ginawa ni Robi Domingo sa Bench Uncut."
BRAZIL. The show reached its peak during the Brazil segment.
She was immediately followed by Be Bench winner Carl Guevara; Eurasian model Benjamin Tang; returnees Rafael Rosell and Andrew Wolff; Wowowee girls RR Enriquez, Saicy Aguila, and April “Congratulations” Gustilo.
Wendell Ramos remains to be one of the biggest attractions in the Bench fashion shows. The 31-year-old actor wore the skimpiest underwear of all the celebrities that night, showing his flawless buttocks to the delight of the crowd.
Meanwhile, comedienne Pokwang almost stole the show with her grand entrance. Wearing a feathery gown which covered almost all parts of her body, the Wowowee co-host passed through a sea of almost naked gorgeous Caucasian models lying on the floor on her way to the ramp.
Pokwang was followed by Kapuso actress Carla Abellana and Kapamilya heartthrob Enchong Dee.
Other celebrities and models such as Precious Adona, Asia Agcaoili, Carlene Aguilar, Marco Alcaraz, Gerald Anderson, Antonio Aquitania, Jon Avila, Phoemela Baranda, Benj Basa, Hermes Bautista, James Blanco, Kris Bernal, Chad Burden, Gian Carlos, Albie Casiño, Nancy Castiglione, Rainier Castillo, David Chua, Carlos Concepcion, Geneva Cruz, John Lloyd Cruz, Rodjun Cruz, Janvier Daily, Franco Daza, Alessandra de Rossi, JC de Vera, AJ Dee, Jenine Desiderio, Wilma Doesnt, Lalaine Edson-Forgham, Ryan Eigenmann, John Estrada, Ejay Falcon, Frencheska Farr, Eric Fructuoso, Tanya Garcia-Lapid, Sarah Geronimo, Rachelle Ann Go, Edgar Allan Guzman, Katrina Halili, Jon Hall, Kristine Hermosa-Sotto, Agot Isidro, Brent Javier, Luke Jickain, Tibo Jumalon, Kian Kazemi, Bianca King, Doug Kramer, Maureen Larrazabal, Mikee Lee, Xian Lim, Ehra Madrigal, Michelle Madrigal, Rissa Mananquil-Trillo, Robby Mananquil, Zanjoe Marudo, Alicia Mayer, Priscilla Meirelles-Estrada, Don Mendoza, Sam Milby, Carlos Morales, Ron Morales, Iwa Moto, Marc Nelson, Kristine Joy Nieto, Juliana Palermo, Angelica Panganiban, Bubbles Paraiso, Rica Peralejo-Bonifacio, Tyrone Perez, Sam Pinto, Cassandra Ponti, Camille Prats, John Prats, Francine Prieto, Bruce Quebral, Dex Quindoza, Rufa Mae Quinto, Wendell Ramos, Iago Raterta, Keanna Reeves, Tom Rodriguez, Rafael Rosell, Johan Santos, Kenji Shirakawa, Victor Silayan, Jay-R Siliona, Prince Stefan, Geoff Taylor, John James Uy, Nicole Uysiuseng, Alfred Vargas, Iya Villania, Corey Wills, Maggie Wilson, Valerie Weigmann, AJ Winkler, Jomari Yllana, Kevin Zaldarriaga and Kerbie Zamora are almost absent during the event, but a year and three months later when de Vera and Falcon made a Cosmopolitan Bachelor Bash runway out of "Gandang Gabi Vice" stage.
Lalo pa siyang nagiging hot kapag, sabi nga ni Vice Ganda... "hubad, hubad, hubad, baril, baril, baril!" moments niya hehehe!
