QC to Naia in 30 minutes

For the first time, the Philippines, one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies, will have a mostly underground and earthquake-proof subway system, in the national capital and nearby provinces.

Part of the subway will be operational before President Duterte leaves office on June 30, 2022.  Completion is another three years, in 2025.

Total cost is P355.6 billion, making it the Duterte administration’s single largest project ever. As originally planned, the subway will run for 25 kms, from Mindanao Avenue in Quezon City to Taguig.

Today, on a good day, that will take you at least two hours in Metro Manila’s horrendous traffic, one way.  With a subway, 30 minutes from Quezon City, and you are at your destination, assuming train speed of  80 kph, double the speed of MRT3.

The cabinet, meeting as the economic planning body National Economic and Development Authority, approved the project last week.

The underground railway will be built by the Duterte government, with financing from the Japanese government at very concessional, almost interest-free, loan.  The loan agreement is expected to be signed this November in Manila at the summit of Asean leaders and their dialogue partners, which include the United States and Japan, by Duterte and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.  Japan is also financing another railway, this time above ground, from Manila’s Tutuban station of the old PNR to Malolos City, Bulacan. The so-called Green City Rail will cost P211.46 billion.

The concentration of mass railways from north Manila to areas further north reflects a policy shift—away from the rich provinces of the Calabarzon—Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon, to Central Luzon which the government thinks is a better bet for growth, long term.

Central Luzon, or Region III, after all, is mostly flat lands, near major water sources (like Angat and Pantabangan), and has two assets Calabarzon does not have—the Clark airport (whose passenger capacity is being doubled from the present 4.2 million) and the Subic seaport, 110 kms north of Manila, and which has a cargo capacity of 600,000 of 20-foot equivalent units (TEUs).

Currently, Southern Luzon or Region IV-A, contributes 17 percent (almost P3 trillion) of the national economic output or GDP; Central Luzon shares a paltry 9 percent (P1.575 trillion).

However, Region IV-A has five things Central Luzon does not have—proximity to NAIA which handles 35 million passengers a year, the Batangas international seaport (110 kms south of Manila and with a capacity of 400,000 TUEs), scenic Taal Lake (which is triggering an unprecedented building and tourism boom along both sides of the Aguinaldo Highway from Silang, Cavite to Nasugu, Batangas), sprawling Laguna Lake (a major water source and a circumferential road in the future), and a vibrant entrepreneurial class—Cavite, Batangas and Cavite have proud SME entrepreneurs and gentlemen farmers.

Finally, with climate change in 100 years when sea levels rise one meter, Central Luzon has a greater possibility of sinking (as it did in 1972 when Manila Bay had a date with Lingayen Gulf in Central Luzon), than Southern Luzon a huge chunk of whose area are mountains.

This may explain why even before the Mega Manila subway project could break ground, it is already being expanded, to cross under the South Expressway onto the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Mega Manila means Bulacan, Rizal, Cavite and Laguna, plus Metro Manila (which has 16 cities and one town).  Mega Manila has 15,059 sq kms and a population that will hit 19.5 million in 2030 (from 15.3 million in 2010).

Eventually, the subway will extend in the south, from Naia to Dasmariñas City, Cavite, a distance of 20.7 kms, and north, from Mindanao Avenue, to San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, another, 15.4 kms., extending the line to 61 kms, and increasing capacity from 370,000 passengers daily in its first year, to 1.7 million.

How firm is the subway project?  Says Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade, who sometimes speaks as if he is selling you Manila’s Jones Bridge in Chinatown: “I don’t want bola-bola. I want this project finished.”   Apart from fast-tracking the project, he also asked that the subway extend to Naia.

Just so he wouldn’t be ribbed for the colossal failure of his Land Transportation Office to issue plastic driver’s licenses, Tugade last week announced the availability plastic driver’s licenses—on a selective basis.  You apply at LTO today for a license, you won’t get your plastic card.  A friend of mine applied the other day.  She did not get the plastic.

A subway for Metro Manila is actually an old idea.  It was first broached during the presidency of BS Aquino III, by the Japanese.  A study was finished for the Japan International Cooperation Agency in March 2014.

With Aquino’s Daang Matuwid, the subway never took off and remained underground in the mind of BS III.  Duterte has dusted off the study and adopted the subway as his centerpiece Build, Build, Build infra project.

Golf tournament

On a personal note, may I endorse the golf tournament of alumnae  of the College of the Holy Spirit for the CHSAF Scholarship Program, this Monday, Sept. 11, 2017, at scenic Sta. Elena Golf Club (take Cabuyao Exit of the South Expressway in Laguna).  Please contact Tellie Francisco 893-002; 0917-825-7378; or CHS Secretariat, c/o Cora Parco 735-5986, 0917-271-9325.

CHS alumae need to raise money from tuition for scholarships.  Holy Spirit tuition is P70,000 a year; so you know how much to contribute to the fund.

biznewsasia@gmail.com

Lamudi lists 7 areas for property hunters

The Philippines’ real estate sector is as robust as ever. For this reason, virtually every nook and cranny of Metro Manila is now being developed to cater the surge of property buyers aiming to get a small slice of the metropolis to call their own.

So global real estate website Lamudi has put together a list of soon-to-be-popular areas and neighborhoods in Metro Manila. So if you are looking for value-for-money real estate but still covet a city address, these are your best alternatives to pricey business districts.

Barangay San Antonio, Makati —Situated just a couple of minutes away from the Makati central business district (CBD) is one of the next big locations in real estate. Barangay San Antonio is now touted as an extension of the Makati CBD, although condos here are still much affordable compared to those you can find in either Salcedo or Legaspi Village.

This prime location is also brimming with nightlife and a vibrant foodie scene, from local carinderias and interesting hole-in-the-wall joints to concept restaurants are all represented in San Antonio. Some of these include Charaptor, a popular place for grilled fares; Pat Pat’s Kansi; and the local branch of the famous Zubuchon. Nights will not be dull as San Antonio is also an entertainment hub. One of its popular sites is saGuijo along Guijo Street.

Some of the most notable upcoming projects in San Antonio include Megaworld Corp.’s San Antonio Residence, Avida Land’s One Antonio, and Shang Properties’ The Rise Makati. Completed condos in the area include Belton Place, The Linear, and Avida Towers Makati West.

Barangay Ususan, Taguig – Ususan’s main selling point is its strategic location. Thanks to being just beside C5 Road, this Taguig neighborhood is just a stone’s throw away from both McKinley Hill and Bonifacio Global City.
In addition, the ongoing development of C5 Extension, including a bridge that will cross the South Luzon Expressway, will mean travel to the airport, Parañaque, Las Piñas and the Manila–Cavite Expressway will soon become quick and easy.

Acacia Estates of DMCI Homes is one of the most well-known developments in Ususan. This 150-hectare property offers both pre-selling and ready-for-occupancy condominium units, as well as residential lots in the development’s Mahogany Place projects. In addition, this barangay is also home to SMDC’s Grace Residences—a four-tower condo development—while close by is the new Vista Mall Taguig. Other condo developments located near or within Ususan are Cypress Towers and C5 Mansions.

Barangay Western Bicutan, Taguig—Located at the southern section of Taguig is Western Bicutan—a barangay that is well-known for being home of the FTI Complex where Arca South, one of Ayala Land’s latest large-scale mixed-use projects, will soon rise. This new mixed-use project boasts accessibility, as it sits close to both C5 Road and the South Luzon Expressway, in addition to the soon-to-be-completed C6 Road. Soon to rise in Arca South are projects by Ayala Land subsidiaries: Arbor Lanes by Ayala Land Premier, The Veranda by Alveo Land, and One Union Place by Avida Land.

However, if you plan to get a property in Western Bicutan outside the Arca South development, then there’s plenty to choose from, like the newly-built townhouses of in AFPOVAI Village, some of which can be acquired for P9 million.

