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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Duterte backs proposed renaming of Mactan airport

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

* * *

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

INC telecommunications franchise gets House OK

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

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

The measure has been transmitted to the Senate.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Meteor Garden" is back!

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

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

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

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

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

情非得已

作詞：張國祥
作曲：湯小康
編曲：Jamie Wilson

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

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

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

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

什麼原因 我竟然又會遇見你
我真的真的不願意 就這樣陷入愛的陷阱

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

愛上你是我情非得已

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

你要的愛(戴佩妮)

作詞：戴佩妮
作曲：戴佩妮

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

雖然不曾懷疑你 還是忐忑不定
誰是你的那個唯一 原諒我懷疑自己

我明白 我要的愛 會把我寵壞
像一個小孩 只懂在你懷裡壞

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

誰是你的那個唯一 原諒我懷疑自己

我明白 我要的愛 會把我寵壞
像一個小孩 只懂在你懷裡壞

你要的愛 不只是依賴
要像個大男孩 風吹又日曬 生活自由自在

我明白 我要的愛 會把我寵壞
像一個小孩 只懂在你懷裡壞

你要的愛 不只是依賴
要像個大男孩 風吹又日曬 生活自由自在

English Version
You have to love (Penny Tai)

Lyrics: Penny Dai
Composer: Penny Tai

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

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

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

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

Who are you to forgive me suspect that the only

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

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

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

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

F4 

流星雨
作詞：鄔裕康
作曲：平井堅

周渝民：

溫柔的星空

應該讓你感動

我在你身後

為你佈置一片天空
言承旭：

不准你難過

替你擺平寂寞

夢想的重量

全部都交給我
吳建豪：

牽你手

跟著我走

風再大又怎樣

你有了我

再也不會迷路方向
全體：

陪你去看流星雨落在這地球上

讓你的淚落在我肩膀
要你相信我的愛只肯為你勇敢

你會看見幸福的所在

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

牽你手

跟著我走

風再大又怎樣

你有了我

再也不會迷路方向
全體：

陪你去看流星雨落在這地球上

讓你的淚落在我肩膀
要你相信我的愛只肯為你勇敢

你會看見幸福的所在

吳建豪：

雨和雲漸漸散開

灑下一片溫暖

我要分享你眼中的淚光
全體：

陪你去看流星雨落在這地球上

讓你的淚落在我肩膀
要你相信我的愛只肯為你勇敢

你會看見幸福的所在
陪你去看流星雨落在這地球上

讓你的淚落在我肩膀
要你相信我的愛只肯為你勇敢

你會看見幸福的所在
吳建豪：

你會看見

幸福的所在

F4 "Meteor Shower"

Authors: WU Hiroyasu

Composer: Ken Hirai

Vic :

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Plenary : 

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

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

Vanness Wu : 

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

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

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

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

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

Vanness Wu :
You will see where happiness lies

絕不能失去你

作詞：李焯雄
作曲：湯小康
編曲：Kenn C

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

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

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

CAN'T LOSE YOU
F4

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

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

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

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

(Vanness & Ken)
I will stay by you

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

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

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

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

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

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

I will be able to find you

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

So how about them adidas Ateneo team wear? 

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

The windbreaker is fine. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jins MCF-15S-126

2009 Adidas DLSU hoodie (green)

2011 Nike exclusive De La Salle tee (white)

BENCH/ BODY brief

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

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

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

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

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

JINS Airframe U377 (Faded Charcoal)

2008 adidas Ateneo Sesquicentennial jacket (Blue/White)

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

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

CHANGE IN PCOO LEADERSHIP? | ‘We serve at the pleasure of the President’ – Andanar

Communications Secretary Martin Andanar has neither confirmed nor denied reports of a possible change of leadership in his department.

Online news site Politiko reported yesterday that former broadcaster Jay Sonza is being eyed to replace Andanar as head of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) after it faced a series of blunders under his supervision.

“We all serve at the pleasure of the President,” Andanar said in a text message.

Politiko also mentioned that Sonza is using his connections with Presidential daughter and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio to lobby for the position, but she clarified that she is not acquainted with the former broadcaster.

“I am not aware that Mr. Sonza is seeking a PCOO post. I’m not sure if I have ever met him, I cannot remember any meeting whether casual or official. But I know he is very close to,” she said.

The PCOO has been a subject of public scrutiny for errors made by its news organization Philippine News Agency and the recent “pepederalismo” video of Assistant Secretary Mocha Uson.

http://news.tv5.com.ph/breaking/change-in-pcoo-leadership-we-serve-at-the-pleasure-of-the-president-andanar

Enchong Dee's dream role: San Lorenzo Ruiz

Actor Enchong Dee on Friday said one of his dreams is to portray San Lorenzo Ruiz or a Filipino hero in a project.