Bukod kina Ejay at JC, ilan dito sa mga celebrities na rumampa sa mga Bench denim and underwear shows noong 2004, 2006, 2008, 2010 at 2012 ay sina Marco Alcaraz, Gerald Anderson, Jon Avila, Phoemela Baranda, Hermes Bautista, Kris Bernal, James Blanco, Albie Casiño, David Chua, Sam Concepcion, Rayver Cruz, Jake Cuenca, Alessandra de Rossi, AJ Dee, Enchong Dee, Robi Domingo, Katrina Halili, Brent Javier, Luke Jickain, Tibo Jumalon, Karylle, Kian Kazemi, Bianca King, Doug Kramer, Maureen Larrazabal, Mikee Lee, Xian Lim, Ehra Madrigal, Michelle Madrigal, Shaina Magdayao, Zanjoe Marudo, Jessy Mendiola, Don Mendoza, Sam Milby, Carlos Morales, Ron Morales, Iwa Moto, Marc Nelson, Diether Ocampo, Juliana Palermo, Angelica Panganiban, Bubbles Paraiso, Rica Peralejo-Bonifacio, Sam Pinto, Cassandra Ponti, Camille Prats, John Prats, Francine Prieto, Bruce Quebral, Rufa Mae Quinto, Wendell Ramos, Rafael Rosell, Johan Santos, Jome Silayan, Jay-R Siliona, John James Uy, Arron Villaflor, Iya Villania, Valerie Weigmann at AJ Winkler.
But the young actor says he is ready for butt exposures and love scenes with another man.
He was very careful though, requesting his manager to clear the room and leave him and the photographer to complete his most daring project yet. When asked why the sudden shift to the sexy route after exposing skin in two magazines in less than 5 months, JC owe this to his perfect shape. "Na prepare yung katawan ko. Very confident naman ako na gawin kasi prepared ako. I am ready to flaunt," says the actor.
But is this the direction his new mother network wants him to have? "Ever since naman masipag talaga akong mag workout, mag showcase sa kung anong meron ako. Nung lumipat ako sa ABS-CBN, siguro mas madaming naka appreciate kung anong meron ako," he explained further. JC was quick in saying though that there is still limit in his showing of skin saying "Pa sundot-sundot yung mga sexy but not all the time."
That event was aired last November 18, 2012 on Sunday's Best, ABS-CBN and December 8, 2012 on Star World.
Also available: Bench Uncut: A Bold Look at the Future (2010 Denim and Underwear Show) aired last October 24, 2010 on ABS-CBN Sunday's Best and Bench Under the Stars: 30th Anniversary Denim and Underwear Show on Cignal Pay-per-View, IWant and KBO!
GMA Network ups recurring revenues by 6% in H1 2017
Broadcast giant GMA Network Inc. (GMA) remained cautiously optimistic about hitting its year-end target as it capped the first half of the year with recurring revenues of P7.698 billion, ahead by 6 percent over the same period last year.
The Network managed to perform well following an election year, with its consolidated revenues dropping by only 12 percent. Political advocacies and advertisements contributed P1.488 billion to the company’s top line during the first half of 2016.
Without the impact of political advertisements, GMA’s airtime revenue platforms including GMA-7, GMA News TV, Radio, and Regional all posted revenue growths during the period.
On the other hand, the network’s international operations and other businesses, which were not affected by the election placements last year, reflected a 22 percent growth year-on-year.
Aiding the company’s steady financial performance was its efficient cost management, with total operating expenses posting a low single-digit hike of only 3 percent. This, despite the production of more expensive programs aimed at helping maintain the network’s nationwide urban TV ratings dominance.
“We will still try to accomplish our yearend financial target as we have entered the second half of the year. We are very excited about our new programs, particularly on our primetime block, as well as other business opportunities that are expected to unfold within the year,” said GMA Network Chairman and CEO Felipe L. Gozon.
EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) decreased by 29 percent to P2.961 billion while net income after tax for the first half settled at P1.552 billion, a 35 percent decline year-on-year, as explained by the absence of political ads in 2017.
Fortifying the nationwide TV ratings dominance, GMA-7 sealed the first half of the year with an average people audience share of 42.2 percent in NUTAM, besting ABS-CBN’s 35.9 percent based on data from Nielsen TV Audience Measurement.
Majority of the shows in NUTAM’s list of top-rating programs were from GMA. The Kapuso Network bagged the first 16 spots in the list of top programs for the first half led by Bubble Gang, Pepito Manaloto, Magpakailanman, Full House Tonight, Celebrity Bluff, Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho, Alyas Robin Hood, Encantadia, Mulawin vs. Ravena, Wowowin, Eat Bulaga, Sunday Pinasaya, 24 Oras, Destined to be Yours, My Love from the Star, Meant to Be, I Heart Davao, Saksi, Hay Bahay, Daig Kayo ng Lola Ko, 24 Oras Weekend, Haplos, Impostora, Legally Blind, Hahamakin ang Lahat and Ika-6 Na Utos.