Barangay Palanan, Makati —This under-the-radar Makati neighborhood is also gaining interest as of late. Situated where the cities of Makati, Manila, and Pasay meet, Palanan is an area that is near to virtually all the conveniences that these three cities offer. However, its proximity to the Makati CBD is what makes Palanan an exciting alternative for property investment. This part of Makati will also benefit once that the Metro Manila Skyway Stage 3 is completed and fully operational.

According to Lamudi’s listings data, one of the most searched properties in Palanan is Melbourne Residences.
This nine-story condo development offers affordable condo apartments. Aside from this, the barangay also offers plenty of newly built townhouse properties.

Santa Ana, Manila—The heritage district of Santa Ana is strategically located where the cities of Manila, Makati, Mandaluyong, and San Juan meet. As such, it is often regarded as a convenient location to easily reach these key destinations. Because of its proximity to the Makati CBD, Santa Ana is a popular choice among professionals who work in Ayala Avenue, while Ortigas Center is also within a short driving distance via Kalentong Street and Shaw Boulevard.

Santa Ana is also close to President Quirino Avenue, which is one of the exits of the soon-to-be-completed Metro Manila Skyway Stage 3 (MMSS-3). Once fully operational, the MMSS-3 will make commute from Santa Ana to as far north as Balintawak fast and easy.

Two of the most popular condo developments in Santa Ana are the Manila Rivercity Residences and Rivergreen Residences of CDC Holdings. These two projects, located by the banks of Pasig River, reportedly enjoyed fast take-ups as many property-hunters are looking for a cheaper alternative to Makati condos.

Likewise, a branch of White Knight Hotel will soon open in Santa Ana this year. The building will offer both hotel units and dormitory type rooms for female renters.

Tandang Sora, Quezon City—Metro Manila’s largest city still has a lot of places to be developed, but for now, growth is definitely coming for Tandang Sora as a number of exciting properties around the area are expected to rise in the years to come.

For instance, Vertis North, Quezon City’s up-and-coming business and lifestyle district is set to reinvent Quezon City soon. Tandang Sora will be the first to feel the progress as it is located close to this upcoming mini city.

Another real estate project close to Tandang Sora is the UP–Ayala Land TechnoHub, which is a 20-hectare business district that is home to BPO and IT companies.

New improvements are also underway to better serve this part of Quezon City, one of which is the ongoing construction of Metro Rail Transit-7. This commuter railway, which will run from EDSA–North Avenue to San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan, will immensely benefit Tandang Sora and other parts of Quezon City.

One of the most high-profile residential developments in Tandang Sora is DMCI Homes’ Zinnia Towers—a two-tower resort-inspired condo project that offers units for as low as P2.35 million. In addition, the area is also teeming with plenty of newly-built townhouse properties, some of which can be had for as low as P3.9 million.

Chino Roces Avenue, Makati —Formerly known and still commonly referred to as Pasong Tamo, Chino Roces Avenue is a busy road that runs from JP Rizal Street in Makati’s Barangay Carmona to Fort Bonifacio’s Gate 3 in Taguig. Situated very close to the Makati CBD, this thoroughfare—particularly the stretch between EDSA and Gil Puyat Avenue, has been getting a lot of attention in the market recently, but despite being just a few minutes away from the Makati CBD, real estate prices here are still affordable.

Food scenes and nightlife are also booming in this part of Makati. The neighborhood that is once dominated by car showrooms and warehouses now have enticing foodie spots, one of which is Little Tokyo near the intersection with Arnaiz Avenue.

San Lorenzo Place, an Empire East project at the corner of EDSA and Chino Roces, is one of the most prominent developments in the area. Ready-for-occupancy units are now available for those who wish to have a Makati address but don’t want to shell out a hefty amount. Other condo developments include Federal Land’s Oriental Garden and Paseo de Roces and DMCI Homes’ Fortis Garden Residences.

http://www.manilatimes.net/lamudi-lists-7-areas-property-hunters/348948/

Duterte best to stay in power upon federal shift, says Nene

Former Senator Aquilino ‘Nene’ Pimentel Jr. has called on President Duterte to stay in his post once the shift to a federal government is put in place under his watch.

Pimentel said he disagrees with the President’s pronouncement that he would resign if the federalism is approved, saying he must instead stay put and show to the public the new system works.

“Huwag siyang mag-resign. (He should not resign) He should stay on and implement it para makita ng tao, ‘Hoy, maganda talaga ito’ (to show the people, ‘Hey, this is good),” Pimentel, a known advocate of federalism, said during a Palace press briefing.

“Kung ma-adopt na itong federal system (If the federal system is adopted) within the first three years of his incumbency, huwag siyang mag-resign (he must not resign) that’s what I’m saying. He should go ahead and implement this process,” he added.

Pimentel said it would take a man like Duterte who strongly believes in federal government to effectively implement the new system in the early stages. “Otherwise, kung sino-sino lang diyan ang mag-implement, baka wala sa puso nila (anybody might implement it without genuine sincerity),” he added.

The President earlier said he was ready to cut short his term and let others take over once the proposed federal form of government is approved by next year. Duterte, whose six-year term ends in 2022, earlier endorsed federalism as one of the legislative priority bills during a meeting with Congress leaders.

Pimentel said he proposes a federal government system that would “disperse power” from the central government to various federal states.

Under Pimentel’s federalism proposal, there would be 12 federal states – five in Luzon, four in Visayas, and three in Mindanao.  Metro Manila will become the capital of the federal government.

He said the federal states in Luzon are Northern Luzon, Central Luzon, Southern Tagalog, and Bicol.

In Visayas, the federal states are Eastern Visayas, Central Visayas, Western Visayas and the group composed of Mindoro, Palawan, Romblon and Marinduque provinces.

The federal states in Mindanao are Northern Mindanao, Southern Mindanao and Bangsamoro.

Pimentel said the country’s President and Vice President will be elected nationally while the number of senators will be increased to around 80 to represent the federal states.

The former senator also raised some concerns about the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), saying it tends to favor only one armed group in Mindanao – the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

He said it was also difficult to implement the BBL provision to elect only congressional representatives, and not executive leaders any more.

Pimentel, meantime, said he is ready to serve the country amid reports he is reportedly being considered to be part of the commission that will study amendments to the Constitution.

Proposed national ID system passes the lower house of Congress

The proposed law seeking to implement a national identification or ID system in the country has passed the third and final reading in the Lower House of Congress.

Proponents of the bill said it will make public transactions with government agencies more efficient.

It is a relief for employees like Gil Colobong. He has six government identification cards which he most of time interchanges during transactions with government agencies.

“So many IDs. Sometimes I lose one or it confuses me. With one ID, all transactions can be done with all government agencies,” said Colobong.

Once the Filipino ID System Act becomes a law, Filipinos will have a single identification card to use in all government transactions.

Filipinos who are 21 years old and above; residents of the Philippines and abroad will receive the national ID card for free.

The ID card will contain the owner’s picture, common reference number, complete name, gender, date, place of birth, permanent address, and blood type.

Meanwhile, other personal information of the card holder will be recorded in the smart chip and data base of the card holder which include his or her Philippine passport number, biometrics data, voters and tax identification number as well as SSS, Philhealth, GSIS, PRC, PAG-IBIG and driver’s license numbers.

“If before, you have a lot of IDs in your wallet, through this law, you will have a single ID you can use in your transactions with the government and the private sector,” said Laguna 3rd District Rep. Sol Aragones.

Meanwhile, the Lower House approved the version of the bill that excludes information such as religious and political beliefs of a holder.

However, some lawmakers have expressed concern over the bill, saying it would give the government the authority to get the private information of Filipinos.

“We might end up in a police state. There is an invasion of the right to privacy. This is a threat as it can be used to control, to monitor, and limit the movements of the public,” said ACT Teachers party list Rep. Antonio Tinio.