The former champion swimmer said he is still currently a full-time actor, but he has given himself a time frame of up to when he would do this.

He explained that he was named after the first Filipino saint because his mother prayed to San Lorenzo when she was told she might miscarry.

Apart from the saint or heroes, Dee said he has another dream role, but it might become reality in the next few months.

Dee, who was paired with Erich Gonzalez in the recently concluded "The Blood Sisters," said he has moved on from the love-team phase in showbiz.

"To survive this business, you have to move forward," he told ANC's Headstart.

He candidly admitted that none of his past on-screen partners -- or anyone from showbiz for that matter -- became his girlfriend in real life.

Dee was previously partnered with Kim Chiu and Maja Salvador.

His most previous relationship made public was with British-Filipina model Samantha Lewis. They parted ways in 2016, and Lewis has since welcomed a son with her non-showbiz boyfriend.

http://news.abs-cbn.com/entertainment/08/24/18/enchong-dees-dream-role-san-lorenzo-ruiz

Senate pushes for workers’ 14th month pay

By HANNAH TORREGOZA



SENATE President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III yesterday vowed to fast-track the approval of the measure mandating employers in the private sector to give 14th month pay to their employees.

Sotto said he has high hopes that the Senate would be able to pass the measure, Senate Bill No. 2, or the “14th Month Pay Law,” on third reading by September.

“I will follow it up with the Senate committee on labor,” Sotto said referring to the Senate panel on labor, employment and human resources development chaired by Sen. Joel Villanueva.

Sotto said those in the business sector need not be concerned over the measure as it will follow the provisions granted under the 13th month pay scheme which is a Presidential Decree.

“They (companies) think that we are changing the former presidential decree. The 13th month pay is a presidential decree and that also grants exemptions,” Sotto said.

“With the 14th month pay, there would also be exemptions, so our businessmen have nothing to be anxious about,” he further explained.

According to Sotto, the measure will allow companies, who cannot comply with a 14th month pay, to seek certification with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).

“Hindi sila oobligahin. But they have to file a petition with the BIR,” he stressed.

Sotto further believes that the measure is doable, as there are multinational companies that are capable of granting a 14th month pay.

“There are so many that can afford to grant it, especially bigger companies, but they just won’t do it,” he said.

In the explanatory note of the measure, Sotto said there is an indispensable need to provide our Filipino laborers, both from the public and private sectors, additional 14th month pay.

He pointed out that with the rise in the prices of basic services and commodities, wages have invisibly decreased but improved business earnings have not cascaded on its own.

“The 13th month pay is gobbled up by Christmas expenses. We need extra earnings in the middle of the year to help in school and medical expenses. Health and education needs of the ordinary Filipino must be assisted by our government,” he said.

The Senate leader said passage of the measure into law would make the maxim attributed to President Ramon Magsaysay become a reality, that “Those who have less in life should have more in law.”

In an interview last week, Sotto said he hopes that the bill would be passed before Congress submits the reconciled version of the proposed 2019 national budget to President Duterte.

“I hope deliberations won’t have to reach until the upcoming (2019) elections,” Sotto said.

http://tempo.com.ph/2018/08/24/senate-pushes-for-workers-14th-month-pay/

Face of the Year runner-up realizes his showbiz dream

Miguel Villacis

When Miguel Villacis joined Face of the Year 2018, his dream was to enter show business. He needed the exposure to get into show business. And he succeeded in making the competition his stepping stone.

Too bad Miguel did not win (he emerged just one of the runners-up) but he won four special awards. It was good enough for him; after all he gained notice – which was really his intention – and now he is on his way to stardom. He is set to do an indie movie and his single, “Target Date” will soon be released.

He is taking acting and singing workshop under Elson Montalbo of Viva.

Asked what his preference is, whether to be an actor or singer, Miguel said he’d like to do both, although he’d like most to be known as an actor, following in the footsteps of his idols Jericho Rosales and Piolo Pascual whose acting, he noted, are very natural and effortless. He likes Jericho’s “Siargao,” by the way.

He would like to do dramatic roles, but “I also like to do action roles, even kontrabida roles, which are more challenging,” he said. Among the young actresses, Miguel said he’d like to be paired with Bianca Umali whose latest TV show was the well-loved GMA primetime series “Kambal, Karibal.” When he was in high school (at Letran), Miguel was into sports – martial arts like karate and basketball. He played with the Philippine Team.

He is currently studying at Trinity College (taking up Marketing). “I’d like to be a businessman someday and put up my own restaurant.” At the moment, Miguel is the endorser of Cafe Marla. He has also been tapped to endorse a gasoline brand.