Meanwhile, GMA-7’s airing of the Battle of Brisbane: Pacquiao vs Horn last July 2 was the most watched TV special nationwide and in Urban Luzon last month.
More Filipinos also tuned in to GMA’s live telecast of President Rodrigo Duterte’s second State of the Nation Address (SONA) last July 24. GMA Network’s “SONA 2017” became the most watched coverage nationwide with 37.4 percent people audience share; outranking ABS-CBN’s “Pangako ng Pagbabago: SONA 2017,” which only got 34.3 percent. GMA-7’s coverage registered an even bigger margin in Urban Luzon with 43.2 percent people audience share versus competition’s 26.2 percent.
The broadcast network said it once again “proved to be the Filipino viewers’ network of choice” as the GMA-7’s live telecast of the Miss Universe 2016 pageant on January 30 rated highest nationwide with a 57.1% people audience share, higher than ABS-CBN’s 28% and TV5’s 8.4%.
The Network managed to perform well following an election year, with its consolidated revenues dropping by only 12 percent. Political advocacies and advertisements contributed P1.488 billion to the company’s top line during the first half of 2016.
Without the impact of political advertisements, GMA’s airtime revenue platforms including GMA-7, GMA News TV, Radio, and Regional all posted revenue growths during the period.
On the other hand, the network’s international operations and other businesses, which were not affected by the election placements last year, reflected a 22 percent growth year-on-year.
Aiding the company’s steady financial performance was its efficient cost management, with total operating expenses posting a low single-digit hike of only 3 percent. This, despite the production of more expensive programs aimed at helping maintain the network’s nationwide urban TV ratings dominance.
“We will still try to accomplish our yearend financial target as we have entered the second half of the year. We are very excited about our new programs, particularly on our primetime block, as well as other business opportunities that are expected to unfold within the year,” said GMA Network Chairman and CEO Felipe L. Gozon.
EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) decreased by 29 percent to P2.961 billion while net income after tax for the first half settled at P1.552 billion, a 35 percent decline year-on-year, as explained by the absence of political ads in 2017.
Fortifying the nationwide TV ratings dominance, GMA-7 sealed the first half of the year with an average people audience share of 42.2 percent in NUTAM, besting ABS-CBN’s 35.9 percent based on data from Nielsen TV Audience Measurement.
Majority of the shows in NUTAM’s list of top-rating programs were from GMA. The Kapuso Network bagged the first 16 spots in the list of top programs for the first half led by Bubble Gang, Pepito Manaloto, Magpakailanman, Full House Tonight, Celebrity Bluff, Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho, Alyas Robin Hood, Encantadia, Mulawin vs. Ravena, Wowowin, Eat Bulaga, Sunday Pinasaya, 24 Oras, Destined to be Yours, My Love from the Star, Meant to Be, I Heart Davao, Saksi, Hay Bahay, Daig Kayo ng Lola Ko, 24 Oras Weekend, Haplos, Impostora, Legally Blind, Hahamakin ang Lahat and Ika-6 Na Utos.
Meanwhile, GMA-7’s airing of the Battle of Brisbane: Pacquiao vs Horn last July 2 was the most watched TV special nationwide and in Urban Luzon last month.
More Filipinos also tuned in to GMA’s live telecast of President Rodrigo Duterte’s second State of the Nation Address (SONA) last July 24. GMA Network’s “SONA 2017” became the most watched coverage nationwide with 37.4 percent people audience share; outranking ABS-CBN’s “Pangako ng Pagbabago: SONA 2017,” which only got 34.3 percent. GMA-7’s coverage registered an even bigger margin in Urban Luzon with 43.2 percent people audience share versus competition’s 26.2 percent.
The broadcast network said it once again “proved to be the Filipino viewers’ network of choice” as the GMA-7’s live telecast of the Miss Universe 2016 pageant on January 30 rated highest nationwide with a 57.1% people audience share, higher than ABS-CBN’s 28% and TV5’s 8.4%.
Thursday, August 17, 2017
PROJECT OF THE CENTURY PHL-Japan to start designing Mega Manila Subway in Nov.