But the bill’s proponents assured that the proposal has the necessary safeguards.

“This can only be opened with four conditions. First, if the holder of the card gives consent, and second is during disasters and his or her medical records are needed such as for blood type. Third, when the public health and safety is at stake, and fourth is when there is a court order,” said Rep. Aragones.

The Senate version of the Filipino identification act is still pending in the Senate committee. Although the bill has yet to become a law, the government has already allocated Php 2-billion fund for its implementation next year as it is among the priority bills of the Duterte administration.

https://www.untvweb.com/news/proposed-national-id-system-passes-the-lower-house-of-congress/

Metro subway

The Philippines finally will have a subway of its own to join other mega cities in Asia that have long built their underground electric railroad as a way to decongest traffic.

The Cabinet the other day approved the first phase of the Metro Manila Subway Project that will cost P355.6 billion to build. It is an ambitious project, initially stretching over 30 kilometers from Mindanao Ave. in Quezon City to Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Parañaque City.

It may take a while to finish the subway project (set for construction from 2018 to mid-2025), which is to be funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency at an interest of 0.10 percent a year, payable in 40 years with a grace period of 12 years. But the benefits from the modern mode of transportation will certainly outweigh the inconveniences of constructing the mammoth project.

Travel time from Mindanao Ave. to the FTI Complex in Taguig City, for one, is expected to take just 31 minutes onboard the subway rail project from the current dreadful three-hour trip. For Quezon City-based residents working on the southern edge of Metro Manila, the subway mode will be a welcome respite from their daily commuting struggle.

The second phase of the metro subway, meanwhile, will extend to Caloocan City or Meycauayan, Bulacan in the north to Dasmariñas, Cavite in the south. The length of the entire subway project and the shorter travel time will give workers increased quality time with their families. Labor productivity is also expected to increase with less weary workers able to perform better on their jobs.

The Transportation Department must see to it that construction of the subway project will proceed like clockwork and without much delay. The government owes it to the commuting public, who have agonized and long contended with a poor mass transportation service.

The subway project, like in Hong Kong, Tokyo and Singapore, can finally make Metro Manila a modern metropolis. The government, thus, must use all its powers to get this job done.

http://thestandard.com.ph/opinion/editorial/246434/metro-subway.html

Busan says MRT-3 design flaws caused glitches

Busan Universal Rail Inc., the maintenance provider of Metro Rail Transit Line 3, asked the Transportation Department to conduct its own audit to verify the primary causes of glitches and stoppages at the system.

Busan spokesperson Charles Mercado said the primary reasons for glitches and stoppages at MRT 3 were the system and design flaws, and not poor maintenance.

Mercado said apart from system and design flaws, there was a need for rail replacement, which should be prioritized by Undersecretary for rail Cesar Chavez.

Mercado said even Transportation Secretary  Arturo Tugade instructed MRT to review loading protocols.

“These concerns become more relevant considering the DOTr’s recent imposition of penalties in the amount of around P27 million, which Buri has questioned, considering that, under the contract and its negotiation bulletins, penalties cannot be imposed on Buri for system interruptions caused by rail defects,” he said.

“We strongly recommend for DOTr and MRT-3 to immediately conduct a system audit in order for the government to once and for all verify our claim that the causes of glitches and stoppages are the system and design flaws and that of the aging state of the train system, among others,” Mercado said.

He said records showed that as of Aug. 15, 2017, Buri’s operational fleet availability for MRT3 was 91.67 percent or 66 out of 72 cars, higher than Light Rail Transit Line 1’s 74.82 percent  (102 of 139 cars) and LRT 2’s 66.67 percent  (48 of 72 cars).

Mercado said the 91.67-percent figure represented a dramatic rise from the fleet availability of 55 percent when Busan took over the maintenance of MRT-3 in January 2016, despite the significant increase in ridership of about 30 percent from 2000 when maintenance was still undertaken by Sumitomo.

“Despite the fact that our company has performed its contracted obligations, met its key performance indicators, and delivered more than the required train availability to the system, Usec Chavez appears to be blind to these real and true facts,” Mercado said.

He said Chavez misled the public by alleging that the MRT 3 system experienced around 3,700 glitches under Buri’s watch from January 2016 to June 2017.

Mercado said that based on records, Busan successfully minimized the occurrence of glitches from 2,776 in 2015 to 992 as of mid-June 2017.

http://thestandard.com.ph/business/biz-plus/246394/busan-says-mrt-3-design-flaws-caused-glitches.html

PPP Center rebuilds pipeline with new focus: LGUs

From an array of over 40 infrastructure projects when the Aquino administration ended, private investors can now only choose from 21 deals to participate in, as the Duterte administration decided to fund most projects through foreign loans or from the government's own budget.

Due to the new thrust, the chief of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center of the Philippines promised to add more local government unit (LGU) projects. (READ: Duterte administration details 'ambitious' infra plan)

"That is quite a drop, so our goal now is to rebuild our pipeline. If you look at the space of LGUs, there is a big opportunity for smaller projects that could also be PPPs," PPP Center Executive Director Ferdinand Pecson said during the 2nd Annual Philippines Energy and Infrastructure Finance Forum hosted by Euromoney in Makati City on Thursday, September 7.

Some of the big-ticket projects removed from the PPP pipeline include the P12.55-billion Clark International Airport Expansion Project, P10.86-billion New Centennial Water Source – Kaliwa Dam Project, as well as the development of 5 small, regional airports. (READ: Major railways, national transport policy get NEDA Board approval)

Even the once-shelved Metro Manila Subway Project is being revived by the Duterte administration, with a plan to fund it via official development assistance (ODA) from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). Under the Aquino administration, the subway project was once under the PPP pipeline but was shelved due to time constraints.

Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III had said that the Duterte administration's decision to veer away from PPPs will fast-track completion and reduce costs. (READ: PH's PPP thrust: Work in progress)

To adjust to the shift, Pecson said the PPP Center is talking to LGUs for new prospective projects.

"Even with the shift, PPP in the Philippines is still very much alive. Private sector participation in infrastructure will always be there [even though] it may not be given the same attention as the previous administration did," Pecson told reporters on the sidelines of the forum.

Partnering with LGUs

Pecson said his office is in talks with the Zamboanga City Special Economic Zone Authority (ZamboEcozone) for a plan to construct a "world-class seaport to be located within the First Industrial Park of ZamboEcozone." (READ: Ties with China to fill infra spending gap, pose risk to PPP)

He added that the PPP Center also received applications for Project Development and Monitoring Facility (PDMF) support for the following projects:

• Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Project's system manager and operator contracts
• Naval Base Mactan Project
• Metro Manila BRT Project's system manager and operator contracts
• operations and maintenance of the New Bohol (Panglao) Airport

"We will be more aggressive in introducing to LGUs that this is how they can tap into the PPP program. On September 17, with Asian Development Bank, we will bring together LGU executives, financiers, bankers, investors on how to make the most of the program," Pecson said.

However, Fitch Group think tank BMI Research on Thursday said it is seeing evidence that Chinese and Japanese firms are becoming the top beneficiaries of the greater investment and project opportunities available in the country.

"We expect this trend to continue to manifest with the number of project opportunities remaining significant. Our key projects database indicates that there is still $63 billion worth of planned projects that have not yet entered the tendering or contracting phases," BMI Research added.

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) had said that bulk of the P7.1-trillion total infrastructure investment requirement under the 2017-2022 Public Investment Program will be implemented through local financing.

About P4.7 trillion or 66% will be done through local financing, while only P1.3 trillion or 18% will be through PPPs. The remaining, meanwhile, will be in the form of ODA.

For Pecson, "PPP won't die."