***

Japanese businessman meets showbiz celebs

In town recently is Japanese businessman Masahista Miwa, vice president of Miwa Kankyo Co, Ltd. He was a guest of former actress and businesswoman Jennifer Geroche who introduced Miwa to local showbiz celebrities and press people like us.

Masahisa Miwa (right) and Jennifer Geroche

Miwa introduced to them the HHO Hydrogen Inhalation Machine, which is said to be a powerful anti-oxidant gas production for humans.

While here, Miwa who studied in London, did not miss visiting Tagaytay to enjoy the sights and perfect weather which he has heard about from friends.

***

Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, Aug. 23, go to Nikki Gil, Toni Galang, Marietta Goco, Raquel Torres, Jules Ozamis, Louie Boy Alberto, Merci Bermundo, Judith Pajaro, Ludy Yu, Ingrid Colangelo, Joanne Dizon, Sophia Anson, Lorenzo de Boda, Nellie Delgado, Jenny Zamora, AJ Singson, Stephanie Gamboa, Boy Gabriel, Necy Marco, Nady Sapigao, Jonjon, and Manny Marinay…Belated b-day greetings to Bot Glorioso, Manuel Blado, Milton Lalisan and Paulo Francis Mariano (Aug. 22) and Red Belleza and Dr. Manny Calayan (Aug. 17)… Aug. 24: Sen. Pres. Tito Sotto, Sen. Kiko Pangilinan, Gail Quimpo, Nicco De Jesus, Honey Naesa, Acel Papa, Tony Adriano, Atty. Jun Torrente, Symphony Yuquimpo, Rufino Palencia, Zeny Tripol, Rafael Sazon, Raul Teehankee, Tony Joaquin and Star Querubin…

https://entertainment.mb.com.ph/2018/08/23/face-of-the-year-runner-up-realizes-his-showbiz-dream/

Mindanao lawmakers support passage of Cordillera autonomy bill

QUEZON CITY, August 20 (PIA) -- Representatives from Mindanao assured to support the passage of the Cordillera Autonomy bill in Congress.

The Local Government Committee of the House of Representatives, composed mostly of lawmakers from Mindanao, has vowed support of the passage of House Bill 5343 or the act establishing the Autonomous Region in the Cordillera.

Sub Committee Chairperson Zamboanga Sibugay 1st District Rep. Wilter Palma II said with the support of the Cordillera representatives to the recently passed Bangsamoro Organic law, it is now their turn to support the bid of the Cordillerans for their own autonomous region.

 “This representation also supports the creation of the Cordillera Autonomous Region. Kami naman pong mga taga Mindanao ang susuporta sa inyo,” Palma said. 

 Bukidnon 3rd District Rep. Manuel Zubiri likewise assured support to the “long overdue clamour of the Cordillerans.”

“Definitely, I am for this (autonomy in the Cordillera). It is long overdue, I think it should have started a long time ago,” Zubiri said as he called on his fellow lawmakers from Mindanao to support their Cordillera brothers and sisters in their quest for autonomy.

Lanao Del Norte 1st District Rep. Mohamad Khalid Dimaporo and Zamboanga Del Sur 2nd District Rep. Aurora Cerilles also vowed support for the passing of the autonomy bill of the Cordillera as they proposed the creation of a Technical Working Group which would look into the issues on hand including the amendments of the HB 5343 and the conduct of the public hearings which were also done for the Bangsamoro Organic law.

 “We support the Cordillera Autonomous Region, in the spirit of brotherhood, especially coming from the minority and the marginalized sector,” Dimaporo said.

The TWG will be composed of the Cordillera representatives who will be working double time to conduct meetings and public hearings at the different Cordillera provinces with the secretariat of the House of Representatives.

In his message during the hearing, Regional Development Council Chairperson,  Baguio City Mayor Mauricio Domogan thanked the Congress for passing the Bangsamoro Organic Law and appealed for the passage of the Cordillera autonomy bill.

He presented the resolutions of support for the establishment of the autonomous region in the Cordillera coming from the different local government units, civil society organizations and other stakeholders in the region. He also submitted the amendments of the House bill which will be used by the TWG.

Based on the timeline, the TWG should complete the public hearings and inputs of amendments until September for the bill to be passed and be ready for plebiscite.

Domogan led the delegates from the different provinces of the Cordillera to participate and show support during the committee hearing of the Autonomy bill.

Cordillera lawmakers present during the committee hearing were Apayao Rep. Eleanor Begtang, Baguio City Rep. Mark Go, Benguet Rep. Ronald Cosalan, Ifugao Rep. Teddy Baguilat and Kalinga Rep and Mountain Province Caretaker Allen Jesse Mangaoang. (JDP/RMC-PIA CAR)

http://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1011732