Japan and the Philippines will start designing the P227-billion Mega Manila Subway in November, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia said on Thursday.
"The subway I think is going to be the project of the century for the Philippines. Designing of that will be in November when Prime Minister Abe will come for the ASEAN Summit," he said in a press conference in Quezon City.
The project details will be discussed during the next National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board meeting next month.
"The NEDA Board is likely to happen in September, early September," Pernia said.
"In the next NEDA Board meeting, that subway will be taken up already," he added, noting that the government is finalizing all the documents required for a contract signing before Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe arrives in the Philippines for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) ministers meeting in November.
"'Yan ay sigurado, kasi talagang pine-prepare natin para ma-sign. Whatever the Prime Minister of Japan and the President of the Philippines sign, it will be it. Those are the main signatures," he said.
The subway was one of the rail projects Filipino and Japanese officials agreed to tackle during a meeting in Tokyo last March.
There was a draft feasibility study for the project, NEDA Deputy Director General Rolando G. Tungpalan said in June.
The P227-billion Mega Manila Subway was introduced as the Mass Transit System Loop or the Light Rail Transit Line 5 under the administration of former President Benigno S.C Aquino III.
It will be a 25-kilometer underground mass rail system connecting major business districts and government centers. It is expected to serve 370,000 passengers per day in its opening year.
The subway train line is expected to be completed in 2024, said Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade. — VDS, GMA News
Nice! Sana tuloy tuloy na yan.
In comparison sa timeline ng Jakarta MRT at kung magiging maayos ang ROW. Ang timeline natin ay:
Late 2017 - design
Late 2019 - tendering
Late 2020 - awarding
6 years construction, 2026 operation.
"The subway I think is going to be the project of the century for the Philippines. Designing of that will be in November when Prime Minister Abe will come for the ASEAN Summit," he said in a press conference in Quezon City.
The project details will be discussed during the next National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board meeting next month.
"The NEDA Board is likely to happen in September, early September," Pernia said.
"In the next NEDA Board meeting, that subway will be taken up already," he added, noting that the government is finalizing all the documents required for a contract signing before Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe arrives in the Philippines for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) ministers meeting in November.
"'Yan ay sigurado, kasi talagang pine-prepare natin para ma-sign. Whatever the Prime Minister of Japan and the President of the Philippines sign, it will be it. Those are the main signatures," he said.
The subway was one of the rail projects Filipino and Japanese officials agreed to tackle during a meeting in Tokyo last March.
There was a draft feasibility study for the project, NEDA Deputy Director General Rolando G. Tungpalan said in June.
The P227-billion Mega Manila Subway was introduced as the Mass Transit System Loop or the Light Rail Transit Line 5 under the administration of former President Benigno S.C Aquino III.
It will be a 25-kilometer underground mass rail system connecting major business districts and government centers. It is expected to serve 370,000 passengers per day in its opening year.
The subway train line is expected to be completed in 2024, said Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade. — VDS, GMA News
Nice! Sana tuloy tuloy na yan.
In comparison sa timeline ng Jakarta MRT at kung magiging maayos ang ROW. Ang timeline natin ay:
Late 2017 - design
Late 2019 - tendering
Late 2020 - awarding
6 years construction, 2026 operation.
Construction of NLEX Harbor Link R-10 officially begins
Motorists and truckers that frequently go to and from the Port of Manila from up north will soon be able to get to their destinations faster.
Yesterday, the Department of Public Works and Highway (DPWH) led the groundbreaking ceremony of the construction of the 2.6 – kilometer R-10 section of the NLEX Harbor Link Segment 10. When completed, vehicles will have direct access to both the port area and the northern provinces via NLEX.
Key persons present during the groundbreaking ceremony included DPWH Secretary Mark Villar, Navotas City Mayor John Reynald Tiangco, Caloocan City Mayor Oscar Malapitan, Malabon City Mayor Antolin Oreta III and NLEX Corporation president Rodrigo Franco.
“This project will complete the C5 section that will connect Mindanao Avenue to Navotas. It is expected to improve transport logistics and drive business investments in the CAMANAVA, and Central and Northern Luzon provinces,” said Villar.