"Like I said, we need you guys. Please don't be discouraged by just the fact that there are more ODAs right now... When we talk again next year, there will be more [projects]," Pecson added.

https://www.rappler.com/business/181439-ppp-center-oda-gaa-philippines-local-government-units

P355B subway, 2 other projects OKd

The National Economic and Development Authority Board’s Investment Coordination Committee-Cabinet Committee (ICC-CC) approved on Tuesday the Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP)-Phase I and two other projects.

The ICC-CC approved the MMSP I, which will run from Mindanao avenue in Quezon City and, following the ICC-CC’s directive, will terminate at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Parañaque City.

Its initial investment requirement is estimated at P355.6 billion.

The project also involves the construction of a 28-hectare training center and depot, as well as other related facilities.

“The first phase of the MMSP will not only ease traffic in Metro Manila but also improve the quality of life of Filipinos. For one, carbon emissions will be reduced. And, with greater mobility, people can spend more time on things that matter to them,” Ernesto Pernia, socioeconomic planning secretary, said.

The subway was previously going to end in Food Terminal Inc. in Parañaque City. However, Arthur Tugade, Department of Transportation (DOTr) secretary, along with other economic managers pushed to have a spur line extending the subway to NAIA to make it easier for airport passengers to get to their destination in Metro Manila.

Route Option B1a/b

Phase 1

“In most of our neighboring countries in Asia, you can reach the city without ever leaving the platform. So, economic managers thought we’re going to build a subway anyway, so why not push to extend it to NAIA? It just makes perfect sense. The extension will mean greater connectivity and improved passenger comfort and convenience,” Tugade said.

The timetable for the subway is still being finalized, with the goal of earlier completion. Groundbreaking is currently scheduled in the fourth quarter of 2018 while target completion is 2025.

Tugade is asking partners from the Japan International Cooperation Agency to expedite the project to allow the public to enjoy the benefits of a subway system earlier.

“We have consistently asked our Japanese partners to expedite the project. They are experts in tunneling technology, and I’m sure they can deliver ahead of schedule. But of course, we can never compromise the quality and integrity of the project,” Tugade said.

The country’s first subway system will be financed via official development assistance.

The loan will have an interest of 0.10 percent per annum payable in 40 years, with a grace period of 12 years.

The signing of the loan agreement is expected in November when Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe meets with President Rodrigo Duterte during the Asean Summit.

Meanwhile, the ICC-CC likewise approved the proposal of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) to adopt the Build-Transfer scheme under the Amended Build-Operate-Transfer Law as mode of implementation for the construction of the Clark International Airport facility.

The project involves the construction of an 82,600-square meter terminal building, with a design capacity of eight million passengers per annum.

Approved by the ICC last May, the Clark International Airport Expansion Project is estimated to cost a total of P15.35 billion, with P2.8 billion sourced from the DOTr budget for pre-construction activities, while the remaining investment requirement of P12.55 billion will be provided by the BCDA.

Meanwhile, the ICC-CC also approved the Lower Agno River Irrigation System Improvement Project with a total cost of ₱3.5 billion.

The project will cover the development of new service area and rehabilitation of the Lower Agno River Irrigation System, with a combined total of 12,650 hectares service area.

At least 10,000 farmers will benefit from free irrigation which is expected to increase their income. The project is expected to begin in January 2018 and end by December 2021.

 “We want to improve our farmers’ quality of life by providing them access to irrigation and financing. This will increase their productivity, output, and income,” Pernia said.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/business/p355b-subway-2-other-projects-okd

NEDA-ICC approves Metro subway, 2 other projects

By Chino S. Leyco

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board’s Investment Coordination Committee-Cabinet Committee (ICC-CC) approved the Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP)-phase one and two other projects.

The ICC-CC approved the MMSP I, which will run from Mindanao Avenue in Quezon City and, following the ICC-CC’s directive, will terminate at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Parañaque City.

The initial investment requirement is estimated at R355.6 billion, which will involve the construction of a 28-hectare training center and depot, as well as and other related facilities.  Implementation period is from 2018 to mid-2025.

“The first phase of the MMSP will not only ease traffic in Metro Manila but also improve the quality of life of Filipinos. For one, carbon emissions will be reduced,” Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia said in a statement.

“And, with greater mobility, people can spend more time on things that matter to them,” he added.

The ICC-CC likewise approved, the proposal of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) to adopt the Build-Transfer scheme under the amended BOT law, as mode of implementation for the construction of the Clark International Airport facility.

The project involves the construction of an 82,600 square meter terminal building, with a design capacity of 8 million passengers per annum.

As earlier approved by the ICC in May, the Clark International Airport Expansion Project has an estimated total project cost of P15.35 billion, with P2.8 billion sourced from the DOTr budget for pre-construction activities, while the remaining investment requirement of P12.55 billion will be provided by the BCDA.

http://business.mb.com.ph/2017/09/06/neda-icc-approves-metro-subway-2-other-projects/

First PH subway providing access to country’s main airport

Passengers going to and from the airport would find it easier to move around the city once the proposed Metro Manila Subway system extension from Quezon City to the country’s main gateway the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is built soon.

Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade said aside from ease of mobility, the expansion would also promote greater connectivity and improve passenger comfort and convenience.

Tugade made the statement following the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) approval of the extension of the Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP)-Phase 1 from Food Terminal Inc. (FTI) in Taguig City to NAIA and its increased cost from PHP227 billion to PHP355.6 billion.

The subway, which will start in Mindanao Avenue in Quezon City, was previously going to end in FTI. However, Tugade, along with other economic managers, pushed to have a spur line extending the subway to NAIA to make it easier for airport passengers to get to their destination in Metro Manila.

“In most of our neighboring countries in Asia, you can reach the city without ever going to the platform. So, economic managers thought we’re going to build a subway anyway, so why not push it to extend up to NAIA? It just makes perfect sense. The extension will mean greater connectivity and improved passenger comfort and convenience,” Tugade said.

MMSP, the country’s first subway system from Mindanao Avenue in Quezon City to the airport in Paranaque City is subject to final approval by the NEDA Board, which is headed by President Rodrigo Duterte.

The MMSP I also involves the construction of a 28-hectare training center and depot, as well as and other related facilities. Implementation period is from 2018 to mid-2025.

Groundbreaking for the railway project is expected by fourth quarter of 2018 with its completion on 2025.

However, Tugade has requested its partners from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to expedite the project for the public to avail of the benefits of a subway system in Metro Manila.

“We have consistently asked our Japanese partners to expedite the project. They are experts in tunneling technology and I’m sure they can deliver ahead of schedule. But of course, we can never compromise the quality and integrity of the project,” he said.

The subway system will have water stop panels, doors and high level entrance for floor prevention, earthquake detection, and a train stop similar to those in Tokyo.

NIKE DLSU Centennial Jacket

The DLSU Nike Centennial Jacket was not released commerically but made available only thru its varsity players. The design is similar to the Commercially released 2010 Smart Gilas Team Pilipinas, 2010 USA Fiba Worlds, 2010 Ateneo and 2010 FEU Jackets. It features a Square outline pattern which runs from the sleeve area up to the chest. The upper chest part bears the school logo and the swoosh mark.

The logos contain the School seal and the two centennial logos, a text based one, and a silhouette of St, John Baptist De la Salle. The Sublimated Patch is then sewn at the back.

Government to owe LRMC P600 million in fare subsidy by end-2017

FARE claims from the delayed implementation of tariff increase on the Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line 1 would cost the government more than half a billion pesos by year-end, according to a ranking official of the operator of the train system.

Light Rail Manila Corp. (LRMC) President Rogelio L. Singson said the government would have owed the company as much as P600 million on fare claims by the end of 2017, a “measly amount” that the state could cover to shield commuters from the tariff adjustment.

“By year-end fare claims would be about P500 million to P600 million,” he told the BusinessMirror. “The government can easily subsidize it.” Under the concession agreement, a 10-percent fare adjustment should have been implemented in August last year. The government failed to implement this, hence the claims.

Currently, the government owes the private company, a joint venture between Metro Pacific Investments Corp. and Ayala Corp., a whopping P300 million in delayed fare hike.

“Ideally, they should be implementing the provisions of the concession agreement, which means to correct the fare, so that there will be no subsidy,” Singson said.

However, Singson added, his group recommended that the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) subsidize the cost, so as not to burden commuters from the fare hike.

“From our discussions with the LRTA, I told them they have a big budget. So, instead of adjusting it to the riders, the government can subsidize it,” he said. The regulator, Singson added, is amenable to the said recommendation.

LRMC holds the concession for the operations, maintenance and the extension of the train line to Cavite.  It signed the agreement with the government in October 2014. The company will operate and maintain the oldest train system in the Philippines for 32 years.

Targeted for completion in about four years after the delivery of right-of-way, the 11.7-kilometer Cavite Extension will connect into the existing system immediately south of the Baclaran Station and run in a generally southerly direction to Niyog, Cavite.

It will consist of elevated guideways throughout the majority of the alignment, except for the guideway section at Zapote, which will be located at grade.

Eight new stations will be provided with three intermodal facilities across Pasay City, Parañaque City, Las Piñas City and Bacoor City. The new stations are Aseana, MIA, Asia World, Ninoy Aquino, Dr. Santos, Las Pinas, Zapote and Niyog. The intermodal facilities shall be located at Dr. Santos, Zapote and Niyog.

The new stations will be accessible to and from nearby community facilities, such as shops, schools, stadium, park, etc., and be located to suit passenger flow routes from residential areas.

Pedestrian access to all new stations will be direct, safe and easy. Details, such as lighting to distinguish access points, pedestrian cross striping and curb cuts for handicapped access, will also be provided.

It recently received two international certifications on management and environmental standards from TUV Rheinland.

It is on the lookout for railway deals in the Philippines, syncing its expansion plan to the Duterte administration’s massive infrastructure thrust.

The Duterte administration has lined up several rail-infrastructure deals in its huge pipeline of projects: the Mega Manila Subway, the Mindanao Railway, the Philippine National Railways South Long Haul Line and the LRT Line 2 Extension, among others.

http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/government-to-owe-lrmc-p600-million-in-fare-subsidy-by-end-2017/

Metro Manila subway extension to NAIA to ease passenger mobility

Passengers going to and from the airport would find it easier to move around the city once the proposed Metro Manila Subway system extension from Quezon City to the country’s main gateway the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is built soon.

Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade said aside from ease of mobility, the expansion would also promote greater connectivity and improve passenger comfort and convenience.

Tugade made the statement following the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) approval of the extension of the Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP)-Phase 1 from Food Terminal Inc. (FTI) in Taguig City to NAIA and its increased cost from PHP227 billion to PHP355.6 billion.

The subway, which will start in Mindanao Avenue in Quezon City, was previously going to end in FTI. However, Tugade, along with other economic managers, pushed to have a spur line extending the subway to NAIA to make it easier for airport passengers to get to their destination in Metro Manila.

“In most of our neighboring countries in Asia, you can reach the city without ever going to the platform. So, economic managers thought we’re going to build a subway anyway, so why not push it to extend up to NAIA? It just makes perfect sense. The extension will mean greater connectivity and improved passenger comfort and convenience,” Tugade said.

MMSP, the country’s first subway system from Mindanao Avenue in Quezon City to the airport in Paranaque City is subject to final approval by the NEDA Board, which is headed by President Rodrigo Duterte.

The MMSP I also involves the construction of a 28-hectare training center and depot, as well as and other related facilities. Implementation period is from 2018 to mid-2025.

Groundbreaking for the railway project is expected by fourth quarter of 2018 with its completion on 2025.

However, Tugade has requested its partners from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to expedite the project for the public to avail of the benefits of a subway system in Metro Manila.

“We have consistently asked our Japanese partners to expedite the project. They are experts in tunneling technology and I’m sure they can deliver ahead of schedule. But of course, we can never compromise the quality and integrity of the project,” he said.

The subway system will have water stop panels, doors and high level entrance for floor prevention, earthquake detection, and a train stop similar to those in Tokyo.

In an earlier interview with the Philippine News Agency, Undersecretary for Railways Cesar Chavez stated that the department is eyeing to operate five stations of the Mega Manila Subway System by the end of the Duterte administration on June 30, 2022.

The subway system is envisioned to be an underground mass transportation system connecting major business districts and government centers which is expected to serve 370,000 passengers daily in its opening year.

The country’s first subway system will cost USD7 billion and will be financed through Official Development Assistance. The loan will have an interest of 10 percent per annum payable in 40 years with a grace period of 12 years.

The agreement is expected to be signed in November when Pres. Duterte meets with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit.

http://www.canadianinquirer.net/2017/09/07/metro-manila-subway-extension-to-naia-to-ease-passenger-mobility/

PPP still on

The Philippine Public Partnership Center (PPPC) is focused in rebuilding its project pipeline despite  the Duterte administration’s  decision to shift  to the hybrid mode of public-private partnership (PPP) in bidding out major infrastructure projects.

“We are very much alive. We are rebuilding the pipeline. Private sector participation in infrastructure will always be there (though) it may not be given the same attention as the previous administration did,” said Ferdinand Pecson, PPPC executive director.

The government has shifted its approach to one where financing of infrastructure projects would be from official development assistance (ODA) and General Appropriation Act (GAAs) from a straight private sector-funded approach.

Pecson said PPPC has received new applications to avail of the Project Development Monitoring Facility (PDMF). Among the projects in the pipeline include a port project in Zamboanga; the new Nayong Pilipino project; the Cebu bus rapid transit; the  development of the duty-free retail network in the Philippines, the DTI complex; a segment of national broadband network of the Department of Information and Communication Technology; the development of cellular towers and;  the  modern vehicle inspection system of the Department of Transportation.

Pecson said the planned conversion of the existing Bohol-Panglao airport is a potential PPP project.

PPPC sees opportunities in undertaking PPP projects of local government units (LGUs).

“There is a big opportunity for smaller projects (of LGUs) that could also be PPP. We will be more aggressive in introducing to LGUs that this is how they can tap into the PPP program,” Pecson said.

The current hybrid model refers to the construction of infrastructure using public funds or cheaper financing (local borrowings and ODA) and the subsequent operations and maintenance using PPP.

The hybrid model works if the infrastructure is built and equipped to enable the delivery of the services expected from the operation and maintenance (O&M) provider.

Bidding a project on the basis of lowest construction cost, consideration for O&M, will naturally result in such an infrastructure.

With airports for example, if passenger congestion in queues in check-in counters or security checks are to be avoided, the number and arrangement of service counters have to be designed and built accordingly. Poor airport service could result in the O&M provider being replaced.

The Aquino administration can be credited for a number of PPP infrastructure projects of which 12 were successfully awarded. Three are currently operational: the Daang Hari-SLEX Link Road (Muntinlupa-Cavite Expressway) Project ; PPP for School Infrastructure Project (PSIP) – Phase I; the Automatic Fare Collection System and the NAIA Expressway Project (Phase II)

http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/business/ppp-still

Club Mwah continues to attract audiences

Even when it’s raining hard, many people go to Club Mwah to watch the much-talked about “Follies De Mwah” extravaganza.

“We are now on our 14th year and if we survived against all odds, it’s because of our passion to provide only the best entertainment for our audiences,” executive producer Carlito Pocholo Malillin told the guests.

“Follies De Mwah” is on every Friday and Saturday. The show has been invited to perform in provinces, company parties, product launches, debuts, fashion shows, etc.

“We could create and customize any theme,” Pocholo pointed out.

Club Mwah also had a series of performances at the Newport Performing Arts Theater (NPAT) of Resorts World Manila recently. Their fabulously costumed performers are seen daily in the “Quiz Vee” segment of “Eat Bulaga.”