In review, the R-10 is the continuation of the 5.7 – kilometer Segment 10 eleveated expressway that passes through MacArthur Highway in Valenzuela City, Governor Pascual Avenue in Malabon City and C3 Road / 5th Avenue in Caloocan City. It's a part of the massive NLEX Harbor Link which aims to reduce traffic in Metro Manila by offering an alternative route between Port of Manila and NLEX.
“Beyond providing world-class infrastructure, the company is also hoping to deliver further convenience to motorists and contribute to the growth of its host communities,” said Franco.
It is set to be completed by December 2018 and will approximately allow motorists to travel between the Port of Manila and NLEX in only 10 minutes. Cargo trucks will also have 24/7 access from the ports to their respective destinations as the expressway is not covered by the truck ban.
Yesterday, the Department of Public Works and Highway (DPWH) led the groundbreaking ceremony of the construction of the 2.6 – kilometer R-10 section of the NLEX Harbor Link Segment 10. When completed, vehicles will have direct access to both the port area and the northern provinces via NLEX.
Key persons present during the groundbreaking ceremony included DPWH Secretary Mark Villar, Navotas City Mayor John Reynald Tiangco, Caloocan City Mayor Oscar Malapitan, Malabon City Mayor Antolin Oreta III and NLEX Corporation president Rodrigo Franco.
“This project will complete the C5 section that will connect Mindanao Avenue to Navotas. It is expected to improve transport logistics and drive business investments in the CAMANAVA, and Central and Northern Luzon provinces,” said Villar.
In review, the R-10 is the continuation of the 5.7 – kilometer Segment 10 eleveated expressway that passes through MacArthur Highway in Valenzuela City, Governor Pascual Avenue in Malabon City and C3 Road / 5th Avenue in Caloocan City. It's a part of the massive NLEX Harbor Link which aims to reduce traffic in Metro Manila by offering an alternative route between Port of Manila and NLEX.
“Beyond providing world-class infrastructure, the company is also hoping to deliver further convenience to motorists and contribute to the growth of its host communities,” said Franco.
It is set to be completed by December 2018 and will approximately allow motorists to travel between the Port of Manila and NLEX in only 10 minutes. Cargo trucks will also have 24/7 access from the ports to their respective destinations as the expressway is not covered by the truck ban.
More exciting Miss World 2017
The 35 official candidates to the Miss World 2017 pageant were presented recently to the media at New World Hotel.
The ladies revealed their statuesque figures wearing their swimsuits and evening gowns. They also gave a glimpse of their interesting personalities during the profile interviews.
Some of the hopefuls include an international pageant runner-up, a sportscaster, a daughter of an actor and a commercial model, a forensic practitioner from the U.S., two half-Germans, a professional singer with a recording contract, a national titleholder, provincial level titleholders, a sister of a Miss World Philippines (from the ’90s), and an orphan who turned into competitions to gain experience and friends.
Miss World Philippines National Director Arnold Vegafria is optimistic about the quality and diversity of this year’s bumper crop of aspirants.
He said, “It’s remarkable how today’s young Filipina beauties are obviously more confident, principled, outspoken, but more importantly, driven with a bigger and nobler purpose.
“Now that we’ve leveled the playing field, we can only wish them luck in their quest for the title and make pageant history once more.”
Miss World Philippines General Manager Bessie Besana is ecstatic about the unprecedented turnout.
“This is definitely a record-breaking feat!” he exclaimed. “Based on the numbers alone, we’ve never seen this kind of enthusiasm and interest during the past years. With these ladies, we are confident that we can keep up the country’s winning streak in the global pageant arena.”
The Miss World 2017 pageant will be held on Sept. 3 at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Aside from the Miss World Philippines title, 3 other crowns – Reina Hispanoamericana Filipinas 2017, Miss Multinational 2017, and Miss Eco Philippines 2017 are also at stake.
• • •
Handsome reward
SKY Life, SKY cables’s lifestyle rewards program, treated 10 of their loyal subscribers on a 3-day all-expense-paid getaway at Lio, an island paradise in El Nido, Palawan considered the country’s first ecologically-sustainable tourism destination.
The trip, the first of its kind for SKY, is part of its SKY Life Wanderlust: The Great Lio Adventure promo.
The subscribers stayed at the Cala Kalaw resort.