With Chris Nicolas as director, choreographer, costume designer, and main performer, “Follies De Mwah” is inspired by Vegas, Broadway, Filipiniana, and Moulin Rouge – “pinagsamasama namin, and thankfully dinadayo kami kahit mga dayuhan, at mga kababayan natin from abroad.”

Pocholo and Chris’ partnership started more than 30 years ago. Back then, they were deploying talents to Japan through their Covergirls outfit.

Club Mwah is in Mandaluyong City.

• • •

Mr. & Miss Tanglawan 2017

Some 29 candidates are vying for this year’s Mr. & Miss Tanglawan, spearheaded by the City Government of San Jose del Monte under the leadership Mayor Arthur B. Robes and Congresswoman Florida Robes.

The grand finals and coronation night will be on Sept. 9, 4 p.m. at Star Mall San Jose del Monte.

The candidates are Jeremiah Ferareza III, Gerard Rombaon, Jomarie Avilla, Marco Fernando, John Dinawanao, Carol Bautista, Laurence Bengua, John Severo, Randaniel Quintas, Roberto Labiste Jr., Victor Abanag, Raymart Regis, Necolino Bruce Lee, Francisco Dela Rama, Sigrid Alison Cruz, Christine Trangia, Yumika Pagsanjan, Sophia Garcia, Rochelle Lorica, Andrea Redondo, Erzjenn Olorosisimo, Maricar Cafranca, Leandrea Batingan, Shenakaye Longaguit, Guia Kelly Lorda, Diane Castaneda, Pauline Borcena, and Lalaine Loste.

The other activities include Electro Run Beautiful, Mama Sita’s Minanang Sarap, a job fair and an attempt to set the World’s Largest Lantern Parade record tomorrow.

On Sept. 10, a concert by Parokya ni Edgar caps the 17th cityhood anniversary.

• • •

GMA, ABS-CBN claim lead

Media giants GMA Network Inc. and ABS-CBN Corp. released television ratings for August, each saying they have kept their leads in their respective areas.

GMA Network said in a statement that it had cornered an audience share of 42 percent against ABS-CBN’s 37.4 percent last month in the National Urban Television Audience Measurement. GMA uses data prepared by Nielsen TV Audience Measurement.

GMA said it was ahead of competition in Urban Luzon, where it got an audience share of 48.7 percent against ABS-CBN’s 31.4 percent.

It claimed a big margin in Mega Manila (Aug. 1 to 26 data) with a 51.9 percent audience share across “all time blocks” versus ABS-CBN’s 27.1 percent.

Urban Luzon and Mega Manila respectively account for 76 and 59 percent of all urban viewers in the country, it said.

Kapuso shows dominated the list of top programs in NUTAM with multi-awarded news magazine show Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS) remaining as the most watched GMA show during the said period. GMA also claimed the top 8 spots in the Urban Luzon list while it swept the top 16 spots in Mega Manila with KMJS still at number one and was closely followed by Pepito Manaloto.

Also included in the list of top-rating Kapuso shows were Daig Kayo ng Lola Ko, Alyas Robin Hood, 24 Oras, My Love from the Star, I Heart Davao, My Korean Jagiya, Bubble Gang, Saksi, Magpakailanman, Celebrity Bluff, Mulawin vs. Ravena, Eat Bulaga, Sunday Pinasaya, Dear Uge, Road Trip, Ika-6 Na Utos, Impostora, Tadhana, Haplos, Wowowin and Hay Bahay.

ABS-CBN, which uses data from Kantar Media, said in a separate statement that it got an average nationwide audience share of 46 percent against GMA’s 33 percent for August.

ABS-CBN cited its lead in the primetime block, where it scored an average audience share of 50 percent, against GMA’s 31 percent.

ABS-CBN said the primetime block was coveted because this was when most viewers watch television, prompting advertisers to park the bulk of their spending during these hours.

ABS-CBN said it was also ahead in the morning and afternoon blocks, where it registered average audience shares of 40 percent and 43 percent, respectively, compared to GMA’s 30 percent and 38 percent.

In the noontime block, ABS-CBN’s audience share rose to 46 percent from the previous month’s 44 percent. It said GMA’s ratings had declined to 35 percent.

ABS-CBN also kept its total day lead in other areas such as Luzon as it hit 42 percent versus GMA’s 35 percent, in Visayas with 55 percent versus GMA’s 26 percent and in Mindanao with 54 percent versus GMA’s 29 percent.

FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano continued to hold the top position as the most watched program in the country with a national TV rating of 38.6 percent.

It was followed by the Philippine adaptation of talent-variety-talk show Little Big Shots, which recorded 35.9 percent.

Other ABS-CBN programs that made it to August’s top 18 were La Luna Sangre, A Love to Last, Tonight with Boy Abunda, Bandila, Ikaw Lang ang Iibigin, It’s Showtime, ASAP, Banana Sundae, Pusong Ligaw, The Better Half, Ipaglaban Mo, TV Patrol, Wansapanataym, Maalaala Mo Kaya, Wildflower, Bet on Your Baby, TV Patrol Weekend, Home Sweetie Home and Goin’ Bulilit.

The network said that as of June this year, ABS-CBN TVplus has already sold 3 million boxes nationwide since its launch in 2015 and significantly boosted ABS-CBN’s TV ratings.

According to data from Kantar Media, ABS-CBN’s audience share in Mega Manila increased to 36 percent in 2017, compared to 30 percent in 2015, as more households were able to experience clearer viewing experience with ABS-CBN TVplus.

ABS-CBN said it is also rapidly transitioning into a digital company with the biggest online presence among all Filipino media companies, and a growing list of digital properties.

Its company media website abs-cbn.com logged 36 million users and hit over 1.7 billion page views as of end-May this year, becoming the country’s biggest local media website.

The company has also announced that it is opening its first Experience Store at Trinoma Mall soon. It also partnered with Ayala Malls to launch its events place ABS-CBN Vertis Tent later this year, and with CityMall Commercial Centers, Inc. to manage the mall chain’s cinemas, the first of which opened last weekend.

ABS-CBN reported a net income of P1.2 billion for the first six months of 2017.

• • •

Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, Sept. 7, go to Jackie Ejercito-Lopez, Nenita Evans, Regina Meer Castillo, Regine Tolentino, Sol Lavadia, Paquita Maglaya, Albert Morris, Mary Elizabeth S. Timbol, Jane J. Garcia, Linda Amon, Reggie Espinosa, Lilia Uy Hao, Samuel Velasco, Butch Roldan, Julia Lopez, Rolando Josef, Zach Hontiveros Pagkalinawan, Rickey Miranda, Arlyn Medina, Flor Punongbayan, Joan Lim, John Gatdula and Iriga City Mayor Madeleine Alfelor-Gazmen… Happy wedding anniversary to Titong C. Villacorta and Ma. Georgia Ejercito; and Tito and Mary Anna Salcedo…Belated b-day greetings to Flori Santos (Sept. 6)… Sept. 8: awarded broadcast journalist Che Che Lazaro, Sec. Orlando J. Sacay, Maricris Bermont, Long Espina, Debbie Yu-Chan, Fe Ramos Esteban of Casino Filipino-Hyatt, Ramon Ting, Natividad L. Aventura, Naty B. Rodriguez, Naty A. Pappas, Eloy Pacheco of Rosy’s Pancit Malabon, Natalie Castel, Irene Guinan, Mary Jessica Dailo, Dr. Flor Concepcion-Lindres of Bulacan, Ronald de Leon, Bea Royo, Jay Laurel Leano, Lis Cojuangco, Maria Alyssa Varsovia, Nestoria M. Coronel, Graciella N. Martinez, Yosef Elizalde, Cesar Saavedra, Juliana Torres-Gomez and Sandy Santamaria…

http://entertainment.mb.com.ph/2017/09/07/club-mwah-continues-to-attract-audiences/

Deal on procurement of P2.4-B internet infra, defense gear signed

The Philippine International Trading Corp. (PITC) has signed a memorandum of agreement with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) for the procurement of a Wi-Fi infrastructure system in line with the initiative of the government to provide free Internet access across the country.