• • •
Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, Aug. 17, go to Fred Elizalde, Jun Lozada Jr., Jean Saburit, Elena Fernando, Belen Lovina Ticzon, former Mayor Jose Yap, Karl Ymmanuel N. Martinez, Bro. Rey Salac, Roldan Castro, Michelle del Rosario, Cristina Pecson and Carmina Villaroel…Aug. 18: Patricio L. Lim, Mariten Tantoco, Clarita Cristobal, Ballsy Aquino Cruz, Marilou Garcia-Morena, Girlie Antonio, Jojit de Nero, Angelica Jones, Boy Limjoco, Gerlie Tan, Virgie Vega, Rochelle Arenosa, Dr. Manny Calayan, Wendell Ramos and Mark Meily…Belated b-day greetings to Jeennee Desiderio-Garcia, Claro Litajua, Jake Katryn Basena, Tisha Bernales, Timothy Korsega, Shiela Macalintal, Chessy Agu, Arvin Hamor and Jomari Yllana (Aug. 15) and Lani Golosia, Jing Cabanig, Atty. Noel del Prado, Bong Aquino, Juana Esteban, Flora Manipi, Mark Joseph Tumarag, Renz Santos Caparas, Kimberly Pineda, Lemeul Gem Almanza of Davao City, greetings from Jovy Hernandez-Alimon, Katherine Galanida and Allaijah Mae Aranda of Makati City, greetings from Robert Ignacio (Aug. 16)…
The ladies revealed their statuesque figures wearing their swimsuits and evening gowns. They also gave a glimpse of their interesting personalities during the profile interviews.
Some of the hopefuls include an international pageant runner-up, a sportscaster, a daughter of an actor and a commercial model, a forensic practitioner from the U.S., two half-Germans, a professional singer with a recording contract, a national titleholder, provincial level titleholders, a sister of a Miss World Philippines (from the ’90s), and an orphan who turned into competitions to gain experience and friends.
Miss World Philippines National Director Arnold Vegafria is optimistic about the quality and diversity of this year’s bumper crop of aspirants.
He said, “It’s remarkable how today’s young Filipina beauties are obviously more confident, principled, outspoken, but more importantly, driven with a bigger and nobler purpose.
“Now that we’ve leveled the playing field, we can only wish them luck in their quest for the title and make pageant history once more.”
Miss World Philippines General Manager Bessie Besana is ecstatic about the unprecedented turnout.
“This is definitely a record-breaking feat!” he exclaimed. “Based on the numbers alone, we’ve never seen this kind of enthusiasm and interest during the past years. With these ladies, we are confident that we can keep up the country’s winning streak in the global pageant arena.”
The Miss World 2017 pageant will be held on Sept. 3 at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Aside from the Miss World Philippines title, 3 other crowns – Reina Hispanoamericana Filipinas 2017, Miss Multinational 2017, and Miss Eco Philippines 2017 are also at stake.
• • •
Handsome reward
SKY Life, SKY cables’s lifestyle rewards program, treated 10 of their loyal subscribers on a 3-day all-expense-paid getaway at Lio, an island paradise in El Nido, Palawan considered the country’s first ecologically-sustainable tourism destination.
The trip, the first of its kind for SKY, is part of its SKY Life Wanderlust: The Great Lio Adventure promo.
The subscribers stayed at the Cala Kalaw resort.
• • •
Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, Aug. 17, go to Fred Elizalde, Jun Lozada Jr., Jean Saburit, Elena Fernando, Belen Lovina Ticzon, former Mayor Jose Yap, Karl Ymmanuel N. Martinez, Bro. Rey Salac, Roldan Castro, Michelle del Rosario, Cristina Pecson and Carmina Villaroel…Aug. 18: Patricio L. Lim, Mariten Tantoco, Clarita Cristobal, Ballsy Aquino Cruz, Marilou Garcia-Morena, Girlie Antonio, Jojit de Nero, Angelica Jones, Boy Limjoco, Gerlie Tan, Virgie Vega, Rochelle Arenosa, Dr. Manny Calayan, Wendell Ramos and Mark Meily…Belated b-day greetings to Jeennee Desiderio-Garcia, Claro Litajua, Jake Katryn Basena, Tisha Bernales, Timothy Korsega, Shiela Macalintal, Chessy Agu, Arvin Hamor and Jomari Yllana (Aug. 15) and Lani Golosia, Jing Cabanig, Atty. Noel del Prado, Bong Aquino, Juana Esteban, Flora Manipi, Mark Joseph Tumarag, Renz Santos Caparas, Kimberly Pineda, Lemeul Gem Almanza of Davao City, greetings from Jovy Hernandez-Alimon, Katherine Galanida and Allaijah Mae Aranda of Makati City, greetings from Robert Ignacio (Aug. 16)…
Wednesday, August 16, 2017
MetroPac offers P12-b MRT3 rehab
Metro Pacific Investments Corp. said Wednesday it is ready to present to the Transportation Department this week a P12-billion offer to rehabilitate and upgrade the glitch-prone Mass Rail Transit Line 3.