The DICT outsourced the services of the PITC to procure P2.39 billion worth of regional Wi-Fi infrastructure network in compliance with President Rodrigo Duterte’s directive to provide free Internet access in public places nationwide.

“This Wi-Fi project will benefit Filipinos in 81 provinces all over the country as we democratize access to the internet and information which can fuel economic growth, especially in small and medium enterprises (SMEs),” PITC President and Chief Executive Officer Dave Almarinez said.

President Duterte recently signed into law Republic Act 10929 known as the “Free Internet Access In Public Access Act,” institutionalizing a free Internet access program in public places nationwide.

DICT, the lead implementing agency, will oversee the effective and efficient implementation of the law.

The department, through its “PipolKonek” project,” will roll out Free Public Wi-Fi hotspots in public plazas and parks; public libraries, schools, colleges and universities; rural health units and government hospitals; train stations, airports, and seaports; and national and local government offices.

The department aims to reach over 13,000 public places across 145 cities and 1,489 municipalities.

Defense equipment

The PITC has likewise partnered with the Department of National Defense (DND) for the procurement of defense equipment for the modernization program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

“The procurement of the defense equipment is in line with President Rodrigo Duterte’s goal of modernizing the supplies and weapons of our soldiers as one way of recognizing their bravery and selfless sacrifices for the nation,” Almarinez said.

The PITC inked the deal with DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and DICT Undersecretary Eliseo Rio. It was witnessed by Senator Cynthia Villar and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo during its 44th anniversary celebration held Thursday night at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.

The PITC, an attached agency of the DTI, is a state trading company that partners with Filipino entrepreneurs and industries to compete globally and benefit from international trade.

It has facilitated various government to government (G-G), business to government (B-G), business to business (B-B), and business to consumer transactions through its international trade services (exports trading, customs bonded warehousing, countertrade and imports trading) and procurement services.

It aims to engage in exports, trade services and special trading arrangements; ensure the most efficient and cost-effective procurement services; contribute to price/supply stabilization of goods and services and create strategic alliances that promote the growth and sustainability of businesses and enterprises.

Russian deal

The PITC recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Russia’s Geo Spectrum, an agency similar to the functions of PITC, for the procurement of a broad range of products such as coconut oil, marine and agriculture products, and pharmaceuticals that the Philippines can export to Russia.

The Philippines can export its agriculture products to Russia, while Geospectrum can bring in Russian goods to the Philippine market through PITC.

“We have been firm with our goal to create more jobs and opportunities for the Filipino people by opening our doors to other trading partners. This will further empower entrepreneurs and local industries to compete in the global arena,” Almarinez said.

http://www.interaksyon.com/deal-on-procurement-of-p2-4-b-internet-infra-defense-gear-signed/

Pros and cons of ODAs, GAAs, and PPP

By Andrew J. Masigan

THE clock is ticking on the Duterte administration.

After spending its first year reviewing, recalibrating, and rewriting the terms of engagements for various infrastructure projects, it is now left with just five years to roll out its ambitions, eight-trillion peso infrastructure plan.

Infrastructure development is the centerpiece of “Dutertenomics” and it is on this basis that the business community will judge this administration. With limited time, the pressure is on to roll-out projects in the fastest way possible.

Earlier this year, the Departments Finance (DoF) and Transportation (DoTr) announced its intention to forgo with Public Private Partnerships (PPP) and instead, utilize official development assistance (ODAs) and budget appropriations from the general appropriations act (GAAs) to finance infrastructure projects. The idea is to bypass the development time required by PPP contracts. Typically, it takes 29 months to settle the technical, financial, and legal frameworks of a PPP contract before it could even break ground. The shift to ODAs and GAAs further saves government from having to deal with the customary lawsuits filed by losing PPP bidders.

Project cost is another consideration. The DoF asserts that government can build projects more economically since its borrowing cost is substantially lower than that of the private sector. ODAs are concessional loans that come with interest rates as low as 1% per annum, easy repayment terms, and a grant element of 25% or greater. The lower cost to build inevitably translates to lower user fees for the public.

Having decided on the ODA and GAA route, government has since adapted what it calls “Hybrid PPP,” whereby it builds the physical structure and subsequently bids out the rights to operate and maintain the facility to a private enterprise.

At face value, the plan makes sense as it allows government to build projects in a cheaper and faster manner. But for all its supposed advantages, Hybrid PPP is far from perfect. There are imminent risks in using ODAs and GAAs, hence, it must be utilized selectively and with caution.

NOT NECESSARILY CHEAPER AND FASTER
Lower interest rates do not necessarily translate to cheaper project costs. One of the reasons is because ODAs come with the proviso that the donee must utilize certain engineering firms, contractors, equipment and parts suppliers nominated by the donor country. These suppliers may not be the cheapest nor the best in their field. In fact, a study conducted by the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism which covered 71 ODA projects revealed that seven out of 10 ODA projects failed to deliver their projected savings on the back of bloated supplier costs and repair works for shoddy construction.

Adding injury is the fact that this proviso leaves out local engineering and construction firms from benefitting from the infrastructure building boom.

Graft must also be factored into the equation.

A 2011 study conducted by Global Financial Integrity, a Washington DC based think tank, revealed that projects undertaken by the Philippine government were saddled with overspending and budget leaks ranging from 25% to as much as 50% of project cost.

While the study may have been done during the Arroyo administration, no one can deny that graft still persists today, albeit to a slightly lesser degree. Still, even with a minimal 5% graft cost, the saving derived from cheaper interest rates could be completely negated.

As for the savings of 29 months development time, this will only be realized if government can indeed construct a project as quickly as a private enterprise can.

In this regard, absorptive capacities becomes an issue.

As it stands, both the Departments of Transportation (DoTr) and Public Works & Highways (DPWH) are so choked up with project backlogs that certain projects have been put on hold or face years of delays. Cases in point are the P70-million slope protection project at Artemio Mate Avenue and the P30-million Tigbao-Diit bridge, both in Tacloban. The DoTr and DPWH need more engineers, more lawyers and financial auditors to cope with the hundreds of projects on its plate. Further dragging the process is the need to conform to stringent procurement laws.

Private companies work faster since they are motivated by profit, account to no one but their shareholders and face steep penalties if they fail to deliver a project on time. In contrast, delays don’t hurt the pockets of government bureaucrats.

FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
Government officials feel they are awash with cash what with $8 billion worth of credit facilities committed by China and Japan. But the fact that government can afford to build projects using its own resources doesn’t mean it has to.

As a businessman, I always prefer to use investor’s money rather than my own for business ventures. Doing so frees my cash to be used for other projects or saved for a rainy day. It lowers my risk in case the project fails to deliver its economic benefits. It keeps my balance sheet strong with the ratio of liabilities to assets kept at a minimum. The same is true on a national scale.

DoF Secretary Sonny Dominguez said the Philippines has “a lot of headroom” to borrow since our debt-to-GDP ratio is exceptionally low at 41.87% as of March. Still, why use government funds when private enterprises are waiting in the wings to pick up the tab? Credit lines are a finite resource and it should be spent on missionary projects or projects not viable enough to attract private investors.

I look at debt with trepidation. No matter how cheap interest rates are, debts must still be repaid on the back of sovereign guarantees. It also exposes the system to foreign currency risk. The less obligations the nation is saddled with, the stronger our financial position will be.