Metro Pacific president Jose Ma. K. Lim said the company would send a team to the Transportation Department to initially discuss and present the technical aspects of the proposal.
Lim said under the new proposal, Metro Pacific planned to initially invest P12 billion to rehabilitate and improve the service of MRT3, or double the P6 billion the company originally proposed.
Lim said the Transportation Department was expected to review the proposal.
Metro Pacific chairman Manuel Pangilinan described the new offer as a “better proposal” compared with the previous one.
“This is a much better proposal because it means more money for the government,” Pangilinan said.
“It will also be good for them [the government] to pass the hat to us, so that we will get the blame,” Pangilinan said.
The proposed takeover of MRT3 operations could entail fare adjustment as the company tries to improve passenger experience.
Pangilinan said aside from Ayala Corp., Metro Pacific also invited Macquarie Infrastructure Holdings (Philippines) Pte Ltd. to join the company in the proposed rehabilitation of MRT3.
Ayala Corp. and Macquarie Infrastructure are Metro Pacific’s joint venture partners in Light Rail Manila Corp., which is the operator of Light Rail Transit Line 1 and its Cavite extension project.
“We have extended invitation to the Ayala group and Macquarie along the same holding percentages in LRMC, which 55 percent for us 35 [percent] for Ayala and 10 [percent] for Macquarie,” Pangilinan said.
Metro Pacific first submitted a proposal to the Transportation Department in 2011, offering $523-million investments to rehabilitate and upgrade MRT-3. The Aquino administration rejected Metro Pacific’s proposal and opted for an equity value buyout of MRT3.
The Transportation Department decided to pursue the buyout, but Congress did not approve the P53.9-billion allocation in the 2015 budget for the government’s takeover of MRT3.
MRT 3, which runs along EDSA from North Avenue in Quezon City to Taft Avenue in Pasay City, serves over 500,000 passengers a day, or beyond its rated capacity of 350,000.
The railways system has been experiencing glitches caused by old trains and railways as well as problems in the signaling system.
Metro Pacific president Jose Ma. K. Lim said the company would send a team to the Transportation Department to initially discuss and present the technical aspects of the proposal.
Lim said under the new proposal, Metro Pacific planned to initially invest P12 billion to rehabilitate and improve the service of MRT3, or double the P6 billion the company originally proposed.
Lim said the Transportation Department was expected to review the proposal.
Metro Pacific chairman Manuel Pangilinan described the new offer as a “better proposal” compared with the previous one.
“This is a much better proposal because it means more money for the government,” Pangilinan said.
“It will also be good for them [the government] to pass the hat to us, so that we will get the blame,” Pangilinan said.
The proposed takeover of MRT3 operations could entail fare adjustment as the company tries to improve passenger experience.
Pangilinan said aside from Ayala Corp., Metro Pacific also invited Macquarie Infrastructure Holdings (Philippines) Pte Ltd. to join the company in the proposed rehabilitation of MRT3.
Ayala Corp. and Macquarie Infrastructure are Metro Pacific’s joint venture partners in Light Rail Manila Corp., which is the operator of Light Rail Transit Line 1 and its Cavite extension project.
“We have extended invitation to the Ayala group and Macquarie along the same holding percentages in LRMC, which 55 percent for us 35 [percent] for Ayala and 10 [percent] for Macquarie,” Pangilinan said.
Metro Pacific first submitted a proposal to the Transportation Department in 2011, offering $523-million investments to rehabilitate and upgrade MRT-3. The Aquino administration rejected Metro Pacific’s proposal and opted for an equity value buyout of MRT3.