In the end, I think that projects that require proprietary technologies from a donor nation and those that need government’s intervention to settle complicated right of way issues, like the Manila Subway project, qualify to be done through a hybrid model. However, projects that utilize cookie-cutter technologies and those that can do without government involvement, like the Clark Airport redevelopment, are better off in private hands.

I have no doubt that decision to scrap PPP in favor of a hybrid model is motivated by good intentions. But the last thing we want is to be overcome with debt while still experiencing delays in the roll-out of projects.

This is why the hybrid model need not be the exclusive format for all infrastructure projects. It must be used selectively and prudently. After all, experience has taught us that the private enterprises always carry out projects cheaper, faster, and better.

Andrew J. Masigan is an economist.

http://bworldonline.com/pros-cons-odas-gaas-ppp/

Gay actors

Kenjie Garcia

Paolo Rivero and Janvier Daily

Ran Domingo

GMA Network tops nationwide TV ratings in August

GMA Network, Inc. (GMA) maintained its lead in the nationwide TV ratings competition based on data from the industry’s widely trusted ratings service provider, Nielsen TV Audience Measurement.

From August 1 to 31 (with August 27 to 31 based on overnight data), GMA led competition across all day parts in the National Urban Television Audience Measurement (NUTAM) with an average total day people audience share of 42 percent; ahead of ABS-CBN’s 37.4 percent.

In Urban Luzon, the Network toppled competition from the morning up to the primetime block. GMA registered a total day people audience share of 48.7 percent; beating ABS-CBN’s 31.4 percent.

The Kapuso Network posted an even bigger margin in Mega Manila (based on August 1 to 26 data) with an impressive 51.9 percent people audience share across all time blocks versus ABS-CBN’s 27.1 percent.

Urban Luzon and Mega Manila respectively account for 76 and 59 percent of all urban viewers in the country.

Kapuso shows dominated the list of top programs in NUTAM with multi-awarded news magazine show Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS) remaining as the most watched GMA show during the said period. GMA also claimed the top 8 spots in the Urban Luzon list while it swept the top 16 spots in Mega Manila with KMJS still at number one and was closely followed by Pepito Manaloto.

Also included in the list of top-rating Kapuso shows were Daig Kayo ng Lola Ko, Alyas Robin Hood, 24 Oras, My Love from the Star, I Heart Davao, My Korean Jagiya, Magpakailanman, Mulawin vs. Ravena, Eat Bulaga, Ika-6 Na Utos, Impostora, Haplos, Wowowin and Hay Bahay!.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/entertainment/showbiznews/news/33704/gma-network-tops-nationwide-tv-ratings-in-august/story/

GMA, ABS-CBN claim lead

By Miguel R. Camus

Media giants GMA Network Inc. and ABS-CBN Corp. released television ratings for August, each saying they have kept their leads in their respective areas.

GMA Network said in a statement that it had cornered an audience share of 42 percent against ABS-CBN’s 37.4 percent last month in the National Urban Television Audience Measurement. GMA uses data prepared by Nielsen TV Audience Measurement.

GMA said it was ahead of competition in Urban Luzon, where it got an audience share of 48.7 percent against ABS-CBN’s 31.4 percent.


It claimed a big margin in Mega Manila (Aug. 1 to 26 data) with a 51.9 percent audience share across “all time blocks” versus ABS-CBN’s 27.1 percent.


Urban Luzon and Mega Manila respectively account for 76 and 59 percent of all urban viewers in the country, it said.


Kapuso shows dominated the list of top programs in NUTAM with multi-awarded news magazine show Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS) remaining as the most watched GMA show during the said period. GMA also claimed the top 8 spots in the Urban Luzon list while it swept the top 16 spots in Mega Manila with KMJS still at number one and was closely followed by “Pepito Manaloto.”

Also included in the list of top-rating Kapuso shows were “Daig Kayo ng Lola Ko,” “Alyas Robin Hood,” “24 Oras,” “My Love from the Star,” “I Heart Davao,” “My Korean Jagiya,” “Bubble Gang,” “Saksi,” “Magpakailanman,” “Celebrity Bluff,” “Mulawin vs. Ravena,” “Eat Bulaga,” “Sunday PinaSaya,” “Dear Uge,” “Ika-6 na Utos,” “Tadhana,” “Impostora,” “Haplos,” “Road Trip,” “Wowowin,” and “Hay Bahay.”

ABS-CBN, which uses data from Kantar Media, said in a separate statement that it got an average nationwide audience share of 46 percent against GMA’s 33 percent for August.

ABS-CBN cited its lead in the primetime block, where it scored an average audience share of 50 percent, against GMA’s 31 percent.

ABS-CBN said the primetime block was coveted because this was when most viewers watch television, prompting advertisers to park the bulk of their spending during these hours.

ABS-CBN said it was also ahead in the morning and afternoon blocks, where it registered average audience shares of 40 percent and 43 percent, respectively, compared to GMA’s 30 percent and 38 percent.

In the noontime block, ABS-CBN’s audience share rose to 46 percent from the previous month’s 44 percent. It said GMA’s ratings had declined to 35 percent.

ABS-CBN also kept its total day lead in other areas such as Luzon as it hit 42 percent versus GMA’s 35 percent, in Visayas with 55 percent versus GMA’s 26 percent and in Mindanao with 54 percent versus GMA’s 29 percent.

“FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano” continued to hold the top position as the most watched program in the country with a national TV rating of 38.6 percent.

It was followed by the Philippine adaptation of talent-variety-talk show “Little Big Shots,” which recorded 35.9 percent.

Variety show “It’s Showtime,” is still the most watched noontime show in the country with a national TV rating of 32.5% on weekdays and 29% on Saturdays, against its rival “Eat Bulaga” which only got 30% on weekdays and 24.2% on Saturdays.

Other ABS-CBN programs that made it to August’s top 18 were “La Luna Sangre,” “A Love to Last,” “Tonight with Boy Abunda,” “Bandila,” “Ikaw Lang ang Iibigin,” “Pusong Ligaw,” “The Better Half,” “Ipaglaban Mo,” “TV Patrol,” “Wansapanataym,” “Maalaala Mo Kaya,” “Rated K,” “Gandang Gabi Vice,” “Wildflower,” “Bet on Your Baby,” “TV Patrol Weekend,” “Home Sweetie Home,” and “Goin’ Bulilit.”

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Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, Sept. 7, go to Jackie Ejercito-Lopez, Nenita Evans, Regina Meer Castillo, Regine Tolentino, Sol Lavadia, Paquita Maglaya, Albert Morris, Mary Elizabeth S. Timbol, Jane J. Garcia, Linda Amon, Reggie Espinosa, Lilia Uy Hao, Samuel Velasco, Butch Roldan, Julia Lopez, Rolando Josef, Zach Hontiveros Pagkalinawan, Rickey Miranda, Arlyn Medina, Flor Punongbayan, Joan Lim, John Gatdula and Iriga City Mayor Madeleine Alfelor-Gazmen… Happy wedding anniversary to Titong C. Villacorta and Ma. Georgia Ejercito; and Tito and Mary Anna Salcedo…Sept. 8: awarded broadcast journalist Che Che Lazaro, Sec. Orlando J. Sacay, Maricris Bermont, Long Espina, Debbie Yu-Chan, Fe Ramos Esteban of Casino Filipino-Hyatt, Ramon Ting, Natividad L. Aventura, Naty B. Rodriguez, Naty A. Pappas, Eloy Pacheco of Rosy’s Pancit Malabon, Natalie Castel, Irene Guinan, Mary Jessica Dailo, Dr. Flor Concepcion-Lindres of Bulacan, Ronald de Leon, Bea Royo, Jay Laurel Leano, Lis Cojuangco, Maria Alyssa Varsovia, Nestoria M. Coronel, Graciella N. Martinez, Yosef Elizalde, Cesar Saavedra, Juliana Torres-Gomez and Sandy Santamaria…

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