The Transportation Department decided to pursue the buyout, but Congress did not approve the P53.9-billion allocation in the 2015 budget for the government’s takeover of MRT3.
MRT 3, which runs along EDSA from North Avenue in Quezon City to Taft Avenue in Pasay City, serves over 500,000 passengers a day, or beyond its rated capacity of 350,000.
The railways system has been experiencing glitches caused by old trains and railways as well as problems in the signaling system.
LRMC offers to manage operation of MRT line 3
Unlike the LRT2 and MRT 3 that are managed by the government, LRT Line 1 is being operated by a private company – the Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC).
According to LRMC president and CEO Rogelio Singson, the prevailing system in government is one of the causes of problems in the trains that it manages.
“Maintenance under government system is difficult. If a light bulb gets busted, you make a call, ‘Auditor, a bulb is busted. Can I change it?’ If the auditor is not around, you cannot change the bulb. It’s red tape,” Singson said.
“The rules of government always end up with the lowest bidder. There’s no value engineering, no life cycle analysis. You buy from the cheapest entity, if not you’ll get imprisoned for not getting their service,” Singson added.
This prompted the LRMC to propose to the government to grant them the management of MRT3.
In his interview on ‘Get it Straight with Daniel Razon’, Singson said that the LRMC has submitted their proposal to the government.
“Over the past few weeks the LRMC shareholders offered to the government to operate MRT 3,” said Singson. “We hope that they will find it as a good solution to the problem of MRT 3, take out the head ache from government because as I’ve said, under government operation, the maintenance is rather difficult.”
Meanwhile, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said, “We understand that the offer Light Rail Manila Corporation to operate MRT 3 is subject to the review and evaluation of the Department of Transportation.”
To date, the LRMC is conducting continuous improvements on LRT line 1.
Among the improvements is the shortened train arrival interval of 3 minutes as new coaches are now being used in its operation.
“When we took over, there were 77 LRV cars. We have rehabilitated, upgraded, totally changed. You can see that when you go to the depot and see what they are doing there. From 77, now 104 in less than 2 years we are able to run it,” Singson said.
Furthermore, the Cavite extension of LRT1 is scheduled to start next year and will be operational in 2021. While the Common Station at Landmark-Trinoma Mall which includes the expansion of North Avenue MRT Station with glass window and footbridge at northbound.
https://www.untvweb.com/news/lrmc-offers-to-manage-operation-of-mrt-line-3/
According to LRMC president and CEO Rogelio Singson, the prevailing system in government is one of the causes of problems in the trains that it manages.
“Maintenance under government system is difficult. If a light bulb gets busted, you make a call, ‘Auditor, a bulb is busted. Can I change it?’ If the auditor is not around, you cannot change the bulb. It’s red tape,” Singson said.
“The rules of government always end up with the lowest bidder. There’s no value engineering, no life cycle analysis. You buy from the cheapest entity, if not you’ll get imprisoned for not getting their service,” Singson added.
This prompted the LRMC to propose to the government to grant them the management of MRT3.
In his interview on ‘Get it Straight with Daniel Razon’, Singson said that the LRMC has submitted their proposal to the government.
“Over the past few weeks the LRMC shareholders offered to the government to operate MRT 3,” said Singson. “We hope that they will find it as a good solution to the problem of MRT 3, take out the head ache from government because as I’ve said, under government operation, the maintenance is rather difficult.”
Meanwhile, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said, “We understand that the offer Light Rail Manila Corporation to operate MRT 3 is subject to the review and evaluation of the Department of Transportation.”
To date, the LRMC is conducting continuous improvements on LRT line 1.
Among the improvements is the shortened train arrival interval of 3 minutes as new coaches are now being used in its operation.
“When we took over, there were 77 LRV cars. We have rehabilitated, upgraded, totally changed. You can see that when you go to the depot and see what they are doing there. From 77, now 104 in less than 2 years we are able to run it,” Singson said.
Furthermore, the Cavite extension of LRT1 is scheduled to start next year and will be operational in 2021. While the Common Station at Landmark-Trinoma Mall which includes the expansion of North Avenue MRT Station with glass window and footbridge at northbound.
https://www.untvweb.com/news/lrmc-offers-to-manage-operation-of-mrt-line-3/
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)